The Language of Jesus in Germany Linda Guven. It is, says Linda Guven, a colorful community. "Secularly colorful," she stresses. The 35-year-old teacher belongs to the Syrian Orthodox church congregation "Mor Petrus and Mor Paulus" in Bietigheim-Bissingen, a town in Baden-Wurttemberg, about 20 kilometres north of Stuttgart. The congregation was able to inaugurate an impressive church building in 2019. This resulted in a dream that has been cherished for decades. "We have believers here who came here as young guest workers over 50 years ago," explains Guven. "But there are also people who had to leave home in the 1990s. And now refugees who have come to us from Iraq or because of the civil war in Syria over the past ten years." Broken German and Swabian For a long time, the Syrian Orthodox Christians from Bietigheim-Bissingen and some neighbouring villages have had their common meeting place on the edge of a commercial area. The municipality invites you to a pensioner's meeting once a month. The youngest come to the Krabbel group on Sunday after Sunday, and there is a lively youth work. The old community members may only speak broken German. With some of the younger ones, Swabian sounds mingle with the perfect High German Swabian tones. "Anyone who has lived here for two or three generations is often established and has studied. We have doctors, lawyers, teachers in the community," says the teacher. Syriac Orthodox Christians, according to Guven, always relied on the Church. "We have no consulate, no representation abroad, because we have no state. The first port of call remains the church. There is a halt searching. And therefore, the clergymen also tried to help and mediate with the communities." The region of origin of the Syrian Orthodox Church is today's Antakya in Turkey. A city where a Christian community emerged very early after the death of Jesus, one of the first ever. This region in south-eastern Turkey and northern Syria is originally home to the Syrian Orthodox Church. Jesus spoke Aramaic Their language shows how old their tradition is. For the members of this Church speak among themselves and also in the liturgy of Aramaic. Internationally, Aramaic has long been part of the group of endangered languages. It is considered - scientifically assured - as the language of Jesus: Thus spoke the man from Nazareth, who became the founder of religion. The Gospel of Matthew and Matthew quote in the description of Jesus' death as his last word on the cross a desperate exclamation, in Greek Scripture, but remarkably in Aramaic language: "Eloi eloi lamma sabachthani - my God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" The story of the Aramaic Christians could be told worldwide. Only a few tens of thousands of them live in the old homeland, in the mountainous region of the Turabdin in south-eastern Turkey. Today, the approximately five million members of this church live literally scattered around the world: in Australia, India or the USA, in Latin America and European countries. This is due to many waves of persecution by the Ottoman Empire from 1915 onwards, to which well over a million Christians fell victim, including hundreds of thousands of Syrian Orthodox Christians. Aramaic communities throughout Germany. The first Syrian Orthodox textbook in German. It is possible that there are more than 120,000 speakers in Germany today. The larger West German federal states have legally recognised the Syrian Orthodox Church and, for example, enable religious education. And while Catholics and Protestants report hundreds of thousands of church leave year after year and give up church buildings due to falling membership numbers, Orthodox and oriental churches from the Middle East are establishing themselves. In many towns and municipalities, predominantly in the western federal states, there are a good 60 Aramaic-speaking parishes. Her Archbishop Mor Philoxenus Mattias Nayis resides in Warburg in Westphalia. The Syro-Aramaeans adopted an earlier Catholic monastery decades ago. Linda Guven has a mission. The trained teacher is not only allowed to teach English, history and Catholic religion. She was also trained in the specialist theology and religious education for the Syriac Orthodox Church at the Schwabisch Gmund University of Education, which has been offering a corresponding degree course since autumn 2021. Until now, priests of the church, who mostly had learned decades ago in the Turabdin, gave religious education to school. Now there are teachers trained in Germany. Since the middle of 2023, Guven has been the first state-approved religion teacher for Syrian Orthodox children in Germany. It proudly shows the book On the Way to the Syrian Orthodox Orthodox Church in the German language by the religious pedagogue Josef Onder with students in German language : "The first Syriac Orthodox religious book for schools in the world, which was developed according to an educational plan." Many pictures in the textbook show simple scenes of country life. "This is what makes us apart when you go back to the roots," explains Guven. "Our parents or grandparents were in many cases shepherds or farmers. The Turabdin - this is an agricultural region." The students would have access to this world of images. When Guven tells, you can feel her enthusiasm. "I'm burning for the thing, because it's simply a matter of concern to me." She wants to religiously "provide children a home" and "strengthen them in their identity". This also includes the Aramaic, "the language is part of our identity." If they earn religious education, start every hour with a prayer of the "Our Father" in Aramaic language. So far, Guven has taught pupils from several classes at two schools who come together in groups. "80 to 85 in total from different years," she says, "Tendent increasing." She has set herself a new goal: Guven wants to write a doctoral thesis soon. In this way, she also wants to provide scientific work on her religion in school and community. Flood situation in India's Assam turns grim as death toll reaches 35 Xinhua) 10:06, July 03, 2024 NEW DELHI, July 2 (Xinhua) -- The flood situation in India's northeastern state of Assam turned grim on Tuesday as more than half a million people were rendered homeless after flood water entered their homes, said a state government official. Major rivers in the state were said to be flowing much above their normal levels. According to media reports, as many as 35 people had died this year alone in the state so far in flood-related incidents. Nearly 19 out of the total 35 districts in the state have been affected by the floods. Indian Air Force (IAF) choppers were pressed into service to rescue people stuck in the flood-affected areas. In one such rescue operation on Tuesday, a Mi-17 IV helicopter of the IAF rescued 13 marooned survivors from a small island in the flooded river Brahmaputra, north of Dibrugarh in Assam, said the state's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in a post on X (Twitter). Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the Assam chief minister on Monday and enquired about the flood situation. "He assured me of full cooperation from the Government of India in this hour of crisis," said Sarma. A report by The Indian Express newspaper said the floods affected 640,000 people from 1,275 villages across 19 districts in the state as of Monday evening. "The displacement brought about by the floods has resulted in 8,142 people taking shelter in 72 relief camps across 11 districts," the report said, adding "As many as 35 people have lost their lives to flood-related incidents so far this year." According to the report, different rivers running through Assam such as Brahmaputra, Desang, Subansiri, Dikhow, Buridehing, Beki and Barak were flowing above normal levels. Meanwhile, several areas in the country's western state of Gujarat also faced a flood-like situation after receiving heavy rains over the past 24 hours. A couple of major roads were shut for traffic due to severe waterlogging. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for some districts in Gujarat, predicting extremely heavy rains over the next two days. A similar forecast was made about heavy rains in Delhi and surrounding areas and the northern state of Uttarakhand on Tuesday. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Quoting local sources, Mirza identified the escapees as Ghazi Shahzad, Usman, and Baitullah, imprisoned on terrorism charges, and Tamaz, Safeer, Saqlain, Sohail Rashid, Asif Dal Muhammad, Faisal Hamid, Saqib Majeed, and Osama, serving sentences for murder. Mirza confirmed that one of the escapees, Shahzad, is reportedly an ex-Pakistan army serviceman who had previously threatened India over hindering the G20 summit last year. Shahzad is also known as a leader of the newly formed terrorist organization Janbaz Force (veteran force), allegedly recruiting innocent youth for anti-India activities. Activist Amjad Ayub Mirza claimed, "Pakistan has opened a new anti-India front since June 9, 2024, amidst economic chaos and the growing unpopularity of its military among civilians." Regarding the incident, Samaa TV reported that the local administration dismissed the Inspector General and arrested seven PoJK defence officials, launching an internal inquiry. ARY News confirmed heightened security across PoJK prisons, with Rawalakot Jail's Superintendent and staff suspended for negligence. Most escapees had received life imprisonment or death penalties. Mirza previously urged India to address the deteriorating situation in PoJK, where youth confront Pakistani forces. He stated, "India cannot ignore the situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu Kashmir. Our people are fighting; the region is in turmoil with peaceful protesters being assaulted and shot by Pakistani and PoJK Police." He added, "The situation demands India's focused attention to facilitate independence for Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, including Gilgit-Baltistan." (ANI) https://x.com/rusembindia/status/1808422025712500823?s=46&t=TbrKHKgG29uXA1CMFN38Pw "President of #Russia Vladimir Putin sent a condolence message to President of #India Droupadi Murmu & Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi over the tragic stampede in #UttarPradesh," Russian Embassy in India wrote on X "Kindly accept the most sincere condolences over the tragic accident in Uttar Pradesh," the Embassy added. The stampede occurred at a religious event in Hathras on Tuesday, in which 121 people were killed and 35 people were injured, officials said. On this tragic incident, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also offered condolences on the loss of lives in the stampede in UP. He expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. "Deeply distressed by the tragic loss of lives in a stampede in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. Sincere condolences to the bereaved families. Pray for the speedy recovery of the injured," EAM Jaishankar said in a post on X. Meanwhile, police conducted a search operation at Ram Kutir Charitable Trust in Mainpuri district in search of 'Bhole Baba', who conducted a Satsang in Hathras where a stampede took place on Tuesday. Speaking on the search operation, Deputy SP Sunil Kumar said, "We did not find Baba ji inside the campus...He is not here..." Aligarh Inspector General Shalabh Mathur said that the dead bodies have been sent for post-mortem. He also said that the FIR will be registered against several people including the organisers of the event, as more than the permitted number of people were attending the event. The Uttar Pradesh government has announced Rs 2 lakh compensation to the kin of those who died in the incident. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. (ANI) Dubai [UAE], July 3 (ANI/WAM): Emirates Nature-WWF has launched its second free summer training series called 'Nature's Resilience' to upskill the UAE community on nature and the environment. Organised as part of the Leaders of Change programme, the series equips nature lovers and change-makers with knowledge about environmental issues and conservation solutions that contribute towards a sustainable future. Through 10 engaging sessions, Nature's Resilience offers a virtual exploration of the rich tapestry of life in the UAE. From the expansive desert sands and hidden oases to freshwater habitats and coastal regions, participants will get to know local nature like never before and learn about the intricate link between biodiversity, climate change and our own well-being. Through an interactive series of masterclasses and expert-led workshops, participants will gain a deep understanding of the importance of biodiversity conservation and sustainable stewardship practices, when mitigating climate change and preserving the UAE's natural heritage. In addition, participants will gain a better understanding on how they can support environmental experts and local conservation efforts. Participants who complete a minimum of seven sessions will earn a certificate recognizing their commitment to environmental conservation in the UAE. "We are delighted to launch the Nature's Resilience series, which builds upon the success of last summer's climate training series. Over ten weeks, we will explore the magnificent diversity of life that has adapted to thrive in UAE's arid deserts, rocky mountainsides, winding wadis and vibrant coastal lagoons - and how we can safeguard these beautiful, fragile places and the wildlife that calls them home," explained Arabella Willing, Head of Conservation Outreach and Citizen Science at Emirates Nature-WWF. "This series is very action-oriented, and it prepares the community to drive positive impact through citizen science and conservation field trips which will resume after the summer." The series builds upon the popularity and success of last year's Climate and Nature Series, which upskilled nearly 1,000 individuals on key environmental issues and achieved an exceptional satisfaction rating of 98%. Participants took part in seven events that were led by experts and guests from Emirates Nature-WWF, the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi and other organisations, contributing a total of 1,224 hours for nature. While last year's series featured sessions such as Climate Fresk, Food for Thought and the Planetary Boundaries, the focus this year will be on UAE's unique biodiversity. The series will spotlight rare and endangered species, pollinators, migratory and resident birds, and desert dwellers who play an invaluable role in keeping their respective natural ecosystems healthy and functional. (ANI/WAM) Marri, known for his advocacy of Baloch independence, alleged that the operation was being conducted on the orders of China to protect its economic interests in Pakistan. Marri posted on X, "A new military operation is being planned by #Pakistan on #Chinese orders against the Baloch and #Pashtun, known as #Azmelstehkaam (Resolve for Stability). That's Azm-e-Istehkam for #China and #Punjab, not for the Baloch and Pashtun people." He further criticised the operation as benefiting "Punjabi hegemony" while causing "chaos and death" in Balochistan and Pashtunistan. Marri also expressed concern over the involvement of Pashtuns in the Pakistani army, accusing them of being used to suppress their own people's aspirations. He urged them to prioritise the protection of their homeland, Pashtunistan, rather than serving what he described as Punjabi interests. https://x.com/hyrbyair_marri/status/1808425093002936772 The military operation has sparked widespread condemnation from Baloch and Pashtun communities, who have historically resisted Islamabad's authority and expressed grievances over issues including sovereignty and rights. The regions, which have seen unrest for years, have been focal points of resistance against Chinese investments in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. China's substantial investments in Pakistan, particularly in infrastructure projects in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have faced opposition from local populations. Incidents such as the recent attack on a convoy of Chinese engineers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in casualties, underscore the security challenges faced by Chinese nationals in the region. During recent high-level visits between Pakistani and Chinese officials, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir, the security of Chinese interests in Pakistan was prominently discussed. Senior Chinese official Liu Jianchao reiterated the importance of safeguarding Chinese investments and personnel in the country. As tensions escalate, hashtags like #ExpansionistChinalnstigatingBalochAndPashtunGenocide and #StopBalochAndPashtunGenocide have gained traction on social media, reflecting growing international attention to the situation. The situation remains fluid as stakeholders navigate complex geopolitical dynamics amidst ongoing resistance and security challenges in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. (ANI) According to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND), of the 22 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, 20 crossed the Taiwan Strait median line and entered the northern, southwestern, and southeastern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). According to Taiwan News, the aircraft closest to Taiwan was a helicopter detected in the southwestern ADIZ about 81 km (44 NM) southwest of Eluanbi. https://x.com/MoNDefense/status/1808306809805197620 In a post on X, MND said, "22 PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 20 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central, southwestern, and southeastern ADIZ. We've monitored the situation and responded accordingly." The ministry monitored the situation with its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems and scrambled combat patrol aircraft, dispatched naval vessels, and deployed land-based air defence missile systems, as per Taiwan News. On Tuesday, Taiwan tracked 13 Chinese military aircraft and six naval vessels around Taiwan. Of the 13 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, 10 crossed the Taiwan Strait median line in the northern, central, southwestern, and southeastern sectors of the nation's Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), Taiwan News reported, quoting the Ministry of National Defence, Republic of China. So far this month, the MND has detected Chinese military aircraft 41 times and naval vessels 19 times. Since September 2020, Beijing has increased its use of "gray zone tactics" by operating more military aircraft and naval ships around Taiwan. According to CSIS, gray zone tactics are "an effort or series of efforts beyond steady-state deterrence and assurance that attempts to achieve one's security objectives without resorting to direct and sizable use of force." This latest incident adds to a series of similar provocations by China in recent months. China has increased its military activities around Taiwan, including regular air and naval incursions into Taiwan's ADIZ. Taiwan has long been a contentious issue in China's foreign policy. China continues to assert its sovereignty over Taiwan, considers it a part of its territory and insists on eventual reunification, by force if necessary. (ANI) Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi interacted with Security Advisor to Bangladesh Prime Minister Major General Tarique Ahmed Siddique (Retd) at Dhaka and discussed enhancing the long-standing relations between the two nations through defence cooperation. In a post on X, the Indian Navy spokesperson stated, "Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, #CNS interacted with Maj Gen Tarique Ahmed Siddique (Retd), Security Advisor to Hon'ble Prime Minister of Bangladesh at #Dhaka. Discussions focused on enhancing the long-standing relations b/n the two nations through defence cooperation. Aligned Visions & Outlook of both countries #BangladeshVision2041 & #IndoPacific Outlook of Bangladesh, and India's Vision 2047: #ViksitBharat, vision #SAGAR were highlighted." Earlier on July 2, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi called on Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, as a part of his ongoing visit to the neighbouring country. During the discussions, Sheikh Hasina appreciated India's contribution to Bangladesh's War of Liberation in 1971. "Adm Dinesh K Tripathi CNS, on an official visit to Bangladesh, called on HE Sheikh Hasina, Hon'ble Prime Minister of Bangladesh on #02Jul 24. During discussions, the PM of Bangladesh recalled & appreciated India's contribution to Bangladesh's War of Liberation in 1971," the Indian Navy said in a post on X, following the meeting between the Indian Navy Chief, and Sheikh Hasina. "CNS apprised the PM regarding the progress of ongoing bilateral maritime engagements b/n the Indian navy & the Bangladesh Navy," the post read further. On Tuesday, Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi interacted with the Commandant of National Defence College Lt Gen Md Saiful Alam, the faculty and staff and provided an overview of flux in the security environment in the broader Indo-Pacific Region from a naval perspective. The Navy Chief, who is on an official visit to Bangladesh, visited the National Defence College on Tuesday. During the visit, he interacted with the commandant Lt Gen, faculty, staff and the officers of the National Defence College. "Adm Dinesh K Tripathi #CNS, during his visit to the National Defence College, #NDC Bangladesh interacted with the Commandant Lt Gen Md Saiful Alam, faculty & Staff, & Officers undergoing the NDC," the Indian Navy said in a post on X. Further, in his address to the NDC "Class of 2024", the Navy Chief provided an overview of the geopolitical trends. "In his address to NDC #Classof2024, on the topic "Turbulent Tides and Times - Steering a Steady Course" #CNS provided an overview of the geopolitical trends & flux in the security environment in the broader #IndoPacific Region #IPR from a naval perspective," the Indian Navy stated. The CNS further stressed these trends including the opportunities for like-minded nations in the Indo-Pacific Region to cooperate and collaborate aligned to the Indian government's vision of SAGAR to ensure a free, open, peaceful and inclusive Indo-Pacific. "#CNS highlighted the "so what" of these trends including opportunities for like-minded nations in #IPR to cooperate & collaborate aligned to the GoI vision of #SAGAR & #IPOI towards ensuring a free, open, peaceful & inclusive #IPR for shared peace & prosperity for all littorals in the #IndianOceanRegion," the Indian Navy stated on X. The Navy Chief is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with his counterpart Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, Chief of the Naval Staff, Bangladesh Navy in Dhaka, and also review the Passing Out Parade scheduled at Bangladesh Naval Academy (BNA) at Chittagong on July 4, the release added. Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi is on an official visit to Bangladesh for four days from July 1-4. The visit is aimed at consolidating bilateral defence relations between India and Bangladesh and exploring new avenues for Naval cooperation, a press release from the Indian Navy said. India and Bangladesh share bonds of history, language, culture, and a multitude of other commonalities. The excellent bilateral ties reflect an all-encompassing partnership based on sovereignty, equality, trust, and understanding that goes far beyond a strategic partnership. (ANI) Dubai [UAE], July 3 (ANI/WAM): Dubai Chambers has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aramex to enhance the services available to the business community and support companies in their professional activities and operations. Under the terms of the MoU, Aramex will provide special packages for companies that are members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, one of the three chambers under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers. The packages will offer comprehensive transportation and logistics solutions for businesses, together with a range of quality services delivered through Aramex facilities across the Emirates. Khalid Al Jarwan, Vice President of Operations and Acting Vice President of Digital and Commercial Sectors at Dubai Chambers, commented, "We are committed to enhancing the competitiveness of the private sector by improving the quality and efficiency of services available to companies operating in Dubai in cooperation with partners from the public and private sectors. Dubai Chambers remains focused on sustaining institutional and customer excellence as a strategic priority to contribute effectively to the development of Dubai's favourable business environment and enhance its attractiveness among companies and investors." Tarek Abuyaghi, General Manager of Aramex, said, "Having trustworthy and efficient logistics partners is crucial for businesses across various industries. As the UAE continues to evolve into a global business hub, we are delighted to join forces with Dubai Chambers to support members of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce. Drawing on more than four decades of expertise of Aramex, as well as our data-driven and customer-centric approach, we will provide tailored logistics solutions that meet the unique needs of each business. The collaboration aligns with our efforts to support the UAE's vibrant business environment and help businesses of all sizes--small, medium, and large--thrive through reliable, innovative, and efficient logistics services." (ANI/WAM) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting with Belarus counterpart Maksim Ryzhenkov and discussed bilateral relations and its future growth potential on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Astana. During the talks, he welcomed Belarus to SCO as its newest member. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Pleased to meet FM Maksim Ryzhenkov of Belarus today. Welcome Belarus to the SCO as its newest member. Discussed our bilateral relationship and its future growth potential." Earlier, S Jaishankar met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of State Council meeting in Astana on Wednesday. Jaishankar, in his meeting with Lavrov, raised "strong concern about Indian nationals" currently in the war zone in Russia. Both the leaders also discussed the "global strategic landscape" and exchanged assessments and views. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Good to meet Russian FM Sergey Lavrov in Astana today. Wide ranging conversation on our bilateral partnership and contemporary issues. Noted the progress in many areas since our last meeting in December 2023." "Raised our strong concern on Indian nationals who are currently in the war zone. Pressed for their safe and expeditious return. Also discussed the global strategic landscape and exchanged assessments and views," he added. He visited Pushkin Park in Astana on Wednesday, where he paid tribute to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi accompanied by members of the Indian community following his arrival to represent India at the SCO Summit on July 4. In a post on X, he stated, "Paid homage at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Pushkin Park in Astana today. Joined by members of the Indian community and friends of India." Upon his arrival in Astana, Jaishankar was welcomed by Kazakhstan Deputy Foreign Minister Alibek Bakaye. SCO Summit is being held under Kazakhstan's chairmanship. "EAM @DrSJaishankar reached Astana to represent PM @narendramodi at the SCO Summit from July 3-4, 2024. On arrival, EAM was welcomed by Kazakhstan's Deputy Foreign Minister @AlibekBakayev," the Indian Embassy in Kazakhstan posted on X. Jaishankar also met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu in Astana on Tuesday and discussed expanding strategic partnership and India's increasing engagement with Central Asia. Jaishankar thanked the deputy prime minister for the hospitality and arrangements for the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues. "Delighted to meet DPM & FM Murat Nurtleu of Kazakhstan in Astana today. Thanked him for the hospitality and arrangements for the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit. Discussed our expanding Strategic Partnership and India's increasing engagement with Central Asia in various formats. Also exchanged views on regional and global issues," EAM Jaishankar said in a post on X. The SCO Summit will be held on July 3-4. The 24th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State (SCO Summit) will be held under the presidency of Kazakhstan on July 4. (ANI) Pakistan's anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi has asked the government and jail administration to respond to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan's request to meet his sons, Pakistan-based daily, The Express Tribune reported on Wednesday. The former Prime Minister filed a petition seeking permission to meet his sons, Qasim and Sulaiman, in Adiala Jail. In his petition, Khan argued that meeting his sons is his constitutional and legal right, emphasising that the meeting would be of a familial nature. "I wish to meet my sons, Qasim and Sulaiman. This is my constitutional and legal right," Khan stated. The court has directed the government, the Ministry of Interior, and the jail administration to provide their responses by July 5. The hearing has been adjourned until July 7. The former Pakistani Prime Minister was jailed on January 30 for 10 years in a case in which he was charged with leaking state secrets. He is already serving a three-year jail term after being convicted of corruption. Imran Khan called all the charges against him politically motivated. He had urged the public to "take revenge for every injustice with your vote on February 8 while remaining peaceful" in a statement released on his X (formerly Twitter) account. "Tell them that we are not sheep that can be driven with a stick," he added. Former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, vice chairman of Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, was also sentenced to 10 years in prison by the special court set up inside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. The case involves the alleged leaking of secret diplomatic correspondence sent by Pakistan's ambassador on Washington to Islamabad when Khan was Prime Minister. It relates to his appearance at a rally in March 2022, a month before Khan was ousted from power in a parliamentary vote of no confidence. He appeared on stage, waving a piece of paper that he says showed a foreign conspiracy against him. (ANI) Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has expressed sadness over the loss of lives in the stampede that occurred in Uttar Pradesh. He offered condolences to the bereaved families and wished for the swift recovery of the injured people. In a statement, Japanese PM Fumio Kishida said, "I am deeply saddened to learn that many precious lives were lost in the stampede that occurred in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh. "On behalf of the Government of Japan, I pray for the souls of the victims and extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved families. I would also like to express my sincere wishes for the swift recovery of the injured," he added. His statement comes after 121 people died while 35 sustained injuries in the stampede incident which took place during a 'Satsang' in the Hathras district on Tuesday. Sandip Kumar Singh Lodhi, Minister of State for Education (Independent Charge) in the Government of Uttar Pradesh confirmed that a total of 35 people sustained injuries. "It is a very unfortunate incident and we have been following up on every update from Hathras all night. It is really sad that the death toll has reached 121. About 35 people are injured," he said. Earlier today, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath arrived in Hathras to meet the victims and their families. He also held an interaction with the officials at the Hathras police line to take stock of the status quo. An FIR, meanwhile, has been registered against Devprakash Madhukar, referred to as 'Mukhya Sewadar' and other organisers of the 'Satsang' where the stampede occurred. Uttar Pradesh police have also launched a search operation at Ram Kutir Charitable Trust in Mainpuri district in search of Narayan Saakar Hari also known as Bhole Baba, the preacher of the 'Satsang' in Hathras. The preacher, however, remains untraceable. "We did not find Baba ji inside the campus. He is not here," Deputy SP Sunil Kumar said earlier. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Minister Sandeep Singh has affirmed that strict actions would be taken against those responsible for the tragedy. "Till now 121 people have died in the incident...The injured are being treated. Strict action will be taken against those found responsible for the incident. This is not a small incident", he said. (ANI) The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has demanded Chinese authorities release Kazakh journalists - Kairat Domalin and Kuandyk Koben, who have been arrested from Xinjiang region and stop harassing members of the media fraternity. In a statement, the CPJ said that the Chinese authorities arrested Domalin and Koben in Urumqi a city in Xinjiang in April this year, and the arrests were reported in June by the Atajurt Kazakh Human Rights, a human rights organization based in Kazakhstan. Both of the journalists were employed at the local state-run television network Xinjiang Television in Urumqi. According to the statement, CPJ has not yet received any information regarding the charges that resulted in the arrest of Domalin and Koben. However, the arrest of Koben might be linked to his work related to historic buildings of Xinjiang that have been intentionally ignored by the Chinese government. While raising the same matter, Iris Hsu, CPJ's China representative stated, "Chinese authorities must free Kazakh journalists Kairat Domalin and Kuandyk Koben. It's time for China to cease its campaign of harassing and arbitrarily detaining press members of the Muslim ethnic minorities and release all imprisoned journalists." Domalin was a TV presenter for the program "Zholaushy" (Traveler) on the Xinjiang Television network, and Koben produced, directed, and presented Kazakh-language documentaries and more than 20 award-winning television programs, the CPJ statement claimed. In addition, the call of CPJ to the Public Security Department of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region regarding the safety of the journalists had also gone unanswered. Previously, CPJ in a report released in 2023 found out that China remains the worst place when it comes to arresting journalists, especially from ethnic minorities. According to CPJ's latest annual prison census, with at least 44 behind bars as of December 1, 2023. Many journalists held were ethnic Uyghurs from Xinjiang. Meanwhile, international human rights organisations, the United Nations, and several governments of the state have blamed China and its authorities for its severe crimes against humanity and ongoing genocide in the Xinjiang region, particularly for repressing the region's Muslim ethnic groups. (ANI) After two days-long political drama, the incumbent government under Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal "Prachanda" has collapsed in Nepal as coalition ministers resign en-masse retracting support. With the expiration of the 24-hour deadline given on Tuesday, the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML), the key ally of the Dahal-led government walked out of the government. The party had given a one-day ultimatum to Prime Minister Dahal to step down from the post which it called "a respectful exit." On Wednesday (July 3), eight ministers from CPN-UML on board the cabinet of Dahal formed on March 4 earlier this year, tendered resignations before the Prime Minister at his residence in Baluwatar. The ministers had reached Balkot, the residence of UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli and headed for Baluwatar. "We have resigned and submitted the letter to the Prime Minister a while ago. All the 8 ministers on board the cabinet from the CPN-UML have resigned informing the Prime Minister that we no longer are part of this government and withdraw our support," Jwalakumari Sah, the former minister for Agriculture told ANI over phone call from PM residence, Baluwatar. The UML and Congress on Monday night agreed to form a new government. Oli would lead a new national consensus and government for a year and a half. For the remaining term, Nepal's former PM Sher Bahadur Deuba will be the prime minister. Dahal expressed reluctance to resign immediately. The office-bearers meeting of the CPN (Maoist Centre) held in Baluwatar on Tuesday had decided that the Prime Minister will not tender his resignation but instead face a trust vote in Parliament within 30 days since the retraction of support. On Wednesday, the Nepali Congress formally endorsed the agreement reached with the CPN-UML on the formation of a new coalition. A central work execution committee meeting of the party held at party President Sher Bahadur Deuba's residence in Budhanilkantha endorsed the deal reached between the top leaders of the two largest parties. In the deal, leaders from the two largest parties have reached an understanding to lead the governments in the remaining around three-and-half-year tenure of the present parliament on a rotation basis. "The meeting concludes that it would be appropriate for the prime minister to pave the way for the formation of a new national consensus government as, following the agreement between Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML, a clear majority in the House of Representatives is in favour of forming the government under the leadership of KP Sharma Oli," reads a statement issued after the meeting. The meeting also expressed commitment to implement the agreement. "The meeting expresses its determination to implement the agreement reached between the Nepali Congress and the CPN-UML regarding leading governments on a rotation basis to protect national interests, control corruption, ensure good governance, the development, maintain political stability, amending the constitution to strengthen the federal democratic republican system and inclusiveness and to strengthen the economy." As per the midnight agreement between Sher Bahadur Deuba from Nepali Congress and KP Sharma Oli from CPN-UML on Tuesday, a committee is also formed to suggest amendments to the election procedures and the constitution under the leadership of former Chief Justice Kalyan Shrestha. In the overnight agreement, the largest and the second largest party in the parliament drafted a constitutional amendment agreement where it was stated that the Vice President would be made the chairman of the National Assembly. Leaders from the Congress and the UML informed President Ram Chandra Paudel about the change in coalition. During the meeting, the leaders informed the President about activating Section 76 (2) to form a new government in case the incumbent Prime Minister fails to win the vote of confidence after UML withdraws its support. Prachanda has to take the vote of confidence again from the parliament after a party withdraws support. Dahal, who came to power after the 2022 General Elections. has already taken the floor test in parliament for a record four times. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a meeting with Tajikistan counterpart Sirojiddin Muhriddin on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Kazakhstan's Astana on Wednesday. The two leaders took stock of bilateral partnership and cooperation on multilateral forums. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Glad to meet Tajik FM Sirojiddin Muhriddin today in Astana. Took stock of our bilateral partnership and cooperation on multilateral forums. Appreciate the exchange of views on the regional situation." Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation at the 24th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State (SCO Summit) set to be held under the presidency of Kazakhstan on July 4. Earlier in the day, Jaishankar held a meeting with Belarus counterpart Maksim Ryzhenkov and discussed bilateral relations and its future growth potential. Sharing details regarding the meeting, Jaishankar in a post on X stated, "Pleased to meet FM Maksim Ryzhenkov of Belarus today. Welcome Belarus to the SCO as its newest member. Discussed our bilateral relationship and its future growth potential." He also met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the SCO Summit. During his meeting with Lavrov, Jaishankar raised "strong concern about Indian nationals" currently in the war zone in Russia. Both the leaders also discussed the "global strategic landscape" and exchanged assessments and views. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Good to meet Russian FM Sergey Lavrov in Astana today. Wide ranging conversation on our bilateral partnership and contemporary issues. Noted the progress in many areas since our last meeting in December 2023." "Raised our strong concern on Indian nationals who are currently in the war zone. Pressed for their safe and expeditious return. Also discussed the global strategic landscape and exchanged assessments and views," he added. Jaishankar also visited Pushkin Park in Astana on Wednesday, where he paid tribute to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi accompanied by members of the Indian community following his arrival to represent India at the SCO Summit on July 4. In a post on X, he stated, "Paid homage at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Pushkin Park in Astana today. Joined by members of the Indian community and friends of India." Upon his arrival in Astana, Jaishankar was welcomed by Kazakhstan Deputy Foreign Minister Alibek Bakaye. "EAM @DrSJaishankar reached Astana to represent PM @narendramodi at the SCO Summit from July 3-4, 2024. On arrival, EAM was welcomed by Kazakhstan's Deputy Foreign Minister @AlibekBakayev," the Indian Embassy in Kazakhstan posted on X. Jaishankar also met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu in Astana on Tuesday and discussed expanding strategic partnership and India's increasing engagement with Central Asia. Jaishankar thanked Kazakhstan's Deputy PM for the hospitality and arrangements for the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues. "Delighted to meet DPM & FM Murat Nurtleu of Kazakhstan in Astana today. Thanked him for the hospitality and arrangements for the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit. Discussed our expanding Strategic Partnership and India's increasing engagement with Central Asia in various formats. Also exchanged views on regional and global issues," EAM Jaishankar said in a post on X. During the SCO Summit, the leaders are expected to review the organization's activities over the past two decades and discuss the state and prospects of multilateral cooperation, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier press release. The leaders are also expected to discuss issues of regional and international importance. In an earlier press release, MEA stated, "India's priorities in SCO are shaped by Prime Minister's vision of a 'SECURE' SCO. SECURE stands for Security, Economic cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environmental protection." Notably, India, under its first-ever presidency of SCO, hosted the 23rd Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State in virtual format on July 4, 2023. (ANI) A district and sessions court in the federal capital of Pakistan on Wednesday acquitted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and several other leaders in a case registered at Aapbara Police Station for protesting against the Election Commission of Pakistan's Toshakhana verdict in 2022, which disqualified him from holding office for a limited time, Pakistan-based News Agency reported. Judicial Magistrate Yasir Mehmood announced the verdict, which was reserved last week on the petitions seeking acquittal, during the hearing. Other leaders who are let off in the case are Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Sheikh Rasheed, Asad Qaiser, Shehryar Afridi, Faisal Javed, Raja Khurram Nawaz and Ali Nawaz Awan. PTI lawyers, Advocate Sardar Masroof and Advocate Ansar Kayani made the arguments in the case on behalf of the former Prime Minister and others. Imran Khan has been facing a slew of charges ranging from corruption to terrorism since his removal as the premier in 2022, Geo News reported. The PTI founder has been in jail since last August and was convicted in some cases ahead of a nationwide election earlier this year. He is also fighting dozens of other cases. The only hurdle keeping him behind bars is the iddat or the un-Islamic marriage case, whose proceedings are underway, and the judge expects the case to be wrapped up within this month, Geo News reported. On June 27, a district and sessions court in Islamabad declined the pleas of Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi to suspend their seven-year sentences in the Iddat Case. The verdict, met with protests in Islamabad by activists and criticism in Karachi by demonstrators who were against the state's intrusion into people's lives". On Wednesday, Pakistan's anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi asked the government and jail administration to respond to Imran Khan's request to meet his sons, Qasim and Sulaiman in Adiala Jail. (ANI) External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday held a meeting with his Uzbekistan counterpart Bakhtiyor Saidov on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Astana. Following his meeting with Saidov, Jaishankar stated that they appreciated the steady progression in bilateral ties and discussed taking it forward to a higher level. Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, "Nice to meet @FM_Saidov of Uzbekistan today in Astana. Appreciated the steady progress in India-Uzbekistan ties. Discussed taking it forward to a higher level." Earlier, Jaishankar held a meeting with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. During the meeting, the two sides discussed global hotspots and their larger implications. Sharing details regarding his meeting with the UN Chief, Jaishankar stated, "Always a pleasure to meet UNSG @antonioguterres. Appreciate his insights on the state of the world. Discussed global hotspots and their larger implications. Spoke about the reform of the UNSC, preparations for the upcoming Summit of the Future, and future prospects for meaningful India-UN partnership." Earlier in the day, S Jaishankar held a meeting with his Tajik counterpart Sirojiddin Muhriddin in Kazakhstan's Astana. The two leaders took stock of bilateral partnership and cooperation on multilateral forums. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Glad to meet Tajik FM Sirojiddin Muhriddin today in Astana. Took stock of our bilateral partnership and cooperation on multilateral forums. Appreciate the exchange of views on the regional situation." Jaishankar is on a visit to Kazakhstan to attend the 24th Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of State (SCO Summit) set to be held under the presidency of Kazakhstan on July 4. Upon his arrival in Astana, Jaishankar was welcomed by Kazakhstan Deputy Foreign Minister Alibek Bakaye. He also held a meeting with Belarus counterpart Maksim Ryzhenkov and discussed bilateral relations and its future growth potential. Sharing details regarding the meeting, Jaishankar in a post on X stated, "Pleased to meet FM Maksim Ryzhenkov of Belarus today. Welcome Belarus to the SCO as its newest member. Discussed our bilateral relationship and its future growth potential." Jaishankar also visited Pushkin Park in Astana on Wednesday, where he paid tribute to the statue of Mahatma Gandhi accompanied by members of the Indian community following his arrival to represent India at the SCO Summit on July 4. Earlier in the day, he met Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and raised "strong concern about Indian nationals" currently in the war zone in Russia. Both the leaders also discussed the "global strategic landscape" and exchanged assessments and views. In a post on X, Jaishankar stated, "Good to meet Russian FM Sergey Lavrov in Astana today. Wide ranging conversation on our bilateral partnership and contemporary issues. Noted the progress in many areas since our last meeting in December 2023." "Raised our strong concern on Indian nationals who are currently in the war zone. Pressed for their safe and expeditious return. Also discussed the global strategic landscape and exchanged assessments and views," he added. Jaishankar also met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu in Astana on Tuesday and discussed expanding strategic partnership and India's increasing engagement with Central Asia. Jaishankar thanked Kazakhstan's Deputy PM for the hospitality and arrangements for the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues. "Delighted to meet DPM & FM Murat Nurtleu of Kazakhstan in Astana today. Thanked him for the hospitality and arrangements for the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit. Discussed our expanding Strategic Partnership and India's increasing engagement with Central Asia in various formats. Also exchanged views on regional and global issues," EAM Jaishankar said in a post on X. During the SCO Summit, the leaders are expected to review the organization's activities over the past two decades and discuss the state and prospects of multilateral cooperation, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) earlier press release. The leaders are also expected to discuss issues of regional and international importance. In an earlier press release, MEA stated, "India's priorities in SCO are shaped by Prime Minister's vision of a 'SECURE' SCO. SECURE stands for Security, Economic cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environmental protection." (ANI) Abu Dhabi [UAE], July 3 (ANI/WAM): The United Arab Emirates and Brazil have issued a joint statement to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations. Below is the full text of the statement: "The Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Brazil and the United Arab Emirates are pleased to mark 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Established on 10th June, 1974, these ties have evolved into a robust strategic partnership across political, economic and cultural fields. Brazil established its Embassy in Abu Dhabi in 1978, and the UAE opened its first Latin American Embassy in Brasilia in 1991. This diplomatic presence was further expanded with the establishment of the Emirati consulate in Sao Paulo in 2017. The strength of the bilateral relationship is evident in the frequency of high-level official visits. In 2023, President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva visited the UAE twice. In April, he met with the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Following this, in December 2023, the Brazilian President participated in COP28 in Dubai. The strategic partnership between the UAE and Brazil facilitates extensive governmental and investment cooperation, encompassing diverse sectors such as technology, tourism, culture, space, trade, and renewable energy. This alignment extends beyond bilateral frameworks, promoting joint initiatives in third countries. The economic relations between the two countries are characterized by a high level of mutual investments and significant trade flows. The UAE is Brazil's second-largest trade partner in the Middle East. In 2023, bilateral trade surpassed USD 4.3 billion. In the climate field, joint cooperation between Brazil and the UAE aims to ensure a seamless transition from COP28 to COP30, which will take place in Belem in 2025. During COP28, the UAE and Brazil collaborated closely, culminating in the adoption of the significant UAE Consensus agreement, which was endorsed by 198 participating nations. In addition, both nations share a commitment to promote a more prosperous and equitable world where peace, tolerance, coexistence, inclusiveness, and sustainable development prevail. As the two countries celebrate this milestone, Brazil and the UAE recommit to further strengthen their strategic ties and cooperation that will yield growth, prosperity and mutual benefits for the next 50 years and beyond." (ANI/WAM) France's Permanent Representative to OECD, Amelie de Montchalin, said that India and France are working together as the two nations share the same vision on what artificial intelligence (AI) can bring as a tool for more development, innovation and prosperity. Speaking to ANI, Amelie de Montchalin noted that France and India have digital public infrastructure in common. On being asked about India and France's role in AI, Montchalin said, "So, India and France are really working together because we have the same vision of what AI can bring as a tool for more development, as a tool for innovation, as a tool for prosperity. But, we also have the same values." "We want to keep our sovereign autonomy to make sure that we are having the control of our technologies. We have the same vision of cyber. So, the fact that we work together is also the sign that we want to make sure that AI is at the service of all people, all across the planet, so without division between what we call the north and the south," she added. Asked whether there is any discussion between two nations in terms of AI, Amelie de Montchalin said, "So as you know, France and India, we have something in common, which are digital public infrastructure. I was in charge of civil service reform and I was in charge of the digital public services in France. And they are very close and very similar in their thinking from what you do here in India with your very successful digital public infrastructure. So we will continue to work together on this." "We are also discussing as part of the global partnership on AI, how to be AI for good, open AI solutions to face climate change, agriculture, smart cities, water resources, and make sure that these algorithms are free, open, not just for India and France, but also to other developing and emerging countries, and this is something I know in India wants to do even more and that France will support and we will do together," she added. She lauded India for organising the 'Global IndiaAI Summit' and called it a "major success." She stated that the conference in Delhi is a follow-up to the G20 Summit in Delhi held in 2023. French envoy also talked about the AI Action Summit set to be held in February 2025 and added that India will be invited to the Summit. Speaking about India's role in the propagation of AI, Montchalin said, "So I think it's a major success to have this Delhi conference today, this ministerial meeting of the Global Partnership on AI. I think it's also the follow-up of your G20. I must say that what happened today between the ministers was something that President Macron and Prime Minister Modi have discussed here in Delhi in September 2023." "So, less than one year after, we are having the results and the outcome and the new dynamic of this group now joining more than 40 countries together from the north, from the south, from the east, from the west, from all around the planet to work together. And we will have in February 2025 in Paris what we call the AI Action Summit where India will be invited, where we will continue to work together. And for me, it's really a good place today to be because the vision we have in common is one that, for me, will bring success to our people, to the planet and to innovation," she added. The 'Global IndiaAI Summit' is being organized in New Delhi on July 3-4. According to the official statement, the Summit will focus on key pillars of the AI ecosystem, including Compute Capacity, Foundational Models, Datasets, Application Development, Future Skills, Startup Financing, and Safe and trusted AI. (ANI) The Punjab Specialised Healthcare and Medical Education Department informed the Lahore High Court (LHC) that a female doctor was terminated for performing a two-finger test, also known as a virginity test, on a minor rape victim, Dawn reported. This disclosure came in a written report submitted in response to a petition filed by the rape suspect, who sought the formation of a medical board to re-examine the victim. According to the report, the Punjab Medicolegal Surgeon investigated the matter following a complaint by the petitioner/suspect. The investigation found ad-hoc Dr Aliza Gill guilty of issuing a medical certificate for the minor victim based on the two-finger test. Consequently, Dr Gill's appointment was terminated effective July 1, according to Dawn. The department emphasized that, in accordance with the LHC's 2020 judgement, directives had repeatedly been issued prohibiting the performance or documentation of the two-finger test or virginity test in medicolegal reports for female victims of sexual assault. During the hearing, Services Hospital AMS Hammad and Additional Secretary of the Specialised Healthcare Department Abdul Mannan appeared before the court. Advocate Mian Dawood, representing the petitioner, argued that the police had registered a case against his client on charges of sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl. He contended that Aliza Gill from Services Hospital had issued a "bogus and illegal" medical certificate that included the two-finger test for the victim. Justice Farooq Haider voiced concern over the continued use of the two-finger test in hospitals despite the ban, stating, "This case will be brought to a logical conclusion." He highlighted the gravity of issuing medical certificates in violation of the law and suggested that the court might appoint an amicus curiae to assist with the matter. The department's legal adviser, Raj Maqsood, informed the court that the Surgeon Medical Officer of Punjab had also recommended forming a new medical board to re-examine the victim. The petitioner's counsel stressed the need for strict implementation of court decisions, arguing that corrupt practices by doctors could harm others if not addressed. He said, "If a fake medical certificate was issued against my client today, corrupt doctors could do the same to someone else tomorrow." Justice Haider also criticized the Kasur police for their failure to present the victim and her mother in court, expressing his displeasure over this non-compliance. He directed the Kasur District Police Officer (DPO) to ensure compliance with the court's orders. The hearing was adjourned till Thursday, with the judge reiterating the importance of adherence to legal protocols and the need for thorough investigation and accountability in cases of sexual assault, Dawn reported. (ANI) Several videos have surfaced on social media platforms showing the family of Zaheer Ahmed Baloch, a forcibly abducted individual from Balochistan, being threatened by uniformed members of the Pakistani defence forces. Reportedly, this incident occurred while his family was organising a protest in Quetta, demanding his safe return. According to PAANK, the human rights department of the Baloch National Movement, a Baloch rights organisation from Pakistan, Zaheer was forcibly abducted by men belonging to the Pakistani forces on June 27 this year. In a post on 'X', PAANK referenced the incident, stating, "Armed agents of a Pakistani intelligence agency are threatening the peaceful family of Zaheer Baloch, abducted by Pakistani forces on June 27, during a rally demanding his release outside the Session Court. We demand immediate protection for the family and Zaheer's safe release." https://x.com/paank_bnm/status/1808446965341896742?s=46&t=nbusnwoIYo9hUrDuoWfhwQ Zaheer's family has been organising protests in various locations in Quetta, demanding his safe return from Balochistan's administration. Prominent Baloch rights activist Sammi Deen Baloch previously informed that unidentified gunmen had been threatening the victim's family to halt the protests, despite the local administration being responsible for negotiating and resolving the issue. In another post on 'X', it was stated, "Zaheer Ahmed was unlawfully abducted by state intelligence agencies on June 27, 2024. His family has been protesting at various locations in Quetta. Despite the administration's responsibility to negotiate with the families, some gunmen are threatening and harassing the families to stop protesting, and no action is being taken against them. We strongly condemn such tactics and demand the safe release of Zaheer Ahmed." Protests in Balochistan over the rising issue of enforced disappearances are not new. Recently, a sit-in protest camp led by the Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP), demanding the safe recovery of missing individuals, completed its 5496th day outside the Quetta Press Club. Sibghatullah, the Convener of Baloch Yakjehti Committee's Makran chapter, along with other top Baloch activists, visited the camp to express solidarity with the families, according to a report by the Balochistan Post. However, incidents of enforced disappearances in Balochistan have not decreased. https://x.com/SammiBaluch/status/1808473920485384648 PAANK reported that in May alone, there were 90 cases of enforced disappearances in Pakistan's Balochistan. The regions of Kech, Gwadar, and Dera Bugti witnessed 22, 15, and 29 such incidents, respectively. (ANI) The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-backed opposition in the Punjab Assembly has declared its intention to boycott the house proceedings and abstain from participating in its standing committees. Instead, they plan to conduct a parallel session in a tent outside the assembly building, Dawn reported. "We'll neither become a part of any house proceedings nor its committees," opposition leader Malik Ahmed Khan Bhachar stated at a press conference on Tuesday. He explained that their decision stemmed from their protest against the suspension of 11 opposition lawmakers for 15 sittings of the house, vowing to continue their boycott until the sanctions are revoked, according to Dawn. Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan revoked the official vehicle assigned to the opposition leader and imposed sanctions on 11 members for alleged "rowdyism" during Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz's budget speech last Friday. Among those facing sanctions are Zulfikar Ali, Shehbaz Ahmed, Muhammad Atif, Tayyab Rashid, Imtiaz Mahmood, Hafiz Farhat Abbas, Ejaz Shafi, Rana Aurangzeb, Shoaib Amir, Osama Asghar Ali Gujjar, and Asad Abbas. They were accused of using non-parliamentary and abusive language towards the chief minister while she was recounting her administration's achievements during her first 100-day rule. Bhachar asserted that his colleagues were penalized at the behest of the chief minister and for voicing objections to the budget. He argued that the speaker should have issued notices to the members and conducted a hearing before taking action. "Penalising parliamentarians without hearing them is unprecedented," he criticised, questioning how a chief minister could represent 120 million people when unable to face a few legislators. Recalling past incidents during Pervaiz Elahi's regime, Bhachar noted that the opposition PML-N had even broken chairs in the house without repercussions. The opposition leader expressed their refusal to be embroiled in 'illegal' cases and announced plans to pursue all available legal avenues against the government's actions. He also appealed to the government's leadership to act prudently and avoid exacerbating anti-PTI sentiments. The opposition intends to continue conducting a parallel assembly session in a 'tent chamber' outside the assembly building, with appointed private staff to facilitate proceedings, Dawn reported. (ANI) Hezbollah has escalated tensions with Israel by launching a large barrage of rockets following the killing of a top commander in southern Lebanon, Al Jazeera reported. The Lebanese armed group, known for its close ties to Iran, confirmed the death of Muhammad Nimah Nasser, also referred to as "Hajj Abu Naameh," in an Israeli airstrike. Hezbollah retaliated swiftly with the firing of approximately 100 katyusha rockets aimed at Israeli military positions, marking a dramatic escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two adversaries. The announcement of Nasser's death was made via Hezbollah's official channel on Telegram, although specific details about the location of the attack were not disclosed initially. Sources close to the group later confirmed to media outlets that Nasser had been killed in the Hosh area of Tyre, a city in southern Lebanon known for its historical significance and proximity to the Israeli border, according to AL Jazeera. Nasser held a senior rank within Hezbollah, comparable to that of Taleb Abdallah, another prominent commander who was killed in a previous Israeli attack in June. The loss of such high-ranking officials underscores the intensity and strategic significance of the conflict, which has been ongoing for nearly nine months and has seen periodic flare-ups leading to concerns about broader regional instability. Israeli military officials acknowledged targeting Nasser, describing him as a key figure responsible for Hezbollah's operations involving anti-tank and rocket systems in southwestern Lebanon. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have maintained a stance of pre-emptive strikes against Hezbollah positions, citing security concerns and the need to protect Israeli territory from potential attacks. In response to the escalating violence, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasised the need for heightened security measures in northern Israel, where communities have faced increased threats from Hezbollah's rocket fire. Netanyahu's government has faced pressure from within Israel, with calls from some far-right ministers for a full-scale invasion of Hezbollah-controlled territory in Lebanon--a move that could escalate the conflict further and potentially lead to broader regional implications. Hezbollah's leader, Hassan Nasrallah, known for his fiery rhetoric and staunch defence of the group's military actions, has warned of readiness for an all-out war with Israel, characterized by unrestricted warfare and a willingness to engage without restraint. Nasrallah's statements have been consistent with Hezbollah's longstanding position of preparedness against what it perceives as Israeli aggression and threats to Lebanon's sovereignty. The recent exchanges of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel have prompted international concern, with diplomatic efforts underway to prevent a further deterioration of the situation. French President Emmanuel Macron has been vocal in his calls for de-escalation, urging Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to avoid actions that could ignite a broader conflict detrimental to both Lebanese and Israeli interests. Macron "reiterated his serious concern over a deepening of tensions between Hezbollah and Israel ... and underscored the absolute need to prevent a conflagration that would harm the interests of Lebanon as well as Israel," the French presidency said in a statement. Meanwhile, United States Envoy Amos Hochstein, who has been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts in Lebanon, is coordinating with French counterparts to seek avenues for mediation and ceasefire negotiations. The United States, along with European and Arab states, has a vested interest in stabilizing the situation and preventing a wider regional conflagration that could have far-reaching consequences beyond Lebanon and Israel. Amidst the diplomatic manoeuvring and military engagements, the civilian toll continues to mount on both sides. Lebanese authorities report that over 543 people, including 88 civilians, have been killed by Israeli attacks since the conflict intensified. In Israel, at least 21 people, including 10 civilians, have lost their lives due to Hezbollah's rocket fire and other attacks targeting civilian areas, Al Jazeera reported. (ANI) WASHINGTON Democratic governors will meet Wednesday with President Joe Biden nearly a week after his concern-raising debate performance against presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump. Some governors will attend the session with the president in person, others virtually. The meeting, confirmed by the White House, follows a call that a group of concerned Democratic governors held amongst themselves Monday evening amid fallout from Biden's disastrous debate performance. During the call, the governors discussed seeking a conversation directly with Biden. Three Democratic sources confirmed the Monday call and said the Biden campaign knew in advance the phone meeting was happening. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, chairman of the Democratic Governors Association, organized the conversation, two sources confirmed. "When you come off a bad debate you need to remind people why you're the right guy to elect," Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker said in an interview on CNN Tuesday night. Pritzker was on the conference call Monday and is among the governors meeting with Biden Wednesday. "Joe Biden is going to be our nominee unless he decides otherwise," Pritzker said. "Unless he makes a different decision, I'm on board and I'm supporting the president. He's been good for the country." White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Biden will also meet with congressional leaders this week and conduct a one-on-one interview with ABC News' George Stephanopoulos. "We want to turn the page on this, and we want to turn the page for the American people," Jean-Pierre said at a press briefing Tuesday. She declined to discuss what Biden will tell the governors on Wednesday. "I don't want to discuss a private discussion. He'll have these conversations. I think they'll be important. They'll hear from him. You'll hear from them." Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer waves as US President Joe Biden speaks to members of the United Auto Workers (UAW) at the UAW National Training Center, in Warren, Michigan, on February 1, 2024. US President Joe Biden is in Michigan to attend campaign events. (Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP) (Photo by MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty Images) Monday's call included governors only, with no members of staff or other organizers, a Democratic official confirmed. Among other governors on the call, USA TODAY confirmed, were Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and Arizona's Katie Hobbs. State leaders on the phone brought up concerns about Biden's candidacy, as well as about raising those concerns publicly, and there was a strong sentiment they needed to hear directly from Biden, CNN reported. Several Democratic governors, including Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, are among those speculated as possible replacement candidates for Biden if he were to bow out of the race. Biden has given no indication publicly he intends to withdraw and Whitmer, Newsom and other Democratic governors have rallied around Biden publicly and sought to disavow themselves from any recruitment efforts. Whitmer, Hobbs, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro are among Biden's most important surrogates in key battleground states. Whitmer relayed to the Biden campaign last Friday that she rejects any effort to force Biden out and be drafted to run in his place, according to a report from Politico. Whitmer released a video on social media Monday reinforcing her support for Biden, saying "We have a president who wakes up every single day and thinks about how he can make people's lives better." Beshear, another Democrat whose name has also been floated, on Monday called the attention "flattering" but said he supports Biden as long as he's running. "The debate performance was rough. It was a very bad night for the president. But he is still the candidate," Beshear told reporters. "Only he can make decisions about his future candidacy. So as long as he continues to be in the race, I support him. Jean-Pierre rejected any suggestion that Biden had an episode during the debate or is suffering from a medical condition. "It was a bad night," she said repeatedly as she was pressed by reporters. "He was under the weather, obviously. We all have bad moments. It is not unusual." A spokesman for Murphy of New Jersey confirmed his participation in Monday's call with governors, which he characterized as routine and pointed to comments Murphy made on Saturday while hosting a fundraiser for Biden. "You're on fire and we are all with you 1,000%," Murphy told the president, calling him a "comeback kid." In Kansas, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly declined to talk about Biden's fitness to be president and the reported call. Following a Tuesday morning event on tax cuts, she walked out of the room as reporters asked questions, saying only that her aide had already ended the gaggle. Her office later referred to a previous statement. "While I have never been shy about standing up to Washington when its wrong for Kansas, the Presidents record of delivering bipartisan results speaks for itself," Kelly said in a statement Friday, the day after the debate. "His efforts will continue to allow Kansas to recruit new manufacturing businesses, rebuild our infrastructure, and stand up for our fundamental freedoms. He is a decent man of strong character. I will support him in November." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden to meet Wednesday with Democratic governors amid campaign crisis Confidence in Zelensky drops in Europe, warms for Putin in some places: Pew Global confidence in Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to do the right thing has declined across a broad grouping of countries, including in Europe, according to a Pew survey published Tuesday. The findings contrast with a slight improvement in global opinion toward Russian President Vladimir Putin, in particular among young people, although overall confidence in the Russian leader remains low. The Pew survey underscores how support for Ukraine is straining among its Western allies and that efforts to isolate Putin are faltering two years into the war. And the survey comes shortly before President Biden hosts the NATO summit in Washington that will mark the alliances 75th anniversary, during which ongoing support for Ukraine will be at the top of the agenda. Survey respondents were also asked their opinion of NATO, of which the median viewed the alliance favorably, but has ticked down in the U.S., Spain, the United Kingdom and Sweden which only became a member in March. More than 44,000 people in 36 countries were surveyed across North and South America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Overall, an average of 46 percent of respondents said they do not have confidence in Zelensky to do the right thing, compared to 40 percent who said they do. Weve only started asking about him since the war broke out in 2022, and then he received quite high favorability or confidence, said Moira Fagan, research associate at Pew Research Center specializing in international survey research. But since then, it has declined and in many European-allies cases, the confidence in Zelensky has declined significantly over the past year. Poland showed the most drastic decline in its opinion toward Zelensky and Ukraine, a reflection of tensions that have played out between Warsaw and Kyiv over trade and border disputes. Poland also hosts between 1 million and 2 million Ukrainian refugees. The Pew survey found that smaller, but significant decreases of confidence in Zelensky have also occurred in Australia, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, South Africa, South Korea, Sweden and the U.S. Fagan said that one possible explanation is fatigue in some of these countries, linked to some respondents answers that they view their countries support for Ukraine as enough or too much. These answers also reflect growing partisan gaps on views toward support for Ukraine, with conservatives and those who identify as right-wing more critical of assistance for Kyiv. We also know that people who are right-wing populist party supporters are less likely to have expressed confidence in Zelensky than people who do not support right-wing populist parties in Europe, Fagan continued, pointing to the growing success of these parties in the recent European parliamentary elections as linked to the attitudes reflected in the survey. Previous findings from Pew found that among American respondents, there is a stark divide between Republicans and Democrats over support for Ukraine, mirroring criticisms from Republican-lawmakers opposing U.S. military and economic support for Ukraine. Among respondents in survey results published in May, 49 percent of Republicans and those who lean-Republican said the U.S. provides too much support to Ukraine, compared to 16 percent of Democrats or those who lean-Democrat. This is something that we see just huge partisan divides on in the United States and those partisan divides getting larger as well, particularly on the support for Ukraine, Fagan said. On the other side, while a median of 65 percent of respondents hold a negative view of Putin since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, opinions have warmed slightly in several countries, the survey authors wrote. In most of the surveyed countries, younger adults are more likely than older people to have a favorable opinion of Russia, the authors wrote. In Peru, for example, 63 percent of adults under 35 said they have a positive opinion of Russia, compared to 31 percent of adults ages 50 and older. In Germany, confidence in Putin is up 9 points and favorable views toward Russia have increased 5 points since 2023, they wrote. Argentines have also recorded a more favorable view toward Russia, an 11-point increase, and 9 points more confidence in Putin over the past year. Rising shares of right-wing populists are confident in Putin in several countries, including France, Germany, Hungary, the Netherlands, Sweden and the UK, the survey authors wrote. Still, much of the world remains largely negative toward Russia and Putin, Fagan explained, and categorized the changes as modest overall. Views of Putin and Russia, sort of as a pair, are both still far more negative than positive around the world. Theres some regional variation there as well, where you get more negativity in Europe, a little bit more favorability in parts of the Asia Pacific, Latin America, for example. Attitudes toward NATO are overall positive in much of the world, the survey found, with surprising increases recorded in Turkey and Hungary, Fagan added. Turkey in particular, which is a country that has historically not been quite favorable towards NATO, favorability has doubled since we last surveyed in Turkey in 2019, she said. Forty-two percent in Turkey approve of NATO, up from 21 percent in 2019. (The survey was suspended during the pandemic). And Hungary also has shown an increasingly positive view toward NATO, with more than 8 in 10 adults saying the alliance is important for their countrys security. This could appear at odds with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbans antagonism toward Europe and Ukraine, and support for Putin and former President Trump, who has threatened to exit NATO. What is striking there is that theyve [Hungary] grown statistically, significantly more favorable toward NATO over the past year, Fagan said. Looking at the context of contributions to the war, Hungary ranked last among all 13 of these NATO member countries that we survey in terms of relative contribution to the Ukrainian war effort, but they do not see the organization very unfavorably. So its an interesting balance. Updated at 3:46 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. Earlier this year, Joanne Glauser didn't know if her organization would have a future. "Without getting some more support in Delaware, it could die with me," Glauser told Delaware Online/The News Journal around the winter holidays. She was describing her chapter of Shoes That Fit a nonprofit that has provided free shoes to any Delaware students experiencing homelessness since the late '90s in a story that published in the New Year. But someone was listening. "We had been talking within our board meetings about trying to find something tangible that we could hang our mission on because to say that we support children, young adults and first responders in the state of Delaware isn't really all that sexy, right?" said Jeff Leggett, president of the nonprofit charity Friends of Fusion Foundation since its inception in 2019. "We kept going back to the idea of sneakers." After one such board meeting in February, founder Nic DeCaire set to searching. Almost immediately, the former fitness center owner in Newark found the article about Shoes That Fit. Joanne Glauser and husband John established a Delaware chapter of Shoes That Fit, an organization aiming to provide free shoes for students in need, in 1999. "We didn't know Joanne, but when you do something for 26 years, you know you're passionate about it," DeCaire said. "And we knew she was probably the right person to reach out to. We didn't want to reinvent the wheel. We just wanted to help children." Fusion partnered with Glauser to finish out the school year. This spring, the team said they fueled shoe donations to over 600 students facing homelessness across all three Delaware counties. And they're not done yet. This summer, they're setting out to support all of the nearly 3,300 students living homeless across the state by next school year, with a free pair of name-brand sneakers. That translates to a goal of about $100,000 to raise throughout these warmer months, according to organizers. As of late June, they've raised about $41,000. And it's about more than shoes. Flashback: Next steps unclear for Delaware nonprofit aiming to give students 'Shoes That Fit' Why should anyone care? An 8-year-old Delaware student named Aiden shared a thank you note with Joanne Glauser, founder of the state's chapter of Shoes That Fit. "I think people would be amazed at the things, that we might consider minor, that stop a child from going to school," April Anderson, Red Clay School District's liaison for special populations, told Delaware Online/The News Journal earlier this year. Some barriers would be obvious, from transportation to school when displaced, to assistance while awaiting foster care placement or getting the next meal. Others are small, like what to wear. "Everybody looks at people's shoes," DeCaire said. "And if you're in a classroom full of kids, and you notice one person's shoes are really old or really dirty or have holes in them kids might make the assumption that they're struggling, right? And by eliminating that, it puts them on the same playing field." From back-to-school events and resource closets, to this continued fundraiser and steady partnerships with schools, Shoes That Fit and Friends of Fusion Foundation plan to pick up the mission Glauser and her husband started in 1999. That will start with funding new shoes for every student without a stable home. Districts throughout the state face their own totals to support, making up nearly 2.5% of all public school students, or around 3,400 in 2022, per National Center for Homeless Education figures. Glauser is still in search of more partnerships, particularly in Sussex County. Soon, she might be comfortable to step away in retirement. "I just feel like the stars aligned," she said, thinking of this spring. "But to serve all of the homeless kids in Delaware? I've never been able to do that before." Got a story? Kelly Powers covers race, culture and equity for Delaware Online and USA TODAY Network Northeast, with a focus on education. Contact her at kepowers@gannett.com or (231) 622-2191, and follow her on Twitter @kpowers01. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Delaware nonprofit Shoes That Fit helps more students with new support Gavin Newsom heading to the White House as Democratic governors meet with Biden Gov. Gavin Newsom is heading for the White House Wednesday for a Democratic governors meeting with embattled President Joe Biden. The evening meeting is designed to show support from the governors for Biden, under fire for his lackluster debate performance June 27. Newsom, a vocal Biden supporter, .has been repeatedly mentioned as a candidate to replace Biden should the president step down. Hes created the sort of fundraising infrastructure that prospective presidential candidates have used, and traveled the country trying to promote himself as a national party spokesman. The governor has repeatedly said hes not running for president this year, and he was a top spokesman at the Atlanta debate site and a vigorous defender of Biden. Democratic governors around the country have publicly rallied around the embattled president, and plan to meet with Biden Wednesday. The governors participated in a conference call Monday organized by Minnesota Gov. Tom Walz, chairman of the Democratic Governors Association. The call involved only governors, no staff or campaign officials. The Biden campaign team was made aware of the call in advance. Newsom was not on the Monday call. A person familiar with the call, who asked not to be identified because the governors tried to keep the call private, said Democratic governors are some of the president and vice presidents most proactive and vocal supporters because theyve seen how the Biden-Harris administrations accomplishments are directly benefiting their residents. The source added The Biden-Harris team is in constant communication with the governors and their teams, including about yesterdays meeting. Newsom has his own political trip planned while on the East Coast. Saturday, hes scheduled to campaign for Biden in Bucks County, Pa. , the Pennsylvania Capital-Star reported Wednesday. The Philadelphia area county is a swing area in one of the nations crucial swing states. Monday, he plans to visit New Hampshire, the state that for decades has been one of the first big tests for presidential candidates. Newsom plans to campaign there for Biden. and state and local Democrats. We look forward to welcoming Governor Newsom to New Hampshire to campaign on behalf of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris and once again defeat Donald Trump, said New Hampshire Democratic Chairman Ray Buckley. More than 200 people have RSVPd for the event. As deadly Hurricane Beryl barreled west toward Jamaica, the Caribbean nation went into high alert Tuesday with government offices closing early, and visitors and college students rushing to fly out. With a trail of destruction and at least four deaths in its wake, Category 4 Beryl was shaping up as the strongest hurricane to hit Jamaica since Ivan 20 years ago. That Category 5 storm passed just to the south, killing 17 people, leaving nearly 20,000 homeless and causing hundreds of millions in damage. Beryl also reminds some on the island from the last direct hit for Jamaica, Hurricane Gilbert in 1988, which struck as a Category 4. On the latest forecast track, Beryl, though potentially weakening, could make a direct hit sometime Wednesday and the government was urging residents to take no chances. We have an impending disaster and we have to treat it with the seriousness that it requires, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said Monday as he offered assistance to fellow Caribbean leaders on islands already devastated by Beryls passing. While islanders were being urged to prepare, volunteers in South Florida home to some 300,000 Jamaicans, the second-largest population in the United States were already packing boxes of canned goods, dry food and hygiene products to ship on relief missions. The warehouse facilities of the nonprofit Global Empowerment Mission served as the backdrop of a Tuesday press conference, where a coalition of Caribbean consuls gathered. A volunteer at Global Empowerment Management HQ drives a forklift with a crate of canned food that would be packed and sent to areas in the Caribbean affected by Hurricane Beryl at 1850 NW and 84th Ave. on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 in Doral, Fla. The group, headed by Jamaican Consul General Oliver Mair, was focused on damage across the Caribbean, calling for resources and aid on behalf of Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and other island-nations in the deadly storms path. He said that Holness had put the entire nation of Jamaica on alert, and that there were already efforts to source materials like tarps, cots, first aid kits, and other emergency supplies that will be needed after Beryls rains and winds pass. This is a regular occurrence for us. Almost every year we have a hurricane threat. So we know this dance very well. But the need still remains, said Mair. And though the preparations are strong, part of the preparation here is actually getting the community ready to support the vulnerable back home. Consul General of Jamaica, Oliver Mair, speaks at a press conference where Caribbean diaspora leaders respond to Hurricane Beryl and coordinate recovery efforts in South Florida to help their homelands at the Global Empowerment Mission HQ at 1850 NW and 84th Ave. on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 in Doral, Fla. Rally, rally round the West Indies Mair was joined by the Consul Generals of Barbados, the Bahamas and St. Lucia, and representatives from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as well as community advocates of the Caribbean diaspora. Consuls at the press conference highlighted the solidarity among the islands of the region, which live through cycles of destruction every hurricane season. South Florida Caribbean Strong Organizer, Marlon Hill, opens up a press conference where Caribbean diaspora leaders respond to Hurricane Beryl and coordinate recovery efforts in South Florida to help their homelands at the Global Empowerment Mission HQ at 1850 NW and 84th Ave. on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 in Doral, Fla. Mair wore a tie with the yellow, black and green colors of the Jamaican flag, as well as a handkerchief with the colors of other Caribbean islands. There is a famous song that says Rally, rally round the West Indies, and thats what were doing here, said Mair. Though it will take days to do damage surveys, the picture in Beryls wake was catastrophic. There was not a roof left in Carriacou, Grenadas Deputy Vice Consul Dianne Perrotte said about her nations sister-island, while adding that no contact had yet been made with Petite Martinique as of Tuesday morning. Relief supplies from Guyana, including generators, water purification tablets, and hygiene items have arrived to Grenada. Because they havent been able to make a full assessment, we cant give a full list of things that are needed at the moment, Perrotte said, adding that mattresses, tarpaulins, blankets, food items and sleeping bags are among the immediate necessities. She emphasized that while help is needed, those interested in helping should wait for further information about whats needed so the aid is distributed as efficiently as possible. Authorities in Grenada on Tuesday also stressed the need for order in the response, and emphasized working with the disaster response office to coordinate relief efforts. We need help, but we need to know the assessments first. I dont want anybody to start collecting stuff, and then you dont know how you are getting it to Grenada, Perrotte said. Michael Capponi, who first gained fame in South Florida developing South Beachs night life before expanding into humanitarian efforts, said he anticipates given the loss of so many homes, the need for shingles and other roof-building materials. He called on South Florida and U.S.-based lumber and roofing companies to consider donating these types of supplies. People cant stay throughout hurricane season in these rains in houses with no roof, said Capponi, the founder of GEM, who recalled after Hurricane Dorian struck the Bahamas, his group was able to report 120 roofs from one donor alone. Marlon Hill, a Kingston-born attorney and co-founder of South Florida Caribbean Strong Relief Fund, said the region has been hard-hit by Beryl, the first storm ever recorded to reach Category 4 strength this early in the hurricane season, which began on June 1. We are here to call on anyone in earshot that can hear us across the world that we are presently in dire need to support the impacted islands, said Hill. Caribbean governments are still tallying up the damage created by Beryl. Rudy Grant, the consul general of Barbados to Miami, said an initial assessment of his showed no loss of life but the storm sank at least 50 vessels and damaged some 50 houses. However, he expects that more reports of material destruction will come to light. Other preparations in Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic In anticipation of the storms arrival, American Airlines on Tuesday announced two additional flights out of Montego Bay and one out of Kingston for people seeking to leave Jamaica before Beryl arrives. The airline was also restarting operations in Barbados, St. Lucia, and Grenada on Tuesday. Flights out of St. Vincent remained suspended because of the airports closure, a representative for the company told the Miami Herald over email. Evan Thompson, the director of the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, said forecasters expected some weakening as Beryl nears but not enough to avoid damage. It may not sufficiently decrease in strength for us to feel complacent or to feel comfortable. It is likely to still be at least a Category 3 hurricane making its way very close to Jamaica, maybe even over sections of Jamaica, mainly southern parishes as we move through the day on Wednesday, he said. Meanwhile, the Bahamas Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Tuesday that it was airlifting students from Jamaica and advised those wishing to depart to head to the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston by 2 p.m. Jamaican time where a 50-seater Bahamasair aircraft would be waiting. Volunteer at Global Empowerment Management HQ, Victoria Greber, places uncooked pasta into a care package that would be sent to areas in the Caribbean affected by Hurricane Beryl at 1850 NW and 84th Ave. on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 in Doral, Fla. The eye of Hurricane Beryl is expected to be south of the island of Hispaniola on Tuesday evening before it moves near the southeast of Jamaica on Wednesday morning. The Cayman Islands are under hurricane warning as well. A tropical storm watch is up for the southern coast of Haiti and parts of the Dominican Republic. An orange alert was issued for Haitis south coast due to its vulnerability to floods, landslides and storm surges. Small boat operators were ordered to avoid taking to the sea until at least Thursday while residents in the South, Southeast and GrandAnse were warned that Beryls passage could result in strong winds and rain. In the Dominican Republic, two provinces were placed under red alert while the number of provinces placed under yellow was increased to 14, meaning they could also be affected by Beryl, which was located 239 miles southeast of Punta Palenque, San Cristobal. (Bloomberg) -- Worried by deepening China-Russia relations, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is heading to Moscow next week for talks with President Vladimir Putin, his first visit to the country since the Kremlins 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Most Read from Bloomberg The meeting, which will help Putin to counter Western efforts to cast him as a pariah, comes two months after Putin went to China for the first foreign visit of his new term. That trip underlined Moscows increasing dependence on Beijing, which India has eyed warily. The deepening of the strategic alignment between Russia and China is uncomfortable for New Delhi because its like your best friend sleeping with the enemy, said Swasti Rao, an associate fellow at Manohar Parrikar Institute For Defence Studies and Analyses, a Defense Ministry-backed research group in New Delhi. Given that we have these concerns it makes sense for the prime minister to go there and talk to Putin at the highest level. It will be Modis first bilateral visit since he won a third term in office, with the prime minister breaking convention by visiting Russia instead of neighboring countries like Bhutan, Maldives and Sri Lanka, where he chose to go after previous election wins. That underlines the importance New Delhi places on its ties with Moscow, people familiar with the matter said. India, the worlds third-largest crude consumer, has become a major buyer of Russian oil, and is reliant on its military hardware supplies. At the same, relations between China and India have been at a low point since land-border clashes in 2020. The two leaders are expected to discuss a range of issues although no breakthrough agreements are likely, according to Indian officials familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified as the discussions are private. The agenda includes a logistics supply agreement to bolster cooperation between the two militaries, restarting discussions on the joint development of a fifth generation fighter aircraft, and collaboration on nuclear power, the people said. Indias Ministry of External Affairs wasnt immediately available to comment when contacted for further information. The visit to Moscow, which is expected to take place on July 8-9, partly coincides with a separate summit in Washington of members of the North American Treaty Organization. Modis Russia trip was long overdue and the timing had no connection with the alliances meeting, people familiar with the matter said. Modi is expected to visit Vienna on a two-day trip after Moscow. The US has sought to strengthen ties with India to counter Chinas dominance in Asia and has been tolerant of New Delhis relations with Russia. Asked about those relations, Kurt Campbell, the US deputy secretary of state, said last week Washington has raised concerns about India-Russia ties with New Delhi, but that it had confidence in India and wants to expand relations with the South Asian country. Modi has skipped annual in-person summits with Putin for the past two years amid discomfort in New Delhi over the worst fighting in Europe since World War II. Even so, India has avoided censuring Russia for invading neighboring Ukraine, abstaining at United Nations votes on the issue, and has advocated diplomacy to resolve the conflict. Cheap Oil Oil sales by Russia to India are helping to maintain ties, even if they arent as close as during the Soviet era. As Russia offers deeper discounts on its oil amid Western energy restrictions, India has increased its purchases of Russian crude more than 20 times compared to 2021, exceeding 2 million barrels a day. India saved $13 billion by importing cheaper crude oil from Russia over the previous 23 months, according to a study by ICRA, the rating agency, published in April. A Moscow meeting with the Indian prime minister is a diplomatic win for Putin, whose countrys been hit with unprecedented sanctions over its attack on Ukraine. Hes also wanted for war crimes by the International Criminal Court, which has restricted his travel abroad. In June, Putin on a rare foreign tour visited North Korea, where he signed a military defense pact with Kim Jong Un that alarmed the US and its allies. Last year, he didnt attend the Group of 20 leaders meeting hosted by India or the BRICS emerging economies summit held in South Africa. A former Indian envoy to Russia, who asked not to be identified, said New Delhis ties with Moscow are stable and strong, although economic and defense interactions have slowed recently. The relationship has always been driven from the top, and summits between the leadership have their own importance, the person said. The visit of a leader of a state such as India demonstrates that Russia isnt facing international isolation, and for the Kremlin this is very important, said Aleksei Zakharov, an expert on India based in Moscow. India, which has refused to join punitive measures against Russia, has worked to resolve problems affecting trade caused by Moscows need to reduce its use of the US dollar. India now pays largely in UAE dirham for Russian oil, and the two countries have found a solution to a deadlocked payment system for weapons and other goods. That had led to Russian companies amassing as much as $8 billion worth of rupees in accounts in India which they couldnt spend, according to senior officials who didnt want to be named because of the sensitivity of the issue. Under the agreement, Russia has used the funds to invest in Indian enterprises and buy more electronic goods, pharmaceuticals, agricultural tools and textiles, said officials directly aware of the details. Arms Deals From New Delhis perspective, the commercial relationship remains unbalanced, however, with India importing about $60 billion a year and Russia buying less than $5 billion from India. Russia, meanwhile, is seeing its once-dominant position in Indias arms market weaken as New Delhi looks to Western suppliers led by France and the US, as well as to its own defense industry. There have been no new major arms deals with Russia for the last three years, and Indias push to diversify looks set to continue after delays in the delivery of Russian S-400 air defense systems. Russia for now remains Indias main supplier, accounting for 36% of arms imports, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. But thats down more than half from a decade ago. Wary of sanctions risks and payments difficulties, Indian businesses also are cautious about operating in Russia, and top Indian officials and executives have been reluctant to attend major economic gatherings in the country. Modis last trip to Russia was in 2019, when he attended a far eastern economic forum in Vladivostok. This is about maintaining the status quo, said Zakharov, the Moscow-based India specialist. Ties are not deteriorating but theres no particular drive to improve relations either. --With assistance from Rakesh Sharma and Dan Strumpf. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Despite Hungary sharing a border with Ukraine, this was Viktor Orban's first trip to Kyiv since 2012 - Vitalii Nosach/Global Images Ukraine/Getty Images Viktor Orban has made a surprise visit to Kyiv where he urged Volodymyr Zelensky to accept the Kremlins offer of a ceasefire. The Hungarian leader, Vladimir Putins strongest EU ally, praised a Ukrainian-organised peace summit in Switzerland last month and said that a ceasefire would speed up negotiations to end the war. I asked the president whether it was possible to take a break, to stop the firing, and then continue the negotiations, Mr Orban told reporters. After all, a ceasefire could ensure the speeding up of the pace of these negotiations. Mr Zelensky and his Western backers have described Putins offer of a ceasefire as a trap that would give the Kremlins armies time to rest, rearm and launch more attacks. Mr Orban admitted that the Ukrainian presidents reply to the request had been frank. Despite Hungary sharing a border with Ukraine, this was Mr Orbans first trip to Kyiv since 2012. Several other European and Nato members have met Mr Zelensky in Kyiv since Putins invasion in 2022 and the strained ties between the two leaders were obvious in their body language. Mr Zelensky refused to discuss the war or the prospect of negotiations with Putin during the press conference after his talks with Mr Orban. Instead, he obliquely described Hungarys commitment to restoring real long-term security, and talked about their discussions on issues that affect the lives of our people. Ukrainian emergency services fight a fire after a Russian air strike Kharkiv - Vlada Liberova/Libkos/Getty Images Mr Orban, who took over the six-month rotating chair of the EU on Monday, and his allies in Slovakia are outliers in Europe. They have condemned the Russian invasion of Ukraine but have refused to support Ukraines military resistance and have said that Mr Zelensky should negotiate a peace deal. Analysts have said that despite Mr Orbans intervention the prospects of a quick peace deal between Ukraine and Russia are low to zero. Mr Zelensky has refused to shift from his position that Russia needs to retreat to its 1991 borders, which means giving up occupied Crimea and swathes of captured eastern and southern Ukraine, and Putin has undermined his ceasefire offers with more aggressive speeches. Maria Avdeeva, a Ukraine-based commentator on the war, summed up the majority mood in Ukraine after Mr Orbans visit. A ceasefire could accelerate negotiations with Russia, Orban tells Zelensky, she said. Oh really? I thought Russia should stop killing civilians and withdraw troops from sovereign Ukrainian territory to speed up negotiations. The Kremlin confirmed that Narendra Modi, India's prime minister, would visit Vladimir Putin in Moscow - Alexandr Demyanchuk/AP As the war continues, positions are hardening across the world with countries forced to choose sides or balance increasingly precarious neutral positions. On Tuesday, Kremlin officials confirmed that Narendra Modi, Indias prime minister, would shortly visit Putin in Moscow. This is a rare trip by a major international leader since the start of the war and Indian media reported that Mr Modi could fly to Moscow as early as next week. India still buys oil, gas and weapons from Russia. Aleksei Zakharov, a Moscow-based expert on India, said that India was neutral over the war in Ukraine but the high-profile visit would still hand Putin a major diplomatic win. For Putin, its important to demonstrate hes not isolated and countries like China and India are ready to move ahead with building partnerships, he said. 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. OSAKA, Jul 03 (News On Japan) - A lawsuit has been filed by a civic group against the mayor of Osaka, demanding damages from the involved officials and contractors over the high costs of disposing of a whale that wandered into Osaka Bay and died. The city of Osaka has indicated it will contest the case. The sperm whale, nicknamed "Yodo-chan," was found dead near the mouth of the Yodo River in January last year. It was later sunk off the Kii Channel by a maritime contractor hired by the city. Initially, the city estimated the total disposal cost at 20.68 million yen, but the actual cost nearly quadrupled to 80.19 million yen. The civic group argues that the city did not consider alternatives to the contracted firm, rendering the contract illegal and void. They have sued Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama, demanding over 80 million yen in damages from the officials and the contractor involved in the selection process. In the trial that began on July 2 at the Osaka District Court, the civic group highlighted the lack of a bidding process and the heavily redacted documents released through information disclosure, expressing their hope for a thorough investigation through the trial. The city, on the other hand, has sought to have the claims dismissed and plans to explain its reasoning in subsequent court sessions. Source: YOMIURI OSAKA, Jul 03 (News On Japan) - The site of the methane gas explosion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo venue was opened to the media on Tuesday, revealing the area where the explosion occurred during restroom construction in March this year, when a spark from welding ignited flammable gas. It was found that methane gas had accumulated underground. Last week, the Expo Association announced measures such as installing ventilation systems and daily public disclosure of gas concentration measurements during the event, emphasizing the "safety of the site." Hiroyuki Warada, Director of the Expo Associations Maintenance Bureau, commented, "We are measuring the concentration inside this room (the explosion site)." When asked about the current level, he said, "It's zero for methane. There are no problematic readings." In June, the association also planned measures to release gas through manhole covers in areas where methane gas was detected among the pavilions. News anchor Nakatani recapped, "Last week, the detection of methane gas exceeding safety levels was announced. Furthermore, about 550 red imported fire ants, a highly venomous invasive species, were found in Yumeshima. Amidst this, on the 2nd, the site of the methane gas explosion was opened to the media. What was the scene like?" Reporter Maho Yamamoto provided a detailed report, stating, "I am currently in front of Sakishima Government Building in Suminoe Ward, Osaka City. I took a bus to Yumeshima around 1:30 p.m., visited the construction site of the restroom where the explosion occurred, and the nearby large event venue where methane gas was once detected underground, and then returned." When asked about the condition of the site, Yamamoto said, "The approximately 6-meter-long damaged area remains as it was, with warning signs indicating 'No open flames' at the construction site. The association measured the methane gas level today, which read zero. There was no smell of gas, just the typical odor of a construction site." Regarding the timing of the public disclosure, an association official mentioned, "We want the media to see and feel the reality of the site amidst increasing reports related to methane gas." When asked if the safety measures announced last week are progressing, Yamamoto noted, "At this stage, they are not yet underway. The announced measures include installing ventilation systems and daily public disclosure of gas concentration measurements in the explosion area." She also visited the pavilion world where methane gas was detected. The association is considering measures to release gas into the air by drilling holes in manholes or manually dispersing it once a week or every few days. The official frequently used the word "safety" today, but another word that was repeatedly mentioned was "under consideration." From the interview, it felt that many detailed aspects, such as handling fire and gas during the event, are still "under consideration," raising concerns about whether the measures will be fully implemented before the opening. It is essential to keep a close watch on the situation. News anchor Nakatani summarized the events: "In March this year, a methane gas explosion occurred in a restroom at Green World. Following an investigation, low concentrations of methane gas were detected in five other areas where pavilions are being constructed. The site revealed to the media on the 2nd is one of these locations." Safety measures during the event include continuous gas concentration measurements, daily public disclosures, installation of ventilation equipment, gas detection devices, and sealing pipe gaps. However, these measures have not yet been implemented. Although no gas was detected today, it took four months from the explosion in March to the media reveal in July. Commentator Takaoka added, "Such construction sites are not uncommon, and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism has guidelines for construction. If gas emissions are known, gas vent pipes should be installed, and evacuation should occur if concentrations exceed safe levels. However, the existing measures were insufficient, leading to the explosion. "To successfully host the Expo, it's essential to foster enthusiasm while transparently communicating facts daily, not just favorably or critically. Many visitors will come from abroad, and event management should not assume everyone will follow safety instructions, especially those who cannot read Japanese or English. Measures must consider the possibility of unexpected behavior, such as smoking." Source: YOMIURI HOKKAIDO, Jul 03 (News On Japan) - In Asahikawa, Hokkaido, two suspects, a 21-year-old woman and a teenage girl, have been arrested for allegedly pushing a high school girl off a bridge, resulting in her death. The woman, identified as Riko Uchida, filmed the high school girl sitting on the bridge railing with her smartphone, new evidence reveals. The incident occurred in April when Uchida and a 19-year-old accomplice reportedly conspired to push the 17-year-old high school girl off the Kamui Ohashi bridge in Asahikawa. Investigators have discovered a video on the victim's smartphone, showing the girl seated on the bridge railing. The video also includes a scene where the girl was being forced to apologize. The victim's smartphone, which was found damaged and discarded away from the bridge, was recovered and analyzed by the police, who confirmed the presence of the video data. Authorities suspect Uchida and her accomplice destroyed the phone in an attempt to conceal evidence. Uchida has denied the allegations during questioning. The Asahikawa District Public Prosecutors Office will decide by July 3 whether to prosecute her for murder. Source: NEWS TOKYO, Jul 04 (News On Japan) - A Tokyo Metropolitan Police inspector from the Yoyogi Police Station was arrested for assaulting a woman in her 20s during questioning at a police box. Inspector Masatsugu Yoshida (56) of the Yoyogi Police Station is suspected of pushing the woman onto the floor and causing injuries, including a neck bruise, that required about one week to heal. The incident occurred on June 19 at the police box in front of Yoyogi-Uehara Station. According to the police, the woman was being questioned at the police box for entering a facility unrelated to her. Yoshida admitted to the allegations, stating, 'I pushed her to the floor because she tried to leave without speaking.' The Tokyo Metropolitan Police commented, 'This is an outrageous act and extremely regrettable. We will deal with it strictly.' Source: ANN Strategic consolidation. Innovation engine. Growth catalyst. We can think of many other names for mergers and acquisitions that describe this deals power. However, something remains unchanged: the success of a merger of two companies depends on smooth integration. Just as a puzzles pieces must fit together seamlessly to reveal the complete picture, integrating two businesses requires careful alignment of strategies, cultures, processes, and resources. In our post, we will explore the key benefits of mergers and acquisitions for growth and innovation, outline what you need to succeed, and introduce data rooms for due diligence that streamline the deal process. To begin at the end: What are virtual data rooms? During our discussion about the benefits of mergers and acquisitions for your growth, we will also cover software support options. Therefore, it is essential to understand the solution we are referring to. A virtual data room is a secure platform designed explicitly for M&A deal makers. It streamlines the deal through the following features: Secure document storage store and organize sensitive documents related to the transaction Controlled access set granular user access controls to protect specific documents Secure collaboration review, annotate, and discuss documents within the platform using secure messaging, Q&A hubs, and real-time notifications Document version control access the most up-to-date information and maintain data integrity throughout the procedure Compliance and regulatory support comply with industry regulations and data privacy laws, such as GDPR and HIPAA User-friendly interface easily navigate the platform and access the information you need from any location Data room interface example. Granular user permissions These are just some of the features offered by virtual data room providers. So, we recommend exploring the best vendors to learn more. This way, you will see full functionality and ensure that the product can strongly support your procedure. Top five M&A benefits for your business growth Check the deals main advantages, what you need for success, and how virtual data room solutions can assist in achieving your goals. 1. Knowledge transfer and learning opportunities Employees can learn from each others expertise, best practices, and processes. It encourages professional development and skill enhancement across the organization. What you need for the best outcome: Structured mentorship and knowledge-sharing programs Platforms for continuous learning, such as online courses, workshops, and seminars A supportive organizational culture that values continuous learning and encourages employees to share knowledge and experiences openly Data room support Built-in tracking and analytics features provide insights into employee engagement with learning materials. It helps organizations tailor training programs to address skill gaps and learning needs. Get more insights: Explore the difference between horizontal merger and vertical merger 2. Talent retention M&A activities create new career opportunities for employees within the combined entity. It increases job security, talent retention, and upward mobility, as employees can access a broader range of roles and opportunities for professional growth. Source: Reimagining Talent in M&A | Bain & Company What you need for the best outcome: Robust talent development programs that offer career advancement opportunities and skill development Transparent communication about career progression and opportunities Recognition and rewards programs that acknowledge and appreciate employees contributions and achievements Data room support Virtual data rooms for mergers and acquisitions boost ongoing communication between management and employees through secure messaging and collaboration features. Thus, you can build a culture of transparency and trust, which can contribute to talent retention. 3. Sustainability Diversifying income streams and expanding market reach through M&A can help teams withstand market fluctuations and manage economic uncertainties better. Source: Basic Concepts of Diversification Strategies What you need for the best outcome: Investment in sustainable business practices that prioritize environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and ethical business conduct Risk management processes that anticipate and mitigate economic turbulence Data room support All employees can quickly retrieve relevant information using advanced search and indexing capabilities during strategic planning meetings, ensuring informed decision-making and proactive risk mitigation. Furthermore, a dataroom facilitates collaboration between cross-functional teams involved in sustainability initiatives, allowing them to track progress and monitor compliance with environmental, social, and governance standards. 4. Innovation catalyst Mergers and acquisitions combine talents, technologies, and ideas. Most often, it helps to achieve breakthroughs in product development, service delivery, and business models. What you need for the best outcome: A culture of innovation that encourages experimentation, creativity, and collaboration across departments and teams Cross-functional teams dedicated to exploring new ideas, technologies, and business models resulting from M&A activities Data room support Through secure document sharing and version control features, data room providers support the exchange of intellectual property, research findings, and innovative ideas. This way, all parties can rest assured that valuable knowledge assets are protected while encouraging knowledge sharing and collaboration. 5. Globalization The deal facilitates global business development strategies and provides access to new markets and regions. This expansion opens growth opportunities, diversified revenue streams, and enhances businesses global footprint, driving long-term growth. What you need for the best outcome: Comprehensive market research and analysis that identifies opportunities and challenges in new markets Cross-cultural competency training to manage cultural differences and engage with global stakeholders Localization strategies tailored to specific markets, including adapting products, services, and marketing strategies to meet local preferences and regulations Data room support The best virtual data room solutions enable businesses to securely share market research, competitor analysis, and regulatory information. In addition, customizable access controls ensure only authorized stakeholders have access to sensitive information. Data rooms also facilitate employee training by sharing all relevant resources in an easy-to-use space. Final thoughts Mergers and acquisitions can present a good opportunity for a business to make a breakthrough. However, these deals require time and effort. Fortunately, data rooms simplify the M&A lifecycle by providing a platform specifically designed for this purpose. So, research the available providers and their offerings. Determine what virtual data room pricing is acceptable for your needs and choose the product that offers the best balance between price and quality. With data rooms, you can successfully merge businesses and reach new heights. By Evelyn Usman As two dismissed soldiers, four others arrested for car snatching in Lagos A fleeing robbery suspect, Amos Daniel, 36, who snatched his employers vehicle on the same day he was employed as a driver, has been arrested by the Lagos State Police Command. The suspect confessed to having taken the car to his church to give testimony of Gods miraculous provision. This is just as two dismissed soldiers, Akeem Suleiman and Abdulau Mohammed, and two civilian members of their gang who were paraded among other suspects, were alleged to have carried out operations wearing Military headgear. Recovered from the dismissed soldiers were the Military headgear, uniform and identity cards. Also paraded was 25-year-old Thankgod Kesh-David, who posed as a roadside mechanic to effect repairs on broken-down vehicles, only to disappear with them, Briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters, Ikeja, yesterday, the spokesman for the command, SP Benjamin Hudenyin, said, We have successfully arrested a robbery gang through our tactical team based in Surulere. The four-man gang specialized in snatching vehicles at gunpoint from motorists in Lagos. They have been operating for quite a long time. Two of them are dismissed soldiers, one was dismissed in 2014 and the other in 2017. They carried out their crime wearing full military gear. We also have somebody who was employed as a driver. Unfortunately, the employer did not do due diligence. The same day he resumed as a driver, he ran away with the car and could not be traced. Interestingly, he dedicated the car in church the following Sunday, testifying of what God had done to him. Speaking with journalists, the arrested driver, Daniel, said, I stole my madams Lexus car and took it to the church to testify that God has blessed me. I intended to use it for Uber and use the proceeds to pay my debt. I stole the car on June 23, 2024, the very first day I was employed, and I took it to church on June 30, 2024. One of the dismissed soldiers, Akeem Suleiman, who claimed he was dismissed from the Nigerian Army in 2017 for desertion, told journalists I started robbery in April 2024. Anytime we steal a car, I drive it to the receivers place. We steal cars randomly. If we see anyone parked and wound down, we drag them out and zoom off in the car. We operate in the Ajah area of Lagos, with a local gun. But we never killed our victims. The Commands spokesman advised that due diligence should be exercised when employing a driver or domestic staff and that they should be taken to the Central Criminal Registry at the Force Criminal Investigation Department, Alagbon, and the forensic unit before employment. The suspects will be charged in court. TOP HEADLINES Google is investing another $1 billion into its massive data center south of Council Bluffs. Joe Kava, vice president of global data centers at Google, said he counted nine cranes at work Tuesday on an expansion of the complex on Bunge Avenue. The facility along with a smaller site near Lake Manawa will become among the largest data centers anywhere. "Data centers like this one are truly critical for cloud and artificial intelligence," Joe Kava, vice president of global data centers at Google, said Tuesday in Council Bluffs. "This will be one of the world's largest data center campuses." Google has previously invested more than $5.5 billion in Iowa since 2007, including generating more than $1.8 billion of economic activity for tens of thousands of businesses, nonprofits and others, according to a news release. The data centers in Council Bluffs support core Google services, including its search, maps and cloud software. The company said the continued growth supports, among other offers, its innovation in artificial intelligence. As we continue to develop and deploy AI solutions across our products, particularly within Google Cloud, our infrastructure is what brings these innovations to people locally and globally," Kava said. The company has expanded its footprint in Council Bluffs over 15 years, and it is building out data centers in the nearby Nebraska communities of Omaha, Papillion and Lincoln. Elsewhere in Iowa, Google is also behind a $576 million data center project in Cedar Rapids. Last year, the company announced a $350 million expansion. At the time, it also cited AI and cloud computing as a key driver of growth in its data center portfolio. Again citing AI and cloud computers, Kava said Tuesday that we're seeing "the advent of the most critical industrial revolutions that the world has seen, and I'm proud to say that we're right at the forefront of that here." Google says its Iowa cloud is among 40 regions globally that powers its services. Governor: Iowa has edge for businesses In announcing the investment, Kava credited the work that had gone into making Council Bluffs a community where Google wants to be, and where its employees are building their lives. "Today's continued investment in Iowa is a testament to the resources, the infrastructure, the leadership and the foresight that those leaders have shown throughout many years of dedication," Kava said. "It really enables companies to enjoy the benefits that are derived from that." Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds cited the state's "attractive advantages like low taxes, affordable cost of doing business and a population known for its strong work ethic." The governor said that projects of this scale are the result of working relationships. "Not only is this data center expansion one of the largest economic development projects in our entire state, but it also comes on top of the $5.5 billion that Google has already invested in Iowa," Reynolds said. "We take pride in working closely with our business community to ensure that our policies are truly responsive to their needs." Reynolds also mentioned the efforts Iowa has made toward developing a workforce skilled for careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Iowa's natural resources are also a factor in landing data center projects specifically, with abundant access to water and low-cost electricity both making Council Bluffs an appealing destination for a massive data center project, in addition to workforce and other factors. U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra applauded Google's announcement as continuing to grow Council Bluffs. "This decision will create jobs, grow our economy and support our communities, Feenstra said. From financing expansions and workforce development to supporting community projects, I appreciate Googles long-time commitment to the families of Council Bluffs." Google has 'universal' reach Feenstra said every morning he gets in front of his computer and is working with Google. "Google is a universal company, universally known," he said, saying the company touches every person in Iowa and a large segment of the global population. "In my life, Google has been very important." Brian Young, chief information officer for Hy-Vee Inc., said a partnership with Google helps the food retailer serve its customers in a variety of ways, including through digital ordering of delivery groceries and by adapting its offerings to better serve customers. "Google Cloud provides a flexible, scalable foundation that enables us to deliver customized digital experiences while implementing advanced tools to help protect customer data," Young said. "This collaboration is key to our mission of making lives easier, healthier and happier." 'Rare and special' partnership Mayor Matt Walsh said he's had a front-row seat to Google's commitment to the Council Bluffs community since breaking ground in 2007. Initially, Google bought some speculative buildings on the then-South Omaha Bridge Road. "So here we are, $6.5 billion dollars later," Walsh said. "A tremendous investment in the community, which we greatly appreciate." But Walsh said the company goes beyond spending in the community. It saw a need in the Council Bluffs Community School District, and it invested in building out a free wireless internet network in the community, partnering with the City of Council Bluffs, Iowa West Foundation and others to build out the infrastructure to aid students with school-issued Chromebooks to be able to connect to the internet regardless of their household income level. Google employees sit on the city's nonprofit boards and have served in local government. Its leaders are present at many community gatherings, Walsh said, and regularly ask what else they can do to help. "An organization that cares that much about the community they're in is rare and special," Walsh said. "We look forward to a long, fruitful relationship." Google plans $1.3 million investment in Missouri River basin stabilization projects Google will fund 47 grade stabilization structures located in southwest Iowa, aiming to improve water quality, better capture runoff and boost flood resiliency in the Missouri River basin. Google to invest another $1 billion to make Council Bluffs data center among world's largest Google is investing another $1 billion into its massive data center south of Council Bluffs, making it among the world's largest data center campuses. Google plans $1.3 million investment in Missouri River basin stabilization projects Google will fund 47 grade stabilization structures located in southwest Iowa, aiming to improve water quality, better capture runoff and boost flood resiliency in the Missouri River basin. Earlier story: Google announced Tuesday it is investing another $1 billion into its data centers in Council Bluffs, adding to the $5.5 billion it had already put into the community. With the additional construction, the company said Council Bluffs data center would be among the largest anywhere. "Data centers like this one are truly critical for cloud and artificial intelligence," said Joe Kava, vice president of global data centers at Google. "We're right at the forefront of that right here, and this will be one of the world's largest data center campuses." Google also announced it would invest $1.3 million into a few dozen projects through the Great Outdoors Foundation. Those projects, which include grade stabilization structures across dozen of sites in southwest Iowa, would improve water quality, better capture runoff and boost flood resiliency in the Missouri River basin. Hannah Inman, CEO of the Great Outdoors Foundation, said the grant from Google would unlock about $5 million in public funding for the projects as well. She said the result will be cleaner water flowing downriver and eventually into the Gulf of Mexico. Promoting water quality is a priority for Google, which used more water in Council Bluffs than any other data center location in the country in 2022, according to a company report. The investment is similar to how Google spends to promote renewable energy projects to reduce its carbon footprint given the large amount of electricity needed to power its data centers. Google announced a $350 million expansion in its Council Bluffs data center last year. Both of the announcements cited AI, cloud computing and search as among the company's growth areas fueling the need for additional data center capacity. DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) An Israeli strike on a school sheltering the displaced in the Gaza Strip killed at least 27 people on Thursday, Palestinian medical officials said. The Israeli military said it targeted militants, but people sheltering there said the strike hit a meeting of a King Mohammed VI has sent his congratulations to Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, who has been re-elected to a second term as Mauritanias President. In his message, the Moroccan Sovereign wished Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani success in his missions and reaffirmed steadfast determination to work with him to enhance further cooperation set between the two countries which are building a model partnership based on strong bonds of brotherhood and solidarity uniting the Moroccan and Mauritanian peoples. Mauritanias President Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani has been reelected for a second term, after receiving 56.12 % of the vote in the first round of the presidential poll, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) said Monday. His campaign focused on pledge to provide security, economic growth and stability in a region rocked by coups and violence. His main rival Biram Dah Abeid obtained 22.1% of the votes. The turnout was 55% of the two million eligible voters, the commission said. Sudans paramilitary Rapid Support Force (RSF) took control of strategic towns as they advance on Port Sudan, where the Sudanese army and UN agencies are based. The advance marks an inroad for the RSF in its war with the Sudanese army, which broke out in April last year, with no end in sight. We have liberated the 17th Infantry Division from Singa, the capital of Sennar state, the RSF announced on X. The conflict has killed tens of thousands though there is no official tally as the infighting prevents aid workers from taking stock of the human tragedy. The RSF controls most of the capital Khartoum, Al-Jazira state in the center of the country, the vast western region of Darfur and much of Kordofan to the south. The advance of the RSF in Darfur triggered warnings by NGOs of another genocide in the area, where hospitals and other civilian infrastructure has been destroyed. The war left nearly half Sudans 48 million population suffering from hunger in areas including the capital Khartoum, according to the latest figures from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, a group of experts from U.N. bodies and major relief agencies that measures hunger and formally declares famine. This is the single largest humanitarian crisis on the planet, Samantha Power, the head of USAID, told reporters on June 14. Some 2 million people have crossed the border to flee the ongoing civil war between the paramilitary RSF and the army, UNHCR said. The UN said it has received only 17% of the 2.7 billion dollars needed to address the humanitarian situation in the country. Algeria arrested two journalists who reported about the discontent of an Algerian businesswoman at an event, in a new incident that shows the governments zero tolerance towards dissent and press freedom. Sofiane Ghirous and Ferhat Omar of the news website Algerie Scoop were arrested for doing their job in zooming in on challenges facing women-led start-ups and the lack of attention they get from authorities. The government said the report was promoting hate speech, in a new case that highlights the use of bogus charges to silence free speech. Algeria has silenced critics since the duo chief of staff chengriha and his puppet president Tebboune took power. Many, once independent news outlets, had to shut down or saw their editors silenced, co-opted, or jailed, as was the case with head of Radio M Ihsane El kadi. El Kadi was sentenced to five years in prison on charges of receiving foreign funds. Human rights defenders urge his release, saying he was arrested because he dared to uncover the corruption and dysfunctions in the Algerian economy. Algerias ranking by the press freedom watchdog Reporters without Borders deteriorated from 139th to 180th in 2024. Esso Exploration International Ltd., a subsidiary of U.S. ExxonMobil Corp., signed on Tuesday in Rabat two reconnaissance contracts with Moroccos National Office of Hydrocarbons (ONHYM). These reconnaissance contracts cover the areas of Safi-Essaouira Offshore and Agadir-Ifni Offshore. The areas are located offshore the cities of Safi, Essaouira, Agadir and Sidi Ifni. The signing of these contracts marks the first exploration activity engaged by ExxonMobil in Morocco since the merger of the two entities Exxon and Mobil in 1999. 14 companies are partners of ONHYM in 19 Petroleum Agreements and one (1) Reconnaissance Contract. The American company Exxon Mobil Corporation is one of the largest publicly traded energy and petrochemical companies in the world. ExxonMobil affiliates have interests in hydrocarbon exploration and production projects in more than 20 countries, in addition to petrochemical, refinery and energy products distribution activities all over the world. Moroccos trade deficit narrowed by 1% from January to May to 117 billion dirhams ($11.7 bln), after exports rose to 191 billion dirhams, but still less than imports at 308 billion dirhams. The automotive sector topped Moroccos exports at 67 billion dirhams, up 12%, auguring well for another record exports this year. Aeronautics was the second largest industrial sector in terms of exports at 10.6 billion dirhams, up 17.5%. Despite a drop in phosphoric acid earnings, Moroccos exports of fertilizers and phosphates improved to 32 billion dirhams, up 5.2%. Farming exports dropped 0.7% to 41.7 billion dirhams as the country struggles with the impact of its sixth consecutive drought. Morocco, which imports most of its energy products, reported a drop in energy imports by 5.2% to 49 billion dirhams. Remittances from Moroccans abroad rose 2.4% to 46.3 billion dirhams. Tourism receipts were at a similar level at 41 billion dirhams, up 1.6%. Peace talks bringing together South Sudans government and members of the holdout groups in Kenyas capital, Nairobi, have reached final stages for conclusion, with the draft peace agreement creating a leadership council, rebranding the structure of the presidency and limiting the role of the cabinet and legislature. Talks have progressed well. Significant signs of progress have been made and have now reached final stages, South Sudans minister of information Michael Makuei has said in a statement on the state-owned South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation (SSBC). The parties have reportedly made significant progress and are only working together with the mediation team on technicalities and language the parties would likely adopt. The draft peace agreement maintains the current structure with the president and expanded presidency to accommodate additional two members from opposition groups signatory to the Tumaini Initiative. The draft rebrands the presidency with a structure dubbed the national leadership to provide leadership and guidance to the Joint Defense Board, the National Constitution Review Commission, the National Elections Commission, the Political Parties Council, and other agencies with relevant mandates to the implementation of the Tumaini Framework. However, critics of the process of selection of the parties at the talks are urging for inclusion, citing a need to reflect diversity and perspectives that seek to address the root causes. The opposition, not participating in the process, have portrayed the peace process as a project to facilitate a return of some former top army officers. Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photos: Getty Images In the wake of Joe Bidens shaky and geriatric debate performance in Atlanta on June 27, the reaction among political observers and Democratic elites has been dire (though the latter have typically done their freaking out in private). But it has been hard without solid post-debate polling data to determine if the damage to Biden that so many people in Washington perceive is actually evident in the electorate. Well, the post-debate polls are finally arriving, and while there are a couple of outliers, the general indication is that Biden has slipped a couple of points against Trump in the national popular-vote contest. The New York Times polling averages (which debuted recently) showed Trumps lead rising from one percent pre-debate to 3 percent now. Comparing apples to apples, major credible polls show small but non-negligible slippage for Biden since the debate. CBS NewsYouGov had Trump leading by a point as of June 21. Now hes leading by two points. Yahoo NewsYouGov had Biden leading by two points in early June. Now the outlet shows Trump with a two-point lead. The vast Morning Consult tracking poll had the race tied as of June 23, but then Biden up a point the day after the debate, and subsequently Trump up a point on June 30. There was one significant outlier: Reuters-Ipsos had Trump leading by two points in mid-June, but the race tied as of July 2. The data weve covered so far gave Team Biden plenty of grounds for concluding that elite horror at the presidents debate was an overreaction, and that the close Trump-Biden contest had not fundamentally changed. But then three highly influential polls dropped that changed perceptions of the state of play. On July 2, CNN-SSRS released a national survey showing Trump leading Biden by six points in both a head-to-head (49 percent to 43 percent) and a multi-candidate (41 percent to 35 percent) contest among registered voters as of June 30. Thats pretty bad, but then again, this pollster had long been a bit of an outlier; back in April, CNN-SSRS had Trump up by the same six points in the head-to-head race and by an even larger eight points in the multi-candidate contest. Then, on July 3, the Big Bertha of polls when it comes to elite opinion, the ultra-gold-standard New York TimesSiena survey, also showed Trump leading by nine points among registered voters, and by six points among likely voters. Soon thereafter the Wall Street Journal released its first national poll of the Trump-Biden race since February (when it showed Trump leading but just by two points), and showed Trump leading by six points among registered voters. As with the CNN poll, the Times-Siena survey has long shown Trump leading Biden. But theres post-debate slippage. In June, the pollster showed Trump leading by six points among registered voters and four points among likely voters. The erosion of Bidens support is not all that dramatic, but Trumps lead (if its accurate) is getting into an area associated not only with victory in all the seven battleground states, but with an expansion of the battleground map into states everyone assumed Biden would win handily (e.g., Minnesota, Virginia, and New Hampshire). Post-debate state polling has been rare but isnt great for the president. The new CBS NewsYouGov survey showed Trump reversing a one-point Biden lead in the battleground states collectively and taking a two-point lead. A post-debate St. Anselm poll from New Hampshire, not usually considered a battleground state (though it was very close in 2016), showed Trump holding a two-point lead. If thats accurate, its bad news for Biden. Horse-race polls aside, polling internals are serving up the very worst news for Biden, particularly in terms of perceptions that the incumbent is too old. Forbes reports some of the post-debate findings: Only one in five respondents in an Ipsos poll of over 2,500 likely voters taken after the debate called Bidens mental fitness good or excellent, a seven-point drop from another Ipsos poll conducted just days before the debate. Among likely Democratic voters, the drop was even more severe, with 42% saying after the debate they believe Biden is mentally fit, compared to 56% beforehand. Another 60% of respondents in a Morning Consult poll conducted one day after the debate said Biden should probably or definitely be replaced with another Democratic candidate in the November electionincluding 47% of Democratic voters. Among Morning Consult respondents who watched the debate, 78% said Biden is too old, an increase from a Morning Consult poll released just days before the debate, when 64% of all voters said the same (45% of voters said Trump is too old after the debate, a slight increase from the 42% who said the same before the debate). The new Wall Street Journal poll also shows 80 percent of registered voters and 76 percent among Democrats saying Bidens too old. One comparative data point to watch has also taken a bad turn for Biden post-debate: According to a Data for Progress survey, by a 53 percent to 42 percent margin, likely voters are more worried about Bidens age and mental and physical health than about Trumps criminal charges and threats to democracy. Among independents, the margin is 55 percent to 36 percent, and even among Democrats, 21 percent have more concerns about Biden. The two big questions wavering Democrats have to face right now is whether the poll numbers for Biden will deteriorate as secondary coverage of the presidents debate performance and overall fitness continues to spread, and whether they must now fear additional incidents that will reinforce the bad impressions. The answer to the second question is almost certainly yes, and that matters a lot. This piece was updated to include the Wall Street Journal poll. China's government this week made a decisive step towards developing more of the country's oil and gas reserves, including unconventional ones. A new umbrella company grouping all the state majors will drill for ultradeep oil and gas, and explore shale formations. Given China's standing as a top wind and solar producerand investorthe move might come as a surprise for some. Yet it is, in fact, a most logical step towards boosting energy security, following Beijing's all-of-the-above attitude to energy. The new group, besides oil giants CNPC and Sinopec, also includes companies from other industries, such as China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp and steelmaker Baowu, as well as equipment manufacturer Sinomach and Dongfang Electric Group, a maker of power generators, Reuters reported. The purpose, given the makeup of the new entity, is to cover as much of the oilfield supply chain locally as possible, likely to facilitate exploration and, ultimately, production. Indeed, according to CNPC, which announced the news, "This...is to gather wisdom and strength to jointly build an industry chain from ultra-deep oil and gas exploration to development to engineering." The new entity comes on the stage after a record year for Chinese oil and gas production. Last year. In crude oil, the country produced around 4.2 million barrels daily, for a total of 208 million tons, which was 3 million tons more than the previous year. In natural gas, total output last year reached 230 billion cu m, of which 96 billion cu m came from unconventional resources, including shale, coalbed methane, and natural gas hydrates. Unconventional resources have long been a focus of attention for China's state oil and gas majors, but developing them has been a challenge. PetroChina's story of developing the Cambrian shale in the Sichuan province illustrates these challenges. Exploration began back in 2009, meaning it took the company close to 15 years to begin commercial production, whereas, in the U.S. shale patch, wells take months to drill and begin production. Related: U.S. Drivers Could See The Lowest July 4 Gasoline Prices Since 2021 The reason it took so long was the old stratigraphic age of the formation, meaning the layers of rock were old and harder to drill through, and the fact that the reservoir was at a deeper level than reservoirs are elsewhere. Yet China appears bent on developing as much of its local oil and gas reserves as possible in a strategy that could have been useful to some European countries had they not nurtured influential climate activist lobbies. China's energy philosophy appears to be as simple as it is effective. No source of energy is denied a place in the energy mix, and local resource development is a priority. Incidentally, speaking of various energy sources, a recent report revealed that China would no longer publish data on wind and solar power capacity utilization amid falling rates of utilization. The decline came on the back of higher curtailment rates approved by the government. What this means is that wind and solar generators are now allowed to dump more excess supply instead of overloading the grid. And it seems there is quite a lot of excess supplythe curtailment ceiling was doubled from 5% to 10%. In other words, China is learning as it goes what works, to what extent it works, and where its limits are. So, as it plans to build more ultrahigh transmission lines to curb the need for wind and solar curtailment, China is also working on developing its hydrocarbon resources of which it has substantial amounts. For Beijing, the top priority appears to be neither decarbonization nor any sort of energy dominance but plain and simple energy security. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: It is likely to be around 100 degrees Fahrenheit this week in Iraqi Kurdistans capital of Erbil, but few regional commentators will doubt that many in the semi-autonomous region will feel a chill somewhere deep inside their bones. Having voted for independence on 25 September 2017 by 92.73 percent in favour and 7.27 percent against, the Kurds of northern Iraq are now looking at being subsumed into the rest of the country and ruled in all material ways directly from Baghdad. This follows the announcement last week that the Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan (APIKUR) a group representing international oil companies (IOCs) in Iraqi Kurdistan - that its members would agree to direct sales agreements with the State Oil Marketing Organization (SOMO), which is controlled by the Oil Ministry in Baghdad. This came after a statement from the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) that such direct sales are the best option for resolving the suspension of oil flows from the region to Turkey that has been in place since 25 March 2023. Given the rapid deterioration of the KRGs finances since the embargo began, it is little wonder that it has finally yielded to Baghdads calls for the IOCs oil sales to be handled by SOMO. However, to those who have been watching the struggle between Erbil and Bagdad for decades, the KRGs statement does look highly akin to the notion of turkeys voting for Christmas. The Federal Government of Iraq (FGI) has been looking at the optimal way to roll Iraqi Kurdistan into a unified Iraq since the U.S. announced its intention in July 2020 to end its combat mission in Iraq later that year, as analysed in full in my new book on the new global oil market order. In essence, according to a very senior European Union (E.U.) energy security source spoken to exclusively by OilPrice.com, the key to the implementation of the One Iraq Plan as it is informally known is to cut off all sources of external revenue from the government of Iraqi Kurdistan most significantly from independent oil sales by IOCs operating there thereby making it entirely dependent on Baghdad for its survival. Related: U.S. Drivers Could See The Lowest July 4 Gasoline Prices Since 2021 There are three powerful reasons why the FGI in Bagdad and its key global sponsors, China and Russia do not want Iraqi Kurdistan to continue to operate with any degree of independence. A basic geopolitical one is that for a long time, the region was a key ally of both the U.S. and its predecessor as the leading global power, the United Kingdom. Indeed, the very idea of the 2017 independence referendum came from what Kurdistan thought had been a tacit agreement with Washington in late 2013/early 2014 when Islamic State (IS) had begun to emerge as a significant regional concern. The understanding was that Iraqi Kurdistans push for independence would be supported by the U.S. and its Western allies in exchange for its providing the boots on the ground in the fight against IS through the fearsome Peshmerga army, as also analysed in full in my new book on the new global oil market order. Once victory against IS had been assured, the independence referendum did indeed take place but following the violent reaction to the result from some key players in the region, meaningful support from the U.S. and its allies for further moves towards Iraqi Kurdistan independence failed to materialise. The strong opposition to the result of the 2017 independence vote underlines another reason why the One Iraq Plan in moving full ahead now. For key Iraqi regional sponsor Iran, and for Turkey and Syria, rising Kurdish independence feelings would also pose a distinct threat to the existing regimes, given the size of these populations in these countries. Irans Kurdish population is around 9 percent of its total, Syrias 10 percent, and Turkeys about 18 percent. For China, a fractious independent Kurdistan with strong former ties to the U.S. would make the administration of Iraqs oil and gas sector much more difficult. Similarly, despite Russias having effectively taken control of Iraqi Kurdistans oil sector after the 2017 independence vote, as also detailed in my new book, it would rather work with a centralised government in Baghdad, which is heavily influenced by Moscows principal ally in the region, Iran. It is certain, according to the E.U. source, that Russia will not lose any of its existing deals in Iraqi Kurdistan once it is rolled into a unified Iraq. There is a deeper motivation at play here as well, as delineated by a very high-ranking Kremlin official just after the 10 March 2023 signing of the Iran-Saudi Arabia relationship resumption deal brokered by China, relayed to OilPrice.com by the E.U. source. Specifically: By keeping the West out of energy deals in Iraq and closer to the new Iran-Saudi axis - the end of Western hegemony in the Middle East will become the decisive chapter in the Wests final demise. Financially as well, the FGI sees no benefit in having Iraqi Kurdistan continue to operate with any meaningful measure of independence. The original deal agreed between the two sides back in 2014 was for 17 percent of the federal budget after sovereign expenses (around US$500 million at that time) to be made from the FGI in exchange for oil from the Iraqi Kurdistan region exporting up to 550,000 barrels per day (bpd) of oil from its own fields and Kirkuk via the FGIs SOMO. However, from very early on the deal never worked properly, with both sides claiming the other was not living up to its part of the bargain. Without the deal working, Baghdad was losing out on billions of dollars a year in revenue from oil sales done independently by the Kurds, so why would it continue to put up with this? a source who works very closely with Iraqs Oil Ministry exclusively told OilPrice.com recently. Legally speaking as well, there is no obvious reason why Baghdad should not remove the KRGs primary source of financial independence either, given the 2005 Iraqi Constitutions lack of clarity on the issue. Article 111 states that oil and gas is under the ownership of all the people of Iraq in all the regions and governorates. Consequently, Baghdad argues that all such oil flows such be considered as Iraqs, and therefore be handled by the FGIs nominee for such matters, that being SOMO. The KRG, however, believes it has authority under Articles 112 and 115 of the Constitution to manage oil and gas in the Kurdistan Region extracted from fields that were not in production in 2005. That the One Iraq Plan remains the key ideological thrust of what is happening to Iraqi Kurdistan was underlined on 3 August last year when Iraq Prime Minister, Mohammed Al-Sudani, stated that the new unified oil law run, in every way that matters, out of Baghdad - will govern all oil and gas production and investments in both Iraq and its autonomous Kurdistan region and will constitute a strong factor for Iraqs unity. The most potent practical manifestation of this idea is the intended full rollout of Baghdads own oil export pipeline to Turkey, bypassing any input from the Iraqi Kurdish region. Baghdads 600-mile pipeline was the original Iraq-Turkey Pipeline, running from Kirkuk in Iraqs north to Ceyhan in Turkey, before it was closed in 2014 after repeated attacks by various militant groups in the region, including Islamic State. It consisted of two pipes, with a nameplate capacity of 1.6 million bpd combined (1.1 million bpd for the 46-inch diameter pipe, and 0.5 million bpd for the 40-inch one). It was only after it was closed that the Iraq Kurdistan regional government oversaw the construction of a new single side pipeline, from the Taq Taq field through Khurmala, which runs into the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline in the border town of Fishkhabur. With the Kurds cut out of the new pipeline and their own pipeline shut down, the new oil law can move forward, unifying the countrys oil sector as originally intended, concluded the Iraq oil source. By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Crude oil prices moved higher today after the U.S. Energy Information Administration reported an inventory decline of 12.2 million barrels for the week to June 28. The inventory change compared with an inventory build of 3.6 million barrels estimated for the previous week, when the EIA also saw fuel inventories rising, which weighed on oil prices. For the last week of June, the EIA estimated draws in fuel inventories. Gasoline inventories shed 2.2 million barrels in the week to June 28, which compared with a build of 2.7 million barrels for the previous week. Gasoline production averaged 10.1 million barrels daily last week, compared with 9.9 million barrels daily for the previous week. In middle distillates, the EIA estimated an inventory decline of 1.5 million barrels for the last week of June, which compared with a modest draw of 400,000 barrels for the previous week. Middle distillate production averaged 5.1 million barrels daily in the last week of June, which compared with 4.9 million barrels daily for the previous week. Oil prices, meanwhile, remained at two-month highs after the American Petroleum Institute estimated a weekly inventory draw, pegging it at a significant 9 million barrels. Prices have also received support from geopolitical factors this week, as traders worry about a further escalation of violence in the Middle East as Israel continues to bomb Gaza. On the other hand, fears of production disruption in the Gulf of Mexico because of Hurricane Beryl subsided after the hurricane weakened to a tropical storm. The key risk for oil markets is that an Israel?Hezbollah war widens into a broader conflict, said Commonwealth Bank of Australia analyst Vivek Dhar told Bloomberg. In particular, the more direct involvement of Iran in an Israel?Hezbollah war may put at risk Irans oil supply and related infrastructure. In addition to geopolitical factors, signs are emerging of a slowdown in U.S. oil production growth and the latest oil export data has revealed Saudi Arabia accounted for half of a global oil export decline that amounted to 1 million barrels daily last month. By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Iran held presidential elections on June 28 and the runoff on July 2. Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian was said to have a very narrow lead over his runoff rival, hardline candidate Saeed Jalili, just before polls opened again on Wednesday Results from voting were not yet in at the time of writing. The winner of the election must be approved by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, whose views are ultraconservative hardline. That means that even if Pezeshkian Again, illicit weapons are entering Libya, this time Chinese military drones disguised as wind turbines on two separate container shipsboth seized by Italian authorities. Italy is keeping a keen eye on its ports and waterways, as those weapons are going either to General Haftar in the east or to the Russians, who are looking to build a port on Libyas coasta direct shot across to Italy. Two unexpected outcomes in France this week after snap parliamentary elections. The far-right won a record number of votes in French snap parliamentary elections, leaving Macrons centrists sidelined with only 20%. The far-right made very significant gains. If Israel invades Lebanon, Washington fears it will hasten a Russia-Iran alliance, with one geographical part of that scenario already underway in Yemen. U.S. intelligence claims (according to a Middle East news outlet) that Putin had already approached the Saudis for permission to arm the Houthis with anti-ship cruise missiles. Politics, Geopolitics & Conflict If Israel invades Lebanon, Washington fears it will hasten a Russia-Iran alliance, with one geographical part of that scenario already underway in Yemen. U.S. intelligence claims (according to a Middle East news outlet) that Putin had already approached the Saudis for permission to arm the Houthis with anti-ship cruise missiles. Two unexpected outcomes in France this week after snap parliamentary elections. The far-right won a record number of votes in French snap parliamentary elections, leaving Macrons centrists sidelined with only 20%. The far-right made very significant gains. Again, illicit weapons are entering Libya, this time Chinese military drones disguised as wind turbines on two separate container shipsboth seized by Italian authorities. Italy is keeping a keen eye on its ports and waterways, as those weapons are going either to General Haftar in the east or to the Russians, who are looking to build a port on Libyas coasta direct shot across to Italy. Iran held presidential elections on June 28 and the runoff on July 2. Reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian was said to have a very narrow lead over his runoff rival, hardline candidate Saeed Jalili, just before polls opened again on Wednesday Results from voting were not yet in at the time of writing. The winner of the election must be approved by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, whose views are ultraconservative hardline. That means that even if Pezeshkian wins the vote, he may not be allowed to assume the presidency unless the Supreme Leader has determined that Pezeshkians wider popularity might be of benefit right now in Tehran. Discovery & Development More than a dozen oil firms are competing to purchase a sizable portion of Galp Energia's noteworthy Mopane discovery, including industry titans like Exxon, Shell, and Brazil's Petrobras. This discovery in Namibia has the potential to be worth $10 billion because it is thought to contain over 10 billion barrels of oil and gas equivalent. Back in April, Galp started the process of selling off half of its 80% ownership in Petroleum Exploration Licence 83, including operating control. Numerous companies have already examined the geological data (Exxon, Chevron, Shell, TotalEnergies, etc). Several have made non-binding offers, though the process remains shrouded in secrecy. French TotalEnergies intends to abandon its offshore gas-condensate finds in order to focus exploratory efforts closer to Namibia. Two major discoveries in South Africa have not yet made it to the development stage, and there have also been questions about the commercial viability of domestic supply given the high cost that will be associated with developing a complicated deepwater project. The Saudis have announced seven new oil and gas deposits. Aramco said it discovered two unconventional oilfields, a light Arabian oil reservoir, and two natural gas fields. Deals, Mergers & Acquisitions Spanish Repsol is reportedly in talks to merge its UK North Sea oil and gas operations with private-equity-backed NEO Energy (Reuters sources), which could potentially give the new entity over 110,000 boepd, which would also make it the top producer in the UK North Sea. A painful windfall tax is helping to force consolidation in the UK oil and gas industry. A British business that trades in Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) by operating an unusual ship, has not been breaching the sanctions put in place after the Russian invasion into Ukraine. An investigation by Sky News revealed that one of the largest owner-operators of liquefied gas vessels, Seapeak, has its headquarters based in Glasgow. The company owns five LNG icebreakers including the Yakov Gakkel, which Sky focuses on. The skip can carve through ice enabling it to travel up into the Arctic Circle and back even in the depths of winter. This allows the ship to travel back and back and forth between Siberia and Europe, through winter and summer, bringing copious volumes of gas from Russia to Europe. Despite pleas from European leaders to decrease usage of gas, Sky reports that Europe is still depending on Russia for around 15 percent of its gas. As just last month Russia overtook the US to become the second biggest provider of gas to the continent. When the war broke out in Ukraine, the European Union (EU), the UK and the US all applied a swarm of sanctions against the Russian Government, close friends of President Putin as well as companies that had close ties to him or his allies. In the UK, the Office for Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI), which sits within the Treasury, was overseeing the UK sanctions list. Companies, despite the prospect of penalties, have been struggling to keep on top of the sanctions, as 127 British companies admitted last November to breaching those new rules. While companies try to weave through the sanctions lists across the UK, EU and US, the energy sector has been operating within the grey lines of the rules. Along with wide-ranging sanctions, there were also price caps placed on shipments of oil, however, there were no controls put on liquefied natural gas. This means these fleets carrying LNG from Russia to each European country have not been breaching the Russian-sanctions. As Paul Feldberg, Brown Rudnick partner and head of UK white collar defense, investigations and compliance explained: While these sanctions create a web of prohibitions, they do not create a blanket ban on anything Russian or from doing business in Russia, so there will always be gaps. Some of those gaps are deliberate, like the lack of a prohibition imports of Russian gas into Europe, as Europe is taking its time to wean itself off Russian Gas, he added. Barrister Patrick Upward KC from Church Court Chambers pointed out that it is alarming that this trade in natural gas is being allowed to continue with abject disregard for the reasons and purpose of the sanctions that are in place in respect of oil. While the UK Government had set in train an enquiry under the auspices of a Treasury Select Committee, this fell away with the announcement of the election. Some might think that the investigation should continue under the new government, but to what end? The senior barrister highlighted that the empirical evidence is there, floating in plain sight, in vessels designed for one purpose, travelling between ports that enable the passage of Russian gas into Europe. It must now be regarded as essential that the new government seize the opportunity to close these loopholes. If they cannot persuade the EU to join in, then they must penalise those enablers in London, who continue to take advantage of the lacunae in the current sanctions regime, he added. Some of those gaps are deliberate, like the lack of a prohibition imports of Russian gas into Europe, as Europe is taking its time to wean itself off Russian Gas While Leigh Crestohl, partner, Zaiwalla & Co added that this case shows in stark terms the enormous difficulties that arise in trying to apply a wide-ranging sanctions programme to a large economy which was well integrated into European supply chains. Modern sanctions practice offers no precedent for sanctions measures against such a developed economy that played such a significant role in meeting Western energy needs, he stated. This comes after it was revealed that the British insurance industry has insured over 120bn worth of Russian oil since March 2022, resulting in calls from a former Cabinet minister for the sector to think on its obligations. By City AM More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: With less than a month before Venezuelan elections, on July 28, incumbent President Nikolas Maduro has told Washington that he is now willing to restart direct talks. If Maduro wins, helped along by the banning and arrest of opposition figures, it will give him six more years to rule. According to Maduro, negotiations will start this week already, presumably looking for a pre-election win in the form of some sentiment that crippling economic sanctions will be eased. Of the nine opposition candidates, the one that everyone pays attention to is Gonzalez Urrutia. They pay attention despite the fact that he is really only a stand-in for Maria Machado, the opposition candidate barred by Maduro on trumped-up charges. But the opposition is gaining momentum, and Maduro is worried. When Urrutia hits the campaign trail physically, Machado has gone with him, and its Machado, the far-right leader, who is popular. The other eight candidates get little, if any attention, and Urrutia is intended to serve as a place-holder for the key opposition at large (Unitary Platform coalition). Machado had already won the opposition primaries, at which point Maduro had her barred. It was actually Machados fiery speeches that prompted Maduro to renege on his deal with Washington in the first place. She suddenly emerged as a real threat to his regime. The talks that Maduro is now calling urgent would be a reinstatement of talks that broke down earlier between Maduro and Washington, Via Metal Miner With a new government in place following the recent general elections, Indian steel manufacturing firms are again clamoring for the imposition of more import duties and other measures to curb cheap steel imports from China. India ended up being a net importer of steel during the April-March 2024 period. According to provisional government data, this trend persisted, with finished steel imports reaching a five-year high in April and May. Following the renewed demands for import curbs, rumors say that Indian steel and trade ministries are already in talks to resolve the vexing issue. Steel Manufacturing Firms React to Cheep Chinese Imports The cheap imports flooding Indian markets, alongside Chinas similar tactic of flooding European and African markets with cheap steel, has started to impact Indian steel exports negatively. This is in addition to the moves garnering criticism from countries like Turkey and Indonesia. According to this report, because of pressure on steel prices, the price of China-made hot-rolled coil dropped to U.S. $520 per ton from $525 per ton within a week. Compare that to export prices of Indian steel, which ranged between $650-$660 per ton, and its not difficult to see the problem. Indias steel exports in May 2024 totaled 0.5 MT. According to provisional data from BigMint, a market research and consultancy firm, this marks a nearly 25% decline from the approximately 0.66 MT exported in April. Indias Steel Industry Faces Crisis as Cheap Chinese Imports Flood Market While export matters are of concern, what is even more distressing for Indian steel manufacturing companies is the flooding of the domestic market with Chinese steel. According to Ranjan Dhar, Director and Vice-President of Sales and Marketing at ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India, Indian authorities need to implement various measures to control the rising steel imports from China and other indirect sources such as Vietnam. According to Dhar, global steel consumption was down. At the same time, demand for Chinese steel within China was also down because of economic concerns and the real estate crisis. Therefore, the excess stocks had created a global oversupply. According to him, Chinese steel companies were, at times, selling steel at prices even lower than production costs. Get crucial updates on steel prices and steel industry news delivered straight to your inbox with MetalMiners weekly newsletter. Chinese Exports Continue to Increase In 2022, China exported 65-68 MT of steel. However, it exported approximately 85 MT in 2023 despite depressed domestic demand. A report by the Indian steel ministry said the value of Chinese steel exports to India in April 2024 was U.S. $434.01 million as compared to $391.67 million in March. During these two months, India imported 1.1 million metric tons of finished steel, an increase of 19.8% compared to the same period the previous year. Meanwhile, weak global demand and declining input costs continue to pressure steel prices. As a result, Indian steel manufacturing companies are prioritizing domestic demand, particularly as exports continue to be a less profitable option. While competitive pricing in West Asia and Southeast Asia poses challenges, the situation in Europe continues to worsen due to weak demand and stringent regulatory conditions. For his part, Dhar also advocates for restoring the basic customs duty (BCD) on steel imports to 12.5%, a significant increase from the current 7.5%. Is India on Track to Outpace China? A recent report by Moodys suggests that Indias northward climbing clamor for steel and the coming expansion in steel making by private firms could place it above China in the ongoing steel war. The rating agency recently conducted a comprehensive analysis, comparing both countries in terms of demand prospects, market dynamics, and resource advantages. According to the report, Indias steel demand is expected to grow by 5-7% over the next 12-18 months. This growth remains driven by robust economic and population growth, rapid industrialization and urbanization, and supportive government policies. In contrast, it projects that Chinas steel demand will decline slightly due to a sluggish property market and slower economic growth. India recently announced its aim to double its crude steel capacity to 300 million tonnes by 2030 under its national steel policy. Furthermore, steelmakers like Tata Steel continue to invest heavily in order to expand their capacities. Moreover, Moodys forecasts that Chinas excess capacity and Indias renewed capacity growth will exert downward pressure on steel prices in the coming day. By Sohrab Darabshaw More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: DUSHANBE, July 3 (Xinhua) -- China-Tajikistan relations have reached new heights, with strategic leadership of the two heads of state playing a key role, Chinese Ambassador to Tajikistan Ji Shumin said in a recent interview with Xinhua. China is willing to work together with Tajikistan to comprehensively implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state and benefit both countries and their peoples, Ji said. Tajikistan is a good neighbor and a comprehensive strategic partner of China, and their peoples have a long history of friendly exchanges, Ji said. After the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China, under the strategic guidance of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, bilateral relations entered a period of rapid development, Ji said. In 2013, the two countries announced the establishment of a strategic partnership. In 2017, the relationship was upgraded to a comprehensive strategic partnership. During President Xi's visit to Tajikistan in 2019, the two sides agreed to jointly build a China-Tajikistan development community and security community. In 2023, the two presidents jointly announced the building of a China-Tajikistan community with a shared future featuring everlasting friendship, solidarity and mutual benefit. Under the strategic leadership of the two heads of state, both countries have set the goal of building a community with a shared future, providing a clear direction for bilateral relations, Ji said. Tajikistan was among the first countries to support the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by President Xi in 2013 and to sign related cooperation agreements with China, said the Chinese ambassador. Thanks to the strong impetus of the BRI, a series of China-Tajikistan cooperation and aid projects have been implemented in key areas such as infrastructure, metallurgy, energy, cement, and the cotton textile industry, playing a vital role in Tajikistan's economic and social development, Ji said. From 2013 to 2023, trade between China and Tajikistan doubled, said the ambassador, adding that China has become the largest source of investment for Tajikistan and one of its main trading partners. Against the backdrop of aligning China's BRI with Tajikistan's National Development strategy 2030, both sides plan to promote cooperation in trade, finance, tourism, transportation and communication, ecology, culture, and artificial intelligence, Ji said. Measures will also be taken to further promote bilateral trade, diversify trade categories, explore trade potential, strengthen cooperation under the Silk Road e-commerce framework, and discover new opportunities for trade and innovation cooperation between the two countries, he added. They will strengthen cooperation in regional transportation infrastructure connectivity and enhance the role of the intergovernmental committee on economic and trade cooperation between the two countries and its sub-committee for economic and trade cooperation between China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and Tajikistan's neighboring regions. "The space for practical cooperation between China and Tajikistan is broad, and the prospects are promising," he said. China and Tajikistan firmly support each other on issues concerning their core interests, Ji noted, adding that both countries have suffered from the "three evil forces" of terrorism, extremism, and separatism and advocate for a common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security concept. China is willing to work together with Tajikistan to maintain peace, further strengthen cooperation in combating the "three forces," and ensure the common security of China and Tajikistan and long-term stability in the region, Ji added. Recent escalations in the Middle East, particularly involving Israel, Gaza, and Lebanon, have reintroduced a geopolitical risk premium to oil prices. The potential for supply disruptions in the oil-rich region and increased uncertainty often lead traders The American Petroleum Institute (API) reported a significant 9.163 million barrel drawdown in U.S. crude inventories for the week ending June 28. This far exceeded analysts' expectations of a 700,000-barrel draw, providing strong support for oil prices. Larger-than-expected inventory drops typically signal increased demand or reduced supply, potentially driving prices higher. However, the increase in gasoline inventories (up 2.468 million barrels) slightly tempers this bullish signal, suggesting demand may not be uniformly strong across all petroleum products. Light crude oil futures have climbed 2.12% this week, driven by a mix of bullish factors. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, an unexpectedly large draw in U.S. crude inventories, and optimistic forecasts for summer fuel demand have all contributed to pushing prices higher. As traders assess these developments against the backdrop of OPEC+ supply management and steady U.S. production growth, the oil market remains finely balanced between supply constraints and recovering demand. Crude Oil Market: Key Drivers Behind This Week's Price Surge Light crude oil futures have climbed 2.12% this week, driven by a mix of bullish factors. Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, an unexpectedly large draw in U.S. crude inventories, and optimistic forecasts for summer fuel demand have all contributed to pushing prices higher. As traders assess these developments against the backdrop of OPEC+ supply management and steady U.S. production growth, the oil market remains finely balanced between supply constraints and recovering demand. U.S. Crude Inventory Draw: A Bullish Surprise The American Petroleum Institute (API) reported a significant 9.163 million barrel drawdown in U.S. crude inventories for the week ending June 28. This far exceeded analysts' expectations of a 700,000-barrel draw, providing strong support for oil prices. Larger-than-expected inventory drops typically signal increased demand or reduced supply, potentially driving prices higher. However, the increase in gasoline inventories (up 2.468 million barrels) slightly tempers this bullish signal, suggesting demand may not be uniformly strong across all petroleum products. Middle East Tensions: Geopolitical Premium Returns Recent escalations in the Middle East, particularly involving Israel, Gaza, and Lebanon, have reintroduced a geopolitical risk premium to oil prices. The potential for supply disruptions in the oil-rich region and increased uncertainty often lead traders to bid up prices as a precaution. While no immediate impact on oil production has occurred, the situation bears close monitoring as any escalation could quickly affect global supply chains. Hurricane Beryl: Threat Diminishes, But Season Continues Initial concerns about Hurricane Beryl's potential impact on Gulf of Mexico oil production have eased, with the storm expected to weaken before reaching the area. While short-term bullish sentiment has faded as the immediate threat diminishes, traders should remain vigilant as the hurricane season progresses. U.S. Summer Driving Season: Demand Expectations Rise The American Automobile Association forecasts a 5.2% increase in travel during the Independence Day holiday period compared to 2023, with car travel up 4.8%. Higher gasoline demand typically supports crude oil prices, and increased mobility could signal broader economic recovery, positively impacting oil demand. OPEC+ Production: Supply Management Continues Recent data indicates a slight increase in OPEC oil output for June, primarily due to higher supply from Nigeria and Iran. However, this is offset by ongoing voluntary supply cuts from other members. OPEC+'s commitment to managing supply remains a key price support, and traders should watch for any signs of policy shifts or compliance issues within the group. U.S. Oil Production: Steady Growth Amidst Market Changes U.S. crude and condensates output from the Lower 48 states (excluding federal Gulf of Mexico waters) reached 10.99 million barrels per day in April, near record levels. Continued U.S. production growth could cap price increases, but efficiency improvements in the sector may allow for sustained output even at moderate price levels, according to John Kemp from Reuters. Investment Flows: Funds Turning Less Bearish Recent weeks have seen significant petroleum purchases by hedge funds and money managers, indicating a shift from extreme bearishness to a more neutral stance, Kemp stated. Increased fund buying can provide price support and potentially signal a changing market sentiment. The notable bullish position in European gas oil futures suggests expectations of strong diesel demand. Weekly Light Crude Oil Futures Trend Indicator Analysis The main trend is up. A trade through $86.24 will reaffirm the uptrend. The main trend will change to down on a move through $72.08. The near-term retracement zone at $76.02 to $73.60 is solid support. It is essentially controlling the short-term direction of the market, offering hope for the bulls and a potential trigger point for a steep decline for the bears. The new minor range is $86.24 to $72.08. The market is currently trading on the strong side of its pivot at $79.16. Weekly Technical Forecast The direction of the Weekly Light Crude Oil Futures market the week-ending July 12 is likely to be determined by trader reaction to $81.54. Bullish Scenario A sustained move over $81.54 will signal the presence of strong buyers. If this creates enough near-term momentum then we could see a further acceleration to the upside with $86.24 the initial target price. Bearish Scenario A sustained move under $81.54 will indicate the presence of sellers. If it generates enough downside momentum then we could see a test of $79.16. However, with the trend up, this would probably become another buying opportunity. Short-Term Forecast: Bullish Given current market conditions, we expect crude oil prices to maintain their upward momentum in the near term. Traders should keep a close eye on several key factors: the upcoming EIA inventory data, ongoing Middle East tensions, actual U.S. summer driving demand, OPEC+ compliance with production cuts, and potential hurricane disruptions. While the overall trend leans bullish, the market remains susceptible to sudden shifts. The delicate balance between supply management efforts and recovering demand could be disrupted by unexpected geopolitical events, surprising inventory reports, or significant economic data releases. In summary, the combination of shrinking U.S. inventories, heightened geopolitical risks, and anticipated strong summer demand creates a supportive environment for oil prices. However, risks persist. Traders should remain vigilant, monitoring these factors closely to identify potential opportunities and manage risks effectively. Technically, the uptrend is safe. Despite the possibility of profit-taking reversals, they are not likely to change the trend and more likely to just shift momentum lower, at least temporarily. Furthermore, taking out $86.24 will reaffirm the uptrend and put $92.02 on the radar. A federal court halted President Biden's war on America's energy independence by reversing a temporary moratorium on permitting new licenses for liquified natural gas (LNG) exports. This is a major blow to radical climate warriors in the White House ahead of the November presidential elections. Late Monday, US District Judge James D. Cain Jr. in Louisiana ruled in favor of Louisiana and 15 other red states that had challenged the "temporary pause" on new LNG export licenses. Donald Trump appointed Judge Cain, who wrote that the pause "is completely without reason or logic and is perhaps the epiphany of ideocracy." The White House announced in January that the Energy Department would temporarily stop approving new LNG export licenses to assess the impact of shipments on global warming. Patrick Morrisey, the attorney general of West Virginia, called Cain's ruling "a big win for the country's energy industry and the millions of jobs it supports." Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said the DoE's halt on new licenses sparked a lot of uncertainty in her state, with tens of billions of dollars in infrastructure in question. She called yesterday's decision "a major victory for American energy." The ruling means DoE must restart its permit approval process soon. However, it's unclear when this will happen. In a note in early February, Matt Egan and Brent Bennett of RealClear Wire wrote that the president's politically motivated actions mainly targeted "Texas and Louisiana, red states that account for the bulk of US LNG exports." Some have speculated that Biden's action could have been a move to retaliate against red states that opposed open southern borders. A separate report from the Washington Free Beacon said Biden's Climate Czar, John Podesta, ultimately pushed the decision. Here's more from RealClear Wire's Larry Behrens about Podesta's LNG attack: As a well-known climate warrior, it makes sense Podesta would be pushing for policies against American energy interests. Yet at the same time, Podesta's brother, Tony, one of DC's most well-connected mega lobbyists, has financial connections to foreign LNG companies, including one with links to a Russian oligarch. It is concerning to see the Podesta family standing to profit from a policy priority of the White House who employs another Podesta. Foreign companies, including Russia, are clear beneficiaries Biden's LNG attack. It should be raising questions about potential conflicts of interest and profit motives at the White House. Meanwhile, Angelo Fernandez Hernandez, a White House spokesman, told the Washington Post, "We are disappointed in today's ruling. We remain committed to informing our decisions with the best available economic and environmental analysis, underpinned by sound science." The move by radical climate warriors in the White House to dent America's energy independence comes as US LNG exports have doubled over the last four years. By Zerohedge.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and other leaders who are members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) will kick off a two-day summit in Kazakhstan starting on July 3 as the bloc is poised to grow again. But where does this club of mostly illiberal states fit into Beijing and Moscows wider plans? Finding Perspective: The SCO is helmed by China and Russia, but also includes India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan as members. This years summit is headlined by the admission of Belarus into the organization. This marks a trajectory of growth for the SCO over its 23-year history. Since it was founded in 2001, the bloc has shifted from a forum mostly focused on Central Asia into a Eurasia-wide organization with ever-growing ambitions. In its early days, this was centered on China settling its borders with its western neighbors following the collapse of the Soviet Union and looking to expand its influence, while assuaging any anxieties in Moscow. Over time, things have shifted to counterterrorism, economic development, and regional security. But its also increasingly becoming a venue for Beijing to show its growing heft around the region, a development that is continuing as Xi arrived early in the Kazakh capital, Astana, for a state visit and then will do the same in Tajikistan after the summit. The bloc has also begun to feature more prominently in shared statements from China and Russia, with the SCO getting notable shout-outs during Xi and Putins no-limits partnership summit in February 2022 and other meetings between both leaders as they look to cooperate more through the organization. Beijing And Moscow: China and Russias shifting dynamic has been a boost for the SCO. After years of Russia using the bloc to water down Chinese influence in the region and blocking Chinese-initiatives like an SCO development bank and free-trade zone the Kremlin shifted to working more closely with China. This began during Russia's isolation from the West that took hold in 2014 and has only grown since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Moscow has also started to accept that it has fewer cards to freeze out China and that the SCO can serve as a valuable forum to build support and undermine Western claims that the war in Ukraine has turned it into an international pariah. Why It Matters: As the SCO has grown, its true value rests in symbolism rather than in any practical policy. On paper, its one of the worlds largest regional organizations, accounting for around one-third of global GDP, roughly 40 percent of the worlds population, and nearly two-thirds of the entire Eurasian landmass. While China has experimented with multiple iterations of the SCO, its main role has been in offering alternatives to the U.S.-led system and being another forum for Beijing to portray itself as the leader of the Global South. China still has lots of work ahead if it wants to transform the SCO beyond its reputation as a talk shop for authoritarians. India and Pakistans rivalry will always be an impediment to the organization, but recently its been Beijing and New Delhis fraught relationship thats a factor. Last years SCO summit in India became a virtual one, reportedly due to an unwillingness to welcome Xi, and at this years summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the only leader not attending in person. Three More Stories From Eurasia NATO Keeps An Eye On The Asia-Pacific Russias war in Ukraine is the main issue on NATOs mind, but when leaders from the military alliance gather in Washington on July 9-11, theyll also be turning their attention toward China. The Details: NATO officials told RFE/RL that the upcoming summit will have a special China session, and the military alliance is looking to include Asia-Pacific partners like Japan, South Korea, and Australia, who have all been invited at the highest level. While NATO is a defensive alliance focused on European security, China has become more of a focus in recent years. Outgoing NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has warned in the past about the risks posed by Chinese state firms building critical infrastructure in Europe and said in June that Beijing should face consequences for supplying Russias war effort with dual-use goods. Is Central Europe Back On The Menu? After years of setbacks that saw all three Baltic countries withdraw from Chinas forum to engage with Central and Eastern Europe and others downgrade it, Beijing is on a charm offensive that could swing the pendulum in the other direction. What It Means: Polish President Andrzej Duda recently wrapped up a visit to China, where he praised ties with Beijing and was lauded by Chinese media for his warm attitude. Hungary is and remains a key partner for China in the region and recently took over the rotating presidency of the EU Council for the rest of 2024 amid tense trade spats between Beijing and Brussels. In Slovakia, the countrys populist, Euroskeptic government is also apparently flirting with stepping up engagement in the 14+1, the Chinese forum that was previously the 17+1 before Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania pulled out. Matej Simalcik, executive director of the Central European Institute of Asian Studies, said that Jiang Yu, Chinas special envoy for the 14+1, recently held meetings with Slovak officials in Beijing. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is also slated to visit China this fall. Now, Duda is nearing the end of his term and Poland elected Donald Tusk, whose stance on China is more critical, as prime minister in December. Duda also used part of his visit to attempt to foster division between Beijing and Moscow during a speech to Chinese university students by bringing up how territories along their shared border were lost to Russia during tsarist times. The Czech Republic continues to have a government and president that hasnt been shy to criticize Beijing, but a change of government in the near future isnt out of the question. With populist former Prime Minister Andrej Babis polling strongly, the Czechs could also start to walk back some of their tougher positions if the ruling coalition doesnt survive the next vote. A Megaproject Comeback While China has been the main source of foreign direct investment in Central Asia in recent years, Beijing took a step back when it came to building sprawling infrastructure projects. But with a much-discussed railway between China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan getting the green light, that may be about to change. What You Need To Know: My Almaty-based colleague Chris Rickleton looked at Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, Central Asias two poorest countries, and recent projects and large deals signed with Chinese companies and lenders. The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway agreement is significant in that it offers some revealing details about the divisions of financial responsibility. According to the agreement, the trio will form a joint company in which China will hold a 51 percent stake while Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan will be responsible for 24.5 percent each. But the issue of its funding is still somewhat unclear. Kyrgyz official estimates for the cost of the railway vary from $4.5 billion to $8 billion. That will likely require large loans from a major Chinese state bank. The agreement proposes using a structure where Kyrgyzstan could limit its debt exposure by granting full control of its portion to a Chinese firm and forfeiting part of the revenue the railway generates from transit fees until building costs are repaid. In Tajikistan, Chinese investors pledged $500 million in new deals at an expo in June, as well as a $1.5 billion commitment from a Chinese company to build a solar power plant near Tajikistans border with Afghanistan. The deals could be crucial for Tajikistans investment-starved economy, but the country is already highly indebted to China and has few avenues to pay it down. Across The Supercontinent The EV Expansion: The first batch of plug-in hybrids rolled off the assembly line at a new plant from Chinas BYD in Uzbekistan. The Central Asian country is aiming to position itself as the main hub for Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) as the automaker eyes the region for expansion. Modi To Moscow: Worried by Russias deepening ties with China, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will head to Moscow for talks with President Vladimir Putin, Bloomberg reports. Rare Earth Edict: Chinas State Council issued a raft of regulations to tighten management of rare earth minerals, which are playing an increasingly strategic role in the global technology race. Indirect Trade: While much of Chinas support for Russia amid its war in Ukraine occurs bilaterally, an increasing percentage is diverted through Central Asia and other locations. The Atlantic Councils Joseph Webster breaks it down here. One Thing To Watch Nicholas Burns, Washingtons ambassador in Beijing, gave an interview to The Wall Street Journal where he rebuked Chinese authorities for undermining attempts to repair ties with the United States, interrogating and intimidating Chinese citizens who attend U.S.-organized events in China, and whipping up anti-American sentiment. The comments reflect unusually forceful language from Burns and show ongoing frustration over a lack of progress on any attempts at improving relations between Beijing and Washington. By RFE/RL More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Indias coal production jumped by 14.5% from a year earlier to 84.63 million tons in June, provisional government figures showed, as the worlds second-largest coal consumer presses ahead with a plan to boost domestic thermal coal output. Last month, Coal India Ltd which accounts for about 80% of all coal production in the country saw its output rise to 63.10 million tons, up by 8.9% compared to June 2023. In addition, Indian companies and thermal power plants raised the volumes of coal stocks they held in June 2024, by 42% and 30% from June 2023, respectively. Indias Ministry of Coal said last week that the country saw a record decline in the share of imported coal in the past decade, noting that medium and low-grade thermal coal are abundantly available domestically, making it imperative for the country to sufficiently produce to fulfill domestic demand. Last month, Indias Minister of Coal and Mines, G. Kishan Reddy, said that India plans to increase its domestic coal production and reduce imports. Earlier this year, Rajat Handa, vice president of international trade at Agarwal Coal, told Reuters that Indias coal imports are not going to be higher than 160 million tons in 2024. Many coal users that previously imported coal have started to switch to domestic supply, Handa said. As a result, Indian coal industry officials expect the countrys imports of thermal coal the one used for power generation to drop in 2024 for the first time since the start of COVID-19, due to rising domestic coal production and record-high levels of inventories. In the 2023-2024 fiscal year ending March 2024, Indias total coal production rose by 11.65% to 997.25 million tons, according to data from the Ministry of Coal. More coal-fired units were fired up at the start of this year in the country, amid a prolonged heatwave with above-normal temperatures which pushed electricity consumption higher. Power demand continued to rise with the expanding economic growth, too. By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Editor's Note: Price data on Kazakhstan's CPC crude grade can now be found on our oil prices page Non-OPEC producer Kazakhstan, which is part of the OPEC+ output deal, raised its oil production in June, exceeding its quota under the alliances agreements, Reuters calculations based on data from sources showed on Wednesday. Kazakhstans giant oilfield Tengiz has completed planned maintenance, which raised the countrys production in June compared to May. According to Reuters calculations of output data, Kazakhstan produced 1.538 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude last month, up from May, and about 70,000 bpd above its OPEC+ cap of 1.468 million bpd. Asked to comment on the production data from sources and Reuters calculations, Kazakhstans Energy Ministry told Reuters that the conversion rate for converting tons to bpd is between 6.8 and 8, depending on the density of a crude grade, and did not provide specific production data. Reuters used a 7.3 conversion ratio. Kazakhstan has vowed to compensate for overproduction in the OPEC+ deal, as the non-OPEC producer, together with OPECs second-largest producer Iraq, have regularly exceeded their allocated quotas. The Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC), the OPEC+ panel that monitors oil market developments and the groups production cuts, earlier this year noted that compliance with the cuts needs to improve. In May, OPEC and Kazakhstan discussed compensation plans for 389,000 bpd of Kazakhstans cumulative overproduction between January and March 2024. Kazakhstans Energy Ministry said in June that independent sources approved by OPEC+ found that the country had exceeded its quota under the deal by 45,000 bpd in May. Kazakhstan vowed to submit a compensation schedule to the OPEC Secretariat. Kazakhstan will address this overproduction and will fully comply in June, including complying with additional voluntary cuts, the ministry said last month. Furthermore, the Republic of Kazakhstan will compensate for the surplus in production since the beginning of 2024 during the compensation period, which extends until the end of September 2025. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: CVR Energy, a refining company owned by Carl Icahn, is among the bidders for shares in the parent company of Citgo, PDV Holding, Reuters has reported, citing unnamed sources. CVR Energy operates two refineries, one in Kansas and one in Oklahoma. Carl Icahn holds a 66% stake in the company. The refiner is working with Wells Fargo to raise the money for its bid, the Reuters sources said. Citgo is the seventh-largest refiner in the United States with a total capacity topping 800,000 barrels per day (bpd). It has plants in Texas, Louisiana, and Illinois, along with pipelines and a gasoline distribution network that supplies 4,200 outlets in the United States. The sale process of shares to pay creditors and claimants against Venezuelas oil asset appropriation and debts owed by Citgo was launched by the Delaware court in October 2023. A first bidding round with non-binding offers ended earlier this year, and the deadline for submitting of binding bids in second bidding round was July 1. Overall, creditors and claimants have sought to recoup at courts in Delaware a total of $24 billion in claims and arbitration awards against Venezuela. However, in the first round of the auction the highest bid was only $7.3 billion, which is just one-third of the value of the claims approved by the court, Reuters reported in March this year. Two months later, the publication reported that unless bids in the second round come closer to $10 billion, Caracas would seek a third round of offers. The deadline for bid submission is July 15 and the name of the winning bidder, if there is one, should be announced at the end of the month. According to a representative of the court officer overseeing the auction, there are competitive bids in this round. Per earlier reports, bidders also include activist fund Elliott Investment Management. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Shell announced on Wednesday that it had safely paused some drilling operations in the Gulf of Mexico as Hurricane Beryl was preparing to deliver a massive blow to Jamaica, Reuters reported, noting that so far no impact on GOM production had been noted. On Wednesday, Shell said it had begun evacuating non-essential crew at its Perdido asset in the Gulf of Mexico, as it launched the process of shutting in oil production under the threat of Hurricane Beryl, which reached a Category 5 level earlier in the day, according to Reuters. After Shell's Stones development, Perdido is the second-deepest oil and gas production hub in the world. Perdido, moored in the US Gulf of Mexico at around 2,450 meters (8,000 feet) of water, began operations in 2010 and paved the way for future developments in deep-water oil and gas recovery. As a warning of the weather-related threats to the country's oil and energy production, the National Weather Service has upgraded Hurricane Beryl to a Category 5 storm, the earliest hurricane to ever obtain such a designation. On Monday, the rising intensity of the storm had oil markets on edge, boosting U.S. crude benchmark prices to a two-month high. On Tuesday, Senior analyst Ipek Ozkardeskaya from Swissquote Bank said in a note to clients that while Beryl may not immediately impact operations in the Gulf of Mexico, it could potentially cause disruptions later in the week. In Washington, there is cause for concern that Hurricane Beryl could lead to disruption that would drive U.S. gasoline prices, which could damage the Biden administration ahead of November presidential elections. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: As many countries in Europe look to boost their nuclear power capacities and build more reactors, companies face a workforce challenge as many of the skilled force are retiring while younger generations choose energy jobs in solar and wind. European countries and companies planning major expansion in nuclear fleets are struggling to fill in thousands of skilled engineering jobs that would support the construction of nuclear reactors, which take years to complete. Companies in France are hiring back retirees and are collaborating with colleges and universities to promote jobs in the nuclear power sector, Bloomberg reports. Many Western countries have doubled down on nuclear power since the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the energy crisis. Since the start of the war and an energy-market-disrupting series of Western sanctions, nuclear power has regained much support in Europe as a critical aspect of reaching net zero by 2050. Many countries in the West, with the notable exception of Germany, have recognized that nuclear power generation would help them achieve net-zero emission goals. France, the UK, and Sweden are some of the countries planning to build more reactors over the next two decades to boost the share of zero-emission power sources as the UK and the EU have set goals to become net-zero economies by 2050. Well need trained resources to get projects off the ground. We dont have much time to react, Philippe Lanoir, president for industry and energy at the Syntec-Ingenierie business federation in France, told Bloomberg. Frances nuclear power giant EDF expects to recruit around 4,500 employees in permanent roles in the nuclear power industry in France in 2024 alone. But the French Nuclear Industry Association, GIFEN, says that France would need about 10,000 hires per year by 2033 to fill the talent gap. In the UK, a National Nuclear Strategic Plan for Skills was launched in May, underpinning the goal of doubling the number of new apprenticeships by 2026 and recruiting 40,000 new jobs by 2030 double the current hiring rate for the sector. We are delivering the biggest expansion to nuclear power in 70 years and need a homegrown pool of talent that will fuel our nuclear ambitions, said Amanda Solloway, Minister for Affordability and Skills at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: UNITED NATIONS, July 3 (Xinhua) -- While devastating fighting continues in Sudan's southwest Darfur region, its sudden breakout in the southeast region, displacing tens of thousands of people, is alarming, UN humanitarians said on Wednesday. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said it is alarmed by the displacement in and from Sennar State. The clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces in the town of Sinja were sudden and violent, forcing families to flee east toward the neighboring state of Gedaref. OCHA said it has a team in Gedaref visiting reception sites where displaced families seek shelter. Children and older people are among those arriving in harsh conditions, unable to bring much with them. The office said it is working with UN agencies and other partners to provide critical humanitarian assistance, with colleagues in Gedaref reporting that people continue to arrive in large numbers. The World Food Programme reported prepositioning more than 2,200 metric tons of food to respond to the crisis. The humanitarians said they are deeply concerned that the spreading conflict and rising insecurity could sever a key route for transporting humanitarian assistance from Port Sudan in the east. With famine looming, sustaining the delivery of life-saving aid across conflict lines and borders is imperative. "We call on the parties to de-escalate immediately, spare civilians, and ensure safe passage for those fleeing the fighting in Sinja and all conflict-affected areas in Sudan," OCHA said. "They must have access to the humanitarian assistance they rely on." In the southwest of Sudan, OCHA said, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) reported at least eight children, including an 18-month-old, were killed in a reported drone attack on a mosque in El Fasher, North Darfur State, on Monday. Nine other children were injured. "The mosque had been serving as a community kitchen, providing food to vulnerable children and their families," the humanitarians said. "UNICEF underscores that the senseless killing of children in Sudan must end." File Photo Nigeria ranked the top with the highest of students from Africa studying in the U.S, Rachel Canty, Deputy Director, Student and Exchange Visitor Programme, U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement, has said. Speaking at the Foreign Press Centre International Reporting Tour: U.S. Community Colleges and Workforce Development, programme in Washington D.C, Canty said Nigeria has 16,039 students in the U.S. The tour was organised by the Foreign Press Centre, Bureau of Public Affairs, U.S Department of State to provide foreign journalists with information on opportunity available to foreign students in community college in U.S. Nigeria has continued to retain its top ranking as the number one source of African students studying in the U. S. with over 16000 students as at March pursuing their educational goals There are over 36,000 students from Sub Saharan Africa studying in the U.S. As of March 2019, there are 16,039 students from Nigeria studying in the United States with 54 per cent male and 46 per cent female students. This is an increase of 3,342 students over 12,693 students recorded in November 2018, she stated, She said that undergraduate students constituted 34 per cent, Masters students was, 36 per cent, as Doctorate formed 12 per cent, while Associate 12 per cent, non-degree and others formed 5 per cent. According to her, the top five states for Nigerian students in U.S include Texas with 2,713, California, 856 students, Maryland, 827 students, New York, 818 students and Florida 753 students. Students from Nigeria attended about 800 institutions in each of Americas 50 states. The most popular state is Texas, with 2,713 students, while the most popular college/university is Houston Community College, with 220 students. Mathew Washburn, Programme Officer, Education USA, U.S. Department of State explained that the number of international students in the U.S surpassed one million for the third consecutive year, The number he said increased by 1.5 per cent to reach a new high of 1,094,792 million, in 2018 adding that U.S remains the top host of international students globally. International students made a significant financial impact on the United States in 2017, contributing 42.4 billion dollars to the U.S. economy through tuition, room and board, and other expenses, he said. According to him, 450,000 U.S jobs are supported by hosting international students on U.S. campuses. NAN Two Christians were on their way to preach Christ in Iganga town, eastern Uganda on May 28 when they took a wrong turn. Tenywa Herbert, 34, and 30-year-old Mukisa Siraji had led several Muslims to Christ in other communities, including some rural imams, or mosque leaders. Deciding to share the gospel where they had mistakenly arrived along the Iganga-Kaliro road, they began a street outreach at about 6 p.m., reading from both the Quran and the Bible, Siraji said. We landed among some angry Muslims who were hunting for me, Siraji told Morning Star News. Before completing our message, one sheikh called Jaberi, the imam of one of the mosques in Kaliro, who had a big beard, ordered other Muslims to beat us and get Jannah (Paradise). We were grabbed and flogged publicly until my leg was hit with a hammer, and it got broken totally. After beating them, the assailants forced them into their vehicle and drove them to Buseyi village, he said. They threw us around Buseyi village, where a good Samaritan found us and took us to Iganga Hospital, Siraji said. He contacted our home people, and the pastors and other Christians came and took us to a specialist in Kumi, where we are getting treatment now. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up The attackers tore their Bibles and tracts to pieces and destroyed them, he added. The attack was the latest of many instances of persecution of Christians in Uganda that Morning Star News has documented. Ugandas constitution and other laws provide for religious freedom, including the right to propagate ones faith and convert from one faith to another. Muslims make up no more than 12 percent of Ugandas population, with high concentrations in eastern areas of the country. BLOOMINGTON Dave Fulghum isnt a wedding photographer. He said hes never been one or chosen to be one. Fulghum, 64, primarily does business-to-business photography, like headshots and corporate architecture, as well as portraits. But the Bloomington photographer and former biologist/chemist did say a friend hes known since high school asked him to shoot his spring wedding in Williams, Arizona. Since Im gonna be taking all of my gear to shoot the wedding ... I might as well just turn it into a big ole road trip, Fulghum said. The wedding was May 18, and Fulghum's westward road journey was routed through Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico. After the wedding in Arizona, Fulghum visited his daughter for 10 days in the Ogden, Utah, area. Its 4,600 miles, round trip. It took me 21 days and I stopped at everything worth shooting for that whole 21 days, he said. Taking it easy By his return to Bloomington, Fulghum said he had captured a lot of landscapes, a genre of photography to which he said he brings a lot of architectural photography experience. Thats also what he said sets him apart as a photographer. I tend to not necessarily force perspective, but I use it to my advantage, he said. One stop on the way out west was at the Very Large Array, a radio telescope observatory two hours southwest of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The site was featured in the 1997 movie Contact starring Jodie Foster. Fulghum said he only planned to stay 45 minutes, but stayed for three hours. It was one of those things where I really didnt know what to expect, he said, adding the imaging layers were spectacular. The skies were kind of cloudy and blustery just a little bit angry, Fulghum continued. I got a lot of drama in the skies around there. Then, in Winslow, Arizona, he went to a park commemorating the second-verse lyrics of The Eagles' song Take It Easy. Parked in the corner of the park is a red Ford flatbed truck. Theyve got a whole thing set up for that. Its hilarious, said Fulghum. He also made it to the monumental meteor impact crater in the northern part of Arizona. Fulghum also stopped by Grand Falls in Joplin, Missouri. Its a beautiful little cascade waterfall, just very placid, he said. And in South Dakota, he said he got up in the early morning hours and made it to Mount Rushmore right at sunrise. It was truly a spectacular morning, he said. Eye for Ansel Fulghums Grand Canyon imagery is framed about curvaceous edges of mountainous topography in monochrome. Shown with imposing effect are scenic rims from front to back. Fulghum said there is a tremendous amount of history to been in American landscape. Since parts of Utah and Arizona have a dry climate, he said things age, but they dont fall apart. That includes a pioneer corral he captured in Warner Valley, Utah. "It's dramatic ... it's living history," he said. "It's part of the American West, it's what made us, us ... and it's still there." In the middle of the Great Salt Lake in Utah is Antelope Island. Fulghum said its home to a bison herd, and a lot of antelope and other wildlife. Thats unchanged for the last millennia. Theyve always been out there, he said, adding the same scenes were observed by indigenous peoples a thousand years ago. Fulghum returned to Illinois June 4. When post-processing his frames, he said he hadnt realized how much Ansel Adams Ive soaked up over the years," referring to the American photographer well known for his landscape works, especially in the Western United States. Looking over his landscapes work from southern Utah and the Grand Canyon, he said, its just got Adams written all over it. Fulghum said hes been studying photography since he was 14 years old. He also said theres a lot of photojournalism in his work, noting he shot for newspapers for four years in the south suburbs of Chicago. He said he uses Photoshop and Lightroom for editing, but more to enhance his material as opposed to making broad changes. Once, he photographed with his iPhone a blue, mountainside church in Seyisfjorur, Iceland, and posted the photo to social media. Fulghum said was told to edit out the telephone lines and cars from the picture, and recolor the church as white. No, Im not going to do that, because if someone sees my work when they go stand where I was standing, I want them to see exactly what I saw, Fulghum said. This is reality. This is what it is, he said, noting he doesnt erase objects from his photos or change backgrounds. Well, it is there. So, deal with it. Fulghums third photography book published his work from Iceland and is available for ordering on his website. GET IN FOCUS David Fulghum plans to teach the following photography classes this fall for the McLean County Arts Center: Photography basics, shooting in manual mode Emotive photography Christmas lights in downtown Bloomington Hike at Sugar Grove Nature Center Class dates will be posted Friday. To sign up, visit mcac.wildapricot.org. Also check out: davefulghumimagemaker.com Bird's-eye view: A look at some Bloomington-Normal-area stadiums using drone photography BLOOMINGTON HIGH SCHOOL OLYMPIA HIGH SCHOOL NORMAL COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL TRI-VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL LEROY HIGH SCHOOL BLOOMINGTON HIGH SCHOOL OLYMPIA HIGH SCHOOL TRI-VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL The U.S. Supreme Court ended its term with a highly anticipated decision that provides American presidents with a modicum of immunity from criminal charges. The case was ostensibly about former President Donald Trump, but the ruling sets guidelines intended to ensure the nation regardless of which man, woman or party holds the Oval Office doesnt become mired in a series of retaliatory and vindictive prosecutions. Progressives, fixated on Trump, argue that the 6-3 decision creates a law-free zone around the president, as Justice Sonia Sotomayor described it in her dissent. But it does nothing of the sort. The president enjoys no immunity for his unofficial acts, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote for the majority, "and not everything the president does is official. The president is not above the law. But Congress may not criminalize the presidents conduct in carrying out the responsibilities of the executive branch under the Constitution. Note that the court explicitly rejected Trumps claim of absolute immunity. Trump asserts a far broader immunity, the majority opinion holds, than the limited one we have recognized. But the idea, put forth by special prosecutor Jack Smith and the government that a president has no special protection is equally pernicious. Would it be good for the country to allow a former president to face politically motivated prosecutions involving a policy dispute? In the current political climate, such concerns are not theoretical. Virtually every president is criticized for insufficiently enforcing some aspect of federal law (such as drug, gun, immigration or environmental laws), Roberts wrote. An enterprising prosecutor in a new administration may assert that a previous president violated that broad statute. Without immunity, such types of prosecutions of ex-presidents could quickly become routine. The decision will require federal courts to hold evidentiary hearings to determine which actions charged by Smith amount to official and unofficial acts. But it in no way stops the government from prosecuting Trump for actions he took that were unrelated to his duties as president. Trumps attorney conceded during oral arguments that some of the conduct that caught Smiths attention was related to unofficial actions. Despite the apocalyptic protestations of the dissenting liberal justices, the majority has carved out a middle ground that rejects the extreme arguments made by both the former president and the special prosecutor who pursues him. Trump or any other president is not above the law. But neither should they be victims of politically motivated criminal prosecutions. With African countries now adopting a more sustainable and eco-friendly way of exploiting their mineral resources, Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor, MP, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources has laid special emphasis on the need for mutually beneficial partnership between African countries and their European counterparts. Delivering the keynote address at the 2024 Mining On Top Africa Conference in Paris, France on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, the Lands Minister expressed the urgent need for the jettisoning of the historical inequalities that has existed between mineral-producing African countries and the developed countries, noting that a relationship that guarantees mutual benefit for both the West and Africa will be a step in furtherance of attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development. Hon. Samuel A. Jinapor explained that mineral-producing countries are transitioning from the outmoded practice of dug and ship with the new method anchored on value addition and local participation. He emphasized the overarching importance of a partnership anchored on equitable distribution of benefits as that will help African countries to raise the resources to play a central role in the fight against climate change. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provides a framework to address climate change, resource depletion, and socioeconomic inequalities which threaten the well-being of our global community. Mutually beneficial mining partnerships between Europe and Africa is crucial to meeting these 2030 Goals. For our modern day lives, depend, largely, on mining and the appropriate use of variety of minerals", he said. We must, therefore, consider the benefits generated through value addition and the ability to transform them into innovative products and associated service, to meet the needs of modern living. We must ensure that the framework for the exploitation of these minerals, favourably, generates benefits which are equitably distributed among all stakeholders, including countries and communities that host these minerals. Through these partnerships, we can tackle environmental degradation, social conflicts, and economic inequalities, while promoting efficiency and safety at the mine. Our Economic Partnership Agreements must, therefore, be designed not only to foster trade and investment, but promote value addition to the minerals we mine, create job opportunities for economic growth, and tackle poverty, he said. With Ghana being one of the African countries which has set sail in the implementation of environment-friendly policies in its mining sector, Hon. Jinapor took time to list some of the initiatives and detail their transformational impacts. This, obviously, calls for the implementation of mining-friendly policies that protect the interest of citizens and investors alike, while championing environmental sustainability. That is why Ghana, under the distinguished leadership of President Akufo-Addo, has adopted a Green Minerals Policy which aims at promoting value addition and beneficiation across the value chain of our green minerals, while contributing, substantially, to the green energy transition. Our aim is to ensure the retention of the full value chain of these critical minerals in the country, to the extent possible. Already, we have established through a Public Private Partnership, a four hundred kilogramme (400kg) capacity gold refinery, to refine the gold we produce. We are, also, promoting, through this Policy, local content and local participation across the value chain of our green minerals, from exploration, through mining to downstream production, to ensure that Ghanaians, who are by our national Constitution, the owners of these minerals, benefit optimally from them, the Minister said. The Minister also emphasized importance of fairness and inclusivity in the rewarding of African countries who have committed to facilitating the platform for the spurring of Green Mineral Resources in their countries. He implored the countries to live up to the tenets of the Paris Agreement which enjoins the countries to commit resources to the fight against climate change. We must, therefore, use this opportunity to renew our commitment to tackling climate change, through measures such as the green energy transition, which mining plays a central role in its implementation. This transition, must, however, be fair, just, inclusive, and carry everyone along. It must not be pursued in a manner that only benefits the consumers of clean energy investors and their home countries. But it must be done in a way that benefits the ultimate producers of the minerals required for the transition, who have consistently suffered the historical injustice commonly referred to as the resource curse. The need for balance, and, indeed, equity is critical for sustainability, and inclusive development, he said. Mining On Top Africa Conference is a prestigious event that brings together Ministers from various African countries and prominent industry stakeholders for a two-day summit focused on fostering partnerships between European and African nations for the sustainable exploration and development of mineral resources. Mr. Benjamin Gallezot, an expert from the Department of Critical Metals in France, in a speech read on his behalf, emphasized that sustainability and value addition in mineral exploration are pressing issues that require immediate attention. He expressed hope that the partnership between African countries and Europe will enable Africa to add significant value to its mineral resources and prioritize energy transition, while aligning with the Paris Agreement. This collaboration, he believes, will also be crucial in harnessing mineral resources to drive sustainable development and mitigate climate change. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Ladies Forum of Stanbic Bank Ghana, Blue Fusion, has donated a range of medical equipment to the Women and Childrens Unit of the Upper West Regional Hospital in Wa. This donation forms part of the Forums ongoing commitment to community development. The donated items include three adult beds, three fetal dopplers, two blood pressure monitors, three digital baby weighing scales, and three baby warmer systems. Leading the team from the bank, Margaret Obimpeh, Head of Affluent, and Chairperson of Blue Fusion presented the items to the hospital staff. She commended them for their hard work and shared that this donation is part of their mission to support quality healthcare delivery. She said, We are part of the ladies Forum in the bank, which we call Blue Fusion. We set this group up purposely to advance the career growth and development of the women in the bank. Additionally, we believe in making a positive impact on the communities within which we operate, through focus areas such as health and education. We know that health is wealth and if women who are the backbone of SMEs in Ghana, are healthy, they will be more productive and create wealth for themselves and their families. She added, This quarter we decided to visit the Upper West Regional Hospital to give back. Our mission here is simple, we are here to support the mother and child unit of the hospital. This is our widows mite to the hospital to help the doctors and nurses improve the quality of healthcare services they provide to our women and children. We are impressed by the sacrifices they make daily to support these mothers and children and we felt it necessary to play our part. On behalf of Stanbic Bank and the Blue Fusion Ladies forum of the Bank, we are excited to present these items to you. It is our genuine hope that through this you can do much more than you already do and help even more women in the community receive access to healthcare. Dr. Amesiya Robert, Medical Director of the Upper West Regional Hospital, in receiving the items said, we strive to be the best unit in the country and very recently we were looking to expand. We cannot take care of all the patients we receive, because we are also a referral centre. This donation is therefore very timely and will go a long way to improve our services to those in need. We are grateful to the Blue Fusion ladies of Stanbic Bank for this donation. We understand that we are in a harsh financial climate but you have still gone out of your way to reach out and support those in need. Thank you very much." The Stanbic Ladies Forum, Blue Fusion, was launched to pave the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for women in the bank and to promote gender equity and empowerment. Earlier this year the Forum donated reading and learning materials worth GH30,000 to Serwaa Nyarko Girls SHS in Kumasi. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video In an official communication to the Ministry of Information, the Public Policy Manager for Anglophone West Africa for Meta Sade Dada announced the monetization of its expanded features for content creators in Ghana. As part of the monetization, creators will also have the option to earn a share of revenue from Facebooks in-stream ads, thus, when Meta places ads next to their contents. The app developer intends to roll out ads on reels which also seeks to earn a share of revenue for creators from ads it places on their reels on Facebook with further plans to expand its monetization features on Instagram later this year. Content creators must pass and be compliant with the Meta Partner Monetization Policies and Content Monetization Policies. These policies include deeper restrictions than the community standards on the content itself and the format of presentation. Advertisers are also required to follow Metas advertising standards designed to protect users from poor experience and support meaningful connection between people and businesses across its technologies. The monetization of content in Ghana is to empower content creators to earn money locally from their online content and access advanced features to manage businesses online. The expansion of the monetization tools is a significant milestone that will help content creators in Ghana to leverage their online presence and build their brands. On behalf of the Government, the Ministry commends Meta for this significant investment in Ghana's digital future. We are set to facilitate further engagement between Meta and the New Media Association of Ghana to explore more opportunities. The Ministry looks forward to continued collaboration to promote digital innovation and entrepreneurship in Ghana. We are optimistic that the expansion will create new opportunities for our talented creators and support the growth of Ghana's digital economy. For further details on the available options, content creators can look up for Meta for Creators (https://creators.facebook.com/), a dedicated portal that offers creators guidance on how to utilize the monetization tools for their benefits. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan on Saturday (June 29) handed the death sentence to a Christian for allegedly sharing a blasphemous video on a social media platform despite lack of evidence, his attorney said. Sahiwal District Anti-Terrorism Judge Ziaullah Khan delivered the sentence to 27-year-old Ehsaan (nickname Shan) Masih under Section 295-C of the Pakistan Penal Code, which mandates the death sentence for blaspheming Muhammad, the prophet of Islam. Masihs lawyer, Khurram Shahzad Maan, said Masih testified that he had categorically denied creating or posting any blasphemous content on social media. The police recovered Masihs phone from his house and sent it to the Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA) for examination, Maan told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. The PFSA report concluded that no blasphemous material was found on the accuseds phone or TikTok account. A police officer was the complainant against Masih, and all prosecution witnesses were also police officials, the attorney said. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up Despite there being no direct evidence against Masih, the court relied on the statements given by the prosecution witnesses and sentenced him to death, which is a gross miscarriage of justice, Maan said. Masih was also sentenced to a 10-year jail term under Section 295-A, blaspheming Islam, and he was convicted him under Section 11 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and Section 7(1)(g) of the Anti-Terrorism Act, resulting in prison terms of seven years and five years respectively. Sahiwal police arrested Masih on Aug. 19, 2023, accusing him of sharing on his TikTok account a video containing a letter that triggered Aug. 16 Jaranwala riots by Muslims furious over its alleged blasphemous content. Maan said the First Information Report against Masih was initially registered under sections 295-A and 295-B (defiling the Quran) of the blasphemy statutes, along with sections related to electronic crimes and anti-terrorism. Section 295-C, which carries a mandatory death sentence for insulting Islams prophet, Muhammad, was added later on the insistence of the prosecutor, he said. Implicating Masih in 295-C is absurd, because he had not uttered or written anything derogatory against Prophet Muhammad; he was just accused of sharing the alleged blasphemous letter. The attorney said the harsh verdict was unjustified because the matter was a clear case of no evidence. The letter in question had been circulating on social media due to the Jaranwala incident, and it is a fact that Ehsaan Masih did not author it, he said. Also, no one witnessed him uploading or sharing the controversial letter on his social media account. The Organization for Legal Aid arranged for Maan to provide legal support to the impoverished Masih, who worked at a brick kiln. We are devastated by the verdict, Masihs elder brother, Yousaf Masih, told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News, but we have faith in the Lord that Hell make a way for my brothers freedom. We are looking for a good lawyer to challenge the sentence in the Lahore High Court. The family belongs to the Associated Reformed Presbyterian Church in Sahiwal, he said. Minorities Alliance Pakistan (MAP) President Advocate Akmal Bhatti said the verdict contained glaring loopholes. The prosecution failed to provide concrete evidence in support of the allegations, while all the witnesses were police officials, Bhatti said. The witnesses have said on record that neither the video was created nor was it shared on the social media in their presence. Even if Masih had shared the video without considering the consequences, at best he should have been charged under the PECA laws, Bhatti said. Its a fact that he has not said nor written anything insulting for Islams prophet, nor committed any terrorism, so convicting him under these sections is uncalled for, Bhatti said. The MAP chairman also criticized police for adding terrorism charges in blasphemy cases. This is being done mainly under the pressure of Islamist extremist groups to target minority communities, especially Christians, he said. The superior judiciary must take notice of this harsh sentence as well as lacunas in the prosecutions case and accept Masihs appeal, he stressed. National Council of Churches in Pakistan President Bishop Azad Marshall was also critical of the judgment. The video in question was circulating widely on the social media since Aug. 16, 2023, and was even present in the phones of several Muslims, including police officials, Marshall said. Does it make all these people blasphemers? Absolutely not. Marshall said the excessive sentence also vindicated Christians concerns that justice could not be expected for blasphemy suspects from trial courts. In over 90 percent of blasphemy cases, the trial courts have convicted the accused even if there was no evidence against them, he said. This is done due to fear and pressure of the religious groups. Our judges do not realize the agony the victims have to suffer for years in prison until the superior courts discharge the cases on grounds of weak evidence. At the same time, the same courts are more than willing to grant bail to perpetrators of religiously-motivated violence, he said. In the Jaranwala cases, only a few are expected to go on trial, as a majority of those involved in attacking churches and homes of Christians have walked free on bail, he said. This discrimination in dispensation of justice does not bode well for the country. On Aug. 16, a mob attacked several Christian properties in Jaranwala, ransacked more than 20 churches and destroyed at least 100 houses following false accusations of blasphemy against two Christian brothers. The two brothers were later exonerated from blasphemy charges by the ATC in Faisalabad. Another Christian bearing personal enmity toward them had framed the brothers, according to police. Officers registered 22 cases under the Pakistan Penal Code and anti-terrorism law and arrested more than 100 people for rioting in Jaranwala, but none have been convicted so far. 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. The Civil and Local Government Staff Association of Ghana (CLOGSAG) has officially declared a nationwide strike, set to begin on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. The decision to go on strike comes as a response to the governments failure to implement a new salary structure that was approved by the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission over one and a half years ago. The association expressed frustration over the delayed implementation of the proposed salary adjustments, which were part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that was reached previously. CLOGSAG has emphasized the importance of fair compensation for its members and highlighted the urgency of addressing this issue promptly. In a statement, the Executive Secretary of CLOGSAG, Isaac Bampoe Addo said all of its members should abide by the directive until the government meets their demands. Indicating our intentions to proceed on a nationwide strike if the new salary structure for the staff of the civil service and local government service is not implemented, we hereby declare a nationwide strike with effect from Wednesday, July 3, 2024. All staff of the civil service and local government service are to stay away from work until further notice. Similarly, all CLOGSAG secretarial offices must be closed. Kindly take note and comply accordingly. The impending strike is expected to have a significant impact on various government services across the country, as CLOGSAG represents a substantial number of civil and local government staff in Ghana. The association has called on the government to engage in constructive dialogue to resolve the salary dispute. Source: dailyguidenetwork.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Private legal Practitioner, Professor Kwaku Asare has raised legal and ethical issues over the request of the Chief Justice, Her Ladyship Justice Gertrude Torkonoo to appoint five Justices to the Supreme Court. The Chief Justice, on the 30th of May, 2024, presented names of five justices to the President to be appointed at the Apex court following their sterling performances in Ghana and other parts of the subregion. This action of the Chief Justice has raised several concerns about the position on the constitution on what processes that ought to be followed in appointing a Justice to the Supreme Court. Quoting Article 144(2) of the 1992 constitution, Professor Kwaku Asare maintained that, the Supreme Court Justices are appointed by the President acting on the advice of the Judicial Council, in consultation with the Council of State and with the approval of Parliament. Professor Asare explained, This process ensures that the selection of Supreme Court Justices is collaborative and impartial, involving multiple stakeholders to preserve the independence and integrity of the judiciary. Article 144(2) does not name the Chief Justice in this appointment process. Thus, when the Chief Justice proposes names directly to the President, it undermines this process, thereby compromising the constitutional framework designed to prevent undue influence and maintain judicial impartiality. The Private legal practitioner stated that, the involvement of the Chief Justice in the selection or appointment of Justices to the Supreme Court could compromise the separation of powers, thereby, creating doubts on the minds of the Ghanaians of how independent the judiciary is. First, the Chief Justices involvement in proposing nominees could compromise the separation of powers, which ensures that the judiciary remains independent from the executive branch. The framers were justifiably concerned about direct communications between the President and the Chief Justice, as it can lead to a reciprocal exchange of favors. He added that, the involvement of the Chief Justice in the appointment of the Judges might also raise the issue of bias or vested interest that could influence her recommendations. Second, the Chief Justice might have biases or vested interests that could influence her recommendations, leading to questions about the impartiality of the nominees. This problem is further compounded by the unconstitutional practice that allows the Chief Justice to determine Court Panels that hear cases, including political cases, and the more recent practice of reconstituting panels that are hearing cases. The framers clearly addressed conflicts of interest in Article 284, which provides that a public officer shall not put themselves in a position where their personal interest conflicts or is likely to conflict with the performance of their offices functions. There is no conflict of interest more glaring than a Chief Justice whose hands are in the appointment, empanelling, and reconstitution of panels for the apex court. This follow a formal request to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to nominate five judges to the Supreme Court of Ghana, aiming to strengthen the judiciary with highly qualified and experienced legal minds. The names nominated for appointment to the Supreme Court include; Justice Afia Serwaa Asare Botchwey, the presiding judge in the ambulance case involving Minority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, as well as Justice Afia Asare Botwe, Justice Cyra Pamela Koranteng, Justice Edward Amoako Asante, Justice Eric Kyei Baffuour, and Justice Angelina Mensah Homiah. Read his full text below: The Imperial CJ Strikes Again The Chief Justice recently (30th May 2024) sent a confidential request to the President to appoint five judges to the Supreme Court: Their Lordships Edward Amoako Asante, Eric Kyei Baffuor, and Their Ladyships Angelina Mensah Homiah, Cyra Pamela Koranteng, and Afua Asare Botwe. According to the Chief Justice, His Lordship Asante has provided excellent leadership as President of the ECOWAS Court and will undoubtedly be an invaluable asset to the Supreme Court. The remaining four judges, who are currently judges of the Court of Appeal, are recommended because their work has been distinguished by outstanding service, courage, and competence. Article 144(2) of the Constitution provides that Supreme Court Justices shall be appointed by the President acting on the advice of the Judicial Council, in consultation with the Council of State and with the approval of Parliament. This process ensures that the selection of Supreme Court Justices is collaborative and impartial, involving multiple stakeholders to preserve the independence and integrity of the judiciary. Article 144(2) does not name the Chief Justice in this appointment process. Thus, when the Chief Justice proposes names directly to the President, it undermines this process, thereby compromising the constitutional framework designed to prevent undue influence and maintain judicial impartiality. While the Chief Justice is the chairman of the Judicial Council that advises the President, the Council consists of various members such as the Attorney-General, Justices from different courts, representatives of the Ghana Bar Association, and other legal and non-legal members. The diverse composition of the Judicial Council is intended to ensure a balanced and unbiased approach to advising the President on judicial appointments. The Chief Justice unilaterally proposing names disrupts this balance and violates the intended collaborative decision-making process. There are several legal and ethical grounds on which the Chief Justices unilateral request to the President should be challenged. First, the Chief Justices involvement in proposing nominees could compromise the separation of powers, which ensures that the judiciary remains independent from the executive branch. The framers were justifiably concerned about direct communications between the President and the Chief Justice, as it can lead to a reciprocal exchange of favors. Second, the Chief Justice might have biases or vested interests that could influence her recommendations, leading to questions about the impartiality of the nominees. This problem is further compounded by the unconstitutional practice that allows the Chief Justice to determine Court Panels that hear cases, including political cases, and the more recent practice of reconstituting panels that are hearing cases. The framers clearly addressed conflicts of interest in Article 284, which provides that a public officer shall not put themselves in a position where their personal interest conflicts or is likely to conflict with the performance of their offices functions. There is no conflict of interest more glaring than a Chief Justice whose hands are in the appointment, empanelling, and reconstitution of panels for the apex court. Third, the Chief Justices role is to interpret and uphold the law, not to influence the selection process of other justices of the Supreme Court. Her involvement could unduly influence the Presidents decision, undermining the objectivity of the nomination process. The Constitution and established protocols dictate in very clear terms the process for judicial nominations. Any deviation from these procedures is unlawful. Fourth, public confidence in the judicial system relies on the perception of fairness and impartiality. Public confidence is at an all-time low, according to recent surveys. The Chief Justice proposing names would only further erode this confidence. Additionally, the process of naming some judges but not others suggests favoritism or partiality. The Chief Justices action could introduce needless friction in the judiciary. Judicial ethics require judges to avoid any actions that might compromise their independence or the independence of the judiciary. Proposing nominees could be seen as engaging in political activities, which is generally discouraged, if not barred, for judges. An even more serious question is whether the Chief Justices action constitutes misconduct under the Constitution. Article 146(1) states that a Justice of the Superior Court or a Chairman of a Regional Tribunal shall not be removed from office except for stated misbehavior, incompetence, or inability to perform the functions of their office due to infirmity of body or mind. In my opinion, misbehavior in this context includes actions that are unconstitutional, unlawful, violate ethical standards, abuse power, and compromise the independence of the judiciary. The Chief Justice engaging in the nomination process is a clear breach of these standards, as it represents a conflict of interest and an abuse of the influence and authority vested in the position. The Constitution and the Court Act prohibit the Chief Justice from participating in the nomination process. It is the Judicial Council, not the Chief Justice, that is assigned a role in the nomination process. When it comes to the exercise of power, if it is not explicitly granted, it is forbidden. Therefore, sidestepping the constitutional scheme, as the Chief Justice has done, is a direct violation of the Constitution and constitutes misbehavior under Article 144. Using the position of Chief Justice to propose names for judicial appointments is an abuse of power since it bypasses the established processes for nominations that do not involve the Chief Justice qua Chief Justice. This meets the definition of misbehavior. By influencing the nomination process, the Chief Justice could be perceived as compromising the independence of the judiciary. This could be considered misbehavior as it affects the integrity and impartiality of the judicial system. Further, proposing nominees outside the legal framework could be seen as engaging in political activities, which constitutes misbehavior because it violates the ethical standards expected of judicial officers. Judges are typically required to remain apolitical to preserve the impartiality of the judiciary. The Chief Justices action clearly constitutes a conflict of interest, given the professional ties with the nominees, which compromises the fairness of the nomination process. The Chief Justices action could also destabilize morale in the judiciary, as it raises questions of favoritism. To sum up, the Chief Justice proposing names to the President for Supreme Court nominations not only breaches constitutional provisions but also constitutes misconduct. It undermines the principles of judicial independence and impartiality, constitutes an abuse of power, and creates a conflict of interest. Such actions fall under the definition of misbehavior as outlined in Article 146(1) and therefore constitute grounds for removal. The integrity of the judicial appointment process relies on adherence to established constitutional procedures, and any deviation from these procedures by the Chief Justice should not be countenanced or treated lightly. #SALL is the cardinal sin of the 8th Parliament. By Professor Kwaku Asare, a private legal practitioner Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The US Ambassador to Ghana, Virginia Palmer, has lauded the Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, for his exceptional leadership qualities. The US envoy said Nii Teiko Tsuru had demonstrated unique leadership qualities since assuming office, and needed to be commended. The American diplomat paid a courtesy call on the Ga Traditional Council in Accra last Friday during which she showered praise on the Ga Mantse for his quest to promote unity among the people of the Ga State. Ms Palmer particularly praised the traditional leader for how he had addressed chieftaincy issues in his jurisdiction, and appealed to him to open his doors wider for collaboration on such matters. She said the Ga Mantse's commitment to girl-child development and leadership were worth mentioning, and praised him for his efforts to enrol more girls in formal education and vocational training ventures. Efforts She cited the renovation of the King Tackie Tawiah Senior High School by King Teiko Tsuru as a classic epitome of a leader who had girl-child education at heart. The Ga Mantse, only last Wednesday, unveiled the renovated King Tackie Tawiah 1 Cluster of Schools at Adabraka in Accra, a basic school established in memory of his late grandfather, King Tackie Tawiah I. The renovation of the school was part of the kings effort to improve educational facilities for the youth in the traditional area in one of his efforts to improve educational infrastructure in his jurisdiction. Nii Teiko Tsuru appealed for support from the United States to assist the Ga State with the resources and expertise necessary to deal with waste management in particular, a campaign the traditional leader has currently embarked on. He expressed appreciation to the US Ambassador and her team for the visit, saying the gesture would further strengthen the cordial relationship between the two entities. Source: graphiconline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Africa's finest principal dentist and chairman of the renowned Beaver Health Group, Dr. Dennis Emeka Ilogu has been crowned Ghana's Most Outstanding Personality in Dentistry at the just-ended Business Executive Excellence Awards 2024 held at the Ghana Marriot Hotel in Accra. The significant award recognizes his exceptional leadership qualities and outstanding dedication to providing high-quality healthcare in the country, as well as being a highly respected figure advocating for best business practices in the dentistry sector. The 10th edition of the event, held on Friday, June 28th, 2024 seeks to identify and publicly recognize private enterprises, public institutions and individuals that have displayed exemplary conduct and chalked up extraordinary accomplishments with regard to their business activities over the previous one-year period. For him, the award authenticates the company's continuous growth and contribution to the Ghana Health Industry and the Ghanaian economy. Speaking to the media after receiving the all-prestigious honour, Dr. Dennis Emeka Ilogu said, the award means a lot to his consistent determination to build a formidable and Proficient brand in the healthcare fraternity. According to him, the award reflects the company's dedication and commitment to building the dentistry industry. "I am extremely grateful for such a wonderful milestone at this highest magnitude. I will continue to work hard to achieve the vision of becoming the best across the globe. I dedicate this award to our cherished clients ", he said. Always and previously known as Beaver Clinic, the company is expanding to become Beaver Health Group with a 360 degree approach to healthcare, as the GP practice and Pharmacy come on board, to complement the dental. In this way, Beaver Health Group is positioning itself as a leader in the Healthcare industry and setting a benchmark for others to follow. Profile Of Dr. Dennis Emeka Ilogu (Chairman, Beaver Health Group) Dr Dennis Ilogu is the Principal Dentist & Chairman of Beaver Clinic Limited, a premium dental office with a branch in Accra, the new St. Michaels Specialist Hospital Lapaz and Kumasi. Patients include captains of various industries across Africa, corporates, diplomats, and government officials. With over 40 years experience, Dr Dennis graduated from the University of Leeds Dental School in 1983 and went straight into general dental practice. He ran a predominantly NHS dental practice in the Fallowfield area of Manchester from 1983 to 2004, when he sold to his associates to concentrate on Ghana. In 1978, Dr. Dennis Ilogu graduated from the University of Nigeria with a B.Sc in Zoology and completed his National Youth Service Corps in Nigeria the following year. In 1983, he graduated from Leeds University School of Dentistry in the UK with a degree in Dentistry. From 1985 to 2004, he acquired a dental practice in the Fallowfield area of Manchester that was struggling after the founder's death five years prior. Through hard work and dedication, he turned it into a successful practice that focused on NHS and private patients. In 2004, he sold the practice to his associate but remained as the landlord. In 2005, he sold his real estate portfolio to focus on Ghana, where Beaver Clinic Ltd. was incorporated to provide holistic healthcare services. Initially, dentistry was the focus and was carried out in a mobile unit until they bought the current site in 2007. In 2016, they completed the construction of their flagship eco-friendly premises, which houses Beaver Clinic Ltd, Dental Resources Ltd (where Dr. Dennis Ilogu has a 50:50 ownership), and Arcoa Ghana Ltd. Dr. Dennis Ilogu's son Obi and his German business partner Mr. Markus are now part of the team to realize his original goal of a holistic or the 360-degree approach to healthcare. He is also counting on the help and support of his younger brother Dr. Noel Ilogu and childhood friend Prof. Chuka Nwokolo, as well as colleagues, Dr. Jamal Johnston and Dr. Edmund Edi Osagie, who are all very able professionals. Beaver Clinic Limited (BCL) is an established company, founded in 1999, specializing in dental services. Their primary mission has consistently been to deliver premium dental care and related services in a professional and user-friendly setting. In 2016, BCL achieved a significant milestone with the completion of Beaver House, an environmentally conscious flagship facility located in the prestigious Airport Residential Area of Accra. Beaver House accommodates the dental practice on the ground floor, while the first floor houses support offices, and additional floors are leased out as part of their real estate portfolio. BCL takes great pride in their cutting-edge equipment and advanced procedures, resulting in beautiful and long-lasting smiles for their clients. In 2022, BCL expanded its reach by opening a branch practice in Kumasi, situated within the Medcourt Pharmacy building opposite Bar Naas in Nyiaeso-Ahodwo. Further enhancing their portfolio, in 2023, BCL entered into a partnership with SMSH (St Michael's Specialist Hospital) in Lapaz, Accra, where they operate a general dental services practice. BCL's range of services at their dental practice includes General Dentistry, covering diagnostic, preventive, periodontal, restorative, endodontics, and prosthodontics, as well as Cosmetic Dentistry offering non-surgical facial aesthetics with Botox and dermal fillers, Tooth Whitening through home kits or laser light treatment, Orthodontics featuring Invisalign and Fixed Appliances using Damon Brackets or the Lingual Technique, Oral Surgery, and Implants. BCL is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, a friendly and experienced staff, and an impeccable reputation. Throughout their history, they have consistently upheld a commitment to delivering uncompromising quality in their services. Dr Ilogu is a Director of a sister company, Dental Resources Limited, incorporated in Ghana in 2013, in a partnership with Director, Madam Anne Flaszynski, who is the owner and Managing Director of Arcoa Ghana Limited, incorporated in 2004. Arcoa Ghana Limited supplies laboratory and medical equipment across Ghana and West Africa. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Construction work on the Watermelon Processing Factory in Walewale in the North East Region has resumed. The work began in December 2019 but stalled midway in the wake of the global economic crisis occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian/Ukraine war. The GH36 million project, which is part of the One-district One-factory (1D1F) initiative of the government, is expected to be completed and operationalised by September this year. Currently, all civil works have been completed, remaining tiling, painting and fixing of washroom facilities. Already, equipment and machinery are on site and ready for installation in the coming days. During a visit to the site last week, workers were seen busily finalising work on the facility. According to the site engineers of the project, barring any unforeseen challenges, the project would be completed by September. When completed and operations commence, the factory is expected to produce about 10 metric tonnes of juices and beverages per hour. The factory The factory, which is a subsidiary of Champion Foods and Beverages Limited, a wholly Ghanaian-owned beverage manufacturing, distribution and marketing company, is being funded by the Ghana EXIM Bank. The watermelon factory Once completed, it would create direct employment for 300 people, while about 2,000 people, including farmers and aggregators who will engage in an out-grower scheme, will also benefit. The North East Regional Minister, Yidana Zakaria, and the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for West Mamprusi, Issahaku Aremeyaw Somo, inspected work on the project last Wednesday. Mr Zakaria expressed satisfaction with the progress of work so far on the project. Project He refuted claims that the project had been abandoned by the government, explaining that "several factors, including the outbreak of COVID-19 and the Russian/ Ukraine war, caused the delay of the project." He said the benefits of the factories to the local economy were enormous, in terms of job creation and improvement in the incomes of farmers, farmhands and drivers along the value chain. While commending the contractor for the quality of work done so far, the regional minister urged farmers to take advantage of the factory to scale up the cultivation of watermelon. The MCE, Mr Somo, said once operational, the factory will go a long way to reduce the phenomenon of rural-urban migration and create jobs for the teeming youth. Source: graphiconline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A notable announcement from Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo has set the stage for potential Supreme Court appointments as she has recommended five judges for consideration, with Justice Afia Serwaa Asare Botwe currently presiding over the high-profile ambulance case making the distinguished list. The other judicial candidates put forward aside Justice Afia Asare Botwe are Justice Cyra Pamela Koranteng, Justice Edward Amoako Asante, Justice Eric Kyei Baffuour, and Justice Angelina Mensah Homiah. In a letter dated May 30, Chief Justice Torkornoo disclosed that Justice Asantes tenure at the ECOWAS court concluded on July 31, 2022. Following the withdrawal of Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso from the regional body, he was urged to continue serving due to these developments. The current expectation is for Justice Asante to remain in post until 2026 or potentially earlier should there be a need for his return to Ghanas Judiciary. The recommendations by the Chief Justice for Supreme Court roles underline the importance of a fair and diverse representation on the bench. With Justice Asare Botwe leading the contentious judiciary proceedings regarding the ambulance case, her inclusion highlights the significance of her contributions and expertise in legal matters. This prospective elevation of the recommended judges to the Supreme Court carries weight in shaping the dispensation of justice in the country, emphasizing the critical role played by the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and ensuring equitable access to justice for all citizens. Source: Daily Guide Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video About 340 tonnes of waste was collected at James Town in Accra yesterday as the Ga Traditional Council inspired a clean-up exercise ahead of the Homowo Festival. Dubbed the Homowo Clean-up Campaign, the exercise aims to enhance environmental cleanliness within the area as part of activities to mark this years Homowo Festival of the chiefs and people of the Ga Traditional Area. Between 6 a.m. and 12 noon when the exercise lasted, participants cleared drains and gutters, swept the shoulders of the streets, gathered and disposed of refuse at Sempe, Gbese, Abola, Asere, and the Dogo Beach, all in the Ga Mashie enclave. Structures that were deemed obstructive to the free flow of water were also demolished to address conditions favourable to flooding in the area. The exercise, which will end on August 20 this year, is a collaborative effort by the Ga Traditional Council, the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (RCC), the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) and Zoomlion Ghana Limited. Zoomlion is providing technical support by making available trucks to collect and dispose of the waste and the working tools required for the exercise. The exercise, which will take place in all the 25 local government authorities within the Greater Accra Region, aims to enhance the cleanliness and the beautification of the environment while fostering unity and responsibility among residents and the communities. Satisfaction The Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, commended the AMA, the RCC and Zoomlion for facilitating the clean-up exercise as he passed through the areas of the exercise. He also thanked the residents in the area for their active participation in the exercise. King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II (left), Ga Mantse, leading the Ga Homowo clean-up exercise. With him are Nii Ahele Nunoo III (2nd from left), Abola Mantse, and Nii Kwartei Titus Glover (2nd from right), Greater Accra Regional Minister. Pictures: ELVIS NII NOI DOWUONA King Teiko Tsuru further urged them to desist from politicising sanitation and other related issues to scale up development in the traditional area. I also urge you all to remain united and ensure the growth and development of this community, the Ga Mantse said. Sanitation challenges The Greater Accra Regional Minister, Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus-Glover, admitted that sanitation was a huge challenge in Accra and a major cause of many illnesses in the region. He said it was about time the challenge was addressed to ensure that the vision of making Accra the cleanest city in Africa was realised. It's a matter of outreach and a matter of education to ensure attitudinal change among our people. I am appealing to everyone to come on board so that we deal with this issue once and for all, Mr Titus-Glover said. He urged the media to amplify the essence of the clean-up exercise while also urging the assembly to periodically embark on such an exercise to enhance cleanliness in the areas. Enforcement The Chief Executive of AMA, Elizabeth Naa Kwatsoe Tawiah Sackey, said the next phase of the exercise would be an enforcement of the AMA bye-laws to ensure that persons who dumped refuse indiscriminately were prosecuted. Some members of Ga Mashie partaking in the exercise Weve been doing this exercise each year, and its about time we started enforcing the laws because we cannot continue cleaning peoples dirt each year. Weve seen that cleaning the environment is ineffective, so the law must work, she said. Ms Sackey said an enforcement team would soon be stationed in the area to ensure that whoever failed to comply with the sanitation bye-laws was dragged to the Sanitation Court. Source: graphiconline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video OmniBSIC Bank has donated a Nissan Navara Pickup to the Airport Police Station, aiming to bolster its operational efficiency as well as strengthening security within the community and its surroundings. The Bank's initiative aims to reinforce the peace and security enjoyed by residents and institutions within the Airport enclave. During the presentation, OmniBSIC's Managing Director (MD), Daniel Asiedu, praised the diligent efforts of the Airport Police Force, attributing the Bank's seamless relocation to the Airport area to their support. Since we relocated our head office here, we have enjoyed enormous support from the Airport Police. This support extends to other locations where we are present. We believe it is important to support the Airport Police to enhance their capabilities. We have never experienced any crime incidents or shortages of police presence here. Amidst all challenges, they are doing their best, Mr. Asiedu remarked. The OmniBSIC Bank MD emphasised the collective responsibility in policing, urging other corporate organisations to support security agencies, particularly the Ghana Police Service, enabling them to further safeguard citizens. He acknowledged the government's resource challenges and called for a collaborative approach, especially from corporate institutions, to enhance the police's capacity to perform their duties. Policing is not solely the responsibility of the Ghana Police but of all of us. While the government is tasked with resourcing them, it faces significant challenges. Therefore, I call on other corporate organisations to support the security agencies, especially the Ghana Police, he urged. Our commitment to supporting the communities where we operate is unwavering, Mr. Asiedu further stated. We will continue to expand our initiatives to give back and enhance the well-being and security of these communities. Regional Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCOP) Arhin Kwesi Annor, reiterated the importance of shared responsibility in policing and highlighted the significance of logistics in their work. He expressed confidence that the donated vehicle would enable the Airport Police Station to "patrol a wider area, respond to emergencies promptly, and engage in proactive policing strategies." On behalf of the Airport Police Station, DCOP Annor conveyed profound gratitude to OmniBSIC Bank's management and staff. He further instructed the District Commander, Superintendent (SP) Michael Asiedu, to ensure proper maintenance of the vehicle to guarantee its longevity and continued service to the community. SP Asiedu affirmed the station's dedication to upholding the safety and tranquility enjoyed by residents and institutions in the area. We are committed to maintaining the high standards of safety and security that our community relies on. This vehicle will significantly enhance our ability to serve and protect, he stated. Other executives of the Bank present at the ceremony were the Company Secretary and Head of Legal and Recoveries, Mrs. Akyaa Afreh Arhin Addo-Kufour, as well as the Group Head, of Corporate Communications, Service Quality and E-Business (CSE), Mrs. Chidinma Braye-Yankee. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video In a significant move to propel Ghana's agricultural sector towards a more sustainable future, Fidelity Bank, Ghana's largest privately owned indigenous bank, has announced the GreenTech Innovation Challenge (GTIC) 2024. This initiative will award over GHS 1 million in grant funding to support innovative solutions addressing critical challenges within the country's agricultural value chain. The GTIC 2024 aims to empower Ghanaian businesses and innovators by providing them with the resources they need to launch or scale their GreenTech solutions. These solutions have the potential to revolutionize Ghana's agricultural sector, ensuring a more sustainable and productive future. Fidelity Bank's Managing Director, Julian Opuni, emphasized the bank's dedication to supporting the agricultural sector. "Our commitment to agriculture is not new," he stated. "During the 3i Africa Summit in May 2024, we announced the expansion of our Fidelity Young Entrepreneurs Initiative through the introduction of an AgricTech competition. We recognize the immense potential of technological solutions in the Agric sector, and the GTIC is a significant step forward in nurturing this potential." Mr. Opuni further highlighted the importance of engaging Ghana's youthful population: "Africa boasts of a youthful population, with over 60% under the age of 25. However, the agricultural sector often fails to capture the imagination of this demographic. The GTIC is designed to change that. We want to attract young, tech-savvy minds and empower them to develop innovative solutions that will transform Ghana's agricultural landscape. We are excited to see the incredible ideas that emerge and become catalysts for progress." The GTIC is meticulously structured to empower innovators at three various stages of development. The Ideation Tier is designed for innovators with new, groundbreaking ideas that can tackle specific agricultural challenges. Participants in this tier will be equipped with the resources and support needed to turn their concepts into actionable solutions, laying the groundwork for impactful GreenTech solutions. Moving on to the Scale Up Tier, this program targets businesses with established GreenTech solutions that have already demonstrated success. Here, the focus shifts to supporting the expansion and elevation of these solutions, maximizing their positive impact. Finally, the Commercialization Tier caters to established businesses with market-ready GreenTech products seeking to amplify their reach. Here, the focus shifts to helping businesses navigate the commercial landscape, ensuring their GreenTech solutions achieve both commercial success and widespread positive impact. Applications for the GreenTech Innovation Challenge are now open and will be accepted until July 21, 2024. Prospective applicants can visit the challenge website, https://www.innohub.com.gh/programs/fidelity-gtic/, to explore categories, eligibility criteria, and the application process in detail. The challenge will culminate in exciting pitching events where finalists will present their solutions to a distinguished panel of judges. Winners will be awarded not only grant funding but also invaluable mentorship and the chance to bring their innovations to scale. Fidelity Bank's GreenTech Innovation Challenge underscores its commitment to driving sustainable development and empowering the next generation of agricultural innovators. By providing substantial financial support and a platform for growth, the bank aims to catalyze the transformation of Ghana's agricultural sector, making it more resilient, efficient, and attractive to young entrepreneurs. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Seasoned journalist, Kwesi Pratt has shared varying opinions on the choice of Energy Minister, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh as Vice Presidential candidate of the ruling New Patriotic Party. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh is said to have been selected by Dr. Bawumia to partner him but awaits approval from the National Council of the party before a public announcement can be made. The party will hold a National Council meeting on Thursday, July 4, 2024 to deliberate on the selection of Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, also called "NAPO". Nonetheless, the Majority in Parliament has approved him, revealed by their leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin. Yes, the leader of our party and flagbearer met with the leadership of Parliament and had an extensive engagement with us, regarding the way forward for the party going into the 2024 elections. The conclusion was that our respected colleague, Dr Mathew Opoku Prempeh is his choice for Running Mate. And that is normally the practice and out of respect, the caucus would have to be informed and engaged about the decision. After, I proceeded and engaged the caucus, and so far, the feedback has been positive. The generality of the caucus members is in support of his choice. What it is, is that for it to become official or confirmed, theres going to be a National Council meeting, Hon. Afenyo-Markin reportedly told the media. This notwithstanding, Kwesi Pratt has shared his reservations on whether or not Dr. Opoku Prempeh is the right candidate for the position. Making his submissions on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show, Mr. Pratt was of the view that NAPO is not a strong candidate to partner Dr. Bawumia, stressing if he had the authority to choose the Running Mate, NAPO wouldn't be his ultimate choice. "If I were the one choosing, I probably would choose a different person but I don't have the authority", the Editor-in-Chief of the Insight newspaper told host Kwami Sefa Kayi. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Clean-energy cooperation win-win for two nations 10:16, July 03, 2024 By Ren Qi ( China Daily Workers monitor solar panels at a solar power plant jointly built by China and Kazakhstan in the town of Kapchagay, in southeastern Kazakhstan's Almaty Region. XINHUA Energy has been an anchor in ties between China and Central Asian countries over the past 30 years and their cooperation in this sector has evolved from oil to petrochemicals, hydrocarbons, and renewable energy. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1992, China and Kazakhstan have agreed to support their economic entities by carrying out several energy cooperation projects, said Usen Suleimen, a senior Kazakh diplomat. The most significant Chinese investments, amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars, are being made in the construction of solar and wind power plants in Kazakhstan. Chinese companies such as Universal Energy, Risen Energy, and State Power Investment Corp, have become major investors in solar and wind power plants in the country. For Maksat Abilgaziev, such cooperation has changed his life. Living in Zhanatas, a small town in southern Kazakhstan where the wind blows all year round, he used to be an electrical engineer at a local phosphate mine company. Zhanatas was once a center of phosphate rock mining and fertilizer production, but it witnessed big job losses following the decline of the industries. Abilgaziev said he was impressed when the first turbine of the town's 100-megawatt wind power project arrived, with the 60-meter-long blades covering an area as big as the London Eye observation wheel. He said he believes the future of his hometown and Kazakhstan lies in clean energy, especially in wind energy. So in 2020, the then 30-year-old became a trainee responsible for maintaining and repairing wind turbines at the wind farm and learned about related maintenance work from Chinese experts. Rinat Turganbekov works at the Kapshagay photovoltaic power station, one of the largest single solar power projects in Kazakhstan. The power station is a part of the China-Kazakhstan green energy cooperation initiative, jointly invested and constructed by Universal Energy and its Kazakh counterparts. As a senior employee of Universal Energy Kazakhstan, Turganbekov has witnessed the remarkable transformation brought about by solar power stations, providing locals with green and affordable electricity. Meanwhile, under the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, a series of cooperative efforts aimed at sustainable development are writing a new chapter of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation. "Chinese companies have brought significant changes to my life," said the 36-year-old, who studied in Tianjin and is proficient in Chinese. Initially, he worked as a translator at the company. During his tenure, his Chinese colleagues encouraged him to venture into project coordination. During his five years with the Chinese company, Turganbekov saw his income increase, and he managed to purchase a home in Almaty. "With the establishment of solar and wind power stations by Chinese enterprises, residents in the southern regions, where there had historically been a deficit of electricity, no longer contend with electricity shortages," he said. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun) Turbulent political times in France led an influential evangelical body to plead for peace after the swing to the far-right in the first round of a national election for the Assemblee Nationale (National Assembly). As France gears up for the second round of the controversial snap election this Sunday (July 7), the National Council of French Evangelicals (CNEF) issued a press release last Thursday (June 27) calling for the wider Church to demonstrate that a more harmonious society is possible through its example of being, living, praying and committing itself. Marine Le Pens far-right National Rally party swept up 33 percent of the popular vote on Sunday (June 30) way ahead of President Emmanuel Macrons Together coalition, including his Renaissance party, on 21 percent. The leftwing New Popular Front alliance was also ahead of Macrons group, with 28 percent of votes. Macron called the surprise election after his party suffered a defeat with only 15 percent of the vote share, compared to Le Pens party on 32 percent and the Socialists on 14 percent, at the European Parliament elections earlier in June. The political fallout has led to protests in the streets with thousands gathering at the Place de La Republique to make a stand against the far-right after its voting success. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up CNEF called the initial European elections an electroshock, reflecting a society that is suffering, tense and divided. The evangelical body also stated that the decision by Macron to dissolve the National Assembly suddenly for the snap two-round election stoked an acceleration of these fears. It could feed, in the emergency, the temptation of a vote that obeys the sad passions of withdrawal, anger, or even human promises of brighter tomorrows, stated the CNEF in the press release. A similar message was relayed about the national assembly elections, with CNEF calling for evangelicals to seek in a demanding, constructive, and peaceful manner to build a society together". Voters were encouraged to refuse postures of hatred, invective and rejection". Erwan Cloarec, CNEF President, called on Christians to pray at this time for France and the elections. Politics cannot do everything, said Cloarec. Evangelical Protestants know this: they place their ultimate hope in God and stand in expectation of a Kingdom of peace to come. But, carried by their faith, they act according to their hope to be, in today's society, ferments of peace, seeds of life, actors of reconciliation and hospitality. France Mission, a missions organization focused on the country, which is based in Exeter, England, also expressed concern about the two-round elections in a Facebook post on Thursday. The debates are very tense, and tensions are rising. France needs our prayers more than ever, said France Mission in the post. Pray for all candidates to be granted wisdom and integrity, making decisions that reflect justice, peace, and the common good; for a smooth and peaceful election process, free from violence, fraud, and corruption, allowing every vote to be counted fairly; for unity and healing across France, that the elections will unite the nation and pave the way for collaborative solutions to the country's challenges. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Partys (NPP) flagbearer for the upcoming 2024 elections, is gearing up to launch his constituency campaign next week. Beginning in the five northern regions, Dr. Bawumia plans to traverse the country southwards, connecting with the youth, grassroots supporters, and key stakeholders along the way. The primary objective of this campaign is to engage with every Ghanaian citizen, shedding light on the NPPs accomplishments while articulating Dr. Bawumias transformative vision for Ghanas future. With a focus on inclusivity and progress, the campaign is poised to address pressing issues and solicit feedback from diverse segments of the population. The Vice President had initiated his nationwide campaign tour starting Monday, 29 April 2024. A statement signed by the Director of Communications of the Bawumia for President 2024 campaign, Dennis Miracles Aboagye said this marks the beginning of a strategic effort by Dr. Bawumia and his campaign team to engage with Ghanaians across all 16 regions in a bid to secure victory in the upcoming polls. The statement said the campaign will have a strong emphasis on issues and prioritize addressing key concerns and presenting practical solutions tailored to resonate with the Ghanaian populace. The campaign also aims to foster meaningful dialogue and interaction with various stakeholders, including traditional leaders, religious figures, youth groups, traders, farmers, students, and business owners. It further disclosed that the nationwide tour, which kicks off in the signifies Dr. Bawumias commitment to engaging with Ghanaians from diverse backgrounds, understanding their needs, and articulating a vision for the future of the country. Before embarking on this campaign tour, Dr. Bawumia, who is Ghanas Vice President, undertook extensive consultations and interactions with communities across the nation. Source: dailyguidenetwork.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Majority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, stressed the importance of not dismissing findings from Global Info Analytics. He highlighted that, even if the data is unfavorable to his party, it remains a valuable tool for strategizing effectively for the upcoming election. Speaking on Yen Nsempa on Onua FM, July 3, Afenyo-Markin attributed his political success over the years to data and warned that ignoring research findings would be detrimental to any politician. This discussion comes amid questions about whether the NPP can Break the Eight by securing a third successive term. According to the poll, around 70 percent of voters believe the NPP cannot win the 2024 election, while 19 percent think the party can, and 10 percent have no opinion. Additionally, approximately 46 percent of NPP voters doubt their partys chances in 2024, compared to 43 percent who are confident of victory. The latest poll by Global InfoAnalytics shows a tightening 2024 presidential race amid Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumias nationwide tour. Bawumia has reduced John Dramani Mahamas lead by approximately 3% compared to the April 2024 poll. Mahama now leads Bawumia 51.1% to 38.2%, followed by Alan Kwadwo Kyerematen at 5.3%, Nana Kwame Bediako at 4.6%, and others at 0.8%. In a potential runoff scenario, Mahama stands at 52%, Bawumia at 42%, with 6% of voters undecided, suggesting the poll is unlikely to lead to a runoff. Notably, Nana Kwame Bediako is making significant gains in the Central, Ashanti, Eastern, and Volta regions, leading in the Abura Asebu Kwamankese and Kade constituencies. The Central region shows a dramatic shift, with Mahama dropping from 51% in April to 39% in July, and Bawumia declining from 45% to 30%. Kyerematen and Bediako, now tied for third and fourth place, each hold 13% of the vote. Bawumia, however, recorded significant gains in the Ashanti region, now attracting 66% of the vote, up from 54% in April, while Mahama fell from 31% to 22%. Among first-time voters, Mahama and Bawumia are tied at 41% each, with Kyerematen at 8% and Bediako at 9%. Overall, 4.2% of voters are undecided, and 5% said they will not vote. Among the undecided voters, 22% are from Greater Accra, 16% from Ashanti, 12% from Western, and 11% from Eastern regions. Of those who will not vote, 19% are from Greater Accra, 22% from Ashanti, 17% from Eastern, and 13% from Western regions. Regarding the countrys direction, 63% of voters believe Ghana is headed in the wrong direction, while 27% think it is on the right path. Additionally, 47% of voters feel their standard of living has worsened compared to a year ago, 21% say it has improved, 27% say it has not changed, and 5% have no opinion. President Nana Akufo Addos performance has a 60% disapproval rate, with 35% approval and 6% having no opinion. Public confidence in the Ghana Police Service and Electoral Commission has declined, with confidence in the police dropping from 64% in April to 58% in July and confidence in the Electoral Commission decreasing from 59% to 53%. Regarding the governments One student, One Tablet policy, 55% of voters support it, but 58% say it will not influence their vote, 29% say it will, and 13% are indifferent. Projects being undertaken just in time for the elections are unlikely to influence voters, with 56% saying it will not affect their vote, 29% saying it will, and 15% indifferent. When asked about accepting inducements or bribes to switch their votes, only 7% said they would accept and vote for the candidate. The economy, jobs, and education remain the three most pressing issues influencing voters decisions, with the economy at 73%, jobs at 69%, and education at 50%. Afenyo-Markin called on all politicians to take data from research seriously and to strategize based on it, rather than becoming complacent if the data appears favorable. Source: 3news.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A notorious Haitian gang stormed a police station in the country and slaughtered dozens of police officers, according to reports. Reports are emerging that members of a gang led by the infamous warlord Jimmy "Barbecue" Cherizier attacked a police station in Gressier, Port-au-Prince, and killed at least 20 officers. The assault is believed to have begun on Sunday, June 30. Haiti Libre said the attack was carried out by members of the "Vivre Ensemble" gang coalition led by "Barbecue". Other reports stated that the Bougoy Gang were involved. As far as the assault on the police station is concered, reports stated that a "musculat counter-offensive" from police saw several gang members killed. Haiti Libre stated that Bougoy leader Ti Bebe Bougoy, who had boasted the day before the attack of being stronger than the police forces, was captured. It had been reported that the bandits were using "heavy machinery" to destroy the police station. This has reportedly been seized by authorities. In June 2022 it was reported that the gang had been rounding up homeless and at-risk teens, to use as foot soldiers in gang wars. Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Former National Vice Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Alhaji Said Sinare has warned party members, cautioning against complacency at the polls and collation centres in the upcoming 2024 elections. In a Facebook post, the National Chairman of the Zongo caucus working committee emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and ensuring the party's victory. "Complacency should not replace our watchdog role at the polls and collation centres," he stressed. "We must remain vigilant and ensure that the will of the Ghanaian people is protected." Alhaji Sinare's warning comes as the NDC prepares to face off against the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in what is expected to be a highly contested election. "We have worked hard to get to this point, and we cannot afford to let our guard down now," he said. "Every vote counts, and every polling station matters. Aside from the agents, we must ensure that we voluntarily make ourselves present at every polling station and collation centre across the country to protect the will of the people. The NDC's Zongo President stated that his warning is particularly relevant regarding concerns over electoral malpractice and voter suppression. He noted that the NDC has long been critical of the Electoral Commission's handling of elections, and his comments reflect the party's ongoing concerns. In a related development, Alhaji Sinare has also expressed his support for John Dramani Mahama's 2024 presidential bid, describing the former President as the "best candidate" for the job. "John Mahama has the experience and leadership skills necessary to lead our country forward," he said. "We must rally behind him and ensure his victory, he appeals to the Muslim community." Alhaji Sinare also noted that, the NDC shall settle any pending outstanding electoral issue at the polling stations not at the court. "Spread the word: It is imperative to settle any pending outstanding electoral issue at the polling stations through super monitoring of the ballot box at the polling stations rather than going to court," he said. READ THE FULL STATEMENT BELOW H.E ALHAJI SAID SINARE, NATIONAL CHAIRMAN OF ZONGO WORKING COMMITTEE WRITES... Comrades, what obstacles could hinder us from voluntarily mobilizing 30 reliable party members to supplement our appointed agents, and policing our ballot boxes at every polling station across the Constituencies in Ghana? Once the votes are counted at the polling stations, these dedicated individuals will escort and police the results fearlessly from each polling station to the collation centres, ultimately leading to John's Victory. Suppose we have 300 branches in the Akatsi South Constituency, with 30 dedicated party supporters voluntarily deciding to police the ballot boxes at each polling station. Even if the police or military dares to intervene to impose the Incompetent Bawumia on Ghanaians with everything at their disposal it would be impossible for them to kill 9,000 people (300 x 30) in a single constituency. If this level of support is replicated across the country, not even appointing Dr. Bawumia as the EC chairman could prevent H.E. John Dramani Mahama from emerging victorious at the polls. Source: King Edward Ambrose Washman/Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Ghana's finest freight forwarder and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sel Logistics Services, Dr. Faith Selasie Dunyo has been crowned Ghana's Most Outstanding Personality in Freight Forwarding at the just-ended Business Executive Excellence Awards 2024 held at the Ghana Marriot Hotel in Accra. The prestigious award reflects his stunning leadership qualities and exceptional dedication to providing quality freight forwarding, local customs clearance and logistics services in the country and beyond and also for being an extremely respected personality advocating for best business practices in the sector. The 10th edition of the event took place on Friday, June 28th, 2024. It aims to identify and publicly recognize private enterprises, public institutions, and individuals who have demonstrated exemplary conduct and achieved outstanding accomplishments in their business activities over the past year. For him, the award is a testament to the team's unwavering focus on meeting and exceeding customer expectations while adhering to rigorous quality standards over the years. Speaking to the media after receiving the all- prestigious honour, Dr. Faith Dunyo who is also the Constituency Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) said the award means a lot to his consistent determination to build a formidable and proficient brand. "I am extremely grateful for such a wonderful milestone at this highest magnitude. I will continue to work hard to achieve the vision of becoming the best across the globe. I dedicate this award to our cherished clients, "he said Meanwhile, Dr. Faith Selasie Dunyo has called on Ghanaians to vote for Dr Mahamudu Bawumia come December 7th 2024. According to Dr. Dunyo, the paperless system introduced by Vice President Dr. Bawumia, who doubled as the flagbearer of the NPP, has contributed significantly to efficient and fast clearance and has cut the cost of doing business at the various ports in Ghana. Dr. Dunyo also appealed to Ghanaians, especially those in the freight forwarding industries, exporters, and importers to consider Dr. Bawumia's vision to introduce the flat rate tax system on imported goods to reduce the higher customs duty to retain our importers in business. "The introduction of Dr. Bawumia's flat rate on imported goods will revive the freight forwarding industries to contribute significantly to helping GRA collect revenue for the government for development under Dr Bawumia's administration as President. Dr Dunyo appealed to the entire NPP membership to accept and support whoever Dr Bawumia will choose as his running mate to enable us break the 8 to retain power in the 2024 general election", he said Profile Of Faith Selasie Dunyo He is a professional freight forwarder and an entrepreneur. He has been in the logistics and freight forwarding industry since 2009 (over 15 years) and acquired professional knowledge and experience in operational activities, implementation of management systems, and business plans for excellence programs. He is a highly motivated and results-oriented personality, dedicated, and focused professional with much experience in freight forwarding businesses comprising clearing and forwarding, local customs clearance, logistics, and transport of cargo. He aims to develop theoretical and practical knowledge in a supply chain environment, optimizing his skills in the area of transportation of goods and services (imports and exports), logistics, local customs clearance, warehousing and other related corporate and functional strategic management. Currently, he is the CEO and managing director of SEL LOGISTICS SERVICES Ghana Ltd, a global logistics group with its Head Office in Tema and offices in Accra Airport (KIA), Aflao border, and Lome, Togo. The company provides the full scope of logistics services, including air and ocean freight, export and import, overland transportation by road, warehousing and distribution, third-party logistics, and supply chain management. Their specialty is in providing logistics solutions for project cargo, commodities (agro and mining), exhibitions, and events. Moreover, Dr. Faith Dunyo is also the founder and CEO of SEL POULTRY FARMS AND TRADING ENTERPRISE, DUSA FARMS, and DENSELA TRANSPORT VENTURES. Dr. Faith Selasie Dunyo is also the immediate past parliamentary candidate aspirant for the people of Central Tongu Constituency, Adidome in the Volta Region. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The High Court in Accra has given lawyers for Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia 24 hours to file a medical excuse duty to justify why the defendant failed to show up to mount his defence in a GH 20 million defamation case. The suit, which was filed by former Auditor-General, Professor Dua Agyeman, is in connection with Mr Asiedu Nketias comments in the media to the effect that Prof. Dua Agyeman generated fake audit reports resulting in him being sacked by the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana (ICAG). Mr Asiedu Nketia, who has never shown up personally in court since the case started in October 2018, was expected to open his defence on Monday (July 1) but he failed to show up. Following the claim that the defendant was unwell, the court, presided over by Justice Audrey Kocuvie-Tay, ordered his lawyers to produce a medical excise duty to buttress their claim. Proceedings When the case was called for hearing Wednesday (July 3) for the medical excuse duty to be produced, counsel for the defendant who held the brief for Samuel Cudjoe, informed the court that they were unable to present the excuse duty because the person bringing the document was running late due to the traffic situation, seeking a short adjournment. He informs us this morning that he is running late to court as a result of the traffic situation on his route which has been caused by the weather conditions this morning. In the circumstance we pray this court for a further court adjournment to enable us procure same and bring same to the attention of the court, counsel prayed. Feeble Meanwhile, the judge, who was not happy with the excuse said, I honestly find the reasons submitted by Counsel for defendant very feeble because notwithstanding the weather conditions the court is present. She added that since the person was already on his way, lawyers for the defendant should file the excuse duty. Consequently, she ordered the court clerks to receive the report first thing tomorrow (Thursday July 4, 2024) morning. The case has been adjourned to Friday July 5, 2024. Background Prof. Dua Agyeman is arguing that the allegation by Mr Asiedu Nketia is without basis and that it only sought to impugn his integrity, dignity and reputation in the eyes of right-thinking members of society. According to the plaintiff, the defendant, on October 2, 2018, made some unsubstantiated and disparaging statements on an Accra-based radio station, Neat FM, accusing him of producing fake audit accounts in 1983 while he was at the Audit Service. He is reported to have said that the plaintiff was banned from auditing in 1983 by the Institute of Chartered Accountants (Ghana) for producing fake accounts for a non-existent company. In view of the ban, the plaintiff could not practice as a private auditor. The defendants comments caused the former Auditor General to sue the defendant on the grounds that the comments had generated media attention in Ghana and abroad apparently to tarnish his hard-won reputation. Reliefs sought Prof. Dua Agyeman is accordingly praying the court to declare that the defendants publication on Neat FM that he was banned by the Institute of Chartered Accountants (Ghana) for producing fake audited accounts for a non-existent company is slanderous and defamatory of him and same was made without any reasonable, just or probable cause. A declaration that the Defendants publication on Neat FM that Dua Agyeman concocted fake audit reports concerning some senior officers which led to their dismissal from public service is slanderous and defamatory of the Plaintiff and same was made without any reasonable, just or probable cause, the plaintiff is praying. Prof. Dua Agyeman is seeking a further declaration that the defendants publication on Neat FM that he was sacked from the Audit Service by reason of dishonesty was slanderous and defamatory of him and same was made without any reasonable, just or probable cause. He wants the court to grant an order of injunction directed at the defendant, agents, assigns and his privies from continuing to make any further defamatory publication about him. An Order of Court directed at the defendant to retract the said defamatory publication and render an unqualified apology in the same prominence on Neat FM and four publications in the Daily Graphic is also being sought. General damages and compensatory damages in the sum of GH20 million for loss of reputation is also being sought against the defendant. Source: graphiconline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video 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: One of the first-ever images of the open complex that forms when RNAP encounters DNA and kicks off the process of transcription. Credit: Rockefeller University Every living cell transcribes DNA into RNA. This process begins when an enzyme called RNA polymerase (RNAP) clamps onto DNA. Within a few hundred milliseconds, the DNA double helix unwinds to form a node known as the transcription bubble, so that one exposed DNA strand can be copied into a complementary RNA strand. How RNAP accomplishes this feat is largely unknown. A snapshot of RNAP in the act of opening that bubble would provide a wealth of information, but the process happens too quickly for current technology to easily capture visualizations of these structures. Now, a new study published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology describes E. coli RNAP in the act of opening the transcription bubble. The findings, captured within 500 milliseconds of RNAP mixing with DNA, shed light on fundamental mechanisms of transcription, and answer long-standing questions about the initiation mechanism and the importance of its various steps. "This is the first time anybody has been able to capture transient transcription complexes as they form in real time," says first author Ruth Saecker, a research specialist in Seth Darst's laboratory at Rockefeller. "Understanding this process is crucial, as it is a major regulatory step in gene expression." An unprecedented view Darst was the first to describe the structure of bacterial RNAP, and teasing out its finer points has remained a major focus of his lab. While decades of work have established that RNAP binding to a specific sequence of DNA triggers a series of steps that open the bubble, how RNAP separates the strands and positions one strand in its active site remains hotly debated. Early work in the field suggested that bubble opening acts as a critical slowdown in the process, dictating how quickly RNAP can move onto RNA synthesis. Later results in the field challenged that view, and multiple theories emerged about the nature of this rate-limiting step. "We knew from other biological techniques that, when RNAP first encounters DNA, it makes a bunch of intermediate complexes that are highly regulated," says co-author Andreas Mueller, a postdoctoral fellow in the lab. "But this part of the process can happen in less than a second, and we were unable to capture structures on such a short timescale." To better understand these intermediate complexes, the team collaborated with colleagues at the New York Structural Biology Center, who developed a robotic, inkjet-based system that could rapidly prepare biological samples for cryo-electron microscopy analysis. Through this partnership, the team captured complexes forming in the first 100 to 500 milliseconds of RNAP meeting DNA, yielding images of four distinct intermediate complexes in enough detail to enable analysis. For the first time, a clear picture of the structural changes and intermediates that form during the initial stages of RNA polymerase binding to DNA snapped into focus. "The technology was extremely important to this experiment," Saecker says. "Without the ability to mix DNA and RNAP quickly and capture an image of it in real-time, these results don't exist." Getting into position Upon examining these images, the team managed to outline a sequence of events showing how RNAP interacts with the DNA strands as they separate, at previously unseen levels of detail. As the DNA unwinds, RNAP gradually grips one of the DNA strands to prevent the double helix from coming back together. Each new interaction causes RNAP to change shape, enabling more protein-DNA connections to form. This includes pushing out one part of a protein that blocks DNA from entering RNAP's active site. A stable transcription bubble is thus formed. The team proposes that the rate-limiting step in transcription may be the positioning of the DNA template strand within the active site of the RNAP enzyme. This step involves overcoming significant energy barriers and rearranging several components. Future research will aim to confirm this new hypothesis and explore other steps in transcription. "We only looked at the very earliest steps in this study," Mueller says. "Next, we're hoping to look at other complexes, later time points, and additional steps in the transcription cycle." Beyond resolving conflicting theories about how DNA strands are captured, these results highlight the value of the new method, which can capture molecular events happening within milliseconds in real-time. This technology will enable many more studies of this kind, helping scientists visualize dynamic interactions in biological systems. "If we want to understand one of the most fundamental processes in life, something that all cells do, we need to understand how its progress and speed are regulated," says Darst. "Once we know that, we'll have a much clearer picture of how transcription begins." More information: Ruth M. Saecker et al, Early intermediates in bacterial RNA polymerase promoter melting visualized by time-resolved cryo-electron microscopy, Nature Structural & Molecular Biology (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41594-024-01349-9 Journal information: Nature Structural & Molecular Biology 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: Distributions of annual temperature anomalies and major disaster events in China in 2023. Credit: Jin Xin Climate is a major factor affecting economic and social outcomes. In China, the country's National Climate Center releases an annual climate report that comprehensively covers China's achievements and progress that year in climate monitoring and impact assessment. This series of reports has been published in Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters for six consecutive years since 2019, and the "State of China's climate in 2023" is now available. The current report provides a summary of the main climate features and high-impact weather and climate events in China in 2023. "The overall climate condition in 2023 over China was worse than normal, presenting a warmdry climate with the highest annual mean temperature and second-highest number of hot days in history," says the first author of the study, Sun Linhai. "Both the annual and flood season precipitation was the second-lowest since 2012, with the anomalies in the central and eastern parts of China exhibiting a pattern of more in central areas and less in the north and south." In 2023, China suffered seriously from heavy precipitation events and floods, despite less annual precipitation and fewer rainy days. During JulyAugust, a rare, extremely strong rainstorm caused by Typhoon Dussuri hit Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei, causing an abrupt alteration from drought to flood conditions in North China. By contrast, Southwest China experienced prolonged drought from winter to spring. In early summer, North China and the Huanghuai region experienced the strongest high-temperature process since 1961. Additionally, there were more cold-air processes and spring sand-dust events attacking China. More information: Linhai Sun et al, State of China's climate in 2023, Atmospheric and Oceanic Science Letters (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.aosl.2024.100519 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: In a paper published this past spring, Northeastern University professor Damon Hall argues that 'citizen science' partnerships historically have been unbalanced, with researchers taking more from participating communities than they give back. Credit: Renee Zhang/Northeastern University During a stifling heat wave in August 2021, 80 volunteers from Massachusetts communities along the Mystic River fixed sensors to their car windows and bicycles, traveling along 19 predetermined routes recording ambient temperature and humidity levels along the way. The data they collectedpart of the Wicked Hot Mystic projectcontributed to a growing understanding of how the effects of extreme heat play out across cities. Along Mystic River communities like Cambridge, Somerville, Everett and Malden, heat fluctuated most dramatically in historically "red-lined" areas, with lower-income residents and less green space. Similar trends have been tracked across the United States. But the project didn't endor even beginwith the data. Working with the Mystic River Watershed Association, a local nonprofit, Wicked Hot Mystic researchers took the community temperature, so to speak, ahead of time, parsing what locals hoped to get out of the research. "We asked residents what they really wanted us to find out," says David Sittenfeld, a Ph.D. graduate of Northeastern University and the director of the Center for the Environment at Boston's Museum of Science, which spearheaded the project. "We spent a long time listening, interviewing resilience planners about their priorities. And we worked closely with them to find out things in ways that comported with those priorities and ideas." The project also included an app interface for citizens to record observations beyond the numbers. The combination of qualitative and quantitative data allowed urban planners to precisely target their heat mitigation efforts in the most vulnerable areas. That reciprocal dynamic is a model for how researchers like Sittenfeld and Damon Hall, a Northeastern environmental science and public policy professor, want to reframe "citizen science"in which community volunteers help conduct field studies and collect data. Scientists have long relied on public contributions in a wide range of fields, from early AIDS research to tallying insect populations. But in a paper published in the journal BioScience in March, Hall and his collaborators argue that such partnerships have historically been unbalanced, with researchers taking more than they give back. "Citizen science is personal," the paper's abstract reads. "Participation is contingent on the citizens' connection to a topic. But scientists appear to have an acquisitive, data-centered relationship with citizens." By readjusting that dynamic, however, Hall, Sittenfeld and others are working toward a model of citizen science that can be both more rigorous and beneficial to the communities in which it takes place. That's particularly true when it comes to climate change research, where participants are directly affected by the local warming trends they are helping to document. "We can have people help collect data in the communities that they know best, but they also can help us to understand what their hopes, dreams and aspirations are," Sittenfeld says. The seeds of citizen science are older than the United States itself in 1776, Thomas Jefferson had ambitious plans to collect weather data by distributing thermometers to local officials around Virginia and have them record temperatures twice daily. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, scientists leaned on volunteers for data including whale populations, meteor sightings, sea turtle nests and ocean currents. One of the longest-running citizen science projects, the Audubon Society's Christmas Bird Count, has been active since 1900. In more recent years, the rise of big data, consumer technology and the ubiquity of low-cost GPS devices, like pedometers and fitness trackers, have meant that the sheer volume and diversity of material that community-sourced projects can draw upon has grown by leaps and bounds. "The computational capacity to deal with the amount of observations and data is what a lot of this hinges on," Hall says. "There are some impressive figures coming out of astronomy. There are games being developed by molecular biologists that are looking at the ways different [molecular compounds] can be structured, letting the public just play around with them and see what kind of innovations occur. That's pretty cool stuff." And in the internet age, opportunities for volunteers to contribute are endless. SciStarter, which Sittenfeld describes as "Match.com" for would-be citizen scientists, lets users comb through a searchable database of projects according to their interestsfrom counting neighborhood squirrels to monitoring nitrate levels in drinking water. But the BioScience paper argues that researchers who work with citizen scientists owe it to them to ensure they are more wholly involvedespecially when the data has implications for their homes and livelihoods. "Where citizen scientists have a vested stake in a shared resource, science teams should be obliged to share the outputs of data," the paper reads. "Researchers take data but do not always make the effort to close the loop by taking the study results back to their contributors. Scholars question the ethics of this open-loop approach especially for research involving public funding or shared natural resources." In addition to ensuring a reciprocal working relationship, Hall argues for layering a qualitative dimension to that new wealth of statistical datain the form of building relationships with citizen scientists, asking for their observations, and teasing out the kind of singular expertise they can offer. This, he argues, has powerful advantages for researchers. "It's helped in terms of data analysishaving more hands and eyes to get an assessment of what are regular conditions, what are abnormal conditions [in that particular study]," Hall says. Additionally, when the community participates in research, it has more of a stake in its success. "Public ownership of science creates more support," Hall says "Most of our funding is federal or state level, so it's important to have voters see the value of the work that we do. Explaining our work to lay audiences forces new conversations." Involving the community from jumpas the Wicked Mystic project didcan also help scientists better communicate their ideas overall, Hall argues. He gives an example from his early career, when he spent a lot of time studying the river coastlines of rural farming communities. On a trip in 2006, he found himself in a small town in Montana talking about water management with the mayor and the public works custodiana "jack of all trades" for fixing things around town, according to Hall. "The mayor was highly educated, well spoken," Hall remembers. "And the custodian was very rough around the edges. But I saw how much he truly knew about that area that she didn't." Still, as the polished politician held forth, Hall could feel the custodian, who had far less formal education, shrinking away from the conversation. Sensing an opportunity slipping away, he set about pumping the man up. "I remember saying, "Sir, you have tremendous amount of expertise that I could never get in books; [your family] has lived here for generations.'" Newly engaged, the public works officer shared what he knew about the river and surrounding banks. He coined a term that Hall and others studying river coastlines still use today: the meanderlandthe riparian area right on a riverbank. "He gave us one of our best terms to describe a complex ecological system," Hall says. He thinks that scientists would be remiss to ignore this kind of granular understanding. "It's great to involve citizens in gathering data and analyzing data. But what else can they provide? And then what else can we give them? There's mutual aid here that makes their lives better, and it makes our science better." More information: Damon M Hall et al, Citizen silence: Missed opportunities in citizen science, BioScience (2024). DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biae020 Journal information: BioScience This story is republished courtesy of Northeastern Global News news.northeastern.edu. 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 A scientist from UNSW explains how the climate crisis is affecting the mental health of young people worldwide. In August 2018, student Greta Thunberg famously stood outside the Swedish Parliament with a sign that read "Skolstrejk for klimatet," which translates to "school strike for climate." Since then, school students around the world have skipped some Friday classes to participate in demonstrations to demand action from political leaders to prevent climate change and call for the transition to renewable energy. While the impact of climate change on our physical healthsuch as respiratory diseases and tropical diseaseshas dominated the research landscape, the emotional and psychological repercussions are less understood. However, as global temperatures continue to rise and climate change increasingly informs public discourse, climate anxiety research has come into focus, and emerging studies have revealed the mounting toll it is taking on young people. In fact, international reports have found that more than 50% of people aged 1625 felt sad, anxious or powerless, or had other negative emotions about climate change. In Australia, YouGov polling results from last year found that more than three in four young Australians are concerned about climate change, and two-thirds believe climate concerns are having a negative impact on youth mental health. "Eco-distress, or eco-anxiety, is not necessarily a new area of research. There's some fascinating older research on how people are affected by degradation to their local environment, for example," says Dr. Samantha Stanley, from the UNSW Institute of Climate Risk & Response, whose research includes a focus on the emotional impacts of climate change. "But as we're entering a climate-changed world, more people are experiencing distress about the environment without necessarily having that first-hand experience of environmental disaster. I think it's an old area that was not very popular and has suddenly exploded. "While these concerns are not pathologicalit's not something to be diagnosed withit is something that researchers are interested in understanding, to know how it may be affecting people's well-being more generally or even potentially motivating them to take part in climate actions like protest." Defining eco-anxiety While we know it is affecting more people, what exactly is eco-anxiety? "One of the hardest questions is actually how do you define it," says Dr. Stanley. "There are lots of different terms, and sometimes people are talking about specific emotional responses like feelings of anxiety or anger about climate change, and other times they're describing a more general distress response that might include a range of emotions and a range of negative thoughts and experiences." Broadly speaking, eco-anxiety is the most common term, and it refers to an anxious response to a range of ecological issues, from climate change and pollution, to climate migration and climate justice concerns. When these concerns center on climate change in particular, it is referred to as 'climate-anxiety." Currently, eco-anxiety can be characterized by four aspects: Affective symptoms: feeling worried, nervous or on edge. Behavioral symptoms: where the worry and concern about environmental problems is affecting someone's daily life. It may impact their ability to work or study, or may disrupt their sleep or socializing. Rumination: when someone is unable to stop thinking about environmental problems. Personal impact anxiety: a focus on their own role in contributing to environmental issues, including a focus on how they can address the problem. "From our research, which has been led by my Ph.D. student Teaghan Hogg from the University Canberra, it appears that those four different aspects of eco-anxiety reinforce each other," says Dr. Stanley. "Generally, we find that they're all interrelated. So the more you experience one, the more you tend to experience the other. "When we measure eco-anxiety, we tend to find that people fit along a spectrum, from not at all or to a very slight degree, to a high degree, with most people scoring at that low end." The work is published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology. Who is it affecting? Eco-anxiety has consistently been reported to be higher in young people. "The fact that younger people tend to be most affected by climate and eco-anxiety is quite a robust finding that lots of researchers are reporting," says Dr. Stanley. "Some studies have also reported gender differences, and when they do find differences, they tend to report that eco-anxiety may affect women and gender diverse people more than men." But why is eco-anxiety affecting young people so strongly? "We know that socially, adolescence is a period where people are kind of waking up to what's going on in the outside world, and it can be a time when young people become invested in global issues," says Dr. Stanley. "So they're seeing this big problem happening, they're also seeing that not enough is being done to resolve it. This age group is in a position where they may feel that they have low political powerthey can't vote, and it's hard to get politicians to listen to their concerns about climate change. So there's frustration about that as well." Dr. Stanley has collaborated with her Ph.D. student and collaborators to also analyze different variables that may make someone more exposed to eco-anxiety, such as financial stress. "People who are experiencing more financial stress, like trouble paying the bills, tend to report higher climate anxiety." This research is published in Climatic Change. Another possible association with eco-anxiety is individual experience with climate change. In another recent study co-authored by Dr. Stanley and published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology, survey results suggested that feelings of solastalgiadefined as a sense of distress caused by living through ecological changein relation to the 20192020 bushfires was not necessarily correlated to the direct impacts of bushfire, but to the experience of grief for wildlife lost as a result of the bushfires. Interviews with people affected by these bushfires also highlighted the emotional impacts, with participants describing "a grief for the loss of the bush." "Indirect exposure and engagement with climate information is also really significant," says Dr. Stanley. "You don't have to have those direct experiences to feel or be impacted by eco-anxiety. It could be that you're reading about it, often you're exposed to information about it, and just that awareness itself is resulting in distress." The link between eco-anxiety and mental health Dr. Stanley says she is often asked whether eco-anxiety is just affecting people who are generally anxious. "There's a strong relationship between general anxiety and eco-anxiety," she says "but we don't see them as the same thing." This means that while someone could score highly on measures of eco-anxiety, they don't necessarily have an anxiety disorder. "One important point here is that we can't say that their concern is out of proportion to the problem [of climate change]it's really quite rational to be distressed. A diagnostic criterion for anxiety disorders, from my understanding, often require that the anxiety response is out of proportion to the threat," says Dr. Stanley. "I don't think that eco-anxiety is a result of people being generally anxious, I think in many cases we should think of the 'cause' as being aware of what's going on. Some people have described it a 'moral injury," where you see something terrible happening, and you feel terrible about it." While climate and eco-anxiety should not be defined as disordered experiences, Dr. Stanley describes how they could be affecting people's mental health. A recently published meta-analysis shows that the more climate anxiety people report, the more they tend to report psychological challenges, such as impacts on well-being and life satisfaction. "The meta-analysis found that there is a link between climate anxiety and mental health problems like depression and anxiety. One interpretation of this link is that climate anxiety could be a stressor that contributes to mental health problems, though we need more research to understand what experience tends to come first," says Dr. Stanley. Findings from the recent YouGov poll cited government inaction as the predominant factor affecting youth mental health. Meanwhile, various studies have sought to ascertain whether feelings of eco-anxiety can serve as a catalyst for change and action. In the recent study, led by Dr. Stanley's Ph.D. student, cross-sectional analyses showed that people who are concerned about their role in contributing to ecological problems, and who have these concerns top of mind through repeated thoughts, are more likely to report doing things like conserving energy, taking public transport, and avoiding eating meat. What are we seeing in the clinic? In Australia, Psychology for a Safe Climate (PSC) is a not-for-profit organization founded to foster emotional engagement with climate change. "PSC offers training for mental health practitioners on how to manage climate anxiety when it's brought up in a clinical setting," says Dr. Stanley. While some studies suggest that clinicians feel adequately equipped to address eco-anxiety in their patients, research conducted in Australia reveals that many clinicians feel unprepared and express concerns about the implications for the future workforce. "There's lots of discussion around how what we have in place at the moment to help people experiencing anxiety probably isn't fit for purpose for those experiencing eco-anxiety," says Dr. Stanley. "Indeed, there is currently no consensus as to the level of climate-related anxiety symptoms that indicate clinically significant distress, and therefore warrant psychological treatment," says Professor Michelle Moulds, a clinical psychologist from UNSW Psychology. "This issue is currently a topic of debate in the literature, and needs to be resolved before we can develop and evaluate effective psychological interventions." One thing Dr. Stanley emphasizes is that any feelings of worry are valid and legitimatethat ultimately, we are living in a climate crisis. "A large part of my research is also focusing on climate solutions. While it's important to understand how the climate crisis is making people feel, I don't think we will ever solve eco-anxiety by treating it away. It would only really be effectively resolved when we tackle climate change and the other environmental challenges we're seeing around the world today." More information: Teaghan L. Hogg et al, Clarifying the nature of the association between eco-anxiety, wellbeing and pro-environmental behaviour, Journal of Environmental Psychology (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2024.102249 Teaghan L. Hogg et al, Validation of the Hogg Climate Anxiety Scale, Climatic Change (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s10584-024-03726-1 Samantha K. Stanley et al, Solastalgia following the Australian summer of bushfires: Qualitative and quantitative insights about environmental distress and recovery, Journal of Environmental Psychology (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvp.2024.102273 Journal information: Climatic Change Two prayer rallies are being held outside parliament buildings this evening (July 3) on the eve of the U.K. General Election tomorrow. Hundreds of Christians are expected to attend the event in two locations, according to rights group Christian Concern. One of the rallies will be held from 5.30pm to 7pm at the Old Palace Yard in Westminster, London, and the other rally is happening at the same time outside the Scottish Parliament in Holyrood in Edinburgh. Christian Concern has hosted online prayer streams in the run-up to the election, which has been popular and the in-person prayer rallies will be the culmination of these online prayer events. "Jesus Christ and his pattern for our lives is good news for all of us in society," explained chief executive Andrea Williams. While there are important differences between what the major parties are offering this election, none of them come close to supporting the big change of direction we need to see the nation flourish. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up The election is already being predicted to be a runaway success for the British Labour Party but many voters remain undecided. Even so, Mel Stride, Work & Pensions Secretary for the current Conservative Government, conceded on the BBC Radio 4 Today program this morning that there would be a wipeout for his party. I totally accept that, where the polls are at the moment, means that tomorrow is likely to see the largest Labour landslide majority, the largest majority that this country has ever seen, said Stride, on the radio program. Much bigger than 1997 [when Labour won a landslide election], bigger even than the National government in 1931. Williams said that members of parliament had dodged issues of great importance to families. "Most politicians have largely ignored the need to protect life, to value family and to support freedoms, she said. Only a return to these values, which spring from the Christian heritage of the United Kingdom, will give our nation the solid foundation it needs. It is by standing for God's pattern that we can hope to also see the vulnerable cared for, lower crime rates and a strong economy." Williams called on the Church to be revitalized in the truths of the gospel, which transforms lives. Until the Church realizes that her message is good news for all that Jesus Christ really is the gospel and that his pattern for living leads to flourishing we cannot expect the watching world to protect life, value family or respect freedoms." The Rev. Ade Omooba MBE, co-founder of Christian Concern, recalled how God has acted in history, in response to the prayers of his people. God has done mighty wonders in the history of the United Kingdom when his people united in prayer. We have strayed far from his will, but Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. We are crying out to him for mercy, not judgment. 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: An aerial view shows deluged land after floods in Bangladesh's Sylhet district on June 21. Six people have been killed in floods precipitated by torrential rains across northeast India and neighboring Bangladesh that inundated the homes of more than a million others, officials said Wednesday. Monsoon rains cause widespread destruction every year, but experts say climate change is shifting weather patterns and increasing the number of extreme weather events. Disaster authorities in India's northeastern state of Assam said four people had died over the past day, bringing the number of people killed there over successive downpours since mid-May to 38. In Bangladesh, landslides triggered by heavy monsoon rains killed two people including a Rohingya refugee early on Wednesday, police commander Jahirul Hoque Bhuiyan told AFP. Bhuiyan said authorities in Bangladesh's vast relief campshome to around a million Rohingya refugees from neighboring Myanmarhad relocated some inhabitants to safety. The worst flooding took place in northeastern Sylhet division, where top government bureaucrat Abu Ahmed Siddique said more than 1.3 million people had been affected. "Their villages and roads and most of their homes have been inundated by flood water," Abu Ahmed Siddique, the government administrator of Sylhet region, told AFP. Kamrul Hasan, the secretary of Bangladesh's disaster management ministry, said that rivers had swelled after rain upstream in India. Much of low-lying Bangladesh is made up of deltas as the Himalayan rivers of the Ganges and Brahmaputra slowly wind towards the sea after coursing through India. Hasan told AFP that hundreds of relief shelters had been opened around Sylhet for those forced out of their homes by flood waters. 'Higher ground' India's weather department has issued alerts for Assam and neighboring states warning of the risk of more flash floods. Flood waters have damaged roads in the state, and the airforce rescued 13 fishermen stranded on an island. A major portion of the Kaziranga national park, a UNESCO world heritage site and home to the highest number of one-horned rhinos in the world, has also been flooded. "Forest guards have been put on alert," park official Arun Vignesh told AFP. "Hundreds of animals have started crossing the highway in search of higher ground". The summer monsoon brings South Asia 70-80 percent of its annual rainfall, as well as death and destruction due to flooding and landslides. The rainfall is hard to forecast and varies considerably, but scientists say climate change is making the monsoon stronger and more erratic. Last week, at least 14 people were killed after rains triggered landslides, lightning and flooding in Nepal. In Bangladesh, at least nine people died in a landslide in June. The same month, six people were killed in flash floods and landslides in Sikkim, an Indian state in the Himalayan foothills bordering China. 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: Digital rendering of the 2023/24 El Nino in the equatorial Pacific. In June 2023, its patterns were already conspicuous. Credit: Kyushu University/Masahiro Shiozaki The phenomenon known as El Nino can cause abnormal and extreme climate around the world due to it dramatically altering the normal flow of the atmosphere. In Japan, historical data has shown that El Nino years tend to lead to warmer winters. This case was exemplified recently with Japan's warm 20232024 winter season. However, there have also been cases of cold winters in Japan during El Nino years, such as the one recorded in 20142015. Yet, it was unclear as to why this was occurring. Publishing in the Journal of Climate, researchers from Kyushu University's Research Institute for Applied Mechanics have found that the early onset of El Nino around June leads to warm winter climates in East Asia, while the late onset of El Nino is associated with colder winters. The team hopes that their results can help better model winter climate patterns in East Asia during El Nino years, and lead to more accurate long-term climate predictions. El Nino is a climate pattern characterized by the warming of the tropical eastern Pacific Ocean caused by the weakening of equatorial trade winds that blow from the western coast of South America to the Philippines and Indonesia. In regular years, these trade winds would push the ocean's warmer waters westward leading to cooler waters rising in the east. These warmer western waters drive atmospheric convection generating clouds and rain. "Each El Nino is individually unique, and no two El Ninos are exactly alike," explains Post-doctoral Fellow Masahiro Shiozaki who authored the study. "Naturally, these differences lead to a variety of abnormal global climate patterns. To better predict regional weather and climate during El Nino, it is important to know how and where the atmosphere changes." Shiozaki highlighted a case in Japan during the winter of 20232024. This was an El Nino year, and in Japan that tends to mean a warmer winter. And in fact, the winter of 20232024 was inordinately warm. However, this was not always the case. In the El Nino year of 20142015, Japan's winter was colder than average. "Japanese winters are also influenced by the Arctic as well as strong natural variability inherent to the atmosphere. Because of these various effects, it has been challenging to identify how El Nino determines warm or cold winters in East Asia," continues Shiozaki. "To address this issue, we simulated the weather patterns of the past 61 years in 100 different ways by adding perturbations to the weather patterns. In this simulation, 1700 El Nino events occurred, and we calculated how the atmosphere changed each time. This method allowed us to reduce any atmospheric noise in the data, giving us a clearer view of El Nino's direct impact." The team's analysis found that it was not only El Nino, but also an anomalous warming of the tropical Indian Ocean that led to warmer East Asian winters. The early onset of El Nino around June effectively warmed the Indian Ocean from summer to winter. This ocean warming suppressed atmospheric convection over the tropical western Pacific, resulting in less rainfall and atmospheric heating. "The resulting reduction in atmospheric heating excited atmospheric waves that propagated into the western North Pacific, forming an anomalous anticyclonic circulation southeast of Japan," Shiozaki explains. "Anomalous south-easterly winds from this circulation pattern weakened the northwesterly winter monsoon from the continent, leading to the warm winter climate in East Asia. On the other hand, cold Japanese winters are associated with a late onset of El Nino and no significant warming of the Indian Ocean." The team hopes their new findings will be utilized by researchers and meteorologists to better predict climate patterns months in advance, especially during active El Nino phases. "The influence of global warming is clear in the recent trend of warmer winters worldwide. The effects of rising water temperatures are especially evident in the Indian Ocean," concludes Professor Hiroki Tokinaga who led the research team. "Further research is needed to determine how global warming and other tropical climate phenomena will change future winters in East Asia." More information: Masahiro Shiozaki et al, What Determines the East Asian Winter Temperature during El Nino? Role of the Early-Onset El Nino and Tropical Indian Ocean Warming, Journal of Climate (2024). DOI: 10.1175/JCLI-D-23-0627.1 Journal information: Journal of Climate This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain The Kansas Department of Health and Environment advised residents last week to stay out of the Missouri River due to contamination from raw sewage and E. coli bacteria. Five days later, the river is still dangerous to enterboth due to high water levels and contaminants from upstream. "KDHE advises residents to stay away from the river at this time. While the high flow conditions continue, do not enter the river," the department wrote in a news release June 27. According to the department, severe flooding in Iowa and Nebraska caused untreated wastewater to be discharged into the river, raising levels of E. coli bacteria and other contaminants. "Any time we have wet weather, we expect water quality to be degraded," said Tom Stiles, the KDHE's water bureau director. "It's unusual just to have this much rain come down, and that has overwhelmed some of the systems." Here's what we know about contamination in the Missouri River, and how to stay safe until it subsides. What's causing the sewage and bacteria in the Missouri River? Extreme weather in Nebraska and Iowa has overwhelmed these states' local water treatment systems in the past week. These severe flood conditions have caused what experts call bypasses in wastewater plants and caused untreated sewage to enter the Missouri River. "Sometimes there's too much water passing through a treatment plant to be able to be adequately disinfected, and that creates the bypass situation," Stiles told The Kansas City Star. Agricultural runoff and other contaminants from the land also get washed into the river after heavy rainfall. Mike Kruse, the water protection program manager at the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, added that the contaminants have likely been diluted to less hazardous levels by the time they reach Kansas City. "In most cases the sheer volume of water in the Missouri River, especially by the time it reaches Missouri, is so great that sufficient dilution has occurred," he said. However, his department still advises the public against entering the water recreationally until flood conditions have subsided. How can I stay safe from Missouri River contamination? For now, experts advise that residents not enter the Missouri River until the contamination has been cleared out. Stiles noted that he doesn't expect many boaters or anglers out on the Missouri this week anyway, due to the high water levels and rapid flow rate caused by upstream flooding. But if you do enter the water, a small splash on your skin likely won't have a negative effect. The risk of illness increases when you ingest or submerge yourself in the water. "It's just common senseyou're in the open environment, afterwards you practice good hygiene, you shower, you basically just clean yourself up, and (there's) no risk to yourself," he said. He also advised residents not to let their pets wade in the rivereven if they don't drink any of the water, they could still consume the bacteria when cleaning themselves later. Stiles also noted that residents shouldn't be worried about the quality of local drinking water. E. coli is easily treated with disinfectants, and water treatment facilities on both sides of the state line are well-equipped to handle this type of contamination, he said. When will the Missouri River's water quality improve? We don't know yet exactly when the advisories will be liftedit all depends on when water treatment systems upstream are restored. Stiles said that plants in Iowa are still experiencing bypasses as of July 2. And while wastewater treatment in Omaha is mostly restored, some smaller local water systems in Nebraska are still experiencing the impacts of last week's flooding as well. Flood conditions are also expected in the metro area in the coming days. On the afternoon of July 2, the National Weather Service issued flood warnings in areas along the banks of the Missouri River. Incoming rain will likely wash more contaminants into the river, potentially causing poor water quality to continue even after plants in Nebraska and Iowa are restored. The KDHE will announce when its advisory for the river officially lifts. 2024 The Kansas City Star. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Average global air temperatures breached 1.5C for the first time at the start of 2024at least five years earlier than predicted. So, while developing countries burn, global climate injustice persists. No high-emitting country has complied with the 1.5C target set by the Paris agreement. Governments in the UK and Scotland are exacerbating the crisis by reneging on their climate pledges to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, paving the way for net zero the latest by 2050. The catastrophic effects of climate breakdown hit people in developing countries the hardest, even though historically, the highest emitters of greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change are primarily in the westnotably the US, EU as well as Russia, with China and India joining these ranks most recently. Hence, the spotlight must be turned to countries that are highly vulnerable to a warming planet by ensuring that the organization that acts as their advocate is given a platform to right this injustice. This organization is the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF), an international partnership of 58 countries highly vulnerable to a warming planet. Founded in 2009, it serves as a cooperation platform for participating governments to act together to deal with global climate change and advocate for the rights of people in developing countries. Based on our research, three practices stand out. 1. Debt relief The CVF advocates for debt-for-climate swaps. These involve debt relief in exchange for climate projects, such as renewable energy or conservation parks, that will either halt emissions or help these countries adapt to climate change, or both. Costa Rica has signed two such deals with the US. Debt totaling US$53 million (42 million) has been swapped under the agreement for afforestation (planting of trees in areas where there were previously no forests) and conversation projects, enabling Costa Rica to rise as a climate champion. In Barbados, a debt-for-climate swap worth US$150 million unleashed US$50 million in funding for marine conservation. Such deals are not exclusive to CVF members, though. Other developing countries that are not members of the CVF have entered into similar agreements. Peru, for example, signed a deal with the US to channel more than US$20 million of debt to the protection and conservation of three priority areas in the Peruvian Amazon, with positive effects for the climate. With the most vulnerable countries losing 20% of their GDP over the first two decades of the century, and with their debt rocketing to unsustainable levels, debt-for-climate-swaps can help the weakest countries contribute to climate action and build resilience. 2. Climate prosperity While developed countries view the energy transition as a new growth strategy, CVF members approach it as an opportunity to rethink growth and transform their social and economic systems. They prioritize well-being alongside economic growth and link climate action with other social measures such as universal basic income, participation, gender equality and inclusivity. Developing countries' climate prosperity plansthat's their strategies to tackle environmental and socioeconomic problemsstrike a new balance between support for business and human rights. The Sri Lankan climate prosperity plan focuses on universal protection of workers from heat and promoting nature-based solutions in the economy. In Sri Lanka's capital city Colombo, wetlands, including freshwater lakes and swamps, are being protected and restored to build a natural defense to flooding and reduce the risk of landslides in the monsoon season. 3. Support for ecocide law Climate change has become an existential threat for CVF members. In 2019, two CVF members, Vanuatu and the Maldives, proposed adding ecocide to the Rome statute of the International Criminal Court as the fifth crime against humanity. This law would hold wealthy countries accountable for acts and omissions that severely contribute to climate change and disproportionately adversely affect CVF states. An ecocide law that highlights a critical breach of the most vulnerable states' sovereignty is considered by many activists, legal scholars and politicians as a last resort to prevent catastrophic change due to climate change. While the CVF does not stand behind this proposal collectively, several members support it. With ecocide now firmly on the climate political agenda, especially since the EU recently passed a law of ecocide, the CVF has solid grounds to press further for the enshrining of a law of ecocide in international law as a tool that will protect the rights of present and future generations in the most vulnerable countries. Without concerted action, climate disasters will only proliferate. Climate-focused practices, like debt-for-climate swaps, nature-based well-being and support for a law of ecocide are steps in the right direction. These policies, and their advocates, should move closer to center stage in the upcoming climate summit, COP29, taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan in November. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain A hulking manufacturing plant in Irmo is being accused of contaminating the lower Saluda River and drinking water supplies after dumping toxic forever chemicals into the scenic waterway and its floodplain for years. Environmentalists sued the Shaw Industries company, arguing that forever chemical pollution is still occurring and should be stopped by a federal court. Shaw is a major textile manufacturing plant that produces fiber and nylon for carpets at the factory on St. Andrews Road. The Congaree Riverkeeper organization and the Southern Environmental Law Center had threatened in March to sue Shaw if it did not take action. An attorney said the law center filed the suit because Shaw had not stopped its discharges of forever chemicals from a pipe along the Saluda, as the environmental groups had asked. Tuesday's lawsuit said the riverkeeper had found 15 different types of forever chemicals flowing from a Shaw discharge pipe in late 2023. Among those were levels of two of the most common forever chemicals that exceeded new federal drinking water standards. That's important because the lower Saluda is being polluted above the West Columbia and Cayce drinking water systems, which have shown evidence of forever chemical pollution in their water, said Carl Brzorad, an attorney with the law center. Fish that people eat also are being contaminated below the Shaw Industries plant, he said. "They are discharging PFAS directly into a drinking water source," Brzorad said. "These municipalities don't have the advanced treatment installed that you need to remove this stuff from the source water." That source water originates in the lower Saluda, an 11-mile stretch of river extending from the Lake Murray dam to the confluence with the Broad near downtown Columbia. Together, the two rivers form the Congaree. The chilly lower Saluda is often considered the jewel of the three waterways because it has whitewater rapids and an active trout fishery, unusual for central South Carolina. It is a state designated Scenic River. Shaw officials were not immediately available for comment Tuesday, but said in March that the company stopped using some PFAS treatments in carpet manufacturing five years ago. The company suggested that it was looking for forever chemicals that may have come through its plant. The company said Shaw is taking steps to address "inadvertent sources of PFAS'' and resolve public concerns. A spokeswoman said the company had complied with all of its permits to discharge wastewater. Shaw Industries has run the Irmo plant for 19 years, but the manufacturing facility has operated since at least the 1960s. Once operated by Honeywell, the plant on St. Andrews Road is easily visible to anyone driving through Irmo. Shaw, headquartered in Dalton, Ga., is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway and one of the world's largest carpet manufacturers. It has about 20,000 employees and reports $6 billion in annual sales worldwide. Carpets manufactured by Shaw have shown high levels of PFAS, according to the lawsuit. Company plants in Georgia and Alabama have been the target of lawsuits about the problem in those states, the South Carolina suit said. This week's lawsuit by the environmental groups could result in substantial fines by state or federal agencies if successful in court, but Brzorad said the main goal is for Shaw to stop the discharges, whether through a court order or a negotiated settlement. "We are in active discussions with Shaw, and we expect those discussions to continue," Brzorad said. "We certainly hope that they take this as seriously as the threat that this poses to the environment." West Columbia and Cayce did not participate in the legal action but the cities could benefit from any action to reduce PFAS releases to the lower Saluda River. Cayce spokeswoman Ashley Hunter said the city, which heard from the riverkeeper that a suit was pending, wants to safeguard its drinking water. "Our city administration was provided notice of the generalities of the concerns, but were not aware of the specifics on the lawsuit," Hunter said in a text. "We appreciate the work of the Congaree Riverkeeper. Having safe drinking water for our citizens is of the utmost importance to our city." A spokeswoman for West Columbia was not immediately available for comment. The suit by the environmental groups is among a growing number of legal cases against the manufacturers and users of forever chemicals across the state and nation. In South Carolina, major PFAS lawsuits include cases on behalf of firefighters who used foam to extinguish fires and cities that say forever chemicals polluted their water. Attorney General Alan Wilson has two of his own cases, while private legal teams interested in filing class action lawsuits are actively soliciting information from people who may have been exposed to forever chemicals in water. Residents of a rural area of Darlington County have filed suit over drinking water pollution they say resulted from sludge fertilizer provided by a textile plant. One of the biggest cases in South Carolina is a suit the city of Columbia filed against more than 40 manufacturers or users of forever chemicals. Like West Columbia and Cayce, Columbia has had elevated levels of forever chemicals in drinking water, causing what officials say will be a need for an expensive upgrade to its water system. Shaw was among those named in Columbia's suit last month. The city is seeking tens of millions of dollars to pay for drinking water system upgrades. Forever chemicals, formally known as per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, can cause cancer and an array of physical ailments to those who drink water or eat food contaminated with the material over time. The chemicals have been used by industry for the past 80 years because they are useful in waterproofing clothing and carpets, and coating non-stick frying pans, among other things. They also are key ingredients in firefighting foam. Manufacturers knew about the hazards, but kept the threat largely out of the public eye for decades, according to media reports and legal notices. In the past 20 years, state and federal agencies have learned more about the threats. But only recently has public awareness grown. PFAS chemicals are problematic because they don't break down easily in the environment, thus the name forever chemicals. Tuesday's lawsuit by the law center and the riverkeeper organization said they took action because neither the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency nor state regulators in South Carolina had pushed to stop the discharges. It is illegal under the federal Clean Water Act to discharge any contaminant without a permit, even though there are no specific limits on PFAS releases. Suits like the one filed by the law center are allowed if the government doesn't enforce the law. Among allegations in the suit: Wastewater piped from a treatment pond at Shaw to a ditch is polluted by PFAS. The ditch carries water from an outfall pipe to the lower Saluda River at Irmo. Shaw's wastewater treatment plant cannot effectively remove PFAS before it is discharged An array of toxins is leaking through unlined waste lagoons and into groundwater that flows toward the Saluda. Unlike lead and arsenic, there has been no documentation that PFAS is among the pollutants leaking through the lagoons into groundwater. But based on what else has gotten into groundwater, "PFAS are likely leaching from the unlined lagoons and basins." Shaw engaged in dumping PFAS-tinged material on its property Forever chemicals have likely run off the plant site after heavy rains and polluted the lower Saluda and a tributary, Kinley Creek. Shaw's Irmo plant "has discharged and continues to discharge PFAS from outfall 1 and other sources into the Saluda River," the lawsuit says. The suit said PFAS may have played a role in the deaths of about 6.5 million people across the country. It also said the pollution violates federal clean water and hazardous waste laws. Every fish tested in the Congaree, just below where the Saluda connects with it, contained forever chemicals in 2022, the suit said. Those fish included popular sport species such as largemouth bass and channel catfish, the suit said. Some fish had levels rivaling the amount found in the Cape Fear River of North Carolina, which carries warnings against eating more than moderate amounts of fish, the suit said. "The Lower Saluda River is a symbol for Columbiaa beloved home for wildlife, destination for recreation, and designated State Scenic River," according to a statement from Bill Stangler, the Congaree Riverkeeper, whose organization advocates for safe water in the Saluda and Broad rivers, as well. "By discharging PFAS into the Lower Saluda, Shaw harms our precious resources and the drinking water source for the communities of West Columbia and Cayce." 2024 The State. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. 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: Predicted school grade differences for students with specific ascriptive characteristics. Credit: Nennstiel, Gilgen, CC-BY 4.0 (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) A new study done in more than 14,000 ninth graders in Germany has revealed that students experience grading bias based on their gender, body size, ethnicity and parental socio-economic status. These negative biases stack on each other, meaning that students with multiple intersectional identities get significantly lower grades than their peers regardless of their true abilities. Richard Nennstiel and Sandra Gilgen of the University of Bern and University of Zurich in Switzerland present these findings in the open-access journal PLOS ONE on July 3, 2024. Secondary school grades can open or close doors to careers later in life. To explore whether students are suffering from bias in their school grades, Nennstiel and Gilgen used data from the National Educational Panel Study in Germany, a study that has tracked seven cohorts of German school children since 2008. They focused on a nationally representative sample of 14,090 students who were in the ninth grade in 2010. Nennstiel and Gilgen compared grades handed by school teachers to results on standardized competence tests to find out whether some students had an advantage over others. The scientists looked at the effects of gender, body mass index (BMI), parent socio-economic status (SES), and ethnic background. Gender bias was evident in teacher-assigned grades in all subjects except for chemistry. Girls had an advantage in German, math, and biology, while boys benefited in physics. Higher BMIs were associated with significantly lower grades from teachers in every subject, while students with higher parental SES had higher grades. Minority students received lower grades in all subjects except biology. These disadvantages compounded, meaning that irrespective of true skill and aptitude, a boy with a high BMI from a low-SES, minority background received on average lower grades, than a German-born, low BMI girl from a higher SES. While these results can't determine the exact mechanisms behind this bias, they suggest that grading bias is widespread in Germany. The researchers recommend that further studies focus on why students receive biased grades, and how such biases could be tackled in the classroom. The authors add, "Even after controlling for three different measures of ability and attended school track, we find widespread additive intersectional effects of gender, social and ethnic origin as well as body weight on grading." More information: Does chubby can get lower grades than skinny Sophie? Using an intersectional approach to uncover grading bias in German secondary schools, PLoS ONE (2024). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305703 Journal information: PLoS ONE This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The Goldstone Solar System Radar, part of NASA's Deep Space Network, made these observations of the recently discovered 500-foot-wide (150-meter-wide) asteroid 2024 MK, which made its closest approachwithin about 184,000 miles (295,000 kilometers) of Earthon June 29. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech The Deep Space Network's Goldstone planetary radar had a busy few days observing asteroids 2024 MK and 2011 UL21 as they safely passed Earth. Scientists at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California recently tracked two asteroids as they flew by our planet. One turned out to have a little moon orbiting it, while the other had been discovered only 13 days before its closest approach to Earth. There was no risk of either near-Earth object impacting our planet, but the radar observations taken during these two close approaches will provide valuable practice for planetary defense, as well as information about their sizes, orbits, rotation, surface details, and clues as to their composition and formation. Passing Earth on June 27 at a distance of 4.1 million miles (6.6 million kilometers), or about 17 times the distance between the moon and Earth, the asteroid 2011 UL21 was discovered in 2011 by the Catalina Sky Survey, in Tucson, Arizona. But this is the first time it has come close enough to Earth to be imaged by radar. While the nearly mile-wide (1.5-kilometer-wide) object is classified as being potentially hazardous, calculations of its future orbits show that it won't pose a threat to our planet for the foreseeable future. Using the Deep Space Network's 230-foot-wide (70-meter) Goldstone Solar System Radar, called Deep Space Station 14 (DSS-14), near Barstow, California, JPL scientists transmitted radio waves to the asteroid and received the reflected signals by the same antenna. In addition to determining the asteroid is roughly spherical, they discovered that it's a binary system: A smaller asteroid, or moonlet, orbits it from a distance of about 1.9 miles (3 kilometers). "It is thought that about two-thirds of asteroids of this size are binary systems, and their discovery is particularly important because we can use measurements of their relative positions to estimate their mutual orbits, masses, and densities, which provide key information about how they may have formed," said Lance Benner, principal scientist at JPL who helped lead the observations. Because close approaches by asteroids the size of 2024 MK are relatively rare, JPL's planetary radar team gathered as much information about the near-Earth object as possible. This mosaic shows the spinning asteroid in one-minute increments about 16 hours after its closest approach with Earth. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech These seven radar observations by the Deep Space Networks Goldstone Solar System Radar shows the mile-wide asteroid 2011 UL21 during its June 27 close approach with Earth from about 4 million miles away. The asteroid and its small moon (a bright dot at the bottom of the image) are circled in white. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech This sunset photo shows NASAs Deep Space Station 14 (DSS-14), the 230-foot-wide (70-meter) antenna at the Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex near Barstow, California. NASA/JPL-Caltech Second close approach Two days later, on June 29, the same team observed the asteroid 2024 MK pass our planet from a distance of only 184,000 miles (295,000 kilometers), or slightly more than three-quarters of the distance between the moon and Earth. About 500 feet (150 meters) wide, this asteroid appears to be elongated and angular, with prominent flat and rounded regions. For these observations, the scientists also used DSS-14 to transmit radio waves to the object, but they used Goldstone's 114-foot (34-meter) DSS-13 antenna to receive the signal that bounced off the asteroid and came back to Earth. The result of this "bistatic" radar observation is a detailed image of the asteroid's surface, revealing concavities, ridges, and boulders about 30 feet (10 meters) wide. Close approaches of near-Earth objects the size of 2024 MK are relatively rare, occurring about every couple of decades, on average, so the JPL team sought to gather as much data about the object as possible. "This was an extraordinary opportunity to investigate the physical properties and obtain detailed images of a near-Earth asteroid," said Benner. The asteroid 2024 MK was first reported on June 16 by the Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) at Sutherland Observing Station in South Africa. Its orbit was changed by Earth's gravity as it passed by, reducing its 3.3-year orbital period around the sun by about 24 days. Although it is classified as a potentially hazardous asteroid, calculations of its future motion show that it does not pose a threat to our planet for the foreseeable future. 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: Silverio, a twelve-day-old white rhino, runs next to his mother Hannah during his presentation at the Buin Zoo in Santiago, Chile, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. The baby rhinos birth is the third of this endangered species born at the Buin. Credit: AP Photo/Esteban Felix Hannah, a 13-year-old white rhinoceros, has delivered a newborn calf in a rare zoo birth for the almost endangered species. The arrival of the male calf, named Silverio, two weeks ago marked the third time that a white rhino had ever been born in South America. The Buin Zoo in Chile's capital of Santiago unveiled Silverio to the public on Tuesday as he took his first giant-footed steps after 12 days of medical care in confinement. The zoo hailed his birth as a "big achievement" for conservationists worldwide. Over the past year, only eight other southern white rhinos have been born. The director of Buin Zoo explained that a recent string of failed rhino romances had dashed the hopes of conservationists attempting to breed the species across the continent. But Hannah and Olivera pair of southern white rhinos shipped to Santiago all the way from sub-Saharan Africa just over a decade agohave hit it off, producing three calves in this one zoo. "There are several zoos in Latin America that have a rhino pair and did not manage to reproduce," said zoo director Ignacio Idalsoaga. "We are contributing with a ninth calf to a species that has only a few left in the wild." A twelve-day-old rhino called Silverio walks near his mother Hannah during his presentation at the Buin Zoo in Santiago, Chile, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. The baby rhinos birth is the third of this endangered species born at the Buin. Credit: AP Photo/Esteban Felix A team of veterinarians closely monitoring Silverio declared him healthy on Tuesday. The success story comes as fewer and fewer white rhinos roam the African plains. Northern white rhinos have effectively gone extinct, although the international scientific community has started to revive the species through assisted reproduction and stem cell research. Southern white rhinos, the northern's close cousin and a more common species, have been classified as "nearly endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, the world's main scientific authority on the status of species. There are just over 10,000 individual southern white rhinos left in the world, the vast majority of them in zoos. That's still a major improvement from the turn of the 19th century, when the species was hunted to near oblivion. Intensive conservation efforts in the last few decades pulled southern white rhinos away from the brink of extinction, a rare example of robust reocovery in the face of peril. Silverio, a twelve-day-old white rhino, stands next to his mother Hannah during his presentation at the Buin Zoo in Santiago, Chile, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. The baby rhinos birth is the third of this endangered species born at the Buin. Credit: AP Photo/Esteban Felix Silverio, a twelve-day-old white rhino, stands next to his mother Hannah during his presentation at the Buin Zoo in Santiago, Chile, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. The baby rhinos birth is the third of this endangered species born at the Buin. Credit: AP Photo/Esteban Felix Silverio, a twelve-day-old white rhino, walks beside his mother Hannah during his presentation at the Buin Zoo in Santiago, Chile, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. The baby rhinos birth is the third of this endangered species born at the Buin. Credit: AP Photo/Esteban Felix But that could change, conservationists say, as hunters continue to kill rhinos for their horns and the mammals can struggle to reproduce in captivity, with a gestation period of 18 months and often more than one male needed to stimulate reproduction. Humans are the only predators to rhinos, reports the international conservation union, with hunters killing an estimated 1,000 rhinos a year. It says that roughly 17 rhinos are born each year. 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Phases of the methodology adopted to identify hate speech in U.S. midterm elections. Credit: Information Fusion (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.inffus.2024.102459 In the lead-up to the 2022 U.S. midterm elections, Arizona's chief election officer Katie Hobbs received far more harassing messages on Twitter than any of her counterparts in other states. More than 30% of all tweets directed at her, along with commentators on her posts, fell into the "most aggressive" category of attacks. That is a finding from researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Universidad del Rosario in Colombia, and the University of Murcia in Spain, in a paper published in Information Fusion that examines the phenomenon of online intimidation targeting state election administrators. The research team used a machine learning model from the Perspective APIa tool developed by Google to identify abusive online commentsto analyze nearly 600,000 tweets mentioning chief state election officials nationwide during the weeks surrounding November 8, 2022. The tweets were rated based on six attributes: toxicity, severe toxicity, identity attack, insult, profanity, and threat. Arizona produced the most Twitter activity in the study, representing almost 90% of all collected tweets, and had by far the highest volume of toxic language directed at its top election official, who was also running for governor. Sentiment analysis revealed these messages exhibited high rates of overt "attacks on the author" and "attacks on commenters," as well as generalized toxicity and inflammatory rhetoric. "Many of the harassing messages made connections to the 2020 presidential election and baseless conspiracy theories about electoral fraud," said Damon McCoy, the paper's senior author, a professor of Computer Science and Engineering at NYU Tandon. McCoy is co-director of Cybersecurity for Democracy, a multi-university research project of the Center for Cybersecurity at NYU Tandon and the Cybersecurity and Privacy Institute at the Northeastern University Khoury College of Computer Sciences that aims to expose online threats and recommend how to counter them. To further investigate, the researchers employed entity recognition software to automatically detect references within the hateful messages. It flagged prevalent mentions of "Watergate" and inflammatory phrases like being "at ground zero" for election integrity issues when discussing Arizona. Clustering analysis based on semantic similarities within the messages also allowed the researchers to identify distinct communities promoting hate speech and map their interactions. While political speech is constitutionally protected, the researchers warn that abuse and intimidation of election workers could have a chilling effect, deterring qualified professionals from overseeing voting and eroding public trust. "If we want to safeguard democracy, we must find ways to promote civil discourse and protect those ensuring fair elections from harassment and threats," said McCoy. The study proposes using the data pipeline developed by the researchers to automatically detect abusive accounts and content for faster content moderation. It also calls for clearer policies around harassment of election officials and cultural shifts to uphold democratic norms. More information: Andres Zapata Rozo et al, Cyber democracy in the digital age: Characterizing hate networks in the 2022 US midterm elections, Information Fusion (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.inffus.2024.102459 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: Estuaries of rivers into the ocean can take various forms. (left) The delta of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers at the mouth of the Indian Ocean consists of channels forming loops that surround hundreds of islands. (right) The mouth of a river from Wax Lake in Louisiana, U.S., into the Atlantic Ocean is similar to that of a tree, in which the main stream divides into smaller branches. Credit: (left) ESA European Space Agency, (right) National Science Foundation, Center for Earth-Surface Dynamics. Understanding how transport networks, such as river systems, form and evolve is crucial to optimizing their stability and resilience. It turns out that networks are not all alike. Tree-like structures are adequate for transport, while networks containing loops are more damage-resistant. What conditions favor the formation of loops? Researchers from the Faculty of Physics at the University of Warsaw and the University of Arkansas sought to answer this question. The findings, published in Physical Review Letters, show that networks tend to form stable loop structures when flow fluctuations are appropriately tuned. This finding will allow us to understand the structure of dynamic transport networks better. Transport networks, like blood vessels or river systems, are essential for many natural and human-made systems. Understanding how these networks form and grow is crucial for optimizing their stability and resilience. Even seemingly similar flow systems, like river deltas, may include different morphologies. The outflow from Wax Lake in Louisiana, U.S. seems to branch into a treelike pattern with smaller river outlets reaching the Atlantic Ocean. The Ganges-Brahmaputra River Delta in Bangladesh, on the other hand, shows a looplike topology, with numerous channels interconnecting primary branches. What makes these two systems different is the magnitude of flow fluctuations, driven by an interplay of river discharge and tidal flows. The question of what environmental conditions might promote the formation of loops over treelike structures has inspired a collaboration of scientists from the Faculty of Physics of the University of Warsaw, Poland, and the University of Arkansas, U.S., to investigate the stability of looplike topologies in flow networks. Results of the research show that networks tend to remain looplike when the flow fluctuations remain tuned in a particular way. "Simple growth rules can often lead to fascinating patterns. Tree-like structures are effective for transport, but networks that contain loops are more resilient to damage," says Prof. Piotr Szymczak from the Faculty of Physics of the University of Warsaw, a co-contributing author of the study. "Understanding the necessary conditions for the emergence of loops in evolving networks is our long-term goal." "River networks can look remarkably different depending on the river and the seageospatial data provides us with visual evidence on the changing morphologies of river deltas and with new data being collected on flow characteristics we are trying to learn more about the dynamics of their evolution, particularly in the time of rapid climate change," remarks Prof. John Shaw from the University of Arkansas, who spent his sabbatical at UW in Poland thanks to the Fulbright Research Award. "This publication was born from the fusion of geological observations, equations of sedimentology and mathematical methods of physics." "Our collaboration started focused on rivers, but the observations generalize to a remarkably large class of transport networks," says Radost Waszkiewicz, the leading co-author of the paper and a Ph.D. student at the Faculty of Physics UW. The scientists have discovered that the stability of loops in these networks depends on the interplay between geometric constraints and fluctuations in flow. They found that loops require fluctuations in the relative size of flow between nodes, not just temporal variations in flow at a single node, and that the loops are more stable when the fluctuations are neither too small nor too large relative to the constant flow component. "Should the fluctuation pattern change because of external factors such as human intervention or climate change, new loops inside transport networks might appear or disappear, transforming the network's form," concludes Prof. Maciej Lisicki from the Faculty of Physics, UW. "We hope that this observation will entice more precise measurements in natural systems and will take us one step further in understanding the dynamic remodeling of transport networks." This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The surface water in the North Atlantic flows northeastward, but also circulates in large gyres. Credit: Ellen Viste, the Bjerknes Centre for Climate Research A new study questions the coherence of the circulation in the North Atlantic Ocean, as researchers show that the Gulf Stream exists, but variations off the coast of Florida do not necessarily reach Norway. The real Gulf Stream flows from Florida and northward off the coast of North America. Turning east, the water crosses the Atlantic as the North Atlantic Current and continues into the Norwegian Sea as the Norwegian Current. Traditionally this has been considered part of a continuous loop, with water flowing northward through the Atlantic Ocean and into the Nordic Seas, sinking and returning south as a deep ocean currentin total, a meridional overturning circulation. Weaker transport in the Gulf Stream off Florida has been interpreted as a sign that climate change weakens the entire circulation in the North Atlantic. With new data, scientists question the connection between various branches of the circulation. "You cannot measure the current in a single point and expect the data to represent the circulation of the entire North Atlantic," says Helene Asbjrnsen, an oceanographer at the Geophysical Institute at the University of Bergen, and the Bjerknes Center. Together with colleagues from Bergen, Oxford and Southampton, Asbjrnsen has compared current data from different regions of the North Atlantic Ocean during the last decades. In a study recently published in Ocean Science, they show that the connection between variations in the real Gulf Stream and the water reaching Norway and the Nordic Seas, is small on timescales of years or decades. While the current outside North America weakened in the decade following 2005, the inflow to the Norwegian Sea increased. An ocean of gyres The surface flow in the North Atlantic consists of three large gyres. Far south, in the subtropical gyre, the water follows the Gulf Stream northward in a narrow, concentrated band. To the north of this lies the subpolar gyre. The last gyre is located within the Nordic Seas and includes the Norwegian Current, following the Norwegian coast toward the Barents Sea and Svalbard. Water flows to the north, but also turns off to circulate within the gyres. Whether changes in the south propagate to Europe and Norway, depends on the amount of water continuing to the next gyre. The Gulf Stream often gets credit for the mild climate in places like Borestranda in Western Norway, compared to similar latitudes on the western side of the Atlantic. Credit: Ellen Margrete Grong Limited long-distance connections In the new study, the researchers have compared current measurements from various positions in the three gyres over the last decades. From the ocean outside Stad in western Norway current strength has been registered regularly since 1995, while data for the Gulf Stream outside Florida are available back to 1982. Comparisons show that variations in the current strength in each gyre rarely propagate to the next. The reductions registered in the Gulf Stream outside North America are not seen in the middle of the Atlantic or in the Norwegian Sea. "The atmosphere is important," says Helene Asbjrnsen. The position and strength of the Azores high pressure system and the low pressure systems farther north vary. As the pressure steers the wind, changes in highs or lows can explain how a gyre can be strengthened without more water being carried on to the next gyre. The Gulf Stream exists The lacking continuity does not mean that currents in the North Atlantic are disconnected. In a previous study Helene Asbjrnsen found that two thirds of the water outside the Norwegian coast had come from the real Gulf Stream outside Florida. Climate models are used to simulate ocean currents through longer time periods than the observational record. Over many decades such simulations suggest that the North Atlantic behaves more like a coherent system. Helene Asbjrnsen emphasizes that the new results concern variations in ocean currents on time scales covered by available measurements. "Seeing signs of longterm changes in the observations is difficult with data series that are short and dominated by large regional variations from year to year and decade to decade," she says. Climate models also agree that climate change will weaken the northern sinking, which, as well as the winds, contribute to the circulation in the Atlantic Ocean. More information: Helene Asbjrnsen et al, Observed change and the extent of coherence in the Gulf Stream system, Ocean Science (2024). DOI: 10.5194/os-20-799-2024 Provided by Bjerknes Centre for Climate Research 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: Overview of the intercity QKD experiments on the "Niedersachsen quantum link' using single photons from a semiconductor quantum dot (QD). a Distribution of quantum bits between Hannover (Alice) and Braunschweig (Bob) over 79 km of deployed fiber with a total loss of 25.49 dB. Map data from Google (2023 Google). b Sketch of the experimental setup. Credit: Light: Science & Applications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41377-024-01488-0 Conventional encryption methods rely on complex mathematical algorithms and the limits of current computing power. However, with the rise of quantum computers, these methods are becoming increasingly vulnerable, necessitating quantum key distribution (QKD). QKD is a technology that leverages the unique properties of quantum physics to secure data transmission. This method has been continuously optimized over the years, but establishing large networks has been challenging due to the limitations of existing quantum light sources. In a new article published in Light: Science & Applications, a team of scientists in Germany have achieved the first intercity QKD experiment with a deterministic single-photon source, revolutionizing how we protect our confidential information from cyber threats. The team was led by Professor Fei Ding from Leibniz University of Hannover (LUH), Professor Stefan Kuck from Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Professor Peter Michler from University of Stuttgart and other co-workers. Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs), referred as the artificial atoms in the quantum world, show great potential for illuminating quantum lights used in quantum information technologies. This breakthrough reveals the feasibility of semiconductor single-photon sources for a secure long-distance quantum internet in real life. Professor Fei Ding explained, "We work with quantum dots, which are tiny structures similar to atoms but tailored to our needs. For the first time, we used these 'artificial atoms' in a quantum communication experiment between two different cities. This setup, known as the 'Niedersachsen Quantum Link,' connects Hannover and Braunschweig via optical fiber." The intercity experiment was performed in the German federal state of Niedersachsen, in which a deployed fiber of 79 km length connects the Leibniz University of Hannover (LUH) and Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) Braunschweig. Alice, located at the LUH, statically prepares single photons that are encrypted in polarization. Bob, located at the PTB, contains a passive polarization decoder to decrypt the polarization states of the received single photons, coming through the fiber-based quantum channels. This is also the first quantum communication link in Lower Saxony of Germany. As a result, the researchers have achieved stable and fast transmission of secret keys. They first verified that positive secret key rates (SKRs) are determined achievable for distances up to 144 km corresponding to 28.11 dB loss in the laboratory. A high-rate secret key transmission with a low quantum bit error ratio (QBER) for 35 hours was ensured based on this deployed fiber link. "Comparative analysis with existing QKD systems involving SPS reveals that the SKR achieved in this work goes beyond all current SPS based implementations. Even without further optimization of the source and setup performance it approaches the levels attained by established decoy state QKD protocols based on weak coherent pulses," the first author of the work, Dr. Jingzhong Yang remarked. The researchers speculate that QDs also offer great prospect for the realization of other quantum internet applications, such as quantum repeaters, distributed quantum sensing, as they allow for inherent storage of quantum information and can emit photonic cluster states. The outcome in this work underscores the viability of seamlessly integrating semiconductor single-photon sources into realistic, large-scale and high-capacity quantum communication networks. The need for secure communication is as old as humanity itself. Quantum communication uses the quantum characteristics of light to ensure that messages cannot be intercepted. "Quantum dot devices emit single photons, which we control and send to Braunschweig for measurement. This process is fundamental to quantum key distribution," Ding said. "Some years ago, we only dreamt of using quantum dots in real-world quantum communication scenarios. Today, we are thrilled to demonstrate their potential for many more fascinating experiments and applications in the future, moving towards a 'quantum internet.'" More information: Jingzhong Yang et al, High-rate intercity quantum key distribution with a semiconductor single-photon source, Light: Science & Applications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41377-024-01488-0 Journal information: Light: Science & Applications Provided by TranSpread This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A relational and embedded perspective can engender the most effective stewardship. Hunting and fishing involve complex tasks and vivid outdoor experiences in nature that can help to build a profound sense of participation in a natural ecosystem and a related community of practice. Credit: J. Miller. From Nature Sustainability (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41893-024-01379-7 Buying fish, sausage or meat saves you from breaking a social taboo in some industrialized nations, especially when hunting and fishing are conducted for recreation. In a perspective article in Nature Sustainability, a research team from the natural and social sciences and environmental philosophy, with Professor Robert Arlinghaus from IGB, adds a new perspective to the topic of "recreational use of wild animals." The hypothesis is that an emotionally intense interaction between hunters or anglers and wild animals can create a particularly strong sense of responsibility, described as "environmental stewardship." And this in turn would be an incentive for many to commit to lifelong environmental and species protection action. However, the research team distinguishes this intense experience of nature from more superficially conducted hunting and angling practices, which do not necessarily foster feelings of stewardship. The research team sheds light on the psychological and emotional side of recreational hunting and fishing. "Because of the powerful emotions evoked and the mentorship of like-minded participants, hunting and angling have the capacity to form character traits that are life-long and ethically central to becoming an environmental steward," said Charles List, professor emeritus of philosophy at SUNY Plattsburgh University, New York, US, co-author of the study. "Hunting and fishing generally require an intensive engagement with natural processes, ecosystems, the living creature and the annual and daily cycles. Through the experience of searching, finding, catching, taking, killing and processing of wild animals, hunters and anglers also become part of the natural food web. "This close psychosocial integration into nature can create a strong sense of responsibility to protect wildlife and fish, which we call stewardship," added Prof. Arlinghaus, sustainability researcher and fisheries professor at the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) and Humboldt-Universitat zu Berlin. Superficial interactions lead to the outsourcing of responsibility for the animals However, there are also practices that are more of a short-term intervention. This does not necessarily promote a sense of responsibility for conservation of wildlife and the environment. "There are examples of hunting and fishing experiences being dominated by market logic, for example in small put-and-take fishing ponds or in hunting experiences for specially bred wild animals released in small enclosures, known as canned hunting. "These practices lead to only superficial experiences of nature. They are designed to satisfy the desire for a quick reward. There is often no intensive examination of the personal relationship with nature and own impacts on the lives of animals," explained the first author Dr. Sam Shephard of Ave Maria University in Florida. The practice of hunting and fishing can generate skills and knowledge that are useful for conservation and management. However, the crucial factor is not the practice itself, but what it triggers for people psycho-emotionally. Fishing according to the principle of catch-and-release, for example, can strengthen the sense of responsibility for a fish when it is released out of respect for the creature or to protect a natural population of fish through self-constraint. However, catch-and-release can also be a prime example of a superficial economization of wildlife use, for example if the release event is carried out for purely economic reasons to maintain the attraction of a commercially operated fishing stretch. Similar tensions exist in specific forms of hunting. "Stewardship arises when people become aware of the consequences of their own actions and draw personally binding conclusions that lead to the sustainable management of animal populations, including to self-constraint about how many animals to take and how," explained associate professor Erica von Essen of Stockholm Resilience Center. She suggests that such stewardship can often operate independently of formal harvest regulations. In Sweden, for example, hunters are currently protesting against moose quotas which they consider to be too high, deliberately refraining from harvesting moose. Reduced to a management task: Emotional approach to killing socially tabooed Hunting and fishing can also be reduced to the act of killing for reasons of pest control or the control of invasive species. In this case, the animals are viewed as aggregated biomass that must be disposed of for a specific purpose. "Reducing killing to a management task promotes a rational, but not an emotional approach to nature. To avoid criticism, hunters and anglers in industrialized countries often take on the role of rational wildlife and fish managers and distance themselves from the more emotional or cultural dimensions of their activity because these are increasingly tabooed in society," said anthropologist Dr. Thorsten Gieser from the Czech Academy of Sciences. According to the authors, this means that some traditions that were once used to honor prey are now abandoned or only used very discreetly due to a lack of social acceptance. This may shift the emotional bounds of hunter and anglers towards wildlife into a direction that undermines environmental stewardship. "It is important to take a differentiated view of the various recreational hunting and fishing practices. An important basis for this is to remove the social taboo on killing wild animals in the context of recreational fishing and hunting because such practices can build very intense emotional connections and experiences about the consequences of one's own actions that may then lead to pro-environmental behavior and support for conservation action," concluded Arlinghaus. More information: Samuel Shephard et al, Recreational killing of wild animals can foster environmental stewardship, Nature Sustainability (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41893-024-01379-7 Journal information: Nature Sustainability This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain France's natural history collections contain nearly 6% of the world's total natural specimens across multiple institutions, and the e-COL+ project aims to capture and reconstruct these specimens in 3D for easy access and 3D printing around the world. "I'm a researcher of vertebrate locomotion and vocalization, so I produce a lot of CT scans and 3D modelsand now I'm in charge of developing the museum's own 3D digital collection," says Dr. Pauline Provini, a lecturer at the Natural History Museum in Paris, France and collaborator on the e-COL+ project. Dr. Provini is in line to become the Scientific and Technical Coordinator for the project, following the announced retirement of the current Coordinator Pierre-Yves Gagnier. Dr. Provini and her partners plan to produce several thousand 3D models of whole animal specimens and fragmental specimens, which include bones and partial remains. The e-COL+ project is led by France's National Natural History Museum and includes 9 other national research institutions and universities. The e-COL+ project has four main objectives. Firstly, it aims to provide modern equipment, especially 3D scanning tools, to the participating project partners so that they can digitize their collections. Secondly, the project plans to create a comprehensive dataset of 3D models of animals that cover a wide range of taxonomy, including both living and extinct species. "We want to have digital versions of representatives of most modern vertebrates and arthropods," says Dr. Provini. "We also want to incorporate any existing 3D models from the French collections and help to fill the gaps." Depending on the size and type of the specimen, Dr. Provini and her team use different scanning techniques. "We use surface scanners for bones and whole skeletons, but we use CT scans for specimens that are kept in fluid," she says. "For small specimens like insects, we use external providers like the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility." Thirdly, they wish to build AI tools to help improve the 3D model reconstruction process. "This can help with the automatic identification of a species or the parts of the specimen, which is a very important development for the project," says Dr. Provini. The fourth and final objective is to organize storage, availability, and presentation of the digital models for both research and public use. "We want to build an online 3D catalog that people can use to download the models. Not only researchers, but also more general audiences," says Dr. Provini. A major benefit of this project is the ability to rapidly share access to specimens between research institutions and other museums around the world. "Typically, institutions can borrow specimens from other places for their own exhibitions, but it can be very complicated because there's a lot of paperwork to doespecially if they're very rare or fragile specimens," says Dr. Provini. "Now we just send the numerical model, and they can 3D print the model whenever they want." The e-COL+ project also has benefits for teaching by providing access to specimens that may otherwise be restricted. "It will be important for learning anatomy and other subjects, but also useful for learning to use 3D printing technology and software," says Dr. Provini. The e-COL+ project is set to conclude in 2029. This project is being presented at the Society for Experimental Biology Annual Conference in Prague from 25 July 2024. 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 It took 50 million years for salmon to evolve and only about 50 years to nearly wipe them out. Now, Washington's native salmon and steelhead populations are getting a reprieveone stream at a time. Travelers on state Route 8 and U.S. 12 between Olympia and Montesano have been swerving and slowing through five separate construction zones since spring 2023. It's part of a $109 million culvert replacement project that aims to free up barriers to fish passage in Grays Harbor County. The Olympia to Montesano work is a fraction of the $3.95 billion the state legislature has authorized to improve fish passage in western Washington. WSDOT says it needs another $4 billion to complete its projects by court-mandated 2030. Why it's needed Like the drivers headed to Long Beach and Ocean Shores, fish need their own watery freeways to travel between their spawning grounds and the ocean. Spawning salmon and steelhead head upstream while juvenile fish make their way downstream. Culvertsthose corrugated pipes parents warn kids not to play incarry water under roads. They're effective but often become barriers to fish because water flows too swiftly, is too shallow or shoots out of the business end like a fire hose. WSDOT recognized the problem in 1991. But by then, the vast majority of the state's major roadways had been completed. The problem barriers have been and will continue to take decades and billions of dollars to correct. To date, the state has opened up more than 1,000 miles of fish habitat. One size does not fit all Because each stream is unique in its hydrology, topography, size and the way it crosses underneath roadways, each crossing must be tailored individually, according to WSDOT project engineer Jason Mettler. The streams on the SR 8/U.S. 12 project eventually drain to the Chehalis River. They are Camp Creek (just east of Montesano) and unnamed tributaries to Wenzel Slough (west of Elma), Vance Creek (south of Elma), Wildcat Creek (between Elma and McCleary) and Mox Chehalis Creek (east of McCleary). A new box culvert will be used at the Mox Chehalis tributary site. The other locations will be corrected with pairs of full span bridges. When finished, fish will be able to navigate the channels more easily and in a natural environment. On some of the bridges, drivers will notice a rise as they pass over the streams. That's to accommodate the possibility of high flows during flood events, Mettler said. Camp Creek The state Route 8/U.S. 12 project is WSDOT's most ambitious on the Olympic Peninsula with five sites and multiple bridges. On a recent June morning, WSDOT officials toured the Camp Creek segment of the project, east of Montesano, with a pair of reporters. The Camp Creek site involves three new bridges. Two 112-feet-long bridges are being built for the east and westbound lanes of U.S. 12. The parallel Simmons Road, a Grays Harbor County road, is getting a 110-foot-long bridge. The Simmons Road and westbound bridges are already in use. The bridges are being built while Camp Creek continues to flow through its culverts. The existing crossing carries traffic over a box (square) culvert 12-feet-wide by 6-feet-tall with a center divider. The new bridges will allow for a 17-foot-wide stream bed. Including banks needed for overflow during storms, the total opening width for each bridge is around 75 feet. Shafts During the media tour, workers were lowering a form into the ground to accommodate the pouring of a concrete support for the eastbound bridge. It and its kin will eventually reach 58 feet below ground level. U.S. 12 traffic is using the westbound bridge with a single lane temporarily apportioned for each direction. The creek is being realigned to allow for a more natural flow. When highways were built in the mid-20th century, stream channels were often changed to be perpendicular to the roadway. While more efficient, it could also act as another blow to fish passage. The Camp Creek crossings were built in 1968, Mettler said. Trees Natural forested streams on the Olympic Peninsula are full of fallen logs. They were once viewed as impediments. Biologists now know they provide habitat for fish as they slow streams down. Drivers passing through the various worksites might notice recently harvested trees piled at the sites. The logs, with their root systems still attached, will be installed in the creek beds and provide hiding places for fish during all their life cycles. "They can hang out and just do their thing and chill," said WSDOT spokesperson Doug Adamson. "That's what we see in nature," Mettler said. "And that's what we use to replicate that. We will be recreating a stream trying to match the quality and the characteristics of it ... even down to the gravel size in that stream." Rough waters downstream After 21 Washington tribes asked the U.S. District Court to uphold salmon treaty rights in 2013, the court ordered the state to fix culverts that were barriers to salmon and steelhead in western Washington. The injunction requires opening 90 percent of the potential habitat area by 2030. Out of the five streams on the SR 8/U.S. 12 project, four have partial downstream impediments, according to Kim Rydholm, a WSDOT engineer. "They're not 100 percent barriers," she said "So there's some fish, at some stages of life that can get through those." Some are county roads and others are on private property, according to WSDOT. Despite the downstream barriers, WSDOT forges ahead with projects, compelled by the injunction. But, Rydholm said, the agency keeps downstream owners apprised of WSDOT's work. Funding from various sources, including the state Department of Natural Resources, is available for private landowners to improve fish passage. "Restoration has to start somewhere," she said. "We feel like removing our barriers, which are typically the most expensive and complex in a system, really paves the way for other barrier owners to correct their barriers." Fish windows Complicating the construction are so-called fish windows. Referring to time, a fish window is the period in which crews can legally work in stream beds. They correspond to periods when fish are not migrating, usually in summer. "It is going to be pretty hectic," Mettler said. "We get a pretty small window of time to do the work within the stream." The SR 8/U.S. 12 project is slated for completion in winter 2025. WSDOT said roadway work affecting drivers will be finished before then. A daunting task WSDOT's work represents a fraction of the barriers that block fish in the Chehalis River watershed. A database maintained by the state Department of Fish and Wildlife provides a sobering look at the hundreds of impediments fish face in the basin. The agency offers fish passage services to landowners and organizations planning restoration projects. In the meantime, WSDOT will continue the court mandated work to remove barriers on state roads. The agency estimates that an additional $4 billion is needed to complete the plan by 2030. "We have about 350 barriers to correct by 2030 to meet that particular requirement," Rydholm said. 2024 The News Tribune (Tacoma, Wash.). Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. 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: Dr Mark Meekan and Kim Brooks work in tandem to collect copepods from the mouth of the whale shark, which places the fish in a good position for a liver ultrasound. Credit: AIMS An international team of researchers has discovered a new method of imaging free-swimming whale sharks using underwater ultrasound. The research, published in Frontiers in Marine Science, was led by the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) in collaboration with The University of Western Australia, WA's Mira Mar Veterinary Hospital, Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium in Japan, and Georgia Aquarium in the U.S. Lead author Dr. Mark Meekan, from UWA's Oceans Institute, has been running a monitoring program at Ningaloo Reef with AIMS for the past 20 years. "Whale sharks are large filter feeders, which makes them vulnerable to consuming plastics and man-made chemicals in the water, so we want to know if they're healthy," Dr. Meekan said. As part of the program the researchers have been collecting tiny parasites called copepods, a small shrimp-like animal, from the whale sharks' lips and edges of their fins. "We found when we started to scrape the copepods off their lips, the whale sharks slowed down, hung vertically in the water and treated us like a giant cleaner fish," Dr. Meekan said. While the whale sharks were in this position, the researchers were able to use an underwater ultrasound to capture images of the internal organs to help to assess their condition and reproductive status. "Underwater ultrasounds have been used before to look at reproductive status of sharks in aquariums or caught on drumlines, but this method is not viable with whale sharks," Dr. Meekan said. Kim Brooks was AIMS' senior field technician during the expedition and operated the hand-held ultrasound unit while free diving with a dozen whale sharks. "We began by trying to find landmarks inside the body, starting with the heart and from there tried to work out where we were in relation to the rest of the organs," Brooks said. "It was both an awesome and challenging experience because whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean, and I was able to watch a live screen view of their beating heart while holding my breath underwater." Dr. Meekan said the ultrasound imaging showed that whale sharks have a very slow heart ratejust 12 to 16 beats per minute. The researchers then started to map the internal organs and at first were interested in the liver, where oil is stored to keep the whale shark buoyant. "We also imaged the back of the shark and could clearly see the skin thickness and muscle bundles," Dr. Meekan said. "They have a layer of hard denticles at the skin surface that feels rough like sandpaper and below that connective tissue up to 20cm deep, making their skin one of the thickest of any animal. "We found whale sharks that were skinny and in poor condition had thinner skins." Scuba diving around whale sharks is not permitted at Ningaloo and touching whale sharks is illegal. More information: M. G. Meekan et al, Internal organs and body tissues of free-swimming whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) imaged using underwater ultrasound, Frontiers in Marine Science (2024). DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2024.1285429 Journal information: Frontiers in Marine Science This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The cave painting of a pig, the oldest narrative artwork made by humans. It may not look like muchjust a flaking image of three people around a big red pig. But the humble cave painting discovered in Indonesia is the oldest known narrative artwork ever made by human hands, dating back more than 51,000 years, new research said on Wednesday. "This is the oldest evidence of storytelling," Maxime Aubert, an archaeologist at Australia's Griffith University, told AFP. Aubert was part of the team that identified the previous record holder in 2019, a hunting scene found in a nearby Indonesian cave then estimated to be nearly 44,000 years old. The latest discovery, which was dated using a new laser technique, marks "the first time we've passed the 50,000-year barrier," said Aubert, a co-author of a new study in Nature describing the find. That early humans were able to tell such a "sophisticated" story through art could rewrite our understanding of human cognitive evolution, he added. "Our discovery suggests that storytelling was a much older part of human history... than previously thought," study co-author archaeologist Adam Brumm told a press conference. New laser dating For the discovery, the researchers used a new method that uses lasers and computer software to create a "map" of rock samples. This laser ablation technique is more precise, easier, quicker, cheaper, and requires much smaller rock samples than the previous uranium series method, Aubert said. Aerial Photo Karampuang Hill. Credit: Google Arts & Culture The team first tested the new technique on the previous record holder. It determined that the hunting scene was actually at least 48,000 years old4,000 years older than the uranium series method determined in 2019. The team then tried the laser method out on a previously undated painting first spotted in a cave on Indonesia's Sulawesi island in 2017. It was found to be at least 51,200 years old, smashing the previous record. The painting, which is in poor condition, shows three people around a wild pig. "We don't know exactly what they're doing," Aubert admitted. He speculated that the paintings were likely made by the first group of humans who moved through Southeast Asia before arriving in Australia around 65,000 years ago. "It's probably just a matter of time before we find samples that are older," Aubert added. Art gap mystery Humans first evolved in Africa more than 300,000 years ago. The first images known to have been made by humans are simple lines and patterns made in ochre found in South Africa dating back 100,000 years. But then there is a "huge gap" in human art until the Indonesian cave paintings 50,000 years later, Aubert said. "The question is, why is it not everywhere?" One theory is that artwork elsewhere did not survive all those millennia. Another is that ancient art could still be out there waiting to be discovered. Previously, the first narrative art was thought to have emerged in Europe. A "lion man" statue found in Germany has been dated to around 40,000 years ago. The date given for the Indonesian cave art is "quite provocative" because it is so much older than what has been found elsewhere, including in Europe, said Chris Stringer, an anthropologist at London's Natural History Museum. Stringer, who was not involved in the research, said the experienced team's findings looked sound but needed to be confirmed by further dating. "In my view this find reinforces the idea that representational art was first produced in Africa, before 50,000 years ago, and the concept spread as our species spread," he told AFP. "If that is true, much new supporting evidence from other areas including Africa has yet to emerge..." More information: Adhi Agus Oktaviana et al, Narrative cave art in Indonesia by 51,200 years ago, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07541-7 Journal information: Nature 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: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain A new study shows how a warming climate will impact New Zealand's wet and dry weather extremes, giving decision-makers the power to plan for the future. Led by the University of Waikato's Dr. Luke Harrington, Senior Lecturer in Climate Change at Te Aka Matuatua School of Science and involving colleagues from NIWA and the University of Canterbury, the study uses a larger set of climate model data than what has previously been available to show how frequently New Zealand regions experience high and low rainfall extremes in a warmer world. The research, published in Environmental Research Letters, quantifies for the first time how the unevenness of New Zealand's rainfall across a year is expected to change with climate warming. The researchers use this larger data set, which allows more confidence in expected changes, to show how New Zealand's wettest and driest days of the year respond to a 3C rise in global temperature. "We found that many regions experience significant changes in the amount of rain falling during both the wettest and driest spells, despite having shown only a minor change in annual average rainfall," Dr. Harrington says. The study estimates that regions which show no change in annual average rainfall in a 3C warmer world are likely to see their wettest days of the year producing at least 10% more rainfall than in the current climate, and their driest days of the year producing at least 10% less. "This rule of thumb can serve as a powerful tool for people on the ground to plan for what an average year might look like on a day-to-day basis in the future. We find more extreme dry spells punctuated by increasingly supercharged rainfall events," Dr. Harrington says. "These projected changes are further evidence of the challenges that will need to be confronted as global temperatures continue to increase rapidly." The study uses thousands of simulations from the Weather@Home regional climate modeling experiment for the Australia-New Zealand region, made available by donated computing power from thousands of volunteers. Climate scientist Dr. Suzanne Rosier from NIWA has played a key part in maintaining the Weather@Home-ANZ project and was involved in Dr. Harrington's research. "Rainfall projections over Aotearoa often focus on average changes over seasons and years because we've previously lacked the large datasets needed to be confident in more nuanced changes at the daily scale," Dr. Rosier says. "Our new analysis overcomes these challenges. Another of our findings is that, even regions that do show a change in the annual mean rainfall still exhibit changes in how that rainfall arrives: for example, we see increases in the number of years with 'drought-busting' extreme rainfall yet at the same time as much as a three-fold increase in the number of extreme dry years." Also involved in the study were Professor Dave Frame and Master's student Tom Marsh from the University of Canterbury. "A common phrase to explain climate change is 'the wet get wetter and the dry get drier.' This normally describes wet regions of the world experiencing more rainfall in the future, while dry regions suffer more intense drought periods," Professor Frame says. "Because we don't expect huge changes in total rainfall, people in New Zealand can get a bit complacent about future rainfall challenges. This research shows we can expect the worst of both worlds to happen simultaneously for many regions of Aotearoa as temperatures continue to rise." More information: Luke J Harrington et al, Robust changes to the wettest and driest days of the year are hidden within annual rainfall projections: a New Zealand case study, Environmental Research Letters (2024). DOI: 10.1088/1748-9326/ad585a Journal information: Environmental Research Letters SARATOGA COUNTY Two Upstate New York institutions carry some surprising connections to our nations fight for independence. As we celebrate our countrys birthday this week in anticipation of its 250th anniversary in 2026, we take a look at two community connections to our countrys revolutionary history. A tale of two brothersThe Dake family has operated Stewarts Shops since two brothers bought Stewarts Ice Cream Company in Ballston Spa in 1945. With over 350 shops across New York State and Vermont, the rest, as they say, is history. But just as important as how the family grew the business is where their story began: with another set of brothers. Two Dake brothers arrived in Newport back in the early 1700s, Bill Dake, patriarch of the Dake family recalled. Over a period of time, the families moved together and ended up in White Creek New York. There, the family carved out a modest life, but as the revolution waged, they would soon find themselves in the midst of Americas Turning Point. In the summer of 1777, General John Burgoyne began the Saratoga Campaign, in which British troops, bolstered by German Hessians would invade New York from Canada and take control of the northern part of the state. The plan was to connect with fellow British forces that had already seized control of New York City and the southern part of the state, making their way up toward Albany. Had New York completely succumbed to British authority, the American Revolution might have ended right then and there. Fortunately, Burgoyne was stymied in his endeavor, ultimately surrendering to American forces near what is now Schuylerville and retreating back to Canada. Leading up to Burgoynes now notorious surrender, were a series of defeats stemming from smaller engagements with provincial militias throughout upstate New York. One such skirmish was the battle of Bennington. The Battle of Bennington did not occur in Bennington. Thats where they were going, Dake said. (The battle) occurred in White Creek New York. In fact, according to Dake, the Battle of Bennington took place just a few miles from the family farm. What part the Dakes played in the outcome of the battle, Bill Dake didnt recollect. But as a result of their participation, the clan was granted several hundred acres of land in Middle Grove. While the Battle of Saratoga is the turning point of the Revolution, the turning point of the battle of Saratoga occurred (at the battle of) Bennington, Dake said. The family moved to the allotment just slightly northwest of Saratoga Springs and began working the land. The venture proved successful, as the farm grew and expanded into a thriving dairy concern, which in turn spawned the sprawling ice cream empire we know today. A portion of that original tract of land is now the Daketown State Forest. Musket fire and the cries for liberty may not be the first things that come to mind while youre enjoying a scoop of your favorite frozen flavor but knowing that the family responsible for the creamy confection also had a hand in our nations freedom sure does taste sweet. The gun from Saratoga For more than 120 years the Adirondack Trust Company has stood at its current location on Broadway in Saratoga Springs. The legacy of the company and the history around the building itself is impressive on its own merits. But one of the most valuable items housed at the bank isnt locked away in its vault its on display in its lobby. This is a musket that was surrendered at Saratoga, said Charles Wait Sr., chair of the Adirondack Trust Company Board of Directors. The gun sits on a small, hand-crafted table along with other pieces believed to be remnants from roughly the same time period. Wait said there are two major giveaways that tell of the guns provenance. It has been identified by experts as being from the correct time and bares the mark of one of the British regiments that marched with Burgoyne to Saratoga. But the most telling sign is the tightly wrapped leather strap holding the weapon together. What the British did to foil the Americans from using their arms when they surrendered they smashed them against a rock in order to break the back, Wait explained. And the Americans, with good old Yankee ingenuity took pieces of leather, wrapped it around the broken piece wet, and then when it dried it was like super glue. Wait said there are a lot of British cannons and mortars taken from the surrender at Saratoga housed at the Military Academy at Westpoint, but hes never come across another musket like the one housed at the bank. That kind of makes this a little more real, he said. Its really fun to be able to present this to the public so that they can see it because these are treasures. The musket, as well as a set of sabers, likely from the War of 1812 era are on loan from the Unity Lodge No. 22 Free and Accepted Masons, in Greenfield. They wanted the public to be able to see them and they wanted them to be in a secure place, Wait said. This lobbys pretty secure. Also on display is a pair of cannon balls from Waits personal collection, which were uncovered from a farm in Schuylerville located on the site of a Hessian encampment. Due to the relatively small diameter of the iron balls, Wait said they would likely have been used as anti-personnel shots. They would not only do damage if they hit somebody straight on, but once they dropped and hit the ground, if the ground was at all hard, itd bounce, he said. But its not just the artifacts on display in the lobby that connects the Adirondack Trust Company to the early days of America. The Wait family themselves hold a unique, dual distinction in the formation of our country. Wait is a direct descendant of Joseph Wait, who was a Captain in Rogers Rangers during the French and Indian War in 1757. He later joined the cause of independence and served as Lt. Col. in the American Army. He was killed while attempting to block the British from moving south on Lake Champlain in the fall of 1776. Some men fought in both wars, Charles Wait said. Heres comrades in arms who, 20-years later, are slaughtering each other. You kind of marvel at that. The semi-quincentennial celebration of America officially kicked off in December 2023 with the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party. As the nation re-traces its steps toward independence in the coming years, there are connections to our shared history on display every day. Following a United Nations rapporteur's report on the atrocities that accompany prostitution, evangelical groups call on nation states to stop normalizing sex services and instead officially recognise prostitution and its related variations as systematically linked to violence and the exploitation of women and girls. The World Evangelical Alliance (WEA), the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) and the Salvation Army International Social Justice Commission jointly presented their statement in a video submission as part of the U.N. Human Rights Council's 56th session in the Palais de Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, which is held from June 18 to July 12. The organizations supported the gruesome and damning findings of Ms. Reem Alsalem, the U.N.'s Special Rapporteur on Violence Against Women And Girls, Its Causes And Consequences. Prostitution is a system of exploitation and an aggregated form of male violence against women and girls that intersects with other forms of structural discrimination, said Alsalem in her report to the U.N. Human Rights Council, entitled, Prostitution and Violence Against Women and Girls. It is exercised systematically by a wide web of State and non-State actors that subjugate, control and exploit women and girls in violation of their fundamental human rights. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up The extreme levels of violence inflicted on women in prostitution which would never be accepted in other contexts are blanketed by a financial transaction, designed to materialize a so-called consent that cannot be expressed freely in the prostitution system. In this context, the very concept of consent is weaponized against women in prostitution, as it is extorted through physical or economic coercion, manipulation and violence. Alsalem listed multiple examples of disturbing forms of violence against women and girls, adding that Globally, girls are the fastest growing group among detected trafficked persons. She said girls were being trapped into prostitution younger and younger, including some as young as 8 years of age. Pornography exposure for children had quadrupled sex offenses against children in the past decade, with most victims being girls. These acts of violence against women and girls, she said, constituted torture, inhuman and degrading treatment. Physical forms of violence mainly by sex act buyers include sexual abuse, rape and gang rape, severe beatings, including for the victims refusal, lack of enthusiasm or dissociation, she wrote. Kidnapping, abduction and enforced disappearance were also common. Women and girls are mutilated or burned, including with cigarettes. They have foreign objects inserted into their bodies, urinated, defecated and ejaculated upon, and can be forced to have unprotected sex. In pornography, acts of gagging, brutal penetration of the vagina by one or several men, are particularly common. As a result, they are often left with lasting physical disabilities. Prostitution also leads to femicide, serial killings and death threats. Alsalem said women were often kept in slavery or slavery-like conditions. She even listed prostitutes being forced into sex acts with animals and the more brutal and violent sex acts meant sex users felt they received their moneys worth. Frontline organizations reported that the consequences of prostitution on women and girls were akin to victims of torture. A study in nine countries showed that 68 percent of prostitutes suffered post traumatic stress. Forced abortions, pelvic floor degradation and cervical cancer were among the numerous consequences of prostitution on women and girls noted in the report. The issue of coercion was also highlighted, with control and exploitation not just by pimps and traffickers, but also States. Alsalem highlighted that migrant women in debt bondage were forced into sex acts to try and pay their debts. Mothers can also lose custody of their children, many of whom are conceived from violent acts of prostitution, and the youngsters endure various developmental delays due to abuse, neglect, no education or father figure, language and learning disorders and the children are also often stolen, drugged or sold in trafficking networks, regularly used for sexual abuse or rape, and often are killed too. This issue of State involvement meant that nations made profits from prostituted women in full legalized systems. Alsalem pointed out the example of Switzerland enjoying an annual revenue of 3.2 billion CHF (3.5 billion USD) generated by the commercial sex industry. States benefit from the prostitution of women through personal income tax imposed on them, the corporate taxing and licensing fees required on brothels and/or cyber enabled businesses, in essence becoming a pimp State. Authorities were also struggling to beat technological demands for prostitution via pornography. A study of popular porn videos in 2010 showed that 88.2 percent involved assault such as gagging, choking or strangulation. In the Republic of Korea, where the U.S. Government estimated in 2022 that 44 percent espouse a religion and 45 percent of that figure are Protestant and 18 percent Roman Catholic, Alsalem said 42 percent of all men have bought sex acts once in their lifetime. Alsalem said that driving instructors in the Netherlands can now demand a sex act from students for payment, known as a ride for a ride. In the U.K. the University of Leicester gave a sex worker toolkit to students while failing to develop any financial support dedicated to its most precarious female students. Evangelicals say normalizing of sex services must stop The evangelical bodies support Alsalems call for an abolitionist legal framework to be adopted and to stop the normalizing of sex services, which often violates impoverished and vulnerable women. Markus Hofer, WEAs UN Communications and Advocacy Officer, said that prostitution is intrinsically linked to violence and is a form of violence in itself. Hofer slammed the system of prostitution presenting women as commodities. He said that Alsalems report recognised prostitution as a system of inequality and discrimination based on sex and other intersecting grounds. As such, there is a full spectrum of international human rights standards that apply in the context of prostitution. We affirm the Special Rapporteurs findings that prostitution is both intrinsically linked to violence against women and girls and constitutes a form of violence in and of itself. We are particularly concerned about the contexts that create vulnerability to exploitation in prostitution and appreciate the reports fulsome discussion of those factors. The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) welcomed the special rapporteurs groundbreaking report on prostitution and violence against women and girls. Julia Beazley, EFC director of public policy, told Christian Daily International that the faith body also welcomed the special rapporteurs recognition that prostitution is a system of exploitation and violence, which reduces women and girls to commodities. Significantly, she found that prostitution is both intrinsically linked to different forms of violence against women and girls and constitutes a form of violence in and of itself, said Beazley. She highlighted that the EFC had responded with a written submission on the issue, following a call in January from the Special Rapporteur asking for input for her report. These findings align with the perspective we shared in our written submission, that Prostitution is a system of exploitation that is based on structural and gender inequalities and preys on vulnerabilities, said Beazley. We have long argued that violence is inherent to prostitution, a finding affirmed by a recent Ontario Superior court decision, which found that violence is a feature, not a bug of sex work. Beazley knew of a push by some undisclosed groups to decriminalize prostitution in both Canada and around the world. But this report underlines the inherently exploitative nature of prostitution as a system of violence, and the importance of abolishing this system in order to protect the safety, dignity and equality of women and girls. The public policy director hoped that countries would heed the report and the presented evidence, and recommendations by the Special Rapporteur, and adopt the equality model approach to prostitution, which penalizes demands from buyers for paid sexual acts. The EFC wants five pillars to be adopted by nation states. These are the decriminalization of women in prostitution; providing comprehensive support and exit pathways; criminalizing the purchase of sexual acts; criminalizing all forms of pimping; and implementing sensitization campaigns for sexual act buyers. We urge all countries to recognize prostitution with its connected variations, such as pornography, as a system of exploitation and violence, said Beazley. In a June 13 letter to the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the EFCs Centre for Faith and Public Life, based in Ottawa, Canada, spoke of its advocacy work in persuading Canadas Parliament to adopt the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act. This law criminalized a consumer buying and profting of sex services from another person, whilst immunizing prostituted persons from prosecution. We have long argued that prostitution is not merely a series of interactions between purchaser and purchased that exist independently of one another. Rather, prostitution is part of a system of exploitation that is based on structural inequalities and preys on a range of vulnerabilities. It is fundamentally contrary to equality between the sexes, and is both based in and relies on that inequality to exist, the letter read. According to World Population Review's estimates , there are 42 million prostitutes in the world with the following countries having legalized prostitution as of 2024: Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Mozambique, Turkey, Eritrea, Sierra Leone, Greece, Hungary, Germany, Switzerland, Uruguay, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. As a retired 83-year-old living in Elise Stefanik's Congressional District, her evaluation of Former President Trump's performance during the Presidential Debate is strange, to say the least. Congresswoman Stefanik praises Trump as the absolute winner of the Debate with no mention of some 20 misstatements or lies that he told. It is clear to me that Trump has no vision for this country, except one that will exalt him and give him unbridled power and authority. I find it sad that Stefanik has given up any moral vision for an America that is united and cares for all who come to our shores. She is a Trumper first, above all. Who will represent the broad vision of at least some of us in her district? DES MOINES Iowa Republicans mounted a larger advantage over Democrats in voter registration totals coming out of the June primary, indicating growing strength of the party that has increasingly dominated the states elections over the last four years. Counting both active and inactive voters, there are 782,177 registered Republicans in the state, and 650,112 registered Democrats, as of July 1, according to data from the Iowa Secretary of State's office. There are 768,389 voters registered with no party or with a non-party political organization, while 16,188 are registered as Libertarians. Active voters are voters that participated in the 2022 election, while inactive voters are those who are registered but did not vote in 2022. They are still eligible to vote in 2024. Registered Republicans who make up more than 35% of Iowa voters now outnumber Democrats in Iowa by more than 130,000. Since this time last year, Republicans gained 33,575 voters, while Democrats lost 22,378. The June 4 primary, which featured two competitive GOP congressional primaries and saw far higher turnout among Republicans, contributed to the party's gains this year, said University of Iowa political science professor Tim Hagle. There were a fair number of party changes in the leadup to the primaries this time, and Republicans tended to benefit from that, Hagle said. But theyve been benefiting by and large for quite a while, several months at least this year. Republicans gained 12,659 voters between June and July, while Democrats lost 2,286. Beyond the primary, the Jan. 15 Iowa caucuses served as a massive organizing boost for the Iowa GOP: the party gained 15,766 voters between January and February, while Democrats lost 5,537 voters in the same month. It was the first month Republicans voter advantage crossed 100,000. No-party voters, who are registered to vote but do not declare a party, grew by 16,784 in the last year. These voters, who tend to lean more conservative, are often the deciding factor in Iowa elections, Hagle said. Those voters are often less engaged in the day-to-day party politics and more invested in issues like the economy, health care and, more recently, immigration, Hagle said. In recent cycles, they have tended to side with Republicans. Theyre focused more on economic, kitchen-table type issues, Hagle said. So I would say that at least drilling down as far as the congressional district level, its still going to be the no-party voters that are particularly important. Republicans overtake Democrats in congressional districts Republicans also outnumber Democrats in each of Iowas four congressional districts, a change from July of 2023 when Democrats held advantages in three of the four districts. Republicans hold all four of Iowas seats in Congress. The 1st Congressional District, represented by Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, and the 3rd District, represented by Rep. Zach Nunn, are both seen by Democrats as potential pickup opportunities in the November election. Party leaders work to mobilize voters Scott County Democratic Party Chair Kay Pence said the local party has been working to knock doors, engage voters and get them registered to vote as the November election approaches. Pence, who is also running for the Iowa House in a district that includes parts of Scott, Clinton and Jackson counties, said Democratic turnout took a hit in 2022, and they are working to build up turnout. Despite the registered voter disadvantage, Pence said she thinks Democrats can reach no-party voters by arguing that Republicans have veered too far to the right on issues like education and abortion. It reflects a broad strategy Democrats have outlined this year of focusing local races on local issues, even as former President Donald Trump leads President Joe Biden in polling by double digits in Iowa and Bidens recent debate performance has shaken voter confidence in his ability to win the election. I think, especially a lot of the no-party people are getting pretty frustrated with whats going on in Iowa, Pence said. I think theres a lot of people that are upset about (abortion), even people that are beyond reproductive age, because they dont think the government should be getting in peoples lives. A law banning abortion as early as six weeks into a pregnancy, passed by Iowa Republicans in 2023, will take effect this month after the Iowa Supreme Court declared it constitutional and cleared the way for its enforcement. Kelley Koch, the chair of the Dallas County Republicans, said the party has been targeting both independents and soft Democrats, who are registered as Democrats but may be persuaded to vote Republican. She said the party is focusing on national issues like the economy, immigration and public safety to message to voters who are disappointed with Bidens presidency. The local party has put together a vote red sample ballot to highlight the Republican candidates on the ticket, she said, which has been mailed to identified voters that may be persuadable. A June Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll found that 50% of likely Iowa voters support Trump in the November election, compared to 32% who said they support Biden. The Biden Administration policies, they don't fit who these people are in Dallas County, Koch said. They want safe streets, they want cheaper gas, cheaper Hy-Vee bills So we are confident with this aggressive plan that we have." Evangelical Christians are mobilizing efforts to help people as the powerful hurricane Beryl pours its wrath across the Caribbean islands. At the time of publication, the category five "monster storm", now downgraded to a still impressive category four, was heading to the southern coastline of Jamaica from east to west, with thunderous rain and blustering wind due eastern St Thomas. The Cayman Islands is also on the firing line after the tempest caused widespread damage on other islands across the region. The Yucatan Peninsula, on the east coast of Mexico, has also received a hurricane watch warning, according to reports, and tropical storm winds are anticipated further south in Belize City, Belize. Official figures initially reported seven known dead so far, with three people killed in Grenada, three in Venezuela and one person in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Christian Daily International has received first-hand reports from evangelical leaders in the regions and the churches' response to support those affected by the storm. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up Canouan, Union Island and Myreau, part of St. Vincent, have been totally decimated and residents evacuated to mainland St. Vincent. The hurricanes center also crossed over the small island of Carriacou, which forms part of Grenada with an estimated 150 mph wind. We have reports of extensive storm surge, reports of extensive loss of roofs and damage to buildings and there is no electricity on any of the islands and communication is also difficult, Prime Minister Dickson Mitchell of St. Georges-Grenada told the Nation newspaper in Barbados on Tuesday. Rev. Emerson Boyce, Secretary General of the Evangelical Association of the Caribbean (EAC), knew of two lives lost so far, among the 10,000 residents. Such fury caused a total wreck in about 30 minutes, he told Christian Daily International, adding: Help is on the way. Grenada itself has also suffered significant damage, according to Boyce. Details are a bit sketchy due to electricity failure no internet connection, I am experiencing problems connecting with leaders and friends. Boyce expressed deep concern at the effect of the hurricane over the Caribbean islands. Through EACs National Alliances, I am mobilizing relief supplies for urgent dispatch to support the islands affected by Beryl. Also, in partnership with CREW [weather warning system], the Disaster Preparedness non-governmental organization (NGO) of the Pentecostal Assemblies of the West Indies is ready to respond to our neighbors. Barbados escaped the worst of the hurricane, which passed about 90 miles south of the island. Even so, Barbados still suffered from tropical storm force winds. The Fisheries Complex at Oistins has been destroyed, some 10 fishing vessels sunk, the jetty housing the fuel seriously damaged and the Port suffering a minor blow, said Boyce. The hurricane devastated the fishing industry, crucial to the islands food security, and caused coastal damage. Several fishing vessels were either destroyed or sustained serious damage. To date, I have not heard of lives being lost. A damage assessment has begun and will probably take several days before that assessment is properly computed. The Rev. Gerald Seale who lives in Christchurch, Barbados, also said the island with a population of 281,000 was spared the worst of the hurricane. Even so, Barbados suffered tropical storm force winds and he confirmed that government officials were assessing damage caused by the storm. It will probably be several days before that assessment is properly quantified, Seale told Christian Daily International. Our churches are continuously helping members and non-members with groceries, paying utility bills for seniors, etc. This will be continued and ramped [up] where needed and possible. Seale also confirmed the reports of damage to some of the other islands in the wake of the storm. The tiny island of Carriacou just off Grenada had the center of Beryl cross the island carrying 150 mph sustained winds. It is expected that there will be catastrophic damage there. Im hearing there is significant damage in both Grenada and St. Vincent but I have no details at this time. Connecting with friends in these two islands is still very problematic. Grenada with a population of 127,000 people has only suffered a major hurricane once before in 2004, according to St. Georges University on the island. North Carolina muralist Britt Flood started work on a mural in downtown Hamilton on Monday as part of Chapter One Book Stores 50th anniversary celebration. Flood is a professional artist hailing from Chapel Hill who was selected for the project for her professionalism, experience and colorful aesthetic. The mural is one of two designs being painted on the north and west sides of Chapter One Book Store at the corner of Main and Third streets. The mural is part of Chapter Ones 50th anniversary celebrations. Chapter One co-owner Mara Luther said she kind of choked up when she saw the mural for the first time while walking to work on Monday. I could see color and I could see a giant flower, and it was just, it was so beautiful, she said. Its really going to, I think, change a lot of people's daily view, and also give Hamilton that public art that we know is so important for people who are passing through as well. It's one of those projects that I think is going to better our daily lives, and also make it really exciting to be downtown. Some may be surprised by the fact that the independent bookstore has been in the valley for 50 years, but after 19 years of working at Chapter One, its no surprise to Luther. I know how dedicated our community is to reading and to its small businesses, and how connected Chapter One has always been to the wider community, she said. Chapter One Book Store has changed hands over the years, but the fundamental idea of fostering community hasnt. The owners have always really modeled collaboration, and this idea that what's good for us is good for Hamilton, Luther said. I think that is a big part of Chapter Ones success. And that's kind of what was handed down to us. And we've been able to continue that, and hopefully will for the next 50 years. Chapter One is inviting community members to join the fun during a community painting celebration from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, July 7. Volunteers will have the opportunity to help paint a portion of the mural with Flood's guidance. Clothing that can get messy is recommended. The festivities will culminate with a block party from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, July 12. Third Street will be closed from Main to Pickney streets for an evening of dancing to music by the Big Sky Mudflaps. Food will be provided by House of Ferments, with drinks courtesy of the Hamilton Downtown Association. There will also be activities available for kids including face painting, sprinklers and a dunk tank. There is also a mural artist workshop with Flood on July 12 and 13. Community members will have the opportunity to learn the basics of completing a simple mural from start to finish. The workshop will cover wall preparation, scaling a design, color blocking and different mural painting techniques. More information on the workshop can be found at chapter1bookstore.com/muralworkshop. We just want to make sure everyone knows that everyone's invited, Luther said. We're especially trying to get the word out to anyone who's ever been a part of Chapter One. We hope to see as many familiar faces as possible, but also anyone who's only just been introduced to Chapter One. Come down and party with us, this is your crew. The first Black woman to charter a bank in the United States was more than just an entrepreneur. Beyond her work as a business owner, Maggie Lena Walker was a pillar of Richmonds Black community from the 1880s until her death in 1934. She helped put Richmond on the map, in front of the backdrop of the booming economic center and birthplace of Black capitalism that was Jackson Ward in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She was instrumental in the success of the Independent Order of St. Luke, which was devoted to ensuring economic independence for Black Americans. She began her own publication, the St. Luke Herald, to speak up against Jim Crow policies in the South. She went head-to-head with white store owners and pro-Jim Crow publications. She ran for state office in 1921, just a year after women were granted the right to vote in the U.S. Her legacy and impact, and those of the countless Black Richmonders who were at the forefront of Black progress, live on 160 years after Maggie L. Walkers birth. Celebrations for her 160th birthday will take place in Jackson Ward in the weeks around her birthday. Walkers early life Walker was born in the twilight of the Civil War, on July 15, 1864. Her mother was Elizabeth Draper, a Black woman born into slavery in the household of Elizabeth Van Lew, a Richmond aristocrat who served as a Union spy during the Civil War. Draper worked in her household as a laundress. I was not born with a silver spoon in my mouth, but a clothes basket almost upon my head, Walker said in a 1907 speech. Walkers biological father was a white man who immigrated from Ireland and fought for the Confederacy during the war. He didnt play a role in Walkers life. The circumstances of her birth are a microcosm of things that defined the country during the Civil War, according to Ben Anderson, a National Park Service ranger who works at the Maggie L. Walker Historical Site in Jackson Ward. That gets woven into her DNA, Anderson said. That becomes a part of who she was and of course, now, from the point-of-view of 2024 its tempting to think with an origin story like that, she must have been predestined to become an important historical figure. Walker graduated from high school in 1883 a time when the national graduation rate was somewhere around 3.5% and found work as a schoolteacher until her marriage in 1886. To get a high school degree at that time, it really was a unique achievement, Anderson said. It kind of automatically made you an elite member of society. After her marriage to Armstead Walker, a brick contractor, Maggie Walker began to devote time and energy to the Independent Order of St. Luke, a Black fraternal order. Fraternal orders like the Independent Order of St. Luke served as a type of insurance for the Black community at a time when segregation and refusal of services based on race was legal. At the time, this was kind of revolutionary, Anderson said. Because this happening at a time when yes, the war is over, slavery is over, but the white powers that be, theyre not interested in sharing access to services to Black folks. The Reconstruction era Gary Flowers, local historian and tour guide, says this history has been deliberately hidden from history books. Flowers said Black fraternal orders exploded from the Richmond area during Reconstruction, a time where Black communities thrived between the end of the Civil War and the Jim Crow era. The white power structure abandoned African Americans in terms of services provided to Black people, Flowers said. So Black people turned to each other and not against each other, and formed mutual aid societies that evolved into insurance. Richmonds history reflects this both the first Black-owned insurance company and the first Black-owned bank were established in Richmond. Walker became the president of the order in 1899 at a time when her predecessor left it a sinking ship. To promote the organization, Walker traveled around the country and worked to expand it from the world of insurance to new ventures. She takes over in 1899 and really radically transforms it, Anderson said. Flowers, whose family has lived in Jackson Ward for four generations, runs historical walking tours of the neighborhood. Maggie Walker is the most unheralded woman, Black or white, in all of American history, Flowers said. She took the Order of St. Luke from 50 members when she took over in 1899 to over 100,000 members spanning twenty states. The order captured nationwide attention, including from other Black trailblazers of the time like Ida B. Wells, Marcus Garvey and W. E. B. DuBois. It operated out of a four story building that might as well have been a skyscraper, for its time, Flowers said. It was a source of admiration and awe by then-national leaders of the Black community, he said. Jackson Ward was created in 1871 as one of the first efforts of redlining and gerrymandering in the Reconstruction era. It was created as Richmonds only Black political district, Flowers said, and was reportedly named after Confederate General Stonewall Jackson. Others claim it takes its name from U.S. President Andrew Jackson. For a time, before Jim Crow laws were enacted, Black men were able to serve in city government. One such man who served Jackson Ward was Giles Jackson, the first Black lawyer to argue before the Virginia Supreme Court. Early examples of voter suppression were seen in Jackson Ward, according to Flowers. Often when Black men tried to cast their votes, armed white men stood guard. If I were trying to cast my ballot back then, and I see white men with pistols, shotguns, Confederate flags, either by silence or by voice I am now intimidated to cast my vote, he said. That started in Richmond. But even in the heart of the Jim Crow period, Jackson Ward thrived. In 1890, it was known as Black Wall Street, decades before Tulsa, Oklahoma, was given the same recognition. Tulsa was later the site of a 1921 race massacre. Virginia led the nation in Black-owned banks, Flowers said, and women contributed to the economic boom too. Black women created micro-entrepreneurial ventures, he said. They provided laundry services, mending and even sold meals from windows. In its heyday, Jackson Ward was home to over 800 Black-owned businesses. Walker chartered the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank in 1903, making her the first Black woman in U.S. history to do so. The bank operated independently until 1930 when it consolidated with two other Black banks, Second Street Savings Bank and the Commercial Bank and Trust to create the Consolidated Bank and Trust. The reason for the consolidation, Flowers said, was that other Black banks in Richmond were being shut down on the grounds of unfounded allegations of fraud, embezzlement and mismanagement. Walker approached the other banks with idea that if they stood together, racist policymakers couldnt close them down. The bank stayed open until 2005 when it was acquired by the Abigail Adams Corporation. In 1902, she began a publication, The St. Luke Herald, which covered subjects relating to the order and advocated for the uplifting of Black people in Richmond and in the nation. Anderson said Walker was involved in activism from her teenage years to her final year. Perhaps the most apparent example of her activism can be seen in the 1904-1906 streetcar boycotts, of which Walker was an organizer. After the Virginia General Assembly passed the Act Concerning Public Transportation, which made it legal for Richmond trollies to be segregated, The Virginia Passenger and Power Company announced it would begin enforcing segregated streetcars in Richmond. In response, Walker used The St. Luke Herald to advocate for a citywide trolley boycott, along with other members of the Black press like John Mitchell Jr., editor of The Richmond Planet. She uses her newspaper, The St. Luke Herald to publish several really stirring editorials, Anderson said. To kind of keep it going. Most copies of The St. Luke Herald have been lost to time, though the Maggie L. Walker historic site has some clippings in its collection. What is known is that the trolley boycott was successful and lasted nearly two years. The Virginia Passenger and Power Company went out of business in 1906, nearly 50 years before the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.s bus boycott in Montgomery, Alabama. As a lifelong history buff, graduate of the University of Virginia and former adjunct lecturer at Harvard, Flowers said the lack of Jackson Wards history taught in Richmond and the greater American school systems baffled him. It was deliberately hidden from us here in Virginia, Flowers said. We should have learned about the Walker-Mitchell boycott before we learned about the 1955 Montgomery boycott. In addition to their collaboration in activist pursuits, Walker and Mitchell combined forces to found the Lily Black Political Party in 1920. In 1921, they ran for government office as state secretary of education and governor, respectively. The idea that in the capital of the Confederacy they could found an all-Black political party is nationally significant, Flowers said. Walker was a suffragist as well, and even registered women to vote in the 1920 presidential election, just months the passage of the 19th Amendment. Walker, educator Rosa Bowser and then-first lady of Ebenezer Baptist Church Mamie Storrs organized women to vote at Old City Hall. When Walker opened her own department store on Broad Street in 1905, she received pushback from white business owners. They began to boycott Walkers supplier in hopes they would cease to do business with her. In 1911, the store closed. Anderson said Walker faced opposition on two fronts: both for her race and her gender. In a speech she delivers in March of 1906, specifically to male members of the Independent Order of St. Luke, he said. If you read between the lines, she feels the need to make that speech because she must have been experiencing some sexist pushback from within the Independent Order of Saint Luke. Maggie Lena Walker died at the age of 70 in her home on December 15, 1934. Her home, located on North 2nd Street, is now the National Maggie L. Walker Historic Site. Since 1975, its served as a museum and landmark. Walkers legacy, Anderson said, is not only a testament to the resilience of the Black community, but to the human spirit as well. The greatest gift she leaves us with is the memory of how she responds to it, Anderson said. We see all of these obstacles, over and over and over again, in so many different forms constantly appearing before her, but what we never see, in any form, is her giving into them. Top five weekend events: Fireworks, Music at Maymont & Maggie Walker Celebration Fireworks at Dogwood Dell Fourth of July at the Virginia State Capitol Maggie Walker Celebration Music at Maymont: Leftover Salmon Richmond Shakespeare Festival: 'Doctor Faustus' Francis Gary Powers Jr. was only 12 when his father died. Now, hes honoring his dads legacy as a historical figure. Powers Sr. was flying a news traffic helicopter over Los Angeles on Aug. 1, 1977, when it crashed, killing him and a cameraman. But 17 years earlier, the elder Powers made international headlines and earned a place in history as the U.S. pilot who was shot down and captured by the Soviet Union in what would become known as the U-2 Incident, one of the most famous events of the Cold War. Powers Jr., who lives in Midlothian, has dedicated the past 12 years of his life to keeping the history of the Cold War alive because, according to him, it informs nearly every conflict our world is experiencing today. On May 1, 1960, Francis Gary Powers, 30, took off from an airbase in Pakistan in a U-2 spy plane to conduct a routine surveillance flight over Soviet airspace before landing in Norway. Powers was a pilot for the CIAs U-2 spy plane program, which was formed in 1956 to conduct aerial assessments of Soviet nuclear programs. U-2 aircraft could fly at altitudes as high as 70,000 feet and the CIA thought this made the jet impossible to detect with ground-level equipment. But hours into his flight, Powers plane was shot down in west-central Russia. He ejected and parachuted from the plane, but was captured and interrogated by the KGB. Powers was found guilty of espionage in August 1960 and sentenced to 10 years confinement. A year and nine months after his capture, he was returned to the United States in a prisoner exchange for Soviet spy Col. Rudolf Abel. But the son of the U-2 pilot said the Cold War wouldnt end until 31 years after the U-2 Incident. Growing up, Powers Jr. was always aware of what happened to his father, but had never given it much thought. He said all of that changed when his father died. I didnt understand the significance of what hed gone through until it was too late, Powers Jr. said. In high school, Im very introverted. People would ask me questions, I wouldnt know the answers, so I didnt want to talk about it. He said after breaking out of his shell in college, he began to do further research into the Cold War. Im curious. I want to find out more about my father, but more importantly I want to find out the truth, so I know how to answer questions being asked of me. We have to understand Cold War history After that, Powers Jr. said, it snowballed. He discovered that to fully understand what happened to his father, he had to look at the bigger picture of the Cold War as a whole. Since delving into Cold War history in his college years, Powers has gone on to help found the Cold War Museum in Vint Hill, Virginia, conduct Cold War Tours of the U.S. and Europe, lecture on the Cold War and even consult for Stephen Spielbergs 2015 film Bridge of Spies with Tom Hanks, which is a dramatization of the 1962 Powers-Abel prisoner exchange. Powers Jr. also is the author of several books about the Cold War, including his newest release, Enemy Territory, a graphic novel. This is what snowballs into what I do today, Powers Jr. said. Lecturing, writing, teaching, preserving Cold War history, honoring Cold War veterans, educating future generations about this time period. All started as a result of my interest in finding out about my dad. Powers Jr. said the lack of Cold War education in American schools concerns him, especially because he thinks current world events are direct results of the Cold War. We have to understand Cold War history, he said. Understand the ramifications of what happened, the players in it, to understand the world today. Powers Jr. said at the end of the Cold War, there was an unwritten promise that the West wouldnt expand NATO to touch the Russian border. When NATO expanded, Putin invaded Crimea. Powers Jr. said he thinks the wider Ukraine war is a direct effect of Putins reaction to NATO expansion. Theres a lot more to the Ukraine war than people understand, he said. There were things going on behind the scenes that the world public is not aware of that led to this war thats already on the brink of World War III. He cited the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979 as another example. The U.S., through the CIA, funded and armed Afghan insurgents who opposed Soviet intervention and Afghan communist leaders. The head of these rebels was Osama Bin Laden, the future leader of Al-Qaeda, the terrorists responsible for the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Another example of current events from decisions made during the Cold War can be seen in Palestine and Israel today, Powers Jr. said. In 1947, two years after the end of World War II, Israel becomes a state, Palestine does not. We have this conflict today because of that Cold War event, he said. Again, Cold War history affecting the world in the future. Powers Jr. argues the Cold War never truly ended it only got colder. He said where the U.S. stands with Russia today is evidence of that. In the late 1990s, while he was doing research for the Cold War Museum, Powers Jr. was looking for some KGB artifacts for an exhibit. He reached out to a friend in Moscow, a retired KGB agent who spied in the U.S. during the Cold War, and asked if she could run it up the flagpole within the organization. What he heard back surprised him. About two, three months later, she gets back to me and she says, Gary, Ive gotten a reply, he said. They have said: He will get no help from us. The Cold War is not over. So seven, eight years after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the KGB is saying the Cold War isnt over. Seeing lessons in history He said while the general population is under the impression the Cold War ended, the government still operates as if it never did. Just like in the Cold War, Russia has American citizens imprisoned in Russian jails. Powers Jr. says hes skeptical of the legitimacy of their charges. He referenced Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who is imprisoned on charges of espionage, as one such prisoner. So far, Russia has not given any evidence as to what hes been accused of, he said. Right now, I have to believe its a trumped-up charge. That theyre doing it for political reasons, that they are holding him a hostage in order to get someone to exchange for. 4 ways you can help the Richmond Times-Dispatch cover the community You can help us improve our coverage and deliver the news important to you. Here's how you can help. Powers Jr. has traveled to Russia several times but doubts he will return, and advises other American citizens to avoid Russia. I do believe that American citizens traveling to Russia should not be doing that right now, he said. Its a very dangerous time. I believe that Putin will try to pick up people to hold as bargaining chips to get what he wants done. There is no doubt in my mind that we are in World War III, he said. Its just, the battles have not yet reached our shores, and hopefully they wont. The western powers are fighting the eastern powers, that is a world war. He said all these current events are why understanding Cold War history is more important now than ever before. People have to understand where we came from in order to understand today, he said. Which is why Im talking about Cold War history, because that is the most relevant piece of our history that is now affecting our world today. 9 archive photos of Fourth of July celebrations in the Richmond region Fourth of July Fourth of July Fourth of July Fourth of July Fourth of July Fourth of July Fourth of July Fourth of July Fourth of July Religious bodies, churches and Christian leaders in Kenya have responded to a call by protesting Gen Zs to disassociate the pulpit from politicians and to be the voice of the voiceless. Different Christian bodies admitted that the Church in Kenya has had an unhealthy relationship with politicians and affirmed the right of young people to peacefully demonstrate against bad governance and injustice. The Evangelical Alliance of Kenya (EAK) called on the government to urgently address concerns raised by Kenyans in the wake of widespread demonstrations that turned deadly in the last week of June. The Alliance, which represents 700 evangelical denominations in Kenya, demanded the government reconsider its tax plans that would further increase the cost of living. EAK Chairman Bishop Phillip Kitoto and General Secretary Kepha Nyandega echoed the demands of protesters on the need to curb corruption and unnecessary government spending. We firmly call the government to accountability in addressing the poor stewardship of resources. In addition, we would like to comment that the sudden fiscal changes that Kenya has experienced in the last 2 years in the form of aggressive changes in tax measures, are bad for business and the economic stability of our country as they create a lot of pain among the citizenry, said Kitoto in a statement. The Alliance also condemned the police for shooting and killing two protesters on June 20. The number of those killed by the police had risen to at least 13 after street protests on June 25 to 28 turned violent. Scores were injured and businesses lost millions due to looting and vandalism. Prior to this, the protests were peaceful and largely led by Gen Zs who have been credited for pressuring President William Rutos government to recall an unpopular tax bill despite parliaments approval. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up These young people were peaceful, unarmed protesters who did not deserve to be killed or injured. We condemn the use of excessive force by the police on peaceful picketers, said Kitoto. Quoting Isaiah 61:8 that says, For I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery and wrongdoing, EAK challenged lawmakers to act in the best interest of the people. We implore the leaders of the nation and those charged with this noble responsibility, to listen to the people and focus on prioritization of essential services and goods, and eliminate all wastage, added Nyandega. The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK), which was one of the church organisations that met President Ruto a day after the protests turned violent, emphasized the need for the government to listen and effectively respond to the issues the youth have raised. NCCK General Secretary Rev. Chris Kinyanjui said the church was concerned over the failure by the government to listen to Kenyans with regards to the tax proposals that led to the protests. The killing of dozens of peacefully picketing Kenyans by the police is totally unacceptable. It must never be repeated. Further, we find it heartless, insensitive and disdainful for the Members of Parliament to have ignored the will of the people by passing the Finance Bill 2024. By this action, Parliament erased its legitimacy in the eyes of the voters, said Kinyanjui. Christ is the Answer Ministries (CITAM), a pentecostal church with a membership of 60,000 faithfuls, was candid in its assessment of the dalliance between the Church and politics. Bishop Calisto Odede said the youth had rightly questioned and criticized the Church for giving politicians a platform to expand their influence on the pulpit and during fund raising events. Indeed, they (Gen Zs) truly showed us that, as the clergy, we should not politicize Christianity and neither should we christianize politics. We the clergy have certainly listened to your prophetic call, said Odede, who also commended the youth for championing integrity and accountability in governance. Nairobis Trinity Baptist Church (TBC) Pastor Murungi Igweta, in a statement on the state of the Nation and the Church read during a church service, was direct on his assessment of the governments contribution to the street protests that are now in their third week. Igweta said that institutionalized corruption, broken promises and the arrogance of state and political leaders had brought this country on her knees. We must not stand with the institution of the 'church' or denominational leaders and ecumenical bodies who have been unable to offer light to the government. They have been accomplices. They have been unable to be the conscience of this country, said Igweta. Online campaign to preserve the pulpit An online campaign to keep politics out of church services hit a crescendo on Sunday 23 June when X (Twitter) users used #OccupyChurch and #CleanTheAltar to persuade churches to take a firm stand on protecting the sanctity of the pulpit and defending the rights of the protesters. Anglican Elder and social justice activist, Mwabili Mwagodi, rallied citizens to directly call or text church leaders that had invited politicians to their services and fundraisers. As a result of the online and offline campaign, several church events were either cancelled or proceeded without involvement of the political class. Due to the perception that the government and politicians have not listened to the cry of the citizens, Kenyans have leveraged digital social platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok to express their dissatisfaction and mobilize the street protests. Gowi Odera is a renowned youth pastor in Nairobi who hosted a live discussion on X space to deliberate on A Christian response on the state of the Nation and what next after the protests. Nearly 35,000 people joined the online conversation where theologians, pastors, youth leaders and activists concurred that there are deeper underlying issues of corruption and poor governance that the state needs to deal with decisively. There was also a general consensus that the Church and Christians need to be vocal against societal ills. Theologian Rev. Dr. Edward Buri said that Kenyans expressed their frustration with what they think is wrong in the country, not just with the government. The win I see in regards to these protests can only be from divine power because the young people pushing for change are just armed with peace. Following the protests and meetings with church organizations, Ruto committed that his government will stop police brutality against protesters and pledged to cut down on unnecessary expenditure. He also said that he is ready to have a national dialogue with the youth under a National Multi-Sectoral Forum. As Kenya navigates this crucial and delicate moment, it will be useful for the Church to ponder on a phrase that has been doing the rounds online: Gen Zs have driven the Church back to God. Damage Control: State starts preparations as Beryl heads toward Tulum Tulum, Q.R. Tulum Mayor Diego Castanon Trejo says preparations are being made for the arrival of Hurricane Beryl. He says due to updated trajectories, Beryl is expected to make landfall in the community of Punta Allen as a category 1 between Thursday and Friday. It seems that it is going to Punta Allen, but these cyclones can change at any time, but we have to be prepared, he said. During his Tuesday press conference he said in view of this possible impact, the Governor will send help and that the armed forces and national civil protection will also be available. Castanon Trejo says they have 37 temporary shelters, 16 in the municipal capital and 21 distributed among the delegations. These cyclone shelters are equipped with first aid equipment, food supplies, medicines and doctors who can provide the necessary care in the event of illness or injury. Mayor Diego Castanon Trejo held a press conference Tuesday. On Thursday there will be a complete evacuation of all Punta Allen residents. He reported that in the Sian Kaan Biosphere Reserve and along the coastal area of Tulum, hotels are already warning guests about the possible impact and that they are no longer accepting reservations. The Tulum International Airport will be closed 24 hours before likely impact. Governor Mara Lezama also held a press conference after several meetings with state and municipal officials regarding the hurricane. For schools, all classes at all levels will be suspended on Thursday and Friday as a preventive measure. Public updates are being provided regarding emergency plans. There will be no alcohol sales as of midnight Thursday. Mexicos Dry Law will come into effect as of midnight July 4 and remain in place until further notice. The objective is to protect citizens, she reported. Regarding the municipalities of Tulum and Felipe Carrillo Puerto, which are in the impact zones, Mayors Mary Hernandez and Diego Castanon reported that all preventive measures have been taken from emergency shelters to food supplies and that CAPA and CFE brigades are on hand to guarantee or restore services. In addition, they have the full support of federal forces, such as the Navy, the Army and the National Guard. Canvas ads on large billboards along the Puerto Morelos highway have been removed. Regarding Carrillo Puerto, President Mary Hernandez reported that as a timely preventive measure, people from Punta Herrero and Maria Elena have already been evacuated. Governor Lezama reiterated that official information has Hurricane Beryl making landfall Thursday night or Friday morning between Felipe Carrillo Puerto and the municipal limits of Tulum. Local military personnel have already been distributed. On Tuesday, Vice Admiral Abraham Eloy Caballero Rosas, Commander of the 9th Naval Region, reported that the Navy Plan includes the distribution of 1,128 elements. A Cancun marina is seen here evacuated of its boats ahead of Beryl. Of those, 100 in Isla Mujeres and 133 in the Puerto Juarez and Cancun areas, 349 elements in Cozumel and 546 elements in Chetumal for preventive actions. There are 87 vehicles available, 34 between Isla Mujeres and Cancun, 16 between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen and 37 for Chetumal to assist the population. In addition, five mobile medical brigades will be available. On Wednesday, Governor Lezama announced the complete closure of all ports to small vessels as of 2:00 p.m. local times. Due to the forecast of the trajectory of Hurricane Beryl towards the coasts of the state of Quintana Roo, as a preventive measure today, Wednesday, July 3, starting at 2:00 p.m., the port will be CLOSED to vessels under 40 feet or 500 UAB and all types of recreational water activities will be SUSPENDED throughout the jurisdiction of the Island of Cozumel. The state works on preparation ahead of Beryls arrival. Lezama reported holding meetings with representatives of the health sector, tourism sector, embassies, airlines, hoteliers, ferry companies, etc., to inform them of the action protocols. Lezama says that all Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) hospitals in Quintana Roo have implemented Civil Protection protocols to ensure that hospital infrastructure is in the best condition and to maintain uninterrupted medical services required by the population, before, during and after the possible impact of Hurricane Beryl. Residents of Isla Mujeres cut large trees Tuesday to minimalize damage. Around the state, municipalities have begun preparations. In Cancun, some of the new traffic light systems have been taken down. Vanessa Valenzuela, the General Director of Transportation and Roads for Cancun, says they started the dismantling of around 350 of the newer traffic light systems Tuesday. Cancun began removing new traffic lights Tuesday. We are currently protecting the new ones. I do not have the exact number, but approximately 350 traffic lights will be uninstalled. Drivers will not be left without traffic light service, they will remain with a head so that the vehicular flow can be carried out correctly, she explained. She also said the city is working in coordination with city bus companies to carry out possible evacuations. At the moment, 30 buses have been earmarked. More than two dozen Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) trucks arrived in Jose Maria Morelos Tuesday to ensure power across the state. The CFE vehicles were transporting transformers, generators and mobile power plants. Ultramar has announced Playa del Carmen-Cozumel and Cancun-Isla Mujeres ferry service will be suspended on Friday, July 5. The Cancun International Airport (AIC) is preparing its facilities for the possible impact of Hurricane Beryl. At this time, with the proximity and power of Hurricane Beryl, the Early Warning Group has implemented protocols and procedures to ensure the safety of air operations in coordination with federal, state and municipal Civil Protection authorities. At the moment, the Cancun International Airport is in Alert 01, Uncertainty Phase, in accordance with the Green Alert issued by State Civil Protection. As of Wednesday, the airport continues to operate normally. Plywood sales continue around the state. The cone of uncertainty grows large as Beryl nears Mexico. According to The Weather Channel, the cone becomes wider as the forecast uncertainty increases with time, carving out the cone shape. Regardless of cone, Juan Ramon Diaz Calderon, the Deputy Director of the Quintana Roo Emergency Council of Conagua, says that although Hurricane Beryl is expected to impact Tulum and Felipe Carrillo Puerto as a Category 1 Hurricane, damage is expected across the entire state. Starting Thursday, Hurricane Beryl is expected to cause damage to the coast of Quintana Roo, he said. Large billboards in Cancun have also been stripped of the canvas ads. At night, the effects of intense rains will be felt with strong gusts of sustained winds of 150 and 195 kilometers per hour as well as high waves. It is forecast that on Friday morning, Beryl will hit the central coasts of Quintana Roo as a category 1 hurricane with winds of 140 to 165 kilometers, 40 kilometers southeast of Punta Alen and 55 kilometers northwest of Punta Guerrero, Quintana Roo. During the afternoon of Friday the 5th, the storm is expected to cross the central-southern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula, entering the southern Gulf of Mexico at night as a tropical storm with winds between 100 and 120 kilometers per hour, he said. Federal government sends military aircraft with supplies to serve Yucatan Peninsula ahead of Beryl Chetumal, Q.R. Military personnel have set up emergency stations in the three states that will be affected by Hurricane Beryl. The personnel were sent in planes loaded with supplies to serve the Yucatan Peninsula ahead of the storms arrival. Plans DN-III-E of the army and GN-A of the National Guard are being implemented in states of Campeche, Yucatan and Quintana Roo. The emergency plan means 2,392 army and air force soldiers and 2,501 elements of the National Guard are being deployed to offer assistance in the 120 emergency shelters that have already been set up. Through a statement, the National Defense Secretariat (Sedena) said the emergency plans include portable kitchens that are able to provide 6,000 hot meals per day. The plans also include heavy machinery, 10,000 liter water tankers, military ambulances, cargo dump trucks and forklifts for immediate use. A federal C-130 Hercules aircraft from the Mexican Air Force is being used to transport personnel, supplies, material and equipment from the Sedena Strategic Collection Center to the Chetumal International Airport for the establishment of the DN-III-E and GN-A Hurricane Operations Coordination Center. Military plans loaded with supplies have been deployed to the Yucatan Peninsula ahead of Beryl. In their Tuesday statement, Sedena (Secretaria de la Defensa Nacional) says the temporary Centre is being set up at the Chetumal International Airport to serve the Yucatan Peninsula. That airport puts them in a position to initiate a permanent air and land bridge with Mexican Air Force aircraft and Mexican Army and National Guard tractor-trailers to be able to assist where needed. Hurricane warnings in effect from Cancun to Mahahual as Category 4 Beryl pushes toward land Riviera Maya, Q.R. With less than 1,200 kilometers left to go, the National Coordination of Civil Protection changed the Quintana Roo alert to yellow. The change came at the same time the NOAA issued a hurricane warning for the coast. Governor Mara Lezama reported that according to the Conagua, Hurricane Beryl remains a Category 4 and is located less than 1,200 kilometers from Cancun. It is moving at 30 kilometers per hour with sustained winds of 225 and gusts of 270 kilometers per hour. While it does not yet represent a danger for the state, officials have released a hurricane watch for Quintana Roo. A hurricane force wind watch is in effect from Cancun to Puerto Costa Maya (Mahahual), Lezama said. On Wednesday afternoon, the National Hurricane Centre issued a (red) hurricane warning along a majority of the Quintana Roo coast from Cancun to Mahahual. Hurricane and tropical storm watches are in effect for areas around Holbox and Chetumal. The National Civil Protection Department reported that the change of color to yellow means that authorities will set up municipal Civil Protection councils and prepare temporary shelters. The population must identify the closest ones to their homes and take all preventive measures. Governor Leama reported that officials decided to evacuate Punta Herrero and Santa Elena, as of yesterday, and Punta Allen today, as a preventive measure and also considering that they are low-lying areas susceptible to damage. Lezama said islanders of Holbox are welcome to vacate on a voluntary basis and the shelters will be available for those who decide to do so. Hurricane Beryl is expected to weaken during today and tomorrow to a Category 3 hurricane. It is expected to approach the coast of Quintana Roo as a Category 2 and make landfall south of Tulum. According to the forecast, the impact on Quintana Roo territory is expected to be on Thursday night or Friday morning. Hurricane force winds are expected in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Tulum and Bacalar, and tropical storm force winds in Jose Maria Morelos, Othon P. Blanco, Lazaro Cardenas and Isla Mujeres. The current weather conditions around the region are blue skies and sunshine with temperatures ranging from 31C to 36C (88F to 97F). Tulum International receives Aerodome Certification Tulum, Q.R. The Tulum International Airport has received an Aerodrome Certificate for operational safety standards. The airport received the Civil Aerodrome certificate for public service granted by the Civil Aviation Agency (AFAC), a decentralized administrative body of the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT). The certificate, which will be renewed in three years, guarantees that the Tulum International Airport has all operational safety measures and complies with national and international standards for civil aviation. This certification is received with great expectations as a result of a vertiginous growth since the inauguration of the Felipe Carrillo Puerto Tulum International Airport, which is part of the strategic and priority projects for the Government of Mexico. During the delivery of the certificate, Tulum International Airport Administrator, General Javier Diego Campillo, reiterated that since the start of operations the objective of guaranteeing safety and efficiency for travelers has been met. During his Tuesday speech, he highlighted the growth of the Tulum International Airport, exceeding expectations in terms of demand and number of passengers transported since its start of operations on December 1, 2023. The certificate was delivered to Tulum International Airport Administrator General Javier Diego Campillo (left) Tuesday. Photo: July 2, 2024. Due to its success, authorities say they now anticipate around 1.3 million passengers, an increase from the 700,000 initially projected for the airports first year. This Fourth lets remember the roots of our republicthe idea of libertywhich slowly spread to embrace every American in every walk of life. No one is promised equality of outcomes in their life. But everyone should cherish the promise that liberty provides as they pursue their vocations. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal. The idea of equality lies at the very foundation of the American republic. Building our social lives, channeling our economic pursuits, and establishing our political institutions on the principles enunciated in our Declaration of Independence unleashed the entrepreneurial potential of our people that created prosperity for the greatest number. To the extent that other nations embraced the American concept of equality, they also harvested the sweet fruits of liberating the creative energies of millions of farmers, merchants, innovators, artists, and businessmen. Where did Jefferson get the idea that all human beings are created equal? After all, he lived in a world split between aristocrats and commoners, masters and slaves. Like all the Founders, the primary source of inspiration for his political philosophy was the Bible. The god who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time, he once wrote. And although a deist, he nevertheless took seriously what the Bible had to say on the matter. In Proverbs 22:2 we read: The rich and the poor have a common bond, The Lord is the maker of them all. In his letter to the church in Galatia 3:28, the Apostle Paul affirms the Christian principle of equality: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And yet, we live at a time when the marketplace of ideas offers an almost infinite choice of definitions for words, so it is worth discovering what Americas Founders meant by equality. During a speech in 1857, Lincoln clarified that they did not mean to say all were equal in color, size, intellect, moral developments, or social capacity. They defined with tolerable distinctness, in what respects they did consider all men created equalequal in certain inalienable rights, among which are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We are all equal in the sight of God, with inherent dignity and value, regardless of our individual capacities or unique circumstances. Your natural rights as a human being impose an obligation on your fellow men not to murder or enslave you, or to rob you of your property. Our moral equality requires that each of us gets equal treatment under the law. That is the reason we portray Justice as a blindfolded lady. Those who enforce the law must ignore all factors except the ones that directly relate to the case. This legal equality also includes equality of opportunity understood as removing political obstacles to individual success. Careers should be open to all qualified candidates, selection and promotion should be based on merit, not on, for example, race or sex. It is neither possible nor desirable to equalize opportunities beyond a certain point. Having good parents is often a major advantage for the child. Even if we take all children away from their families to bring them up in a communal manner, as they did in Israels kibbutzim after WWII, that will not eliminate existing inherited differencessome will be born with mental and physical disabilities, others with rare and valued talents. Equalizing opportunities in the pursuit of what some call equity would require the implementation of tyrannical measures that hobble the most productive individuals and destroy liberty for all. A society that puts equality before freedom will get neither, warned Milton Friedman. With equal rights as a self-evident truth, we need not obsess about the unequal outcomes. We differ in abilities and ambitionsincome and wealth inequalities are fair and inevitable when the freedom of the individual to chase his dreams is secured. The freedom to pursue our own good in our own way, so long as we do not attempt to deprive others of theirs, noted Mill, is an engine of progress and a prerequisite of a virtuous life. Only a free person can reach his full potential and do whats right when presented with an opportunity to do wrong. The Christian ideal of liberty for all has been around for 2,000 years. The innate dignity of man made in Gods image and the perennial force of Gods law (for example, as expressed in Exodus 21:16, which demanded the death penalty for man-stealing, or kidnapping, without which chattel slavery would never have been made possible) led to the slow but inevitable abolition of slavery in the Western world. Nevertheless, until the rise of capitalism in the 19th century, most men lived in servitude under social expectations or legal imperatives to sacrifice themselves for king and country. Real liberty came with only free enterprise during the past two centuries, but the way for it was paved with ideas grounded in biblical truth that coalesced into the philosophy of classical liberalism. Murray Rothbard extolls the freedom of the individual as a necessary condition for the flowering of all the other goods that mankind cherishes: moral virtue, civilization, the arts and sciences, economic prosperity. And yet liberty means nothing for a castaway like Robinson Crusoe. When we live among other people, it becomes the highest political good, noted Lord Acton. Because liberty produces the glories of civilized life, we need an effective mechanism to secure its blessings to ourselves and our posterity. As Frederic Bastiat explained: It was the fact that life, liberty, and property existed beforehand that caused men to make laws in the first place. We are in a state of liberty when we are free from arbitrary political restrictions on expressing our views, raising our children in accordance with our personal values, and entering voluntary contractual relationships at mutually agreeable terms. True liberty can exist only in capitalist societies, where the entrepreneur can profit from serving his customers, even as the socialist can put his money where his mouth is and divest himself of all personal property to live a communal life. The only purpose of government is to be used for the protection of both in choosing their lifestyles based on their preferences. Personal success and humanitys progress depend on recognizing and protecting equality of rights and liberty to do whats right. Exercising our free will in peaceful collaboration with others, driven by our diverse desires and goals, assisted (or hamstrung) by our aptitudes and attitudes, people must inevitably achieve very different degrees of success. As a professor, I will never be as famous as Elvis Presley or as wealthy as Elon Musk. And thats OK with me. Abusing the government as a weapon in an attempt to achieve equality of outcome by taking what belongs to others will be the death of liberty. And of that I want no part. A new casino resort being built less than three hours away near Charlotte, North Carolina, would not likely siphon many customers away from Caesars Virginias gaming facility, according to industry experts. It is difficult to predict consumer behavior with the upcoming casino development project in North Carolina, but it is likely that the convenience segment of gamblers will continue to patronize the Caesars Virginia property rather than travel two hours to Charlotte, said Jane Bokunewicz, faculty director of the Lloyd D. Levenson Institute of Gaming, Hospitality and Tourism at the Stockton University School of Business in Galloway, New Jersey. Also, Caesars Virginia, which has been operating the temporary Danville Casino at Schoolfield since May 15, 2023, could attract new visitors from a farther distance to experience the added amenities of the full casino resort when it opens at the end of this year, Bokunewicz added. On June 7, the Catawba Nation broke ground on a $700 million casino project Two Kings Casino and Resort in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, about 35 miles west of Charlotte. The casino resort will be built in two phases, with the first expected to be complete in early 2026. The project is anticipated to create about 2,000 new jobs when complete. The South Carolina-based tribe has been operating a temporary gambling facility at the site since 2021. Chris Albrecht, general manager at Danville Casino/Caesars Virginia, would not comment for this story. Danville City Councilman Lee Vogler pointed to Caesars Virginias status as the first-of-its-kind facility in Southside Virginia and the companys position among other gaming providers. Caesars Virginia is going to be the premier destination for folks in Virginia, North Carolina and beyond, Vogler told the Danville Register & Bee. One of the reasons we chose Caesars as our partner was their ability to stand above the rest of the field when it comes to any other casinos that may or may not come into the marketplace. The Two Kings casino in North Carolina will not attract a large number of customers from Danville, but more from the region around Charlotte and surrounding areas, said Anthony Marino, a retired demography statistician who taught at Stockton University and has a background in monitoring the casino industry in Atlantic City. The Charlotte area is near the South Carolina border, with the Catawba Nation casino about 165 miles southwest of Danville or about a two-and-a-half to three-hour drive. Charlotte is about 135-140 miles from Danville, about a two-hour drive. Marino referred to the concept of propinquity or nearness, or the state of being close to something or someone to say that customers will most likely frequent places that are closer and more convenient for them. Theyre not going to normally travel by land more than two hours or so, said Marino. Caesars Virginias market is Southside Virginia and northern North Carolina. Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill [residents] would more likely head in that direction than to Charlotte, Marino said. The tri-city area is just a roughly 90-minute drive from Danville, whereas the Charlotte area is about two-and-a-half hours away from Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill. However, gamblers seeking to stay overnight to enjoy amenities Charlotte has to offer may be willing to drive those extra miles, Bokunewicz said. Gamblers motivated by experiencing an overnight getaway to a destination like Charlotte, which has other attractions in addition to casino gaming, may decide to make the two-hour drive to visit a new location and experience all that Charlotte has to offer, she said. As for Atlantic City, it has nine casinos that operate in a vastly different market than those scattered in Virginia. New Jersey residents voted to allow casinos in the state in 1976, under the condition that they could only open and operate in Atlantic City under the strict supervision of the state, Marino said. For the first two decades afterward, Atlantic City had a monopoly on gambling until nearby states including Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut and Maryland began legalizing casinos. Gambling establishments began opening up within an hours drive of Atlantic City, leading to a decline in its casinos customer volume and revenues. They experienced steady declines in gross gaming revenue each year from the peak of $5.2 billion in 2006 to a low of $1.6 billion in 2016, Bokunewicz said. Although the Great Recession also had an impact on gross gaming revenue during this period, much of the decline can be attributed to the opening of casinos in Pennsylvania. Atlantic City has gone down from 35 million visitor-trips in 2006 to about 18 million visitor-trips to its casinos, Marino said. A large fraction of the loss in casino visitation to Atlantic City was from the convenience gambler segment, which includes those customers who gamble close to home and make frequent day trip visits rather than several overnight stays at a destination resort with a variety of amenities, Bokunewicz said. At some point, we once had 13 casinos in Atlantic City, Marino said. One closed, we had 12. Five of them closed and then we dropped to seven. A couple of years later, two new ones opened. The number of casinos will vacillate according to what the market will allow. Caesars Virginia should do a good job through their casino hosts whose job is to identify frequent customers with a highly flexible gambling budget of comping those patrons, Marino said. For the wealthiest, biggest-spending customers, casinos offer free dinner, rooms or other amenities worth about 25% to 35% of what that patron will spend on average to entice them to gamble beyond what the establishment spends on those incentives, he said. Those practices are especially common in larger markets with heavy competition among casinos, Marino said. A significant portion of a casinos income comes from its richest clients, he said. About 20% comes from a limited population of wealthy people who can afford to lose hundreds of thousands of dollars, he said. Casino operators in highly competitive markets tend to offer rich rewards through player-loyalty programs to incentivize gamblers to stay at their property instead of venturing over to the competition, Bokunewicz said, This can lead to increased marketing costs that negatively impacts gross operating profit, she said. Casinos located in more isolated locations still offer incentive rewards, but the competition is not as fierce, so the rewards may not be as high as in markets with multiple casinos. In addition, patrons able to spend exorbitant amounts of money are not the type of market that would show up in Danville or the North Carolina casino, Marino said. Most residents in Southside Virginia and North Carolina would not have that kind of money, he said. The gaming arrangement in Virginia is much different, with casinos legal in a few localities scattered across the state, he added. Also, casinos in North Carolina are hours away from Danville. Based on where Caesars will be located and what I know about the geographic area and the way Virginia has carefully made sure they dont oversaturate a particular market, it will be fairly successful, Marino said. Berlin First Baptist Church (BFBC) in Berlin, Maryland held its first Vacation Bible School (VBS) for children with disabilities Jun 17-20, 2024. The program ran in the morning while a traditional, neurotypical VBS was hosted in the evenings of those same days. Children's Director Shannon Diehl has a heart for children with developmental disabilities and had been thinking about doing a VBS for children with disabilities for many years. Yet she did not know if she could bring this idea to life. However, this year the right doors opened, and she received the necessary resources to do the program. Baptist Convention of Maryland/Delaware (BCM/D) Disability Missionary Kathie Matthews provided counsel and training. Grants from the BCM/D and the Eastern Baptist Association (EBA) provided for the unique expenses for the event. Beyond regular VBS preparations, the church put together a sensory room and recruited volunteer buddies. These buddies worked alongside their assigned students to help them participate in the program in the ways that were best for them. Volunteers also packed sensory bags for every student which included items such as fidget and biting toys, electronic doodle pads, noise canceling headphones, and snacks. Shannons husband, Pastor Brad Diehl, told the students stories of creation and the flood using The Great Jungle Journey curriculum from Answers in Genesis, which was adapted using a special needs guide. He covered the 7 Cs of history: creation, corruption, catastrophe, confusion, christ, cross, and consummation. Children interacted with the teaching through hands-on activities. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up The church was filled with rainforest decor including animals (like birds), trees, and grass. Anisa Impasto drove an hour to bring her two sons. She was pleased with the program and praised the church for their extensive decorations. Anne Young brought her twins. Im impressed with all the resources available for the special needs kids, she said. They were especially good at keeping the lights and music down low, creating a sensory room, and increasing the number of volunteers. I felt it was very well planned. They were also very in tune with the kids needs. Eastern Baptist Association Director of Missions Keith Myer said, When I think of the modern missions movement and its emphasis on reaching the unreached, it becomes easy to see that those affected by disabilities make up an unreached people group. He expressed his delight and appreciation for this initiative which addresses that need. I was so moved by the attention to detail and all of the thoughtfulness and care in [Shannon Diehls] planning, said Myer. While she expressed some nervousness about launching out into a new kind of ministry, we both agreed that theres value in starting new things and stepping out in faith and trusting that the Lord will work through this ministry. He added, When you think of the ministry of Jesus, he was always interacting with and helping people with these kinds of needs. After the success of the disability-focused VBS, BFBC is continuing to serve families with disabilities through their respite nights initiative. The program, which begins in August 2024, will provide three hours of care for children with disabilities and their neurotypical siblings. This will give parents and caregivers the opportunity to rest, relax and recharge. The respite night childrens program will follow the rEcess program from 99 balloons. It includes crafts, movies, games, and stories. VBS buddy volunteers will be mobilized once more, and medical professionals will also be available on site as needed. Shannon Diehl explained that care will be given to also ensure neurotypical siblings are not unintentionally left out of the fun. The church is promoting respite days with families who participated in the disability-focused VBS. Theyve encouraged those participants to also let their friends and contacts know about the program. Village Residence Hougang, Far East Hospitality Trust, FEHT Some call it home bias. But there are many reasons why Singapore investors prefer to put their money into real estate investment trusts (REITs), particularly those with properties located within our shores. For starters, Singapore REITs offer an opportunity to invest in multiple properties with a relatively small amount of money. By staying local, investors avoid dealing with foreign exchange conversions. There are plenty of property choices too, ranging from retail, commercial, and hospitality. Considering these points, lets delve into five Singapore REITs that predominantly, if not entirely, earn their income from properties located in the city-state. These REITs present attractive investment opportunities due to their strong local market presence and potential for stable returns. 1. Frasers Centrepoint Trust (SGX: J69U) Frasers Centrepoint Trust (FCT) primarily invests in retail malls situated in the heartlands across Singapore. As of the fiscal year ending September 2023 (FY2023), FCTs portfolio consisted of 10 retail malls and one office property in the Lion City, valued at nearly S$7 billion. The Singapore REITs recent performance has been decent. For FY2023, gross revenue increased by 3.6% year on year to around S$370 million, driven by improved occupancy rates, higher rental income from new and renewed leases, and increased atrium income. Meanwhile, property operating expenses rose by almost 6% year on year to S$104.1 million due to higher maintenance, utilities expenses, and staff costs, resulting in a net property income increase of 2.7% year on year to S$265.6 million. FCTs distribution per unit (DPU) did fall, but by a relatively minor 0.6% year on year to S$0.1215. The culprit was higher financing costs. 2. Far East Hospitality Trust (SGX: Q5T) For hospitality, theres Far East Hospitality Trust (FEHT) which owns hotels and serviced residences in Singapore. As of the end of 2023, FEHTs portfolio consisted of 12 properties, encompassing over 3,000 hotel rooms and serviced residence units, with a total valuation of about S$2.5 billion. The REITs performance has improved alongside increased tourism and business travel. For 2023, FEHTs gross revenue surged by about 28% year on year to S$106.8 million, driven by higher master lease rentals from hotels and serviced residences, as well as increased revenue from retail and office spaces. This revenue increase resulted in the business trusts net property income rising by around 28% year on year to nearly S$99 million. Consequently, FEHTs distribution per stapled security (DPS) increased by a little over 25% year on year to S$0.0409. Story continues 3. CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust (SGX: C38U) CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust (CICT), the largest REIT in Singapore by market capitalisation, is host to a collection of retail and office properties. As of the end of 2023, CICTs portfolio included 21 properties in Singapore, two in Germany, and three in Australia, with a total property value of S$24.5 billion. CICT is one of the few REITs that managed to increase their DPU for the latest quarter. For 2023, gross revenue increased by approximately 8% year on year to S$1.56 billion, with nearly 93% of this revenue coming from its 21 commercial properties in Singapore. This topline growth was driven by full-year contributions from the three newly acquired properties in Australia and improved performance from its existing properties. However, property operating expenses were 11.4% higher than a year ago due to costs associated with the Australian properties, as well as higher utilities, maintenance, and marketing expenses. The end result is a 7% year on year increase in net property income to S$1.12 billion. CICTs 2023 DPU increased by 1.6% year on year to S$0.1075. 4. Paragon REIT (SGX: SK6U) Like CICT, Paragon REIT also owns properties in Singapore and Australia. In both cases, the focus is on retail. As of the end of 2023, its portfolio is home to three properties in Singapore and two in Australia. For 2023, the REIT experienced a 1.8% increase in gross revenue compared to a year ago, reaching just under S$290 million, with a little over 77% of its revenue coming from its Singapore properties. Net property income rose by 1.7% year on year to just over S$215 million. However, over the same period, Paragon REITs DPU for 2023 fell by around 9% to S$0.0502, due to higher financing cost. 5. Lendlease Global Commercial REIT (SGX: JYEU) Finally, we have Lendlease Global Commercial REIT (LREIT), which focuses on retail and office properties located in Singapore and Italy. At the end of the fiscal year ended 30 June 2023 (FY2023), its portfolio includes popular malls such as Jem (an integrated office and retail mall) and 313@Somerset (a retail mall) in Singapore, as well as Sky Complex (an office building) in Italy, with a total value of S$3.65 billion. Recent results have been decent. Gross revenue surged by two-folds from around S$102 million to S$204.9 million, driven by a full-year contribution from Jem and improved rental income, with nearly 90% of this revenue coming from the two Singapore properties. Net property income also doubled compared to the previous year to about S$154 million. That said, due to higher financing costs, its DPU decreased by 3.2% year on year to S$0.047. Attention: Investors aiming for both growth and peace of mind. Weve pinpointed 5 SGX stocks known for consistent dividends. If you want to build a retirement portfolio, but dont want the stress of stock watching, this report is for you. Click HERE to download now. Follow us on Facebook and Telegram for the latest investing news and analyses! Disclaimer: Lim Jun Yuan owns shares of CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust and Frasers Centrepoint Trust. The post Homegrown Wealth: 5 Singapore REITs to Consider for Your Watchlist appeared first on The Smart Investor. Every school classroom in Oklahoma will teach about the Bible under a new directive by the States Superintendent, who pledges that he is ready to fight any legal challenges from opponents against his plan. Republican Ryan Walters, Oklahoma States Superintendent for Public Instruction, and responsible for the oversight of elementary and secondary schools, made the controversial announcement on Thursday (June 27). On X, formerly known as Twitter, Walters strongly inferred that the decision had been made in opposition to the radical left he accused of wanting to rewrite history in our classrooms. Walters outlined his reasoning in a video recorded during a State Board of Education meeting, published on X. He said his staff had been looking at the statute and academic standards in Oklahoma, and came to a crystal clear conclusion about the importance of the Bible. The Bible is a necessary historical document to teach our kids about the history of this country, to have a complete understanding of western civilisation, to have an understanding of the basis of our legal system and, as frankly we are talking about the Bible, one of the most foundational documents used for the constitution and birth of our country, said Walters. Stay informed with The Christian Daily Newsletter Sign up We also find major points in history that reference the Bible. We see multiple figures, rather we are talking about the Federalist papers, constitutional conventional arguments, and Martin Luther King junior, who used it as a tremendous impetus for the Civil Rights Movement. In time, many of those arguments go back to the Bible. Walters himself worked as a history teacher at McAlester High School in his hometown of McAlester for eight years, and also taught at MillWood High Schools in Oklahoma City. He was named an Oklahoma Teacher of the Year Finalist in 2016 and later became Secretary of Public Education in Sept. 2020 under Governor Kevin Stitt. Married to Katie, with whom he shares four children, Walters believed in his announcement that it is essential our kids have an understanding of the Bible in its historical context. So we will be issuing a memo today that every school district will adhere to, which is that every teacher in every classroom in the State will have a Bible in the classroom and will be teaching from the Bible in the classroom, to ensure that this historical understanding is there for every student in the State of Oklahoma, in accordance with our academic standards and State law. The Oklahoman daily newspaper reported that the decision looked likely to face a court challenge. This is an outcome, the newspaper wrote, that the superintendent has previously welcomed in his quest to bring Oklahomas education system in line with his politically conservative, religiously Christian interpretation of state law. The memo from Walters reportedly stated that Oklahomas Education Department could provide teaching materials for schools to enable Bible teaching. But the Oklahoman queried which Bible version would be given to schools and who would provide funding. Critics of the plan have argued that Oklahoma's Constitution specifically forbids spending public funds for a religious purpose, and that his directive would violate that law, the Oklahoman reported. Phil Bacharach, spokesman for Attorney General Gentner Drummond, told the newspaper that Bibles were already used in the curriculum under current legislation. Oklahoma law already explicitly allows Bibles in the classroom and enables teachers to use them as a part of instruction," Bacharach reportedly said. The relationship between religion and school education is a contentious issue in Oklahoma. On Tuesday (June 25), Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled against the approval of public charter school status to St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, following a petition filed by the States Republican attorney general, Gentner Drummond. The school had successfully applied to Oklahoma Virtual Charter School Board to be administered by the Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. It would have allowed the Catholic faith to be applied into every aspect of the school, according to the original application. In the concluding remarks, the courts judges ruled that the charter school is a public school under Oklahomas law. As such, a charter school must be nonsectarian. However, St. Isidore will evangelize the Catholic faith as part of its school curriculum while Sponsored by the State, said the judges in the concluding remarks. This State's establishment of a religious charter school violates Oklahoma statutes, the Oklahoma Constitution, and the Establishment Clause. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) called the courts overturning of the Boards decision a win for the separation of church and state. The decision affirms what we already knew: A religious school cant be a public school, and a public school cant be religious, said ACLU in a press release. Despite warnings from the Oklahoma attorney general, education groups, and civil rights organizations that public schoolsincluding charter schoolscannot legally teach a religious curriculum or discriminate against students and employees, the Virtual Charter School Board approved St. Isidores application and entered into an agreement allowing the school to begin operating for the upcoming school year. "Today, in ordering the state board to rescind its contract with St. Isidore, the Oklahoma Supreme Court sent a pointed message: Our public schools are for education, not evangelizing. However, the State Superintendent has opposed the ruling, saying on X the same day (June 25) that he held the firm belief that once again the Oklahoma Supreme Court got it wrong. The words separation of church and state do not appear in our Constitution, and it is outrageous that the Oklahoma Supreme Court misunderstood key cases involving the First Amendment and sanctioned discrimination against Christians based solely on their faith. Oklahomans have demanded school choice not religious targeting, Walters said. I agree with the dissent because nothing about the State of Oklahoma contracting for educational services for students in the form of a charter school violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, and the enrollment demand at St. Isidore proves that Oklahoma parents want more choices for their kids educations not fewer. The ruling subsequently cannot and must not stand, according to Walters who pledged a legal challenge. There will be additional legal action in support of those parents and the millions of Oklahomans who believe deeply in religious liberty, and I will never stop fighting for Oklahomans constitutional, God-given right to express their religious belief. By Shivam Patel HATHRAS, India (Reuters) - Thousands of devotees rushed to get a closer glimpse of a Hindu preacher, jostling and pushing on slippery ground, witnesses say, moments before a crush at an overcrowded venue in India killed 121 people and sparked a police hunt for the organisers. The stampede occurred on Tuesday at Phulrai Mughal Garhi village in Hathras district in the populous northern state of Uttar Pradesh, where preacher Suraj Pal Singh, also known as 'Bhole Baba', was holding a monthly congregation. About 250,000 people had gathered in a canopied ground by a highway, although authorities had given permission for only 80,000, police said. At least 121 people were killed and 31 injured, with the dead including 112 women and seven children. The trouble started after the hour-long afternoon congregation concluded and the preacher was leaving the venue in his car, witnesses told Reuters on Wednesday. The entrance and exit of the venue was big enough for 10 or 20 people to move through at the same time "but thousands rushed when Babas car left, following his car on foot to get a closer look at him", said Sankalp Gautam, 22, who was with his aunt Kusum Devi, who was injured in the melee and is in hospital. Devi fell and was crushed under people as she tried to help one of her two sisters who was struggling to get up. The sister was injured and died in hospital, Gautam said. Farmer Lakhan Singh's house overlooks the venue and he said he was sitting on the terrace and watching the sea of people at the congregation. "Baba talked about living well, caring for one another etc., and then started walking out and got into his car," Singh said, adding that vehicles of attendees had caused a traffic jam on the highway. "People wanted to get close to him, they rushed towards his car, and his supporters pushed them away," he said, adding that many fell down a slope in a heap. "TERRIFYING SCREAMS" Rameshwar, another farmer who lives about a mile away from the venue, said he saw groups of women coming near the preacher's car and trying to bow down to him in reverence when pushing and jostling caused them to fall off the road. "There was a pile-up on both sides of the road. We lifted some bodies and put them in whatever vehicle we could find," he said. Authorities said the event was organised by a group of devotees, but did not identify anyone. Police and state officials have launched investigations into what went wrong and if there were any lapses by authorities. Police are also trying to ascertain the whereabouts of the preacher. Reuters found mobile phones of the organisers had been switched off. For Chedilal, 65, Tuesday's congregation was the third he was attending and this time he was accompanied by his daughter Ruby, 30, who had travelled over 300 km (185 miles) to join him. "It was going well...I dont know what suddenly happened when people started leaving," he said. "There was a big commotion in the women's exit area. Someone was also spraying water from a pipe and the ground became muddy. Moments later I heard terrifying screams from women." Chedilal couldn't trace his daughter all night. Her body was found in the district hospital on Wednesday morning. (Reporting by Shivam Patel in Hathras, India; Writing by YP Rajesh, Editing by William Maclean) By Shivam Patel and Saurabh Sharma PHULRAI MUGHAL GARHI, India (Reuters) - More than three times the permitted number of people attended a Hindu religious event in northern India that culminated in a stampede which killed at least 121 people, authorities said on Wednesday, adding that most of the victims were women. About 250,000 people gathered for Tuesday's event in the Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh state, about 200 km (125 miles) from the Indian capital, New Delhi, despite permission being granted only for 80,000, an initial police report showed. The preacher at the gathering, Suraj Pal Singh, also known as 'Bhole Baba', said in a statement that the stampede was caused by "some anti-social elements" after the event concluded, without elaborating. Police said they were trying to ascertain the whereabouts of the preacher. A group of devotees had organised the event, according to a poster at the site. The preacher's lawyer, A.P. Singh, said Baba had never asked anyone to touch his feet nor did he give anyone the dust touched by his feet, referring to reports in local media which cited these as reasons for the devotees running towards him. Singh also said Baba's aides were ready to help those who suffered in the incident. Most of the deaths resulted from suffocation, said doctors at a district hospital treating several victims. Among the 121 dead were 112 women and seven children, while 31 were injured, state authorities said. In their First Information Report, police described a scene of chaos when the preacher was leaving in his car. Thousands of devotees shouted and ran towards the vehicle, crushing others still seated, the report said. Some people were trampled after falling in an adjacent field of slush and mud. In a letter seen by Reuters, a junior official present at the event told the district administrator that the preacher's staff had stopped the devotees running towards the car and that many of them had fallen to the ground. Some had run towards open fields nearby to escape the stampede but slipped and fell in the path of the rest of the crowd, the official added. 'TERRIFYING SCREAMS' Among the dead was Ruby, 30, who had travelled more than 300 km (185 miles) to attend, along with her father, Chedilal. Describing the stampede, Chedilal told Reuters: "I heard terrifying screams from women and there were bodies piled up on the ground near the exit." "I was scared, I ran away and started calling my daughter on the phone," he added. After an agonising night of hospital visits to locate his daughter, Chedilal said he finally found her body at the Hathras district hospital in the morning. The state's chief minister, Yogi Adityanath, met some of the injured on Wednesday and inspected the site, which stands amid paddy fields beside a busy highway. Waste littered the site, which was partly inundated by rainfall. Adityanath said a judicial inquiry would be conducted into the incident, besides the police investigation, to determine who was responsible. The judicial panel can also help create a protocol to manage such future events and "prevent repetition of such an incident", Adityanath told reporters. "We will ensure this." Stampedes and other accidents are not uncommon at religious gatherings involving large crowds in India, with most being blamed on poor crowd management. (Reporting by Shivam Patel, Saurabh Sharma and Tanvi Mehta; Writing by Sakshi Dayal; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan, Clarence Fernandez, YP Rajesh and Gareth Jones) Amarro Loera, 27, pleaded guilty in March in U.S. District Court in Omaha to assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to a domestic or dating partner. He was sentenced to 21 months in prison and must serve three years supervised release after completing his prison sentence. There is no parole in the federal system. SUTHERLAND SPRINGS, Texas Plans to tear down a small Texas church where a gunman in 2017 killed more than two dozen worshippers are drawing visitors as a last-minute push was made to stop the demolition. Leaders of First Baptist Church of Sutherland Springs have not publicly announced when it plans to demolish the sanctuary, where authorities put the number of dead from the shooting at 26 people, including a pregnant woman and her unborn baby, in what remains the deadliest church shooting in U.S. history. Inside the church Tuesday, victims relatives and community members who came to see the memorial, possibly for the last time, sat on the floor in somber silence. Roses were placed in remembrance of the lives lost. Roxanna Avants, 71, moved to Sutherland Springs after the shooting and said she came to support those who lost loved ones in the shooting. Avants said even if people dont want to walk past a reminder of a tragedy, the church is still a house of God and a memorial for those who died in 2017. Outside the church, the Wilson County Sheriffs Office told journalists to leave the area, saying neighbors had made the request for reasons related to private property. News cameras were not allowed in the church or parking lot. On Tuesday, a Texas judge approved a temporary restraining order sought by some families to delay the demolition. The order signed by Judge Jennifer Dillingham instructs the church to not to begin demolition and to appear before the court later this month. But Sam Fugate II, an attorney for the families that sought the restraining order, said the church had still not been served the order as of Tuesday afternoon and expressed concern that the demolition could still proceed. Christine Earnhardt, a secretary for the church, said Tuesday that she could not confirm whether a demolition was scheduled and that the church had no plans to comment or make a statement. Following the shooting, the sanctuary was turned into a memorial. The interior was painted white and chairs with the names of those who were killed were placed there, the lawsuit said. The church then voted in 2021 to tear down the building, which opponents have contended was against the wishes of many surviving family members. A new church was completed for the congregation about a year and a half after the shooting. We're not after money. We're after what's fair, Fugate said. We want our clients to say their piece about whether the church should stand and take another vote. Amber Holder, a church member who is one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit, said she wanted to make sure survivors of the shooting and the victims' families have a vote. "So many victims families were told: Youre not allowed to vote because youre no longer a member here, Holder said. Holder said she wasnt at the service the day of the shooting but got there shortly after. As a teen she was taken in by the family of the pastor at the time, whose 14-year-old daughter, Annabelle Pomeroy, was among those killed. Terrie Smith, president of the Sutherland Springs Community Association, said that as news of the upcoming demolition spread in the community of less than 1,000 people, those she had spoken with were devastated. Smith said that a woman who was like a daughter to her Joann Ward and her two daughters, ages 7 and 5, were among those killed in the shooting. Smith, who is not a member of the church, said she often visits the memorial sanctuary. Its just a beautiful, beautiful memorial the way it is now, she said. You feel the comfort of everybody that was lost there, Smith said. Communities across the U.S. have grappled with what should happen to the sites of mass shootings. Last month, demolition began on the three-story building where 17 people died in the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. After the 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut, it was torn down and replaced. Tops Friendly Markets in Buffalo, New York, and the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina, where racist mass shootings happened, both reopened. In Colorado, Columbine High School still stands though its library, where most of the victims were killed, was replaced. In Texas, officials closed Robb Elementary in Uvalde after the 2022 shooting there and plan to demolish it. Yes, it's getting worse: New data shows mass shootings are more frequent Yes, it's getting worse: New data shows mass shootings are more frequent Mass shootings have been on the rise steadily for the past 40 years While shooting incidents show a gradual upward trend, the number of those killed is rising at an alarming rate Injuries have likewise risen significantly; one contributing factor: assault weapons America's Founders Displayed Incredible Faith and Sacrifice NEWS PROVIDED BY Liberty Counsel July 3, 2024 A few months before signing the Declaration, Patrick Henry, a Founder who served as the first and sixth post-colonial governor of Virginia, addressed the Virginia Convention and declared: "We are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power. The millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us. Besides, sir, we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us. The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave." ORLANDO, Fla., July 3, 2024 / Christian Newswire / -- In today's culture where some people are frantically trying to erase America's history, the signers of the Declaration of Independence, a document which maintained that the 13 American states were free of British rule, clearly revealed their faith and sacrifice to ensure that this nation was founded upon Judeo-Christian principles and religious freedom.A few months before signing the Declaration, Patrick Henry, a Founder who served as the first and sixth post-colonial governor of Virginia, addressed the Virginia Convention and declared: "We are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power. The millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us. Besides, sir, we shall not fight our battle alone. There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us. The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave." John Hancock, the presiding officer over the Second Continental Congress, became the first representative to sign the Declaration on July 4, 1776. Hancock left a sizable signature which started the modern-day idea of leaving a "John Hancock" on paperwork. In fact, according to a popular saying, he signed his name large so that King George could read it without his glasses. While that may or may not be true, it is factual that one of America's most ardent patriots put his life on the line with that signature. If the Revolutionary War was lost or he was caught, Hancock would have been hanged by the British. Yet Hancock said, "Principally and first of all, I give and recommend my soul into the hands of God that gave it: and my body I recommend to the earth. Nothing doubting but at the general resurrection I shall receive the same again by the mercy and power of God." All 56 patriots who signed the Declaration took their duties so seriously to the people of the new nation that they made a promise "with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor." They signed the Declaration of Independence knowing that the penalty would be death if they were captured, and that pledge could literally cost them their lives and fortunes. As a result, 17 men lost property due to British raids and 12 had homes destroyed. Five lost their fortunes in helping fund the Continental Army and state militias battle the redcoats. Five were captured by the British as traitors and tortured before they died. One had two sons imprisoned on a British starving ship, one had a son killed in battle, one had his wife die from harsh prison treatment, and nine signers died in the Revolutionary War. Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said, "The Founders were deeply influenced by a Judeo-Christian worldview that gave them great courage to sacrifice everything in order to establish this great nation. However, for many of them, signing America's birth certificate was their own death sentence. Yet they knew that our rights come from God, not government, and that the sole purpose of government is to protect these inalienable rights whatever the cost. As we celebrate America's birthday, we must continue to protect the priceless gift of our religious freedom and never forget the cost that was paid for it." Liberty Counsel provides broadcast quality TV interviews via Hi-Def Skype and LTN at no cost. SOURCE Liberty Counsel CONTACT: Mat Staver, 407-875-1776, Liberty@LC.org Share Tweet Ah, summer. A time to let loose, put your toes in the sand, do whatever you want because its Brat Season. And what better way to enjoy yourself than to grab an ice-cold can of your favorite beverage? I come from the Twisted Tea capital of the country, so Im no stranger to a moderately spiked premixed concoction designed for sipping on a hot day, but even Ive had to stop and ask myself: Why is everything a canned cocktail now? Not even five years ago, spiked seltzers were having a moment, but these days it seems as if brands have shed the bubbles and are serving up anything they can mix with alcohol in a can. Advertisement Alcoholic beverages are typically divided into three categories: wine, beer, and spirits. But ready-to-drink products have earned enough market share to be broken out into their own category, which saw $10.7 billion in annual sales as of November, according to a NielsenIQ report provided to Slate. The sector includes hard seltzers, flavored malt beverages, canned cocktails, and canned winebasically, anything that makes it more convenient to drink something other than beer straight out of the cooler. I get it. Beers and seltzers can leave you feeling bloated. Its much more appealing to grab a beverage that tastes like something youd sip on sans alcohol, especially if youre spending hours out in the sun. If youre not part of the growing contingent of sober-curious peoplea group that is largely either Gen Z or on Ozempica drink every so often can be refreshing, and we should be able to enjoy a little treat in the waning days of society as we know it. And who wouldnt jump at the chance to share a $19.99 variety pack of spiked teas and lemonades, whether youre at the beach or a friends backyard barbecue? Advertisement Some of the companies making canned cocktails are trying their very best to make the whole thing feel as sophisticated as sipping on something from a real glass. Blake Livelys Betty Booze brand boasts gourmet cocktails, and the NielsenIQ report notes that alcoholic functional beverages, such as hard kombucha, are especially attractive to consumers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate The Broken Promise of Nonalcoholic Wine Read More Others are dispensing with such pretenses. Brands many of us enjoyed as kids are offering spiked versions of their classic drinks, in much the same way I might have mixed vodka with a Capri-Sun in high school. Why settle for a light beer when you could choose from Sunny D hard cocktails, Dunkin branded spiked iced coffees and teas, and Transfusions from Welchs, a company perhaps better known for its kid-friendly 100 percent real grape juice. Even Arizonas instantly recognizable can can now be found in the alcohol aisle (though it surely costs more than 99 cents). Advertisement But at some point, we have to acknowledge that these drinks are just glorified adult juice boxes. Its a smartand lucrativeplay by the consumer goods companies to cash in on the nostalgia economy, which often leaves people ranking retro brands high in favorability. In a pinch, Im sure Id be perfectly content to sip whatever premixed can is presented to me, but Id still prefer a made-to-order drink, preferably from the selection of spirits my fiance has curated for our home bar, rather than the muted, and probably sugary, alternatives. A Sunny D with a 4.5 percent ABV isnt going to elicit fond memories of your childhood. And if you drink enough of them, it wont help you make new ones either. In the wake of last Thursdays debate debacle, President Joe Biden and his defenders are pushing back against calls for him to abandon his reelection bid by claiming that he can still beat Trump. But that assertion is deeply questionable and ignores a much bigger problem: how dire things could get for downballot politicians if Biden stays in the race. On Saturday night, two days after the debate, I helped my son cater a Democratic Party fundraiser in Durango, Colorado, for Adam Frisch, the Democratic candidate for Congress in the states 3rd District, Lauren Boeberts current district. CD-3 is massive. It takes up almost half the state and is bigger than Pennsylvania. It is mostly rural, though its largest city is Pueblo, a traditional manufacturing town. Outside Pueblo, the economy is a mix of farming, ranching, oil and gas, mining, education, and outdoor recreation. The district contains the headwaters of the Colorado River system that provides water for six states. Republicans enjoy a 5 percent registration advantage over Democrats, but 42 percent of voters are independents. Hispanic Coloradans make up 26 percent of the population; virtually all the rest of the population is white. CD-3s rural character and whiteness, as well as the increasing conservatism of Western Hispanics, make it a tough district for Democrats. But it is winnable. Frisch nearly beat Boebert in 2022, losing by only 546 votes. The prospect of a rematch with him scared her so badly that she decamped to the other side of the state to run in a district with a 20 percent Republican registration advantage. Advertisement What makes Frisch formidable in this swing district is that, although he has the disadvantage of being a rich former finance guy who lives in Aspen, he is, by disposition, a political moderate. In fact, Bidens kind of guy. And he has done the work. He has learned the issues that matter here: water, energy, land use. For three years, he has traveled constantly to every town and hamlet. He meets regularly with groups Democrats tend to ignorethe Cattlemens Association, mining and energy interests, business groups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But now that Boebert has fled, Frisch has a much tougher race. Republicans have nominated an unremarkable Grand Junction lawyer who is conservative and Trump-supporting but not insane. In short, a great fit for R+5 CD-3. Frisch can still win, but he needs big turnout from Democrats and from persuadable independents. Which brings us back to Biden and the Frisch fundraiser. Advertisement At the end of the Q&A session, one bold soul raised the question on everyones mind: What did Frisch think about the debate and its effect on Bidens prospects and his own? Carefully, respectfully, Frisch told the crowd of Democratic loyalists that although he admired the presidents governing accomplishments, he had been concerned about Bidens age for years. Then, sometimes elliptically, but in the end unmistakably, Frisch confessed to thinking that the debate collapse made Bidens reelection unlikely. As he put it, governance is important, but in order to govern, you have to be elected. When pressed further, Frisch grudgingly admitted that Bidens age and now-undeniable frailty made his own election in Colorado tougher too. And, though he carefully avoided saying so directly, the candidate made it clear that he hoped Democratic Party elders would have serious conversations with the president about withdrawing from the race. (A few days later, Frisch issued a video statement and an op-ed unequivocally calling for Biden to withdraw.) Advertisement Advertisement When Frisch finished speaking, a remarkable and telling thing happened. No one in that crowd of lifelong Democrats raised so much as a murmur of dissent. I have since been told that, unsurprisingly, there are local Democrats who disagreesome quite stronglywith Frischs position on the viability of Bidens candidacy. Nonetheless, my own assessment is that the vast majority of attendees at the gathering understood two things that Bidens inner circle must accept. Advertisement First, Bidens collapse at the debate was not merely a slight wobble, an off day that anyone might have and recover from. It was, at the least, powerful evidence that the president is, sadly, too old to serve four more years. The committed Democrats in that Colorado barn on Saturdaynot one of them a Biden hater or member of the coastal elite mediasaw what the world saw during the debate. None of them tried to deny the obvious. And none of them raised a voice to deny the obvious consequence: If this aged and diminished Biden remains in the race, the risk that he will lose to Donald Trump is very high indeed, and certainly far higher than it was before the debate. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Second, if Biden stays in the race, he is likely to drag swing-district Democrats like Adam Frisch down with him. In a presidential year, turnout is driven by voters reactions to the presidential race. Hardcore Democrats and Republicans will come out and vote for their partys presidential and congressional nominees regardless of individual merit. But many independents and lukewarm Democratsthe people that both Biden and congressional Democrats like Frisch need to wincould be more likely to stay home in disgust or despair. If they do, they will not be voting in downballot races at all. Not only could Biden lose, but lots of other Democrats across the country could lose too. And if that happens, Trump could enter the presidency without even the check of one or more houses of Congress in Democratic control. Advertisement I admire Biden immensely. He has long been an exemplary public servant. He has accomplished great things in his first term. Perhaps, despite last weeks debate, he can somehow pull off an electoral miracle. But I doubt it. Replacing him would be awkward, to be sure. But I think that a Democrat, almost any Democrat, younger, more vigorous, and free of the baggage with which years of disingenuous Republican attacks have saddled Biden, now has a better chance of beating Trump. Biden needs to do one last agonizing, soul-searing service for the country he loves. Step aside. Let a new generation take up the fight. If he will not do that, then the Trumpian darkness he rightly fears is more likely to fall. And if it does, that catastrophe will properly be laid, at least in part, to his charge. This is part of Opinionpalooza, Slates coverage of the major decisions from the Supreme Court. Alongside Amicus, we kicked things off this year by explaining How Originalism Ate the Law. The best way to support our work is by joining Slate Plus. (If you are already a member, consider a donation or merch!) We are in the process of the second American Revolution, Heritage Foundation president Kevin Roberts thundered on Tuesday in celebration of the Supreme Courts decision granting Donald Trump, and all future presidents, sweeping immunity from prosecution. This judge-led revolution, he added ominously, will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be. Kevin Roberts is not alone in cheering the Supreme Courts hard turn to the right as a de facto revolution. The New Civil Liberties Alliance, a far-right group that welcomed coup abettors into its fold, trumpeted that the dismantling of the unlawful Administrative State has officially begun after SCOTUS overturned the 40-year-old doctrine of Chevron deference. Republican officials, commentators, and activists are jubilant over the courts recent rulings, applauding them as the dawn of a new era in American governance. And theyre not wrong. While Democrats fret for a second week over the fallout from President Joe Bidens disastrous debate performance, many Republicans seem to feel as if theyve won already, entrenching many tenets of Heritages Project 2025 into law before a single vote has been cast. The GOPs triumphant attitude is neither premature nor overconfident. Four months out from November, the party has abruptly prevailed in many of its most important political battles, albeit in the cold, technical proseyou might even call it bloodlessof judicial opinions. The Supreme Courts conservative supermajority has, in recent weeks, restructured American democracy in the Republican Partys preferred image, fundamentally altering the balance of power between the branches and the citizens themselves. As the GOP became the party of coup denialism and unreconstructed Trump cultists, so too, finally, have the sober movement conservatives at the high court. Advertisement In the course of its most recent term that conservative supermajority has created a monarchical presidency, awarding the chief executive near-insurmountable immunity from accountability for any and all crimes committed during a term in office. It has seized power from Congress, strictly limiting lawmakers ability to write broad laws that tackle the major crises of the moment. And it has hobbled federal agencies authority to apply existing statutes to problems on the ground, substituting the expert opinions of civil servants with the (often partisan) preferences of unelected judges. All the while, the court has placed itself at the apex of the state, agreeing to share power only with a strongman president who seeks to govern in line with the conservative justices vision. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related From Slate It Sure Looks as if KBJ Is Throwing Yacht Shade at Sam Alito and Clarence Thomas Read More Someday historians will manage to explain why the same Roberts court that declined to rig the 2020 census in favor of Republicans, declined to intervene in the bogus 2020 election fraud cases, declined to rubber-stamp a wholly fabricated Independent State Legislature Theory, and refused to protect from investigation Trumps personal papers and advisers made the sharp turn in 2024 to become his handmaids. At some point the rumors that there was a 3-3-3 court with a careful and moderate center became simply laughable, and those same moderate justices made the decision that whatever impulse toward public legitimacy had constrained their conduct in recent years was for suckers: Having taken on far too many high-profile game-changing cases, the choice for the 202324 term was go big or go home. They went big. Advertisement And make no mistake about it: When a court that has been battered by near-weekly reports of undisclosed oligarch-funded vacations (and gifts and super yachts and tricked out RVs and secret conferences with high-paying Koch supporters getting access to justices) decides to make it easier to bribe public officialsas it did in Snyder v. U.S.thats a very public signal that the conservative supermajority does not care what you think. When a court that has been caught with not one but two justices who have spouses who were excited by insurrectionist activity and symbols stands up those same justices as dispassionate and objective deciders of three separate Jan. 6 cases, thats a very public signal that the conservative supermajority doesnt care what you think. And when that self same court makes it illegal for homeless people to sleep in parks because not one of these members of the conservative supermajority will lose sleep over homelessness, climate change, housing policy, or any of the other root causes of being forced to sleep in a park, its a very, very public signal that the justices dont care what you think. Whatever braking mechanism once existed at the court is now broken. We wake up this summer in a new government order. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement To grasp the gobsmacking scope of this shift, start with Mondays decision on presidential immunity and work backwards. In Trump v. U.S., the Supreme Courts conservative supermajority invented a new rule out of whole cloth, unmoored from any known constitutional text or principle, handing the president almost total immunity from criminal charges for his actions in office. Chief Justice John Roberts opinion purported to distinguish between official acts, which cant be punished, and unofficial acts, which can. But Roberts also stacked the deck in favor of the president at every turn: He barred prosecutors from introducing evidence of official acts to prove culpability for unofficial acts and prohibited any inquiry into the presidents motives when dividing official and unofficial conduct. The result is a vast shield against prosecution that will hamstring prosecutors at every turn even if they decide that its somehow worth it to try to surmount the hurdle of immunity and attempt to reach the trial stage. Under this new dynamic, most prosecutors likely wont even bother, no matter how horrific a presidents criminal actions may be. Advertisement This decision is a recipe for authoritarian rule. As Justice Sonia Sotomayor explained in dissent, it frees the president to engage in corruption and violence, including the assassination of his rivals, without fear of criminal charges. And it lets the president transform the executive branch into a fiefdom of self-enrichment and crueltywielding dictatorial power to entrench his own rule, then pardon every subordinate who facilitates any coup. The chilling logic behind this ruling seems to rest on a realistic understanding of how Republicans and Democrats exercise executive power; a reality we continue to witness on the Trump vs. Biden split screen. Trump intends to govern by punishing his enemies and rewarding his friends, issuing a ceaseless stream of executive actions that benefit his allies (billionaires, corporations, white nationalists, foreign dictators) and oppress the frequent targets of his ire (journalists, public servants, immigrants, women, minorities). The Supreme Court has now allowed Trump to carry out this agenda in a second term through literally criminal methods of repression so long as he calls them official acts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Biden, by contrast, seeks to govern in a more traditional mode: Relying on federal agenciesstaffed with nonpartisan experts who draw on a deep well of knowledge and experienceto carry out Congress commands. That is how American government has functioned for well over a century, to the great benefit of the citizenry. Its why there is clean air and drinkable water and airplanes that stay in the sky and drugs that dont kill us. And it is a model that the Supreme Court has now kneecapped. Shortly before handing down Trump v. U.S., the court issued Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo, overturning a four-decade-old ruling that served as the basis for some 18,000 lower court decisions. Loper Bright abolished Chevron deference, the rule that federal courts should defer to agencies reasonable interpretations of ambiguous laws. By doing so, it seriously curbed Congress latitude to enact laws that address a serious problem then allow agencies to fill in the details and gaps. The ruling does not, as its defenders on the right like to insist, simply force Congress to do its job. Rather, it overrides lawmakers prerogative to exercise legislative power in a way they believe is necessary to protect the people from harms. It enshrines into law a specific conservative conception of proper government, overriding Congress choices without any constitutional mandate. And, of course, it replaces the opinions of agency experts with the political proclivities of life-tenured judges who may lack the most basic grasp of the facts. For good measure, the same conservative supermajority then erased a statute of limitations that might have staunched the coming tsunami of challenges to federal regulations. Advertisement Advertisement Loper Bright boils down to a straightforward proposition: The Supreme Courts Republican appointees are sympathetic to wealthy individuals and corporations, so they will contort the law to help them. Thats the story of other key decisions this term. In SEC v. Jarkesy, the conservative justices sabotaged agencies ability to bring civil penalties against lawbreakers, devastating their enforcement powers across the board. In Ohio v. EPA, they let polluters block vital environmental protections by second-guessing regulators scientific judgment. In Snyder v. U.S., they let local officials accept bribes from wealthy benefactors in the form of (wink-wink) gratuities. In Moore v. U.S., they deployed gratuitous rhetoric to preemptively stack the deck against a future wealth tax. In Garland v. Cargill, they let the gun industry continue making bank off de facto machine guns. Meanwhile, the court declared open season on the rights of everyone else: racial minorities, immigrants and their families, the homeless and disabled, women in need of emergency abortionsall were denied legal protections bestowed by the Constitution and Congress this term. Advertisement Advertisement The Supreme Court has laid all the foundations for the demise of civil liberties for vulnerable communities, the restoration of a Christianity-based view of family and equality, the dismantling of the regulatory state, and an imperial presidency aided by a Justice Department that does the president-kings bidding. Project 2025 sets forth the blueprint for achieving the rest. Had the high court remained a plausible check on a possible second Trump presidency, the next few years would have been challenging enough. Having shown themselves to be the rocket fuel powering this revanchist new world order, the six ultra-conservative justices have positioned themselves as partners in Trumps fight. Advertisement Advertisement There are conversations now taking place about what to do to reform a renegade court that refuses to accept that it should be checked by the other branches; those conversations have perhaps never felt more mired in helplessness, yet paradoxically, they have never been more crucial. Find someone working on court reform and lend an oar. Whatever faint hope we once held out that public outrage alone would encourage moderation has been blown to smithereens. Public outrage has somehow made the court more reckless. The time for wishful thinking about the power of shame, institutional legitimacy, and historical legacy is over. The time for action may well be now or never. Who is the president of the United States? Its Joe Biden, of course. But one popular artificial intelligence app thinks otherwise. While A.I. models have been known to hallucinate (i.e., make stuff up), they typically dont mess up extremely simple things like name the president. If you ask OpenAIs ChatGPT who the U.S. president is, itll give you the correct answer, a short bio, and links to the White House website and Bidens Wikipedia article. The same is true for Anthropics Claude and Meta AI, while Googles Gemini straight-up refuses to answer the question because its related to politics. I cant help with responses on elections and political figures right now, it told me. Im trained to be as accurate as possible but I can make mistakes sometimes. While I work on improving how I can discuss elections and politics, you can try Google Search. Good grief. But that hesitation to engage with anything political is rooted in legitimate concerns about how artificial intelligence can be weaponized to influence elections, spread disinformation, and scam people. There are often more safeguards for text-to-image models than your standard chatbotsand for good reason. Fake images of political figures could create mass chaos and confusion. If you thought Pope Francis really did wear a white puffer coat, you might be more likely to believe that deepfaked pics of Trump with Black voters are real. Advertisement When I asked DALL-E, OpenAIs text-to-image generator, to generate images of Joe Biden and Donald Trump, it flat-out refused, citing the companys usage policy. When I asked it to generate a model of the president of the United States, it manufactured a cartoonish white man with a chiseled jaw who looks like he could be the president in a mid-aughts rom-com set in Washington, D.C. No Biden, no Trump, just a hunky POTUS cosplayer. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The image generator Midjourney has similar rules. When I asked it to make an image of the candidates, it gave me an error message: Sorry! The Midjourney community voted to prevent using Donald Trump and Joe Biden during election season. Since June 2023, according to screenshots recorded on the Internet Archive, Midjourneys community guidelines have stipulated, You may not use the Services to generate images for political campaigns, or to try to influence the outcome of an election. Advertisement But in early March, the Center for Countering Digital Hate, a British nonprofit, released a report showing how Midjourney and other image generators could be used to reliably generate deepfake political imagessuch as Biden in a hospital gown, Trump getting arrested, and a dumpster full of voting ballots. A week later the company started banning images of the two nominees, the Associated Press reported. But that was nearly four months ago. Advertisement Advertisement This week, when I asked Midjourney for images of the president of the United States (specifically, Please make me an image of the president of the United States), it produced a stream of pictures of Donald Trump. I kept repeating the prompt more Trump. Midjourney spits out four images at a time to give users options. I kept getting four images of Donald Trumpsome looked hand-painted, some like photographs, some moody, some smiling, all showing Trump with the trappings of his former office. Advertisement One of the 16 images I generated on Midjourney showed Barack Obama. None showed Joe Bidenor anyone else. Midjourney did not respond to multiple requests for comment about its content policies and why its image generator not only violates its own rules but also shows Trump as the current president. Advertisement There are good reasons why Midjourney may spit out images of Donald Trump when prompted. Trump is surely one of the most photographed people in human historyhis face is slapped all over the web alongside the word president. Wherever Midjourney is gobbling up images, it cant really avoid the ubiquity of Trumps countenance. Ive played around with image generators for a yearMidjourney routinely takes a more laissez-faire approach to content moderation than DALL-E. I dont really care about political speech, founder David Holz told users in a meeting in March. Thats not the purpose of Midjourney. Its not that interesting to me. That said, I also dont want to spend all of my time trying to police political speech. So were going to have [to] put our foot down on it a bit. Without government regulations placing constraints on how artificial intelligence applications safeguard against deceptive content, companies have to figure it out themselvessomething theyre surely thrilled about. And Midjourney reportedly has only a dozen employeesa tiny force compared with thousands working at OpenAI or A.I.-focused employees at Silicon Valley behemoths. Holz told users at that meeting that this moderation stuff is kind of hard. Its not that hard. Donald Trump might think hes president, but Midjourney should know better. Interior Ministry to pay fine for suspension of investigators. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share "You, sirs, have turned Slovakia into a country in which one cannot live, so please pack up, make yourselves scarce, and please stop talking nonsense about the mafia, because the real mafia is you - the people of [former PM Igor] Matovic, of [former special prosecutor Daniel] Lipsic, of [former police chief Stefan] Hamran, [former acting interior minister Roman] Mikulec and [suspended police investigator Jan] Curilla," said Hlas party's MP Matus Sutaj Estok in September 2022. The period after the 2020 parliamentary elections could be characterised as a time when high-level corruption began to be genuinely investigated. Based on this promise, the leader of the then OLaNO movement, Igor Matovic, won the elections and formed a government. The pandemic and conflicts within the coalition government first led to a government reshuffle, and later to its collapse. Before last year's elections, the government was led by former banker Ludovit Odor and his technocratic cabinet. After the 2023 elections, Smer returned to power and formed a government with Hlas, which was founded by Smer renegade and President Peter Pellegrini, and the far-right Slovak National Party (SNS). One of the first moves Sutaj Estok made after becoming the interior minister last year was to suspend the entire elite group of National Crime Agency (NAKA) investigators centred around Jan Curilla, who investigated top corruption cases involving people appointed by the Smer party under the previous Smer-led governments. Sutaj Estok had been a Smer member before he joined Hlas in 2020. Six policemen, whom the minister refers to as "the Curillas", were the priority target. As an opposition politician, he used to call them "cowboys who distort justice", "a bunch of goons" or "cronies". "If such a pestilence were not under the protection of [then] President Caputova and [then technocratic] Prime Minister [Ludovit]Odor, they would be put out of service a long time ago," said MP Sutaj Estok in August 2023. However, when as minister he was recently interrogated by a police investigator regarding the suspension of the Curillas, he played down his previous fiery statements. Sutaj Estok claimed that he had no relationship with the group, felt unbiased towards them and did not see any problem in his statements. "These are only abbreviations or names used for media," claimed Sutaj Estok, when asked by the investigator on how they were supposed to understand the minister's previous statements regarding the Curillas. The NAKA - Zapad (western Slovakia) department interrogated Sutaj Estok at the end of February this year, following a criminal complaint filed against him by the five suspended police officers. In addition to Curilla, it was filed by Branislav Duncek, Robert Magula, Milan Sabota and Stefan Masin. The minister is suspected of abusing the powers of a public official, since he himself suspended the Curillas, even though he did not have to. At the same time he also ignored the fact that they had received whistleblower status and as such had been under the protection of the Office for the Protection of Whistleblowers, which has to approve any labour-related move against whistleblowers. Map of Bratislava road repairs, locations around Kosice that appeared in movies, and a tip for a recognised summer festival. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share Good evening. Here is the Wednesday, July 3 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes. Where will Bratislava's new railway station be? The Bratislava - Nove Mesto railway station. (Source: SME - Jozef Jakubco) Bratislava has been toying with the idea of a new Main Railway Station for more than 20 years. However, with the exception of the few times the worn-out building was refurbished, the last time in 2022, nothing has been done in this regard. Recently, Transport Minister Jozef Raz (a Smer nominee) said that the current station will be neither expanded nor extensively repaired as doing so would cost too much, reports Sme daily. Instead, a completely new station will be constructed. The precise location will be announced in September and should be finished by 2030. The new station may be constructed in one of three places. Dennik N reported that the reconstruction of the Bratislava - Nove Mesto railway station is on the table. According to Sme daily, a station in the nearby town of Stupava is an option. The third option is the long-considered dilapidated and closed Filialka railway station in the Trnavske Myto locality. Each option comes with different challenges. Filialka is smaller than the current main railway station and would need to be underground, not to mention that it would necessitate the construction of tunnels connecting to every direction. On the other hand, Stupava is 15 kilometres from Bratislava and would also require the extension of tunnels and connections. A more realistic scenario is the expansion of the Nove Mesto station as there is available space nearby. However, it too would require connections. The former railway station Filialka is being considered as a place to construct a new main railway station. (Source: SME - Jozef Jakubco) MORE STORIES FROM THE SLOVAK SPECTATOR WEBSITE POLITICS: Seasoned Slovak diplomat's UN nomination and ministry post was cancelled. He was given no reason as to why. Seasoned Slovak diplomat's UN nomination and ministry post was cancelled. He was given no reason as to why. TRANSPORT: Reconstruction of Bratislava roads in full swing, have a look at where restrictions apply. Reconstruction of Bratislava roads in full swing, have a look at where restrictions apply. TRAVEL: About 80 locations in the Kosice Region have been depicted in more than 50 Slovak and foreign films. If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our online subscription with no ads and a print copy of The Slovak Spectator sent to your home in Slovakia. Thank you. FEATURE STORY FOR WEDNESDAY Cowboys who never were Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok. (Source: TASR) Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok was recently interrogated by a police investigator regarding the suspension of the Curillovci, a group of police investigators centred around Jan Curilla, who investigated top corruption cases. In the past, the minister called them "cowboys who distort justice", "a bunch of goons" or "cronies". Now, he tried to play the statements down. Even though he himself signed the suspension of the Curillovci as Interior Minister, during the interrogation he repeatedly tried to shy away from responsibility. EVENT FOR THE NEXT WEEKS Viva Musica! is back The Viva Musica! festival has a 20-year tradition. (Source: TASR) This year, Viva Musica!, one of the most recognised summer festivals in Slovakia, celebrates a tradition spanning 20 years, bringing the best of classical music and renowned artists from all over the world to Bratislava. This edition will take place between July 4 to August 15 and offer 13 concerts at various venues. The jubilee edition will open this Thursday with a concert by the electronic-acoustic band Fallgrap, joined by the Spectrum Orchestra led by a violinist. The concert will take place in the Stara Trznica venue. For more information and tickets, click here. IN OTHER NEWS According to a new survey carried out by the Ipsos agency for the Dennik N daily, President Peter Pellegrini is trusted by 53 percent of people, while 42 percent are of the opposite opinion. He is followed by ex-president Zuzana Caputova (47 percent as opposed to 45 percent) and Prime Minister and Smer chair Robert Fico (38 percent and 55 percent). The survey took place between June 26 and July 1 on a sample of 1,017 people. (Dennik N). He is followed by ex-president Zuzana Caputova (47 percent as opposed to 45 percent) and Prime Minister and Smer chair Robert Fico (38 percent and 55 percent). The survey took place between June 26 and July 1 on a sample of 1,017 people. (Dennik N). The government approved the reconstruction of the cylindrical tower dominating the Nove Mesto borough of Bratislava, known as Kukurica (Corn Cob). A part of the 60 million investment is to be covered by the recovery plan. Originally, the building named Hviezda (Star) served as a military accommodation facility. (Dennik N) The 'Kukurica' former military accommodation facility on Kukucinova Street in Bratislava. (Source: Gabriel Kuchta) According to Defence Minister Robert Kalinak (Smer), PM and Smer chief Robert Fico will soon return to his duties and appear before the public at the beginning of July. He might even attend the Saints Cyril and Methodius celebrations on July 5. However, Fico will face lasting effects from the May 15 assassination attempt on his life during which he was shot four times. (SITA) He might even attend the Saints Cyril and Methodius celebrations on July 5. However, Fico will face lasting effects from the May 15 assassination attempt on his life during which he was shot four times. (SITA) The government approved Transport Minister Jozef Raz's (a Smer nominee) proposal to pay out 50,000 to the families of the victims of last week's collision between a train and a bus near Nove Zamky, Nitra Region. (TASR) of last week's collision between a train and a bus near Nove Zamky, Nitra Region. (TASR) President Peter Pellegrini handed over credentials to two new Slovak ambassadors, namely Marek Varga, Slovakia's Permanent Representative to NATO, and Barbara Mestanova, set to head the diplomatic mission in Israel. Before, Varga served as an ambassador to Lebanon and other Middle East countries, while Mestanova was at the embassy in Tel Aviv as an economic diplomat. (TASR) WEATHER FOR THURSDAY: The cloud cover will change throughout the day, daily temperatures to rise around 20 C in Zilina and Spis regions, while between 22 C to 27 C elsewhere. Light breeze. (SHMU) JULY 4 NAME'S DAY IN SLOVAKIA: Prokop Thank you for subscribing and reading. It means a lot to us. P.S. If you have suggestions on how our news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk. Follow The Slovak Spectator on Facebook and Instagram (@slovakspectator). https://sputnikglobe.com/20240702/zelensky-needs-to-understand-the-us-loves-israel-more-1119227898.html Zelensky Needs To Understand: The US Loves Israel More Zelensky Needs To Understand: The US Loves Israel More Sputnik International Following the first 2024 Presidential debate, it should be obvious to everyone that the US will support Israel over Ukraine if it has to make a decision. 2024-07-02T23:13+0000 2024-07-02T23:13+0000 2024-07-03T00:01+0000 analysis joe biden volodymyr zelensky donald trump israel ukraine russia 2024 us presidential election jill stein https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/04/1d/1118169988_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_f03729f36a33e6abf0c7fd5cb65c8dfd.jpg During last weeks debate, Ukraine was discussed but neither candidate offered concrete plans to continue funding the ill-fated NATO proxy war in Ukraine. Former US President Donald Trump claimed he would find a settlement for the conflict before he takes office in January while current US President Joe Biden claimed that his actions in Ukraine stopped Russian President Vladimir Putin from restoring his Soviet empire.In contrast, when Palestine was brought up, both candidates sparred over who supports Israel more. We are the biggest producer of support for Israel than anyone in the world, Biden argued. You should let them go and let them finish the job, Trump said of Israel, adding that Biden has resembled a very bad Palestinian.The stark contrast should have been illuminating to Volodymyr Zelensky, the former golden boy of the West.Im sorry, at the end of the day, the priority [for the US] is always going to be Israel, said Bils, adding that the feeling wasnt based in ethnocentrism or religious ideas but simply that Geopolitically, its more important for the United States to protect Israel, than it is to protect Ukraine.Israel has sometimes been described as an aircraft carrier for the United States in the Middle East.The day after the debate, Zelensky held a press conference saying he would soon present a comprehensive plan to end the conflict that would be supported by the majority of the world. He also indicated that he was open to talking with Russia through intermediaries. While the comments came not long after his most recent so-called peace conference was described almost universally as a failure, its proximity to Bidens disastrous debate performance was hard to ignore.As has been the case for decades, Americans have no path utilizing the two major parties if they want to see a significant change in foreign policy.In her post-debate response, Green Party candidate Jill Stein offered voters a different option. Not only is our country funding a genocide the genocide would not go on without [Biden and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken], she explained, saying that at the debate there were two warmongers basically competing for who can get us to World War III the soonest." https://sputnikglobe.com/20240702/iran-to-support-hezbollah-in-conflict-with-israel-by-all-means---supreme-leader-adviser-1119215551.html israel ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ian DeMartino Ian DeMartino News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Ian DeMartino world war iii, us support of ukraine, us support of israel, biden trump debate, how to avoid wwiii, who does the us support more https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/cutting-edge-russian-missiles-make-ukraines-f-16s-easy-target-like-su-27s---expert-1119232590.html Cutting-Edge Russian Missiles Make Ukraine's F-16s Easy Target Like Su-27s - Expert Cutting-Edge Russian Missiles Make Ukraine's F-16s Easy Target Like Su-27s - Expert Sputnik International NATOs F-16 jets to Ukraine will be hunted down and destroyed by Russias surgical strikes similar to the ones that took out five Su-27 fighters recently, Dmitry Kornev, the founder of the Military Russia portal, told Sputnik. 2024-07-03T13:59+0000 2024-07-03T13:59+0000 2024-07-03T14:02+0000 analysis ukraine russia iskander-m su-27 f-16 dmitry kornev military & intelligence ukrainian armed forces nato https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/03/1119232130_0:20:3567:2026_1920x0_80_0_0_82b1c7dfdcecb1a68aa29a6a58bf195e.jpg NATOs F-16 jets promised to Ukraine will be hunted down and obliterated by Russias surgical strikes similar to the ones that took out five Su-27 fighters recently, Dmitry Kornev, the founder of the Military Russia portal, told Sputnik.If the airfield harboring the Western-delivered aircraft is too far out of reach for Russia's Iskander missiles, Russia could use its Kinzhal hypersonic air-launched ballistic missile, Kornev pointed out. He added that the Kinzhal boasts a greater range than the Iskander missile, and is being used with great success to strike high-value targets in the special op zone.A group strike using the Iskander-M missile defense system destroyed five active Su-27 mufti-purpose fighters and damaged two aircraft undergoing repairs at the Mirgorod airfield in the Poltava Region, the Russian Defense Ministry said on July 2.The raid on the Mirgorod airfield was described by Forbes as possibly one of the costliest single days for the Kiev regime. The publication pointed to an upsurge of Ukrainian bloggers that flooded social media, rushing to blame the nation's air force officers who allowed the crews to park the Su-27s out in the open so close to the front line. The outlet also recalled that Russian Lancet drones had carried out a series of strikes on vulnerable Ukrainian air bases.The strike was a triumph owing to several factors, he clarified. There was successful reconnaissance, he noted, and the distance to the airfield allowed the high-precision Iskander missiles to reach their target.The expert stated that Kiev cannot acquire Su-27s from other countries. Their only option is to try and restore the remaining aircraft by potentially buying spare parts from other sources.It is impossible to get the Su-27 the way they received the MiG-29 from Eastern Europe. Accordingly, the value of this aircraft for the Ukrainian Armed Forces is very high, noted Kornev.The number of aircraft that an Iskander missile can potentially destroy depends on how the targeted jets are parked, he explained, and he went on to clarify:The expert speculated that some of the jets might theoretically be restored, but for now, they are effectively out of action.According to Kornev, in response to Ukraine's potential acquisition of F-16 combat jets from the Netherlands, Russia will primarily rely on strategic reconnaissance capabilities. Additionally, Russia will maintain a high state of readiness with its assets in order to promptly respond to any potential strike force.In a March conversation with military pilots, Russian President Vladimir Putin explained that the supply of F-16s would not change the situation on the battlefield. Nevertheless, Moscow stressed it would treat the jets as nuclear-capable assets due to their dual-purpose nature. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240702/russian-air-defenses-shoot-down-nine-ukrainian-jets-including-seven-su-27s-1119221346.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240702/russian-iskander-missile-strikes-location-of-ukraine-aircraft-5-planes-destroyed---mod-1119215669.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240530/lavrov-peace-conference-with-ukraine-russia-could-be-continuation-of-chinas-efforts-1118693618.html ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko natos f-16 jets to ukraine, what will happen to natos f-16 jets delivered to ukraine, russian special military operation, russian armed forces, ukrainian crisis, russia's strikes on ukraine, russia strikes ukraine, russian air defenses, ukrainian air force, su-27s, russian ministry of defense https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/doing-everything-to-reelect-biden-duped-hillary-clinton-spills-cringy-details-to-prankster-duo-1119230958.html 'Doing Everything to Reelect Biden': Duped Hillary Clinton Spills Cringy Details to Prankster Duo 'Doing Everything to Reelect Biden': Duped Hillary Clinton Spills Cringy Details to Prankster Duo Sputnik International Hillary Clinton has been duped by famous duo of Russian pranksters, Vovan (Vladimir Kuznetsov) and Lexus (Alexey Stolyarov). 2024-07-03T10:50+0000 2024-07-03T10:50+0000 2024-07-03T10:50+0000 world us hillary clinton donald trump joe biden ukraine russia nato https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/07/1116653586_0:116:2487:1515_1920x0_80_0_0_d28bfadcc0d77240d7f98b2ec01e06f2.jpg Despite her crushing defeat to Donald Trump in the 2016 US presidential elections, Hillary Clinton has adamantly refused to be put out to pasture or written off from big politics. Hence, her current bid to dabble in the ongoing proxy conflict in Ukraine.It comes as no surprise that the former US Secretary of State eagerly accepted the offer to speak with 'former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko'. Little did she realize that she was divulging her political game regarding the US and Ukraine to the well-known Russian prankster duo, Vovan (Vladimir Kuznetsov) and Lexus (Alexey Stolyarov).Clinton jumped right into the conversation, assuring Poroshenko that US aid has been positioned to reach Ukraine very quickly".At this point, her conversational partner lamented over another looming threat, in the face of presidential hopeful Donald Trump, who could give us some problems if elected, since he hates Ukraine, she piped up:Clinton took a swipe at Trump, calling him a very dangerous candidate, and said he would be bad for the United States, as well as for the rest of the world, including Ukraine.But despite Joe Biden's disastrous first debate against his main opponent, Clinton is confident that Trump will lose. Moreover, she appeared to indicate that Bidens path to a second term should be paved with the bodies of Ukrainian soldiers. She assured that Washington would be giving you the means you need to support yourself to try to not only hold the line but engage in an offensive. And then obviously many of us in this country will do everything we can to reelect President Biden.Hillary also wholeheartedly supports Ukraines NATO membership aspirations, saying that We are working very hard to persuade the Germans and the Americans to move on this. I don't know what the final decision will be, but as you say, Rasmussen and Yermak, and others, are working very hard." This was a reference to former NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen and Zelensky's chief of staff Andriy Yermak, who have been spearheading a working group to gain support for Kiev's NATO bid across the alliance.Clinton emphasized that everyone has a stake in making sure that you are successful in pushing the Russians out as far as you can.Porshenko bantered at this point that dictators didnt learn their lesson after Gaddafi, in a reference to the former Libyan leader ousted and killed in the wake of NATOs bombardment of the North African country in 2011. During that time, as Barack Obama's foreign policy chief, Hillary Clinton, she was the public figure of the project and had cackled with laughter during a TV interview after rebel forces backed by NATO had captured and brutally killed Muammar Gaddafi. Clinton famously quipped, "We came, we saw, he died!"Yeah, I think thats true, replied Clinton to the Poroshenko imposter.Turning the conversation back to the main threat namely, Trump, the pranksters warned that he will ask for money back, and it will be a disaster, as he wants to end the conflict on Russias terms.He's a very bad guy, as I know personally from having to run against him, reiterated Hillary Clinton, and applauded an offer of help from the Ukrainian side to dig up some new dirt on Trump.She eagerly rounded off the conversation with Slava, Ukraina" ("Glory to Ukraine"), a wartime fascist salute originally adopted by the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), an infamous nationalist militant group that collaborated with the Nazis during World War II, and now widely used by Ukrainian paramilitary groups, promoted by the Kiev regime. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240626/ukraine-not-invited-to-nato-summit-british-foreign-secretary-tells-russian-pranksters-1119135049.html ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko russian pranksters, hillary clinton pranked by russian pranksters, hillary clinton duped by russian pranksters, who are the famous duo of russian pranksters, who are vovan and lexus, what did hillary clinton tell russian pranksters. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/nato-allies-hesitant-to-invite-ukraine-to-join-alliance-as-kiev-too-corrupt---reports-1119230215.html NATO Allies Hesitant to Invite Ukraine to Join Alliance as Kiev 'Too Corrupt' - Reports NATO Allies Hesitant to Invite Ukraine to Join Alliance as Kiev 'Too Corrupt' - Reports Sputnik International According to recent reports, Ukraine will be told that they are still "too corrupt" to join the NATO military alliance at the next summit. 2024-07-03T03:54+0000 2024-07-03T03:54+0000 2024-07-03T03:54+0000 world ukraine kiev nato russia https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/06/19/1119115643_0:167:3048:1882_1920x0_80_0_0_ea4c4da4d7fbefc56dc6a3a88d415bb0.jpg At the summit, which is scheduled to take place in the capital of the United States from July 9-11, NATO allies will request "additional steps" from Kiev to address corruption before membership talks, the newspaper reported on Wednesday. This position will be set out in writing in the NATO communique, which will be signed at the summit on July 9, the official told the newspaper. In late September 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine was applying for fast-track NATO membership. According to reports citing US and European sources familiar with the matter, the US and its allies have yet to reach a consensus on how strongly they are going to commit to Ukraine's NATO membership during the summit. Earlier in June, President Vladimir Putin said that Russia would immediately cease fire and begin negotiations with Ukraine after Kiev withdraws troops from the regions incorporated into Russia in 2022 and officially abandons plans to join NATO. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240629/west-dangles-nato-membership-in-front-of-ukraine-like-carrot-before-donkey-1119182178.html ukraine kiev russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ukraine in nato, will ukraine ever be in nato, what needs to happen to join nato The pro-Palestine artwork of Dani Collette and Allora McCullough was on display in the exhibition 'Planting Seeds, Sprouting Hope,' which was removed from the nonprofit gallery Craft Alliance in St. Louis. The duo was chosen as artists-in-residence at the gallery for 11 months from July 2023. The exhibition opened on Sunday, June 21, and will run through Saturday, July 20. However, shortly before its debut, two pieces by Collette were removed from display, reportedly without the artists' knowledge: a glass bowl titled 'Symbol of Solidarity,' which was decorated with a keffiyeh print, and several watermelon-shaped pieces carved with the phrase "Land Back," which is a common phrase made by Indigenous decolonization movements for the return of land that settlers have taken. Several of Collette's title cards were taken down, including those for the pieces 'Indigenous to Palestine' and 'From the River to the Sea,' the latter of which has historically been a slogan for supporters of Palestinian statehood. Collette told St. Louis Public Radio she showed up, and her artwork and titles disappeared. She noted that he thinks it is an incredibly disrespectful and aggressive stance to take without any sort of discourse or effort at discourse. She said that her goal was to have a discourse about the positive way in which Palestinians/Gazans are using it. She claimed that she had a firsthand account from a Palestinian who informed her that when they use it, it is a call for freedom, equality, and peace for all inhabitants' From the River to the Sea,' including Jews and Israelis. On June 24, Craft Alliance announced on Facebook and Instagram that it had decided to remove the show due to "antisemitic slogan[s] and imagery" that called for "violence and the destruction of the Jewish state of Israel." Speaking to St. Louis Magazine, Bryan Knicely, executive director of the Craft Alliance, said he was aware of the show's "broad themes" but not its "specifics" until 45 minutes before the opening when a Jewish volunteer described its contents as offensive. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/putin-holds-talks-with-pakistani-pm-sharif-on-sco-summits-sidelines-1119231619.html Putin Holds Talks With Kazakh President Tokayev on SCO Summit's Sidelines Putin Holds Talks With Kazakh President Tokayev on SCO Summit's Sidelines Sputnik International Sputnik goes live as Russian President Vladimir Putin holds talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit. 2024-07-03T10:45+0000 2024-07-03T10:45+0000 2024-07-03T15:27+0000 world vladimir putin shanghai cooperation organisation (sco) astana shehbaz sharif yury ushakov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/05/07/1118313288_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_ed334963bbb2f2c526422a64e227d2bb.jpg Sputnik goes live as Russian President Vladimir Putin holds talks with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit.The SCO summit is being held in Astana on July 3-4 under the theme "Strengthening Multilateral Dialogue - the Pursuit of Sustainable Peace and Development." The event's participants are expected to sign a package of 24 joint documents and adopt a final declaration and a statement confirming the SCO participants' commitment to the principles of good neighborliness and unity.Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said on Tuesday that Putin would hold a press conference following the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Astana.Follow Sputniks live broadcast to find out more! astana Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Putin Holds Bilateral Meetings on SCO Summit's Sidelines Sputnik International Putin Holds Bilateral Meetings on SCO Summit's Sidelines 2024-07-03T10:45+0000 true PT1S 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russian president vladimir putin, shanghai cooperation organization, pakistani prime minister shehbaz sharif https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/russia-to-seek-reactions-from-intl-organizations-after-enerhodar-drone-attack-1119234992.html Russia to Seek Reactions From Intl Organizations After Energodar Drone Attack Russia to Seek Reactions From Intl Organizations After Energodar Drone Attack Sputnik International Russia will seek reactions from international organizations to Ukraines drone attack targeting Energodar, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Wednesday. 2024-07-03T18:46+0000 2024-07-03T18:46+0000 2024-07-04T04:37+0000 world russia ukraine zaporozhye maria zakharova rosatom ukrainian crisis ukrainian drone attacks on russia ukrainian conflict https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107889/97/1078899752_0:160:3073:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_1d6e2729d9c57bbd698a92f2a19fe89a.jpg Earlier in the day, the head of Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear corporation, Alexey Likhachev, said that eight staffers employed in the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant were injured in the attack on the Raduga electrical substation in Energodar. The attack on Energodar is aimed at destabilization and "creating threats to the Zaporozhye nuclear plant's security," Zakharova added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/ukrainian-drone-attack-on-energodar-disrupts-zaporozhye-nuclear-plants-facilities-1119232903.html russia ukraine zaporozhye Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ukraines drone attack targeting energodar, foreign ministry spokeswoman maria zakharova, energodar drone attack, zaporozhye nuclear power plant https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/sco-a-strong-voluntary-economic-forum-for-confidence-building-1119233237.html SCO a 'Strong Voluntary Economic Forum' For Confidence-Building SCO a 'Strong Voluntary Economic Forum' For Confidence-Building Sputnik International The Shanghai Cooperation Organization is a platform with potential to become a strong trading and economic forum, Dr Anuradha Chenoy told Sputnik. 2024-07-03T16:11+0000 2024-07-03T16:11+0000 2024-07-03T16:11+0000 analysis shanghai cooperation organisation (sco) russia belarus multipolar world https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/07/04/1111659492_0:68:1280:788_1920x0_80_0_0_e296f9f993e883cddd1dd1dc68793a98.jpg The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) has the potential to become a strong trading and economic forum.Dr Anuradha Chenoy, retired professor of the Centre for Russian and Central Asian Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, told Sputnik that was why all ten member states "have eagerly sought to be included in this organization."Belarus accession to the SCO "fortifies the undeniable Eurasian nature of the SCO," Chenoy said, adding that the organization be seen as "both regional and Eurasian since Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan straddle Eurasia, while India and China are clearly Asian. Iran is part of West Asia and shows again the contiguity of geography that ties this region naturally."The admission of Belarus to the SCO at its annual summit in Astana will boost the groupings role as a geopolitical counterweight to Western institutions led by the United States and its allies, Western media outlets acknowledged.They underscored that the 10 member platform from now on will represent more than 40% of the worlds population and roughly a quarter of the global economy.Indeed, the SCO countries can utilize the platform to connect with each other as they share many common interests and concerns of security like terrorism, cross border trafficking, migration, possibility of spillover from conflicts in the region and many other issues that can best be collectively challenged, emphasized Dr Chenoy.Weighing in on how the expansion of the SCO may affect the collective West, the retired professor noted that the idea of Eurasia and an assertion of the rights of former colonised people does not go down well with them. "That is only part of their imagination, that the rise of Eurasia or the rise of any other country threatens the West," she added. "Therefore the expansion of the SCO may be challenged by some forces in the West."Looking ahead, Dr Chenoy argued that the SCO can never be a military security organization, but "only be a forum where security issues are discussed and that focuses on peace and tranquility in the region."The SCO summit, hosted by Astana from July 3 to 4 under the slogan "Strengthening Multilateral Dialogue - the Pursuit of Sustainable Peace and Development", is expected to result in a package of 24 joint documents and adopt a final declaration. https://sputnikglobe.com/20230705/sco-sets-course-for-de-dollarization-security-and-sustainable-growth-1111678054.html russia belarus Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Svetlana Ekimenko Svetlana Ekimenko News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Svetlana Ekimenko russian president vladimir putin, bilateral meetings, shanghai cooperation organization (sco) summit, shanghai cooperation summit (sco), russia, india, china, trade in national currencies, dedollarization, nuclear non-proliferation, aukus, asia pacific region, biowarfare, chemical warfare, terrorism, belt and road initiative, sco growth, sco expansion https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/turkiye-reduces-wheat-imports-from-ukraine-sixfold-in-may---trade-data-1119230557.html Turkiye Reduces Wheat Imports From Ukraine Sixfold in May - Trade Data Turkiye Reduces Wheat Imports From Ukraine Sixfold in May - Trade Data Sputnik International Turkish wheat imports from Ukraine in May dropped sixfold year-on-year to 79,700 tonnes as the share of import in Turkiye's domestic consumption declined from 82% to 25%, Sputnik has calculated based on both countries' trading data. 2024-07-03T06:25+0000 2024-07-03T06:25+0000 2024-07-03T06:25+0000 world turkiye ukraine european union (eu) grain grain exports wheat wheat exports https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/09/0e/1100758304_0:0:3094:1740_1920x0_80_0_0_cd66d0cb8c9a9bbe9f9aab9085d5d147.jpg Corn topped the list of Turkish imports of Ukrainian grains, accounting for 74% and increasing ninefold year-on-year to 233,000 tonnes. Barley was the third-most imported grain, albeit accounting for just 1% and declining 22-fold to 3,800 tonnes. Turkiye's grain imports from Ukraine halved this May compared with last year, to 316,600 tonnes. Turkiye halted wheat imports from June 21 until October 15 to protect local producers from price decreases. Turkiye's wheat imports in the first quarter of 2024 amounted to 2.1 million tonnes worth $530 million. Other major sellers of wheat to Turkiye are Ukraine at 27% and Moldova at 1.6%. Bulgaria, Romania and Syria each account for about 1%.Ukraine was granted a temporary duty-free trade arrangement with the European Union in June 2022. In March 2022, the EU additionally launched green corridors to facilitate the transit of Ukrainian grain to the world market amid Russia's special military operation. However, the cheap grain from Ukraine ended up flooding EU markets instead, prompting outrage among local farmers. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240110/turkiye-remains-main-importer-of-russian-grain-wheat---russian-union-of-grain-exporters-1116090451.html turkiye ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International turkish wheat imports, wheat imports from ukraine, domestic consumption https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/ukrainian-military-runs-over-own-troops-with-trucks-during-panicked-evac---prisoner-of-war-1119228755.html Ukrainian Military Runs Over Own Troops With Trucks During Panicked Evac - Prisoner of War Ukrainian Military Runs Over Own Troops With Trucks During Panicked Evac - Prisoner of War Sputnik International According to an Ukrainian Prisoner of War, soldiers were run over by a fleeing armored vehicle. 2024-07-03T01:47+0000 2024-07-03T01:47+0000 2024-07-03T05:20+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukraine russia prisoners-of-war sputnik https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/03/1119228598_66:0:1641:886_1920x0_80_0_0_bbbf80042d8405a4230fee42f4ebd89c.png The Ukrainian prisoner of war said the incident occurred as Russian troops occupied the second level of a building where his unit was located, and fighters of the Kraken national battalion, who were supposed to cover his unit, withdrew from the battle. Gridnev, as the unit's commander, requested reinforcements, but Russian troops hit them on their approach with drones, and an evacuation vehicle was called in after it happened. Gridnev added that the MT-LB was radioed to have been carrying severely wounded soldiers and a lot of killed troops. He then realized that nobody was going to evacuate them, and the unit decided to surrender.The Ukrainian prisoner of war told Sputnik earlier that Kraken's fighters were deployed on the second line in Chasov Yar and fled from their positions before regular units of the Ukrainian armed forces arrived. He added that Kraken militants left their positions after Russian troops took control of a couple of buildings. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240702/ukraines-kraken-battalion-leaves-positions-in-chasov-yar-before-regular-units-arrive-1119216751.html ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International prisoner of war interview, ukraine ran over own troops, valentin gridnev, chasov yar, chasiv yar https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/ukrainian-militarys-call-signs-found-in-foreign-mercenarys-notebook-1119228885.html Ukrainian Military's Call Signs Found in Foreign Mercenary's Notebook Ukrainian Military's Call Signs Found in Foreign Mercenary's Notebook Sputnik International RUBEZHNOYE, Lugansk Peoples Republic (Sputnik) - Call signs of the Ukrainian military used for radio communications have been found in a notebook of a... 03.07.2024, Sputnik International 2024-07-03T01:59+0000 2024-07-03T01:59+0000 2024-07-03T05:20+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukraine lugansk peoples republic russia sputnik https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/106121/64/1061216407_0:137:4000:2387_1920x0_80_0_0_50981e25695529dd626ba394430aa324.jpg The Russian military has found the notebook after an assault on a Ukrainian stronghold in the Krasny Liman direction. Call signs of various branches of the military and combat units, some in Spanish and some in English, have been written on one of the pages of the notebook. In particular, the notebook records have the following call signs: Infanteria (infantry) - Vodka, Aviacion (aviation) - Soda, Artilleria (artillery) - Fanta, Dron (drone) - Pizza, Sniper - Juice, Machine gun - Coffee, AGS (AGL, an automatic grenade launcher) - Pasta, Artilleria pesada (heavy artillery) - Cola. A Russian soldier told the correspondent earlier that the notebook belonged to a Spanish-speaking mercenary, in which he wrote down basic words to communicate with the Ukrainian personnel. He added that foreign mercenaries have difficulty communicating with Ukrainian military personnel, and "there can be no talk of any coordinated actions." https://sputnikglobe.com/20240702/russian-troops-discover-notebook-of-spanish-speaking-mercenary-at-ukrainian-positions-1119213220.html ukraine russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International ukraine, lugansk peoples republic, russia, sputnik https://sputnikglobe.com/20240703/us-dissatisfied-with-ukraines-mobilization-rate---former-ukrainian-prime-minister-1119231959.html US Dissatisfied With Ukraine's Mobilization Rate - Former Ukrainian Prime Minister US Dissatisfied With Ukraine's Mobilization Rate - Former Ukrainian Prime Minister Sputnik International The United States expresses its dissatisfaction with the insufficient mobilization rate in Ukraine, causing trouble in Washington-Kiev relations, former Ukrainian Prime Minister Mykola Azarov said on Wednesday. 2024-07-03T10:52+0000 2024-07-03T10:52+0000 2024-07-03T10:52+0000 world volodymyr zelensky ukraine us mobilization https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/04/0b/1117864695_0:182:2995:1866_1920x0_80_0_0_1134c1eacbedcf79f7f7b49b38aeb5ac.jpg "After the adoption of the bill facilitating mobilization, the number of mobilized people increased, but the Kiev regime failed to achieve the numbers set by the Americans, failed by far. That is why they are having problems with their US masters who are openly saying: 'You planned to mobilize this number of people, but mobilized that. We have provided you with funds for weapons and that number of troops, and you fail to hold your end of the bargain,'" Azarov said on Telegram. There is active agitation in Ukraine in favor of signing of the temporary ceasefire agreement, he added. Martial law was introduced in Ukraine on February 24, 2022. The next day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree on general mobilization. The martial law and mobilization have been continuously extended since then. On May 9, the Ukrainian president signed bills to extend mobilization and martial law in the country for another 90 days. Under martial law, Ukrainian citizens aged from 18 to 60 are prohibited from leaving the country. Western countries have been providing massive military and financial aid to Kiev since the start of Russia's military operation in Ukraine in February 2022. The Kremlin has consistently warned against continued arms deliveries to Kiev, saying it would lead to further escalation of the conflict. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240516/ukrainians-mobilized-in-kherson-kept-in-big-cage-unable-to-contact-families---source-1118467992.html ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International united states, ukrainian prime minister mykola azarov, insufficient mobilization rate in ukraine The Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association of New Jersey (SBOANJ) announced on Tuesday, July 2 that New Jerseys horse racing industry will receive a $20 million USD appropriation for purses as part of the states fiscal year 2025 budget signed recently by Gov. Phil Murphy. The appropriation will be divided equally between Standardbreds and Thoroughbreds. Funds allocated for Standardbred racing include money for overnight purses at Meadowlands Racetrack and Freehold Raceway, as well as for the New Jersey Sire Stakes and breeder awards. The state first introduced the purse appropriations in 2019. The initial legislation covered a five-year period, totalling $100 million USD, through 2023. The state renewed the funding for 2024. Last week, the state Senate and Assembly both approved legislation that would extend the appropriation annually through fiscal year 2029. That bill, which passed 76-0 in the Assembly and 40-0 in the Senate, has been sent to the governor for his signature. We are extremely grateful to the Legislature and Gov. Murphy for their continued support, said Mark Ford, President of the SBOANJ. There is no doubt the previous appropriations strengthened our industry and fostered growth, whether it be in breeding or racing. Thank you to everyone who supported our efforts and helped deliver our message to the legislators and governor. The SBOANJ board, TrotPAC and our policy partner AMG will continue to work with the Legislature to ensure that our industrys future remains bright. (With files from SBOANJ) Atlee Bender and Erv Miller trainee Sparks Fly persisted through a first-over push to clinch a tight win in the $54,795 Open Trot at Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel on Tuesday afternoon (July 2). Leaving from post one, Bender found himself in third with Sparks Fly as Pioneer As (driven by Marvin Luna) ventured forward to grab the lead from Oh Look Magic (Devon Tharps) after a :27 first quarter. Pioneer As then coasted to a :56.3 half and raced unchallenged on the lead until Bender slyly angled Sparks Fly first up in the backstretch. Sparks Fly then cruised towards Pioneer As to three-quarters in 1:25.3 and muscled to a narrow lead turning for home. Pioneer As kept digging at the inside and Amigo Volo (Joey Putnam) steamrolled off cover and came lunging late. Sparks Fly reached the beam in time to wade the last charge from Amigo Volo by a nose in a 1:54 mile while Pioneer As settled for third and Oh Look Magic raced locked in fourth. A four-year-old gelding by Bar Hopping, Sparks Fly has now won nine races from 25 starts and earned $193,567 for owners Ervin Miller Stable Inc. and Douglas Overhiser. He paid $16.06 to win. The finale at Oak Grove was declared a no contest due to an accident occurring just after the three-quarter pole. All horses involved in the spill got up following the accident. Several drivers -- Devon Tharps, Stephen White, Marvin Luna, Cordarius Stewart and Atlee Bender -- were loaded into ambulances. Zyler Maxwell, Joey Putnam and Pat Curtin all got up and were walking following the accident. Oak Grove will provide any necessary updates on the accident as information becomes available. Live racing resumes at Oak Grove on Sunday (July 7) with a 15-race card of Kentucky Sire Stakes starting at 3 p.m. (CDT). Oak Grove will also shift to a three-day racing schedule of Sunday through Tuesday starting on July 7 and lasting through the end of the meet. Free program pages for every race day, courtesy of TrackMaster, are available on the Oak Grove Racing website. (Oak Grove Racing Publicity) Don Hoover, Director of Live Racing at Batavia Downs, has announced that Tom Agosti has been named as the new race secretary for Batavia Downs starting with the 2024 summer/fall live meet. Since coming to Batavia, I have been serving double-duty as both director of live racing and race secretary and in order to have both positions be better managed, I have decided to hire Tom to handle the daily draws so I can concentrate more on running the business, said Hoover. With Toms knowledge of the local horse colony and their connections needs for proper classification, having him write the condition sheet here to be reflective of the meet they are coming from will be advantageous to all racing participants. Agosti has been a fixture on the western New York harness racing circuit since 1977 when he launched a 31-year driving career that ended in 2011 due to back issues. During that time, Agosti won 1,435 races, $4.4 million in purses and multiple driving titles. Shortly after parking his race bike for the final time, Agosti was hired as the assistant race secretary at Buffalo Raceway in 2011, moved to the top spot there in 2014 and has held that position ever since. Agosti has also served as the race secretary at The Red Mile early meet since 2016 along with his duties as charter and program director. He has given up his positions there to transition to the Batavia job. Although Agosti loved being in Kentucky, he said the opportunity to take the Batavia position was something he could not pass up. "Working at the Red Mile was great. I loved the people down there and it was just an overall great environment to be in," said Agosti. "But it was only three months out of the year. The position at Batavia amounts to seven months overall, including the winter meet, and the best thing is I get to go home every night. "Like Don, I also feel having a uniform condition sheet bridging the two meets will be beneficial for all the local horsemen and will also help the smaller stables be more successful year round. Our main objective here is to have the racing be fair and equitable for everyone involved." Live harness racing kicks off at Batavia Downs on Saturday, July 27 at 6 p.m. (Batavia Downs) China-Kazakhstan relations at a glance Chinadaily.com.cn) 10:18, July 03, 2024 China and Kazakhstan had fruitful cooperation in various areas over the past years, with the Belt and Road Initiative as the main focus, bringing benefit to the two peoples. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun) Liam Keppler, Jaiden Gingras and Ryley Fusco are the 2024 Standardbred Owners Association of New York / Yonkers Raceway John R. Brennan Scholarship Award winners. Sandra Kaufman, Chairman of the Standardbred Owners Association of New York (SOANY) Scholarship Committee, announced on Wednesday, July 3 that Liam Keppler is the first-place winner for the amount of $10,000 USD, Jaiden Gingras is the second-place winner four the amount of $5,000 USD and Ryley Fusco is the third-place winner for the amount of $3,000 USD. Keppler is attending Pennsylvania State University pursuing a degree in Biology and a Minor in Psychology. His father, Scott, has been an amateur driver since 1983 with 31 wins and has owned racehorses since 1985. Gingras will be attending Rider University in New Jersey pursuing a degree in Finance. His father, Yannick, has been a driver since 1998 and has 8,964 wins with career earnings of $242 million. Fusco is attending the University of North Carolina at Charlotte pursuing a degree in Biology. Her father, Paul, has been a driver and trainer since 1991 and has 330 driving wins and 891 training wins. Joseph Faraldo, President of the SOANY, stated that the winners are the recipients of a scholarship award named after a longtime good friend, horse trainer and SOANY field representative, John R. Brennan. The annual Brennan scholarships are awarded to SOANY members in good standing, members of their immediate families and immediate family members of a backstretch employee (caretaker) for studies beyond the high school level. The recipient is chosen based on merit and financial need. The applicants were judged first by an independent third party, who selected the top five candidates. Then the Scholarship Committee selected the top three winners from the five finalists. Personal information from all the candidates is redacted when presented to the independent party and the Scholarship Committee to assure a blind judging process. (With files from SOANY) As with many valuable things, freedom is an intangible entity that is most appreciated in its absence. My wife and I often travel abroad. Unfortunately, one has to be careful in a number of places about what one says or does. Many Americans assume that the rights enshrined in our Constitution are universally recognized. They often find out quickly (and often the hard way) that speaking ones mind outside our borders can land one in jail; that one can end up being arrested, interrogated, denied bail, denied the ability to confront witnesses at trial, denied legal counsel, and even be compelled to testify against oneself. Likewise, it is little known that many countries oppress and even incarcerate individuals for practicing their religion, a fact to which the Muslim Uyghurs in China and thousands of Christians in Algeria, Egypt, and Sudan can attest. Freedom when you are abroad, then, is one thing you usually dont appreciate until you realize its gone. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus proclaimed that the people must fight for the law just as for their city wall. Our Constitution is that law for which judges, lawyers, and all people in our country must fight. Like a city wall, it protects us from an outside world that is often hostile to our ways, customs, and hard fought liberties. As a judge, I took an oath to defend our Constitution and every day it is my responsibility to make sure that those precious rights, those intangible things which are so often taken for granted, are thoroughly protected in the courtrooms in which I preside. I take this oath very seriously, but daily I see efforts by others in our society to subvert the Constitution and all it stands for. These individuals seek to undermine the principles of our First Charter and replace them with the faddish sentiment of the day. Currently, speech codes, antisemitism on state funded college campuses, and a number of discriminatory practices all erode the wall that keeps us safe, affecting not just a few but rather all who are protected behind it. It is my wish that on July 4, the celebration of our nations declared liberation from imperial tyranny, that we think about not just what it means to be free, but more importantly, what it means not to be free. I would urge one and all to remember those who have given their lives, their property, and their liberty for the sake of preserving the freedom we all enjoy. Most importantly, it is my hope that every day, every person, from the school janitor to the president of the United States, would fight for their Constitution like the protecting wall that it is, the last line of defense against tyranny, oppression, and servitude and a life less worthy of a country as great as the United States. Kathryn Dunns time at Bland County Extension has come to a conclusion as she bid farewell to 38 years of service this week. I hope it has made me a better person, said Dunn, administrative and fiscal assistant, of what her work has done for her. Helping 4-Hers, farmers, or total strangers has been enjoyable and rewarding. I will miss the people that I work with the most. Elizabeth Johnson and I have worked together for 20 some years. People even say we sound alike on the phone. Hunter Romano (agriculture and natural resources and 4-H) has only been working at the Bland Extension Office for a few years, but I have known him all his life. These two are just like family. I also have present and retired co-workers in other counties that are very special to me. Two of them are referred to as Debbie 1 and Debby 2. Johnson, Extension Agent and Unit Coordinator, said she will greatly miss her friend and colleague. I have worked and ate lunch with Kathryn for twenty-five years. We have laughed, cried, and celebrated life through our friendship, Johnson said. We can be in a room and know what we are thinking without saying a word. I could share so many stories, but they are better kept as secret. Now, we do have our moments of disagreement during the Bland Fair and Festival of Leaves. We laugh about it because we know its because we are exhausted. She has helped so many 4-H youth and farmers through her dedication to Bland County Extension. She has made my journey with 4-H a great experience and I will miss her greatly. Thank goodness she lives within two minutes of the office! We refer to our relationship as the sister by another mother, while Kathryn has two other sisters, Joyce and Donna. Dunn said she wasnt specifically inspired by anyone to join the Extension Service, but it has been a job choice that I have never regretted. I dont know that I can personally take credit for any particular project or event sponsored by the Extension Office; it is always a joint effort. Of her best memories, Dunn recalls a special trip to spectacular destinations. I have to say chaperoning a group of 4-H Interstate Members to Hawaii and the Grand Canyon would be at the top of the list of memorable moments. As for changes in the Extension Service over the years, Dunn said, Without a doubt technology has definitely changed since I first started in 1986. I had a typewriter on my desk, if that tells you anything. I quickly made the change to a computer. Dunn was honored with a proclamation in recognition and appreciation by the Bland County Board of Supervisors at their May meeting. It reads in part: to acknowledge and recognize Kathryn Dunn for her exemplary service and devotion to the citizens of Bland County and has since 1986 served faithfully and effectively as the Virginia Cooperative Extension, Bland County Administrative and Fiscal Assistant, performing with efficiency and steadfastness Dunn has been a volunteer leader for the 4-H Cloverbuds for four years. She has assisted with fundraising during the county fair and Festival of Leaves, making soup and apple butter. She won the award for VCE-Southwest District Outstanding Administrative Assistant in 1988 and 1998. She was tapped into Virginia 4-H All Stars in 2007 and named Bland County Citizen of the Year in 2015. On advice to her successor, Dunn said, There will be challenging days and fundraising events that are exhausting, but the job is very rewarding. State employee benefits and retirement is pretty good too! For retirement, Dunn said, I have no big plans, just spend more time with family and friends. Maybe a vacation every once in a while. Kathryn and her husband Jeff have been married for almost 41 years. They have a son, Justin, and daughter and son-in-law, Kristin and Eddie Hickerson, who live in Bland. My granddaughter, Miss Kenzie, she said, rules the roost and most everything revolves around her. Most important role I have is Nana. I enjoy canning and a good craft every now and then. I attend and am involved with Central Church. I plan to volunteer with 4-H events, Bland Ministry Center and Bland Volunteer Fire Department. Dunn has served as treasurer for the Bland County Fire Department and Mechanicsburg Methodist Church Charge, and currently serves as treasurer for Central Church. Writesonic announced a collaboration with Microsoft to advance AI-driven business solutions. Writesonic will integrate Microsoft Azure robust cloud infrastructure to deepen its presence in mid-market and enterprise sectors, promising security and innovation in Generative AI solutions. With a user base exceeding 10 million and over 30,000 paying customers, including some of the Big 4 Consulting companies and major players like UN Women, Vodafone, and Next UK amongst others; Writesonics integration with Microsoft Azure offers businesses access to Writesonics AI-powered solutions with global scalability, advanced security, and regulatory compliance, empowering enterprises to maximize Generative AIs potential while ensuring data privacy and reliability. Writesonics offerings will be available through the Microsoft Azure Marketplace, providing businesses seamless access to AI-driven solutions. Integration with Microsoft products such as Microsoft 365 will also enable businesses to seamlessly incorporate Writesonics AI content marketing and SEO capabilities into their workflows, boosting productivity and operational efficiency. Utilizing Azure AI, including and Azure OpenAI Service, Writesonic aims to deliver cutting-edge AI models while continuously enhancing the accuracy and relevance of its solutions. For instance, Writesonics AI Article Writer platform generates SEO-optimized articles within minutes, enriched with real-time data and competitor analysis, facilitating higher rankings on Google search results. Botsonic, Writesonics AI agent platform, improves business operations by transforming data into self-guided AI Agents. Samanyou Garg, Founder and CEO of Writesonic, said, This collaboration represents a significant milestone for Writesonic. By integrating our AI-powered solutions with Microsoft Azure, we aim to help enterprises harness Generative AI for real-world use cases like marketing, customer support, employee experience, and conversational commerce. Our goal is to help businesses increase their productivity in these areas by up to 70%. Together, we will drive innovation in AI-driven business solutions, enabling organizations to unlock new levels of efficiency and engagement. We project a 50% increase in our enterprise customer base within the next 12 months as we help businesses worldwide leverage the power of AI to stay ahead in the digital era. Sangeeta Bavi, Executive Director, Digital Natives, Microsoft India, said, Our AI tool chain, anchored by Azure OpenAI Service, offers a secure and scalable platform that enables AI-native startups to move quickly and innovate boldly. Writesonics triumphant journey is an example of how responsible AI can unlock opportunities in content creation and customer service. Writesonics integration with Microsoft Azure positions it as a leader in innovating AI applications, reshaping business landscapes. This collaboration underscores Writesonics dedication to delivering innovative, customer-centric solutions and setting new benchmarks in the industry. Cesar Adrian Gonzalez Lopez in Monahans on June 26. Truckers in the Permian Basin are protesting against unpaid hours behind the wheel and a lack of access to bathrooms at drilling sites. Eli Hartman/The Texas Tribune MONAHANS Low wages and working conditions that truck drivers describe as degrading have sparked an organized labor movement in the Permian Basin, a historic first for the nations busiest oil field. About a dozen truckers and local environmental activists descended Monday on three West Texas cities Kermit, Mohanans and Odessa and blocked entrances to sand mines with a row of cars to hand out fliers listing their demands to other truckers. Workers said the one-day demonstration, which slowed production in the nations largest oil supplier, was a sequel to a similar protest last year that was largely ignored and a warning of the steps theyll take to be heard. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The truckers are demanding to be paid for the long hours they spend waiting to load and unload frac sand or sand used during fracking to separate the rock, prop it open and prevent it from closing more restroom facilities near loading areas and the ability to negotiate pay rates based on driving times and cargo weight, said Billy Randel, a lifelong trucker and organizer with the Truckers Movement for Justice. There are no bathrooms for the men and women to keep this economy running out here to use while sitting from two to four to 12 to 36 hours at the wellheads, Randel said. Theres no facility to go to the bathroom. You know how dehumanizing that is for either a man or a woman to have to use a bucket? This is insanity. Federal law mandates that drivers take a 10-hour break before beginning their shifts and may not drive for more than 14 hours straight afterward. After driving for eight uninterrupted hours, they must take a 30-minute break. And truckers may only drive for 70 hours within eight consecutive workdays, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The law says nothing about access to amenities such as restrooms. Members of the Truckers Movement for Justice flag down semi-truck drivers to share educational and promotional material as they protest outside of the Capital Sand mine on July 1 in Monahans. The group, led by Billy Randel, protested across the Permian Basin Monday, calling for better wages and working conditions within the trucking industry. Eli Hartman/The Texas Tribune Oscar Lobos flags down a trucker as he hands out informational pamphlets during a protest outside of the Alpine Silica sand mine on July 1 in Monahans. Eli Hartman/The Texas Tribune Leticia Salas, a driver, holds a protest sign outside Halliburtons regional office on July 1 in Odessa. Eli Hartman/The Texas Tribune Randel said there are loopholes in the law that can significantly prolong a drivers shift. Truckers have to wait in hours-long lines at drilling sites to collect frac sand, for example, and the time they spend waiting does not count toward their pay. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Drivers deal with similar wait times when delivering their cargo. Drivers cant abandon their place in line, no matter how long the wait is if they do, they could be fined, suspended or fired. Many truckers also foot repair costs when their contracts do not include insurance. I couldnt afford tires or oil changes, said Luis Ramirez, one of the protesters Monday. My familys suffering because of this. The moneys not enough. Drivers expressed similar grievances last year in August. Roughly 20 truckers held signs outside sand mines in Kermit and refused to fulfill their deliveries for one day to pressure their employers into improving the terms of their contracts. They wanted pay for every hour they spent on the truck and demanded restroom facilities at every well site requiring sand deliveries. Two days later, about 30 truckers were fired from their jobs, workers told the Texas Tribune. One of them was Cesar Lopez, a 27-year-old truck driver from El Paso. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In 2022, Lopez saved up $3,500 while working as a forklift operator to obtain a commercial drivers license, which is required for anyone who wants to sit behind the wheel of a truck. Through social media, he came across a sand-hauling job paying handsome wages and was hired for it. He called it a stroke of luck for someone with his experience. The long wait times in and out of the oil fields eventually dampened his enthusiasm. One shift lasted 18 hours, just waiting to unload sand, Lopez said. He and other truckers use buckets or the open fields as restrooms when there are no facilities. Most contracts only pay for the delivery, meaning truckers arent paid for the time they spend driving and waiting in lines. The company paid Lopez $120 for that delivery, he said. Lopez participated in last years protest and lost his job two days later. Lopez said the company told him at the time he was fired because business was slow, but he believes it was related to his participation in the protest. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Lopez eventually found a new job. Nowadays, he calls his belly dump truck home. Parked in a gas station in Pecos near the site of a road construction project, he sleeps in a twin-sized bed squished in the space behind the two front seats of his truck. He and 18 other truckers who were fired last year filed federal complaints to the National Labor Relations Board, the federal agency that investigates labor practices. In the complaints, drivers allege that several companies retaliated against them for protesting, including 5F-Superhighway Platform, a digital application that matches truckers to third-party carriers, and transportation firms LoHi Logistics, Boomerang Delivery Services Inc., Cegre Trucking, CSM Navarros, J.C. Logistics, Maessa Transportation, Mister M&K Trucking LLC, Petrus and Amus, RBB Transportation and V&F Logistics. The board has assigned an investigator to interview the workers and companies. If the board finds wrongful labor practices, the complaints will be heard in court. A representative for 5F declined to comment. Brandon Horton, a driver for Allied Eagle Transports, monitors the transfer of a load of salt water, a byproduct of fracking, to a saltwater disposal site on June 25 south of Midland. Eli Hartman/The Texas Tribune Semi-trucks park in a Loves truck stop on June 27 in Odessa. Eli Hartman/The Texas Tribune Trucker Marlon Lawe smokes a cigar at the end of his shift at a Pilot truck stop on June 26 in Monahans. Lawe feels working in the Permian Basin has been getting tougher as of late. Youre just not making enough right now to survive, he said. Eli Hartman/The Texas Tribune The relationship between truckers and the energy industry is largely indirect. Oil and gas companies dont generally contract drivers. Rather, they rely on providers or third-party carriers to hire drivers, establish work schedules and set pay. One provider can contract hundreds, if not thousands, of truckers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Currently, the number of licensed truckers isnt enough to fill vacant jobs across the country, a trend truckers said is a consequence of the low wages and working conditions. Chris Spear, president and CEO of the American Trucking Associations, told Congress in 2023 that the trucking industry faces an alarming driver shortage. The number of qualified drivers needed nationwide reached 78,000 last year, a record high. He said that number is likely to double by 2031. In Texas, trucking accounts for 800,000 jobs, according to the American Transportation Research Institute. One in every 14 jobs in Texas is a trucking position. By the end of the decade, the state will need 160,000 more drivers, said John Esparza, president of the Texas Trucking Association. We are losing a generation of drivers, and we arent replacing them with a generation of potential drivers that is large enough in Texas or in the United States, Esparza said. Multiple reasons contribute to the shortage. He said lawmakers have failed to create incentives to attract new drivers. Other factors include underrepresentation of women and lifestyle preferences that preclude many jobseekers from considering long-haul trucking, he said. Adobe announced the appointment of Keith Eadie as General Manager, Asia Pacific (APAC). In this role, Eadie will lead Adobes business across the region, reporting to Stephen Frieder, Chief Revenue Officer, Adobe Enterprise. Keith Eadie is a transformational business leader with a track record of driving success across teams and value to our customers. Under Keiths leadership, Im excited to see the APAC region continue to build on its strong growth trajectory, said Frieder. Eadie joined Adobe almost seven years ago through the acquisition of TubeMogul, where he was Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer. At Adobe, Eadie has led several divisions, including Adobe Advertising, Adobe Analytics and Adobe Sign. In 2022, he moved to Singapore to lead International Product Marketing for Adobes Digital Experience business. Most recently, he led Digital Experience Strategy and GTM for APAC and Japan. His expertise combines product and marketing innovation, with strong business acumen and a passion for bringing people together to drive growth. As the digital economy continues to expand, and in the era of generative AI, business leaders across APAC are looking to deliver next-generation experiences for their customers. Im excited for the opportunity to lead an exceptional team and to work with our customers and partners to empower them to drive experience-led growth, said Eadie. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The EU has approved Lufthansa's proposed stake in ITA Airways after the airline and the Italian government offered remedies. The EU on Wednesday announced its conditional approval for German airline Lufthansa's proposed stake in ITA Airways, a deal that Italy called a "big European success". Lufthansa, one of Europe's largest carriers, last year agreed to pay 325 million euros ($350 million) for a 41 percent stake in ITA, with the Italian finance ministry also contributing 250 million euros as part of the capital increase. The German airline's presence in Italy will be bolstered by the deal and said it would give more options for travel to Africa, South America and the Middle East. But it has faced a turbulent process to get regulators' approval after the European Commission opened an in-depth probe in January, fearing it could hurt competition. The commission, the EU's antitrust regulator, has now given the green light after Lufthansa and the Italian government offered a package of commitments to assuage those fears. "Despite the comprehensive and far-reaching concessions, the investment in ITA Airways strengthens the Lufthansa Group's position in global competition," Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr said in a statement. "This positive conclusion is truly a success," Italian Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti told a press conference in Rome. "It has been a complicated, troubled, difficult path, but... it is a big Italian success, it is a big German success, it is a big European success," Giorgetti said. But European consumers group BEUC raised concerns over the limited information about commitments offered by the players involved. "The current lack of clarity leads us to fear that consumers could pay the price for this merger in terms of higher fares, less choice of routes and degraded services," said Agustin Reyna, chief at BEUC, which represents consumers in 31 countries. Concessions for rivals The deal provided Lufthansa various options to increase its stake in ITA Airwaysthe successor to state-owned Alitaliaor acquire it outright at a later date. The offered remedies that helped seal the deal include making it possible for one or two rival airlines to launch non-stop flights between Rome and Milan and central Europe, the commission said. "These commitments fully address the competition concerns identified by the commission," it said. "The decision is conditional upon full compliance with the commitments." Take-off and landing slots at Milan's Linate airport will also be transferred to competing airlines for short-haul routes. Other commitments to fulfil include entering into agreements with rivals "to improve their competitiveness on the long-haul routes of concern", between Italy and the United States and Canada. This could include slot swaps at airports or interlining agreements, which means airlines coordinate with each other on certain aspects of travel, such as ticketing. "This will lead to increased frequencies of nonstop flights and/or improved connections for one-stop flights on each of the routes," the commission said. 'Lack of clarity' ITA Airways was created from the ashes of Alitalia, which was placed under public administration in 2017. Alitalia had accumulated losses of 11.4 billion euros between 2000 and 2020. It was eventually shut down in October 2021 before a rebirth as ITA. The EU wanted to make sure the Lufthansa deal did not lead to higher prices for consumers. Brussels had been concerned that on a number of short-haul routes between Italy and central Europe as well as long-haul routes between the United States and Canada there would be limited competition, leading to a reduction in quality for passengers. "At a time when consumers are facing increasingly higher prices for air travel, it is very important to preserve competition in the sector," said the EU's competition chief, Margrethe Vestager. The remedies would ensure "a sufficient level of competitive pressure remains on all relevant routes", she added. 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: Image of the large-sized NTS, jointly developed by the KIMM and Meta2People, being demonstrated (transparent). Credit: Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) A super-sized Nano Transparent Screen (NTS) has been developed and commercialized for the first time in the world. This innovative screen can adjust its transparency according to the environment and can be produced at a low cost, paving the way for the widespread adoption of large transparent screens, which until now have been prohibitively expensive. The newly developed screen is expected to find applications across various products, such as transparent displays in department stores and supermarkets, smart windows for buildings, and versatile transparent displays suitable for both indoor and outdoor promotional uses. The research team led by Principal Researcher Jun-Ho Jeong of the Nano-lithography and Manufacturing Research Center of the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM), an institute under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Science and ICT, and Meta2People has succeeded in the commercialization of a 100-inch large-sized NTS whose transparency can be freely adjusted depending on the information provided by the surrounding lighting and images. The NTS was installed in the outdoor space of the "Youth Mall" located in Chungju in June, and will be disclosed at the International Nano Technology Exhibition, also known as "Nano Korea 2024," which is the country's largest nano technology convention scheduled to be held from July 3, 2024 (Wednesday) to July 5, 2024 (Friday) at KINTEX in Ilsan. The NTS developed by the KIMM is composed of a film as thin as a human hair, made by evenly dispersing titanium dioxide (TiO 2 ) nanoparticles, with a diameter of 100 nanometers, inside the film. When light is emitted from the beam projector to the NTS, a very wide and clear image, at a viewing angle of 170 degrees, can be viewed together with the scenery beyond the transparent screen. Therefore, the video on the screen is visible to the viewers from every angle. Principal Researcher Jun-Ho Jeong of the KIMM is giving an explanation on the NTS. Credit: Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) Moreover, the NTS developed by the KIMM's research team can be overlapped with a Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) film. When the brightness of the ambient light requires adjustment or when detailed images need to be projected, the transparency of the PDLC film can be lowered to produce clearer images. The price of a conventional 100-inch transparent Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) screen is over KRW 100 million, which is too expensive for general consumers to afford, while transparent Light-Emitting Diode (LED) has not been widely used due to its low resolution. NTSs can be mass-produced through a roll-to-roll process, they can be supplied to the market at around 10 percent of the price of transparent OLED screens. These screens are also capable of producing clear images without loss of resolution by using the highest resolution beam projector. Additionally, the characteristics of NTSs related to light rarely change in high and low temperature environments, making it possible to manufacture 100-inch or larger transparent screens in the form of light-weighted and flexible films. Moreover, as NTSs are not affected by adverse weather conditions such as extreme cold or heat waves, these screens are suitable for indoor as well as outdoor installation. Image of the large-sized NTS, jointly developed by the KIMM and Meta2People, being demonstrated (semitransparent). Credit: Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) Principal Researcher Jeong of the KIMM commented, "The technology for manufacturing NTSs is a cutting-edge, innovative technology created through the combination of nanomaterials and nanomanufacturing technology with existing IT technologies. "Going forward, we will focus on research and development to continuously improve the quality of NTSs and lead the popularization of transparent screens." President Seog-Hyeon Ryu of the KIMM remarked, "This research is substantially meaningful in that the KIMM has successfully commercialized its technology jointly with a research institute spin-off company established through the KIMM's investment of its original patented technology. "We will continue to devote ourselves to the development of technologies that can contribute to the development of national strategic technologies and also to the revitalization of local economies." This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: A sign for Microsoft offices is seen, May 6, 2021, in New York. Microsoft Corp. has agreed to pay $14.4 million to settle allegations that the global software giant retaliated and discriminated against employees who took protected leave, including parental and disability, the California Civil Rights Department announced Wednesday, July 3, 2024. Credit: AP Photo/Mark Lennihan, File Microsoft Corp. has agreed to pay $14.4 million to settle allegations that the global software giant retaliated and discriminated against employees who took protected leave, including parental and disability, the California Civil Rights Department announced Wednesday. The proposed settlement stems from a multi-year investigation by the California agency and the consent decree is subject to approval in state court in Santa Clara County, where the Redmond, Washington-based company has an office. The state agency, which launched its investigation in 2020, alleged that employees who took leave from work due to pregnancy or disability, or to bond with a new baby or care for a sick family member, received lower bonuses and unfavorable performance reviews. Those factors, in turn, harmed employee eligibility for merit pay increases and promotions and the practice disproportionately impacted women and people with disabilities, the department said. In a statement, civil rights department director Kevin Kish applauded the company "for coming to the table and agreeing to make the changes necessary to protect workers in California." Microsoft responded in a statement that the agency's allegations are inaccurate, but it "will continue to listen, learn, and support our employees." As part of the proposed settlement, Microsoft will take steps to prevent future discrimination, including updated manager training. An outside consultant will monitor and report on the company's compliance. Most of the settlement money$14.2 millionwill go toward harmed workers. Covered employees worked at Microsoft from May 13, 2017, to a yet-to-be-determined date of court approval for the settlement, and who took at least one leave protected under state or federal law. Each eligible employee will receive a base payment of $1,500 with more available based on factors such as salary and length of employment. Microsoft has about 221,000 employees worldwide, including nearly 7,000 in California, according to the state civil rights agency. The agency did not have an estimate for how many workers could receive payment. 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The instrument imaging team, from left: Philadelphia Orchestra bassist Duane Rosengard; Peter Noel, PhD, director of CT Research at the Perelman School of Medicine; luthier Zachary S. Martin; Leening Liu, a PhD student in Noels Laboratory of Advanced Computed Tomography Imaging; and Mark Kindig. Credit: University of Pennsylvania When you're an expert in medical CT imaging, two things are bound to happen, says Peter Noel, Ph.D., associate professor of Radiology and director of CT Research at the Perelman School of Medicine. One: You develop an insatiable curiosity about the inner workings of all kinds of objects, including those unrelated to your research. And two: Both colleagues and complete strangers will ask for your help in imaging a wide variety of unexpected items. Over the course of his career, in between managing his own research projects, Noel has imaged diverse objects ranging from animal skulls to tree samples from a German forest, all in the name of furthering scientific knowledge. But none has intrigued him as much as his current extracurricular project: the first known attempt to perform CT imaging of some of the world's finest string basses. The goal is to crack the code on what makes a world-class instrument. This knowledge could both increase the ability to better care for masterworks built between the 17th and 19th centuries, as well as providing insights into refining the building of new ones, including possibly shifting from older, scarcer European wood to the use of sustainably harvested U.S. wood. That's why Noel and Leening Liu, a Ph.D. student in Noel's Laboratory of Advanced Computed Tomography Imaging, have found themselves volunteering to run the basses through a Penn CT scanner occasionally, when they're not developing next-generation CT technology. "We always learn something out of projects like this the more appealing part is that medical research can also be applied to non-medical things," Noel said. "We have the opportunity to take what we learn in medicine and use it for something elsein this case, moving the arts forward." All about that bass The project was born out of a partnership among Philadelphia bassist and independent scholar Duane Rosengard, a member of the Philadelphia Orchestra since 1986, who has authored several books on stringed instruments from the 16th century to the present; along with his childhood friend and amateur bassist Mark Kindig of Maryland; and long-time collaborator and award-winning luthier Zachary S. Martin of Rhode Island. To grasp the project's potential scholarly and artistic importance, it helps to understand a bit about the bass itself. Taller and wider than most people, the bass's sonorous tones create an aural anchor whenever and wherever it's played, ranging from classical to jazz, rockabilly, bluegrass, and beyond. "The double bass is the only stringed instrument that's used in virtually all genres of music around the world," Rosengard said. "With the bass, we often use descriptor words like organ-like, chocolatey, or velvety to describe the sound. We'd like to understand more of the 'why' of that." Developed in the late 16th century, the bass exists today as a delightfully nonconformist instrument of which none of the dimensionsor even its basic shapeare fully standardized. This is in marked contrast with the violin, whose size, shape, and other specs have been established since about 1560, said Martin, who drives down from his workshop to prepare each bass for scanning. As a luthier, the term for craftspeople who build and restore stringed instruments, Martin has restored many fine old basses, some as old as 400 years. Not only do violins share consistent dimensions, but also more is known about their internal characteristics. Their small sizewith a body length of just 14 incheshas lent itself to scientific exploration via X-ray and CT scanning for the past generation. With a violin, anyone in any imaging department can scan it easily, Noel said. "Medical CT scanners are designed for human bodies, typically ranging from 40 to 50 cm in diameter," he said. "However, unlike the human body, basses are filled with air and often exceed 70 cm in diameter, presenting significant technical challenges that need to be worked out." The connection with Penn came about through Siemens Healthineers, a leading manufacturer of CT machines and other medical equipment. After several requests at institutions throughout the country, Kindig and Rosengard finally connected with Noel, a music lover and Philadelphia Orchestra patron. "It's quite extraordinary that after all of our searching throughout the country to find a big enough scanner, we connected with Penn Medicine, less than a mile from the orchestra's home at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts," Rosengard said. Rosengard, Kindig, and Martin have assembled a wish list of some 20 of the world's finest old basses to examine with their Penn partners. A complicated process When a patientor objectundergoes a CT scan, they lie on a bed that slowly moves through a gantry while an X-ray tube rotates around them, aiming X-rays through the body. CT scanners use special digital X-ray detectors. As the X-rays leave the patient, they are picked up by the detectors and transmitted to a computer. Preparing a bass for a scan poses more challenges than the average patient. First, the bass requires a special bass holder, which Martin designed and made to cradle the instrument securely on the scanner. Then, because any metal on the bass would severely distort the CT images, Martin and Rosengard, working in a backstage room at the Kimmel Center, remove all metal items including strings and tuning machines. The most nerve-wracking part is taking off the strings; the sound post, a crucial cylinder of wood wedged between the instrument's front and back at the bridge, can collapse without pressure from the strings. Ever-meticulous, Martin photographs and numbers each screw that comes out of an instrument's tuning machines. They're stored in the locked room while the bass is at Penn. Once the scan is complete, Martin and Rosengard return to the Kimmel Center and reverse the process, Martin making any minute adjustments needed to ensure the bass is exactly as it was before the scan. The team has set its focus on exploring two data points for each bass: internal air volume and the density of its wood. "We believe the air volume has everything to do with why a bass sounds the way it does, because it directly relates to the sonority of a particular instrument and its presence or power," Martin said. "And wood density very much plays into the instrument's structure, flexibility, and responsiveness." The medical connection Liu operates the scanner when Rosengard and Martin bring in one of their rare basses. She also helps calculate the instruments' internal volumes. "From the internal corpus volume perspective, it's a straightforward calculation for us," she said. "It means segmentation, counting the pixels, and then using the pixel volume to calculate how much volume is within the bass itself." As for mapping the density of the wood, this issue is more relevant to Liu's Ph.D. research than you might expect. Her thesis focuses on using physical density to measure temperatures within the human body, specifically for thermal ablation, a minimally invasive treatment for cancers, including those of the liver and kidney. Carefully directed high temperatures are used to kill both tumor cells and a surrounding safety margin of healthy tissue, and knowing the temperature at which the tissue is burned gives an idea of the treatment's effectiveness. So far at least, the wood density component is the more challenging scientifically, Liu said. "In the temperature project, the scanner outputs quantitative maps that we can use to successfully generate physical density maps," she explained. "We were hoping that translating that for the bass would also be possible, but there are still some challenges with that approach we're trying to resolve." Challenges aside, these collaborators from both creative and quantitative disciplines are delighted to be working together. "We scientists love to talk about the science part and the musicians feel the same way about music," Noel said. "We all have a common sense of what we want to achieve, but it's inspiring and amazing to see what happens when two totally different worlds talk to each other." Annasofia Scheve covers trending news for the Express-News. She can be reached at Annasofia.Scheve@express-news.net. Annasofia has bachelor's degrees in journalism and political science from the University of Missouri. She is an Ohio native, and wrote for Cincinnati Magazine and the Cincinnati Enquirer before joining the Express-News in 2023. This article was updated on July 3. On Monday, less than 24 hours after Pride month had ended, Matthia Klatt was one of several Texas A&M University students who received a message that the university health center would soon stop offering gender-affirming care. It was completely out of the blue, Klatt said. I was heading into work Monday morning and I saw in the group chat Im in someone was like, Hey, what is this? I checked my patient portal and there was the message. I was completely shocked. It threw my whole day off. I hadnt heard anything [about it]. Im still honestly confused about where this came from. In the message sent out by Texas A&M University Health Services and posted online by several students Senior Director Dr. Tiffany A. Skaggs said that the Beutel Student Health Center would stop providing gender-affirming care beginning Aug. 1. According to the message, the decision was made after thorough assessment of [health services] resources, capabilities, and patient needs. Currently, the health center offers hormone replacement therapy [HRT] and 44 students in total have sought the treatment, according to a university representative. Klatt, a senior biochemistry senior, said she had been receiving HRT treatment at Beutel for 10 weeks and during that time, no one had mentioned that the care would possibly be coming to an abrupt end. Why werent we in the loop? It just feels rushed, she said. It definitely feels like my health care could be valued a little bit more. Shouldnt the patients getting that care have been at least aware that this decision was being considered? In February, the conservative publication Texas Scorecard published an article accusing A&M of promoting transgender ideology and specifically mentioned the gender-affirming care offered by the university health services. According to emails first obtained by The Battalion, A&M's student newspaper, Matt Poling, the president of the conservative alumni group The Rudder Association, sent an email advocating for the university to stop providing gender-affirming care. The email was allegedly sent to A&M Chancellor John Sharp, A&M President Mark Welsh, A&M's Board of Regents and University Health Services Associate Vice President Nancy Fahrenwald. In the email from Poling, which was also published on the TRA website, he listed 14 reasons why the university should stop providing HRT and said that it could open the university to lawsuits. "Additionally, it is not credible to claim that direct student payments cover the full cost of the interventions provided," Poling said in the email. "Many stakeholders have moral, ethical and religious objections to such 'treatments' even if they were to be legitimately considered standard of care. ... Private clinicians may choose to risk liability from the inevitable wave of lawsuits detransitioners will will bring and are already bringing." A similar email was also sent by Clifford Hopewell, an A&M Graduate and clinical neuropsychologist, asking the university to stop proving HRT care. In a statement to The Eagle, Poling said that the emails were "informative in nature and we did not ask for or receive any response." In statement sent to The Eagle Wednesday, university officials said the decision was ultimately made by the administration and university health officials. University officials also said that neither the president nor university health officials discussed gender-affirming care with TRA. "The decision to stop offering gender affirming care at Beutel Health Center (starting Aug.1, 2024) was made by the university administration and university health officials after a thorough review of our resources, capabilities and the evolving healthcare needs of our student population," the statement said. "While we understand the importance of those services, it was determined that providing specialized gender affirming care falls outside the scope of our current healthcare model and resources." Last week, the Texas Supreme Court ruled in an 8-1 decision to uphold a recent state law prohibiting doctors from providing gender-affirming care to minors. The university did not specify whether or not the Texas Scorecard article or the courts ruling play a role in the decision. While the letter and statement from the university mentioned that students could reach out to the health center to find a new care provider, Klatt said it was already difficult to fully trust the university health system. Ive had a great experience with HRT there, but I had a few therapy sessions my freshman year and they ultimately told me that I needed more help than they could provide, she said. Ive had a bad experience with their referrals in the past so Im going to a different organization that can hopefully give me a referral. In January, A&M closed its LGBTQ Pride Center and its Diversity Equity and Inclusion [DEI] Office in order to comply with Senate Bill 17 which prohibits all state public institutions of higher education from establishing or maintaining a DEI office, considering DEI during the hiring process for faculty, staff and contracted workers or requiring faculty and staff to attend DEI training. The law, and subsequent decisions by the university, resulted in backlash from some students in the form of a protest. This newest removal of resources for LGBTQ students has added to an already devastating impact on the community, Klatt said. The closing of the Pride Center was brutal; it was such a great resource, she said. I met with plenty of people at the pride center. Its heartbreaking to see that go away, but with this decision, we dont even know whats going on. On Wednesday, the Queer Empowerment Council and Transcend two student organizations at Texas A&M released a statement regrading the university's decision. The statement condemned the administrative decision and called on the Board of Regents. With less than a month left to find a new health care provider, Klatt said she and other students are left with many unknowns. My HRT provider also prescribes me [prescriptions] and Im confused, she said. Now is [the doctor] leaving? Am I going to have to find a new place to get my prescriptions? Theres just so many questions and After careful consideration and evaluation of our service is just not enough of an answer. Rhyma Castillo is a trending reporter for the Express-News and a member of its Digital Go Team. She can be reached at rhyma.castillo@express-news.net. A native of San Antonio and a Texas A&M University graduate, she is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience. She has reported on politics, immigration, climate change, gun violence, and workers rights. Additionally, she excels in lifestyle and entertainment writing, covering music, television, video games, technology, and relationships. In her free time, she enjoys painting, drawing, cooking, hiking, climbing, gardening, playing video games, cuddling with her cats, and making music with her band. Amarillo Mayor Cole Stanley, left, and Council Member Tom Scherlen listen to testimony during a May 28 council meeting at which a proposed abortion travel ban in Amarillo was discussed. Mark Rogers/For the Texas Tribune Motorists travel west on Interstate 40 in Amarillo. Amarillo residents will vote on a so-called abortion travel ban in November, marking the first time any voters in Texas will have a say in abortion rights since Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022. Mark Rogers/For the Texas Tribune/Mark Rogers Amarillo residents will vote on a so-called abortion travel ban in November, marking the first time any voters in Texas will have a say in abortion rights since Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022. Supporters of the measure, who successfully gathered 6,300 signatures to petition for approval of the ordinance, submitted their request to city officials to have it placed on the Nov. 5 ballot, per local rules, after the Amarillo City Council rejected it last month. Amarillo Mayor Cole Stanley confirmed reports that the measures supporters had requested that the ordinance be added to the November ballot. Stanley said the request will be on the agenda for the councils next meeting on July 9. The council will take a procedural vote, which Stanley said is expected to pass, so it will be officially placed on the ballot. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This ballot move is the latest salvo in the battle over abortion rights in the conservative Panhandle city, and in a state with one of the most restrictive bans in the nation. The ordinance, first proposed by anti-abortion activists, aims to forbid the use of the citys roads and highways to seek an abortion out of the state. It would punish anyone aiding a woman seeking the procedure, including by providing funds or transportation, and be enforced through private lawsuits, similar to a 2021 state law that prohibited abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy. The measure does not call for pregnant women to be punished for having an abortion elsewhere. However, Jonathan Mitchell, an anti-abortion lawyer who is working with the ordinances supporters, has filed legal petitions seeking to depose women he says traveled outside Texas for abortions. If passed, the measure would not directly stop interstate travel. But legal experts say it is still a violation of constitutional rights and have called the bans legally dubious. After the Amarillo City Council balked at passing the ordinance last year, residents began collecting signatures to petition to have the council consider the measure, and to place it on a local ballot if it wasnt passed by the council. Last month, the council rejected both the original ordinance and an amended version that would have declared the city a sanctuary city for the unborn and prohibited using city roads and highways to seek an abortion out of state. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Once the council rejected it, supporters of the ordinance were allowed to place it on the ballot for local voters. The people will speak and we will hear what they want, Amarillo City Council Member Tom Scherlen said. Through our process, we will see which side wins. Scherlen added, When it gets down to it, we live in a democratic society where the vote does count. Since the Dobbs decision, voters in only four states California, Michigan, Ohio and Vermont have approved measures that amend their respective state constitutions to protect abortion rights, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. Two measures that sought to curtail rights in Kansas and Kentucky failed. In nine states, there are citizen-initiated measures seeking to protect or recognize abortion rights by putting the issue on a statewide ballot. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Stanley said the council still would have a role in making sure the public is properly notified on the language of the ordinance because there are differences from similar laws passed by other cities and counties in Texas. In a statement, the Amarillo Reproductive Freedom Alliance, a local advocacy group that has rallied against the ordinance, said the travel ban had a clear and resounding rejection. We are deeply disappointed that the misguided initiating committee has chosen to ignore the majority of Amarillo citizens and our duly elected representatives by placing this unconstitutional ban on the ballot, the group said in a statement. The sugar mill operated by Rio Grande Valley Sugar Growers shut down in April, with its operators blaming the lack of reliable water deliveries from Mexico. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News U.S. lawmakers have advanced a bill that could withhold some funding from Mexico until a dispute over water in the Rio Grande is resolved. Water in the Lower Rio Grande in Texas is governed by a 1944 treaty between the United States and Mexico, which some officials in the Rio Grande Valley say Mexico hasnt been following. The treaty requires Mexico to deliver water from its tributaries in Chihuahua into the river, which provides water for cities and agriculture in South Texas. The water is measured in five-year cycles, and over the past 3 years Mexico has delivered only one years worth of water, according to data from the U.S section of the International Boundary and Water Commission, a binational agency that administers the treaty. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The water shortage has led to rationing for farmers in the Valley, which accounted for $887 million in agricultural production in 2022, according to a Texas A&M Agrilife report. The only sugar mill in Texas, which was in Hidalgo County, closed this year. The board of the co-op that operated the mill blamed the closure on insufficient and unreliable water deliveries from Mexico, which forced farmers to stop growing sugar. 'A REALLY BAD SPOT': Water shortage threatens agriculture in the Rio Grande Valley A provision in the 2025 State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs appropriations bill would withhold some U.S. aid funding from Mexico until an agreement is reached to balance the water deficit. Funding related to fentanyl and other synthetic drugs would still be made available without a water agreement. The House passed the bill last week on a 212-200 vote. The legislation has yet to pass the Senate, and President Joe Biden has said he would veto the bill in its current form because of the proposed cuts to certain programs and other provisions. It wasnt immediately clear how much funding Mexico could lose if the measure became law. A bipartisan group of Texas representatives worked to add the language about the treaty to the bill before it was passed by the House Appropriations Committee earlier in June, although some of those lawmakers then voted against the full bill. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Water is life, and water deliveries from Mexico are essential for South Texas communities to operate and grow, Rep. Henry Cuellar, a Laredo Democrat, said in a written statement. As a member of Congress, it is my job to ensure communities on the border have an adequate, reliable water supply. While I didnt vote for this bill, I will continue to work across the aisle with my colleagues to ensure this legislation becomes bipartisan and secure immediate water deliveries from Mexico. Rep. Monica De La Cruz, a Republican from Edinburg, said the legislation will show Mexico how serious we are about receiving our guaranteed payments. READ MORE: Texas delegation urges Congress to withhold aid to Mexico over water treaty dispute The longer they hold out, the worse the situation is for farmers and ranchers who need that water to produce food that feeds America, she said in a written statement. The sugar industry in Texas is no longer in existence, and the next casualty will be the citrus industry. This bill holds Mexico accountable, and I hope it will push its leaders to do the right thing. Under the agreement, the U.S. is entitled to one-third of the flows of the Rio Conchos and other tributaries that run from the mountains of Chihuahua into the Rio Grande. The treaty stipulates that the amount of water from those sources must be at least 350,000 acre-feet per year on average over a five-year period, which amounts to 1,750,000 acre-feet. One acre-foot is the water needed to cover 1 acre in 1 foot of water, or about 326,000 gallons. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mexico has delivered only about 386,000 acre-feet in total since the current five-year cycle began in 2020 barely more than one years worth of water according to the U.S. section of the boundary and water commission. WASHINGTON One of several groups trying to lay the groundwork for a second Donald Trump administration if the former Republican president wins in November is out with a new policy book that aims to articulate an "America First" national security agenda. The book is the latest effort from the America First Policy Institute. Like the Heritage Foundation's "Project 2025," the group seeks to help Trump avoid the mistakes of 2016, when he entered the White House largely unprepared. Beyond its policy efforts, the institute's transition project has been working to draft dozens of executive orders and developing a training program for future political appointees. Heritage has been building an extensive personnel database and offering its own policy manuals. Both groups say they are independent from Trump's campaign, which has repeatedly tried to distance itself from such efforts, insisting that the only Trump-backed policies are those the candidate articulates himself. Still, Fred Fleitz, the book's editor, noted that he and retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, who served for a time as Trump's acting national security adviser and wrote several of the chapters, have been in frequent touch with the former president, soliciting feedback and discussing topics such as Ukraine at length. "We hope this is where he is. We're not speaking for him, but I think he will approve," said Fleitz, who formerly served as the National Security Council's chief of staff. While short on specifics, the book offers some guideposts to how a future Trump administration could approach foreign policy issues such as Russia's war against Ukraine. Trump has said, that if elected, he would solve the conflict before Inauguration Day in January, but declined to say how. The book's chapter on the war spends more time discussing how the conflict unfolded than how to end it. But it says the U.S. should make future military aid contingent on Ukraine participating in peace talks with Russia. It predicts the Ukrainian army will likely lose ground over time and advises against the U.S. continuing "to send arms to a stalemate that Ukraine will eventually find difficult to win." Once there is a peace agreement, it says the U.S. would continue to arm Ukraine as a deterrent to Russia. The authors seem to endorse a framework in which Ukraine "would not be asked to relinquish the goal of regaining all its territory" but would agree to diplomacy "with the understanding that this would require a future diplomatic breakthrough which probably will not occur before (Russian President Vladimir) Putin leaves office." The book blames Democratic President Joe Biden for the war and repeats Trump's claim that Putin never would have invaded if Trump had been in office. Its main argument in defense of that claim is that Putin saw Trump as strong and decisive. In fact, Trump cozied up to the Russian leader and was reluctant to challenge him. The bulk of the chapter is spent laying out an at times erroneous timeline of Biden's handling of the war. The book is critical of Trump's transition efforts in 2016, bemoaning a broad lack of preparation before Trump took office. "The tumultuous transition of 2016/2017 did not serve President Trump and the nation well and slowed the advancement and implementation of his agenda," the authors wrote. For instance, they note that before the election, Democrat Hillary Clinton's transition team had submitted more than 1,000 names for future security clearance. Trump's team submitted just 25. The group says it has identified roughly 1,200 national security-related positions that the next administration will need to fill and urges it to be ready on Day 1 with Trump loyalists who adhere to the "America First" approach. The book describes China as the nation's most pressing national security threat, eager to displace the U.S. as the world's premier power. It proposes a hawkish policy that builds on approaches from both the Trump years and the Biden administration with the goal of making Beijing's policies "largely irrelevant to American life." The analysts' views of what an "America First" policy looks like often reflect the writers' personal focuses. For Ellie Cohanim, a former Trump deputy State Department envoy charged with monitoring and combating antisemitism, "America First" looks a lot like a shopping list for the Israeli military. The U.S. should rush Israel a squadron of "25 Lockheed Martin F-35s, one squadron of Boeing's F-15 EX, and a squadron of Apache E attack helicopters," Cohanim wrote. The U.S. should give some of its billions of dollars in military funding to Israel in Israeli currency so Israel can spend it at home, and Washington should push Arab states to foot the bill for the rebuilding of Gaza and accept Israel's shelving any political talks with the Palestinians pending an indefinite period of compulsory deradicalization for the Palestinian people, she wrote. Companies donating the most money to Donald Trump Companies donating the most money to Donald Trump #22. Excel Communications #21. Churchill Business Consultants #20. Westminster Management #19. New York Jets/Johnson Co. #18. America First #17. GH Palmer Associates #16. Fox, Paine & Co. #15. Cantor Fitzgerald #14. Woodforest Financial Group #13. Mt. Vernon Investments #12. Advance Financial #11. DSB Technologies #10. Ascent Residential #9. Key Square Group #8. Next Generation Films #7. Pate Holdings #6. Geosouthern Energy #5. Witkoff Group #4. CrownQuest Operating #3. M&M Industries #2. Hendricks Holding Co. #1. McMahon Ventures Companies donating the most money to Donald Trump Tech giants might shun or leave Vietnam if policy lacks investment support: ministry By Tri Duc Wed, July 3, 2024 | 10:44 am GMT+7 Some global giants, including LG Chemical, AT&S and SMC, are eyeing investments in countries other than Vietnam or considering no more new investments here as the country's current policy lacks investment support, the Ministry of Planning and Investment has said. In a report on the draft decree on the to-be-launched Investment Support Fund, the ministry stressed that Vietnams current policy offers limited investment support, with only income-based incentives, such as exemptions and reduction of taxes and fees. The upcoming Global Minimum Tax (GMT) will heavily impact Vietnam and prompt the country to update its legal framework. A sign of Foxconn, a world's top electronics production contractor. Photo courtesy of the firm. In particular, the outdated legal framework has prompted some global giants, which had previously proposed huge investments, to ignore Vietnam to invest in other countries. Notably, LG Chemical had proposed a battery production project and suggested Vietnam help with 30% of the production cost in cash, but eventually the firm opted to invest in Indonesia. Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik Aktiengesellschaft (AT&S), a producer of high-end printed circuit boards, had conducted surveys and proposed investments, but then invested in Malaysia as Vietnam could not fulfill its investment support and high-tech workforce requirements, added the ministry, which oversees foreign investment. The ministry also pointed out that other major investors in Vietnam are waiting for new policies before making further investments. If Vietnam cannot provide new support in line with the GMT, tech giants might relocate some production lines to other countries like India or halt proposed investments. Some waiting in the lobby are Japans healthcare item producer SMC and Taiwans Foxconn, Compal, and Quanta. The ministry elaborated that Vietnams main draw for foreign direct investment (FDI) is its stable investment environment. As the GMT approaches, no updates to the legal framework would hurt Vietnam and reduce Vietnams attractiveness to foreign investors, the ministry stressed. With the proposed Investment Support Fund, the ministry suggested the fund would utilize the additional tax incomes from the higher GMT. Other sources would include the state budget, donations, and interest incomes (if any). Per the draft decree, the fund will provide support to high-tech businesses, businesses that produce high-tech equipment, businesses with high-tech applications, and businesses with research and development (R&D) centers. The support will partly cover the costs of workforce development, R&D activities, investments in fixed assets, production of high-tech items, and investments in social welfare infrastructure. S Koreas Daewoo, CJ, GS E&C, Celltrion to scale up investments in Vietnam By Hai Yen Wed, July 3, 2024 | 9:59 pm GMT+7 Major corporations of South Korea, Daewoo, CJ, GS E&C, and Celltrion, will ramp up investments in Vietnam across various sectors, including food, logistics, infrastructure, construction, energy, and pharmaceuticals. Executives from these firms made their commitments during meetings with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Seoul on Wednesday. Daewoo E&C Jung Won-ju, chairman of construction giant Daewoo E&C, said that the firm is keen to invest in energy projects, power plant development, industrial parks, and infrastructure in Vietnam. Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (right) receives Daewo E&C's chairman Jung Won-ju in Seoul on July 3, 2024. Photo courtesy of the governments news portal. He highlighted some potential projects, including the O Mon 3 and 4 gas-fired power plants in the southern province of Can Tho, the Hai Lang liquefied natural gas (LNG) power plant in the central province of Quang Tri, the Long An LNG power plant in the southern namesake province. The firm also wants to develop a smart city model at its flagship Starlake new urban area project in Hanoi and build a new urban project in the northern province of Thai Binh, Jung said. PM Chinh, in reply, suggested Daewoo start the Thai Binh urban project soon and proposed it join Vietnams ramshackle house eradication program, which is due to complete in 2025. Daewoo E&C became the first South Korean construction company to open a representative office in Vietnam, in June 1991. It established Daewoo E&C Vina with a total capital of $1.3 billion, specializing in urban development. GS Engineering & Construction Corp (GS E&C) CEO of GS E&C Huh Yoon-hong proposed developing the Nha Be new urban area project, located in Ho Chi Minh City, into a smart city that includes a centralized information technology campus for semiconductor businesses and startups. The Vietnamese leader asked GS E&C to work with the HCMC government to speed up the procedures and commence the project soon. In Vietnam, GS E&C has joined many key projects, including the Metro No.1 Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien in HCMC, the Tan Son Nhat-Binh Loi-Outer Beltway road, Vam Cong bridge in the southern city of Can Tho, the Vinh Thi bridge connecting Hanoi to its neighboring province of Vinh Phuc. Celltrion Inc. Hyoung Ki Kim, vice chairman and CEO of Celltrion Inc., a leading biopharmaceutical company in South Korea, shared that the firm is finalizing procedures for to set up an import and distribution company for biopharmaceuticals in Vietnam, with its base to be located in Hanoi. It will transfer technology to Vietnam Pharmaceutical Corporation (Vinapharm) and join hands with the latter to produce and distribute Celltrion products in Vietnam, he added. CJ Sohn Kyung Sik, chairman of multi-industry corporation CJ, made several recommendations regarding Vietnams standard system, livestock taxation, and administrative procedures. CJ aims to continue investing in Vietnam in logistics, cultural industries, and the food sector with a focus on Vietnamese foodstuff export. Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (right) receives CJ's chairman Sohn Kyung Sik in Seoul on July 3, 2024. Photo courtesy of the governments news portal. PM Chinh, for his part, suggested CJ expand in Vietnam, especially in livestock, food processing, logistics, culture, and biotechnology. He expected the firm to incorporate more Vietnamese products into its global supply chain. Vietnam serves as the base for CJs regional headquarters. Entering Vietnam in 1998, the chaebol has invested $1 billion in Vietnam so far. It currently has 24 member companies in Vietnam, generating total revenue of $1.4 billion in 2023 and employing 11,200 workers. KBD On the same day, the Vietnamese PM received chairman and CEO of the government-owned Korea Development Bank (KDB) Kang Seog-hoon. PM Chinh asked KDB to continue assisting South Korean enterprises in operating in Vietnam and to offer credit and expertise to Vietnamese firms as well. The family of a young woman who died in a car wreck are suing the organization that harvests from organ donors in South Carolina over accusations the group misused their daughters ovaries. Karsyn von Egidy was 27 years old when she was involved in a fatal car accident in Sumter on April 15, 2023. She was airlifted to Prisma Health Richland Hospital in Columbia, where she died from her injuries after five days in a coma in intensive care. According to the lawsuit, representatives of We Are Sharing Hope, South Carolinas designated organ procurement organization, approached the von Egidy family at the hospital to secure an organ donation. Von Egidy was a registered organ donor in her native North Carolina. Her mother, Traci von Egidy, filled out an authorization form, saying the family wanted Karsyns organs to go into living recipients but not for research, medical therapy, and/or education, citing deeply held religious, moral, and ethical beliefs, according to the suit. Without the familys knowledge, records show that Karsyns ovaries were removed along with her other organs, the suit says. The authorization form did not mention reproductive organs, and under other the family wrote N/A. A couple weeks later, the von Egidys received a letter from Sharing Hope detailing where her organs were sent, including that her ovaries were recovered and sent to medical research, the letter said. The letter left the family feeling as if their wishes had been utterly disregarded, the lawsuit says. They asked for a copy of the authorization form and said the Sharing Hope representative had written on the form that the family consents to research except for the heart, which expressly contradicted their wishes for Karsyns organs and are false statements, they said. Sharing Hope CEO Dave DeStefano later wrote to the family that In North Carolina, donor registration does not automatically include donation for research purposes. In contrast, South Carolina donor registration do include donations for research purposes, and that the representative initially assumed that research was covered by the release. The letter also said that Ovary tissue was used but no eggs were recovered, and no ovary tissue remains, while the initial letter said that no tissue had been removed, the lawsuit said. The lawsuit accuses Sharing Hope of fraudulent conduct and gross negligence that compounded the familys pain and suffering. They are seeking punitive damages. The suit is brought by attorneys Jacob Kea of Nelson Mullins and Brian Barnwell of Rikard & Protopapas. In their response to the complaint, Sharing Hope denies the authorization form constitutes a legally enforceable contract and says that organ donations are considered a gift. The organization also denies altering the authorization form and says it acted in good faith. The organization also denies that the von Edigys have standing to sue, as they suffered no injury from the donation and the group had no legal duty toward them. Sharing Hope maintains that Karsyns organs were taken in accordance with the law and medical standards. The motion filed by attorneys Jean Marie Jennings and Molly Craig of the Hood Law Firm seeks to have the suit dismissed. We Are Sharing Hope follows the standard of care expected and required in accordance with the organ donation practice and process, the organization said in a statement to The State. We care deeply for our donor heroes and their families and always strive to be good stewards of these precious gifts. The State has reached out to attorneys on both sides of the lawsuit seeking further comment. The Bexar County Fire Marshal's Office returned Tara Colleen Ryan's wheelchair Tuesday after it was discovered in a grassy area by local firefighters. Courtesy Bexar County Fire Marshal's Office A wheelchair stolen from Blink-182's San Antonio concert last week has been returned to its owner after turning up at a fire station. Houston resident Tara Colleen Ryans custom wheelchair was stolen from the parking lot of Frost Bank Center following the bands June 24 show. She has a rare form of muscular dystrophy called Friedreichs Ataxia, and her fiance helped her into their vehicle close to the end of the concert. The two drove off before realizing the wheelchair wasnt with them, and it was gone by the time they returned. Ryan filed a police report and searched the area. She also checked Frost Bank Centers surveillance footage and lost and found, to no avail. Thats when she launched a GoFundMe to help defray the cost of a new wheelchair, which would cost $10,000. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This is my custom chair to me only, Ryan wrote on social media. I use it 24/7. And Im devastated. There was no sign of her wheelchair until Monday, when firefighters in North Bexar County went outside to do yard work and discovered a wheelchair sitting in a grassy area, the Bexar County Fire Marshals Office said in a social media post. The wheelchair was confirmed to match the description and serial numbers from the reported missing chair, BCFMO wrote. According to a recent update to the fundraiser, surveillance footage showed two people obscured by hoodies and face masks dropping off the wheelchair with a note that read, found at the frost center. Ryan was reunited with her wheelchair Tuesday, and her family is starting the process of checking the wheelchair for damage. The GoFundMe will stay open until they know whether repairs will be needed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Tara is my daughter and it has been a very emotional week for all of us, but especially for her. We cant thank you enough for making sure she received it back, Jennifer Higgins Shaw wrote in response of BCFMOs post. Ryan and her fiance are getting married in November, and now she can head down the aisle with peace of mind. (TBTCO) - Gia xang dau trong nuoc hom nay (10/10) uoc du bao co the uoc ieu chinh tang manh. Theo o, gia xang trong nuoc co the tang tu 950 - 1.250 ong/lit; gia dau diesel co kha nang tang khoang 820 - 1.050 ong/lit. Tren thi truong the gioi, gia dau giam sau khi du lieu cua Hoa Ky cho thay luong dau tho du tru tang, nhung muc giam bi han che boi rui ro gian oan nguon cung cua Iran do xung ot Trung ong va con bao Milton o Hoa Ky. You have reached a premium content area of Transitions. To read this entire article please login if you are already a Transitions subscriber. Not a subscriber? Subscribe today for access to: Full access to the website, including premium articles videos, country reports and searchable archives (containing over 25,000 articles). Egis, a global leader in the architecture, consulting, construction engineering and mobility sectors, has been granted the reputed Environmental License Class A from Saudi Arabias National Center for Environmental Compliance (NCEC). This coveted designation signifies a company's commitment to adhering to the strictest environmental regulations, contributing to the Kingdom's ambitious sustainability goals. The Environmental License Class A plays a critical role in safeguarding public health and ecological protection. By securing this license, Egis demonstrates their proactive approach to supporting national environmental initiatives, enhancing environmental excellence within the region, and aligning perfectly with the global imperative to address climate change. For Egis, this Class A registration expands their range of services to include obtaining environmental permits for complex projects, environmental audits, management plans, and periodic environmental reports. Additionally, the company can now provide expert consultations and assistance with the rehabilitation of degraded sites and the treatment of contaminated soil, guaranteeing compliance with the highest environmental standards. Companies with this license can also engage in substantial environmental research and project work, solidifying their position as environmental leaders. On the key achievement, Alaa AbuSiam, CEO of Egis in the Middle East & South Asia, said the granting of the Environmental License Class A by Saudi Arabia represents a strategic turning point for Egis environmental stewardship efforts, and a significant milestone in its journey to become a key partner in Saudi Arabia's Vison 2030. "We are motivated to continue deploying our comprehensive expertise to provide an integrated approach to environmental compliance and social responsibility. Egis firmly believes this will strengthen project sustainability, whilst fostering ethical development practices," noted AbuSiam. Egis, he stated, demonstrates its global commitment to environmental responsibility and their ability to deliver impactful solutions through its extensive portfolio of successful projects across diverse ecosystems. "From industrial site remediation and the design of sustainable water management systems to the implementation of comprehensive ecological restoration programs, Egis delivers comprehensive solutions that address pressing environmental challenges," he said. These projects include the rehabilitation of degraded areas in the Amazon Rainforest, coral reef relocation and restoration in Qatar, and successful mangrove restoration and coastal protection in several countries, he added.-TradeArabia News Service Sunrise Capital, a Dubai-based developer, has announced the successful handover of all 132 units within Legacy By Sunrise - a premium project located in Al Barsha South - to its buyers. Spanning over 91,000 sq ft area, the the residential property features a mix of 67 studios, 43 one- and 22 two-bedroom apartments. According to Sunrise Capital, the new property got sold out in record time thanks to its quality design and interiors. Each residence has been crafted with precision and artistic flair displaying a harmonious blend of luxury and functionality, stated the developer. The interiors are thoughtfully designed to maximise space and light, featuring high-end finishes, custom details, and fully equipped kitchens with premium appliances by Teka (Germany). The layouts are varied, accommodating a range of lifestyles from bustling family life to serene solitary living, all underpinned by an unwavering commitment to quality, it added. On the success of its most recent project, Yogesh Bulchandani, Founder of Sunrise Capital said: "We are delighted to hand over the keys to the first residents of Legacy and couldnt be prouder of this landmark achievement in luxury residential development." "Sunrise has once again proved its commitment to the market by delivering on time and to the highest possible standards. We believe demand has been so high due to the projects architectural brilliance and the unique blend of sophistication and comfort," he noted. It boasts a range of amenities including kids' play area and fully shaded parking; semi Olympic length pool; gym; lavish double height lobby; executive library and a cinema room, stated Bulchandani. According to him, this handover comes on the back of another equally successful project delivery by the developer, also in Al Barsha South Legend by Sunrise. The key residential development features 112 apartments across six floors, with luxury amenities including a grand lobby and four high-speed elevators, he added.-TradeArabia News Service Saudi-based Sumou Real Estate has reached an agreement with Jubail & Yanbu Services Company (Jabeen) for the design and construction of 1,104 residential units in Yanbu Industrial City at a total investment of SAR1.3 billion ($346 million). As per the deal, the company will also develop primary and secondary infrastructure works at Yanbu Industrial City, said Sumou Real Estate in its filing to Saudi bourse Tadawul. This comes in accordance with contracts for purchasing residential units to be signed between Jabeen - the investment arm of Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu - and the industrial companies through the housing ownership program of those companies, it stated. The entire contract work will be completed within a three-year period starting from the date of signing the purchase contracts with industrial companies, stated Sumou Real Estate. The project is likely to have a positive impact on the companys results starting from the beginning of the development and implementation work on the project, it added.-TradeArabia News Service Top officials of Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) met a senior delegation from the State of Ohio, US, to discuss ways to strengthen relations and collaborate with Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA). During the meeting, RTA and its American counterparts discussed ways to boost co-operation in key areas, such as mass transport, roads, integrated and user-friendly mobility applications, connected and real-time mobility systems, and autonomous transport, reported Wam. The delegation, led by Blake Ethridge, Chairman of SORTA, was received by Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA. During the meeting, Al Tayer discussed RTA's best practices in public transport, modern and sustainable transport systems, and the expansion of current and future mobility services. The delegation expressed their aspiration to collaborate with RTA to realise the visions of the Dubai Government and the State of Ohio, aiming to transform them into international hubs for entrepreneurship and tourism and positioning them among the best global living destinations. The two entities later signed a MoU in the presence of Mattar Al Tayer and Blake Ethridge that aims at enhancing cooperation, supporting the strategic partnership, and making concerted efforts to deliver outstanding public transport services, which will positively reflect on various economic and social sectors in both countries. It includes embedding a culture of joint efforts to enhance performance, facilitate transactions, develop customer service, and maintain communication between the two parties to achieve their common interests, serving both Dubai and Ohio. The MoU was signed by Ahmed Bahrozyan, CEO of Public Transport Agency, and Darryl Healy, the CEO and General Manager of SORTA at a key ceremony which was attended by several officials from both sides. "Over the next phase, we will explore opportunities to develop public transport, primarily focusing on transport technology and innovation, the integration of transport systems and network design, outsourcing bus services, engaging the private sector, and sharing knowledge and best practices in planning & designing of bus stops and facilities," said Al Tayer. "The two parties will also explore mutual benefits from advanced public transport planning methods and the use of modern software," he stated. The objectives of the strategic partnership with SORTA align with RTA's vision as The World Leader in Seamless and Sustainable Mobility. The MoU will unify shared interests and opportunities in areas such as electric buses, hydrogen buses, rapid transit buses, dedicated lanes, and other bus priority systems, he further added. The MoU also calls for exchanging technical knowledge and expertise at various levels, along with sharing information and studies related to the main and specialised tasks beneficial to both parties. On the deal, Ethridge said: "We have been able to drive considerable ridership growth and transit-related infrastructure investment that has resulted in our Midwestern city seeing record ridership recovery and growth well above our peers." "This exciting collaboration with Dubais RTA, a globally renowned system with an internal reputation for innovation and transformation, marks a new dawn of transit partnerships that reach across the globe," he added. Gen Z professionals in the UAE are climate conscious and eager to positively contribute to the climate action agenda, even though they dont quite have the necessary green skills yet compared to their peers from other generations. According to LinkedIns data, the UAE ranks 2nd in Mena in terms of average green talent concentration across generations (Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X and Boomers). However, Gen Z professionals are underrepresented in having green skills compared to other cohorts. Looking at the contribution of each generation to the green workforce in the UAE, the data also reveals that the highest green talent concentration is found in Millennials, with this generation making up 65% of green skilled professionals. Only 15% of green skilled professionals are Gen Z. Climate change is growing in importance among Gen Z The implications of climate change are front of mind for Gen Z professionals. 72% of Gen Z professionals in the UAE have expressed their concern about the impact of climate change, with another 56% saying that climate change is having a negative impact on their mental health - known as eco-anxiety. This eco-anxiety has prompted Gen Z to take matters into their own hands, with LinkedIns research showing that over half of Gen Z respondents have made changes to their daily lives to minimize their carbon footprint (59%). A close 61% said that they now keep the environment in mind in making most of their daily decisions. This mindset has trickled across to the workplace, with Gen Z evaluating their professional decisions through an environmentally conscious lens. So much so that 61% of Gen Z professionals said they would consider turning down a job opportunity if they do not believe in the employers green policies. Moreover, the majority (59%) are interested in working in a green job over the next five years. This interest is driven by their desire to protect the environment (57%), their belief that there are good opportunities in green jobs (51%), and the potential for better financial compensation (49%). Gen Z professionals need integrated support Despite this overwhelming interest in green jobs, Gen Z professionals lack awareness of the green career paths available to them. LinkedIn research highlights that only 3 in 10 Gen Z professionals in the UAE have a good awareness of the available green roles, while 63% of them believe that theres a general lack of green opportunities in the labour market. Only 16% believe adequate training is available to them to acquire green skills that would help them compete for these roles. The UAE has been steadfast in its support for youth-led climate action. The United Nations Climate Summit (COP28) in Dubai offered a unique platform to expand youth participation in climate change policymaking through the International Youth Climate Delegates Programme. But on a more granular level, climate progress could be hindered unless green jobs become easier to access. This will require targeted action by businesses and policymakers in order to prepare young professionals with the skills and knowledge they need to integrate into green roles. This sentiment is echoed by Gen Z themselves, as 62% of them in the UAE say that financial support, and more than 50% say that employer-driven programmes and government incentives would encourage them to complete green skills training. Ali Matar, EMEA Growth Markets Leader at LinkedIn, says: Gen Z professionals are projected to represent over a quarter of the international labour force by 2025, so it is important that employers listen more closely to them. This generation is unyielding in their demand for green policies that match their values from their employers and decision-makers, and they are becoming increasingly aware of their role in addressing environmental issues. The first step for them is to acquire the green skills that would enable them to do so; an endeavour that would require the full weight of the labour market actors. Recommendations To this end, Ali shares the below recommendations: Businesses looking to green their workforce must take a skills-based approach to their talent strategies. This means identifying the skills their business will need to achieve their climate goals, hiring based on these skills rather than just their previous job title or academic qualifications, and implementing tailored and targeted skills programmes and on-the-job training to bring in and develop younger workers. For younger workers looking to break into green jobs, there are also steps they can take. For instance, strengthening their digital and STEM skills. LinkedIn data shows these will increase workers chances of successfully transitioning into green jobs. Policymakers will also need to explore how they can forge partnerships to help transition workers into green jobs. And as countries introduce and roll out legislation to curb climate change by allocating funding toward green jobs, theyll need to consider how to pair these mandates with appropriate levels of workforce training for every generation.--TradeArabia News Service ABB is expanding its manufacturing capabilities in Europe to help meet demand for electrical protection systems that safeguard buildings, wind turbines, data centres and critical infrastructure. ABB is investing more than $35 million (27 million) in a greenfield facility in Nottingham, UK, to meet increased demand for Furse earthing and lightning protection solutions. Lightning strikes and electrical surges disrupt critical operations and cause billions of dollars in damage to structures and equipment each year. The new state-of-the-art site is expected to open in early 2025 and will integrate advanced technology, flexible automation, R&D and testing, and digital processes to boost production capacity and enhance efficiency and sustainability. More than 100 employees will relocate to the new 9,500 sq m facility from the existing 6,300 sq m ABB Installation Products Nottingham foundry, which has continually operated for over a century in the area where Furse originated in 1893. In addition to an expanded footprint, the site will be constructed in line with the BREEAM Excellent rating for sustainable building standards and include efficient equipment and technology, photovoltaic rooftop cells, electric vehicle charging stations, and processes centered on reducing waste and energy. The space will be designed to support collaboration and training, accelerate R&D, and drive automation to serve European customers and increase available inventory globally. Worldwide, an estimated 1.4 billion lightning flashes occur annually, equal to over 42 strikes each second. Even indirect lightning strikes up to a kilometre away can create transient overvoltages and have devastating consequences such as fire, shock hazards, equipment damage and costly outages, resulting in downtime and financial losses. Furse solutions from ABB Installation Products are engineered to provide reliable earthing, lightning risk, and electronic systems and surge protection, helping safeguard structures and the electrical systems within. The products are used in more than 20 countries across a broad range of applications and environments, from data centers and medical facilities to essential infrastructure, utilities and renewable energy, the company said. This important investment builds on 130 years of Furse technology, enabling us to remain at the forefront of earthing and lightning protection and deliver solutions that improve safety and reliability for our customers. As part of our global growth strategy, we continue to expand our capabilities and capacity, further strengthening ABBs manufacturing footprint and supply chain and regionalizing production of high-demand electrical solutions customers, installers and distribution partners need, said Khalid Mandri President, ABB Installation Products Division. Building this site in Nottinghamshire further reinforces our commitment to the industries we serve and to the community where we have operated for more than a century and want to continue to be a leading employer. The UK investment adds to more than $165 million in ABB Installation Products global expansions and improvements since 2020 to increase manufacturing capacity, drive innovation and sustainability, and bring needed products closer to customers. ABB Installation Products currently has six locations in Europe in Belgium, France, Hungary, Italy, Switzerland and the UK where it employs more than 100 associates in Nottingham who develop, test and produce a broad range of Furse solutions. The new campus will occupy nearly five acres in Fairham Business Park, within close proximity of ABBs existing Wilford Road site and is accessible for employees, customers, suppliers and distribution partners. We are continually advancing solutions across electrification, and the earthing and lightning protection lifecycle. Our new facility is a leap forward in design and technology, positioning us for the future while enabling us to preserve resources and reduce energy and water consumption aligned with circularity and sustainability priorities across ABBs operations, stated Andrea Castella, Europe Region Leader, ABB Installation Products. Building on its long history of pioneering in electrification, ABB Installation Products creates solutions to safely connect and protect electrical systems that power businesses, cities, homes and transportation. With more than 200,000 products under 38 premium brand names, ABB Installation Products, formerly Thomas & Betts, solutions are found wherever electricity is used around the world and in space. ABB is a technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. The companys solutions connect engineering know-how and software to optimise how things are manufactured, moved, powered and operated. Building on over 140 years of excellence, ABBs more than 105,000 employees are committed to driving innovations that accelerate industrial transformation. - TradeArabia News Service Zain Bahrain, a leading telecommunications company in the kingdom, has made it for the second consecutive year to the list of Top 50 strongest companies in Bahrain compiled by Albilad Press. This recognition is a testament to Zain's Bahrain resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. The telco has made significant strides in maintaining a Bahrainization level of more than 93%, exceeding the national target by prioritizing recruiting and developing Bahraini talent. The event, which was held recently in Manama, was attended by the Minister of Industry and Commerce, Abdullah bin Adel Fakhro, and the Chairman of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sameer Abdulla Nass. It underscores the achievements of Bahraini companies across various economic sectors. The award was a reflection of the hard work and dedication of Zain Bahrain team, whose members have been instrumental in driving positive change and innovation in the telecom industry, said a company spokesman. Zain Bahrain will continue to provide exceptional services and support to its customers, fostering innovation, and contributing to Bahrain's vision for a bright and sustainable future, he added.-TradeArabia News Service Melissa Manno is a reporter covering education for the San Antonio Express-News. She can be reached at melissa.manno@express-news.net. She graduated from Penn State University in 2022 with a bachelors degree in journalism and minors in geography and digital media trends and analytics. She is also the 2021 Hearst National Journalism Writing Champion. FTI Consulting has named a new Head of the Strategic Communications segment in the Middle East to implement its business strategy in the region and support its expansion, while equipping it to serve international clients operating in the market. Oliver Williams, who is a Senior Managing Director at FTI Consulting, who joined the firm in 2008, has held leadership positions in the firms London and Washington, D.C., offices. He has advised organisations on a variety of cross-border communications challenges, including complex integrated advocacy campaigns, regulatory and legislative uncertainty, securing investment and building credibility through third-party stakeholder engagement. The appointment of Williams is part of FTI Consultings ongoing investment in the region, including the firms relocation to larger premises in Dubai and the opening of new offices in Abu Dhabi and Doha in 2023 and the establishment of an office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2022. FTI Consultings team in the Middle East supports clients on a diverse range of business-critical issues, including crisis and cybersecurity, forensic investigations, corporate finance, construction solutions, public sector advisory and strategy consulting. They combine deep financial, technical and business expertise with local, global and industry experience to help organisations protect and enhance their enterprise value in an increasingly complex and evolving legal, regulatory and economic environment. With many global leaders focusing intently on entering or expanding their presence in the Middle East market, significant opportunities abound for the business industry, said Mark McCall, Global Leader of the Strategic Communications segment at FTI Consulting. Oliver brings tremendous value and experience to our rapidly growing team in the region. His appointment will strengthen collaboration across our global network, and we look forward to leveraging his expertise to further solidify our position as a leading global consulting firm. The Middle East is evolving and developing at an exciting pace and with this clients communications needs and challenges evolve too, said Vikas Papriwal, a Senior Managing Director and Head of FTI Consulting Middle East. Olivers solid track record and experience will be of great benefit to our client base across our core geographies as they navigate these communications needs. I very much look forward to working with Oliver to develop our strategic communications solutions across the region. Williams said: The Middle East is clearly an increasingly critical nexus for business. The sense of opportunity is palpable, and Im excited to build on the work of our local team, as we take our business to the next level. At the heart of our strategy is a vision to marry our local expertise with our international capabilities and footprint, to not only support those companies who are already in the Gulf Cooperation Council market or entering it, but also the growing number of regional leaders who are expanding internationally. TradeArabia News Service Global consulting firm Simon-Kucher continues its strategic expansion in the Middle East with the opening of a new office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This move reinforces the firm's commitment to the region and its dedication to providing specialised services to local and international clients. The addition of three new Partners in the Riyadh office further solidifies Simon-Kucher's foothold in the Middle East. Now, with 46 offices spanning 31 countries across Europe, APAC, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East, Simon-Kucher is poised to enhance its reach and capabilities within the region and globally. Attracting top talent The firm has been present in the Middle East since 2012, with the establishment of its office in Dubai. Since then, the firm has focused on strengthening its leadership and attracting top talent, thanks in part to the recent additions of Partner Chris Bergman, and Dr Marc Matar, previously based in Simon-Kuchers Paris and London offices and now serving as the firms Head of Healthcare and Life Sciences in Asia. "Opening our new office in Riyadh marks a significant milestone in Simon-Kucher's global expansion," remarks Dr Andreas von der Gathen, co-CEO of Simon-Kucher. "Situated at the heart of the Middle East, Saudi Arabia is undergoing a transformative journey of diversification and modernisation through its Vision 2030 initiative." Dr von der Gathen adds: "Simon-Kucher's expertise, spanning pricing strategies, marketing, sales, and digitalisation, aligns seamlessly with the evolving landscape of the region. As true pricing and growth specialists, were focused on delivering tangible results for our clients." Leading the expansion of the company in Saudi Arabia is Dr Salim Al Gudhea, Managing Partner of Riyadh office, who brings extensive experience in strategic advisory, consulting, and public policy. "Its ideal timing for Simon-Kucher to expand into the Saudi market, which welcomes the specialised consulting offerings of the firm. The market will especially benefit from Simon-Kuchers expertise in the design and implmentation of dynamic pricing models as well as growth and commercial models, states Dr Al Gudhea. Driving value creation "Our Riyadh-based team is dedicated to driving value creation, growth, and profitability in this dynamic economy. By integrating local and regional expertise with the global connectivity of a leading pricing and growth specialist, we aim to deliver impactful solutions." Simon-Kucher's Riyadh office plans to expand its team exponentially in the next three years. Partners Sebastian Grunow and Jan Gudat just joined the office this month to support the expansion plan. Grunow offers strategic guidance in public services, financial services, industrial goods, and healthcare across Europe and the GCC, with a focus on digitalisation. Gudat specialises in expediting digital transformation in diverse industries across Europe and the Middle East, emphasising innovative methodologies for sustainable business models. Simon-Kucher has had a longstanding presence in the Middle East, with the establishment of our Dubai office more than a decade ago," notes Lovrenc Kessler, Partner and Dubai Managing Director at Simon-Kucher, overseeing the company's operations in the Middle East. "The addition of our new office in Saudi Arabia and new talent corresponds to our clients growing demand for local presence in the region. Our local consultants are dedicated to driving tangible impact and advancing businesses and institutions."--TradeArabia News Service Nabors has achieved performance objectives for a major UAE operator through a drilling campaign. The 3,000 horsepower rig, equipped with advanced drilling technologies like Canrig Automated Catwalk, Canrig 750-ton AC Top Drive, and REVit stick-slip mitigation solution, ensured safer and efficient operations. The crew celebrated over 300 days without any Lost Time Incident, reflecting Nabors commitment to Mission Zero. In addition, installing the ILLUMIC Lighting System saved 55,440 KWh of energy and 6,930 gallons of fuel in 330 operating days. This energy efficient lighting solution eliminated the use of diesel-powered light towers, greatly improving worker visibility during night operations. Additionally, ILLUMIC improved safety and productivity while lowering emissions and reducing operational costs, stated Nabors. As a result, these achievements led to a successful contract extension with the customer, marking another international win for the Nabors team and continued expansion in the Middle East. Including their joint venture, SANAD, Nabors has about 60 rigs in the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region, having recently won new contracts in Algeria, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Neeraj Rajendran, Nabors UAE Operations Manager, said: We are proud to witness the tangible results of our collaboration, advanced technologies, strong safety culture and commitment to regional performance. All of these factors significantly contributed to securing this contract extension. --OGN/TradeArabia News Service Qatar Airways Group on Tuesday reported the strongest financial performance in its 27-year history, announcing record profits of QAR6.1 billion ($1.7 billion) for the 2023/24 financial year driven by revenue growth, network expansion, and a focus on customer experience. The multiple award-winning airline group reported total revenues of QAR81 billion ($22.2 billion), representing an increase of QAR4.7 billion ($1.3 billion) up six per cent compared to last year, the group said. Other Key Highlights: Strong Passenger Performance: Carried over 40 million passengers, a 26% increase, with a record-high load factor of 83%. EBITDA Margin: Achieved a robust EBITDA margin of 24% at QAR 19.1 billion ($5.2 billion). Network Expansion: Network grew to over 170 destinations, including new routes in Saudi Arabia, France, Indonesia, and Turkey. Qatar Airways Cargo: Maintained its position as the world's leading air cargo carrier with a 7.1% market share. Qatar Executive: Continued its strong performance in the business jet market with a 17% increase in commercial charter revenue. Privilege Club: Membership increased by 26%, with significant growth in Avios collection and spending. The group generated a strong EBITDA margin of 24 per cent at QAR19.1 billion ($5.2 billion), around QAR1.2 billion ($0.3 billion) higher than the previous year, reflecting the businesss continued focus on customer experience, innovation, digitalisation and sustainability, resulting in streamlined, agile and fit-for-purpose operations across all areas, it said. The airline business carried more than 40 million passengers during the period, an increase of 26 per cent over the previous year. As a result, passenger revenue increased by 19 per cent, with a capacity increase of 21 per cent driven by the airlines highest-ever load factor of 83 per cent, offering a sustainable upsurge in market share. Minister of State for Energy and Qatar Airways Group Chairman Engineer Saad Bin Sharida Al-Kaabi said: This latest remarkable annual performance demonstrates Qatar Airways Groups flexibility and resilience in successfully navigating a constantly evolving global travel industry, and indicates a strong and sustained rebound from the challenges faced by the sector in recent years. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer Engineer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said: These very strong financials are a testament to the ambition and clear direction that has informed the Qatar Airways Groups progress throughout the 2023/24 financial year. Focus areas Our continued focus on profitability, efficiency and customer experience have been underpinned by a strategic programme of network growth and fleet expansion, resulting in the highest revenues and profit margins in the history of the airline. We also cemented our undisputed role as a key industry leader, maintaining our position as the airline of choice for millions of passengers worldwide. This incredible achievement is in no small part thanks to the collective endeavour of the entire Qatar Airways Group family who have worked tirelessly to achieve such stellar results. We must now use this as a foundation on which to build our continued success. As it celebrates its milestone 20th year of operation in 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo maintained its position as the worlds leading air cargo carrier, forging ahead with a strategic focus on digitalisation, sustainability and growth contributing towards an increase in cargos market share to 7.1 per cent in 2023/24, up by 0.04 per cent compared to previous financial year. Qatar Executive (QE) has continued to deliver a solid business performance in a highly competitive market operating as the only business jet brand owned and fully integrated with a commercial airline. With consistent growth over the 2023/24 fiscal year, QE saw an increase in commercial charter revenue of more than 17 per cent, with a rise in flying hours of over 21 per cent illustrating its strong customer growth, particularly in Europe, the US and Asia. The groups investment in Qatar Airways loyalty programme Privilege Club yielded significant results during 2023/24, with membership increasing by more than 26 per cent. Member engagement also reached record levels with Avios collection growing at over 50 per cent, while Avios spend has grown by 75 per cent, in a year that witnessed the launch of key partnerships in India, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, in addition to the exciting new products in our home market, it said. Qatar Airways network grew to more than 170 destinations in 2023/24, adding Al Ula, Neom and Tabuk, in Saudi Arabia; Lyon and Toulouse, France; Medan, Indonesia; and Trabzon, Turkey throughout the year. This is in addition to the resumption of operations to 14 destinations, including Bahrain; Birmingham (UK); Beijing, Chengdu and Chongqing (China); Davao (Philippines); Tokyo Haneda and Osaka (Japan); Marrakesh (Morocco); Nice (France); Penang (Malaysia); Phnom Penh (Cambodia), Ras Al Khaimah (UAE); and Yanbu (Saudi Arabia). TradeArabia News Service ME Dubai, the architecturally renowned hotel and prestigious property under the Melia Hotels International brand, has appointed Jose Luis Bragado as the new Executive Assistant Manager. In his new role, Jose Luis brings extensive experience and a passion for hospitality to further elevate the guest experience and operational excellence at ME Dubai. Hailing from Spain, Jose Luis joins ME Dubai with a robust background in hotel management and operations. He holds a masters degree in Hotel Business Administration and Management from Universidad Complutense de Madrid and a bachelors degree in Economics from Universidad de Oviedo. After combining his studies with some part-time jobs in hospitality as a service and banquet waiter, he focused on the hotel sector and joined the Food and Beverage team at Hotel Palacio De Luces Relais & Chateaux in Asturias, Spain, followed by a notable training program as Sales Coordinator at Leonardo Hotels Central Europe, Madrid. Jose Luis's extensive experience at Melia Hotels International properties has prepared him for his current role at ME Dubai. He first joined Palacio de los Duques Gran Melia Hotel (member of The Leading Hotels of the World) in Madrid, as a Guest Service Line Agent. Subsequently, he underwent an 18-month Executive Graduate Programme at Melia Berlin in Germany, where he was mentored by the General Manager and collaborated closely with all department heads, gaining comprehensive insights into hotel operations. In his current role as Executive Assistant Manager, Jose Luis works together with Elsa Lahoude, ME Dubais General Manager. His responsibilities encompass overseeing all aspects of the hotel's operations and strategy, including meticulous planning, coordination, management, supervision, and analysis of results from all hotel departments, such as Reception, F&B, Concierge, Housekeeping, Engineering, HR, Finance, Sales and Marketing, Revenue Management, Security and Spa. He is also responsible for ensuring the smooth implementation of Melia Hotels International's procedures and policies across the property. This includes the integration of technical tools, brand and company initiatives, HR and talent development strategies, sustainability and wellbeing policies, guest loyalty programs, and sales and marketing campaigns. - TradeArabia News Service Bahrain International Airport (BIA) has won an award in recognition of its commitment to elevating the standards of occupational health and safety management, and its efforts in reducing accidents within the airport environment, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) said. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) Health and Safety Award was conferred on the airport for the fourth consecutive year, at the RoSPA Health and Safety Awards Ceremony, held on June 6, 2024, at Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai. BAC Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Manager, Eng Hasan Farhan, received the award. The RoSPA Awards scheme, the longest running of its kind in the UK, receives entries from organisations worldwide, making it one of the most sought-after achievement awards for health and safety globally. Applications are meticulously evaluated by a panel of safety professionals, offering invaluable feedback for enhancement in health and safety practices. BAC Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, said: This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of our HSE team. The award reflects the airport community commitment to safety and the diligent work our team members contributions to adhere to the best industry health and safety practices. At BAC, the safety of passengers and staff is a top priority, and we strive to work with our partners to maintain the highest standards at the airport. With four consecutive wins from 2021 to 2024, BAC said it has not only gained recognition for its accomplishments but also joined a legacy that values dedication to high safety standards and individual well-being. TradeArabia News Service THE theme for this years World Sight Day: Love your eyes, kids, is a call to action, says co-founder of the Trinidad Eye Hospital (TEH) and Hummingbird Medal Gold recipient, Dr Ronnie Bhola. One of the main problems affecting our young population that is causing concern among health care professionals like Bhola is myopia a condition in which people can see close objects clearly but objects farther away appear blurred. HEADING BACK TO TRINIDAD: Passengers gather outside the Caribbean Airlines office at ANR Robinson International Airport yesterday in Tobago to buy tickets to return to Trinidad. Photo: JERMAINE CRUICKSHANK China to formulate over 50 standards for AI sector by 2026 Xinhua) 10:19, July 03, 2024 BEIJING, July 2 (Xinhua) -- China will formulate more than 50 national and industrial standards for artificial intelligence (AI) by 2026 and develop a standard system to guide the high-quality development of the sector, according to guidelines jointly unveiled by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and three other government organs. The guidelines specified seven key areas for developing the AI standard system in the country, including standards for key technologies, intelligent products and services, and industry applications. Developing AI standards can help promote technological progress, enterprise development and industrial upgrading, thus better leveraging AI to empower new industrialization, according to the guidelines. In recent years, China's AI industry has achieved progress in technological innovation, product creation, industry applications and other areas. The sector has presented new features with the accelerated development of new technologies like large models. China now hosts more than 4,500 AI companies. Its core AI industry reached a scale of more than 578 billion yuan (about 81 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, up 13.9 percent year on year, according to official data. In this year's government work report, China unveiled an AI Plus initiative, a strategic move designed to propel the digital economy's expansion and spearhead the transformation and modernization of manufacturing sectors. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Clockwise from top left: Vice President Kamala Harris; Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg; Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer; California Gov. Gavin Newsom. Ronda Churchill, AP; Mariam Zuhaib, AP; Ruaridh Stewart, TNS; Al Goldis, AP FILE - Vice President Kamala Harris embraces President Joe Biden after a speech on healthcare in Raleigh, N.C., March. 26, 2024. Harris has been the White House's first line of defense after President Joe Biden's faltering performance in last week's debate with Donald Trump. (AP Photo/Matt Kelley, File) Matt Kelley/Associated Press The four names most mentioned as replacements to President Joe Biden on the 2024 presidential ticket have had plenty of interactions with Texas over the last few years. During past presidential campaigns, political fundraisers and public policy events, the top contenders have all visited the state and sounded like they were warming up in the bullpen in case Biden stepped aside. Now, he has. READ MORE: Biden drops out of 2024 race after disastrous debate inflamed age concerns and he endorses Harris Advertisement Article continues below this ad While Biden dropped out Sunday and threw his endorsement behind Vice President Kamala Harris, it doesnt necessarily mean there wont be more competition between now and when the Democratic National Convention gets underway in Chicago next month. Here are the top contenders and a Texas take on each of them from the last four years. Kamala Harris With Bidens endorsement in hand, the 59-year-old starts the jockeying with a distinct advantage over the potential field of contenders. Harris has had plenty of Texas interactions and has had a high profile on one of the most important issues on the minds of Texas voters: the border. Early in his administration, Biden tapped Harris to lead the messaging on the border, and she traveled to Central America to dig into the root causes of migration. But when border crossings soared in the next two years, Harris became a target of the right for not making much progress. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Harris campaigned frequently in Houston in 2019 when she was running for president and has made several trips to Texas since. In late 2023, Harris was once again in Houston, holding a discussion session about how the Biden administration was helping expand health care to underserved communities. And later at a political fundraiser, she took aim at Texas abortion laws in a pitch to Democratic donors to stand by the Biden-Harris campaign as they were headed into 2024. This election is going to be about a fight for our democracy and all that we hold dear, she said that night in River Oaks. None of us can afford to passively sit by and watch what we have been witnessing happen without being active and taking a stand to fight for all that we hold dear. She specifically talked about an attack on the right of a woman to make decisions about her own body being on the ballot in the 2024 presidential election. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It didnt end there, later Harris weighed in again on Texas restrictive abortion laws that ban the procedure under almost any condition, including in cases of rape and incest. After the Houston Chronicle reported an increase of raped women giving birth in Texas, Harris reached out to the Chronicle to respond. Women across our nation should not be subject to extreme and oppressive laws that dictate what they can do with their bodies, including and especially after surviving a violent crime, Harris said. Gretchen Whitmer Whitmer, 52, was just in Texas last month speaking to the Texas Democratic Convention, where she gave a strong defense of the Biden administration, highlighting their work on infrastructure and bringing down the price of insulin, among other issues. In four years, they brought America back from a deadly pandemic and out of a deep recession, she told Democrats in El Paso about the Biden administrations victories. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But Whitmer, who became governor in 2019, also deftly outlined her own Democratic credentials, telling the crowd about how she was responding to threats to overturn Roe v. Wade even before it happened and by signing legislation after to provide more protections for women. We repealed our 1931 ban on abortion and we enshrined protections for IVF, birth control and surrogacy into our state law, she told the Democratic crowd in El Paso. Pete Buttigieg Bidens transportation secretary can make the case that his tenure in the administration makes him best able to pick up the mantle. The former South Bend, Ind., mayor and 2020 presidential candidate has been in Texas quite a bit, not just during his 2020 presidential campaign, but also for other speeches and ribbon cuttings tied to his position with the Biden administration. In April, Buttigieg, 42, was in Dallas touting the administrations infrastructure program, and before that he was in Houston touting port improvements that he said were a key part to the rebuilding of Americas manufacturing base. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But beyond being a Cabinet official, what keeps Buttigiegs name on the short list is what made him a surprise 2020 president candidate: As a former mayor from a red state, Buttigieg has been comfortable making the Biden administrations case to Fox News and other conservative audiences in a way few other Democrats can. During a speech before the Texas Tribune Festival in Austin in 2022, he touted the ability to reach Republican audiences and at least make his case to them, even if it doesnt always mean hes going to win them over. It had echoes to his 2020 presidential campaign. Were going to need a president who prioritizes unifying the American people and bringing us together, Buttigieg said during a speech in Houston right before the Iowa Democratic caucus that he would narrowly win over U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont. Gavin Newsom It is easy to see why Newsoms name has come up big. Hes not only the leader of the biggest Democratic state in America, but hes also spent time over the last two years jousting with Republican governors like Greg Abbott and Ron DeSantis of Florida. He put up billboards in Florida countering that states abortion laws, and in Texas took out full-page newspapers ads, including in Houston, where he said California had done more to counter gun violence than Abbott. Its hardly Newsoms first scrum with Texas. He blasted Abbotts border security tactics during a speech at the 2022 Texas Tribune Festival and has continually claimed that his states tax rates, while tougher on the rich, are better for working-class people than Texas. Following that same Texas speech in 2022, Newsom, 56, was pressed by Politico about why he wasnt challenging Biden for the Democratic nomination. Why? Out of reverence for the incumbent president of the United States, Joe Biden, he said. Out of respect for one of my oldest friends, former Californian and colleague, Kamala Harris. You just begin with those two, and you move on to, Im focused on other things. I am a resident of Princes Town, and I want to grab the attention of the Ministry of Educati PHOENIX Gov. Katie Hobbs will be participating in a virtual meeting Wednesday with President Biden over the question of whats next following what has been called his dismal performance in last weeks debate with Donald Trump. An aide to Hobbs confirmed she participated with other Democratic governors Tuesday in the initial call with the White House. But Christian Slater would not divulge the nature of the conversation. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz described the Tuesday call among the governors as a discussion of what was obviously a poor performance on June 27, The Associated Press reported. And Walz, chair of the Democratic Governors Association, said participants were asking questions about what is the plan? Walz said some of those same concerns are likely to be brought up in Wednesdays meeting which at this point is likely to be virtual. Hobbs previously told Capitol Media Services she had watched parts of the debate last week. You know, Im not a fan of debates, said Hobbs, who refused to debate Republican Kari Lake in her own race for governor in 2022. And as to Bidens performance, the governor said I will leave dissecting that to the pundits. But Hobbs, in an interview the day after the debate but before the Tuesday call, made it clear that what she saw on June 27 did not diminish her support for Biden. The president himself has said it: Dont compare him to the almighty. Compare him to the alternative, Hobbs said. For me, that is so clear what the alternative is and what the stakes are in this election, the governor continued. Were talking about someone who incited an insurrection on the Capitol on our democracy and refused to say last night if he would accept the results of this election if he lost. And that is not a choice to me. But she sidestepped a direct question at that time about replacing Biden at the top of the ticket. Im not going to talk about a hypothetical, she said. Hes the nominee, Hobbs continued. And I have every reason to believe he will still be the nominee. The question of whether Biden just had a bad night last week or whether it was something more has gotten the attention of Democrats on the national level. The White House announced Tuesday that the president will meet not only with Democratic governors, but also lawmakers. We really want to turn the page on this, said Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary. But she also said that Biden has no intention of getting out of the race. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, in an interview Tuesday on MSNBC, said it is up to the president whether to step aside. But she said there are answers that some people want. I think its a legitimate question to say, is this an episode or is this a condition, the California Democrat said. But Pelosi said this also was a question for Trump, saying he made repeated lies during the debate. Others are reaching their own decisions. Democratic Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas became the first member of Congress to urge Biden to withdraw. I represent the heart of a congressional district once represented by Lyndon Johnson, he said in a Tuesday statement. Under very different circumstances, he made the painful decision to withdraw, said Doggett, referring to Johnsons decision not to seek another term because of low popularity in the middle of the Vietnam war. President Biden should do the same. Biden has effectively acknowledged he needs to reassure voters. ABC announced Tuesday the president will do an interview with George Stephanopoulos, his first since the debate. The following is the opinion and analysis of the writer: As a fifth-generation Tucsonan, former Director of the Pima County Legal Defender for 22 years, and a life-long community organizer, I write to express great concern about the possibility of going back, literally, to a Pima County prosecution era marked by regressive and ineffective policies. Those who remember the Steve Neely era know that Barbara LaWall hooked her prosecutorial wagon to his policies that wasted excessive taxpayer funds to pursue extreme, ill-conceived policies of overcharging and failing to dispose cases in a prudent, reasonable, cost-effective and humane manner. Practices including rewarding high trial rates, filing many cases only to see half of them dismissed prior to arraignment, compiling the highest death-penalty rate in the state for years, resulting in ethical bar discipline for some of her lawyers, support for the automatic transfer of juvenile cases from juvenile court to adult court, allowing prosecutors to attempt to profit from their participation in high-profile taxpayer-funded prosecutions. And then, of course, the continued support of the flawed and racist prosecution of Louis Taylor, a then a 17-year-old fellow Pueblo High School student who was wrongly convicted of arson resulting in 28 deaths at the Pioneer Hotel. The criticisms of Ms. Conovers conflict-of-interest once she became the top prosecutor, expose the fundamental problem of one office with two departments, the criminal and civil divisions, that necessarily have conflicted duties whenever there is a wrongful conviction and/or prosecutorial misconduct and/or systemic violation of rights in criminal cases. A 60 Minutes account, as well as the transcripts of the ensuing hearings, reveal the truth that Mr. Taylor was wrongfully convicted and incarcerated for 42 years, all the while Ms. La Wall steadfastly refused to acknowledge the conflict of interest and the wrongs perpetrated against Mr. Taylor. The prior administration also revealed a lack of diversity in her legal staffing, especially in leadership levels, not reflecting the rich diversity of Pima County. Ms. Conovers attempt to reform the Pima County Attorneys Office during her first term, reversing regressive attitudes and policies, should be encouraged. Much remains for our communities to heal and feel secure. Only investment in the front end instead of the back-end will create healthy communities. While Im morally, ideologically, and politically opposed to the current state and federal criminal and sentencing structures, it is essential that our county prosecutor show a commitment to real and meaningful justice. I know that Laura is that person. High temperatures on the Fourth of July are expected in the upper 90s to near 100 degrees. Pivotal Weather When you think of the Fourth of July, you probably think of a few specific things: fireworks, grilling outdoors and the intense Texas heat. Over the past 20 years, San Antonios average high temperature on the countrys birthday has been 95.1 degrees, and highs have touched at least 100 degrees six times. This year, high temps are expected to rise above the Fourth of July average, and they have a chance to reach the triple digits. If you have plans to spend time outside today, try to practice heat safety to keep yourself and your loved ones healthy. Heres what you can expect. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Fourth of July timeline Morning (5 a.m. to 10 a.m.): This is the coolest part of the day, as lows fall into the upper 70s between 5 and 8 a.m. A few clouds are expected early on, but theyre likely to break up by the late morning. Temps will start to rise, reaching the mid-80s by 10 a.m. Midday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.): The most intense warm-up of the day will occur during this time. Bright sunshine will allow temps to reach the 90s just after 11 a.m., continuing into the mid- to upper 90s by 2 p.m. The UV index rating is expected to reach 11 to 12. At that level, you could develop a sunburn in less than 10 minutes. Be sure to wear sunscreen, and reapply as necessary to prevent skin damage. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Late afternoon (2 p.m. to 6 p.m.): Temperatures in the San Antonio metro area will likely hit 99 or 100 degrees during the late afternoon. Along with high humidity, the heat index will range between 103 and 106 degrees through much of the afternoon and evening. WEATHER EXPLAINED: Sign up for July 10 webinar to ask meteorologist Anthony Franze anything about the weather in San Antonio. Be sure to stay hydrated. If you plan on drinking alcohol during the day, do so responsibly. While a beer or margarita may seem like its quenching your thirst, its actually dehydrating you. To combat this, between each alcoholic drink, be sure to have at least 8 ounces of water. Shown are potential heat index values in South Texas at 4 p.m. Thursday. Pivotal Weather Evening and night (6 p.m. to 11 p.m.): Temperatures will be very slow to fall during the evening, not falling below 95 degrees until after 8 p.m. Temps are still expected to be in the low 90s by the time many fireworks shows start around 9 p.m. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Friday and Saturday A weak cold front is expected to push into Texas by the end of the week and into the weekend. For San Antonio, it will bring a few showers and thunderstorms to the region, but overall chances will be low, 10% on Friday, rising to 20% or 30% on Saturday. The future radar Saturday evening shows scattered showers and thunderstorms for parts of Central and South Texas. Pivotal Weather Temperatures on Friday will rise to the upper 90s or to near 100 degrees yet again. As the front moves closer on Saturday, temperatures may drop a few degrees, topping out between 96 and 98 in the Alamo City. Watching the tropics Hurricane Beryl will continue moving into the western Caribbean Sea on Thursday, likely encountering a good deal of wind shear that will work to weaken the hurricane. Beryl is expected to make landfall in the Yucatan Peninsula early Friday, which will cause the storm to weaken further into a tropical storm. Advertisement Article continues below this ad By Friday evening, Beryl will move back over open waters into the Gulf of Mexico. From there, gradual strengthening is possible as it moves northwest toward the Mexico and Texas coasts. Its very possible that Beryl could regain hurricane strength. Hurricane Beryls forecast track shows the storm approaching the coastline in northern Mexico by late Sunday and Monday. National Hurricane Center There is still a great deal of uncertainty as to exactly where Beryl will make its next landfall, whether it be on the east coast of Mexico, the Rio Grande Valley, or farther north toward Corpus Christi and Rockport. All areas along the Texas coast should be monitoring the weather and be prepared to take action if the situation calls for it. Because of San Antonios location 150 miles inland, we dont have to worry about a direct landfall. However, Beryl may provide enhanced rain chances starting late Sunday and continuing Monday and Tuesday. Parts of South Texas could experience flooding from tropical rain, but the exact area that may see the heaviest rainfall is still uncertain. Art Haddaway Owasso Reporter Editor Follow Art Haddaway Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today A rich piece of Owassos history will anchor a new housing development currently under construction at 96th Street and Garnett Road. A large silo used to store cattle feed at a dairy farm owned by Owasso rancher Hayward Smith in the early 1940s will give the upcoming $25 million neighborhood, The Silo at Smith Farm, its historic namesake. We wanted to keep and name the land after it, Capital Homes owner David Charney said of the local landmark. I didnt want to take that silo down that Ive seen since I was 7 years old. Its a cool feature of Owassos past. Smith, considered a patriarch of Owassos early development, operated the farm until the mid-1970s. The land has since sat vacant until mid-2023 when Charneys company broke ground on the development. The 15-acre gated neighborhood will feature 62 three- to four-bedroom/two-bath home sites, ranging from 1,244 to 1,813 square feet between $290,000 and $390,00. It will also include a paved walking trail and community park. The Silos is nestled behind an additional 3.4 acres of newly built restaurants and commercial storefronts along the high-traffic intersection an expansion that Charney said was conducive for further housing development. We wanted to provide a feeling of a closely knit community, he said. Owasso has many beautiful subdivisions and neighborhoods, but very few had any capacity for them (residents) to truly be able to walk for the morning cup of coffee or to walk across to grab a dinner. Vertical construction is expected to begin this August. Capital Homes is currently pre-selling lots and anticipates the first round of homes to be completed by the end of 2024. The preservation of Smith Farms silo caught the attention of Owasso History Museum director Marilyn Hinkle, who was glad to see a part of her hometowns history continue to live on amid the citys ongoing commercial and residential growth. Owasso was a farming, livestock community for a number of years, Hinkle said. It (the silo) holds a lot of the history that we still have. Despite their exorbitant pricing, many luxury condominium buildings in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City remain in high demand, which can be attributed to a lack of available units on the market. One weekend, the show flats of a high-end condominium building located in Tay Mo Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi were packed with buyers looking to buy an apartment. The project provides luxury apartments of various sizes at VND60 million (US$2,357) to VND95 million ($3,732) per square meter. Hoang Nga, a real estate agent for HTV International Development Investment JSC, stated that her company has put many luxury apartments of the L.M.E. project for sale, with prices ranging from VND75 million ($2,948) to VND95 million per square meter. "The project developer has not raised prices for more than a year; nevertheless, the rates will be hiked for the first time, with a 3-5-percent increase," Nga said. "As a result, customers should act promptly to take advantage of the current discounts and lending support." At the T.S.P. project in an urban zone that has been operational in Hanoi for the past three years, the foundation for five blocks of apartment complexes with over 4,000 flats is under construction. Customers look at the mock-up of a real estate project in Hanoi. Photo: Quang The / Tuoi Tre According to some real estate agents working near the T.S.P. project, clients have already booked units there, even though it will not formally open for sale until August 2024. Apartment prices at the W.T.R. project, located along National Highway 32 in Hoai Duc District, Hanoi, are projected to fetch VND43-60 million ($1,690-2,357) per square meter, depending on the location. Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper's analysis indicates that before 2022, the price of a commercial flat was less than VND30 million ($1,178) per square meter, while a social housing apartment cost roughly VND15 million ($589) per square meter. It is surprising to learn that in mid-2023, the owner of another project, located about one kilometer from the W.T.R. commercial apartment complex, was forced to launch the sale for the 27th time because over 120 units could not be sold or rented. An official from a real estate company in Hanoi noted that flats in huge residential areas are in high demand due to the abundance of surrounding infrastructure and facilities, such as parks, swimming pools, amusement parks, schools, and hospitals. "Luxury apartments with available amenities are sought after by many wealthy people who want to buy them for residential purposes," stated T.D.H, a real estate professional. "There is significant demand for small high-end apartments for leasing so far more transactions have been recorded in comparison to sales at projects launched in 2022 and 2023." According to Ministry of Construction data, the total number of successful transactions in the national property market increased to 133,512 in the first quarter of 2024 from 109,066 in the first quarter of last year. In January 2024, out of 133,512 transactions, 35,853 were for apartment buildings and 97,659 for unoccupied land. The apartment market continues to attract people looking to buy a home or invest in the medium and long terms. According to the Vietnam National Real Estate Association, as the property market recovers, brokerage has been gradually reviving, with an increasing number of brokers returning to the industry, particularly since the beginning of the year. Promotions are common in residential buildings in Ho Chi Minh City to attract clients. Photo: Ngoc Hien / Tuoi Tre Ho Chi Minh City: Several projects see positive market absorption Tran Manh Chi, deputy general director of Dong Tay Property Company, told Tuoi Tre that recent transactions show most are driven by genuine client needs for property purchases. He cited a project on Mai Chi Tho Street in Thu Duc City as an example. Despite a steep apartment reservation deposit of up to VND125 million ($4,920) per square meter, bookings reached 70-80 percent of the 700 units available for sale. Similarly, in another premium apartment project in Binh Thanh District, approximately 100 condos have been sold, each priced at VND9 billion ($353,592). In another large apartment development with thousands of flats in Thu Duc, around 40-60 units are sold per week, indicating that while market demand has not surged significantly, it is still moving in a healthy direction. Chi said that a high-rise structure in a residential project in Thu Duc has recently seen an unusually large number of bookings at VND48.6 million ($1,909) per square meter. Simultaneously, Phu My Hung Development Corporation in District 7, which is selling apartments for The Horizon, The Aurora, and L'Arcade projects, has witnessed a surge in client demand. All apartments in The Aurora project have been sold, except for a few shophouses, while only about eight percent of the flats remain in The Horizon project. Despite just opening for sale, the low-rise Phu My Hung L'Arcade building with 37 apartments has seen strong absorption. According to the sales director of a foreign real estate company, aside from a small number of investors, most consumers nowadays have a real need for homes. Due to a shortage of supply, along with rising land fees and costs, many developers are focusing on the high-end property segment. "We find that Hanoi's market absorption is better than that of Ho Chi Minh City, and most of the customers in Hanoi bought houses for their own use," the salesman stated. Le Hoang Chau, chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Real Estate Association, stated that only a few developments with full legal documentation are available for sale on the market because of land bank limitations and many projects not yet completing legal procedures. Many property developers have leveraged their market advantage to mainly launch luxury apartment buildings, with some marketing their mid-range products as high-end units. Like us on Facebook or follow us on X to get the latest news about Vietnam! South Korean steel giant Posco desires to exploit rare earths in Vietnam, while Daewoo Engineering & Construction Co. Ltd. eyes investment in thermal power in the Southeast Asian nation, heard the meetings between Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and leaders of six major South Korean firms in Seoul on Wednesday. Another South Korean group, LG Display, is planning to double its production capacity in Vietnam. These meetings were part of the Vietnamese government leaders four-day visit to South Korea, which was set to wrap up on Wednesday. During their talks, these firms expressed their belief in the strong growth of bilateral ties between the two nations and appreciated the significant improvements in Vietnam's business climate. At the meeting with PM Chinh, Chang In Hwa, chairman of Posco, showed his interest in rare earth mining and processing in Vietnam. The Vietnamese premier said that Vietnam is working to boost international cooperation and attract investment in rare earth mining with priority for high technology, sustainable exploitation, and environmental protection. The Vietnamese government leader also suggested Posco join liquefied natural gas (LNG) power projects in Thanh Hoa and Nghe An Provinces, north-central Vietnam. Meanwhile, Jung Won Ju, chairman of Daewoo E&C and chairman of the Korea Housing Builders Association, told PM Chinh that his company expects to get involved in key power projects in Vietnam such as O Mon thermal power facilities No. 3 and 4, and Hai Dang and Long An LNG plants. The leader of the South Korean construction company hoped that the firm would successfully develop a smart city model at the Tay Ho Tay urban area in Hanoi and build more new urban areas in other localities. During his reception for Jung, PM Chinh underlined that developing new urban areas and spurring urbanization are Vietnams long-term development strategies. The premier also welcomed Daewoo E&Cs intention to expand its operations in infrastructure, energy, and smart urban model aspects in Vietnam. Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) talks to Jung Won Ju, chairman of Daewoo E&C. Photo: Nhat Bac During talks with PM Chinh, Cheoldong Jeong, CEO of LG Display, emphasized that Vietnam is the firms key global production base. He revealed that the company would continue investing in its LG Innotek Plant in Hai Phong City, which specializes in producing camera modules, to double its production capacity. PM Chinh also suggested LG Display raise its localization rate and partner with more Vietnamese firms to strengthen its production and supply chain. Encouraging South Korean enterprises to expand their reach in Vietnam, the premier affirmed that the government would support them and make it easier for these investors to succeed in the Southeast Asian nation. Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) welcomes LG Displays plan to expand its production scale in Vietnam. Photo: Nhat Bac Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Many international students, including those from prestigious universities in Asia, have opted to serve internships at companies in Ho Chi Minh City. Among these students are five students who are interning at AIVision Joint Stock Company (AIVision), which specializes in AI solutions, in Phu Nhuan District. Of the five, three are enrolled at the National University of Singapore (NUS) and the others come from Nanyang Technological University (NTU). These are two prestigious universities in Singapore, holding high positions in the latest QS World University Rankings announced by the UK-based education organization Quacquarelli Symonds. Among the five students is Choy Qi Hui, a Singaporean majoring in analytical data science at the NUS Faculty of Science, who came to the company in May for a three-month internship, along with the other interns. Choys team has been assigned to support the front-end programming (website interface) for the companys new chatbot, and the team must update their work progress weekly. Our internship work is not too difficult, partly thanks to the enthusiastic guidance of our senior colleagues," Choy said. "However, there are still some gaps between what I have learned in the classroom and the actual work. "What we have absorbed at school is more theoretical, while what we are practicing requires practical knowledge and skills. Going abroad for an internship will help him learn more than staying home; moreover, Vietnam is a rapidly developing country with a lot of potential both technologically and economically, Choy said when explaining his choice to intern overseas. If they want to build a career in Southeast Asia in the future, students need to have a clear understanding of businesses and markets in the region. Overseas internships will help me obtain a lot of useful things that are essential for my future orientation, Choy said. Yang Yihan, a student majoring in data science and economics at the NUS Faculty of Science, added that besides choosing a country for their internships, students will also have to select a company whose lines of business are suitable for their majors. Huynh Van Hoa Hiep, CEO of AIVision, revealed that the firm offers VND5 million (US$200) to each of the Singaporean interns every month. However, Hiep asserted that it is not the money but the opportunity to practice professional skills and gain practical work experience that has motivated the Singaporean students to intern at the company. In recent years, IVS Joint Stock Company, a software company in District 3, has received many international interns, mostly from Japan. Among them, many come from famous schools including Kyoto University, the Kyoto Institute of Technology, and others, said Pham Thanh Huu, director of IVS. With an internship term ranging from three months to a year, the interns have practiced in different positions from sales assistant to engineer. "Japanese students are very active and often do not worry much about whether the assigned work aligns with their majors," Huu commented. "This is quite different from Vietnamese students who prefer to engage in tasks that are relevant to their fields of study." For many Japanese students, when assigned tasks outside of what they have learned in school, they still accept them and strive to perform well to gain experience, Huu stated. "In general, international students have contributed their time and efforts to IVSs projects," he added. "To attract international interns, every company needs to have international connections. "For example, we have activities connecting with universities and associations in Japan, which serve as bridges for international students to come to us for their internships." Le Nhat Quang, director of the Innovative Entrepreneurship Center under the Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, said that some universities in Singapore often integrate overseas internship courses into their training programs. These courses will be offered either in developed countries, such as the U.S., Australia, and European nations, or in Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Quang said. NUS, NTU, and the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) now have connections with the center and many startups here to arrange for Singaporean students to have internships in Vietnam, he added. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol affirmed his countrys commitment to assist Vietnam in training the workforce for semiconductor and hi-tech industries, as well as developing the cultural industry, during his talks with Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Seoul on Tuesday. The South Korean president also pledged to help Vietnam successfully host the fourth Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit in April 2025. The South Korean leader expressed his pleasure to meet with PM Chinh, underlining that the latters visit to the East Asian nation would contribute to boosting the implementation of an action program aimed at fostering the comprehensive strategic partnership between Hanoi and Seoul. He underscored that South Korea sees Vietnam as one of its key partners in its foreign policy. Meanwhile, PM Chinh emphasized that Vietnam supports South Koreas major policies and is willing to collaborate with the latter for mutual development. The leaders of the two nations reached a consensus on closer cooperation to deepen economic relations in a bid to raise two-way trade to US$100 billion in 2025 and $150 billion in 2030. The Vietnamese premier also hinted at encouraging South Korean companies to beef up their investment in the semiconductor, digital transformation, green transition, and bio-technology fields in Vietnam. A general view of a meeting between Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (right side) and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul on July 2, 2024. Photo: Vietnam News Agency Besides, PM Chinh proposed the South Korean side ramp up its provision of loans through the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) and Economic Development Promotion Facility (EDPF) for Vietnam to execute strategic traffic infrastructure projects. Mentioning the investment climate, Yoon said that many South Korean firms assess Vietnam as a potential destination. He expected Vietnam to create favorable conditions for South Korean enterprises to join key projects such as energy and liquefied natural gas power projects. During their talks, the two leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in culture, education, and tourism, while bolstering collaboration at regional and international forums. They were also committed to protecting the interests of citizens of the two nations and helping them have a stable life in the other country. PM Chinh was set to end his visit to South Korea on Wednesday. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Check out the latest news in Vietnam today: Politics -- South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol affirmed his countrys commitment to assist Vietnam in training the workforce for semiconductor and hi-tech industries, as well as developing the cultural industry, during his talks with Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Seoul on Tuesday. -- Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his South Korean counterpart Han Duck Soo on Tuesday witnessed the signing of nine cooperation deals between both nations ministries and agencies in various fields such as economy, trade, investment, education, and startup ecosystems, as part of the top Vietnamese officials trip to South Korea from Sunday to Wednesday. Business -- Vietnams budget carrier Vietjet has launched a new direct air service linking Ho Chi Minh City with Xian, the provincial capital city of Shaanxi Province in China, with four round-trip flights per week, the Vietnam News Agency reported. Society -- A hi-tech livestock farm raising more than 20,000 pigs in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam was forced to suspend operations from July 30 after it was found to have polluted the environment, Le Duc Giang, vice-chairman of the provincial administration, said on Tuesday afternoon. -- Authorities in the northern mountainous provinces of Vietnam were asked to stay prepared for evacuation operations as extreme rainfall, accompanied by potential flooding, landslides, and flash floods, is expected to lash the region from Tuesday night to Thursday morning, according to an official dispatch signed by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang on Tuesday. -- The administration of Bac Kan Province in northern Vietnam on Tuesday declared a local state of emergency on account of severe landslides which battered the headquarters of a police agency in Cho Don District, the Vietnam News Agency reported. -- Police of Tien Giang Province in southern Vietnam confirmed on Tuesday that they had seized two cars for transporting more than 16,000 packs of suspected smuggled cigarettes in two separate cases earlier on the same day. World News -- At least 116 people, many of them women and children, were killed in a stampede at a Hindu religious gathering in northern India on Tuesday, authorities said, in one of the country's worst such tragedies in years, Reuters reported. -- Hurricane Beryl barreled toward Jamaica as a powerful Category 4 storm on Tuesday after battering smaller islands in the eastern Caribbean, and scientists cited human-caused climate change as the likely culprit for the storm's rapid strengthening, according to Reuters. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A hi-tech livestock farm raising more than 20,000 pigs in Thanh Hoa Province, north-central Vietnam was forced to suspend operations from July 30 after it was found to have polluted the environment, Le Duc Giang, vice-chairman of the provincial administration, said on Tuesday afternoon. Giang ordered the suspension after heading a delegation to inspect the operations of the farm in Tan Phuc Commune, Lang Chanh District the same day. The farm, established last year, is run by Agri-Vina Agriculture Investment JSC, which is headquarted in Hanoi. After the farm was put into service for a while, residents of the district's Tan Phuc Commune and Lang Chanh Town complained to authorities that the farm caused environmental pollution and the foul smells from the farmed animals made their lives a misery. During a working session with the farm operator, the delegation discovered that the farm was raising over 20,000 pigs, each weighing 40-100 kilograms. The delegation also confirmed that the farm's operations gave off the foul odor which affected the neighborhood. The awful odor was attributed to the improper management and operation of gas-powered generators, which led to biogas leaking into the atmosphere. The odor control system of the pig farm. Photo: Ha Dong / Tuoi Tre The odor control system was in poor condition, while the use of chemicals and microbial products to reduce farm odors was inadequate. Despite the operator's efforts to reduce emissions and bad smells, the measures were ineffective. Local authorities had earlier inspected the farm and ordered it to address the issue, but the pollution showed no signs of abating and provoked concerns among local inhabitants. Speaking at the working session, a representative from Agri-Vina Agriculture Investment JSC accepted responsibility for the farm's bad odors affecting residential areas. They apologized to the authorities and residents and promised to take remedial measures by August 5. Wrapping up the working session, vice-chairman Giang asked the provincial Department of Natural Resources and Environment, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and the Lang Chanh authorities to supervise the remedial action of the farm and report its progress to the provincial administration. The farm will be allowed to resume operations if its remedial action meets authorities requirements. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Authorities in the northern mountainous provinces of Vietnam were asked to stay prepared for evacuation operations as extreme rainfall, accompanied by potential flooding, landslides, and flash floods, is expected to hit the region from Tuesday night to Thursday morning, according to an official dispatch signed by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang on Tuesday. The region could see rainfall ranging between 40mm and 80mm, and even more than 150mm in several locations, during this period, the National Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting said. The national weather agency also warned of rising water levels in the upstream areas of the Da, Thao, and Lo Rivers, flash floods and landslides in mountainous locations, and inundation in low-lying places. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said in the dispatch that the rainy and flooding season is at its peak in the northern part of the country, demanding that the heads of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, other ministries, and local authorities remain vigilant against natural disaster risks to prevent weather-related damage to people and their assets. The government leader asked local authorities to examine areas prone to flooding, flash floods, and landslides to promptly launch evacuation and rescue operations. They have to dispatch forces to stand guard over locations vulnerable to flooding and landslides to ensure human and traffic safety. Provinces in the region and relevant ministries were told to adopt measures to safely operate irrigation and hydropower reservoirs to ensure safety for infrastructure facilities in the downstream areas. PM Chinh asked the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment to closely supervise weather developments and inform relevant agencies of natural disaster risks. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Anthony Franze is a native Texan and very passionate about covering any weather that is thrown at him. He can be reached at anthony.franze@express-news.net. Anthony earned a degree in Meteorology from Valparaiso University in 2017. He has worked as a broadcast meteorologist for six years, one at NBC Montana and the next five at NewsWest 9 in Midland before joining the Express-News in July 2023. In his free time, Anthony enjoys watching sports, checking out local restaurants and breweries, and getting outside whenever the heat allows for it. If you have any story ideas, questions about the weather or restaurant suggestions, drop him a line. Vietnam has the highest proportion of motorbikes and mopeds among all passenger vehicles in Southeast Asia, making up 96 percent of the total vehicle share, according to research by Bain & Company, GenZero, Standard Chartered Bank, and Temasek. Cars represent the remaining four percent. The research done in six Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia, shows that most residents in these countries prefer two-wheeled vehicles to four-wheelers. Indonesia holds a motorbike share of 88 percent, followed by Thailand with 69 percent and the Philippines with 63 percent. Meanwhile, people in Malaysia and Singapore prefer cars to motorbikes and mopeds. Despite the popularity of motorbikes in Southeast Asia, the motorbike sales industry is facing myriad challenges. The percentage share of passenger vehicles by type used in six Southeast Asian countries in 2024. Graphic: Bain & Company Motorbike sales in Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand reached 2.7 million units in the first quarter of this year, declining 7.5 percent year on year, according to the Association of Southeast Asian Automobile Manufacturers Association. Singapore was the only country in the region to record an increase in motorbike sales during the period with more than 3,000 units sold, inching up 8.5 percent. In Vietnam, five members of the Vietnam Association of Motorcycle Manufacturer, namely Honda Vietnam, Piaggio Vietnam, Suzuki Vietnam, SYM Vietnam, and Yamaha Motor Vietnam, sold over 603,000 vehicles in the first quarter, down nearly five percent against the year-ago period. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Vietnamese artists Hien Phuoc and Thanh Hoa won the Grand Prix prize, the highest award at an international circus festival held in Yakutsk, Russia from June 27 to 30 for their circus act titled Moment of Love.' Luu Thi Bich Lien, deputy director of Phuong Nam Art Theater in Ho Chi Minh City, who is the trainer of Hien Phuoc and Thanh Hoa, said the festival is held every four years. This year's edition, which is the seventh version, gathered nearly 100 artists from 12 countries and territories, such as China, Mongolia, Vietnam, Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan. Thanh Hoa told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper that she and Hien Phuoc had joined many international circus competitions but they were still nervous to wait for the result of this fest. Thanh Hoa (R, 2nd) and Hien Phuoc (L, 2nd) pose for a photo with Le Dien (L), director of Phuong Nam Art Theater in Ho Chi Minh City, and Luu Thi Bich Lien, deputy director of the theater. Photo: Supplied In 2023 and 2024, their Moment of Love performance won various prizes at international circus festivals, including a gold medal at an international circus festival in Almaty City, Kazakhstan; a silver at an international circus festival in Russia; and another silver at an international circus festival in Bulgaria. It was also honored as an excellent performance at Great Wall Cup, an international circus festival in China. Lien spoke highly of the artists diligence to make their performance a harmonious combination of techniques and art. They always try to take advantage of opportunities to prove their ability and learn from international circus artists, Lien added. The performance of Vietnamese circus artists Hien Phuoc and Thanh Hoa Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Arshad Ahmed, TwoCircles.net Guwahati: In a recent speech at a felicitation program, celebrating the victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma repeatedly labelled Bengal-origin Muslims in the state as communal. Support TwoCircles Clearly implicating the Bengal-origin Muslim community without naming them explicitly, he stated, I say it with pride that the Hindu community in Assam did not resort to appeasement politics; they voted based on merit. However, a particular community engaged in tactical voting such that despite the development in their area, the entire community gave 100% of their votes to the Congress party. If there is one community that engages in communalism, it is only one community and one religion that does so. No other religion participates in communalism. This election proves it, he further said. This followed the saffron partys main opponent in the state, the Congress, winning three out of the 14 Lok Sabha seats with a 37.48% vote share an increase of 1.69% from the previous 35.79%. According to Sarma, the Congresss sweep of the three Lok Sabha seats Nagaon, Jorhat and Dhubri resulted from Bangladesh-origin minorities overwhelmingly voting for the Congress. He elaborated, stating, The Congress and its allies garnered 80 lakh voteswith a vote share exceeding 39%. Our (BJP-led alliance) received 47%, but the 39% does not accurately represent the true data. Sarma further noted that half of the votes for the Congress and its allies came from 21 assembly constituencies where Bengal-origin Muslims, often referred to disparagingly as Miyas in the state, constitute the majority population. However, the chief minister did not specify the names of these 21 constituencies. He also remarked that marginalised Bangla-speaking Muslims bravely voted for the Congress despite benefiting from government schemes provided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This level of blatant communalism has never been seen before, he emphasised. Political observers and leaders from the state, speaking to TwoCircles.net, remarked that the chief ministers recent criticism of Bangala-speaking Muslims is viewed as Himanta Biswa Sarmas continued strategy of communal and anti-Muslim politics aimed at garnering support from the majority voters. With the AIUDF (All India United Democratic Front led by Maulana Badruddin Ajmal) losing its prominent position in the electoral landscape, the BJP is intensifying its polarising tactics to solidify its position, said a journalist, who covers the Northeast for a Delhi-based publication, requesting anonymity. The AIUDF, known for championing the cause of Bengali-speaking Muslims, lost all three seats it contested, including Dhubri where its leader Ajmal was defeated by Congress candidate Rakibul Hussain by a margin exceeding 10 lakh votes. Sarmas assertion that the Congress has transformed into a completely Muslim party resonates, given that Muslims, constituting 40% of the states electorate, have rallied behind the Congress in Assam. A political science professor at Pramathesh Barua College in Dhubri, Assam, observes that Sarmas post-election remarks targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims reveal his frustration over failing to secure Hindu votes, even in constituencies where Hindus form the majority. Sarma is not concerned about the Muslim votes, the professor remarked, preferring anonymity. His worry lies in the erosion of his consolidation of Hindu votes. Interrogations and Church Surveys Recently, Bengali-speaking Muslims have not been the sole minority community targeted by the BJP-led government in Assam. In May, shortly before the second phase of the elections, the Karbi Anglong district police made a sudden appearance at the Diphu Baptist Church, Rev. Solomon Rongpi of the Baptist Church told TwoCircles.net. He stated that 10-15 churches across the district were simultaneously surveyed by Village Defense Party (VDP) cadres, grassroots police volunteers described as the eyes and ears of the Assam police. The surveys were conducted to ensure the security and safety of Christian institutions following a complaint by a Christian organisation about threats from a Hindutva group, according to the Karbi Anglong police. Previously, two lesser-known Hindutva outfits from the state the Kutumba Surakshya Parishad and the Sanmilita Sanatan Samaj had issued ultimatums to remove Christian symbols and statues from missionary schools and to cease anti-Bharat activities. However, the polices explanation for surveying the churches has been met with scepticism. If it was merely a survey, why were the police asking irrelevant questions to church members? Why were they taking photographs? questioned Rev. Primingson Mallick, general secretary of the Karbi Anglong Christian Forum. The Karbi Anglong police, nevertheless, maintained that the visits were intended to assess the safety and security of churches following a directive from the director general of police, as reported by The Times of India. These surveys on churches in the state have increased notably since early 2023. Previously, a letter from Assams Special Branch in 2022 instructed police officers to gather information on churches allegedly involved in religious conversions. When this directive from the Assam police faced strong criticism from Christian groups and political leaders, Sarma distanced himself from the letter. Allen Brooks, spokesperson for the Assam Christian Forum and the United Christian Forum, expressed concern over the actions of the Assam police. The perpetrators, he remarked, referring to the Hindutva groups, are moving freely. What actions have the Assam police taken? Passing an Anti-Christian Bill Adding to the unease within the Christian community is a recent bill enacted by the Assam government: the Assam Healing (Prevention of Evil) Practices Bill, 2024. This legislation aims to prohibit and eliminate practices of magical healing under the guise of treatment. Brooks believes that such a law targeting Christians, who constitute 3.74% of the states population of over 3.6 crore, appears to have communal undertones. What is alarming is that the chief minister publicly stated, We are introducing a bill to curb evangelism, he remarked. The bill has not only stirred apprehension among Christians but has also prompted the community to question its rationale. In our context, healing is not synonymous with proselytization. It is a compassionate response to human suffering, regardless of religious affiliations, explained a pastor from the Assam Christian Forum. What this government is doing is pushing through an anti-Christian bill. The legislation has drawn criticism not only from politicians but also from religious groups in Assams two neighbouring states with Christian majorities Meghalaya and Nagaland. The Nagaland Baptist Church Council, one of the largest church councils in Northeast India, condemned the bill as one of the most insensitive acts of religious bigotry. They questioned, If serving humanity is seen as a threat, how can we peacefully coexist? Sarmas political counterparts in Assam share similar concerns. Sarma is engaging in communal politics. He is pandering to impress the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh the parent organisation of all Hindu right-wing groups, including the BJP and will continue targeting minorities, a Congress leader from Assam remarked. Did Sarmas Hindutva Agenda Cost the NDA in Northeast? The NDA, led by the BJP, faced a significant setback in the 2024 general elections by failing to secure any seats in Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Manipur. The alliance lost all six seats it contested across these states. Sarma, who also serves as the convenor of a coalition of BJP-led political parties from the Northeast, was quick to attribute NDAs poor performance in these states to the Christian community. A particular religion openly opposed the NDA in those regions, he remarked. This religion has a substantial following, and that made a decisive impact. Leaders from the Northeast region swiftly criticised Sarmas remarks. Many, including his counterparts from other states, blamed his aggressive Hindutva stance and his partys policies for contributing to the NDAs dismal showing in these states. The journalist previously quoted concurs with this view. According to them, Sarmas actions such as church surveys, the passage of the anti-healing bill and the perceived threats from Hindutva groups targeting Christian institutions may have played a role in the NDAs electoral defeat. Other contributing factors include policies like the scrapping of the Free Movement regime along the Indo-Myanmar border, the Uniform Civil Code, new forest laws and statements perceived as against minorities, they noted, highlighting that the handling of ethnic tensions in Manipur also impacted the NDAs overall performance in these four states. (Reuters) - Sanofi and partner Regeneron on Wednesday won European Union approval for wider use of their Dupixent injection in patients with a chronic lung disease, a rare case of the EU clearing a drug faster than the United States. The EU Commission approved Dupixent to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in patients that cannot be helped by standard inhaled drugs, Sanofi said in a statement, following a recommendation by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) at the end of May. The debilitating disease is also known as 'smoker's lungs' because in western countries it primarily affects cigarette smokers. For its part, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May pushed back the deadline for reviewing Dupixent in COPD by three months to Sept. 27 as it demanded additional efficacy data. The potentially deadly disease, which causes restricted airflow and breathing problems, affects nearly 16 million U.S. adults and over 35 million people in Europe, according to government data. French drugmaker Sanofi said in April it expects the target patient population eligible for the drug to be roughly 300,000 patients in the U.S. alone. In Europe, the final decision rests with the European Commission, which usually follows EMA's guidance. The drug is already approved in many countries for various immune system-related conditions like asthma and eczema. Sanofi reported 10.7 billion euros in 2023 Dupixent revenues, which includes Regeneron's share, and has forecast about 13 billion euros for this year. ($1 = 0.9215 euros) (Reporting by Ludwig Burger; Editing by GV De Clercq) By Florion Goga TIRANA (Reuters) - Thousands of Albanians gathered in Tirana on Wednesday to pay tribute to their country's best-known novelist Ismail Kadare, who died on Monday after a heart attack. Albanians from Albania, Kosovo and other countries in the region flocked to the capital to pay their respects to Kadare's coffin, covered with the red and black national flag. Others applauded and threw flowers when his casket was carried to a hearse for a private funeral in Tirana. Albania declared two days of mourning, and neighboring Kosovo, which has a more than 90% ethnic Albanian majority, also declared a mourning day on Wednesday. Kadare, who split his time between Albania and France, was the Balkan country's best-known novelist and his works were published in 45 languages, but he repeatedly irked his homeland's former Communist rulers. In 1975, he was sent to do manual labor in a remote village after publishing a satirical poem which took aim at Albania's Communist bureaucracy. "He came, wrote and left," said Prime Minister Edi Rama during a speech close to Kadare's coffin at the National Theatre of Opera and Ballet, near an art installation depicting the hands and scarf of another famous Albanian, Mother Theresa. He "received all the possible praises and honors of the world, and all possible... insults from the country that gave birth to him", Rama said. "He was not just a writer. He represented the feelings of all Albanians of all time in history," Angjelina Xhara, a filmmaker who also worked with Kadare, said tearfully. Kadare gained recognition in 1963 with his novel "The General of the Dead Army", and received numerous awards including the Man Booker International Prize in 2005, the Prince of Asturias Prize for the Arts in 2009, and the America Award in Literature in 2023. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature 15 times. Kadare sought political asylum in France in 1990 after receiving threats following his criticism of the government and calls for democracy. Last year, French President Emmanuel Macron awarded him the title of Grand Officer of the Legion of Honour. Kadare was born in the town of Gjirokaster in 1936. He is survived by his wife, the author Helena Kadare, and their two daughters. (Writing by Fatos Bytyci; Editing by Jan Harvey) ROME (Reuters) - A rescue ship funded by British street artist Banksy has been grounded at port for 20 days for ignoring migrant disembarkation orders from Italian authorities, the charity running the vessel said on Wednesday. The Louise Michel ship had been told to take 37 people rescued at sea to Pozzallo in Sicily, but instead took them to the island of Lampedusa, saying the sea was too rough to reach its prescribed destination. "Our rescue ship MV Louise Michel has been detained for 20 days in the port of Lampedusa," the Louise Michel charity wrote on X. "We were informed that the ship is now detained for not following the order to disembark in Sicily," it added. Italy's right-wing government has faced criticism for restricting the activities of charity rescue ships, including orders to take migrants to distant ports, increasing their fuel costs and taking them away from search and rescue areas. Banksy, who keeps his identity secret, is known for his social and political activism. The charity and the 30-metre-long rescue vessel he is sponsoring are named after Louise Michel, a 19th century French feminist anarchist. (Reporting by Romolo Tosiani; Editing by Alvise Armellini and Tomasz Janowski) By Catarina Demony LISBON (Reuters) - Europe is building strong networks, including with Latin American countries, to fight organised drug criminal groups, one of the biggest threats facing society today, the European home affairs commissioner said on Wednesday. "You have strong criminal networks (but) we are building even stronger networks to fight you," Ylva Johansson warned drug smuggling and trafficking groups at the launch of the new European Union Drugs Agency (EUDA). "This threat is as big as the terrorism threat." The new drug agency, which replaces the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction set up in 1993, has a "stronger mandate" to gird the EU's fight against drugs. Working with Latin America and other regions was crucial to tackle drug-related challenges, Johansson said. The new agency has signed a cooperation pact with Ecuador, where much of the drugs entering Europe hail from. In a report last month, the EUDA said almost 70% of drug seizures by EU customs occurred in the bloc's ports, with large quantities of cocaine detected in shipping containers. Some associations were concerned countries in Europe could adopt more punitive strategies in their drug-policy approach as European politics tilts to the right. "There is a real risk populist policies and securitisation agendas will negatively impact drug policies," said Marie Nougier, head of research at the global NGO network, the International Drug Policy Consortium (IDPC). Nougier said the new agency's mandate puts the focus on health and human rights. Asked if she had similar concerns, Johansson said: "This agency is very well respected...and politicians are listening," adding she was confident this would continue to be the case. (Reporting by Catarina Demony; Editing by Bernadette Baum) Catholic Church to Canonize First Gamer Saint to Resonate with Young People In a groundbreaking decision by the Vatican, Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager known for his passion for video games and faith, is set to become the Catholic Church's first millennial saint. Carlo Acutis, who died from leukemia at the age of 15 in 2006, is celebrated for his significant impact in using technology to spread Catholicism, leading to him being called "God's influencer." His path to becoming a saint has gained immense recognition, especially among young Catholics globally. Read Also: Star Wars: Hunters by Zynga Now Available for Sci-Fi Shooter Fans Rapid Progress Towards Sainthood The process of canonization within the Catholic Church typically involves rigorous scrutiny and the validation of miracles attributed to the candidate. In May, Pope Francis acknowledged a second miracle linked to Acutis, a pivotal step that paved the way for his imminent canonization. Recently, the Vatican confirmed the pope's decree, solidifying Acutis' place among the ranks of saints. Acutis' canonization ceremony is anticipated to occur during the Catholic Church's jubilee year celebrations in 2025, an event expected to draw thousands to St Peter's Square in Vatican City. This momentous occasion will formally declare Acutis a saint, allowing parishes and schools worldwide to honor him annually on a designated feast day. Embracing Modernity and Holiness Born in 1991 in London, Carlo Acutis embodied the millennial generation's affinity for technology and gaming, enjoying titles like Halo, Super Mario, and Pokemon. Beyond his digital pursuits, he dedicated himself to documenting reported miracles and helping the less fortunate, reflecting a deep commitment to modernity while embracing the call to holiness in contemporary times. His mother, Antonia Salzano, spoke of Acutis as a beacon of hope, underscoring his message that holiness remains achievable amid today's technological advancements. Acutis' life serves as a reminder that compassion and faith transcend generational boundaries, resonating profoundly with youths navigating an increasingly digital world. Related Article: Halo: Combat Evolved Remaster May Arrive on PlayStation, Fable and Gears 6 Stay Xbox-Exclusive AFP UK Top EU officials took turns assailing Hungary's Viktor Orban Wednesday over democratic backsliding and his Russia-friendly stance on Ukraine, as the nationalist leader delivered a defiant address to the bloc's parliament.As President Vladimir Putin's closest ally within the European Union, Orban's government is at loggerheads with its partners on a host of issues -- from stalling aid for Kyiv, to what the bloc sees as weakening the rule of law at home.In Strasbourg to present the "priorities" of Hungary's norm-defying EU presidency, Orban opened by depicting a continent in turmoil. With the Ukraine war on its doorstep and an acute "migration crisis", he argued "the European Union needs to change".Lawmakers listened respectfully at first -- with occasional applause from sympathetic members -- but a rowdy rendition of the anti-fascist anthem "Bella Ciao" rang out as Orban finished. Parliament president Roberta Metsola called them to order. "This is not Eurovision," she told them.From then on the three-and-a-half hour session became a standoff between the bulk of EU lawmakers denouncing Orban's "autocratic rule" -- and a hard-right minority who joined him in rejecting the accusations as "absurd".One by one Orban's critics let fly at the Hungarian leader. The message from Green co-leader Terry Reintke summed it up: "You are not welcome here," she told him.Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen, speaking right after the Hungarian premier, denounced Budapest's hampering of Western efforts to arm Ukraine against Moscow's offensive."There is only one path to achieve a just peace for Ukraine and for Europe, we must continue to empower Ukraine's resistance with political, financial and military support," she said.- 'Propaganda show' -When Hungary assumed the EU's rotating six-month presidency in July, Orban went off script: embarking on an unsanctioned Ukraine "peace mission" to Kyiv, Moscow and Beijing that sparked fury in Brussels.Von der Leyen targeted Orban's eagerness to push for an early peace deal with Russia -- assailing those "who blame this war... not on Putin's lust for power, but on Ukraine's thirst for freedom".Speaking next, the leader of the conservative European People's Party Manfred Weber slammed Orban's trips as "a big propaganda show for the autocrats."Orban's rogue diplomacy prompted von der Leyen to order a de facto boycott of a string of meetings organised by Hungary's presidency, and his parliament address was twice delayed.The commission chief skewered Orban's tough talk on migration -- accusing his government of "throwing problems over your neighbour's fence". She described a Hungarian visa scheme for Russian nationals as "a back door for foreign interference".Dutch lawmaker Gerben-Jan Gerbrandy of the centrist Renew party depicted Orban as a character in a "bad movie" -- a "Mini-Me" to Putin, or former US president Donald Trump -- "who looks, talks and acts exactly like Dr Evil, but just sits on his lap".Hungarian opposition-leader-turned-MEP Peter Magyar lamented that Hungary under Orban's rule "has gone from a bright star to what is officially the poorest and most corrupt country in the European Union".- 'Political weapon' -Given a right of reply, Orban accused the EU chief of using the commission's power as a "political weapon" to attack Budapest. A Hungarian-led new group in the EU parliament, the Patriots for Europe, was being unfairly denied positions of authority, he said."We are never going to accept that European unity means that you tell us what to do and that we should keep quiet," he said.Patriots member Jorge Buxade Villalba rallied to Orban's defence, calling his speech "a breath of fresh air in this parliament".Since returning to lead his country in 2010, Orban has moved to curb civil rights and tighten his grip on power, repeatedly clashing with Brussels over rule-of-law concerns that led to the freezing of billions of euros of EU funds.But Orban has argued that hard-right electoral gains from Italy to the Netherlands and Austria -- and the rising influence of his Patriots -- show the political climate in Europe is slowly but surely shifting in his favour.And he may take comfort from the closing scene in the parliament -- where boos dominated, but Orban also received a standing ovation from the quarter of the hemicycle that has been controlled by the far right since June's EU elections.ec/raz/jj By Maria Martinez BERLIN (Reuters) -Germany's budget committee approved the purchase of tanks, ammunition and air defence systems worth more than 6 billion euros ($6.48 billion) on Wednesday, sources told Reuters. Days after Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Chancellor Olaf Scholz surprised allies by announcing a "Zeitenwende" German for a historic turning point - with a 100-billion-euro special fund to bring the military back up to speed. The arms purchases authorised on Wednesday include 105 Leopard 2 A8 tanks from arms maker KNDS for 2.93 billion euros, the sources said. There is also a deal to buy up to 200,000 shells of artillery ammunition for up to 1.3 billion euros from Diehl and Nammo. Furthermore, four PATRIOT air defence systems will be bought for a total of 1.35 billion euros, according to sources. "Today, the budget committee once again made important procurement decisions that make the "Zeitenwende" proclaimed by the Chancellor a reality," members of the committee from the three parties in the ruling coalition said in a joint statement. The statement did not give details of the purchases or their value but said they would help Germany's military plan for the next decade and provide Ukraine with urgently needed supplies. After the meeting with the budget committee, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said that in the first half of the year projects with a total value of almost 27 billion have been approved. 'URGENTLY NEEDED' INVESTMENTS "These are long-term, important and urgently needed investments in our troops and thus in our security," Pistorius said. Some Leopard tanks will equip a German combat brigade in Lithuania being set up as part of NATO's deterrence against Russia, while others will reinforce the 300-tank force inside Germany, according to a budget draft seen by Reuters. The German military expects to take delivery of the most advanced version of the tanks between 2027 and 2030. Opposition members criticised the approval of the purchases given some of the funding has yet to be been clarified. "The government must finally do its homework and ensure that these important projects are fully financed with the 2025 budget and the new mid-term finance plan until 2028," said Christian Haase, budget policy spokesperson of the conservative parliamentary group. Budget infighting within Germany's governing coalition is jeopardising its plan to meet defence commitments to Western allies even as tensions with Russia rise. Finance Minister Christian Lindner is rejecting calls by Pistorius to increase annual defence spending next year by 6.7 billion euros. "As things stand today, all we know is that the finance ministry does not want to spend an additional euro and savings must be made in the existing budget. But Pistorius doesn't say where," said Ingo Gaedechens, a member of the budget committee from the conservatives. Pistorius said the government would use commitment appropriations, which are pledges to pay, provided that certain conditions are fulfilled. "Now we are not announcing what we can afford on the basis of the budget, we are announcing what we need for the country's defence capabilities and then seeing what we can get through," Pistorius said. ($1 = 0.9256 euros) (Reporting by Maria Martinez and Sabine Siebold; Editing by Madeline Chambers and Christina Fincher) By Krishna N. Das and Nidhi Verma NEW DELHI (Reuters) - A visit to Russia by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expected within days, could help dispel worries that New Delhi is getting too close to the West and further away from Moscow, ceding space to China, analysts said. No dates have yet been set for the visit, although it has been confirmed by both sides. Indian media said Modi will be in Moscow next week, around the time of a NATO summit in Washington, at which Ukraine will be one of the main issues. While the West has tried to isolate Putin, China, India and powers in the Middle East, Africa and Latin America have continued to build ties, with official figures showing rising trade with Russia. "It will be a good opportunity for Moscow to project in the media the image of President Putin receiving a leader of a country like India in the context of the Washington summit," said Aleksei Zakharov, a Moscow-based expert on India. "India's objective is to ensure that Russia is not in China's corner and that, even if it does not explicitly support India, it maintains a permanent neutrality in the India-China territorial disputes." Ties between India and China have been frosty since a deadly border war in 2020. The leaders of Russia and India have held annual summits since 2000 but the last in-person meeting was in 2021, when Putin visited Delhi. The next meeting had been due in Moscow in 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine, but it did not happen, while Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping elevated their ties, pledging a "new era" of partnership in May. The two are meeting at a security summit on Wednesday in Kazakhstan, to which Modi has sent his foreign minister. India has also been seeking to distance itself from its largest arms supplier, Russia, as the Ukraine war hobbled the latter's ability to supply munitions and spares. The dearth of Modi's visits to Moscow had given "rise to speculation that there was some kind of drift in the Indo-Russia relationship," said analyst Nandan Unnikrishnan, of the Observer Research Foundation think tank in New Delhi. "So I think Modi's visit will put an end to that kind of speculation," he said. "And we don't want to spoil our relationship with any party, whether it's Russia, the United States, or anyone because of another relationship." India's foreign ministry declined to comment. At a regular press conference last week, it said, "We have a very well established bilateral summit arrangement with the Russian Federation ... and are also preparing to hold the next summit." On Tuesday, the Kremlin said deepening trade and economic ties would be a key theme of Modi's visit which was in the "final stage" of preparation. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said regional security and global security issues always figured high on the agenda of such meetings. India, which has stepped up purchases of Russian oil shunned by the West, is expected to seek a discount higher than the current rate of $3 to $3.5 a barrel during the visit, sources said. It will also seek formal approval for a unit of Oil and Natural Gas Corp to retain its stake of 20% in the Sakhalin 1 oil project in Russia's far east. The unit, ONGC Videsh, and the oil ministries of India and Russia, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. India has also been keen to boost exports of pharmaceutical, machinery and other goods to Russia. Two-way trade jumped 33% to $65.7 billion in the last fiscal year that ended in March, with India's imports accounting for $61.43 billion. (Reporting by Krishna N. Das and Nidhi Verma in New Delhi; Additional reporting by Aftab Ahmed in New Delhi and Guy Faulconbridge in Moscow; Editing by Clarence Fernandez) By Sabine Siebold BRUSSELS (Reuters) - NATO allies have agreed to fund military aid for Ukraine with 40 billion euros ($43 billion) next year, two Western European diplomats told Reuters on Wednesday, a week before the alliance's leaders are set to meet in Washington. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg had asked allies to make a multi-year commitment to keep military aid for Kyiv at the same level as that since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, adding up to about 40 billion euros a year. While the member states did not back Stoltenberg's original request for such a multi-year pledge, the pact includes a provision to re-evaluate allied contributions at future NATO summits, according to a diplomat. Allies also decided to have two reports over the next year to establish which country supplies what to Ukraine, the diplomat said, to meet demands for more transparency over the burden sharing in the alliance. Member states "will aim to meet this pledge through proportionate contributions", the agreement said. The financial pledge is part of a broader Ukraine package that NATO leaders will agree when they gather for the Washington summit from July 9 to 11. In June, allies decided that NATO would assume a greater role in co-ordinating arms supplies to Ukraine, taking over from the United States in a bid to safeguard the process as NATO-sceptic Donald Trump seeks a second term as U.S. president. After Russia's invasion in 2022, the United States gathered like-minded nations at the Ramstein air base in Germany, forming a group of nations that now numbers about 50, which meets regularly to match Kyiv's arms requests with pledges of donors. This so-called Ramstein group will continue to exist as a U.S.-led political forum but NATO will take over the military working level below that co-ordinates arms deliveries and training for Ukrainian troops. The move is widely seen as a way to provide a degree of "Trump-proofing" by putting co-ordination under a NATO umbrella, giving the alliance a more direct role in the war against Russia, while stopping well short of committing its own forces. But diplomats acknowledge such a move may have limited effect, as the United States is NATO's dominant power and provides the majority of weaponry to Ukraine. So if Washington wanted to slash Western aid to Kyiv, it would still be able to do so. However, allies are still at odds in the run-up to the Washington summit over whether, and how, to strengthen NATO's wording on Ukraine's future membership in the alliance. NATO's official line is that Ukraine will join one day, but not while the country is at war. "Ukraine's future is in NATO," its leaders declared at last year's Vilnius summit. Some allies want this language to be strengthened, suggesting the summit declare that Ukraine's path to membership is "irreversible", according to diplomats. ($1=0.9292 euros) (Reporting by Sabine Siebold; Editing by Benoit Van Overstraeten and Clarence Fernandez) BJP should change its party symbol to Bulldozer: Kerala MP In a sharpest attack on the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) over demolition of homes without following due judicial process, CPI (M) MP from Kerala in Rajya Sabha John Brittas said the ruling party should change its party symbol Lotus to Bulldozer'. Wednesday July 3, 2024 7:55 PM , ummid.com News Network New Delhi: In a sharpest attack on the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) over demolition of homes without following due judicial process, CPI (M) MP from Kerala in Rajya Sabha John Brittas said the ruling party should change its party symbol Lotus to Bulldozer'. The BJP government in Uttar Pradesh first started demolishing homes belonging to Muslims, Dalits and other suppressed groups on the pretext of one charge or the other without following the due judicial process. The discriminatory practice then was followed in other states ruled by the BJP including Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The grossly inhuman practice was condemned at home and abroad, very recently by the United States Department of State. Taking the criticism of the BJP to the new level, John Brittas said if the party is so proud of this inhuman action then it should replace its party symbol Lotus with Bulldozer. The Prime Minister and ministers in his cabinet took oath of upholding the constitution of the country which guarantees equal rights to every citizen. But there is a huge difference between what they say in the house and do on the ground, he said while participating in the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the Address of the President Monday. The PM took this oath for the 6th time. Yet he called Muslims infiltrators and those who have more children. Why sir? Why he used such words for Muslims? Didnt he violate the oath John Brittas asked in the Rajya Sabha. I would request the BJP to change its symbol Lotus to Bulldozer. Now BJP members should use bulldozer as their party symbol. Only the other day in Moradabad, we saw demolition of five houses. Bulldozer has become the symbol, he said. You are changing history In his speech in the Rajya Sabha, John Brittas also accused the BJP of changing the history of the country. "For you Babri Masji is a '3 dome structure'. Tomorrow, you will say Gandhi died due to fever or flu, and Nathuram Godse had taken him to hospital for treatment", he said. Criticising the recent changes in the NCERT textbooks, the CPI (M) MP from Kerala said Slamming the BJPs communal politics, he said Hindu Lord Ram and all Hindu gods have deserted the party. You were anyway not with Ram but with Nathu Ram, he said referring Godse, the murder of Mahatma Gandhi. Speaking on the controversies surrounding NEET UG, UGC NET, CUET and other entrance exams conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), Brittas accused the BJP of destroying the federal structure of the country. I studied at JNU. The JNU conducted entrance exams successfully and without any leak for 50 years. Now you introduced CUET. Simultaneously, you started talking aboutLove Jihad and Mark Jihad. The only reason why you did all this and introduced CUET was to stop South Indian students from taking admissions in Delhi University., he said. He also accused the BJP of taking donations through Electoral Bonds from various companies including from beef companies and coaching centres. Watch the full speech For you, Babri Masjid is a 3 dome structure. Our students will study in the future that that Gandhiji died of flu and Godse rushed him to the hospital. - Comrade John Brittas MP. A must watch. pic.twitter.com/ebzXPDk2MX Advaid (@Advaidism) July 2, 2024 Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. CJI Chandrachud urged to take suo moto action against communal violence, hate speech The Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, has been urged to take suo moto notice of the spate of hate speeches resulting in violent hate crimes against the minority communities, and post haste pass orders instructing the Centre and state governments, as well as the police, to carry out their constitutional duties to protect the minorities, who are citizens of India and enjoy equal rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India Wednesday July 3, 2024 10:08 AM , Pervez Bari Bhopal: The Chief Justice of India, DY Chandrachud, has been urged to take suo moto notice of the spate of hate speeches resulting in violent hate crimes against the minority communities, and post haste pass orders instructing the Centre and state governments, as well as the police, to carry out their constitutional duties to protect the minorities, who are citizens of India and enjoy equal rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India. The Supreme Court of India must expressly order the police to act urgently and provide protection to minority communities, and prosecute hate mongers and those indulging in hate crimes. The SC must remind the police that they serve the constitution and not political bosses, a group of prominent citizens, leading social activists, intellectuals and former judges said in a letter to the CJI Monday. Similarly, the Modi-led NDA Government has also been appealed to stand by its constitutional commitments and publicly issue a statement condemning hate crimes and to immediately instruct all the state governments to implement measures to protect the minorities. "The NDA Government must not forget that it swore by the Constitution before taking office. Thus, it is its bounden duty to provide protection to all citizens of India without prejudice or partiality", they said. Those who issued the joint statement appealing for action against rising hate speeches and violent crimes against Minorities included Dr. G. G. Parikh, Medha Patkar, Tushar Gandhi, Fr. Frazier, Prof. Ram Puniyani, Dr. Sunilam, Shyamdada Gaikwad, Teesta Setalvad, Shabnam Hashmi, Justice Kolse Patil (Retd.), Irfan Engineer, Feroze Mithiborwala and Guddi. In their letter, they specifically condemned the alarming increase in hate crimes against minorities, which have worryingly increased after the results of the recently concluded general election. "Although the clear verdict by the Indian electorate was against polarisation and the divisive campaign of hate, the ruling NDA refuses to learn its lessons. The BJP leaders have loudly blamed the minority community for their defeat and as such are targetting them. The BJP leadership - right from the PM to state leaders, have fuelled hate against the minority communities and encouraged violent crimes targeting them", they said. This is a worrying trend, and we strongly condemn it, they said. We appeal to the Leader of the Opposition to immediately raise this issue in the Parliament and issue a public statement condemning the increasing violent attacks and reassuring the minorities about their safety and security. The constituents of the INDIA Bloc and its leaders must also immediately speak out and mobilise their cadres and the citizens to defend the minorities by raising the issue in Parliament, in State Assemblies and on the streets of India. We must all unitedly defeat this divisive conspiracy, the statement stated. "Even though the electorate resoundingly rejected the rabid hate campaign indulged in by the Prime Minister himself, he continues to make provocative and unsubstantiated allegations against the minorities, thus fuelling hate crimes. His partys devious design is to polarise the citizenry along religious lines. We stand united to defeat their nefarious conspiracy to divide our nation irrevocably along communal and caste lines, they affirmed. As citizens of India, we assure our sisters and brothers of the Minorities that we stand with them in this hour of peril. The majority of the people of our nation stand with the minorities and thus, they need not feel isolated or abandoned in any way. We are morally bound to protect them and to provide them with security and well being. We will always remain committed to the principles of fraternity, inclusiveness and national unity as guaranteed by our Constitution. This we swear, the intellectuals stated in their statement. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Lebanon As Next War Zone Could Threaten World Peace A bigger war between Israel and Hezbollah and an invasion by Israel exist which will draw in the USA and Iran to a bigger extent and make the Middle East region an even more dangerous place than it already is, for its people as for the world peace. Wednesday July 3, 2024 12:44 PM , Bharat Dogra Is Lebanon likely to be the next flashpoint for escalation in the Middle-East? This is a question being asked increasingly. Although there has been fire exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah for over 8 months, its intensity has increased of late, giving rise this to this question being asked more frequently. Of course, what the Middle East region needs the most is the immediate resolution of the Gaza conflict, based on permanent ceasefire plus release of hostages and prisoners, and not any escalation or widening of the conflict. However, the state of the world affairs in recent years has been such that what actually happens with increasing frequency is the reverse of what is needed from the perspective of peace. Something similar may happen in the Middle-East in the near future unless urgent steps to avoid the escalation is not taken soon. The last time when the Middle-East conflict came very close to escalation was in April when the dangerous prospects was avoided by restraint and responsibility shown by both Iran and the USA. The crisis was started then by Israel attacking an extended embassy building of Iran in Syria, killing several senior commanders. Iran had to retaliate for such a huge provocation, and as a tense world waited, wisdom prevailed over anger. Despite all their hostility, somehow the USA and Iran established contact to handle the crisis with restraint. Iran launched a retaliatory attack on Israel which appeared to be spectacular but was actually planned carefully not to inflict heavy damage and the USA was informed regarding this in advance so that it could work with its allies to further prevent serious harm. The USA then also prevailed upon Israel to give only a retrained response. Thereby the feared escalation was avoided. Nevertheless, the fact remained that with its original attack Israel had planned for escalation which could draw - first Iran and then the USA, more directly into the conflict. Something similar may be attempted again as Israels increasingly aimless aggression in Gaza is getting it nowhere closer to any decisive results which could be shown to its people as some sort of victory. While immense distress and suffering has been inflicted on the people of Gaza, with nearly 38,000 people dying, about 86,000 injured and almost all experiencing at least some displacement or dislocation, Israel is nowhere close to achieving its declared objectives. At the same time, Israel is increasingly coming under attack for its human rights violations, getting more isolated internationally. Moreover at a personal level, the Israeli Prime Minister is getting increasingly unpopular within Israel, even within the military, and feels the need to achieve some sort of victory elsewhere if he cannot achieve this in Gaza. A prolonged and enlarged war, despite all its risks, distress and tragic implications, suits him when seen from a very selfish perspective as once the war ends without any big and certain victory hell have to answer many difficult questions and may even be in jail. At the same time, nearly 60,000 people of northern parts of Israel bordering Lebanon have remained displaced due to the continuing exchange of fire between Israeli forces and Hezbollah, the leading Shia militia based in Lebanon, with close links to Iran and Hamas. Its spokespersons have claimed that Hezbollah has nearly 100,000 fighters, with more willing to join. It is now reported to have an arsenal of nearly 150,000 rockets and missiles. Even when Hezbollah had lesser arms, it had given the Israeli forces a tough time in 2006. It is regarded as a very important part of the axis of resistance. It is more heavily armed now, and Israel is still engaged in its original conflict of Gaza. Hence the prospects of Israel in the case of any escalation of conflict with Hezbollah will certainly not be easy, but still certain rightwing hardliners may nevertheless be supportive towards this as they see some parts of southern Lebanon as rightful territory of Greater Israel. However for most people of Israel this war can be justified in terms of ensuring the safe home return of displaced 60,000 people (although in reality the situation in the Israel-Lebanon border areas may actually become more unsafe once a bigger conflict starts). While the USA is not encouraging such escalation, the understanding is that once the Lebanon front opens up in a big way, the USA will certainly give Israel the help it needs in terms of continuing supply of weapons and ammunition needed, as well as other military and diplomatic support. If Israel faces more difficulties or reverses militarily, then the USA too can get more involved, for example in bombing certain targets. Iran too will also have to increase its support for Hezbollah in case of difficulties faced by its ally. Apart from intended and planned escalation, there is also a possibility that as exchange of fire between Hezbollah and Israel has already continued for over 8 months, this can on its own strength spiral into a much bigger war in certain circumstances of one side trying to respond in a bigger way and the other side then also doing the same. Thus both - in terms of deliberate planning for a bigger conflict as well as in terms of escalation of routine fire exchange in certain circumstances, the possibilities of a bigger war between Israel and Hezbollah and an invasion by Israel exist which will draw in the USA and Iran to a bigger extent and make the Middle East region an even more dangerous place than it already is, for its people as for the world peace. All forces of peace should try to prevent this broadening of conflict based on Israel-Lebanon borders as the flash point. As the past conflicts, particularly of 2006, as well as past occupation show, there are deep-rooted hostilities between Israeli forces and Hezbollah and to unleash them into full force at a time when the weapons being used are much more destructive and the overall international situation is also much more volatile would be very dangerous indeed. [The writer, Bharat Dogra, is Honorary Convener, Campaign to Save Earth Now. His recent books include Planet in Peril, Protecting Earth for Children, A Day in 2071 and Earth without Borders.] Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. HA NOI The supply of electricity will basically meet the daily demand for consumers and production and business in the remaining months of this year, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade. In July 2024, plans have been made for scenarios where there are prolonged spells of extreme hot weather and coal-fired power plants have to drop output, putting the Northern power system at risk of having no spare capacity. In this scenario, the shifting load demand between peak hours will be drastically implemented together with mobilising additional generation sources from diesel to ensure sufficient electricity supply. From August to December, the capacity reserve of the Northern power system is predicted to remain low. Thus, power generators must strictly ensure the maintenance of the available capacity and equipment readiness. The power system in the southern region could face difficulties in case the gas supply for electricity production drops due to a halt in operation for maintenance and repair. According to the Electricity Regulatory Authority of Viet Nam, close watch will be placed on load demand, hydrological development and power system operation to ensure sufficient power supplies across all scenarios. In addition, construction of electricity generation and grid projects will be sped up with the focus on the 500kV transmission line from Quang Trach (Quang Binh) to Pho Noi (Hung Yen) to transmit electricity to the northern region. Vo Quang Lam, Deputy Director of Viet Nam Electricity (EVN), said that they were also speeding up the construction of electricity power grids to increase electricity imports. EVN has forecast that the average temperature in July will be 0.5-1 degree Celsius higher than previous years. July is also a peak month of hot season in the north so the forecast is for high electricity demand. According to EVN preparations are ready for power supply security in case of prolonged hot weather and increased load demand. In the second half of this year, the power system operation will be basically ensured with the electricity output meeting the plan. Recent figures showed that the water levels of hydroelectricity reservoirs are equivalent to an output of 6.6 billion kWh, 1.4 billion kWh higher than the plan. Coal-fired power generation is being maintained at good production levels. According to Viet Nam National Coal Mineral Industries Holding Corporation Limited, coal supply for electricity production totalled 23.47 million tonnes in the first half of this year. The power supply is also increasing from renewable energy projects. In the first six months of the year, the total electricity output, including domestic production and import, was estimated at 151.69 billion kWh, 776 million kWh higher than the plan. Average daily output was 833.5 million kWh per day, 11.3 per cent higher than the same period last year. Viet Nam aims to achieve a total electricity output of 310.6 billion kWh in 2024 to meet increasing demand from individual production and business in 2024. VNS HA NOI Commenting on the draft Law on Geology and Minerals, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Viet Nam (VCCI) proposed implementing auctions for mineral mining rights. The VCCI has just sent a document to the National Assembly's Committee on Science, Technology and Environment, commenting on the draft Law on Geology and Minerals. In the written comments, VCCI is concerned that the regulation on areas where mineral mining rights are not auctioned will create a very large room for forms of asking giving mechanism. The agency cites a report which summed up ten years of implementation of the 2010 Mineral Law by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, indicating that out of a total of 421 mineral exploitation licences issued by this ministry, only six licences, accounting for just 1.4 per cent, were granted through auction. For licences issued by provincial people's committees, 394 out of a total of 4279 licences were granted through auction, accounting for 9.2 per cent. This low percentage indicates that the majority of mineral mines are still licensed through asking giving procedures. The draft also stipulates areas where mineral mining rights will not be auctioned. This regulation has very large implications, covering many important minerals, especially metallic minerals such as bauxite, titanium and iron ores, says VCCI in the comments. All of them are minerals with great commercial value. Meanwhile, the effectiveness of an auction had been recorded in practice. The winning auction price of six licences issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment was 76 per cent higher than the starting price. Thus, VCCI believes that the benefits for the budget will be huge if expanding auction cases, while creating a transparent and healthy business environment for businesses. Therefore, VCCI has requested the drafting committee to research and consider regulations in the direction that all mineral exploitation rights must be granted through auction or bidding. Regarding financial issues, Viet Nam's mineral sector has not been able to attract large, methodical investment projects in recent times, says VCCI. The law has not had an appropriate protection mechanism for enterprises investing in large-scale projects, with long capital recovery times. According to businesses, one of the biggest reasons limiting large investments in the mineral sector is policy risk. Frequent and continuous policy changes in an unfavourable direction for mineral projects already in operation have had a very negative impact on Vietnamese business and investment environment. "There are businesses reporting that their financial obligations to the budget have increased nearly three times compared to the regulations at the time of granting mineral exploitation licences, such as resource tax, mineral extraction rights fees, environmental protection fees for mineral extraction and mineral export taxes," VCCI says. VCCI suggests looking into additional investment guarantee mechanisms for large mineral projects. The State ensures a stable investment environment in terms of financial obligations of businesses to the state budget. In case of legal changes, investors shall not be subject to unfavourable changes throughout the entirety of the project, or for the first half of its duration. VNS A newly-married couple's joyous celebration turned into a nightmare when masked men showed up and started shooting. St. Louis Metropolitan Police were called to the wedding reception just before 1 a.m. on June 29, following reports the groom was shot during an attempted robbery. Manuel and Dulce Gonzalez were celebrating their decade-long relationship as a newly married couple at an intimate wedding party when the robbers showed up. Witnesses told police they were in the backyard when the gunmen started yelling for no one to move. They demanded money from the party guests. One of them began sifting through people's pockets before the second suspect shot the groom in the head several times Both ran off without taking any items or money. Manuel Gonzalez, 42, was rushed to a hospital, where he remains in critical condition. "They took nothing, yet they took everything from us," said Yaribeth Pena, the bride's sister told KTVI-TV. "He's a good father. A good husband to my sister. He's a hard worker," added Pena. "He's just an all-around good person who, I don't know, didn't deserve this." The family is pleading with the community to submit any footage they may have of the gunmen roaming the streets. A GoFundMe has been set up for the couple as they face mounting medical expenses. The investigation is ongoing, and police are encouraging anyone with information to contact authorities. HCM CITY The ride-hailing market in Viet Nam is currently experiencing fiercer competition than ever before as numerous players have entered the market, providing customers with a wide array of options. Since Grab's entry into the market in 2014, the Vietnamese ride-hailing sector has grown significantly over the past decade. During this period, many players have entered and exited the market. Recently, the market has seen a shift where not only major foreign players but also local companies such as Xanh SM and Be are competing for a share of the market. According to market researchers, Grab has maintained its position as the largest player; however, Vietnamese companies such as Xanh SM and Be have also grabbed market share. In a market research study titled "Motorbike Ride-Hailing Apps Popularity 2024" by Q&Me, which delves into the behaviour of users on ride-hailing apps focusing on motorbike ride-hailing services, it has been confirmed that Grab remains the most popular and holds the top position, while Gojek's share and that of others are being challenged by Be and Xanh SM. The study also revealed that almost all ride-hailing app users are aware of the top four major brands. Grab ranks as the top service provider with 42 per cent of users selecting this brand, followed by Be at 32 per cent, due to its popularity among the youth aged 16-23, and Xanh SM with 19 per cent. While Grab maintains a leading position in both HCM City and Ha Noi, Be is consistently competing for its position in both cities. Compared with a Statista study in 2021, there have been significant changes. In 2021, 60 per cent of Vietnamese users regularly utilised Grab's motorbike-hailing service, an 18 per cent increase from the previous year. During the same period, 19 per cent of users frequently used Gojek, and 18 per cent opted for Be's motorbike-hailing service regularly. These figures show that despite arriving later than industry giants Grab and Gojek, both Be and Xanh SM exhibit strong competitive capabilities and pose as formidable opponents for foreign ride-hailing companies operating in Viet Nam or seeking to enter the market. While the gap between Grab and its competitors is shrinking as Be and Xanh SM see a significant increase in user numbers, Grab remains the dominant market leader in the Vietnamese tech-savvy ride-hailing sector at present. Motorbike ride-hailing remains the most common service on ride-hailing apps, with users in Ha Noi and HCM City using it primarily for daily commutes, leisure activities, and after consuming alcoholic beverages. For events such as weddings, users prefer to book cars. The top reasons for choosing a motorbike ride-hailing app are easy availability, competitive prices, and attractive promotions. A wide driver network, driver attitude, and waiting time also influence which app users prefer for booking motorbike rides. The cost of booking rides via apps makes up nearly 50 per cent of users' total monthly travel expenses, with a significant portion spent on motorbike ride-hailing services, particularly Be and Gojek. Overall, most users express satisfaction with the service and do not intend to change their frequency of use in the near future. Fierce competition in car ride-hailing The intense competition is not limited to the motorbike ride-hailing market; it extends to car ride-hailing services as well. Competition between traditional taxi companies and modern ride-hailing services continues to escalate. Both sides have enhanced their service quality to compete with each other. Traditional taxi companies have collaborated to establish co-operatives to reduce costs, develop their apps, and introduce online payment services to attract young customers. Furthermore, commitments such as not increasing fares on rainy days have been made, and services have been enhanced. The market has become even more competitive with the introduction of electric taxis. Xanh SM is a taxi service under Vingroup's GSM company. According to a report from Bloomberg Businessweek Vietnam, after a year of operation, the company boasts 27,000 electric cars with plans to increase this number to 50,000 within two years. GSM has also formed partnerships with small and medium-sized taxi companies like Lado Taxim, Mailove and Taxi Xanh Sapa. In Phu Yen Province, Let's Go Taxi was launched in May with competitive pricing, utilising electric cars from a well-known Chinese company. As people increasingly opt for a "green" lifestyle, electric taxis are expected to become a trend in the near future. --- VNS HA NOI Vietnamese markets extended gains and ended higher on Tuesday, mainly due to rises in banking industry shares. On the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE), the VN-Index rose 15.23 points, or 1.21 per cent, to close the trading session at 1,269.79 points, marking the second consecutive increase for the index. Throughout most of the day, the VN-Index traded above the reference level, maintaining a relatively stable range and closing the session higher. The market's breadth was positive, with gainers outnumbering losers by 227 to 88. Liquidity on the southern bourse increased by 6.6 per cent to VN13.9 trillion (US$550.6 million), with a trading volume of 528 million shares. The VN30-Index, which tracks the 30 biggest stocks, climbed 10.58 points, or 0.82 per cent, to 1,296 points. Twenty-six ticker symbols in the VN30 basket edged up, while four inched down. Data compiled by financial news site vietstock.vn showed that cash was moving into banking stocks. The biggest gainer was the Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (VCB), with shares of the lender up 2.44 per cent, contributing nearly three points to the VN-Index overall gains. It was followed by the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BID), up 4.21 per cent, the Vietnam Joint Stock Commercial Bank for Industry and Trade (CTG), up 0.94 per cent, the Lien Viet Post Joint Stock Commercial Bank (LPB), up 6.09 per cent and the HCM City Development Joint Stock Commercial Bank (HDB), up 4.33 per cent. Other large-cap stocks that performed well included Hoa Phat Group JSC (HPG), which increased by 1.23 per cent, Vinhomes JSC (VHM), up 1.19 per cent and the Vietnam Rubber Group (GVR), which rose by 0.87 per cent. Limiting the rallies, some big stocks still faced slight sell-offs, such as FPT Corporation (FPT) which posted a decline of 0.47 per cent, Vietnam Prosperity Joint Stock Commercial Bank (VPB) down 0.26 per cent and Vincom Retail Joint Stock Company (VRE) which lost 0.69 per cent. On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX), the HNX-Index also finished higher on Monday. It rose 0.94 per cent, to 240.8 points. During the session, more than VN1 trillion worth of shares, equivalent to a trading volume of nearly 50 million shares, were moved on the northern market. Foreign investors significantly cooled their net selling. Specifically, they sold a net VN36 billion on HoSE on Tuesday, a very small net sell compared to previous trading sessions. VNS HA NOI Vietnamese exports of cinnamon, organic chilli powder and chilli products have been warned by some EU countries they are violating food safety standards, according to Viet Nam Sanitary and Phytosaniary Notification Authority and Enquiry Point (SPS Vietnam). The office has received the warning from the European Union (EU)'s Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF). The Viet Nam Pepper and Spice Association has recommended that agricultural and food products exported to the EU must strictly comply with this market's food safety regulations, including pesticide residues, preservatives and other additives in the product. The businesses need to carry out periodic testing for those products to ensure no excess levels of other chemicals. This not only helps the businesses improve their reputation and product quality, but also creates favourable conditions for them in accessing and expanding export markets. The association has also noted that the businesses need to check product quality before exporting. Recently, the EU has decided to increase the frequency of inspections for chilli and dragon fruit products imported from Viet Nam. Specifically, the Viet Nam Trade Office in Belgium and the EU said they are increasing the frequency of inspections for dragon fruits from 20 per cent to 30 per cent of the total import batches, accompanying food safety certificates products and results of analysis and testing of pesticide residues. Meanwhile, chilli products are subject to an inspection frequency of 50 per cent of the imports into the EU market. VNS HA NOI Vietcombank has warned about a new form of fraud, impersonating bank staff to support biometric updates, in order to steal banking service information. According to new rules, banks now require biometric details for each online transaction worth above VN10 million (US$392.65) or daily transactions exceeding VN20 million. The law came into effect on July 1 and has led to a warning that fraudsters are already trying to take advantage of the change. Implementing Decision No 2345/Q-NHNN dated December 18, 2023, of the State Bank of Viet Nam, Vietcombank deployed biometric authentication for some types of online transactions and will require biometric information. Biometric authentication uses biological identifiers such as fingerprints, irises, voices, and facial features and is considered the most secure protection from frauds. The regulation is to foster security for bank accounts and prevent financial frauds which are on the rise in Viet Nam. However in the early phases of it being implemented and taking advantage of the fact some customers had difficulty updating biometric information, fraudsters impersonated bank employees to contact customers to request "support" for biometric installation to appropriate customers' assets and information. Vietcombank said that common fraud methods are calling, texting and making friends with customers via social networks such as Zalo and Facebook to instruct the collection of biometric information. They also created confusing nicknames such as 'Bank Staff' or 'Customer Support' and interacted with customers under posts on the bank's official social networking sites to ask customers to contact them privately to fraudulently obtain customers' banking service information. Fraudsters often ask customers to provide personal and bank account information, citizen identification images or images of customers' faces for support. They can even request a video call to collect more verbal examples and gestures. They often ask customers to access strange links to download and install applications that support biometric collection on their phones. After obtaining customer information, they will proceed to appropriate money from the customer's bank account. Vietcombank has recommended that customers do not click on links or provide account security information, digital banking services (login name, password, OTP code), card services (card number, OTP), account information or any banking service security information and personal information because the bank does not require customers to provide personal information through channels such as calling, SMS, email, social networks like Zalo, Viber and Facebook messenger. Vietcombank also recommends that customers do not share personal information, banking services and transaction information on social networks to avoid being scammed. In case of having difficulty with updating biometric information or performing biometric authentication with online transactions, customers can go to the nearest Vietcombank transaction point for direct support and be consulted by bank staff. On the first day of implementing the new biometric authentication for some types of online transactions, there was local network congestion for applications of some banks such as VCB Digibank of Vietcombank or Sacombank Pay of Saigon Thuong Tin Commercial Joint Stock Bank (Sacombank). According to bank representatives, the sudden increase in the need to update biometric information on the first day of implementing the new regulations has disrupted the online transaction systems of several banks. VNS SEOUL Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his entourage on Wednesday visited Samsung's semiconductor cluster in Gyeonggi province as part of his official visit to the Republic of Korea (RoK). Samsung Vice Chairman and CEO Young Hyun Jun, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Samsung Electronics Park Hark-kyu and senior leaders of the group accompanied the Vietnamese PM in touring Samsung's largest semiconductor cluster in the world. Chinh expressed his impression of the groups achievements in high technology in general and semiconductors in particular. Recognising Samsung's effective investment activities in the manufacturing industry and the production of electronic equipment and components in Viet Nam for nearly 20 years, the PM affirmed that the Vietnamese government will create favourable conditions for Samsung to continue doing business in the country. Stressing Viet Nam's priority given to the semiconductor and artificial intelligence (AI) industries in the future, Chinh said that Viet Nam welcomes and encourages investors in those fields. He said Viet Nam will improve policies and institutions, high-quality human resources training, and infrastructure development to better serve investors. On the afternoon of the same day, Chinh and his spouse visited the family of Jang Yeong Gak and Vu Thai Linh - a Vietnamese-Korean family in Osan City, Gyeonggi Province. During the visit to the family, Chinh said that Vietnamese people in the RoK, especially Vietnamese-Korean families, are bridges that foster relations between the two countries and two peoples, noting that the two countries have had up to 80,000 Vietnamese-Korean multicultural families. On this occasion, Chinh called on overseas Vietnamese in the RoK and multicultural families to continue to preserve the cultural values of the two countries. He hoped that they would continue their contributions to promoting the image of Viet Nam, the Vietnamese culture and people, and cultivating good Viet Nam-RoK relations. This is the last activity of the official visit to the RoK by PM Chinh and his spouse from June 30 to July 3 at the invitation of PM Han Duck-soo and his spouse. The delegation returned to Ha Noi in the evening, wrapping up a successful visit. VNS AN GIANG A new postage stamp celebrating the 200th anniversary of the completion of the construction of the Vinh Te Canal in the Mekong Delta province of An Giang (1824-2024) has been released. The stamp, published by the Ministry of Information and Communications and the province, features the portrait of Marquis Thoai Ngoc (1761-1829), who led the construction of the canal, and a diagram of the waterway system. The stamp designed by painter Nguyen Du of Viet Nam Post Corporation measures 66x26mm, and costs VN4,000. The construction of the 91-km long canal began in 1819 under the lead of Marquis Thoai Ngoc, whose real name is Nguyen Van Thoai. The canal was dug parallel to the border between Viet Nam and Chan Lap (now Cambodia), starting from the west bank of the Chau oc River in An Giang to the Giang Thanh River in Kien Giang Province. The canal was completed in 1824 and became an important irrigation work contributing to developing economic production and trade, and protecting Viet Nam's territorial sovereignty under the Nguyen dynasty. Today, the canal still plays an important role in the region, bringing water and fish from the Hau River to agricultural land in the Long Xuyen Quadrangle in An Giang and Kien Giang provinces and Can Tho city. Le Quoc Cuong, director of An Giangs Department of Information and Communications, emphasized that the Vinh Te Canal was one of the great irrigation achievements of the Nguyen dynasty. It reflected the ancestors intelligence, creativity, and strategic vision in developing economy, and protecting the countrys territory. Cuong added that the release of the stamp reminded people of Marquis Thoai Ngoc and the peoples devotion to building the canal, as well as promoting the cultural and historical values of the canal to domestic and international tourists. The stamp is available at 63 postal offices in the country and will be used in the Universal Postal Union's 192 countries and territories until December 2025. VNS The development and application of artificial intelligence (AI) technology presents many challenges for management. Dr. Nguyen Van Cuong, Director of the Institute of Legal Science and Strategy under the Ministry of Justice spoke to Tin tuc (News) newspaper about this issue. What are the current legal issues related to the development and application of AI? AI is one of humanity's significant technological achievements in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Responsible development and application of AI can drive breakthroughs in the socio-economic development of each country and the global economy, contributing to increased labour productivity across various sectors. However, the development and application of AI tools, especially generative AI like ChatGPT, raise numerous legal issues. These include the responsibilities of parties related to AI, such as ownership and property rights, personal rights over data, respect for, assurance and protection of personal data, copyright issues (potential violations of copyright protection laws), risks to economic relationships, and the spread of inaccurate information or biases. Criminal organisations can exploit AI technology to commit new types of crimes, particularly cybercrimes and violations of cybersecurity laws, including fraud, forgery and other financial crimes. Additionally, from an ethical perspective, AI impacts individuals, businesses, organisations, state agencies, and society as a whole. AI creates new jobs but also replaces many traditional forms of labour. To ensure that the development and application of AI bring practical benefits to society, it is crucial to design a system of tools, including legal regulations and ethical guidelines, to ensure responsible AI development and application. What should be considered when adjusting policies and laws related to AI? Many countries and territories worldwide have enacted policies to address legal issues arising from AI development and application. These policies often focus on balancing the need to create incentives for innovation in AI development and application with the need to protect public interests, especially order, security, social safety, and consumer interests. In Viet Nam, the national strategy on research, development, and application of AI until 2030, approved by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, highlights the necessity of developing a system of legal documents and frameworks related to AI. It calls for a clear legal framework to promote AI research, development, and application in life. The strategy also emphasises that AI development and application must be centred on people and businesses, avoiding technology abuse and infringement of the legitimate rights and interests of organisations and individuals. Developing and applying AI without state regulation through legal tools and other supporting measures makes it difficult to meet requirements for national defence, security, order, social safety, national interests, community interests and other security and safety requirements. Therefore, ensuring security, safety, reliability, and manageable risk levels must be key requirements in policies and laws regulating AI development and applications. Policies and laws related to AI must create the most favourable conditions to promote innovation, reinforcing the core values of the country's political, economic, cultural and social order as recognised in the constitution and national laws. AI policies and laws must also ensure the essential rights of every citizen using AI systems, including rights related to personal data. From a legal perspective, do you have any advice for organisations and individuals developing and applying AI in Viet Nam? Currently, Viet Nam does not yet have specialised laws regulating AI development and application. However, it is essential to note that AI is merely a technology. When developed and applied to provide products and services in the market, it is subject to existing Vietnamese laws such as the Civil Code, the Law on Consumer Protection, the Cybersecurity Law, the Decree on Personal Data Protection and administrative and criminal regulations. The general spirit of current legal regulations is to respect and encourage individuals and businesses to exercise their rights to scientific and technological development and innovation. They must ensure not to infringe on national interests, state interests, community interests and the legitimate rights and interests of individuals and organisations in society. I believe that individuals and businesses developing and applying AI must be very attentive to responsible AI development, bringing practical benefits to users, ensuring security and safety, accuracy and reliability of information generated by AI systems and absolutely not using AI for activities that violate legal regulations. VNS Article by Ambassador of Belarus to Viet Nam H.E. Mr. Uladzimir Baravikou for the Viet Nam News on the occasion of the 3rd July - Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus, 80th Anniversary of the liberation of Belarus from the Nazi invaders July 3 is a special date for every Belarusian. On this day in 1944 the capital of our country - the city of Minsk - was liberated. On this day the Belarusian people celebrate the main state holiday - Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus - Republic Day. This year is a jubilee one. We are celebrating the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Belarus from the Nazi invaders. A lot of time has passed since then. But the witnesses and participants of that terrible war, which left unhealing wounds in the heart of each of them, are still alive. It is our sacred duty to honour the memory of all those who gave the most precious thing their life - for the freedom and independence of the Motherland; so that future generations would live in a peaceful and safe country. Belarus knows the price of victory like no other. Our republic was one of the first to take the heaviest blow of Hitler's hordes in June 1941. The heroism of the defenders of the Brest Fortress is known not only in our country; but also far beyond its borders, including Viet Nam, thanks in no small measure to the publication of the book of writer Sergei Smirnov 'Brest Fortress' in Vietnamese in 1970. Since May 8, 1965, the Brest Fortress has deservedly held the title Hero Fortress. The war brought with it huge economic losses. More than 100 thousand industrial production buildings and 10 thousand collective farms were destroyed on the Belarusian territory. More than 10 thousand industrial enterprises, including all large power stations, were destroyed or taken to Germany. The economy of the republic in terms of industrial and power capacities was thrown back to the level of 1913. During the war years, Belarus lost one-third of its population. German invaders burned, destroyed, and looted 209 out of 270 towns and district centres, 9,300 villages. The name of the village 'Khatyn', which the Nazi punishers burned down together with its inhabitants, has become a symbol of grief and an example of brutality and cruelty of the executioners, who spared no one: neither women, nor children, nor the elderly. We openly and loudly speak today on all international platforms about the genocide of the Belarusian people in the Great Patriotic War, and publish materials and facts about the crimes against humanity committed by the fascist executioners and their henchmen on the Belarusian territory. We also know that Vietnam had its own Khatyn - the village of Songmi, which was burned down with its inhabitants by American soldiers. These two symbols of inhumanity, on the one hand and of unparalleled steadfastness, courage, selflessness, and boundless faith in a bright future and in victory over the enemy, on the other, will remain an important reminder of the horrors of war for all future generations, as well as a basis for preserving and strengthening the time-tested friendship, trust and mutual understanding between our countries and peoples. Unfortunately, not everyone today shares and supports our common memory of that war. The decisive contribution of the Soviet Union to the overall victory over fascism is downplayed or silenced; in Western and Eastern European countries we are denied participation in memorial events... Today it is more important than ever to preserve the historical truth about the Great Patriotic War, its victims, and victorious heroes; so that such a tragedy never happens again and war never enters our homes. I believe that today, in this turbulent and rapidly changing world, together with the majority of countries of the global East and South, we will endure, become stronger, more confident in our strength, and hardened to continue to live on our land according to our traditions and rules, without external dictate, to ensure peace, security, and well-being of our citizens, to strengthen sovereignty and independence on an equal and mutually respectful basis. On the occasion of the Independence Day of the Republic of Belarus - Republic Day, the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Belarus from Nazi invaders, let me wish all readers of the Viet Nam News edition strong health, happiness, prosperity, success, and, most importantly, goodness and peaceful sky above your head! VNS HA NOI A joint press release has been issued on the occasion of the official visit to the Republic of Korea (RoK) from June 30 to July 3 by Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse at the invitation of Korean PM Han Duck-soo. As part of the visit, PM Chinh held talks with his Korean counterpart Han Duck-soo, during which they shared a view that the Viet Nam-RoK relationship is now at its best since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to foster cooperation across a wide range of areas, aligning with the framework of the Viet Nam-RoK comprehensive strategic partnership. Economic cooperation remains a cornerstone of the relationship. The two leaders pledged to work toward boosting bilateral trade turnover to US$100 billion by 2025, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the Viet Nam-RoK Free Trade Agreement (VKFTA), and reaching $150 billion by 2030 in a balanced and sustainable direction. To realise this target, Viet Nam and the RoK agreed to collaborate closely in effectively implementing existing economic cooperation mechanisms such as the VKFTA, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). The early signing of a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) for Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme in 2024 was also highlighted. Beyond trade, the two leaders concurred on the importance of fostering collaboration in science and technology, particularly in high-tech areas, research and development (R&D) and technology transfer. People-to-people exchanges are also set to receive a boost. The two leaders expressed a shared vision of facilitating exchanges in culture, education, tourism and other areas in a bid to raise mutual understanding and connections between the Vietnamese and Korean people. The joint press release further underlined a commitment to close collaboration and mutual support at international and regional forums. The two PMs witnessed the exchange of nine cooperation documents signed between ministries and agencies of both countries. These documents cover different fields such as development cooperation, trade and investment, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), innovation and entrepreneurship, environment, competition and consumer protection, and education. Both leaders expressed their satisfaction that the visit has significantly contributed to deepening the Viet Nam-RoK comprehensive strategic partnership, benefiting peace, stability and development in the region and the world as well. VNS Sheriff's deputies in Missouri on pulled over an unusual visitor traveling through their state on the way to Roswell, N.M. - an Unidentified Driving Object. The Crawford County Sheriff's Office said deputies pulled over a vehicle on Friday that "was a little out of this world." Photos shared on Facebook show a UFO-shaped vehicle on the side of the road, after it was pulled over for a lane violation and an expired out-of-state license plate. "These friendly humanoids, who have come in peace, are heading west to Roswell, NM for a festival. There was a brief conversation about his out of space, correction, out of state registration, but he assured us that he would take care of that issue when he returned to Krypton," the sheriff's office joked alongside the photos on Facebook. "He was also warned about our strict enforcement of warp speed on the interstate and to keep his phasers on stun only while traveling." Despite the minor infractions, the pilot was allowed to continue on his way to Roswell. It's unclear what event the driver was traveling to, but the annual Roswell UFO Festival runs July 5-7 this year. Events take place throughout the city, including a Spaceport Roswell virtual reality experience, UFO tours, special museum exhibitions, the Galacticon sci-fi convention, multiple laser shows, an Alien Chase 5k walk/run, and a variety of talks and panels given by UFOlogists. Roswell has been a hotspot for alien enthusiasts for nearly 80 years, since the U.S. Army Air Forces announced in July 1947 it had recovered a "flying disc" that crashed on a ranch in the area. The military then claimed it was a weather balloon, setting off speculation about a cover-up of alien contact. Only decades later did the military reveal the weather balloon story was a cover for the use of top-secret listening devices searching for evidence of Soviet atomic bomb tests. --with reporting by TMX HA NOI General Phan Van Giang, member of the Politburo, Deputy Secretary of the Central Military Commission and Minister of National Defence, hosted separate receptions for the ambassadors of Laos and Japan to Viet Nam in Ha Noi on Wednesday. Receiving Lao Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh, General Giang stressed that defence cooperation continues to be one of the important pillars in the bilateral relations. On the basis of the protocol and annual plans on defence cooperation, ties between the two countries in this regard have become increasingly practical and effective in all fields, making an important contribution to the cause of national development and safeguarding in each country, Giang said. Congratulating Laos on successfully organising ASEAN conferences, he affirmed Viet Nam's consistent support for Laos to successfully fulfill its role as the ASEAN Chair in 2024. The general expressed his hope that the two sides will continue to maintain and tighten their traditional friendship in general and defence cooperation in particular, with a focus on key areas such as exchanging delegations, especially high-level ones, reviewing the implementation of the Viet Nam-Laos defence cooperation protocol for 2020-24, and signing a new one for 2025-29. Appreciating the Vietnamese Party, State and Peoples Army's support for Laos, including the Lao People's Army, Khamphao Ernthavanh said that the two countries have carried out various practical and effective cooperation activities, such as communications about the bilateral friendship, border management, personnel training, and search for and repatriation of martyrs' remains. The ambassador expressed her wish that Viet Nam will maintain its assistance for Laos, pledging she will do her utmost to nurture and promote relations between the two countries and the two armies. Hosting Japanese Ambassador Ito Naoki, General Giang emphasised that bilateral defence collaboration has gained important achievements and become a pillar in the Viet Nam-Japan relations as seen in mutual visits, cooperation between their services and arms, human resources training, cyber security, war aftermath settlement, and maritime security. Perceiving that there remains an ample room for defence cooperation, the host official asked the diplomat to help promote the effectiveness of existing collaboration mechanisms and further develop defence ties, thus contributing to the Viet Nam-Japan comprehensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity in Asia and the world. Ito Naoki applauded the fruitful defence cooperation between the two countries, affirming that he will exert efforts to help bilateral ties, including in defence, to develop even more in the coming time. VNS HA NOI Viet Nam attaches much importance to the cooperation ties with the Republic of the Marshall Islands which was set up on July 1, 1992, Ambassador to the Pacific Ocean country Pham Quang Hieu has affirmed. Presenting his credentials to President of the host country Hilda Heine, the Vietnamese diplomat expressed his hope that the two nations will intensify cooperation in the areas of trade-investment, fisheries, agriculture, tourism, health care, and climate change response, among others. He took the occasion congratulated Heine on her recent re-election as the President of the nation earlier this year, and the country on its successful organisation of the Micronesian games on June 15-24. He conveyed greetings from State President To Lam to her, and said he wishes that she will visit Viet Nam soon. The host spoke highly of the bilateral ties over the past years, saying she hopes that the two countries will continue extensive collaboration in the domains of mutual interest such as economy, fisheries, environmental protection, and prevention of global warming. As part of his working trip in the nation from July 1 to 3, Hieu made a courtesy call on Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Kalani Kaneko, during which both sides exchanged views on the bilateral cooperation in the international arena, and affirmed that they treasure the sound bilateral ties, especially the coordination and support that they have given each other at the multilateral forums, including the UN. Hieu expressed his wish that the two nations will step up delegation exchanges and arrangement of meetings between high-ranking leaders in the coming time. They agreed to consider the establishment of cooperation mechanisms, signing of agreements in areas of the two nations strengths such as trade-investment, fisheries, agriculture, tourism and health care, among others. Kaneko sad he hopes that the Vietnamese Government will send experts to the Marshall Islands to help it develop agriculture, health care and tourism. Hieu also had a meeting with Speaker of the Parliament (Nitijela) Brenson Wase, during which the two sides reached consensus on promoting delegation exchange to improve mutual understanding and solidarity between the two peoples. Meeting with Minister in Assistance to the President and Environment Bremity Lakjohn, Hieu highlighted that both nations treasure the implementation of drastic solutions to responding to climate change. During his stay, Hieu also had meetings with Minister of Natural Resources and Commerce Tony Muller, and director of trade, investment and tourism office Carlos Dominick. He is scheduled to have a working session with the Honourable Consul General and visit several economic, tourism and education establishments in the country on July 3. VNS BINH PHUOC National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man held a working session with the Standing Committee of Binh Phuoc Provincial Party Committee on Wednesday to evaluate the southern provinces socio-economic performance in the first half and outline plans for the rest of the year. The province reported a strong economic performance, with a growth rate of 7.76 per cent. This economic expansion has also led to a significant reduction in poverty, with the rate of poor households falling below the national average to just 0.4 per cent. Binh Phuoc is also making strides in infrastructure development. Construction is underway on the Gia Nghia-Chon Thanh section of the western North-South expressway, along with the section of the HCM City-Thu Dau Mot-Chon Thanh Expressway running through the province. These projects aim to enhance regional connectivity and stimulate economic activity. NA Chairman Man commended the province's focus on cultural and social development, while underlining the importance of maintaining national defence and security, with regular meetings with neighbouring provinces in Cambodia and southern Laos. Looking ahead, Man urged Binh Phuoc to prioritise the continued implementation of its 11th provincial Party Congress's Resolution, toward achieving all set targets and contributing to the success of the 13th National Party Congress's Resolution. To further propel socio-economic growth, he called for measures to improve the business environment and attract foreign direct investment, as well as investments from other sources, enhance local competitiveness and embrace technological advancements. As a border province with an important strategic position in politics, economy, society-culture and national defence-security, Binh Phuoc should maintain the Viet Nam-Cambodia borderline of peace, friendship, cooperation and development, while paying attention to such areas as culture, sports, tourism, education, and healthcare, ensuring social welfare and sustainable poverty reduction, the top legislator said. In the immediate future, Binh Phuoc must focus on implementing the Politburo's Directive on all-level Party congresses in preparation for the 14th National Party Congress and upcoming elections to the National Assembly and all-level People's Councils for the 2026-2031 tenure. VNS HA NOI President To Lam received Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to Viet Nam Uladzimir Baravikou in Ha Noi on Wednesday. During the reception, the President affirmed that Viet Nam always values the traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation with Belarus, which have been nurtured by the leaders and people of the two countries since the Soviet era and for more than 30 years since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1992. He said Viet Nam always considers Belarus a trusted friend and partner, and appreciates the support of the Belarusian people for Viet Nam in the past, adding that Viet Nam hopes to continue strengthening the multifaceted cooperation with Belarus. The President highly appreciated the results of cooperation between the two countries over the past time, including promoting the intergovernmental committee mechanism in implementing cooperation agreements and joint efforts to enhance collaboration in areas of politics - diplomacy, economics - trade, investment, defence, security, science - technology, culture, education, and local-level ties. For his part, Ambassador Baravikou affirmed that Belarus values the traditional friendship and cooperation between the two countries, and wishes to strengthen the cooperation in all fields including politics - diplomacy, economics - trade, culture, education and people-to-people exchanges, especially between the young generation of the two countries. The Ambassador agreed with the orientations for bilateral cooperation proposed by the President, including the exchange of delegations at all levels and via all channels of the Party, State, Parliament and Youth Union, as well as the promotion of people-to-people exchange, culture, and tourism, especially after the two countries agreement on visa exemption for ordinary passport holders comes into effect. He pledged to do his best to develop the traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation between Viet Nam and Belarus. Discussing the two countries cooperation at international organisations and multilateral forums, the Vietnamese President and his guest agreed that the two countries will continue to coordinate and support each other for the common interests of the two countries and to contribute to peace, stability and development in the region and the world. VNS HA NOI President To Lam hosted a reception in Ha Noi on Wednesday for the new Japanese Ambassador to Viet Nam, Ito Naoki, who has just begun his tenure. The President underscored the importance of the Viet Nam-Japan relationship, particularly in light of the recent upgrade to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the successful celebration of the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2023. He expressed his satisfaction with the significant progress achieved in bilateral relations over recent years, with growing closeness marked by frequent exchanges of delegations at all levels. Economic ties remained a major pillar while workforce exchanges and connectivity were also noted to be strengthening. Recognising the cultural similarities and economic complementarities between Viet Nam and Japan, he expressed Viet Nam's desire to collaborate effectively with Japan in implementing the newly-upgraded Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework, which he said would benefit the people of both nations and contribute positively to regional peace, stability and development. The host encouraged the ambassador to play a key role as a policy advisor and bridge between the two countries. He specifically asked the diplomat to work to concretise the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership framework, focusing on enhancing political trust and strengthening substantive cooperation in economy, trade and investment, especially in infrastructure, labour, human resources training, cultural, locality-to-locality and people-to-people exchanges. Ambassador Ito highlighted his commitment to deepening the Viet Nam-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership toward the next five decades, with a focus on economic collaboration, workforce training, cultural and locality-to-locality cooperation, and tourism. He pledged to work closely with Vietnamese ministries, agencies and localities to realise agreements and shared visions established by leaders, aiming to foster a more robust and substantive partnership between Viet Nam and Japan. VNS MEKONG DELTA Sand is being mined in a new location in the Hau River in Soc Trang Province since June 30 to serve construction of a key expressway in the Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta. It is in An Thanh 1 and An Thanh ong communes in Cu Lao Dung District. According to the province People's Committee, the sand will be used for component project 4 in the first phase of the Chau oc - Can Tho - Soc Trang Expressway. The area covers nearly 100 hectares, and the sand is extracted from depths of 8.5 to 16 metres. The licence allows 1.14 million cubic metres of sand to be mined over two years. The fee for the right to extract is more than VN7.7 billion (US$303,000). There are five locations in the river in Soc Trang where mining is permitted with a combined area of more than 450 ha. They have an estimated 11 million cubic metres of sand. People's Committee Vice Chairman Vuong Quoc Nam has called on the contractor, Army Corps 12 - Truong Son Construction Corporation, to strictly comply with regulations throughout the mining operation, ensure labour safety, minimise impacts on the river and local peoples livelihoods, and coordinate closely with local authorities for monitoring and transporting sand. The company has promised to scrupulously comply with all regulations and requirements. The expressway will run a total of more than 188 km through An Giang, Hau Giang and Soc Trang provinces and Can Tho City, cost VN44.7 trillion ($1.8 billion) and is expected to be completed in 2027. The Soc Trang Province component is around 58.4km. A shortage of river sand is affecting work on many major construction projects in the delta. To mitigate the problem, the Government has approved a mechanism to increase the extraction of sand. Using other materials in place of river sand is also under scrutiny. VNS HA NOI Two women and a man have been arrested for facilitating people smuggling to Australia through Buddhist institutions using fake credentials. The gang went to extreme lengths and even instructed a man to shave his head, wear robes and take photographs at a pagoda in order to give the impression he was a Buddhist monk. They then contacted Buddhist organisations in Australia to obtain an invitation letter so the man could enter the country. But the plan was that when he arrived in Australia, he would not be there to study at a retreat, but instead work illegally on a farm. The Investigation Security Agency in the central province of Ha Tinh have arrested the trio for trafficking and forging seals and documents of agencies and organisations. The decision has been approved by the People's Procuracy at the same level. The three people arrested are au Thi Khuyen, 52, from Ha Tinh Provinces Nghi Xuan District, Nguyen Thi Ngoc Hang, 46, from in HCM Citys District 7, and Nguyen Van Khanh, 28, who lives in ong Nai Province. According to the case file, since the end of 2023, Ha Tinh Province Police had obtained information that several individuals were exploiting Buddhist institutions' frequent organisation of study retreats in Australia for Buddhists worldwide. They connected and organised for many people in various localities to illegally flee to Australia for labour by forging monk credentials. The cost for each successful trip was VN300 million per person. The police determined that at the beginning of 2024, Khuyen and Hang agreed to organise for Ho Van Thin, 36, residing in Nghe An Province, to go to Australia for labour under the guise of a monk on a study retreat. Once Thin successfully entered Australia, Hang would arrange for an acquaintance to pick him up and place him in agricultural work in Australia. In February 2024, Hang and Khuyen directly arranged for Thin to shave his head, wear monk robes, and go to Kim Quang Pagoda in a Nang Citys Lien Chieu District to take photos, pretending to participate in the pagoda's activities for the visa application file to Australia. Next, Hang contacted religious institutions in Australia to obtain an invitation letter for Thin to participate in Buddhist activities under the guise of a monk practicing at Kim Quang Pagoda with the monastic name Thich Giac Ngo. Hang then contacted Khanh to alter Thin's portrait on his citizen identification card to make him appear as a Buddhist follower. On the night of May 4, after receiving payment, Hang handed over the travel visa to Australia to Thin and arranged for a car to take him to HCM Citys Tan Son Nhat International Airport for departure procedures. At the airport, Thin was stopped by authorities to clarify related matters. There is no suggestion any Buddhist organisation was aware of the illegal activities. The Ha Tinh Province Police are continuing to investigate the case. VNS Prof Tran Hung Son, director of the Institute for Development and Application of Technology in Banking at the Vietnam National University in Ho Chi Minh City, has expressed his concern that Vietnam is among the countries most severely impacted by digital payment fraud. AI becoming increasingly prevalent for e-payments, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com The loss rate due to digital fraud in Vietnam stands at 3.6 per cent of GDP, significantly higher than the global average of 1.1 per cent and surpassing countries like Brazil and Thailand, both at 3.2 per cent, he noted at a June seminar on digital payment in Ho Chi Minh City. In contrast, many developed countries report much lower loss rates, such as Belgium and Ireland at 0.1 per cent, and the Netherlands at 0.2 per cent. Major General Nguyen Van Giang, deputy director of the Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention Department under the Ministry of Public Security, said that in 2023, the Vietnam Information Security Warning Portal recorded approximately 13,900 cyberattacks on various agencies and organisations, and nearly 16,000 reports of online fraud, resulting in losses exceeding $16.25 billion. Of this, individuals were defrauded of around $333 million to $417 million, a 50 per cent increase compared to 2022. Up to 75 per cent of mobile device and social media users received fraudulent messages or calls, stated Giang. He acknowledged that despite stringent measures to prevent and combat high-tech crimes, challenges persist. The anonymity of online activities and cross-border operations exploiting legal loopholes complicate the tracking and handling of these crimes, Giang explained. Fraudsters operate in organised groups, creating elaborate schemes and thoroughly exploiting technology. According to Giang, five typical fraud methods have been identified: scams via telecommunication services; fraud in the financial and banking sectors; scams through social media; fraudulent investment calls; and scams involving recruitment for e-commerce platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and Tiki. On the other hand, Ngo Tuan Anh, director of SCS Network Company believed that a proactive measure being implemented is biometric authentication for money transfers over $415 per transaction or a total of $830 per day, effective from July 1, according to a December 2023 rule on implementation of methods to ensure safe and secure online payments and bank card payments by the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV). Anh said, Online scams commonly involve criminals obtaining victims personal information and using disposable SIM cards. Facial authentication for transfers will be an effective solution to prevent criminals from using borrowed accounts to transfer money. He also recommended enhancing the management of registered SIM cards and protecting personal information to effectively combat fraud. On the banking front, Pham Chau Loan, deputy head of Digital Channel and Partnership Development Department at Vietcombank, revealed that the bank is actively implementing biometric solutions to ensure transaction safety and security. Biometric customer authentication guarantees data accuracy and reliability without hindering the user experience, she said. Similarly, ACBs CEO Tu Tien Phat reported that their facial authentication system has received positive customer feedback. Within just three days of implementation, 30,000 customers have completed facial authentication, with each process taking less than 30 seconds, Phat added. Dang Tuyet Dung, country manager of Visa for Vietnam and Laos, disclosed that Visa has invested over $416 million in AI-based solutions to prevent fraud and enhance security awareness. Visa is also employing tokenisation technology to encrypt transactions, removing private cardholder information from the payment flow and enhancing security. We are working with banks and partners to implement data-based authentication methods for e-commerce transactions, following trends in developed markets like Singapore and Malaysia, she explained. Discussing customer authentication processes, Nguyen Dang Hung, deputy CEO of National Payment Corporation of Vietnam, explained that banks previously relied on one-time passwords for authentication, with some requiring additional layers of verification depending on their risk appetite. These layers of authentication directly impact the seamless customer experience, he noted. The 3D Secure authentication solution for domestic cards aims to balance safety, security, and convenience for customers. This solution supports modern biometric authentication methods, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, and uses AI-based risk assessment to customise additional verification requirements, reducing the risk of fraud in online transactions. By exchanging larger volumes of transaction data than before, banks can now access information about devices, transaction locations, and transaction values. This allows them to analyse and evaluate risks based on historical data, thus making informed decisions on the appropriate customer authentication method, ultimately providing a better payment experience, Hung said. E-wallet services to facilitate online payment convenience While there have been issues relating to peer-to-peer and other digital lending and e-payments solutions in Vietnam as of late, one of the most advanced areas of fintech in the country currently is the increasing use of e-wallets. Dung Dang, managing partner at Indochine Cousel, writes on the existing rules for e-wallets in Vietnam and how they pertain to privacy and accessibility. Vietnamese firms partner to develop telecom services, e-payment in Cambodia Metfone, the Cambodia-based affiliate of the military-run telecom group Viettel, and Angkok Dairy Products Co.Ltd (Angkormilk), two Vietnamese-invested firms, on July 14 signed a strategic cooperation agreement to develop telecommunications services and e- payments in Cambodia. The event was chaired by Australias Special Envoy to Southeast Asia Nicholas Moore and Australias Business Champion for Vietnam Louise Adams. At the request of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Moore prepared Australias national strategy with the goal of promoting two-way trade and investment between Australia and countries in Southeast Asia. Talking to VIR, Moore said that to sustainably develop, he had suggested 10 priority sectors, including agriculture and food, the green energy transition, infrastructure, education, and more. The Australian government has set aside a $2 billion Southeast Asia Investment Financing Facility to support the whole region. The Australia-Southeast Asia Business Exchange will give Australian exporters more exposure to Vietnam Investment deal teams with hubs in Singapore, Jakarta, and Ho Chi Minh City will work with Australian investors and local project proponents to facilitate and promote greater Australian investment. In addition, Regional Launch Pads in Ho Chi Minh City will bring together startups, technology players, multinational corporations, and business to drive Australian tech exports into the region. These will create market knowledge and business connections for technology scale-ups to aid greater market entry and commercial traction. The one in Singapore has helped more than 300 Australian companies get established in Singapore. We hope we can do the same to Ho Chi Minh City and help companies from Ho Chi Minh City become established in Australia, Moore said. Moore also stressed on the partnership for infrastructure, scholarships, and the Australian Vietnamese business champion. Other initiatives include the appointment of Adams as a business champion for Vietnam to facilitate greater commercial links. The Australia-Southeast Asia Business Exchange will also give Australian exporters greater exposure to Vietnam and the region, and additional funding of around $148 million to the Mekong-Australia Partnership will help countries in the region address shared challenges, including water security and climate action. Changes to Australian visa requirements are also expected to strengthen mobility pathways and boost people-to-people links. Adams promoted the digital skills of human resources, especially in cybersecurity, risk management, and sustainable development. The government and businesses often have different concerns and priorities, so the risks are also different. The best way is to find common ground to harmonise and develop together, he said. According to Chau Ta, executive director of Legal Transactions at SC Capital Partners, thanks to incentive policies and continuous upgrading of the legal system, attracting foreign investment into Vietnam has undergone significant changes, partly catching up and applying international practices. This change is excellent for foreign investors. Although economic development has recently slowed down around the world, Vietnam still has many opportunities, especially when a series of new laws will take effect at the end of the year, Ta said. Nguyen Xuan Thanh, lecturer of Public Policy at Fulbright University Vietnam, assessed that significant changes in foreign investment will appear in the near future in Vietnam. Among them, agriculture is the most important sector. Worldwide, countries are actively supporting and subsidising the agricultural industry. The Vietnamese government needs to clearly determine to what extent they plan to support farmers, he said. Vietnam wants to promote production to increase exports. Its labour-intensive manufacturing industries have the potential to attract high-tech industries but also are hard for competing, so Vietnam must improve quality human resources and infrastructure, especially the friend-shoring strategy with the ambition of turning the nation into a suitable country for investment, Thanh said. In the past 10 years, the government has actively promoted public-private partnerships, which is a good investment channel in many fields, especially infrastructure, Thanh said. However, businesses often cannot predict new government regulations in advance. This uncertainty will still last in the near future. The Vietnamese government will need some time to mitigate this problem, he said. In recent years, trade between Vietnam and Australia has grown strongly thanks to free trade agreements. The General Department of Vietnam Customs reported that the two-way trade stood at nearly $14 billion last year, with Vietnams exports reaching $5.2 billion. The two countries were the 10th biggest trade partners of each other in the year, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Vietnam and Australia boost economic co-operation Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison chaired a meeting on exchanging and promoting co-operation opportunities between Vietnamese and Australian businesses in Ha Noi on Friday. Australian businesses interested in agritech in Vietnam Local businesses in Australias New South Wales (NSW) have shown their interest in joining the agricultural technology as well as food and beverage sectors in Vietnam a promising market in their eyes. The new centre is in Hanoi, and is the first NURA centre in Southeast Asia. The newly opened NURA will be operated by Vietnam Japan Health Technology JSC (VJH), which owns T-Matsuoka Medical Centre in Vietnam. Fujifilm subsidiary Fujifilm DKH LLP operates NURA in India and Mongolia, and will provide support for VJH to conduct health screening with a focus on cancer and lifestyle diseases. Fujifilm will continue to expand its health screening service business in emerging countries by increasing the number of NURA centres. In Vietnam, cancer and lifestyle diseases, such as ischaemic heart disease, are among the leading causes of death. The number of patients dying or falling critically ill as a result of these diseases can be reduced through early disease detection followed by appropriate treatment and health guidance. In Vietnam, as in Japan, it is compulsory that corporates provide regular health screening for employees. However, the health screening rate in Vietnam remains low at about 3.5 per cent, which frequently makes it difficult to detect diseases in their early stages. Fujifilm, VJH and T-Matsuoka Medical Centre, which has long been contributing to improving the quality of medical care in Vietnam, will work together to create an environment that supports the delivery of high-quality screening services in Vietnam. Fujifilm will share its expertise in health screening services it has gained from operating NURA centres. In addition, Fujifilm and VJH will engage in activities to communicate the importance of health screening to hospitals and companies in the surrounding area, enhancing a health screening culture in Vietnam. Compelling signs ahead in healthcare Vietnam expects to see rising investment and dealmaking activities in healthcare and pharma. Seck Yee Chung, partner and head of Mergers & Acquisitions and Healthcare and Life Sciences practices in Vietnam for Baker McKenzie, discussed with VIRs Thanh Van the prospect of Vietnams thriving healthcare and pharma sectors. Partnership key to improving healthcare in Vietnam Stakeholders are joining Vietnams efforts in improving healthcare accessibility, and sustainably developing the sector. Nguyen Thi An, country director of HealthBridge, spoke with VIRs Tung Anh about how businesses can make a contribution. The husband of a missing Wisconsin woman is under arrest after authorities say he was illegally spending money from her financial accounts. Crystal Rasch, 37, has been missing since last month. Sheriff's deputies investigating the case started looking at her bank accounts and say her estranged husband, 42-year-old Zachariah Rasch misappropriate her identity to fund purchases. He faces seven felony counts of misappropriating ID information to obtain money. Crystal was last seen on June 11 and reported missing on June 23 by her stepmother, who said she hadn't heard from Crystal since June 11, according to the criminal complaint seen by WITI-TV. The stepmother told investigators she had stopped at her stepdaughter's home and saw her vehicle parked in the garage. She was later told by Crystal's mother that the 37-year-old had traveled to Michigan to see her brother; however, the brother said he too had not seen Crystal. Authorities contacted several friends and family members who all said they haven't had any in-person contact with Crystal since June 10, but several did say they received Facebook messages allegedly from Crystal, though they suspected the messages were fake based on the language and tone used. Zachariah Rasch also claimed to the police that he had not seen or contacted Crystal as they were reportedly going through a divorce. The complaint goes on to state that through interviews, surveillance footage, and transaction data, it was discovered that Zachariah had made numerous purchases with Crystal's cards. He is alleged to have spent as much as $6,000 on cleaning supplies and other items, according to WISN-TV. A search warrant was executed on Zachariah's home on June 26 related to the identity theft. Meanwhile, the Adams County Sheriff's Office disclosed Zacharaiah has connections to two separate areas of land in the town of Springville. Due to the size of the properties, it took nearly 100 law enforcement officers from 28 departments two days to search the property. A 2023 Mitsubishi Eclipse registered to Zachariah Rasch was found and is said to contain "significant evidentiary value" in the whereabouts of Crystal. It is currently being analyzed by the Wisconsin State Crime Lab in Madison. Google greenhouse gas emissions grow as it powers AI, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com Google's climate-changing emissions have increased 48 percent in the past five years, at odds with a touted goal of becoming carbon neutral for the sake of the planet, according to an annual environmental report released on Tuesday. Total greenhouse gas emissions in 2023 were 13 percent higher than they were the prior year, primarily driven by increased data center energy consumption and its supply chain, the report stated. The increase came even though Google has been ramping up use of solar and wind generated clean energy. "In spite of the progress we're making, we face significant challenges that we're actively working through," chief sustainability officer Kate Brandt and senior vice president Benedict Gomes said in the report. "As we further integrate AI into our products, reducing emissions may be challenging due to increasing energy demands from the greater intensity of AI compute, and the emissions associated with the expected increases in our technical infrastructure investment." Google is not alone in facing the challenge of feeding power-hungry AI data centers, while trying to curb creation of climate-changing greenhouse gas. Microsoft said in its recent sustainability report that its greenhouse gas emissions last year were up 29 percent from 2020 as it continues "to invest in the infrastructure needed to advance new technologies." Microsoft and Google have been front runners in an AI race since OpenAI released ChatGPT in late 2022. AI has been a theme for the rivals in blockbuster earnings performances quarter after quarter. Meanwhile, Google and Microsoft have each pledged to be carbon neutral by the end of this decade. Microsoft has an added goal of being carbon-negative, taking climate-harming gas out of the air, by 2050. Amazon, also an AI contender with its AWS cloud computing division, has said it is aiming to be carbon neutral by 2040. "A sustainable future requires systems-level change, strong government policies, and new technologies," Google said in its report. "We're committed to collaboration and playing our part, every step of the way." Apple, Google and Meta set to face probes under new law: source Apple, Google and Meta are set to face the EU's wrath next week as Brussels prepares to hit the tech giants with probes into potential violations of a landmark law, sources close to the matter said Friday. Google to delete incognito search data to end privacy suit Google has agreed to delete a vast trove of search data to settle a suit that it tracked millions of US users who thought they were browsing the internet privately. Project 06, approved on January 6, 2022, focuses on developing applications for population data, digital identification, and electronic authentication. It aims to support the national digital transformation from 2022 to 2025, with a vision to 2030. As the capital, Hanoi has been entrusted with piloting several key initiatives before the nationwide implementation. The review conference underscored Hanois unwavering commitment to building a Digital Government - Serving Government, and fostering a Digital Society - Trust Society. The capitals initiatives reflect a new global mindset and embody Hanois thinking and action in the digital age, setting a benchmark for other cities and provinces to follow in Vietnams ambitious digital transformation journey. With the goal of accelerating Hanois digital transformation, three new applications were revealed at the conference. The first is the iHanoi Citizen app, dubbed Touch to Connect, which creates a vital link between the city government, its residents, and businesses. The platform aims to improve the business environment, streamline administrative reforms, and boost public satisfaction. The second initiative is the VNeID app which holds electronic health records, laying the groundwork for telemedicine and providing citizens with a lifelong and unified health record. Lastly, the smart meeting system i-Cabinet was introduced, utilising innovative technology and AI virtual assistants to facilitate paperless governance and enable more efficient and timely decision-making. The conference also announced the implementation results of Project 06 in healthcare and data digitisation. In the healthcare sector, the Ministry of Health reported impressive progress in digitalising services. 99.5 per cent of medical facilities nationwide have implemented IT systems for management and insurance claim processing. A telehealth system now connects central hospitals with local health facilities, enhancing support for lower-level institutions. Furthermore, 100 per cent of medical facilities now accept chip-based citizen ID cards or the VNeID app for health insurance verification. "Following the successful evaluation in Hanoi, the Ministry of Health issued Decision No.1332/QD-BYT on May 21 to incorporate electronic health records on the VneID application across the country. The decree creates a legal corridor, providing specific guidance for localities to implement electronic health records integrated on VneID, which includes regulations on 46 information fields and the content of information displayed on the record," Minister of Health Dao Hong Lan said. A report by the Ministry of Public Security highlighted the implementation of 82 administrative procedures with zero fees, reducing bureaucratic burdens on citizens and businesses. 19 digital models, including electronic health records and digital criminal records, have been successfully piloted on the VNeID platform. Additionally, cashless payments and e-invoicing systems have been advanced, especially for small businesses. "The achievements of Hanoi have positively impacted all aspects of the city's social life. The project's effective values have been gradually realized, leading to a shift in management mindset and working habits among cadres and civil servants. It has also streamlined administrative procedures, saving time and costs for both citizens and businesses," Minister of Public Security Luong Tam Quang said. The capital city received specific recommendations to expedite data digitisation efforts, particularly in 11 districts that have not yet completed civil status data digitisation. Hanoi was also urged to enhance the creation and sharing of data through the National Data Centre, in line with Government Resolution 175. Minister Quang also stressed, "The city needs to improve the quality of shared databases to ensure they are accurate, complete, clean, and dynamic." Hanoi reports import-export turnover of $28.6 billion Hanoi reported $28.6 billion in import-export turnover in the first half of this year, up 13.7 per cent on-year. Hanoi welcomes over 14 million visitors in H1 Hanoi welcomed 14.05 million visitors in the first half of this year, a 13.7 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023, according to the city's Department of Tourism. Hanoi hosts first Aerospace & Defence Manufacturing Innovation Day The Vietnam National Innovation Centre (NIC) and Kami Technology Manufacturing Corporation (KMTC) opened the nations first Aerospace & Defence Manufacturing Innovation Day on July 2. Vietnam is abundant in natural landscapes that provide attractive destinations for tourists seeking holistic experiences that cater to their mind, body, and spirit. Vietnam is an important market in Southeast Asia. Varun Grover, country head for Vietnam Booking.com To explore how travel will transport people out of autopilot and into unleashing their best life, we commissioned research among more than 27,000 travellers across 33 countries and territories, combining it with its insights as a leading digital travel platform to reveal seven predictions for travel in 2024. Ego Enthusiasts: Creating alter egos In 2024, travellers will feel more alive by creating their very own epic alter egos during their holidays, with 37 per cent weaving intricate narratives about their real lives when interacting with fellow travellers. These enthusiasts love the thrill of embodying a 2.0 version of themselves, and go to great lengths to reimagine their best self, with 78 per cent of Vietnamese travellers enjoying the anonymity of travel and the chance to recreate themselves. Theyre excited to reinvent themselves and take on different personas when travelling to feel more alive. 76 per cent feel they are the best version of themselves on holiday, able to shed inhibitions and embrace new aspects of their personalities, and 56 per cent would even pay to rent a nicer car than they drive at home to live their finest lives with confidence. Whats more, 65 per cent of Vietnamese travellers feel main character energy on their travels, with these performers empowered to be the stars of their own life. They might also want to use their travels as an extension of aliases and avatars they use online. Cool-cationers As global temperatures continue to rise, travellers are seeking cooler destinations to escape the heat. Three out of four Vietnamese travellers report that climate change will impact the way they plan their vacation in 2024, with 75 per cent saying that as temperatures soar close to home, they will use their vacation to cool down elsewhere. The majority of Vietnamese travellers (82 per cent) agree that being close to water instantly makes them feel more relaxed, and are interested in water-centric vacations. As people dive head first into aquatic escapes, mindful water immersion will quickly become the next mainstream version of meditation. This fresh form of feel-alive wellness travel will see floating yoga, water sound baths and snow meditation surge, as well as a boom in ice therapy retreats. Surrender Seekers Travellers in 2024 are increasingly inclined to embrace spontaneity and adventure. Over half of Vietnamese (62 per cent) are keen to book a surprise trip where everything down to the destination is unknown until arrival. The adventurous traveller of 2024 is wanting to step outside of the homogenised holiday, preferring to venture off the beaten path and seeking to travel with strangers. Nearly 60 per cent of Vietnamese travellers would like to have no plans set in stone prior to travelling so they can go where the wind takes them, while 81 per cent of Vietnamese travellers prefer to travel with loose plans so they can change direction based on what feels good at the moment. Culinary Excavators Food plays an important role in the travel experience with nearly 73 per cent Vietnamese travellers more interested in discovering more about a destinations must-eat delicacies than ever before. Culinary excavators are leaning on gastro-tourism to preserve the true craftsmanship of the traditional dishes and embrace the unique history, geography and produce that makes for one-of-a-kind cuisine that awakens the senses. Most Vietnamese travellers (94 per cent) want to try indigenous cuisines and explore heritage flavours in 2024, unlocking the secrets of cultures which may have been lost or forgotten in other parts of the world. Expect an increase in indigenous experiences that take travellers on trails that tell the story behind the food they serve, bringing pride and income to communities. Reboot Retreaters When things are falling apart back home amid global instability and an ever-hectic world, dishevelled travellers are booking one-track trips that are focused on self-improvement to bring themselves back to the life they truly want again. For those who are used to sleeping solo, 62 per cent of Vietnamese travellers would carve out time for a matchmaking holiday to find a spark with a new partner or lover. On the flip side, for those increasingly frazzled parents, they are surprisingly seeking solace on completely solo holidays, with the majority of Asia-Pacific parents (66 per cent) planning to travel alone in 2024, dropping the kids and their partners to prioritise their vitality. A La Carte Affluencers Travellers in 2024 are looking to optimise their vacations by seeing value and luxury simultaneously. They want to level up their holiday experience with a la carte luxuries but are keen to cut costs. These a la carte affluencers want to appear wealthy, sweeping away the reality of having to make financial sacrifices, but behind the scenes are obsessed with see-through spending and curating budget-friendly travel itineraries with the help of AI. In fact, 71 per cent of Vietnamese travellers will want insights and tips from AI when on holiday to upgrade experiences with suggested ancillaries and deals, all with a flick of their finger. Additionally, nearly half (48 per cent) plan to pick destinations in 2024 where the cost of living is less expensive than their hometown, while 54 per cent of Vietnamese travellers want to travel closer to home to reduce costs in 2024. Two-thirds of Vietnamese travellers will be willing to pay for day passes to use the amenities in a five-star hotel rather than actually staying there, with a similar number of parents (60 per cent) planning to take their children out of school to travel outside of peak season to make their money stretch further in 2024. Mindful Aesthetes Once upon a time, the words sustainable and stylish were not necessarily synonymous, with the words eco-travel conjuring up visions of primitive campsites. Design and mindfulness converge in 2024, opening up new and inspiring doors for travellers who have a desire to make more conscious and responsible choices, not just for a short getaway, but as a way of life. These travellers will hunt down jaw-dropping architecture that has environmental features at its heart, with 73 per cent Vietnamese travellers looking for accommodation that has wow-factor sustainability innovation. 78 per cent want to see sustainability in action, while 83 per cent of Vietnamese travellers say they want to see the outside brought indoors with green spaces and plants in accommodations on holiday. In 2024, in exchange for contributing to conservation efforts, sustainable itineraries will give travellers exclusive access to the places that they are helping preserve, in the most mindful way. Tourism to become truly spearhead, green industry by 2030 Vietnam aims to turn tourism into a truly spearhead economic sector with green growth and world leading development capacity by 2030. Bao Viet Group plans to divest State capital at its insurance firm in the future. (Photo: VNA) Hanoi - Vietnam's two largest insurance firms Baoviet Holdings (HoSE: BVH) and PVI Joint Stock Company (HNX: PVI) - have announced plans to divest State capital. According to analysts, the divestment of State capital in insurance firms could bring opportunities for foreign investors to put their capital in the domestic insurance market, both as shareholders and strategic partners. At the 2024 annual general meeting of shareholders, BVH's board of directors said that they would develop a plan on reducing the state ownership from 2026 to submit to the shareholders, reported Da tu tai chinh (VietnamFinance) magazine. According to BVH Acting General Director Nguyen Dinh An, the State capital shares are expected to be maintained at 65 per cent of the firm's capital until the end of 2025. After that, when reducing this State capital to 51 per cent, the firms will issue shares to the existing shareholders to mobilise additional funds. This plan on divesting State capital was also revealed by BVH at the annual meeting in 2023. At present, the Ministry of Finance holds more than 482.5 million BVH shares, equivalent to 65 per cent of this firm's capital. State Capital Investment and Trading Corporation (SCIC) holds 22.1 million BHV shares, equivalent to nearly 3 per cent of the capital. Meanwhile, the Vietnam Oil and Gas Group (Petrovietnam) will divest capital from PVI before the end of 2025, according to the plan on the restructuring project of Petrovietnam until the end of 2025, approved by the Government. PVI is one of seven enterprises that Petrovietnam must divest from them. At PVI, Petrovietnam holds more than 81.9 million shares, equivalent to 35 per cent of the capital. Despite holding a large stake in PVI, Petrovietnam is not the largest shareholder of this insurance firm. HDI Global SE, a firm from Germany, is the largest shareholder of PVI holding 38.89 per cent of PVI capital, equivalent to more than 91.1 million shares. According to experts, these two deals show that Vietnam's insurance market is still attractive to foreign investors. At BVH's 2024 annual general meeting, Sumitomo Life's representative emphasised their desire to accompany this insurance firm as a strategic partner. Sumitomo Life also said it would be interested in opportunities to increase investment in BVH. In early 2024, high-level delegations from Talanx Group and HDI Global SE visited PVI's headquarters and emphasised that they would support PVI in all aspects, especially in consulting for governance and risk management. The State ownership ratio is also high in many non-life insurance firms. At Bao Minh Joint Stock Corporation (HoSE: BMI), SCIC holds more than 61.1 million BMI shares, equivalent to 50.7 per cent of the total capital. At Petrolimex Insurance Joint Stock Corporation (HoSE: PGI), Vietnam Petroleum Group (Petrolimex) represents State capital of 40.95 per cent, equivalent to more than 45.5 million PGI shares. State ownership is 52.93 per cent of the capital at Vietnam Agricultural Bank Insurance Joint Stock Company (UPCoM: ABI), 40.36 per cent of the capital at the Vietnam National Reinsurance Joint Stock Corporation (HNX: VNR), and more than 51 per cent of the capital at the BIDV Insurance Joint Stock Corporation (HoSE: BIC). The insurance sector is one of 59 conditional business sectors, but Vietnam has no limit on the ownership ratio of foreign investors in insurance firms. Many insurance companies, such as PTI, PGI and BMI, have increased ownership ratio for foreign investors to 100 per cent. The presence of foreign investors is increasing in domestic insurance enterprises. For example, AXA Insurance Finance Group (France) holds 16.65 per cent of BMI's capital. HDI Global SE (Germany) and Funderburk Lighthouse, an investment fund of the Government of Oman, own 38.89 per cent and 12.61 per cent of the PVI capital, respectively. Meanwhile, Military Insurance Joint Stock Corporation (MIG), ABI, PTI, BIC and VNR, have also major foreign shareholders. In early 2024, DB Insurance - a Korean insurance group, became the dominant shareholder in two of Vietnam's insurance enterprises, the Saigon Hanoi Insurance Joint Stock Corporation (BSH) and the Aviation Insurance Joint Stock Corporation (VNI). This group is also a major shareholder in PTI, holding more than 37 per cent of the capital. Life insurance players seek to rebuild trust Vietnams life insurance industry, noted for its stringent regulations, should enhance product quality, transparency, and stakeholder balance for sustainable development, industry leaders have urged. Insurance firms to bounce back in 2024 A recent survey conducted by Vietnam Report between May and June found that a remarkable 45.6 per cent of insurance firms expect the insurance industry to grow nearly 5 to 10 per cent in 2024. Nearly 32 per cent of surveyed firms believe the economy will maintain a stable growth rate of 5.5 per cent. Terms of the investment were not disclosed. INNOHAS, a South Korea-based food-tech startup founded in November 2021, is a manufacturer of a variety of home meal replacement products utilising plant-based meat. The companys products are sold in Korea and major global markets such as the United States, where their products have significantly contributed to the recent popularity of frozen kimbap. Due to restrictions on the export of animal-based proteins from South Korea, INNOHAS has garnered acclaim for replacing such proteins with plant-based alternatives, allowing the company to promote a wider range of Korean food internationally. In 2023, the estimated size of the plant-based alternative meat market was $6.4 billion, according to Euromonitor, suggesting enormous room for growth. INNOHAS is well positioned to capitalise on the trend towards plant-based protein alternatives. Its patented core technology naturally eliminates odours and tastes that can sometimes be present in plant-based proteins, with other manufacturers preferring to ineffectively mask them with other ingredients. In addition, INNOHAS possesses advanced technology that enables the structuring of plant-based proteins to closely mimic the texture of meat. Earlier this year, INNOHAS opened its second facility, the largest plant-based specialised factory in South Korea, which expanded the companys total production capacity to three times the output of its first factory. This factory exclusively uses plant-based ingredients, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination with animal-based ingredients and ensuring higher product quality. In addition to fulfilling pre-ordered sales at the new factory, the company plans to further expand its market into Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam and Indonesia. By successfully scaling to mass production early on, INNOHAS has secured competitive market pricing and quality consistency. The company manufactures OEM products for renowned food companies and retailers in South Korea and the US under private brand labels, and separately has launched its own brand 'Sunlit Foods' with distribution in the US, Canada, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia, and the Netherlands. Since INNOHAS was launched in 2021, annual revenue has steadily increased, and in 2023 the company achieved 90 per cent year-on-year revenue growth. The company has also been consistently profitable. Jeesu Park, CEO and co-founder of INNOHAS, said, Partnering with VinaCapital Ventures is a tremendous opportunity for us. Their extensive network and deep understanding of the local market will significantly aid us in successfully entering the Southeast Asian market and providing superior products and services to local consumers. Through this investment, we plan to develop products tailored specifically to the Vietnamese and Southeast Asian markets, while also strengthening our local production and distribution networks. This will enable us to further expand our global market share and achieve sustainable growth. Hoang Duc Trung, partner at VinaCapital Ventures, stated, "We are proud to invest in INNOHAS and help them introduce their healthy and delicious products to Vietnam and Southeast Asia, as well as further expand their reach globally. The challenges related to consumer health, environmental sustainability and animal welfare are significant, and require innovative solutions like those from INNOHAS. Furthermore, this investment seamlessly aligns with VinaCapitals environmental, social, and governance values and initiatives, which include doing what we can to promote sustainability and reduce carbon emissions. F&B market taking on fresh appeal Vietnams food and beverage market is emerging as a hotbed of opportunity, with several companies from neighbouring nations as well as those further afield ramping up activity. Beacon Investment Fund to expand Lotus Group's F&B operations Beacon Investment Fund and Vietnam's Lotus Group on April 15 unveiled a substantial collaboration, committing millions of dollars to bolster the expansion and development of Lotus Group's food and beverages (F&B) arm. WATERLOO Bond will remain at $50,000 for a Waterloo man who was allegedly caught trying to meet a pre-teen in Evansdale for sex in a May. The attorney for 46-year-old Gabriel Keith Usher had asked the bail amount be cut in half to $25,000 during a Monday hearing. Attorney Robert Bembridge said a vigilante group had entrapped Usher. He said Usher has strong ties to the community. He had been living in the Coralville area and recently moved to Waterloo in search of a job. He had been staying with his mother in her Waterloo apartment. Assistant County Attorney Heather Jackson fought the request, noting that Usher is a registered sex offender because of a 2001 conviction for an offense involving a child, and he was detained in the Evansdale sting while out on bond awaiting trial for allegedly attempting to meet a 15-year-old girl in Iowa City in October. She also said federal authorities were investigating possible child pornography on his phone. Judge David Odekirk agreed, ordering the bond to remain at $50,000. In the Evansdale case, authorities allege Usher had been communicating with someone he thought was a 12-year-old girl and then drove to Evansdale to meet her for sex on May 31. The girl turned out to be a team from a group called Predator Poachers Southeast Texas, who started filming Usher when he showed up. Predator Poachers is a Houston-based group that targets child abusers, often setting up encounters and then filming videos that are posted on YouTube. The organization posted its 49-minute video of Usher on Tuesday. The footage shows interviewer Alex Rosen, going under the name Gordon Flowers, approaching Usher, who was wearing a Punisher T-shirt, shorts and a camouflage trucker cap with an American flag outside an Evansdale apartment complex. Usher talked freely with the interviewer and even surrendered his cell phone to him. I understand all the texting and all the inappropriate talkings and messages. Those are just feelings that shouldnt be allowed on the internet. I get it. I get pulled in because my son turned 12 last month, well five days ago, and I havent seen him in seven years. So the 12 age is stuck in my head trying to be a good parent, Usher told the Predator Poachers interviewer. He admitted he was out on pre-trial release for the Iowa City incident. I know I should have learned my lesson then, Usher said, who said he was going to counseling and attributed his behavior to a missing father complex. It was stupid, stinking thinking that I learned in the treatment program back 20 years ago. And I have to stop doing it, and Im getting therapy for it, Usher said. The interview continued until neighbors apparently called police, and officers showed up. States are required to background check child care workers, but many are falling short States are required to background check child care workers, but many are falling short An army veteran accused of killing a sex worker in a Las Vegas hotel allegedly told police he "snapped" when she tried to increase her prices for services. Jason Kendall, 35, has been charged with open murder, sexual assault, and battery by strangulation to commit sexual assault, in connection with the death of a woman at the Palms Casino Resort, according to police. The victim was identified as 30-year-old escort and mom of two Larissa Garcia, KLAS-TV reported, citing sources and court documents. The afternoon of June 12, Kendall and Garcia got a room at the Palms after meeting through an escort app. An hour later, Kendall was seen on surveillance footage leaving the property alone. Soon after, he allegedly called 911 to report a woman had overdosed in the hotel room. When police arrived, the victim was found unconscious with an injury to her jaw. At the hospital, staff noted Garcia may have been strangled and "possibly suffocated," according to the documents, the outlet reported. There were no traces of alcohol or drugs in her system. On June 21, Garcia was declared medically brain dead. On Friday, Kendall turned himself in and allegedly "confessed to a strangulation and sexual assault." After agreeing to a $2000 fee for sex, "Jason said Larissa requested additional payment and he 'snapped,'" documents read, according to the outlet. "He hit her in the face and 'choked' her for 'ten minutes' and 'then had sex with her.' After having sex with Larissa, Jason wrote he 'drug her away from the door and left.' After leaving the hotel he called the police to report an overdose." Kendall is due back in court Tuesday. It's unclear if he entered a plea to the charges. The fallout from President Joe Biden's miserable debate is giving me deja vu. In the political right's intramural arguments over Donald Trump, I argued that Trump's presidency would end badly because, to echo Heraclitus, character is destiny. Trump's presidency did indeed end badly, though sadly his political career did not end with it. Whatever laws he may or may not have broken on Jan. 6, 2021, he spent a large chunk of the afternoon watching TV as violent hooligans stormed the Capitol on his behalf, trying to steal the election, chanting death threats and literally and figuratively defecating on the people's house. He was even impeached on his way out the door. You know what else is destiny? Age. Not everyone is fortunate enough to make it to their golden years, but those who do inevitably lose the qualities of youth, mentally and physically. Some lose more than others, but everyone declines. Even Biden acknowledges he is not immune to senescence. He just denies that it matters much. And so does pretty much the entirety of the Democratic Party. The rhetorical wagon-circling consists of a few interchangeable talking points. "Bad debate nights happen," Barack Obama declared. The Biden family "will not let those 90 minutes define the four years he's been president," first lady Jill Biden told Vogue. The gist of all of this is that the president's debate performance was just a snapshot, an isolated incident. That's nonsense. Familiar nonsense. For years, whenever Trump put his unfitness on display, his defenders would say it was a stray remark, a one-time event. You have to judge him in context. He's a good man. He's fighting for you. In short, they would say all the things Biden's partisan Praetorian Guard is saying now. But they were isolated events in the way that the frames of a film are when you look at them one at a time. Roll the film, and you see the man in action. Biden's bad 90 minutes weren't a one-off. They were an example of a long-standing problem that, disastrously, was televised for all to see. The deja vu doesn't end there. After he secured the nomination in 2016, Trump's defenders would respond to any denigration of the candidate, particularly in the wake of the "Access Hollywood" tape that caught him boasting about sexual assault, by saying, in effect, "What about Hillary?" Anyone questioning Trump's fitness was accused of supporting Clinton. Today, any concerns about Biden's fitness are greeted with the same whataboutism with regard to Trump. After Trump was elected and the "isolated incident" defense lost plausibility, his defenders resorted to telling people not to believe their lying eyes. For years, Democrats and other Trump critics called this "gaslighting": trying to make people doubt their own perceptions rather than acknowledging that anything was amiss or untrue. Now the foes of gaslighting have become the gaslighters. It was Biden's idea to hold this debate. He set the date and rules. He locked himself away in seclusion for a week to prepare. Why? Because the Biden campaign knew it needed to rebut the narrative that he was too old and diminished to do the job. Instead, Biden confirmed it. Defenders rightly note that Trump's performance was full of lies (though Biden wasn't exactly a paragon of truth). But Biden was utterly incapable of rebutting them. When asked about abortion, his most potent issue, the president offered a word salad that ended with a garbled morass about how crime committed by illegal immigrants isn't a big deal because American women are getting raped all the time, including by their sisters. In response to Trump's ridiculous diatribe about the national debt, Biden rhetorically meandered into declaring, "We finally beat Medicare." Old age is different from bad character. But the similarities here are more important than the differences. If you believe Biden is the best choice to defeat Trump, make that argument. If you think a man who is "dependably engaged" only between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., as Axios reported, can do the job for the next six months -- never mind for another four years -- make that argument. But spare me the talk about Biden's legacy, one bad night and "Whatabout Trump?" The only relevant questions are "Can he do the job?" and, in a very distant second place, "Can he win?" Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (2 July 2024) The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation. Units of the Sever Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 57th, 115th mechanised brigades, and 113th Territorial Defence Brigade near Chumakovo, Yunakovka (Sumy region), Sotnitsky Kazachok, and Liptsy (Kharkov region). Two counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU Vostok Special Operations Centre and 36th Marines Brigade were repelled. The AFU losses amounted to up to 70 Ukrainian troops, one armoured fighting vehicle, three motor vehicles, one German-made 155-mm Panzerhaubitze-2000 self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, 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 14th, 115th mechanised brigades, and 3rd Assault Brigade near Pershotravnevoye (Kharkov region), Nadiya, and Stelmakhovka (Lugansk Peoples Republic). The AFU losses amounted to more than 475 Ukrainian troops, one tank, one infantry fighting vehicle, five motor vehicles, one 152-mm 2A65 Msta-B howitzer, and one 122-mm Grad MLRS combat vehicle. Moreover, three AFU artillery ammunition depots were destroyed. 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 56th Motorised Infantry Brigade near Kalinin (Donetsk Peoples Republic). One counter-attack launched by assault detachments of the AFU 214th Opfor Separate Battalion was repelled. The AFU losses amounted to more than 635 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, and 16 motor vehicles. In the course of counter-battery warfare, one UK-made 155-mm FH-70 howitzer, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, one UK-made 105-mm L-199 howitzer, and two U.S.-made AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery warfare stations. Six AFU field ammunition depots were destroyed. Units of the Tsentr Group of Forces improved the tactical situation and inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 47th Mechanised Brigade and 109th Territorial Defence Brigade near Rozovka, Novgorodskoye, and Novosyolka Pervaya (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Six counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 23rd, 31st, 41st, 110th mechanised brigades, and 95th Air Assault Brigade were repelled. The AFU losses amounted to up to 440 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer. Units of the Vostok Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 58th Motorised Infantry Brigade near Urozhaynoye (Donetsk Peoples Republic). One counter-attack launched by assault detachments of the AFU 123rd Territorial Defence Brigade was repelled. The AFU losses amounted to up to 110 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, two 122-mm 2S1 Gvozdika self-propelled artillery systems, and one 100-mm MT-12 Rapira anti-tank gun. Units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 65th Mechanised Brigade, 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, and 35th Marines Brigade near Malaya Tokmachka and Zherebyanka (Zaporozhye region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 70 Ukrainian troops and two motor vehicles. One electronic warfare station was destroyed. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces engaged AFU manpower and hardware clusters in 115 areas during the day. Air defence units shot down six UK-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles, one French-made Hammer guided aerial bomb, one U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectile, 81 unmanned aerial vehicles, including one Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicle. Nine aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force were neutralised. As a result of a group strike by precision weaponry at the airfield, five Su-27 aircraft were destroyed and two Su-27 aircraft were damaged. One MiG-29 and one Su-27 Ukrainian aircraft were shot down by Russian air defence units. In total, 625 airplanes and 276 helicopters, 27,121 unmanned aerial vehicles, 535 air defence missile systems, 16,478 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,362 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 11,215 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 23,238 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation. Tags: WtR One person is dead and five others hurt after gunmen opened fire on a reception at a French wedding hall. The gunmen stormed the venue in Thionville, a city in northeastern France on late Saturday as approximately a hundred guests were in attendance of a Turkish wedding party. Two people were seriously injured and one of them was in critical condition, according to AFP. A pregnant woman was among the wounded. "At a quarter past one in the morning, a group of people went outside to smoke in front of the hall, and then three heavily armed men arrived and opened fire in their direction," a police source told the media outlet. The suspects arrived in a 4x4 vehicle, "probably a BMW," they added. Sources have suggested that the attack could potentially be linked to settling a score between drug traffickers Authorities allegedly believe that a settling of scores connected to drug trafficking could be a possible motive behind the violence. "The wedding was not targeted as such, it was people who were at the wedding." In a statement to the BBC, prosecutor Francois Capin-Dulhoste said the men had fired "several dozen times", adding four people had been hit by the bullets. The victims are said to be between 25 and 50 years old. The Nevada DMV will temporarily suspend 'Walk-In Wednesday' services in several cities, including Reno, starting this week due to heat. The DMV says starting July 10, 2024, it will move Wednesday services to appointment-only until temperatures reach more typical levels, at which point Walk-In Wednesdays will resume. In order to accommodate customers who would usually visit on Wednesdays, the four Las Vegas offices will only open their books for Wednesday appointments on Tuesday afternoons. The DMV offers certain services such as the issuance of movement permits, payment of debts, and some ID card services without an appointment. These services will continue and remain unaffected. The DMVs Walk-In Wednesdays began in 2023 and allow customers to visit a major metropolitan office on Wednesdays without pre-scheduled appointments instead, customers scan QR codes at the office to join a virtual queue which manages the offices traffic. (Nevada DMV contributed to this report.) U.S. Secretary of Commerce Fina Raimondo visited Reno on Tuesday with a big check - $21 million to support Northern Nevadas lithium economy. Were taking what you have now, and helping you to take it to the next level. she said at a press conference at Dragonfly Energy. The Tech Hub at the University of Nevada, Reno will lead the charge on deciding how to spend the money. Provost Jeff Thompson said it will go toward initiatives that address community-wide challenges as the lithium-ion battery production industry grows in the region. Its everything from looking at workforce shortages and doing analysis and understanding where companies need help getting workers, to housing how are we going to solve housing issues? He said. Transportation issues. How can we make sure that you can move the lithium to where the batteries are being made? Those are challenges that Dragonfly Energy CEO Denis Phares knows well. Theres a lot of infrastructure that needs to be developed in order for us to compete in terms of developing a lithium economy, he said. Weve got lithium in the ground, but we have to get it out of the ground. We have to process it. We need to make cells. We need to recycle it. The Commerce Department has a vested interest in helping Nevada solve those challenges. Raimondo said that she wants to see the state become a global leader in lithium production. Energy independence, its supply chain resilience. We want these batteries made in America by Americans, so that were not entirely dependent on other countries, she said. Senator Jacky Rosen added that all of Northern Nevada stands to reap the benefits of a burgeoning lithium industry. People are building small businesses around it, so it spurs our entire community. Ninety-nine percent of businesses in Nevada are small businesses. It matters, she said. The biological mother of a missing North Carolina child whose charred remains were found at the bottom of a burn barrel says she is "waiting for answers" as the boy's adoptive mother is charged with the murders of him and his adoptive sister. Avantae Deven, 63, is also accused of concealment of death and kidnapping after police discovered the remains of Blake Deven, her adopted son, and what is believed to be the remains of London Deven, her adopted daughter in Fayetteville, North Carolina. "I really just feel like there's more questions, and [I'm] waiting for more answers," Felicia Chandler said, according to WRAL-TV. "I just want to see my other two boys. I want to know if the remains are going to be sent home to where they belong with their biological families." Deven was the adoptive mother of Chandler's two other boys. She also adopted two girls who were not biologically related. "Deven kept them in small rooms in complete darkness at times," Fayetteville Police Sgt. Jeff Locklear told reporters Wednesday, the outlet reported. "They were given little or no food, they could earn nourishment through doing 'paperwork.' That meant they had to write hundreds of paragraphs to apologize for misbehavior. It is alleged some of the children were also beaten to the point of needing medical care but were only given natural cures like honey." Police discovered the dismembered bodies inside a metal burn barrel on April 10 and testing confirmed one of the remains belonged to Blake, who was likely around 10 years old when he was killed, last week. Testing on the second set of remains, believed to belong to London, who was likely between 15 and 17, is ongoing, according to the Fayetteville Observer. The investigation began in November 2023 when police responded to a 911 call about a mental health crisis at the Deven's home, according to Spectrum News. A sibling of Blake's told police that they had not seen him in five years. During the investigation police learned that London was also missing, and hadn't been seen since 2019. While conducting interviews with Blake and London's adoptive siblings, police discovered the "appalling conditions the kids grew up in." "There were a lot of beatings because we would steal food just to survive," her adopted daughter, Bryanna Morrow, previously known as Cherish Deven, alleged, according to WRAL. "She would just drag you down by your hair and beat you." Police alleged Blake was "mentally abused and starved," leading up to his death. "His body could not sustain the inhumane treatment," said Locklear, the outlet reported. "Then, Avantae developed a plan to hide Blake's remains. She forced another person in the household to participate." Locklear said it's likely London died "in the same painful way that Blake died from, starvation and neglect." Deven was denied bond and is due back in court July 17. Appoints Advisors to Strengthen Olympic Domain Plans Melbourne, July 3, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Altair Minerals Limited ( ASX:ALR ) ( CHKMF:OTCMKTS ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Chris Anderson, Ken Cross and Steven Cooper, highly experienced professionals in their respective fields, bringing an unparallelled wealth of knowledge in IOCG discoveries to drive forward Altair's exploration programs, with aims of making a groundbreaking discovery at the Olympic Domain Project. - Altair Minerals welcomes Mr. Chris Anderson, a seasoned geophysicist with 40 years of extensive experience in mineral exploration, as a Technical Advisor to our Board of Directors. - Mr. Anderson's profound expertise in geophysical modelling and targeted drill planning led to the Carrapateena IOCG discovery holes, subsequently sold to Oz Minerals. Carrapateena became Oz Minerals' flagship asset prior to its AU $9.6B takeover by BHP. - Joining also is Dr. Ken Cross, a renowned specialist in IOCG systems for the past 35 years to assist the board as a Technical Advisor (Geology). - Dr. Cross was a Senior Geologist at WMC Resources and following a role as Senior Research Geologist at Olympic Dam, has made significant contributions to IOCG geological modelling and exploration concepts. - Altair Minerals is also delighted to announce Mr. Steven Cooper as the new Exploration Manager for the Wee MacGregor and Olympic Domain Copper assets. - Mr. Cooper has over 35 years of hands-on experience in managing and evaluating mineral exploration programs. Mr. Cooper is poised to lead a dynamic new phase of exploration at Altair Minerals. - These appointments will play a pivotal role in spearheading an exploration program to test new high-potential and robust geophysical anomalies located adjacent to the outstanding BHP Oak Dam West discovery (425.7m @ 3.04% Cu & 0.59g/t Au, 346ppm U3O8) Mr. Chris Anderson, an experienced geophysicist who boasts 40 years of experience in mineral exploration in Australia and abroad has been appointed as a technical advisor to the board of directors. Chris Anderson played a crucial role in the 2005 discovery of the Carrapateena IOCG deposit in South Australia which was subsequently sold to Oz Minerals for AU~$375 million. Carrapateena was Oz Minerals' flagship asset before its $9.6 billion buy-out from BHP. Mr. Anderson's contribution was propelled by his geophysical and geological expertise in the modelling and interpretation of data of the Gawler Craton which ultimately led to planning the drill holes for the Carrapateena discovery. Mr. Anderson's earlier experience includes exploration manager for Eastern Australia for Placer Pacific, where he was instrumental in the discovery of the Kalkaroo copper-goldmolybdenum deposit in South Australia. Mr. Anderson extends work has extended beyond Australian shores, with international experience including geophysical interpretation in Zambia for Equinox Resources Ltd, and in Tanzania for North Mara Gold Mines, where he contributed to the discovery of the one-million-ounce Gokona gold deposit. From 2005 to 2010, Mr Anderson served as an executive director of ASX-listed 'Stellar Resources' with exploration interests in New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia. Dr. Ken Cross, a prominent South Australian (SA) geologist and a specialist in IOCG systems for around 35 years has been appointed as a technical advisor to the board of directors, bringing a wealth of geological expertise specifically focused at targeting large IOCG systems. His wealth of geological knowledge spans across various mineral deposits, including nickel, hydrothermal silver-lead-zinc (AgPb-Zn), greisen tin, skarn tungsten, and orogenic gold. Dr. Cross has made significant academic contributions to the understanding of SA IOCG and Copper deposits and was the Senior Research Geologist at Olympic Dam when WMC Resources developed and commenced mining the deposit. Mr. Steven Cooper has been appointed as the new Exploration Manager for the Wee McGregor and Olympic Domain assets. Steven brings over 35 years of experience in the mineral exploration industry, with demonstrated experience in all stages of exploration, including project initiation, field data collection, analysis, and reporting. Mr Cooper is the sole proprietor of his own exploration consulting firm with a diverse client base. He's also a published author and a Fellow of the AusIMM and the Geological Society. Altair Minerals is well-positioned to benefit from Steven's deep knowledge and proven leadership in exploration. This appointment strengthens our team and positions Altair Minerals for future success in IOCG endeavours. Olympic Domain Project The Olympic Domain Project consists of three prospects (Horse Well, Pernatty C, Lake Torrens) situated in one of the largest copper provinces in the world - the Gawler Craton, which hosts mega-IOCG discoveries such as Oak Dam West, Olympic Dam, Prominent Hill and Carrapateena. As seen in Figure 1*, Altair is the only junior remaining within the Olympic Domain region (South Easterly Corridor running from Olympic Dam to Oak Dam) that has greenfield geophysical anomalies with IOCG discovery potential. These major anomalies are located within the Horse Well area, surrounded by majors in all directions. There are two outstanding and unexplained geophysical "hotspot" targets present within Horse Well area("Target 1" & "Target 2"-Figure 1*). Preliminary studies have confirmed these hotspots coincide with major structural and geophysical features suggestive of substantial mineralised and partially magnetized systems. Both geophysical targets at Horse Well are of significant size and indicative of an area where substantial IOCG deposit potential exists. Mr. Chris Anderson will drive forward the discovery campaign at Olympic Domain Project as he did with Carrapateena, with initial focus on the Horse Well Prospect - which will consist of reinterpreting geophysical, geological, lithological and petrological data with the assistance of Dr. Ken Cross to generate high-priority drill targets. Steven Cooper will assist in the execution of strategic decisions and exploration plans developed by Altair. Steven will also lead the planning for sampling and drilling programs at Wee MacGregor Copper Project (Mt Isa district Qld). Altair management in parallel ontinues to evaluate high-potential business opportunities in the mining sector globally. Altair Chief Executive Officer, Faheem Ahmed comments: "We are thrilled to announce a powerhouse team of world-class IOCG specialists, essentially bringing two of the best minds in IOCG discoveries and modelling in Australia towards our Olympic Domain asset. "The Horse Well prospect is an exciting discovery opportunity for the company, and Altair is fortunate to be the last junior in the area with outstanding geophysical anomalies which have yet to undergo thorough exploration, sandwiched by majors. "Between Dr. Cross and Mr. Anderson, they share a combined 75-years of knowledge in the geology and IOCG exploration sectors with legacies and reputations built at Olympic Dam and Carrapateena respectively. "In addition, Steven Cooper our new Exploration Manager has 35 years of hands-on experience in the mineral exploration industry who has knowledge and capability to manage all aspects of our programs. "As seen in Figure 1*, Altair holds an incredible piece of ground with every other geophysical target in this highly prospective district being held by multi-billion-dollar companies. The geophysical anomalies work as an effective pathfinder in this region which has led to numerous world class discoveries by neighbours. We have an incredible exploration opportunity here with some of the most exciting geology in the world, which now has some of the best geologists in the space working towards generating another potentially world-class discovery. "I'm incredibly pleased to be working with these industry veterans and look forward to updating the market as exploration progresses". *To view tables and figures, please visit: https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/G649K219 About Altair Minerals Limited Altair Minerals Limited (ASX:ALR) (OTCMKTS:CHKMF) is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) with the primary focus of investing in the resource sector through direct tenement acquisition, joint ventures, farm in arrangements and new project generation. The Company has projects located in South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland with a key focus on its Olympic Domain tenements located in South Australia. Related Companies N. India stampede death toll rises to "over 60," PM Modi sends condolences Xinhua) 10:21, July 03, 2024 NEW DELHI, July 2 (Xinhua) -- The death toll in Tuesday's stampede at a religious gathering in India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh rose to "over 60," according to a senior local administration official. The stampede had occurred in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras area, around 150 miles southeast of New Delhi. Those injured were admitted to a government hospital in nearby Etah district. The death toll was feared to rise further. Meanwhile, local media NDTV reported that 87 people, including women and children, were killed and many others injured in the tragedy. Most people died by falling in a drain by the side of the road, an eyewitness told local media. News agency "Press Trust of India" (PTI) quoted the eyewitness lady, identified as Shakuntala, as saying that after the religious ceremony had ended, people had started leaving the venue. "Outside the road was built on a height with a drain below. One after the other, people started falling into it. Some people got crushed," she added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences at the loss of lives in the stampede. Speaking in Indian Parliament's lower house "Lok Sabha," Modi said, "All possible help will be provided to the victims." Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed a couple of his ministers to reach the spot. He also directed the local administration and police officials to provide all possible help to the injured. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The sentencing date for Donald Trump's New York hush money trial conviction has been delayed until at least Sept 18. The delay came hours after prosecutors said they would not fight postponing the sentence as the former president attempts to have his conviction tossed. The news comes on the heels of a Supreme Court ruling that has granted broad immunity protections to presidents. In a letter filed with the New York court, prosecutors with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office said they would be open to a delay of at least two weeks in the July 11 sentencing in order to file a response to Trump's motions, according to The Associated Press. Should the request be granted by Judge Juan M. Merchan, the postponement would mean that Trump won't know of his sentence until after he is formally nominated at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, which is set to start on July 15. The letter was announced one day after Trump's legal team requested the sentencing delay during the time the judge considers the high court's ruling and its potential influence over the New York case. Defense attorneys for the former president argued that Manhattan prosecutors had placed "highly prejudicial emphasis on official-acts evidence," including Trump's social media posts and witness testimony about Oval Office meetings. However, on Tuesday, prosecutors said they believed those arguments were "without merit," yet they noted they were not opposed to pausing the sentencing while the judge examines the matter. Trump was convicted in May on 34 counts of falsifying business records stemming from an attempt to cover up a $130,000 hush money payment to porn actor Stormy Daniels just before the 2016 presidential election. His presence is required in Merchan's Manhattan courtroom upon sentencing. CMF, a sub-brand of Nothing, the London-based tech company, has partnered with popular Indian actress Rashmika Mandanna as its brand ambassador. Mandanna will be featured in digital, print, and TVC campaigns, embodying the innovative spirit and stylish essence of CMF products. "We are thrilled to welcome Rashmika Mandanna to the CMF family," said Vishal Bhola, President, Nothing India. "CMF by Nothing embodies our philosophy of creating beautiful, functional, and thoughtful devices that enhance everyday experiences. Rashmika Mandanna, with her dynamic personality and dedication to her craft, is a perfect fit for CMF, and we're excited to have her represent our brand." Mandanna expressed her delight at the partnership: "I'm thrilled to partner with CMF by Nothing, a brand that reflects a culture of innovation. Discovering CMF reminded me of my own journey of starting something new. The impressive colors and unique products instantly appealed to me. This collaboration felt very natural because I love edgy designs and great aesthetics." CMF Phone 1 Unveiled Alongside the brand ambassador announcement, CMF unveiled the innovative and customizable design of the CMF Phone 1. This smartphone boasts a focus on personalization and functionality. Available in four vibrant colors (Black, Orange, Light Green, and Blue), the CMF Phone 1 caters to diverse tastes. Black and Light Green feature textured cases, while Blue and Orange sport elegant vegan leather layers. The CMF Phone 1 prioritizes user individuality. Users can easily swap cases for different colors or materials, or attach purposeful accessories, giving new meaning to phone customization. The announcement comes as anticipation builds for the highly-anticipated launch of the CMF Phone 1 on July 8th. Alongside the phone, CMF will also launch the Watch Pro 2 and Buds Pro 2. These upcoming products embody CMF's commitment to exceptional daily technology experiences at affordable prices, combined with cutting-edge design and functionality. Also read: NBA and Publicis Groupe win at Cannes Lions Festival The Delhi High Court on Wednesday reprimanded social media platform X Corp (Twitter) for challenging a court order directing it to remove posts by Congress leaders accusing journalist Rajat Sharma of using abusive language against their colleague Ragini Nayak on live television. The court, led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, expressed concern about X Corp's behavior, stating it should function as a neutral platform and comply with court orders. We are concerned about your role. You are not acting like an intermediary, the Acting Chief Justice remarked. This resistance to court orders is a growing trend, not just in India but internationally as well." Justice Gedela questioned why the platform would oppose the order, particularly when someone's reputation is at stake. Senior advocate Rajshekhar Rao, representing X Corp, argued that the platform has no personal stake in the matter and contested the way the order was issued. He pointed out that the takedown order issued by a single judge required compliance within seven days, even though the defendants (Congress leaders) were identifiable. The responsibility to take down the content lies with the individual posting it," Rao argued. "While I will comply with an ex parte order, I urge for a structured process." He further emphasized that Sharma's lawsuit was not served on the defendants, with the plaintiff arguing it would become pointless if served. Rao cited a recent Supreme Court ruling stressing the exceptional circumstances required for granting ex parte injunctions. There should be some due process, Rao added, requesting that the single judge's order be treated as temporary and allowing X Corp to present its arguments at the next hearing. The court accepted the request, clarifying that the initial order is temporary and the application for interim relief will be heard by the single judge on July 11th. This case stems from an ex parte order issued on June 14th by a single judge of the High Court, directing the removal of social media posts and videos by Congress leaders Ragini Nayak, Jairam Ramesh, and Pawan Khera. These posts alleged that Sharma used abusive language against Nayak during a live TV discussion on India TV, Sharma's news channel. Justice Neena Bansal Krishna, who issued the initial order, believed the Congress leaders had exaggerated the incident and misrepresented the facts. The court also determined that Sharma would suffer irreparable harm if the content remained on social media platforms. Sharma has filed a defamation suit against Nayak, Khera, and Ramesh, seeking 100 crore in damages. The controversy began with a video clip circulating on social media platforms, allegedly showing Sharma using offensive language towards Nayak during a discussion on India TV on the day of the Lok Sabha election results. Nayak posted the video on X Corp on June 10th and subsequently filed a police complaint against Sharma. Sharma has denied the allegations, calling them a fabricated smear campaign orchestrated by the Congress party's media cell. Over the past five years, Google's emissions have surged by 48%. In its annual environmental report published on Tuesday, July 2, Google disclosed that its greenhouse gas emissions reached 14.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide in 2023. This marks a 13% increase from 2022 and a 48% rise compared to 2019. The company attributes the rise in emissions primarily to higher energy consumption at data centers and supply chain emissions. Google acknowledged that as AI integration into its products deepens, reducing emissions may become more challenging due to the escalating energy demands of AI computations and the associated emissions from increased technical infrastructure investments. Notably, in 2021, Google committed to achieving net-zero emissions across all its operations and value chain by 2030. To achieve this, the tech giant plans to cut 50% of its total emissions and invest in both nature-based and technology-driven carbon removal solutions to neutralize the remainder. Google has also pledged to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to validate its absolute emissions reduction goals. Despite these efforts, Google anticipates that its total emissions will "rise before dropping toward our absolute emissions reduction target." The company acknowledges the ambitious nature of its 2030 net-zero emissions goal, recognizing the inherent challenges and uncertainties, particularly regarding the future environmental impact of AI, which is complex and difficult to predict. Moreover, Google points out that solutions for some critical global challenges are still undeveloped and will largely depend on a broader transition to clean energy. In June, Google expanded its data center footprint with new investments in Singapore and Malaysia. In Singapore, the tech giant completed the expansion of its latest data center and cloud region campus, increasing its total investment in the country's technical infrastructure to US$5 billion, up from US$850 million in 2018. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand for cloud services both locally and globally, reinforcing Singapore's status as a regional data center hub. "The expansion of our data center campus in Singapore reaffirms our commitment to helping Southeast Asian organizations capitalize on digital opportunities, while ensuring that growth is as sustainable as possible," said Kate Brandt, Google's chief sustainability officer. GroupM India, WPPs media investment group, today announces the appointment of Praseed Prasad as Chief Growth Officer. In its newly created role, Praseed will lead GroupMs growth, marketing and communications. The role is further designed to accelerate GroupMs growth and strengthen its position as the industrys leader in media investments and marketing partner. In his new role, Praseed will oversee strategy and operations for GroupMs business development, growth, marketing, and communications to clients, employees, and industry audiences. He will work closely with the agency and GroupM leadership to identify growth opportunities, develop integrated solutions that leverage the skills and expertise of the industrys deepest bench of talent, and effectively communicate GroupMs value proposition. Praseed, returning back to GroupM, brings a wealth of experience to this position. Prior to joining IceCream Labs in 2015, he held key roles within GroupM, including heading Digital Trading and overseeing digital investments for all GroupM clients. His diverse background also includes stints at Flipkart, where he ran the Ads Agency Business and led Media and Partnerships, as well as at Google, where he managed Media Operations for EMEA markets and later ran the Google APAC Agency and Partner business. Prasanth Kumar, CEO GroupM South Asia said, It is great to have Praseed back to GroupM as Chief Growth Officer. His extensive experience in understanding client needs, strategic initiatives, industry knowledge, and cross-functional collaboration positions will help us enhance our market growth. His track record underscores his ability to navigate complex ecosystems and deliver results. We anticipate that his leadership will directly benefit our clients and the brands we work with, driving innovation and enhancing performance. Praseed Prasad, Chief Growth Officer GroupM India said, I am delighted to return to GroupM where I grew during the early days of my career and spent more than a decade setting up new business units and functions. I look forward to strengthening opportunities for our clients and brands that will allow me to apply my experiences to help grow the GroupM business onwards and upwards. Am excited to collaborate with all the agency teams to help drive our clients business impact and deliver them exceptional growth. Praseed will be based out of GroupMs Bangalore office and report into Prasanth Kumar, CEO GroupM South Asia. Also read:GroupM elevates Ashwin Padmanabhan to COO, GroupM South Asia Germany and Poland have pledged to work together to boost Ukraine's defense while NATO looks to "Trump-proof" aid amid concerns over the former president's potential return to the White House. Details of NATO's new initiatives are expected to be announced at a summit in Washington, D.C., next week, following a less-than-stellar performance from President Joe Biden in Thursday's debate against Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing U.S. and alliance officials. As part of its plan, the organization is expected to station a senior civilian official in Kyiv and put in place a new command in Wiesbaden, Germany, manned by 700 U.S. and other allied personnel for its NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine operation. A Trump victory in November could mean a reduction in American support for Ukraine, after he criticized the amount of money the U.S. has spent supporting the country in its war against Russia, which Germany and Poland both view as their biggest threat. "A big reason for the change is to Trump-proof the assistance effort to Ukraine," former U.S. ambassador to NATO Ivo Daalder told the outlet in an interview published Tuesday. "Rather than having Washington in charge of managing the training and assistance, NATO will be in charge. So even if the U.S. reduces or withdraws support for the effort, it won't be eliminated." Germany and Poland former enemies during World War II have vowed to work together and coordinate their military assistance to aid Ukraine. "It does provide for durability in the face of potential national political changes, whether it is as the result of elections in the United States, France, the U.K. or even in the European Union," another former U.S. ambassador to NATO, Douglas Lute, explained. In Warsaw Monday, Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced Germany's alliance with Poland following the first meeting between the two countries in the past six years. "The security of Poland is also the security of Germany," Scholz reassured, according to the WSJ. "We will pool our capacities, and we will coordinate more... We will jointly take responsibility for the protection of NATO's Eastern flank." The ABP Network witnessed a shift in power. Ravi Kudesiaa, having served for over seven years, was bestowed the title of Vice President for Branded Content and Events. His previous role as Business Head remained shrouded in the shadows yet credited him with the experience for this esteemed position in Branded content and events bowed before his expertise. In a digital realm abuzz with professional pronouncements, a proclamation of Ravi Kudesiaas elevation found its way onto LinkedIn. The social media platform passively acknowledged his ascent to the prestigious position of Vice President, Branded Content and Events, at ABP Network. Kudesiaa, a testament to his two decades of experience in the vast world of media marketing, which encompassed print, television, radio, and digital realms. Timex, the renowned American watchmaker, is back with its playful "Waste More Time" campaign, this time featuring their brand ambassador Ananya Panday. The global campaign continues to encourage people to embrace joy and pursue their passions, even if they seem unproductive to others. This latest iteration highlights the importance of finding a balance between work and play. The digital film opens with Ananya diligently browsing her bookshelf, seemingly engrossed in work. But the scene takes a delightful turn as she playfully balances books on her head and breaks into a dance, showcasing the unique way to "waste time" on activities that bring happiness. Ananya balances work and play by indulging in the concept of Waste More Time with Timex! This campaign represents a delightful departure from the ordinary, encouraging individuals to pursue their passions without fear of judgement and to embrace the analog life fully by slowing down and living in the moment. Deepak Chhabra, Managing Director, Timex India, shared his views about the latest campaign, The success of the Waste More Time campaign which celebrates the idea of investing time in yourself and realising that is indeed time well spent is evident through the love our consumers have been showering on Timex. The iconic brand, now in its 170th year, continues to regale consumers with its timeless designs and its belief in the importance of doing more of what brings you joy. Deepak Chhabra, Managing Director, Timex India, shared his views about the latest campaign, The success of the Waste More Time campaign which celebrates the idea of investing time in yourself and realising that is indeed time well spent is evident through the love our consumers have been showering on Timex. The iconic brand, now in its 170th year, continues to regale consumers with its timeless designs and its belief in the importance of doing more of what brings you joy. Actor and Brand Ambassador Ananya Panday shares her experience, I'm really excited about this third campaign collaboration with Timex. This is not just a campaign, it's a way of life and I see myself more aligned to lifes little joys, no holds barred. Heres to those who live life on their own terms let Timex be a reminder to Waste More Time. yle, appealing to everyone who values fashion. The film is now available to view on Timex's official website and social media channels. Also Read : Timex is back in TATA IPL as official timekeeper for Punjab Kings CEAT, one of the pioneering tyre manufacturers in India, has announced the elevation of Vishal Pawar to the role of Senior Vice President - Global Sales and Supply Chain. This significant leadership change marks a new chapter in the growth trajectory of CEAT. Vishal Pawar, who was leading the Replacement Sales as Vice President, will succeed Saurav Mukherjee, who has quit after a successful stint spanning more than four years in the role. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the global sales and supply chain strategies of the company. Vishal Pawar brings extensive experience to his new role. An engineering graduate from the College of Engineering Pune and a management graduate from SIBM, he began his career with TAFE Limited in Chennai as a Management Trainee. He first joined CEAT in 2005 as Category Head before moving into sales and serving a successful stint as the Zonal Sales Head for the South. In 2019, Pawar transitioned to Garware Technical Fibres before returning to CEAT, where he rose to become Vice President of Indias largest aftermarket sales division. His wealth of experience and proven track record make him the ideal candidate to lead CEAT's global sales and supply chain efforts. Arnab Banerjee, MD & CEO of CEAT, said, "We are thrilled to have Vishal step into this critical role. His deep understanding of the industry, combined with his strategic vision and leadership capabilities, makes him the perfect fit to drive our global sales and supply chain initiatives. I am confident that under his leadership, CEAT will continue to strengthen its market position and achieve new heights. I would also like to express our sincere thanks to Saurav Mukherjee for his significant contributions to the company. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours." Vishal Pawar said, I am excited to take on this new role and shall work towards taking CEAT to the next level in terms of driving market share and making it a premium brand in the years to come. My primary focus will be on capability development and strengthening processes, which I believe makes the strong foundation of any sustainable business. Following the movement of Saurav Mukherjee from the company on July 31, 2024, Vishal Pawar has taken on his new role with effect from July 1, 2024. Gear up for a bone-chilling yet entertaining ride that will leave you gasping for air as ZEE5, India's largest home-grown video streaming platform and a multilingual storyteller, today drops the trailer of the most anticipated horror-comedy, 'Kakuda.' Directed by the visionary Aditya Sarpotdar and produced by RSVP, 'Kakuda' boasts of an ensemble cast led by the inimitable talents like Sonakshi Sinha, Riteish Deshmukh, Saqib Saleem and Aasif Khan. The trailer gives a tantalizing glimpse into the peculiar curse plaguing the village of Ratodi, this unique yet powerhouse trio is set to solve the mystery with their impeccable comic timing, as 'Kakuda' premieres on July 12th, exclusively on ZEE5. As seen in the trailer, Kakuda follows the story of Sunny played by Saqib Saleem, a less-educated guy who is in love with Indira portrayed by Sonakshi Sinha. Determined to be together, they marry and move to the village of Ratodi only to be cursed by Kakuda. On their wedding night, Sunny fails to open the smaller door for Kakuda at 7:15PM sharp, inviting Kakuda, a wicked ghost who punishes the man of the house by inflicting a hump on their back that grows until their demise on the thirteenth day. With Sunny's life hanging by a thread, Indira seeks help from Victor, an eccentric ghost hunter played by Riteish Deshmukh. Together, they embark on a freakishly hilarious yet spooky journey to solve the mystery of Kakuda, uncover the shocking truth about the ghost's identity, motives, and the village's haunting curse that has lasted for decades. However, will unexpected twists leave Sunny's fate hanging. Or will Victor and Indira be able to save him before the 13th day? Based on yet another strange folklore, Kakuda is a fun ride you must embark upon starting July 12, 2024 only on ZEE5. Director Aditya Sarpotdar highlighted, The release of the 'Kakuda' trailer is just a glimpse into the fascinating narrative of a unique folklore that we've created. This labor of love has been a thrilling ride, blending horror and comedy in a way that will keep audiences intrigued. Trust me, there are so many more laughs and scares in store when the film premieres on ZEE5. I can't wait for viewers to immerse themselves in the delightfully quirky tale of the Ratodi village and its bone-chilling legend. It's going to be a fun, frightful, and an unforgettable experience." Riteish Deshmukh added, I'm thrilled to be a part of the quirky and eccentric world of 'Kakuda'. Playing the role of Victor, an unconventional ghost hunter, allowed me to tap into a side of my acting abilities that I hadnt fully explored before. This character is unlike any other I've portrayed, and that's what makes it so exciting. Blending horror and comedy is a delicate balance, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside such talented co-stars like Sonakshi Sinha and Saqib Saleem. 'Kakuda' takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, leaving you both laughing and scared. I can't wait for audiences to experience this one-of-a-kind horror-comedy when it premieres on ZEE5. Upon joining hands with Riteish Deshmukh, Sonakshi Sinha said, In 'Kakuda', I play the role of a girl who believes in science and not in superstitions. However, when she encounters the peculiar ritual, she decides to dig deeper and find out the truth behind it. I must admit, balancing horror with comedy is a challenging task it's not easy to make people laugh while simultaneously sending chills down their spines. But this film was an absolute blast to shoot, especially because of my co actors Ritesh, Saqib and Aasif who are so funny in real life as well and such talented actors! We had a lot of fun. I'm really looking forward to seeing how audiences react to our efforts. I am confident that that the film will promise both laughter and thrills in equal measure." Saqib Saleem mentioned, "I've always been a fan of comedy movies, and the horror-comedy genre is a personal favorite. 'Kakuda' is an exciting project and with it releasing directly on ZEE5, I am sure it will reach a widespread audience. While theatrical releases have their charm, OTT platforms offer an incredible opportunity to connect with more masses. The film's quirky and intriguing storyline about solving the mystery of a ferocious ghost and a cursed village's haunting ritual is what initially drew me in. Of course, the chance to work with talented actors like Sonakshi Sinha & Riteish Deshmukh was another major reason I said yes. We had an absolute blast on set, and I'm confident our comedic chemistry will leave viewers in stitches. I can't wait for everyone to experience the spine-chilling laughter that 'Kakuda' promises to deliver." Also read: ZEE5 and Zee Cafe announce a Sci-Fi thriller series, Loop 11:47 Federal Department of Justice and Police Bern, 03.07.2024 - Federal Councillor Beat Jans visited Austria and Serbia from 1 to 3 July. During his working visit to Vienna, he met with Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner to discuss migration and security issues. In Belgrade, Mr Jans met President Aleksandar Vucic and held talks with Serbian Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Ivica Dacic and Justice Minister Maja Popovic. The main topics were the international situation, irregular migration, combating people smuggling and organised crime. In addition, the head of the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP) gained an insight into the situation on the ground by visiting an asylum centre. Both irregular migration in Europe and organised crime are common challenges that require a high degree of international coordination. In travelling to Vienna and Belgrade, Mr Jans reaffirmed Switzerland's commitment to deepening cross-border and partnership-based approaches to security and police cooperation in Europe. Joint effort to tackle people smugglers On 2 July, Mr Jans visited the Joint Operational Office (JOO), where he also met with the head of the Joint Coordination Platform (JCP). The aim of the JCP is to coordinate border management, returns and the fight against people smuggling along the eastern Mediterranean route. The JOO serves as a regional operational platform for investigations into international networks involved in people smuggling and human trafficking. Switzerland is endeavouring to improve the exchange of police information in this area. On the same day, Mr Jans met with Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner to discuss security policy issues and the migration situation. The two ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further intensify their cooperation. Strengthened cooperation with Serbia At a working meeting in Belgrade on 3 July, Mr Jans and Serbian Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Ivica Dacic discussed long-standing cooperation under the migration partnership. Mr Jans spoke with Justice Minister Maja Popovic about international legal assistance and the criminal prosecution of crimes under international law. He recognised the efforts of his counterpart to reform the justice system. He stated that this should bring Serbia even closer to European standards. During a meeting with representatives of the European Union (EU) and Frontex, the EU border and coast guard agency, Mr Jans was briefed about their cooperation with Serbia. Migration management is a key area in which the EU supports Serbia. They also discussed the agreement between the EU and Serbia on the support provided by Frontex to the Serbian border protection authority. Mr Jans also met with civil society representatives and commended their work on human rights and protecting refugees. Switzerland supports projects in Serbia At the Obrenovac asylum centre Mr Jans was met by the Serbian Commissioner for Refugees and Migration, Natasa Stanisavljevic. To date, Switzerland has supported around 20 migration-related projects in Serbia. Switzerland will continue to support Serbia on migration, focusing on strengthening the asylum system, integrating and protecting vulnerable migrants. Address for enquiries FDJP Communications, info@gs-ejpd.admin.ch, T +41 58 462 18 18 Publisher Federal Department of Justice and Police http://www.ejpd.admin.ch The eye of Category 4 but slightly weaker Hurricane Beryl brushed the south coast of Jamaica on Wednesday with 130 mph winds. And its long-range forecast has those in Texas and on the western Gulf Coast watching very closely. The National Hurricane Center said Beryl could bring light-threatening winds and storm surge to Jamaica and will approach the Cayman Islands tonight into Thursday. Beryl was still a powerful Category 4 hurricane on Wednesday night. As of 7 p.m. CDT, the eye of Hurricane Beryl was located about 100 miles west of Kingston, Jamaica, and was tracking to the west-northwest at 20 mph. Beryl peaked as a Category 5 hurricane with 165 mph winds early Tuesday morning but was still a Category 4 on Wednesday. The hurricane center said Beryl could weaken some over the next day or two but will still be a hurricane as it crosses the Caribbean. The long-range forecast track for Beryl has those in Texas watching very closely. The hurricane centers official track shows Beryl menacing Jamaica and the Caymans, then crossing the western Caribbean and making another landfall Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula early Friday. Then Beryl could cross the peninsula and move into the southern Gulf of Mexico. Earlier forecasts had Beryl at tropical storm strength in the Gulf, but the latest forecast suggests Beryl could restrengthen to a hurricane again as it heads toward Mexicos Gulf Coast. Its final landfall could come early Monday in northern Mexico, very close to the border with Texas. The hurricane center continued to caution that there was considerable uncertainty about Beryls forecast track. Forecasters said numerical models showing stronger storms in the Gulf of Mexico are generally on the northern side of the guidance envelope and weaker storms on the southern side. The hurricane centers official forecast is right down the middle of the consensus. The hurricane center said hurricane-force winds extend outward about 45 miles from the center of Beryl. Forecasters have increased the forecast for storm surge for Jamaica. Now 6 to 9 feet of surge will be possible for the island. The Caymans could see 2 to 4 feet of surge. Four to 8 inches of rain will be possible in Jamaica, and 2 to 4 inches in the Caymans, the hurricane center said. A hurricane warning is in effect for Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. A hurricane warning has been added for the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico from Puerto Costa Maya to Cancun. A hurricane watch is in effect for the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico south of Puerto Costa Maya to Chetumal and the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico north of Cancun to Cabo Catoche. A tropical storm warning is in effect for the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico south of Puerto Costa Maya to Chetumal and the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico north of Cancun to Progresso A tropical storm watch is in effect for the coast of Belize from south of Chetumal to Belize City and the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico west of Cabo Catoche to Campeche. NeKeshia Keke Dawson Jabbar, one of the stars of the reality show Love & Marriage: Huntsville, died Tuesday, according to a statement from her family. TMZ reported Jabbar was 42. A cause of death was not immediately known. The statement was read on the YouTube channel of vlogger Marcella Speaks. It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Keke. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by love, the statement read. She was a mom, a sister, a great friend full of life, love and laughter. She will sorely be missed. At this time, we are asking for respect and privacy in our moment of grief while we process this great loss, the statement continued. It was signed the Jabbar/Scott Family. Jabbar was featured in the most recent seasons of the Oprah Winfrey Network show, which premiered in January 2019 and showcases the lives of prominent Black families in Huntsville. Jabbar was the cousin of LaTisha Scott, who is featured prominently in the series along with her husband, Marsau Scott. At this time we are asking for RESPECT, and PRIVACY in our moment of grief, while we process this great loss!This is hard for our Family!!!!! LaTisha Scott posted Tuesday to her Instagram account: According to her social media profiles, Jabbar was also a writer, editor, author and professor of English at Alabama A&M University in Huntsville. Charlotte Teague, chairwoman of the universitys English Department, said Jabbar was an instructor in the department several years ago and had not worked for the department in more than five years. I am sad to hear of her passing, Teague said. A teen is in custody on capital murder charges in the June slayings of three men at a Hispanic grocery store in Montgomery. Jarques Butler, 18, of Montgomery, Alabama, is charged with capital murder in the June 4 shootings deaths of George Elijah, Jr., 50, Daniel Lopez, 20, and Romero Lopez, 43, all of Montgomery. Shortly after 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Montgomery police special operations officers tried to make contact with Butler in the area of East Fifth Street, said Maj. Saba Coleman. Butler ran away. After an extensive search, which included the use ALEAs aviation unit, Butler was taken into custody without further incident. He is being held without bond in the Montgomery County Detention Facility. Police and fire medics responded to the Tienda Los Hermanos grocery store in the 4100 block of Troy Highway around 8:55 p.m. Tuesday, June 4, on a call of people shot. Officers found the three shot at the store. The Lopezes were father and son. Elijah and Daniel Lopez were pronounced dead at the scene. Romero Lopez was taken to a local hospital, where he died of his injuries. Mayor Steven Reed and former Acting Police Chief John Hall held a press conference the following day addressing the horrific crime. Last night was a terrible situation. It was tragic, it was something that cannot be excused, nor should it be, Reed said. People working their jobs in their community should not be preyed upon, should not be targeted. And thats what we had last night. A reward of $40,000 including $10,000 from Mayor Steven Reed has been offered in the case. It was not immediately clear if more arrests are expected. A dozen passengers and crew of a Delta Airlines flight reportedly needed treatment for food-related illnesses after being served spoiled food. Delta Flight 136 was flying from Detroit to Amsterdam overnight Tuesday after leaving at around 11 p.m. It was diverted to New York several hours into the flight. It was discovered that passengers in the main cabin of the Airbus A330 were served spoiled food. The airline says medical experts recommended the flight be diverted to New York. The flight was over the eastern coast of northern Canada when it made a 180-turn and headed back to the United States. The plane landed at JFK Airport in New York City at about 4 a.m. on Wednesday. "Medical crews met the aircraft to treat any affected passengers and crew members," the airline said in a statement to HNGN. "Delta's Food Safety team has engaged our suppliers to immediately isolate the product and launch a thorough investigation into the incident." There were 277 passengers on board the plane. Medics treated 12 passengers, the FDNY reported to the Associated Press. The airline did not release any information about what was the bad food that was served. "This is not the service Delta is known for and we sincerely apologize to our customers for the inconvenience and delay in their travels," the airline said. Alabama state officials argued in a motion Monday that inmates and civil rights groups accusing the Department of Corrections of employing slave labor did not pursue all available administrative channels and improperly split their claims across multiple lawsuits. In a motion in support of a state motion to dismiss the lawsuit, the officials, including Governor Kay Ivey and Attorney General Steve Marshall said that the plaintiffs failed to exhaust administrative remedies as required under the Prison Litigation Reform Act (PLRA), meaning inmates must try to resolve their complaints through the prisons grievance procedures before legal action. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit who include currently and formerly incarcerated Alabamians, three unions representing service industry employees and the Woods Foundation, a civil rights organization claim currently and formerly incarcerated Alabamians were coerced into labor through threats and physical restraint, disproportionately denying Black parole candidates parole than white counterparts. More from Alabama Reflector It also accuses public and private entities, ranging from local governments to fast food restaurants and grocery stores, of benefitting from the labor. U.S. District Judge Corey L. Maze rejected the plaintiffs request for a preliminary injunction last month, writing that the plaintiffs had failed to prove racially discriminatory intent or purpose behind a 2019 change to parole standards, or subsequent declines in parole grants, particularly for Black Alabamians in the prison system. The state argues that the plaintiffs RICO claims are based on alleged violations stemming from plaintiffs Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) claims. Since the court agrees that the plaintiffs fail to state a claim under the TVPA, their RICO claim, the state argues, also fails because it is predicated on these alleged TVPA violations. According to the motion, the denied preliminary injunction ruling weakens the plaintiffs claim and supported the states claims of discretion given to the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles in the past. Plaintiffs failure to establish causation and redressability as to Ivey, Marshall, and Hamm proves fatal to their parole-based claims against them, the filing stated. The filing also argued that one of the plaintiffs claims should be dismissed from the lawsuit due to improper claim splitting, as he has brought similar claims in three lawsuits. If this Court determines that the grievance process was available to the PLRA Plaintiffs, then all claims contained in Count IV dealing with any retaliation allegations are due to be dismissed for failure to exhaust administrative remedies as no grievance was ever filed regarding that issue by any, the filing from the state. The court had not ruled on the motion to dismiss as of late Wednesday morning. An ambulance taking a child pulled unconscious from a pool Monday evening broke down on the way to the hospital. The incident happened near Cullman Regional Medical Center, according to WAFF. A statement from Decatur Morgan Hospital - EMS stated the transport vehicle broke down about a quarter of a mile from the hospital. Paramedics unloaded and continued on foot with the child on the gurney, while continuing to perform CPR. The cause of the vehicle breakdown is not known at this time, the hospital said in the statement. The child was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the two-year-old drowning victim from Falkville, the hospital stated. The Morgan County Sheriffs Office said the incident happened at a residence on Gandys Cove Road near Falkville. A child was found unresponsive in a pool. The sheriffs office said in a social media post following the incident that air evacuation was en route to the home. Sadly, the 2 year old did not survive, the sheriffs stated in an update on social media. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and all of those that responded to the scene or treated the child. The incident happened a day after a 5-year-old died after being discovered in a pond in Harvest. A person is in custody after allegedly trying to take control of an Alabama State Trooper cruiser during a wreck investigation in east Birmingham. Shortly before 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, a state trooper spotted a two-vehicle crash blocking the road in the 1700 block of Tallapoosa Street. Senior Trooper Vu Quang said while the trooper was investigating the crash, one of the drivers involved in the wreck to take control of the patrol vehicle. Quang said the trooper was able to stop the suspect, who was taken into custody and then taken to UAB Hospital for evaluation. The trooper was also taken to UAB Hospital for evaluation. Authorities declined to comment on the nature of the possible injuries and said no additional information is being released. Witnesses reported seeing the trooper and a male in an altercation in the roadway and said a stun-gun was used on the suspect. Authorities have not confirmed those accounts. Birmingham police and Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service also responded and assisted with the incident. Criminal charges are pending against the suspect as the investigation continues. A Fairfield teen is charged with capital murder in a Birmingham drive-by shooting that killed a 31-year-old man. Fernandeiz Emillio Rapley Jr., 18, was booked into the Jefferson County Jail Wednesday morning, according to court and jail records. He is charged in the June 1 slaying of Brandon Deandre Wilson. South Precinct officers were dispatched at 1:30 a.m. that Saturday to the 500 block of 41st Street North in Tom Brown Village. The citys gunfire detection system - Shot Spotter indicated shots fired in that location. Officers were then updated that a person was down, said Officer Truman Fitzgerald. Wilson was found wounded in the intersection of 41st Street and 5th Court North. Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service rushed him to UAB Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 2:43 a.m. A motive has not been disclosed. Rapley is being held without bond. A suspect has been charged with multiple crimes a Mothers Day shooting in Birmingham that injured a father and son. Kamryn Deon Cade, 22, is charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts discharging a firearm one count of first-degree robbery, Birmingham police announced Wednesday. Cade was booked into the Jefferson County Jail Monday and remains held without bond. Both victims have since been released from the hospital. The shooting that day was one of three that injured children. West Precinct officers were dispatched at 1:58 p.m. that Sunday to a Shot Spotter call in the 1500 block of Cullman Avenue. While en route, they were told someone had been shot. They arrived to find the adult victim wounded. He was taken to UAB Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Minutes later -- at 2:08 p.m. -- a second victim showed up at Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service Station 16 on Avenue I in Ensley. That victim was the mans 11-year-old son, who also sustained serious injuries. He was tor 12-years-old -- also sustained serious injuries. He was taken to Childrens of Alabama. Officer Truman Fitzgerald said at least 25 shots were fired. The victims were in a vehicle or had just arrived in a vehicle the suspect opened fire. Cade, court documents state, was trying to rob the victim of an undisclosed amount of cash. The victim was targeted for the robbery. Fitzgerald said leads developed by detectives and tips from the community led to the warrants against Cade. Two grocery stores in Alabama currently have an automated vending machine that dispenses ammunition. American Rounds markets an automated ammunition dispenser which uses artificial intelligence technology to verify a buyers identification and age through card scanning and facial recognition software. The buyer inserts their photo ID, and the machine conducts a 360-degree scan to match it to the ID card. The machines can currently be found at Fresh Value locations in Tuscaloosa, at 4200 McFarland Blvd., and Pell City, 1009 Martin St. The company plans to expand to other locations in Alabama as well, according to CEO Grant Magers. Magers said the Pell City store approached the company about installing one of the machines, thinking it was a good opportunity for their customer base. Terry Stanley, COO of Fresh Value, in a promotional video, said the kiosk is a big hit with customers. Anything we can do to help them make their shopping trips easier, based on the feedback weve gotten from customers today, they are so excited about us having this ammo kiosk, Stanley said. Tuscaloosa Police Chief Brent Blankley was quoted in The Tuscaloosa Thread as saying the machines are legal and approved by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This is an opinion column. According to the national press, including none other than Carl Bernstein, the presidents family and closest advisers have sheltered the president for months, if not years, limiting access and downplaying episodes of confusion and distress. Who does Joe Biden think he is? Kay Ivey? As a political strategy, theres some precedent for this. Alabamas governor and her staff have been doing something similar for years, and she regularly polls among the nations most popular governors. Not having much to do with her constituents or the media has done wonders for Ivey. And until Thursday night, it seemed to work well enough for Biden, too. Unfortunately, this strategy has limits. Every year in Alabama, its a topic of state house gossip: Will Ivey get through her State of the State address without stumbling? Whether the governor can stand and read for an extended time is a regular question without a certain answer at least until shes actually through it. In between election years, Iveys health has been in question, too. But dont expect straight answers. Her staff has attempted to cover up two health scares including cancer until they couldnt anymore. And if its an election year, theres the big one will she debate? Who am I kidding? Kay Ivey has never debated while running for governor, neither in the general election nor the primary. And she wasnt the first to refuse. We havent had a real gubernatorial debate in Alabama since 2010. And Thursday night, the president showed us all why. Theres much at stake in a gerontocracy. What if the candidate loses a train of thought? What if they forget where they are? Or what year it is? Or the difference between a million and a billion and a trillion? What if they fall? What if they cant get back up? Biden left the stage on his own two feet but he failed the Kay Ivey test. After the debate last week, I saw many of the presidents supporters questioning why his staff let him debate at all. As Ivey herself can attest, the best way to pass the Kay Ivey test is to not take it. When she first ran for the office she assumed after Robert Bentleys embarrassing old-age downfall Ivey refused to debate a field of Republican primary opponents, much less her general election opponent, Walt Maddox. Four years later, Ivey didnt have any such real opponents in the primary, nor anyone worthwhile to debate in the general. She didnt debate them, either. Meanwhile, she limited her sit-down interviews to only those whod serve her home-cookin. This isnt to say such silence doesnt have consequences. When Bentley tried the silent treatment, voters learned after election day he was planning a massive tax increase to fill a hole in the states general fund. When Ivey sailed to victory, she threw her support behind a gas tax hike and blamed the president when Alabamians felt the pinch at the pump. Allowing politicians to skate by without answering questions during election season costs taxpayers money. Am I being ageist? Absolutely, but the U.S. Constitution is ageist, too only in the other direction. The Founders considered anyone younger than 35 too young and inexperienced to be president. A mandatory retirement age didnt seem that important to them. Short of a constitutional amendment, that jobs on us, the voters, to decide. After his stumble last Thursday, Biden gave a more lively speech in North Carolina the following afternoon. I know, like millions of Americans know, when you get knocked down you get back up, Biden said. His supporters split ranks, with half asking where that Biden had been the night before, and the other half pointing to the speech as proof Biden was OK. All it proved was that Biden could stand and read not that he could think on his feet. Maybe if this reelection campaign doesnt work out, he can run for governor of Alabama. More than two-dozen lawyers packed the front rows in the courtroom of Montgomery County Circuit Judge James Anderson on Tuesday for a two-and-a-half hour hearing to find a path through the maze of litigation over business licenses for Alabamas medical marijuana industry. The hearing ended with a plan for the next steps in the cases but no resolution to the issues delaying the availability of medical cannabis products. About 30 companies are involved in the lawsuits over competition for the licenses. The state law authorizing medical marijuana limited the number of licenses, and many companies denied licenses sued to challenge the procedures, rules, and decisions of the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC), which the Legislature created to oversee the new industry. Anderson said Tuesday he would deny the AMCCs motion to dismiss a main new case in the litigation. The judge said he would look for guidance from lawyers on all sides of the disputes to develop a new temporary restraining order on the licensing process. Anderson said his intent with a new restraining order would be to continue a hold on the AMCC issuing certain licenses while allowing the AMCC to proceed with investigative hearings requested by companies denied licenses. Some companies denied licenses say the hearings will be futile because the AMCC has already awarded the licenses. Most of the lawsuits involve applicants for integrated licenses, companies that can cultivate, process, transport, and dispense medical cannabis, which figure to be the biggest firms in the new industry. More than 30 companies applied for integrated licenses but the AMCC can issue only five. Also on hold are licenses for companies that want to serve only as dispensaries. The AMCC has issued licenses for cultivators, processors, transporters, and a state testing lab. But doctors cannot begin recommending the products until at least the dispensary licenses are issued. There was some talk at Tuesdays hearing about resolving the dispensary issues to clear the way for beginning to get products to patients. Anderson said he would consider a request to lift the order blocking the dispensary licenses while the disputes over integrated licenses continue. It has been more than three years since the Legislature passed the Compassion Act, a bill that allows medical marijuana products for patients suffering from chronic pain, nausea and weight loss from cancer treatments, muscle spasms caused by Parkinsons and other conditions, PTSD, panic disorder, and other conditions. Doctors, patients, and companies that have received licenses have called for an end to the litigation so that products can become available. Alabama Always, which has built a cultivation and processing plant in Montgomery but was denied a license to be an integrated company, filed a new lawsuit on Monday asking the judge to issue a temporary restraining order to prevent the AMCC from issuing licenses to the five companies it picked for integrated licenses in December. Alabama Always and other companies denied licenses claim that the AMCC has not followed the Compassion Act, the Alabama Administrative Procedures Act, and the Open Meetings Act in its efforts to award licenses. The AMCC awarded licenses in June 2023 and in August 2023 and rescinded those decisions both times because of litigation and problems with its procedures. The AMCC adopted new rules after a mediation agreement. The AMCC awarded licenses again in December 2023. The AMCC issued licenses for cultivators, processors, secure transporters and a state testing lab based on those decisions in December. But the licenses for integrated companies and dispensaries remain on hold. Anderson said the Legislatures decision to limit the number of licenses in certain categories, like the integrated licenses, made it difficult for those companies denied licenses to have a fair way to challenge those decisions. For example, Alabama Always and other companies say the investigative hearings that the AMCC plans to hold for denied applicants will be meaningless if they AMCC has already awarded all five licenses in that category. The AMCC maintains the final decisions on the licenses will not come until after the hearings. Anderson said he wanted more assurances that companies denied licenses would have a meaningful way to appeal and that companies awarded licenses had a way to protect their interests in an appeal process. Cultivators that received licenses are already growing the cannabis for the medical products. Birmingham police are searching for a man with cerebral palsy who has not been seen since Monday. MISSING MISSING PERSON: Darrell Taylor 54 years old Height: 52, Weight: 210lbs Eyes: Bro, Hair: Blk LAST KNOWN LOCATION: 500 Block of 4th Ave LAST SEEN WEARING: Unknown clothing description pic.twitter.com/EC4m7hH45E Bhampolice (@BhamPolice) July 3, 2024 Darrell Taylor, 54, was last seen in the 500 block of Fourth Avenue, police said Tuesday night. It was not known what clothing he was wearing when he was last spotted. Taylor was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and is known to frequent the area around Princeton Hospital, police said. He was described as 5-feet 2-inches tall, 210 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. Anyone who sees Taylor or has information on his whereabouts was asked to call Birmingham police at 205-328-9311. Sheffield Police are investigating an apparent murder-suicide that happened Tuesday night. Colbert County Coroner Justin Gasque said the incident happened on Wilson Dam Avenue in Sheffield at about 10:07 p.m. Tommy Ray Burcham, 43, was found dead in in a field near a residence. Nearby, the body of Raleigh Lemaster, 34, was discovered, dead from an apparently self-inflicted gunshot wound. Gasque said it appeared the two had been involved in an argument just prior to the altercation. There are growing calls among Democrats for President Biden to step aside and let someone else run against Donald Trump. On Tuesday, Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas and Representative Jared Golden of Maine became the first members of the party in Congress to suggest Biden drop out of the race. Dozens more are expected to break from Biden in the coming days, according to one report. 25 House members who are moderates in swing districts have lost faith in the president according to the Daily Mail. Another, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington State, told a Portland TV station that Biden would lose to Trump. Biden has said he has no plans to drop out of the race. He is planning to speak with congressional leaders and Democratic governors on Wednesday according to CNN. So far, Democratic leaders in Congress have continued to back Biden, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. There have been ongoing concerns about the 81-year-old president's health and capacity to carry out his duties. Thos concerns accellerated after what was described as a "disastrous" performance during the recent debate against Trump. Biden had a halting delivery and some of his answers were confusing, although his performance improved as the debate went along. Since Joe Bidens dismal performance at Thursdays debate, the Democrat party has been in an uproar about whether hell stay the course or withdraw from the campaign to allow someone more sentient to step in. As of now, Joes allegedly insisting that hell stay the course. This makes sense, as its the only thing the Democrats can do. Theres no one to replace him. First, though, Joes alleged defiant announcement that hes in it to win it: President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris called into a campaign staff meeting on Wednesday to give them a pep talk. Biden told them hes staying in the race and going to win. Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can as simply and straightforward as I can: I am runningno ones pushing me out. Im not leaving. Im in this race to the end and were going to win, he said, according to reports. This announcement comes on the heels of another leak (because all of this is leaked) that said Joe seriously contemplated leaving the race. Time will tell which leak is true. As noted above, Dems do best when Joe stays the course. Image: Joe Biden v. Donald Trump. YouTube screen grab. The abyss into which the Democrats are peering is Kamala, who is liked even less than Joe. Shes also the only logical person to take his place. Black women are already lining up behind Kamala, and that is a passionate demographic that the Democrats cannot afford to lose. Democrats can expect a bruising, potentially deadly fight if they try to substitute a white woman (Gov. Gretchen Whitmer or Hillary Clinton) or, God forbid, a white man (Gavin Newsom or Pete Buttigieg) in Kamalas place. The only real substitute the Democrats have is Michelle Obama. Were now hearing about a poll that says shes the most popular political candidate in America: Former first lady Michelle Obama is the leading candidate to take on former President Trump in 2024, according to a new poll conducted after last week's presidential debate. A Reuters/Ipsos poll asked respondents who they would like to see take on Trump on the general election ballot amid calls to replace the current nominee, and President Biden was bested by both the former first lady and his own vice president. [snip] In the hypothetical matchup, the former first lady led Trump by 11 percentage points, receiving 50% of the vote over the former president, who was the choice candidate of 39% of respondents. That support comes from a place of pure emotion. Leftists, especially young women, think that Michelle Obama is just, like, you know, totes awesome. Just look at her strong arms and amazing fashion sense. With style like that, shes a role model for drag queens everywhere. The problem is that its easy to be an icon when youre functioning in a role that doesnt require any actual accomplishments. We know only that she can read well from a TelePrompter, bring tears to her own eyes for kidnapped girls who arent Israeli, is intersectional, and is Barack Obamas wife. However, if she tops the presidential ticket, people might notice that this feminist icon has a remarkably abbreviated resume. She had a short-lived stint as an attorney, held make work jobs in Chicagos city hall and the University of Chicago that were paired with her husbands rise on the Democrats political radar, and held a couple of corporate board positions that were as real as Hunters stint at Burisma. Aside from these low-level symbolic positions, Michelle has never held a real political office, nor (unlike Trump) has she accomplished anything of note in the non-political world. Michelle Obama is a great big...nothing. The other things arguing against Michelle stepping into the campaign are that she hated life in the White House, she adores living the luxe life outside of the White House, and she really dislikes people (something I heard from the lips of a long-time political insider and pundit). So, were back at Kamala, who can get easy access to Bidens war chest. And honestly, no one believes Kamala can win, least of all Kamala herself. Why do I say that? Because Kamala has been front and center when it comes to lying about Bidens cognitive abilities. If she really lusted after power, she could have taken him down a long time ago. The fact that she didnt means she has no power base, and she knows it. Her own staff hates her! So, Bidens in it to win it! Yay. It was still dark outside in the Gaza Strip in the early morning of October 7, 2023, when the Hamas terror groups messengers were knocking on doors to wake up and alert the battalion commanders responsible for around 100 fighters under their command. They then alerted the commanders of the smaller groups with the message to assemble at the assigned points along the 40-mile-long fence separating Gaza from Israel. In Israel, it was the Saturday of Simchat Torah, a joyous holiday that turned into one of the darkest days in Israels history. The above account was provided by the German newspaper Die Zeit and was derived from the interrogation of the captured and imprisoned Hamas Nukhba terrorists who murdered 1,200 Israelis, mostly civilians, and kidnapped 250 others into Gaza as hostages. Incredibly, the Hamas leaders were able to keep their murderous operation secret until the last moment. They refrained from using cell phones by assuming that the Israeli intelligence services might pick up their signals. They passed on instructions by live messengers. At dawn, the approximately 3,000 Hamas (Nukhba) and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) terrorists assembled along the fence were told that this is no longer an exercise, but the day of action. Hamas had been preparing for this day for at least ten years. The vaunted Israeli intelligence services were well aware that something unusual was going on in Gaza but attributed it to Hamas mounting another exercise. There was no follow-up on these observations. Complacency viewing Hamas as being deterred and incapable of executing a major operation allowed for complete laxity. As the sun was breaking out, weapons were distributed to the drug-induced (Captagon) Nukhba terrorists, which included assault rifles (Kalashnikovs), hand grenades, and rocket launchers. Immediately thereafter, the Hamas and PIJ terrorists climbed in their Toyota pickup trucks and motorcycles. Some were marching by foot, and others, trained by Iran and in Malaysia, mounted motorized paragliders to penetrate Israel by air, and others by sea with rubber dinghies. The Hamas commanders orders to the Nukhba units were to storm Israeli military bases, occupy roads to cut off the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) from reaching the attacked kibbutzim and towns. Then Nukhba units were ordered to raid the kibbutzim and towns surrounding the Gaza Strip and kill everyone in sight. Maps were distributed as well as satellite images with symbols attached. Some of the terrorists were jotting down the locations of surveillance cameras to be destroyed. In order to relieve the economic pressure on Gaza, the Israeli government allowed thousands of Gazans to get permits to work in Israel. Hamas used these workers as spies to provide information and photos on the movements of IDF troops, locations of surveillance cameras, and security in the kibbutzim. At 6:30 A.M., Hamas launched over 3,000 rockets from Gaza at the adjacent Israeli communities in what amounted to a diversionary attack, while its Nukhba terrorists went on to tear down the fence with bulldozers and trucks. Once the fence was cut and the cameras and sensors on the Israeli observation towers were disabled, they attacked the border fortifications and watchtowers with drones that dropped grenades on the towers. The Nukhba killers entered Israel in about 30 places. Their orders, as reported by Die Zeit: Attack Kibbutz saad (home of my cousin Aaron) and gain control, inflict as many casualties as possible; also, secure Road 232. Kill anyone who poses danger or distract your operation. Take soldiers and civilians prisoners and transport them to Gaza. The Hamas commanders encouraged rape and murder, giving the Nukhba units license to do as they pleased. They killed parents in front of their kids and kids in front of their parents, burned homes with people inside, raped young and old women, and cut off limbs and heads of babies and adults. One Nukhba killer called his parents in Gaza, boasting that he had killed himself ten Jews. The parents heaped praise on their son. The Israeli soldiers at the Nahal Oz base on the Gaza border were on a holiday (Shabbat and Simchat Torah) schedule. Many had left the base to spend the holiday with their families. On that dark Saturday, the remaining young soldiers in the base were still asleep when the Nukhba forces attacked them. Some who were awake grabbed their weapons and engaged and killed some of the terrorist attackers, but soon they were overwhelmed by the sheer number of terrorists. In a normal firefight, the terrorists are no match for the IDF combat soldiers. However, this wasnt a normal firefight; it was a surprise attack, and many of the defenders were female. They were outnumbered and fell in battling the terrorists. When IDF troops finally arrived in the afternoon, they finished off the terrorists and took many prisoners. The female soldiers at Nahal Oz were called the eyes of the army. They were the heroes on this deadly Black Shabbat. They had repeatedly warned their superior officers in headquarters of Hamass unusual activities, including on October 7, but none of the officers paid attention. The Hamas terrorists killed 15 of the female soldiers and took six of them hostage to Gaza. The attack on the Nova festival was accidental. The paragliders happened to hear music and directed the Nukhba fighters to the spot near Kibbutz Reim. At the Nova festival, they killed and raped hundreds of unarmed Israelis with impunity. Israeli civilians risked their lives to save many until the IDF soldiers finally arrived. Some of the dead terrorists carried maps along with provisions for several days. Hamas apparently hoped to penetrate deeper into Israel, perhaps even to reach all the way to the West Bank. October 7 is one of the most thoroughly documented terrorist attacks of all time. Hamas terrorists, equipped with GoPro cameras, filmed their barbarity. Hamas posted videos of the slaughter on Telegram. In the Gaza Strip, people document the Hamas action with their mobile phones. The entire Gaza Strip population cheers Hamass accomplishments. On October 7, Hamas murdered more Israelis in one day than in the entire period since Hamass establishment in 1987. For Israel to maintain it deterrence vis-a-vis its enemies, particularly Iran and Hezballah, it must destroy Hamass military and political infrastructure. Image via Pexels. As the legal saga surrounding former President Donald Trump trudges on, the Supreme Courts recent decision affirming some level of presidential immunity for official acts is a refreshing moment of sanity in an otherwise farcical series of political attacks. Despite clear efforts by the left to weaponize the legal system, this ruling stands as a potential shield for Trump, highlighting the desperate lengths to which his opponents will go to keep him from the political arena. In what can only be described as a much-needed dose of reality, the Supreme Court recognized the difference between official acts deserving of some immunity and private conduct, which remains subject to legal scrutiny. This nuanced decision throws a wrench into the plans of those who hoped to see Trump bogged down in endless legal battles, particularly for actions that any reasonable person would consider part of his duties as president. The investigations into Trumps role in the January 6th Capitol events and his efforts to challenge the 2020 election results are likely to be most affected. Trumps team will rightly argue that his actions, including speeches and communications with officials, were within his presidential responsibilities, aiming to uphold election integrity. Any attempts to prosecute these actions now face significant hurdles, as they should. Think about it. Ensuring fair elections and addressing voter concerns are core presidential duties, not crimes! The Supreme Court's decision offers a brilliant opportunity to introduce necessary procedural delays. By pushing for clarity on what constitutes official conduct, Trumps legal team can rightfully extend proceedings, potentially beyond the upcoming election. This isnt just legal maneuvering; its a safeguard against a politically motivated rush to judgment. With appeals likely, Trump can focus on his campaign without the immediate distraction of courtroom drama, much to the chagrin of his leftist constitution-usurping detractors. Furthermore, the Supreme Courts ruling exposes the hypocrisy of those who have relentlessly pursued Trump. For years, weve seen one baseless investigation after another from the Mueller probe to the Russian collusion hoax. Now, with charges that strain credulity, its clear this isnt about justice; its about sidelining a political opponent. This decision underscores the necessity of protecting the presidency from such vindictive legal assaults, ensuring future presidents can perform their duties without fear of perpetual litigation drawing from the well of limitless taxpayer dollars. Jerry McGlothlin is the CEO of Special Guests, a company that specializes in booking expert guests on talk shows. Image: Public domain. In the early 1940s, when the Nazi government began systematically hunting down Jewish people, many Jews across Europe sought refuge to avoid deportation and death. Some found shelter in the homes of non-Jewish friends, neighbors, or even strangers who were sympathetic to their plight. These hosts risked their lives to hide Jews in attics, basements, closets, or other concealed spaces within their homes. One of the most famous examples is Anne Frank, who, along with her family, hid in a secret annex above her father's business premises in Amsterdam for over two years before being discovered. The inconspicuous entrance to the Verteba Cave. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons Other Jews sought refuge in rural areas, hiding in barns, sheds, or underground bunkers. Many churches and convents also offered sanctuary to Jews. Some Jews hid in forests or caves, relying on the natural environment to stay concealed. They faced harsh living conditions and constant danger from patrols. One such cave is located on the outskirts of Bilche-Zolote village in Ukraine, about 450 km southwest of Kyiv. The Verteba Cave is part of an extensive system of gypsum caves spanning several kilometers of interconnected passageways. The cave has a long history of human occupation dating back 6,000 years, with distinct periods of occupation ranging from 4100 BCE to 2750 BCE. It remained abandoned for more than 4,000 years before becoming a sanctuary for seven families from Bilche-Zolote and the nearby village of Korolivka. The Jewish communities in and around the city of Borshchiv and near Verteba Cave began settling in the early 18th century. By the end of the 19th century, the villages of the area, which included Korolivka and Bilche-Zolote, were thriving, with a combined population of about 12,000. However, during the Russian occupation of World War I and the Russian Revolution, the Jewish communities in the Borshchiv region suffered from numerous pogroms, leading to a significant decline in their numbers. The death blow for the Jews in Borshchiv came when the Nazis invaded Ukraine. A ghetto was established in Borshchiv in April 1942, and all remaining Jews in the area were ordered to move into it. As they began looking for a safe hideout, a Jewish doctor from Bilche-Zolote, who was also searching for a suitable place for his family to hide, suggested they move to Verteba Cave. Reasoning that nobody would look for them there as winter approached, Sol Wexler and his family, along with the doctor's family, moved into the cave on the night of October 28, 1942, bringing their belongings with them. Other families soon joined them, bringing the total number of occupants to 28. The tunnels inside the Verteba Cave. Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons To enter the cave, the fugitives had to slide through the narrow cave mouth on their backsides. Initially, they used ropes to navigate the vast system of tunnels to avoid getting lost, but gradually, they learned their way around. They crafted wooden beds and tables to make it feel more like home. A dental technician even set up a working station in the cave. Initially, light was provided by candles, but these didnt last long. The residents then created light using small bottles filled with kerosene, lit with a wick. They became nocturnal, sleeping during the day and being active at night. Each family had a designated person responsible for bringing food and provisions from the outside. Some members had special badges that allowed them relative freedom within the town, which they used to their advantage to sneak supplies into the cave at night. They even obtained a tin stove for cooking, although poor air circulation in the cave meant fumes were a problem. Over time, they found a solution for that too. Their biggest immediate problem was water. They found places where water dripped from the stalactites and down the walls of the cave, and collected it in small bottles and pots, but it was never enough. It was easier in winter because they could melt snow. There were also other dwellers in the cave, such as bats, which scared the children, and foxes, which stole their food. One day in 1943, as winter drew to a close, a German soldier noticed some potatoes near the cave entrance, which had fallen out of a bag while supplies were being sneaked in. The Gestapo was informed, and several days later they stormed the cave. Hearing the approaching soldiers, the fugitives moved deeper into the cave. Only eight of the 28 hiding in the cave were caught, and three eventually managed to escape as the Gestapo was leading the prisoners out. Christos Nicola reading the names written in Polish in Priests Grotto. Photo credit: Haaretz The remaining cavers abandoned their hideout and roamed for weeks, hiding wherever possiblein bunkers, barns, and with friends. Then a villager pointed them to another cave, in a field that belonged to the parish priest. This new cave had only one small opening and had to be entered feet first. Inside, it was pitch black. With candlelight, they crawled deeper into the tunnel, which opened into a large hall so high they could hardly see the ceiling. Beyond the hall, they found a large tunnel suitable for their camp. Most importantly, they found underground freshwater lakes and no traces of human habitation. The cave was perfect. On the night of May 5, 1943, a group of 38 Jews descended into the Priests Grotto, which was to be their new home. They brought furniture, down quilts and pillows, fuel, and supplies. Each family settled in different places within the tunnel, designating a spot near the water and far from their sleeping areas for cooking. Unlike Verteba Cave, Priests Grotto had better air circulation and ample water, allowing the people to wash their clothes and stay clean. From time to time, some members would venture out to either steal supplies or buy them from friendly farmers. They even stole a millstone and used it to grind grains into flour. After some months in the Priests Grotto, hostile locals discovered the hiding place and filled in the single entrance to the cave with soil, presumably to starve the Jews to death. However, the men dug another exit and created a camouflaged covering for it. The families stayed in the cave until April 1944, when the land was liberated by the Red Army, allowing them to come out of hiding. After living in the dark for hundreds of days, the sun hurt their eyes. One of the survivors, Pepkala Blitzer, who was a four-year-old girl when she and her family sought shelter in the caves from the Nazis, later recalled how she had completely forgotten about the sun or daylight. When they came out of the cave, Pepkala asked her mother to put out the bright candle because it hurt her eyes too much. She was referring to the sun, which she could not remember having seen. Bottles found in Verteba Cave. Photo credit: Haaretz The story of the Jews of the Verteba Cave and Priests Grotto was nearly forgotten until 1993, when veteran caver Chris Nicola discovered signs of human habitation and writings on the walls while exploring the caves. Local residents told him about the Jews, but nobody seemed to know what had happened to them. Fascinated, Nicola grew determined to learn how people with no prior caving experience or specialized equipment were able to live in such a hostile environment for so long. Ten years later, after an extensive search, Nicola located six of the cave survivors, most of them members of the extended Stermer family. By piecing together interviews with the survivors and artifacts they found while in Ukraine, Nicola and writer-photographer Peter Lane Taylor were able to develop a clear picture of the Jews' underground life. Their story was published in 2004 in National Geographic Adventure magazine. In 2007, Nicola also published a children's book telling their tale, The Secret of Priests Grotto: A Holocaust Survival Story, and in 2013, an 84-minute documentary called No Place on Earth was released. References: # How Caves That Have Sheltered People for 6,000 Years Saved Jews From the Holocaust, Haaretz # The Darkest Days, National Geographic The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 will arrive in a week, and its specs have just leaked again. This time around, the details are coming from Ishan Agarwal, a well-known tipster. This is not the first time weve seen the phones specs, though this leak is quite detailed. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 specs have just leaked again, and theres not much left to hide at this point Qualcomms Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC will fuel the Galaxy Z Flip 6. That is not exactly a secret at this point. That same chip will also fuel the Galaxy Z Fold 6, which is coming alongside the Galaxy Z Flip 6. The phone will feature a foldable 6.7-inch fullHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. The tipster also says that a 4,000mAh battery will be included on the inside. Whats interesting here is that he also mentioned 35W charging. Ishan doesnt seem to be sure about the charging info, however. Previous rumors said 25W charging will be included, and some certifications agree with that. So chances are well be getting 25W charging, not 35W charging. A camera improvement is in the cards In any case, two cameras will sit on the back of the phone well, on the front if the phone is folded. A 50-megapixel main camera (f/1.8 aperture) will be backed by a 12-megapixel ultrawide unit (f/2.2 aperture). On the main display, the phone will also include a selfie camera, of course. A 10-megapixel (f/2.2 aperture) unit is the camera Samsung chose to use here. In regards to RAM, only one variant will be available, a 12GB one. Samsung will almost certainly use LPDDR5X RAM here. You will be able to choose between 256GB and 512GB storage options, however. UFS 4.0 flash storage will hopefully be used. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 will measure 165 x 71.7 x 7.4mm when folded, based on Ishans info. Thats basically all the information that he shared. The phone will launch on July 10 during the companys event in Paris, France. The Google Photos app is getting a tweak that will allow you to find your Locked Folder faster. Now it is available in fewer taps from the Library tap. Google also moved the Utilities shortcut functions to another location. As its name suggests, the Locked Folder allows you to store photos and videos that you dont want to be accessible to others. Content you save in this folder will not be available in any other folder in the app. They wont even appear among the results of the Google Photos search bar. Of course, even if someone else finds the folder, they will need to authenticate with a passcode. Google Photos Locked Folder new location makes access faster Now, the Locked Folder is available from the Google Photos shortcuts section for faster access. It replaces the Utilities one, displaying next to Favorites, Archive, and Trash. Previously, you could find the folder by going to Library tab > Utilities > Organize Your Library. It is possible that some people prefer the previous location of the option since it better hides the existence of the folder. However, the new approach is in line with the Google Photos web version, where the Locked Folder is available alongside all the other main options. Regarding the functions that were previously available in Utilities, you can now use them by tapping the + button next to your profile photo. There you will see two main sections: Create (Album, Collage, Highlight video, Cinematic photo, Animation) and Get photos (with tools to share photos, or import them from other places). The new UI is available in the Google Photos Android app with the 6.89 update (also on iOS). Previously, the company had already added the Sync option for your Locked Folder. This option, as its name suggests, allows you to have your Locked Folder available on all your devices. Sync prevents situations such as accidentally losing the content after migrating devices without having backed up first. Samsung has opened Galaxy Experiences Spaces worldwide in selection regions. The company is inviting tech enthusiasts to these futuristic centers and offering a glimpse of its Galaxy AI technology. Samsung opens Galaxy Experience Spaces in seven cities worldwide Apple recently debuted its Apple Intelligence, the iOS makers take on Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen AI). Companies like Microsoft, and Google may already have their iterations of Gen AI, but Samsung is now reportedly engaging its present and potential consumers to advertise its Gen AI and its myriad use cases. Samsung is actively marketing its Galaxy AI technology. To ensure consumers get a hands-on experience of the companys AI-optimized products, Samsung has opened interactive spaces in seven cities worldwide. Experience the next chapter of technology at Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Summer 2024 in Paris! Unveiling the latest in AI and mobile innovation. Read more at https://t.co/tlvPqlugTE. #SamsungUnpacked #TechNews Airline Hub (@AirlineHub1) July 3, 2024 Just like every other company, Samsung is confident Gen AI can revolutionize the way smart device users interact with technology. Hence, it is committed to demonstrating the Gen AI capabilities of the entire product ecosystem. Speaking about the Galaxy Experience Spaces, Jamie Park, VP & Head of Experience Marketing Group, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics, said, [Samsung is] introducing a new world of possibilities to Galaxy fans. The Galaxy Experience Spaces will offer an exclusive look at how Galaxy AI capabilities can enrich our daily lives. Where, when, and why to visit these spaces? The Galaxy Experience Spaces are located in Paris, Berlin, New York City, Dubai, Jakarta, Seoul, and Tokyo. The South Korean tech giant hasnt indicated if it will open more such interactive spaces in the future. Samsung has, however, confirmed that these Galaxy Experience Spaces are open for a limited time. All these interactive spaces have a common theme: Travel. These centers will highlight how Samsung Galaxy AI can enhance travel experiences. The company further indicated that these spaces will have the newest Galaxy devices for a hands-on experience. Specifically speaking, Samsung is attempting to emphasize how its Galaxy AI can plan, streamline, and simplify the holiday experience. The company would showcase how its Gen AI can plan a trip, capture memories, and even eliminate language barriers. The venues and dates of the Samsung Galaxy Experience Spaces are as follows: Samsung is still a week away from its next Unpacked. But at this point, there is hardly anything that we dont already know about the upcoming Galaxy devices. Leaks have already revealed their design, detailed specs, color options, alleged prices, and more. The leaks train isnt stopping yet, with the Galaxy Z Flip 6 showing up in fresh images. Leaked Galaxy Z Flip 6 images focus on the cover screen, aka Flex Window Prolific leakster Evan Blass, aka Evleaks, recently posted several Galaxy Z Flip 6 images on X. The official-looking images focus on the new foldables cover screen, now also known as the Flex Window. Samsung redesigned the external display last year, making it bigger with a folder-shaped design allowing enough space for two rear-facing cameras and an LED flash unit. Its keeping the same design this year. A bigger cover screen lets you do a lot of things without unfolding the device. As shown in these leaked images, the Flex Window can display your health stats, weather, and more. It supports fullscreen widgets for the calendar, call log, clock, alarm, timer, contacts, dialer, and many other apps. You can also play games, make payments, reply to incoming messages, and do a lot more on the Filp 6s cover display. On top of this, Samsungs Flex Cam mode allows you to use the cover display as the viewfinder for hands-free photos using the rear cameras. The Flex Window doesnt support a full-fledged camera app but its still fairly feature-rich. You can capture amazing group photos with your friends without missing anyone. Just place the phone on a stable surface, turn on Flex Cam, and start capturing. The cover display also supports Good Lock customizations. The upcoming Samsung foldable will be available in four colors Samsung is preparing to release the Galaxy Z Flip 6 in Blue, Mint, Silver, and Yellow colors. We have already seen renders in all four colors. This leak shows the Blue variant up close. Like before, the Korean firm may offer the phone in a few other colorways exclusively through its online store. These additional colors may not be available globally. We will know for sure in a week. Samsung is expected to open pre-orders immediately after the launch event. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 will be accompanied by the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Galaxy Watch 7, Galaxy Watch Ultra, Galaxy Buds 3, Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, and Galaxy Ring. Yes, the next Unpacked in Paris, France will be massively packed. You can pre-reserve these devices without commitment and get a $50 credit when you place your pre-order following their launch. Stick around for more leaks and rumors about Samsungs upcoming Galaxy lineup. Where have the years gone? Do you guys remember the old days when Samsung was the rockstar of the smartphone space? The company was the colorful and fun counterpoint to Apples clean and sterile aesthetic, and that made the smartphone industry that much more fun. It was the edgy one of the group, kinda like Sega to Nintendo in the 90s. However, things have changed. Samsung is looking to be the new Apple, and were all wondering what company will be the new Samsung. Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra Weve been seeing signs over the years that Samsung was slowly transforming into an Apple Jr., but its been a gradual progression. Maybe Samsung nips a software feature (like the lock screen customizations) or it takes on some of Apples mentality (like launching the same device year after year). All of these actions warrant people to speculate that Samsung is taking some notes from Apple. However, years of derivation didnt prepare us for what we saw with the companys upcoming devices. At the time of writing this, we saw some images of Samsungs now upcoming smartwatch and TWS earbuds. Theyre very pretty. and pretty familiar. Lets cut the crap; these are blatantly inspired by the Apple Watch Ultra and the AirPods. The other things over the years, we could almost excuse. This, however, is unacceptable. What makes this worse is the fact that Samsungs previous devices all looked great! The circular Galaxy watch is one of the most beautiful watches on the market. They look charming, elegant, and real! However, the company opted to square the design of the Galaxy Watch 7 to make it look more like an Apple Watch. Not only is it derivative, but its ugly. The watch lost all of its luxurious and elegant charm. It looks like a ruggedized smartwatch. Galaxy Buds 3 As for the earbuds, these are the most disappointing. The Galaxy Buds have always had their identity with radical designs such as the Galaxy Beans. Sure, they looked weird, but they were a fun weird, and they were something that only Samsung had. The Galaxy Buds 3 Pro straight-up look like AirPods Pro. Everything from the position of the speaker grill to the overall shape. Everything matches. Sure, there are little visual queues here and there that differentiate them, but theyre not enough to make them look different. They look so similar, we wouldnt be surprised if Apple hits the company with a lawsuit. What happened to you, Samsung? We know that there are things that Apple has taken from Android, but the company puts in the extra work to make them look and feel different. This is true for Samsung as well, but this time around, it looks like Samsung just stopped trying. Where is the Samsung that we used to know? Where is the company that kept the removable battery, MicroSD card storage, and headphone jack despite Apple? Also, wheres the company that resisted adding a notch to its phone even though the industry had all shifted in that direction? Samsung was a symbol of innovation and rebellion. While all of the other companies were trying to drink Apples juice, Samsung was doing its own thing because it had the power and sway to be its own beast and see results. Now the company has abandoned its spirit. When Apple stopped putting chargers in the box, Samsung swiftly followed suit. Its adopted the tactic of sitting on designs for years amid the community crying for something different. The latest Galaxy phones have gone for the flat-edge aesthetic of the iPhone as well. Speaking of aesthetics, Samsungs flagship phones have all gone for that squeaky clean and boring aesthetic that Apple has pioneered. Its phones are boring metal and glass sandwiches. Were not seeing the company do anything more than upgrading the specs in its phones and slapping a new name on the box. The old Samsung is gone. We need a new Samsung Samsung is a company that survived on its rebellious spirit alone. Now that it, Apples biggest competition, has basically jumped ship, we need another company to take its place. We need another company to be the middle finger to all of the Apples of the world. Its important that other companies know that theres more than one option when it comes to being a smartphone company. Apples method works because its Apple! The company already had a diehard fan base before the iPhone came out. Its positioned itself as the definitive smartphone company. This only works for Apple. Samsung has been able to use this mentality because it also has a loyal fan base. Now, we need more companies to push innovation forward and keep things exciting. We cant have every company trying to be like Apple. What company could be Samsungs replacement? What company can take up the throne? Obviously, Samsung is the biggest Android OEM, so its runner-up wont have the sheer market share. However, there are plenty of companies out there with immense notoriety that dont own a large chunk of the user base. Google? Nah One consideration would be the Google Pixel series, but lets not kid ourselves, Google is not far behind Samsung in following after Apple. While the Pixel line of phones has carved out its own specific niche, even this company is going the way of the Apple. Leaks show that Pixel 9 has taken on the iPhone-esque flat edges. Also, it has also pulled chargers from the box and removed the headphone jack. If any company could have been the Anti-Apple, it could have been Google. It sure as hell has the money to do so. But, the company is gradually transforming into its competition. Motorola? Uhhh In terms of market share, Motorola is the closest to Samsung in certain markets. Its the 3rd place contender with about 10% of the U.S. market. The only thing about Motorola is the fact that people dont really look toward the company for its rebellious spirit. While it hasnt started stealing from Apple, most of Motorolas best qualities are under the radar. The company makes good devices, but more people buy its cheaper phones. Also, not many people know about its great desktop mode. MyUX is a great Android skin, but its no OneUI. Motorola will likely remain the silent-but-deadly company its been for a while now. Its a good company, but its just no Samsung replacement. Maybe OnePlus? One company that comes to mind that could be the replacement is OnePlus. This is a company that came out of the gate swinging at the status quo. It introduced us to the flagship killer. It was the company that said, Why are you overpaying for flagship specs? Heres a phone that can do the same at half the price. It had a job to do, and it did it well. While, over the years, its prices have crept up, and its phones started to lose some of their luster, the company rebounded with the incredible OnePlus 11, OnePlus 12, and OnePlus Open (Review). All of these phones undercut the competition, but thats not the only thing. The company still has this rebellious and fun nature. Its phones have an identity of their own. No matter how tempting it is to copy Apple, OnePlus continues to redefine itself and stick to its identity. This is a company that also has a pretty decent presence in the U.S., just like Samsung. Its been hanging in there, and its a company to look toward when we need some color and life. So, if the title New Samsung is up for grabs, OnePlus might be a strong contender. Maybe its not one company One thing to consider is the fact that it might not be one singular company. Weve reviewed a bunch of phones from overseas, and weve seen some amazing devices. Companies like Tecno (which we should keep an eye out for) have delivered wild, crazy, beautiful, and fun phones like the Camon 20 series, Camon 30 series (Camon 30 Premier Review), Pova 5, Pova 6, Phantom V Flip, and Spark 20 Pro. Neither one of these phones shares a design with the other. Theyre all great devices, but the thing is that it shows that Techno is not afraid to experiment and take risks. Weve seen different materials and design aesthetics with these phones. Also, the Poco F6 and Poco F6 Pro (Review) are some of the best phones weve reviewed this year. We cant forget about companies like Infinix, which has also made some kick-ass phones. Companies like Vivo, Xiaomi, and Oppo have put Samsungs foldable phones to shame with their sheer innovation and quality. There are so many companies out there that steal from Apple, but there are also companies like the ones mentioned above that arent afraid to be different. Theyre not afraid to say Were not your precious Apple! Love it or leave it! These are the companies that seem to have that certain flair that Samsung brought back in the day. This is something that weve missed. Were getting reports that the Galaxy S25 Ultra will have rounded corners. Thats cute, but plenty of smaller companies completely revamp their designs year after year. The Infinix Note 30 Pro had this pretty pearlescent color-changing pink color that drew the eyes. However, the Note 40 Pro was this elegant money green with gold accents. What is the Note 50 going to look like? Who knows? Thats what makes it exciting. The collection of smaller companies out there that dont want to default to Apple might be the true Samsung replacement. Theyre letting us know that there are still entities out there that arent afraid to go against the trends. These are the ones that dont do whats popular; they do whats not popular and make them popular. Before Oppo brought its foldable phones, the general consensus was that foldable phones needed to be narrow because Thats what Samsung did. No, Oppo dared to be different, and other companies like Google took note. Now, the foldable phone market is different and much better. Yes, times have changed Remember when everyone wanted to keep their phone screens under 4 inches? What company was it that brought the large-screen phone and created the phablet category? It was Samsung. It went against the industry trends, but it was so successful that even Apple folded and brought a larger screen phone. Thinking about that and looking at the leaks of the Galaxy Watch 7 Ultra and Galaxy Buds well, it makes you think. Can we really call it Samsung vs. Apple anymore? Or, should it be called Samsung and Apple vs. everyone else? People walk around displays of composite power line poles during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer A metal mandrel, used in the production of the modular sections of composite utility poles, is shown during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer The filament winding production area is shown during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer John Higgins, CEO, speaks during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The photo in back ground shows a tradition wooden pole damaged during a storm. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer The filament winding production area is shown during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer People walk around displays of composite power line poles during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer John Higgins, CEO, speaks during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer John Higgins, CEO, speaks during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The photo in back ground shows a tradition wooden pole damaged during a storm. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Composite utility poles are shown in use outside RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., is shown Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Resilient Structures, a Canada-based company that manufactures power poles able to withstand severe weather better than traditional wooden poles, has opened a 400,000-square-foot distribution and production facility in the Houston area. A stack of modular sections of composite power line poles are shown at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Also known as RS Technologies, the company makes poles from its proprietary resin formula and glass that have never failed in a weather event, period, full stop, CEO John Higgins said. Damaged power poles are a common cause of localized power outages and in extreme circumstances can lead to wildfires, prompting utilities nationwide to seek stronger alternatives to wood as they evaluate their aging infrastructure. Hundreds of thousands of Resilient Structures poles have been installed across 30 countries since the company deployed its first pole in 2003, Higgins said. Of Resilient Structures hundreds of utility customers, CenterPoint Energy, the transmission and distribution utility for much of the Houston area, is the largest and most important, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The new Humble factory, which joins existing facilities in Utah and Ontario, was built in anticipation of increased demand for Resilient Structures product from utilities in the Gulf Coast region as climate change fuels extreme weather of increasing frequency and severity here, Higgins said. John Higgins, CEO, speaks during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer We actually built this plant ahead of demand. Now you'd say, 'Well, why would we do that?' We're that confident in the adoption of our poles going forward, Higgins said to a crowd of local officials invited to tour the factory in June, including representatives from CenterPoint and Entergy, another electric utility in Southeast Texas. The Humble facility is ready to act as a hub for the delivery of Resilient Structures poles manufactured at other sites, but company leaders said they are waiting for its other facilities to reach capacity before starting production here. When the Humble factory is operating at full capacity, it could make 20,000 to 25,000 poles each year and employ up to 450 people, according to Higgins and Houston plant director Edgar Castro. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Transmission lines carry power over long distances, while distribution bring electricity closer to consumers. Resilient Structures poles are most often used to support distribution lines, though its taller poles can be used for transmission, Higgins said. John Higgins, CEO, speaks during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Resilient Structures poles cost about $5,000 per pole, compared to around $1,500 to $2,000 for a traditional wooden pole, according to Vernon Broussard, senior territory manager for Oberlender Co., which coordinates sales between manufacturers and utilities. But a Resilient Structures pole has an 80-year life, compared to a 30-year life for a wooden pole, he said. We're building poles today that will outlive all of us, Ed Rushing, Resilient Structures chief operating officer, said. Resilient Structures poles in the region can be found along Texas 288 and in Freeport, Fulshear and Tomball, Broussard said. Jason Ryan, CenterPoints executive vice president of regulatory services and government affairs, said a number of Resilient Structures poles have been installed in Galveston for resiliency against hurricanes. Ryan said storms can have dramatically different impacts on infrastructure along the coast. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A display metal mandrels, used in the production of the modular sections of composite utility poles, is shown during a tour at RS Technologies, 19409 Keswick Dr., Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Humble. The company manufactures composite utility poles. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer Storm comes through, all the transmission towers are still standing, but literally on the same road, all the distribution poles are on the ground. So one of the reasons behind using the RS poles is we just want the poles to still stay up. We know that poles can stay up because theyre up on one side of the road, Ryan said. Some brown Resilient Structures poles are installed outside the Humble facility, nearly indistinguishable from the adjacent wooden poles. A CenterPoint employee offered a pro tip for telling them apart: Resilient Structures poles are pointy at the top, while wooden poles are flat. For those who dont want to stare too closely and risk an accident, Resilient Structures Rushing has another trick. When youre driving at night, if you see a shiny pole, thats us, he said. In May, the US Department of Commerce said it had revoked certain licenses for exports to Huawei. It turns out the Joe Biden-led US government has canceled as many as eight licenses so far in 2024. This is the Biden administrations latest effort to cripple the Chinese tech titan. The US government revokes more licenses to contain Huaweis growth Huawei is fighting a battle like no other major tech company. The Chinese firm that once threatened to overthrow Samsung as the worlds largest smartphone company has been reduced to a shadow of itself by the US sanctions. This happened after the US government placed it on the Entity List in 2019. The Donald Trump administration labeled Huawei a national security threat over its potential ties with the Chinese government. This effectively blocked the firms access to the latest smartphone technologies made or originated in the US. It couldnt source advanced chips, Google services and apps, and other components and equipment to make powerful new 5G phones. The US government allowed some American companies to do business with Huawei by obtaining special licenses. However, those licenses still came with several restrictions. The situation didnt change when Joe Biden came into power in 2021. In the meantime, Huawei started building a domestic supply chain. Backed by the state fund and citizens sympathy, it is slowly rising from the ashes, at least in China. The special licenses enabled it to remain afloat in the industry during this difficult phase. The US government has realized this and has revoked some of those licenses to try and contain Huaweis growth. We continuously assess how our controls can best protect our national security and foreign policy interests, taking into consideration a constantly changing threat environment and technological landscape. As part of this process, as we have done in the past, we sometimes revoke export licenses, the Commerce Department said in May. A document seen by Reuters reveals the US government has revoked eight such licenses in 2024. Qualcomm & Intel are among the affected companies According to Reuters, the Commerce Department prepared this document in response to an inquiry by Republican Congressman Michael McCaul. The document doesnt name the US companies whose licenses have been revoked. However, it was revealed in May that Qualcomm and Intel are among the affected companies. These chip firms are reportedly no longer doing any business with Huawei. Licenses that are still valid include those for exports of exercise equipment and office furniture and low-technology components for consumer mass-market items, such as touchpad and touchscreen sensors for tablets, the new report states. Interestingly, the Commerce Department said it didnt revoke these licenses because the said items are already widely available in China from Chinese and foreign sources. s Eddie Murphy, left, and Taylour Paige in "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F." Melinda Sue Gordon/Associated Press Here are the major films being released in theaters and on streaming this week. 'Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F' Eddie Murphy is back on the beat in Beverly Hills in this anticipated fourth installment of the "Beverly Hills Cop" franchise. Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Taylour Paige and Kevin Bacon co-star along with original cast members Judge Reinhold, Paul Reiser, John Ashton and Bronson Pinchot. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Rated R. Streaming on Netflix. 'The Boy and the Heron' Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki's acclaimed 2023 film explores the dreamworld of a boy who is dealing with the death of his mother and his father's remarriage. Rated PG-13. Screens 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, 7 p.m. July 11 at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Minions (voiced by Pierre Coffin) in "Despicable Me 4." Illumination & Universal Pic/TNS 'Despicable Me 4' Advertisement Article continues below this ad The latest installment in the animated "Despicable Me" franchise centers on the newest member of the Gru family, Gru Jr. Steve Carell, Sofia Vergara, Kristen Wiig and Will Ferrell are among the voice cast. Rated PG. Playing throughout Houston. 'Escape' This taut Korean-language thriller tells the story of a North Korean soldier who decides to flee to South Korea, with his commanding officer in hot pursuit. Unrated. Opens Friday at Cinemark Longmeadow, Richmond. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 'The Imaginary' Animated Japanese film set in the world of imaginary friends who have been forgotten by their human-kid friends. Rated PG. Begins streaming Friday on Netflix. 'Goyo' Spanish-language drama from Argentina in which an autistic museum guide falls in love with a co-worker and has to deal with a new rush of emotions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Unrated. Begins streaming Friday on Netflix. 'Kill' Hindi-language action film that takes place mostly inside a speeding train. It's very much in the style of "The Raid" movies. Rated R. Playing throughout Houston. 'MaXXXine' Advertisement Article continues below this ad Director Ti West (X," "Pearl") returns with a horror film about an adult film star trying to make it in 1980s Hollywood. Mia Goth stars. Rated R. Opens Friday throughout Houston. 'The Secret Art of Human Flight' H.P. Mendoza's indie drama, nominated for a Founders Award at the Tribeca Film Festival, revolves around a grieving widower who discovers a self-help book on the dark web that purportedly teaches humans how to fly. Opens Friday at AMC Gulf Pointe 30, Houston. Nika King plays Donna Martin in 'Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot,' a woman who adopted several foster children and helped find homes for many more. Angel Studios 'Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot' This drama tells the true story of the Rev. WC Martin and his wife, Donna, who took it upon themselves to find homes for 77 Texas foster children. Nika King and Demetrius Grosse star. Rated PG-13. Opens Friday throughout Houston. 'Space Cadet' A comedy in which a young Florida girl is mistakenly put in the NASA space program. Emma Roberts and Poppy Liu star. Rated PG-13. Begins streaming Thursday on Prime. 'Ullozhukku' Malayalam-language drama from India about a family who can't bury their loved one because of rising floodwaters. The average monthly rent being asked outside London has hit a record high of 1,316, according to a property website. The new record across Britain, excluding London, means that average advertised rents outside London are around 7% higher than a year earlier, according to Rightmoves analysis covering the month of May. In London, the average advertised rent is 2,652 per month, which is 4% higher than a year earlier, the website said. With the General Election taking place on Thursday, Rightmove said the next government should accelerate housebuilding and incentivise landlords to invest in more homes for tenants, to improve the supply and demand imbalance in the rental market and stabilise yearly rent growth. Rightmove said the pace of growth in rental prices has eased from its peak of 12% two years ago but it remains significantly higher than the more normal level of around 2% per year seen before the coronavirus pandemic. It added that an improvement in the balance between supply and demand in London has contributed to a slowing of rental price growth. By contrast, Scotland is currently the hardest hit by supply and demand imbalances, Rightmove said. Tim Bannister, a property expert at Rightmove, said: Weve been talking about the imbalance between supply and demand in the rental market for a long time now, so its easy to forget that there was a time before the pandemic where rental price growth was more stable. He added: The next government should be prioritising an improvement to the planning process, an acceleration of house building, and encouraging more supply into the rental market. Nathan Emerson, CEO of property professionals body Propertymark, said: Propertymark has long argued that the private rental sector needs more houses to stabilise rental prices but there is a myriad of other factors that can contribute towards making the market more attractive for both investors and tenants. With a General Election coming this week, Propertymark would like to see the next government reform the tax system so that more investors can be persuaded to invest in the private rental sector and lower rents for tenants in the long term. Whilst we support a greater supply of houses, there has to be a sensible deliverable programme mindful of protecting the green belt wherever possible. Here are average advertised rents and the annual increase, according to Rightmove: North East, 894, 11% West Midlands, 1,180, 10% Scotland, 1,067, 9% East of England, 1,597, 8% North West, 1,146, 8% Yorkshire and the Humber, 1,022, 8% South West, 1,425, 7% East Midlands, 1,150, 7% South East, 1,836, 6% London, 2,652, 4% Wales, 1,065, 4% And here are the areas of Britain with the biggest imbalances between supply and demand, as indicated by Rightmoves data: 1. Scotland 2. North West 3. South West 4. North East 5. West Midlands 6. Wales 7. Yorkshire and the Humber 8. East of England 9. East Midlands 10. South East 11. London Boris Johnson returns to the trail as General Election campaigns come to an end Boris Johnson has lent his support to Rishi Sunak on the campaign trail as pollsters forecast their party could win a lower share of the vote than at any past general election. At a rally on Tuesday, Mr Sunak hailed the Conservative family united after an appearance by his predecessor Mr Johnson and claimed just 130,000 voters could help stem his partys predicted losses. He made his speech after Survation pollsters found Labour is on course to win more seats than it did in 1997. But Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer had previously brushed off claims his party is on for a landslide and said: Every single vote has to be earned. Speaking at the rally, held at the National Army Museum in Chelsea, London, the Prime Minister said: Isnt it great to have our Conservative family united, my friends? Mr Sunak added: Now, it suits lots of people to say that the result of this election is a foregone conclusion but I know that it is not. Just 130,000 people switching their vote, giving us their support, is what it will take to deny Labour that supermajority they want. Every single vote matters. Mr Johnson earlier addressed the crowd of Conservative Party supporters, telling them Sir Keir Starmer would try to usher in the most left-wing Labour government since the war. Making a reference to other parties allegedly full of Kremlin crawlers, Mr Johnson said: Dont let the Putinistas deliver the Corbynistas. Dont let Putins pet parrots give this entire country psittacosis which is a disease you get by the way from cosying up to pet parrots. He added: Everybody if you actually want higher taxes next week, this year, if you feel youve got a few thousand to spare, then vote Labour on Thursday. If you want uncontrolled immigration and mandatory wokery, and pointless kowtowing to Brussels again, then go right ahead, make my day, vote for Starmer. But if you want to protect our democracy and our economy and keep this country strong abroad by spending 2.5% of our GDP on defence which Labour still refuses to commit to, then you know what to do, dont you, everybody? Theres only one thing to do vote Conservative on Thursday my friends and I know you will. I know you will. Mr Johnsons appearance was at one of the Conservative Partys final campaign events, before polling stations open their doors to voters between 7am and 10pm on Thursday. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (James Manning/PA) Pollsters have suggested Sir Keir and the Labour Party are on for a big victory after ballot papers are tallied up in counting halls throughout the country. Survation pollsters quizzed 34,558 respondents online and by phone and have said a Labour landslide of more than 418 seats the number which the party took under Tony Blairs leadership 27 years ago is 99% certain. The MRP poll data suggests prominent Tories could lose their seats to Labour, including Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt in Portsmouth North, Mr Shapps in Welwyn Hatfield, Hertfordshire, and party chair Richard Holden in Basildon and Billericay, Essex. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is set to lose the Godalming and Ash seat in Surrey, and Education Secretary Gillian Keegan her Chichester in Sussex seat, to the Liberal Democrats. The Conservative Party is virtually certain to win a lower share of the vote than at any past general election, Survation pollsters wrote in their analysis. Techne UKs survey of 5,503 voters for The Independent, also unveiled overnight, has given Labour (40%) a 19-point lead over the Tories (21%). But Sir Keir refused to entertain suggestions he will lead his party to a landslide victory at one of his final visits. He told campaigners: People are saying the polls predict the future they dont predict the future, every single vote counts, every single vote has to be earned and in places like this itll probably go down to a few hundred either way and therefore the worst thing for people who want change is to think job done and we dont need to vote because theres going to be a majority in any event. Sir Keir Starmer is set to visit England, Wales and Scotland on the final day of campaigning (Stefan Rousseau/PA) It isnt job done. Sir Keir, who is set to visit England, Wales and Scotland on the final day of campaigning, added: Given that the country is pretty broken at the moment, a lot of things arent working, theres a big job for us to do if we come in to serve and we need a strong mandate for that. We need to know the country genuinely wants this change and that were sort of all prepared to say this is the change that we want and it gives a real strong mandate to a government to say weve asked you to change things, you need to get on with it. In the Liberal Democrat camp, deputy leader Daisy Cooper described Mr Johnsons intervention as an insult. She said: Rishi Sunak has reached a desperate new low, turning to a man who discredited the office of Prime Minister and lied to the country time after time. It is time to boot out this tired and sleaze-ridden Conservative Party, and elect Liberal Democrat MPs who will stand up for their communities. Carlos Alcaraz survived a first-set wobble before racing into the Wimbledon third round. The defending champion from Spain was broken twice by Australian world number 69 Aleksandar Vukic after serving for the opening set. Vukic, 28, had form for upsetting the Spaniard, having beaten the then 17-year-old in French Open qualifying four years ago. Carlos Alcaraz on his way to victory (Zac Goodwin/PA) But there was to be no repeat as Alcaraz managed to break back to force a tie-break, which he dominated, and never looked back. The 21-year-old went on to register a 7-6 (5) 6-2 6-2 victory, spending just an hour and 48 minutes on Court One. Im really happy about my performance today, he said. The first set was the key for me. He served for the set and then I played a really good tie-break. In the second and third I played a really high level so Im really happy about it. Alcaraz will face American Frances Tiafoe in the third round on Friday. Im going for him, he added. We played a really good match in the US Open. I know he is a really talented player, a tough one, even tougher on grass with his style. Its going to be a very difficult match for me. Im ready to take that challenge, put on a show and hopefully take him. Jannik Sinner came through a late-night thriller (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Alcaraz remains on a collision course for a semi-final clash with world number one Jannik Sinner, who came through a thrilling four-set tussle with fellow Italian Matteo Berrettini. The top seed put on a show to beat the 2021 finalist 7-6 (3) 7-6 (4) 2-6 7-6 (4) in a high-level encounter that finished under the Centre Court roof shortly after 10.30pm. Eighth seed Casper Ruud was sent crashing out, but it could hardly be classed as a shock. The Norwegian is a two-time French Open runner-up, but his aversion to grass was evident again in a 6-4 7-5 6-7 (1) 6-3 defeat to Italian Fabio Fognini. In five visits to SW19, 25-year-old Ruud has never made it past the second round. Fifth seed Daniil Medvedev won his first match on Centre Court in seven years. Daniil Medvedev ended his wait for a Centre Court win (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Bizarrely, the Russian has never lost a match on Court One, and was only beaten by Alcaraz in the semi-finals last year when he had to switch to Centre. But he broke his drought in style by coming from a set down to beat Frenchman Alexandre Muller 6-7 (3) 7-6 (4) 6-4 7-5. Centre Court for some reason feels much slower, he said. I need to get used to it. The more I play on it the more chances I have to get used to it. I am always happy to play in Centre Court if I win. A hearing to establish whether there is sufficient evidence to send former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson to trial over historical sex offences will take place later. Donaldson, 61, and his wife and co-accused Lady Eleanor Donaldson, 58, of Dublinhill Road, Dromore, will appear for the committal proceedings known as a preliminary enquiry (PE) at Newry Magistrates Court. At his first appearance in court in April, Donaldson had faced 11 charges brought by police. An evidence file has since been reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) in Northern Ireland and the former DUP leader will now face 18 charges. There was a large police and media presence for Donaldsons last court appearance in April (Niall Carson/PA) He is accused of one charge of rape, four of gross indecency and 13 charges of indecent assault. The charges span a time period between 1985 and 2008. The previous holding charges will be withdrawn in court on Wednesday. Donaldson has previously indicated that he will contest the charges against him. Eleanor Donaldson faces charges of aiding and abetting in connection with the alleged offences. The number of charges she faces has increased from four to five. There are two alleged victims. The number of charges being faced by Eleanor Donaldson has increased from four to five (Niall Carson/PA) It has already been confirmed that Donaldson, who was the long-standing MP for Lagan Valley, is not running for re-election in the UK General Election this week. He was arrested and charged in relation to the historical sexual allegations at the end of March. Donaldson resigned as DUP leader and was suspended from the party after the allegations against him emerged. It is understood that in a letter to DUP party officers at the time, he made clear he would be strenuously contesting all charges against him. Weeks prior to his arrest, he had led the DUP back into Stormont following a two-year boycott of the powersharing institutions. Previous deputy leader Gavin Robinson has been appointed his successor as DUP leader. There was a large media and police presence when the two accused made their first appearance at Newry courthouse in April. They have not been required to appear in court for subsequent hearings, but have been told by district judge Eamonn King that they will need to attend for the PE hearing. The mother of missing Briton Jay Slater has said donations will be used to support volunteers helping to find her son in Tenerife. The 19-year-old, from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, disappeared after setting off to walk back to his accommodation on the holiday island on June 17. In a statement on the GoFundMe appeal Get Jay Slater Home, which had raised almost 50,000 as of Wednesday, Debbie Duncan thanked the vast generosity of donors, saying her family are grateful for all of your support and kindness during this unimaginable time. Ms Duncan wrote that part of the funds will be used to support volunteers hunting for Mr Slater in the mountains near to where his last phone call was traced. She went on: We are currently looking after Paul Arnett, putting together a package of any equipment and essentials he needs and going up to do a drop for him. We are also supporting Callum Fahim and his group with accommodation and other essentials. The remaining money will be used to support rescue teams, Ms Duncan said, as well as her familys own expenses as we remain in Tenerife looking for our boy. She added: We will continue to keep you all updated on the progress on our GoFundMe page, and we thank you for your continued support. Please keep sharing and supporting our fundraiser to help us bring Jay home. Tenerifes Guardia Civil has called off the search for the apprentice bricklayer after helicopters, drones and search dogs were deployed to find him. The search in the village of Masca, near his last-known location, took in a steep rocky area, including ravines, trails and paths. Mr Slater had attended the NRG music festival with two friends before his disappearance, and his last known location was the Rural de Teno Park in the north of the Canary Island which was about an 11-hour walk from his accommodation. He had travelled to an Airbnb in Masca and the two men said to have rented the property were later ruled not relevant to the case, according to reports. Here are some of the key electoral statistics from modern political history, including the most seats won, the biggest majorities achieved, and the highest ever shares of the vote. All figures have been compiled by the PA news agency using data from the House of Commons Library. Largest majorities The record for the largest majority won by a single party at a general election since 1900 is 210, set in 1924 by the Conservatives. The election of 1900 was the first of its kind to be contested by the recently-formed Labour Party, as well as the long-established Conservative and Liberal parties, and as such can be seen as the first general election of the modern political era. Labours largest majority to date is 178, in 1997 the election that saw Tony Blair become prime minister. Even larger majorities have been won by coalitions of parties. A three-party National government, made up mostly of Conservatives along with small portions of the Labour and Liberal parties, won a majority of 242 at the 1935 election. Four years earlier in 1931, the same National government won a majority of 492: the biggest ever parliamentary majority at a general election in modern political history. Largest majorities won by single parties at general elections since 1900 (PA Graphics) Most seats won by a single party The highest number of seats won by a single party at an election since 1900 is 418, by Labour in 1997. The second highest number is 412, won by Labour in 2001 and also by the Conservatives in 1924. The highest number of seats won by Labour at general elections (PA Graphics) Fewest seats won by Conservatives and Labour The fewest seats won by the Conservatives at any general election since the party was formally established in the 1830s is 156 in 1906, followed by 165 in 1997. The Labour Party was founded in 1900 and won two seats in the general election of that year, followed by 29 at the next election in 1906. Since 1945, the number of seats won by Labour has never dropped below 200. The fewest number of seats won by the Conservatives at general elections (PA Graphics) Best and worst performance by the Liberal Party or Liberal Democrats The last time the Liberals won an overall majority in the House of Commons was in 1906, when the party won 400 MPs. The 1923 general election was the last time the Liberals won more than 100 seats, with 158 MPs. Since 1945, the partys best performance at a general election either as the Liberals or as the Liberal Democrats came in 2005, when it secured 62 MPs. Seats won by the Liberals or Liberal Democrats at general elections since 1945 (PA Graphics) Most votes cast for winning party The record for the most number of votes cast for a winning party at a general election is 14.09 million, which were cast for the Conservatives in 1992. This is just ahead of the 13.97 million votes for the Conservatives when they won the 2019 election. The highest number of votes cast for Labour at an election which the party won is 13.52 million in 1997. But the highest number of votes ever cast for Labour at an election was in 1951, when the party received 13.95 million votes but ended up with fewer seats than the Conservatives, despite the Tories winning 13.72 million votes. The highest number of votes cast for a winner party at general elections since 1918 (PA Graphics) Fewest votes cast for winning party The fewest votes cast for a winning party at a general election is 9.55 million, received by Labour in 2005. The Conservatives received 10.70 million votes in 2010, when the party ended up short of an overall majority but went on to form a coalition government with the Liberal Democrats. The lowest number of votes received by the Conservatives at an election where they won a majority was 11.30 million in 2015. Lowest number of votes cast for winning parties at general elections since 1918 (PA Graphics) Biggest national swing National swing is a way of showing the extent of change in voter support for a political party from one election to the next. It is most commonly used to describe the change in the overall share of the vote of the two major parties, Conservatives and Labour. At the 2019 general election, the Tories won 43.6% of the vote, up 1.3 percentage points from 42.3% in 2017, while Labour won 32.1%, down 7.9 points from 40.0% in 2017. This translates into an average national swing from Labour to Conservative of 4.5 percentage points the equivalent of nearly five in 100 people who voted Labour in 2017 switching to the Tories in 2019. Swings between the two major parties at general elections since 1945 (PA Graphics) The biggest swing between the two major parties since the Second World War took place in 1997, when there was a swing from Conservative to Labour of 10.2 percentage points. The largest swing from Labour to Conservative since the war was 5.4 percentage points, in 1979. Female MPs A record 220 female MPs were elected at the 2019 general election, up from 208 in 2017. The number of women MPs has risen at each of the past five elections. The 1997 election was the first time the number of female MPs passed 100, with 120 elected, double the 60 in 1992. Female MPs elected at general elections (PA Graphics) Largest and smallest shares of the vote The highest share of the vote won by the Conservatives at a general election since 1918 is 49.7% in 1955. The lowest is 30.7% in 1997. The highest vote share won by Labour is 48.8% in 1951 and the lowest is 20.8% in 1918. Labours lowest vote share since the Second World War is 27.6% in 1983. Vote shares at general elections since 1979 (PA Graphics) The Liberals scored their highest vote share since 1918 in 1923 with 29.7%. As the Liberal Democrats, the partys highest share came in 2010, with 23.0%. The combined vote share of the SNP and Plaid Cymru peaked at 5.3% in 2010. The biggest share of the vote taken by other parties not including the SNP and Plaid Cymru is 19.5% in 2015. Karl*, 32, from California, helps same-sex couples have children. He doesnt charge a fee, but regularly donates his sperm, both in the US and Europe, for altruistic reasons. Karl* set up a website, where women can contact him to arrange a sperm donation for free. Posed by model. (Getty Images) (Getty Images) Ten years ago when I was living in Los Angeles and I was 22 years old, a friend of mine, who was a lesbian, told me that she and her partner wanted a baby. Shed been planning to use a sperm bank, but told me, "We dont like the idea of not knowing where the sperm is coming from." They were also concerned about what if their child wanted to meet their father at some point in the future. "Why dont I help you?" I suggested. It just seemed like a logical thing to me and they liked the idea because they knew who I was, that I was healthy and a university student, which showed I was of a certain level of intelligence. I was dating at the time and was studying finance. I explained to them that I wouldnt expect to be part of the childs life, but that if the child did want to meet me at some point in the future I would be happy to do that. They were happy with that because they didnt want a dad for their child who was around all the time, they just wanted a sperm donor. My first donation I had a recent STD test which I sent to them and about two weeks later they came over to my place in Los Angeles and gave me a plastic cup. I went into my room, did the deed into it, then gave them the cup. They thanked me and went back out to their car and did the insemination there. It didnt feel awkward, because I just felt pleased that I could help them. At that point, I wasnt sure if I was ever going to have kids of my own but I knew that it was something that they really wanted and I was pleased to be able to help. Initially I felt relieved that I wasnt infertile, because as a man you never know whether you are or not until you try to make a baby, and then I felt excited for them. They came over twice more during that cycle, and on the last time they handed me an envelope. Later when I opened it I discovered a thank you card and a $25 Amazon voucher. I actually felt guilty that they had given me that because at that stage we didnt know if it had even worked. Fortunately though it did and two weeks later I got a message saying that they were pregnant. Initially I felt relieved that I wasnt infertile, because as a man you never know whether you are or not until you try to make a baby, and then I felt excited for them. I was open with my friends and family about what I had done. My parents were pretty indifferent about it and my brother and friends thought it was a really kind and generous thing to do. During the pregnancy they asked me at one point what ethnic group I was, presumably for some hospital forms. And when the baby was born they sent me a picture of him and thanked me again. Karl* was delighted when the first woman he helped a friend became pregnant. Posed by model. (Getty Images) (DonnaDiavolo via Getty Images) My first child It was my first child and felt like a massive deal. It was an amazing feeling and I could see he looked like me. After the initial excitement, however, I didnt really think much more about it as I carried on with my life as a student and had no urge to meet the child unless they wanted me to. It was my first child and felt like a massive deal. It was an amazing feeling and I could see he looked like me. About two and a half years later, they asked me if I would help them to have another child and I agreed. It was then that they came over with my son and I met him for the first time. It felt really good to have helped create a family. It was emotional meeting him for the first time, we took some photos and it was a nice experience. He was too young to say much or to be told who I was. I donated my sperm to them again and they went on to have a second child, this time a girl. I also decided I wanted to donate sperm to strangers to help them get pregnant too. I didnt want to gain anything financially from it and I also knew that it was illegal in some parts of America to sell sperm, I was just motivated by helping people who wanted to get pregnant. No one has ever paid me for my donation, but knowing Im helping other people brings me great happiness. Promoting my services I decided to set up a website bepregnantnow.com so people started contacting me on that and I began helping them (the name I use on the site is a pseudonym to protect my identity). The first time I did it for a complete stranger it felt like I was interviewing them for a job because I asked them some questions first, about if they eat healthily or smoke and so on. Sometimes I would meet them at hotels, sometimes they would come to my place. The first time I did it for a complete stranger it felt like I was interviewing them for a job because I asked them some questions first, about if they eat healthily or smoke and so on. Whilst I know that people dont always tell the truth, I wanted to try and get a sense of them and make sure they would be good parents. Now Im 32 and Ive donated sperm to hundreds of people and have over 50 children out there. Ive been living in America during this time so most of them are in America, but I've also had periods of travelling to Europe and so about 10 of them are in Europe. Karl* says helping women achieve their dream of having a baby brings him great happiness. (Getty Images) (zdenkam via Getty Images) Rules and ethics If you donate sperm via a private clinic in the US, the guidelines restrict you to 25 births per population area of 850,000 people. This is partly to prevent (half) siblings accidentally meeting and getting involved with each other romantically. This is not the law, these are the guidelines set by the American Society For Reproductive Medicine. But I've heard most sperm banks never follow them in fact, most bank donors have over 50 children and many have over 100 or 200 and there's no stopping them from donating at multiple clinics where usually they are paid a fee. Also 25 people per 850,000 amounts to over 9,000 kids in the US. So essentially the guidelines say 9,000 kids per donor in the US is acceptable. I often connect the parents with other families nearby so that they can message each other and I always tell parents if I have fathered other children in the same area. I believe there is zero risk of the children I've fathered meeting and falling in love. Since I have contact details for most of the parents of the children that avoids any risk of this occurring. I often connect the parents with other families nearby so that they can message each other and I always tell parents if I have fathered other children in the same area. Also the fact it is such a small percentage compared to the population of the world, the statistical probability of any of them ever meeting and dating is essentially zero or one in 100 million, especially since my children are spread out. On top of this they were conceived in an untraditional way and that would probably be brought up quite soon in any dating situation. Karl* says as the arrangement with the women he helps is informal and done outside a fertility clinic, it involves a huge amount of trust. Posed by models. (Getty Images) (fizkes via Getty Images) Building trust For the benefit of my sperm recipients, I have regular STD tests, and some ask questions about my medical history too which Im always happy to answer. By meeting me in person they also have the advantage of being able to see that Im healthy and genuinely want to help. Some of the people Ive helped say they dont want me to have any contact with the child, which is fine. Others ask if I would be happy for the child to contact me when theyre older, and Im fine with that too. Because its an informal arrangement, unlike a clinic, theres a huge amount of trust involved, on both sides. Theyre trusting that I wont try to interfere with their childs life, and Im trusting that they wont try to chase me for child support in years to come. Theres a huge amount of trust involved, on both sides. Theyre trusting that I wont try to interfere with their childs life, and Im trusting that they wont try to chase me for child support in years to come. At the moment I dont plan to stop any time soon, but I also dont know how long Ill carry on doing it for. Ive met about 10 of the children Ive fathered but I dont see any of them regularly. I do feel like I have a unique bond with the women Ive helped and I keep in touch with most of them. My relationship status is complicated at the moment and I still don't have any children of my own in the traditional sense, but maybe I will one day, I'm not sure at the moment. I have no regrets about how many families I have helped to create children for and hope that I can help more in the future. *Name has been changed to protect identity. Sperm donation UK and US guidelines Heres everything you need to know if youre thinking of using a sperm donor How many babies can a sperm donor help create? If you use a regulated sperm donor clinic in the UK, the donors sperm can only be used to create babies in up to 10 different families (siblings count as one family), according to rules set out by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). However, if you use a private sperm donor, e.g. via Facebook, the 10 family limit doesnt apply to private sperm donations these groups and your arrangement is unregulated. In the US, the American Society For Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) guidelines restrict a donor to 25 live births per population area of 850,000 people. However, only around 40% of births resulting from sperm donation are reported. Can a sperm donor be paid? In the UK, it's illegal to pay a sperm donor anything other than expenses a person donating sperm at a private clinic can claim no more than 35 per clinic visit. But in the US, donors are legally allowed to be paid. Can your child find out the identity of their sperm donor dad? In the UK, someone who is conceived by a donor is legally allowed to find out the identity of the sperm donor once they reach 18. So if youre considering using a sperm donor then whether you would be comfortable with your child knowing the identity of their donor is crucial. In the US, sperm donation is regulated by state laws, rather than federal. The lack of one overarching law means that it can be very hard to keep track of and police, with some states guaranteeing donor anonymity and others allowing donors contact with their biological children. If you live in the US, its vital to research the laws in your state. Does the sperm donor have any legal responsibility for the child? Sir Mark Cavendish has won a record-breaking 35th career Tour de France stage with victory on stage five in Saint-Vulbas. Three years after matching Eddy Merckx on 34 during the 2021 Tour, Cavendish moved clear of the Belgian to stand alone in Tour history. Cavendish came off the wheel of Fabio Jakobsen in the finale and had the power to hold off Jasper Philipsen. HES DONE IT!!! @MarkCavendish 35th win in the Tour de France!!! IL LA FAIT !!! @MarkCavendish remporte sa 35eme victoire sur le Tour de France !!!#TDF2024 pic.twitter.com/Ad1cy9dWXQ Tour de France (@LeTour) July 3, 2024 The 39-year-old postponed his planned retirement after crashing out of last years Tour, with his Astana-Qazaqstan team going all-in on Project 35 ahead of this years race. His victory comes just four days after Cavendish struggled mightily in the heat of a punishing opening stage out of Florence, vomiting on the bike in concerning scenes, and two days after he missed the opportunity to contest stage three after being caught behind a late crash in Turin. Cavendishs four stage wins in 2021 counted as one of sports great comeback stories, his first victories at the Tour in five years after a period of time marked by illness and injury which contributed to a diagnosis of depression. Even since those wins three years ago, Cavendish has endured more difficulty, only signing a last-minute deal with Astana-Qazaqstan ahead of the 2023 season after the collapse of another move, then seeing last years Tour end abruptly on stage eight. Cavendishs Astana-Qazaqstan bossed the front of the peloton for much of the final 30km of the 177km stage from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne but in the finale the Manxman used his years of experience of surf the wheels before powering clear of his rivals. He left behind his lead-out man Michael Morkov and moved behind Philipsen and then Jakobsen, before spying space on the left-hand side of the road and bursting clear. Cavendishs wife Peta and their children were waiting at the team bus and joined in exuberant celebrations. Cavendish said: Im in a little bit of disbelief. Astana put a big gamble on this year to make sure were good here at the Tour, my boss has done it. Its a big gamble to come here to try to win at least one stage, a big gamble for my boss Alexander Vinokourov, a big thing to do, it shows hes an ex-bike rider, somebody who knows what the Tour de France is. You have to go all-in and weve done it and worked it exactly how we wanted to do, how we built the team, the equipment, every little detail has been put towards today. For four Sundays at the end of 2023, David Mata turned his Channelview family home into a special restaurant setting: The back porch, bedecked with tables, flowers and sombreros, looked out to their farm animals, including a jersey cow, horse, donkey, chickens and peacocks. The aroma of freshly cooked birria wafted through the air, mingling with the smell of livestock. Sipping a cold beer, it was like being at a rancho in Mexico. A video of the farm-restaurant by Houston food influencer Esmeralda Obispo went viral in November. The restaurant, named Frida Cocina Campestre, had 2,000 customers the following Sunday. Mata, 43, said people were driving in from Austin, Dallas and Oklahoma after seeing the video. He didn't mean to fully open the restaurant and mostly hosted friends and family before that. Next thing he knew, the Fire Department and Health Department shut it down for overcrowding and not having the proper restaurant permits. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "I don't see it in a negative way. I see it in a positive way because nobody has done something like this," Mata said. "It went viral because the concept was very unique." READ MORE: Latin Restaurant Weeks returns to Houston in July with deals at popular restaurants The bar at the Frida Cocina Campestre family farm and restaurant on Saturday, June 29, 2024 in Channelview. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Jonathan Peche, 19, looks at a calf at Frida Cocina Campestre family farm and restaurant on Saturday, June 29, 2024 in Channelview. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer A cow at the Frida Cocina Campestre family farm is photographed on Saturday, June 29, 2024 in Channelview. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer A peacock at the Frida Cocina Campestre family farm is photographed on Saturday, June 29, 2024 in Channelview. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer A cow is milked into a mug as part of a specialty drink including Tequila and hot cocoa at Frida Cocina Campestre family farm. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Frida Cocina Campestre Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer David Marta, owner of Frida Cocina Campestre, works with a horse on his family farm and restaurant on Saturday, June 29, 2024 in Channelview. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Joanna Velasquez, 41, has her hair braided at Frida Cocina Campestre family farm and restaurant on Saturday, June 29, 2024 in Channelview. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Chef and Owner of Frida Cocina Campestre restaurant, David Marta, is photographed in one of his several restaurants on Saturday, June 29, 2024 in Channelview Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Potential customers have been eager to visit since the video went up. Obispo, whose social media handle is @antojosHouston, gained 20,000 followers at the time. The video of the farm is her most-watched with 7.2 million views on Instagram. But many are wondering: What happened to Frida Cocina Campestre? The farm is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, free of charge. Visitors can enter through the back patio, and Mata or his son will give them a tour to see the animals. You can take pictures with or hold a chick, but there's no eating or drinking, despite a welcoming bar. Advertisement Article continues below this ad However, Mata is working on eventually reopening Frida Cocina Campastre by getting the right permits. Some changes will have to be made first, such as pushing the animals farther back from the patio. Some customers have gotten emotional seeing the farm, bringing back childhood memories, Mata said. Obispo wants the restaurant-farm to return for that reason. "To go above and beyond just being a Mexican restaurant but actually providing the full experience the sounds, the smells everything contributed to making you feel at home. It's giving you that little bit of home without actually being home, and it's such a beautiful thing that I think we need in Houston," Obispo said. Jonathan Peche, 19, celebrates his birthday feeding animals with his brother Angel Peche, 16, at the Frida Cocina Campestre family farm on Saturday, June 29, 2024 in Channelview. Raquel Natalicchio, Staff Photographer Mata bought the farm about two years ago and started with chickens during the egg shortage. Next, he got a Jersey cow they could milk. Paying homage to famous Mexican artists Frida Khalo and Diego Rivera, the cow and donkey are named after the couple. Advertisement Article continues below this ad For now, customers looking for food can eat at Mata's nearby restaurant, Birrieria y Micheladas, an 11-minute drive down the road. It's the second of four restaurants Mata owns. The most recent is the only one with a different name: El Pueblito de Frida, on Richmond. Mata has taken over the former El Pueblito, where he worked before owning his own place. The new version of El Pueblito has gained traction online for its gazebos adorned with flowers, and the over-the-top pitcher drinks and dressed micheladas. On weekends, you can sometimes see tortillas being made outside. At the heart of all the restaurants is the birria. It's how he made a name for himself at the first Birrieria y Micheladas at 12625 Market St. Mata started making traditional lamb birria in 2017, far ahead of the curve. Birria's popularity peaked during the pandemic. In 2017, Mata said, he was the only restaurant in Houston making it, and customers were lining up to get it. The first location is still his busiest. Chef and Owner David Marta dips a taco into his specialty birria at one of his several locations of Birrieria y Micheladas. Raquel Natalicchio, Staff Photographer His success snowballed as he opened his next restaurants between 2021 and this year. And aside from the farm-restaurant, he has a to-go concept in the works in Baytown. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "We did birria and now birria is everywhere. ... We're doing the farm with the restaurant, and probably later on somebody else will do the same. You have to innovate and never give up change," Mata said. Mata, who grew up in Guanajuato, Mexico, said he always knew he wanted to make something of himself. He was the youngest of 12 brothers. He moved to Houston as a teenager and attended Houston Community College, where he thought he would become an artist before entering the culinary program. He still paints, and his work can be seen in his restaurants. Since his first business called Fruit Ideas, where he would cut and arrange fruit as gifts or for events, he has worked on making his food presentable. When he first starting cooking for his restaurant, he would post videos of himself eating his food on Facebook and get traction before social media had really taken off for businesses. It's all come full circle as videos of his restaurants' food, drinks, decor and farm have continuously gained traction. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "I truly believe that some people dream bigger than others, and El Senor David is a person who dreams really big dreams, because to have been able to imagine and to execute and to create that in the city and space that he did, that was amazing," Obispo said. "This is a person who has a really amazing story and was able to make his dreams come true; he is a true symbol and representation of what it is to be a successful person in Houston." Sir Mark Cavendish took a record-breaking 35th career Tour de France stage win with victory on stage five in Saint-Vulbas. Three years after matching Eddy Merckx on 34 during the 2021 Tour, Cavendish moved clear of the Belgian to stand alone in Tour history. The Manxman used all of his experience to navigate a hectic finish to the 177km stage from Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, coming off the wheels of his rival and holding off Jasper Philipsen to take an historic victory that prompted tearful celebrations. HES DONE IT!!! @MarkCavendish 35th win in the Tour de France!!! IL LA FAIT !!! @MarkCavendish remporte sa 35eme victoire sur le Tour de France !!!#TDF2024 pic.twitter.com/Ad1cy9dWXQ Tour de France (@LeTour) July 3, 2024 The 39-year-old postponed his planned retirement after crashing out of last years Tour, with his Astana-Qazaqstan team going all-in on Project 35 ahead of this years race. His victory comes just four days after Cavendish struggled mightily in the heat of a punishing opening stage out of Florence, vomiting on the bike in concerning scenes, and two days after he missed the opportunity to contest stage three after being caught behind a late crash in Turin. Cavendish said: Im in a little bit of disbelief. Astana put a big gamble on this year to make sure were good here at the Tour, my boss has done it. Its a big gamble to come here to try to win at least one stage, a big gamble for my boss Alexander Vinokourov, a big thing to do, it shows hes an ex-bike rider, somebody who knows what the Tour de France is. You have to go all-in and weve done it and worked it exactly how we wanted to do, how we built the team, the equipment, every little detail has been put towards today. Cavendishs four stage wins in 2021 counted as one of sports great comeback stories, his first victories at the Tour in five years after a period of time marked by illness and injury which contributed to a diagnosis of depression. Even since those wins three years ago, Cavendish has endured more difficulty, only signing a last-minute deal with Astana-Qazaqstan ahead of the 2023 season after the collapse of another move, then seeing last years Tour end abruptly with a broken collarbone on stage eight. But since the moment he confirmed he would return this season, all of Cavendishs focus and that of his team has been on this moment. Over the winter they brought in Michael Morkov and Davide Ballerini riders who had helped him to those victories in 2021 and poured their resources into tailoring his equipment even down to the detail of using time trial water bottles on his bike to aid aerodynamics. His Astana-Qazaqstan team-mates moved to the front of the peloton at the top of a category four climb that peaked 30km from the end of the stage, and stayed there until the final kilometre. As the finish line neared, Cavendish left the wheel of Morkov to follow Philipsen and then Fabio Jakobsen, then turned on the power when the road opened up to his left, with nobody able to follow. Sixteen years after winning his first Tour stage, nobody could deny him a 35th. Cavendishs wife Peta and their children were waiting at the team bus and joined in emotional celebrations that reflected the huge amount of work that has gone into this moment. The sprint finish meant no change to the overall standings, in which Tadej Pogacar leads Remco Evenepoel by 45 seconds, with defending champion Jonas Vingegaard in third, a further five seconds back. Pogacars victory on Tuesdays stage four was the 12th Tour stage win of his career, putting him level with the soon-to-retire Peter Sagan in second place on the rankings among active riders the huge gulf speaking to the scale of Cavendishs achievement. Tate Modern signage The UK is the worlds third largest market for art. It outperforms Europe, and is surpassed only by the US and China. But this stature is not sufficient to earn it the attention of our politicians. Scan the manifestos of the major parties, and youll find that culture barely gets a mention. This state of affairs, as Anne McElvoy noted recently, rings as hollow as the Fools eggshell in King Lear. The culture secretary Lucy Frazer assured me that Arts Council England now funds a record number of organisations in more places than ever before. This is wonderful, but it doesnt take away from the fact that many regional English institutions are in a perilous position. The state of the arts beyond London is particularly grim. At the local level, where the bulk of the funding for the arts is distributed, councils coffers are running empty. In the education sector, the arts have become a casualty of the reverence for STEM subjects, resulting in a record low recruitment of art teachers. Art and culture tends to be regarded as an elitist preoccupation. And it is hardly a secret that the industry is overpopulated by white, middle-class professionals. Labour seeks to redress the dominance of the privileged few by instituting private finance models that bring in funding from multiple sources. This is a reheated version of what Grey Gowrie, Margaret Thatchers wildly original Minister of State for the Arts, did in the 1980s. Gowrie stimulated private sponsorship of the arts by offering incentives to businesses with the government matching their contributions. Business moguls volunteered at arts organisations, imbuing them with entrepreneurial spirit, and funnelled cash to support their endeavours. A decade from its inception, Gowries brainchild had raised some 74 million in new money for the arts. The success of Gowries scheme depended on smart benefits for its supporters. If Labour has a concrete design for attracting private capital, it has kept it under wraps. Some of its plans have spooked the most generous givers to the arts. Take, for instance, Labours proposal to take a hardline against non-doms. It is not without merit because it may potentially bring in additional revenue that could finance the neediest. It could also push away non-doms who are providing crucial lifelines to our arts. As one prominent philanthropist told me, some of the biggest patrons are not only reassessing whether they embark on new giving, a great many are preparing to leave altogether. If they do, the government would not gain anything, but the arts would certainly lose a lot. Even if it were it to work, there are challenges associated with private philanthropy. Donors can steer programming, and some can even seek to shape institutional collections to include artists whose works they already own or may soon acquire. In the absence of a fully thought-through strategy, Labours turn to private donations could embolden the very closed-loop, elite system it claims to want to dismantle. And who will come to the aid of institutions when donors who have endowed them handsomely fall foul of some future social norm? Rather than floating ideas that are all slogan and no substance, perhaps Labour (or whoever is in government next week) might consider committing itself to realistic proposals. Here is one: expand the Percentage for Art Scheme (PAS) a globally acknowledged funding method that incentivises developers to dedicate a portion of their capital expenses for the inclusion of public art in new constructions, renovations, or landscaping projects across the nation. When the Arts Council tried the scheme in 1988, it boosted commissions not only in the public but also the private sector. Today there are a number of businesses focused on public art strategy that work with developers globally to find ways of integrating artists visions into building projects. Londons Barking and Dagenham Council have taken another approach and built affordable, light-drenched homes specifically for artists with studio space at reduced rent in return for residents committing to delivering free creative programmes for the neighbourhood. With the 1.5 million houses Keir Starmer is promising to build, a national PAS could help in making art truly accessible to everyone while creating new opportunities for artists. Dr Cleo Roberts-Komireddi is an art historian, broadcaster, and commentator. She hosts the Art Worlds podcast and is currently writing a book on Indian Art, from prehistory to contemporary, for Yale University Press. Follow her on Instagram cleo__robertskomireddi; www.cleoroberts.com The draft bill would allow the education minister to limit the enrolment of international students at Australian universities by provider, course or location. Photograph: Agenzia Sintesi/Alamy Australias universities have descended into infighting over a proposed international student cap, with some bodies claiming the government is protecting elite institutions. The draft bill, announced in May, would allow the education minister to limit the enrolment of overseas students by provider, course or location. To enrol more students, institutions would be required to establish additional purpose-built student accommodation. In submissions to the bill, published on Wednesday, regional and smaller universities were pointing the finger at elite capital city institutions, including the University of Sydney, alleging they should be targeted due to having a larger impact on the rental crisis. The Regional Universities Network (Run) said its institutions should explicitly be exempt from the cap, noting just 3.5% of onshore international students attended a regional campus. International education is a national interest whose immense benefits ought to be more equitably distributed, rather than continue to become increasingly concentrated to a limited number of providers, its submission read. Related: Australias international student cap has been called chaotic and populist so how would it work? Charles Sturt University (CSU) went further, placing the blame squarely with universities in major urban centres, noting 50% of all international students in 2022 were enrolled at just five elite Group of Eight institutions. More than 30% of the market share was spread across three the University of Sydney (16.4%), the University of Melbourne (10.2%) and Monash (10%). The universities with lower international student enrolments must be given the same opportunities to grow international enrolments as universities that currently have high enrolments, its submission read. Expecting regional universities to fund the construction of student accommodation to support metropolitan campuses would require the reduction of the already-limited capital funding. Similarly, the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide said limiting enrolments for any one institution was only an appropriate response to highly concentrated student numbers in some capital cities. Other parts of Australia are actively pursuing population growth to support workforce needs and have the capacity and capability to increase international student numbers. The IHEA (Independent Higher Education Australia) said the federal governments key objective should be to curtail the significant growth that has occurred in some public universities. This has occurred while many providers in the sector, including independent higher education providers, have been subjected to blanket student visa refusals. Related: International students should make up no more than a third of university cohort, RMIT vice-chancellor says Rather than reduce international student numbers equitably and transparently, the government appears to be protecting only a small number of elite universities, such as the University of Sydney where it has been reported that 32,800 international students are enrolled this semester 47% of their student body. According to the Department of Home Affairs, the number of student visa applications granted in the year to 31 March was 34% lower than the previous year as stricter migration rules came into effect. There were 671,359 student visa holders in March the third highest monthly figure. But visa rejections and delays largely affected the private sector and high risk smaller public universities. Monash University said concerns over international students was overwhelmingly with the non-government sector. In 2019 to 2024, enrolments in the non-government vocational education and training (Vet) sector rose by 53%, while public university enrolments grew by just 7%. Where there are concerns with any particular public provider, they should be dealt with directly with that provider, its submission read. We note that since new regulations were introduced to improve the integrity of the student visa system, Monash University has seen no change in its visa refusal rate. The University of Sydney similarly highlighted Vet providers, writing in its submission that across public and private institutions, Vet enrolments had risen by 28% since 2019 compared with just 10% in higher education. The Queensland University of Technology said institutions which had been doing the right thing all along should not be tarnished by the improper behaviour of others. Subjecting all participants across the entire tertiary international education sector to the same granularity of regulatory scrutiny and intervention will waste an enormous amount of time, energy and focus. Institutions with good track records should be subject to a lighter touch approach. The MV Louise Michel was bought with the proceeds of the sale of Banksy artworks and is operated by activists. Photograph: MV Louise Michel/Reuters TV/Reuters A rescue boat financed by Banksy has been seized by Italian authorities after being involved in an effort to rescue 37 people from the central Mediterranean sea, the British street artist and the vessels crew have said on social media. The move comes just days after an inflatable boat carrying dummy refugees was launched into the crowd during a set by the British rock band Idles at the Glastonbury festival, a stunt masterminded by the anonymous graffiti artist and criticised by the UK home secretary, James Cleverly, as vile. In a statement posted on his Instagram channel on Wednesday, Banksy said the migrant rescue vessel he funds, the MV Louise Michel, had on Monday night rescued 17 unaccompanied children from the central Mediterranean. He added: As punishment, the Italian authorities have detained it which seems vile and unacceptable to me. Italys interior ministry has been contacted for comment. The MV Louise Michel is a bright pink former French navy vessel that was bought with proceeds from the sale of Banksy artwork and is operated by a group of activists. It is named after a French feminist anarchist and features a Banksy artwork depicting a girl in a life vest holding a heart-shaped safety buoy. Related: Banksy funds refugee rescue boat operating in Mediterranean The MV Louise Michels own social media account also stated the vessel had been detained by Italian authorities in the port of Lampedusa for 20 days, after one day at sea and the rescue of 37 people. Our crew was ordered to disembark all survivors to Pozzallo, Sicily, it said. As the weather on the route was predicted to be too bad for a safe journey, our crew decided to seek shelter close to Lampedusa where, during the night, we then got permission to disembark all survivors. The crew of the MV Louise Michel added: Later yesterday, we were informed that the ship is now detained for not following the order to disembark in Sicily. They describe the ships detention as a political game and called for the vessels release. The MV Louise Michel was detained in March 2023 after responding to a distress call in the central Mediterranean. At the time, Italian authorities said the vessel had violated new protocols introduced by Italys far-right government, complicating a delicate rescue coordination work at a time when hundreds of other migrant boats arrived in Lampedusa. French prime ministerJacques Chirac, left, speaks with Socialist president Francois Mitterrand during a Bastille Day military parade in an undated picture. Photograph: Philippe Wojazer/Reuters National Assembly elections in France: French right falls short of clear win By Campbell Page and Paul Webster 17 March 1986 Dateline: Paris The rightwing opposition in France has failed to win a clearcut majority in the National Assembly elections, a result bound to thrust the country into a period of great uncertainty and intense political manoeuvring. Yesterdays vote gives the main rightwing parties a bare absolute majority but leaves the Socialists as the largest single party in parliament. President Mitterrand still has enormous room for manoeuvre. The result means that he can pick as his prime minister a pliable centrist, such as the Gaullist, Mr Jacques Chaban-Delmas. He may even turn to a member of his own Socialist Party. The elections, the first under the new system of proportional representation introduced by the Socialists, also saw a marked shift of weight on the political extremes, with the Communists suffering a great loss of support and the rightwing National Front pulling in more than 10% of the vote. The mayor of Paris and opposition leader in the last Assembly, Mr Jacques Chirac, called on the French people to work together now that the elections are over. The Choice has been made, he said. It is a matter now for all French people, no matter what their opinion, to rally together and participate in the necessary effort for renewal that the situation in France requires. The Socialist prime minister, Mr Laurent Fabius, smiling broadly, said the Socialist score was remarkable but he appeared to acknowledge implicitly that the five years of Socialist government had ended: There will be other opportunities and we are more than ever the great movement of hope. The National Front leader, Mr Jean-Marie Le Pen, whose party won 37 seats (10.7 Per cent) told a wildly cheering crowd of his supporters: The left has been beaten. He claimed that his movement had now overtaken the Communists. Tonight we are celebrating a great victory, he said. Abandoning his previous refusal to do a deal with the other rightwing parties, Mr Le Pen offered the National Fronts support in exchange for a foothold in power. Mr Fabius said the Fronts arrival in parliament would cause justified concern among all democrats a theme the Socialists are likely to emphasise in the next few days. The conventional right, the neo-Gaullist RPR and the UDF, were set to win 41 per cent of the vote which would give them a fragile absolute majority of 11 with the support of rightwing independents, in the 577 seat house. This is an edited extract. Read the article in full. French parties learning to cohabit: analysis of relations between President Mitterrand and Premier Chirac By Campbell Page 20 March 1986 Paris, since Monday, has offered the spectacle of two highly professional politicians negotiating their way towards cohabitation. Jacques Chirac, 53, leader of the neo-Gaullist RPR, and also mayor of Paris, was sitting in some state at the imposing City Hall yesterday, receiving a stream of notables from the newly victorious majority. President Mitterrand, who set the tone of constitutional correctness on Monday evening by acknowledging the majority and wishing it well, was waiting at the Elysee for the deal to be settled. He looked like a man without a care in the world. But cohabitation, the peaceful coexistence of a president and prime minister of different political loyalties for the first time in the history of the Fifth Republic, is a formidable undertaking. The constitution, as Mr Chirac says, is flexible, but 28 years of presidential dominance have established customs and practices in the presidents favour. Now the constitution has to be re-examined. Most politicians realise that flexibility implies ambiguity, and ambiguity has to be resolved by a shared interpretation on the part of both president and prime minister. In a long interview on the last day of the election campaign, Mr Chirac emphasised that the new majority, however small its margin, should carry out its election platform. There would have to be a certain degree of harmony between the president, government and parliament. People would have to be reasonable and everyone should respect the constitution, which is flexible and allows all the necessary adaptations. On Monday evening, President Mitterrand quickly recognised that the new prime minister would have to come from the ranks of the new majority. Such recognition set Mr Chirac once again on the way to the prime ministership. One of the great contenders in French politics, he is known for his stamina and resilience. Continue reading. Related: The Guardian view on Frances snap election: the unthinkable becomes plausible | Editorial Pillow torque for president and premier The relationship between Socialist President Mitterrand and the Conservative-controlled National Assembly By Campbell Page 11 April 1986 The Socialist president and the rightwing prime minister are not at war, but they are willing to risk skirmishes and border incidents. Both President Mitterrand and Mr Chirac want to escape the charge of collaboration and achieve a new kind of constitutional coexistence. Both have to be resolute in interpreting and acting on what they regard as their respective powers. Surveys show that people like the idea of compromise between Right and Left, and even have far-fetched notions about the extent to which power could be shared. Since the experiment in cohabitation began, Mitterrand and Chirac have achieved much better results in the regular polls giving approval ratings of leading politicians, and now stand at close to 60%. In any case, the presidents options have narrowed. If he resigned, the increasingly popular Mr Chirac would be a dangerous opponent in a presidential election. If Mr Mitterrand dissolved parliament, the rightwing majority would also certainly be enlarged if the Right had carried out its plan to abolish proportional representation and restore two-round majority voting. Mr Chirac, with his hard-driving managerial style, and Mr Mitterrand, the great strategist in French politics, are worthy contestants. They know they must be able to present their differences in reasonable terms and look for ways of keeping cohabitation afloat. Mr Mitterrand is obviously walking a tightrope. He cannot be seen to collaborate, and even the photographs of him presiding over the weekly cabinet show a stern-faced president who would rather die than fraternise. Nor can he appear to act as a political partisan out to wreck the new rightwing government. Cohabitation can work in foreign affairs because French foreign policy is essentially bipartisan. In spite of the much-praised flexibility of the constitution, cohabitation would be inconceivable if an anti-nuclear prime minister tried to share power with a pro-nuclear president, or vice-versa. The sharpest clashes between Mr Chirac and Mr Mitterrand have arisen from the governments wish to introduce some urgent measures by decree after obtaining enabling laws from parliament. This is an edited extract. Read the article in full. French cohabitation can go on: Premier Chirac comments on his relationship with Premier Mitterrand By Campbell Page 22 July 1986 The prime minister, Mr Jacques Chirac yesterday used his first press conference since his appointment four months ago to praise the flexibility of the French constitution and to imply that the experiment in power-sharing between himself and a Socialist president could continue. Also in Paris yesterday, political extremists from the leftwing Action Directe group mocked a government pledge to end a series of guerrilla attacks by exploding a powerful car bomb outside the headquarters of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development in one of the capitals most heavily policed areas. A week after President Mitterrand caused the first open dispute in the power-sharing government by refusing to sign a government decree on denationalisation, Mr Chirac said at his press conference that both he and the president respected the constitution and rules of democracy, neither wanted a coup detat, and in those circumstances, things could hardly go wrong. French institutions had worked well, which had been recognised by public opinion he said. Mr Chirac added that France had become a mature democracy, and the institutions of the Fifth Republic, after being put to the test once again, had come through successfully and shown how flexible and durable they were. The prime minister yesterday emphasised that there had been a real break with the policy of the previous socialist administration as his government introduced its regime of economic liberalism. This is an edited extract. Read the article in full. The power-sharing arrangement lasted for two years until Mitterrand defeated Chirac in the presidential elections of 1988 and called for new legislative elections. These were won by a leftist majority, which lasted five years. Two people have been charged over alleged property damage offences at Macquarie University earlier this year. Photograph: Dean Lewins/AAP Two people have been charged after an ongoing investigation into alleged widespread vandalism at Sydneys Macquarie University that allegedly included graffiti of the swastika. A 19-year-old man and 20-year-old woman were arrested on Tuesday after counter-terrorism police executed a search warrant on a home in Sydneys north-west. Related: Sydney university stabbing: teenage boy who allegedly attacked student was arrested last year, minister says Police said they seized numerous items related to extreme rightwing ideology which will be the subject of further investigation. The ongoing investigation began in February after police were told five people entered the university grounds and graffitied offensive symbols in 24 locations around the campus. Police inquired into a second incident in May, as part of the investigation, that involved a man and a woman allegedly intimidating a 20-year-old man. The two people have been charged with damaging property, possessing graffiti material, and wearing a disguise with the intention to commit an indictable offence. The man was also charged with intimidation and entering inclosed land without a lawful excuse. Both were granted conditional bail. The women is due to appear in court in July, and the man in August. Guardian Australia has contacted the university for comment. Biden blamed his poor debate performance on fatigue from international travel although he had a week of rest before the showdown with Trump. Photograph: Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images The White House insisted on Wednesday that Joe Biden is staying in the election as the presumptive Democratic nominee, while the US president reportedly told his campaign team Im in this race to the end amid mounting pressure for him to step down over concerns he is not up to the job, at 81. Karine Jean-Pierre, the press secretary, told reporters the president is not dropping out, even while he owns his dire performance in the first debate of the campaign against presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump last week. She repeatedly blamed him having a cold, brought on by overly-arduous foreign travel, despite incredulous scoffs and skeptical questions from some reporters at the daily briefing. Biden separately told staffers on a call, according to multiple reports: No one is pushing me out and Im not leaving. Im in this race to the end and were going to win. Related: Who could replace Joe Biden? Here are six possibilities He was joined on the call by his vice-president, Kamala Harris, reiterating to staffers that they are in this fight for re-election together, according to an Associated Press report. She is seen as a likely substitute if Biden drops out, although several Democratic governors are considered serious rivals in that scenario. The White House earlier denied a report that Biden is weighing whether his candidacy is still viable, ahead of a key meeting with Democratic governors on Wednesday evening, radio interviews due to air on the Fourth of July holiday and a TV interview with ABC airing in parts on Friday evening and over the weekend as he tries to bolster plummeting confidence. An ally of the president earlier told the New York Times that the president remained fully committed to his re-election effort, but that he knew his upcoming public appearances would have to be successful ones in order for his candidacy to remain viable. He knows if he has two more events like that, were in a different place, the source said, referring to Bidens disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump last week. The article was published under the headline Biden told ally that he is weighing whether to continue in the race.The senior deputy press secretary and deputy assistant to the president, Andrew Bates, posted that: That claim is absolutely false. Democratic governors, meanwhile, rallied around Biden following their closed-door meeting on Wednesday but admitted they shared voters concerns about his performance. We, like many Americans, are worried, said Tim Waltz of Minnesota. We are looking for the path to win. But, he said, he and other governors have his back. The latest Siena College / NYT poll shows Trump has widened his lead on Biden since the TV debate, opening up a 6-point advantage, 49-43%, over Biden among likely voters. Only 48% of Democrats say Biden should remain the nominee. Later on Wednesday Biden made his first public appearance of the day at a White House ceremony to award posthumous Medals of Honor to two Union soldiers for acts of bravery in the civil war. The president spoke mainly clearly, aided by a teleprompter. Cracks in support among Democratic leaders had multiplied late Tuesday into Wednesday. Barack Obama reportedly expressed concerns about Bidens path to re-election and House Democrat Jim Clyburn, known as a kingmaker of sorts within the Democratic party, told CNN that the party should hold a mini-primary if Biden steps aside, despite supporting his candidacy. Almost all elected Democrats continue to back Biden in public. On Tuesday congressman Lloyd Doggett of Texas became the first House Democrat to publicly urge the president to step aside. A second one joined on Wednesday afternoon when Raul Grijalva of Arizona told the New York Times: If hes the candidate, Im going to support him but I think that this is an opportunity to look elsewhere What he really needs to do is shoulder the responsibility for keeping that seat and part of that responsibility is to get out of this race. At a Virginia campaign event on Tuesday evening, Biden blamed the debate debacle on his prior international trips, saying: I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple times, going through around 100 time zones before the debate. Didnt listen to my staff and came back and nearly fell asleep on stage. Thats no excuse but it is an explanation. Obama, who served two terms with Biden as his vice president, has reportedly shared in private with Democratic allies who sought his counsel that Biden was already on a tough road to re-election and that road was now more rocky after the debate, the Washington Post reported late on Tuesday, citing unnamed sources familiar with the former presidents remarks, despite his public support for Bidens candidacy. And dozens of House Democrats are considering signing a letter calling for Biden to withdraw from the presidential race, Bloomberg reported, citing an unnamed senior party official. A post-debate survey commissioned by Puck news showed that 40% of voters who backed Biden in 2020 now believe he should withdraw. It also showed him now under threat from Trump in states previously considered safe by Democrats, including Virginia, New Mexico and New Hampshire. Related: James Carville calls on Democratic party to deliver change and replace Biden A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Tuesday also found that one in three Democrats said Biden should end his re-election campaign. The former first lady, Michelle Obama, who has never held elected office, also led Trump 50% to 39% in a poll about a hypothetical match-up, Reuters reported. Also, California congresswoman and former House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, told MSNBC of Bidens debate performance and Trumps: I think its a legitimate question to say, is this an episode or is this a condition? When people ask that question, its completely legitimate of both candidates. Harris is the top alternative to replace Biden if he quits, according to seven senior sources at the Biden campaign, the White House and the Democratic National Committee with knowledge of current discussions on the topic, Reuters reported. In the Reuters/Ipsos poll published on Tuesday, Harris trailed Trump by one percentage point, a showing as strong as Bidens, within polling margins. Democrats have been privately scathing both about the White Houses lack of transparency about the presidents apparent recent decline, and about his failure to rebound fully from the debate. All eyes will now be on the ABC interview. Two House Democrats, Jared Golden of Maine and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington, have predicted publicly since the debate that they believed Trump would win Novembers election. Anger has also been voiced at the White House and campaign aides for shielding Biden from public and covering up evidence of his supposedly fading powers amid reports that this has been visible for months. The presidential physician, Kevin OConnor, has previously said that Biden is in excellent condition. Sam Levin and Reuters contributed reporting Charge! Current funding streams won't keep the wolf from the door - Vuk Valcic/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images I love museums, and I love the very British obsession with them. Not just the big institutions that stand proudly in our major cities, but the smaller oddities: the Framework Knitters Museum in Ruddington, Nottinghamshire, or the Bakelite Museum in Somerset (temporarily closed, and awaiting a new home). They speak to us as a nation of hobbyists and obscurists: these places are proud bastions of niche in a society whose preoccupations are becoming depressingly mainstream. But museums are also a cult. When we talk about free admission to them and there are hundreds of museums and galleries that offer this people become oddly emotional, in the same way that they do about the National Health Service. Its as if we believed that free entry were a constitutional right, and attempts to monetise it were an incursion on our freedom. In a perfect world, its true, all our museums would be free to enter. But, as I have said more than once before in this column, there is no more money. I therefore agree with Mark Jones, former head of the British Museum, who stated at the weekend that his old manor should charge foreign visitors to see the wonders of Mesopotamia and ancient Japan. The British Museum has been in this sort of territory before. I remember the outrage about a decade ago, when it proposed an entrance fee for tourist groups, a policy that it still hasnt implemented although large groups do have to book in advance, and are excluded from certain rooms. Now is the time. I dont understand why museums havent been more aggressive about charging in the past few years. Why should tourists enter our museums for free? They pay tour operators and hotels, after all, and many of these visitors are wealthy: the cost of a ticket is likely small change. Some believe that museums containing the worlds greatest treasures have a moral obligation not to charge visitors; I think that this is pie-in-the-sky nonsense. Museums have bills and staff to pay, like anyone else, and while we in Britain are already funding museums through our taxes, people from abroad are contributing nothing. Why should tourists enter our museums for free? - Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images I would, in fact, go further than Jones. He thinks that foreign visitors under the age of 25 shouldnt have to pay. By contrast, as a way of engaging young minds, and in particular the less advantaged ones, I would suggest free entry for anyone younger than 18 unless they come from abroad which may sound discriminatory, but young tourists who visit our national institutions are very likely to be able to afford a museum ticket. Plenty of institutions are poorer than the British Museum. My current hobby-horse the withdrawal of local council funding from major arts institutions means that museums are facing a grim future all around the country, and entry charges would help a little in staving off the closure of those venues whose councils are on the verge of bankruptcy (or, in the case of Birmingham, already in its throes). As much as people like cake and I like cake almost as much as I like museums the allure of the cafe and the gift shop arent nearly enough to keep the wolf from the door. In recent years, Britain has been squaring up to the idea of a tourist tax, which is already implemented in many parts of Europe, and has always seemed eminently sensible. If you want to gauge its potential here, look at Manchester, which began trialling a tourist tax in 2022. Its fees were modest 1 per night per room for selected hotels in the city and yet the income raised in the first year was 2.8 million. Our museums and galleries might only see a fraction of this, but with higher fees of which Im all in favour the money could be spread further. Manchester is a confident city, blending commercialism and civic pride. Others could learn from it. Note also that Manchesters tourist tax is not intended as a deterrent, unlike (say) Venices 5 (4.20) charge for day trippers, which is explicitly designed as a prohibitive measure. But such measures are working their way into Britain. The council running Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole recently proposed the countrys first coastal tourist tax, although earlier this week it was put on hold following opposition from local hotels. In Brighton, you now have to pay 1 to visit the pier if you live outside the area. The charge is small, but has raised the issue of whats local: many visitors are annoyed that they live just outside the catchment area. Such fees, then, need to be implemented with a careful eye on geographical reach, and to accommodate those who live nearby, but not that nearby. Last week, I predicted a gloomy future for the arts under Labour although, admittedly, one that wouldnt be any gloomier than life under the present Government. But Mark Jones has suggested something that could provide a rescue plan for several parts of the cultural sector. I cant help suspecting that those in opposition to charging entry fees are the same people opposed to most corporate sponsorships. Quite where they think the money will come from is anyones guess. It certainly isnt going to come from the next government. The exit poll is the bane of the broadcasters life. David Dimbleby arrives for a live TV debate during the 2015 election campaign. Photograph: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images David Dimbleby, the election broadcast grandee, has said exit polls are the worst invention ever because they take the fun out of election nights. The veteran broadcaster announced to the nation the result of 11 exit poll projections as host of the BBCs general election coverage from 1979 to 2019. But speaking to the BBCs Newscast podcast he confessed that he had never liked exit polls. The 85-year-old broadcaster said: The exit poll is the bane of the broadcasters life. Its the worst invention ever brought in its like a thriller and youre given the answer before weve even started on page one. Dimbleby recalled the last time the exit poll completely screwed up was in 1992, when it predicted a hung parliament in an election that John Majors Conservatives won with a majority of 21 seats. Since then, the increasing accuracy of exit polls has taken the thrill out of election nights, Dimbleby said. He recalled the excitement of watching election night in the 1950s and 60s before exit polls. Dimbleby said: I do remember way back the excitement when David Butler, who was the psephologist at the time, when the first result came in hed take out his slide rule and hed say very simply: If the whole country goes like this, the result will be whatever majority now thats what I call real reporting. But stopping people as they come out of the polling booth and asking: How do you vote? and then producing an increasingly accurate picture, seems to me entirely detrimental to the excitement of election night. He added: It gives people something to talk about until three in the morning when the first serious results flow starts. But I never liked them. It takes the fun away. However, Dimbleby admitted that the sound of the BBCs election night theme tune, which he hummed, still sends a shiver down my spine. He added: As the curtain goes up, you have this moment of Ive got to get this right, this first five minutes before the exit poll. And then Big Ben bong, bong: Its 10 oclock. And we can now say that it will be a Labour majority or Conservative majority. Thats the kind of heart-stopping moment. So Ill watch that on BBC and see how they handle that. After that, he said he would also watch how Sky, Channel 4 and ITV covered the vote. If I can get my television to work it always seemed to be on the blink every time I change it. Labor senator Fatima Payman has been suspended indefinitely after crossing the floor on recognition of Palestine. Photograph: Mick Tsikas/AAP Anthony Albanese has said senator Fatima Payman has made a decision to place herself outside the Labor party, and suggested he expects that Payman may resign from the party in the coming days. The prime minister made the comment about Paymans future on Wednesday after the Western Australian senator was suspended indefinitely after crossing the floor on recognition of Palestine, which she has vowed to repeat. Payman has claimed she has been exiled by the party and colleagues since voting with the Greens on recognition of Palestine. But talks between Payman, minor party political strategist Glenn Druery and Muslim groups planning to run against Labor MPs have left her colleagues convinced she plans to quit the party. In question time the deputy Liberal leader, Sussan Ley, asked whether Labor has referred Paymans complaint to the parliamentary workplace support service. Senator Payman, of course, has made a decision to place herself outside the Labor party, that is a decision that she made, Albanese replied. I expect further announcements in the coming days which will explain exactly what the strategy has been over now more than a month. Albanese also noted that the opposition leader, Peter Dutton, had criticised Labor for taking a great deal of care to give consideration to Senator Payman for only temporarily suspending her from the caucus, at first. On Tuesday Albanese told ABCs 7.30 it was not acceptable for Payman to be talking to groups working against Labor and appeared to claim the Western Australian senator had been in touch with those campaigners before she was indefinitely suspended. I dont take these issues personally, he said. Ive been around a while and Ive seen people at various times make decisions to change the direction upon which they were elected. Asked if it was acceptable for somebody to be talking to his opponents, Albanese responded: clearly, its not acceptable, which is why Senator Payman has been suspended from participation in the caucus. The idea that this happened just in the last 24 hours is I think not what has occurred, he added. Someone doesnt just pop up on Insiders because they were walking past the studio on Sunday. Now, I asked for an explanation of why, what the motivation of that was. I havent received one. Related: Fatima Payman leaves Labor with little choice after vowing to cross floor again Payman used her first speech to the Senate in 2022 to describe how her family fled Taliban-ruled Afghanistan shortly after her birth: I stand before you tonight as a young woman, as a Western Australian, as a Muslim devout to her faith, proud of her heritage and grateful to this beautiful country. In recent months, Payman has been increasingly outspoken in condemning Israels military operations in Gaza. She said in May: My conscience has been uneasy for far too long and I must call this out for what it is. This is a genocide and we need to stop pretending otherwise. In the same statement in May, Payman used the politically charged phrase from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, which she said asserted a desire for Palestinians to live in their homeland as free and equal citizens, neither dominating others nor being dominated over. Since then, Payman has found herself increasingly at odds with her caucus colleagues. Writing for Al Jazeera on 17 June, Payman called on her own government to recognise Palestine as a state in a symbolic and bold rejection of Israels current bid to erase the Palestinian people. She urged Albanese and the Labor party to live up to their past cries for justice, and said recognition of Palestine would not frustrate a peace process; rather, it would rescue that very peace process and keep it alive. That advocacy culminated in the Senate vote on 25 June when Payman crossed the floor to side with the Greens on a motion declaring an urgent need for the Senate to recognise the state of Palestine. The foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, had unsuccessfully sought to amend the motions wording to specify that recognition of Palestine could occur as part of a peace process in support of a two-state solution and a just and enduring peace. If Wongs amendment to the wording had succeeded, all Labor senators would have been allowed to vote for the motion. Willis is booming and Jeff Cross doesnt see development slowing down in the city for at least two to three years. Its going to be overwhelming, said Cross, the citys community development director. Weve still got heavy commercial just pouring in (and) weve got residential just going as fast as they can go. I cant hardly keep up with it. The northern Montgomery County city has a population of roughly 9,000 residents. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Massive residential projects Nearly a year ago, city officials spoke with developers of the Enclave at Willis, which at the time was considered the third biggest residential project for the city. Cross previously said that he anticipated the residential project to increase the citys population by 9% by the end of 2024, bringing it closer to 10,000 residents. Home construction continues in The Woodlands Hill residential community. The city of Willis anticipates its building boom to continue for several years as new homes and businesses are expected to boost the city's population to 30,000 in 10 years. Jason Fochtman, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer As of June, Cross sees developers building around 500 homes at a minimum by next year, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Im looking at two to three times that in the next three years, Cross said of the homes expected to come from the development, noting that he wasnt certain how many residents would be moving in. As the citys two biggest developments, Moran Ranch and The Woodlands Hills, continue to take shape, he doesnt see growth slowing down anytime soon. Moran Ranch is on their fourth section right now, fixing to go again with another section probably, Cross said. And Ive got two sections open in The Woodlands Hills. And its unreal. If you drive through there one day and then drive down there a week later, it changes a tremendous amount. Moving away from the 'hustle and bustle' The Woodlands Hills is a master planned community developed by Howard Hughes and modeled after The Woodlands. At full buildout, the community will have a total of 5,000 homes that span between the Conroe and Willis area. As of June 27, more than 1,300 homes have sold, said Steve Sams, senior vice president of master planned communities for the Houston region at Howard Hughes Corp. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We think were going to get 300 home sales this year, which is pretty much a good standard for a master planned community in the Houston area, Sams said, noting that the community is still at its infancy stage. People moving into the community tend to be young families and empty nesters trying to move away from the hustle and bustle of The Woodlands, Sams said. And with more people coming into the city, it also means more commercial development. We have plans for retail spaces within Woodlands Hills, along FM 830, Sams said, noting that many more people are starting to take interest in commerical development in the area. And seeing those Krogers and those H-E-Bs open, that tells you that its starting to be ready for the types of commercial development that everyone is seeing. New H-E-B sparked growth spurt Cross called the citys H-E-B off Interstate 45, which opened in November 2022, a catalyst to the growth in the area, as the same developers that brought in H-E-B were able to bring more business to an area that had not drawn much interest before. Advertisement Article continues below this ad They were able to break through the barriers that were holding it from selling, Cross said. And as soon as the developers were able to overcome those barriers, everybody went for it like piranhas on a piece of meat. After the San Antonio-based grocery chain celebrated its grand opening in the city, officials predicted their sales tax revenue would increase by $100,000. In the month of June, the city collected more than $422 million, compared to last years $379 million in the same month, according to a report on the Texas Comptrollers website. The city of Willis anticipates its building boom to continue for several years as new homes and businesses are expected to boost the city's population to 30,000 in 10 years. Jason Fochtman, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer And now, Cross said businesses continue to inquire about the city. There was one company, I cant say who it is but (they) were talking about a business that would have around 150 jobs, a big factory-type situation, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Willis ISD prepares Willis ISD is also preparing for growth after voters partially approved a $218.1 million bond package, which included an expansion of Willis High School, parking lot improvements and a new transportation center. According to a demographic study commissioned by the district, the city is expected to grow to 30,000 residents within the next 10 years. Willis ISD board president Kyle Hoegemeyer previously said that officials were trying to forecast out and be good stewards of the taxpayers money. But one of the things for us is, were to look ahead where do we see that growth, Hoegemeyer said in a previous article. Were trying to get out ahead as far as schools and things like that. Were trying to not put ourselves in a situation where were having to use portable buildings. Cross said he cant predict what the city will look like in five years. Attal (centre) campaigning in Paris. He has urged voters to do everything so that the extreme right does not have an absolute majority. Photograph: Christophe Petit-Tesson/EPA Frances prime minister has said nationwide efforts to prevent Marine Le Pens National Rally (RN) winning an outright majority in parliament could succeed, after more than 200 candidates pulled out of Sundays legislative election runoff to avoid splitting the anti-far-right vote. We can avoid an absolute majority for the far right, Gabriel Attal said on Wednesday, adding that 90% of candidates from President Emmanuel Macrons centrist camp had quit three-way races if they were in third with an RN candidate ahead of them. RN and its potential future prime minister, 28-year-old Jordan Bardella, finished a comfortable first in last Sundays first-round election with 33% of the vote, followed by the New Popular Front (NFP) alliance on 28% and the presidents Together alliance on 20%. Related: French left and centrists scramble to unite against far right for election runoff A historically high turnout dramatically boosted the number of second-round contests featuring three candidates to more than 300, increasing the anti-immigrant partys chances of securing the 289 seats it would need for an absolute majority. Although accurate seat projections are difficult before the shape of each constituency contest is known, pollsters initial estimates suggested RN could return as many as 300 deputies. The high number of runoff withdrawals makes that less likely. Attal said centrist candidates were right to stand down even in favour of a rival from the radical-left France Unbowed (LFI), part of the NFP leftwing alliance. Neither LFI or NFP can win an absolute majority, he said. RN can. He added: Whats at stake is to do everything so that the extreme right does not have an absolute majority. It is not nice for some French to have to block by voting in a way they did not want to. I say its our responsibility to do this. According to Le Monde, 221 candidates, including 132 from NFP and 83 from Macrons camp and its allies, had withdrawn from potential three-way runoffs by the Tuesday evening deadline, leaving 94 so-called triangular contests. The republican front, aimed at shutting the far right out of power, has long been a feature of French politics but had shown signs of fraying in recent elections as voters tired of having to vote against candidates they disliked rather than for those they backed. While the parties have largely swung behind it, this time there is no guarantee centrist voters will be prepared to vote for candidates from the far-left LFI, or that leftwing voters angry with Macron will be happy to cast their ballots for candidates from his camp. Asked about calls for the creation of a provisional cross-party government in the event of a hung parliament, Attal repeated his proposal for a range of mainstream parties to cooperate on individual pieces of legislation. I hope the Together camp is as big as possible. After that, we will seek to secure majorities on a project-by-project basis, he said. The former prime minister Edouard Philippe called on Wednesday for a more formal broad-based coalition. He said such an alliance could run from the conservative right to social democrats, but would exclude the far left, saying there could be no discussion about a coalition with LFI. Many centrists argue the radical-left party, which believes traditional parties no longer serve democracy, does not share republican values. Le Pen said on Tuesday that she could try to form a rightwing coalition with MPs from other parties if RN fell short of an absolute majority. Bardella had previously said he would only form a government with a sufficiently strong mandate. She said her party would seek to form a government with for example, 270 MPs, which would require it to find support from a further 19 to govern. If we then have a majority, then yes, of course, well go and do what the voters elected us to do, she said. With RN already supporting dozens of dissident candidates from the divided centre-right Les Republicains party, however, most analysts believe the far-right party will have difficulty recruiting more than a handful more supporters in parliament. The government spokesperson, Priscille Thevenot, on Wednesday dismissed claims by Le Pen of an administrative coup detat by Macron after the president made a number of senior public sector appointments between the two rounds of voting. We knew that Marine Le Pen lies, now we know she also manipulates information, Thevenot said after a cabinet meeting. She said a similar number of nominations were made every week and these had been completely routine and nothing specific. The UN human rights chief on Wednesday warned of a hardening of rhetoric in recent months, including hate speech and dehumanising language against immigrants and other minorities, linked to elections in Europe and elsewhere. This is an alarm bell, Volker Turk said. Turk refused to comment on specific elections but said: Narratives that denigrate the other, that dehumanise, that make scapegoats of migrants or refugees or asylum seekers or minority groups are on the rise. Several RN candidates have been deselected or are the target of judicial investigations after media revelations of allegedly racist or discriminatory remarks and social media posts. Bardella said on Wednesday it could happen that there were black sheep among the partys candidates but added that he was dealing with them firmly. Analysts say the most likely outcome of the second-round vote is a hung parliament that could lead to months of political paralysis. The chaos also risks damaging the international credibility of Macron, who has not spoken in public since last week. Karamba Diaby: The hatred the AfD sows every day with its misanthropic narratives is reflected in concrete psychological and physical violence. Photograph: Dpa Picture Alliance/Alamy The first black African-born MP to enter the German parliament has announced he will not be standing in next years federal election, weeks after he revealed the hate mail, including racist slurs and death threats, he and his staff had received. Karamba Diaby, 62, who entered the Bundestag in 2013 in a moment hailed as historic by equality campaigners, said he wanted to spend more time with his family and to make room for younger politicians. Related: They call us Nazis: inside the wealthy German town where the far right is on the rise But his announcement comes just weeks after he laid out a litany of hate messages he and his parliamentary staff had received. Diaby said the racist slurs and death threats were not the main reasons for his decision, having frequently emphasised he would not be cowed by threats. But they are widely believed to have played a part. In interviews, Diaby has emphasised an increasingly hostile mood in parliament and society, blaming the 2017 entry of the far-right populist AfD to the Bundestag. Since 2017, the tone in the German parliament has become harsher, he told the Berlin Playbook podcast of the news magazine Politico. We hear aggressive speeches from colleagues of the AfD. We hear derogatory and hurtful content in these contributions. That is truly a totally new situation compared to the period between 2013 and 2017. This aggressive style of talking is fertile breeding ground for the violence and aggression on the streets. Diaby, of the Social Democrats (SPD), entered parliament alongside Charles M Huber, who sat for the Christian Democrats for just one parliamentary term. They were the first black members of the Bundestag and their entry was hailed as groundbreaking and historic by equal rights campaigners. Diaby, who has a PhD in chemistry, was born in Senegal and moved to the then East Germany in 1985. He has increasingly faced racist abuse in recent years. His constituency office in Halle, Saxony Anhalt, has been an arson target, and has had bullets fired through the window. Some staff have faced blackmail attempts to stop them working for him and have been subjected to abuse and threats, Diaby said. Related: France and Germany urged to rethink reluctance to gather ethnicity data In the last few years Ive faced several murder threats. This has now overstepped the mark, he said. The hatred that the AfD sows every day with its misanthropic narratives is reflected in concrete psychological and physical violence. This endangers the cohesion of our society. We cannot simply accept this. Writing to party colleagues on Tuesday, Diaby promised to remain active in the SPD, especially in the 15 months leading to the election, saying: We face big challenges and hard work. He added: At the same time, Im looking forward to having more time for my family and friends and our allotment. This article was amended on 10 July 2024. An earlier version stated that Karamba Diaby was Germanys first African-born MP; in fact, this was Kai-Uwe von Hassel, president of the Bundestag from 1969-72, who was born in present-day Tanzania. Chivalry, or something more sinister? - John Fedele/Tetra images RF Microaggressions are everywhere. Or are they? These perceived verbal or behavioural slights in the workplace are increasingly obsessing firms and their employees, with a split between those who see identifying them as a way to make the workplace a better and more equitable to everyone and those who see them as a false construct of the woke industrial complex. Now the law firm Hogan Lovell is offering a microaggressions hotline to its staff who wish to record what it calls interactional bias. Microaggressions are often unintentional and even well-meaning, but convey a derogatory or negative attitude toward someone on the grounds of a protected characteristic such as race, sex, ability, gender or age. Its a complex and nuanced concept, but increasingly accepted across HR departments. The idea originated in the US during the Seventies as a response to repeated acts of racial discrimination, now cover a wide range of behaviour, from the pretty straightforward unconscious racism of asking a person of colour where they are from to more complex, contested interactions, involving expressions that are seemingly innocent to large numbers of employees. The most common criticism of microaggressions is that they encourage hypersensitivity and that such remarks are blown out of proportion, but others claim they can have a serious impact on mental and physical health, including depression and sleeping problems. Hogan Lovells initiative has been called Orwellian and tokenstic by critics and some have even questioned the motives behind it as a way to better cover the firms liability to its employees. Where do you stand in these scenarios? Opening a door and letting someone through before you Certainly, its not to be encouraged in tight spaces. But holding the door open is distinct from holding it open and inviting someone else to pass before you, and familiarity with the other person is relevant contextually. Is the age of chivalry dead? Criticising someone for not making eye contact A colleague appears to repeatedly engage less than others in meetings perhaps speaking quietly and not making eye contact, which is perceived as uncommunicative and potentially a lack of involvement with the subject or project being discussed. Do you say something? Telling someone to man up Sometimes interchangeable with telling someone to grow up when you need someone to strengthen their resilience or demonstrate their ability to rise to a particular challenge. Oddly, it can be applied to anyone at any time. Dont mind my OCD! A very common throwaway remark when a person wants to make fun of themselves and their neatness or organisational skills it can be an innocent attempt to diffuse tension through self-deprecation. You dont have kids to pick up, so you can work later, right? This is an assumption about a person being free at times when other colleagues with children under 18 are most likely to want or need to be away from work. Being a working parent is tough but is it fair to expect those without children to pick up the slack? The way you have overcome your disability is so inspiring Clearly meant with the best intentions but how much do you really know about the nature of the hardships and challenges the person has faced? You look too young to work here This is especially common towards women, based on the bias that they couldnt possibly occupy high status positions. It might be meant as a compliment but comes loaded with assumptions. Are you having a senior moment? Obviously this is meant as a joke in most cases (especially with regards to using technology) but its worth remembering that we all forget things, whatever age we are, and it also does not take into account considerations such as the effects of the menopause. Unless you are the President of the United States, perhaps. Concerns have been raised over the president's stumbling performance in a TV debate with Donald Trump - Elizabeth Frantz/REUTERS Joe Biden spent the whole of the last election campaign trying to shrug off his nickname Sleepy Joe. Now, the idea that the 81-year-old president often gets tired is not just an accusation by Republicans. It is a political fact. At a Democrat donor event in Virginia on Tuesday, Mr Biden told his supporters he nearly fell asleep on stage at his disastrous head-to-head with Trump last week. I didnt have the best night, he said. That extraordinary admission came after a challenge to his leadership from the presidents new political opponents in his own party. Dubbed the bedwetting brigade by Mr Bidens allies, a growing number of Democrats no longer believe he can beat Trump in Novembers presidential election. The bedwetting brigade is calling for Joe Biden to drop out, wrote Rob Flahery, Mr Bidens deputy campaign manager, in the aftermath of the debate. That is the best possible way for Donald Trump to win and us to lose. An increasingly loud portion of the party, however, feel that it is Mr Biden staying in the race, not leaving it, that makes a Trump victory most likely. A source close to the president told the New York Times on Wednesday morning that the president believed he had just four days to save his campaign by performing well at two campaign rallies and in a television interview this weekend. As Democrats squabble over what to do next, three main factions have emerged. The first group believe the election is doomed if he remains the partys nominee and should drop out immediately to be replaced by a younger candidate. They include former aides of Barack Obama, who worked with Mr Biden in the White House but have never believed strongly in his electoral strengths. I think youre going to hear discussions that I dont know will lead to anything, but there are going to be discussions about whether he should continue, David Axelrod, a former senior adviser to Mr Obama, said following the debate. David Axelrod, a former adviser to Barack Obama, said it was inevitable the president's future would be discussed after the TV debate - Bryan Bedder/Getty Van Jones, another former Obama aide, said he is happy to be classed as a bedwetter. Im sitting here where Im in Pampers, he said on Tuesday. Behind closed doors, what people are worrying about is what the polls are going to show in the battleground states a week from now. Other prominent voices are Democrat donors who have contributed to the $91 million (71.4 million) Biden-Kamala Harris election war chest but think they stand no chance against Trump. On a call with the Biden campaign this week, one donor simply asked: Can the president make it through a campaign and another term? Another asked for their money back. Anybody trying to prolong the inevitable here is just basically putting us on a giant f----ing death march towards the end, a major donor told Politico. Our only hope is that he bows out, we have a brokered convention, or dies, another insider said as the dust settled on the debate. Otherwise we are f----ing dead. Lloyd Doggett of Texas is the first sitting Democrat to publicly say Joe Biden should stand aside at the next election - Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc On Tuesday, Lloyd Doggett of Texas became the first sitting Democrat to add his name to the pile of anonymous quotes from his colleagues about the commander-in-chief. He said Mr Biden should make the painful decision to withdraw. So far, only Mr Doggett has publicly called for Mr Biden to stand back, but plenty of Democrats make the same argument behind closed doors. Consider me a bedwetter, one angry representative told Axios. This is not getting better. The second camp of worried Democrats say Mr Biden has some time to recover from his TV performance, but think he should spend more time reassuring allies in the party before making a decision. Those who are expected to go out and defend the president on a daily basis expect more contact from him at the most difficult time of the campaign so far. The group includes JB Pritzker, the governor of Illinois, who convened a call with fellow Democrat governors on Monday to discuss the situation. After hearing that most of the attendees had not spoken to the president, he arranged a meeting between Mr Biden and his allies at the White House on Wednesday night. Nancy Pelosi, one of Mr Bidens staunchest allies, said on Tuesday she had not spoken to him since the debate and argued that questions about his age were legitimate. Shortly after her interview on MSNBC, her office released a statement clarifying that she did not think he should stand down. It apparently took Mr Biden a long time to call Hakeem Jeffries, the party's leader in the House of Representatives, as concerns grew about his age - J. Scott Applewhite/AP Others have expressed concerns about how long it took Mr Biden to call Hakeem Jeffries, the partys leader in the House of Representatives, as concerns grew about his age. The third group of Democrats have already accepted that the White House is lost but think Mr Biden must now do more to take the House at the same time. If Trump wins, they argue, it is vital that the Democrats have control of the legislature to oppose his extreme and unhinged policy plans. The frontline group of House Democrats are organising a private letter to be sent to Mr Biden urging him to protect their jobs at all costs. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, a representative from Washington state in a marginal district, said on Tuesday: We all saw what we saw, you cant undo that, and the truth I think, is that Biden is going to lose to Trump. A senior Democrat told Politico: The House is the last firewall, folks. We have to flip the House. Keir Starmer speaks at a Labour general election campaign event in East Kilbride, Scotland. Photograph: Lesley Martin/Reuters Keir Starmer has hailed a new age of hope and opportunity as millions of people prepare to vote in a general election that could deliver the biggest shake-up of British politics in a generation. Related: What constituency am I in? New boundary map for UK general election and how changes may affect you The Labour leader said he was ready for government and that his intended cabinet would hit the ground running if it wins Thursdays election. With Rishi Sunaks closest allies appearing to concede defeat for the Conservatives, and the final opinion polls predicting an unprecedented Labour victory, Starmer said he hoped Britain was about to enter a new chapter. On the last day of a fractious six-week campaign, the Guardian was told Sunak had confided to members of his inner circle that he was fearful of losing his own seat, and a new YouGov poll predicted 16 cabinet ministers would lose their seats potentially handing Starmer the biggest majority for any single party since 1832. Speaking at a campaign stop in Scotland, which will be one of the key battlegrounds on Thursday, Starmer told his activists they were on the final few yards towards the start of a historic day. This is a great nation, with boundless potential. The British people deserve a government that matches their ambition. Today is the chance to begin the work of rebuilding Britain with Labour. He promised a flurry of activity should he enter No 10, saying he would push back the parliamentary recess to get his legislative programme under way. Starmer said he had told his shadow cabinet they will not be forgiven if did not show results immediately. He said he had told them: I dont want you having a phone call or a meeting the day after the election that you could have had six months before the election. In a rare sign that he was mentally preparing for victory at the end of a deeply cautious campaign, Starmer said: Im really pleased that four and a half years of work is being vindicated because this has not been an easy gig. Sunak spent the day campaigning in safe Conservative seats in the south of England. Sources told the Guardian he had privately confided his own vote in Richmond and Northallerton was too close to call. default In 2019, he won the seat with a majority of more than 27,000 and 63% of the vote. One source said he is genuinely fearful of a defeat in Richmond: the risk that it could be tight has hit him hard. Hes rattled he cant quite believe its coming so close. Leading Tories, including the sacked former home secretary Suella Braverman and the work and pensions secretary, Mel Stride, also made clear that election defeat appeared inevitable. However, Sunak brushed aside the idea that the Conservatives had already accepted defeat, as he campaigned in ultra-safe Tory seats such as Hamble Valley on the final day before polls opened. He claimed that millions and millions of voters had still not made up their minds, saying people should separate the frustrations which they understandably have about me, the party and the past from their ultimate decision. Quizzed at a school about his highlight as prime minister, Sunak dodged the question, while arguing that much of his time in office had been spent struggling with outside events. There are lots of things that youd like to do but the reality is that youre dealing with the situation in front of you. Thats very much been the story of my political career in the last few years. Thats just reality. Youve got to play the cards that youve been dealt, he said. Asked if he would take full responsibility for whatever the election result was, he replied: Yes. The Tories experienced yet another blow on Wednesday night as the Sun newspaper made an abrupt volte-face, putting its support behind the Labour party for the first time since 2005. Related: The Guardian view on polling day: a moment to cherish and nurture democracy | Editorial After years of fiercely critical coverage of Labour and personal attacks on the leader it called Sir Softie, the Sun endorsed Starmer on Wednesday, saying: It is time for a change Which means that it is time for Labour. In Essex, where Reform UKs leader, Nigel Farage, is making an eighth attempt to enter parliament, the Tory candidate standing in his way made a last-ditch appeal to stop what he described as the populist juggernaut. Farage led a rally in the centre of Clacton in chants of we want our country back, as he once again sought to make immigration the centrepiece of his campaign. How are you getting on for dentists in Clacton? Well then you should have come by dinghy, he said, after arriving on a military-style vehicle to the sound of Without Me by Eminem. Giles Watling, who is defending his Clacton seat, said the atmosphere in the constituency had changed since the arrival en masse of Farage supporters. He described the Reform leaders rallies as chilling and alleged that people had been intimidated by canvassers for the populist party, including a shop owner who, he said, had been told it wouldnt be a good idea if she put up a Tory placard in her window. Farage was in a bullish mood as he appeared alongside the former boxer Derek Chisora, predicting that Labour would win as much as 37% of the vote and that his party would be challenging for government at the next election. Labour strategists are tense about the prospect for shocks in some unpredictable constituencies, including those where the Reform vote is surging and where Labour is facing a challenge from the Greens or independent candidates campaigning on Gaza. The party is braced for a number of upsets that go against the grain, including in the shadow culture secretary Thangam Debbonaires Bristol Central seat to the Greens and in seats with large Muslim populations, including Birmingham Ladywood, Bethnal Green and Bow, and Dewsbury and Batley. Islington North, where the former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn is running as an independent, is said by party insiders to be too close to call. On his final day of a gruelling campaign, Starmer spent time in Wales, Scotland and England, culminating in a rally in the Midlands another area of the UK where Labour is hoping to take multiple seats from the Conservatives. In Glasgow, he mocked the Scottish National party for urging voters to vote for them to send a message to Westminster. I dont want Scotland to send a message, I want Scotland to send a government, he said. Labour is on course to regain dozens of seats in Scotland from the SNP. On Wednesday night, the first minister, John Swinney, said it was a foregone conclusion Labour would win. The only story left in this election is in Scotland, where seats across the country are on a knife-edge, he said. But Starmer also warned during the course of the day against paying too much attention to Tories downplaying their own prospects. You can see what the Tories are up to they are trying to invite people not to exercise their democratic right to go out and vote, trying to dissuade people from voting, he said. A once-respected party is now saying with 24 hours to go nothing that is positive, everything is negative, effectively, to run a campaign to suppress the vote. Writing in the Guardian, Labours deputy leader, Angela Rayner, promised change will begin immediately if Starmer enters No 10 and called on voters to help deliver a significant majority. We will need a clear mandate for change dont doubt that. The Liberal Democrats also look as if they will regain the partys strength of the coalition years, capitalising on Tory decline and tactical voting. The partys leader, Ed Davey, whose campaign has been dominated by outlandish stunts, wrote in the Guardian on Wednesday that his mission was beating as many Conservative MPs as possible More and more people are focusing on how best to use their vote to bring an end to Conservative rule and start a more progressive, more positive era. Screenshot of Darren Jones A Labour frontbencher has expressed frustration at the out of date council tax system and hinted that a tax raid on wealthy peoples homes is coming. In a leaked recording, Darren Jones, the shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, admitted that Labour cannot openly talk about revaluing homes for council tax because no party that does so is ever elected. He also suggested the whole council tax system needs to be changed in comments that have been seized on by the Conservatives. The Tories say Mr Jones, who is likely to be second in command at the Treasury if Labour wins the election, has been caught saying the quiet part out loud and that Sir Keir Starmer intends to increase taxes on peoples homes, cars and pensions. Labour described it as scaremongering nonsense. As Britain goes to the polls, Rishi Sunak warned voters not to sleepwalk into a Labour super-majority and insisted the election was not a foregone conclusion. He said: Telegraph readers know the Conservatives, the party of Margaret Thatcher and Nigel Lawson, will always represent their values. We will cut taxes for every generation, make sure work always pays, support families, safeguard drivers freedoms, secure our borders, boost our national security and preserve our precious countryside for future generations. A final opinion poll for The Telegraph has predicted the largest Labour majority in history, with Sir Keirs party winning 39 per cent of the vote and the Tories 20 per cent. Another poll predicted Labour would win the biggest majority of any party since 1832, and other polls this week have suggested the Conservatives could end up with as few as 64 seats. On Wednesday, analysts at the investment bank Citi forecast that Labour will launch a 15 billion tax raid on pensions, capital gains and inheritance if the party wins a large majority. Tax has been central to the election campaign, with the Conservatives insisting that families will pay more than 2,000 extra under Labour a claim that was criticised by the statistics watchdog. Sir Keir has ruled out increases to income tax, VAT or National Insurance, but has refused to make any commitments to freeze or cut other taxes. Mr Jones has previously been recorded saying that Labours green energy plans will cost hundreds of billions and that inheritance tax will be used to redistribute wealth. His latest comments were made at a coffee morning in the Bristol area on May 18, four days before the election was called. The Labour frontbencher was asked by a voter about the prospect of council tax rises on 700,000 homes worth more than 1 million. Mr Jones replied: Therell be people in this village that will pay a lot more council tax than they currently do, many of them older people. So the fact is again, I get the frustration but you live in a capitalist democracy. So that requires people to vote for you to have power to hold power in order to be able to do things within a framework people are willing to work within. Now you can say that the whole system is like c--p and needs to be changed. When he was asked about increasing council tax for those people who can definitely afford it and then pour[ing] that money back into working-class people, he replied: And I agree with you that the council tax system is very out of date. He went on: Let me be frank with you about council tax, right. Any party has ever suggested revaluing council tax has never been elected. They just havent. When the questioner pointed out that Labour had a huge poll lead, Mr Jones replied: They wont if they start telling everyone they have to pay more council tax. Neil Amin-Smith, a policy adviser to Rachel Reeves, the shadow chancellor, authored a report in 2019 calling for a national revaluation and reform programme for council tax. Radical overhaul Ms Reeves has in the past called for a radical overhaul of the tax system, saying our current system of wealth taxation isnt working. At a final campaign rally on Wednesday night, Mr Sunak warned that Labour would increase taxes. He said: Ask your friends, ask your neighbours: can you afford to pay another 2,000 more in tax? Because that is what they will be paying if Keir Starmer walks into Downing Street in a weeks time. Are they ready for a council tax revaluation? Laura Trott, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, said: Labour have been caught saying the quiet part out loud. Darren Jones admitted that talking about any of their secret taxes on the family home before the election would cost them votes. The real risk of a Labour super-majority cannot be clearer. A vote for anyone other than the Conservatives will deliver a Labour government, intent on taxing your home, your pension, your car even your childrens education. Do not give them a super-majority to lock in higher taxes for a generation. A Labour spokesman said: If the best the Tories can offer on the day of the election is a recording of Darren Jones explaining why Labour has no plans to raise council tax, then it shows the utterly desperate state they are in. Any other interpretation of his words is entirely false, scaremongering nonsense. In a message to Telegraph readers, Mr Sunak said: The five years ahead will be the most transformational for a generation. They bring great risks but great opportunities too if we take the bold action to seize them. To do that, we need a government with a clear plan to build for a brighter future for the whole country. Despite 14 years to come up with ideas, Labour have no plan for what theyd do with power, beyond hiking taxes. The choice at this election is between sleepwalking into a Labour super-majority that would give Keir Starmer unchecked power to raise taxes, raid pension pots and give illegal migrants an amnesty, and the Conservatives who will cut tax, grow the economy and start the flights to stop the boats. He added: A vote for any other party is a vote for Labour, no restrictions and zero accountability. With such a majority they would have a blank cheque to raise tax. They would have carte blanche to expose our children to dangerous gender ideology and re-enter the EU by the backdoor, surrendering our Brexit freedoms and making us a rule-taker from Brussels once more. Dont let anyone tell you the result of this election is a foregone conclusion. As few as 130,000 votes are set to determine the final outcome. So vote Conservative today as the last opportunity we may have to stop Starmers super-majority taxes. Sir Keir Starmer says his party would hold a strategic defence review in his first year of government if they win on July 4 - VICTORIA JONES/PA ARCHIVE Labours refusal to commit to spending 2.5 per cent of national income on defence would be a disaster for Nato, Grant Shapps has warned. The defence secretary said it would provide evidence to Vladimir Putin that the West was throwing in the towel over Ukraine. Mr Shapps also suggested that farther down the line, it could give Donald Trump the impression that European countries were unwilling to fund their own defence one of his previous criticisms of Nato should he win Novembers US presidential election. Security has become a major dividing line between the Tories and Labour, with Rishi Sunak attacking Sir Keirs party for refusing to match his pledge to increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2030. Mr Shapps, who is battling to keep his seat of Welwyn Hatfield, said it was still not too late to stop Starmergeddon, saying it would be dangerous for the country for Labour to have such unchecked power. But most polls predict that Thursdays election will lead to a huge majority. Grant Shapps, the defence secretary, says it would be 'dangerous' for the UK for Labour to have such unchecked power - JEFF GILBERT/JEFF GILBERT PHOTOGRAPHY In an interview with The Telegraph, Mr Shapps said: Im genuinely concerned about this. I know Keir Starmer is going round saying the right thing, but that is different to taking action and committing the money that is needed. He has not committed to 2.5 per cent with a timeline if he gets into office on Friday. It means that on his first day, he will be asked what budget he needs to cut next year: should it be spending on defence? Spending on Nato? It will be embarrassing when we have already told Natos secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg that the UK will commit to 2.5 per cent by 2030, and then as one of the first acts of the new Labour government be to renege on this pledge. It will send a very strong signal to the rest of Nato, as well as being damaging to Britain. Its also naive in a dangerous world. He added: Putin is looking for the West to throw in the towel, and he was clear this would never happen under the Conservatives. Not having a timetable for 2.5 per cent takes away from our moral leadership and our military leadership, and it would be a disaster for the alliance for the government to renege on the pledge. All this would be in a context where Trump and others will look at Europes desire to contribute to their defence. Britain should be leading by example, helping to bounce others into increasing their contribution. Mr Shappss comments come after Boris Johnson, the former prime minister, used his first major intervention in the election campaign to rally voters to choose Conservative. Speaking in London on Tuesday night, Mr Johnson said: If you want to protect our democracy and our economy and keep this country strong abroad by spending 2.5 per cent of our GDP on defence which Labour still refuses to commit to, then you know what to do, dont you, everybody? Theres only one thing to do vote Conservative on Thursday my friends and I know you will. I know you will. Mr Shapps pointed to defence and pensions as reasons to back his party on Thursday and avoid heralding in a so-called super-majority under Labour. He said Labours refusal to rule out a so-called retirement tax was scaring the life out of pensioners in his constituency. Sir Keir has refused to back the Tory pledge to bring in a triple lock plus for pensioners, which states that older people will not have to pay income tax on their state pension. Forecasts show that the state pension will soon rise above the threshold at which people start to pay income tax. The defence secretary said that when he tells voters about this on the doorstep, it really bites. He said: Something that comes up on every doorstep is Labours failure to back our triple lock plus plan. It is scaring the life out of pensioners in this country. He said: Pensioners will be trapped into paying income tax on it, and it shows that the Conservatives are the only party who will protect pensioners. They havent forgotten 75p, they havent forgotten how Labour raided their private pensions. I tell people that Keir will tax their home, their job, their car and their pension and its the last one that really bites. Gordon Brown faced criticism as chancellor in 1999 when he only put up the state pension by 75p. Two years earlier, he scrapped tax relief on dividends that pension funds received on their investments. With polls predicting Labour to win as many as 430 seats on Thursday, Mr Shapps said: It is in no ones interest to see unchecked power. The polls show a majority which is not like Boriss, its bigger than Blairs. It would be a blank cheque for the Labour leader to cause havoc. I think that is a dangerous place for a country to be in, but its not too late to stop Starmageddon. You can still stop it tomorrow and ensure a proper opposition or better still a Conservative government. Sir Keir Starmer said 'it seems obvious to me that we'll have to extend the timetable' - MARIA UNGER/AFP Labour will delay MPs summer recess if it wins the general election to give more time to set out the partys first steps, Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed. The Labour leader said it seems obvious the party will need to extend the parliamentary timetable ahead of the summer break to help with a slew of radical policy pledges including boosting hospital appointments, recruiting more teachers and launching a new border security command to tackle the small boats crisis. It was reported on Tuesday that Labour was planning to push back the summer recess, which was due to start on July 23, until the end of the month. Sir Keir confirmed on Wednesday there would be a delay, saying: How much legislation will be through by the end of July I think is questionable because the timetable is very tight, although it seems obvious to me that well have to extend the timetable. If Labour wins on July 4, some of Sir Keirs first tasks will involve choosing his Cabinet and working on the Kings Speech, which sets out the governments legislative agenda. In policy terms, the Labour leader has set out six first steps: delivering economic stability, cutting NHS waiting times, launching a new border security command to smash criminal boat gangs, setting up GB Energy, a publicly-owned clean power company, cracking down on anti-social behaviour, and recruiting 6,500 new teachers. Jonathan Ashworth, the shadow paymaster general, has said Rishi Sunaks flagship Rwanda scheme would be axed on day one, while Sir Keir has said that he would kick-start reforms to the planning system straight away upon taking office. The latter would set the stage for Labours attempts to ramp up house building and infrastructure development across Britain. The Labour leader has also pledged that his plan to impose VAT on private school fees would be rolled out straight away if he wins the election. He said the exact timing would depend on the timetable in Parliament but committed to bringing in the policy as soon as it can be done. The next prime minister will also be whisked off to the United States less than a week into the job for Natos 75th anniversary summit in Washington. Asked about his plans for government on a visit to Wales on Wednesday morning, Sir Keir told reporters: Well, it will be a team with their sleeves rolled up, getting on with the job. Ive already set out what the first steps will be that we will be working on, so you can expect action on the 40,000 appointments in hospitals and the beginning of the recruitment of the teachers that we need, the police that we need on our streets, the setting up of GB Energy, the border security command. These are all the first steps that we will do. How much legislation will be through by the end of July I think is questionable because the timetable is very tight, although it seems obvious to me that well have to extend the timetable. We will be working very hard. If his party wins the election, Sir Keirs first port of call will be Buckingham Palace, where he will ask the King for his permission to form a government. Immediately afterwards he would be taken to No 10, where traditionally he would deliver a brief speech to the public from a podium in Downing Street. He would then head behind the famous black door to meet and greet the staff, before inviting inside those Labour MPs who will be appointed to his first Cabinet. The Kings Speech is expected to take place about two weeks after the election, on July 17. On Wednesday, Sir Keir also took the opportunity to hit out at the Conservatives, saying it was surprising and perhaps sad that after 14 years in government, all the Tories have got left is this desperate negativity. He added: Twenty-four hours before the country goes to the polls they are simply not able to answer the question in positive terms why anybody should vote Tory. I think thats a very sad indictment, but a realistic indictment, on their own record in government. Theyre not pretending that they can offer anything different. I think thats quite a telling point, quite apart from the negativity. Theyre not pretending theyve got anything else to offer you. Connor MacKenzie Clark with his mother, Tracey. Photograph: Family handout/family handout Tracy Clark had understandably mixed emotions when her 18-year-old son, Connor MacKenzie Clark, packed his bags and left home to take part in a training course for the Royal Marines. It felt nerve-racking, really awful in a way, but I was so proud of him for having the courage to chase his dream, Tracy told the Guardian. I thought he was physically and emotionally strong enough. He was nervous but incredibly excited. Tracy said her son went into the four-week recruitment orientation phase (ROP) course with his eyes open, conscious he would be challenged by some aspects such as personal administration keeping uniform, kit and locker in pristine order. He said: Mum, I know my ironings rubbish but theyll teach me how to do it. I asked him: Connor, are you sure about this? Are you sure of the Royal Marines? He said: Yeah, absolutely. I said to him: What if it doesnt work out? He said: Oh mum, my plan B is to be a police officer, or join the fire service. We used to always say: Dont forget, youve got a plan B. Unfortunately, he forgot. On 12 June 2021, 19 days into the course, Connor was found dead on a railway track two miles from the commando training centre in Lympstone, Devon. He had scaled the perimeter fence, using a duvet to get across the razor wire, and was struck by a train. Since then, Tracy has battled to unearth what she calls a perfect storm of failings that led up to her sons death. During Connors inquest in Exeter, it emerged he believed instructors had told him he was a failure and the worst recruit. The inquest heard he and his fellow trainees were subject to thrashings bouts of high-intensity physical activity dished out as punishments and were harshly sworn at. The inquest was told that a few days before he died, Connor self-harmed, opening up a cut on his arm, and had gone to the sick bay. The medic had not flagged up what had happened to the trainers. The search for Connor when he was discovered missing from his room was flawed, with one senior officer admitting he could not understand how a recruit a member of our family had been gone for so long without an effective hunt taking place. I was shocked and beyond hurt when I found out what happened, said Tracy. They call it a brotherhood. Its easy to be a brotherhood when everythings going right. And when everyones strong. A brotherhood is actually just opening your eyes and looking deeper. Tracy described Connor as kind, generous, thoughtful and selfless. Cherished memories include him teaching Maasai children to play rugby while on a safari and sticking up for a schoolmate when she was bullied. He decided aged 13 that he wanted to join the marines. You could have knocked me over with a feather, Tracy said. But he was very determined and liked to push himself. Connor, who was from Norwich, trained hard and during the Covid lockdowns would run barefoot for 10 miles along the coast and break the ice with his mother, a cross-Channel swimmer, on the Norfolk Broads so they could take a dip. We would warm up in the car drinking green tea and honey, she said. Tracy felt he was ready for the physical challenges of the ROP, which marines undertake before initial training and is set up as a transition from civilian to military life, but it soon became clear he was struggling. I talked to him probably at least every second day. He said: Im tired, Im exhausted. He was staying up until one, two in the morning to do personal administration. I think because he was exhausted, he was getting more and more and more things wrong. She did not say he was bullied and did not have a particular problem with the industrial language used by trainers but felt that they needed to be more alert to crises. They said the doors always open but maybe its the first experience away from home for some of these recruits. They may not go and seek help. It needs to be the other way around. It is a failing on their part to not have that safety net, not to check in on him. What appears to have been a cry for help came when he self-harmed. Tracy said: That was Connors way of seeking help. He should have been put in a safe place. Surgeon commander Jon Bedford told the inquest he made a poor and wrong decision by not telling the training team what had happened. Clarks roommates reported him missing at about 5.50am but it was several hours before the emergency services were called. Tracy believes the search outside the wire should have started sooner and if the emergency services had been called earlier, a go-slow could have been put on the train line. That is really shocking, she said. She has spent the three years since her sons death fighting for answers. This has to mean something. Change has to be made. I hated the marines at first but I dont now. Im angry at the failings. Its a collective issue. There was a perfect storm of failings. It keeps coming back to the duty of care. That duty of care wasnt followed in so many ways. I entrusted my 18-year-old son to them. And they let us down. Tracy said her overriding emotion remained pride. Im so proud of Connor for chasing his dream, as tragically as his dream ended. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org Despite ruling out running for election, support for Michelle Obama has surged - JIM WATSON/AFP The only prospective candidate who could beat Donald Trump in the presidential election is Michelle Obama, according to a new poll. The former first lady, 60, would beat Trump, 78, by ten points, a Reuters and Ipsos survey showed, with no other possible candidates beating the former president. It comes as Barack Obama has privately told allies that Mr Biden, 81, faces tougher odds of being re-elected after last weeks disastrous debate performance, during which the US president made a series of verbal blunders. Support for Mrs Obama surged despite her previously ruling out running and endorsing Mr Bidens re-election bid. When voters were asked about hypothetical Democrat candidate matches, 50 per cent said they would vote for Mrs Obama while just 39 per cent said Trump. Favourites to take over from Mr Biden if he drops out, such as Kamala Harris or Gavin Newsom, polled significantly lower than Trump. The poll also showed that one in three Democrats think the president should end his campaign in the wake of the CNN debate but no prominent elected Democrat polled any better than Mr Biden. Three in five of the overall voters surveyed said Mr Biden should drop out, and just under half said Trump should. Reports last week suggested Mrs Obamas conspicuous absence from Mr Bidens campaign was in part due to her disappointment over how the family had treated Kathleen Buhle, Hunter Bidens ex wife. Along with her concerns over the treatment of her close friend, Mrs Obama is said to be grudging in her support for the incumbent due to her dislike of partisan politics. Mr Biden is battling concerns over his age and mental ability and failing to quell the panic engulfing his party in the fallout of his live showdown with Trump, which he acknowledged as poor on Tuesday. It is thought that Mrs Obama has been absent from Joe Biden's campaign partly due to her supporting Kathleen Buhle, Hunter Biden's ex-wife - POOL/GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA After several days of reflection with his closest family and confidants at Camp David, the president blamed his performance on jet lag after taking two overseas trips in June going through 100 time zones. [I] didnt listen to my staff and came back and nearly fell asleep on stage, he said. Thats no excuse but it is an explanation. His campaign has further been damaged after a Democrat congressman from Texas became the partys first sitting representative to publicly call for him to quit the presidential race. Lloyd Doggett urged Mr Biden to take the painful and difficult decision to withdraw on Tuesday, after Nancy Pelosi said it was legitimate to question Mr Bidens mental fitness. Taral Patel, the former chief of staff for Fort Bend County Judge KP George has announced his candidacy to serve as Fort Bend County Commissioner for Precinct 3. Taral Patel A Fort Bend County Democratic candidate charged with felony online impersonation is now accused of impersonating the district court judge who would have presided over the criminal case, investigators said in court records. Taral Patel, 30, was arrested June 12 and charged with online impersonation, a third-degree felony, and misrepresentation of identity, a Class A misdemeanor, after he allegedly used another mans image to create a fake Facebook account under the name Antonio Scalywag and used it to send racist attacks to himself. Investigators now believe Patel also created a fake Facebook account pretending to be Fort Bend County 240th Criminal District Court Judge Surendran Pattel, according to a new search warrant signed Monday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The purpose of the search warrant is to gain access to the fake Pattel Facebook account to determine whether additional charges should be filed, the court records state. Patel, who is the Democratic nominee for the Fort Bend County Precinct 3 commissioners office, did not respond to a request for comment Wednesday. PRIOR REPORT: Fort Bend candidate accused of faking racist Facebook attacks against himself Scalywags fake page at first communicated with Pattels real page, with several complimentary comments on Pattels posts and a conversation via direct messages, the warrant says. The conversation was friendly in nature until January 2022, when it appeared that Pattel was upset with something Antonio Scalywag had posted publicly, the warrant states. In November 2023, Scalywag sent several messages to Pattel that went unanswered. Investigators seized and searched Patels phone after his arrest and on June 24 discovered the fake Pattel Facebook page, which they said was associated with a Taral Patel email address, the warrant states. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When authorities showed Pattel the Facebook page, Pattel stated that he did not create the profile, and he did not authorize anyone else to create the profile on his behalf, court records show. He also reported that his name and photo were used without his consent. Pattel was slated to be the presiding judge in Patels criminal case, but records show Patel has since been assigned a new judge. Patel is the former chief of staff to Fort Bend County Judge KP George. Andy Meyers, current Pct. 3 commissioner and Patels Republican opponent, said the media maelstrom that came as a result of Patels allegations of racist attacks has damaged the reputation of Fort Bend County, which in turn could cause economic fallout. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When you search for Fort Bend County, you see horrible stories about racism, and its an untruthful portrayal of Fort Bend County, Meyers said. How do we attract major corporations to come here, pay taxes and create jobs when they read these claims that were so obviously phony? Under Texas Penal code, it is a third-degree felony to send an electronic mail, instant message, text message, or similar communication that references a name, domain address, phone number or another item of identifying information belonging to any person. The Class A misdemeanor charge is added if the impersonation is done with intent to harass an individual, according to the code. More than 100 business leaders wrote to say that change under Labour would not be good for economy - Peter Nicholls/Getty Images More than 100 business leaders have urged voters to back the Tories on Thursday and warned Labours plans to bolster workers rights will stifle industry. In a letter, the bosses of 135 small and medium-sized enterprises said that a victory for Sir Keir Starmer will take the economy back to square one. Their last-minute intervention comes as the nation heads to the ballot box, with polls predicting that Labour is on course to secure a record majority. In the open plea to voters the business leaders say that small businesses provide millions with a livelihood and give opportunities to young people. They write: Thriving businesses make for a prosperous Britain. More cost and bureaucracy mean businesses stop hiring, they stop investing and they stop growing. We are therefore concerned by Labours plan to impose on us new regulations and costly red tape. This will stifle industry and jeopardise jobs just as the economy is rebounding after Covid and the global energy shock. In a plea to voters they added: Aspiration, education and enterprise are core Conservative values. We, representing businesses large and small, urge voters to ensure the UK stays on track. Lets not go back to square one with Labour. Angela Rayner, Labours deputy leader, has unveiled plans to significantly bolster workers rights with a package of reforms that have drawn criticism. Her proposed new deal for workers includes a ban on controversial fire and rehire tactics as well as the use of zero hours contracts for workers. It would also give employees a new right to switch off and include a new law to force firms to protect interns and volunteers from sexual harassment. Business leaders have expressed fear that the reforms will add extra red tape on companies, which would be particularly problematic for smaller ones. The Institute for Fiscal Studies think tank warned last week that employers were likely to respond to the new requirements by lowering staff wages. Michael Lorimer, the chief executive of consumer goods company DCS Group, was one of the signatories to the letter and issued a warning over Labours plans. He said: Labours proposed employee rights legislation is wholly misguided and will be counterproductive, undermining individuals and businesses alike. Good businesses dont need government or opposition parties to overregulate, especially when they dont actually consult or actively listen to what is happening on the ground. Labour has insisted that its workers rights reforms will benefit the economy and has pledged to introduce legislation to enact them within 100 days of entering office. A party spokesman said: Labours new deal for working people is a core part of our mission to grow Britains economy and raise living standards across the country. A poster of missing Jay Slater in a restaurant in Santiago del Teide, on the island of Tenerife, Spain. Photograph: Borja Suarez/Reuters The mother of a teenager who went missing during a holiday in Tenerife has said words cannot describe the pain and agony her family are experiencing. Debbie Duncan described 19-year-old Jay Slateras a beautiful boy who had his whole life ahead of him. We just want to find him, she said in a statement, condemning as vile some of the wilder online speculation and conspiracy theories. Slater, an apprentice bricklayer from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, went missing on Monday 17 June after attending a weekend rave in the islands Playas de las Americas resort with friends. He was last heard from at about 8.15am when he told a friend, Lucy Law, that he planned to walk back to his holiday accommodation after missing a bus, a journey that would take him 10-11 hours on foot. Slater also said he was thirsty, had 1% of charge left on his phone and did not know where he was. For nearly two weeks, emergency services, mountain rescue teams, sniffer dogs, drones and helicopters have taken part in coordinated searches for Slater. It culminated in what was described as a busqueda masiva massive search on Saturday. That was unsuccessful and the following day the Guardia Civil in Tenerife said the search operation for Slater had finished, but the case remained open. There have been few new developments for the family to grasp on to. In her statement, through the British overseas missing persons charity LBT Global, Duncan said:Jay is a normal guy who is in his third year of an apprenticeship, and he is a very popular young man with a large circle of friends. 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. Duncan thanked Spanish authorities who are continuing to follow lines of inquiries. The search has been accompanied by large media attention. Duncan said: We would like to say to the press/news/reporters, that although we do not want to lose the momentum of Jays disappearance, we really would like to maintain our privacy and crucially let the Spanish police get on with their investigations without hindrance from press. As well as dealing with the distress of a missing loved one, the family and friends of the teenager say they have had to deal with lots of online noise around the case, including hurtful accusations, rumours and conspiracy theories. We are aware of the conspiracy theories and speculation on social media and some websites, and can only describe this as vile, Duncan said. The negative comments are extremely distressing to our family. We also embrace the love and support we have received from across the globe. It has not gone unnoticed, especially his home town in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire. Slater and his friends had been at three-day NRG Tenerife Weekender festival in Tenerife. In the early hours of Monday morning, Slater left the resort in a car with two British men and headed to an Airbnb property in Masca, a remote hilltop hamlet in the north-west of the island. The authorities in Tenerife said they had spoken to the two men and they were not in any way relevant to the case. Neil Gaiman says sex with the women was consensual - Paula Lobo/Getty Images Neil Gaiman, the best-selling author, has denied allegations of sexual assault against two young women. In an investigation for the Tortoise podcast co-hosted by Rachel Johnson, sister of Boris Johnson, two women claim that Gaiman engaged them in sadomasochistic acts and told them to call him master. Gaiman strenuously denies the allegations and said all sex with the women one who briefly worked as the family nanny and another a fan whom he met at a book signing was consensual. The first woman said she was hired by Gaimans then-wife, the musician Amanda Palmer, in 2022 to look after the couples son. The woman, named Scarlett, claimed that Gaiman sexually assaulted her within hours of their first meeting, stripping naked and joining her in the bath. She was 22 and he was 61. Gaiman said the incident amounted to only cuddling and making out and that he had established consent for this. On another occasion, Scarlett alleged that the sex between them was so painful and so violent that she lost consciousness. The pain was celestial, she said. When she asked him to stop, Scarlett said, he laughed and said I needed to be punished and used his belt on me. Gaiman denies the allegation. The relationship continued for another month before Gaiman left New Zealand for the UK, the woman said. During that time, she sent him numerous messages indicating that she consented to the sexual activity. She also claimed she was required to sign an NDA after she stopped working as the familys nanny. The second woman, an American known only as K, was an 18-year-old fan of Gaimans writing when she first met him at a book signing in Florida in 2003. She maintained contact with him and a sexual relationship began when she was 22. He was then in his 40s. K alleged that during a trip to Cornwall in 2007, she told Gaiman that she did not want to engage in penetrative intercourse because she had a urinary tract infection, but he went ahead and the act left her screaming in agony. Gaiman said the allegation is false. She maintained friendly contact with Gaiman after their relationship ended in 2008 but told the podcast: As I got older, I realised that 18-year-olds and 20-year-olds, when youre in your 40s, look like kids. She added: As the #MeToo stuff became more nuanced, that was when I was like, wait a minute, something like that happened to me. K did not report Gaiman to the police. Scarlett did in October 2022, eight months after her brief relationship with the author ended. New Zealand police did not move forward with an investigation and did not interview Gaiman, although he told the Tortoise podcast that he had offered to meet with officers. The Tortoise investigation began after Scarlett got in touch with Ms Johnson via Instagram and told her version of events. Tortoise said that the investigation looked into the greyest of grey areas when it comes to our sex lives the area with the scope for genuine misinterpretation, but also the possibility of serious abuse. The 63-year-old author is globally renowned for works including The Sandman, American Gods and Good Omens, as well as many popular works for children. His books have been adapted for film and television. He and Palmer announced their split in 2022. Previously they had spoken of having an open marriage. Postal voting has seen a surge in popularity since it was reformed in 2001 - Paul Hennell/Alamy Newly elected MPs face having their victories challenged in the courts because of postal ballot chaos, lawyers have warned. Voters in as many as 120 constituencies have been hit by delays in delivery and printing, with many of the problems blamed on the short election timescale. Thousands are thought not to have received their ballots in time for Thursdays election, leaving many unable to vote. With analysis showing that as many as one quarter of marginal constituencies are affected, the runners-up in close seats could mount a legal challenge which might result in a by-election. Tom Cross, a barrister at law firm 11KBW, said there may be credible challenges to come. He said: There are various grounds on which, procedurally, particular elections, parliamentary elections, can be voided by a court. We are in territory here from some of the reports where there may well be credible challenges, but it depends on the margin of victory. As few as four constituents could get a High Court hearing if they argued their vote would have had an impact on the result, according to barrister Caroline Morris, a reader in public law at Queen Mary University of London. She told The Guardian that the main question is whether the error made a material difference to the outcome of the election, saying: If the loss of postal votes [is] in a particular constituency where the contest is very narrow, then it could make a difference. Voters who have received ballots but are not able to post them back before the Thursday 10pm deadline can take them by hand to a polling station or council office in their constituency. They must complete a form but do not have to show ID. For those whose postal votes are yet to be delivered, a replacement can be issued as late as 5pm on polling day. However, those who have not received a ballot paper and are unable to travel to get one face being disenfranchised. Campaigners have warned that the crisis could affect elderly voters without the means to travel. Dennis Reed, the director of Silver Voices, urged stranded voters to ask political activists for a lift to the polling station. Activists will be around, knocking on doors, he said. Get them to take you down with your polling envelope. He added that people with vulnerable neighbours should knock on their doors to make sure they have been able to vote, saying: The good neighbour approach would obviously be beneficial as well. Telegraph analysis Analysis by The Telegraph has found that of the 129 marginal constituencies with a majority of less than 5 per cent being contested in todays election, 34 have experienced issues with postal votes, including delays and ballots not turning up. For an appeal against a result to succeed, it must be proved usually by the second-placed candidate not only that there were problems with the administration of the election, but also that these problems made a difference to the result. One constituency where a legal challenge could be raised is North West Essex, where Kemi Badenoch, the Business Secretary, is seeking re-election and where more than 2,600 postal ballots were delayed as a result of human error. Although Mrs Badenoch won the seat with a 27,594 majority at the last election, her Tory vote is being squeezed by Labour, Reform UK and the Liberal Democrats. The local council chief executive said last week that he was mortified by the delays and that council workers were hand-delivering ballots in an attempt to get them to voters in time. Dr Heather Green, an independent researcher on election law, said it would be the first time this issue was raised in an election petition, telling The Herald, the Scottish daily newspaper: In a close result, it might be possible to persuade the court that the missing postal votes would have tipped the result. Scottish school holidays Problems have been reported all over the country and have been particularly acute in Scotland, where as many as 25 per cent of voters applied for a postal ballot because the election clashed with the start of school summer holidays. Niven Rennie, 62, said that his son, an RAF officer based in England, had not yet received his postal vote for the Scottish constituency of Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock and will not be able to cast his vote. Mr Rennie, a retired police officer who now works as a business consultant, said: To me, it brings into question the whole democratic process. I feel very angry. I know [my son] is angry. Mr Rennie said the Prime Minister should be concerned about people being disenfranchised after a spokesman for Rishi Sunak downplayed the issue on Monday. If you believe in democracy, then you believe in one person, one vote, and if actually youre creating a system whereby some people are being robbed of that right, then you should not be defending that, Mr Rennie said. The Electoral Commission has confirmed that postal voting problems will form part of its post-election research. Royal Mail denied that there is any backlog of postal votes in its sorting centres and said it would welcome a review into the timetable for future elections. A Royal Mail spokesman said: Whilst we are not complacent, we remain confident that postal votes handed to us on time will be delivered prior to polling day. California governor Gavin Newsom. Photograph: Rich Pedroncelli/AP The California governor and top Democrats in the state have abandoned a last-minute plan to ask voters whether a landmark criminal justice bill should be reformed. California Democrats over the weekend had outlined plans to put a measure on the November ballot that would ask voters to approve major reforms to Proposition 47, a 2014 ballot measure that changed some theft and drug possession felonies to misdemeanors. But on Tuesday, they abruptly changed course and said they would not be able make Wednesdays cutoff to finalize the measures inclusion on the ballot. Gavin Newsom, the governor, blamed a tight schedule for withdrawing the proposal. We are unable to meet the ballot deadline to secure necessary amendments to ensure this measures success, and we will be withdrawing it from consideration, Newsom said in a statement. Related: Will it stay or will it go? California voters decide fate of momentous criminal justice law The Democrats proposal was a last-minute response to a competing ballot measure, called the homelessness, drug addiction and theft reduction act, that was proposed in September and officially made it to the ballot on 28 June. The coalitions proposal would technically not repeal Prop 47, but would undo key components of it by increasing penalties for a third theft offense and create a new class of offense, called treatment-mandated felony, to charge those in possession of hard drugs like cocaine, meth and fentanyl. The proposal has the backing of district attorneys, business leaders and law enforcement, who have argued that Prop 47 has left officers and prosecutors hamstrung and unable to deal with lower-level theft and drug offenses. Other proponents, which include the San Francisco mayor London Breed and many district attorneys, say it would help fight retail theft, as well as a growing homelessness and addiction crisis. Detractors of the measure say it would do little to address the complex problems the state is facing, and instead drive up the number of incarcerated people costing the state millions of dollars that through Prop 47 were saved and passed along to local re-entry, mental health and drug treatment programs. Its one of those monumental pieces of legislation, and it got us over the hill for something weve been fighting for for so long, Kent Mendoza, associate director of advocacy and community organizing the anti-recidivism coalition, said of Prop 47. It gives counties an opportunity to be bold and approach these things differently. This is what allows us to maybe save 10 people who wouldnt have this support. Newsom and many Democrats have fiercely opposed the coalitions proposal, arguing that undoing Proposition 47 was a misguided and ineffective approach to tackling retail theft, and instead proposed a set of legislative reforms. I dont think theres a need to have it on the ballot. Why have something on the ballot that doesnt actually achieve the goals that are intended? Newsom said in June. Why do something that cant be done legislatively with more flexibility? I think its a better approach to governing. The governor and the lawmakers tried to negotiate with the coalition to drop the initiative. But as those negotiations failed, they announced their own ballot initiative over the weekend. Their measure, which they intended to call Prop 2, proposed to punish repeat thieves more harshly if their convictions occurred within a spate of three years. Greg Totten, the co-chair of Californians for safer communities, the primary group backing the ballot measure that would gut Prop 47, said that he was pleased to see Newsom back away from his counter legislation and hoped that both sides could find a path forward. We are pleased The Governor and Legislature have dropped their countermeasure and welcome them to join our campaign to responsibly amend Prop 47 to deal with retail theft, the fentanyl crisis and homelessness, Totten said in a statement. And as November nears and the fate of Prop 47 rests in the hands of voters, Mendoza with ARC said that his group will likely begin education campaigns for voters to shift perceptions about what causes people to commit crimes and the best ways to keep them out of the cycle. Its probably gonna be a communications strategy: sharing success stories, Mendoza said. Uplifting the success of people who have been in prison to show that people can do good. We might do town halls in communities that need more education, in communities who may not see these things the way we tend to say we see it. When the pits shut there was nothing left, just bands and banners Durham Miners Gala. Photograph: Ian Forsyth/Getty Images Aged 16, Elliot Dixon held the pride of Murton village on his shoulders. They said, Elliot, carry this and harnessed the banner on to me. I was walking behind the bass drum and brass band with everything bouncing, the hairs on the back of my neck standing up, and all I could think was, bloody hell, this is amazing. For Dixon, now 32, that first time carrying the banner at Durham Miners Gala is something hell never forget. The annual event also fondly known as the Big Meeting is held on the second Saturday in July and lays claim to being the largest celebration of working-class culture in the world, attended by 200,000 people from across the UK and beyond. This years event is particularly significant as 2024 marks the 40t anniversary of the miners strike. Margaret Thatchers victory paved the way for the closure of most of Britains collieries, leaving a legacy of economic and social hardship among working-class communities, including those ex-pit villages like Murton that make up the Durham coalfield. Those ex-mining villages that feed the vibrant political and artistic culture of the gala are struggling. Our village wouldnt exist if it wasnt for the pit, says Chris Nutton, 29, also from Murton. Parks, shops, businesses back then it was thriving. Now all thats just dwindled off. Film director Ken Loach, a longtime supporter of the event, says: What is said at the gala this year is critical. This is where the organised working-class meets and shows the strength of organised labour. We need to be clear on what the political situation is. The Labour party are as close to the Tories as its possible to get and we need to recognise that publicly. Only then can we end the cruelty of poverty and bring back hope to the working class. Though the mines have gone, that strength is still drawn from across the world at the gala. In the years after the strike, there were concerns about the future of the Big Meeting. When the last pit closed in 93, the question was whether or not the gala would continue, says former miner David Temple, 80, who has written a history of the gala. But support remained steadfast, seen most clearly in the success of the Friends of Durham Miners Gala initiative. These supporters are known as marras, a Pitmatic dialect word still in use today that means friend or comrade. The gala is almost entirely funded by Friends of Durham Miners Gala, with about half of the funding 70,000 coming from donations from individuals. When Covid and the economic downturn took place we thought people wouldnt be able to afford their marra subscriptions, Temple says. Its 24 a year or 2 a month, and if you cant put food on the table, thats a lot of money. But it hasnt declined, which speaks to that northern generosity of spirit. Human beings need community and the Big Meeting is the heart and the spirit of the Durham coalfield. Its bigger than Christmas a massive family gathering and a day when you meet people who think the same way you do. There are all generations there, from bairns on their parents shoulders to elderly people. The gala doesnt just have a wide generational reach, it also has a strong community of international supporters. There are marras in Thailand, the US and Australia, and this year will see a new milestone as South Brisbane Federal Band becomes the first Australian brass band to play there, via a big-screen video performance. This is a multifaceted event brass bands, a banner parade, speeches, fairground rides and a religious service all make up this day of celebration and solidarity. Loach proudly shows his marras card when we talk about the speech he gave on the stage at Durham racecourse in 2017. It was a hugely special moment because Im a film director, he says. Im not a politician or a union leader. The sense of welcoming is joyous and it was quite emotional. While the speeches are a big draw, the parade of banners through Durham city is equally popular. Each one is accompanied by a brass band that stops outside the Royal County Hotel on Elvet Bridge to perform for the dignitaries watching from the balcony. The march is pure joy, Loach says. Banner after banner following the bands, stacked on top of one another as they come down on to Elvet Bridge. In the afternoon, a service is held Durham Cathedral, where new banners or banners from villages commemorating a special event are blessed each year, accompanied by a brass band. The experience is as reverential for the musicians performing as it is for those attending. That sound when the bands slow-march in sends shivers down your spine, says Durham Miners Association Band secretary and tenor horn player, Heather Ward. The march back out is just as amazing, the congregation and cathedral officials are all clapping and cheering. While the music of the gala varies from Get Lucky by Daft Punk and the Village Peoples YMCA to more traditional marches and songs, theres one tune that defines the day. Gresford (The Miners Hymn) by Robert Saint, a composer from Hebburn, was written as a memorial to the Gresford colliery disaster in Wales in 1934. The song has since become the anthem of miners and working-class communities in Durham and beyond. Its a musical way of saying were all marras together, Ward says. Its a mark of respect and brings the community together. When we played it at one concert in a mining village, everybody in the audience stood up. The gala is still going strong because of peoples emotional connection to these communities. Everything was built up around the pits. When they shut and there was nothing put in their place, people rallied around what was left the history, the memories, the bands and the banners. The banners cost upwards of 10,000 and feature roundels that depict symbols, ideals, people and places that are unique to each villages history. My mate in Cambridge thinks its mad how we all go out and parade our banners every year, says Nutton who, along with Dixon, is one of the members of the Murton Colliery Banner Group. I tell him its about pride in being where youre from, the sense of community we have, the traditions we uphold; carrying a banner thats been paraded for over 100 years by men who fought for everything they had. Nowhere is the gala motto of the past we inherit, the future we build more applicable than in Murton. After that first experience, Dixon kept carrying the banner. Then, he says, our Yoda got in touch. He said we needed to set up a banner group and we, the younger generation, needed to front it. Yoda is ex-miner and Murton Heritage Society founder Geordie Maitland, 80. Keen to preserve one of the only tangible things left of mining, the collieries and that life and culture, Maitland encouraged and mentored Nutton and Dixon. Without a doubt young people should be involved, Maitland says. Its our past but we can pass that on. Anybody under 35 wont remember the pits, but we need to make sure they still learn those traditions from parents, relatives and the community. Its about everybody getting together and celebrating our existence. This is just one reason its thriving. Why has the gala endured? Because the objective reality of the class struggle is still alive, say Loach. Theres that famous saying, the ruling class can survive any crisis as long as the working class pays the price. And my God, people have paid the price. The past we inherit, the future we build; weve got to make a reality of that. That past includes the 84 strike and we cant build the future unless we acknowledge the ugly reality of what happened. Its absolutely essential that all this gets passed down because if it doesnt then youre not building the future, and youre not being fair to the heritage you inherit, because youre not trying to understand it. While the focus of the gala is on political understanding and social change, the event is also about connection, community and having a good time with marras old and new. Theres an old saying if you can remember coming back from the Big Meeting, you havent really been, Maitland says with a grin. Read into that what you will. Smoke from the underground Grosvenor coalmine fire. Photograph: Mine Rescue Challenge/Facebook Conservation groups say a fire that has been burning since Saturday at an underground coalmine is Queensland is an environmental disaster that highlights the risks of methane gas to workers, community health and the climate. The fire at Anglo Americans Grosvenor coalmine in Moranbah broke out after methane ignited on the longwall coalface. It was still burning on Tuesday. The mine was evacuated on Saturday and the company has said no workers were harmed. The Australian Conservation Foundations methane campaigner, Piper Rollins, said the incident was nothing short of an environmental disaster that highlighted the potent risks of methane. She said smoke caused by the fire could result in a toxic cocktail of pollutants moving to nearby communities. Rollins said methane was a toxic climate-heating gas 86 times more potent than carbon dioxide, and that it was turbocharging heatwaves, bushfires and coral bleaching events. She said the government should explain how the incident would be factored into Australias emissions accounting. Methane leaks from coalmines. When it burns the emissions released are CO2. The International Energy Agency has estimated that methane emissions from Australian coal and gas mines could be 64% higher than federal government estimates suggest. Theres been a massive release of climate heating methane and other gases as a result of this fire. Whos going to be held responsible for that and how is it going to be accounted for? she said. Our NGER (national greenhouse and energy reporting) system relies on factor-based emissions reporting and we dont yet have a system for reconciling blowouts. Related: Coalition allowed emissions from Queensland coalmine to more than double without penalty This fire will have emissions impacts for both Queensland and Australia there should be a serious question about how is that pollution going to be accounted for in our state and national inventories. A spokesperson for the minister for climate change, Chris Bowen, said the government understands the primary focus of the mine operator and state regulators is ensuring the safety of the mine. Our department and [the] Clean Energy Regulator are aware of the incident and are responsible for ensuring that relevant requirements under the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Scheme and measurement requirements for the National Inventory under the Paris Agreement are met. In its most recent statement on Tuesday, Anglo American said the amount of smoke at the site had reduced after work to temporarily seal the mine from the surface. It said a mobile extinguisher unit that pumped nitrogen into the mine to try to starve the fire of oxygen was fully operational. Related: Methane emissions: Australian cattle industry suggests shift from net zero target to climate neutral approach All monitors are reporting readings within acceptable limits, indicating no impact on community health from smoke or airborne contaminants. However, anyone concerned should seek medical advice, the statement said. The Queensland Conservation Council said it was welcome news that no workers had been injured. But this fire clearly shows coal companies cant continue to downplay their methane emissions, energy strategist, Clare Silcock said. Federally, (climate change and energy) minister Chris Bowen is currently considering changes to the way that companies report methane and we hope this incident causes him to bring in strict regulations. Republican committee was concerned enough to launch a TV advert attacking Kamala Harris Republicans have launched a campaign attacking Kamala Harris after she emerged as a favourite to replace Joe Biden in the presidential race. As the Democrats scramble to decide who could replace Mr Biden as their nominee following his disastrous debate against Donald Trump, the US vice president has been boosted by a new CNN poll, which shows she would be more likely to win key demographics, including ethnic minority voters and independents. Ms Harris has received the backing of influential congressman, Jim Clydburn who said he would support her run for president if Mr Biden quit the race. Im going to be for Biden if Harris aint there, and Im going to be for Harris if Biden aint there, he told USA Today. Other Democrats have been even more outspoken, with Tim Ryan, the former Ohio congressman, calling on Mr Biden to stand aside and make room for Ms Harris. We have to rip the band aid off! Too much is at stake, he wrote on X, formerly Twitter, adding that Ms Harris has significantly grown into her job. He added: She will destroy Trump in debate, highlight choice issues, energise our base, bring back young voters and give us generational change. Its time! Republicans have come out on the attack, launching Stop Kamala adverts in response. These include one ad showing a string of Mr Bidens gaffes and then reminding voters that Mrs Harris is right behind waiting to take over. Another ad relentlessly mocks Mrs Harriss less than catchy slogan: What will be, unburdened by what has been. House Republicans are sharpening our knives if extreme House Democrats dump Joe Biden or we will remind voters Kamala Harris is next in line if they dont, said the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC). One advert pokes fun at Ms Harris and says she is not competent concluding: This November: Vote Republican. Stop Kamala. Polls suggest Ms Harris would do just as well against Mr Trump as any of the other potential contenders and choosing the vice president as the nominee would spare having to explain to grassroots supporters a significant number of whom are African American why they had overlooked the chance to elect the nations first female black president. Allowing Ms Harris to take on Trump would also likely give her access to the $240 million (188.5 million) in funds raised by the Biden campaign because she is on the ticket with him. Ms Harris has also pushed past Mr Biden as a more likely US president, second only to Mr Trump, according to the betting markets at BoyleSports. Ms Harris herself has not said anything in public, except to express loyalty to her boss who she had lunch with on Wednesday. Look, Joe Biden is our nominee, she said in an interview with CBS News. We beat Trump once, and were going to beat him again, period. Ms Harris conceded Mr Biden had a slow start in the debate but insisted it was a strong finish. The Biden campaign has maintained that replacing the president as the candidate would result in chaos. Support for Ms Harris among Democrats has not been unanimous however, with Dmitri Mehlhorn, an adviser to a major democrat donor, pointing out Ms Harriss unpopularity in key swing states. On a call with donors, he is reported to have said: Kamala Harris is more threatening to those swing voters than a dead Joe Biden or a comatose Joe Biden, he said. So if Joe has to go, its gonna be Kamala and if its Kamala, its gonna be harder. Ms Harris herself has played down any suggestion she has an interest in replacing Mr Biden from the top of the ticket. Joe Biden is our nominee, she said this week. We beat Trump once, and were gonna beat him, period. Does Sunak live up to your expectations as PM? Photograph: Jonathan Brady/PA We would like to hear from South Asians living across the UK about their thoughts on Rishi Sunaks time as Prime Minister. Sunak made history as the UKs first Indian-heritage and person of colour to become Prime Minister in 2022. Election polls predict a landslide victory for the Labour party on July 5, prompting the end of 14 years of Conservative rule and Sunaks premiership. We would be keen to hear from South Asians living in the UK about their thoughts on Sunaks time as Prime Minister, how they would describe his premiership and whether he lived up to their expectations. Callout Diane Abbott, who has been an MP for 37 years, has criticised the activities of the undercover officers as being racist and unjustified. Photograph: Alberto Pezzali/AP Undercover police officers compiled numerous secret reports on Diane Abbott while she was campaigning against racism, a public inquiry has heard. Abbott, who has been an MP for 37 years, has criticised the activities of the undercover officers as being racist and unjustified. The inquiry was also told that the undercover officers spied on another prominent black politician, Bernie Grant, after he had been elected to parliament, claiming that he was making inflammatory and cynical speeches that featured conspiracy theories. Many of the reports referred to Grants presence at events at which his constituents were campaigning about injustices caused by the police such as deaths, the inquiry was told. The inquiry, which is being led by the retired judge Sir John Mitting, is examining the conduct of about 139 undercover officers who spied on more than 1,000 political groups since 1968. Related: Met apologises for spying on police justice campaigners in 1980s and 1990s One of the issues in front of the inquiry is the extent to which the undercover officers monitored elected politicians. A round of hearings this month is concentrating on the activities of the police spies between 1983 and 1992. On Wednesday, Owen Greenhall, a barrister representing Abbott, said documents disclosed to the inquiry revealed that undercover officers reported on numerous events at which she spoke during this period. In 1987 Abbott had become the first black woman ever to be elected to parliament. The former shadow home secretary is standing for Labour in Hackney North and Stoke Newington in London on Thursday. Greenhall said that Abbott featured in reports as a speaker at events held by anti-racism campaigns. Many of the intelligence reports into groups campaigning for racial justice relate to entirely open, transparent political and campaigning events. He said that the undercover officers infiltration of campaigns around the deaths of black and Asian people, or the activities of black MPs, uncomfortably mirror the very complaints that campaigners were making about the disproportionate policing of black people and the lack of respect for the rights of black and Asian communities. These were groups or activists campaigning about the very issue of police racism and police accountability. One undercover officer was sent to Stoke Newington and Hackney in 1983 and told to familiarise himself with whatever subversive undercurrent he could detect. Greenhall said: This explicitly undirected deployment is symptomatic of a racist assumption that areas of London where black-led campaigns for racial justice were growing should be viewed with suspicion. The inquiry also heard that the police maintained a secret file on Grant, another pioneering MP who was elected to parliament in 1987. Drawing on documents released by the inquiry, Sharon Grant, his widow, said that 28 reports compiled by the undercover officers directly mention Grant, who was the MP for Tottenham, north London. Nine of them had been filed by an undercover officer, Kevin Douglas, who spied on groups in Haringey, north London between 1987 and 1991. Grant said the reports went beyond reporting his mere presence at events, but purport to analyse the content of his speeches and his sincerity. She said one report described him as embarking on a tour of conspiracy theories and called him cynical. Many reports were passed to the Security Service, MI5, she added. Peter Francis, a former undercover officer who became a whistleblower, has previously revealed that he read secret police files on 10 MPs, after they had been elected to the House of Commons, during the 1990s. They included Harriet Harman, Jack Straw and Peter Hain. On Monday, the Met apologised for using undercover officers to spy on anti-racism campaigns that were seeking to hold police to account for injustices during the 1980s and 1990s. Judge Frank Aguilar is shown in the Harris County 228th District Criminal Court during a hearing in the case of former Houston Police officer Gerald Goines Thursday, Jan. 19, 2023, in Houston. Melissa Phillip/Staff Photographer A misdemeanor assault case that led to the suspension of a Harris County felony judge was dismissed Wednesday, with Galveston County prosecutors partially attributing the end of their case to a lack of cooperation. Prosecutors contend probable cause exists against 228th District Court Judge Frank Aguilar, who was accused of assaulting his girlfriend at his Galveston property, but there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt, according to their motion to dismiss. A judge signed off on the dismissal. Aguilars defense attorney, Mark Diaz, declined to comment on the dismissal. Aguilar could not be reached for comment. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The State Commission on Judicial Conduct suspended Aguilar from the bench with pay in February, about two weeks after a misdemeanor assault charge was filed against him. The commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the status of his suspension or whether it could be lifted. Aguilar was arrested Dec. 31, 2023, after his girlfriend told police that Aguilar punched her and held his foot to her neck in the 9600 block of Teichman Road. The judge countered to authorities that she was intoxicated and throwing beer cans at him. The girlfriend was charged last year in connection with an assault at Aguilars property, according to court records. An affidavit from Aguilars girlfriend filed in January urged prosecutors to dismiss the charge, saying that she fell down the stairs and that Aguilar never hit her. In a statement, District Attorney Jack Roady characterized the girlfriend as uncooperative as the prosecution proceeded. The victim stopped cooperating with law enforcement and, in fact, recanted her initial statements to police, said Roady, adding that she denied having been assaulted. However, in light of the victims steadfast complete recantation and her refusal to cooperate with law enforcement, and in the absence of other sufficient physical or circumstantial evidence, we were unable to proceed to trial on this case. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Aguilar was acquitted of another domestic violence charge in Harris County in 2010. Biden listens during a visit to the DC Emergency Operations Center on 2 July 2024. Photograph: Evan Vucci/AP Joe Biden will meet with Democratic governors on Wednesday as the president faces increasingly concerning polls and growing calls to withdraw his candidacy, including from a congressional Democrat. Biden will talk with governors and Capitol Hill leaders this week, officials said on Tuesday, to reassure them of his competence and address escalating discontent among party leaders after last weeks calamitous debate performance against Donald Trump. At a Virginia campaign event on Tuesday evening, Biden blamed his weak debate on his international trips leading up to the event, saying: I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple times, going through around 100 time zones ... before ... the debate. Didnt listen to my staff and came back and nearly fell asleep on stage. Thats no excuse but it is an explanation. A Reuters/Ipsos poll released Tuesday found that one in three Democrats said Biden should end his re-election campaign after the debate in Atlanta where he gave a low-energy, garbled performance. As of Tuesday evening, a House Democratic aide said, there are 25 Democratic members of the House of Representatives preparing to call for Biden to step aside. Bidens campaign however has continued to play down concerns, noting that the president had raised $38m since last week. Elsewhere on Tuesday, Lloyd Doggett, a congressman from Texas, became the first Democrat in the House of Representatives to publicly urge the president to step aside. Related: House Democrat pledges amendment to reverse Trump immunity ruling Doggett brought his own misgivings into the open, saying he had hoped the debate would give some momentum to the presidents stagnant poll ratings in key battleground states. It did not, he said. Instead of reassuring voters, the president failed to effectively defend his many accomplishments and expose Trumps many lies. He urged Biden to follow the path of a previous Democratic president, Lyndon Johnson, and announce that he would not accept the partys nomination as candidate a potential move commentators have dubbed as an LBJ moment (after Johnsons full initials). I represent the heart of a congressional district once represented by Lyndon Johnson. Under very different circumstances, he made the painful decision to withdraw, Doggett said. President Biden should do the same. Johnson withdrew from the 1968 election race amid a popular groundswell of opposition to the war in Vietnam and primary challengers in his own party, including from Robert F Kennedy, whose son is running as an independent candidate in the 2024 election and polling at levels that could further hurt Biden in a close race. Doggett at 77, just four years younger than the 81-year-old president praised Bidens legislative achievements in office but said the time had come to hand over to a younger generation, pointing out that he had pledged during the 2020 election campaign to be a transitional figure. While much of his work has been transformational, he pledged to be transitional, he said. He has the opportunity to encourage a new generation of leaders from whom a nominee can be chosen to unite our country through an open, democratic process. My decision to make these strong reservations public is not done lightly nor does it in any way diminish my respect for all that President Biden has achieved. Recognising that, unlike Trump, President Bidens first commitment has always been to our country, not himself, I am hopeful that he will make the painful and difficult decision to withdraw. I respectfully call on him to do so. It remains to be seen whether Doggetts public stance will encourage other worried Democrats to put their heads above the parapet amid a steady drip of anecdotal and polling evidence that last Thursdays CNN debate has had a corrosive effect on the presidents standing. A new poll in New Hampshire a state Biden won by 10 points in 2020 showed him now two points behind Trump since the debate. While Bidens campaign have tried to frame the debate as a one-off and pledged a fierce fightback, there have been mutterings of discontent within Democratic ranks, including from some state governors who have reportedly complained that the president had not personally reached out to them. Some ostensibly supportive figures, including the former House speaker Nancy Pelosi and Jim Clyburn, a representative from South Carolina, have issued statements that hinted at ambivalence. I think its a legitimate question to say, is this an episode or is this a condition? When people ask that question, its completely legitimate of both candidates, Pelosi told MSNBC, adding that she had heard mixed views on whether Biden was fit for the presidential campaign. In another sign of simmering discontent, Peter Welch, a Democratic senator for Vermont, criticised the Biden campaign for dismissing concerns over the presidents age as bedwetters. But thats the discussion we have to have, he told Semafor. It has to be from the top levels of the Biden campaign to precinct captains in the South Side of Chicago. The campaign has raised the concerns themselves So then to be dismissive of others who raise those concerns, I think its inappropriate. Masayoshi Son, Japan's investment company Softbank Group president (Nippon News, Aflo Co. Ltd.) SoftBank (9984.T) SoftBank shares rose 1.5% overnight to a record all-time high as it ramps up investments in artificial intelligence and semiconductors. The Japanese tech firm is gaining investor attention as its telecom arm moves aggressively towards generative AI, tying up with Microsoft and start-up Perplexity AI Inc. It is also building data centres stocked with Nvidia accelerators. Its chip unit Arm Holdings is also trying to position its architecture as a means to conserve energy in devices running AI. Tomoaki Kawasaki, a senior analyst at Iwaicosmo Securities, said: Its getting another boost as more investors see it as a semiconductor-related stock." Last month, SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son told shareholders that investments the technology group had made in the past were just a warm-up for his grand ambition to create an era of artificial intelligence. Reddit (RDDT) Reddit found favour with investors last night, with the San Francisco-based company surging 10%. It comes as usage for Reddit search has boomed. According to data from Similarweb, the social media platform saw a 39% increase in website visits, year-over-year, while Google (GOOG, GOOGL) reported a drop of 2.2%. Meanwhile in May, the firm revealed it had struck a partnership deal with artificial intelligence start-up OpenAI. Under the agreement, the company behind the ChatGPT chatbot will get access to Reddit content, while it will also bring AI-powered features to the social media platform. Shares were slightly lower in pre-market trading on Wednesday. Vodafone (VOD.L) Vodafone struck a fresh network sharing agreement with Virgin Media O2 on Wednesday, boosting hopes of winning approval for its merger deal with Three. The operators have agreed to extend a partnership that was due to expire in 2025, while Virgin Media O2 will acquire more spectrum to better align spectrum holding between different operators in anticipation of the takeover being waived through. The acquisition is conditional upon the merger being completed. Read more: FTSE 100 LIVE: European stocks rise on US rate cut hopes ahead of UK general election Vodafones planned merger with Three is currently under investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). The UK competition regulator will reach a decision expected before the end of the year. Lutz Schuler, chief executive of Virgin Media O2 said: This new agreement with Vodafone ensures that quality mobile network choice, performance, coverage and competition is enhanced to the benefit of millions of consumers, businesses and our mobile operator partners across the country. We are extending and bolstering elements of our existing network-sharing arrangement, while also ensuring there is a robust, balanced and functional structure in place for the long-term should Vodafone and Threes proposed merger gain consent. We believe that this new agreement addresses the issues we have voiced and the CMA outlined in its initial decision, and will now continue our engagement with the regulator in this spirit. GSK (GSK.L) GSK has bought the full rights to develop, make and sell COVID and influenza vaccines from Germany's CureVac The UKs second-biggest drugmaker is paying 400m (339, $430) upfront and up to an additional 1.05bn to the biotech firm, which was founded in Tubingen in southwest Germany in 2000. The two companies have restructured their existing collaboration into a new licensing agreement. Since 2020, GSK and CureVac have worked together to develop mRNA vaccines for infectious diseases. GSK will now take control of CureVac's leading experimental vaccines to fight infections, including seasonal flu and bird flu. They currently have vaccine candidates for seasonal influenza and Covid-19 in intermediate clinical trials (phase II) and avian influenza in phase I clinical development. The jabs are based on CureVacs mRNA technology. GSK shares were steady on the back of the news, while CureVac shares surged, trading 24% higher to reach a three-week high. Tony Wood, GSKs chief scientific officer, said: "We are excited about our flu/Covid-19 programmes and the opportunity to develop best-in-class mRNA vaccines to change the standard of care. With this new agreement, we will apply GSKs capabilities, partnerships and intellectual property to CureVacs technology, to deliver these promising vaccines at pace." Watch: What are SPACs? Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android. The next Leader of the Opposition? It is a real risk if enough Tory voters stay home - GETTY IMAGES I hope you enjoy horror films, dear readers, for British politics is about to be turned into an infernal, soul-destroying hellscape worthy of the sickest of Hollywood minds. The next few years wont merely be a little bit worse, as many delusional voters of a centre-Right persuasion have sought to convince themselves. The imminent Labour ascendancy will be truly calamitous. Every conservative nightmare will come true, and more besides. The Left-wing stormtroopers who are about to seize the keys to No 10 will enjoy almost unimaginable power, and will be far more competent at wielding it to annihilate their enemies than the Tories ever were. Consider the following, all too possible apocalyptic scenario. On Friday morning, we could wake up to not just the greatest Labour landslide in history, but also to the Liberal Democrats as the official opposition. It would represent the Conservative Partys greatest humiliation since its foundation in 1834. Sir Keir Starmer as Labour prime minister would face the clownish Ed Davey of Post Office scandal fame as leader of the opposition at Prime Ministers Questions. The Tory leader, whoever he or she may end up being, would be left with two questions at the end of the session, by which time most viewers would have lost interest. The shadow chancellor would be a Lib Dem. With Labour massively ahead in every poll, the real race is for second place in terms of seats in the House of Commons, and it could be nail-bitingly close, thanks to the Conservative Partys epic implosion. Survation, the pollster, believes that there is only a 53 per cent chance the Tories will end up with more seats than the Lib Dems, a vanishingly small margin of error. YouGov predicts that the Tories will be just 30 seats ahead of Daveys rabble. Even if the Tories do edge it by a few seats say 10 or 15 their status as the official opposition, and the funding and privileges that come with it, would remain extremely precarious. The likely scale of the defeat will be crushing for remaining Tory MPs. Former top ministers will become obscure non-entities overnight. They will lose their ministerial cars and special advisers, and many will become the butt of jokes. Nobody will care what they say or do. Few will even return their calls. The blame game will be savage. The Tory party will tear itself apart, perhaps even finally realising that it can no longer be the home of both Left-wing, high-tax, woke Remainers and Right-wing, low-tax, anti-woke Brexiteers. Some Tory MPs may join the Lib Dems, and others defect to Reform UK, further diminishing the partys parliamentary numbers and potentially jeopardising its status as the official opposition. Or take another scenario: what if a bunch of disillusioned Labour MPs eventually decide to quit their gargantuan group and join the Lib Dems instead? The Lib Dems could suddenly overtake the reduced Tory rump. The Conservative parliamentary group will need to be much larger than the Lib Dem one if they are to be confident that they can stay the official opposition for the remainder of the next Parliament. If the Lib Dems were to overtake the Tories in terms of seats on Friday, the implication would be that the combined centre-Right parties Tory, Reform and Northern Irish unionists would account for just 10 per cent of the total in the House of Commons, with 90 per cent of MPs explicitly Left-wing, an unprecedented imbalance. Britains system of parliamentary checks and balances would thus lie in tatters, and we would effectively become a one-party state, or at least a state where almost every politician thinks in exactly the same way. Lib Dems, after all, tend to be Left-wingers who find it easier, for industrial or cultural reasons in places such as Surrey, to be elected under a yellow rather than a red rosette. The Tories would be hammered when it came to the allocation of select committee positions. The Public Accounts Committee would automatically be chaired by the Lib Dems. What would pass for parliamentary scrutiny would amount to airing Left-wing grievances on repeat: Starmer would be attacked for not spending enough, for not rejoining the EU, for not punishing Israel for fighting evil terrorists, for not hiking taxes. Centre-Right and free-market voices and positions would be almost entirely absent. What is left of the Tory Right and Nigel Farage and his small number of Reform MPs would do their best, but they would be shouting from the outside in. As far as the Civil Service would be concerned, the Overton window will have slammed shut, and the views of millions safely ignored. Ditto the BBC. If you think the broadcasters are too Left-wing today, be aware that it could be far worse were the Lib Dems to become the Opposition. Question Time would end up pitting a Labour MP against a Lib Dem, with Tories regularly excluded. Airtime balance on TV and the radio would consist in various shades of Left-wing opinion, with an occasional Tory or Reform panellist screamed down by everybody else. There is little doubt that a Tory party relegated to third place in Parliament would embolden Labour in the most dangerous possible way. There is already talk of Starmer appointing Harriet Harman to the crucial role of chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, replacing Lady Falkner, one of the heroes of the anti-woke fightback. A ruthless purge is clearly on the cards, with the already tiny number of non-Leftists in the public sector set for the chop. Labour, cheered on by the supposed Lib Dem opposition, would be emboldened to move faster and further in a socialist and woke direction. It would seek to leverage the Equality Act to conscript every company in the fight against social inequality via positive discrimination. It would double down on net zero and the war on cars. It would start copying EU rules, just for the sake of it. It would find it much easier to jack up taxes in its first Budget, including on wealth, inheritance and property. It would turn a blind eye to illegal immigration, and would gradually further increase legal immigration, egged on by radical open-border activists within the Lefts parliamentary ranks. The best that can be hoped for now is that the Tories become the official opposition. Can that really be too much to ask? The F-22 Raptor in flight. First of the fifth-generation supersonic stealth superfighters, the Raptor is still regarded as probably the most capable fighter in the world - Toby Melville/Reuters The US Air Force has been in an unseemly hurry to rid itself of its Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor stealth fighters. Its argument: the 32 least-upgraded Block 20 versions of the supersonic, fifth-generation stealth fighter arent suitable for combat and together cost nearly half a billion dollars a year to maintain. The F-22 is the most capable, most advanced fighter jet in US service. Its probably the greatest fighter plane built so far. But keeping the older F-22s in service is prohibitively expensive while the Air Force is struggling to pay for an array of new capabilities, including new fighters, bombers, radar planes, drones, satellites and nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles. At least, thats the Air Forces argument. But the planned divestment of the nearly 30-year-old Block 20 F-22s would kneecap the Raptor force, according to a new report from the US Government Accountability Office. For now, the US Congress agrees. It has barred the Air Force from eliminating any F-22s for at least a few years. Thats because the Block 20s are training jets. Without them, the Air Force would have to assign some of its upgraded Block 30/35 F-22s which have improved sensors and weapons to training tasks. The end result would be a deep cut in the number of F-22s available for combat. The Air Force did not document how it will conduct F-22 training or testing the current Block 20 functions without Block 20 aircraft, the GAO noted. It also did not document the challenges that combat units may face if mission-ready Block 30/35 aircraft are used for training or testing instead of Block 20s. Today there are 150 combat-capable Block 30/35s. If and when the Air Force parks the Block 20s, there would be just 129 combat-capable Block 30/35s. The rest of the active F-22s would be assigned to training or testing. On the tarmac with the six front-line squadrons that fly F-22s five in the active Air Force, one in the Air National Guard the situation would be even more dire. With its sophisticated sensors and delicate radar-absorbing coating, the F-22 is a finicky and maintenance-hungry machine. According to the GAO, a squadron needs 24 jets to ensure 12 jets are available to fly on any given day. So in practice, there arent 150 combat-ready F-22s. There are 75. Retiring the Block 20s would reduce that number to 64 or 65 a frighteningly small number given the huge responsibility the Raptor squadrons shoulder. The Air Force, and indeed the entire US military and the militaries of Americas closest allies, count on that tiny force of F-22s to lead the fight for control of the air in a major war with, say, China. Given the stakes, the Air Force should be extremely careful about grounding a single F-22 to say nothing of grounding more than 30 of them. Especially considering that the F-22s notional replacement, the Next Generation Air Dominance fighter, is on the budgetary chopping block starting in 2026. If the Air Force and the US Congress dont find a way to pay for the NGAD program and Congress lets the Air Force retire 32 older F-22s, the Air Force could soon find itself in a dangerous position: with a need to wrest control of the air from a growing and modernizing Chinese air force with a shrinking and aging fleet of F-22s and with no help on the horizon for potentially decades to come. Incredibly, those 32 older Block 20s arent the only fighters the Air Force wants to retire early. The service also wants to cut half of its Boeing F-15E Strike Eagle fighter-bombers while simultaneously reducing the number of new F-15EXs it buys. The cuts might be less worrying if the Air Forces other in-production fighter, the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, werent such a disaster. The Air Force is decades behind and hundreds of billions of dollars over-budget compared to its original plan to acquire more than 1,700 F-35s and hasnt taken delivery of a new F-35 in a year as it waits for testers to work out kinks in the fighters latest software build. The Air Force is in a fighter crisis. But its not going to solve that crisis by grounding training jets and shrinking an air-superiority force thats probably already far too small. Stanley Johnson has been a passionate supporter of the European Union - Isabel Infantes/AFP via Getty Images Stanley Johnson has said he will be making a tactical vote for the Liberal Democrats in Thursdays general election. The former Conservative MEP who is still a party member told The Telegraph he wanted to boost the Lib Dems in his constituency because they were the only party talking about the environment and rebuilding bridges with the European Union. Mr Johnson said his son Boris, the former prime minister, would probably accuse him of apostasy but claimed: Even dedicated Conservatives have a right to indulge in a spot of tactical voting where basic political priorities are at stake. Speaking on Wednesday evening, Mr Johnson told The Telegraph he had absolutely not been kicked out of the party. Addressing concerns over contributing to a Labour super-majority by choosing to vote Lib Dem, Mr Johnson said he was actually doing [the Conservatives] a positive. As a happenstance, its an example of tactical voting which even Conservatives should be thinking of doing, he said. Wouldnt it be wonderful if the Conservatives actually managed to make a Labour seat go Lib Dem? That would be a pretty Conservative thing to do. Labour won the constituency Mr Johnson lives in, Queens Park and Maida Vale, at the 2019 election with an 18,874 seat majority. First time vote for a non-Tory Mr Johnson, who is a former Conservative member of the European Parliament, said: This would absolutely be the first time I have not voted for the Tories. Asked about the timing of his son Boriss late appearance on the Conservative campaign trail on Tuesday, Mr Johnson said: Hes timing his fatal punch to the oppositionagainst the danger of Starmergeddon. He declined to comment on whether the former prime minister is positioning himself for a return to Politics should the Conservatives win at the ballot box on Thursday. Mr Johnson was speaking at the Curzon Cinema, Mayfair, ahead of the premiere of a travel documentary he has made with his son, Max, called In The Footsteps of Marco Polo. Boris Johnson is expected to attend the screening along with his wife, Carrie, brother, Leo, and sister, Rachel. It came after Helen Baxter, the Lib Dem candidate for the London seat of Queens Park and Maida Vale, posted a video on Tuesday night of Mr Johnson giving her his endorsement after they crossed paths while she was campaigning. In the video, posted on Twitter, Mr Johnson a passionate supporter of the EU can be seen agreeing with her about how the UK has been re-duplicating European structures after exiting the bloc. Asked whether he will support her, Mr Johnson replies: I will be voting for you, Helen Baxter, in this election. Mr Johnson told The Telegraph that it was a relatively spur of the moment decision. There I was coming out of the Underground station at Queens Park and there was this lady called Helen Baxter and she had her voting card and so on, he said. I said to her one of the things which has upset me most of all in this campaign is the fact that two crucial issues, first Britains relationship with Europe, and second, the whole question of and this links to the first of course the environmental policy, have not had the airing they deserve. And she said, well actually the Lib Dems do indeed have a strong policy on both these issues, and she presented me with her card, and yes, lo and behold, the whole third part of her programme was exactly Europe. So then I said to myself, well why should tactical voting not play its part here? Mr Johnson pointed out that earlier in the year he had told The Telegraphs Camilla Tominey on her GB News show that he was minded to vote for any party which clearly comes out in favour of emphasising Europe and emphasising the environment. Having said that on Camillas show and then being confronted with Helen Baxter at the station, I said to myself, well practise what you preach, tactical voting, he said. Labour are heavy favourites to win Queens Park and Maida Vale, with Georgia Gould the daughter of the late Lord Gould, the architect of New Labour standing for the party in the seat. Mr Johnson went on: Yes of course Im a dyed in the wool Conservative, but in this particular case what matters is to try and boost the Lib Dems in a constituency which the Tories have absolutely no chance to win. Its not to say that I may not in some future election if Im alive to see one revert [to voting Conservative]. But on this particular occasion I do propose to put my cross in front of the Lib Dem box. For me it is an absolute scandal that the absolute priority of rebuilding bridges with Europe just hasnt been focused on by any party except the Lib Dems, and of course the Scottish Nationals - but Im a long way from them. Basic political priorities at stake Asked what his son would make of the decision, he said: He would use some word which would have to be looked up in the dictionary, like apostasy I should think. Im sure he would say apostasy was the appropriate term and wed all be running for our dictionaries. Look, I think in this particular case, even dedicated Conservatives have a right to indulge in a spot of tactical voting where basic political priorities are at stake. The Conservative party constitution does not explicitly ban members from voting for other parties, but states: Membership of the Conservative party is not compatible with membership of or association with any other registered political party. The partys code of conduct includes a section on helping political opponents which says that being associated with any other registered political party is an automatic disciplinary offence and if proved is likely to result in their expulsion from the party. It also says that every party member must not oppose any Conservative candidate in any election. The Conservatives were contacted for comment. Semaglutide is most commonly known under the brand names Wegovy and Ozempic. Photograph: Reuters People who have been prescribed a weight-loss injection could be at a higher risk of developing an eye condition which can lead to blindness, a study has found. The study found that people with diabetes who were prescribed semaglutide, most commonly known under the brand names Wegovy and Ozempic, were more than four times more likely to be diagnosed with an eye condition known as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (naion). Naion is a disorder in which the arteries which supply blood to the optic nerve in the eye become blocked. The condition can lead to loss of eyesight due to the optic nerve being deprived of oxygen and subsequently damaged. There is no known treatment for the condition, which affects 10 out of 100,000 people in the general population. The research, published in the journal JAMA Ophthalmology and conducted by researchers at Harvard University, looked at data from 16,827 patients at the Mass Eye and Ear Harvard teaching hospital, who received treatment over a six-year period. Of the patients included within the study, 710 had type 2 diabetes, with 194 of those patients having been prescribed semaglutide. Included in the study were 975 patients who were overweight or living with obesity, with 361 of these having been prescribed semaglutide. Of the people included in the study with type 2 diabetes, 17 naion events occurred in patients who were prescribed semaglutide, compared with six who were on other diabetes drugs. Over three years, 8.9% of these people on semaglutide had naion compared with 1.8% on the other drugs, the researchers found. The study also found that people who were overweight or living with obesity who were prescribed semaglutide were more than seven times more likely to develop the condition than those on other types of weight-loss medicine. Of the people included in the study who were overweight or obese, 20 naion events occurred in people prescribed semaglutide, compared with just three events in people using other drugs. Over three years, 6.7% of these people on semaglutide had naion compared with 0.8% who were taking other weight-loss drugs. Prof Joseph Rizzo, a professor of ophthalmology at Harvard medical school, said: Our findings should be viewed as being significant but tentative, as future studies are needed to examine these questions in a much larger and more diverse population. This is information we did not have before and it should be included in discussions between patients and their doctors, especially if patients have other known optic nerve problems like glaucoma or if there is pre-existing significant visual loss from other causes. Graham McGeown, honorary professor of physiology at Queens University Belfast, said: This research does suggest an association between semaglutide treatment and one form of sight-threatening optic neuropathy, but this would ideally be tested in larger studies. Given the rapid increase in semaglutide use and its possible licensing for a range of problems other than obesity and type 2 diabetes, this issue deserves further study, but possible drug side-effects always need to be balanced against likely benefits. Semaglutide under the brand name Wegovy has been prescribed for weight loss on the NHS since 2023. A spokesperson for Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, said: Patient safety is a top priority for Novo Nordisk and we take all reports about adverse events from use of our medicines very seriously. Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy is not listed as a known adverse drug reaction in the summary of product characteristics (SmPC) for the marketed formulations of semaglutide (Ozempic and Rybelsus for type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for weight management) as per the approved labels. Along with its famous pinot noir, the region also produces excellent riesling wines There are plenty of reasons people from all over the world make the long journey to the southern part of New Zealands South Island. The majestic, jaw-dropping scenery for one Mount Cook, Milford Sound, the Southern Alps, glaciers and turquoise lakes and the many opportunities for hiking, kayaking, climbing and (eek) bungee jumping. I travelled there recently with another main aim to visit the wineries of the worlds most southerly commercial vine-growing region, Central Otago. To the east of the Southern Alps, close to popular Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu, the Central Otago vines cling to a rugged, rocky terrain. Winemaking only took off here in the 1990s. Sheltered by the mountains, its very arid with hardly any top soil on the foothills, and the weather can be harsh, wind whistling through the vineyards and frosts striking at almost any time of year. But vines that have to work hard can make the very best of wines, and the nuanced, beautifully balanced pinot noir eked out in this region is considered among the finest in the world. Mount Cook National Park is home to some jaw-dropping scenery - Getty Sam Neill, the New Zealand actor, owns and is based at his winery Two Paddocks in Alexandra, Central Otago. The most hands-on of celebrity winemakers, he tells me half-jokingly that rational people shouldnt make wine here. But, he continues, Ive learned that to produce great pinot, you have to teeter on the edge of viability. Theres certainly huge complexity in the regions hard-won pinots: savoury, spicy notes, a whiff of violets and smoke and something woody-herbal, redolent of the scrubby wild thyme bushes that cling to the hillsides all around. Its not just pinot that makes an impact here. Chardonnay and pinot gris can impress but my favourite whites from the region are its rieslings, usually dry and intensely flavoured with super-fresh citrus and orchard fruit. If you love German, Austrian and Aussie riesling, you really need to try these most southerly ones. Thankfully, you dont have to travel nearly 12,000 miles to do so. Although very few Central Otago wines make it into the major retailers (the region only produces 3% of New Zealands wines), plenty of independent merchants stock a few. Theyre not cheap, as you might expect from a small region with very low-yielding vineyards, but I think the best rank comfortably alongside those from the traditional, long-established vineyard areas of the world. Peregrine Riesling 2022, Central Otago, New Zealand 12%, Great Wine, 28.85 Compelling and beautifully balanced organic riesling, almost dry, and aromatic with lime and lemongrass character and a very succulent long finish. The incisive acidity points to a good ager, although its delicious now, especially with white fish ceviche. Two Paddocks Picnic Riesling 2022, Central Otago, New Zealand 12%, ndjohn.co.uk, 19.95; Harvey Nichols, 23 Actor Sam Neills organic Picnic Riesling is shot through with zesty citrus, and there are notes of green apple and pear too. Its slightly off-dry and that dab of honey makes it a great match for ham, pork pies and mild cheeses (picnic food then) as well as seafood. Mount Difficulty Pinot Noir 2023, Central Otago, New Zealand 14%, Waitrose, 29.99 Bursting with juicy red fruits, especially red cherries, this is nonetheless much more than a sweet fruit bomb of a wine, with savoury, earthy and spicy complexity and ending dry. Its texture is sublimely soft and silky. Id drink this with medium-rare duck breast. Rockburn Pinot Noir 2022, Central Otago, New Zealand 14%, strictlywine.co.uk, 38.50, down to 29.99 while stocks last, minimum three bottles Rockburn is one to watch. Named after the craggy landscape and with Felton Road winemaker Malcolm Rees-Francis at the helm, its wines are distinctively elegant and poised. This fresh, vivacious pinot offering a beguiling aroma of cherries, violets and tart raspberries. Good offer too. Felton Road Bannockburn Pinot Noir 2022, Central Otago, New Zealand 14%, Lea & Sandeman, 47.50 Felton Road owns some of the oldest vineyards in the region, dating back to the 1990s, and is part-owned by Englishman Nigel Greening. Its near-cult status is due to pinots like this inky purple and super-smooth, rich with ripe blackberries and a seam of chocolate, with a dash of woody herbs, especially thyme. Organic, too. Deserves a fine steak. Northern Irelands political leaders have issued eve-of-poll messages ahead of a General Election that will involve several constituency battles that remain too close to call. A total of 136 candidates are standing in the regions 18 constituencies. All eyes will be on the race for the greatest number of seats, with the potential of Sinn Fein cementing its position as the largest party in Northern Ireland, having secured the most seats in recent Assembly and local council polls. Sinn Fein, which ran a relatively low-key campaign, could secure top spot by retaining the seven seats it already holds, if the DUP drops down from the eight seats it won in 2019. While most of the republican partys seats are safe bets, it will face the usual arm wrestle to hold off the challenge of unionists in the ever-close Fermanagh and South Tyrone race. In that constituency, former RCN general secretary Pat Cullen, who led nurses across the UK in strike action last year, is up against Ulster Unionist councillor Diana Armstrong. First Minister of Northern Ireland Michelle ONeill (Liam McBurney/PA). The DUP is under pressure in a number of constituencies, most significantly in East Belfast where its leader Gavin Robinson is involved in a high-stakes contest with the Alliance Party leader Naomi Long. Mr Robinsons elevation to the leadership of his party came after the DUP suffered a seismic shock when former leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson quit after he was charged with a range of historical sexual offences in March charges he denies. Apart from the sudden departure of Donaldson from the political stage, the DUP has also been under pressure from unionist rivals amid claims it oversold a Government package of measures on post-Brexit trading arrangements that the party used to justify the end of its two-year boycott on devolution at Stormont in January. Defeat for Mr Robinson would surely raise questions about his fledgling leadership of the DUP; while a loss for Ms Long would prompt some to ask whether the Alliance Partys surge of recent years has begun to subside. The cross-community Alliance Party is walking a tight rope between having a really good night or a very disappointing one. It is involved in three razor edge fights, including East Belfast, where it is in serious contention for seats. DUP leader Gavin Robinson (Niall Carson/PA) The party goes into the election with one seat, deputy leader Stephen Farrys in North Down and is also hoping that Ms Long prevails in East Belfast and Sorcha Eastwood defeats the DUP in Lagan Valley, in the seat vacated by long-standing MP Donaldson. While three victories could be secured; three losses would sting heavily for a party that has been on the electoral march in recent years. The Ulster Unionists were without an MP in the last parliament and the party is convinced that South Antrim represents its best opportunity of a return to the green benches at Westminster. Former UUP leader Robin Swann, whose profile soared when he led Northern Irelands fight against the Covid pandemic as Stormont health minister, is trying to win that seat from the DUPs Paul Girvan. Success for the SDLP would be the retention of the two seats held in the last parliament by its leader Colum Eastwood and deputy leader Claire Hanna. Alliance leader Naomi Long (Liam McBurney/PA). Both are tipped for victory in Foyle and South Belfast and Mid Down respectively albeit with the prospect of returning with reduced majorities. The TUV, which is an arch critic of the DUPs decision to drop its protest boycott on devolution, did not stand in the last election. While its entry into the fray this time round is highly unlikely to deliver it any seats, the votes it could potentially take from DUP candidates could have major implications in some of the closest battleground seats. However, the TUV campaign suffered a major blow last month when Reform UK leader Nigel Farage personally endorsed two DUP election candidates, despite his party having an official electoral alliance with the TUV in Northern Ireland. That has led to a highly usually situation in Mr Allisters own North Antrim constituency, where he is running on a joint TUV-Reform UK platform, even though Mr Farage has personally backed the DUP candidate in that area, Ian Paisley. In her eve of poll message, Sinn Feins vice president Michelle ONeill said a vote for her party would bring positive change. UUP leader Doug Beattie (Liam McBurney/PA). Change will only be delivered in the north by working together in the Executive and Assembly, but this election is our chance to send a clear message about the future we want, she said. I am asking voters to join us in our journey towards a better future, to endorse our vision by returning the strongest Sinn Fein team. It is clear that people want positive change, and I would urge people to support progressive candidates in areas where Sinn Fein are not standing (four seats), to maximise the number of progressive MPs. Mr Robinson urged people to use their vote wisely, as he emphasised that the election would help shape the future direction of Northern Ireland. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood (Liam McBurney/PA). In a clear reference to his TUV rivals, he said: Dont listen to those who cannot win in this election. By supporting the unionist candidates that can win you ensure there is the strongest voice and the strongest team for you in parliament. Only the DUP can ensure there is a strong team of pro-Union MPs in Westminster to stand up and speak out for you on the issues that matter. Some people can only see problems, but we are proud of our strong record of standing up for you and getting things done. He added: Tomorrow you have one vote. Use it wisely. Dont be lulled into voting for candidates that cant win and waking up on Friday morning to a nightmare scenario where the unionist vote has been divided and non-unionists have won seats. Ms Long said her party was leading change. Alliance has fought this campaign on our platform of leading change, showcasing responsible leadership and trustworthiness in our dealings, she said. We are uniquely positioned as the key challengers in a number of constituencies, which has been backed by polls and pundits across the entirety of the election campaign. She said if Alliance gained seats, voters would get positive, progressive representatives who are leading change and seeking equality across our society. TUV leader Jim Allister (Liam McBurney/PA). Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie posted a direct message to voters on social media. You have one vote, on that one day, with one chance to create change, change by voting for an MP who will be effective in Westminster, who will be visible in Westminster, he said. So when you go to the polls tomorrow, really think about whats good for you, for your family, for Northern Ireland, for all our people. I believe its by voting for an Ulster Unionist Party candidate. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood emphasised the importance of voting for MPs who take their seat at Westminster, contrasting his party with Sinn Feins long-standing abstentionist stance. Everyone wants and deserves change, he said. Thats what you get from SDLP MPs. Over the last five years Claire and I have demonstrated how we can deliver for people using the power of a seat at Westminster. And weve already secured commitments from a new government to repeal the toxic Tory legacy act. While others leave their seats empty, we turn up for the people we represent and make our voice heard. Mr Allister accused the DUP of hoodwinking unionists on the Government deal on post-Brexit trade. Vote instead for the party which has told you the truth from the beginning about the (Northern Ireland) Protocol, TUV. We have not faltered. We have not wilted on this fundamental issue, he said. Strengthen my hand in resisting the dismantling of our Union by voting TUV on Thursday. Be strong, not used. Vote TUV, the party you can trust. A Romanian man jailed over the deaths of 39 people in a lorry trailer in Essex will be deported without paying a penny to his victims families. Marius Mihai Draghici, 51, fled the UK after the Vietnamese nationals died in the airtight sealed container as it was being transported by ferry from Zeebrugge in Belgium to Purfleet in October 2019. In August 2022, Draghici, who was said to be a right-hand man in a long-running people-smuggling ring, was detained in Romania and extradited back to the UK. Images issued by Essex Police of the 39 Vietnamese migrants, aged between 15 and 44, that were found dead in the back of a trailer in Essex on October 23, 2019 (Essex Police/PA) Last year, he pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to 39 counts of manslaughter and conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and was jailed for 12 years and seven months. On Wednesday, prosecutor Ben Holt told a confiscation hearing before Judge Mark Lucraft KC that Draghici would not be pursued for proceeds of crime. He told the Old Bailey: Following an investigation, no assets have been discovered and in any event it is understood Mr Draghici will be deported shortly and therefore no proceedings are to be pursued. The defendant had joined the brief hearing by video link from Stocken category C prison in the East Midlands and declined the services of a translator. It is understand that he will serve the remainder of his prison sentence in Romania following his deportation. Sentencing last year, Mr Justice Garnham had said Draghici was an essential cog in a criminal conspiracy which made astonishing profits out of the exploitation of people desperate to get to the UK. In all, 11 men have been convicted of their involvement in the lucrative people-smuggling ring. In addition to Draghici, four other men were jailed for between 13 and 27 years for the manslaughters of the men, women and children. They are: Ringleader Gheorghe Nica, 47, of Basildon, Essex, haulier boss Ronan Hughes, 44, of Armagh, Maurice Robinson, 29, of Craigavon, who found the bodies, and Eamonn Harrison, 27, of County Down, who had collected the victims on the continent. To date, more than 283,000 in ill-gotten gains has been ordered to be paid by defendants as compensation to the victims families. Pro-Palestinian protesters have blockaded a defence and security company as they call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. More than 100 people blocked entrances to the Thales factory in Glasgow on Wednesday, urging the company to end links with Israel. Demonstrators are also calling on the UK Government to ban arms exports to Israel. The protest comes after a demonstration outside Thales last month which saw four people arrested and six police officers injured. Thales said it has a small medium enterprise joint venture (SME JV) with Israeli company Elbit that supplies systems to the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) and does not supply the Israeli military or Israeli defence ministry. Katy, who works at a Scottish university, was one of those demonstrating on Wednesday. The 28-year-old, who did not wish to give her surname, said: In Palestine, homes, hospitals, mosques, churches, schools and universities have been wilfully destroyed by Israel through relentless aerial bombardments. She said people in Glasgow cannot stand by whilst people in Palestine suffer uncountable horrors and humiliation. She added: We are bringing Scottish solidarity to the people of Palestine. A Thales spokesman said: Thales adheres to the UK Governments industry control system for overseas sales, one of the most rigorous and transparent of its kind in the world. In the UK, we have an SME JV with Israeli company Elbit, called U-TacS. This is a UK-registered company that supplies systems to the UK MoD. It does not supply the Israeli military or Israeli MoD. As we have said previously, while those outside our site in Glasgow have the right to protest peacefully, we will work with authorities to prosecute anyone who threatens our employees, our property or our important work for the UK armed forces. A Police Scotland spokesman said: Around 4.55am on Wednesday, police were called to a report of a demonstration at a business premises on Linthouse Road, Govan, Glasgow. Officers remain at the scene. The UK Government has been approached for comment. China redoubles efforts to prevent, control schistosomiasis during flood season Xinhua) 10:41, July 03, 2024 BEIJING, July 2 (Xinhua) -- The National Disease Control and Prevention Administration has released a circular on redoubling efforts to prevent and control schistosomiasis during this year's flood season, aiming to effectively stem the emergence and outbreak of the infectious disease. The circular urges local disease response departments to work with relevant authorities on coordinated, prompt and targeted measures such as blood fluke extermination, proper livestock management and key-demographic monitoring work. Schistosomiasis, a Class B infectious disease in China, was in the past common in 12 provincial-level regions in the Yangtze River basin and south of the river. Infection follows contact with water that is infested with larval forms of blood flukes. A "Healthy China 2030" outline issued in 2016 called for the elimination of schistosomiasis in all endemic counties nationwide by 2030. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) As fireworks light up Houstons skies on July 4, the Houston Police Departments call centers will also explode with complaints about pyrotechnics. These calls historically lead to few punishments, but the flurry of activity coupled with complications from the citys gunfire detection technology could spark a hectic night for the citys officers. HPDs fireworks-related calls dropped 40% over the past six years, reaching a low of just 813 calls in 2023, according to the agencys calls for service data. Independence Day, however, remains a flashpoint for these requests. In Houston, July 4 is the third most popular day for fireworks-related calls, behind only New Years Eve and New Years Day. Independence Day, alone, accounted for 12% of the more than 7,000 fireworks complaints HPD received since 2018. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Loading... An HPD spokesperson said the fall in fireworks-related complaints may not necessarily represent a decline in violations. Calls for service are based on community members calling it in, the spokesperson said. To be able to determine why fewer people are calling it in, or if theres an overall decrease, or if people arent shooting fireworks thats a simple question for something that has a very big, complex answer. Overall, complaints have clustered in neighborhoods like Northside/Northline, Alief, Near Northside and Central Southwest all of which have racked up more than 200 firework calls since 2018. EXPLOSIVE DATA: Search our map of the Houston neighborhoods with the most fireworks complaints Advertisement Article continues below this ad Near Northside and Spring Branch West stand out on July 4. The neighborhoods have been hotspots for Independence Day fireworks complaints, with about 7% of complaints placed for incidents within the neighborhoods boundaries. Fines Houstonians need a permit and license to manufacture, distribute, sell or ignite fireworks in public displays. Igniting fireworks without a permit is illegal within Houstons city limits, according to the Houston Fire Department. Its also illegal in certain pockets of Harris County without written authorization including within 600 feet of churches, non-veterinary hospitals, licensed childcare centers and most schools per the Harris County Fire Marshals Office. PET TIPS: How to keep your pet calm during fireworks and what to do if they run away in Houston Advertisement Article continues below this ad Violating firework regulations can be considered a misdemeanor offense and carry fines of up to $2,000 per firework. Monday, June 24, 2024, marks the opening of retail fireworks season as from left, Charridy Jones and Kimberly Williams, organize the shelves at the Fireworks Outlet in Bacliff that offers a variety of fireworks ranging from family and kid friendly ground based fireworks to more advanced adult oriented rockets and displays. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Yet fireworks complaints often lead to an impasse. Officers classified about a third of the fireworks calls HPDs received since 2018 as unfounded, erroneous, duplicate complaints or impossible to locate. For nearly 900 calls, responders indicated there was no one at the scene by the time of their arrival. From 2018 through September 2023, 73 cases for fireworks violations reached Houstons municipal courts. About half of those cases were dismissed most often because the officer involved in issuing the citation was not present. Among cases that werent dismissed, defendants owed or had already paid fines ranging from $10 to $1,093. Stressing the system Emergency medical services are in high demand during major holidays like Independence Day and New Years, said Sedrick Robinett, a spokesperson for the Houston Fire Department. Advertisement Article continues below this ad There are more citizens at home, more people barbecuing, and unfortunately sometimes theres more likely to be EMS calls during that time, Robinett added. As emergency responders navigate the uptick in calls, resource deployment can be a challenge. HPD is typically inundated with a variety of calls for service on major holidays. The department received an average of about 2,600 calls for service per day over the past six years, but requests spiked to as high as 3,005 calls on Independence Day and even higher on other holidays according to a Chronicle analysis of the departments calls for service data. The call volume spike is caused, in part, by automated alerts, said Domingo Garcia, a longtime HPD veteran. ShotSpotter a controversial technology HPD adopted in late 2020 to pinpoint gunfire in certain areas of the city can overwhelm the agencys call dispatch systems by confusing fireworks explosions with gunshots. The system can generate thousands of false reports, tying up manpower and radios on major holidays like Independence Day, he said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Mayor John Whitmire shared plans in May to scrap the program after long-standing questions about its effectiveness, but the citys contract doesn't lapse until 2027. My personal opinion, on those holidays, you might as well shut the system down, Garcia said of the ShotSpotter technology. Let the officers run calls like they normally do, where someone calls in and reports them. From 2021 through 2023, HPD received an average of eight calls for service per day that were flagged as ShotSpotter alerts but on Independence Days, they received as many as 54. Each year, between 11% and 21% of the July 4 ShotSpotter calls were reported at locations within a half-mile of where police received complaints about fireworks. The increase in ShotSpotter calls is a challenge HPD navigates on most firework-heavy holidays. On New Years Day this year, officers received more than 100 calls for service generated from the ShotSpotter system. While it might save employee resources not to activate ShotSpotter on major holidays, that decision would bring its own consequences, Garcia said. If the public learned a shooting happened that ShotSpotter might have caught, that would create liability for the police department. Instead, department leaders must continue using the technology, even if it makes holidays more hectic, Garcia said. Credit: Getty Images Public safety officer Sam Poe has adopted a dog that he helped rescue from being locked inside a car in 90-degree heat. Adopting a dog is a fantastic way to give a pup a new life and plenty of happiness. Most people will adopt dogs through rescue centers and animal shelters, but one man has adopted a dog he actually helped to rescue himself truly going the extra mile for this lucky canine. Indianapolis Police have said that a dog left in a hot car has been adopted by a public safety officer who helped rescue her from the vehicle. According to WISH , Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officers were sent to the Intown Suites Hotel after reports of a dog left in a Chevrolet sedan. Officer Poe was on the scene when Abby, a German Shepherd, as well as another dog and cat, were left inside a locked car. The animals were found in a hotel parking lot by the hotels manager, who investigated after clever Abby honked the cars horn. Officers were able to rescue Abby and the cat, who were thought to have been in the car for around three hours, but the second dog unfortunately died as a result of the incident. Seventy-four-year-old Norma Light and 53-year-old Charles Thomas are facing charges in relation to the incident. Light allegedly explained that she left the animals in the car because the hotel wasnt pet-friendly. Police shared on Facebook that PSO Poe got in touch with Indianapolis Animal Care Services afterward and adopted Abby, in what they described as a touching display of humanity. He said, I switched her collar, and it was like Abby knew she was home for good. Social media users commented on the post, praising PSO Poe for taking Abby in. Kiarah Miller, a witness who saw the dog in the car just before police arrived, while she was walking her own dog, said, I knew something had to be deeper when I saw poor little paws just stretched out there. Another witness said they heard Mr Thomas asking the other dog, a pit bull, to wake up. The police force added that Indianapolis residents are required to bring pets inside when its over 90 degrees outside, or when theres a heat advisory in effect. And, police lieutenant Shane Foley urged better heat safety awareness for people and dogs, saying, Dogs need to have water. They need to have food. They need to have shelter. They need to have a way to get out of the heat. If youre taking your dog on a car journey in the hot weather staying in the car with them, of course heres how to prevent heatstroke in dogs. SGODA Dog Cooling Vest $35.95 from Amazon Keep your canine cool this summer with this genius vest that features three layers of cooling technology. Soft and lightweight, simply soak it in cold water and let the vest do the rest! View Deal The route to a Labour government runs through Scotland, Sir Keir Starmer has said in his last campaign stop north of the border before polls open. Addressing activists and journalists in East Kilbride, South Lanarkshire, on Wednesday afternoon, the Labour leader hit out at the SNP the partys main challengers in Scotland. John Swinneys party has said sending SNP MPs to Westminster will ensure the next government is held to account but Sir Keir instead wants more Scottish Labour MPs to sit at the heart of his administration. I want a Labour government to have Scotland at its heart, he said. The route to a Labour government runs through Scotland, has always run through Scotland. I want voters in Scotland not to send a message, the SNP say, the most important election for I dont know how long and they say what? Send a message. Send someone, an SNP MP, to sit on the opposition benches for this important period of history, and say a few things across the aisle. I dont want Scotland to send a message, I want Scotland to send a government. Earlier, a letter to voters from Sir Keir appeared in the Daily Record newspaper, in which he said: When you walk into your local polling station tomorrow, there are two futures on the ballot paper. Sir Keir Starmer is campaigning across Britain on the eve of polling day (Stefan Rousseau/PA) The Tory and SNP candidates offer more of the same more sleaze and scandal, and more division and decline. The last Labour government transformed Scotland investing in our NHS, creating the national minimum wage, lifting hundreds of thousands of Scots out of poverty, and creating the Scottish Parliament. Sir Keir was in Scotland as part of a tour of the UK in the 24 hours before polls open, and during his visit he met with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar. Speaking ahead of the visit, Mr Sarwar said Labour will secure a better future for Scotland. He also cautioned voters against five more years of the sleazy Tories. Anas Sarwar, right, said Labour offers Scotland an opportunity for change (PA) Mr Sarwar said: This election is an opportunity for change that Scotland cannot afford to miss. Imagine waking up on Friday to the news of five more years under the Tories the same sleazy Tories that put party before country, crashed the economy and left ordinary families to pick up the bill. But with a simple cross in a box on Thursday, Scots can end the Tory nightmare and deliver a transformative Labour government with Scotland at its heart. A Labour government in the service of working people with Scottish MPs at its heart is in reach but only if you vote for it. This election is a straight choice between a broken status quo with two bad governments, or change with Labour. Sonay Kartal weathered a second-set wobble to storm into the Wimbledon third round for the first time and set up a plum tie with Coco Gauff after she beat Clara Burel 6-3 5-7 6-3. Kartal had to qualify for this years Championships after she had battled with undisclosed health problems for much of the past year, but she put those issues to one side to produce an excellent career-best victory against 29th seed Sorana Cirstea on Monday. It set up a showdown with world number 45 Burel and Kartal recovered from losing a 3-0 lead in set two to edge the decider and become the first home player through to the last-32 at the All England Club. The FIRST British ladies' qualifier to reach the third round since 1997 A dream run so far for Sonay Kartal, who sets up a meeting with Coco Gauff #Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/Dr5klVZnhS Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) July 3, 2024 The British number nine was back on Court Three a year after her straight-sets defeat to Madison Keys, when she only won three games. Rain initially halted her shot at redemption with a two-hour delay followed by another intermittent shower after seven minutes of action. Kartal had to save break points in each of her first two service games once play resumed and they proved crucial as the 22-year-old seized upon a string of double-faults by Burel to break and move 4-2 up. Burel arrived in London after four consecutive first-round exits and struggled to outlast Kartal in several lengthy rallies before the world number 298 clinched the opener with a trademark forehand winner. Sonay Kartal is through to the third round (Mike Egerton/PA) Kartal, who was Emma Raducanus big rival as a junior, claimed another break at the start of the next set before a second followed with Burel seeming out-of-sorts. The biggest threat to the Briton appeared the weather with more drizzle in the air, but as the sun pierced through the clouds, Burel started to swing freely and land her shots. A break back was secured before a sumptuous volley from the French player got the score back to 4-4 and while Kartal showed heart to save four set points, a decider was required. Clara Burel could not fight back against the British number nine (Mike Egerton/PA) The third set stayed on serve until a decisive fifth game, which went the way of the Brighton right-hander after another booming forehand clipped the net cord and landed on Burels side. Kartal would not be denied this time and pencilled in a clash with US Open champion Gauff with a deft volley at the net to earn a standing ovation as the first female British qualifier to make round three since 1997. Today is a really special day for me, Kartal said. Monday was a high but Ive topped that today. The death of a 17-year-old student who got into difficulty in the sea during a school trip in West Sussex has been described as a tragic accident by his college principal. Emergency services received a call of concern for the teenagers welfare in the water at a beach in West Wittering, near Chichester, at around 1pm on Tuesday. The boy was part of a group from Uxbridge College in west London, who were visiting the area to celebrate the end of term. A college spokesman said the student got into difficulty in the sea and tragically it was not possible to save them. He was airlifted to hospital where he was pronounced dead, and his family have been informed, Sussex Police said. Uxbridge College principal Dylan McTaggart said: This was a tragic accident that has had a huge impact on everyone here. Our priority now is to look after all those affected. We have enlisted the help of qualified counsellors and will make sure that over the next days and weeks we have staff and professional support available to our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and we ask that you respect their privacy as they grieve the loss of a child. Detective Inspector Darren Taylor, of Sussex Police, said officers are investigating the incident to establish the full facts, supported by the Health and Safety Executive. This was an absolutely tragic incident and I would like to express my sincere condolences to the boys loved ones at this heartbreaking time, he said. We are asking anyone who has any information that could help to contact us online or via 101, quoting Operation Redhill. A spokeswoman for West Wittering Estate said the emergency services and police were quickly on the scene before the boy was taken to hospital. We are deeply saddened to report that a 17-year-old boy drowned yesterday after getting into difficulty in the water, she said. Lifeguards deployed their equipment, including jet skis, to rush to the scene. Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time. Labour has received the backing of The Sun at the General Election, as the newspaper insisted: It is time for a change. The tabloid said it believes the Conservatives, over the past 14 years, have become a divided rabble, more interested in fighting themselves than running the country. It added the Tories are exhausted as it switched its endorsement to the Labour Party. The Sun is shining on Labour. Its time for change. https://t.co/53HwDPR45r Wes Streeting (@wesstreeting) July 3, 2024 It said Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has fought hard to change the party since the days of Jeremy Corbyn, adding it is still a work in progress. It noted there are still plenty of concerns about Labour, including on immigration and possible tax rises, and it also noted Sir Keir being an ex-Remainer when it comes to Brexit. The newspaper, which has a record of backing the party which then wins the most seats, added: He has a mountain to climb, with a disillusioned electorate and low approval ratings. But, by dragging his party back to the centre ground of British politics for the first time since Tony Blair was in No10, Sir Keir has won the right to take charge. An image of Thursdays front page alludes to the struggles of England manager Gareth Southgate at the Euros as it states: As Britain goes to the polls, its time for a new manager (and we dont mean sack Southgate!). Sir Keir, answering media questions after a stump speech in Glasgow, said: Im delighted to have the support and the backing of The Sun. I think that shows just how much this is a changed Labour Party, back in the service of working people. The Sun threw its weight behind Labour at the 1997 general election won by Tony Blair before switching its allegiance to the Conservatives in September 2009. Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer has received the backing of The Sun (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Copies of The Sun were banned from Labours annual gathering following a decision taken when the conference was held in Liverpool in 2016. A widespread boycott of the paper has been in place in Liverpool due to its coverage of the 1989 Hillsborough disaster. Shadow health secretary Wes Streeting welcomed the Suns endorsement. The Sun is shining on Labour. Its time for change, he said. The Sun editorial notes there are many policies which we support from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, including the Rwanda deportation plan and the commitment to scrap national insurance. It added: But the insurmountable problem faced by the Tories is that over the course of 14 often chaotic years they have become a divided rabble, more interested in fighting themselves than running the country. By the time Rishi Sunak moved into No 10, Britain had had five prime ministers in just 12 years. In 2022 alone, there were four home secretaries, four chancellors, and five education secretaries. All this upheaval, backstabbing and mayhem came at a price. After raising concerns over tax increases and other policies, it adds: Put bluntly, the Tories are exhausted. They need a period in opposition to unite around a common set of principles which can finally bring to an end all the years of internal warfare. It is time for a change. Nigel Farages manifesto lower taxes, less immigration, slashing the size of the bloated state has struck a chord with millions, including many hard-working voters who supported Boris Johnson in 2019. But Reform is a one-man band which at best can only win only a handful of MPs and can never implement its policies. The Liberal Democrats, meanwhile, are a joke with a leader who has spent this most depressing of campaigns pulling ridiculous stunts. Which means that it is time for Labour. There is no doubt Sir Keir Starmer has fought hard to change his party for the better, even if it is still a work in progress. Rishi Sunak insisted he was still fighting hard for votes after one of his most loyal Cabinet allies said Labour is likely to win the largest majority any party has ever achieved. Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride said it is highly unlikely that polls suggesting a victory for Sir Keir Starmers party are wrong. Mr Sunak insisted it was not a foregone conclusion and Mr Stride was warning of what a very large Labour majority, unchecked, would mean for people. Sir Keir claimed the Tories were talking up the prospect of a landslide in order to encourage would-be Labour voters to think they can stay at home. The Tory campaign suffered a fresh blow on the eve of polling day as The Sun endorsed Labour for the first time since 2005. Mr Stride, who helped run Mr Sunaks campaign for the Conservative leadership and has made regular appearances on the TV and radio during the election campaign as the Tories spokesman, appeared resigned to a heavy defeat. He told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I have accepted that where the polls are at the moment and it seems highly unlikely that they are very, very wrong, because theyve been consistently in the same place for some time that we are therefore tomorrow highly likely to be in a situation where we have the largest majority that any party has ever achieved. Voter intention surveys have suggested a Labour lead of around 20 points, while massive multilevel regression and poststratification (MRP) studies, which forecast constituency level results, have consistently indicated a Labour landslide. (PA Graphics) Mr Stride told GB News: If you look at the polls, it is pretty clear that Labour at this stage are heading for an extraordinary landslide on a scale that has probably never, ever been seen in this country before. But he said that if about 130,000 people in around 100 marginal seats who might be considering voting Reform or Liberal Democrat instead give their vote to the Tories, it would help to give Parliament a more robust opposition. Im really worried about an untrammelled Labour Party in power, and that really needs to be checked, and people will regret it if we dont have that, I think, Mr Stride told LBC. Speaking to This Morning, the Prime Minister said: Im fighting hard for every vote. Heres what Id say, actually, heres what Id say. We just saw some analysis which showed that just 130,000 people can make the difference in this election. So, everyone watching who thinks, oh, this is all a foregone conclusion, its not. Mr Sunak and Sir Keir are engaged in their final day of campaigning ahead of Thursdays vote. Former prime minister Boris Johnson made a surprise appearance at a Tory rally on Tuesday night in an effort to give the Conservative campaign a late boost. But ex-home secretary Suella Braverman, a potential contender for the Tory leadership if Mr Sunak quits, wrote in the Telegraph: One needs to read the writing on the wall: its over, and we need to prepare for the reality and frustration of opposition. At his first event of the day on a whistlestop tour of Wales, Scotland and England, Sir Keir told reporters in Carmarthenshire he was not in the slightest rattled by the intervention from Mr Johnson, describing him as the architect of chaos and division. He said Tory warnings of Labour winning an unprecedented majority amounted to voter suppression. (PA Graphics) Its trying to get people to stay at home rather than to go out and vote, he said. I say, if you want change, you have to vote for it. I want people to be part of the change. A Survation MRP study suggested Labour is on course to win more seats than it did in Tony Blairs landslide. The survey of 34,558 and constituency-level modelling suggested it is 99% certain Labour will secure more than the 418 seats won in 1997. The MRP poll data suggests prominent Tories could lose their seats to Labour, including Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt in Portsmouth North, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps in Welwyn Hatfield, Hertfordshire, and party chairman Richard Holden in Basildon and Billericay, Essex. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is set to lose the Godalming and Ash seat in Surrey, and Education Secretary Gillian Keegan her Chichester, Sussex, seat to the Liberal Democrats. The Conservative Party is virtually certain to win a lower share of the vote than at any past general election, Survation said. A Techne UK survey of 5,503 voters for The Independent, also unveiled overnight, gave Labour (40%) a 19-point lead over the Tories (21%). Nigel Farage has lead crowds at a rally in a chant of we want our country back as he said the 2024 election is the tip of the iceberg for Reform. The Reform UK leader entered his partys rally at Clacton pier in Essex on an army vehicle to the tune of Without Me by Eminem. The vehicle drove through the crowds before reversing, narrowly avoiding contact with a woman on a mobility scooter. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage gives a speech to supporters on Clacton Pier in Essex, while on the General Election campaign trail (Lucy North/PA) The crowd booed when Mr Farage referenced Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, referring to him as slippery Rishi. He said: He tells you that for low taxes, he tells you therefore reduced immigration, but they promise that in the last four manifestos, so why the hell should we believe them on the fifth? He added: For all of us that voted Brexit, for everybody that helped (the Conservatives) win that 80 seat majority under Boris Johnson in 2019 they have betrayed our trust and they deserve to lose the election. Mr Farage sarcastically called Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer one of the great charisma filled characters of the 21st century, saying talk about boring, God help us. He got some of his biggest reactions from the crowd when he moved on to talk about what he claims should be the defining issue of the General Election immigration. He said: (Keir Starmer) doesnt mention the boats crossing the English Channel, doesnt mention the 4,000 dinghys filled with young men who as soon as they arrive, get medical care, get dental care. How are you getting on for dentists in Clacton? You should have come by dinghy. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage gives a speech to supporters on Clacton Pier in Essex, while on the General Election campaign trail (Ian West/PA) And of course, four star hotels, three square meals a day and not one of them that comes illegally has ever been deported to Rwanda and were spending billions and billions on this. And I sense amongst the British people there is a profound sense, this is unfair, this is wrong and this needs to stop and stop soon. Mr Farage said Reforms ambitions stretch far beyond the results on Thursday. He said: This is the first step of a new political movement, but this is not just about winning seats in Parliament, which we will, its about forming an opposition to a Starmer led government with a big majority. The Conservatives cant do that. They say split, theyre so divided and frankly, I think pretty devoid of talent. He added: Im determined, Im not frightened of anybody, I stand up for what I believe in, I always say what I think, I will not be bullied by anybody, whether its the European Commission, national Westminster bank, or a Keir Starmer government. A Reform UK supporter ducks as a gull flies past a group of people gathered near to Clacton Pier in Essex, as they wait for Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to give a speech (Ian West/PA) But heres the important thing. Everybody talks about whos going to be sitting in Parliament. But for us that is the tip of the iceberg. My aim and ambition over the next few years is to turn this into a massive grass roots movement of millions of people. From atop the tank, the Reform leader then got the crowd chanting We want our country back. He continued: Weve had enough of being talked down to by media, by politicians, by people in schools telling our kids all the wrong things. I believe, I really believe that tomorrow marks the first step of what is going to be a truly historic political change in the direction of our country. David Howell who attended the rally said he loved Mr Farage, describing him as the best politician going and hes so relatable to the ordinary man. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage gives a speech to supporters on Clacton Pier in Essex, while on the General Election campaign trail (Ian West/PA) Asked about Mr Farages prospects at this election, Mr Howell said: I think hell make a little spark, hopefully a big spark and next election though that will be different. I predict hell take over the Tory party and Reform and the Tories will merge. And then therell be a more right of centre party. 20-year-old Clacton resident Joshua Millar described his home town as the most racist place probably in the UK and said he came out to see Mr Farage because he finds it funny that hes here. Mr Millar said the Reform UK leader 100% villainises migrants, saying Mr Farage villainises them, makes them seem like theyre monsters, but theyre not. Asked who he would be supporting at the polls, Mr Millar said: Im not voting, because I feel like its a waste of time, frankly. Life-long Tory voter Morgan Hopkins said that immigration was the biggest issue for him at this election, but he was switching to Reform after the Conservatives lost his vote for violating lockdown rules. He said: Ive become so disillusioned with partygate, and particularly the way that people were partying after the Queen lost her husband, that its time for the Tories to go. Mr Hopkins said the Conservatives bringing Boris Johnson out to speak at a rally solidified the fact that theyre worried and that theyre panicking. Theyre pulling out all the stops. YouGov poll forecasts no Tory seats in Wales and swathes of northern England Wales and two English regions could be left with no Conservative MPs come Friday, according to YouGov, with the Labour Party on course for a 431-seat landslide. YouGov polled 47,751 adults in Great Britain between June 19 and July 2 before making the forecast, which suggests the Conservatives could win just 102 seats. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, Defence Secretary Grant Shapps and Justice Secretary Alex Chalk are among the prominent Tories set to lose their seats according to three MRP polls, which look at constituency-level results as well as the national picture. More in Common has found counting will end with Labour on around 430 seats while Survations model a survey of 34,558 respondents between June 15 and July 2 suggests Labours tally could stretch to between 447 and 517. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had earlier rejected the suggestion of defeat and said he is fighting hard for every vote. He told ITVs This Morning: We just saw some analysis which showed that just 130,000 people can make the difference in this election. So, everyone watching who thinks, oh, this is all a foregone conclusion, its not. His rival Sir Keir Starmer, on the campaign trail in Carmarthenshire, said: I think the Tories have run a very negative campaign and theyre failing to answer the question of what positive change they bring for the country. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer on the campaign trail (Andrew Milligan/PA) The Labour leader accused Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride, who told ITVs Good Morning Britain that a Labour majority is the one very clear conclusion in the General Election, of voter suppression and added the ministers comment amounted to trying to get people to stay at home rather than to go out and vote. Sir Keir said: I say if you want change, you have to vote for it. I want people to be part of the change. In each model, the Liberal Democrats are set to take Godalming and Ash, Surrey, where Mr Hunt is standing, and Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, contested by Mr Chalk. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is forecast to lose his seat (Aaron Chown/PA) Chichester in Sussex, contested by Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, is also unsafe, with YouGov and Survation suggesting the Liberal Democrats could win in the cathedral city constituency. More in Common has listed Portsmouth North, contested by Commons leader Penny Mordaunt, as too close to call, with YouGov and Survation both hinting at Labour gains. Sir Keir Starmers party is set to win in Welwyn Hatfield (contested by Mr Shapps), Monmouthshire (Welsh Secretary David TC Davies), Banbury (Attorney General Victoria Prentis) and Plymouth Moor View (Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer). But Labour could face an upset in Islington North, where the partys former leader Jeremy Corbyn has a 91% chance of winning as an independent candidate, according to More in Common. Survation has suggested Labour will win the London seat, with YouGov listing it as a tossup, leaning towards Labour. The three pollsters have suggested Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, will win in the Essex seaside constituency of Clacton. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage in Clacton, Essex (Ian West/PA) Survation has said Labour is likely to take Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, but More in Common and YouGov have tipped Reform UK to win with its candidate Lee Anderson, who won the seat in 2019 as a Conservative. YouGov has listed Great Yarmouth as lean Reform UK, with Labour second in the Norfolk constituency, and the Tories third. Each pollster has said Brighton Pavilion will remain with The Green Party, while YouGov has listed Bristol Central, which party co-leader Carla Denyer is contesting, as leaning Green. Survation polling suggests West Worcestershire also leans Green in a tight race. Green Party co-leader Carla Denyer is looking for victory in Bristol Central (Jonathan Brady/PA) The implied national vote shares are Labour 39%, Conservatives 22%, Reform UK 15%, Liberal Democrat 12%, Greens 7%, the SNP 3% and Plaid Cymru 1%, YouGov analysts wrote. Even in a best case scenario, the result for the Conservatives is significantly worse than the partys previous worst election result in 1906, when it won 156 seats. YouGovs MRP seat projection shows Labour on 431 seats, with the Conservatives on 102, the Liberal Democrats on 72, the SNP on 18, Reform UK and Plaid Cymru on three each, and the Greens on two. None of the Conservatives seats would be in Wales, the North East or the North West, if the MRP poll findings are realised. At least 326 seats are required for a majority. Two Union soldiers who 162 years ago took part in one of America's first special operations were posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor on Wednesday. "Today we right that wrong. Today they finally receive the recognition they deserve," President Joe Biden said at a White House ceremony. Descendants of Pvt. George Wilson and Pvt. Shadrach had received a long-awaited call from the White House telling them the Civil War heroes would be awarded the nation's highest military honor for "gallantry and intrepidity" in defense of the Union. PHOTO: President Joe Biden presents the Medal of Honor posthumously to descendants of Union soldiers Pvt. Philip Shadrach and Pvt. George Wilson, members of the 2nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment in the Civil War in Washington, July 3, 2024. (Elizabeth Frantz/Reuters) The president was on the other line, they said, inviting Theresa Chandler, the great-great-granddaughter of Pvt. Wilson, and Gerald Taylor, the great-great-nephew of Pvt. Shadrach, to accept the medal on behalf of the men who, as a part of a group of 24 volunteers, snuck behind Confederate lines in an act of unprecedented bravery. PHOTO: Two Medals of Honor awarded to Civil War heroes who took part in the raid. (Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History) The Union soldiers -- acting as spies in civilian clothing -- managed to penetrate 200 miles into Confederate territory, where they commandeered a train -- "The General" -- and drove it 87 miles from Georgia to Tennessee. In what became known as "The Great Locomotive Chase," on April 12, 1862, the Union raiders destroyed Confederate railroad tracks and telegraph lines -- earned 19 of the men Medals of Honor, becoming the first group of Army soldiers to receive it. The ambitious plot, despite wreaking havoc, failed. The soldiers were captured. Some escaped and received their medals after the war, while a group of eight of the raiders -- including Wilson and Shadrach -- were tried and hanged by the Confederacy. PHOTO: A depiction of the raiders hanging from the gallows. (US Army) Because of what historians attribute to an oversight, Wilson and Shadrach never received the award posthumously. Ron Shadrach, a descendant of Pvt. Shadrach, who was only 21 when he volunteered for the mission, and historian Brad Quinlin, teamed up to push Shadrach and Wilson's case. Text from a 2008 act of Congress even cleared the way for Wilson and Shadrach to be honored, but for reasons resembling "red tape," some family said, the call simply never came. PHOTO: Gerald Taylor, great-great-nephew of Pvt. Shadrach is seen on July 2, 2024. (US Army) PHOTO: 'The General' the locomotive raided by the Union soldiers. (US Army) Shadrach and Quinlin met in 2012 and made their case for 12 years, but even before them, a relative of Pvt. Shadrach was sending letters to President Jimmy Carter. At the outset of the Biden Administration, two former generals -- one a four-star -- joined Shadrach and Quinlin's efforts. PHOTO: Pvt. Wilson is seen herein an undated file photo. (US Army) Quinlin believes the clandestine mission, which the White House describes as one of the first special operations in United States history, if successful, would have shortened the Civil War by as long as two years. "I mean these were common citizens -- a laborer, a carpenter," he said. "They enlisted. They weren't drafted; they enlisted voluntarily. And then all of a sudden you're getting the word, you know, we're asking for volunteers to come do what? Go in to a hundred miles of Confederate territory to steal a train. They stayed on. They were given a chance, they could have left after that, but they stayed on." "I guess, unless we've really done it, do we really know what courage that took?" Before they were hanged, Pvt. Wilson is reported to have given a brief speech from the gallows in which he said he did not regret his action to help save the Union. "He proclaimed that they would yet see the flag of the United States wave over them again," Ron Shadrack said. Two years later, they would. PHOTO: Pvt. Shadrach is seen herein an undated file photo. (US Army) Shadrack labored over the case for more than 12 years to rectify the historical record, but, above all, he said, he did so in service of his ancestor's sacrifices. "We can't really comprehend what they went through," the Ohio native said, a bout of imprisonment that including lashing and torture. "I had wanted to serve my country, and I hadn't," Shadrack said. "And so now I've been able to do this" he said, choking up, seemingly reckoning with this moment a present day that would pay tribute to a day 162 years ago for which he has so long fought. "And I think it's, it's something that any ordinary American would do," he said. "It's what we do." Quinlin, who in his work has studied the acts of Medal of Honor recipients, said the award -- given to some 3,500 warfighters in U.S. history -- has documented the American story on the battlefield. "I wouldn't have taken the project on if I didn't feel it was the right thing to do. I understand the Medal of Honor. I understand where it stands today with our military. And every military person looks up to a Medal of Honor recipients. Even generals take a seat to a Medal of Honor recipient," he said. PHOTO: Theresa Chandler, the great-great granddaughter of Pvt. Wilson is seen on July 2, 2024. (US Army) A future Medal of Honor recipient saved Quinlin's father's life in the Philippines in World War II, losing his life as he fought off the Japanese. "I am here because of what William Shockley did on March 31st, 1945. I understand the valor and sacrifice of the Medal of Honor," Quinlin said. Biden awards Medal of Honor to Civil War heroes, 162 years later originally appeared on abcnews.go.com A curbside mail drop off box is shown at the Klein Post Office, 7717 Louetta Rd., Tuesday, May 5, 2020, in Spring. Melissa Phillip/Staff photographer A Houston man accused of stealing hundreds of checks out of Richmond-area mailboxes was sentenced Tuesday to spend nearly six years in prison. Daruin Anelby Rosario, 28, was arrested in October and accused of breaking into a blue U.S. Postal Service collection box in Richmond and stealing mailed checks that had been dropped inside. He was charged with possession of stolen mail, unlawful possession of a postal key and aggravated identity theft U.S. Judge David Hittner sentenced Rosario to 71 months in prison on those three charges, and to another two years in prison for violating the probation on a separate mail theft conviction from 2022, according to court records. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Postal inspectors began looking into complaints about mail theft in Richmond in July 2023, after a request from the Richmond Police Department. An inspector put a secret camera on one of the city's collection boxes, as well as a sensor that alerted when the box's door was opened. Two days after the equipment was installed, the camera recorded Rosario opening the mailbox and removing mail from inside. Rosario repeated the visits twice more over the next month, according to the complaint. Rosario was believed to have used a master key to open the collection box without damaging it, according to the complaint. While inspectors were monitoring the mailbox, they also received a tip from the managers of a Katy apartment complex, who reported finding dozens of checks and three debit and credit cards inside an apartment that Rosario had been evicted from. When inspectors served a warrant on Rosario's home in October, they found about 1,400 checks and nearly 800 over pieces of mail, according to court documents. Rosario laser admitted to stealing and selling the checks, and revealed that he owned 12 postal keys, according to court records. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The complaint didn't specify the combined value of the checks. The manager of one businesses hurt by the thefts, Crest Operating Company, said a stolen check cost them $7,500. Rosario has been sent to prison for mail theft before. In 2020, he was arrested and accused of mail theft after police found a "large quantity" of other people's names is his car during a traffic stop. The pile included letters, checks and an unopened mail-in ballot from Washington state, according to prosecutors. Rosario would later admit to stealing and selling checks and other personal identifying information between March 2018 and November 2020, according to a 2022 plea agreement. Prosecutors said Rosario was part of a "network of contacts and co-conspirators" who stole mail and traded information among themselves. Rosario "organized, photographed, catalogued, distributed, instructed and sold," the stolen mail as part of the scheme. The information in the mail would later be used to create counterfeit checks, which in turn would be used to steal from banks and businesses. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Prosecutors said Rosario was responsible for $150,000 in losses in the two-year period. In 2022, Rosario pleaded guilty to the first mail theft charge and was sentenced to spend three months in federal prison and spend another two years under supervised release. He was on probation when he was arrested the second time, according to court records. He has been in federal custody since his arrest in 2023. Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.) said in an interview that aired Tuesday he plans to talk to President Biden soon to give him an assessment of his standing with Americans in the wake of the presidents rough debate performance. I did plan to talk with him later today or tomorrow morning, Clyburn said in an interview with The Hill on NewsNations Blake Burman. And Im gonna tell him what I really feel. Clyburn said he will tell the president what his standing is with the American people from the South Carolina Democrats perspective. Clyburn is often credited with the current presidents 2020 South Carolina primary win, which gave him momentum toward securing his place atop the Democratic ticket that year. However, a shadow has been cast over Bidens reelection chances in the last week due to the presidents poor debate performance, in which his voice was raspy and he stumbled over the words. In the interview on The Hill, Clyburn acknowledged that last Thursday nights debate was a bad night for the president. I do know this: I think that the American people want an explanation; they need to be reassured, and I hope that over the next several days, well do that, Clyburn said. A few Democrats have either called on Biden to withdraw from this years presidential race or be replaced at the top of his partys ticket following Thursdays debate, including former Rep. Tim Ryan (D-Ohio), who has thrown his support behind Vice President Harris to replace the president. Harris has significantly grown into her job; she will destroy [former President Trump] in debate, highlight [the] choice issue, energize our base, bring back young voters, and give us generational change. Its time! Ryan wrote in a social media post Tuesday. NewsNation is owned by Nexstar Media Group, which also owns The Hill. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. There has been growing alarm among Democrats about Joe Bidens debate performance on Thursday, amplifying concerns he cant beat Donald Trump in November. But so far very few prominent Democrats have publicly called for Biden to step aside. One of Bidens longtime allies, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, said on MSNBC Tuesday that its a legitimate question to ask if Bidens pauses during the debate were an episode or is this a condition? But she stopped short of calling for Biden to withdraw, saying that people should have concerns about Trumps mental acuity as well. She said opinions are mixed about whether Bidens up to the job, but, she said, I trust his judgment. One of Bidens most crucial Democratic allies, South Carolina Congressman James Clyburn, said on MSNBC Tuesday that he would support Vice President Kamala Harris if Biden were to step aside. That is an obvious statement for a co-chair of the Biden-Harris campaign, but it took on additional weight during a week rife with speculation about whether Biden should remain on the ticket. While it would be nearly unprecedented, Biden could still withdraw from the race before the election. Here are some prominent Democrats who have so far publicly called for Biden to drop out. Rep. Lloyd Doggett of Texas Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas Tom WilliamsCQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images Texas Congressman Lloyd Doggett was the first Democrat currently serving in Congress to call for Biden to step aside. He said in a statement on Tuesday that Bidens weak poll numbers and debate performance was an important part of his decision. President Biden has continued to run substantially behind Democratic senators in key states and in most polls has trailed Donald Trump, Doggett said in a statement. I had hoped that the debate would provide some momentum to change that. It did not. Instead of reassuring voters, the President failed to effectively defend his many accomplishments and expose Trumps many lies. In his announcement, Doggett referred to former President Lyndon Johnsons decision in 1968 to withdraw from the Presidential race because of deep divisions within the Democratic party over the war in Vietnam. "I represent the heart of a congressional district once represented by Lyndon Johnson, Doggett said. Under very different circumstances, he made the painful decision to withdraw. President Biden should do the same." Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizona Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz., in 2022 Tom WilliamsCQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images The Arizona Congressman on Wednesday became the second sitting member to call for Biden to drop out. "If hes the candidate, Im going to support him, but I think that this is an opportunity to look elsewhere, Grijalva told The New York Times. Grijalva, a former chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, added that Biden needed to shoulder the responsibility for keeping that seat and part of that responsibility is to get out of this race. Tim Ryan, former Ohio Congressman from 2003 to 2023 Tim Ryan in 2022 Joshua A. BickelBloomberg via Getty Images Former Ohio congressman Tim Ryan called for Biden to step aside when he published an OpEd article in Newsweek on Tuesday saying that its time to make Harris the partys nominee. We have to rip the band aid off! Too much is at stake, Ryan wrote on X. Harris has significantly grown into her job, she will destroy Trump in debate, highlight choice issue, energize our base, bring back young voters and give us generational change. Julian Castro, former Housing Secretary in the Obama Administration Julian Castro in 2022 Al DragoBloomberg via Getty Images Julian Castro, former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development from 2014 to 2017 during the Obama administration, wrote on X on June 28: Biden had a very low bar going into the debate and failed to clear even that bar. He seemed unprepared, lost, and not strong enough to parry effectively with Trump, who lies constantly. On Tuesday, Castro said on MSNBC that another Democrat would have a better shot at beating Trump. Jason Lewis, Massachusetts State Senator State Senator Jason Lewis in 2015 Lane TurnerThe Boston Globe via Getty Images Massachusetts State Senator Jason Lewis made the comment in a Boston Public Radio interview on June 28 in which compared Bidens candidacy to a train about to crash. Our choice is to, you know, jump off that train, Lewis said. Contact us at letters@time.com. The former Apollo 8 astronaut best known for taking the iconic Earthrise photo, who died last month while piloting a plane over the waters off Washington state, was doing a flyby near a friend's house when the fatal accident occurred, federal authorities said Tuesday. William Anders, whose Earthrise photo showed the planet as a shadowed blue marble from space in 1968, had texted a friend to say he planned to do a flyby near her house on the western shore of Orcas Island, the National Transportation Safety Board said in its preliminary report. The friend said Anders' flybys were not unusual, according to the NTSB. She said that he typically did two flybys, and while he sometimes rocked the airplane wings, "he never performed any kind of aerobatic maneuvers. Around 11:37 a.m. on June 7, the friend began to hear the familiar noise of his airplane, the NTSB said. Shortly after, she saw the older-model Beech A45 overhead traveling north along the shore in front of her house. She briefly lost sight of the plane as it flew behind trees. When she saw it come back into view it was heading south and flying over the water. After it passed by, she saw the left wing drop and thought it was part of his routine. But the wing continued to drop as the plane plummeted toward the water below. At the same time, another witness on the same shoreline north of Anders' friend's home, was using his phone to film the vintage airplane passing by, the NTSB said. Over the course of the video, the plane can be seen plunging toward the water in a near vertical dive before its right wingtip strikes the water. The friend and the person who took the video were the only two witnesses to come forward, the NTSB said. The plane sank near the north end of Jones Island, which is off the western shore of Orcas Island, San Juan County Sheriff Eric Peter said. The body of the 90-year-old Anders was recovered that afternoon. Most of the wreckage was recovered in the week following the crash and has been stored for further examination, the agency said. Anders' Earthrise photograph, the first color image of Earth from space, is one of the most important photos in modern history for the way it changed how humans viewed the planet. The photo is credited with sparking the global environmental movement for showing how delicate and isolated Earth appeared from space. Anders, a retired major general, has said the photo was his most significant contribution to the space program along with making sure the Apollo 8 command module and service module worked. His son, retired Air Force Lt. Col. Greg Anders, told The Associated Press after his father's death that the family was devastated. He was a great pilot and we will miss him terribly," he said. House Democrats are calling on five major pharmacy chains to commit to dispensing mifepristone in states where it remains legal, following the recent Supreme Court decision that preserved the current accessibility of the drug. In letters sent to Walmart, Safeway, Kroger, Costco and Health Mart, a group of more than 50 House Democrats led by Reps. Judy Chu (Calif.) and Dan Goldman (N.Y.) pressed the pharmacies to become certified dispensers of mifepristone. We are disappointed that you have not publicly pursued certification for the past year, the Democrats wrote. We strongly urge you to consider policies that facilitate access to essential and time-sensitive reproductive health care services, including medication abortion, which are clear to your consumers and to your pharmacy employees. In 2023, the Food and Drug Administration established a process for retail pharmacies to become certified to dispense mifepristone to patients with valid prescriptions, the first in the two-drug process used in medication abortions. Goldman and Chu said they reached out to the same five pharmacies in June 2023 about offering mifepristone, but the companies did not say whether they planned to get certified. In the wake of last months Supreme Court decision that preserved current access to mifepristone, the Democrats urged the pharmacies to reconsider. This lack of action to certify is misaligned with your publicly stated values in support of equal access to health care and in support of gender equality, they wrote. In light of escalating attacks on bodily autonomy and on peoples freedom to make their own health care decisions, we believe that your companies have a social responsibility to consumers and communities to address this issue as soon as possible. The lawmakers are seeking responses from the pharmacies by July 12. Walgreens and CVS are the only two major retail pharmacies that have publicly sought the certification, and the companies began selling mifepristone in March in states where it remains legal to do so. Walgreens in particular took heat from both sides of the abortion argument spectrum. The company angered Democrats and abortion rights advocates when it declined to dispense abortion pills in 21 states, including four states where abortion was still legal. The company also faced an onslaught of attacks and threats from Republican attorneys general as well as anti-abortion groups for selling mifepristone in the first place. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Israeli military is preparing a phased pullout from Gaza and quietly pressing the government to broker a truce with Hamas as quickly as possible, as the military works to clear the decks ahead of what officials say could be a withering war with the powerful Iranian-backed Lebanese militia Hezbollah. One Israeli official said today that if the barometer is destroying Hamass pre-war capabilities which included clearly designated battalions with sophisticated coordination and communications and removing Hamas from Gaza's government, then Israel has already achieved that. Multiple Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have signaled that Israel will begin to draw down forces in Gaza as it enters into what it has called "Phase C" of its war, with a significantly reduced number of troops focusing on what one official described as fighting Hamas hotspots and hunting high-value targets. Another Israeli official conceded to ABC News that Hamas still has a large influence over whats taking place in Gaza thats the main thing. We need to try to create an alternative. PHOTO: Black smoke billows following an Israeli air strike that targeted a house in the southern Lebanese village of Khiam near the Lebanese-Israeli border, June 21, 2024, amid ongoing cross-border clashes between Israeli troops and Hezbollah fighters. (Rabih Daher/AFP via Getty Images) Israels own status map, which depicts the fighting condition of all of Hamas 24 pre-war battalions, designates one of the battalions in Rafah as green, which means operational, and another as orange, which is semi-operational. Hamas' continued influence in Gaza has not fully mitigated lawlessness there. with European and Israeli officials warning for months that the Gaza Strip could turn into Mogadishu on the Mediterranean, a reference to the decades of internecine fighting and instability in Somalias capital. In high-level meetings in Washington last week, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin discussed potential "day after" plans for Gaza, according to four U.S. and Israeli officials who spoke to ABC News. One of the plans would comprise an international "board of directors" that U.S. officials are likening to a steering committee of nations that would include the UAE, Egypt, and possibly Jordan. Morocco would send peacekeepers to Gaza, with the U.S. somehow providing general oversight and command and control. The response from Arab states to the proposal has been lukewarm, a senior official with direct knowledge of the situation told ABC News. MORE: What is Hezbollah? Lebanon's militant group has long been one of Israel's biggest foes The "board of directors" would be coupled with a new a "bottom up" force that the U.S. would train and that would include contingents from the Palestinian Authority to lend it legitimacy, though not so many Palestinian contingents that Netanyahu, who has publicly dismissed any Palestinian Authority role in a future Gaza, would reject the plan, a senior Israeli official told ABC News. PHOTO: An Israeli flag flies from a pole as behind smoke plumes rise from a fire in a field after rockets launched from southern Lebanon landed near Katzrin in the Israel-annexed Golan Heights, June 13, 2024. (Jalaa Marey/AFP via Getty Images) The training of the Palestinian force in Gaza would be supervised by U.S. Lt. Gen. Michael Fenzel, United States Security Coordinator of the Israel-Palestinian Authority who is based in Jerusalem. These units would begin to operate in small enclaves in Gaza. Officials said it remains doubtful that these kinds of alternatives could be stood up quickly, which would potentially leave Hamas to control the power vacuum in Gaza. But a group of top Israeli officials interviewed this week said crushing an already debilitated Hamas, currently capable only of small-scale attacks on Israel, should be sidelined in favor of countering Hezbollah, which poses an existential threat to the state. MORE: Israel is 'closer to war' with Hezbollah than ever, senior Israeli official says To that end, the officials said, Israel should muster forces and conserve ammunition for an impending confrontation with Hezbollah, which has boasted of tens of thousands of Iranian-trained fighters, many of them seasoned from fighting in Syrias civil war, and further thousands of missiles and rockets that could well overwhelm Israels air defenses. The Israeli officials said Israel has sufficient offensive munitions for a war with Hezbollah, but could use more from the U.S. Hezbollah said it began its cross-border war with Israel on Oct. 8, following the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel on Oct. 7, out of solidarity with the Palestinians. Hezbollahs deputy leader, Naim Kassem, told the Associated Press Tuesday, "If there is a cease-fire in Gaza, we will stop without any discussion. PHOTO: An Israeli army main battle tank moves along an area near the border with the Gaza Strip and southern Israel, July 2, 2024, amid the ongoing conflict in the Palestinian territory between Israel and Hamas. (Jack Guez/AFP via Getty Images) But Hezbollah also has signaled that it wouldn't agree to the U.S.-brokered deal until Israel ends the war in Gaza. The Israeli sources told ABC News that Hamas was stalling on committing to terms on the internationally brokered cease-fire knowing that a potential war with Hezbollah would significantly weaken Israel. MORE: US sends USS Wasp assault ship and Marines to eastern Mediterranean The larger issue is that regardless of the approach, it will take time, which is working against the process, U.S. and Israeli officials say, but is working in favor of Hamas. Multiple, multi-day operations in which Israel has reentered areas it cleared months ago and where Hamas has since regrouped have shown that the terrorist group has slowly and quietly reasserted itself in Gaza. Hamas has a large influence over whats taking place in Gaza and thats the main reason we need to try to create an alternative, an Israeli official told ABC News. "You even see that over the effort Hamas has taken to control the looting of aid convoys." Right now, Hamas has a head start, and its unclear whether an international force can be deployed, or a suitable local force can be trained, before it regains a potentially indomitable level of local control. Israel prepares for possible war with Hezbollah as Hamas conflict drags on originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Oakley's founder, James Jannard, listed his Beverly Hills cement compound for $68 million. Courtesy of Westside Estate Agency James Jannard listed a Beverly Hills compound for $68 million shortly after his record Malibu sale. The Oakley founder recently set a record with a $210 million Malibu mansion sale, surpassing Jay-Z. Forbes estimates Jannard's net worth to be $1.3 billion. Just days after making a record-breaking Malibu mansion sale for $210 million, James Jannard is back with another mammoth listing. The sunglasses mogul, who founded Oakley, just put his Beverly Hills, California, cement compound up for sale at $68 million, as first reported by Realtor.com. Jannard recently surpassed Jay-Z and Beyonce to claim the title of California's most expensive home real-estate sale, and Forbes estimates his net worth at $1.3 billion. After starting Oakley in 1975, Jannard eventually sold the company 32 years later for $2.1 billion to the Italian company Luxottica. He later founded the digital cinema camera company Red Digital Cinema before retiring in 2019. Scroll down to check out inside the mansion. The futuristic fortress, which spans 18,000 square feet, features five bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and an intimidatingly giant oval courtyard. The giant oval courtyard is opened by two massive metal doors. Westside Estate Agency The property, which Jannard purchased in 2009 for $19.9 million, was originally built in 2016, according to the listing. It's in Trousdale Estates, which sits in the foothills of the Santa Monica mountains. Trousdale Estates has housed several stars since the 1950s, including Elvis, Elton John, and Jane Fonda. The central lounge area is centered for a full view of the pool and Los Angeles. Westside Estate Agency Resting on one of Beverly Hills' highest points, the luxurious neighborhood offers a sweeping view of Los Angeles and easy access to Sunset Boulevard. Its average home value is about $7 million, according to Zillow. The mansion, which took five years to finish, boasts a brutalist design with bare cement walls, aluminum ceilings and accessories, and all-metal fixtures. The bathroom and appliances are all also fully metal. Westside Estate Agency Inspired by Stonehenge, according to Wallpaper, the cavernous manor includes floor-to-ceiling windows and oversize columns. Jeff Vance, the owner of the architecture firm iDGroup, designed acoustic panels to remove echo and create a cozier living experience despite its cold appearance. Jannard reportedly also owns property in Newport Beach, California, two islands in Fiji, and a third in the Pacific Northwest. The living room has a gas hearth covered with a large metal hood. Westside Estate Agency The former Oakley CEO shelled out $7 million for a Newport Beach house back in 1999, the Los Angeles Times reported. Jannard reportedly also bought an acre of land north of the area and Corona del Mar for an additional $8 million. The kitchen is fully chrome, and nearly all the house's furniture is custom-made. The fully chrome kitchen is both a shiny showstopper and fully functional. Westside Estate Agency There is both a gourmet kitchen and a full chef's kitchen, as well as a bar, according to the listing. Some rooms are softened by wooden floors and expansive windows and skylights for the sun to brighten. The mansion has five bedrooms and 10 full bathrooms. Westside Estate Agency The property is just under 2 acres, according to the listing, and is priced at roughly $3,700 per square foot. Curved walls lead to the guest bedroom and a separate guest apartment. The curved hallway leads to the owner's suite, where an 1880s Gatling gun is displayed. Westside Estate Agency The guest and owner's rooms flank one side of the living area, while service rooms reside on the other side for a symmetrical layout. The central lounge area overlooks a massive infinity pool. The lounge area overlooks a large infinity pool and the entire Los Angeles basin. Westside Estate Agency The living room has a full glass wall that can retract into the ground for an unobstructed view of the Los Angeles basin. The light fixtures are made with tumbled aluminum, as is nearly all the seating and hardware. Westside Estate Agency Some rooms have wood accents to cut through the overwhelming industrial design furniture. The owner's bathroom includes a metal tub inscribed with a sentence written in J.R.R. Tolkien's Elvish language. Westside Estate Agency Red, Jannards second company, manufactured the digital cameras that were used to film the "Hobbit" franchise. The concrete fort also includes a movie theater, a gym, a wine cellar, and an elevator. The mansion's has a home theatre. Westside Estate Agency The home theater stays on the sci-fi theme with gray lounge seats and cement blocks adorning even grayer walls. Read the original article on Business Insider Sheryl Lee Ralph attends the 51st Annual Daytime Emmy Creative Arts & Lifestyle Awards at The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, Los Angeles on June 08, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. Sheryl Lee Ralph is sheltering in Jamaica as Hurricane Beryl is expected to touch down on the island Wednesday. Ralph, who is of Jamaican descent and frequently returns to the Caribbean, told fans in a video shared on X just after midnight that she "had to take in all of the outside furniture because you know, those things take flight." Beryl is expected to make landfall on the country's southern coast Wednesday as a Category 4 hurricane, bringing a barrage of life-threatening conditions as residents prepare for the powerful storm's arrival. The National Hurricane Center said "life-threatening flash flooding and mudslides" from torrential downpours are expected over much of Jamaica and southern Haiti. According to the "Abbott Elementary" star, 68, it was "very calm here in Jamaica" as she was taking the video and that the sky's were "so beautifully clear." "I just wanted to say to everybody, please stay inside stay off the road in Kingston," she advised. "I hope you've put oil in your lamp and are taking extra care." "God bless you, goodnight," Ralph concluded. Good night from Jamaica Pray for us as you pray for others. pic.twitter.com/kgmWQb2VFo sheryl lee ralph (@thesherylralph) July 3, 2024 Ralph is currently in Jamaica with daughter Ivy Coco Maurice, 29, and son Etienne Maurice, 32, the latter who is expected to get married on the island Saturday. On his Instagram story, Etienne said he is "disappointed that some people aren't going to make it to the wedding" due to the storm predictions. "Whoever will be here will be here. I'm leaving it in God's hands," he added. It's unclear if the wedding will still proceed. USA TODAY reached out to reps for Ralph to comment. Jamaican officials warned residents to stock up on food, batteries, candles and drinking water. Residents in flood-prone areas were also advised to prepare for evacuation. Hurricane Beryl live updates: Jamaica braces for 'devastating' conditions "Secure your critical documents and remove any trees or items that could endanger your property," the Office of the Prime Minister in Jamaica said on X on Tuesday. "Everyone, including those living alone, should take these necessary steps now." As a precaution, Jamaica's Prime Minister Andrew Holness said Tuesday night that electricity and water services will likely be shut off "if the storm reaches a serious threshold" to prevent fires and protect equipment. Contributing: Thao Nguyen and Christopher Cann This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Sheryl Lee Ralph prepares for Hurricane Beryl in Jamaica Reve Preparatory Charter School on Thursday, June 27, 2024 in Houston. The school is in the middle of constructing their new building on their original campus grounds. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Reve Preparatory Charter School on Thursday, June 27, 2024 in Houston. The school is in the middle of constructing their new building on their original campus grounds. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer The Texas Education Agency rejected the renewal of a Houston charter school, a rare move that puts the future of the struggling southeast Houston school in danger just weeks before it is set to open a $13 million campus for the upcoming academic year. A June 20 letter confirmed the agencys intent to deny the renewal of Reve Preparatory Charter School because of poor academic performance and the lack of a properly certified special education teacher. TEA Commissioner Mike Morath wrote that Reves administration submitted an incomplete application by the Feb. 9 deadline, which came less than three weeks after the death of the schools founder, Traci Thibodeaux. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The school has until July 31 to appeal. If that petition is filed and accepted, the case will go to a State Office of Administrative Hearings judge. The school could also reach an agreement with the TEA to avoid the hearing. Both Reve and the TEA have confirmed ongoing discussions. Without a successful appeal or agreement, the school would be in danger of joining the ranks of seven charter schools in Texas forced to close after a nonrenewal. It would be the first nonrenewed charter since 2009, according to TEA records. The school is determined to keep its doors open. It is days from opening a new campus on the same land as the current school funded in a $13 million bond secured in 2022. With enrollment ongoing for the 2024-2025 school year open, school leaders are not inclined to give up. Reve has faced significant challenges since opening in August 2019, six months before the COVID-19 pandemic began. Thibodeaux died on Jan. 21, according to her online obituary. Thibodeaux, 43, was a Building Excellent Schools fellow, a nonprofit founded in Massachusetts that produces charter school leaders, including one that had a new charter application accepted last week for Unparalleled Preparatory Academy. It has also struggled with teacher and student retention and bridging learning gaps since they opened five years ago. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Charter schools can be revoked outside of the renewal cycle if a campus meets specific criteria, one of which can be three consecutive years of low performance. Out of the 346 charters that have been awarded to groups in Texas since 1995, 39 charters have been revoked. Of the charters that have been awarded, there are about 180 open-enrollment charters still operating in the state, some of which run dozens of campuses. Reve's mission The schools name comes from the French word Reve, meaning dream, and the school says it aims to help students reach their dreams by breaking them down into actionable steps. We will instill this mindset in all of our students so that they know that they truly can achieve whatever they believe, the website reads. Reve Prep opened during the 2019-2020 school year with 66 students in Pre-K through first grade. Despite expanding through seventh grade, enrollment has stayed low. About 218 students in pre-K through seventh grade attended in 2023-2024, according to state data. The charter had anticipated an enrollment more than three times that number by year five, according to its application. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The student body is 62% Black and 37% Hispanic. More than 80% of the student body is considered economically disadvantaged, making the school eligible for Title I federal funding. Thibodeaux was a Houston native who grew up in some of the most "challenging neighborhoods" and traveled outside those neighborhoods for school, according to the schools website. She earned a bachelors from the University of Texas at Austin in math, a masters in business from the University of Michigan and another masters in educational leadership from The Broad Center. She is survived by a husband, daughter and "Reve Preparatory Charter School to carry the torch of her dreams," according to her online obituary, which was printed in the Houston Chronicle on Feb. 9. Obituary printed in the Houston Chronicle of Reve Preparatory Charter School's founder, Traci Thibodeuax, a Building Excellent Schools fellow who died this January at age 43. Houston Chronicle Toscha Dickerson, the superintendent of the school, joined as a founding board member before taking on her current post. She wrote on the online legacy wall, including a photo of the two from an event. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "I will truly miss you! A part of me feels broken, but I know youre still here with me!! I will carry your memories with me forever!! You are an inspiration and A Life Changer!!" Dickerson wrote. Dickerson declined to comment for this story beyond saying that the school and TEA had reached a tentative agreement to keep its doors open this fall. The TEA confirmed that the agency "remains engaged in ongoing discussions with the charter" but could not comment further on the status of those talks. The school has also struggled with teacher and student retention. The most recent state data shows that 33% of Reve students in fall 2021 did not return to the school for fall 2022, compared to a state attrition average of 18%. The rate of turnover for teachers was even higher at Reve, with 67% of the staff leaving their teaching posts between fall 2021 and 2022. The states average was 21%. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Reve has also had trouble hiring experienced educators. Its most recent state report shows that the average years of experience for teachers at Reve was under one year, and that there were no teachers on staff with more than five years of experience. What does a nonrenewal mean? Morath is in charge of all charter renewal applications, a job that used to be in the hands of the State Board of Education but switched to the commissioner more than a decade ago. New charters need to apply for renewal after five years, while existing charters must reapply for renewal every 10 years. Decisions regarding the renewal can be made on an academic, financial or operational basis. Reves financial ratings under the FIRST integrity system show an "A" for all years of its existence. The school was designated as a not rated campus during the 2021-2022 academic performance ratings system, which meant the campus received a failing grade. The COVID pandemic halted the scorecard for 2019-2020 and 2020-2021, and the ratings system for the 2022-2023 school year is currently suspended in litigation. STAAR data from 2022-23, which Morath mentioned in his letter to the school this May, shows the school fell far behind state levels. On the fifth-grade science STAAR, none of the Reve students tested met grade level, compared to 36% of fifth-graders statewide not meeting grade level. Between third-, fourth- and fifth-graders, only nine students met grade level or above for reading out of 91 students tested. At the state level, around half of students in the three grade levels tested met grade level or above for reading. And in math, students fared significantly worse. For third-, fourth- and fifth-graders, over 60% of students did not meet grade level. Only five Reve students tested in math among all three grades met grade level or above. The statewide averages were much lower, with only between 20-30% of students at each grade tested not meeting grade level on the math exams. Morath said in his letter that the school was deemed to have academically unacceptable performance and that benchmark data does not indicate overall student growth." But the years post-COVID have been marked by learning loss across the board for both public and private schools. This years most recent STAAR exams showed that students did better than previous years, but learning loss especially in math has been the hardest to recoup. These losses have been especially common among other new charter schools in the city. Bloom Academy, a school founded by another Building Excellent Schools fellow, also has low STAAR performance, alongside Houston-based charters Etoile Academy and Yellowstone College Prep, which are faring similarly. Compared to the state averages on the 2024 STAAR, Bloom, Etoile, Yellowstone and Reve all fall below the standard set by the states public schools in the category of Approaches Grade level or higher for grades 3 through 8. Bloom is up for renewal this year alongside Reve and 10 others, but its application has not yet received a decision, according to the TEA. There is no pending investigation into the school at the moment, the TEA confirmed. While nonrenewal-based closures are not common in the history of Texas charter schools, the TEA declined to comment on how common it could be for a charter school to receive a nonrenewal notice and then win an appeal to keep its doors open. The American Academy of Excellence Houston and the Gulf Shores Academy were among some of the last charters to close via a nonrenewal. Gulf Shores Academy was nonrenewed in July 2009 after years of low performance, felony charges against its leaders and debts for over-reporting enrollment. The American Academy of Excellence Houston was nonrenewed in August 2007 after appealing an earlier attempt to close the school by the TEA. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has made his first visit to Kyiv since Russias full-scale war began, and urged Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelensky to consider a ceasefire in order to speed up peace talks with Moscow. Standing alongside Zelensky on Tuesday, Orban, who is close to Russian President Vladimir Putin and has criticized European support for Ukraine, said: I asked the president to think about whether we could reverse the order, and speed up peace talks, with making a ceasefire first. Orban continued: A ceasefire connected to a deadline would give a chance to speed up peace talks. I explored this possibility with the president and I am grateful for his honest answers and negotiation. The Hungarian leader has touted the idea of ending the war with a ceasefire as opposed to military support for Ukraine numerous times since Russias military flooded across the border in 2022. Zelensky dismissed the idea, according to his office. Speaking on national TV on Monday, Ihor Zhovkva, deputy head of Zelenskys office, said that even though Orban was given the opportunity to express his thoughts during his visit to Kyiv, Zelenskys position on this issue is clear, understandable and known. Zelensky previously rejected French President Emmanuel Macrons Olympic ceasefire proposal citing its potential to inadvertently benefit Russians on the ground. According to Zhovkva, Kyivs number one tool to end hostilities is through a second peace summit, which Ukraine is already preparing for. We are saying that Ukraine will draft its peace plan, a roadmap for establishing peace in Ukraine. It will develop it with all the states that are ready. Hungary is also ready for this. And then, if the aggressor country is ready to listen to this plan, ready to talk about this plan, and not to speak the language of ultimatums, then yes, during the second summit, we can say that representatives of the Russian Federation may attend this summit in one way or another, he said. Orban also stated his desire to improve relations between Budapest and Kyiv, which have been strained by the Hungarian leaders close relationship with Putin. We would like to make the relationship between the two countries better, Orban said. We would like to make a broad bilateral agreement with Ukraine, similar to the ones we already made with our neighbors (in the past). We would be happy to take part in the modernization of Ukraines economy, we would like an ordered framework for this. The authoritarian Hungarian leader has regularly attempted to block European Union initiatives offering further military and financial support to Kyiv during the conflict. The Hungarian prime ministers close relationship with Putin has frequently come under scrutiny. Their bond is underpinned by both economic cooperation and some shared values. Both leaders have also enacted anti-LGBTQ policies and clamped down on freedom of speech in their countries. Hungary has supported Russia at a United Nations level and rejected EU sanctions following Putins aggression in Ukraine as early as 2014, after Russia illegally annexed Crimea. Tuesdays meeting comes as Orban and Hungary take control of the EU Councils rotating presidency, which changes every six months. During each six-month period, the country controlling the presidency does not take control of the EUs overall agenda, but does have a platform through which they can hammer home their own priorities. On the EU Councils website, it likens holding the presidency to someone hosting a dinner, making sure their guests all gather in harmony, adding that to guarantee effectiveness, the presidency acts as an honest broker, rising above the holders own national interest. Orban took control of the presidency on Monday with a call to Make Europe Great Again, a reference to Donald Trumps political slogan that will alarm many of his European counterparts who are braced for the former US presidents potential return to the White House, concerned about what it will mean for the EU. Other key European diplomatic meetings are planned for July. NATO will celebrate 75 years of the alliance in Washington, DC between July 9 and 11. The agenda for that event is expected to be dominated by long-term plans to support Ukraine and conversations about its eventual accession to the alliance. Talks between the two leaders will focus on possibilities for achieving peace, as well as current issues in Hungarian-Ukrainian bilateral relations, a Hungarian government spokesperson said. - Zoltan Fischer/MTI/AP The European Political Community (EPC), a forum for 47 European countries, inside and outside the EU, to discuss the continents strategic challenges, will also meet on July 18 in the United Kingdom. Ukraine and Hungary are both members of the EPC. It is expected that Ukraine will dominate that agenda and Zelensky may attend the meeting in person. Orban may have had this in mind when timing this trip to Kyiv, ensuring that his first meeting with Ukraines president since the start of the war was not in such a public and high-stakes diplomatic setting. This story has been updated with additional information. CNNs Amy Cassidy and Niamh Kennedy contributed reporting. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com The 2024 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest won't feel the same without Joey Chestnut, but the show must go on. (Photo by Michael Nagle/Xinhua via Getty Images) (Xinhua News Agency via Getty Images) The 2024 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest is nearly here, but missing its marquee star Joey Chestnut. With the 16-time champion out of the event due to a contract dispute, the Nathan's contest will proceed in its usual Fourth of July time slot and a guaranteed new champion in the men's competition. Meanwhile, nine-time champion Miki Sudo headlines the women's field at Coney Island. Chestnut's ouster boils down to Major League Eating, the organizers behind the Nathan's contest, objecting to Chestnut's endorsement deal with Impossible Foods, which makes a plant-based hot dog. Chestnut responded to the ban in his first interview Tuesday, claiming that MLE changed its exclusivity conditions too late for him to stop his deal with Impossible and not ruling out a return in the future. Chestnut is far from the only gurgitator to see his relationship with MLE go south. Takeru Kobayashi and Matt Stonie, the only other men to win the competition since 2000, both saw their time end due to disputes over exclusivity in their contract negotiations. Of course, Chestnut isn't planning to spend his Fourth of July not gorging himself on hot dogs. He has set up his own event, the "Fort Bliss Meat and Greet," to take place not long after the Nathan's contest, in which he will attempt to out-eat four U.S. Army soldiers combined in a five-minute competition. This 4th will be a little different, but I'll still be eating a whole lot of all-beef hot dogs! I'm stoked to be going to Ft. Bliss, where I'll be eating against four of their finest soldiers. Watch live on my YouTube channel: https://t.co/Dy6TB796DQ Starts at 5pm ET Joey Chestnut (@joeyjaws) July 2, 2024 Here's how to watch everything on a hot dog-filled Fourth of July. How to watch the 2024 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest Date: Thursday, July 4 Women's competition time: 10:45 a.m. ET Men's competition time: Noon ET TV channel: ESPN2 (men only) Streaming: ESPN3 How to watch Joey Chestnut's July 4th Fort Bliss Meat and Greet Date: Thursday, July 4 Time: 5 p.m. ET Streaming:Joey Chestnut's YouTube channel Who is favored in the 2024 Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest without Joey Chestnut? With Chestnut out of the mix, all eyes and a dedicated ESPN camera will be fixed on Geoffrey Esper, the No. 2-ranked eater on MLE's roster. The 49-year-old Oxford, Massachusetts, native will be competing in the Nathan's contest for the ninth time and has finished second behind Chestnut the last three years in a row, downing 47 dogs in 2023. Behind Esper will be 2023 third-place finisher James Webb and Nick Wehry, the third-ranked man on MLE's rankings. Meanwhile, Sudo remains the overwhelming favorite to win her 10th belt in the women's competition. Right behind her is Japanese rising star Mayoi Ebihara, who burst onto the scene last year with 33.5 dogs, only six behind Sudo. What are the rules of the Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest? The Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest is a 10-minute competition in which contestants must eat both the hot dog and its bun, with an individual scorekeeper tallying their total behind them. Partial hot dogs are counted even if they're still being chewed at the end of the competition, as long as they are swallowed. Contestants are allowed to drink water with their hot dogs and often dip them to soften the buns. Condiments are technically allowed but almost never used. Vomiting means instant disqualification. Should two competitors be tied at the end of regulation, they will go into a sudden-death eat-off. The only such overtime in the event's history came in 2008, when Chestnut ate five hot dogs faster than Kobayashi to capture his second mustard belt. What about Joey Chestnut's faceoff with Takeru Kobayashi? Chestnut's event at Fort Bliss might only be his warm-up act, as he is scheduled to face his old rival Kobayashi in a Netflix-streamed event on Labor Day in September. Before Chestnut, Kobayashi was the original crossover star for competitive eating, with six straight wins before Chestnut surpassed him in 2007. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Peter Warren is a general assignment reporter for the Houston Chronicle. He can be reached at peter.warren@houstonchronicle.com. Peter previously lived in Dallas, where he covered the sports as a freelancer for the Dallas Morning News and other outlets. He has been published in Texas Highways Magazine, DMagazine.com, the Star Tribune and Bowlers Journal International. Peter graduated from Northwestern University in 2021. Seagate Technology Holdings has appointed Futoshi Niizuma as its vice president for Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ) sales, overseeing the companys sales and technical support activities across the region. We are excited to have Niizuma take on his new expanded role, Seagate executive vice president and chief commercial officer BanSeng Teh said. Niizumas exceptional experience in working with business partners as well as his leadership will empower and support the customers we serve in this region. Niizuma joined Seagate in October 2009 and has held various senior roles in Japan, South Asia, ASEAN, Australia and New Zealand. Most recently, he headed up Seagates Japan sales team to grow market presence, build ecosystem partnerships and deliver value to customers. Prior to joining Seagate, Niizuma held various positions in senior sales, marketing and management, including Kenwood Corporation and Advanced Micro Devices. NEW DELHI/Hathras: As the death toll in the Hathras stampede rose to 121 on Wednesday, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath met those injured in the stampede and announced a judicial probe into the matter. The police filed an FIR against the organisers of the religious congregation, accusing them of hiding evidence and flouting conditions with 2.5 lakh people crammed into a venue in which only 80,000 were permitted. A preliminary report by the sub divisional magistrate (SDM) has revealed that chaos was caused after the followers of the "godman" were pushed by his security and a "slippery slope" resulted in the stampede. According to the UP relief commissioner, the number of people injured stands at 28. Only four of the 121 bodies are yet to be identified. Of the 116 who died on Tuesday, all were women, except for seven children and one man. The family members of the victims gathered around hospitals, some looking for those missing, some were there to identify bodies and others were tending to the injured. The doctors said asphyxia due to compression was the leading cause of death. The hospitals carried out four times the usual number of autopsies in a day in the aftermath of the stampede. A majority of the victims were women aged between 40 and 50 years. As the administration and the medical fraternity coped with the crisis, families tried to piece together what had happened and count their losses. Among them was 29-year-old Satyendra Yadav, who works as a driver, who lost his three-year-old son Rovin. He had reached the venue with his entire family, including his mother, wife and two children. The anguished father, who performed the last rites for his son on Tuesday night, said he doesn't remember much of what happened. Kaavya and her elder brother, nine-year-old Ayush, took a bus with their family from Jaipur on Monday evening. It was to be their last. Ramlakhan, their uncle, said he hasn't told their father and his brother Anad. "I came to know about the tragic incident around 5 pm. They (Kaavya and Ayush) had gone to the satsang along with my wife, who is their paternal aunt. The children, along with other family members, had left Jaipur on Monday evening and they had reached the programme venue by 6 am," Ramlakhan told the media. On Wednesday, Mr Adityanath met the victims and their kin, while assuring them that the accused will not be spared. After meeting the victims, the UP CM held a discussion with the officials and said the possibility of a conspiracy cannot be ruled out. He also said the "sevadars" should have taken the victims to the hospital. Asserting that the government will ensure that such incidents do not recur, the chief minister said a standard operating procedure might be put in place for religious congregations. A judicial probe by a retired high court judge will be conducted into the incident. "If this is not an accident, then whose conspiracy is this? All of these will be probed. Retired officials of the police and civic administration will be part of the judicial inquiry and action will be taken against those found responsible," Mr Adityanath said. The chief minister said that among those killed, six were from other states -- four from Haryana and one each from Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. When asked why the religious preacher has not been named in the FIR as an accused, Mr Adityanath said, "Prima facie, the case has been filed against those who had applied for permission for the event. Whoever is responsible for this will come under its purview." A team consisting of ADG Agra and Aligarh divisional commissioner has been constituted to inquire into the cause of the incident. Meanwhile, the Hathras SDMs report stated, "A crowd of more than 2-lakh people were present in the satsang pandal. The preacher reached the venue at about 12.30 pm and the programme went on for an hour At about 1.40 pm, the godman came out of the pandal to go towards Etah via national highway 91. As soon as he left, his followers started running towards him for a 'darshan' and to collect soil from around his feet. The followers, mostly women and children, started applying the dust of Baba's feet to their foreheads while trying to get his darshan, touch his feet and take his blessingsThe situation worsened when more people began running towards his vehicle. Then the personal security personnel and the sevadars started pushing and shoving to stop the crowd, due to which some people fell down," the report states, adding that it led to a panic and the crowd went out of control. Due to panic, the crowd ran towards the open field in front of the venue to get relief. On the other side of the road, most of the people slipped and fell due to the wet slope while descending from the road towards the fieldthose who fell could not get up again and were run over by those coming from behind, the report mentioned. While the state police lodged an FIR against the organisers. "Mukhya sevadar" Devprakash Madhukar and other organisers have been named in the FIR. The godman's name is not on the list of accused, though it is in the complaint. Giving a sense of what took place, the FIR alleged that the organisers hid the actual number of devotees coming to the satsang while seeking permission, did not cooperate in traffic management and hid evidence after the incident. The FIR apparently gave a clean chit to the police and administration, saying they did whatever was possible with the available resources. According to the FIR, police and administration officials did everything possible and sent the injured from the available resources to hospitals, but the organisers and "sevadars" did not cooperate. In a related development, two separate public interest litigations were also filed in the Supreme Court and the Allahabad high court in the stampede incident. The plea submitted before the apex court sought the constitution of a high-level committee under the supervision of a retired judge to investigate the stampede incident. Turkish police detain at least 474 people. In Afrin, four people died in gunfight between protesters and Turkish troops. Violence was triggered by reports that went viral on social media concerning sexual abuse by a Syrian refugee against a minor. The case reflects the growing intolerance towards foreigners in Turkey. Istanbul (AsiaNews) Turkey closed the main border point with northwestern Syria after its troops came under fire from Syrians angered by violence against their compatriots across the border. The highly tense and confused situation began with an incident in Melikgazi district where a Syrian refugee allegedly abused a child, sparking outrage among local Turks who reacted violently against refugees with several people dead and injured. After unrest broke out late on Sunday Turkish police detained 474 people involved in attacks targeting Syrians across the country overnight, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said. In Kayseri province (central Anatolia), the violence continued until the morning of the following day, while the governor's office confirmed the arrest of the person suspected of child abuse, who was taken into custody by law enforcement. In Kayseri, Syrian properties and vehicles were vandalised and set on fire, while the unrest spread to the provinces of Hatay, Gaziantep, Konya, Bursa, and a district of Istanbul, with some immigrants reporting injuries. Hundreds of Syrians later took to the streets in several rebel-held cities in northwestern Syria, an area where Turkey maintains thousands of troops preventing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad from regaining control of the entire country. Ankara responded to the unrest by closing the Bab al Hawa crossing. The city of Afrin reported the worst clashes, with at least four dead from an exchange of fire between armed protesters and Turkish troops. The alleged sexual abuse of a minor, which police are investigating but few details have emerged so far, and the violent reaction of the population have also become a matter of confrontation between the government and the opposition in Turkey. The government says it is countering xenophobia, blaming the opposition for anti-refugee rhetoric, while the latter point the finger at the authorities in Ankara for failing to handle the refugee issue. The events provoked counter-protests in northern Syria, where angry protesters burnt Turkish flags. Experts note that the incident reflects a growing intolerance towards immigrants, especially Syrians, in Turkey, a country that hosts the largest number of refugees in the world with 3.6 million registered Syrians and about 320,000 of other nationalities. The figure comes from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), but it excludes "irregular" migrants, whose number is currently unknown. According to official statistics from Turkeys Interior Ministry, about 83,000 Syrian refugees are registered in Kayseri as of May 2024 who represent cheap labour and are the target of nationalist and religious propaganda. A 2021 study by the TEPAV, a Turkish-based economic policy research foundation, almost all employed Syrian refugees work informally. Many businesses hire them to avoid to raise the minimum wage. Last year, Turkish Vice President Cevdet Ylmaz acknowledged the need for a "regular flow of migrants" to meet labour needs. Yet, an 2024 study by Ipsos on behalf of the UNHCR shows that Turkey has the highest level of anti-refugee sentiment among 52 countries surveyed. About 77 per cent of respondents are in favour of the total closure of borders to refugees (the global average is 40 per cent), while 70 per cent believe refugees arriving in Turkey are not fleeing war, but seeking a more comfortable life. Support for a policy of openness is declining. by Stefano Vecchia The 74-year-old founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ Church is wanted by the FBI and the Philippine police for fraud, human trafficking, and sexual exploitation. Former President Rodrigo Duterte benefited from the preachers support in the 2016 election campaign and now administers the Churchs properties. The investigation is hampered by complicated relations with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Manila (AsiaNews) While claiming to know the whereabouts of Apollo Quiboloy, the 74-year-old founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ Church (KOJC), former President Rodrigo Duterte told reporters on Sunday that he has no intention of telling the police. A self-proclaimed "chosen son of God," Quiboloy is wanted by the FBI for human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and fraud against followers, who are said to number four million in the Philippines and two million abroad. Philippine authorities have also issued arrest warrants against the preacher (who claims to possess supernatural powers and omnipotence), while his supporters in the Philippine Congress are increasingly at odds with those who call for his arrest and conviction. Like other self-proclaimed pastors, Apollo Quiboloy has had close ties with some politicians; over the years, he has backed different candidates, including Duterte himself, who served as president of the Philippines from 2016 to 2022. In light of the current situation, his successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has distanced himself from Quiboloy, something Duterte has not done. With the "pastor" missing, the former president administers KOJC properties. Like the self-proclaimed religious leader, Duterte hails from Davao, on the island of Mindanao, where he and his daughter, Sara, served as mayor. Known for his provocations, impulsive character, and authoritarian streak, the former president seems to think that he can avoid accusations of obstruction of justice and perhaps provide refuge to a wanted man because his daughter is still vice president after resigning on 19 June from the post of Secretary of Education due to disagreements with President Marcos. Moreover, while KOJC followers have complained about police aggressiveness in searches, Duterte continues to support law enforcement, reiterating his hostility to disciplinary measures in cases of abuse. This has reinforced the former presidents sense of impunity, despite the fact that the Philippine police have declared that they would look into Duterte's role in obstructing justice. In a historic decision, Japans highest court rules in favour of victims. Almost 25,000 people with disabilities or chronic illnesses sterilised between 1948 and 1996 can now obtain compensation of almost US$ 20,000 each, but the real battle is for dignity. Tokyo (AsiaNews) The Supreme Court of Japan (SCJ) has declared unconstitutional a controversial eugenics law that saw more than 16,500 disabled people forcibly sterilised between the 1950s and 1990s. The SCJ also ordered the government to pay damages to 11 victims, who were involved in five cases that were heard on appeal. The landmark ruling, which came today after a long legal battle, puts an end to the decades-long struggle to obtain justice for the victims, who in addition to the money also want a public apology from the authorities. After years of lawsuits, a 2019 law finally granted surviving victims compensation, but some continued he struggle to get a higher sum. In four of the cases brought to court, the central government had appealed against the lower courts' compensation orders. In the fifth case, two women had appealed against the dismissal of their claims, with the lower court citing the statute of limitations Nearly 25,000 people with disabilities or chronic illnesses were sterilised in Japan between 1948 and 1996 under a eugenics law, which was repealed that year. At least 16,000 operations were allegedly carried out without consent on minors, including two nine-year-old children, a boy and a girl. The data, which highlight the widespread use of the practice in the past, are contained in a 1,400-page report published in June last year and presented to the Japanese parliament, sparking controversy and discussions. Although authorities say that an additional 8,500 people consented to the procedure, lawyers said they were "de facto forced" to undergo the surgery due to the pressure they faced at the time. The SCJ also ruled that the 20-year statute of limitations cannot be applied to claims for compensation in cases of forced sterilisation. Lawyers argued that the application of the statute of limitations would have prevented some of the victims from seeking justice, especially those sterilised without their knowledge who became aware of the surgery too late compared to the deadline set by law. Forced sterilisations were most prevalent in the 1960s and 1970s, during the postwar baby boom. Many of those forcibly sterilised had physical and intellectual disabilities, mental health problems, or chronic illnesses such as leprosy. Physical restraint, anaesthesia, and even "deception" were allowed for these operations. According to a law passed in 2019 following one of the lawsuits, surviving victims can receive up to 3.2 million yen (just under US$ 20,000) each. Since then, around 1,300 people have applied and 1,100 have been compensated, but for some of the victims, the amount of money can go only so far. When I found out I realized I could never be a mother... It broke my heart," lamented Yumi Suzuki, speaking to the BBC in a 2021 interview. The 68-year-old, who was born with cerebral palsy and forcibly sterilised when she was just 12, is among 11 plaintiffs whose case has been taken to court. "I dont want money, she said. I want people to know what happened to us. To make sure it never happens again. I want disabled people to be treated equally. We are not things. We are human beings. The National Hurricane Centers projected track for Hurricane Beryl on Friday shows the storm heading into the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday before closing in on Texas on Monday. National Hurricane Center Zach Willams places sandbags along the roof as he makes last-minute preparations for the arrival of Hurricane Beryl on July 3 in Kingston, Jamaica. Category 4 storm Beryl has caused widespread damage in several island nations as it continues to cross the Caribbean. Joe Raedle/Getty Images Ingrie Sewell, left, and Gary Williams wait for the arrival of Hurricane Beryl on July 3 in Kingston, Jamaica. Category 4 storm Beryl has caused widespread damage in several island nations as it continues to cross the Caribbean. Joe Raedle/Getty Images Waves crash along a beach before the arrival of Hurricane Beryl on July 3 in Kingston, Jamaica. Category 4 storm Beryl has caused widespread damage in several island nations as it continues to cross the Caribbean. Joe Raedle/Getty Images As Hurricane Beryl churns through the Caribbean Sea, forecasters are getting a better fix on where its going. Beryls latest projected track from the National Hurricane Center on Thursday showed the storm making landfall near the Rio Grande Valley in the wee hours of Monday morning. What would a landfall in Brownsville mean for South Texas and the rest of the state? What do we know about Beryl? As of Friday morning, the rotating center of Hurricane Beryl was moving inland over southern Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, about 215 miles north-northwest of Tulum, on the Caribbean side of the peninsula. The low-end Category 2 storm was packing maximum sustained winds of 100 mph and heading west-northwest at 15 mph. The National Hurricane Center has confidence putting Beryl on a northwesterly course into the Gulf of Mexico. Beryl's journey over the Yucatan is expected to weaken it into a tropical storm. Ocean-fed hurricanes typically lose strength over large areas of land because they lack the greater amounts of heat energy and moisture-rich air they get from tropical waters. Advertisement Article continues below this ad ATLANTIC STORM TRACKER: Keep an eye on tropical storms and hurricanes as they approach the Lone Star State But heres what we dont know Meteorologists never want to speculate too much about a landfall even a few days out, so lets look at whats still uncertain: Although several forecast models and the National Hurricane Center agree that Beryl will regain strength and become a hurricane again over the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, the storms precise potency at that point is unknown. Where will Beryl do the most damage upon landfall? The National Hurricane Centers official forecast has Beryl making landfall near Brownsville, at the mouth of the Rio Grande. However, the actual landfall point is still uncertain. It could happen anywhere within the cone of uncertainty, which stretches from Corpus Christi to La Pesca, Mexico. What if Beryl gets close to Texas? The hurricane centers projected track for Beryl shows the storm making a final landfall as a low-grade hurricane close to the Rio Grande on Monday morning. However, the timing will also depend on the actual path. If Beryl stays farther south, it could come ashore earlier on Sunday. But if the tropical system curves farther northward into Texas, landfall could come later on Monday afternoon. The latter would also give the storm more time to strengthen over the Gulf. Advertisement Article continues below this ad What would that mean for Texas? Lets consider three important factors: Rainfall, wind damage and where Beryls remnants go. Rainfall: Beryl is expected to slow down significantly as it approaches the Gulf Coast. That will likely cause very heavy rainfall totals and possible flooding along and north of Beryls landfall location. Along Beryls current projected path, the area from the Rio Grande Valley to Corpus Christi may see the heaviest rainfall. As of now, 3 to 6 inches of rain are possible, but that number could change based on Beryls actual path. Even if Beryl approaches the Gulf Coast as weak as Alberto was during its June 19 landfall which so far is unlikely the storm could still dump several inches of rain over an area up to a few hundred miles wide as it moved inland. Albertos heavy rainfall left four dead in east-central Mexico, the Associated Press reported last month. Jamie Baumgart drives his golf cart through water from a tidal surge in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Alberto on June 20 in Surfside Beach. David J. Phillip/Associated Press The Rio Grande Valley in far South Texas, which had seen moderate drought conditions during the past two months, according to U.S. Drought Monitor data, is largely drought-free, so any new rainfall might have trouble being absorbed by saturated soil. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A landfall near or south of the Rio Grande Valley could mean heavy rainfall in San Antonio. Confidence in projected rainfall totals are low, but there is potential for multiple inches of rain in at least part of South Texas. More precise forecasts will be available over the next few days. Wind damage: Beryls strength upon landfall, its direction and speed ultimately will determine how dangerous the winds will be. Hurricane-force winds will be possible, with some gusts up to 90 mph, wherever Beryl makes landfall. Hurricane-force winds will not extend very far away from the center of the storm. However, tropical storm-force winds of 40 mph or greater may extend up to 50 miles away from the center of the storm. Even a weak tropical storm like Alberto packed 45-mph winds. Beryls remnants: The prevailing assumption among forecasters and models suggests Beryl will move directly inland after landfall, rather than skirt the Texas Gulf Coast, as Harvey did in 2017. The hurricane centers latest projection shows Beryl moving north from the Rio Grande toward Falfurrias as a tropical storm late Monday. Then the remnants of Beryl would turn north, deeper into Central Texas, and devolve into a tropical depression near Austin by Tuesday. As Alberto moved inland in June, the storm ran into rugged mountains along Mexicos eastern coast and dissipated within days. The topography near the Rio Grande Valley favors a smoother passage inland for Beryl if it makes landfall there. But prevailing westerly winds and air flow also could push whats left of Beryl north and eastward into the Interstate 35 corridor or toward the Coastal Plains of Southeast Texas. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The remnants of Beryl will likely bring increased rain chances to San Antonio late Monday and into Tuesday. Rainfall totals are still uncertain, but South Texas, particularly where extreme drought persists, could gets multiple inches of rain and some flash flooding. What Hurricane Emily can tell us Roy Castillio, left, and Juan Garza, right, from the Texas Department of Transportation, close off a frontage road on July 20, 2005, in McAllen. Hurricane Emily, a Category 3 storm packing 125-mph winds, hit just before dawn near San Fernando, Mexico, a coastal town about 85 miles south of Brownsville. JOHN WAYNE LISTON/Associated Press A more likely scenario echoes the path of Hurricane Emily, which in 2005 made landfall July 20, 2005, in northern Mexico about 100 miles south of Brownsville. Emily caused relatively minor damage in South Texas, despite facing tropical storm-force winds and gusts as strong as 65 mph and reports of multiple tornadoes in Emilys wake. On that day, Brownsville reported 1.64 inches of rain and Harlingen about 1.7 inches. Higher rainfall totals were reported near Mercedes, with 3.35 inches, and in McAllen, with 4.25 inches, according to National Weather Service records. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hurricanes Emily and Beryl followed a nearly identical path through the Atlantic basin 19 years apart. Emily became a named storm on July 11, 2005, in the tropical Atlantic and crossed into the Caribbean via the Windward Islands as a hurricane a few days later. Like Beryl, Emily took a northwesterly course through the Yucatan Peninsula, where it made a landfall as a Category 4 storm. When Emily emerged from the Yucatan, the storm reorganized and made its final landfall near Tamaulipas, Mexico, as a Category 3 hurricane packing 120 mph winds. by Vladimir Rozanskij There are now more than a million citizens of the country who recognise themselves in this shamanic confession of Turkish-Mongolian origin, which is based on the worship of nature and the altenats. A petition calls for its official recognition in Astana, but many consider it only a moral philosophy. Pre-Islamic local traditions survive in Kazakhstan. Astana (AsiaNews) - In recent years the number of Kazakhstan citizens who are adhering to the shamanic religion of Tengrism, of medieval Turkish-Mongolian ethnic origin, has been growing. They now number over a million people, so much so that its followers have opened a petition on the epetition.kz website requesting legal recognition of their cult as one of the country's official religions. Experts in the field are rather divided on whether they consider Tengrism to be a religion or merely a worldview, a philosophy or even a political ideology. However, the foundation of Tengrism remains devotion to nature, ancestors and the sun god Tengri. The initiator of the petition, Erlan Espenbetov, claims that Tengrism is 'an important part of Kazakhstan's cultural heritage', and official recognition is needed for this. He recalls that 'Tengrism was the main religion of the Turkic, Uyghur and Kyrgyz Khanates, and was dominant until 1321, when Uzbek-Khan introduced Islam as the state religion'. Tengri traditions, however, have never disappeared completely; to this day, Kazakhs still adhere to the principle of the Zeti Ata (the 'Seven Fathers'), which does not allow marriage with relatives until the seventh generation. Other examples are the belief in the Aruakhi, the protective spirits of deceased ancestors, and the Nawruz festival. Espenbetov claims to be 'the one who had the courage to speak openly, while our scholars are afraid of not being properly understood... In order not to be condemned as a sectarian, I myself have thoroughly studied all the dimensions of the phenomenon and have written to the relevant institutions', namely the Committee for Religious Affairs, the Ministry of Justice and personally to President Kasym-Zomart Tokaev. Jurist Mereke Gabdualiev, one of the few to speak on the subject, believes that 'pure Islam has never existed in Kazakhstan, rather a cross between shamanism and Muslim laws'. The citizens of Kazakhstan are roughly familiar with a few Surahs from the Koran, but on Fridays they traditionally bake Selpeki, flatbreads with various fillings that do not strictly follow Koranic guidelines. Devotion to the dearly departed, at home as well as in public places, customarily involves burningAdyraspan, a plant dating back to pre-Islamic rituals, and there are several ancient traditions that do not follow the precepts of sharia. According to the historian of religions, Ajan Oryntaj, the followers of Tengrism are very diverse, having no unifying centre and no general consensus on what the main characteristics of their cult are. As the expert explains, 'many Tengrians do not consider this belief as a religion, but rather as a moral philosophy, while others claim to be recognised as members of a religious confession, with all the legal guarantees'. Tengrism has no sacred scriptures of its own, nor a code of religious rules and rituals. Gabdualiev warns that the danger would be the creation of a caste of pseudo-religious bureaucrats, with excessive authority over people and society in Kazakhstan. Ajan Oryntaj emphasises that the issue is still much debated among experts, not least because there is no consensus on the definition of 'religion' in scientific circles: 'Usually, this term means a system of beliefs in some kind of supernatural forces, but this is a very general understanding of the phenomenon'. None of the institutions approached so far have given any official assessment or response to the applications and petitions on tengrism. The petitioners aim to present at least 5,000 representatives from all regions and cities of Kazakhstan, who are referents of communities with a minimum of 300 registered worshippers, so that they will be ready to start activities at all levels as soon as any approval is obtained. Shamanism is officially recognised in Russia for the Siberian populations of Mongolian ethnicity, and Tengrism is proposed as a Eurasian expression of these traditions. by Nirmala Carvalho Many women and children among the victims. There were more than 10,000 at the event of Bhole Baba, a former policeman turned preacher who gathers large crowds. At the origin of the chaos was a sandstorm but - according to witnesses - also the behaviour of the cleric's security service. Lucknow Bishop Gerard Mathias: "I pray for the victims and that such tragedies will not be repeated". Lucknow (AsiaNews) - At least 121 people are confirmed dead in the tragic outcome of the tragedy that occurred yesterday in the city of Sikandra Rao, in the district of Hathras in Uttar Pradesh, after a stampede among a crowd at a Satsang (a religious event), attended by more than 10 thousand people. The victims were mostly women and children. Chaitra V., Divisional Commissioner of the city of Aligarh, in the state of Uttar Pradesh, said that the participants were leaving the venue of the event when a dust storm blinded them, causing the crowd to throng and the subsequent tragic incident. The State Medical Officer, Umesh Kumar Tripathi, told reporters that 'many injured' had been hospitalised. According to some accounts, part of the blame lies with the attendants of Bhole Baba (pictured), the Hindu preacher who led the ritual; they allegedly prevented people from leaving the place in the heat and humidity, so that the preacher and his entourage could leave first. When the crowd was finally allowed to leave, chaos broke out, leading to tragedy. Suraj Pal, or Bhole Baba, as he is called by his followers, hails from Bahadur Nagar in the Patiyali area of Kasganj district. He left his job in the state police 17 years ago to become a preacher. Despite the fact that his following extends beyond Uttar Pradesh to Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, both the preacher and his acolytes maintain a distrust of the media. According to one devotee, Bhole Baba had no religious mentor and, shortly after his voluntary retirement from service, he allegedly had a 'vision' of divinity. Since then he has become inclined to spiritual activities. He holds his Satsangs every Tuesday and, before Hathras, had held a similar event in the Mainpuri district last week. In May 2022, during the time of the Covid 19 pandemic, he had stirred controversy because after seeking permission for a religious gathering of 50 people in Farrukhabad district, the congregation had grown to over 50,000. The affair had created serious embarrassment in the local government of Uttar Pradesh, which is led by the Hindu monk Yogi Adityanath, one of the most prominent members of the BJP, PM Narendra Modi's party. The prime minister announced that the next of kin of each person who lost his or her life would receive 200,000 rupees (about 2,200 euro) from the National Relief Fund, while the injured would receive 50,000 rupees (550 euro). Commenting on the tragedy, Bishop Gerard Mathias, of the Catholic diocese of Lucknow, told AsiaNews: "It was indeed a tragic event that took place in the Hathras district during a Satsang. I offer my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the eternal repose of the dead. I pray and wish that such tragedies will not happen again. And that all those involved take appropriate measures to prevent them". *** When in the course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and of natures God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former systems of government. The history of the present king of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these States. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world. He has refused his assent to laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good. He has forbidden his governors to pass laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them. He has refused to pass other laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of representation in the legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only. He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures. He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people. He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the legislative powers, incapable of annihilation, have returned to the people at large for their exercise; the state remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within. He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these states; for that purpose obstructing the laws for naturalization of foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new appropriations of lands. He has obstructed the administration of justice by refusing his assent to laws for establishing judiciary powers . He has made judges dependent on his will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries. He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither swarms of officers to harass our people and eat out their substance. He has kept among us, in times of peace, standing armies without the consent of our legislatures. He has affected to render the military independent of and superior to the civil power. He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his assent to their acts of pretended legislation: For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us: For protecting them, by a mock trial from punishment for any murders which they should commit on the inhabitants of these states: For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world: For imposing taxes on us without our consent: For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of trial by jury: For transporting us beyond seas to be tried for pretended offences: For abolishing the free system of English laws in a neighbouring province, establishing therein an arbitrary government, and enlarging its boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies: For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable laws and altering fundamentally the forms of our governments: For suspending our own legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever. He has abdicated government here, by declaring us out of his protection and waging war against us. He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people. He is at this time transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of cruelty & perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the head of a civilized nation. He has constrained our fellow citizens taken captive on the high seas to bear arms against their country, to become the executioners of their friends and brethren, or to fall themselves by their hands. He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions. In every stage of these oppressions we have petitioned for redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people. Nor have we been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, enemies in war, in peace friends. We, therefore, the representatives of the united States of America, in general congress, assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name, and by authority of the good people of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, that these united Colonies are, and of right ought to be free and independent states, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as free and independent states, they have full power to levy war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and to do all other acts and things which independent states may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor. 3 July 2024 19:38 (UTC+04:00) Elnur Enveroglu Read more The bias of the US Congress against Azerbaijan has become a disease syndrome. A group of pro-Armenian politicians and the organizations they manage, which every time carry out a slander campaign against Azerbaijan with biased statements, have resurfaced today. So, an American politician serving as the U.S. representative from California's 16th congressional district Anna Eshoo demonstrated her Armenianism with the latest prepared statement. A member of the US House of Representatives and an Armenian by origin, Anna Eshoo, co-authored by another pro-Armenian member of the chamber, Christopher Smith, put forward a biased resolution against Azerbaijan called "Condemning Azerbaijan for carrying out a campaign of ethnic cleansing against the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh". It should be noted that this project is one of a series of other slanderous projects proposed against Azerbaijan in the US Congress. On the day Eshu and Smith put forward the draft resolution, a group of "human rights" organizations, including "Freedom House", "International Partnership For Human Rights, Democracy Development Foundation", "Protection of Rights Without Borders NGO", "Law Development and Protection Foundation", "Open Society Foundations", etc. popped out and published a summary of the report entitled "Why there are no Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh". This shows that the "black network" is coordinated from the same centre as the bought members of the US House of Representatives. Also, considering that the heads of the organization are of Armenian origin, it is not worth talking about it at all. An interesting question arises. How does it happen that in 30 years, Institutions like the US House of Representatives, Freedom House, and the Soros Foundation, have remained silent on the subject of rocket attacks and the death of peaceful people in the cities of Ganja and Barda, nearly 1 million Azerbaijanis, who were made refugees and internally displaced persons from their native places, Khojaly genocide, ethnic cleansing in Garadaghli, Agdaban, Bashlibel, Baganis-Ayr, Ballygaya, Tugh? Why do they accuse Azerbaijan of carrying out ethnic cleansing against Armenians without any basis, and threaten our country with the "International Criminal Court" instead of considering the above-given facts? Don't they know that these slanderous draft resolutions are a heavy blow to the USA's reputation in Azerbaijan? Such behavior of theirs is an example of prejudice, hypocrisy, political order, and double standards, and such hypocrisy rightfully enrages the Azerbaijani public. Azerbaijan has repeatedly shown all the evidence to the world about the Armenians who voluntarily migrated from Garabagh to Yerevan, and it reminds them again and again today. Armenian residents who settled in Garabagh in the fall of last year voluntarily left the territory, as they and the Prime Minister of Armenia have repeatedly stated. There can be no question of ethnic cleansing here. Those who want to find the facts of ethnic cleansing and deportation may be interested in the fate of hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis deported from Western Azerbaijan. Even today, they cannot go to their native Goyce, Darelayaz, and Erivan - their homes. The US Congress knows that it is impossible to divert Azerbaijan from its path with such slanderous pieces of paper. Azerbaijan fully restored its sovereignty and territorial integrity at the cost of blood and life, behaved with dignity in the war, and peaceful people were never the target of the Azerbaijani Army. Strangely, the US House of Representatives has been silent for years regarding the destruction and looting carried out by Armenians in the liberated territories for 30 years. The problems of former refugees and displaced people, the contamination of the liberated territories with more than 1.5 million mines, and UXOs do not concern such institutions of the United States. We wonder why they keep silent about it, turn a blind eye, and moreover unfairly accuse Azerbaijan of a problem that never happened. If it comes to real ethnic cleansing, then Azerbaijan has a say. Everyone and the world knows that Azerbaijanis in Western Azerbaijan and Garabagh were subjected to ethnic cleansing, but resolutions are not being prepared in this regard. On the contrary, those organizations and political circles always use double standards against Azerbaijan. Claims about "ethnic cleansing" in Garabagh are lies and slander. The so-called "Arsakh's political forces and civil society's appeal to the world community" on December 23, 2023, can be shown as an example. The petition clearly stated that Armenians do not want to live under the Azerbaijani flag, and their "general decision" to leave Garabagh is related to this: "We rule out returning under Azerbaijani jurisdiction." Even Pashinyan made a similar statement on September 21, Armenia's Independence Day, noting that during the anti-terrorist operation, the civilian population was not harmed. On October 2, 2023, he did not use the term "ethnic cleansing" when talking about the Armenians who moved from Garabagh at the government meeting. This once again shows that the biased report presented in the US Congress is a political order and an internal propaganda tool before the US elections. Both the Republican and Democratic parties are preparing for the presidential elections to be held in the fall, and it is obvious that the votes of the Armenian lobby are important for both parties. It means that this factor also played a role in the preparation of the resolution. --- Elnur Enveroglu is AzerNews deputy editor-in-chief, follow him on @ElnurMammadli1 Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 3 July 2024 16:25 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more On July 3, President Ilham Aliyev visited to Astana to attend the upcoming summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Kazakhstan. During his visit, the head of state is scheduled to hold meetings with the presidents of China, Turkiye, Russia, Pakistan, and Kazakhstan. These engagements underscore the strong and mutually trusting relationships between President Aliyev and the leaders of SCO member states. The summit convened under the auspices of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) format saw the participation of heads of state and government from 16 countries. President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan attended this significant event in Astana, marking Azerbaijan's second invitation to such a prestigious SCO Summit, highlighting the international respect accorded to President Aliyev and Azerbaijan's leadership. This event underscores the SCO's pivotal role as a regional organization focused on enhancing multilateral dialogue for sustainable peace and development. Discussions among state and government leaders from SCO member and observer countries covered a wide range of critical issues spanning political, economic, trade, cultural, and humanitarian cooperation. The forthcoming Astana Declaration, a crucial policy document, is anticipated to articulate the SCO's positions on pressing global matters, evaluate the organization's activities, and outline future strategic directions. Established in 2001 by Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, the SCO encompasses some of the world's largest nations in terms of both geography and population. Presently, the SCO consists of 9 member states (Kazakhstan, China, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, India, Iran), 3 observer states (Afghanistan, Mongolia, Belarus), and 14 dialogue partners (including Azerbaijan, Turkiye, UAE, Bahrain, Armenia, Egypt, Cambodia, Qatar, Kuwait, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka). Belarus's recent elevation to full membership status within the SCO framework, initiated during the Samarkand Summit in September 2022, is expected to be formalized during the Astana Summit. The primary objectives of the SCO include strengthening mutual trust, fostering neighborly relations among member states, and promoting effective cooperation across various sectors such as politics, economics, science and technology, culture, education, energy, transportation, tourism, and environmental protection. Furthermore, the SCO aims to collaborate towards achieving regional peace, security, and stability while contributing to the establishment of a new international political and economic order. The SCO operates through two main bodies: the Secretariat based in Beijing and the Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) located in Tashkent, which play crucial roles in facilitating the organization's activities. The current Secretary-General of the SCO is Zhang Ming, representing China. Azerbaijan currently holds dialogue partner status within the SCO, having signed a memorandum in 2016 outlining areas of cooperation. Key areas of collaboration between Azerbaijan and the SCO include counterterrorism efforts, regional security enhancement, and the promotion of intercultural dialogue, multiculturalism, and toleranceareas where Azerbaijan has emerged as a significant international actor. President Ilham Aliyev's participation in the Astana Summit at the invitation of Kazakhstan's President Kasym-Jomart Tokayev underscores Azerbaijan's growing influence on the global stage, evident in invitations to various summits, conferences, and meetings despite not being a member of certain organizations. Azerbaijan's active engagement reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism and reflects its robust bilateral relations with nearly all SCO member countries. Looking ahead, Azerbaijan aims to secure observer status within the SCO, marking a milestone in its cooperative efforts with the organization. President Ilham Aliyev's strategic vision has positioned Azerbaijan as a key regional player, and acquiring observer status in the SCO would further enhance Azerbaijan's diplomatic stature and influence. It is noteworthy that the Heydar Aliyev Foundation plays a pivotal role in fostering cooperation with the SCO. Under its auspices, the SCO headquarters in Beijing hosted the Day of Azerbaijani Culture in 2018, and in 2021, the foundation commemorated the 880th anniversary of the renowned Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi. A bust of Nizami Ganjavi was installed at the headquarters, making him the second historical figure after the Chinese philosopher Confucius to be honored in this manner by the SCO. Additionally, this year represents a significant milestone for Azerbaijan's hosting capabilities as it prepares to welcome its largest international event to datethe 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29). Azerbaijan, acknowledged as a steadfast partner in global affairs, stands prominently as the leading state in the South Caucasus, serving as the region's economic, political, and humanitarian hub. Renowned as a steadfast participant in contemporary international relations, Azerbaijan stands tall as the preeminent state in the South Caucasus, acting as the economic, political, and humanitarian nucleus of the region. In conclusion, Azerbaijan's participation in the SCO Summit in Astana not only highlights President Ilham Aliyev's esteemed international standing but also underscores Azerbaijan's significant role as a bridge between East and West across various domains. The country's active engagement in regional and global forums reflects its commitment to fostering dialogue, cooperation, and stability in Eurasia. As a strategic hub connecting diverse cultures and economies, Azerbaijan continues to play a pivotal role in promoting peace, prosperity, and mutual understanding among nations within the SCO framework. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 3 July 2024 11:58 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more The "29 Climate Talks: The Road to COP29" initiative, organized jointly by the UN representation in Azerbaijan and "PwC Azerbaijan," featured a two-day summit on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) themes under the banner of "Public-Private Partnership for Sustainable Development," Azernews reports. Mukhtar Babayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan and President of COP29, addressed summit participants via video, emphasizing Azerbaijan's commitment to enhancing ambitions and fostering inclusive and transparent measures for COP29. "Our focus is on finding collective solutions crucial for combatting climate change," Babayev stated. "This summit's insights will guide our future plans. We aim to elevate ambitions and promote inclusive action through national climate plans, adaptation strategies, and transparent reporting." Highlighting COP29's broader agenda, Babayev underscored its focus on biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, water resources, science, technology, innovation, and sustainable urbanization. Moreover, the minister stressed the critical role of the private sector in accelerating sustainable development efforts: "Together, we can cultivate a collaborative environment where public and private entities exchange ideas and best practices for ESG implementation," Babayev noted. "The private sector's support is essential for addressing our shared challenges effectively." He emphasized the importance of choosing reliable pathways supported by clear financial plans, budgets, and targets: "We look forward to companies demonstrating at COP29 how they are directing investments in line with our climate goals. Let's prioritize green capital markets to build resilient economic models." The summit, spanning two days, aims to foster meaningful dialogue and actionable outcomes on these pressing issues. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 3 July 2024 20:00 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more The Korea Importers Associations (KOIMA) journal recently published an article by Ramin Hasanov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the Republic of Korea, titled "Economic Potential and Business Opportunities in Azerbaijan," Azernews reports. In the article, Ambassador Hasanov highlighted Azerbaijan's strategic economic goals outlined in "Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development," emphasizing priorities such as economic diversification, renewable energy potential, and extensive reconstruction and construction efforts in recently liberated territories. He also discussed investment opportunities in the Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur economic regions. The article noted Azerbaijan's declaration of 2024 as the "Green World Solidarity Year" and highlighted the upcoming COP29, which Azerbaijan will host this year. Ambassador Hasanov further explored Azerbaijan-South Korea economic cooperation, emphasizing the impact of reciprocal business visits and economic events on bilateral relations. He underscored promising areas for economic collaboration, the role of the intergovernmental commission, the bilateral legal framework, and the collaboration between KOIMA and other economic associations in Korea. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 3 July 2024 10:35 (UTC+04:00) "Turkiye's strong support to Azerbaijan during the 44-day Patriotic War made it possible to liberate the historical lands of Azerbaijan from the Armenian occupation and removed the shameful stain of the Boraltan tragedy of 1944 from the conscience of our country. At that time, Ankara handed over a group of brotherly Azerbaijanis to the Soviet authorities, and they were immediately shot." Azernews reports, citing Azertag that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said this at a briefing held in Ankara based on the results of the government meeting. President Erdogan called the shooting of 176 Azerbaijanis a tragedy and said that the Republican People's Party of Turkiye (CHP), which was in power at that time, was to blame for this tragedy. "Our people have carried the pain of the Boraltan tragedy in their hearts for 76 years. The 30-year Armenian occupation of Garabagh has already ended, and the people of Turkiye have been saved from the stain of the Boraltan tragedy. We cannot allow the repetition of such events," said the politician. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 3 July 2024 11:13 (UTC+04:00) Ulviyya Shahin Read more The State Border Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan has released its overview for June 2024 on its achievements in June 2024 as part of efforts to ensure reliable protection of the state border, combat smuggling, illegal migration, and the illegal circulation of narcotics. Azernews reports, citing the press release of the State Border Services, that during the month, 30 people were detained for violating the state border, including 12 Iranians, 7 Azerbaijanis, 6 Pakistanis, 2 Afghans, 2 Turks, and 1 Nepali. In the fight against illegal migration, 10 people were detained while attempting to cross the state border using counterfeit date stamps, forged passports, or documents belonging to others. 851 people were detained for violating border regulations, and appropriate measures were taken against them. As part of anti-crime measures, Azerbaijani law enforcement agencies apprehended 295 wanted individuals and handed them over to the relevant authorities. Additionally, 452 individuals were prevented from leaving the country, and 9 were stopped from entering it. In efforts to combat the illegal circulation of narcotics, authorities seized and removed from circulation 455 kilograms and 466 grams of narcotic drugs, as well as 1,642 pills containing powerful narcotics. Anti-smuggling efforts resulted in the seizure of contraband valued at 5,123,255 Azerbaijani manats, including medicines and tobacco products. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 3 July 2024 13:46 (UTC+04:00) Fatima Latifova Read more Delegation from ADA University and the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan paid a visit to the United States. They participated in the Steering Committee meeting for the dual degree program between ADA University and George Washington University (GWU), Azernews reports. During the visit, the delegation, led by Elkin Nurmammadov, Vice Rector of Academic Affairs at ADA University, and Nijat Mammadli, Advisor to the Minister of Science and Education of Azerbaijan, toured the ADA University Washington Center. They met with 14 students from the Electrical and Power Engineering program who have been in Washington, D.C. since January 2024 for their Spring semester. The students shared their enriching experiences, emphasizing the importance of studying in a multicultural environment that has broadened their academic and personal perspectives. The Steering Committee meeting took place on June 4th, where several key issues were addressed. Notably, the introduction of a new dual-degree program in Computer Engineering and High Performance Computing was highlighted, along with discussions on the professional development of ADA faculty and administrative staff. Nijat Mammadli emphasized the government's priority on the continuous professional development of human resources involved in these programs, underscoring the importance of ADA representatives regularly traveling to D.C. to exchange experiences with their GWU counterparts. Additionally, the upcoming visit of 20 students from the fourth cohort in the Computer Science and Data Analytics program to D.C. for their Summer and Fall semesters was discussed. The delegation also visited George Washington University, where they were welcomed by Professor John Lach, Dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Science, along with other GWU professors and administrators. The delegation was given an extensive tour of the GWU campus, including its state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories. It should be noted that ADA University began offering dual degree programs in partnership with George Washington University in 2020. The dual degree programs, starting with Computer Science, have grown to include Electrical and Power Engineering, with a total of 121 students having studied under these programs to date (77 in Computer Science and 44 in Electrical Engineering). These master's programs are financed within the framework of the " State Program on Raising Competitiveness of Higher Education in Azerbaijan in 2019-2023. The first cohort of students for Computer Engineering and High Performance Computing program will be admitted in Fall 2025. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton was seen giving remarks to republican delegates from Texas on the first day of the Texas GOP Convention on May 23, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Christopher Lee Ken Paxton is a good Christian man. At least thats what the disgraced Texas attorney general has told supporters through the years as he weathered countless scandals, from his extramarital affair to allegedly taking bribes from a campaign donor to illegally retaliating against his own staff when they tried to report his wrongdoing to law enforcement. Its become unclear exactly what principles of the Republican Party that Paxton still holds dear. The states top cop regularly thumbs his nose at law and order and he basically gave the middle finger to fiscal conservatives when he asked Texas taxpayers to foot the bill for a settlement in a whistleblower lawsuit. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Still, hes a Christian man, mind you. So if theres any limit to Paxtons political shenanigans, his culture war exploits to enrich his campaign coffers, youd think it would be Gods turf. LATEST NEWS: Paxton has to collect his own ethics fines Youd think hed stop himself at the door of a place that strives to live the Good News Gospel of Jesus Christ by serving the most vulnerable, a place whose calling is derived from Johns admonition to love each other not with mere words but in deed and in truth. Youd think wrong. Paxton, in an attempt to appear tough on the border enforcement, sent his staff to barge into a decades-old Catholic charity in El Paso that serves the poorest of the poor, including migrants, and demanded documents, accused the shelters volunteers of human smuggling and eventually set out to shutter the shelter. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Unfortunately for Paxton but fortunately for those following the example of Christ state District Judge Francisco Dominguez wasnt having it. The judge ruled that Paxtons outrageous and intolerable attack on Annunciation House violated Texas religious freedom laws. His attempted fishing expedition for documents was nothing more than harassment, the judge wrote, of the organizations employees and the persons seeking refuge. The Attorney General chose to harass a human rights organization with impunity and with disregard to his duty to faithfully uphold the laws of Texas and the United States, Dominguez wrote. As the top law enforcement officer of the State of Texas, the Attorney General has a duty to uphold all laws, not just selectively interpret or misuse those that can be manipulated to advance his own personal beliefs or political agenda. Annunciation House had agreed to turn over the information Paxton requested but when it couldnt meet the AGs deadline, it sued for a temporary restraining order. Paxton countersued in an attempt to revoke the organizations license to operate a move that the judge said infringes on the Texas Religious Freedom and Restoration Act by substantially burdening Annunciation Houses free exercise of religion and failing to use the 'least restrictive means' of securing compliance with the law. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Paxtons actions have also drawn rebuke from the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops: our religious liberty is being restricted because we cant put in practice the precepts of the Gospel, Archbishop Timothy Broglio said at a press conference last month. His actions also seem to stand in stark contrast to the efforts of some of his fellow Republicans who are so determined to protect religious liberty and instill Christian values in American society that theyre demanding Bible study and the Ten Commandments in public schools. Maybe theyre getting ahead of themselves. Maybe they should provide an adequate religious education to their own ranks first. Give Paxton a voucher if he needs it. Then maybe hell stop wasting taxpayer resources harassing not just Annunciation House but other nonprofits that help migrants, including his lawsuit against Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley. Yes, there are problems at the border although crossings have slowed dramatically in recent months. The solution isnt attacking organizations that are actually helping border communities by feeding and sheltering migrants so theyre not wandering the streets, and in some cases, helping transporting migrants closer to family and support networks after theyve been processed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Those deeds seem more in line with Johns words that Paxtons dirty deeds against Christian volunteers. Its unclear if Paxton will appeal the judges order blocking him from closing down an organization revered far and wide for its work serving vulnerable communities. Are the headlines and points with the GOP base worth it? Paxton is a good Christian man. Maybe he should pray on it. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ice Cream Trains and Moonlight Excursions for Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad Rides Published 6/27/24 at 6:25 a.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection (Garibaldi, Oregon) A bevy of new rides are coming to the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad in that stretch between Nehalem Bay and Tillamook Bay. Riding along the track in antique railcars and being pulled by equally-ancient locomotives just got even more interesting and innovative. (Photo Oregon Coast Beach Connection) Along with its increased daily runs and special holiday runs for the summer, you're now going to get the Moonlight Excursion Train that zips along at sunset, blue hour and into the nighttime along with a wee drop. There's also going to be the Ice Cream Trains and when autumn arrives so do the Fall Splendor Excursions. The Moonlight Excursion Train rides start at 7:30 p.m. and the first one takes off on July 6. Here, it's a steam-powered adventure along Tillamook Bay and Nehalem Bay in the later hours, with plenty of views of the Pacific Ocean. This time, however, there's some adult beverages involved: some local-based wine and beers will be served aboard the over-21-only train runs. Delaney Moss, with the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, said each round-trip ticket is $72 and includes two complementary tickets for beverages. Courtesy photo Additional alcoholic drinks and light food options will be available for purchase on board, Moss said. The fact that it's Tillamook-area-based beer and wine helps to support local businesses, but you'll absolutely have to show your ID before boarding. The trip is a 3-hour round-trip excursion that takes you up to Wheeler, OR, and back, she said. If the weather cooperates, passengers will have incredible views of the sunset and night sky. Photo Oregon Coast Beach Connection The first happens on July 6, with two more in July and another two in August, and there could be opp to learn something. The July 6th train is scheduled during the New Moon and depending on staffing we do plan to have a car host for the evening, she said. The first of these took place in 2023 and now they're returning. There's a romance element as well. Last year we had great success with these train rides and decided to bring them back this year, Moss said. We see these excursions as a unique opportunity for those to have a date night, night out with friends/family or just another option to enjoy our train during the evening. Along with the drink tickets, you'll even get a cupcake at one point. Not long after the first Moonlight Train Excursion you'll have a chance to try eating ice cream aboard a scenic ride-in-motion. Photo Oregon Coast Beach Connection This summer we will also be introducing our Ice Cream Trains, our first one beginning July 12th, she said. We will be serving free Tillamook Creamery ice cream onboard these special excursions. We will announce more as the date gets sooner, along with the additional dates for the summer. As summer winds down, the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad's Fall Splendor Excursions start up, beginning Friday, September 27. They run every Friday through Sunday until November 17. An enormous burst of colors is in full bloom then, and the Tillamook and Nehalem Bays become incredible that time of year. This excursion departs from Rockaway Beach for a train ride that is 45-minutes each way to and from the quaint town of Wheeler, Moss said. Guests will have a 45-minute layover at Wheeler where you can shop, eat, and enjoy the surrounding views. This is a very popular excursion for us as guests have the opportunity to view the amazing foliage during the fall. See all of this and whatever else they have in store at https://oregoncoastscenic.org. (503) 842-7972. Hotels in Tillamook Bay - Where to eat - Tillamook Maps and Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted More Razor Clamming Opens Up on Oregon Coast; Still Some Shellfish Shut-Downs Published 6/29/24 at 6:15 a.m. By Andre' GW Hagestedt, Oregon Coast Beach Connection (Oregon Coast) More parts of the Oregon coast have opened up to clamming, after a severe shutdown in May that closed all shellfish harvesting due to a health threat. Now, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has announced yet another area of coastline is back open to razor clamming: from Coos Bay down to the California border. (Above: Gold Beach area - see Manuela Durson Fine Arts for more) Cape Blanco to the California border opened up for razor clamming on June 21, and the section of coastline from the Washington coast border to Yachats has been OK for razor clams for awhile. However, mussel gathering is still off-limits due to biotoxins, and bay clamming is closed from about Neskowin down to the California border. Those shellfish continue testing high for the marine biotoxin paralytic shellfish poison (PSP). Some razor clamming remains closed in the region: from Yachats through Coos Bay. ODFW and Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) said it's because of both PSP and domoic acid. Meanwhile, on the Washington coast, biotoxin threats are keeping Grays Harbor and Willapa Bay closed to all gathering of clams, mussels and oysters. See Washington coast updates ODA will continue testing for shellfish toxins at least twice per month, as tides and weather permit, ODFW said. Reopening an area closed for biotoxins requires two consecutive tests with results below the closure limit. Razor clams: Photo Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife It is open from the Washington border to Yachats River: this includes Seaside, Warrenton (the areas with the most razor clams), Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Rockaway Beach, Bayocean, Oceanside, Netarts, Pacific City, Lincoln City, Newport, Waldport and the northern end of Yachats. Razor clamming is not open from Yachats through Florence, Reedsport, the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and northern Coos Bay. Razor clamming is open from southern Coos Bay to the border, including Bandon, Port Orford, Gold Beach and Brookings. Bay Clams: open from Cascade Head (about Neskowin) to the Washington border, including the bays Nestucca, Netarts, Tillamook and Nehalem. Bay clams are closed from Cascade Head to the southern border of Oregon, including bays at Lincoln City (Siletz), Depoe Bay, Newport's Yaquina Bay, Waldport's Alsea Bay, Yachats, Florence, Winchester Bay, Coos Bay, Bandon, Port Orford, Gold Beach and Brookings. Back in May, 21 people became seriously ill after they ate mussels acquired on the north coast. ODA soon found biotoxins in most parts of the shoreline, and closed some out of an abundance of caution. Nehalem Bay (Oregon Coast Beach Connection) Razor clamming on Clatsop Beach (Seaside to Warrenton) will again close for the annual conservation closure on July 15 through October 1. This is to allow new clams to set and maintain the thick population of the area. Remember to always call Oregon Department of Agriculture's (ODA) shellfish biotoxin safety hotline at (800) 448-2474, the Food Safety Shellfish Desk at (503) 986-4726, or check the ODA recreational shellfish biotoxin closures webpage before clamming or crabbing. Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW Photos Seaside Aquarium More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Officials: Where Fireworks Banned in Oregon, Coastline; Heatwave's Extra Concerns Published 7/02/24 at 7:06 p.m. By Oregon Coast Beach Connection (Lincoln City, Oregon) As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, so does a run of extremely hot and dry conditions, especially for about a third or more of the inland region that will get temps up to 115 degrees (for southern Oregon). Temps over 100 will hit high-population areas of Oregon and officials from all over the region are either urging extreme caution on the use of fireworks, not to use them at all or reminding the public they're banned in some places altogether. (Photo: Lincoln City Fire Department.) Oregon State Parks is reminding everyone where fireworks cannot be used, various cities have outright banned any kind of fireworks and many officials are simply urging people not to use them in the first place. Even the National Weather Service (NWS) that has made the forecasts said using fireworks or the wrong kind of machinery in these conditions is going to have a bad ending for someone. 'Dangerously Hot Conditions' for Much of Oregon, Portland, Coast Range, Eugene, Ashland Over 100 - Beaches won't be much relief, packed for holiday weekend The heat and elevated to critical fire weather conditions will be the theme this week, the NWS said. Please avoid anything outdoors that causes sparks or flames. Humans unfortunately cause a majority of wildfires, so anything we can do to prevent fire starts is very important. We hope everyone has a fun and safe Fourth of July! Among the towns with bans on all fireworks are Portland, Lincoln City, Cannon Beach, Milwaukie, Eugene, Vancouver and even the north Oregon coast's Rockaway Beach. It's not simply the general Oregon law that anything that flies in the air is illegal, but all fireworks including sparklers are banned. On the beach in 2002: this is illegal Along the Oregon coast, fireworks are banned year-round on beaches, according to Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), which manages all beaches. They're also not allowed on any federal lands, state parks or state forests. OPRD spokesman Stefanie Knowlton said even though there's a big body of water right there and you're doing pyrotechnics in the sand, there's good reason for these bans and the fines and penalites. Fireworks are prohibited on Oregon beaches because they pose a danger to visitors, coastal wildlife and the landscape, she said. High winds, flammable vegetation and the unpredictability of fireworks combine to create a unique hazard particularly in crowded areas. Fireworks also impact sensitive habitat like federally protected Western snowy plover nesting grounds. The debris left behind from fireworks is also a hazard to wildlife. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department encourages visitors to respect fireworks restrictions on the Oregon Coast and in Oregon State Park campgrounds. If you are caught using illegal fireworks in Oregon (things that shoot up in the air, explode, etc.), according to the Oregon Fire Marshal: Under Oregon law, officials may seize fireworks, and you may be charged with a class B misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $2,500 per violation and a civil penalty of up to $500. Portland's run-ins with increased summer fires (which included a deadly apartment fire caused by fireworks) led to a ban on all personal fireworks there in recent years. Eugene banned them in 2022. Cannon Beach has always had the ban, largely due to the sensitive tufted puffin nests on Haystack Rock. Fire near Oceanside in 2021 - courtesy photo (Another Driftwood Fire Out of Control on Oregon Coast, Threatens Homes) Explore Lincoln City just sent out its reminder to those celebrating on the town's copious beaches. All personal fireworks are now prohibited everywhere within Lincoln City, including all private and public property. This includes small fireworks like handheld sparklers. Violations will result in fines or prosecution. However, the good news is Lincoln City will still be dazzling you with a professional firework display over Siletz Bay on July 4th! That, in the end, is the takeaway from all this: there are plenty of fireworks shows for the firebugs out there. Large metro areas like Portland and Eugene have theirs, as do Lincoln City and Rockaway Beach, along with just about every small and big town in the state. See Full Fourth of July Events for Oregon Coast, 2024 Oregon Coast Hotels in this area - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours MORE PHOTOS BELOW Courtesy Netarts-Oceanside Fire Department More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight Andre' GW Hagestedt is editor, owner and primary photographer / videographer of Oregon Coast Beach Connection, an online publication that sees over 1 million pageviews per month. He is also author of several books about the coast. LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted Now that Kamala Harris has been coronated the Democratic Socialist designee for nomination as their candidate for President of these United States, after that political party's contrived primary process "democratically" elected Joseph R. Biden: What are your feelings about this party's progressive posture within their self-styled exercise of "Saving Democracy for America," and how truly critical the outcome of this presidential election will be? 8.7% I am ecstatic that this "Democracy's" First partially Black, First partially Indian, First female Co-Parent, and this nation's primary necessity is to her elect our First woman president.26.09% I really do not care about all these "Firsts." I will continue to pray, and work for this Representative Republic to elect someone competent, and brilliantly patriotic to be our next president.65.22% I will never vote for any politician that "first" does not have the core values to understand how dire this Constitutional Republic's situation has become. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo joins Houston and federal officials in a press conference regarding recovery and assistance after last weeks storms Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at Fonde Community Center in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer A growing divide has begun to form in the Democratic Party after last weeks debate. Some politicians, concerned about the president's age and mental acuity, have publicly called on President Joe Biden to withdraw his candidacy. However, several current and former Houston area Democratic politicians have remained united in their support for the incumbent presidents campaign. Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, reiterated her longtime support for Bidens campaign in a statement posted on X. At his first State Dinner as President, I watched him graciously play host to the President and First Lady of France deep into the night after a full day related to the visit. Just recently, I visited with him on Airforce One as he met our new Mayor and energetically showed us around, Hidalgo said. I know firsthand that he is more than capable. Advertisement Article continues below this ad U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee shared Hidalgos enthusiasm. The longtime political veteran has represented Texas 18th District for more than two decades, and has staunchly aligned herself with Bidens campaign. I stand unapologetically with President Biden, because no, he should not drop out. We must not lose focus. Look at what Trumps Supreme Court has done, look at Project 2025. There is no time to waste, Jackson Lee said in a Tweet published yesterday. Joining her in their support for Biden are former Mayors Annise Parker and Sylvester Turner, who made multiple posts supporting the incumbent. Parkers support was mainly confined to reposting Tweets from other Biden supporters, but Turner spoke out directly. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Supreme Court made the President a functional king in the United States; placing the person above the rule of law, Turner said in a Tweet on Monday. Placing Trump back in the White House scares me more than Bidens age. Mayor John Whitmire, on the other hand, is keen on staying out of it. Im busy running the city of Houston, Whitmire said when asked his opinion on whether Biden should continue his quest for re-election. Obviously I'm following developments, but I'm just not in the business of trying to run the nation. But support for Biden expressed by several local leaders is not shared across all Houston area Democrats. Harris County Clerk Marilyn Burgess, who serves as a delegate for the Democratic National Convention, is calling for Bidens withdrawal, according to an article published Wednesday by Politico. Advertisement Article continues below this ad After watching the debate, I dont feel like hes up to the task for four more years, and I think we need to be electing someone who can serve in that capacity for a full term, Burgess said in the article. I hope he will consider withdrawing and releasing his delegates if hes on the ballot Im his delegate, and Im going to vote for him, but I think its time to look at alternatives and to not just accept that its a done deal. Other Texas cities' leaders have also weighed in. On Tuesday night, former San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro made a post calling on the president to step down from his campaign. Five minutes later, current San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg posted a statement on X outlining his support for Biden. -Reporter Abby Church contributed to this story A Florida-based real estate investment firm has purchased six medical office buildings in Greensboro, N.C., for $73 million, according to a July 2 report from the Triad Business Journal. The six buildings are all either fully or partially leased by Greensboro-based Cone Health. Healthcare Realty Trust sold all six facilities to the investment group, AW Property Co. AW Property has more than 30 medical office buildings across the Southeast, including seven in North Carolina. The company is now looking to hire three people in Greensboro to manage its properties, according to the report. The largest purchase was a group of three buildings that comprise the Church Street Medical Center and were sold for $45.2 million. Tenants of the 146,748-square-foot facility include Cone Health, Winston-Salem-based Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Durham, N.C.-based Duke Children's and Labcorp. AW Property also purchased a 25,936-square-foot building housing Cone Health's foot and ankle center, Gate City Dental and BenchMark Physical Therapy. It also paid $9.06 million for a 27,786-square-foot building housing Cone Health Guilford Neurologic Associates and Cone Health Neurorehabilitation Center. The sixth building, totaling 39,140 square feet, was sold for $9.06 million and houses Cone Health's outpatient behavioral health and Greensboro OB-GYN Associates. While independent ASCs have a steady hold on the market, with 68.1% of centers being freestanding, big chains continue to grow their market share as healthcare continues to consolidate. Here's a breakdown on the three biggest ASC operators by market share: United Surgical Partners International With 7.1% of the ASC market share, Dallas-based Tenet Healthcare's USPI is the largest ASC chain by number of physicians and centers and has seen massive growth in the last few years. "We see a tremendous opportunity with our ambulatory platform," Tenet CEO Saum Sutaria, MD, said, speaking May 14 at the Bank of America Securities 2024 Health Care Conference. "We're in this unique space of innovation and ambulatory care growth, which creates a significant amount of value and savings for the system, but it's also unique in the sense that it's value-based care that actually creates value for shareholders. As of 2024, USPI has 512 ASCs and 25 surgical hospitals spanning 38 states in its portfolio. This growth will likely continue as Tenet plans to invest $450 million into its ambulatory business in 2024. In the first quarter, it acquired 45 ASCs, while selling nine hospitals for proceeds of $4 billion. "We're really happy with the pipeline that we see looking forward. There are significant numbers of opportunities and high quality assets," Dr. Sutaria said, adding that there are still de novo projects in the works that will open over the next couple of years. Tenet acquired more than 90 ASCs from SurgCenter Development for approximately $1.2 billion in 2020, paving the way to market dominance. USPI has grown nearly 126% since 2011, when it had 204 ASCs in its portfolio. By the end of 2019, USPI overtook AmSurg as the largest ASC chain in the country. SCA Health Optum's SCA Health is the second largest ASC chain, with 320 centers in 2023 and 5.3% of ASC market share. Optum acquired SCA Health for $2.3 billion in 2017. In 2023, SCA Health acquired at least two cardiovascular providers National Cardiovascular Partners and Pivotal Healthcare. In May 2022. Optum, the country's largest employer of physicians, is focusing on physician deals and has spent $31 billion on acquisitions in the last two years. The group added 20,000 physicians in 2023 and inked three major physician group acquisitions. AmSurg AmSurg, formerly owned by Envision Healthcare until its bankruptcy last year, has 256 ASCs in its portfolio and 4.1% of ASC market share. "I appreciate the collaboration with Envision leaders that has brought us to this point," AmSurg CEO Jeff Snodgrass said in an Oct. 11 news release. "We have built strong momentum as an organization that will propel our path to growth. I look forward to AmSurg's next chapter and am grateful for the efforts of our teams, centers and physician partners that drive our success." This month, AmSurg acquired Las Vegas-based Alta Rose Surgery Center in partnership with Comprehensive EyeCare Partner and established a joint venture with Escondido, Calif.-based Palomar Health's Poway Surgery Center. A number of ASCs have opened or secured approval to do so across 21 states during the second quarter of 2024. Here is a state-by-state breakdown of new ASCs from Q2: Note: This is not an exhaustive list of every new ASC nationwide. Alabama A new ASC is coming to Foley near South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, which is launching a $250 million expansion project. Arizona Phoenix-based Banner Health has submitted an application to construct a three-story medical office building in Scottsdale that will house an ASC. California Sacramento-based Sutter Health broke ground on a five-story, 129,000-square-foot medical office building that will cost the system an estimated $442 million. The facility will house an ASC and a brain health center. Colorado Aurora-based UCHealth broke ground on two medical facilities in Highlands Ranch and Green Valley Ranch, two Denver-area communities. The health system is adding a 119,000-square-foot medical office building with an ASC in Highlands Ranch. Smith Medical Direct Specialty Care Surgery Center of Denver, a multispecialty ASC, opened in Littleton. Florida Altamonte Springs-based AdventHealth opened a 20,000-square-foot ASC in Daytona Beach. Panoramic Health has opened a Brandon, Fla.-based ASC in partnership with Tampa, Fla.-based Florida Kidney Physicians, the state's largest nephrology group. Indiana The University of Chicago Medicine opened a 132,000-square-foot multispecialty care center in Crown Point, Ind., marking UChicago's first freestanding facility in Indiana and its largest off-site location. Indianapolis-based Community Health Network plans to build a $335 million healthcare campus featuring an ASC and medical office building in Westfield, Ind. Kansas Kansas City-based University of Kansas Health System is opening a $90 million clinic and ASC in Olathe. Kentucky Louisville-based Baptist Health held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new ASC in Lexington. Lexington-based University of Kentucky recently broke ground on a new cancer and advanced ambulatory building. Maryland Adventist HealthCare is expanding its Silver Spring-based White Oak Medical Center campus and adding an ASC after seeing such a high demand for care since the center's 2019 opening. Hagerstown-based Meritus Health opened a new ASC in the city. Massachusetts Weymouth-based South Shore Health plans to add operating rooms to its Hingham-based ASC. Minnesota St. Cloud-based CentraCare received approval from the St. Cloud Planning Commission to add an ASC to its medical plaza. Mississippi The Biloxi City Council recently approved a $5 million tax increment financing plan for a medical center that will include an ASC. The University of Mississippi Medical Center is planning a 131,000-square-foot educational campus in Ridgeland that will include an ASC, medical office building, imaging center and multimedia classrooms. Missouri Texas County Memorial Hospital in Houston opened a surgical center after 18 years of planning and work. HCA Midwest completed construction on a $9.3 million ASC in Kansas City. New Jersey Mullica Hill-based Inspira Health opened a $50 million outpatient center in a former Dick's Sporting Goods in Deptford. New York NYU Langone Health opened a new outpatient facility near Penn Station in New York City. The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai Health System is nearing completion on a $13 million ASC in New York City. Ohio The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and city officials from Powell celebrated the start of construction on an $183 million outpatient facility. Pennsylvania The Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania recently opened Slate Hill Surgery Center in Camp Hill. York-based WellSpan Health has broken ground on a medical office building and ASC in Carlisle. South Carolina Bon Secours Mercy Health and Compass Surgical Partners' joint venture surgery center opened in April in Greenville. Tennessee A $21 million ASC, TriStar Summit Surgery Center, opened in Lebanon, Tenn. Texas A three-story medical office building is set to open in Spring, with its first tenant being an unnamed local ASC. Sugar Land-based Kelsey-Seybold Clinic has opened its expanded Fort Bend Medical and Diagnostic Center with shelled space for a future ASC. Houston Methodist is planning its largest outpatient care campus, which will include an ASC, in Spring. Kerrville-based Peterson Health unveiled a newly constructed $38 million healthcare facility, which will feature a newly relocated ASC. Austin Regional Clinic plans to replace a building on its campus with a new, two-story medical office building. The 63,000-square-foot building will also include ARC's first ASC. Utah HCA Healthcare and healthcare real estate development, investment and management company NexCore Group have partnered to create an ASC in Orem. Salt Lake City-based Intermountain Healthcare is close to opening a new ASC In Layton on its Intermountain Layton Hospital campus. Loma Linda (Calif.) University School of Dentistry received a $4 million grant to develop a biomarker using artificial intelligence to identify patients with the highest risk of developing oral cancer. The research will be focused on the progression of oral pre-cancer to oral cancer and the potential use of AI to create a multi-omic biomarker to point out individuals with oral pre-cancer that may progress into oral cancer, according to a July 1 news release. Chi Viet, DDS, MD, PhD, is an associate professor and attending surgeon in the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery and the principal investigator for the grant. Dr. Viet and her research team have established a program that studies potential treatment options for patients with oral cancer. Her research uses a patient's molecular signature to identify oral cancer progression. The grant is from the National Cancer Institute and is the university's second $4 million grant to study oral cancer in the past two years, the release said. Kenneth Griffin, founder and CEO of investment firm Citadel, has donated a total of $545 million to various hospitals, health systems and cancer treatment and research specialists over the last 18 months. The hedge fund manager and entrepreneur is also the co-chief investment officer and 80% owner of Citadel and has a net worth of about $41.8 billion, according to Bloomberg. He has donated more than $2 billion towards education, opportunity and health sciences initiatives. Northwestern Medicine, Baptist Health South Florida and Nicklaus Children's Hospital are among the health systems that recently received donations from Mr. Griffin: The American Hospital Association is raising concerns about hospital reporting requirements proposed by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency under the Cyber Incident Reporting for Critical Infrastructure Act. On July 3, the AHA penned a letter to Jen Easterly, director of CISA, saying the proposed requirements for hospitals are "redundant with what other federal agencies require and that they place an unnecessary burden on hospitals." On March 27, CISA proposed a new rule for healthcare organizations when it comes to cybersecurity incident reporting. According to this rule, hospitals and health systems must report any covered cyber incidents, ransom payments made in response to ransomware attacks and any significant new information related to a previously submitted report to the agency within specific time frames. The AHA highlighted several issues it sees with the rule and urged the agency to make several changes, stating that: Federal agencies need to ensure data remains anonymous. Reporting rules should be clear and apply to the entire health sector due to their interconnected relationships. Reporting requirements should be simplified because they create significant burdens and privacy risks for hospitals and health systems. There should be a clearer explanation of penalties and when they apply. Penalties are too harsh, especially when the organization was a victim of an attack by a malicious group or nation-state. The AHA is asking the organization to simplify reporting burdens for hospitals and to agree to a "uniform" reporting process. "Yes, chef" mixed with "Yes, chief" for three days as the makers of "The Bear" filmed scenes in an Illinois hospital's waiting area, parking lot and a patient room fitted as a labor and delivery suite. Leaders at Endeavor Health's hospital in Skokie, Ill., built a recipe for success to accommodate the 200-plus film crew, according to a news release from the Evanston, Ill.-based system. "The Bear" is a hit Hulu television show about a Chicago restaurant and the complex lives of its workers. Although the series is a gritty representation of the chaotic restaurant industry, the system's employees catered to ensure the filming process was smooth and did not obstruct patient care or satisfaction. "While they didn't call each other 'chef,' the Endeavor Health Skokie Hospital operations team worked together like a seasoned brigade de cuisine to prepare for the massive influx of people and equipment, while always keeping patient experience and care as the top priority," the release said. The hospital's facilities manager, Chris Wheeler, and his team prepped and served most of the logistics. "There were times they needed ladders, or they randomly wanted a bathroom door removed," Mr. Wheeler said. "We had to figure it out on the fly." Besides joining Jamie Lee Curtis (Donna Berzatto, "The Bear") for dinner, the Endeavor leadership team savored this opportunity by ordering prototypes of signage to premier its new brand. "From a marketing standpoint, it was a great opportunity to showcase the beauty, quality care and warmth of Endeavor Health Skokie Hospital to the world," said Kim Caviness, Endeavor's marketing team system design and content director. The scenes can be viewed in season three, episode eight of the show. President Joe Biden, who has challenged the pharmaceutical industry for decades, joined Sen. Bernie Sanders' clash with Novo Nordisk in a July 2 op-ed published in USA Today. President Biden and Mr. Sanders criticized Novo Nordisk's "corporate greed" and accused the company of "price gouging" in regard to its popular GLP-1 medications, Ozempic and Wegovy. "Today, tens of millions of Americans are struggling with Type 2 diabetes and obesity. The good news is that Novo Nordisk, one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies, has created new blockbuster drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy, that effectively treat these conditions," President Biden and Mr. Sanders wrote in USA Today. "The bad news is that Novo Nordisk is charging the American people unconscionably high prices for these prescription drugs." If half of all Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries who are obese took Wegovy and other new weight loss drugs, CMS could spend $166 billion per year, they said in the op-ed. Mr. Sanders has previously said these drugs have the potential to bankrupt Medicare and the entire healthcare system. "Prescription drug companies also must stop ripping off the American people," President Biden and Mr. Sanders said. They called for Novo Nordisk to substantially reduce their list prices. The company said it already has. "We are disappointed that a very difficult and complex problem is being oversimplified and mischaracterized for political purposes," a Novo Nordisk spokesperson told Becker's. "Each country has its own healthcare system and making isolated and limited comparisons ignores this fundamental concern." The company's statement echoes its previous comments about Sen. Sanders' campaign against the GLP-1s' prices in the U.S. In May, Novo Nordisk said the scrutiny on the U.S. cost of Ozempic and Wegovy is "misplaced." In response to price comparisons with other countries the drugs are 10 to 15 times cheaper in some countries Novo Nordisk said rebates and pharmacy benefit managers complicate the matter. "Unfortunately, even when we lower our prices, patients in the United States often don't receive the savings this is a problem," the Denmark-based drugmaker said. "We will continue to cooperate with policymakers on real solutions and are proud of the benefit our discoveries have brought to treat and defeat chronic diseases like diabetes and obesity." Altamonte Springs, Fla.-based AdventHealth has named Beverly Knapp, BSN, RN, COO of AdventHealth Hendersonville (N.C.). Prior to her new role, Ms. Knapp served as system vice president for clinical ancillary services at Kettering (Ohio) Health, according to a July 2 news release from AdventHealth. "She is stepping into this vital operations role at a pivotal time in our continued work to expand options for whole-person care to meet the growing needs of our community," Brandon Nudd, president and CEO of AdventHealth Hendersonville, said in the release. UCSF Health and California Attorney General Rob Bonta have signed a cooperative settlement agreement to preserve key services and clear the way for the health system's $100 million acquisition of two San Francisco hospitals. The agreement, which received judicial approval July 2, outlines UCSF's commitments to maintain vital services and promote health equity once it acquires two Dignity Health hospitals: Saint Francis Memorial Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center, both of which are in the city. The hospitals play a key role in serving a diverse population, including elderly, unhoused and publicly insured patients who depend on Medi-Cal, Medicare or charity care for essential healthcare services, the health system said in a news release shared with Becker's. Under the cooperative agreement, UCSF Health will: Continue to operate the two hospitals as licensed general acute care facilities, and maintain or expand current service levels and staffing. Continue to participate in Medi-Cal and Medicare. Provide at least $6.5 million in annual charity care at Saint Francis and at least $3.5 million St. Mary's, with an annual increase of 2.4% at both hospitals. Provide at least $1.6 million a year for community healthcare needs at Saint Francis and at least $10.7 million at St. Mary's. These figures will increase by 2.4% a year at both hospitals. Invest at least $430 million: About $80 million for EHR systems and related technologies $350 million in maintenance and infrastructure improvements at both hospitals. Maintain existing service contracts with the City and County of San Francisco unless terminated for cause. Not condition medical staff privileges or contracts on affiliation with UCSF Health and ensure that hospital staff can maintain relationships with providers outside the UC Health system. Maintain independent negotiation of payer contracts for both hospitals, with a price growth cap for five years to limit year-over-year charge increases. "We want to ensure that Saint Francis and St. Mary's are places our communities can continue to rely on for excellent care," UCSF Health President and CEO Suresh Gunasekaran said. "This agreement underscores our commitment to the community and our responsibility to maintain and enhance healthcare services at both hospitals." Dignity Health, part of Chicago-based CommonSpirit, signed a definitive agreement to sell the hospitals to UCSF Health in February. The transaction is expected to close Aug. 1. Netflix discontinued its cheapest ad-free tier as several subscribers received a notice reminding them to change their plans within the month. Earlier this year, the company announced that the Basic plan will be "retired" in Canada and the U.K. by the second quarter. Netflix Basic Plan Subscribers Must Change Plans Soon A Reddit user shared an alert from his Netflix account, showing that selecting a new plan is the only way to continue watching. The existing Basic tier is officially discontinued and subscribers are given until July 13 to continue watching. "Your Basic plan has been discontinued, but you can easily switch to a new one. Plans start at $5.99 with upgraded features," the notification read. Starting this month, Netflix will only offer the standard ad-supported tier for CA$5.99 which includes full HD viewing for up to two devices. The Standard ad-free tier comes at CA$16.49 for two devices while the Premium ad-free tier provides Ultra HD quality on up to four devices for CA$20.99. Netflix Pushes Ad-Free Tiers on Subscribers to Increase Revenue The Q4 report of Netflix for 2024 revealed that the membership of the ad has increased by almost 70% quarter over quarter. The company attributed the boost to the retirement of the Basic plan for its new and rejoining members. While the report only hinted that the Basic ad-free tier will be discontinued in Canada and the U.K., Netflix shared that it will only be the start. The streaming giant has yet to confirm when it will start phasing out the Basic plan for existing members in the U.S. Last year, Netflix closed the tier for new and returning members in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. Netflix reported that over 40 million users have subscribed to its ad-supported plan as of May. The Justice Department issued a civil investigation demand to Los Angeles-based Prospect Medical Holdings on Nov. 3, according to a June 27 court document filed by Prospect. While the document did not go into detail about the investigation, a civil investigation allows the justice department to get documented and electronically stored information from a person or entity prior to litigation starting, according to Bloomberg Law. The document, obtained by Becker's, was in retort to a lawsuit filed in early May by Yale New Haven (Conn.) Health against Prospect to get out of a deal to acquire three Prospect Connecticut hospitals, Waterbury (Conn.) Hospital; Manchester (Conn.) Memorial Hospital, part of Prospect's Manchester-based Eastern Connecticut Health Network; and Rockville General Hospital in Vernon, Conn. Yale New Haven signed a November 2022 deal with Prospect to acquire the hospitals for $435 million. However, following a cyberattack in August and finding out that Prospect owed $67 million in taxes and had not paid physicians or vendors at its hospitals, Yale New Haven moved to alter the purchase price. In early June, Prospect sued Yale New Haven over not honoring its contractual obligation to take on the hospitals, seeking at least $435 million in damages. "We are aware of the Civil Investigative Demand issued by the DOJ to Prospect Medical Holdings and are working to understand its potential impact should a transaction proceed," a spokesperson for Yale New Haven Health said in a statement shared with Becker's. Becker's has reached out to Prospect Medical Holdings and the Justice Department and will update this story should more information become available. From Franklin, Tenn.-based Community Health Systems to Norfolk, Va.-based Sentara Health, the Justice Department has been busy looking into multiple health systems and healthcare organizations over the last few months. Most recently, Los Angeles-based Prospect Medical Holdings shared in June 27 court documents that the Justice Department had issued Prospect a civil investigation demand on Nov. 3. The court documents were filed in relation to a lawsuit that Yale New Haven (Conn.) Health filed against Prospect in May regarding the sale of three Prospect hospitals. The documents did not go into detail about the Justice Department's investigation. A civil investigation allows the department to access documented and electronically stored information from a person or entity before litigation begins, according to Bloomberg Law. In April, it was revealed that the Justice Department has been investigating Sentara Health's insurance arm, Optima Health, now known as Sentara Health Plans, since 2021. The investigation pertains to whether Optima unfairly increased premiums in 2018 and 2018 after receiving more than $655 million in federal subsidies. The Justice Department alleged that while Sentara complied with certain requests for testimony and documents, it refused to comply with others. Optima President and CEO Michael Dudley and Optima Chief Actuary James Juillerat were ordered by a federal judge in March to provide additional testimony within 60 days. A Sentara spokesperson told The Virginia-Pilot that the health system has worked with investigators to provide over 27,000 documents and 60 hours of interviews with existing and former employees. UnitedHealth Group was also hit with an antitrust investigation in February from the Justice Department. Around that time, The Wall Street Journal reported that investigators had begun conducting interviews with healthcare industry representatives in UnitedHealth competition sectors, which included physician groups. During the interviews, questions were related to specific relationships between the company's UnitedHealthcare insurance unit and its Optum health-services arm, which owns additional assets like physician groups. The inquiry, in part, was looking into acquisitions from Optum's physician group and how the health plan unit and physician ownership impact competition. Specifically, investigators from the Justice Department asked if UnitedHealthcare favored Optum-owned groups in contract pricing, which could extract rival physicians from certain appealing payment arrangements. Lastly, Community Health Systems revealed in a Feb. 21 SEC filing that on January 11, the health system received a civil investigative demand from the Justice Department looking for information and documents related to, "a variety of subjects, including practices and procedures related to the utilization review, inpatient admission and inpatient dialysis at our hospitals." The health system also shared in the statement that it was fully cooperating with the investigation. A spokesperson from CHS told Becker's that the health system believes the investigation came from allegations of a former employee at one of its hospitals. A nurse previously employed by Baptist Hospital East in Louisville, Ky., was arrested July 1 for allegedly using patients' stolen credit cards, according to ABC affiliate WHAS. Kentucky State Police charged Lauren Miller with stealing two or more patients' credit cards and fraudulently using those cards, according to the report. Ms. Miller allegedly used the credit cards for purchases totaling more than $1,000 between Nov. 27 and Dec. 7. The alleged victims told police their cards were stolen while they were patients at Baptist Hospital East's critical care unit. The hospital's risk management department matched Ms. Miller's work schedule in the unit to the times the patients' cards were reportedly stolen. "She is not employed by Baptist Health. In accordance with federal privacy laws, we are unable to share any additional information," a spokesperson for the hospital told Becker's. Ms. Miller is set to appear in court July 16. In the wake of the Supreme Court's overturning of Chevron deference, Edison, N.J.-based Hackensack Meridian Health has filed a lawsuit against HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra challenging what the system calls the secretary's "irrational and unlawful interpretation of the statutes he is entrusted to administer." The suit, filed June 28 in a Washington, D.C. federal court, challenges the interpretation of CMS' administration of the Medicare statutes, which "has deprived hospitals of some of the reimbursements they are due and the data to check their reimbursement rates," Hackensack said in a July 2 news release. The suit also challenges CMS' "refusal to enable hospitals to effectively employ the congressionally mandated procedures for obtaining relief from these underpayments." The lawsuit was filed the same day the Supreme Court overturned Chevron deference in a 6-3 ruling. Chevron deference, which emerged from a 1984 court case, stipulated that when disputes arise over regulation of an ambiguous law, judges should defer to federal agency interpretations so long as those interpretations are reasonable. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote for the majority that the framework has proved "unworkable" and allowed federal agencies to change course even without Congress' discretion. Hackensack is seeking an order: Holding unlawful and setting aside CMS' calculation of the hospitals' supplemental security income (SSI) fractions for fiscal 2016 and directing that, on remand, "CMS shall have the burden of providing either countervailing evidence or valid legal grounds to overcome the Hospitals' prima facie evidence of error." Compelling CMS to disclose to the hospital patient-level SSI-eligibility data obtained from the Social Security Administration and to obtain from the SSA all such SSI-eligibility data and disclose it to the hospitals. Declaring that CMS' interpretation of "entitled to" SSI benefits is contrary to statute. HHS did not immediately respond to a request from Becker's seeking comment. Eli Lilly's experimental Alzheimer's disease treatment, Kisunla which slowed decline by up to 35% in clinical trials has been approved by the FDA, after previously delaying its decision in March, the agency announced July 2. Kisunla (donanemab) is approved to be given as an injection via infusion about every four weeks in patients experiencing mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia, according to the FDA. In phase 3 clinical trials, Kisunla slowed cognitive and functional decline by up to 35% compared to a placebo, according to a news release from Eli Lilly. The drug was also found to reduce participants' risk of progressing further to the next stage of Alzheimer's. The treatment is not meant to be ongoing and can be stopped when the plaques dissipate to a certain level. "As a physician, I am encouraged by the potential to stop treatment, which could reduce out-of-pocket costs and infusion burden for eligible patients," Howard Fillit, MD, cofounder and chief science officer at the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation said in the release. The American Hospital Association said raising tariffs on Chinese-made medical supplies could create more problems. In a letter to U.S. trade representatives, the AHA challenged the Biden administration's proposal to increase tariff rates on syringes, needles, personal protective equipment, and medical and surgical gloves. The administration said the plan will confront China's unfair trade practices and incentivize domestic medical supply manufacturing. The AHA disagrees, arguing "this strategy may fail or bring negative unintended consequences." China-based manufacturers dominate the market for some commonly used medical supplies, and other sources are unlikely to meet domestic demand, the AHA said, so the U.S. healthcare industry might have to continue buying these more expensive products. The organization also said hospitals have existing contracts with China-based manufacturers, and it is burdensome to test and adopt new devices. Read the letter here. The healthcare industry rapidly embraced innovative solutions to navigate unprecedented supply chain challenges amid COVID-19. However, as the pandemic waned, so too has the pace of innovation, one supply chain expert told the Association of National Account Executives. Critical supply shortages and rising costs during the public health crisis spurred supply chain teams to embrace more creative procurement strategies, expand supplier relationships and accelerate the modernization and digitization of supply chain operations, according to GHX. Though calls to improve supply chain resilience magnified in the wake of the pandemic, progress on these efforts has slowed, according to Eugene Schneller, PhD, a professor of supply chain management at Arizona State University's W. P. Carey School of Business in Tempe. "When the pressure's off, you don't pay as much attention to those as you did in the past. Notably, we still don't have provider systems that have resilience in their mission statements or as part of their governance processes," he told the Association of National Account Executives. The pandemic also required a high level of collaboration and visibility between suppliers and providers. Organizations must work to sustain and build on these successful partnerships, according to Dr. Schneller. "Much sharing of data happened during COVID. When the crisis goes away, how do we sustain collaboration? Putting governance structures in place to assure access to and equitable allocation of critical products is important," he told ANAE. "Resilience is important. Providers knowing how suppliers are managing their upstream risk is critical to great partnerships." Aaron Rossi, former CEO of the now closed Reditus Labs, was sentenced to five years in prison for federal mail and tax fraud and plans to defraud Bloomington-based Central Illinois Orthopedic Surgery, 25 News Now reported July 2. Mr. Rossi pleaded guilty to one count of tax fraud for withholding income on his tax return and one count of mail fraud, with six additional charges dropped as part of a plea agreement in February. He was accused of using the orthopedic group's funds for personal purchases, and he admitted to using the funds illegally in court and admitted to withholding income information from his accountant in 2016. Along with his sentence, he will have to pay $3.1 million in restitution. Earlier in June he was also indicted by a federal grand jury on six counts of healthcare fraud, one count of mail fraud, and four counts of wire fraud. He is accused of defrauding the state of Illinois and public and private health insurance companies out of hundreds of thousands of dollars during the COVID-19 pandemic. A popular Belfast pizza restaurant has said it will close its doors next week but admits there is an overwhelming interest in what they will do next. Pi Guy, which is located in Trademarket on Dublin Road, took to social media this evening (Wednesday) to announce their closure from 14 July, which is also the final day of trading for Trademarket. So the time has finally come to say goodbye, at least temporarily, the owners of the restaurant, which specialises in naturally leavened Neapolitan pizza, said. Sunday July 14th will be our last day of trading in @trademarketbelfast. Its incredibly hard to believe that its been 2 years already but unfortunately all good things come to an end. The sheer amount of interest in what were gonna do next has been a bit overwhelming. "It means a lot that people make such an effort to reach out and are actually interested in what were gonna do next, they added. So for the next couple of months our DMs are open and were gonna be available for some private gigs/ collabs/ kitchen takeovers (the first time in nearly 3 years). Slide into the DMs if youve something interesting coming up and want us to come sling some top tier pizza. In the medium- long term we do have plans, but I really cant say too much about them. Thats gonna have to wait for a few weeks. But I promise you itll be worth it. Were back today from 5pm and plan to have a shedload of dough for weekend ahead. Hopefully no sell outs. See yall at @trademarket for the last normal week of trading. Pi Guy will join its fellow Trademarket vendors by closing in July after the location was sold to accommodate a new property development on the site from IT company Kainos. In a recent post, the market team said they have yet to secure a new site for their vendors but continue to work behind the scenes to make this happen and hope to have good news to share on this in the near future. News Catch Up: Tuesday 2nd July 2024 Despite using almost the same supply chains, Belfast was found to be significantly cheaper. Photo: Getty Dublin is the second most expensive of 10 cities across Europe looked at for apartment construction in a new study, and build costs in the Irish capital are around a third higher those in Belfast. The report looked at the costs of building the same apartment block in different locations across Europe. Zurich was the most expensive with the Estonian capital Tallinn the cheapest. But Dublin is the second dearest place to build while Belfast, just 140km away and with almost the same supply chain for materials, was the second cheapest. The report was compiled by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) and researchers from Trinity College Dublin. It looked at the cost of building the same new unit in a seven-storey or more block of mostly two-bed homes. The average across the 10 cities surveyed came in at 2,057 per sqm. The cost in Dublin is 2,363. Zurich was the only city more expensive, at 2,866 per sqm. Tallinn was the cheapest at 1,367 per sqm. In Belfast the cost per square metre was 1,755. Amsterdam and Brussels, both large and wealthy cities, are also among the cheaper places to build. The report, which includes both hard costs such as materials and some but not all soft costs such as professional fees and taxes, is the first to use a common International Construction Management Standards V3 (ICMS3) to compare costs across markets. The disparity in costs between Dublin and Belfast in particular needs to be examined, according to Ronan Lyons, associate professor of economics in Trinity College Dublin, and one of the authors of the report. In addition to the role of labour productivity, policymakers need to understand the role played by regulatory specifications and standards, as well as differences in soft costs, in affecting overall viability, he said. High construction costs in Dublin are a barrier to new housing supply, he said. Dublin is somewhat cheaper than the typical city for structural works, typically involving concrete. However, Dublins high overall cost is due in particular to two headings services and equipment, which includes heating, power elevators, and non-structural works, which covers things like floors, windows and carpentry, he said. A second author of the report, Bryn Griffiths, vice chair of the SCSI Quantity Surveying Professional Group Committee, said the survey shows construction costs here could be reduced. This survey compared the price of a Swiss apartment block if it were built in the ten cities, and it is clear that this design is architecturally very different to what we would deliver in Ireland. The designs we are using here drive higher costs and we believe if planning policy was to adopt alternative approaches and more flexibility, costs could be reduced in this area. SpaceX is looking to increase its space launches soon as the Elon Musk-led company poses to deploy rockets 120 times each year. According to TechCrunch, SpaceX on Tuesday shared its ambitions to launch its Starship rockets from NASA's Kennedy Space Center 44 times per year. With the Federal Aviation Agency preparing a separate launch pad for SpaceX's Starship, more space launches are expected to roll out in the following years, especially with its test flight as part of its Artemis missions' commitment. These would be in addition to the two existing launch sites SpaceX has already built in southeast Texas. Combined, the total space flights could number an average of 120 launches each year. Amid the aerospace manufacturer's ambitious goal, competing private firms have already filed complaints to regulators over potential disruptions to other businesses looking to secure launch permission. Also Read : US Leads in Record-Breaking 210 Orbital Launches in 2023 Environmental Concerns Rise Amid SpaceX Rapid Deployment Environmental groups and experts have already expressed concerns about SpaceX's plans to expand its rocket deployments due to their impact on space junk, carbon emissions, and resource consumption. Scientific American has previously alerted potential "risk of creating dangerous debris" threatening the safety of astronauts with the increase of rocket ship parts left in space with each launch. The company's massive satellite system, Starlink, in particular, was a concern due to its leftover junk becoming space hazards. One scientist even noted that Starlink satellites are responsible for 1,600, or 50%, of all close encounters in modern space launches. Space Junk Problem to Grow with Commercial Launches With NASA opening its floodgates for more private space missions in the future as it retires the International Space Station, these dangers are expected to surge as more companies join the space race. So far, Blue Origin is looking to bring even tourists into space as its planned low-orbit space station, Orbital Reef, receives more support. The United Launch Alliance is also expected to increase satellite deployments as its parent companies, Lockheed Martin and Boeing Defense, increase focus to more potential space ventures. Boeing itself is contributing to the space debris as it continues to increase space flights for the Artemis missions. The Blade Runner TV sequel, originally planned to be filmed in Belfast, has officially started production in Prague with cameras rolling on the project this weekend. Filming for Blade Runner 2099 had been due to get underway at Belfasts Harbour Studios in 2023, but the project was delayed due to the Hollywood writers strike. However, in October last year the BBC reported the series would be filmed elsewhere. Blade Runner 2099 is shooting under the working title Bulero in Prague, and has filed with the Czech Film Fund under two line items, Rebirth and The Hunted Becomes the Hunter, according to the Prague Reporter. The outlet confirmed filming began on Sunday. The production will be one of the biggest to ever film in the Czech capital, with its Barrandov Studio being completely occupied over the next six months to accommodate the sci-fi series. Previously announced series leads Michelle Yeoh and Hunter Schafer will be joined in the sci-fi drama by: Dimitri Abold (The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes) and Lewis Gribben (Somewhere Boy), who will appear as series regulars. The series will take place after the events of the original Blade Runner film and the sequel, Blade Runner 2049. NI Screen had awarded Blade Runner 2099 funding of 4.1m in 2022-23 for filming in Northern Ireland, but it was previously reported any money that has been paid would be returned. Last year, NI Screen CEO Richard Williams told Sunday Life: We have spoken to the production and it is not our understanding that Blade Runner 2099 has been cancelled. The production was halted due to the ongoing writers strike. Since then there has also been strike action by actors. The WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes have been halting productions all over the world. We hope for a swift and equitable resolution to the dispute for all parties, allowing US-originated projects to get back into production here. The original Blade Runner movie, set in a dystopian future Los Angeles in 2019, was released in 1982, starring Harrison Ford. Its sequel, Blade Runner 2049, was released in 2017, and Blade Runner 2099 was commissioned by Amazon with Sir Ridley Scott as executive producer. LATEST | Judge rules there is sufficient evidence for Jeffrey Donaldson and wife to stand trial It can also be revealed that Jeffrey Donaldson is set to return to Northern Ireland after a period living in London Watch: Jeffrey Donaldson leaves Newry courthouse Liam Tunney and Allison Morris Wed 3 Jul 2024 at 12:07 Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has been sent for trial over allegations of historical sex offences. Naomi Long abandons appeal plan over sex offences ruling after other Executive parties come out against her DUP, Sinn Fein and UUP separately come out against legal challenge, prompting Alliance leader to abandon what shed wanted to do Justice Minister Naomi Long. Pic: Liam McBurney/PA Wire Sam McBride Wed 3 Jul 2024 at 07:18 Naomi Long has abandoned her plan to appeal a judgment overturning a law criminalising those who named Jimmy Savile as a paedophile after every other Executive party came out to oppose her. The former Bank of Ireland building on Royal Avenue. Belfast City Council has selected a world leading cultural attraction designer to take over planning over the Belfast Stories project. The landmark project at the Bank of Ireland site on Royal Avenue, planned for completion in 2029, will be planned by Ralph Appelbaum Associates (RAA), the worlds largest practice dedicated to the planning and design of cultural attractions. The Belfast Stories development is one of seven tourism and regeneration projects included in the Belfast Region City Deal, which was unveiled in 2021. RAA will deliver the concept design and interpretive masterplan for the visitor attraction element of the proposed city centre destination. The appointment comes as the project moves into the concept design phase, also known as architecture RIBA Stage 2. This is the process of briefing, designing, constructing, and operating building projects of scale. RAA was selected based on its international experience designing museum and narrative environments including the Obama Presidential Centre, Chicago, the International Slavery Museum and Maritime Museum, Liverpool, and the US Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington DC. The company has also supported The Braid Arts Centre in Ballymena and the Museum of Literature Ireland in Dublin. RAA will work alongside the Integrated Design Team, Oslo-based Snhetta, the firm responsible for designing the Oslo Opera House and the 9/11 Memorial Pavilion in New York. Belfast-based TODD Architects, are leading on the architectural and structural design, whilst property and construction consultancy, Gleeds, are overseeing project management. Belfast Stories hosted a forum event on Tuesday, July 2, with the experience design team. Deputy Lord Mayor Andrew McCormick, said after the event: Belfast Stories is making significant progress and RAAs appointment is another fantastic step towards unlocking almost 100 years of heritage at the 5,000 square metre Art Deco Bank of Ireland site. It is wonderful that the ambition we have for Belfast Stories is matched by the teams appointed to transform this much-loved heritage site into a dynamic public space, visitor experience and creative hub that holds the potential to transform our city centre. Belfast Stories is a flagship project for the city and very much embodies our ambitions for Belfast to become a more inclusive, compassionate, vibrant, and visited city. Tourism NIs Chief Executive Officer, John McGrillen said: Belfast Stories holds the potential to transform the city centre and contribute to the citys ongoing regeneration. Belfast is the gateway to the region attracting people to this authentic and vibrant city is essential to the growth of our tourism industry right across Northern Ireland. We are a nation of storytellers and storytelling is at the core of our experience brand, allowing us to share our giant spirit with the many visitors who come here. Belfast Stories will also become a focal point for the regions burgeoning creative industries and a base for film-related organisations, as well as providing a home for Northern Ireland Screens digital film archive. For more information visit the Belfast City Council website. The plans for the annual Orangefest event at Belfast City Hall on the Twelfth of July have been revealed. Designed to accompany the July 12 parades, Orangefest 2024 will take place from 10am to 4pm at both Belfast City Hall and surrounding areas in Royal Avenue. This years events include a line-up from an international food market in the grounds of City Hall organised by Food NI and Taste of Ulster offering up a range of local and international cuisines, as well as live cooking demonstrations. Circus and street entertainers will also be performing street theatre in the grounds, where stilt walkers, drumming workshops from community tribal drummers, drop in circus skills and circus shows will all be provided for free and will be suitable for all ages. Orangefest was first established in 2007 and aims to foster a peaceful and harmonious society by celebrating the rich and diverse cultures of Northern Ireland. County Grand Master, Rt. Wor. Bro. Spencer Beattie said the organising committee are delighted to be bringing together a variety of activities to encourage people to remain in the city centre throughout the morning. He said: Our message this year is that Belfast is very much going to be open for business during the July 12, celebrations. Many retailers throughout the city centre have committed to remaining open during the festivities from 1pm to 5pm and we want to encourage people to enjoy their time in the city centre responsibly and safely. As well as the programme of events in the grounds of City Hall, there will also be a range of guided tours of the historic building available throughout the morning allowing people to experience Belfasts rich history. Mr Beattie said he looks forward to welcoming people from all across the city to Orangefest this year. It is our mission to enhance the well-known July 12 celebrations by providing additional activities that are educational, entertaining, and accessible to all, fostering a sense of community and togetherness in Belfast, he said. As we enjoy the spectacle of the 334th annual demonstration of the Battle of the Boyne, we are looking forward to a feast of activity at Belfast City Hall. We aspire to make the Belfast Twelfth a globally recognised event that not only highlights the cultural significance of the day but also promotes unity and economic growth. Through our efforts, we aim to remove barriers, foster mutual respect, and create a positive and inclusive environment for all citizens and visitors. The organisers of the annual Scarva sham fight are gearing up for tens of thousands of visitors The organisers of the annual Scarva sham fight are gearing up for tens of thousands of visitors The organisers of the annual Scarva Sham Fight expect this years event to be attended by tens of thousands of visitors as they revealed their 2024 plans. Taking place in the Co Down village on July 13, the annual fight features a recreation of the battle between rival monarchs William and James alongside a large-scale procession through Scarva. This years event will feature nine visiting preceptories, including visitors from Australia and New Zealand, who will join the parade of 4,000 members of the Royal Black Institution and around 85 bands. The organisers of the annual Scarva sham fight are gearing up for tens of thousands of visitors The organisers have said they expect tens of thousands of visitors in what they claim is the biggest one-day event, at a single location, anywhere in Northern Ireland. Speaking about the plans for 2024, Sovereign Grand Master Rev William Anderson said: "The procession and Sham Fight at Scarva hold a special place in the parading calendar, and it is a great day out for all the family. "As a Christian-based institution, the service of public worship is of the utmost importance to our members. "The day is rooted in tradition, with preceptories carrying their wonderful banners portraying biblical scenes, and is a unique spectacle of music and pageantry." Rev Anderson also praised the team of organisers "for their dedication, commitment and professionalism in maintaining the only re-enactment of its kind on these islands. John Adair, who is famous for his portrayal of King William IIl, also said: "The 13th at Scarva wouldn't be the same without the Sham Fight. It's the last remaining Sham Fight in Europe, to the best of my knowledge. There used to be one in Bandon, Cork, but it has gone by the wayside. "It's a day of historical significance, and the performers do all in their power to deliver an exciting performance that can be enjoyed by everyone." This years procession will leave the assembly field on Gilford Road at 11.15am and make its way to the demesne. The Sham Fight is due to start at 1.30pm, with the religious service scheduled for 2pm. I could have ended up in US gang had it not been for my family, admits Belfast Stars Maurice Jones Local Tories deny supporting any North Down candidate despite chairman endorsing Alex Easton Fresh bout of confusion over personal and party backing of runners after TUVs nose was put out of joint by Reform UK leader Farage last month following his comments on Wilson and Paisley Alex Easton Andrew Madden Wed 3 Jul 2024 at 07:14 The Northern Ireland Conservatives insists the party is not endorsing any candidate in North Down ahead of the election despite its chairman saying he was backing Alex Easton. Tributes have been paid to the mother and daughter killed in a crashFour people have died on Irish roads within 24 hours Gardai are at the scene of the serious road crash which happened on the N26 between Swinford and Foxford, Co Mayo. The deceased, a mother in her 40s who was driving the car and her young daughter, are understood to be from the local area. Stock image A Mayo community has paid tribute to a mother and daughter who lost their lives in a crash, saying a cloud has fallen over the town again". Aisling Moore and her eight-year-old daughter Abbigael Moore-Tournie died after their car collided with a lorry on the N26 in Co Mayo at 5.45pm on Tuesday, at Callow between Foxford and Swinford. Ms Moore, who was aged 46 was driving the car, and her young daughter are understood to be from the local area. The driver of the lorry was taken to hospital with injuries that are understood to be non-life threatening. Gardai are at the scene of the serious road crash which happened on the N26 between Swinford and Foxford, Co Mayo. Local Fianna Fail councillor John Caulfield said his thoughts and reflections are the same as everybody in Swinford, that he is absolutely devastated at the loss of two lives in the crash. When news broke, it was like a cloud fell over the town again and so soon after we lost two people in Swinford in a house fire just a few months ago. Just devastation, people are just silent this morning in shock. Our thoughts are with the family this morning as they try to come to terms with this awful, devastating news, he said. Cllr Caulfield said he could only imagine the child starting off the summer holidays with all the dreams of spending time with her parents and grandparents. All cut short and never to be again, he told RTE Radio Ones Morning Ireland, adding that the community of Swinford will gather around and support them. He said that the increase in road fatalities across country is a very worrying trend. There is a fear out there on the road, this is a very busy stretch of road but not known for accidents, he said. He added that we always need more money to improve roads but there was a stretch of road improved on that road, removing a 90 degree bend. I have no recollection of fatalities up until this on that road, he added. Speaking to the Irish Independent yesterday, Cllr Caulfield said: "This is another unspeakable tragedy to happen here in Mayo and local to us here in the Swinford area. It's another family absolutely destroyed. It's hard to find words when horrific tragedies like this happen but all I can say is we are praying for the family of the young girl and her mother. "We are praying for their family who have to try and cope with a loss so huge it is unimaginable." Taoiseach Simon Harris sent his sympathies to the families of those who died in the latest road crashes. Speaking in the Dail, he said: I know that communities in Mayo and in Westmeath have been devastated by the news of this loss of life and I know I join with everybody in this house in sending our deepest sympathies to the families of those who have died." He said that 97 people have lost their lives on Irish roads this year but added that no number can hide the reality in terms of the personal tragedy and upset" the family behind each of those numbers feel. I just wanted to really acknowledge that, as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the dangers on our roads, Mr Harris said. Local councillor Joe Faughnan said there is a dark cloud hanging over the area following the news of the tragedy. There is a great sense of shock in the community as we await more details about the collision, he said. It is just so sad and there is a dark cloud hanging over the area. All my thoughts and condolences are with the family affected by the tragedy. Every road death is one that we hope to avoid, and it is so sad for the family and a massive shock for all involved. The main thing tonight is that everyone is thinking of the family and sending condolences. We live in a good community that will rally around and support the family at this difficult time. Meanwhile, two men died in separate crashes in the Castlepollard area of Westmeath. A man in his 80s died in a two-car collision on the R394 at Gartlandstown near Castlepollard. The man, who was a passenger in one of the cars, was pronounced dead at the scene at around 5.30am on Wednesday. The driver, a woman aged in her 60s, was seriously injured and is being treated at Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore. The driver of the other second car, a man aged in his 30s, is being treated at Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar for non-life-threatening injuries. A passenger, a man aged in his 20s, is also receiving treatment for non-life threatening injuries at the Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore. On Tuesday, a man in his 40s died in a single-vehicle crash on the R395 at Teevrevagh near Castlepollard. Co Cork, gardai are seeking a driver after a hit and run that happened last Friday afternoon. The hit-and-run happened at Brough Cross in Doneraile. "A male in his 20s, injured in the incident, was taken by air ambulance to Cork University Hospital where he is being treated for serious but non-life threatening injuries, gardai said. Gardai said that the driver of one of the cars involved failed to remain at the scene and has yet to come forward. A Victoria Cross awarded to Captain Henry Peel Ritchie, of the Royal Navy, in the First World War could fetch up to 260,000 when it goes under the hammer later this month (Noonans/PA) A Victoria Cross won by a sailor in the First World War could fetch up to 260,000 when it goes under the hammer later this month. It was awarded to Captain Henry Peel Ritchie, of the Royal Navy, who was born in Edinburgh, for his gallant command of HMS Goliaths steam pinnace at Dar-es-Salaam in east Africa on November 28 1914. Capt Ritchie, then 38, was wounded eight times in 20 minutes as he steered the pinnace to safety from the port, which was then under German rule. His medal is one of 250 being sold at Noonans Mayfair during an auction on July 23, with the collection expected to fetch in the region of 2 million. The medals were collected by Jason Pilalas, from Connecticut, who died last year, and served as an officer in the United States Navy, completing three tours of Vietnam. Nimrod Dix, deputy chairman of Noonans, said: When the pinnace came under a withering fire, 38-year-old Ritchie took over the wheel from his wounded coxswain and steered for the harbours entrance, but it took 20 minutes to get clear, in which period he was wounded eight times on the forehead, in the left hand, twice in the left arm, in his right arm and hip and, finally, by two bullets through his right leg. Mr Ritchie, who was promoted to Captain on the retired list in January 1924, lived at Craig Royston in Edinburgh and died there aged 83 on December 9 1958. The medal collection, which covers 200 years of naval history, also includes 10 medals awarded to Lieutenant Commander William Ewart Hiscock, of the Royal Navy, who was born in Dorchester, Dorset, in 1886. His medals are estimated to fetch between 80,000 and 120,000. Mr Dix described how the controlled mining officer, serving at HMS St Angelo in Malta, dealt with 125 incidents at the height of the islands siege. Lt Cmdr Hiscock and his wife were killed in a bombing raid on Valetta in February 1942 just a few days after it was announced that he had been awarded the George Cross. King George VI presented the medal to one of the heros daughters at Buckingham Palace on June 23 1942. Describing medal collector Mr Pilalas, Mr Dix said: He was not only a man of many talents, but he was also a man of many interests, none more so than his relentless pursuit of knowledge of all things relating to the Royal Navy, this voracious appetite for knowledge being matched only by his seemingly unquenchable thirst to collect objects relating to his passion. However, as much as Jason cherished his collection, he was always mindful of the fact that he was just the custodian of these objects in his own lifetime. Talks critical to resolving EU tariff spat 10:48, July 03, 2024 By Zhong Nan ( China Daily Despite the challenging and highly complex nature of China-European Union negotiations on the latter's anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles, such talks remain the most effective way to prevent the escalation of bilateral economic and trade tensions, said market watchers and business leaders. To navigate the intensifying economic and trade competition, they said China and the EU should closely bind their industrial chains, enhance market integration, and achieve mutual benefits. As the Ministry of Commerce said in late June that China and the EU have expedited consultations on this issue, Lyu Yue, a professor at the Academy of China Open Economy Studies, part of the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, said that through negotiations with the EU and discussions with relevant member states, China aims to reduce current tariff levels as much as possible. By avoiding cutthroat competition and unilateral suppression, both sides should instead foster shared interests and prosperity, paving the way for a stronger, more collaborative economic future, Lyu said. Even though Chinese EVs account for just a small share of the EU's EV imports, the European Commission, which represents the interests of the EU as a whole, in mid-June unveiled additional provisional tariffs ranging from 17.4 percent to 38.1 percent for Chinese EV manufacturers. The additional provisional EU duties on imported Chinese-made EVs are due to apply from Thursday, with the tariffs expected to be finalized on Nov 2. According to its rules, the EU will implement "provisional tariffs" for four months before making a final decision. This means that from Thursday, when the EU starts imposing provisional tariffs until the final tariff rates are determined China has about four months to engage in talks with the EU and relevant member states. Noting that there are different voices within the EU, Hu Zinan, a researcher at the German Studies Center of Tongji University in Shanghai, believes that such talks will be challenging, as the discussions will encompass more than just tariff levels on Chinese EVs exported to Europe. Sharing similar views, Ding Rijia, a professor specializing in industrial economy at the China University of Mining and Technology in Beijing, said that if China retaliates with reciprocal tariffs, such as higher duties on large-displacement gasoline vehicle imports from Europe or restricted exports of critical materials like rare earths and lithium, it would severely drive up costs. China-EU trade declined 1.3 percent year-on-year to 2.23 trillion yuan ($307 billion) in the first five months, statistics from the General Administration of Customs showed. Matthias Loebich, partner and leader for international business at BearingPoint, a European management and technology consultancy with more than 10,000 employees across 70 countries and regions, said that China's fast-growing EV sector will continue to lead the world's green transition and create enormous growth opportunities for upstream and downstream industries in both domestic and global markets in the years ahead. "This is evident in our doubling of Chinese automotive clients seeking consulting support over the past two years," said Loebich, noting that Chinese automakers are enhancing their internal capabilities in management, digital transformation, and overseas strategies, learning from advanced markets to elevate their global presence. That sentiment is in line with the latest trend. China's new energy vehicles are becoming popular in overseas markets thanks to their quality, driving range as well as multiple functionality. A total of 519,000 EVs and plugin hybrids were shipped overseas from China between January and May, up 13.7 percent year-on-year, said the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun) The world is well aware of the environmental issues we are already facing, which is why there have already been measures in place such as alternative power sources and electric vehicles. However, some harmful emissions are unavoidable, such as the growing carbon footprint brought forth by AI data centers. Google's Carbon Footprint Grows Every time you submit a prompt or ask a question to an AI tool, you are effectively contributing to the need for powerful data centers that heavily consume energy. With the AI race continuing to rage on, more companies are establishing data centers to support consumer use. With Google being one of the biggest AI developers in the market right now, the tech giant's carbon footprint has significantly grown since the AI boom. Despite aiming to cut its carbon emissions in half by 2030, it has instead grown to 48%, as reported by The Verge. In 2023, Google produced 14.3 million metric tons of pollution, which equates to a 13% year-over-year increase. Data centers are known for their heavy use of electricity, and it has become the biggest source of the search engine giant's additional emissions. With the growing development of Gemini AI and its functions, Google is almost releasing enough CO2 in the environment to rival the emission of 38 gas-fueled power plants in one year. The company itself has already admitted to the struggle of cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions. "As we further integrate AI into our products, reducing emissions may be challenging due to increasing energy demands from the greater intensity of AI compute, and the emissions associated with the expected increases in our technical infrastructure investment," Google stated. Unfortunately, companies have yet to find a way to cut down on electricity usage for AI operations, but the company assured that it is already trying to make AI models, hardware, and data centers more energy-efficient. Read Also : Pollution from Fossil Fuel Found to Cause Over 5 Million Deaths Yearly Some are Worse Than Others Evidently, Google's carbon footprint is already bad enough, but it is not the only AI company processing AI requests right now. Hugging Face conducted an experiment to determine how much carbon is emitted by its own large language model, BLOOM. Over a period of 18 days, Hugging Face found that training its LLM led to 25 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, but that has doubled when the company included the emissions produced by manufacturing the computer infrastructure needed for training. That is equivalent to 60 flights between London and New York, as per MIT, and BLOOM is mostly powered by nuclear energy which does not produce carbon emissions. Companies like OpenAI and Meta, however, still heavily rely on fossil fuels. In the article's estimation, OpenAI is emitting more than 500 metric tons of CO2, and this was back in November 2022 when the company was still training a less powerful AI, the GPT-3. Meta has released limited data so it's harder to estimate its carbon footprint. This raises a larger concern considering that AI is already being integrated into everyday operations, and that has been the case even before the AI boom. Google and Microsoft is already adding it to their products, and social media companies like Meta continue to release AI features as well. A British government with a majority of 10 MPs is no different from one with a majority of 100 MPs in theory (Alamy/PA) With opinion polls showing a significant Labour advantage in the 2024 General Election, some Conservative politicians including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have warned this could create a supermajority in the House of Commons for Sir Keir Starmer. It is a term usually associated with politics in the United States, and refers to situations where more than a simple majority of half of the votes available plus one is required in a ballot. For example, a debate can be brought to a premature end and a vote forced by 60 US senators (out of the 100 total), while a two-thirds Senate supermajority is required to ratify treaties. Scottish politics also recognises supermajorities constitutionally, with laws that affect the election of MSPs being potentially subject to this restriction. A Scottish supermajority requires two-thirds of MSPs to vote in favour. Policing minister Chris Philp said in one interview that an enormous majority would be in the dozens or even in the hundreds. With 650 seats for MPs in the Commons, a party would need to win 434 to hold two-thirds a majority of 218. But the House of Commons has no provisions for any laws requiring anything beyond a simple majority to be passed. The largest Commons majority after an election was in 1924, when Stanley Baldwins Conservatives held a majority of 210 seats. Then-prime minister Stanley Baldwin at Chequers, the PMs official country residence (PA) How powerful is a party with a supermajority? The Conservative Party has claimed that a Labour supermajority would be unstoppable, but in theory a British government with a majority of 10 MPs is no different from one with a majority of 100 MPs. Both are able to control the legislative agenda and pass laws with a majority vote. In practice, narrow majorities are vulnerable to rebellions by backbenchers or unexpected by-elections, with larger majorities helping party leaders to lessen the impact of these threats. The official Opposition the second-largest party in the Commons therefore often struggles to beat government-backed motions, and instead scrutinises legislation through debates and its presence on various committees overseeing departments. However, the larger the majority, the fewer MPs the Opposition will have to perform this scrutiny. Not only does this affect how many people are available to attend debates, but the number of questions at Prime Ministers Questions and the chairing of select committees are allocated in proportion to a partys share of seats. Following the 2019 election, Labour as Opposition was entitled to nine committee chairs, compared with 16 Conservative and two for the third-largest party, the SNP. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace giving evidence to the Defence Select Committee (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA) Which governments have previously ruled with large majorities? At the last election in 2019, Boris Johnson won a majority of 80 seats (365 constituencies against 285 represented by every other party), which he hailed in a victory speech as the biggest Conservative majority since the 1980s. But because of defections, by-elections and suspensions, the Conservative majority before the 2024 election was called had fallen to 42 (with 346 seats still held). In 1997, Tony Blair won 418 seats (out of a possible 659) to deliver a Labour government with a majority of 179. This comfortable level of victory allowed the party to enact significant and lasting measures, including the creation of the minimum wage and devolution of powers to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Mr Blair won smaller majorities at subsequent elections but having started from such a peak they were still significant standing at 167 in 2001 and 66 in 2005. A Parliamentary vote on the UK joining the war in Iraq in 2003 saw 84 Labour MPs rebel, which would have been enough to defeat the motion if most Conservative MPs had not lent their support. After a moderate majority of 43 in 1979, Margaret Thatchers next election wins delivered large majorities (144 in 1983 and 102 in 1987). With the size of her majority, Mrs Thatchers 11 years in power saw only one government Bill defeated in the House of Commons a 1986 proposal to legalise the opening of shops on Sundays, which was rebelled against by 72 Conservative MPs on largely religious grounds. Cherie Blair looks on as her husband, Tony Blair, addresses the nation for the first time as Prime Minister in Downing Street (Fiona Hansen/PA) Links Electoral Calculus: General Election prediction (archived) Post on X by @SkyNews, July 1 2024 (archived post and video) The Legislative Branch | The White House (archived) What happens if a Bill does not become an Act | Scottish Parliament Website (archived) LBC post on X, July 1 2024 (archived post and video) Constituencies MPs and Lords UK Parliament (archived) First YouGov MRP of 2024 general election shows Labour on track to beat 1997 landslide | YouGov (archived) Rishi Sunak post on X, July 2 2024 (archived) Opposition (The) UK Parliament (archived) Checking the work of Government UK Parliament (archived) Official opposition | Institute for Government (archived) Prime Ministers Questions and the role of the Speaker UK Parliament (archived) Election of select committee chairs and members in the House of Commons | Institute for Government (archived) General Election 2019: full results and analysis House of Commons Library (archived) Boris Johnsons election victory speech clip on X (archived post and video) State of the parties MPs and Lords UK Parliament (archived only) General election results May 1 1997. House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/38 [PDF] (archived) 20 years of the National Minimum Wage gov.uk (archived) Introduction to devolution in the United Kingdom House of Commons Library (archived) General election results 7 June 2001. House of Commons Library Research Paper 01/54 [pdf] (archived) General election 2005. House of Commons Library Research Paper 05/33 [pdf] (archived) The Public Whip Iraq Declaration of War 18 Mar 2003 at 2200 (archived) General election results 1885-1979 (archived only) General election results June 9 1983: House of Commons Information Office Factsheet (archived) General election results June 11 1987: House of Commons Information Office Factsheet (archived) Release of MTs private files for 1986 (5) Life at No.10 | Margaret Thatcher Foundation (archived) Shops Bill [Lords] (Hansard, April 14 1986) (archived) Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer, centre, with local parliamentary candidate Chris Bloore and other supporters arriving for a visit to Redditch in Worcestershire (Jacob King/PA) Sir Keir Starmer said he hopes Thursdays General Election will see Britain start to rise to the challenge of populism, adding the contest offered a huge chance to take our country forward. Speaking to the PA news agency in his last national interview of the campaign, the Labour leader stressed his desire to address the shared challenge presented by populism across Europe and across the world. In recent days, following electoral successes for the populist National Rally party in France and polls suggesting Donald Trump could return to the White House, Sir Keir has spoken of the need to offer a progressive alternative to populism. Sir Keir Starmer said a Labour election win could show a progressive answer to the rise of populism (Andrew Milligan/PA) Asked whether he felt pressure to prove that Labours programme could provide an alternative, he said: Yes, I do think its really important that we make that case. On a campaign visit to East Kilbride, he said: There are many challenges, probably more challenges now than there were over recent years, both here in the UK, here in Scotland and across the world, and we have to rise to those challenges and it has to be a progressive answer to those challenges. Now obviously that starts tomorrow, I hope, in the UK, and here in Scotland as well, but it is then a shared challenge across Europe and across the world to meet the challenges of today with the answers of progressives. Asked how he felt about the prospect of entering Downing Street on Friday, he added: While I recognise the responsibility, if we are elected to form a government tomorrow, Ill see it all as an opportunity. An opportunity to deliver 40,000 more NHS appointments a week, 6,500 more teachers, to grow our economy and get more money into peoples pockets. So yes, its huge, but its a huge chance to take our country forward. He made his comments following a campaign rally where he delivered his final message of encouragement to Scottish activists ahead of polling day. Reflecting on the campaign on its last day, he told PA he had been surprised by the negativity of the Tory campaign with its focus on warning about a Labour supermajority. He said: They have literally nothing positive to say to the country and retreated into negativity. Im pleased that we have started positively and maintained that through the campaign and end positively, because weve got a strong case for change, and the message has been consistent from us because this is a change election. An appeal poster for Jay Slater, 19, who went missing during a holiday in Tenerife (Family handout) The mother of missing Jay Slater said words cannot describe the pain and agony we are experiencing after searches on Tenerife failed to trace the missing 19-year-old. 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. The 19-year-old, from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, disappeared on June 17 after setting off to walk back to his accommodation on the holiday island. Firefighters search near to the village of Masca, Tenerife (James Manning/PA) 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. Helicopters, drones and search dogs were deployed to find the apprentice bricklayer. Mr Slater went to the holiday island on June 13 to attend the NRG music festival with two friends before his disappearance. His last known location was the Rural de Teno Park in the north of the Canary Island which was about an 11-hour walk from his accommodation. Members of the Guardia Civil near to the village of Masca, Tenerife (James Manning/PA) Jay is a normal guy who is in his third year of an apprenticeship, and he is a very popular young man with a large circle of friends, Ms Duncan said. We do not have any information on his whereabouts. The Guardia Civil have worked tirelessly up in the mountains where Jays last phone call was traced. They conducted a land search for 12 days which involved every resource they had available. Although the land search ended, the Spanish police still continue with their investigations into why Jay had travelled to the location so far away from his accommodation. We offer our sincere thanks to the Spanish authorities who continue to follow lines of inquiries. On Friday, the Guardia Civil had appealed for volunteer associations, such as firefighters and individual volunteers who were experts in rugged terrain to assist in a busqueda masiva massive search on Saturday. The search in the village of Masca, near his last-known location, took in a steep rocky area, including ravines, trails and paths. He had travelled to an Airbnb in Masca and the two men said to have rented the property were later ruled not relevant to the case, according to reports. It was reported some people would not receive their ballot papers in time for polling day on Thursday (Jane Wertli and Niven Rennie/PA) One man said his son has been disenfranchised after some people failed to receive their ballot papers in time to have their say in the General Election via postal vote. On Tuesday, Royal Mail faced backlash from Conservative politician Kevin Hollinrake after it was reported some people would not receive their ballot papers in time for polling day on Thursday. One of those people includes Niven Rennies son an RAF officer based in England, who does not wish to be named. Mr Rennie, 62, from Ayr in Scotland, said he is angry his son has yet to receive his postal vote for his constituency of Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock and will not be able to cast his vote. Mr Rennie, a retired police officer who now works as a business consultant, told the PA news agency: To me, it brings into question the whole democratic process. I feel very angry. I know (my son) is angry. His son contacted his local electoral office and asked to have his father vote on his behalf, but was told it was against the law to change his postal vote to a proxy one. The ultimate for me is my son has been disenfranchised and his vote will not count, Mr Rennie said. The understanding of the British constitution is that every adult person should get a vote. What has happened here is that a whole lot of people have been disenfranchised. Nevin Rennie, from Ayr in Scotland, said he is angry his son has not received his postal vote and therefore his vote will not be counted in the General Election (Niven Rennie) Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock is a marginal constituency as, in the last general election, it had an SNP hold with 20,272 votes compared with the Conservatives who received 17,943 votes. It does call into question a number of results because they are marginal, he said. Im absolutely flabbergasted. I would have thought in a mature democracy like the United Kingdom that we could make sure these things were operated. Mr Rennie added he believes the calling of the General Election during the Scottish school holidays had led to an increase in postal votes. If you call an election during the Scottish school holidays, that is going to cause an influx of postal vote applications, he explained. That is, I believe, what has flooded the system. I dont think there was any consideration given to that when the election was called. On Monday, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said Rishi Sunak is not concerned that some people could be disenfranchised by the issues. Were working closely with the Electoral Commission, returning officers, Royal Mail and the print suppliers to support the resolution of these issues, he told journalists. Mr Rennie said: I think any Prime Minister should be concerned about people being disenfranchised. If you believe in democracy, then you believe in one person, one vote, and if actually youre creating a system whereby some people are being robbed of that right, then you should not be defending that. Janet Wertli has lived in Zurich, Switzerland, for around 11 years, having previously resided in Hong Kong, Singapore, New York and Chislehurst, in south-east London. She applied for a postal vote, but has yet to receive it so will be unable to cast her vote for the Liberal Democrats in time for the General Election. I applied for it just before the deadline which was around June 18 because Im registered in Bromley for voting in Eltham and Chislehurst, the 54-year-old housewife told PA on Tuesday. I kept watching the Bromley website to see when they were posting them out because I was in Scotland over the weekend, so the idea was that I could, of course, take it with me to the UK, post it when I was there and it would definitely arrive in time. She said organisation surrounding postal voting should have been better. Its not the first time weve had an election in the UK and its not the first time there have been postal votes and for the people who say it was such a rush to get organised, it was not, she added. Janet Wertli has yet to receive her postal vote so will be unable to cast her vote for the Liberal Democrats in time for the General Election (Janet Wertli) Its not rocket science were just sending out polling cards. The Eltham and Chislehurst constituency is the responsibility of the Royal Borough of Greenwich. A spokesperson from Greenwich Council told PA: We encourage overseas voters to apply for their postal votes early, or register for a proxy vote, to allow enough time for airmail to arrive and be sent back. In this instance, Ms Wertli applied for a postal vote from an international address around four weeks after the General Election was announced. Unfortunately, we cannot control postal or airmail delays. A South Ayrshire Council spokesperson told PA: We are aware of delays nationally with postal votes. The delays have not been a result of local processes, and South Ayrshire Council have taken urgent steps to ensure that, where possible, all residents can cast their vote on Thursday. Legislatively, the first day that South Ayrshire Council were able to issue replacement postal packs was Friday June 28 many were re-issued on Friday and work continued on Saturday. If voters do not receive their postal vote on Monday July 1, they should contact our Elections Office on 01292 612300 to organise a replacement. Romanian national Marius Mihai Draghici, who was jailed over the deaths of 39 people in a lorry trailer in Essex in 2019, is set to be deported (Essex Police/PA) A Romanian man jailed over the deaths of 39 people in a lorry trailer in Essex will be deported without paying a penny to his victims families. Marius Mihai Draghici, 51, fled the UK after the Vietnamese nationals died in the airtight sealed container as it was being transported by ferry from Zeebrugge in Belgium to Purfleet in October 2019. In August 2022, Draghici, who was said to be a right-hand man in a long-running people-smuggling ring, was detained in Romania and extradited back to the UK. Images issued by Essex Police of the 39 Vietnamese migrants, aged between 15 and 44, that were found dead in the back of a trailer in Essex on October 23, 2019 (Essex Police/PA) Last year, he pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to 39 counts of manslaughter and conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and was jailed for 12 years and seven months. On Wednesday, prosecutor Ben Holt told a confiscation hearing before Judge Mark Lucraft KC that Draghici would not be pursued for proceeds of crime. He told the Old Bailey: Following an investigation, no assets have been discovered and in any event it is understood Mr Draghici will be deported shortly and therefore no proceedings are to be pursued. The defendant had joined the brief hearing by video link from Stocken category C prison in the East Midlands and declined the services of a translator. It is understand that he will serve the remainder of his prison sentence in Romania following his deportation. Sentencing last year, Mr Justice Garnham had said Draghici was an essential cog in a criminal conspiracy which made astonishing profits out of the exploitation of people desperate to get to the UK. In all, 11 men have been convicted of their involvement in the lucrative people-smuggling ring. In addition to Draghici, four other men were jailed for between 13 and 27 years for the manslaughters of the men, women and children. They are: Ringleader Gheorghe Nica, 47, of Basildon, Essex, haulier boss Ronan Hughes, 44, of Armagh, Maurice Robinson, 29, of Craigavon, who found the bodies, and Eamonn Harrison, 27, of County Down, who had collected the victims on the continent. To date, more than 283,000 in ill-gotten gains has been ordered to be paid by defendants as compensation to the victims families. Joe Biden has insisted he will not pull out of the race for the presidency (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) A defiant President Joe Biden vowed on Wednesday to keep running for re-election, rejecting growing pressure from Democrats to withdraw after a disastrous debate performance raised questions about his readiness. But in an ominous sign for the president, a leading ally publicly suggested a way that the party might choose someone else. I am running. I am the leader of the Democratic Party. No one is pushing me out, Mr Biden said in a call with staffers on his re-election campaign, according to a top aide who posted his comment on the X social media platform. Mr Biden was pulling every possible lever to try to salvage his re-election campaign talking to top legislators, pumping up his campaign staff and meeting later in the day with Democratic governors before a planned weekend blitz of travel and a network TV interview. But there were signs that support for Mr Biden was rapidly eroding among Democrats on Capitol Hill. Representative Jim Clyburn, a long-time Biden ally, said he would back a mini-primary in the run-up to the Democratic National Convention next month if Biden were to leave the race. Mr Clyburn, of South Carolina, floated an idea that appeared to be laying the groundwork for alternatives by delegates during the Democrats planned virtual roll call that is scheduled before the more formal party convention. You can actually fashion the process thats already in place to make it a mini-primary and I would support that, Mr Clyburn told CNN. Some Democrats believe Kamala Harris is the best option to replace Joe Biden as Democratic nominee (AP Photo/Matt Kelley, File) He said vice president Kamala Harris, governors and others could join the competition. It would be fair to everybody because if she were to be the nominee, we need to have a running mate. And need a strong running mate. Mr Clyburn, a senior lawmaker who is a former member of his partys House leadership team, said he has not personally seen the president act as he did on the debate stage last week. I saw what I saw last Thursday night, and it is concerning, he said. Some suggested Ms Harris was emerging as the favourite to replace Mr Biden if he was to withdraw, although those involved in private discussions acknowledge that governors Gavin Newsom of California and Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan remain viable alternatives. But for some insiders, Ms Harris is viewed as the best prospect to quickly unify the party and avoid a messy and divisive convention fight. Even as pressure around Mr Biden mounted, he and Ms Harris made a surprise appearance on a call with staffers from his re-election campaign and offered a pep talk, stressing the stakes of the election and returning to Mr Bidens previous post-debate comments that he would get back up after being knocked down. The president told those assembled that he was not leaving the race and would not be dragged out. Asked a short time later whether Mr Biden would consider stepping down, White House press secretary Karine Jean Pierre said absolutely not. He understands it is fair for people to ask that question. she said, while adding, I cannot lay out something that would change the presidents mind about seeking a second term. She also said Mr Biden is clear-eyed. And he is staying in the race. Democrats are unsatisfied with the explanations of Mr Bidens debate performance, from both White House staff and the president himself. And there is a deeper frustration among some Democrats who feel Mr Biden should have handled questions about his stumbling debate performance much sooner and that he has put them in a difficult position by staying in the race. White House chief of staff Jeff Zients urged people during an earlier all-staff meeting on Wednesday to tune out the noise and focus on the task of governing. Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands during their meeting on the side-lines of the Shanghai Co-operation (Sergey Guneyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP) Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on Wednesday for the second time in as many months as they visited Kazakhstan for a session of an international group founded to counter Western alliances. Mr Putin and Mr Xi last got together in May when the Kremlin leader visited Beijing to underscore their close partnership that opposes the US-led democratic order and seeks to promote a more multipolar world. Now they will be holding meetings amid the annual session of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation taking place on Wednesday and Thursday in the Kazakh capital of Astana. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation was established in 2001 by China and Russia to discuss security concerns in Central Asia and the wider region. Other members are Iran, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan shake hands as they pose for photos (Sergey Guneyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP) Observer states and dialogue partners include Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Besides Mr Putin and Mr Xi, and summit host President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev; other leaders there will be Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan; President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan; President Emomali Rakhmon of Tajikistan; and President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyzstan. President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus will attend because his nation is becoming a full member. Also present will be UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who is visiting central Asia. Mr Guterres wants to position the UN as an inclusive organisation thats talking to all the big clubs, said Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Centre. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping meet in Astana (Kazakhstans Presidential Press Office via AP) Mr Putin wants to show that Russia is not isolated over Western sanctions from the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. An arrest warrant has been issued for him by the International Criminal Court for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for abductions of children from Ukraine. Kazakhstan is not party to the Rome Statute and thus is not obliged to arrest him. For Mr Putin, the meeting is about prestige and the symbolic optics that hes not alone, Mr Gabuev said. Indeed, the Russian leader on Wednesday had multiple meetings with other leaders on the side-lines of the summit, all diligently aired by Russian state TV. Vladimir Putin shakes hands with diplomats upon his arrival at the international airport in Astana (Gavriil Grigorov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP) At a meeting with Mr Xi on Wednesday, Mr Putin hailed the SCO as one of the key pillars of a fair, multipolar world order, and said ties between Moscow and Beijing are experiencing the best period in their history. Both face soaring tensions with the West and have met about 40 times. Their meeting in China in May underscored Beijings diplomatic support for Moscow and how it is a top market for its oil and gas. Russia has relied on Beijing as a main source of high-tech imports to keep its military machine running. The SCO helps China project its influence, especially across central Asia and the Global South. Mr Xi called for bridges of communication between countries last week and wants to further promote China as an alternative to the US and its allies. For host Kazakhstan and the other central Asian nations, the meeting is a way to further their co-operation with bigger, more powerful neighbours. This year, close Moscow ally Belarus will become a full member of the organisation, and its admission indicates how Russia wants to bolster blocs of non-Western countries. China has backed Moscow amid the fighting in Ukraine, but at a meeting of the SCO in 2022, Mr Putin referred to Beijings unspecified concerns over the conflict. Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi then called for an end to the fighting without voicing explicit disapproval of Moscows action. Neither Ukraine nor any of its Western backers are attending, and major talks or breakthroughs on the war are not expected. But because it is rare these days for any meeting to include the heads of Russia, China, Turkey and the UN, the possibility of talks about the war might be raised, at least on the peripheries of the summit, probably behind closed doors. There could be a lot of side-line discussions on Ukraine, as it is a big issue which concerns all of us, a senior Kazakh official told the Associated Press. Biram Ould Dah Ould Abeid, centre, taking part in a rally among his supporters before the presidential election in Mauritania (Mamsy Elkeihel/AP) Clashes in Mauritania between security forces and protesters rallying against the re-election of President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani left three people dead, authorities said on Tuesday. An unspecified number of people were reported injured. Following the clashes, mobile internet access was blocked on Tuesday as authorities vowed to arrest those behind the violence. The protests broke out late on Monday in parts of the northwestern African country after Mr Ghazouani was declared winner of the presidential election. His main rival, Biram Dah Abeid, a renowned anti-slavery activist, rejected the outcome and claimed the result was falsified. Women sit behind an electoral banner for Mauritanian president Mohamed Ould Ghazouani, during a campaign rally before the presidential elections. The banner reads: There is no place for people embezzling public funds any more (Mamsy Elkeihel/AP) Authorities said security forces in the southern city of Kaedi the countrys largest and an opposition stronghold with an overwhelming black majority confronted the demonstrators, the ministry of interior said, and several arrests were made. The ministry did not identify the three people killed in the violence or elaborate on the circumstances of their deaths. Demonstrations also broke out in the towns of Nouadhibou, Rosso Zoueirat and Boghe, all also Abeid strongholds. Kaedi last night saw violent acts of vandalism and sabotage of public and private property, scenes of looting and a general climate of fear which led the security forces to confront it and arrest several demonstrators, the ministry said in a statement. The prosecutors office will open an investigation to determine the circumstances of these events and the death of the demonstrators, the ministry added. Mr Ghazouani, who had campaigned on a pledge of providing security and economic growth, won 56% of the votes while Mr Abeid received 22%, the electoral commission said on Monday. Mr Abeid promptly called for peaceful demonstrations and peaceful gatherings. The commission which includes representatives of political parties dismissed the opposition claims about voting irregularities. Three international election observation missions also said in their preliminary statements on Monday that the voting was held in a peaceful and transparent atmosphere. Mr Ghazouani has been accused by his opponents of corruption and mismanagement, but remains popular among Mauritanians who see him as a beacon of stability amid regional tensions, with several neighboring countries shaken by military coups and jihadi violence. For centuries, Mauritanias economic and political elite of Arab and Amazigh people enslaved black people from the northwestern Sahara. Mauritania outlawed slavery in 1981, the last country in the world to do so, but the practice continues, human rights groups say. There are around 149,000 people held in conditions of slavery in this nation of less than five million, according to the 2023 Global Slavery Index. Naomi Long's decision is right for sex abuse victims and its right for the media, writes Belfast Telegraph editor Eoin Brannigan Along with millions of other viewers, I watched The Reckoning last October. Steve Coogan played Jimmy Savile in the factual drama, which examined the former entertainers sex crimes using the chilling testimony of his victims. I watched it in Belfast, yet the previous month legislation came into force in Northern Ireland which granted anonymity for life and for 25 years after death to people suspected of sexual offences who had not been charged. 2Nite, a new monitoring app in San Francisco, is monitoring real-time situations at bar locations through the use of cameras in Bay Area establishments. The livestream allows potential visitors to see what's happening in each bar and how packed the venues are at the moment. Read Also : Detroit Compensates Wrongly Accused Man with $300,000; Updates Facial Recognition Technology 2Nite Promotes Nightlife Monitoring for Bar Goers 2Nite claims to be an "all-in-one app for managing, promoting, and discovering nightlife." The app is available for download on the Apple App Store and encourages users to explore the Discovery Page for live streams. Users can also book tickets to events at certain venues using the app. Clicking through a specific feed will provide information about the location, organizer, and more. As of writing, the app inked partnerships with five to eight venues. This includes The Blue Light, Mayes Oyster House in San Francisco, Kip's Bar and Grill, and Club Cali in Berkley. The live streams are available every Friday and Saturday night. The founders of the app hope to add more streams on Thursday and Sunday nights. 2Nite Receives Criticism Amid Bar Surveillance Premise Co-founder Lucas Harris explained that the idea of the app stemmed from the difficult bar navigation within San Francisco and other cities. He shared that live streams are the easiest way to provide information about a certain location before going in. However, some local bar patrons voiced their concerns about the surveillance strategy of the app. The fact that an app could allow other people to remotely monitor bar attendees is creeping them out. According to them, people could be more wary in bars instead of letting loose due to the monitoring. Someone also described the app as "completely invasive." Harris assured that partnered venues of the app can control what cameras are enabled. He also added that the stream is designed to only offer a glimpse of the venue. A blurring method will also be added to anonymize the feed and prevent the partygoers from being identified. Former Prime Minister Najib Razaks bid to serve the rest of his prison term under house arrest failed Wednesday when a Malaysian court rejected his request for the government to produce a document linked to a royal decision to cut his sentence. Amarjeet Singh, the Kuala Lumpur High Court judge, ruled that the former leader would have to stay behind bars because his application was not proven and based on hearsay. The ex-PM, who was convicted in 2020 for abuse of power and other crimes tied to the theft of billions of dollars from 1MDB, a sovereign wealth fund, can appeal Wednesdays ruling. His supporters said they had seen a picture of an addendum signed by then-King Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah allowing Najib to serve the remainder of his sentence at home. I find that the applicants affidavits are, at the highest, pure hearsay, the judge said in court. Earlier this year, the Federal Territories Pardons Board, which is overseen by the king, halved Najibs prison sentence in his SRC International case, to six years, and reduced his fine, from 210 million ringgit (U.S. $44.5 million) to 50 million ringgit ($10.6 million). Najib is serving his sentence in Kajang prison, near Kuala Lumpur. In a petition filed on April 1, Najib claimed that the king had issued the supplementary decree during the Jan. 29 board meeting, a day before the monarchs term on Malaysias rotating throne ended. The former prime ministers team claimed that the supplementary decree was not announced by the board on Feb. 2 and that the government was in contempt for not executing it. Amarjeet said Najibs request was based on statements by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who said he saw a photograph of the addendum on the phone of Tengku Zafrul Aziz, the minister of Investment, Trade and Industry. Ahmad Zahid himself has no knowledge of the addendum order except what he heard from Tengku Zafrul, Amarjeet said, adding that Pahang state Chief Minister Wan Rosdy Wan Ismails affirmation of the order was based on hearsay as well. In May, the high court rejected Tengku Zafruls bid to file an affidavit to correct certain errors over the supplementary order, ruling that there was no legal provision enabling a non-party to a judicial review proceeding to take such action. Plan to appeal Najib was not in court on Wednesday but his lawyer, Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, accused the government of playing hide and seek with the information. So, the alarming thing is that no individual from the government has said [anything]. If it doesnt exist, just say it doesnt exist, dont waste time, Shafee told reporters following the ruling. Defense attorney Shafee Abdullah speaks to reporters after a High Court judge ruled against former Prime Minister Najib Razaks request to finish serving his prison sentence at home, July 3, 2024. [S. Mahfuz/BenarNews] He warned that the truth would come out eventually. He said his team planned to appeal and was considering filing a writ of action, which would require prosecutors to respond to defense claims about the addendum. Today, the government can remain mute and deaf. They can do that now, but I can assure you one day in the future the matter will come out because there is an addendum, Shafee said. I can foresee how many government servants and politicians will get into trouble because it means they lied to the court, to the public on a public interest matter that affects the public. 2020 conviction Four years ago, the Kuala Lumpur High Court convicted Najib of one count of abuse of power, three counts of criminal breach of trust, and three counts of money laundering for illegally receiving money from SRC International, a unit of 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Najib began serving a 12-year sentence in August 2022 after the Federal Court dismissed his final appeal in the case. He could be eligible for parole by the end of 2025. The ex-PM faces trials in separate cases directly linked to 1MDB, a state fund he set up to spur the economy, including a trial connected to 2.3 billion ringgit (U.S. $487 million) that allegedly went missing from the fund and into his accounts. Investigators estimate that more than $4.5 billion was plundered from 1MDB through fraudulent shell companies to corrupt government and bank officials and their associates. Families tried to pay ransoms for their release but lost contact with the kidnappers, authorities say. Philippine Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. speaks to reporters in Manila following the arrests of four police officers on charges linked to the kidnapping of four foreign tourists, June 5, 2024. Two Chinese nationals who had been missing for days were found dead in the central Philippines, authorities said Wednesday, the latest in high-profile crimes targeting expatriates. The men, identified as Xia Ke Fu and Jimmy Jing Sun, arrived in Manila last month for a planned meeting on a possible business venture with an unknown local partner in the city of Naga in the eastern Philippines, authorities said. Their relatives did not hear from them and subsequently contacted local police. Eight days after their arrival, officers on June 28 verified the remains of the two, national police spokeswoman Col. Jean Fajardo told reporters in Manila. They arrived here on June 20 supposedly to meet Chinese nationals for a business transaction in our country, but when they arrived at the airport they were picked up, Fajardo said on Wednesday. The following day, their families received a demand for ransom amounting to 5 million yuan [U.S. $687,732]. She said the victims families had managed to negotiate a lower ransom of 3 million Chinese yuan ($412,639), which they wired to the kidnappers. But the suspects could no longer be contacted. The families then reached out to the police. After receiving a tip, officers went to the town of Tigaon in eastern Camarines Sur province, accompanied by the victims families, according to authorities. Maj. Michael Albania, the local police chief, said a 13-year-old boy found the bodies of both men wrapped in a blanket beside a cliff. Family members identified one of the victims as Xia Ke Fu, 39, a marketing director at Suzhou RainMed Medical Technology and an alumnus of Hunan City University. Police did not release details of how the second victim was identified. Investigators said they have suspects in the case, but did not name them because of the ongoing manhunt. Anti-crime cooperation On Monday, officials from Manila and Beijing agreed to boost their cooperation efforts against transnational crimes including offshore gaming operations in the Philippines, without specifically discussing this incident. A day later, the Philippine Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission released a statement supporting the agreement. The strengthened cooperation between China and the Philippines sends a clear message to criminal syndicates operating across borders that their malicious activities will not be tolerated or allowed to undermine the security and stability of these nations, the commission said on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Chinese Embassy in Manila issued a statement urging Philippine authorities to arrest and severely punish the suspects as soon as possible. It also reminded Chinese citizens in the Philippines to be vigilant and aware of security precautions. After the kidnap took place, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines stayed in close touch with the Philippine side and urged it to make every possible effort to work on the case and take effective measures to protect the safety of Chinese nationals in the Philippines, Mao Ning, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman, told reporters in Beijing on Tuesday. Crimes against Chinese The case was the latest criminal act targeting Chinese nationals. Last month, three Chinese tourists were allegedly abducted by four police officers, including a police major, in Manila. The police officers, all assigned in the countrys capital region, have been arrested and face robbery, kidnapping, and car theft charges. In June 2021, police rescued an abducted Chinese national who had worked as a casino employee and arrested five members of a Chinese crime gang and a Filipino getaway driver in Manila. Earlier, police arrested eight members of a Chinese crime gang in January 2021 who were linked to the kidnappings of Chinese employees at an electronics firm. One of the hostages was freed, but the other was later found dead, his body dumped in a ravine. Jojo Rinoza and Gerard Carreon in Manila contributed to this report. Don't miss the big stories. Like us on Facebook. BENNINGTON The sky was clear and bright, the breeze was gentle, and the birds were gently calling across the fields of Memorial Park at the Bennington Recreation Center, as the youngsters from Bennington Head Start filed outside to the fenced-in play place. A Yo Re Mi workshop, led by facilitator Rachel Costello, was on the afternoon agenda, and the children were excited to get started. As they laid out their yoga mats along the fence line, Costello began unpacking her equipment and setting up her speaker system. As you can probably guess from the name, Yo Re Mi combines yoga, music and mindfulness into one, in an enrichment class for children, said Costello, adding that the Yo Re Mi business is still based out of New York City, despite that she, her husband and their children had moved and begun to expand outreach into Southern Vermont. She glanced over at the assembled group, and grinned. Today, I want them to have a lot of fun. I want them to learn a few new skills and techniques, and I want them to have an introduction to yoga, said Costello. I also love it when we have an opportunity to have parents and kids together. Out came her ukulele and she side-eyed the children, playfully. Then, she grinned again, strummed a single chord, and the workshop was officially in session. Sinking into a crisscross position opposite the group, Costello inhaled deeply. With her exhale, her voice rang out clear and lyrical, Do you know this one, my friends? A, B, C, D, E, F, G Seemingly entranced and mesmerized, their arms and bodies began to sway as they joined in with the song. Soon, the group was practicing stretching songs, mindful breathing and focus-building activities. Then, the yoga poses began to be introduced. Every element of the workshop was based on music education, song, movement, self-regulation and willingly joyful participation. The young participants embodied various animal friends for movement and breathing, at times leaping into the air as frogs; stretching like a cat meow, moo-ving like a cow, or bending like the downward dog. Toward the end of the session, Costello introduced the expanding and contracting breathing ball, a device that assists as young learners think consciously about self-regulation, and the children exclaimed in delight as Costello taught mindful and meditative breathing. Inhale. Exhale. Deep in: The ball expands. Deep out: The ball contracts. Most of the parents, who had filed in during the session, had grouped together in the shade by the entrance to Head Start, observing. Im hoping that parents can see that kids can do yoga, said Costello, moving the breathing ball to another youngster. And, they can hopefully see that yoga is fun, and that they might be interested in it, too. The Yo Re Mi event at Bennington Head Start was sponsored and coordinated by the Vermont Arts Exchange. The funding comes from a generous grant from the Vermont Arts Council with added funding through Head Start of Bennington County, said Heather Bullock, grant and program coordinator for the Vermont Arts Exchange. For the past 10 years, the Vermont Arts Exchange has been partnering with the areas Head Start organizations in an arts collaborative. Artists employed through the Vermont Arts Exchange engage with Head Start teachers and students to bring art experiences to preschool-age students and engage teachers in incorporating more independent, art-based activities in the general school-year curriculum. What we have learned is that the use of art is more likely to engage children, even in areas they are reluctant to participate in, and that process and engagement leads to better readiness and outcomes when they move on to primary school, Bullock added. Yo Re Mi provides teacher and staff training, professional development programs and direct services for kids in grades pre-K through 5 with the themes of mindfulness, stress reduction, a culture of wellness and increased engagement at the forefront. More information can be found on the website, yoremikids.com. The Bennington Recreation Center and Bennington Head Start are at 655 Gage St. in Bennington. If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. BENNINGTON A Bennington man already arraigned on four counts of domestic assault and unlawful restraint in early June was charged with an additional count of kidnapping after a surveillance clip revealed a prior incident just weeks earlier. Jesse Stevens, 37, of Middle Pownal Road in Bennington, was arraigned on the additional kidnapping count for a total of five counts aggravated domestic assault, domestic assault, two counts of unlawful restraint with a risk of injury, and the newly added kidnapping charge. Stevens has pleaded guilty on all counts and was taken back into custody after the kidnapping hearing, on a hold without bail. Kidnapping in Vermont is punishable by a possible life sentence if convicted. According to a police affidavit, on Tuesday, June 4th, 2024, a Bennington Police Officer responded to 1655 Middle Valley Road for a report of a neighbor who called 911 after she heard a lot of screaming and banging coming from the residence. A second caller also called police after they arrived at the residence to find Stevens outside, naked and on top of a female victim who was bleeding. Four juveniles witnessed the alleged attack. Police arrived to find the victim crying, sitting on the front steps of the residence. She had both hands holding a paper towel up to her left eye and a massive bite mark on her shoulder. The victim told police that Stevens punched her in the face. At about the same time, Stevens exited the residence and approached the police, allegedly telling them that he was not mentally well and had these episodes. The victim, in a relationship with Stevens for 11 years, told police that Stevens was insisting that she was lying and cheating on him. When asked how often this happens, she said, More often than I want to admit. The group of four juveniles told police that when they got home, they saw Stevens on top of the victim, and holding her down. The additional charge of kidnapping resulted from prosecutors receiving a surveillance video that allegedly shows a prior attack on the victim in May in which Stevens grabbed several steak knives and threatened to hurt himself while straddling the victim on the floor as she tried to escape over a 20-minute duration. In a video still included in the affidavit, Stevens can be seen straddling the victim with his hands on her neck. Stevens has no prior criminal record in Vermont. He is being held without bail at Rutland's Marble Valley Regional Correctional Facility. He is under conditions he does not have any form of contact with the victim or the minor children. Bennington Judge Kerry McDonald-Cady has set a July 9th Jury draw in the case, with a possible two-day trial to follow on July 10th and 11th. A committee will work to find a new home for the Dalton Police Department, amid more reports of environmental hazards Mississippi became the latest state to be blocked from its laws essentially restricting minors from social media after a federal judge ruled such legislation violates children's speech rights. U.S. District Judge Halil Suleyman Ozerden ruled in favor of tech industry trade group NetChoice against Mississippi, citing potential violations of the First Amendment. Ozerden claimed that such laws dealing with speech are likely to face federal scrutiny "regardless of the government's benign motive." The ruling was in response to Mississippi's earlier arguments that social media does not stifle free speech but "merely regulates non-expressive conduct" and mitigates harm caused by social platforms. This was NetChoice's fourth consecutive win after it successfully blocked similar age requirement laws in Arkansas, California, and Ohio. More States Push for Stricter Social Media Policies for Minors Despite NetChoice's growing victory, more states have been notably passing laws to limit children's exposure to social media amid growing concerns about its potential harm to mental health. Just last March, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis passed the state's strictest social media law, banning users under 14 from all online platforms while requiring 14 and 15-year-olds to get parental consent. Utah has also implemented similar laws but later removed requirements for parental consent after the trade group filed a lawsuit against the state. Also Read : Florida Signs Bill Banning Social Media for 14 Under Social Media Faces Federal Scrutiny Over Child Safety Concerns These state laws are in addition to the much wider nationwide online platform laws being pushed in Congress as lawmakers advocate for safer digital spaces for minors. Among these was the controversial Kids Online Safety Act several senators pushed during a Senate inquiry on social media CEOs over lapses in their child protection measures against sexual harassment and bullying. The bipartisan law was previously criticized for allowing states to have much power to sue social media companies for exposing children to content they may deem "inappropriate." So far, only X (formerly Twitter), Microsoft, and Snapchat have endorsed the proposed act while Discord, Meta, and TikTok express concerns about the proposition's current provisions. You are the owner of this article. The Pittsfield Fourth of July Parade steps off at 10 a.m. Thursday. Here's what you need to know... Start the day with the latest headlines Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter MONTEREY The Monterey Preservation Land Trust has donated the 83-acre Livermore Peak property to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. The property will be added to DCRs Beartown State Forest. After many years of stewarding this property and consulting with various stakeholders, the land trust decided to transfer the land to DCR so that the agency can manage it more holistically with the abutting 12,000-acre Beartown State Forest to protect it for wildlife habitat and opportunities for public use. I want to thank the Monterey Preservation Land Trust for protecting this unique public land for more than two decades and for entrusting DCR to continue the stewardship of this beautiful natural resource," said Brian Arrigo, commissioner of DCR in a press release. "With this acquisition, DCR can expand Beartown State Forest and ensure that this landscape is protected and preserved for families and residents to enjoy for generations to come. The property contains Livermore Peak a familiar town geological feature visible from many roads and vistas. At 1,824 feet, it stands adjacent to Beartown State Forest and near the Appalachian Trail. With its varied landscape from a mountain peak to verdant wetlands, the land holds varied habitats for wildlife that inhabit the Berkshires. The property is also a critical connection for wildlife movement from Beartown State Forest in the north to other lands conserved by the National Park Service and DCR to the south. The land was originally gifted to the land trust in 1998 by Virginia Cesario, who wished the land to be conserved in perpetuity for the publics use and benefit. The board of trustees of the Monterey Preservation Land Trust would like to honor the legacy gift of Ms. Cesario and thank the Department of Conservation and Recreation for choosing to protect and steward such a unique Monterey property, said Jonathan Sylbert, president of the land trust, in a press release. BillOReilly.com is not available in this country. We apologize for any inconvenience. NASA has issued an indefinite extension on the Boeing Starliner's stay at the International Space Station as the agency and company amid an ongoing probe into the reported thruster issues. During last Friday's conference, NASA's Commercial Crew Program manager Steve Stich said that the two parties have agreed to let the Starliner and its crew stay in the ISS while testing and analysis continue. NASA originally gave Boeing only three weeks to resolve the problem but has since extended the schedule after initial investigations failed to determine the exact cause for thruster issues and valve leaks reported following its test flight. Now, the agency estimated that the Starliner could return to Earth as soon as late summer. NASA Denies Boeing Astronauts are 'Stranded' in the ISS NASA has reiterated that the delays were made in consideration of the two astronauts, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, aboard the space module. The space administration even disputed rumors that the Wilmore and Williams are "stuck" or "stranded" in the ISS but rather just taking "our time to work through the vehicle and make sure we're ready to come home." Also Read : Boeing Astronauts Stranded in Space Amid Multiple Starliner Issues Boeing Faces More Delays on NASA Space Contract While it was not the first time for NASA to face delays for its space missions, the repeated rescheduling is another hit on Boeing's long overdue commitments for its first crewed test flight. Even before the astronauts arrived at the ISS, the planned crewed flight had already been delayed multiple times as expenses on the spacecraft continued to balloon. It did not help that the aerospace manufacturer is currently embroiled in legal controversies and federal scrutiny following several incidents involving its 737 MAX aircraft. Its rival company SpaceX, on the other hand, has already completed its first crewed voyage over four years ago despite receiving its NASA contract at the same time as Boeing in 2014. On the sidelines of the two-day 9th Global Pharmaceutical Quality Summit (GPQS) which concluded on June 28, 2024, in Mumbai, Dr Arunish Chawla, Secretary of the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) interacted with BioSpectrum India and shared insights into the impressive growth in medical device exports, initiatives to nurture startups, and efforts to make rare disease medicines more accessible to Indian patients. Highlighting strategic reforms, industry collaborations, and the impact of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, Dr Chawla outlines a transformative vision for the future of India's pharmaceutical and medtech sectors in this exclusive interview. Hows the recent growth in pharmaceutical and medical device exports impacting the industry? We've witnessed remarkable growth in the export of medical devices, which has significantly impacted our industry. The latest data shows a substantial increase in the export of formulations and generic medicines from India. We've reached a point where we are exporting more bulk drugs than we are importing, breaking records and achieving import substitution. For instance, the formulation industry has crossed the 50 per cent export barrier, meaning more than half of what we produce is now exported. This has necessitated new classes of drug intermediates and molecules, which we are now producing domestically. How has the PLI scheme impacted the pharmaceutical and MedTech industry, particularly in terms of exports? We've identified about 50 such molecules across almost all therapy areas and taken up around 40 projects, with approximately 30 already completed and manufacturing started. These projects have led to significant import substitution, ensuring that critical medications are available domestically. The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme has been a game-changer for the industry. It has encouraged domestic manufacturing of various medical devices and bulk drugs, leading to a significant increase in exports. For example, last year we saw that the disposable sub-sector became export-oriented, with more exports than imports. We are now exporting imaging devices like X-ray machines, CT scans, and ultrasound machines, as well as body implants. This trend is expected to continue, with the gap between exports and imports narrowing further, making the industry more export-oriented. What measures have been taken to nurture startups in the pharmaceutical sector? Nurturing startups is a critical component of our strategy. We've implemented several initiatives to support and integrate startups into the larger industry ecosystem. For instance, we've launched a "Promotion of Research and Innovation in Pharma-MedTech" (PRIP) scheme, which is a five-year scheme with a total outlay of Rs 3,000 crore, aimed at fostering excellence through academic and industry partnerships. This scheme supports ideation and proof-of-concept projects, providing a lower scale of financing to innovative startups. Additionally, we are focusing on precision medicine, cell therapies, and immunotherapies to ensure that startups have the resources and support needed to bring their innovative solutions to market. Could you elaborate on the initiatives taken to make medicines for rare diseases more accessible to Indian patients? Addressing rare diseases is a top priority for us. We have revised the General Trade Exemption (GTE) list to allow the import of rare disease drugs that cannot be manufactured economically in India. Additionally, we have recommended duty-free imports and patient support programs to ensure that patients with rare diseases have access to the necessary treatments. What structural reforms have been introduced within DoP to facilitate these changes? Reform begins at home. We have restructured our department to better address industry needs. Now, we have two divisions: one dedicated to pharmaceuticals and another to the medtech sector. We have hired industry experts, medical engineers, and biotech experts through lateral entry to manage operational issues across different levels of government. This has streamlined our operations and allowed us to address industry problems more effectively. Additionally, we have established a joint secretary for pharmaceuticals and another for the medtech sector to ensure focused attention on these critical areas. What future trends do you foresee in the Indian pharmaceutical industry, particularly with regard to new drug development and market expansion? The future of the Indian pharmaceutical industry looks very promising. We are poised to take advantage of the upcoming patent cliff, with about 300 molecules coming off patent, including 24 blockbuster drugs. The industry is already working on these opportunities, preparing to launch large molecules into the market. For instance, bioactive peptides, a significant antidiabetic drug, are set to come off patent in 2026, and our industry is gearing up for its production. We also foresee substantial growth in complex generics, biosimilars, and excipients, which will drive further market expansion and innovation. How is the DoP ensuring quality and compliance in the rapidly growing medical device sector? Ensuring quality and compliance is paramount. We are collecting market data on medical devices and working within our jurisdiction to address any issues that arise. We have set up seven Centers of Excellence in seven National Institutes of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPERs), each focusing on different areas of manufacturing. These centers are supported by industry leaders and aim to ensure that students and young scientists are well-trained and employed in the right sectors. Can you provide some insights into the operational framework that has been put in place to support the medical device industry? We have implemented a comprehensive operational framework that addresses the needs of the medical device industry. This includes hiring industry experts and creating a dedicated joint secretary for medtech to resolve operational problems. We have identified seven verticals within the medtech sector, such as imaging devices, laboratory equipment, assistive devices, and surgical equipment. This framework ensures that we address the unique challenges of each vertical, fostering growth and innovation across the board. Our aim is to create an integrated policy framework that supports the entire value chain, from manufacturing to market access. How is the DoP collaborating with other stakeholders to drive these initiatives? Collaboration is key to our success. We work closely with industry partners, academic institutions, and government agencies to drive our initiatives forward. The Centers of Excellence, for instance, are a collaborative effort between industry and academia, ensuring that we leverage the best expertise from both sectors. We also engage in continuous dialogue with industry representatives to address their concerns and incorporate their feedback into our policies. This collaborative approach ensures that our initiatives are well-rounded and effectively address the needs of the industry. What message would you like to convey to the stakeholders in the Indian pharmaceutical and medtech sectors? My message to the stakeholders is one of optimism and collaboration. The Indian pharmaceutical and medtech sectors are on the cusp of significant growth and transformation. By working together, we can harness this potential, drive innovation, and make high-quality healthcare accessible to all. The government is committed to supporting this growth through strategic policies, financial incentives, and structural reforms. I urge all stakeholders to take advantage of these opportunities and contribute to making India a global leader in pharmaceuticals and medical technology. Through strategic policies, financial incentives, and robust industry-government partnerships, the DoP aims to position India as a global leader in healthcare innovation and accessibility. Bhagwati Prasad, Mumbai BHARAT EYES GLOBAL BIOMANUFACTURING DOMINANCE Boosting Innovation, Collaboration & Entrepreneurship with BioE3 Policy Bharat has demonstrated a strong economic growth in the past decade and is poised to be amongst the global leaders in the next industrial revolution by leveraging emerging technologies and new innovative solutions. Bharat is competitively positioned to be amongst the global leaders in futuristic manufacturing that leverages living systems. Biomanufacturing can fundamentally transform the global economy from todays consumptive manufacturing paradigm to the one based on regenerative principles. Biomanufacturing refers to the use of engineered microbial, plant, and animal (including human) cells with increasing precision and control to produce commercially important products on scale. These are versatile processes that have the potential to create bio-based products allowing efficient utilisation of resources, in a scalable and costeffective manner with reduced environmental impact. Keeping in view the national priority of steering Bharat on the path of accelerated Green Growth, an integrated BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy for Fostering High-Performance Biomanufacturing with an aim to make a green, clean, prosperous, and self-reliant Bharat was released on September 12 at Global Bio-India (GBI) 2024. Lets take a look at how the BioE3 Policy for biomanufacturing is set to transform this landscape. Dr Vinayagam possesses strategic acumen and operational leadership in healthcare settings Orchid Pharma, based in Chennai, has enlisted the support of Dr Prabhu Vinayagam as a Medical Advisor for Orchid Pharmas newly formed division Orchid AMS, as well as hired Amitabh Mazumdar, as GM-Sales & Marketing. Dr Vinayagam, in an advisory role, is a valuable asset to Orchid AMS, bringing a wealth of experience in healthcare leadership and antimicrobial stewardship. In his distinguished career he has played pivotal roles at Becton Dickinson, as Managing Director Joint Commission International - Asia Pacific, and as Group CEO at Mandalar Group of Hospitals in Myanmar. Dr Vinayagam's strategic acumen and operational leadership in healthcare settings uniquely position him to spearhead Orchid Pharma's Antimicrobial Stewardship Program. His deep understanding of hospital operations, quality improvement practices especially those aimed at reducing Hospital Acquired infections (HAIs), and data-driven decision-making will be instrumental in optimizing antibiotic use and combating antimicrobial resistance. On the other hand, Amitabh Mazumdar is all set to leverage more than 30 years of expertise in marketing, sales, and team leadership within the pharmaceutical industry. With key sales & marketing roles at GSK, Mylan (Viatris), and Merck Serono, he has effectively launched and managed life cycles of renowned brands, with innovative sales and marketing approaches. His experience in launching 3 new business units will enable him to contribute significantly to our journey. (Photo : Unsplash/Scott Blake) A proposed legislation would mandate employers to implement measures to safeguard 36 million American workers from severe heat conditions, otherwise face corresponding fines, the White House outlined in a news release on Tuesday. The new rule, if implemented, would mark the first significant regulation of its kind, introducing nationwide protection for workers, where employers are mandated to recognize heat hazards and ensure provisions such as rest breaks, access to shade and water, and heat acclimatization for new employees. While private employers have been mandated to ensure safe workplaces, including addressing heat hazards, Tuesday's proposal introduces specific protections against heat exposure for the first time that would allow the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to impose fines on non-complying employers. The Record-Breaking Heat in 2024 The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that workplace heat exposure has killed over 1,000 U.S. workers since 1992 and caused nearly 34,000 cases of heat-related injuries to lead employees to miss work between 2011 and 2020. According to climate scientists, 2024 could potentially become the hottest year on record, as several cities across the United States encountered record-breaking heat in June. The announcement also coincides with tens of millions of Americans under heat advisories, and President Joe Biden has emphasized that disregarding climate change is "deadly, dangerous, and irresponsible," KCRA3 reported. READ ALSO: California OSHA Clashes with Finance Department Over Workers' Indoor Heat Protection's Budget Concerns The Scope of The Regulation The proposed measure aims to set the first federal standard protecting millions of workers against heat-related injuries, illnesses, and fatalities, especially among farmworkers, delivery personnel, construction workers, and indoor workers in warehouses, factories, and kitchens. Under the proposal, employers must create an injury and illness prevention plan, assess heat risks, provide access to water and necessary rest breaks, and train employees to recognize symptoms of heat-related illnesses. Jessica Martinez of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health emphasized the significance of the proposed regulations as summer approaches and expects employers to comply. Doug Parker, assistant secretary for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), emphasized the necessity of implementing measures to safeguard workers from experiencing heat-related incidents, including heat stroke and fatalities, while performing their job duties, adding that the current proposal marks a crucial progression towards gathering public feedback to develop a final rule that balances worker protection with practicality and feasibility for employers, the statement reads. The New Federal Rule Proposal The Labor Department proposes new protections based on two heat index thresholds. In the first instance, when the combined temperature and relative humidity reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit, employers must provide drinking water and scheduled rest breaks. Under the proposed rules, when the heat index reaches 90 degrees, further measures would be required. Employers must ensure a minimum 15-minute paid rest break every two hours and implement a monitoring system to detect signs of heat-related illness or symptoms among their workers. However, the OSHA proposal excludes sedentary or remote workers, emergency-response personnel, and employees working indoors with temperatures below 80 degrees Fahrenheit. RELATED ARTICLE: Domestic Workers in Miami Demanding Passage of "Domestic Worker Bill of Rights," Seeking Stronger Workplace Protection 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Borsa Italiana non ha responsabilita per il contenuto del sito a cui sta per accedere e non ha responsabilita per le informazioni contenute. Accedendo a questo link, Borsa Italiana non intende sollecitare acquisti o offerte in alcun paese da parte di nessuno. Sarai automaticamente diretto al link in cinque secondi. Israel : Attaque au couteau dans un centre commercial, un mort JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Un des deux hommes qui ont ete blesses lors d'une attaque a l'arme blanche dans un centre commercial israelien mercredi est decede, ont rapporte la police et les services medicaux israeliens. La police a precise que l'attaque, qui a eu lieu a Karmiel, dans le nord d'Israel, etait consideree comme "terroriste" et que son auteur avait ete "neutralise". Des medecins israeliens ont dit a Reuters que l'une des deux victimes est decedee apres avoir ete transportee a l'hopital, ajoutant que l'assaillant etait decede dans le centre commercial. Les medecins avaient precedemment declare que l'un des deux blesses se trouvait dans un etat tres grave. ... A lire aussi Au moins une des deux victimes portait un uniforme vert, selon une video publiee sur les reseaux sociaux et consultee par Reuters. L'attaque n'a pas ete revendiquee dans l'immediat. En janvier, une attaque palestinienne a la voiture belier dans le centre dIsrael a cause la mort d'une femme et fait 12 blesses. (Redige par Emily Rose ; version francaise Kate Entringer) (Photo : Pexels/Photo by Brett Sayles) The Fourth of July is a holiday, falling most often on a Tuesday or Thursday. Workers typically get a holiday on the Fourth and the preceding or following Monday or Friday. Independence Day is one of the historic dates in America. It is celebrated on the day on which the Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on the 4th of July in 1776, formally declaring the United States of America a free nation. 4th of July Traditions Many of today's Independence Day traditions in America originated in early celebrations of Americans who would gather for bonfires, concerts, and parades to commemorate their new nation. Some activities that formed fun aspects of the celebrations included reading the Declaration of Independence aloud, followed by firing muskets and cannons to honor patriotism. These activities have transformed through the years into the beloved traditions we enjoy today, such as: Watching fireworks Waving sparklers Hosting barbecues Playing backyard games Attending parades Wearing attires in color red, white, and blue Engaging in patriotic crafts Waving mini American flags Traveling; and Taking advantage of stellar sales READ ALSO: 10 Labor Day Facts: Knowing The Foundation and Legacy of America's Workforce This year, the Independence Day holiday falls on a Thursday and will fall on the following days in the corresponding years: 2025: Friday 2026: Saturday 2027: Sunday 2028: Tuesday America's Colonizing Country Britain colonized America in 1607, with Jamestown, Virginia, the first colony established. As Britain continued to expand its colonies throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, over 2.5 million settlers were recorded among the 13 colonies by 1755. Great Britain imposed the Stamp Act of 1765, Townshend Acts of 1767, and Tea Act of 1773 to raise funds after the French and Indian War. The taxation without representation grievance was triggered by forcing colonists into paying more without giving them a say in the policy, which later fueled the American Revolution. The tensions between British authorities and American colonists escalated with events like the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party. They peaked in April 1775 during the Battles of Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts after British forces tried confiscating colonists' weapons, triggering the first clashes between Colonial militias and British troops and marking the start of the American Revolutionary War. July 4, 1776: The American Independence Day During a Continental Congress meeting in Philadelphia in June 1776, Virginia statesman Richard Henry Lee introduced a motion calling for the Colonies to dissolve their ties with Britain. The Declaration of Independence, written by a special committee in the historical society, came to be on July 4, 1776, when America was officially declared free from its colonization under British jurisdiction. The Revolutionary War continued, and America finally achieved victory over Great Britain in September 1783. Americans salute the bravery of the Founding Fathers on Independence Day, who stood up for freedom, equal rights, and self-rule. The nation bursts into festive mode with patriotic shows, street marches, and dazzling sky displays, with people coming together in their towns and cities to pay tribute to the undying love of America for liberty. RELATED ARTICLE: Exploring Women's Month: Top 10 Interesting Facts You Need to Know 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The High Court has found a GP was incorrect in her claims that she only had to pay a lower figure for rent than claimed by the landlord of the premises housing her practice in Stepaside, Dublin. Mr Justice Anthony Barr said Dr Fiona Grant was incorrect in her arguments that the 50,000 per year rent which the landlord said was due had never been agreed and that the actual rent was 29,000. Advertisement The judge also said she was incorrect in claiming that there had not been a rent review in 2014. The landlord, Gradual Investments Ltd, had brought proceedings against her over the rent being paid for her medical clinic at the Village in Stepaside. Dr Grant last year obtained an injunction preventing Gradual from entering or re-entering the premises on foot of a forfeiture notice pending determination of legal proceedings. That injunction remains in place at least until the case next comes before the court. Separately, Gradual's case over the allegedly unpaid rent came on for hearing before Mr Justice Barr. Advertisement The judge said it was the legal implications of the facts rather than significant factual disputes which give rise to the need for a determination by the court. Following consideration of the evidence, the judge said he was satisfied that the defendant was incorrect in all of her primary arguments about the rent. He said the court "has nothing but sympathy for a tenant who finds themselves in financial difficulties vis-a-vis their lease." This was all the more so where the tenant is a medical professional contributing so much to society by providing primary care in the community, he said. While his judgment will come as a major disappointment to Dr Grant, and that is a matter of sincere regret on a human level, the court's obligation is "to give effect to the bargains made by interpreting their meaning, not to change meaning by way of deletion or addition." Hospitality groups are calling on the Government to reinstate the 9 per cent VAT charge on food services. Representatives from the sector are calling for a return to the reduced rate introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic, claiming the industry is struggling with the current 13.5 per cent rate. Advertisement The Irish Tourism Industry Confederation, Restaurants Association of Ireland, Vintners Federation of Ireland, Irish Hotels Federation, and Licences Vintners Association will meet TDs and Senators on Wednesday ahead of Budget 2025. In a joint statement released prior to the meeting, the groups said businesses are at a cross-roads, "struggling to deal with very tight margins and reduced profitability due to ever-increasing operating costs". "To a large extent, this is being driven by the Governments own economic policies including a series of employment-related cost increases coming into effect in close succession. The impact of these measures has been particularly acute for hospitality businesses given the labour-intensive nature of our industry." The groups added that business are forecasting "worrying" cost increases over the coming year. Advertisement "Meanwhile, these businesses are struggling to deal with the effects of last Septembers VAT increase coupled with the impact of significant pressures on consumer finances all of which continue to reduce profitability and erode competitiveness." The statement added: "While we have been repeatedly assured by the Government that it understands the extent of the challenges facing hospitality businesses, regrettably this has yet to translate into meaningful supports. "It is now vital that the Government does everything possible to help put our sector and wider tourism industry on a more stable footing. "At a minimum, this must include the reinstatement of the 9per cent VAT rate for food-related hospitality services." Updated: 11.15am Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife Eleanor will face trial on a raft of child sexual offence charges following a preliminary enquiry at Newry Magistrate's Court on Wednesday morning. Advertisement The Donaldsons appeared briefly before Judge Eamonn King and confirmed their names, addresses and dates of birth. After the judge indicated there is a prima facie case for them to answer, the Donaldsons were asked if they wished to make a written or oral statement. Mr Donaldson replied: "Not at this stage", while his wife simply replied: "No." Judge King remanded both on the same bail conditions and told the Donaldsons to return to court on September 10th when their Crown Court trial will be arranged. Advertisement The court also formally withdrew a set of holding charges both had faced but which have since been reviewed by prosecutors. Mr Donaldson (61), a former Lagan Valley MP with an address at Dromore, Co Down, is now charged with one count of rape between January 1st, 1987 and January 1st, 1991. He is charged with 13 counts of indecent assault on a female child between 1987 and 1991, and four charges of gross indecency towards a child on dates between 2005 and 2008. Advertisement Eleanor Donaldson arriving at Newry Magistrates' Court. Photo: PA Images Mrs Donaldson (58), of the same address in Dromore, is charged with aiding and abetting rape between 1987 and 1991, three counts of aiding and abetting indecent assaults on a female child, and one count of child cruelty between 2004 and 2008. Prior to the hearing, PSNI officers had gathered outside the court in the early hours in preparation for anticipated high levels of interest from the press and public. At 9am, journalists filed through the single, narrow doorway which allows access to the court building. Photographers, most armed with stepladders, assembled between makeshift barriers either side of the doorway where the Donaldsons would also make their entrance. They arrived separately, Mr Donaldson first at 9.30am, having grown a beard since his last court appearance. Mrs Donaldson arrived about 15 minutes later. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can call the national 24-hour Rape Crisis Helpline at 1800-77 8888, access text service and webchat options at drcc.ie/services/helpline/ or visit Rape Crisis Help. A 35-year-old man who has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to murdering his fiancee told gardai that he felt like some monster he couldnt control when he used his arms to strangle her, the Central Criminal Court has heard. I was like devil, somebody using me, Andrei Dobra told gardai, going on to say that he squeezed her neck, which resulted in the death of Ioana Mihaela Pacala (30) in the couples flat at Riverwalk Court, Fairyhouse Road, Ratoath, Co. Meath, on or about November 12th 2022. Advertisement Mr Dobra has pleaded not guilty to her murder by reason of insanity and two psychiatrists called by the defence and prosecution will give evidence that he was suffering from a mental disorder at the time of the killing. The accused and Ms Pacala, both Romanian nationals, were described as a very hard-working young couple who were very committed to each other and planning to get married. The court has heard that State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster determined that Ms Pacala was strangled and died from a lack of oxygen to the brain. At Mr Dobras trial at the Central Criminal Court on Wednesday, Detective Sergeant Shane Dervan gave evidence to counsel for the State, Sean Guerin SC that when the accused was charged, he replied: I am so sorry for that, it shouldnt have happened. Advertisement Det Sgt Dervan confirmed that during a garda interview, the accused said: Because my mentality, I dont know what happening. The detective said that Mr Dobra spoke about a phantom and a feeling in middle of night, telling gardai that he had dreams in which he saw someone coming to kill him. I destroy my life for nothing, I dont know why, I see my life is over... I love her so much, know it my fault, dont want to kill her... some night some phantom tried to push me, kept fighting me, to change mind, the accused said, going on to tell gardai that he thought he had killed his girlfriend with his arms. Just something like wind in ear, two or three nights like that, almost like ghost grabbing you by brain trying to scare you... like someone in my body, he said, adding: I think somebody push me to do this, like someone put a curse on me for me and her to die. Det Sgt Dervan said that when the accused was asked who had caused Ms Pacalas death, he replied: I think God... maybe some devil, but I dont remember how its happening. Advertisement The detective said that when gardai put it to the accused that it had been his arms that were used to cause the death, Mr Dobra said: I think I kill my girlfriend... I think I squeezed her neck. The court heard that Mr Dobra said he could hear screaming and he saw the face was red, eyes red. I was like devil, somebody using me... I am feeling like some monster I cant control, the accused told gardai, going on to say that he saw that Ms Pacalas face was blue. Det Sgt Dervan said that in the accuseds final interview with gardai, it was put to him that he had confirmed 100% that it was his arms that killed Ms Pacala, to which Mr Dobra replied: I know, but my brain somewhere else. Advertisement The gardai put it to him that Ms Pacala died a violent death, during which she put up a fight and the accused had the marks to prove this, to which Mr Dobra said: I think she scratched me. The accused told the gardai that he squeezed her neck, which he described as a very big mistake. Det Sgt Dervan confirmed to defence counsel, Michael Bowman SC that gardai travelled to Romania to meet with the families of the deceased and the accused, which revealed a picture of a very hardworking young couple who were very committed to each other. The couple planned to get married, while there was no suggestion of domestic violence in the background. Advertisement Det Sgt Dervan said that Ms Pacalas father spoke to the accused the night before his daughters death and found Mr Dobra was not responding coherently. The detective confirmed to Mr Bowman that as the garda investigation progressed, it began to emerge that there may well have been a psychiatric element to the case. At the beginning of the trial, Mr Guerin told the jury that they would hear from consultant psychiatrist Dr Brenda Wright, who will give evidence that Mr Dobra was suffering a major depressive episode with psychotic symptoms at the time of the killing. She will say that he believed his life was in danger and that his actions in killing his partner were therefore morally justified. She will also say that he did not understand that killing Ms Pacala was wrong. Professor Patricia Casey, who will be called by the defence, will say that Mr Dobra was suffering from schizoaffective disorder and was psychotic at the time. At a minimum, Mr Guerin said both psychiatrists agree that Mr Dobras mental disorder was such as to diminish his mental capacities. The trial continues on Friday before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and the jury of six men and six women. Northern Irelands political leaders have issued eve-of-poll messages ahead of a UK general election that will involve several constituency battles that remain too close to call. A total of 136 candidates are standing in the regions 18 constituencies. Advertisement All eyes will be on the race for the greatest number of seats, with the potential of Sinn Fein cementing its position as the largest party in Northern Ireland, having secured the most seats in recent Assembly and local council polls. Sinn Fein, which ran a relatively low-key campaign, could secure top spot by retaining the seven seats it already holds, if the DUP drops down from the eight seats it won in 2019. While most of the republican partys seats are safe bets, it will face the usual arm wrestle to hold off the challenge of unionists in the ever-close Fermanagh and South Tyrone race. In that constituency, former RCN general secretary Pat Cullen, who led nurses across the UK in strike action last year, is up against Ulster Unionist councillor Diana Armstrong. Advertisement Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA. The DUP is under pressure in a number of constituencies, most significantly in East Belfast where its leader Gavin Robinson is involved in a high-stakes contest with the Alliance Party leader Naomi Long. Mr Robinsons elevation to the leadership of his party came after the DUP suffered a seismic shock when former leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson quit after he was charged with a range of historical sexual offences in March charges he denies. Apart from the sudden departure of Donaldson from the political stage, the DUP has also been under pressure from unionist rivals amid claims it oversold a Government package of measures on post-Brexit trading arrangements that the party used to justify the end of its two-year boycott on devolution at Stormont in January. Advertisement Defeat for Mr Robinson would surely raise questions about his fledgling leadership of the DUP; while a loss for Ms Long would prompt some to ask whether the Alliance Partys surge of recent years has begun to subside. The cross-community Alliance Party is walking a tight rope between having a really good night or a very disappointing one. It is involved in three razor edge fights, including East Belfast, where it is in serious contention for seats. Advertisement DUP leader Gavin Robinson. Photo: Niall Carson/PA. The party goes into the election with one seat, deputy leader Stephen Farrys in North Down, and is also hoping that Ms Long prevails in East Belfast and Sorcha Eastwood defeats the DUP in Lagan Valley, in the seat vacated by long-standing MP Donaldson. While three victories could be secured; three losses would sting heavily for a party that has been on the electoral march in recent years. The Ulster Unionists were without an MP in the last parliament and the party is convinced that South Antrim represents its best opportunity of a return to the green benches at Westminster. Advertisement Former UUP leader Robin Swann, whose profile soared when he led Northern Irelands fight against the Covid pandemic as Stormont health minister, is trying to win that seat from the DUPs Paul Girvan. Success for the SDLP would be the retention of the two seats held in the last parliament by its leader Colum Eastwood and deputy leader Claire Hanna. Alliance leader Naomi Long. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA. Both are tipped for victory in Foyle and South Belfast and Mid Down respectively albeit with the prospect of returning with reduced majorities. The TUV, which is an arch critic of the DUPs decision to drop its protest boycott on devolution, did not stand in the last election. While its entry into the fray this time round is highly unlikely to deliver it any seats, the votes it could potentially take from DUP candidates could have major implications in some of the closest battleground seats. However, the TUV campaign suffered a major blow last month when Reform UK leader Nigel Farage personally endorsed two DUP election candidates, despite his party having an official electoral alliance with the TUV in Northern Ireland. That has led to a highly usually situation in Mr Allisters own North Antrim constituency, where he is running on a joint TUV-Reform UK platform, even though Mr Farage has personally backed the DUP candidate in that area, Ian Paisley. In her eve of poll message, Sinn Feins vice president Michelle ONeill said a vote for her party would bring positive change. UUP leader Doug Beattie. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA. Change will only be delivered in the north by working together in the Executive and Assembly, but this election is our chance to send a clear message about the future we want, she said. I am asking voters to join us in our journey towards a better future, to endorse our vision by returning the strongest Sinn Fein team. It is clear that people want positive change, and I would urge people to support progressive candidates in areas where Sinn Fein are not standing (four seats), to maximise the number of progressive MPs. Mr Robinson urged people to use their vote wisely, as he emphasised that the election would help shape the future direction of Northern Ireland. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA. In a clear reference to his TUV rivals, he said: Dont listen to those who cannot win in this election. By supporting the unionist candidates that can win you ensure there is the strongest voice and the strongest team for you in parliament. Only the DUP can ensure there is a strong team of pro-Union MPs in Westminster to stand up and speak out for you on the issues that matter. Some people can only see problems, but we are proud of our strong record of standing up for you and getting things done. He added: Tomorrow you have one vote. Use it wisely. Dont be lulled into voting for candidates that cant win and waking up on Friday morning to a nightmare scenario where the unionist vote has been divided and non-unionists have won seats. Ms Long said her party was leading change. Alliance has fought this campaign on our platform of leading change, showcasing responsible leadership and trustworthiness in our dealings, she said. We are uniquely positioned as the key challengers in a number of constituencies, which has been backed by polls and pundits across the entirety of the election campaign. She said if Alliance gained seats, voters would get positive, progressive representatives who are leading change and seeking equality across our society. TUV leader Jim Allister. Photo: Liam McBurney/PA. Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie posted a direct message to voters on social media. You have one vote, on that one day, with one chance to create change, change by voting for an MP who will be effective in Westminster, who will be visible in Westminster, he said. So when you go to the polls tomorrow, really think about whats good for you, for your family, for Northern Ireland, for all our people. I believe its by voting for an Ulster Unionist Party candidate. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood emphasised the importance of voting for MPs who take their seat at Westminster, contrasting his party with Sinn Feins long-standing abstentionist stance. Everyone wants and deserves change, he said. Thats what you get from SDLP MPs. Over the last five years Claire and I have demonstrated how we can deliver for people using the power of a seat at Westminster. And weve already secured commitments from a new government to repeal the toxic Tory legacy act. While others leave their seats empty, we turn up for the people we represent and make our voice heard. Mr Allister accused the DUP of hoodwinking unionists on the Government deal on post-Brexit trade. Vote instead for the party which has told you the truth from the beginning about the (Northern Ireland) Protocol, TUV. We have not faltered. We have not wilted on this fundamental issue, he said. Strengthen my hand in resisting the dismantling of our Union by voting TUV on Thursday. Be strong, not used. Vote TUV, the party you can trust. Concerns have been raised over severance packages for former employees departing RTE by the chair of the Oireachtas Media Committee, Niamh Smyth. The Fianna Fail TD for Cavan-Monaghan said there is a palpable sense of dissatisfaction from the public over severance packages at the national broadcaster. Advertisement Speaking to RTE Radio's Morning Ireland ahead of the publication of the 'Future Business Model Plans and Long-Term Vision for the Media Sector' report on Wednesday, Ms Smyth described the document as extensive and comprehensive. The report includes 29 recommendations, covering various topics from funding of public service broadcasting, community and regional content, digital development and digital transformation, she explained. We also look at journalism, disinformation, misinformation. We look at access and inclusion, and also the creative industry. There's a real focus on that, too in the independent sector. There's a greater emphasis on funding and there's a greater emphasis with our media outlets to reach out to the independent sector, because we know how important they are for public service broadcasting, entities such as RTE, Ms Smyth said. Advertisement She acknowledged there are concerns about independence if RTE were to be funded by the Exchequer, but added that there has been a suggestion that transparency could be ensured if the issue was managed by the Broadcasting Commission. Ms Smyth noted the report also emphasises misinformation and disinformation, and the impact on democracy and how important all of that is when you come to public service broadcasting. She said she feels there should be buy in from the public, in the form of the TV licence, to partly fund public service broadcasting. I think if the last 18 months or 15 months have taught us anything around deep controversies within RTE, it's that the public do value public service broadcasting. They do value trusted, media outlets. In 2022, 156 million was collected through the TV license, and I certainly don't think you can just write that off. The Minister (for Media, Catherine Martin) has a challenge on her hands to convince her Government leaders and colleagues that that is the way forward. While she said she supports the TV Licence, Ms Smyth said the mechanism for collecting the fee was not right. Lisa Jewell returns with a new book launching the new Marvel Crime series Fiction 1. The Long Water by Stef Penney is published in hardback by Quercus. Available July 4th Advertisement (Quercus/PA) The Long Water focuses on a tight-knit community situated in a remote valley in the north of Norway, where the lives of the residents are deeply interwoven. The town suddenly finds itself at the centre of swirling rumours and a media frenzy when popular teenager, Daniel, goes missing one night during school-leavers celebrations. There is no one in the town who is not impacted by his disappearance, from teenagers Elin and Benny, who face the modern-day struggles around gender identity and sexual orientation, to Elins grandmother Svea, an elderly woman whose long life revolves around the area. Stef Penneys latest novel takes a multitude of twists and turns, written with a touch of humour that will leave you chuckling. The Long Water is tough to put down with brilliant pace, fantastic depth and an ending that will leave you wanting more. 9/10 (Review by Hannah Cottrell) 2. Breaking The Dark by Lisa Jewell is published in hardback by Century. Available July 4th Advertisement Coming soon! The first of an exciting series of Marvel Crime thrillers penned by major names in the genre, @lisajewelluk's Breaking the Dark finds private eye and retired superhero Jessica Jones investigating a mysterious transformation: https://t.co/DwqEVLb2vl pic.twitter.com/LRHzWYSABA Waterstones (@Waterstones) February 6, 2024 Advertisement Breaking The Dark marks Lisa Jewells debut into the Marvel universe, blending crime fiction with superhero drama. Set in New York, the story follows Jessica Jones, a former superhero-turned-private investigator grappling with her own demons. Jessica is approached by Amber Randall, a mother whose twin teenagers, Fox and Lark, returned from a trip to the UK drastically changed. This case launches Jessica into a dark and intricate investigation that spans continents and delves into mysterious and supernatural phenomena. The novel seamlessly integrates superhero lore with the gritty realism of a crime thriller. Jewells portrayal of Jessica Jones is faithful to the characters Marvel roots and refreshingly innovative, offering a deeper exploration of her flawed psyche and struggle for redemption. Jewells storytelling and character development of Jessica Jones are compelling youll find yourself truly engaged with her flawed persona, cheering her on as her character develops. 9/10 (Review by Amanda De Beer) 3. Love Of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood is published in paperback by Penguin. Available now Advertisement At this romantic time of year we're thrilled to announce that @KirstyStories will be providing readers with hilarity, big emotions and delicious drama with The Love of My Afterlife next summer. Discover more and preorder here: https://t.co/AtjsE8PYlL pic.twitter.com/aveH0pMJ7T Waterstones (@Waterstones) December 15, 2023 Advertisement After death by microwave burger, 27-year-old Delphie Bookham finds herself in the waiting room of the afterlife where she meets the one, in a twist that gives her a second chance at life with just 10 days to find him back on earth. The book uses a fast-paced narrative to keep the story compelling, exploring Delphies shift in attitude to discover her love for life and the joys of letting people in. In a heartwarming enemies to lovers arc, the book is a perfect summer read its light, funny, with enough emotional depth to allow you to become truly invested in the characters, including the side characters who are refreshing, and equally as intriguing as the main cast. 8/10 (Review by Carla Feric) Non-fiction 4. The Architecture of Modern Empire by Arundhati Roy is published in paperback by Penguin. Available now (Penguin/PA) In June this year, author Arundhati Roy won the prestigious PEN Pinter literary prize, where she was hailed as being a luminous voice of freedom and justice whose words have come with fierce clarity and determination for almost 30 years now. It couldnt be a more apt description for the author, 62, who won the Booker Prize for her debut novel The God Of Small Things in 1997, and really captures everything between the pages of recently released title The Architecture of Modern Empire by Arundhati Roy. A collection of 12 interviews conducted with Roy, by writer and broadcaster David Barsamian, span out over two decades, from 2001 to the present. The duo explore war, technology, nationalism, truth, justice, freedom and more. And Roys insights into her home country, India, are poignant. There is also humour and wit from Roy. You find yourself hanging on her every word, conjuring up imagery through her descriptions, and hoping another book like this is in the works. 8/10 (Review by Kerri-Ann Roper) Childrens book of the week 5. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang by Ian Fleming, illustrated by Thomas Gilbert is published in paperback by Ian Fleming Publications. Available now Striking new edition of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang from @TheIanFleming pic.twitter.com/Fcum5nEJxx charlie higson (@monstroso) June 17, 2024 The new paperback edition of Ian Flemings much-loved childrens classic, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, is filled with beautiful illustrations from artist Thomas Gilbert. The striking front cover reminiscent of a vintage travel poster will lure youngsters in to read this classic tale as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. The story starts with Commander Caractacus Pott, who does not have much money, but his family thrives on being together and a spirit of adventure. When he manages to buy an old wreck of car and turn it into something new, little does the Commander know the vehicles magic powers will whisk his family away to new heights. However, disaster is on the horizon when the group fall upon a secret arsenal of weapons hidden in a vault realising they are stockpiled for a criminal purpose. Can the family stop a gang in its tracks? And, whats more, can Chitty help save the day? 8/10 (Review by Jane Kirby) BOOK CHARTS FOR THE WEEK ENDING JUNE 29th HARDBACK (FICTION) 1. When The Moon Hatched by Sarah A. Parker 2. Blue Sisters by Coco Mellors 3. Long Island by Colm Toibin 4. You Are Here by David Nicholls 5. The Ministry Of Time by Kaliane Bradley 6. Murder At The Monastery by Reverend Richard Coles 7. Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros 8. The Suspect by Rob Rinder 9. The Ashes and the Star-Cursed King by Carissa Broadbent 10. The Cautious Travellers Guide to The Wastelands by Sarah Brooks (Compiled by Waterstones) HARDBACK (NON-FICTION) 1. Pinch Of Nom Air Fryer by Kate & Kay Allinson 2. The House Of Beckham by Tom Bower 3. Operation Biting by Max Hastings 4. MILF by Paloma Faith 5. The Women Who Wouldnt Wheesht by Susan Dalgety & Lucy Hunter Blackburn 6. Challenger by Adam Higginbotham 7. Wimbledon: A personal history by Sue Barker 8. Bored of Lunch Healthy Air Fryer: 30 Minute Meals by Nathan Anthony 9. Guide to Medieval England by History Hit 10. Greekish: Everyday recipes with Greek roots by Georgina Hayden (Compiled by Waterstones) AUDIOBOOKS (FICTION AND NON-FICTION) 1. The Suspect by Rob Rinder 2. Fairy Tale by Stephen King 3. Atomic Habits by James Clear 4. A Murder Of Crows by Sarah Yarwood-Lovett 5. The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman 6. The Maiden by Kate Foster 7. The Trial by Rob Rinder 8. Unruly by David Mitchell 9. None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell 10. Ultra-Processed People by Chris van Tulleken (Compiled by Audible) An arrest warrant for a man who is also a suspect in the disappearance of British toddler Madeleine McCann was lifted on Wednesday by a German court in an ongoing trial over several unrelated sexual offences he is alleged to have committed in Portugal between 2000 and 2017. However, the 47-year-old German, who has been identified by media as Christian Bruckner, will remain jailed because he is currently serving a seven-year prison sentence in Germany for a rape he committed in Portugal in 2005. Advertisement The Braunschweig state court said it lifted the arrest warrant in the current case, in which Bruckner has been accused of three counts of rape and two of sexual abuse of children, because there is no urgent suspicion, German news agency dpa reported. The suspect has not been charged in the Madeleine McCann case, in which he is under investigation on suspicion of murder. He spent many years in Portugal, including in the resort of Praia da Luz around the time of Madeleines disappearance there in 2007. He has denied any involvement in her disappearance. In the current trial, prosecutors had claimed that, at an unspecified time between 2000 and 2006, the suspect allegedly tied up and raped an elderly woman in her vacation apartment in Portugal. He allegedly beat the victim several times with a whip and recorded the incident on video. Advertisement During the same time period, he is alleged to have tied a German-speaking girl aged at least 14 to a wooden post in the living room of his residence in Praia da Luz, allegedly beating her with a whip and forcing her to perform oral sex. However, Bruckners lawyers filed a motion during the trial to quash the arrest warrant because they no longer saw any reason for one after evidence in the alleged crimes had been taken in court. The court ruled that there was no strong suspicion with regard to all charges, dpa reported. A verdict in the ongoing trial is expected in the fall. Advertisement The case of Madeleine McCann stirred worldwide interest for several years, with reports of sightings of her stretching as far away as Australia, along with a slew of books and television documentaries about the case. Artist Banksy has slammed the criticism he received from the UK home secretary against his small boats-crossing artwork at Glastonbury. An inflatable boat filled with migrant dummies in orange life jackets was hoisted into the crowd gathered to watch the band Idles play on the Other Stage at Worthy Farm on Friday night. Advertisement UK home secretary James Cleverly later accused the artwork of trivialising small boats crossings of migrants in the Channel and described it as vile. In response, the Bristolian street artist branded Mr Cleverlys reaction a bit over the top and said it was the real boat he funded, which was being detained by Italian authorities after it had rescued unaccompanied children at sea, that he deemed vile and unacceptable. On Sunday, Mr Cleverly reshared a video of the inflatable boat crowdsurfing the crowd to X, formerly Twitter, and wrote: Small boats crossings are deadly and have cost the lives of too many people. Advertisement Festivalgoers cosplaying as migrants, and celebrating the actions of people smugglers, while they party is awful. Whatever your political views, this isnt something we should trivialise. He later told Sky News: People die in the Mediterranean, they die in the Channel. This is not funny. It is vile. It is a celebration of the loss of life in the Channel. In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Banksy shared a photo of the real sea rescue boat MV Louise Michel, which he has funded, alongside a link to the official Instagram page of the boat. Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Banksy (@banksy) Advertisement He wrote: The Home Secretary called my Glastonbury boat vile and unacceptable which seemed a bit over the top. The real boat I fund, the MV Louise Michel, rescued 17 unaccompanied children from the central Med on Monday night. As punishment, the Italian authorities have detained it which seems vile and unacceptable to me. The boat artwork originally appeared while the Bristol rock band were performing Danny Nedelko, a 2018 release which begins with the lyrics: My blood brother is an immigrant, a beautiful immigrant. According to The Guardian, the band said the demonstration was devised by Banksy and they were not aware it had happened until after the set had finished. It returned the following evening for Little Simzs performance on the Pyramid Stage. US president Joe Biden has blamed his poor performance at a TV debate with Donald Trump on jet lag. During a campaign event, the 81-year-old Mr Biden pointed to two back-to-back European trips, saying: I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple of times. Advertisement The president added that he didnt listen to my staff about travel and joked that he fell asleep on stage during the debate. US president Joe Biden has faced calls to step aside from the presidential race (Evan Vucci/AP) However, Democratic leaders were increasingly signalling that they were not buying White House attempts to brush off Mr Bidens performance in the face-off as a momentary lapse, after he gave halting and nonsensical answers and trailed off at times. Advertisement It comes as the president is set to meet with congressional leaders and Democratic governors, sit for a network TV interview and hold a press conference in the coming days, a blitz designed to push back against growing pressure for him to step aside from the 2024 race after the disastrous performance. We really want to turn the page on this, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said of the intensifying calls for Mr Biden to bow out of the race. She added that the president had no intention of stepping aside, characterising his debate failings as simply evidence of a bad night when he had a cold. There is growing anxiety among donors and on Capitol Hill about the presidents ability to win come November. It is not helping that Mr Biden has yet to reach out to legislators, who are growing increasingly frustrated that the White House has not satisfactorily explained how such a seasoned politician could have performed so badly. Advertisement Donald Trump and Joe Biden during the debate (John Bazemore/AP) Questions swirled about whether this was an isolated incident or part of a pattern. Two people who spent time with Mr Biden behind closed doors described him similarly. He was often very sharp and focused, but he also had moments, particularly later in the evening, when his thoughts seemed jumbled and he would trail off mid-sentence or seem confused. Former US house speaker Nancy Pelosi told MSNBC that she believes it is a legitimate question whether Mr Bidens performance was just an episode or is this a condition. Advertisement When people ask that question, its legitimate of both candidates, Mrs Pelosi said. But she did not go so far as to ask him to step aside. Mrs Pelosi said she had not spoken with Mr Biden since the debate, but she emphasised that the president is on top of his game, in terms of knowing the issues and what is at stake. A spokesperson later said Mrs Pelosi had full confidence in Mr Biden and looks forward to attending his inauguration on January 20, 2025. Advertisement World Democrat politician publicly calls for Biden to st... Read More Mr Biden has acknowledged that he had performed poorly, telling supporters he was not as young as he once was, but that he knew how to deliver doing the job, but allies worry that the next inevitable misstep by Biden even if its not at the magnitude of his debate disaster will resurrect voter concerns about the presidents fitness for office. The president has been encouraged by his family to stay in the race. The two people who carry the most weight US first lady Jill Biden and his son Hunter have said he should keep fighting. Hurricane Beryl roared through open waters on Tuesday as a powerful Category four storm heading towards Jamaica after earlier crossing islands in the south-east Caribbean, killing at least six people. A hurricane warning was in effect for Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac. Advertisement Beryl was losing intensity but was still forecast to be near major-hurricane strength when it passes near or over Jamaica early on Wednesday, near the Cayman Islands on Thursday and into Mexicos Yucatan Peninsula on Friday, according to the National Hurricane Centre. Fishermen push a boat damaged by Hurricane Beryl at the Bridgetown fisheries, Barbados (Ricardo Mazalan/AP) A hurricane watch was in effect for Haitis southern coast and the Yucatans east coast. Belize issued a tropical storm watch stretching south from its border with Mexico to Belize City. Advertisement Late on Monday, Beryl became the earliest storm to develop into a Category five hurricane in the Atlantic and peaked at winds of 165mph (270kph) on Tuesday before weakening to a still-destructive Category four. Early on Wednesday, the storm was about 250 miles (400 kilometres) east-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica. It had top winds of 145mph (230kph) and was moving west-northwest at 22mph (35kph), the centre said. Beryl was expected to bring life-threatening winds and storm surge to Jamaica, where officials warned residents in flood-prone areas to prepare for evacuation. I am encouraging all Jamaicans to take the hurricane as a serious threat, Jamaican prime minister Andrew Holness said in a public address Tuesday. It is, however, not a time to panic. Advertisement In Miami, National Hurricane Centre director Michael Brennan said Jamaica appears to be in the direct path of Beryl. Advertisement We are most concerned about Jamaica, where we are expecting the core of a major hurricane to pass near or over the island, he said in an online briefing. You want to be in a safe place where you can ride out the storm by nightfall (Tuesday). Be prepared to stay in that location through Wednesday. Storm surge of 6-9ft (1.8-2.7m) above typical tide levels are likely in Jamaica, as well as heavy rainfall. This is a big hazard in the Caribbean, especially with the mountainous islands, Mr Brennan said. This could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides in some of these areas. A tropical storm warning was in place for the entire southern coast of Hispaniola, an island shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Advertisement As the storm barrelled through the Caribbean Sea, rescue crews in south-eastern islands fanned out to determine the extent of the damage Beryl inflicted on Carriacou, an island in Grenada. Three people were reported killed in Grenada and Carriacou and another in St Vincent and the Grenadines, officials said. Two other deaths were reported in northern Venezuela, where five people are missing, officials said. Some 25,000 people in that area also were affected by heavy rainfall from Beryl. A palm tree uprooted by Hurricane Beryl (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan) One fatality in Grenada occurred after a tree fell on a house, Kerryne James, the environment minister, told The Associated Press. She said Carriacou and Petit Martinique sustained the greatest damage, with scores of homes and businesses flattened in Carriacou. The situation is grim, Grenadian prime minister Dickon Mitchell told a news conference on Tuesday. There is no power, and there is almost complete destruction of homes and buildings on the island. The roads are not passable, and in many instances, they are cut off because of the large quantity of debris strewn all over the streets. Mr Mitchell added: The possibility that there may be more fatalities remains a grim reality as movement is still highly restricted. Meanwhile, Ralph Gonsalves, prime minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, promised to rebuild the archipelago. He noted that 90 per cent of homes on Union Island were destroyed, and that similar levels of devastation were expected on the islands of Myreau and Canouan. Several people evacuated Union Island via ferry and arrived at the Kingstown Ferry Terminal in St Vincent and the Grenadines on Tuesday. Residents of Union Island evacuated via ferry, arriving in Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines (Lucanus Ollivierre/AP) Sharon DeRoche, one of the evacuees, said Union Island is in a terrible state. She bore the hurricane in her bathroom before she fled. It was a hard four hours battling with six of us in that little area, she said. The last strong hurricane to hit the southeast Caribbean was Hurricane Ivan 20 years ago, which killed dozens of people in Grenada. Grenadian resident Roy ONeale (77) lost his home to Ivan and built back stronger. His current home sustained minimal damage from Beryl. I felt the wind whistling, and then for about two hours straight, it was really, really terrifying at times, he said by phone. Branches of trees were flying all over the place. Hundreds of people hunkered in shelters across the south-east Caribbean, including 50 adults and 20 children who huddled inside a school in Grenada. Family members begin to repair their home damaged in the passing of Hurricane Beryl, in Ottley Hall, St Vincent and the Grenadines (Lucanus Ollivierre/AP) Maybe some of them thought they could have survived in their homes, but when they realised the severity of it they came for cover, said Urban Mason, a retired teacher who served as the shelters manager. People tend to be complacent. One of the homes that Beryl damaged belongs to the parents of UN climate change executive secretary Simon Stiell, who is from Carriacou. The storm also destroyed the home of his late grandmother. In a statement, Mr Stiell said that the climate crisis is worsening, faster than expected. Whether in my homeland of Carriacou hammered by Hurricane Beryl, or in the heatwaves and floods crippling communities in some of the worlds largest economies, its clear that the climate crisis is pushing disasters to record-breaking new levels of destruction, he said. Grenada, known as the spice isle, is one of the worlds top exporters of nutmeg. Mr Mitchell noted that the bulk of the spices are grown in the northern part of the island, which was hit hardest by Beryl. Three former Love Island stars who became social media finfluencers have pleaded not guilty to plugging an unauthorised investment scheme. Biggs Chris, 32, Jamie Clayton, 32 and Rebecca Gormley, 26, pushed the unsanctioned venture to their Instagram followers, it is alleged. Advertisement The trio appeared side by side in the dock at Westminster Magistrates Court on Wednesday. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) charged nine influencers, including former Geordie Shore and The Only Way Is Essex stars, with promoting the scheme which was run by 30-year-old Emmanuel Nwanze. Nwanze, alongside Holly Thompson, 34, used the Instagram account, @holly_fx trends, to advise on buying and selling contracts for difference (CFDs) when they were not authorised to do so between 2018 and 2021, it is alleged. The watchdog said CFDs were high-risk investments, with 80% of customers losing money. Advertisement Emmanuel Nwanze arrives at Westminster Magistrates Court (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Nwanze paid Chris, Clayton, and Gormley to promote the account to their followers in 2020, prosecutors say. He also paid Towies Lauren Goodger, 37, and Yazmin Oukhellou, 30, Love Islands Eva Zapico, 25, and Geordie Shores Scott Timlin, 36, the FCA said. Advertisement The combined following of their Instagram accounts was 4.5 million, the FCA said. Nwanze, Timlin and Thompson pleaded not guilty at a previous hearing. Each of the defendants is charged with one count of issuing unauthorised communications of financial promotions. They face up to two years in prison if convicted. Advertisement Kerry Spence, partner at Hodge Jones & Allen who represents Gormley and Chris, said: My clients strongly protest their innocence and look forward to clearing their names in court of these spurious charges. Nwanze also faces one count of breaching a general prohibition under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, which prohibits people from carrying out regulated activities in the UK unless they are authorised to do so. A trial preparation hearing has been set for July 11 at Southwark Crown Court and the nine defendants have been granted unconditional bail until this date. Anyone who believes they have suffered loss over the scheme should contact the FCA, the regulator said. US president Joe Biden defiantly vowed on Wednesday to keep running for re-election, rejecting growing pressure from within the Democratic Party to withdraw after a disastrous debate performance. Mr Biden said he would not be forced from the race. Advertisement I am running. I am the leader of the Democratic Party. No one is pushing me out, Mr Biden said, according to a top aide who posted his comment on the X social media platform. Mr Biden and Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance on a Democratic National Committee call, according to three people familiar with the matter who were given anonymity to discuss the private conversation. The people said it was a pep talk, stressing the stakes of the election and returning to Mr Bidens previous post-debate comments that he would get back up after being knocked down. Advertisement Kamala Harris was due to have lunch with the president on Wednesday (AP Photo/Ronda Churchill) It was one of several efforts by the president and his top aides to try to calm increasing anxiety among his allies on Capitol Hill and at top levels of his party. Democrats are unsatisfied with the explanations of Mr Bidens debate performance, from both White House staff and Mr Biden himself. And there is a deeper frustration among some Democrats who feel Mr Biden should have handled questions about his stumbling debate performance much sooner and that he has put them in a difficult position by staying in the race. White House chief of staff Jeff Zients urged people during an earlier all-staff meeting on Wednesday to tune out the noise and focus on the task of governing. Advertisement Even as Mr Zients acknowledged that the days since the Atlanta match-up between Biden and Republican Donald Trump have been challenging, the chief of staff stressed to more than 500 White House aides on the call the accomplishments and the track record of the Democratic administration and said governing will only become more crucial once the campaign season heats up, particularly after the Fourth of July holiday, according to a White House official. Mr Biden himself began making personal outreach on his own, speaking privately with senior Democratic lawmakers such as Senate majority leader Chuck Schumer of New York, House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York, Delaware senator Chris Coons and South Carolina representative James Clyburn, according to a second White House official and others with knowledge of the conversations. Mr Zients also spoke personally with Mr Schumer and Mr Clyburn earlier on Wednesday. On Capitol Hill, there is increasing anxiety with each day as Mr Biden had been slow to reach out to top Democrats and rank-and-file members, according to people familiar with ongoing conversations. Advertisement Mr Zients tried to rally the staffs confidence in Mr Bidens re-election apparatus, noting that the president has a strong campaign team in place and that the White Houses job was to focus on continuing to implement Mr Bidens agenda. He also told staff that Mr Biden has always made it through tough times, despite being counted out over his decades in public office. The chief of staff also encouraged aides to continue being a team and, while acknowledging the increasing political chatter, to tune it out and stay disciplined, according to the official, who was granted anonymity to relay Mr Zients private remarks. Mr Zients also urged White House staff to ask questions and offer feedback. Staff-wide White House calls are not unusual, but Wednesdays 15-minute check-in came as Mr Biden and senior White House officials were working to assuage rattled lawmakers, donors and other allies within the party amid sharpening questions about whether the 81-year-old president had the competency to run for a second term in office. A memo sent Wednesday by campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon and campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez insists the election between Mr Biden and Mr Trump will still be close, seeking to downplay the lasting effects of the debate. Advertisement Ireland Biden needs strong public appearances to show deba... Read More Mr Biden and vice president Ms Harris were also scheduled to hold one of their sporadic lunches on Wednesday, and the president was planning on hosting an assortment of Democratic governors at the White House in the evening. Among the Democratic governors who were planning to attend in person were Tim Walz of Minnesota, who leads the Democratic Governors Association, JB Pritzker of Illinois, Maura Healey of Massachusetts, Daniel McKee of Rhode Island, Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, Andy Beshear of Kentucky and Gavin Newsom of California, according to their aides. North Carolina governor Roy Cooper and New Jersey governor Phil Murphy were planning on attending virtually. Rishi Sunak insisted he had a very good chat with Boris Johnson after the pair were not seen together at a Tory rally. The former UK prime minister made a surprise appearance at the London event on Tuesday night in a bid to give the faltering Conservative campaign a late boost. Advertisement Greeted by applause and chants of Boris, Boris, Boris, Mr Johnson used his speech to issue warnings about a Labour government and Reform UK. Advertisement But he did not make a positive case for Mr Sunak and the duo were not pictured together. Asked by journalists on the campaign trail on Wednesday whether he had met his predecessor, Mr Sunak said: Of course. I had a very good chat with him. What you saw is all Conservatives united in warning the country about the dangers of what Keir Starmer would mean, undoing all the progress that weve made. And as Boris rightly pointed out, just at the moment where we have gone through Covid, the impact of the war in Ukraine and were now cutting peoples taxes and can look forward to a better future, we would throw all that away if Keir Starmer was in power. Advertisement UK prime minister Rishi Sunak during a visit to a primary school in Hampshire (Jonathan Brady/PA) The current and former occupant of Downing Street have a fraught relationship, with Mr Sunaks resignation as chancellor in Mr Johnsons cabinet instrumental in the latters downfall. Mr Johnson had been largely absent from the campaign trail, although supportive of the Tories in his newspaper column, and had been writing letters of endorsement and backing a number of candidates in social media posts. Advertisement He took a holiday to Sardinia earlier in the run-up to the UK general election, in which polls suggest the Conservatives could suffer a crushing defeat. Taking to the stump on Tuesday, Mr Johnson told activists in Chelsea that Sir Keir Starmer would try to usher in the most left-wing Labour government since the war. Making a reference to other parties allegedly full of Kremlin crawlers, Mr Johnson said: Dont let the Putinistas deliver the Corbynistas. Dont let Putins pet parrots give this entire country psittacosis which is a disease you get by the way from cosying up to pet parrots. Advertisement Mr Starmer said he was unfazed by Mr Johnsons intervention. Last night they wheeled out the architect of chaos and division, so I think that just shows the kind of desperate, negative place theyve got to with their campaign, the Labour leader told broadcasters on a campaign visit to Carmarthenshire. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said the Tories decision to bring Mr Johnson into their campaign was a bit weird. I think the Conservatives desperate tactics are a bit weird, reminding people of the failures the failures of Boris Johnson, the failures of Liz Truss, of Rishi Sunak, he told the PA news agency. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said Mr Johnsons appearance was absolutely irrelevant to his partys electoral prospects. He told PA: Hes a busted flush. Hes the reason theyre in so much trouble. Hes the man that got the 80-seat majority and its not just being untruthful with Parliament and covering up the parties, its actually, you know, policy-wise what he did has turned off a huge number of those red wall voters, so yeah, Boris being back, I can promise you its a short-term thing. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on Wednesday for the second time in as many months as they visited Kazakhstan for a session of an international group founded to counter Western alliances. Mr Putin and Mr Xi last got together in May when the Kremlin leader visited Beijing to underscore their close partnership that opposes the US-led democratic order and seeks to promote a more multipolar world. Advertisement Now they will be holding meetings amid the annual session of the Shanghai Co-operation Organisation taking place on Wednesday and Thursday in the Kazakh capital of Astana. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation was established in 2001 by China and Russia to discuss security concerns in Central Asia and the wider region. Other members are Iran, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan shake hands as they pose for photos (Sergey Guneyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP) Advertisement Observer states and dialogue partners include Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Besides Mr Putin and Mr Xi, and summit host President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev; other leaders there will be Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan; President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan; President Emomali Rakhmon of Tajikistan; and President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyzstan. President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus will attend because his nation is becoming a full member. Also present will be UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who is visiting central Asia. Mr Guterres wants to position the UN as an inclusive organisation thats talking to all the big clubs, said Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Centre. Advertisement President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan, right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping meet in Astana (Kazakhstans Presidential Press Office via AP) Mr Putin wants to show that Russia is not isolated over Western sanctions from the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. An arrest warrant has been issued for him by the International Criminal Court for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for abductions of children from Ukraine. Kazakhstan is not party to the Rome Statute and thus is not obliged to arrest him. Advertisement For Mr Putin, the meeting is about prestige and the symbolic optics that hes not alone, Mr Gabuev said. Indeed, the Russian leader on Wednesday had multiple meetings with other leaders on the side-lines of the summit, all diligently aired by Russian state TV. Vladimir Putin shakes hands with diplomats upon his arrival at the international airport in Astana (Gavriil Grigorov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP) Advertisement At a meeting with Mr Xi on Wednesday, Mr Putin hailed the SCO as one of the key pillars of a fair, multipolar world order, and said ties between Moscow and Beijing are experiencing the best period in their history. Both face soaring tensions with the West and have met about 40 times. Their meeting in China in May underscored Beijings diplomatic support for Moscow and how it is a top market for its oil and gas. Russia has relied on Beijing as a main source of high-tech imports to keep its military machine running. The SCO helps China project its influence, especially across central Asia and the Global South. Mr Xi called for bridges of communication between countries last week and wants to further promote China as an alternative to the US and its allies. For host Kazakhstan and the other central Asian nations, the meeting is a way to further their co-operation with bigger, more powerful neighbours. This year, close Moscow ally Belarus will become a full member of the organisation, and its admission indicates how Russia wants to bolster blocs of non-Western countries. China has backed Moscow amid the fighting in Ukraine, but at a meeting of the SCO in 2022, Mr Putin referred to Beijings unspecified concerns over the conflict. Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi then called for an end to the fighting without voicing explicit disapproval of Moscows action. Neither Ukraine nor any of its Western backers are attending, and major talks or breakthroughs on the war are not expected. But because it is rare these days for any meeting to include the heads of Russia, China, Turkey and the UN, the possibility of talks about the war might be raised, at least on the peripheries of the summit, probably behind closed doors. There could be a lot of side-line discussions on Ukraine, as it is a big issue which concerns all of us, a senior Kazakh official told the Associated Press. A Russian missile and drone attack on the eastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Wednesday killed five civilians and injured 47 others, including a 14-year-old girl, authorities said. Blasts blew out some windows of a shopping mall, raining shards onto the street, photos published by local officials showed. Advertisement Mayor Borys Filatov said the daytime attack also shattered windows in two schools and three kindergartens. Debris struck the intensive care unit of a childrens hospital and a fire broke out in another hospital. Dnipro. Russian terrorists have struck our city again. As of now, five people have been killed, and thirty-four injured, including a child. All necessary services are on site, and rescuers are helping all the victims. Only two things can stop this Russian terror modern air pic.twitter.com/nqhPYmlbxR Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) July 3, 2024 Advertisement A video posted on social media by President Volodymyr Zelensky showed a missile with a fiery trail streaking over buildings in Ukraines fourth-largest city, and debris flying into the air from its impact. The war, now in its third year since Russia invaded its neighbour, has killed more than 10,000 civilians and wounded around 20,000 others, the United Nations says. Advertisement In the Kharkiv region in the north east, Russian shelling struck a village council building, killing one person and injuring two others, regional head Oleh Suniehubov said. Debris from Russias missile attack struck a shopping mall, two schools, three kindergartens and the intensive care unit of a childrens hospital (Dnipro Regional Administration via AP) Elsewhere in the region, a Russian glide bomb struck a residential building in the village of Ruska Lozova, injuring at least two people. Others could be trapped under rubble, Mr Syniehubov said. Advertisement Also on Wednesday, Ukraine received 2.2 billion dollars (1.7 billion) from the International Monetary Fund under an ongoing credit facility, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced. The credit program foresees the disbursement of 16 billion dollars (12.5 billion), but Ukraine must pass IMF reviews of its progress on key economic and fiscal benchmarks before each part is released. The latest funds will be used for welfare payments and the salaries of doctors and teachers, among other things, Mr Shmyhal said. US representative Raul Grijalva became the second congressional Democrat to call for US president Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race on Wednesday, as the fallout from his shaky performance at Thursday's debate continues. "If he's the candidate, I'm going to support him, but I think that this is an opportunity to look elsewhere," Mr Grijalva, a progressive who represents a district in southern Arizona along the border with Mexico, told The New York Times. Advertisement Neither Mr Grijalva's office nor Mr Biden's campaign immediately returned requests for comment. Mr Biden is set to meet with Democratic governors on Wednesday to try to reassure them of his fitness to run against Republican former president Donald Trump in the November 5th election. Representative Lloyd Doggett became the first congressional Democrat to call for Mr Biden to step down on Tuesday. Representative Jim Clyburn, a long-time Biden ally, said he would back a mini-primary in the run-up to the Democratic National Convention next month if Mr Biden were to leave the race. Mr Clyburn, of South Carolina, floated an idea that appeared to be laying the groundwork for alternatives by delegates during the Democrats planned virtual roll call that is scheduled before the more formal party convention. Advertisement You can actually fashion the process thats already in place to make it a mini-primary and I would support that, Mr Clyburn told CNN. He said vice president Kamala Harris, governors and others could join the competition. It would be fair to everybody because if she were to be the nominee, we need to have a running mate. And need a strong running mate. Ireland Biden needs strong public appearances to show deba... Read More Mr Clyburn, a senior lawmaker who is a former member of his partys House leadership team, said he has not personally seen the president act as he did on the debate stage last week. I saw what I saw last Thursday night, and it is concerning, he said. Some suggested Ms Harris was emerging as the favourite to replace Mr Biden if he was to withdraw, although those involved in private discussions acknowledge that governors Gavin Newsom of California and Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan remain viable alternatives. But for some insiders, Ms Harris is viewed as the best prospect to quickly unify the party and avoid a messy and divisive convention fight. One of UK prime minister Rishi Sunaks most loyal cabinet allies has said Labour is likely to win the largest majority any party has ever achieved. UK work and pensions secretary Mel Stride said it is highly unlikely that polls suggesting a victory for Sir Keir Starmers party in the upcoming UK General Election are wrong. Advertisement But he said people will regret it if Labour wins the kind of landslide that means it has untrammelled power without an effective Tory opposition. (PA Graphics) Mr Stride, who helped run Mr Sunaks campaign for the Conservative leadership and has made regular appearances on the TV and radio during the election campaign as the Tories spokesperson, appeared resigned to a heavy defeat. Advertisement He told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: I have accepted that where the polls are at the moment and it seems highly unlikely that they are very, very wrong, because theyve been consistently in the same place for some time that we are therefore tomorrow highly likely to be in a situation where we have the largest majority that any party has ever achieved. Voter intention surveys have suggested a Labour lead of around 20 points, while massive multilevel regression and poststratification (MRP) studies, which forecast constituency level results, have consistently indicated a Labour landslide. Mr Stride told GB News: If you look at the polls, it is pretty clear that Labour at this stage are heading for an extraordinary landslide on a scale that has probably never, ever been seen in this country before. But he said that if about 130,000 people in around 100 marginal seats who might be considering voting Reform or Liberal Democrat instead give their vote to the Tories, it would help to give Parliament a more robust opposition. Advertisement Im really worried about an untrammelled Labour Party in power, and that really needs to be checked, and people will regret it if we dont have that, I think, Mr Stride told LBC. Advertisement Mr Sunak and Mr Starmer are embarking on their final day of campaigning ahead of Thursdays vote. Former UK prime minister Boris Johnson made a surprise appearance at a Tory rally on Tuesday night in an effort to give the Conservative campaign a late boost. But former UK home secretary Suella Braverman, a potential contender for the Tory leadership if Mr Sunak quits, wrote in the Telegraph: One needs to read the writing on the wall: its over, and we need to prepare for the reality and frustration of opposition. Labours national campaign co-ordinator, Pat McFadden, mocked the decision to bring Mr Johnson back to support his former rival. Advertisement The show of unity Ive had boiled eggs that have lasted longer than this show of unity, he told Times Radio. Almost before he (Mr Johnson) was finished speaking, we had Suella Braverman in The Telegraph saying that it had all been a terrible mess. I think maybe that is the Conservatives problem, that it is all quite late for Boris to now be throwing his weight behind a Prime Minister, when, I think to borrow a phrase from Northern Ireland even the dogs in the street know theres not a lot of love lost there. A Survation MRP study suggested Labour is on course to win more seats than it did in Tony Blairs landslide. The survey of 34,558 and constituency-level modelling suggested it is 99 per cent certain Labour will secure more than the 418 seats won in 1997. The MRP poll data suggests prominent Tories could lose their seats to Labour, including Commons leader Penny Mordaunt in Portsmouth North, UK defence secretary Grant Shapps in Welwyn Hatfield, Hertfordshire, and party chair Richard Holden in Basildon and Billericay, Essex. World Boris Johnson returns to the trail as UK election... Read More UK chancellor Jeremy Hunt is set to lose the Godalming and Ash seat in Surrey, and education secretary Gillian Keegan her Chichester, Sussex, seat to the Liberal Democrats. The Conservative Party is virtually certain to win a lower share of the vote than at any past general election, Survation said. A Techne UK survey of 5,503 voters for The Independent, also unveiled overnight, gave Labour (40 per cent) a 19-point lead over the Tories (21 per cent). Labour has received the backing of The Sun at the UK general election, as the newspaper insisted: It is time for a change. The tabloid said it believes the Conservatives, over the past 14 years, have become a divided rabble, more interested in fighting themselves than running the country. Advertisement It added the Tories are exhausted as it switched its endorsement to the Labour Party. The Sun is shining on Labour. Its time for change. https://t.co/53HwDPR45r Wes Streeting (@wesstreeting) July 3, 2024 Advertisement It said Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has fought hard to change the party since the days of Jeremy Corbyn, adding it is still a work in progress. It noted there are still plenty of concerns about Labour, including on immigration and possible tax rises, and it also noted Mr Starmer being an ex-Remainer when it comes to Brexit. Advertisement The newspaper, which has a record of backing the party which then wins the most seats, added: He has a mountain to climb, with a disillusioned electorate and low approval ratings. But, by dragging his party back to the centre ground of British politics for the first time since Tony Blair was in No10, Sir Keir has won the right to take charge. An image of Thursdays front page alludes to the struggles of England manager Gareth Southgate at the Euros as it states: As Britain goes to the polls, its time for a new manager (and we dont mean sack Southgate!). Mr Starmer, answering media questions after a stump speech in Glasgow, said: Im delighted to have the support and the backing of The Sun. Advertisement I think that shows just how much this is a changed Labour Party, back in the service of working people. The Sun threw its weight behind Labour at the 1997 general election won by Tony Blair before switching its allegiance to the Conservatives in September 2009. Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer has received the backing of The Sun (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Advertisement Copies of The Sun were banned from Labours annual gathering following a decision taken when the conference was held in Liverpool in 2016. A widespread boycott of the paper has been in place in Liverpool due to its coverage of the 1989 Hillsborough disaster. Shadow health secretary Wes Streeting welcomed the Suns endorsement. The Sun is shining on Labour. Its time for change, he said. The Sun editorial notes there are many policies which we support from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, including the Rwanda deportation plan and the commitment to scrap national insurance. It added: But the insurmountable problem faced by the Tories is that over the course of 14 often chaotic years they have become a divided rabble, more interested in fighting themselves than running the country. By the time Rishi Sunak moved into No 10, Britain had had five prime ministers in just 12 years. In 2022 alone, there were four home secretaries, four chancellors, and five education secretaries. All this upheaval, backstabbing and mayhem came at a price. After raising concerns over tax increases and other policies, it adds: Put bluntly, the Tories are exhausted. They need a period in opposition to unite around a common set of principles which can finally bring to an end all the years of internal warfare. It is time for a change. Nigel Farages manifesto lower taxes, less immigration, slashing the size of the bloated state has struck a chord with millions, including many hard-working voters who supported Boris Johnson in 2019. But Reform is a one-man band which at best can only win only a handful of MPs and can never implement its policies. The Liberal Democrats, meanwhile, are a joke with a leader who has spent this most depressing of campaigns pulling ridiculous stunts. Which means that it is time for Labour. There is no doubt Sir Keir Starmer has fought hard to change his party for the better, even if it is still a work in progress. Reading Wednesdays Senate inquiry report on our corporate regulator, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, its flaws, indolence, ineffectiveness and state of cultural disease suggest its a dog rather than a watchdog. In short, the report concludes it is a regulator that has failed in its sole mandate to enforce the countrys corporate laws and is in a dire state with an unenviable prosecutorial rate. Liberal senator Andrew Bragg says ASIC has failed. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen This explains why the Senate committee chaired by Liberal Andrew Bragg has recommended the nuclear approach to fixing it by breaking it into two. Bragg has taken a big swing in pushing for the regulator to give birth to two separate entities, one that will police companies and the other that will cover financial services, given demarcation could be messy. Advertisement Review Eating outSouth Yarra Dainty Sichuan returns with a luxe new look, name and rejigged menu. But is the spice still right? With more than 100 items on the rejigged menu, its easy to get confused or greedy at the renovated and rebranded Sichuan stalwart. Dani Valent July 3, 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 As featured in the August hit list. See all stories . 1 / 8 Floral banquettes and chic lighting are features of the new-look, and renamed restaurant, Dainty on Toorak. Luis Enrique Ascui 2 / 8 Bespoke tablecloths add to the sense of occasion. Luis Enrique Ascui 3 / 8 Chongqing chilli chicken. Luis Enrique Ascui 4 / 8 Pulled pork with home-made beancurd. Luis Enrique Ascui 5 / 8 Lunchtime yum cha is available daily at Dainty on Toorak. Luis Enrique Ascui 6 / 8 Mullet with pickled chilli. Luis Enrique Ascui 7 / 8 Fried rice crust with salted yolk is a tasty snack. Luis Enrique Ascui 8 / 8 The bustling dining room. Luis Enrique Ascui Previous Slide Next Slide Sichuan$$$$ Wow, its so fancy! I said this three times before even getting to my table at Dainty on Toorak, the just-renovated and rebranded Dainty Sichuan. Ive been coming here since the restaurant opened in 2009, sitting at chunky timber tables in a spice haze, somewhere between agony and exhilaration, chopsticks poised for the next morsel. Like many people in Melbourne, the no-nonsense dining room was my gateway to this south-western Chinese cuisine and I revelled in the bold flavours, expert cooking and mouth-numbing ecstasy of Sichuan pepper. The food was the focus, not the decor. But now? Well, its so fancy! The entrance corridor is awash with video projections of pastoral scenes and the dining room seems palatial rather than merely large, with floral banquettes and chic lighting. Pretty glass teapots and bespoke tablecloths add to the sense of occasion. Advertisement This new Dainty is confident, the food is excellent and who doesnt love a bit of fancy? The food offering has been substantially rejigged. Theres live seafood, Cantonese yum cha every lunchtime and a ceremonial duck dish that sees glossy roasted bird carved tableside and served three ways. With more than 100 items on the leather-bound menu, its easy to get confused or greedy. I ordered 10 dishes, the waiter cautioned it was too much and my table loosened their pants for the challenge. Chongqing chilli chicken. Luis Enrique Ascui Ill always have Chongqing chilli chicken, the fiery classic that signals heat in a shower of dry chillies but is actually more of a culinary stun-gun, thanks to a liberal application of Sichuan pepper. Advertisement Many dishes come in huge tureens: mullet is slippery soft in a slick bath jazzed with pickled chillies; sliced pork and house-made tofu gleam in a translucent broth. Daintys version of a sausage roll sees slow-cooked beef wrapped in flaky pastry; puffed rice is formed into cakes and dusted with salted yolk for a crunchy snack. Mullet with pickled chilli. Luis Enrique Ascui Its been quite a journey for the Dainty brand. The first restaurant opened on Smith Street, Collingwood in 2003. Owner Tina Li would take a tram to the market to buy ingredients and youd often hear people at one of the handful of tables marvelling over their first tongue-tingling encounter with this style of food. In the decades since, the empire has taken its fragrant fire to the CBD, Box Hill, Glen Waverley, Clayton and even Sydney, but it hasnt all been roses: in 2020, Fair Work fined the group $209,000 for underpaying international workers. There are about 20 outlets now, but South Yarra has long been home base. Advertisement In its previous incarnation, it was anointed by luminaries including Rene Redzepi, Dave Chang and Sichuan food authority Fuschia Dunlop. I think they would rate this new Dainty. Its confident, the food is excellent and who doesnt love a bit of fancy? The low-down Vibe: Fancy and flavourful Go-to dish: Chongqing chilli chicken Price: Cold dishes: $15.80-$39.80; hot dishes: $28.80-$188; Dim sum: $8.30-$17.50 Fuchsia Dunlop wants us all to eat more Sichuan food Australian universities are bracing for a $1.1 billion revenue black hole next year with 63,500 fewer international students expected under the governments plan to slash foreign enrolments. Economic modelling commissioned by Sydney University showed the proposed international student cuts could cause a $4.1 billion hit to the Australian economy and cause 21,922 direct and indirect job losses in 2025. New modelling shows universities will face a $1.1 billion shortfall next year. Credit: Oscar Colman Universities warn that international fees prop up domestic enrolments and research, contributing more than $10,000 to the government shortfall in one local medicine students degree funding. In its submission to the governments proposed caps legislation, due to be debated in parliament this week, Sydney University said the modelling was conservative as they represented the impact on the economy in 2025 alone. A woman tied up and raped by her husband in an ice-fuelled rage. Another whose arranged marriage ended with threats to send her back to Pakistan to be stoned to death. A third woman was terrorised by her drug-addicted son who repeatedly came to her home to steal. These are among the thousands of women helped by Western Sydney Nepean Blue Mountains Domestic Violence Service until last September known as the Mount Druitt Family Violence Service which has lost more than half of its seven staff in the past two years. Staffed by two case workers and a trainee, its future is uncertain. In 2023, NSW Treasury secretary Michael Coutts-Trotter lauded the service as the gold standard in his role as secretary of the Department of Communities and Justice, which runs the service. Staffed by caseworkers from the DCJ, the service is now short-staffed because the DCJ itself is short-staffed and any extra workers are sent to its child protection unit. A man is dead, two teenage girls are under arrest and up to four males are on the run after an allegedly stolen car crashed into another vehicle in Melbournes east. The Jeep Grand Cherokee hit the other vehicle at the intersection of Warrigal Road and Highbury Road in Burwood about 7pm on Tuesday. The crash scene on Tuesday night. Credit: Nine News Police said the Jeep was travelling fast and erratically. The driver and sole occupant of the second vehicle, a 28-year-old Ashburton man, was killed. There were up to six teenagers in the Jeep, and up to four males fled after the crash. Two 15-year-old girls were arrested as they allegedly tried to run away, a witness having managed to catch one. Regulatory framework Section 206F of the Corporations Act empowers ASIC to disqualify individuals from managing corporations for up to five years if they were officers of two or more companies that failed to pay their debts and were wound up. US Expels Over 100 Chinese Migrants in Rare Mass Deportation (Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Public domain) The United States has deported 116 Chinese migrants in what the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) described as the first "large charter flight" to China in five years. This action marks a significant development in the US's efforts to manage immigration and reflects ongoing political debates over the issue, especially with the upcoming presidential election. "We will continue to enforce our immigration laws and remove individuals without a legal basis to remain in the United States," stated Alejandro Mayorkas, Homeland Security Secretary. The flight, which took place over the weekend, is part of broader efforts by the US to curb illegal immigration and address the complex issue of Chinese migrants entering the country, often through the southern border. The DHS has been working closely with Chinese authorities to facilitate the return of Chinese nationals. Although specifics about the duration of the migrants' stay in the US were not disclosed, the department confirmed plans for future removal flights, though no specific timeline was provided. The cooperation between the US and China on these deportations follows a recent surge in illegal crossings by Chinese nationals, with over 37,000 Chinese migrants apprehended at the US-Mexico border in 2023-ten times the number from the previous year. This surge in Chinese migration has become a focal point in political debates, with Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, raising suspicions about the motivations behind this migration. Asian advocacy groups, meanwhile, express concerns that such rhetoric may lead to increased harassment of Asian communities. Migrants themselves often cite escaping poverty and repression as reasons for their journey. The resumption of cooperation on migration issues between the US and China has been a significant step forward. In May, China's US embassy reiterated the country's stance against illegal immigration, emphasizing its crackdown on smuggling organizations. Earlier this year, a smaller charter flight repatriated an undisclosed number of Chinese deportees to Shenyang, China, marking the beginning of renewed deportation efforts. This weekend's large deportation flight underscores the US's intensified focus on addressing illegal migration routes. For instance, the US recently announced it would cover the costs of repatriating migrants who enter Panama illegally, under a new agreement with Panama's president. Additionally, Ecuador reinstated visa requirements for Chinese nationals on July 1, responding to a rise in irregular migration. The Department of Homeland Security's statement on the deportation flight also highlights the changing dynamics of illegal migration at the US southern border. Historically, the majority of migrants were from Mexico and Central America. However, recent years have seen a dramatic increase in migrants from diverse nationalities, including China and India, facilitated by extensive smuggling networks. Chinese smuggling operations, known as "snakeheads," have evolved significantly, leveraging the internet and social media platforms such as TikTok, WhatsApp, and WeChat to attract new clients. In a report by NBC News, a Chinese smuggler on WeChat claimed to have successfully transported over 100 individuals to the US in the past year, showcasing the sophistication and scale of these operations. Homeland Security has welcomed Ecuador's recent policy change requiring Chinese visitors to obtain visas, viewing it as a critical move to curb smuggling routes. Ecuador had been a preferred entry point for Chinese migrants due to its previously lax visa policies, which facilitated their onward journey to the US. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin attend the ceremony of presenting Xi Jinping with a degree from the St. Petersburg State University at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia, June 6, 2019. (Photo: Dmitri Lovetsky/Pool via REUTERS) The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), a Eurasian political, economic, and security alliance led by China and Russia, is set to admit Belarus as a full member. This development, expected to be formalized at the SCO's annual summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, underscores the bloc's ambition to serve as a counterbalance to Western influence, particularly that of the United States. The addition of Belarus, a staunch ally of Russia that has supported Moscow's controversial actions in Ukraine, marks another step in the transformation of the SCO from a regional security group to a significant geopolitical entity. This expansion follows the inclusion of Iran last year and highlights the SCO's growing clout on the international stage. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, both present in Astana, will be meeting for the second time this year, further solidifying their partnership within the organization. Founded in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan to combat terrorism and promote regional security, the SCO has steadily broadened its scope and membership. India and Pakistan were added in 2017, and with Belarus' upcoming inclusion, the organization will encompass 10 member states, representing over 40% of the world's population and about a quarter of the global economy. Additionally, the SCO includes observer states such as Afghanistan and Mongolia, and numerous dialogue partners including Turkey and various Arab nations. The SCO's expansion is seen as a strategic maneuver by Beijing and Moscow to counter what they perceive as US hegemony and to reshape the global order in their favor. This view is supported by Eva Seiwert, an expert on China's foreign policy at the Mercator Institute for China Studies (MERICS) in Berlin, who notes that Belarus' membership is more about geopolitical signaling than economic or security cooperation. "The inclusion of Belarus underscores the SCO's shifting mission towards a broader geopolitical role," she said. For Russia, embroiled in its third year of conflict in Ukraine, the SCO provides a crucial diplomatic platform. For China, facing deteriorating relations with the US, the SCO's expanding membership bolsters its vision of a multipolar world order. This joint ambition was highlighted by Putin in a recent meeting with his foreign ministry officials, where he discussed the potential for a new security framework in Eurasia that reduces Western military presence, aligning with China's global security initiatives. Despite the outward show of unity, the expansion has not been without internal tensions. The inclusion of countries with complex relationships, such as India and Pakistan, has added layers of diplomatic friction. Furthermore, the SCO's growing anti-Western stance, especially with the admission of Iran and now Belarus, has caused unease among member states that seek balanced relations with both the West and the bloc's leading powers. Bates Gill, a senior fellow for the National Bureau of Asian Research, notes that Belarus' membership raises questions about the SCO's reputation and legitimacy. "Belarus' inclusion poses challenges given its support for Russia's actions in Ukraine, potentially diluting the SCO's original focus on Central Asia and raising concerns about its broader mandate," he said. India's approach to the SCO also reflects these complexities. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is notably absent from the Astana summit, opting instead to strengthen ties with the US. This decision, along with India hosting last year's summit virtually, signals New Delhi's cautious stance towards the organization's direction under Chinese and Russian influence. Even within the SCO, China is pursuing more direct engagement with Central Asian countries, separate from Russia. Last year, China hosted leaders from the region at the inaugural China-Central Asia summit, establishing a permanent Secretariat in Xi'an. This indicates Beijing's strategic interest in maintaining influence in Central Asia independently. As the SCO continues to evolve, its expansion underscores both its potential and its inherent challenges. While it aims to present a united front against Western dominance, the diversity of its members and their varied geopolitical interests could limit its cohesion and effectiveness compared to established blocs like NATO or the European Union. With China set to take over the rotating presidency of the SCO for the next year, efforts will likely intensify to find common ground among its increasingly diverse membership. Seiwert from MERICS highlights the importance of this period for Beijing, stating, "China will be keen to ensure the SCO is seen as a successful and influential organization, despite the challenges posed by its expanding membership." CNN contributed to this report. Notwithstanding Paytm Payments Banks downfall due to RBI crackdown -- which many believed would boost the prospects of its rivals --Airtel Payments Bank has trimmed about 49 per cent of its prepaid payment instrument (PPI) wallets between January and May this year, data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) shows. Deactivation of dormant zero-balance wallets was one of the key reasons for this sharp fall in PPI wallets of the payments bank arm of telecom major Bharti Airtel. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp The Gurugram-based company had about 72.5 million PPI wallets in January, which is now down to 36.7 million outstanding wallets as of May 2024. We recently completed a system optimisation effort by removing dormant zero-balance wallets. These were deactivated following adequate customer communications, said Anubrata Biswas, MD and CEO, Airtel Payments Bank, in response to queries sent by Business Standard. However, the companys transaction volumes with respect to PPI wallets have recorded a steady increase during the same period this year. In January, the company recorded transaction volumes of 6.05 million when it came to the purchase of goods and services using PPI wallets. It rose to 7.07 million in May, a 16.8 per cent increase in volumes at the end of the five-month period. Within the payments bank space, Airtel Payments Bank (Airtel PB) has recorded the steepest decline in PPI wallets even after Paytm PB suffered crippling restrictions from the RBI in January. Most industry participants had anticipated wallet numbers to move to Paytm PBs direct competitors. Paytm PB had 630.7 million PPI wallets in January, which shrank by around 40 per cent to 380.5 million such wallets in May. Queries sent to Paytm PB did not elicit a response till press time. The decline in a companys PPI wallet numbers could also come from other reasons. The company may have taken on-board many users in a single time based on an e-KYC (Know Your Customer) or Aadhaar-OTP (One Time Password)-based KYC. However, after one year, such customers have to do a full-KYC, or close the wallet, a senior executive with a payments major said, requesting anonymity. While most payments banks players have recorded a decline in wallet numbers, non-bank participants such as pure-play fintech companies have gained customers. For instance, Bengaluru-based fintech major PhonePe saw its wallet numbers increase to 199.3 million in May, a five per cent increase as compared to 189.5 million in January. MobiKwik has seen a two per cent increase to 136.8 million wallets from 134.1 million during the same time. People may sign up with new wallets only because they wouldnt want to expose their bank account or their credit card to digital payments such as a Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for security reasons. They may feel that wallets are more secure given its smaller limits, a payments executive said. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy on Wednesday launched the Nirman portal - Noble Initiative for Rewarding Mains Aspirants of National Civil Services Examination - in New Delhi, which aims to offer Rs 1 lakh to eligible candidates of the UPSC examination. According to the notification released by the Centre, the initiative is alignmed with the Mission Karmayogi and is powered by Coal India Limited as part of its CSR initiative (corporate social responsibility). Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp The portal will ensure selection transparency and direct benefits reach the beneficiary, Reddy said in a post on X. Who is eligible for the Coal India scheme? The notification says that the reward will be offered by Coal India for the meritorious youth of its operating districts who have qualified the preliminary round of UPSC examination (for Civil Services & Forest Service) in 2024. Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Honble Union Minister of Coal and Mines, launched the portal for #CoalIndia s scheme NIRMAN (Noble Initiative for Rewarding Mains Aspirants of National Civil Services Examination) in New Delhi. pic.twitter.com/5mzXmxhC9u July 2, 2024 The financial support of Rs 1 lakh will be provided to the UPSC examination qualified candidates, who have an annual family income of less than Rs 800,000 and belong to either Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe, female or third gender. These aspirants need to be permanent residents of any of the 39 operational districts of the company. These include Jharkhands Dhanbad and Ranchi, West Bengals Kolkata, Chhattisgarhs Bilaspur and Maharashtras Nagpur among others. How to apply? The eligible candidates can use the Nirman portal to submit their applications to avail the scheme benefits. The Centre clarified that the whole application process will be done through the dedicated portal in digital format to ensure transparency. The initiative seeks to boost the academic and employment prospects of underprivileged students from coal-bearing areas. Coal India is a state-owned coal mining corporation which was launched in 1975. The company holds the title of the single largest coal producer in the world and accounts for 80 per cent of coal produced in India. The company and its subsidiaries operate in eight states of India. Koo was created to bridge the language gap in social media, where most platforms are predominantly English-centric. "We wanted to democratise expression and enable a better way to connect people in their local languages. Most global products are dominated by Americans. We believe that India should have a place at the table," the post read. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Koo , the Indian social media platform that emerged as a contender to X (formerly Twitter), is shutting down due to financial difficulties and an unpredictable market environment. The decision marks the end of a four-year journey which included significant achievements but ultimately became constrained by economic challenges. The news was shared by founders Aprameya Radhakrishna and Mayank Bidawatka in a "goodbye" post on LinkedIn on Wednesday. Koo, founded in 2020, quickly gained traction as an Indian alternative to X. It was extensively promoted by celebrities and ministers and managed to attract investor interest, expanding its presence to markets like Nigeria and Brazil. The platform, known for its yellow bird logo, had nearly 60 million downloads since its inception and supported over 10 languages. Despite early success, including raising $4.1 million in its Series A round in February 2021 and an additional $31 million led by American investment firm Tiger Global three months later, Koo faced financial difficulties. By June 2022, Koo had raised over $57 million, reaching a peak valuation of $285.5 million. At its peak, Koo boasted approximately 2.1 million daily active users and around 10 million monthly active users, including over 9,000 VIPs from various fields. The platform had a significant engagement rate, with a 10 per cent like ratiofar surpassing X's engagement metrics. In 2022, Koo was close to overtaking X in India and had the potential for further growth with sufficient capital. Why did Koo fail? Despite its initial success, Koo struggled to secure additional funding and was forced to reduce its workforce significantly. The final blow came when acquisition talks with Dailyhunt fell through. Radhakrishna and Bidawatka explained that failed partnership talks with larger internet companies, conglomerates, and media houses were a major factor. The high cost of maintaining technology services for a social media platform and the unwillingness of potential partners to handle user-generated content contributed to the platform's demise. A prolonged funding winter at Koos peak hindered growth plans. The "unpredictable market" conditions and lack of "long-term capital investment" proved detrimental to the platform. "Koo could have easily scaled internationally and given India a global brand that was truly made in India. This dream will remain," they said. Despite the closure, Radhakrishna and Bidawatka remain optimistic about their future endeavours and grateful for the support from their team, investors, and users. "We are entrepreneurs at heart and you will see us back in the arena one way or another. Till then, thank you for your time, attention, good wishes and love. The little yellow bird says its final goodbye," concluded the founders. UNGA adopts proposal by China on AI 10:52, July 03, 2024 By Minlu Zhang ( China Daily Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the UN, introduces the draft resolution in New York on Monday. (WANG JIANGANG/XINHUA) The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on Monday proposed by China to strengthen international cooperation on artificial intelligence capacity building and advocate for "an open, fair and nondiscriminatory business environment". AI technology is rapidly developing globally, but most people, especially those in developing countries, have not yet had real access to it or benefited from it, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the UN. He called for the strengthening of international cooperation on AI for developing and using AI technology equally and the sharing of its benefits. The resolution "encourages international cooperation to help countries, especially developing ones, strengthen AI capacity, enhance their representation in global AI governance and advocate for an open, fair and nondiscriminatory business environment", Fu said. The resolution has been co-sponsored by more than 140 countries, including a last-minute addition of the United States. "We're very appreciative of the positive role that the US has played in this whole process. China is ready to work with the US on the issue of AI," Fu said after the resolution was adopted, adding that senior officials from China and the US have held discussions regarding AI. "So we look forward to intensifying our cooperation with the US and, for that matter, with all countries in the world on this issue." On Monday, Fu presented the draft resolution to the General Assembly on behalf of Algeria, Brazil, Cuba, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Laos, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Uganda, the United Arab Emirates and Zambia. The resolution emphasizes AI development should be "human-oriented, promote good, and benefit humanity", Fu said. It highlights the UN's central role in international cooperation to achieve inclusive and sustainable AI development and its contributions to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, he said. The resolution at the 78th session of the General Assembly came about one month after the US released a new round of measures to restrict and monitor US companies and individuals' investments in key technologies in China, including AI, semiconductors, and quantum computing sectors. The US has been imposing export control measures since October 2022, aimed at restricting China's access to advanced AI chips made with US inputs. "With respect to the sanctions imposed by the US government, fostering an inclusive business environment is important. We don't think the actions taken by the US align with that principle. We urge the US to lift these sanctions," Fu said. "We don't believe that the US government's position or decisions will be helpful for the healthy development of AI technology. Importance of inclusivity "Such actions could divide the world in terms of standards and rules governing AI. We believe it's important to be inclusive on this matter." In March, the General Assembly unanimously adopted the first AI resolution, submitted by the US with more than 120 member countries, including China, to "promote safe, secure and trustworthy AI systems" and advance a shared approach to the technology. Fu said the two resolutions complement each other. "If you look at them, the US resolution is more general, while the Chinese one is more focused on capacity building. That's why we believe these are complementary resolutions," he said. It is the second draft resolution proposed by China to be passed by the General Assembly in less than a month. Last month, the assembly unanimously adopted China's resolution to establish the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun) Having fought the 2024 Lok Sabha elections as an independent, Amritpal Singh won from the Khadoor Sahib Lok Sabha seat after he defeated Congress candidate Kulbir Singh Zira. | Photo: ANI/Twitter Jailed radical Sikh preacher Amritpal Singh, who recently won the Khadoor Sahib parliamentary seat in Punjab, is likely to take oath as Lok Sabha member on Friday. The chief of the 'Waris Punjab De' outfit, who is currently lodged in Assam's Dibrugarh jail along with nine associates under the National Security Act, has been granted a four-day parole to enable him to take oath, officials in Amritsar said. Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa, an Independent MP from Faridkot, said Amritpal Singh is likely to take oath as MP on July 5. "I went to meet Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at his residence in Delhi on Wednesday. He said the oath will be administered on July 5," Khalsa told PTI over phone. He also said that clearances and permissions from various quarters to enable Amritpal Singh to take oath have come. "I understand that he will be flown in from the prison for taking oath, which will be in the private chamber of the Speaker," he said. Khalsa said the sole purpose of his meeting the Speaker on Wednesday at the latter's Akbar Road residence in the national capital was regarding Amritpal Singh's oath taking issue. About parole, Deputy Commissioner-cum District Magistrate, Amritsar, Ghamshyam Thori told PTI, "Amritpal Singh has been granted parole for up to four days or less beginning 5th July with certain conditions that has been communicated to Jail Superintendent Dibrugarh." In response to another query about the parole, Thori said in a brief statement, "...granted by District Magistrate, Amritsar, after authorisation by the Home Department." According to Rajdev Singh Khalsa, a lawyer of Amritpal Singh who meets him in jail, said he (Amritpal), through the Dibrugarh jail superintendent, had recently sent a letter to the Amritsar deputy commissioner, who in turn forwarded it to the state government for necessary clearance to allow the jailed preacher to take oath. His temporary release was sought under Section 15 of the National Security Act. Having fought the 2024 Lok Sabha elections as an independent, Amritpal Singh won from the Khadoor Sahib Lok Sabha seat after he defeated Congress candidate Kulbir Singh Zira. He won by a margin of 1,97,120 votes. Amritpal Singh, who styled himself after slain Khalistani militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, was arrested in Moga's Rode village on April 23 last year following an over a month-long manhunt. The Khalistan sympathizer had escaped the police net in Jalandhar district on March 18, switching vehicles and changing appearances. The Punjab Police had launched the crackdown after the February 23 Ajnala incident last year in which Amritpal Singh and his supporters, some of them brandishing swords and guns, broke through barricades and barged into the police station on the outskirts of Amritsar city, and clashed with police for the release of Lovepreet Singh Toofan, one of his aides. He and his associates were booked under several criminal cases related to spreading disharmony among classes, attempt to murder, attack on police personnel and creating obstructions in the lawful discharge of duty by public servants. Hyrbyair Marri, a Baloch political leader based in the United Kingdom, has strongly criticised Pakistan's military operation known as Azm-e-Istehkam in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. Marri, known for his advocacy of Baloch independence, alleged that the operation was being conducted on the orders of China to protect its economic interests in Pakistan. Marri posted on X, "A new military operation is being planned by #Pakistan on #Chinese orders against the Baloch and #Pashtun, known as #Azmelstehkaam (Resolve for Stability). That's Azm-e-Istehkam for #China and #Punjab, not for the Baloch and Pashtun people." He further criticised the operation as benefiting "Punjabi hegemony" while causing "chaos and death" in Balochistan and Pashtunistan. Marri also expressed concern over the involvement of Pashtuns in the Pakistani army, accusing them of being used to suppress their own people's aspirations. He urged them to prioritise the protection of their homeland, Pashtunistan, rather than serving what he described as Punjabi interests. The military operation has sparked widespread condemnation from Baloch and Pashtun communities, who have historically resisted Islamabad's authority and expressed grievances over issues including sovereignty and rights. The regions, which have seen unrest for years, have been focal points of resistance against Chinese investments in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. China's substantial investments in Pakistan, particularly in infrastructure projects in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have faced opposition from local populations. Incidents such as the recent attack on a convoy of Chinese engineers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in casualties, underscore the security challenges faced by Chinese nationals in the region. During recent high-level visits between Pakistani and Chinese officials, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir, the security of Chinese interests in Pakistan was prominently discussed. Senior Chinese official Liu Jianchao reiterated the importance of safeguarding Chinese investments and personnel in the country. As tensions escalate, hashtags like #ExpansionistChinalnstigatingBalochAndPashtunGenocide and #StopBalochAndPashtunGenocide have gained traction on social media, reflecting growing international attention to the situation. The situation remains fluid as stakeholders navigate complex geopolitical dynamics amidst ongoing resistance and security challenges in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Veteran BJP leader Lal Krishna Advani admitted to Apollo Hospital under the observation of Dr Vinit Suri at 9 pm. He is under observation and stable, according to Apollo Hospital. Champai Soren meets governor, resigns as Jharkhand CM, according to Raj Bhavan sources. Govt constitutes various cabinet committees including on security, economic affairs, and political affairs. Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs comprises PM Modi and 10 cabinet ministers. Cabinet Committee on Security comprises PM Modi, ministers of defence, home, finance and external affairs. Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs comprises PM Modi and 13 Union ministers. Chief Minister Champai Soren is likely to resign on Wednesday to pave the way for Hemant Sorens return as Jharkhand chief minister days after the latter was released on bail. Champai Soren meets governor, resigns as Jharkhand CM, according to Raj Bhavan sources.Govt constitutes various cabinet committees including on security, economic affairs, and political affairs. Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs comprises PM Modi and 10 cabinet ministers. Cabinet Committee on Security comprises PM Modi, ministers of defence, home, finance and external affairs. Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs comprises PM Modi and 13 Union ministers.Chief Minister Champai Soren is likely to resign on Wednesday to pave the way for Hemant Sorens return as Jharkhand chief minister days after the latter was released on bail. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Hathras today after a stampede at a satsang killed 116 people. "Our government will get to the bottom of this incident and give appropriate punishment to the conspirators and those responsible. The state government is investigating this entire incident. We will see whether it is an accident or a conspiracy," Adityanath stated. A team consisting of ADG Agra and Aligarh Divisional Commissioner has been constituted to inquire into the cause of the incident. The report is to be submitted within 24 hours, the UP government said. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Hathras today after a stampede at a satsang killed 116 people. "Our government will get to the bottom of this incident and give appropriate punishment to the conspirators and those responsible. The state government is investigating this entire incident. We will see whether it is an accident or a conspiracy," Adityanath stated. A team consisting of ADG Agra and Aligarh Divisional Commissioner has been constituted to inquire into the cause of the incident. The report is to be submitted within 24 hours, the UP government said. An orange alert was issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for 15 states in northern India for Tuesday and Wednesday. A red alert was also issued for Gujarat as the IMD forecasts extremely heavy rainfall in the state on July 3. Moderate to heavy rain could affect Delhi today, as the national capital continues to grapple with the problem of waterlogging in many areas after isolated rains on Tuesday. The weather agency forecast moderate to heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. Another woman in West Bengal died by suicide reportedly after she was beaten up by a group of people from her village panchayat in the Phulbari area of West Bengals Jalpaiguri district over an alleged extramarital affair. This took place in Bogravita panchayat on June 29, a day after a woman was flogged in public by a local Trinamool Congress functionary over similar allegations in Chopra block. Police have taken in custody four people, including two women, in connection with the case. It was alleged that the woman had an extramarital affair with a young man and had been missing from her home for 10 days, Indian Express reported. Her husband then filed a missing person complaint at the New Jalpaiguri police station. A group of visitors amid rain at Kartavya Path in New Delhi. (Photo: PTI) The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has implemented a flood response plan to protect lives and property in anticipation of above-normal monsoon rainfall predicted for most of the country in July and August, according to a report by The Economic Times. The report quoted a senior government official as saying that the plan involves pinpointing vulnerable areas, establishing alternate diversion routes, and stationing emergency response teams at critical locations. Additionally, all susceptible slopes and tunnels will be monitored in real-time. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp This comprehensive strategy aims to ensure the safety of highway users, reduce travel disruptions, and limit damage to national highways. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), rainfall in July is expected to surpass 106 per cent of the long-period average, which serves as the standard measure. Under this plan, the NHAI is identifying areas that might be severely affected by heavy rains and coordinating with district administrations to develop alternative diversion routes for uninterrupted travel, the report mentions. NHAIs disaster preparedness Moreover, the NHAI is collaborating with local authorities and administrations, both in mountainous regions and plains, to mobilise equipment and personnel to flood- and landslide-prone areas. The report quoted the official as saying, To ensure availability of resources for effective disaster preparedness, the NHAI has initiated shifting of required equipment from less flooding locations to flood-prone areas. The report stated that to prevent waterlogging on national highways, the NHAI, in collaboration with the irrigation department, is also conducting joint inspections. Monsoon in India The India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Tuesday that the southwest monsoon has reached the entire country six days earlier than usual. The IMD indicated that the southwest monsoon had advanced into the remaining parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab, covering the entire country by July 2, 2024, six days ahead of the usual date of July 8. The monsoon reached Kerala on May 30, two days ahead of its schedule, and arrived in the northeastern region six days early. The country experienced 16 days of reduced rainfall from June 11 to June 27, resulting in below-normal precipitation for June. The month saw 147.2 mm of rainfall, compared to the typical 165.3 mm, making it the seventh lowest since 2001. Rainfall in June contributes 15 per cent to the total 87 cm of precipitation recorded throughout the four-month monsoon season in the country. The Centre on Wednesday issued an advisory limiting the mandatory self-declaration certificates (SDCs) for advertisements to food and health sectors only. The government also said that the facility for uploading the certificate by the advertiser/advertising agency for TV and Radio ads has been made operational on the Broadcast Seva Portal. For print and digital advertisements, SDCs will have to be uploaded on the website of the Press Council of India (PCI). In light of the directions of the Honble Supreme Court of India, and in supersession of previous Advisories dated 03.06.2024 and 05.06.2024, advertisers/advertising agencies issuing advertisements for products and services related to Food and Health sectors are advised to upload an annual self-declaration certificate on the above-mentioned portals, as applicable, and make available the proof of uploading the self-declaration to the concerned media stakeholders, such as TV channels, newspapers, entities involved in publishing of advertisements on the internet, etc. for the record, the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting said, in the advisory. The Rubber Board had estimated the total domestic natural rubber stock available in the country at 370,000 tonnes at the start of the current fiscal | Photo: Shutterstock Automotive Tyre Manufacturers' Association on Wednesday said its members are witnessing a 'severe crunch' in the availability of domestic natural rubber and it may disrupt production unless supply issues of the raw material are addressed. Despite high prices of natural rubber (NR), its availability has shrunk, Automotive Tyre Manufacturers Association (ATMA) said, expressing apprehension that some "sections of natural rubber producing interests or trade are withholding the material in anticipation of an increase in the NR prices worsening the availability". "The tyre industry has been experiencing tightness in domestic availability of natural rubber for some time. However currently a severe crunch is being witnessed despite the fact that NR prices have touched a multi-year high. The paucity of natural price needs to be addressed at the earliest so that tyre production processes are not disrupted," ATMA Director General Rajiv Budhraja said in a statement. The Rubber Board had estimated the total domestic natural rubber stock available in the country at 370,000 tonnes at the start of the current fiscal, it said, adding that "unfortunately, the visibility of such a high stock to support domestic demand is not there". "The uncertainty in availability of NR, the key raw material, makes production planning at tyre plants very challenging. Being customer-centric, tyre companies need to meet the local and global requirements irrespective of shortage of any local material," Budhraja said. Stating that the tyre industry accounts for over 70 per cent of natural rubber consumed in the country, ATMA said, "Imports (are the) only option to address unpredictability". "Consuming interests have no option but to increase reliance on imports of natural rubber to bridge the huge deficit. However, imports contracted now, with no visibility of local arrivals, may arrive subsequently and may coincide with peak domestic production season," it added. ATMA said it has asked the Rubber Board to closely monitor the volume of domestic NR sales transacted in recent weeks and advise growers, dealers and processors to ensure adequate and uninterrupted availability of natural rubber so that the consuming interests are not adversely impacted. The storming of the Kenyan parliament building by revolutionary youth last week stunned the world and left Kenyan politicians and the ruling class in a state of panic and disarray. Brute force could not clear the masses off the streets. The regime has been forced to resort to new methods: a sly combination of deception, manoeuvres and provocations. Officially, Ruto has killed the Finance Bill, although in theory parliament could still pass it. In actual fact, it has already become abundantly clear that he intends to carry out the same economic policy against the workers and poor by other means. But for large numbers of young Kenyans, its no longer just about Finance Bill 2024. After last Tuesday and Thursdays events, when regime bullets left 30 dead (according to official figures), millions have resolved that this regime must fall. The Butcher of Sugoi as Ruto is now known, must be brought down. But the renewed protests this Tuesday show that thought is required to achieve this. The numbers on the street had declined. This was precisely what Rutos partial concessions were aimed at. On the other hand, paid provocateurs and selective policing were used to turn these protests towards rioting and looting. The aim was as simple as it was cynical: to alienate one part of the masses from the movement in order to isolate the most irreconcilably revolutionary elements, and justify unleashing repression. How can revolutionaries check these efforts by the ruling class, and thereby ensure that not only the Finance Bill falls, but that Ruto and his whole regime follows it into the dustbin of history? Austerity will continue Rutos initial response reflected the arrogance and stupidity of the ruling class / Image: Capital FM Kenya, Wikimedia Commons In the immediate wake of the storming of parliament last week, Rutos initial response reflected the arrogance and stupidity of the ruling class. He launched into a televised tirade against the peaceful youth, whom he described as treasonous criminals, whilst promising to deploy the army against the masses going forward. However, the next day, Ruto announced that he had listened to the people on the streets: Finance Bill 2024 would be returned to parliament instead of being passed into law. Evidently more sober minds had prevailed at the top of the regime. The movement could not be crushed directly. To have carried out Rutos threats would have been insanity from the standpoint of the Kenyan ruling class. Indeed, when soldiers were deployed at the subsequent protest last Thursday, they were clearly under orders not to shoot protesters. It was clear why. The masses received the rank and file soldiers with jubilation, seeing in them their protectors against the bullets of the hated police. Had the soldiers been ordered to fire on the masses, what would have happened? An immediate split in the army would have been almost assured, and the downfall of the regime would have followed shortly thereafter. But if any innocent soul thought the shelving of the Finance Bill was the end of the matter, they were sadly mistaken. The regime still intends to deliver a pound of flesh to the IMF and the imperialists, and theyve started making plans to ensure it. Instead of raising taxes to pay their imperialist creditors, Ruto has wasted no time in announcing a series of austerity cuts to achieve the same end. The people of Kenya have spoken loudly that they want a leaner budget for us as a country, Ruto mockingly stated. The government has already announced the dismissal of 46,000 teachers, and massive cuts in road construction, healthcare, housing, and support for small businesses. And then consider this coincidence: just five days after the Finance Bill was dropped by Ruto, the East African Community, which Kenya economically dominates, decided to introduce a series of duties. And these duties just happen to apply precisely to those items (including diapers, phones and cooking oil) that Ruto had intended to tax in the first place! The masses defeated Rutos legislation. That was a victory. But so long as the ruling class remains in power, they are forced by the circumstances that crisis-ridden capitalism imposes on the country to come back once and again to the same policy: that of forcing the workers and poor to pay for the crisis. What happened on Tuesday? Rutos withdrawal on the Finance Bill, by conceding on the main demand of the movement, undoubtedly led to a reduced turnout when the masses hit the streets once again this Tuesday. But the regime had clearly prepared its next steps. Tens of thousands of the most irreconcilable and revolutionary youth were going to turn out on Tuesday. But it was clear that something different was being prepared for them from early on. The first thing protesters noted was that highways were closed off from the morning, including the Nairobi-Thika highway, Nairobi-Nakuru highway, the Mombasa-Malindi highway, and the Kisii-Keroka highway. The aim was clearly to frustrate protesters, forcing them away from focal points like the parliament building and State House. Once back in their own communities, the regime clearly aimed to provoke riots in which personal property and small businesses would go up in flames. The talk all over social media was of hired goons, of paid provocateurs, disguised as protesters, initiating looting and riots, stabbing and attacking protesters. That the regime is perfectly capable of using hired goons in this manner is already proven. Already last Thursday, videos were circulating of goons hired by Omar Sudi in Eldoret to intimidate protesters. But whatever role these goons played, it is clear that the rioting unfolded according to a well-prepared plan on the part of the regime. Whereas the police unleashed terror on the peaceful masses outside parliament a week ago, footage showed the same police standing idly by as mobs unleashed chaos yesterday. Your goons. Proudly sponsored by the County Government of Nairobi pic.twitter.com/uphiyq9IFZ Jemedari (@MrJemedari) July 2, 2024 I've protested in Mombasa for many years and posta has never been touched. These are govt/politicians sponsored goons!#RutoMustGo pic.twitter.com/sQR76It0hY Jumuiyan (@Mkenyanese) July 2, 2024 Where next? The regime succeeded in creating chaos on the streets. Their aim is to divide the movement in order to crush it. Whether they will succeed is another question: the transparent way the regime went about stoking chaos means the manoeuvre wont fool as many as theyd have hoped. Nevertheless, they are moving ahead with their plans, which now involve intensifying arrests and abductions. Already individuals have been charged for the crime of tweeting Ruto must go. The vanguard of the youth are already conscious of the fact that the withdrawal of the Finance Bill was a smokescreen / Image: Capital FM Kenya, Wikimedia Commons These events are teaching the revolutionary workers and youth a lesson. A revolution is not a one act drama. The masses got a taste of their enormous power last Tuesday. But yesterday showed that raw power is not enough. The masses face a tenacious enemy the Kenyan capitalist class, backed by western imperialism. This enemy will not give up without a fight. It will use every means fair and foul to force the masses to accept the yoke of exploitation and oppression, which becomes daily more onerous. The class enemy has organisation, material means, and are tightly bound together by consciousness of their interests. Since the beginning of the movement, we have underlined the fact that the masses need to be equally organised. Yesterdays events have starkly demonstrated this fact. The slogan, leaderless, tribeless, partyless was positive insofar as it meant rejection of those would-be leaders from the camp of our class enemy, such as the camp of Rutos loyal opposition around Odinga. But without clear organisation and leadership, the manoeuvres of the regime, the likes of which we saw yesterday, threaten to demoralise and confuse the masses. We have raised the need for committees in every workplace, school and community precisely to give this movement sincere, revolutionary leadership from within and clear channels of organisation. Such organisation, as we have explained, could help draw the working class into the struggle, to use its enormous might to grind the economy to a halt. It could consciously connect with the rank and file of the armed forces, bringing ordinary soldiers over to the side of the masses. And it could provide stewarding and self-defence at the protests, expelling and exposing the paid goons disguised as protesters, checking any sordid manoeuvre that the regime tries to pull. We continue to urge this course of action. But recent days have shown that this too is not enough. Ruto has made concessions. This has temporarily satisfied some, but it wont be long before it becomes clear to the broad masses that Ruto has carried out a cruel trick. The vanguard of the youth are already conscious of the fact that the withdrawal of the Finance Bill was a smokescreen behind which business-as-usual will continue. The programme of the capitalist class and western imperialism is still on the agenda! We must make clear to the broad masses that not only the Finance Bill, not only Ruto, but the whole capitalist system must be swept away / Image: Capital FM Kenya, Wikimedia Commons The advanced workers and youth must fuse together in a revolutionary party to carry out systematic agitation, exposing the lies of this regime, exposing the fact that the Finance Bill is just one measure among many intended to make the workers and poor pay for the crisis of capitalism. We must make clear to the broad masses that not only the Finance Bill, not only Ruto, but the whole capitalist system must be swept away to guarantee a decent life for the masses. In order to broaden out the movement, to expand its horizons beyond bringing down Ruto and the Finance Bill, to turn this movement into a struggle for the conquest of power by the working class, such a party would put forward a series of programmatic points to connect with the needs of the masses. Although by no means exhaustive these might include such things as: Freedom for all those abducted by the regime; The right to free, high quality healthcare and education; The right to well-paid work through a programme of public works; A reversal of all privatisations; An end to land grabbing and expropriation of the major landlords; That this programme be paid for by the rich, through expropriation of the major industries, banks and insurance companies; The repudiation of the imperialist debts; An end to all military deals with the imperialist powers; For a workers government backed by the power of the revolutionary masses, organised on the basis of revolutionary committees. The Revolutionary Communist International is willing to render every assistance in this work of constructing a revolutionary party to give an organised, conscious political expression to the vanguard of Kenyas working class and youth. We appeal to you, the reader, to contact us, discuss with us, and join us in this task. The social media company has also encountered resistance to its privacy policy update in Europe. (Photo: Reuters) Brazil's national data protection authority determined on Tuesday that Meta, the parent company of Instagram and Facebook, cannot use data originating in the country to train its artificial intelligence. Meta's updated privacy policy enables the company to feed people's public posts into its AI systems. That practice will not be permitted in Brazil, however. The decision stems from the imminent risk of serious and irreparable or difficult-to-repair damage to the fundamental rights of the affected data subjects, the agency said in the nation's official gazette. Brazil is one of Meta's biggest markets. Facebook alone has around 102 million active users in the country, the agency said in a statement. The nation has a population of 203 million, according to the country's 2022 census. A spokesperson for Meta said in a statement the company is disappointed and insists its method complies with privacy laws and regulations in Brazil. This is a step backwards for innovation, competition in AI development and further delays bringing the benefits of AI to people in Brazil, the spokesperson added. The social media company has also encountered resistance to its privacy policy update in Europe, where it recently put on hold its plans to start feeding people's public posts into training AI systems which was supposed to start last week. In the US, where there's no national law protecting online privacy, such training is already happening. Meta said on its Brazilian blog in May that it could use information that people have shared publicly about Meta's products and services for some of our generative AI features, which could include public posts or photos and their captions. Refusing to partake is possible, Meta said in that statement. Despite that option, there are excessive and unjustified obstacles to accessing the information and exercising the right to opt out, the agency said in a statement. Meta did not provide sufficient information to allow people to be aware of the possible consequences of using their personal data for the development of generative AI, it added. Compliance must be demonstrated by the company within five working days from the notification of the decision, and the agency established a daily fine of 50,000 reais ($8,820) for failure to do so. China has developed multiple spy facilities in Cuba, less than 100 miles from Florida, according to a US think-tank report. Photo: pexels China has developed multiple spy facilities in Cuba, less than 100 miles from Florida, according to a US think-tank report. China has historically lacked access to ground stations in North America. Accessing installations in Cuba could help close that gap, Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a think-tank, said in a report which gives satellite images from the region. Cuban facilities would also provide the ability to monitor radio traffic and potentially intercept data delivered by US satellites as they pass over highly sensitive military sites across the southern United States, CSIS said. Florida alone is home to the major space-launch complex at Cape Canaveral, the headquarters of both the US Southern Command and Central Command, and multiple submarine and other bases, it added. Pentagon Press Secretary Maj Gen Pat Ryder, at a news conference, said China had completed an upgrade of its facilities in Cuba in 2019. "We know that the PRC is going to continue to try to enhance its presence in Cuba and we will continue to keep working to disrupt that. So we're continuing to monitor this closely, taking steps to counter it," he said. Following the report, Congressman Carlos A Gimenez, called on the Biden Administration to take action against Communist China and Castro's Cuba. "Communist China is proactively undermining the United States and President Biden has failed to take action. I urge the Biden Administration to counter Communist China's use of Castro's Cuba as their satellite state in the Western Hemisphere and apply the full weight of US sanctions to prevent further expansion efforts, Gimenez said. "Anti-American adversaries are proactively undermining the United States by establishing spy bases to conduct espionage and cyberattacks. These growing threats to our homeland, only minutes away from the US mainland, must be met with strength," he said. In a statement, he alleged that the Cuban regime has become all but a satellite state of Communist China with military facilities dotting the island nation's coast. New satellite images show a growth in spy bases that are related to Communist China in Cuba, just 90 miles away from our shores. The Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) expansion of its capabilities in the region continues to threaten our nation, and more directly, our South Florida community, he said. "These military intelligence facilities are found 90 miles away from the US mainland and only 70 miles away from the US Naval base at Guantanamo Bay in Bejucal, El Salao, Wayay, and Calabazar, as reported by the CSIS. "These facilities have the capabilities to enhance the Chinese Communist Parties ability to spy on American citizens and US intelligence agencies. The Cuban regime has become a proxy of the CCP," he said. Democrats anxiety over President Joe Biden s fitness for re-election surfaced after a sitting member of Congress publicly urged him to withdraw from the race. This plea has amplified internal party debates, with several officials questioning Bidens ability to effectively campaign for another term. This marks a significant moment as various prominent officials, who have previously supported Biden, have started voicing their worries publicly following the first presidential debate between Democrat candidate Joe Biden and Republican candidate Donald Trump. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp First US Presidential Debate: Biden stumbles, Trump lies The recent presidential debate, held at CNN headquarters in Atlanta, featured Democrat Joe Biden, 81, and Republican Donald Trump, 78. Bidens performance during the debate has raised new questions about his age and mental acuity among global audiences. During the debate, Biden repeatedly froze and struggled with his prepared lines. His response to a question about the national debt was particularly disjointed, leaving viewers confused. Biden attempted to address the importance of taxing the wealthy to support various social programmes but ended up delivering an incoherent answer that muddled his point. Wed be able to help make sure that all those things we need to do childcare, elder care, making sure that we continue to strengthen our healthcare system, making sure that were able to make every single solitary person eligible for what I've been able to do with the with, with, with the Covid. Excuse me, with dealing with everything we have to do with look, if we finally beat Medicare, Biden said, tripping over words. Meanwhile, Trump was accused of spreading falsehoods during the debate, ranging from downplaying the Jan 6 Capitol attack to exaggerating the economic impact made during his term as President. The Guardian also called out CNN moderators of the debate for failing to fact-check Trump as he made false claims about the environment, border issues, abortion, and opioid crisis, among other important issues. Panic among Democrats The growing anxiety within the Democratic Party culminated in a public call for President Biden to step aside from the 2024 presidential race. Representative Doggett became the first sitting Democratic lawmaker to suggest that Biden should withdraw, citing the presidents inability to effectively highlight his achievements and counteract former President Trumps falsehoods during the debate. Senator Peter Welch of Vermont also criticised the Biden campaign for dismissing legitimate concerns raised by party members. US media calls for Bidens withdrawal as Democrat candidate The debate performance has intensified scrutiny on Biden, with several major editorial boards and columnists also urging him to reconsider his candidacy. The New York Times Editorial Board, for instance, argued that Bidens continuation in the race was a reckless gamble and suggested that the Democratic Party should select a new candidate before the convention. Columnist Nicholas Kristof echoed these sentiments, urging Biden to retire to give his delegates a chance to choose another nominee. Similar calls were made by the Chicago Tribune and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, both of which highlighted concerns about Bidens age and performance. 72 per cent of Americans doubt Bidens ability A recent poll data from CBS-YouGov showed that 72 per cent of Americans doubt Bidens mental and cognitive health to serve another term, showing a notable decline in confidence over the past few weeks. Nonetheless, the national polls still depict a close race between Biden and Trump, indicating a competitive electoral landscape. These cannot be our only options: Social media after Biden-Trump debate Shortly after the debate, social media was flooded with memes reacting to the debacle. While some focused on Biden's inability to respond to questions, many expressed concern over both the Democrat and Republican candidates. One user wrote, These cannot possibly be our only options. While another shared an image from The Simpsons that said Old man yells at old man. Another wrote, Biden & Trump cant be the ONLY 2 options for president America is DOOMED. Many memes focused on the ages of both candidates, which could represent a disconnect between politics in America and the younger generations. Democrats standing by Joe Biden Despite the widespread criticism, many Democrats, including Senator Peter Welch of Vermont have criticised the Biden campaigns dismissive attitude towards concerns about Biden's readiness for re-election. Im with Joe Biden, he asserted. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, a potential alternative candidate, stated that the final decision rested with Biden. Meanwhile, some party members, like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, stopped short of calling for Biden to step down. Pelosi acknowledged the legitimacy of questions surrounding his cognitive abilities, however, asked that both Biden and Trumps abilities be called to questions, referencing the latters false statements made during the debate. Biden blames debate performance on jetlag President Biden attributed his poor debate performance to his extensive travel schedule in the weeks leading up to the debate. He mentioned trips to France, Italy, and the Group of Seven summit, followed by a fundraiser in Los Angeles. This travel, he explained, caused significant jet lag and fatigue, impacting his performance on stage. Speaking to Democratic donors, Biden acknowledged his mistake in not heeding his staffs advice and admitted that his travel left him exhausted during the debate. I didnt have my best night but the fact is that you know, I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple of times, going through around 100 time zones. For real, I think it was about 15 time zones, Biden said. Kamala Harris replace Biden as presidential candidate? As speculation grows over who might replace Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris' name emerged as a potential candidate. Tim Ryan, Bidens former opponent for the 2020 nomination, endorsed Harris in a Newsweek op-ed, arguing that she represented the partys best chance for success. A CNN poll supported this view, showing Harris performing competitively against Trump, with strong support among women and independents. Harris slightly stronger performance against Trump is partly due to broader support among women (50 per cent favour Harris over Trump compared to 44 per cent for Biden against Trump) and independents (43 per cent favour Harris vs 34 per cent for Biden), the poll noted. Nancy Pelosi also suggested Vice President Harris take the lead if Biden decided to withdraw. As the debate over Bidens re-election bid intensifies, the Democratic Party faces a critical juncture. The growing calls for Biden to step aside reflect deep concerns within the party about his ability to lead effectively against Trump. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether these concerns will translate into a change in the Democratic nomination or if Biden will continue to campaign for a second term. The US Presidential Elections are slated for November 5, 2024. Being a municipality located wholly within another municipality, city officials in Red Bank face unique challenges when it comes to growth and management. To tackle these challenges, Red Bank leaders have adopted numerous strategic planning practices to ensure that the citys annual budget cycle, citywide needs, visions for the future, and staff concerns are all incorporated into making right-sized, educated decisions. In recognition of the coordinated efforts made by the city of Red Bank to incorporate a strategic process for executing city projects and empower both staff and citizens in the decision-making process, the Tennessee Municipal League is pleased to present Red Bank with an award for Excellence in Strategic Planning. The award will be presented Tuesday, July 2, at the 84th Annual Conference of the Tennessee Municipal League (TML) held at the Knoxville Convention Center. The City of Red Bank is honored to receive the strategic planning award from the Tennessee Municipal League, said Red Bank Mayor Hollie Berry. Wise planning is the cornerstone of both the long-term prosperity of a community and its responsiveness to its residents. Red Bank strives to set the gold standard in every aspect of municipal service delivery, and strategic planning is the first of many facets of excellence. Now that planning is well underway, we are excited to begin executing on our communitys plans and to see them come to life. The city of Red Bank has three major components of its strategic planning process: an annual commission retreat, annual budget cycle, and a citywide comprehensive plan. In the past three years, city leaders have held an annual, day-long retreat in February, facilitated by UT-MTAS, to analyze and determine goals for both the city and commission in the coming year. Each member of the Board of Commission helps set five strategic goals for the city along with the jointly decided mission and vision-statements. These goals then become a key part of the citys annual budget process conducted from March through May. Citizens are invited to four budget workshops and presented with a certificate for their participation in the process if they attend all four. This resulted in higher than usual participation, giving more citizen buy-in to the budget. The city has also initiated its first-ever comprehensive plan and small area study and worked with the firm TSW to engage with the community. In addition to an overall comprehensive plan, the study will also focus on development of a 12-acre parcel of vacant land in the central business district. The planning process has also led to the creation of Red Banks new Community Development Department, which will be organized with a director, community planner, building official, and office manager. This department will provide both continuity for city planning as well as be a one-stop-shop for private developers. Other strategic plans in the works for Red Bank include: A sidewalk inventory and pedestrian connectivity, Pavement condition index and repaving plan, Citywide signage inventory and management; Stormwater Assessment Management; and A Parks Master Plan to be overseen by the citys first-ever park manager and Parks and Rec Advisory Board. Each year the Tennessee Municipal League honors cities throughout the state for overall excellence, improvement, specific outstanding programs, or department accomplishments. Award winners for 2024 include the city of Townsend for Excellence in Community Planning; the city of Shelbyville for Excellence in Downtown Revitalization; the city of East Ridge for Excellence in Economic Development; the city of Etowah for Excellence in Finance; the city of Alcoa for Excellence in Fire Services; the city of Columbia for Excellence in Green Leadership; the city of Pigeon Forge for Excellence in Police Services; the town of Spring City for Excellence in Tourism Development; the city of Eagleville for Innovation in Emergency Services; the city of Ripley for Innovation in Energy and Disaster Resiliency; and the city of Maynardville for Small City Progress. Sixteen Chattanooga area high school students graduated from BASFs TECH Academy program which, in partnership with Chattanooga State Community College, introduces students to technical and craft careers through skills classes, workshops and industry tours.TECH Academy gives high school students a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of career opportunities through hands-on activities with industry professionals, said Brittany Davis, operations manager at BASFs Chattanooga site.BASF sponsors this program in collaboration with Chattanooga State Community College in hopes that students interested in technical careers feel more prepared and empowered to pursue jobs within science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM) fields.TECH Academy began each day with a hands-on classroom session with experiments and demonstrations led by Chattanooga State instructors. Students then participated in afternoon field trips to local manufacturing facilities where they gained insight into different industry procedures and practices and learned about career opportunities. Students toured Komatsu American Corporation, Chickamauga Dam, Chattanooga Bakery, Branch Technology and BASFs Chattanooga facility.In addition to industry tours and classroom demonstrations, the students learned both soft and technical skills like welding, 3D printing, electric motor design and more.BASFs TECH Academy is so important for local students because it really opens the door for endless possibilities and helps students invest in their education and career, said Emily Barajas, rising high school junior at the STEM School Chattanooga. Throughout the week, I learned about various career opportunities in the technical field and was able to see firsthand what types of organizations I could work for in Chattanooga.Officials said, "TECH Academy is part of BASFs STEAM education and workforce development efforts in North America to support industry growth and regional investment. The program is funded annually by BASF and is free for students. The application process is open to any local student going into their junior or senior year of high school interested in technical careers. Applications for the 2025 TECH Academy will open in February.The following students completed TECH Academy 2024: Luke Miller, Berean Academy; Tucker Hankins, Chattanooga School for the Arts & Sciences; Seth Eichenberger, Homeschool; Will Owens, Homeschool; John King, Ooltewah High School; Emily Barajas, STEM School Chattanooga; JaMauri Benford, Tyner High School; Ezra Clark, Ooltewah High School; Elena Allison, Ooltewah High School; Giovanny Fields, STEM School Chattanooga; Jon Fisher, Homeschool; Camrien King, STEM School Chattanooga; Eric Hubbard Jr., STEM School Chattanooga; Katherine Lowrey, STEM School Chattanooga; Ananth Kidambi, STEM School Chattanooga; and Xoa Davis, Ridgeland High School. Two years from today, the USA will observe the 250th anniversary of its founding barring the calamity of calamities. The way things have been going in recent years, who knows? Hopefully well remain the United States of America and not the Untied States. Every Independence Day, July 4, is a good time to pause and reflect on the rich heritage of our nation, the wonder that it even came to be, and its inherent qualities that have drawn millions of men, women and children from around the world to this unique expanse of geography. Having been born on the Fourth of July, almost by default Im what George M. Cohan termed a Yankee Doodle Dandy. The strains of John Philip Sousa marches like Stars and Stripes Forever, The Washington Post, and The Thunderer never fail to give me goosebumps. And whenever I observe fireworks shows, whether on TV from New York City or Washington, D.C., or local displays in person, I cant help but think of the courage, determination, vision and sacrifice required to create and sustain this nation. It seems the term patriot has become an epithet in the minds of some, but to echo the words of Lee Greenwood, Im proud to be an American. Conflict and unrest the United States is experiencing today remind me of the 1960s, when protests and demonstrations for civil rights and against the Vietnam War set our countrys teeth on edge. Consider some of the lyrics of For What Its Worth by Buffalo Springfield, one of the best-known protest songs of the mid-60s: Theres something happening here But what it is aint exactly clear Theres a man with a gun over there Telling me I got to beware Theres battle lines being drawn Nobodys right if everybodys wrong Young people speaking their minds Singing songs and they carrying signs Mostly say, Hooray for our side That song seemed revolutionary during my college days, but a similar scenario was played out in the first century A.D. The apostle Pauls arrival had ignited a great disturbance among the citizenry of the ancient, polytheistic Greek city of Ephesus. Acts 19:32 describes the situation this way: The assembly was in confusion: Some were shouting one thing, some another. Most of the people did not even know why they were there (Acts 19:32). The same could be said about some of the demonstrations we see on the evening news. The teaching of civics and social studies is no longer practiced in many public schools, but even a casual study of U.S. history reveals political and ideological infighting has been a staple of our society. Battle lines always being drawn, people speaking their minds (typically with great zeal), and often declaring, Hooray for our side. Nevertheless, in many ways the United States remains the go-to destination for countless thousands. Why else would so many people be endeavoring to gain entry, whether through legal or illegal means? Our materialistic way of life may be one of the magnets, but so are our freedoms of speech, religion, assembly, the press, and many others. Some of our cherished freedoms seem in jeopardy, and I believe we should do all we can to protect them. But for followers of Jesus Christ citizens not only of this temporal nation but also of the eternal kingdom of God the freedoms we have received from Him are secure. Here are some of them: Freedom from the power of sin. It is for freedom that Christ set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery [to sin] (Galatians 5:1). Freedom from the judgment of sin. Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:1). Freedom to live as God intends for us to live. You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. The entire law is summed up in a single command: Love your neighbor as yourself (Galatians 5:13-14). Freedom from fear of death. In My Fathers house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for youthat you also may be where I am (John 14:1-3). We could cite many others. While we rightfully celebrate the anniversary of our nations founding, every day we can and should celebrate our citizenship in an everlasting kingdom, described in 1 Peter 1:14 as, an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade kept in heaven for you. On Independence Day, we remember the sacrifices of many brave, selfless individuals to preserve our freedoms. As we do so, lets not forget the One who made the greatest sacrifice of all on our behalf. But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). * * * Robert J. Tamasy is a veteran journalist, former newspaper editor and magazine editor. Bob has written, co-authored and edited more than 15 books. These include the newly published, Marketplace Ambassadors; Business At Its Best: Timeless Wisdom from Proverbs for Todays Workplace; Tufting Legacies, The Heart of Mentoring, and Pursuing Life With a Shepherds Heart. A weekly business meditation he edits, Monday Manna, is translated into more than 20 languages and sent via email around the world by CBMC International. The address for his blog is www.bobtamasy.blogspot.com. His email address is btamasy@comcast.net. Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) student Nancy Johnson, a resident of Tunnel Hill, placed seventh in Foundations of Entrepreneurship at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Collegiate National Leadership Conference held June 24-27 in Orlando. Five GNTC students competed in a total of eight competitions at the national FBLA competition. To be eligible to compete in the national competition, the students qualified at the state competition, where students from the 22 colleges in the Technical College System of Georgia gathered for leadership development sessions, as well as performance-based and written competitions. The state contest was held in March in Atlanta. I am so proud of all of these students and all of the instructors that have played a role in their education, said Mark Upton, GNTCs Marketing Management program director and FBLA coordinator. They all competed strongly and represented GNTC well. Johnson also competed in the Organizational Behavior and Leadership competition. Anna Cantrell competed in Retail Management. Cantrell resides in Rome and attends classes at the Floyd County Campus in Rome. Esther Johnson, who resides in Rome and attends the Floyd County Campus, competed in Public Speaking. Calhoun resident Josue Lopez, who attends classes at the Gordon County Campus in Calhoun, competed in Business Presentation and the Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition. Lopez also won the bronze medal in Masonry at the 2024 SkillsUSA Georgia State Leadership and Skills Conference earlier this year. Brandon Wishon, a Dalton resident who attends classes at the Whitfield Murray Campus in Dalton, competed in Foundations of Communication and Future Business Executive. Future Business Leaders of America is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) education association helping more than 230,000 students to prepare for careers in business and business-related fields. FBLA is headquartered in Reston, Virginia, and organized on local, state and national levels. Harrahs Cherokee Valley River continues to make strides towards completing its $275 million expansion project as the company held a Topping Out Ceremony for its new 12-story hotel tower. The event, attended by Harrahs Cherokee leadership, dignitaries from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and Robins & Morton leadership and construction team members, provided an opportunity to celebrate the projects progress and recognize the collaborative effort of those who have dedicated their time to aid in the projects development. Those in attendance were also able to sign the final steel beam to leave their mark on the new amenity. The celebration saw remarks from Harrahs Cherokee Valley River General Manager, Lumpy Lambert, who expressed his gratitude to company stakeholders, partners and construction teams led by Robins & Morton for their continued efforts. Its exciting to see how far weve come during this expansion project since breaking ground in 2022, said Mr. Lambert. We are particularly grateful to our stakeholders, partners and construction teams for their continued efforts and support. They are the backbone of this project and have played a significant role in us reaching this milestone. Harrahs Cherokee celebrated the completion of the first phase of its expansion project in May with the opening of a new 25,000 square-foot casino floor and 10-table World Series of Poker Room. Upon completion, the second phase of the expansion project will introduce 296 additional hotel rooms, an indoor pool and fitness center, 12,000 square-foot rooftop restaurant featuring a 12-seat bar and wine cellar and a 9,600 square-foot spa featuring six treatment rooms, relaxation lounge and salon. The new amenities are on schedule to be completed in late 2024. The Tennessee legislature, under the chokehold of the Republican supermajority has banished common sense. We the people wanted sensible gun control. Did we get it? No. The Tennessee GOP made the disastrous decision to punish those who would advocate for us. i.e., the two Justins and our brave Gloria, hopefully our next US senator. Fortunately, these three Democratic State House representatives prevailed despite the Tennessee GOP efforts to oust them. We the people wanted equal resources for our neighborhood schools so no matter where a child lives, they will have the same opportunity to succeed. Did we get it? No. Our Republican governor pushed for statewide charter schools that can (and do) discriminate. Thankfully he did not succeed. We the people wanted prison reform that operates on the premise of reform, not punishment for minor offenses. Did we get that? No. The "for profit entity, Corrections Corporation of America got the thumbs up. The more they incarcerate, the more money in their pockets. We the people wanted voting rights restored to those who have repaid society for their wrongs. Did we get that? No. Delay. Justice delayed is justice denied. We the people wanted sensible policy for womens healthcare. Did we get that? No. We got a most draconian policy that punishes not only the woman seeking help but the healthcare worker who provides services or any citizen that helps in abortion issues. We the people wanted our legislators to discuss and debate and look for solutions to many issues, such as healthcare. Tennessee ranks 42 out of 50 states, even worse than our education ranking. Did we get that? No. They wasted time and our tax money that pays their salaries advocating for punishment for adult cabaret performances, voter fraud and ways to purge voter rolls (seen as voter suppression) and who knows what else. We the people have the opportunity to change this, by voting Democratic for your county circuit judge, school board and your legislative representatives. Local elected officials decisions affect our daily lives in so many ways. Vote Blue on Aug. 1/ Early Vote July 12-27, and Nov. 5. Sue Carol Elvin * * * According to an article in the TFP in February of this year, Sue Carol Elvin has lived in Chattanooga for five years. So she is telling us what we want from our state? Republicans have overwhelming majorities in the Senate and House so I think the citizens have spoken at the ballot box as to what we want from our leaders. (certainly not to say I don't disagree with some of their actions) She also uses ,"selective," statistics in her letter. She says we rank 42 in health care, which is true, but then she says we are even lower in education. Not true according to the article in US News, we are 31 in education. She also doesn't mention we are 12 in economic opportunity, 5 in fiscal stability, 21 in infrastructure and 22 in opportunity. Speaking of education, if you took out our two biggest school school districts, Davidson and Memphis/Shelby which are run by Democrats, our ranking would be a lot higher. Memphis in # 97 and Nashville #76 according to Niche. You want to put Democrats in charge of Tennessee. There is one city that is overwhelmingly run by Democrats and that is Memphis. The most dangerous city in the US is Memphis, Tn. With a population of 628,127, Memphis has an overall crime rate that is 317 percent higher than the national average. Memphis has 9,764 crimes per 100,000 people, with an exceptionally high violent crime rate. If we didn't have the Democrat cesspool that is Memphis we would probably move up at least 10 spots. You want to raise a family in Tennessee? Don't move to Memphis, which according to Wallet Hub is the worst city in the country to raise a family. Memphis is #182 out of 182 cities ranked; 152 for family safety life, 182 for health and safety, 168 for education and 170 for economic opportunity. So yes, let's by all means put Democrats in charge of our beautiful state. I would suggest to Ms. Elvin and others who don't like it here, the old Lewis Grizzard advice. If you don't like it here, "Delta is ready when you are." Douglas Jones Ooltewah * * * If the collective "We the People" of Tennessee wanted this laundry list of liberal legislation there would not be a Republican supermajority in Nashville. This Republican supermajority was one of the top five reasons we chose to relocate to Tennessee. I hope and pray they stand firm. There are 49 other options out there. Chris Linstruth The birth of American Liberty and the Republic to sustain it, began with the shots fired on the first Patriots' Day, April 19th 1775, at Lexington and Concord. That opening volley of the Revolutionary War was fired against occupying Royal soldiers who had been sent to confiscate arms from the people. Our Declaration of Independence, signed on July 4th, 1776 at great peril to the signers, listed the justifications for the Revolutionary War, further asserting that the "Rights of Man" were endowed by our Creator, not by the state. Since those first "shots heard 'round the world," generations of American Patriots have defended Liberty on many fronts. Among them are 3517 Medal of Honor recipients, only 61 of them living today. The records of all recipients is maintained by the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, and for membership, all you need is a Medal of Honor. The Society published a record of the six recipients who have two things in common: Charles Capeheart, Marcus Hanna, Thomas Pope, William Nakamura, Frank Ono, and Leroy Mendonca all served in the U.S. Army, and their Medals of Honor were for actions on Independence Day. In chronological order, here is a brief outline of those actions. Charles E. Capehart was awarded the Medal of Honor for his service in the U.S. Army during the Civil War. On Independence Day, 1863, he went beyond the call of duty when he charged down a mountainside at midnight through heavy rain to capture the enemys fleeing wagon train. His attack resulted in his men destroying many enemy wagons and taking in soldiers as captives. Marcus A. Hanna also served in the U.S. Army during the Civil War. He too was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on July 4th, 1863 during a battle in Port Hudson, Louisiana. Recipient Hanna displayed selfless service when he voluntarily exposed himself to heavy fire to get water for his comrades who were in rifle pits. On Independence Day in 1918, Recipient Thomas A. Pope was serving in the U.S. Army during World War I. He was positioned in Hamel, France, when his company was halted by hostile machine-gun fire. Recipient Pope decided to move forward alone and rushed a machine-gun nest. He was successful in his efforts and continued to hold off other enemy personnel until reinforcements arrived and captured them. On July 4, 1944, Recipient William Kenzo Nakamura showed extreme courage and bravery during an intense fight near Castellina, Italy. When his platoon was pinned down by enemy machine-gun fire, Recipient Nakamura crawled and approached the hostile nest and was successful in silencing the enemys engagement. As a result of his actions, his platoon was able to continue their advance. Later on in the day, his company was ordered to withdraw from their position. Recipient Nakamura insisted on covering the withdrawal and sacrificed his life for the safety of his comrades. For these two heroic actions, he was awarded the Medal of Honor on June 21st, 2000. Recipient Frank H. Ono was awarded the Medal of Honor for his service in the U.S. Army and the selfless actions he took on Independence Day in 1944. When his platoon was in danger of being encircled and was ordered to withdraw, Private First Class Ono volunteered to cover it. With complete disregard for his own safety, he made himself a target of enemy fire until his platoon could reach safety. When the task was successfully completed, he descended the hill in various stages until he was able to rejoin his comrades. On July 4th, 1951, Recipient Leroy A. Mendonca went beyond the call of duty during his service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. His platoon, in an intense battle, had captured Hill 586 and were in their newly won position when they were attacked by a superior enemy force. When his platoon was ordered to withdraw to a secondary line of defense, Recipient Mendonca stayed behind and remained in an exposed position to cover the platoon. He bravely battled off the enemy until he was mortally wounded. His actions stalled the assault and ultimately protected his platoons movement to the secondary line of defense. Each of these recipients exhibited uncommon valor humble American Patriots defending Liberty for all above and beyond the call of duty, and in disregard for the peril to their own lives. "Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one's life for his friends." (John 15:13) Read more Profiles of Valor here **Footnote:** The most recent Medal of Honor recipient was a fellow Chattanoogan and longtime friend, CPT Larry Taylor. His award was presented Sept. 5, 2003. Today, 3 July 2024, the families of two long-overdue recipients will receive Medals of Honor on behalf of their Civil War Veteran ancestors, PVT Philip Shadrach and PVT George Wilson. Both men were with the 2nd Ohio Voluntary Infantry Regiment, and the last two remaining members of Andrews' Raiders, who had yet to be recognized for their valorous service. As you may recall, the actions of Andrews' Raiders in 1862 resulted in the first Medal of Honor awards in our nation's history. Their daring mission is memorialized at The National Medal of Honor Heritage Center in Chattanooga, the Birthplace of the Medal of Honor. Semper Vigilans Fortis Paratus et Fidelis Pro Deo et Libertate 1776 Join us in daily prayer for our Patriots in uniform Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen standing in harms way in defense of American Liberty, and for Veterans, First Responders, and their families. Please consider a tax-deductible gift to support our hometown National Medal of Honor Sustaining Fund. Make a check payable to NMoH Sustaining Fund and mail to: Patriot Foundation Trust, PO Box 407, Chattanooga, TN 37401-0407. Visit the National Medal of Honor Heritage Center at Aquarium Plaza. (https://www.MOHHC.org) Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti on Wednesday hailed a court ruling that he said blocks new gender identity requirements from the Biden administration nationwide. AG Skrmetti said, "Today a federal court said no to the Biden administrations attempt to illegally force every health care provider in America to adopt the most extreme version of gender ideology. The administration has over and over again issued regulations that mangle the law to advance an ideological agenda. This case is just one of many examples of Tennessee working with other states to block the unlawful abuse of regulatory power. "Todays order puts the rule on pause while we keep fighting to ensure this illegal rule never goes into effect. InSpacePropulsion Technologies GmbH (ISPTech), a spin-off from the German Aerospace Center (DLR), announces the closing of its 2M pre-seed round. ISPTech is addressing a key challenge that satellite manufacturers and operators face, by developing innovative propulsion systems based on non-toxic, so-called green propellants. This approach allows significantly reduced overall costs, rapid availability and simplifies spacecraft operations. The propulsion systems offer superior performance compared to the current green propulsion market standard. With its solutions, ISPTech addresses any spacecraft, from small CubeSats to large satellites, capsules or landers. The round is led by HTGF and backed by co-investments of First Momentum Ventures and Possible Ventures, three renowned deep-tech investors. The investment will be used to make ISPTechs propulsion technologies ready for its first customers and spaceflight. Current in-space propulsion systems are expensive, complex and operate with highly toxic propellants. These toxic propellants cause extensive handling efforts, which complicate and slow down the development and qualification process of propulsion systems, besides increasing the overall costs. In addition, alternative solutions currently on the market either lack performance or operational simplicity. These key challenges ISPTech has overcome: based on more than 10 years of R&D work at the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), ISPTechs founders developed advanced propulsion technologies that work with green propellants. The team has developed two technologies: one is space-ready (HyNOx), and one offers unique advantages (HIP_11). HyNOx runs on Ethane and Nitrous Oxide. Contrary to competitors, ISPTechs system allows continuous operation at high performance without facing issues of overheating. HIP_11 is a unique propulsion technology for large spacecraft like landers, capsules, and satellites. It offers less complexity and cost than other systems with similar thrust levels and will be refuellable. It also allows hybrid operation, i.e. electric and chemical propulsion simultaneously. The space market is expected to grow 7% per year and thus has a high demand for affordable, quickly available and reliable propulsion solutions. By using its advanced technologies, ISPTech will satisfy this demand and propel the whole space ecosystem. ISPTech already showed a fast pace and made significant progress: after its foundation in summer 2023 first paying customers were acquired, a paid flight into space was won and the first thrusters were qualified for space. Furthermore, major space players emphasized their interest in the technologies. The acquired funding will be used to further develop the propulsion technology to achieve qualification for space flight and serve initial customers. ISPTechs technology will be used on first flights at the end of 2025. These missions will demonstrate the operationality, robustness and performance of ISPTechs propulsion systems and space qualify the propulsion system for wider market adoption. "We spent many years researching propulsion technologies, testing the products of our current competitors and working with many of our future customers. During all these times, we saw a clear and large market demand for affordable, quickly available, and robust propulsion technologies. Our mission now is to meet this demand", Felix Lauck and Dr. Lukas Werling , Founder of ISPTech. "The satellite market growth in the next decade and the increasing need for space debris avoidance manoeuvres will see a huge demand for chemical propulsion systems, especially non-toxic solutions, democratizing access to space. ISPTech is the only startup offering solutions from below 1N to 1kN with high TRL and exceptionally positioned to set a new market standard", Dr. Koen Geurts, Investment Manager at HTGF. "Over the next ten years, we anticipate an increasing demand for in-space manoeuvres that can only be facilitated by chemical propulsion. ISPTech is in a prime position to become the European leader in non-toxic chemical propulsion. Their systems are already way ahead of the competition in terms of performance, stability, and robustness", Dr. Maximilian Ochs, Investor at First Momentum Ventures. To support customers in southeast China, HIMA Group opened a new Service Center in Zhanjiang, Guangdong province, on 31 May. The HIMA Group has a high installed base in southeast China and supports customers with safety engineering and lifecycle services to operate their plants safely and efficiently, and to achieve added value through the digitalization of functional safety. The safety expert has a clear strategy to further expand customer partnerships. The HIMA China Zhanjiang Service Center has been opened to provide even better support to customers in southeastern China and in particular to the new BASF Verbund site in Zhanjiang, where HIMA solutions are going to be used. By utilizing the latest digital technologies and applying the highest safety standards, HIMA is supporting BASF at this site, which will be built into a role model for smart manufacturing and sustainable production. The opening of the new service center is another important milestone for the HIMA Group and follows our strategy, to strengthen our customer partnerships and to support first-class-safety solutions close to our customers, says Jorg de la Motte, CEO of HIMA Group. Digital tools made available by HIMA in combination with a jointly developed security concept are the baseline for effective implementation of a safety management system being compliant with national Chinese and international safety and security standards. This new service center aims to provide our customer the best lifecyle services. BASF Zhanjiang Verbund site will be the most important focus of this service center. It will cover the service needs from southeast of China as well., emphasized Yao Zhou, Managing Director of HIMA China. Xi Jinping and Tajikistan: "Good brothers walk hand in hand" 11:21, July 03, 2024 By Chen Chen, Geng Pengyu ( Xinhua BEIJING/DUSHANBE, July 3 (Xinhua) -- "I am filled with joy and expectations to visit the home of a good neighbor and good brother during this crisp fall season," Chinese President Xi Jinping said in his signed article published in Tajik media ahead of his first state visit to the country in 2014. In this midsummer, Xi's third state visit to Tajikistan will surely write a new chapter for the friendship of the two countries. ROBE AND ORDER During his 2014 state visit, Xi was invited to Tajik President Emomali Rahmon's residence for a family feast. To welcome his distinguished guest, Rahmon rolled out a silk carpet at the entrance of his presidential mansion -- a Tajik etiquette of the highest honor reserved for esteemed guests. Rahmon, accompanied by his family in their traditional attire, greeted Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan. The two leaders walked and talked inside the courtyard, where the trees were lush and the fruits fragrant. Rahmon picked one fruit from a tree and handed it to Xi. Inside the room, Rahmon personally dressed Xi in a chapan -- a traditional Tajik robe -- and tied a belt around his waist. "I have seen Dushanbe full of vitality and rapid development, and I have felt the simplicity, friendliness and hospitality of the Tajik people," Xi told Rahmon. When Xi revisited Dushanbe in June 2019, he received the Order of the Crown from Rahmon. In the Tajik language, the word "Taj" means "crown." During the ceremony, Rahmon draped the sash over Xi's shoulder and placed his nation's highest decoration on him. Noting that the Order of the Crown embodies the profound friendship the people of Tajikistan have kept with the people of China, Xi said he highly valued the decoration. Since China and Tajikistan established diplomatic ties, bilateral relations have made significant progress, evolving from strategic partners to a comprehensive strategic partnership. Today, the two sides are jointly building a China-Tajikistan community with a shared future featuring everlasting friendship, solidarity and mutual benefit. "The friendship between the leaders has led to positive development in bilateral relations," Qanoatullo Saifulloev, deputy director of the state-run Khovar News Agency, told Xinhua in an interview. LANDMARKS OF COOPERATION In downtown Dushanbe, two striking white buildings stand tall along Rudaki Avenue. The new government and parliament halls are nearing completion. They are considered landmarks of practical cooperation between China and Tajikistan. The two sides decided on the project during Rahmon's visit to China in 2017. When Xi visited Tajikistan two years later, Xi and Rahmon attended a ceremony to unveil the construction models of the China-assisted office buildings. The two presidents were also briefed on the design plans and details of the projects. These edifices are characterized by a blend of classical European architecture, Islamic culture and modern designs. Yusuf Rakhmatbekzoda, deputy director of the construction project, said the completion of the two buildings will not only provide the government with a comfortable and modern office environment but also significantly improve the capital's urban landscape. "These unique structures will serve as symbols of China-Tajikistan friendship," Rakhmatbekzoda said. In 2014, the two countries signed a memorandum to build the Silk Road Economic Belt, making Tajikistan the first country to do so under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Xi's signature proposal. China's BRI partnership with Tajikistan has resulted in several vital projects with mutual benefits. Take the Dushanbe No.2 power plant, a bilateral flagship Belt and Road cooperation program, for example. During the 2014 visit, the two presidents attended a ceremony marking the completion of the first phase of the project and the groundbreaking of the second phase. Since the plant's completion by the end of 2016, more than 700,000 local citizens in Dushanbe have no longer worried about power shortages throughout the year, especially during the cold winter months. The BRI has in recent years also given a boost to trade between the two countries. Last year, two-way trade reached 3.9 billion U.S. dollars, a 53.5 percent year-on-year increase. "Tajikistan welcomes and supports this very wise initiative, which responds to the needs of Tajikistan," Rahmon once said in an interview. TWO PRESIDENTS' BOOKS People-to-people exchanges between the Chinese and the Tajiks enjoy a long history. Through the ancient Silk Road, the forebears of the two nations exchanged goods and ideas and learned a great deal from each other. Xuan Zang, an eminent 7th century monk, and Chen Cheng, a Chinese diplomat in the Ming Dynasty, traveled to Central Asia as Chinese envoys of friendship, Xi wrote in a signed article published in Tajik media prior to his 2019 visit to the country. "The life stories of your historical and literary figures, such as Emir Ismail Samani and the famous poet Rudaki, are widely known in China." "The wise pursue kindness and peace; only the fool is bent on strife and war," Xi once quoted Rudaki's poem when addressing the fifth Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia. The publication of the two presidents' works in each other's countries has also promoted the exchange of ideas. In 2019, the Tajik edition of the first volume of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China was released. Rahmon said the book could "help the Tajik people better understand China, President Xi's philosophy of governing the country and China's development path." Also, in that year, the Chinese version of Rahmon's book -- The Tajiks in the Mirror of History -- was published in China. Xi mentioned the book in his signed article and said the book gives "the Chinese people new insights into Tajikistan." The Chinese leader has long advocated for exchanges and mutual learning among various cultures. In his eyes, mutual learning transcends clashes, and coexistence transcends feelings of superiority. He also called on building the BRI into "a road connecting different civilizations." Under the BRI framework, programs such as the Confucius Institutes, Luban Workshops and the China-Tajikistan Center for Traditional Medicine have bolstered cultural encounters between the two peoples. When biding farewell to Xi at the airport after the Chinese leader wrapped up his visit to Tajikistan in 2014, Rahmon said one of the key outcomes of the visit was that he and Xi became even closer brothers. "Good brothers walk hand in hand," he said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) In October 2023, Egyptian archaeologists uncovered a collection of treasures from a New Kingdom cemetery in Minya, a city on the western bank of the Nile River. The most notable artifact happened to be a 3,500-year-old sarcophagus lid painted with an image of a figure that resembles Marge Simpson, the family matriarch from the popular television show The Simpsons. The resemblance between the cartoon character and the ancient illustration is uncanny. In the drawing, the figure had a tall, blue rectangle on her head and appeared to be wearing a full-length, strapless green outfit, much like Marges signature look. However, the similarities are nothing more than a coincidence, as the show first aired in 1989, while the painting dates back to the New Kingdom period, which spanned from 1539 to 1075 B.C.E. Unless the creator of The Simpsons is a time traveler, as some conspiracists have proposed, the ancient illustration has zero relation to Marge. The portrait of the figure was also surrounded by 12 other depictions of her in different positions. They represent the 12 hours. The discovery of the Marge Simpson sarcophagus was announced in October 2023, but news of the find didnt take off until June 2024, when a photograph of the sarcophagus lid went viral. Last year, Dr. Mostafa Waziry from the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities shared the discoveries that archaeologists have made in Tuna El-Gebel over the past few years. Among the finds were ancient pottery, several Ushabti funerary figurines, and the sarcophagus. The sarcophagus contained the remains of a woman named Tada Ist, according to Waziry. She was the daughter of Irt-Heru, the high priest of Djehuty in Hermopolis. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. In September 1939, German forces moved into the Westerplatte peninsula in the Bay of Gdansk in Poland on the Baltic Sea coast, initiating the Battle of Westerplatte. It was the first Nazi invasion of Poland, marking the start of World War II in Europe. More than 4,700 dangerous artifacts have been cleared away from the site of the battle after lying hidden for decades. The extraordinary find is a reminder of the destruction that the war left in its wake and underscores the challenges of maintaining the safety of the public. These relics also bring history to the present, giving archaeologists and historians a unique opportunity to study and preserve important artifacts. The removal project has been going on since 2016, headed by the Museum of the Second World War in Gdansk. The museum was working with soldiers from the 43rd Naval Sapper Battalion and the Engineer Battalion Sapper Company from the 2nd Sapper Regiment based in Kazun Nowy to document all the material. Recently, they finished clearing the last area of the battlefield, which spanned 6.1 acres. From this section, they found 49 dangerous objects and 180 historical artifacts. The expanse of the battlefield measured a total of about 32.1 acres. Over the course of the project, more than 4,700 dangerous objects were discovered across this area. Among these items, there were three aircraft bombs, around 200 artillery shells, mortar and hand grenades, fuses, and fragments of small arms ammunition. One of the aircraft bombs weighed over 1,100 pounds and was located just 12 inches beneath the ground. In addition, approximately 3,800 historical artifacts from the 18th century to postwar times in Westerplatte were uncovered. These included cannonballs and musket shells, which were evidence of battles that took place during the 1733 to 1738 War of the Polish Succession and the Napoleonic period. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. There are so many people out in the world who wanted to get their undergraduate or masters degrees when they were younger, but life got in the way, and they were never able to within the average time frame. However, some people are still able to make it happen, no matter how old they are. One of those people is Virginia Hislop, a 105-year-old woman from Palo Alto, California, who finally received her masters degree from Stanford University after leaving the school in 1941. Virginia was a hardworking young woman who attended Stanfords School of Education and received her bachelors degree in 1940. She had dreams of becoming a teacher, so she started working toward her masters degree in education that year. Virginia comes from an impressive line of educators in her family. Her aunt was the principal of a school in Los Angeles, and her grandmother taught children in Kansas before the Civil War. Virginia had completed all of the coursework she needed to earn her masters, but before she could officially hand in her thesis and get her degree, her then-boyfriend, George Hislop, who was a student in the Reserve Officers Training Corps, was called to serve in World War II. With that news, Virginia and George decided to tie the knot as soon as possible, and she left campus. In interviews, Virginia expressed that she felt her school work was something she could always return to when she got the chance, but at that moment, she knew marrying George was a priority due to the war. The couple lived in Washington following the war and started a family together. While she was unable to return to Stanford to receive her degree officially, Virginia never stopped dedicating her life to education. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. One of the most amazing and selfless things people can do during their time on Earth is donate their organs or choose to put themselves down as an organ donor on their ID in case they pass unexpectedly. Organ donation changes the lives of people who were stuck in the mindset of having to live out the rest of their days in pain or were on the brink of losing their lives. One nurse in California dedicated her life to caring for others in a hospital and ended up saving many more when hers was over through organ donation. Patrice Sanders was a 59-year-old nurse who loved working at the Valley Childrens Hospital in Madera, California. She was a very giving and loving woman who adored helping whoever she could, whenever she could, whether they were her sick patients, her family members, co-workers, etc. According to her family, Patrice was the kind of woman who consistently donated blood, even though she couldnt stand needles. She also loved quilt-making and would handmake quilts for children in the ICU. Tragically, after working as a nurse for over 30 years, Patrices health took a serious turn quite quickly. She reported feeling ill to her sister and was told she had gastroenteritis. Then, her health took more of a decline when Patrices sister took her to the hospital, where they found out she had a bilateral stroke. Days later, it was discovered that she had a brain bleed, and she had little to no quality of life left. Patrices family then chose to honor her wishes for the end of her life, which included donating her organs. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Wikimedia Commons/Joe Mabel In June 2024, the Alabama Supreme Court upheld a lower court's dismissal of a lawsuit filed by 44 Methodist churches seeking to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church (UMC) while retaining their property. As of today, the ramifications of this decision continue to unfold, impacting the broader Methodist community and other denominations facing similar issues. The lawsuit stemmed from a 2019 policy change by the UMC, which allowed churches to leave the denomination over disagreements regarding LGBT issues. The Alabama-West Florida Conference (AWF) of the UMC implemented its own disaffiliation process in 2023, which some churches found burdensome and unfair. Paragraph 2553, introduced during a special session of the UMC General Conference in 2019, was designed as a temporary measure to address the increasing number of congregations wishing to leave the UMC due to these disagreements. This provision allowed congregations to disaffiliate while retaining their properties, provided they followed a specific process and received approval from their respective annual conferences. The Supreme Court, referencing the First Amendment's Establishment Clause, ruled that the lawsuit centered on "ecclesiastical questions"matters of religious doctrine and practicewhich are beyond the jurisdiction of secular courts. While the initial lawsuit was dismissed, other legal challenges persist. For instance, Dothan's Harvest Church has filed a separate lawsuit focusing on specific property rights, which remains ongoing. This case could set a precedent for how property disputes related to church disaffiliation are handled in the future. The decision in Alabama reflects a broader national trend of U.S. Methodist churches seeking disaffiliation over theological disagreements. Many departing congregations have joined the Global Methodist Church, a more conservative denomination established in response to these disputes. Approximately 7,500 congregations have left the UMC between 2019 and 2023, many affiliating with the Global Methodist Church. The UMC continues to face internal debates and procedural adjustments to manage the wave of disaffiliations. The church's leadership is tasked with balancing the enforcement of doctrinal standards while addressing the concerns of congregations wishing to leave. This ongoing tension highlights the complex nature of managing a large, diverse religious organization in the face of evolving social issues. For the churches involved in the lawsuit, the Supreme Court's decision has significant implications. These congregations must navigate their future within the UMC or explore other avenues for disaffiliation that comply with established church procedures. The ruling underscores the importance of understanding and adhering to denominational policies when considering disaffiliation. The Alabama Supreme Court's ruling serves as a critical reminder of the limitations of secular courts in resolving disputes rooted in religious doctrine. It also highlights the ongoing challenges faced by religious organizations as they navigate internal disagreements and external societal changes. The outcome of related lawsuits, like that of Harvest Church, will be closely watched for further implications on church property rights and denominational disaffiliations. duckycards / Getty A liberal acquaintance told me recently that while he generally dislikes evangelicals, he doesnt find me to be as bad as the rest: At least you dont rant about wanting to establish a theocracy! I decided to accept what he said as a compliment, even though I regretted not coming clean with him about theocracy. Truth be told, my wife and I do belong to a pro-theocracy organization. Indeed, we attend its meetings every week. In those gatherings, we learn about what it means to support a theocracy, and we sing songs that are meant to strengthen our theocratic commitments. The organization I am referring to, of course, is our local church. Theocracy literally means the rule of God, and Christians believe that while our churches do have human leaders, those leaders know that they are directly accountable to God for what they think and do. They keep reminding us that we Christians belong to the kingdom of God, which means that our ultimate allegiance is to Jesus, whom we often refer to as ruling over us. Sign up for Moore to the Point Join Russell Moore in thinking through the important questions of the day, along with book and music recommendations he has found formative. Email* Sign Up This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Thanks for signing up. Please click here to see all our newsletters. Sorry, something went wrong. Please try again. The idea of the church as a theocracy, however, is part of a much larger theocratic picture. The universe itself in all its complex glory is a theocracy. The Jewish communitys shabbat prayer captures well the Bibles theocratic perspective when it begins with Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the universe. Everything that exists is under Gods rule. It is this theocratic arrangementdefining the very nature of realitythat gives believers meaning and hope in our lives. But does that mean that believers like me should try to turn the United States into a theocracy? I think not. God does not want me to force my theocratic understanding of reality on others. What God wants from people is that they freely offer their obedience to his will. I do not serve Gods purposes in the world by trying to impose Christian laws on people against their own values and convictions. I should not want everything that I consider to be sinful to be made illegal. For example, although I dont like the blasphemous language that I hear all too frequently while watching Netflix these days, I am not inclined to call for laws banning these expressions. That does not mean that I should withdraw into a live-and-let-live posture, content to wait for Jesus to return. The Bible makes it clear that God wants me to be active in the society where he has placed me. The apostle Peter puts the mandate this way: Live such good lives among the pagans that they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us (1 Pet. 2:12). Peter is echoing the admonition God gave through Jeremiah when the people of Israel were exiled in the pagan city of Babylon: Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper (Jer. 29:7). In addition to witnessing to others about the power of the gospel, we can join them in working for God-glorifying social goals. I am grateful for the opportunity to live in a pluralistic society where I can learn from people with whom I seriously disagree about religious beliefs, public policy, and moral lifestyles. For one thing, I can learn about the mistakes and misdeeds that Christians like me have made in the pastand still make todayabout important matters. In genuinely engaging others on these matters, I often find effective ways to partner with them for the common good. Historically, American evangelicals have gone back and forth between two ways of relating to the larger culture. In my youth during the 1950s, we evangelicals had a reputation for being apolitical. We liked to sing patriotic songs, and preachers regularly reminded us that we had a Christian obligation to show up as voters on election days. But we typically did not actively engage in political advocacy. To be an evangelical citizen was to mostly cast our votes for Republican candidates and pray for Gods blessing on the likes of Dwight Eisenhower and Richard Nixon. In all of this, we were passive about politicsgrateful that we enjoyed the freedoms of a nation that was under God. Things changed around 1980 with the emergence of the New Christian Right, led by Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson. Evangelicals became aggressively political, working for candidates who promoted what we saw as godly causes, often explicitly guided by the theocratic project of returning to the vision of a Christian America. Thus, we have either distanced ourselves from active involvement in the political system or worked to take it over. Either we were a cognitive minority content to sing, as we did in my youth, This world is not my home, Im just a-passing throughor we proclaimed ourselves to be a moral majority, boldly belting out Shine, Jesus, shine / Fill this land with the Fathers glory. There is, of course, a third option, one desperately needed today in our increasingly polarized society: an evangelical willingness to labor patiently alongside otherspersons of other faiths and of no faiths at allin seeking workable solutions to the complex challenges we face as a nation. In our weekly theocratic gatherings, we evangelicals tell Godin our prayers, hymns, and sermonsabout our spiritual weakness as vulnerable human creatures. When we walk into church, we also bring with us the hopes and fears that we experience in our political lives. The self-righteousness that we so often exhibit in the public square does not fit well with what we know about ourselves in our deep places. It is time for us to display a kinder and gentler evangelicalism, promoting a cooperative political quest for new ways of flourishing together in our shared humanity. One of my heroes in the faith, the great Dutch statesman Abraham Kuyper, proclaimed in his inaugural address at the university he founded, There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry: Mine! I find that inspiring manifesto to be a motivation for how I am to live as a theocrat in contemporary life. There is always a temptation, of course, for us to answer that rallying cry in an arrogant and imperialistic manneras if all we have to do is go out there and grab hold of all those square inches in the name of Jesus. Properly understood, theocracy requires a humble spirit. The apostle Peter tells us that when we are challenged to give the reason for the hope we have in Christ, we must take care to do this with gentleness and respect (1 Pet. 3:15). Since Jesus claims every square inch of creation as his own, wherever we go in our lives, we are standing on sacred ground. In my evangelical youth, I was taught Hudson Taylors famous saying Christ is either Lord of all, or is not Lord at all. I keep learning more about what it means to represent the cause of the gospel in a gentle and respectful manner. The God whose majesty we theocrats worship in church not only sends us out into the world over which he rules but also assures us that, wherever we go, he will be with us. He invites us to join him on those square inches that are occupied by precious human beings who suffer from the pain of abuse, grief, loneliness and the hopelessness that comes from unbelief. We live in times when our fellow human beings desperately need to encounter evangelicals for whom being theocratic means actively serving the cause of a loving Savior. Richard Mouw is a senior research fellow at the Henry Institute for the Study of Christianity and Politics at Calvin University and former president of Fuller Theological Seminary. Home News 2 Ukrainian priests released by Russia after 19 months were likely tortured, church says Two Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church priests, Redemptorist Fathers Ivan Levytsky and Bohdan Geleta, have been released from Russian captivity after more than 19 months through a prisoner exchange facilitated by diplomatic efforts involving the Vatican. The Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church announced that Levytsky and Geleta, hieromonks of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, were released last Friday after initially being arrested on Nov. 26, 2022, in the occupied city of Berdiansk. In a recent interview with Ukrinform, a church leader said that the church received "alarming signals" that the priests were being "tortured regularly." Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe "His Beatitude Sviatoslav expressed his deep gratitude to the Apostolic See for the rescue of the UGCC priests," the announcement reads. "He conveyed special thanks to Pope Francis, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the entire Vatican diplomatic corps. Special gratitude for mediation was expressed to Cardinal Matteo Zuppi and Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, Apostolic Nuncio to Ukraine. Each of them contributed invaluably to making this event a reality." Pope Francis publicly expressed his thanksgiving after the priests' release, according to National Catholic Reporter. I give thanks to God for the freeing of the two Greek Catholic priests, the pope said after the Angelus prayer on Saturday, calling for prayers for all prisoners of war. Supporters say the priests were arrested after military items were falsely placed in their church, leading to charges of illegal possession of weapons. When the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, Levytsky and Geleta chose to stay in the occupied territories and served both Greek Catholic and Roman Catholic communities as a "beacon of hope for people under occupation," the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church contends. "They were arrested, followed by some military items being planted in the church and accused of illegal possession of weapons," the statement continued. "There were reports that they were being tortured mercilessly to extract a confession to a crime they did not commit." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a social media post on X, announced the release of Levytsky and Geleta among 10 prisoners returned to Ukrainian authorities. President Zelenskyy acknowledged the Vaticans pivotal role in securing their release, conveying gratitude towards the Holy See. Dmytro Lubinets, the Ukrainian Ombudsman, told the Interfax news agency that this is the first instance of the Vaticans direct involvement in the repatriation of Ukrainian adults, indicating a new potential channel for further civilian returns. He claims that Russia is illegally detaining over 14,000 Ukrainian citizens. Numerous cases of detainment and torture of Ukrainian clergy have been reported from occupied Ukrainian territories. The Rev. Stepan Podolchak, 59, of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine, disappeared on Feb. 13 in the Ukrainian village of Kalanchak after Russian occupation forces took him away for questioning in his bare feet with a bag over his head. The priest had chosen to remain with his church after Russians invaded the village in the southern Skadovsk District of the Kherson Region in early 2022. His battered body was found on a village street by a passer-by, and taken to the morgue. Lubinets said at the International Religious Freedom Summit in Washington, D.C. in February that Russian soldiers and occupation officials had committed at least 76 acts of religious persecution in Ukraine since the invasion of February 2022 as part of an attempt to destroy national identity. Additionally, he alleged that Russian forces had killed or captured at least 29 clerics or religious leaders in Ukraine since the war began. Since the invasion, he said Evangelical Christians, including Baptists, Pentecostals and Seventh-day Adventists, had suffered greatly. The Russian military has repeatedly threatened the total physical elimination of all Evangelical believers, calling them American spies, sectarians and enemies of the Russian Orthodox people, Lubinets said. To kill a person, to demolish a church, the Russians do everything to destroy us as a nation. Home News Andy Stanley criticizes SBC for ousting Rick Warren's Saddleback Church over female pastor Georgia megachurch Pastor Andy Stanley has criticized the Southern Baptist Convention for disfellowshipping Rick Warren's Saddleback Church for having a female teaching pastor. In a sermon Sunday at North Point Community Church of Alpharetta, Stanley, the son of late Southern Baptist pastor and televangelist Charles Stanley, spoke about the need to "remove obstacles" for people trying to follow Jesus Christ. Identifying himself as "theologically conservative," Stanley said that the "progress" many churches were making to reach the lost "is being undermined and reversed like crazy." Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe "With all the political nonsense in the last few years, it has picked up speed like crazy," Stanley said. "This whole thing has been fueled by conservative fearful fundamentalist academics and pastors." "Church leaders are resurrecting old barriers that we spent years tearing down. And they're adding new barriers," he added. Stanley cited Warren, founder of Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California, and author of the best-selling book The Purpose-Driven Life, as an example, crediting him with having done a great deal of work successfully reaching nonbelievers. "Last year, his denomination kicked him out of the denomination," Stanley explained. "For something immoral? No. Something illegal? No. Something that had to do with money? No. Because he had some addiction? No." "They kicked him out because he had the nerve to ordain three female staff members, who were functioning as pastors and they kicked him out of the church." Stanley declared that "you don't get anymore insider focused than that," arguing that too many Evangelical leaders "are prioritizing politics over mission," calling it "just sick." In February 2023, the SBC Executive Committee deemed Saddleback not in "friendly cooperation" with the convention. At issue is Pastor Andy Wood, who succeeded Saddleback founder Rick Warren as lead pastor, listing his wife, Stacie, as the church's teaching pastor. The Baptist Faith & Message 2000, the convention's official statement of beliefs, says that the "office of pastor is limited to men as qualified by Scripture." Although the church had previously ordained three female pastors in May 2021, the convention cited Stacie Wood's naming as teaching pastor as the reason for the expulsion. At the SBC Annual Meeting last year, messengers voted 9,437 to 1,212 to uphold Saddleback's expulsion after hearing arguments from both Warren and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary President Al Mohler. At the SBC Annual Meeting this June, a proposed constitutional amendment that would have permanently banned churches from allowing women to serve as pastors "as qualified by Scripture" failed to receive the two-thirds majority needed for passage. Stanley received criticism on social media for his sermon comments, including a brief response from Andrew T. Walker, a theology professor at the SBTS and fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center. "A megachurch pastor criticizes the Southern Baptist Convention for separating from an egalitarian church. We would do well to use that as an opportunity to be mugged by reality," tweeted Walker. "When Southern megachurch pastors can't even be counted on for biblical faithfulness, it is not the time for us to be hyper focused on the good opinion of unbelievers. The 'world is watching' is no standard of faithfulness. Biblical truth is." At last year's SBC Annual Meeting, Warren argued that Southern Baptists could agree to disagree on the issue, comparing it to the SBC's decision to not disfellowship churches that adhered to Calvinist theology. "We should remove churches for all kinds of sexual sins, racial sin, financial sin, leadership sin, sins that harm the testimony of our convention," Warren said. "But the 1,129 churches with women on pastoral staff have not sinned." Mohler spoke against Saddleback's appeal, warning that the California-based megachurch was threatening the SBC's unity and that the issue was important. "It's not just a matter of church polity; it's not just a matter of hermeneutics," Mohler stressed. "It's a matter of biblical commitment, a commitment to the Scripture that unequivocally we believe limits the office of pastor to men." "Here we face the unusual situation in which Dr. Warren himself has made repeated statements, and the church has taken repeated actions that make very clear it rejects the confessional understanding of the Southern Baptist Convention on this issue." Home News Biden admin. says it opposes trans surgeries for minors after HHS officials pushed to remove age limits The Biden administration claims that it opposes allowing gender dysphoric minors to undergo sex-change surgeries following a report that top health officials urged an international group of medical experts to remove age limits for gender procedures and other life-altering interventions. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shared a statement to The New York Times defending the reported actions of Assistant HHS Secretary Admiral Rachel (Richard) Levine and his staff, who reportedly influenced a top LGBT health association to drop age limits for so-called "gender-affirming care." "Adm. Levine shared her view with her staff that publishing the proposed lower ages for gender transition surgeries was not supported by science or research, and could lead to an onslaught of attacks on the transgender community," an HHS spokesman said in a statement shared by The Times. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe According to the newspaper, federal officials didn't clarify the administration's position "regarding the scientific research or on Adm. Levine's role in having the age minimums removed." "The administration, which has been supportive of gender-affirming care for transgender youth, expressed opposition only to surgeries for minors, not other treatments," the newspaper reports. "The procedures are usually irreversible, critics have said." The outlet notes that the administration's previous statements have not "explicitly opposed surgery." Last month, The Times reported on email excerpts from the World Professional Association for Transgender Health related to Levine and his staff. The email excerpts were part of legal filings associated with a federal lawsuit challenging Alabama's ban on trans surgeries and puberty blockers for minors. WPATH's 2021 draft guidelines recommended lowering the age minimum to 14 for hormonal treatments, 15 for mastectomies, 16 for breast augmentation or facial surgeries and 17 for genital surgeries or hysterectomies. In one of the email excerpts, an unnamed WPATH member recounted an exchange with Levine's then-chief of staff, Sarah Boateng. "She is confident, based on the rhetoric she is hearing in D.C., and from what we have already seen, that these specific listings of ages, under 18, will result in devastating legislation for trans care," the WPATH member wrote. According to another email about Levine, a man who identifies as a woman, the health official was "very concerned" that age limits, especially when it comes to trans surgeries, could make it difficult for youth and adults to undergo these types of interventions. In 2021, media outlets noted that WPATH removed a section from its Standards of Care on the minimum age requirements for children with gender dysphoria to obtain puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones or undergo body-altering surgeries. The group claimed that this was to protect doctors from lawsuits. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services did not immediately respond to The Christian Post's request for comment. The Biden administration's clarification comes on the heels of the U.S. Supreme Court announcing that it will hear a challenge brought in part by the Biden administration against a Tennessee law prohibiting body-mutilating sex-change surgeries, puberty-blocking drugs and crosss-sex hormones for children. The case, United States v. Jonathan Skrmetti et al., marks the first time that the nation's highest court will decide on the constitutionality of laws like the one in Tennessee. About two dozen states have enacted similar laws. Regarding the Biden administration's position on so-called "gender-affirming care" for minors, the administration has not explicitly condemned it. An Office of Population Affairs document often cited by federal officials states that trans surgeries are "typically used in adulthood or case-by-case in adolescence." During a July 2023 interview in an ABC Nightline segment called "Identity Denied: Trans in America," Levine expressed support for minors undergoing sex-change surgeries. The trans-identifying health official insisted that the support for so-called "gender-affirming care" is "evidence-based," and that it serves as a form of "mental healthcare" and "suicide prevention care." He also claimed that medical interventions for gender dysphoric minors can help them "explore" their gender identity. "Adolescence is hard and puberty is hard," Levine said. "What if you're going through the wrong puberty? What if you inside feel that you are female, but now you're going through a male puberty?" The United Kingdom's National Health Service released a report earlier this year based on a review of trans medical practices led by Dr. Hillary Cass, warning that studies claiming puberty blockers improve the well-being of children suffering from gender dysphoria are of "poor" quality. The report recommended "extreme caution" for prescribing irreversible cross-sex hormones to minors. Home News Pope Francis bans visible tattoos, piercings for St. Peter's Basilica employees Pope Francis has banned visible tattoos for employees of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City years after he reportedly said body ink could be useful in better understanding the personalities of parishioners. A new set of rules was released on Saturday prohibiting staff of the Papal Basilica from having visible tattoos or piercings, with employees who disregard the new rules risking suspension, according to Crux. The basilica's communications director, Father Enzo Fortunato, told Reuters that the new rules codify norms that "have been in place in the past in a different form." Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The outlet notes that the department overseeing the basilica, Fabbrica di San Pietro, has approximately 170 lay employees. Also known as the Papal Basilica of Saint Peter in the Vatican, Saint Peter's Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world and a prominent pilgrimage site for Catholics. Crux reports that the new rules also mandate employees to be baptized and confirmed into the Catholic Church. They must adhere to "principles of exemplary religious and moral conduct," such as not cohabitating outside of marriage. Employees are prohibited from participating in "activities, or attending rallies, which are inappropriate for a Vatican employee." Some observers believe the rules prohibit participation in LGBT pride rallies, Crux adds. Additionally, Vatican employees can't have a criminal record and must provide a reference letter from their parish priest. The rules apply to artistic experts, architects and laborers working on maintenance projects and operations. Employees are also banned from giving unauthorized interviews with the media and divulging information covered by the "pontifical secret." They cannot invite outsiders within the workplace and may not remove "original documents and photocopies or electronic copies and other archival materials." In 2018, at a gathering of around 300 young adults in Rome, Pope Francis was asked his opinion about body tattoos, saying at the time that clergy should not "be afraid of tattoos." "Don't be afraid of tattoos," the pope responded, as reported by Catholic News Service, adding that a tattoo "is a sign of belonging" and helps priests to "approach the culture of the young." Home News Vandal decapitates statue of child Jesus in Queens: 'Very deliberate' Police are searching for a taxi-driving vandal who was reportedly recorded on surveillance footage Sunday morning attacking a statue of the Holy Family and decapitating a statue of Jesus in front of a Roman Catholic church in New York City. The vandal was recorded getting out of a car across the street from Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in Flushing, Queens, at around 5:30 a.m., walking over to the statue of the Holy Family and attacking the figures with a shoe, according to WABC. Father Sean Suckiel, who serves as pastor at the parish, recounted to the outlet what the footage depicted. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe "Then he goes to the front of the statue and starts hitting the face of St. Joseph, then attacks the Blessed Mother, then attacks the face of the child Jesus," Suckiel said. The vandal managed to knock off the head of the child Jesus statue, which was found on the ground nearby. The statues of Joseph and Mary were unsuccessfully targeted and not damaged. The New York Police Department (NYPD) confirmed they received a report about the intentional damage done to the 40-year-old statue, according to NBC4. The Brooklyn Diocese said the NYPD is investigating the statue's decapitation as a hate crime and estimated the damage at approximately $20,000. NYPD is investigating a hate crime, the decapitation of the Child Jesus statue at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church in Flushing, which happened this morning at 5:30 a.m. The damage is estimated at ,000. Anyone with info is asked to call @NYPDTips. pic.twitter.com/2M50NQrK00 Brooklyn Diocese Press Office (@BQDiocesePress) July 1, 2024 Suckiel noted the heartbreaking nature of the vandalism while stressing the importance of forgiveness. "My heart just broke," he told WABC. "And, of course, I'm asking the question: why? Why did this guy do this? Certainly the statue is not in his way. It was very deliberate for him to do this, so the big question is why?" "We pray for the guy, and we want justice served, but we also have to forgive, and we know that he could not have been in the right state of mind to do this," Suckiel added. The attack against the church comes months after NYPD arrested a 16-year-old boy with a lengthy rap sheet in connection with the brutal assault and robbery of a 68-year-old woman on the steps of St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Jamaica, Queens. Hostility against churches in the United States appears to be on the rise in recent years, according to a recent report from the Family Research Council. The report released earlier this year identified 436 incidents against churches in 2023, more than double the amount reported by the group in 2022 and eight times the number identified in 2018. Home News Zachary King, former megachurch pastor, charged with rape, sodomy of minor Zachary King, a pastor with significant experience serving in youth ministry at multiple megachurches, including LexCity Church in Lexington, Kentucky, from which he recently resigned as executive pastor, has been charged with the rape and sexual abuse of a minor. A press release from the office of Attorney General of Kentucky, Russell Coleman, said King, 47, who preached at LexCity Church as recently as three months ago, was also charged with the unlawful use of electronics to engage in sexual acts with a minor. A report from Lex18 said King was booked in the Fayette County Detention Center and charged with first- and second-degree rape, as well as first- and second-degree sodomy. At his arraignment on Tuesday, Kings attorney asked Judge John Tackett to set his bond at $50,000 that would allow him to pay $5,000 or 10% of the bond to be released, but the judge set the pastors bond at $250,000. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Kings arrest citation, according to Lex18, said he confessed in an interview with Colemans office that he "engaged in a sexual relationship with a minor over the course of the last year and a half." The pastor confessed that he had "sexual intercourse with the minor starting at age 15 in January 2023, continuing until April 2024." He further stated that he had "sexual intercourse in the minor's home, at his residence, and at the church where he was a former pastor." A Fox56 report said King confessed to communicating with the teenage girl through Snapchat and WhatsApp to arrange meetups and receive explicit photos. He reportedly admitted to picking up the girl from her home and driving up the road to have sex in his car. He reportedly resigned from LexCity Church after he was confronted by the congregation. Colemans office urged anyone with further information regarding additional alleged criminal conduct by King to the Department of Criminal Investigations Hotline at 866-524-3672 or DCIForce@ky.gov. According to his LinkedIn profile, King has significant experience serving in youth ministry, including at Craig Groeschels Life.Church and Metropolitan Baptist Church in Houston, Texas, where he spent more than eight years. Talent search firm Vanderbloemen, praised connecting King with Metropolitan Baptist Church as a successful partnership in earlier comments on his time with that church. Since the first project that we were able to walk through with the Met, we have successfully helped the church with hires in Student Ministry, Worship, and Executive Leadership. In our first engagement with the church, we were able to help them connect with their Student and Teaching Pastor Zach King, Vanderbloemen said. Zach has served at the Met now for several years, the Student Ministry is flourishing, the church overall has grown to over 4,000, and plans are being drawn up for the new campus of the Metropolitan Baptist Church. Neither Life.Church nor Metropolitan Baptist Church immediately responded to a request for comment from The Christian Post on Wednesday. King, who has been married for approximately 24 years, revealed in February 2022 during a podcast called "Off the Record" hosted by LexCity Church Lead Pastor Brian Classen how difficult marriage was for him at times when he felt his needs werent being met. At times, where I'm frustrated and my needs are not being met and [I'm] annoyed by things I shouldn't be annoyed by is when my wife and I are disconnected and we haven't talked about it and we just kind of let it sit, he said. We become really good co-parents and roommates in those seasons where it's like, we just got to get the kids to the next place and get through the next day, almost like surviving until you can go to bed. So things that would never really bother me, normally you are treating the symptoms but you are not treating the root of the problem, and I just have to sit there and pray and ask the Lord to reveal the root typically it's me my frustration is actually something I'm not doing, so it is really not you it's me in this scenario. Home Opinion Are other people bigger sinners than you? Imagine driving down the road and seeing a large number between 1 and 100 on the windshield of every car. The driver who is the "biggest sinner" has #1 on the windshield, and the driver who is the "smallest sinner" has #100, with everyone else somewhere in between. What number do you think would be on your windshield? In other words, where do you rank yourself among sinners? Are you a bigger sinner than most, or a smaller sinner? If you are perhaps reluctant to rank yourself, that is a good sign. After all, "If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else" (Galatians 6:3-4). In other words, celebrate the good things Christ produces in your life, without comparing it to what someone else is doing. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The Apostle Paul wrote, "May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Galatians 6:14). The focus should never be on us, but only on Christ and the sacrifice Jesus made on the cross so "that we should be called children of God" (1 John 3:1). Comparing ourselves to others tends to produce arrogance and self-righteousness. The Bible declares, "To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech" (Proverbs 8:13). The Pharisees were experts at entertaining evil thoughts, and they often condemned others for their sins and struggles. Jesus told a parable about a Pharisee who "prayed about himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like all other men robbers, evildoers, adulterers or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get" (Luke 18:11-12). The Pharisee was far too proud of himself to recognize his own sins. He assumed he was better than everyone else, when in fact he was the biggest sinner of the bunch. And not only did he have the darkest heart, but he also assumed that his fasting and tithing made him righteous in God's eyes. He was so busy judging others that he didn't even recognize his own sinfulness and self-righteousness. Sadly, when you judge others, you are actually condemning yourself. The Bible states, "You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God's judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of His kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?" (Romans 2:1-5). Many people misunderstand what it means to "judge" someone. Perhaps you have been falsely accused of judging others simply because you identify certain behavior as sinful. But that is not what "judging" actually means. Those who do not know the Lord often attempt to define good and evil, while ignoring God's boundary lines that delineate right from wrong. God's descriptions of good and evil do not depend upon man's personal preferences or opinions. You and I judge others whenever we look down on people and view them as "bigger sinners." Jesus said, "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven" (Luke 6:37). The Bible tells us how God wants us to view others. "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3). So, do you consider others better than yourself, or do you consider yourself better than others? That is to say, are you less of a sinner than others? If so, then meditate upon this Scripture passage for a few minutes: "Whoever keeps the whole Law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it" (James 2:10). Each one of us has fallen far short of God's perfect standard. But if you are born again, you no longer want to pursue sin. Instead, you want to live for Christ. "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life" (Galatians 6:7-8). Evangelist Billy Graham said, "Pride comes in looking at ourselves; meekness comes through looking at God." How much time do you spend every day looking at yourself and comparing yourself to others, and how much time do you spend every day listening to God in His Word and talking to the Lord in prayer? If you currently think other people are bigger sinners, you can experience a change of heart by confessing your sin of pride to the Lord and turning away from it. "He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy" (Proverbs 28:13). Each one of us is prone to assume that other people are bigger sinners. Thankfully, the Lord not only forgives our pride when we repent of it, but the Holy Spirit also helps us "fix our eyes on Jesus" (Hebrews 12:2) and on the cross instead of comparing ourselves to others. You see, we are all equal at the foot of the cross. Home Opinion Dont be naive those who attack Jews will soon attack you, too The violent attacks against Jews going to an event on Sunday at a local synagogue in Los Angeles are the latest in a long line of terrible precedents for the rights of people of faith across the country. We saw flagrant violations of civil rights and criminal assault on individuals based on their Jewish identity, resulting only in a single arrest. What is happening to Jews across America should be another canary in the coal mine for members of all other faiths. The response to Sundays violence from political leaders was underwhelming to say the least. President Biden, California Governor Newsom, and other top Democrats read from the same script the next day all were appalled by the violence. Intimidating Jewish congregants is dangerous, unconscionable, antisemitic, and un-American. None of them mentioned the illegality of the violence or civil rights violations, or the intent to prosecute the perpetrators. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Despite what the New York Times called unusually swift and forceful condemnation from top Democratic leaders, it was only swift and forceful compared to their response to antisemitic campus protests in the past eight months. The public hemming and hawing and handwringing of politicians over antisemitic violence is more than a national embarrassment, its a travesty. Many of their past comments have reinforced an almost absolute right to free speech and freedom of association for antisemitic protesters. However, the Supreme Court has ruled that the right to freedom of association does not extend to joining with others for the purpose of depriving third parties of their lawful rights (Brown v. Hartledge, 1982), which the pro-Palestinian protesters were clearly doing. By virtue of targeting Jews specifically, they also were engaged in violations of Jews civil rights. Perhaps the key lesson from Sundays events is not a reaffirmation that the center of the Democratic party is still struggling to decide what to do with the antisemitic far left, but that leaders on the American left are no longer fully committed to protecting religious liberty and in many cases are assaulting it. Government now does precious little to protect religious groups from discrimination and hostility. The Anti-Defamation League tracked nearly 9,000 antisemitic incidents in 2023, up 140% from the the previous year. The Family Research Council counted more than 400 incidents of hostility against Christian churches in 2023, leaving aside individual cases of hostility. Anti-Muslim incidents have likewise increased significantly since 2020. But the numbers do not account for government-directed anti-religious laws and regulations, or selective prosecutions. On the one hand, prosecutors target Christian individuals and business owners like florists and cake artists, churches, and pro-life activists. On the other, they drag their feet investigating violence against pregnancy support centers, crimes committed by Antifa members, and antisemitic attacks. Antisemitism is focused on the racial identity of Jews, not on the beliefs of Judaism per se; however, Jewish belief and identity are closely intertwined. Anti-Muslim sentiments are based both on Islamic belief and on a perceived stereotypical Arab racial identity. Prejudice against Christians is focused primarily on religious beliefs and not racial identity. These individual acts of violence and hostility are accumulating rapidly into a broad social antipathy towards religious faith and identity, nursed along by activists, legislators, and prosecutors on the left. It is time that all of us began working together. We need to demand answers from local and state law enforcement chiefs and prosecutors about how they would handle a situation like what unfolded in Los Angeles. Demand that prosecutors keep the public apprised of their investigations into these crimes. Watch closely to see if they follow through on commitments to step up protection, work with the affected religious community, and combat anti-religious attitudes. In reflecting on the Holocaust, German Lutheran pastor Martin Niemoller penned these words: First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out Because I was not a Socialist. Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out Because I was not a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out Because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak for me. Who will speak out for the Jews, and who will speak out for all those of religious faith in America? Home Opinion On July 4, let us remember where our true freedom is found The United States has a long history of fighting for freedom. The dumping of tea into Boston Harbor in 1773 symbolized the American struggle for liberty. This event ignited a revolutionary spirit, culminating in the fight for independence from British tyranny. Famously, the Declaration of Independence from 1776 stated that all people have unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness from their Creator. This foundational belief in God-given freedom has shaped the nations identity and inspired countless movements for justice and equality. However, while the American Revolution secured political freedom, the Christian understanding of true freedom goes deeper, addressing the spiritual bondage that affects every human heart. In a world that often defines freedom as the ability to do whatever one wants to do, the Christian understanding of true freedom stands in stark contrast. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe Rooted in the Scriptures, the theology of freedom offers a profound and liberating perspective that goes beyond the superficial and often deceptive allure of worldly freedom. This article explores the essence of true freedom in Christ, grounded in biblical principles, and its implications for our lives. The Illusion of worldly freedom Individualism and self-determination significantly influence modern conceptions of freedom. Society promotes the idea that freedom means being free from any constraints or obligations and pursuing ones desires and ambitions without hindrance. However, this notion often leads to bondage bondage to sin, selfishness, and the endless pursuit of personal satisfaction. The Bible warns against the worlds take on freedom. In Galatians 5:13, Paul writes, For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. As we can see in todays society, the decision to misuse our freedom to indulge in sinful desires will ultimately enslave us rather than liberate us. True freedom in Christ According to the Bible, true freedom is found in Christ alone. It is not about the absence of constraints but the presence of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). This freedom is a gift from God, made possible through the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Submitting our lives to Christ will provide us with four distinct freedoms. Freedom from sin First and foremost, true freedom in Christ means freedom from the power and penalty of sin. Jesus declared in John 8:3436, Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. Christ has broken the chains of sin that once bound us through His atoning work on the cross, offering us forgiveness and a new life. Romans 6:22 further elaborates, But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life. This verse underscores the transformative power of Christs freedom, leading us into a life of holiness and eternal joy. The Puritan writer Samuel Bolton profoundly expressed this freedom when he said, The law sends us to Christ to be justified, and Christ sends us to the law to be regulated. This highlights how true freedom in Christ is found not in abandoning Gods law but in living according to it through the power of the Holy Spirit. Freedom to serve Biblical freedom is not self-centered but other-centered. Galatians 5:13 exhorts us to use our freedom to serve one another in love, a radical departure from the worlds understanding of freedom. In Christ, we can lay down our lives for others, following His example of selfless love and service. Philippians 2:34 urges, Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others. True freedom empowers us to prioritize the well-being of others above our own. Freedom to obey True freedom in Christ also involves the freedom to obey God. The Psalmist declares, I shall walk in a wide place, for I have sought your precepts (Psalm 119:45). Obedience to Gods Word is not burdensome but liberating. It leads us into a life of purpose, fulfillment, and alignment with Gods perfect will. James 1:25 confirms this: But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing. Obedience to Gods law of liberty results in blessings and true freedom. Puritan theologian Thomas Watson articulated this beautifully: Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty (2 Cor. 3:17). Christs people are willing people; though they cannot serve Him perfectly, they serve Him willingly. They count it their pleasure to be in His service. This underscores the joy and willingness that come with the freedom to obey Christ. Freedom from fear In Christ, we are also set free from the bondage of fear. Romans 8:15 assures us, For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, Abba! Father!' As children of God, we can live confidently and boldly, knowing that our Heavenly Father is with us and for us. 2 Timothy 1:7 reinforces this truth: For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. Our freedom in Christ dispels fear and empowers us with His strength and love. Puritan theologian John Owen captured this aspect of freedom well: The greatest unkindness you can do to the Spirit of God is to doubt His love, or question His ability and willingness to save. Our freedom in Christ rests on the assurance of His love and the power of His salvation. Transformational implications Understanding true freedom in Christ has profound implications for our daily lives. It transforms our relationships, our priorities, and our purpose. When we grasp the depth of Christs love and the freedom He offers, it transforms our relationships. We are empowered to forgive, to love unconditionally, and to seek reconciliation. This freedom fosters healthy, Christ-centered communities where each member is valued and cherished. Ephesians 4:32 encourages us, Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. The freedom we receive from Christ enables us to extend grace and forgiveness to others. True freedom reorients our priorities. No longer enslaved to the pursuit of personal gain or worldly success, we are free to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). Our time, talents, and resources are directed towards eternal purposes, bringing glory to God. Colossians 3:1-2 reminds us, If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Our freedom in Christ shifts our focus to heavenly pursuits. Finally, true freedom gives us a sense of purpose. We no longer aimlessly wander through life but are called to be ambassadors of Christ, sharing the message of freedom with a world that desperately needs to hear it. Our lives become a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel. 2 Corinthians 5:20 declares, Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. Our freedom in Christ compels us to spread the message of reconciliation and hope. Conclusion The theology of freedom in Christ offers a rich and liberating understanding of what it means to be truly free. It calls us out of the bondage of sin and self-centeredness into a life of righteousness, service, obedience, and fearlessness. As we embrace this true freedom, we experience the fullness of life that Jesus promised, and we become instruments of His peace and love in a world longing for genuine liberation. Let us, therefore, stand firm in the freedom that Christ has won for us and live out our calling with joy and purpose. As we celebrate July 4 and the political freedom we enjoy in the United States, it is important to recognize that this freedom came at a great price. Brave men and women sacrificed their lives so that we might live in a land of liberty. In our book Just Thinking About the State, Darrell Harrison and I emphasize the importance of understanding political freedom within a biblical framework, writing, True liberty is not the freedom to do what we want but the freedom to do what we ought, which is to glorify God and serve others following His will. In other words, political freedom, while valuable, must be stewarded in a way that honors God and promotes the common good. Yet, the greatest price ever paid was Christs substitutionary death for our eternal freedom. As Darrell and I further elaborate, The ultimate expression of freedom is found in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which frees us from the bondage of sin and grants us the liberty to live righteously before God. Galatians 5:1 urges us, For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. May we live in Christs freedom, reflecting His love and truth in all we do. This freedom is a privilege and a profound responsibility to live as His ambassador, sharing the message of true freedom with a world in desperate need of hope and salvation. Originally published at the Standing for Freedom Center. Home Opinion Why the Ten Commandments belong in Louisiana classrooms Its impossible to divorce the Ten Commandments from the founding of America or civil society because Gods law is the foundation of law itself. Louisiana recently passed a law requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in all public school classrooms using private funding. It only makes sense for the Ten Commandments to be displayed in Louisiana and classrooms nationwide given the Commandments indelible impact on our countrys laws and framework. This makes Louisiana the first, but hopefully not the last, state in the nation to require the Ten Commandments in the classroom. The Louisiana law notes the Ten Commandments role in state and national history, culture, and tradition, and recognizing the historical role of the Ten Commandments accords with our nation's history and faithfully reflects the understanding of the founders of our nation with respect to the necessity of civic morality to a functional self-government. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The Ten Commandments, given by God to Moses at Mount Sinai, established the framework of law and the basis of morality as we know it and has done so for thousands of years. Its not surprising that anti-religion groups like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and the Freedom from Religion Foundation didnt skip a beat in taking legal action against the anticipated Ten Commandments publication. Because of recent legal precedent and our nations moral foundation and religious mooring, I am confident the Ten Commandments will remain on classroom walls in Louisiana from January 2025 onward, as the law states, and hopefully set historic legal precedent. Death of the Lemon Test When it comes to religious liberty, the law is on our side. In 2005, I argued before the Supreme Court regarding the Ten Commandments in a historical display, and since then, Liberty Counsel has never lost a case on a stand-alone or historical display of the Ten Commandments. But the most significant legal precedent for religious liberty was established in 2022 with the death of the Lemon Test. The unanimous Shurtleff v. City of Boston win, where I represented Hal Shurtleff and his right to display the Christian flag in a public forum, was cited in Kennedy v. Bremerton, which was the death knell to Lemon. The Lemon Test, a result of the 1971 Lemon v. Kurtzman decision, haunted the legal landscape for over 51 years and allowed government discrimination based on religious viewpoint. Freedom of religion became freedom from religion under the Lemon Test and was the reason activist courts removed crosses, Ten Commandments displays, nativity scenes, and other religious symbols from government property. For decades, activist courts and judges used the Lemon Test to sanitize the public square of religion, but now that Lemon is overturned, there is no legal ground to stand on for lawsuits against religious symbols like the Ten Commandments in public places. Lemon lies in the grave, never to stalk the Establishment Clause like some ghoul in a late-night horror movie, as Justice Scalia wrote in Lambs Chapel v. Center Moriches Union Free School District. Myth of separation of Church and state The Ten Commandments, and other religious elements, played an integral role in American public education for nearly three centuries. When the Supreme Court decided to remove prayer from public schools in 1962 in Engel v. Vitale and to remove the Ten Commandments from public schools in 1980 in Stone v. Graham, many Americans wrote off the idea of Christian influence in public schools and embraced the myth of separation of church and state. This oft-misinterpreted phrase is found nowhere in our founding documents and was coined by President Thomas Jefferson in a letter to the Danbury Baptists in 1802 during the time he was attending a national church service in the U.S. Capitol. Since the Danbury Baptists were rightfully concerned about religious freedom, this statement was to assure them that the American government would never impose a state religion like the Church of England. The Founders, however, never intended for God to be expunged from government. Instead, they established the Constitution for a religious and moral people, saying, it is wholly inadequate to the government of any other, in the words of President John Adams. President James Madison said, "[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." Our Founders relied heavily on Gods Word and law to establish the United States. They would be pleased to see the Ten Commandments displayed in classrooms and shocked that they were removed in the first place. Supporting the Ten Commandments in public schools does not equate to permitting the Quran, the LGBT Pride flag, or other pseudo-religious materials in the classroom in the name of the First Amendment, and it is absurd to insinuate that allowing the Ten Commandments opens this door. Our nation was founded on the principles set forth in the Ten Commandments, and our education should reflect our Judeo-Christian founding, not ideologies antithetical to the core values embedded in our foundation. Indeed, there are about 50 displays of the Ten Commandments inside and outside the U.S. Supreme Court. The Ten Commandments is part of the official seal of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. The Ten Commandments is ubiquitous because the Commandments clearly shaped American law and government. We would not be the United States of America without this moral and legal standard. Accusations of schism flying in run up to General Synod General Synod begins on Friday and it looks as if the "new spirit of generosity and pragmatism" which Bishop Martyn Snow recently identified is going to be in short supply. Earlier this week, the orthodox grouping 'The Alliance' wrote an open letter to the Archbishops of York and Canterbury pleading with them, not to introduce standalone services of blessing for same-sex couples without following, "the lawful constitutional path to preserve the unity of the Church throughout the Anglican Communion." But it was not just the process that concerned them The Alliance believe that introducing such services would "be part of a schismatic move which departs from the teaching received and upheld not only by the vast majority of the Anglican Communion (representing around 75% of the Anglican Communion's 80 million members), the Roman Catholic Church, the Orthodox Churches but also the vast majority of other churches around the world". The Alliance went on to suggest that if General Synod went ahead with the plan put forward by the bishops they would "have no choice but rapidly to establish what would in effect be a new de facto 'parallel Province' within the Church of England". This was fighting talk and perhaps unsurprisingly their letter could not go unanswered and one of the most senior bishops in the Church of England, the Bishop of Oxford, Steven Croft, was given the task. In an open letter he questions The Alliance's mandate, claims there is no significant doctrinal change, and alleges there was "a very considerable consensus at the Lambeth Conference in 2022 about accepting different views on sexuality yet still walking together". It seems that just like the Archbishop of Canterbury before him, Bishop Croft would rather forget that hundreds of bishops boycotted the Lambeth Conference because they could not walk together with those who have departed from the teaching of the Church. It also seems to have slipped his mind that many who did attend were also very clear that they too could not walk together. The truth is, there was no vote at Lambeth and there was no opportunity for bishops to dissent from the party line espoused by the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Bishop of Oxford may have forgotten the events of 2022, but surely he cannot have missed the more recent statements from Gafcon and the Global South Fellowship of Anglicans, who between them represent about 75 per cent of the Anglican Communion. Again and again they have said that in seeking to change the teaching and practice of the Church, the Church of England and the Archbishop of Canterbury have forfeited their leadership role of the global Communion. In the light of that global consensus, it is both arrogant and patronising for the Bishop of Oxford to suggest that, "Not a single one of these proposals therefore amounts to a change in the Church of England's doctrine of marriage." Bishop Croft went on accuse The Alliance of "catastrophising language" before doing some catastrophising of his own in reference to the "de facto parallel Province". "I am afraid," he wrote, "this has to be named for what it is: a proposal for a deep and disproportionate schism in the life of the Church of England and, surely, a proposal which will grieve Anglicans in every place." The gloves are off. There is a danger that other important questions, will not receive the attention they deserve because members of Synod are too distracted or despondent to participate in other debates. But not all are resorting to catastrophic language. One member of the House of Clergy, who has asked to remain anonymous, read the Bishop of Oxford's letter, and simply commented, "This is very robust language indeed, I'm not looking forward to General Synod at all." Susie Leafe is director of Anglican Futures, which supports orthodox Anglicans in the UK. This fall, Broadcoms acquisition of VMware brought together two engineering and innovation powerhouses with a long track record of creating innovations that radically advanced physical and software-defined data centers. Together, they create an infrastructure leader uniquely qualified to guide enterprises through every facet of their private, hybrid, and multi-cloud journeys. The Broadcom Expert Advantage Partner Program reflects the resulting commitment to simplify what is needed to create an optimal VMware Cloud Foundation cloud environment at scale, regardless of whether an organization is just embarking on its cloud journey or perfecting a sophisticated cloud environment. We recently connected with Guy Bartram, director of Cloud Provider product marketing at Broadcom overseeing VMware by Broadcom technologies, to learn more about what the new Cloud Service Provider Advantage program means for customers, and more precisely the singular value that Broadcom Pinnacle Partners bring to enterprises efforts in the cloud, from the need for enterprise-grade private clouds for the private learning of AI applications to the growing need for hybrid and multi-cloud infrastructure that matches use cases and workloads to the right cloud. VMware revolutionized the very premise of the cloud with virtualization and today more than 500,000 enterprises rely on VMware by Broadcom technologies as the crucially important underpinnings their mission-critical operations run on, says Bartram. But with a constantly expanding portfolio of 90 cloud solutions, our stack was increasingly complex. Our new Broadcom Advantage Partner program, and the VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) that is now our core cloud offering, reflects our efforts to simply our solutions set while providing partners and their customers with one package that offers unprecedented capabilities. The Broadcom Advantage Partner Program includes more than 2,500 highly valued registered partners, some 2000 Registered partners, 400 Premier partners, and 100 Pinnacle partners the organizations that have the closest working and engineering relationship with Broadcom, and which have extensive experience and expertise providing organizations with VMware by Broadcom technologies and the myriad managed services and solutions needed to create the high-performance infrastructure the worlds most successful organizations rely on. Broadcom has an industry-leading track record of simplifying data center operations and initiatives at scale, adds Bartram. What is so striking about this program, and VCF as a core offering, is that it provides access to everything an organization needs to create an optimal private, hybrid, and multi-cloud infrastructure and the ability to easily know the costs involved. VMware Cloud Foundation The Cloud Stack VCF provides enterprises with everything they need to excel in the cloud. Encompassing flagship VMware by Broadcom technologies like vSphere, vSAN, NSX, Tanzu, and Aria to name a few it also includes the extensive capabilities required to perfect even the most sophisticated cloud efforts and combines the capabilities previously found in the entire VMware cloud portfolio. Businesses of all kinds have come to the realization that a hybrid, multi-cloud solution is the way to optimize their cloud journey, says Bartram. They also universally see the need for a high-performance private cloud to ensure that their mission-critical data and operations are backed up with a software-defined infrastructure that exceeds the most stringent requirements for resiliency, compliance, and performance. VCF addresses all of these needs. Bartram notes that VCF makes it easy to automate everything from networking and storage to security. As a result, even the most sophisticated and powerful cloud environment is radically easier to manage and optimize. Many organizations moved to the cloud but still must manage innumerable tasks, he says. Deploying and operating physical firewalls, physical load balancing, and many other tasks that extend across the on-premises environment and virtual domain all require different teams and quickly become difficult and expensive. The automation VCF enables makes it possible to minimize or eliminate such tasks and simultaneously gives organizations access to solutions and capabilities many of them could not afford or didnt have the operational capacity to consider in the past. Notably, all VCF licenses are entirely portable, enabling enterprises to apply VCF in any private or hybrid, multi-cloud VMware cloud endpoint they wish over time. In this way, VCF offers maximum flexibility, enabling customers to embrace new technical capabilities over time while simultaneously maintaining flexibility in their cloud strategy. Broadcom Pinnacle Partners Cloud Leaders Broadcom Pinnacle Partners are cloud solutions and managed service providers that have the most extensive and deepest working relationship with VMware, both on a business and engineering level. With comprehensive certifications and countless customer deployments, they have extensive working experience historically with the entire VMware stack. All also provide the thorough vertical market expertise and the offerings organizations need to thrive in their sectors, as well as the managed services among them Infrastructure-as-a-Service, Backup-as-a-Service, Disaster Recovery-as-a-Service, Security-as-a-Service, and many more that enterprises often need. They also offer countless professional services, from cloud migration help and cloud design to application development to the creation of highly bespoke, customized systems designed to address the most unique use cases. Broadcom Pinnacle Partners are also highly adept at offering very specific guidance and serving as a trusted partner to enterprises that can outsource their entire infrastructure while enjoying the peace of mind that it will address the most demanding requirements. These include the need for everything from a fully sovereign cloud to access to the high-speed networks that enable low latency across regions and include onramps to the major hyperscalers. All of our Broadcom Advantage Partners are highly valued and offer access to exceptional cloud expertise and experience, but our 100 Pinnacle Partners offer the greatest array of skills and resources, specializations, and capabilities enterprises need, adds Bartram. They empower customers to easily access infrastructure and capabilities that most, even the largest enterprises, could not create on their own. Bartram notes that in even the most advanced enterprises, operational teams increasingly struggle not just to create, but to manage whether it is addressing compliance requirements in different geographics, or classifying the huge amounts of data that must be classified, controlled, or managed in private learning models for AI. Broadcom Pinnacle Partners possess these very capabilities and more. Our Broadcom Pinnacle Partners are the organizations that are ideally qualified to help organizations achieve their optimal cloud future, one which is attainable when they partner with a provider that frees them from needing to build cloud infrastructure that has already been perfected because they already made the heavy lifts associated with everything from ISO certifications to the significant investments needed to build out high-speed networks. These are the cloud service providers that free organizations to focus on innovating their businesses drive competition, not only creating the networks those innovations require. Notably, Bartram notes that the need for such partners will only increase. As the use of AI proliferates, the need for private cloud environments and the complexities associated with the applications that rely on them, and the management of the data within them, will only increase, he says. The data deluge that originally led enterprises to embrace the cloud, and which VMware enabled with virtualization, is much like the data deluge we will see with AI applications and machine-generated data over the next few years. This time we are solving it with VCF and access to Broadcom Pinnacle Partners able to help enterprises get where they need to be. For more information on the Broadcom Pinnacle Partners visit us here or find your perfect partner here. Look to CIO.com for stories about Broadcom Pinnacle Partners and insights on how they are helping enterprises succeed in their private, hybrid, and multi-cloud endeavors. 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. Former chief secretary to the Treasury Stephen Timms has proposed a new government unit on the impact economy, to aid with Labours main five missions. Writing in City AM, the candidate for East Ham suggested that a Labour government should set up an office for the impact economy, which would be a joint Treasury-Business and Trade unit to partner with key stakeholders, working to align socially motivated capital and business with our missions. He said this would harness the ability of philanthropists, social and impact investors, and businesses to contribute to Labours ambitions. Civil society leaders welcomed Timms intervention, with Pro Bono Economics director of policy and communications Nicole Sykes describing it as a concrete and potentially powerful proposal from a serious politician. Potential to drive transformative change Timms wrote: Philanthropy holds immense potential to drive transformative change. Unlocking its full impact requires strategic government collaboration. We could significantly amplify the resources to tackle our most pressing challenges through innovative use of public funding to crowd in philanthropic giving. He gave the example of the 85m Community Match Challenge launched during the Covid-19 pandemic, which paired government grants with funds from philanthropists, charitable funders and foundations. This collaborative approach supported charities and community organisations tackling food poverty, mental health, and unemployment, he said. Timms wrote that by expanding this approach, a Labour government could harness philanthropic capital to accelerate progress on its missions. A major step forward Sykes said: Bringing philanthropy and foundations into the heart of financial decision-making in government would be a major step forward. And, given the importance of a thriving civil society to the wellbeing of the country, it's an idea that should transcend the politics of the election. Irrespective of who forms the next government, bringing civil society into the heart of national policymaking is an approach worth pursuing. An office for the impact economy could help to make up for the currently woeful levels of engagement the Treasury undertakes with civil society. It would also find a suite of low hanging fruit available to drive forwards change, like increasing match funding across government departments and mandating financial advisers to talk to their clients about philanthropy. Dan Corry, CEO of NPC think tank, said: Stephen Timms is right to point to this government's lack of interest in and support for philanthropy, impact investing, and businesses with purpose. Civil society and social enterprises should be added to that list. We hope that the next government will put this right and make it a key part of their agenda including the institutional change needed to embed it. Charities see and understand the barriers Sarah Elliott, chief executive of NCVO, said: No one knows better how to solve societal challenges than the organisations who exist to improve the world for others. Charities are driven not by profit, but by purpose. They see and understand the barriers communities face, but what they can achieve is often limited by lack of funds, investment or policy decisions that fail to think long-term. We need easier routes in for social investment and philanthropic giving so charities can transform more lives, as well as for the voluntary sector to have an equitable seat at the table, alongside government and businesses, when new policy is devised. Clare Mills, deputy CEO of Charity Finance Group, said the charity sector has long urged the government to think more creatively about how it tackles problems such as inequality and poverty. She said: Recognising the enormous value of all those that deliver social impact and putting them at the heart of its decision-making will help the new government however it is constituted to bring about transformative change. The charity sector is comprised of more than 200,000 voluntary organisations and community groups, around a million members of staff and volunteers, all of whom deliver social impact every day. It will be important for us all to work with the new government from early on to establish common values and goals, and develop a shared understanding of the ecosystem in which we operate. If the new government is to leverage the impact economy and work towards solving the countrys most complex issues, it must work hand in glove with charitable and social change organisations of every kind. Its this inclusive 'nothing about us without us' approach that will be the key that unlocks the countrys potential. Were keen to work with whomever forms the next government and we look forward to shaping the future together. Important intervention Tess Godley, policy and advocacy director at Better Society Capital, said the organisation was thrilled to see Timms call. As he states, a Labour government would not go far in achieving their five missions without the support of social and impact investors, philanthropists and purpose-driven business, she said. We invite decision-makers to join his call in collaborating with us to take on Britains knottiest social challenges together, with expert partners who are well versed in providing support to communities who need it. Seb Elsworth, chief executive of Access the Foundation for Social Investment said: This important intervention goes to the heart of a persistent public policy issue how will we find the money to tackle our biggest social problems, especially with limited financial resources? The proposals to create a new unit at the heart of government recognise the huge opportunity that exists to channel more private, philanthropic and public money into investments which improve peoples lives across the UK driving sustainable and inclusive growth, as well as delivering a financial return. Blended finance is central to this and we look forward to more detail emerging. sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector, The Biden administration on Tuesday unveiled a long-awaited proposal that would require many U.S. employers to protect 36 million workers from extreme heat. The proposed rule from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which enforces workplace safety laws, would require employers to provide workers with water and shaded or air-conditioned areas to take breaks when temperatures at indoor or outdoor work sites reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). At 90 F, workers would be guaranteed 15-minute breaks every two hours and employers would be required to monitor workers for heat-related illness. When businesses hire new employees, the rule would mandate that their workload gradually increases to allow them to adjust to high temperatures. Private employers already have a general duty to maintain safe workplaces, which can include addressing heat-related hazards. But Tuesdays proposal would for the first time establish specific protections from heat exposure, opening the door for OSHA to fine employers who flout the rule. If finalized, the regulation will almost certainly face lawsuits from businesses and trade groups. Those challenges could be bolstered by a ruling issued last week by the U.S. Supreme Court eliminating the deference that courts owed to agency rulemaking. OSHA, part of the U.S. Department of Labor, said that the proposed rule was designed to reduce work-related deaths and injuries caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Workers all over the country are passing out, suffering heat stroke and dying from heat exposure from just doing their jobs, and something must be done to protect them, said Douglas Parker, OSHAs head. Advocates have for years called on OSHA to address heat hazards. The agency first said it was working on the rule in 2021. Heat exposure on the job has killed more than 1,000 U.S. workers since 1992. From 2011 to 2020, there were nearly 34,000 cases where heat-related injuries caused employees to miss work, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Several U.S. cities experienced record-breaking heat in June, and the release of the proposed rule on Tuesday coincided with the beginning of a heat wave in California and other West Coast states. Many climate scientists have predicted that 2024 will be the hottest year on record. The OSHA proposal does not apply to sedentary or remote workers, emergency-response workers, or employees at indoor job sites where temperatures are kept below 80 F. OSHA rules do not apply to government employers. (Reporting by Wiessner in Albany, New York; Editing by Rod Nickel) COLERAIN TOWNSHIP, Ohio Two men are facing criminal charges after a 16-year-old boy was injured in a machete attack during a reported road-rage incident. Patric Tucker, 38, is charged with felonious assault and aggravated robbery in connection with the incident, according to Hamilton County Common Pleas Court records. Brian Benjamin, 40, is charged with obstructing official business, records show. WLWT Channel 5 reports the incident occurred Monday as two cars were stopped at a red light. Tucker and Benjamin are accused of opening the front door of the teens car and cutting him on the arm and lege with the machete, then stealing his shoes. The teen was taken to a hospital and need 10 stitches for his wounds, WLWT reports. No other details have been reported. Tucker was freed Tuesday after posting bond, court records show. Benjamin also posted bond, records show. The incident remains under investigation. COLUMBUS, Ohio A well-connected former lobbyist, sentenced in 2023 to five years in prison after jurors found he bribed a political operative with $15,000 for private campaign information, argued to appellate judges last week that he did nothing illegal. Matt Borges, once the chairman of the Ohio Republican Party who later worked as a political operative for FirstEnergy Solutions, told judges on the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals that prosecutors relied on Borges use of moblike language in text messages rather than their underlying substance when they accused him of racketeering. 41 30 Pro-EU demonstrators protest outside Parliament against Brexit on the fourth anniversary of Britain's official departure from the European Union in London, United Kingdom on January 31, 2024. Future Publishing | Getty Images It's been eight years since just under 52% of the British electorate voted to leave the European Union, in a monumental decision that divided friends, families and the nation. It still does, to a lesser extent, with polls suggesting that the same vote held now might produce a different result and constituents questioning whether life outside the economic and political union is really better. Still, "we are where we are" is the attitude of many Britons, with parties of all political colors vowing in the years between the referendum and the actual January 2020 exit, to "make the best of it." But if Labour a party which opposed Brexit but pledged to "respect the will of the British people" wins the forthcoming U.K. election on July 4 as polls suggest, some analysts predicting a thawing of icy relations between the EU and U.K. and, perhaps, even a rapprochement. For its part, Labour is treading carefully around the thorny subject of Brexit and any post-election win relationship with the EU, eager not to scare the horses that is, prospective swing voters ahead of July 4. Instead, Labour says it will not attempt to rejoin the single market or customs union that characterize the EU's economic framework that facilitates trade between member states but signals that it wants to improve relations with Brussels. With Labour, Britain will stay outside of the EU. But to seize the opportunities ahead, we must make Brexit work. We will reset the relationship and seek to deepen ties with our European friends, neighbours and allies. That does not mean reopening the divisions of the past. There will be no return to the single market, the customs union, or freedom of movement Labour Party manifesto Instead, the party has said it wants to reduce trade restrictions and a new veterinary agreement to relax checks on agri-food goods (such as health certificates for products of animal origin, which require a veterinarian's signature). It also says it wants to reduce barriers for touring artists and musicians, and to secure a mutual recognition agreement for professional qualifications "to help open up markets for UK service exporters." Lorries arrive at the Port of Dover in Kent. Gareth Fuller - PA Images | PA Images | Getty Images Labour's reticence over making much of its potential post-election plan vis-a-vis the EU, the U.K.'s largest trading partner as a bloc, is largely seen to be down to its eagerness to target disaffected Conservative voters. Voter polls have consistently pointed to a significant win for the party, suggesting it could clinch around 40% of the vote, compared with 20% for the incumbent Conservative Party led by pro-Brexit Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Around 16% of the vote is expected to go to the Reform UK party helmed by Nigel Farage, a politician on the fringes of British politics who has never served as a member of Parliament, but who was, arguably, the rocket fuel behind the Brexit vote. Hard ball While Labour will look to improve relations with the EU if it wins the election, analysts say the bloc is hardly likely to fall over itself to make life more pleasant for the U.K. The EU has so far always stuck to its position that Britain would not be able to "cherry-pick" the advantageous bits of its former EU membership that it would like to keep. After all, the EU has problems of its own, with a rise in hard-right governments and fractious intra- and inter-EU relations as a result. In addition, it's tackling questions over its global economic position, undocumented immigration and war on its doorstep in Ukraine. "We will have a U.K. government that will wish to change the relationship [with the EU], whether it will succeed is another matter," top U.K. polling expert John Curtice told CNBC. "What they're wanting to do is to soften the relationship while still being outside any of the former institutions, and the question is to what extent the union will regard it is interested to accommodate that ... partly because they've got other things to worry about, and partly because they may just think: 'Well, you made your bed, you lie in it.'" Nonetheless, Curtice held there was a shared interest in finding a joint strategy with regard to the high number of undocumented migrants continuing to come into Europe, and across the English Channel to the U.K. "They might think it's in their interest to reach an agreement about what we do about migrants coming across the EU. Probably, as has been intimated in the past, only by us being willing to accept that we're going to have to be part of the European wide scheme that deals with the resettlement of migrants who come across the Mediterranean. There's going to be a quid pro quo," he said. Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer speaks ahead of the U.K.'s general election on July 4, 2024. Anthony Devlin | Getty Images News | Getty Images Facing a growing global terrorist threat, Biden administration officials are debating expanding cooperation with the Taliban regime in Kabul to help track ISIS-K, the branch of the terrorist group active in Afghanistan, according to two sources familiar with the matter and a former U.S. official. The administration and other Western governments are scrambling to keep up with the mounting danger ISIS-K poses. Before this year, U.S. and other Western officials believed ISIS-K had the intent but not the ability to orchestrate attacks abroad. But that view changed with the horrific attack at Moscow's Crocus City Hall concert venue on March 22, which killed 130 people and injured hundreds more. It was the deadliest terrorist attack in Europe since 2004. ISIS-K also launched a major attack in Iran this year that killed dozens, and other plots were disrupted in Europe. But the U.S. military's withdrawal from Afghanistan and declining Western influence in Africa have weakened Washington's capacity to gather intelligence on the various offshoots of ISIS. "We have a very, very limited ability to see what they're doing," said a former military officer with experience in the region. As a result, the administration is weighing sharing more information with the Taliban about the Khorasan branch of ISIS, often referred to as ISIS-K. The Taliban sees ISIS-K as a threat to its rule and has launched a series of attacks on the group. But there is deep distrust between the West and the Taliban after a 20-year-long war that pitted U.S.-led forces against the Afghan militants, who seized power as American troops withdrew in August 2021. "There's an internal debate about whether to try to work more with the Taliban," a former senior official said. Some members of Congress also favor the approach, though they argue the U.S. would have to demand concessions from the Taliban in return, including ensuring more rights for Afghan women. Some officials favor reopening the U.S. Embassy to allow for more cooperation between U.S. intelligence agencies and the Taliban regime, though Washington has yet to recognize the Taliban leadership as the country's legal government. A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said that there were no plans at the moment to reopen the embassy but that the U.S. does talk to the Taliban. "While the United States has no intention of reopening an embassy in Afghanistan at this time, we do engage pragmatically with a wide variety of Afghans, including the Taliban, through our diplomats based in Doha," the spokesperson said in an email. The spokesperson added that "the United States is acutely focused on terrorism and over the horizon threats, working both unilaterally and with our partners to disrupt and degrade ISIS-K and other terrorism-related threats around the world." It's unclear how much there is to gain from even a limited partnership with the Afghan Taliban, and some officials oppose the move, fearing the Taliban would use the cooperation as a way to push Washington to recognize its authority and tolerate its human rights abuses. Tractor Supply, which has its headquarters in Brentwood, Tennessee, operates over 2,200 stores across the United States, most of them located in rural areas . The retailer's core customer base consists of shoppers in need of farm and ranch products, such as livestock feed, trucking supplies, tools and outdoor equipment. "I was appalled by the decision," John Boyd Jr ., president and founder of the National Black Farmers Association, said in an interview. "I see this as rolling back the clock with race relations because the country is so divided on race, especially in rural America." In a public announcement last week, the company said it would eliminate all of its diversity, equity and inclusion roles, end sponsorships of "nonbusiness activities" like Pride festivals , and withdraw its goals for reducing carbon emissions . Critics of the new position argue that Tractor Supply is giving in to hate and harming its customers by abandoning crucial principles. The resignation demand emerged as Tractor Supply, which sells products ranging from farming equipment to pet supplies, faces a deepening backlash over its decision, which itself came after conservative activists spoke out against the company's work to be more socially inclusive and to curb climate change . The National Black Farmers Association called on Tractor Supply's president and CEO Tuesday to step down after the rural retailer announced that it would drop most of its corporate diversity and climate advocacy efforts . Boyd said Tractor Supply stores can be found where much of NBFA's 130,000 members are located. Like other farmers, he said Black farmers have shopped at the chain for years. Boyd, who is also a Tractor Supply shareholder, estimated personally spending more than $10,000 at his local store since January alone buying supplies like fencing wire and feed for his cattle and horses in Virginia. Before the company's announcement, conservative activists opposed to DEI efforts, sponsorship of LGBTQ+ events and climate advocacy had spent weeks criticizing Tractor Supply on social media. Tractor Supply said in its Thursday statement that it was making the changes after hearing from disappointed customers and took "this feedback to heart." The decision marked a significant shift in messaging from Tractor Supply, which once touted its diversity and inclusion efforts. In recent years, the company has been trying to broaden its appeal to younger consumers including former city dwellers it is at risk of now alienating. "We will continue to listen to our customers and Team Members. Your trust and confidence in us are of the utmost importance, and we don't take that lightly," the company said. NBFA said it made repeated attempts to discuss its concerns with Tractor Supply President and CEO Hal Lawton before calling for his resignation. "He's gone too far and we have to let him know we're not going to sit back and take this mess anymore," Boyd said, adding that the organization may consider calling for a boycott of Tractor Supply if nothing changes in the coming days. "We're tired of (being) mistreated by the government and Fortune 500 companies. ... Black farmers are going to start fighting back. And that's what we're doing." Some customers already have decided to take their business elsewhere, including Squirrelwood Equine Sanctuary, a New York animal sanctuary that says it spend more than $65,000 annually on livestock feed and other supplies at Tractor Supply. Squirrelwood co-founder Beth Hyman said she first heard about the company's decision when the sanctuary's supporters reached out to ask if the group planned to make a statement about it. She thought about it for a day and then went to her local store to ask a manager whom she's worked with for years about the announcement. Hyman, who is gay, said she told the manager the sanctuary could no longer support Tractor Supply if its announcement reflected its beliefs. The sanctuary also posted its stance on X, where the post has received 31,000 likes. "It's mind-boggling to me that a company would cave to basically a hate campaign," Hyman said. "Now they just have another boycott on their hands. We didn't call for that, but obviously people are." Allen Adamson, co-founder of marketing consultancy Metaforce, said the conservative pressure on Tractor Supply and the fallout from giving in was the "perfect example of how the increasing split in the country politically and ideologically have made it really hard to run consumer-facing businesses." "No matter which way you go on this, you're going to upset big chunks of customers," he said. Consumers of all backgrounds are becoming more influenced by social media and choosing to redirect their spending if they feel like companies don't align with their values, Adamson said. With the case of Tractor Supply, whose business is tethered to rural communities, anti-DEI activism put the retailer in a "really tricky" situation where it had to do something to stop a potential exodus, he said. "No company wants to be a target of negativity on social media," Adamson said. "It's a no-win situation." Tractor Supply's reversal follows boycott campaigns against Bud Light and Target last year over their LGBTQ+ marketing. Target decided not to carry Pride Month merchandise in all its stores this June following last year's backlash. Legal attacks against companies' diversity and inclusion efforts have also drawn more attention following the Supreme Court's 2023 ruling to end affirmative action in college admissions. Many conservative and anti-DEI activists have been seeking to set a similar precedent in the working world. A handful of other organizations and patrons of Tractor Supply have also expressed disappointment or outrage over the company's recent announcement which included plans to no longer submit data to the Human Rights Campaign, the largest advocacy group for LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S. Eric Bloem, vice president of programs and corporate advocacy at the Human Rights Campaign, said in a statement last week that Tractor Supply is "turning its back on their own neighbors with this shortsighted decision." The organization had worked with Tractor Supply to create inclusive policies and practices for years, he added. But Boyd, of the National Black Farmers Association, said despite yearslong efforts from the NBFA, Tractor Supply did not consult the group on past diversity and inclusion goals or participate in the organization's conferences. The company recently invited NBFA to apply to be a partner of Tractor Supply's company foundation, but the organization learned on June 26 one day before Tractor Supply's announcement on its DEI and climate goals that it was not among the groups selected, he said. BYD Seal U electric car at the IAA Mobility 2023 international motor show on September 6, 2023 in Munich, Germany. Leonhard Simon | Getty Images News | Getty Images Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD is on track to overtake Tesla in battery electric vehicle sales this year, with its BEV market share expected to surge, according to a Counterpoint Research report. "This shift underscores the dynamic nature of the global EV market," Counterpoint analysts said in the report released Tuesday. BYD's second-quarter battery EV sales jumped nearly 21% year on year to 426,039 units, according to CNBC's calculations. Tesla's second-quarter deliveries fell 4.8% to 443,956 vehicles. Last year, BYD's total production comprising battery-only powered cars as well as hybrids was more than 3 million and surpassed Tesla's production of 1.84 million cars for a second straight year. BYD, however, manufactured 1.6 million battery-only passenger cars and 1.4 million hybrids, putting Tesla on top in terms of BEV production. BYD also lost the top EV vendor spot to the U.S. EV giant in the first quarter. Counterpoint said China "remains a dominant force in the BEV market" with BYD leading the way. China's BEV sales are estimated to be four times that of North America's in 2024, the research firm said. China will continue to hold more than 50% market share of global BEV sales until 2027 and Chinese BEV sales are projected to top the combined sales of North America and Europe in 2030, according to Counterpoint. Last month, the European Union announced it would slap additional tariffs on Chinese EV firms to tackle the "threat of clearly foreseeable and imminent injury to EU industry." BYD will be subject to additional tariffs of 17.4%, Geely will invite an extra 20% duty. SAIC will have to pay additional duties of 38.1% the highest among the three. This is on top of the standard 10% duty already imposed on imported EVs. The duties are currently provisional, but will be introduced from July 4, if discussions with Chinese authorities do not result in a resolution, the commission said in a statement on June 12. watch now This report is from today's CNBC Daily Open, our international markets newsletter. CNBC Daily Open brings investors up to speed on everything they need to know, no matter where they are. Like what you see? You can subscribe here . Traders work on the floor during morning trading at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on March 06, 2024 in New York City. More records The S&P 500 closed above 5,500 for the first time as Fed Chair Jerome Powell said the central bank had made progress on inflation. The S&P 500 and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite closed at record highs, with Tesla soaring 10% after sales fell less than expected. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 162 points. The yield on the 10-year Treasury slipped as Powell indicated that the bank needs more time before cutting rates. U.S. oil prices dropped back from two-month highs. Tesla soars Tesla's shares surged 10.2% after the EV maker beat second-quarter production and delivery expectations. However, total deliveries still fell 4.8% year-over-year, though they rose 14.8% from the first quarter. The decline comes as Tesla faces increased competition, particularly in China, and an aging vehicle lineup. To stimulate sales, Tesla has offered various discounts and incentives, such as zero-interest loans for Model 3 and Model Y purchases in China. Inflation progress Powell said the central bank had made "quite a bit of progress" on inflation over the past year but said he wants to see more before being confident enough to start cutting interest rates. "The last [inflation] reading and the one before it to a lesser extent, suggest that we are getting back on the disinflationary path," Powell said at a central banking forum in Sintra, Portugal. "We want to be more confident that inflation is moving sustainably down toward 2% before we start the process of reducing or loosening policy." Alzheimer drug approval The FDA has approved Eli Lilly's Alzheimer's drug, donanemab, expanding treatment options for the nearly 7 million Americans with the disease. Eli Lilly has faced obstacles in its path to market. The FDA rejected the drug's approval last year due to insufficient data, then surprisingly delayed it again in March. Donanemab will now compete with Biogen and Japanese partner Eisai's Leqembi, which gained approval last year. Paramount bid? Shares of Paramount Global popped 9% in extended trading after news of a potential deal between David Ellison's Skydance and National Amusements, Paramount's controlling shareholder. This preliminary agreement could give Skydance control of Paramount, marking a revival of a previously failed deal. While specific terms remain unclear, the previous deal involved a $2 billion payout to National Amusement's controlling shareholder Shari Redstone, $4.5 billion for Paramount's controlling shares and $1.5 billion cash for Paramount's balance sheet. [PRO] Conviction list Goldman Sachs has updated its conviction list for the second half of the year, adding three new stocks to the list of "most differentiated fundamental Buy ideas." The list includes 10 stocks that Goldman Sachs research analysts believe will outperform the market. Think a friend or colleague should be getting this newsletter? Share this link with them to sign up. Aamir Ahmed Khan, PhD, Principal Electrical Engineer for Paradromics, works on the Transceiver which connects to the brain implants. Austin based Paradromics is developing a brain-computer interface to aide disabled and non-verbal patients with communication. Good morning! This Fourth of July week kicked off with some announcements in the neurotech field. The brain implant startup Paradromics is taking steps to prepare for its first in-human trial next year, and the company announced on Monday that it has launched its official patient registry. Founded in 2015, Paradromics is building a brain-computer interface, or a BCI, called the Connexus Direct Data Interface. A BCI is a system that deciphers brain signals and translates them into commands for external technologies. Paradromics' system will initially serve as an assistive communication device that can turn brain signals into outputs like text or synthesized speech. This means patients with severe paralysis could eventually use it to regain their ability to communicate. BCIs have been studied in academia for decades, and several other companies, including Elon Musk's Neuralink, have been developing their own systems. The companies' designs and ambitions all vary, but the industry has heated up in recent years thanks to investment from prominent backers like Musk, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Gates and Bezos' investment firms have contributed financing to a BCI company called Synchron. Paradromics' BCI is designed to be inserted directly into the brain tissue, which means patients who want the implant will have to undergo major surgery. While the procedure will always come with risks, CEO Matt Angle told CNBC last year that the quality of the neural signals Paradromics can measure will allow patients to communicate at a faster and more natural rate than they could with a less invasive BCI. CNBC's Investing in Space newsletter offers a view into the business of space exploration and privatization, delivered straight to your inbox. CNBC's Michael Sheetz reports and curates the latest news, investor updates and exclusive interviews on the most important companies reaching new heights. Sign up to receive future editions. As Americans celebrate our independence this week, I'm reminded of the intrinsic but perhaps little-understood link between space and U.S. national security. My impression is that outside of the industry when most people hear "space," or think about "investing in space" for that matter, it comes with connotations of science, exploration, astronauts, and maybe some Hollywood-corrupted-visuals of alternative Space Shuttles. But the reality is that space has been what the Pentagon calls a "warfighting domain" from the very start. The first orbital rockets, satellites, and even the Apollo architecture were born of the military and its aerospace contractors. The U.S. Space Force, which has been around for less than five years, already has a bigger annual budget than NASA, even though the latter is old enough to be the Space Force's grandfather and holds a coveted position as one of the most beloved federal agencies. Even among the NASA corps, you're as likely to find "combat flight hours logged" among the astronauts' resumes as anything else. Historically, the biggest defense contractors have long been the winners of the largest space contracts and that's still true today. SpaceX has earned a coveted spot in that role for the military, whether it's launching rockets for Space Force or building satellites for the NRO. The top pure-play space companies get a significant, if not majority, amount of revenue from military work under contracts from the U.S. and its allies. And often, these military space deals represent "we made it" moments for companies a point Rocket Lab CEO Peter Beck made to me earlier this year when his company got a seat in the $10 billion PWSA Sweepstakes. "This is really our foray into the world of being a [defense] prime it basically doubles the company's backlog overnight with one contract," Beck told me at the time. And the importance of military contracts is also going further upstream, as venture capital looks more explicitly toward startups that are winning and delivering on early military deals. Global conflicts like Russia's invasion of Ukraine, or the brewing tensions of China and Taiwan, further highlight the importance of space-based capabilities to the world's militaries whether that's the U.S. or its adversaries. So as you tuck into some hotdogs tomorrow and look to the sky for your local fireworks, it's worth recognizing why what's above is so important to the military for what's down here and that includes seemingly unrelated parts of space, like private space stations or going back to the moon. Happy Fourth of July! JD.com headquarters logo sign outside building in South section of Beijing, May 19, 2016. Chinese online retailer JD.com has emerged as one of several companies exploring a potential bid for British parcel delivery company Evri, two people familiar with the matter said. Reuters reported earlier this year the owner of Evri was working with advisers on options, including a potential sale of the business, which could be valued at around 2 billion pounds ($2.53 billion) including debt. JD.com is through to the second stage of bidding after submitting a non-binding offer last month, the people said. Other potential bidders include Polish parcel locker firm InPost and Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group 's logistics arm, Cainiao, the people said. The companies' interest may or may not result in a final offer, one of the people cautioned, who requested anonymity as the matter is confidential. U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris gives the commencement address at the commencement ceremony for graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, U.S., May 30, 2024. Harris would likely have the keys to most of the money, according to Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez, who acknowledged the rules during a recent call with party donors. Biden's campaign began June with $91 million in cash on hand, according to Federal Election Commission records. The entire political operation, which includes Biden's joint fundraising committees, entered July with $240 million on hand, according to the campaign. Harris has emerged as an early favorite to replace the president at the top of the ticket, but this does not guarantee that the Democratic National Convention in Chicago will not feature more contenders and a potentially messy battle for the nomination. Key issues include whether Harris would control the massive Biden-Harris campaign war chest managed by Biden's team if the president were to drop out of the race. These conversations have been held over phone calls and text messages between some people who raised money for the vice president during her failed 2020 Democratic primary campaign against Biden and other contenders, said the people, who were granted anonymity in order to speak freely about private conversations. Vice President Kamala Harris ' allies are privately discussing what her candidacy would look like if President Joe Biden dropped out of the race for the White House and how they could help her, following Biden's disastrous debate performance Thursday, according to people familiar with the matter. There's also discussion among Harris confidants about the need to begin scheduling meetings for the vice president with some of the biggest donors in the Democratic Party if Biden drops out, these people said. Harris' allies have been pushing other donors and party officials to reconsider the potential advantages the vice president's policy portfolio could bring to a Democratic campaign platform: Her focus on reproductive rights, her outreach to Black voters and marginalized communities and her remarks in February in Germany, when she emphasized the strength of U.S. support for Ukraine in its fight against Russian invasion, according to a person familiar with the engagement. Some of Harris' past fundraisers are also texting one another an old one-minute video that features the vice president taking on former President Donald Trump's appointees while she was a U.S. senator, according to a person with direct knowledge of the matter. It shows clips of Harris facing off with the likes of former Attorneys General Bill Barr and Jeff Sessions and then Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. The video also underscores a key message, they say: Harris' willingness to confront Trump's allies shows that she has what it takes to go face to face against the former president. "Taking on Trump one on one, Kamala will use her backbone, her values, and her experience as a prosecutor to expose Trump," a voiceover for the advertisement says. The video was produced for a political action committee called "People Standing Strong," which was never fully activated because Harris dropped out in 2019 shortly after it was created. The PAC reportedly reserved nearly $300,000 worth of advertising across the key state of Iowa but the ads were not aired because Harris dropped out before the state's caucus. A White House spokeswoman for Harris and Biden campaign representatives did not respond to requests for comment. Any discussions of what Harris might need to win a convention fight for the nomination was unthinkable for Democrats before Thursday's debate, when Biden struggled to make the case for his reelection and failed to push back on Trump. Biden's poor debate performance greatly changed the mood among donors, with many privately discussing the need for the president to step aside in order to give the party the best chance of beating Trump in November. The donors sending around the video, for instance, are "all just confused, scared and sad" since the debate, said a longtime strategist close to many of the top fundraisers in California. "They're desperate to beat Trump." Dmitri Mehlhorn, a longtime advisor to Democratic donors including tech investor Reid Hoffman, said in an email Wednesday to allies that was shared with CNBC that although he continues to support Biden, in his view Harris would be a solid alternative to take on and potentially defeat Trump. "To be clear, Vice President Harris is a badass. A ticket with her at the top, combined with someone who balances her brand weaknesses (examples range from Mark Kelly to Andy Beshear to Roy Cooper to Josh Shapiro and many others), would absolutely be competitive with the criminally insane convicted felon the other side is committed to nominating," wrote Mehlhorn. "We would lose Joe's superpower brand, but we would gain other benefits and would still be competitive." Biden's team has said the president is not dropping out of the race. Meanwhile, Harris, to all appearances, has remained loyal and is scheduled to have lunch with the president at the White House on Wednesday. Despite his team's public pledge that he won't drop out, The New York Times and CNN reported Wednesday that Biden has signaled privately to an ally he may not be able to salvage his candidacy. White House spokesman Andrew Bates vehemently denied the story in a social media post. CNBC and NBC News have not independently confirmed the conversation. Harris defended the president's debate performance to a group of her past donors in San Francisco on Tuesday. The event was at real estate executive Susan Lowenberg's home, and the crowd included Harris donors from the time when she was running for San Francisco District Attorney, according to the pool report. "We gotta fight, and we know how to fight," Harris said to the crowd. "When we fight, we win." Since the debate, there's been a growing chorus of party donors, most of whom have spoken in private, and a few lawmakers who have spoken in public who question whether Biden is up to the task of being president for four more years, and if he is not, whether it's right for him to be the party's nominee in November. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Texas, on Tuesday became the first Democratic lawmaker in Congress to call on Biden to step down. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., both longtime Biden allies, said in interviews on MSNBC that it's fair for voters to ask about Biden's health in the wake of his debate performance. "I think it's a legitimate question to say, 'Is this an episode or is this a condition?'" Pelosi said in the interview, noting that the question should be asked of both Biden and Trump. The polls have had a mixed message for Biden since the debate. A CNN poll shows that Trump is ahead of Biden by 6 percentage points nationwide, which is identical to the network's national poll in April. But 75% of those polled say that someone else other than Biden would have a better chance of beating Trump than Biden would. Harris' stock has also started to rise in online betting pools about who will be the Democratic nominee for president. PredictIt, which allows people to make bets on political events, now puts the vice president in a close second to Biden. Before the debate, PredictIt put her odds of becoming the party's nominee this year so far behind Biden that she was trailing the likes of California Gov. Gavin Newsom. A logo sits illuminated at the Microsoft booth in the Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona on Feb. 26, 2024. Microsoft is paying $14.4 million to settle a case in California over allegations the company retaliated against employees who had taken legally protected time off. California's Civil Rights Department announced the proposed settlement on Wednesday. After approval by a state judge, almost all of the money will go to California workers who took parental leave, family care-taking leave or disability leave from 2017 to the present, and who decide to participate in the settlement. "Because Microsoft workers who use or will use protected leave are disproportionately women and people with disabilities, Microsoft's challenged policies and practices also have a discriminatory adverse impact based on sex and disability that Microsoft cannot justify based on business necessity," the state agency said. According to the complaint, Microsoft doesn't do enough to stop managers from considering protected leave when assessing an employee's "impact," a factor that's involved in the calculation of annual bonuses, promotions, stock awards and merit increases. Microsoft, which is based in Redmond, Washington, employs about 6,700 people in California out of its total workforce of 221,000, according to the complaint. Under CEO Satya Nadella, Microsoft has sought to diversify its upper ranks, while also becoming more responsive to issues related to harassment and discrimination. The percentage of women at the partner, executive, director and manager levels has increased over the years. Within core Microsoft, women represented 31.2% of the workforce in 2023, up from 27.6% in 2019, according to the company's latest diversity report. In 2022, following a shareholder vote, Microsoft said it would revise its sexual harassment and gender discrimination rules after a report from an outside group found issues in the company's handling of complaints. Employees have reported feeling worried about retaliation after asking for protected leave, according to the California complaint. The proposed settlement said Microsoft disputes the agency's claims. "Microsoft is committed to an environment that empowers our employees to take leave when needed and provides the flexibility and support necessary for them to thrive professionally and personally," a company spokesperson told CNBC in an email. "While we believe the agency's allegations are inaccurate, we will continue to listen, learn, and support our employees." As part of the settlement, Microsoft will provide training to direct and second-level managers of staff members in California and to human resources employees who deal with their bonuses and merit increases. Managers will also be instructed not to consider time off for protected leave when making "impact" decisions. A consultant, APTMetrics, will be responsible for monitoring compliance. Natural gas could become the global energy source of the future, serving as a transition fuel to replace coal and support renewables as rising demand makes it easier to ship around the world. Natural gas has historically been a regional commodity, with supply limited by pipeline networks. But a global market has developed as the ports and terminals to liquefy gas expands, according to Shehriyar Antia , head of thematic research at asset manager PGIM, the asset management arm of Prudential Financial. "Natural gas is starting to resemble oil in that there's a more global market emerging for it," Antia told CNBC in an interview. "There are smaller differentials in regional prices ... because increasingly it is becoming easier to ship it around the world." While natural gas still is not on par with oil in global reach and significance, "in the last 10 years it has taken tremendous, tremendous steps in that direction," Antia said. Over the past decade, the volume of global liquefied natural gas traded nearly doubled to 401 million metric tons in 2023 from 236 million metric tons in 2013 , connecting 20 export markets with 51 import markets, according to the International Gas Union . The global capacity to liquefy natural gas has grown 60% since 2014, reaching 483 million metric tons annually as of February 2024, according to the IGU. The widespread ability to cool gas into a liquid is the key innovation that has made it possible to ship the commodity across the world's oceans on a commercial scale. Cheniere: LNG powerhouse The U.S. dominates the global LNG market, accounting for 21% of global exports last year and shipping 84 million metric tons, according to the IGU. Cheniere Energy , a global LNG leader based in Houston, is an opportunity for investors who want exposure to the growing global gas market, Antia said. "When it comes to LNG infrastructure, Cheniere is a company that provides the infrastructure necessary to liquefy as well as re-gasifying natural gas," Antia said. "They're a big part of the shipping internationally of natural gas." Cheniere's New York Stock Exchange ticker symbol? LNG, of course. LNG 3M mountain Cheniere Cheniere makes up half of U.S. natural gas export capacity, with 45 million metric tons per year of liquefaction capacity at two sites on the Gulf of Mexico, according to a June research note from Bernstein. Cheniere would be the fourth-largest LNG exporter in the world, just behind Indonesia, if counted separately from the rest of the U.S. industry, the analysts said. Bernstein has an outperform investment opinion on Cheniere, with a price target of $217 per share, implying 24% upside from Tuesday's close of $174.45. Morgan Stanley is also bullish, arguing Cheniere has a structural advantage over smaller U.S. peers. The investment bank has a price target of $191 per share, suggesting a 9% upside. A 'transition fuel' Demand for natural gas is soaring as economies including China and India move to replace coal as an energy source for electricity generation, Antia said. As demand rises, the world's capacity to liquefy natural gas is expected to increase 43% to 700 million metric tons a year by 2030, according to the IGU. China was the largest LNG importer in 2023, taking 71 million metric tons, followed by Japan, South Korea and India. Whether LNG is actually a cleaner-burning fossil fuel with a role to play in the energy transition to renewables is contentious. The U.S. Department of Energy found in 2019 that LNG exported to Europe would generate anywhere from 56% less greenhouse gas emissions than coal to 1% more emissions than coal over a 20-year period. In Asia, LNG exports would generate 2% to 53% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than coal, according to the DOE study. The Biden administration in January paused the approval of new LNG exports to countries without free trade agreements with the U.S. in order to evaluate the climate impact, among other issues. The move was cheered by environmentalists and opposed by the gas industry. A federal judge on Monday blocked the administration from continuing the pause. But fossil fuels are not going to be easily replaced, Antia contended. Solar and wind are growing rapidly but they are still not easily dispatchable, or able to be turned on and off as needed, the analyst said. Gas is a natural "transition fuel" that can complement renewables by dispatching energy when solar and wind can't, he said. "Where natural gas can make a really huge impact in this energy transition is in places where it can displace higher carbon emitting sources such as coal," Antia said. "Embracing the greener end of fossil fuels is a really smart, nuanced way of bringing the energy transition forward." Crucial for energy security LNG has also become a crucial commodity for national security, particularly since Europe halted most gas imports from Russia after Moscow invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Europe suddenly lost about 40% of its gas supply after the war broke out, according to Morgan Stanley research published last week. The U.S. is the largest LNG provider for its allies in the European Union and the United Kingdom since the war began, representing 48% of their total imports in 2023, according to data from the U.S. Department of Energy. When counted as a single market, the 27-member European Union far surpasses China as the largest LNG importer, taking 121 million metric tons in 2023, according to the IGU. "Our friends and allies have come to depend on the U.S. for that supply," Mark Menezes, CEO of the United States Energy Association, told CNBC's " Squawk Box Europe " in an interview Tuesday. "As we go through the energy transition and natural gas continues to be the driver to take the place of coal to take the place of Russian gas in Europe, policies need to continue to be in place to allow that to happen," said Menezes, deputy secretary of Energy in the Trump administration. LNG prices surged after the Russian invasion as global supplies suddenly tightened. Those high prices sparked investments in more than 150 million metric tons per year of LNG capacity, which will significantly expand supply, according to Morgan Stanley. "This is significant supply growth," the analysts told clients in the June note. "As we have written over the last few quarters, we expect this additional supply to push the market back into balance, and ultimately oversupply over the next few years." Coal-fired power plants in Mariveles, Bataan, the Philippines, on June 6, 2023. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images The Philippines' dependency on coal-fired power surged 62% last year, overtaking China, Indonesia and Poland, according to London-based energy think-tank Ember. The Philippines was also the most coal-dependent country in Southeast Asia in 2023, as adoption of renewable electricity generation remained low. The share of electricity generated from coal in the country climbed to 61.9% last year compared to 59.1% in 2022. Overall, coal generation in the country also rose by 9.7%, higher than a 4.6% increase in electricity demand, the report said. "Coal has played important roles in the Philippines' energy security. In the 1990s, many new coal power plants were being built to meet the growing electricity demand," Dinita Setyawati, senior electricity policy analyst for Southeast Asia at Ember Climate told CNBC. Indonesia and the Philippines are the two most coal dependent countries in Southeast Asia and their reliance on coal is growing fast. Ember "To date, dependency on these coal power plants continues." Indonesia the world's fifth largest coal producer followed closely behind, with the share of power generated from coal hitting fresh highs of 61.8% in 2023. "Indonesia and the Philippines are the two most coal dependent countries in Southeast Asia and their reliance on coal is growing fast," the report said, adding that the the Southeast Asian region saw a 2% uptick in coal reliance from 31% in 2022 to 33% last year. China has made strides in reducing its reliance on the dirtiest fossil fuel for electricity generation, with demand standing at 60.7% in 2023 lower than India at 75.2% and Poland at 61%, according to Ember. The world's biggest coal producer, China has made notable progress in renewable energy development. As a result, there's been a slowdown in the rate of emission increase from an average of 9% annually between 2001 and 2015, to 4.4% annually between 2016 and 2023, the energy think tank said in May, adding that clean electricity contributed to 35% of China's total electricity generation. Indonesia, Philippines lag in renewables Damircudic | E+ | Getty Images Millions of student loan borrowers were looking forward to a smaller monthly bill come July, until a legal challenge to the Biden administration's new relief plan got in the way last week. But on June 30, a federal appeals court gave the U.S. Department of Education the green light to implement a major provision of its new Saving on a Valuable Education, or SAVE, plan. The bottom line: As promised, most enrolled borrowers should still see their July bills come down. Here are some answers to other questions borrowers might have. Why is the SAVE plan being challenged? President Joe Biden rolled out the SAVE plan in the summer of 2023, describing it as "the most affordable student loan plan ever." SAVE replaced the Education Department's former REPAYE option, or Revised Pay As You Earn plan. So far, around 8 million borrowers have signed up for the new income-driven repayment, or IDR, plan, according to the White House. Under IDR plans, borrowers' monthly payments are set based on a share of their discretionary income. They receive forgiveness after a set period, typically 20 years or 25 years. More from Personal Finance: What Taylor Swift's The Eras Tour says about 'passion tourism' 'NEETS' and 'new unemployables': Why fewer young adults are working What the new IRS guidance on crypto tax reporting means for investors The SAVE plan has the most generous terms to date, which has led to the current controversy. Instead of paying 10% of their discretionary income a month toward their undergraduate student debt, as they did under REPAYE, borrowers need to pay just 5%. Those who earn less than roughly $15 an hour have a $0 monthly bill, and borrowers with smaller balances are entitled to loan forgiveness on an expedited timeline in as little as 10 years. "The SAVE plan is very generous to borrowers, almost like a grant after the fact," higher education expert Mark Kantrowitz said in a previous interview with CNBC. Where do the lawsuits against SAVE stand? Republican-backed states, including Florida, Arkansas and Missouri, filed lawsuits against the SAVE plan earlier this year. The states argued that the Biden administration was overstepping its authority with SAVE, and essentially trying to find a roundabout way to forgive student debt after the Supreme Court blocked its sweeping plan last year. In response, two federal judges in Kansas and Missouri temporarily halted significant parts of the SAVE plan on June 24. As a result, the Biden administration was prevented from forgiving debt on a faster timeline under the new income-driven repayment plan and from further reducing borrowers' payments in July, as it planned to. watch now Those rulings came down days before payments were set to drop. As a result, the U.S. Department of Justice geared up to appeal the injunctions and the Education Department announced it would temporarily pause payments for many SAVE borrowers while the legal proceedings played out. It has now decided the payments will continue. That's due to the fact that the Biden administration's appeal against one of the injunctions, which prevented it from lowering payments, was successful. The case has not been decided yet, but at least for now the Education Department can proceed with reducing borrowers' bills. Meanwhile, the second injunction against the SAVE plan regarding expedited loan forgiveness, which came down last week from a federal judge in Missouri, remains in effect. What does this mean for me? As a result of its successful appeal, the Biden administration is currently moving ahead with the SAVE plan provision that slashes borrowers' monthly payments to 5% of their discretionary income. Many people will see their bill cut in half. Ikiah McGowan lives in Austin but hopes to move abroad within the next two years. She recently went on a 10-day scouting trip in Portugal with the travel group Expatsi. For some people, the goal of traveling abroad is to go somewhere entirely different from home. For Ikiah McGowan, much of her international travel is fueled by the desire to find a place that feels like home but outside the U.S. That's how McGowan, 39, recently found herself flying from Austin to Portugal for a 10-day scouting trip with dozens of other Americans dreaming of moving abroad. McGowan was part of the inaugural trip from Expatsi, a company that helps Americans move abroad through community groups and weeks-long guided scouting tours. For the March trip, travelers paid a discounted rate of $1,000 to spend 10 days in Portugal followed by $1,200 for 12 days in Spain. (Some chose to attend one leg of the trip while others stayed for the entire 22-day excursion.) These curated trips are more than a typical vacation. In each city, travelers partake in a half-day seminar led by experts to discuss the logistical ins and outs of immigrating, covering financial planning, visas, health care, real estate and other legal matters. On the remaining days, a local tour guide shows travelers around neighborhoods with a growing American expat community, or other locations where the group has expressed interest, and a realtor shows them properties for sale or for rent. More Americans could soon be exploring their options abroad. A CNBC analysis of U.S. Google search data shows a spike in users searching for terms related to "how to move to X country" beginning in mid-June. Interest swelled following the first 2024 presidential debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump on June 27. It's been "a crazy week" for Jen Barnett, co-founder of Expatsi, who says traffic to the site is up 800% since the debate. Americans' interest in visa applications to move and work abroad tend to pick up after big political moments, Masha Sutherlin, head of immigration at the global HR and payroll company Deel, previously told CNBC Make It. "You're seeing some folks in the U.S. saying, 'I don't want to be in this environment, and I have choices to go to other places,'" she says. "Pair that with the digital nomad lifestyle and the abundance of digital nomad visas, and that opens up an entirely new scheme of working for Americans." A 'cheat sheet' for finding a new home abroad McGowan has been fascinated by digital nomad living since 2019. She searched for and landed a remote job in the nonprofit world a rarity just five years ago and began solo traveling for long stretches while working. So far, she's traveled for extensive time in the U.K., Malta, Guatemala and Colombia. Americans who dream of moving abroad are getting help from travel companies like Expatsi, which offers scouting trips to international cities. Courtesy of Expatsi "As I've seen the way this country is developing, along with my intense interest in cultures that are different than my own, and a deep desire for for exploring the world, my interest in actually moving abroad grew," she says. McGowan wants to move abroad within the next two years, but so far hasn't found a place that really feels like home. She'd never considered Portugal until she learned about Expatsi from Tiktok. She started off with their online test, which identifies your top international cities based on preferences around your budget, ideal weather, whether you plan to work or retire abroad, what laws and policies are important to you, and other cultural factors. The test determined Portugal was among her top matches, and so McGowan booked her ticket to join the group tour in the spring. She says the price was well worth having the travel planning taken care of, plus access to local experts on everything ranging from financial planning to restaurants and attractions. "It was like a cheat sheet to get to know Portugal quickly, and having someone else to plan the logistics was super helpful," she says. "I didn't have to research the cool places to hang out in Portugal or what the cool neighborhoods are. That was already taken care of. I just had to get there." Plus, "Portugal is a very hot spot among Black Americans, so that's also appealing to me." Both Portugal and Spain have been recognized as being good destinations for digital nomads and expats in general, and they're the top two countries where Americans are applying for visas to live and work, according to data from Deel. Expatsi fees cover the seminars, tours and one group meal and don't include travel or accommodations, though they're happy to give suggestions or facilitate people teaming up to book a place together. The flexibility means people can find accommodations that suit their budget, whether it's a hostel or a 5-star hotel, Barnett says, though she advises looking into longer-term stays. "You really need to stay in an Airbnb or VRBO if you can," she says, "because you want to stay in a neighborhood you might want to live in and walk to the grocery store and cook a meal and imagine what your life would be like." McGowan estimates she spent roughly $2,300 on her trip including airfare and accommodations. The choose-your-own-stay model can help foster a stronger sense of community among the travel group. McGowan shared accommodations with four other women ranging in age from 22 to 65. She felt inspired by the conversations surrounding their desire to leave the U.S., which often involved "family dynamics, health matters, politics a lot about politics," McGowan says. "To have that intergenerational time with other people with similar goals was really amazing." 'They want out' for 'adventure and personal growth' The inaugural trip-goers were mostly women ranging in age from 22 to 80 with a cluster around 40 to 65, Barnett says. Solo travelers made up the bulk of the group, though there were also a handful of men and couples in the mix. Most were either people who can work remotely as digital nomads, or are scoping out their options to retire abroad. Many of the travelers were more alike than not: "They want out," Barnett says, and "overwhelmingly it's not negative reasons; it's for adventure and personal growth. They know that they want something more out of life." Plus, finding a place with a high quality of life with a low cost of living is crucial for many travelers, especially retirees. "Beyond that, they're really looking for a way of life," Barnett adds. "It's walkable cities. It's a glass of wine. It's music in the park. They're seeking something special." "It's not to say you can't find those things in the U.S., but a lot of times they're reserved for the wealthiest or people of a certain leisure class," she says. Meanwhile, in a place like Lisbon, "you can't avoid it. Every building is beautiful and there are viewpoints everywhere and a glass of wine is $3. And this quality of life is available to everyone." Expatsi hosted 30 Americans for a 10-day trip to Portugal and 12-day trip to Spain in May. Courtesy of Expatsi For having little background on the country before visiting, McGowan enjoyed her experience in Portugal. "I was pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of the locals and residents," she says. "They were very willing to share their personal political views (we went days before a big election), their opinion on immigrants, and snippets about their personal lives." She says she's still friends with some of the people she met while on the scouting trip while exploring on her own and thrift shopping her hobby and side hustle. Plus, "the fact that English was widely spoken and provided on official signs, instructions, etc., is a testament to the welcoming spirit of the Portuguese." Ultimately, the trip helped McGowan figure out what she's looking for in a new home. "Basically, I want Austin but outside of the U.S.," she says. "I would like a small, non-pretentious, friendly, walkable city" with "great thrift stores." More trips on the horizon The United States added six companies to its trade restriction list on Tuesday, including four for their links to the training of China's military forces, according to a government posting. The United States added six companies to its trade restriction list on Tuesday, including four for their links to the training of China's military forces, according to a government posting. Two of the companies are in China, one in South Africa, two in the United Arab Emirates and one in Britain. Global Training Solutions Limited and Smartech Future Limited, both in China, as well as Grace Air (Pty) Ltd and Livingston Aerospace Limited of the United Kingdom, were added over their ties to the Test Flying Academy of South Africa and the training of China's military forces using Western and NATO sources, the posting said. The Test Flying Academy of South Africa was put on the Entity List, as it is known, last year for training Chinese military pilots using Western and North Atlantic Treaty Organization sources. UAE companies Mega Fast Cargo and Mega Technique General Trading were added for evasive conduct, and Mega Fast Cargo for shipping U.S.-origin goods to Russia, the posting said. Companies on the Entity List, which is overseen by the U.S. Commerce Department, require licenses to ship U.S. goods and technology to them, which are likely to be denied. Pictured here is a stone with tungsten ore inside a mine in Germany run by Saxony Minerals and Exploration. Picture Alliance | Picture Alliance | Getty Images BEIJING China dominates the supply chain for many of the world's critical minerals, but so far it's held off on sweeping restrictions on at least one: tungsten. The metal is nearly as hard as diamond and has a high energy density. That's made tungsten an important material in weapons, autos, electric car batteries, semiconductors and industrial cutting machines. Chipmakers such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company and Nvidia both use the metal. "I don't expect any saber-rattling over tungsten," said Lewis Black, CEO of Canada-based Almonty Industries. The company said it's spending at least $125 million to reopen a tungsten mine in South Korea later this year. "If you get too belligerent about diversification, [it becomes a situation that's] biting the hand that feeds you," he said, adding that "tungsten has always been a diplomatic metal." While the Biden administration raised tariffs on imports of tungsten in May, China this past weekend did not include the metal in new regulations for boosting its oversight of domestic rare earths production. But China might not be too concerned, because the Chinese government ignored the new tariffs... They completely ignored it because the Chinese don't want tensions to rise. Lewis Black CEO of Almonty "The tariffs were more of a warning shot, as Biden only put tariffs on three of the 25 strategic metals China exports," Black said. "But China might not be too concerned, because the Chinese government ignored the new tariffs, unlike in the past when they restricted some exports of rare earths. They completely ignored it because the Chinese don't want tensions to rise." Asked last month if China would retaliate to the latest U.S. tariffs on tungsten, China's Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yadong didn't announce countermeasures. Instead, he called on the U.S. to remove the additional duties. Commodity price reporting and analytics company Fastmarkets pointed out earlier this year that China has reduced national production quotas for its tungsten mines due to environmental restrictions. Diversifying away from China Still, Black expects his company to benefit from growing efforts to diversify away from China. Almonty claims the forthcoming mine in South Korea has the potential to produce 50% of the world's ex-China tungsten supply. Demand for non-Chinese tungsten is already on the rise. "We see in the U.S., in Europe, they ask their suppliers for a China-free supply chain," said Michael Dornhofer, founder of metals consulting firm Independent Supply Business Partner. watch now The U.S. REEShore Act or Restoring Essential Energy and Security Holdings Onshore for Rare Earths Act of 2022 prohibits the use of Chinese tungsten in military equipment starting in 2026, while the European Commission last year extended tariffs on imported Chinese tungsten carbide for another five years, Almonty Industries pointed out in a report. The House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party last month announced a new working group on the U.S. critical minerals policy. Soaring tungsten prices Expectations for higher demand and limited supplies of tungsten have pushed prices to multi-year highs, although they have tapered off in the last several weeks. Dornhofer said in an interview in late May that he was also seeing Chinese buyers increasing their tungsten purchases. "Since the beginning of this year, they are not only asking for Western concentrate, but they are buying significant volumes, paying even more than Western companies are willing to pay," he said. "Definitely [going to be] a game changer." watch now Back in January, U.S.-based research firm Macro Ops said: "We're approaching an inflection point in tungsten supply. The US will quickly run out of stockpiled tungsten and flip from net seller to buyer over the next 12-18 months." The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security at the Department of Commerce did not immediately respond to a CNBC request for comment on this story. Brandon Beylo, head of investment research at Macro Ops, told CNBC in an email there are only six companies in the U.S. with capacity to produce tungsten. He added that the U.S. hasn't produced tungsten domestically since 2015, meaning future U.S. supply must come from overseas. He said the firm doesn't own tungsten-related stocks, but that he's personally looking for ways to access the physical commodity. There are no futures for trading tungsten. Other tungsten players going to South Korea China dominates over 80% of the tungsten supply chain, although local production costs are rising as the mines age, according to Argus, noting Chinese imports of the metal from North Korea, central Africa and Myanmar. "This presents an opportunity for projects outside China," Mark Seddon, principal, consulting and analytics at Argus, said in a June 28 webinar. Other non-Chinese companies in the tungsten supply chain are going to South Korea. In February, IMC Endmill, an affiliate of Warren Buffett-owned IMC Group, signed an agreement with the Daegu city government for a 130 billion Korean won ($93.6 million) investment in a tungsten powder manufacturing facility, according to a local news report. IMC Group did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment. watch now 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. Colorado Politics is published both in print and online. Our website features subscriber-only news stories daily, designed for public policy arena professionals. Member subscribers also receive the weekly print edition of our award-winning newspaper, containing outstanding features and news stories, in their mailboxes every Saturday. China, Laos to hold Friendship Shield-2024 joint exercise in July Xinhua) 13:05, July 03, 2024 BEIJING, July 3 (Xinhua) -- Based on the annual plan and the agreement of both sides, the armed forces of China and Laos will hold the Friendship Shield-2024 joint military exercise in Laos this July, China's Ministry of National Defense announced on Wednesday. The exercise, which is the second of its kind, seeks to strengthen strategic mutual trust and practical cooperation between the two militaries, with the aim of promoting regional peace and stability. The Friendship Shield-2023 joint military exercise was held in May last year in Laos. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) A recent breakthrough in medical technology found that subtle temperature variations across facial regions could signal underlying health conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Researchers have developed an AI-powered tool capable of detecting these indicators, which are imperceptible to touch but discernible through specialized spatial temperature patterns derived from thermal imaging. Published in the journal Cell Metabolism on July 2, the study suggests that this non-invasive approach could pave the way for early disease detection with further refinement. "Aging is a natural process," Jing-Dong Jackie Han, corresponding author of the study from Peking University in Beijing, remarked. "But our tool has the potential to promote healthy aging and help people live disease-free." Previously, the team used 3D facial structure to predict biological age, a metric closely tied to disease risks such as cancer and diabetes. Intrigued by whether facial temperature could also serve as a predictor of health and aging, Han and her colleagues analyzed facial temperatures of over 2,800 Chinese participants aged 21 to 88. This data enabled them to train AI models to estimate a person's "thermal age," highlighting significant temperature variations in areas like the nose, eyes, and cheeks linked to age and health. The study revealed that nose temperature decreases with age faster than other facial areas, indicating a younger "thermal age" for those with warmer noses. Conversely, temperatures around the eyes tend to rise with age. Furthermore, individuals with metabolic disorders like diabetes and fatty liver disease exhibited accelerated thermal aging, characterized by higher eye area temperatures compared to their healthy peers. Elevated blood pressure was also associated with higher cheek temperatures. Analysis of blood samples indicated that increased temperatures around the eyes and cheeks stemmed from heightened cellular activities linked to inflammation, including DNA repair and immune responses. "The thermal clock is so strongly associated with metabolic diseases that previous facial imaging models were not able to predict these conditions," Han explained, according to Medical Xpress. In a surprising finding, the team investigated whether physical activity could influence "thermal age" by instructing 23 participants to jump rope at least 800 times daily for two weeks. Remarkably, participants reduced their thermal age by five years, highlighting the potential of exercise as a mitigating factor. Looking ahead, researchers aim to explore the use of thermal facial imaging for predicting conditions such as sleep disorders and cardiovascular diseases. "We hope to apply thermal facial imaging in clinical settings, as it holds significant potential for early disease diagnosis and intervention," Han concluded, underscoring its promising role in revolutionizing healthcare diagnostics. Teenagers often exhibit behaviors like slamming doors, throwing tantrums, or having sudden outbursts of tears during family meals. While some may dismiss these as typical adolescent angst or rebellion, they could actually indicate deeper struggles with anxiety. Identifying Signs of Depression in Teens Natasha Riard, a clinical psychology lecturer and psychology clinic manager at James Cook University Singapore, described anxiety as a powerful force that overwhelms both mind and body, according to CNBC. "Once the panic attack starts, it's like a train that has left the station, and it's only going to stop when it reaches the next one. The journey between those stations is the experience of the attack," Riard said. Recognizing signs of anxiety in teenagers can be challenging for parents. Psychologists note that adolescents, like adults, exhibit fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses to stress. Flight responses may include panic, crying, or shaking, while freeze responses involve withdrawing and becoming silent. "Parents need to think about the meaning behind their children slamming doors and shouting. Could they be anxious about something?" Riard added, noting the importance of interpreting these actions beyond face value. Moreover, some teenagers display a "high-functioning" anxiety where they outwardly appear fine while struggling internally. Lisa Coloca, psychologist and director at Bloom Psychology Group, points out that appearances can be deceiving, and what seems normal on the surface may conceal significant emotional turmoil. "Young people often avoid how they're feeling and do their best to appear that everything is okay by appearing busy in a chaotic situation. What you see on their face or behavior may not be what's going on underneath," Coloca noted. Eli Lebowitz from Yale Child Study Center Anxiety and Mood Disorders Program advises parents to watch for physical signs like shortness of breath or changes in skin tone during anxiety episodes. He reassures that while anxiety attacks can be frightening, they are not dangerous, urging parents to remain calm and supportive. Tips for Supporting Anxious Teens Timing matters: Approach discussions about managing emotions when your teen is calm, not during moments of intense anxiety. Offer support and reassurance that you're there to listen whenever they need. "Don't expect your child to be able to talk about it while they're in the grip of really intense anxiety. You have to give them some time to calm down," suggested Lebowitz, who is also the author of "Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD." Share personal experiences: Help your teen feel less alone by sharing your own experiences with anxiety in a supportive and non-threatening manner. "Parents need to normalize this and talk about their own internal dialogue around anxiety as well, while being mindful to have open communication in a non-threatening way," Michelle Savage, another psychologist and director at Bloom Psychology Group and Bloom Community, suggested. However, psychologists interviewed by CNBC pointed out that parents should avoid discussing "big and inappropriate" issues, such as financial problems or marital difficulties, with their children. Validate their feelings: Avoid dismissing or downplaying your teen's emotions. Allow them space to express their fears and anxieties without jumping to solutions. "Validating that your child is anxious is not going to make them more anxious. It will make them feel understood and more likely to talk to you about it in the future as well," Lebowitz said. Understanding and managing teen anxiety requires empathy, patience, and a willingness to listen. By recognizing early signs and providing appropriate support, parents can help their teens navigate through challenging emotional landscapes. Earlier this week, on July 1st, Americas hat celebrated Canada Day, which is basically just like Americas Independence Day, except if they ever make a disaster movie called Canada Day, it will probably end with the army politely asking the invading aliens if they wouldnt mind leaving whenever it suits them best. No rush. To mark the occasion, Simpsons voice actor and Spinal Tap bassist Harry Shearer took to social media to remind us all of the time that the fictitious heavy metal band played three massive concerts, in three Canadian cities, all in one day: July 1, 1992. He noted in the comments that they didnt even lose a single drummer on the hurried tour. To celebrate Canadas 125th birthday, a massive all-concert event was planned, featuring three outdoor stages spread all across the country. Dubbed The Great Canadian Party the whole thing was televised on Canadas MTV equivalent MuchMusic, and sponsored by a beer company, because of course it was. Don't Miss Most of the acts were Canadian, including bands like Crash Test Dummies and The Tragically Hip. But the big star of this Canada Day event, for some reason, was Spinal Tap. That may sound kind of odd, but in 1992, the mockumentary subjects (played by Shearer, Christopher Guest and Michael McKean) reunited to release an actual, not at all fake album called Break Like the Wind. Spinal Tap was the only act booked for all three Great Canadian Party concert stages, a fact that may have rankled some Canadian performers. One Canuck musician bemoaned the fact that the only unifying factor of the Canada Day concert was an American joke, referring to the U.S. humorists who, to be fair, were pretending to be British. Advertisement Advertisement Spinal Taps intense schedule required them to travel across five different time zones from St. Johns, Newfoundland, to Barrie, Ontario (just North of Toronto), and finally to Vancouver, British Columbia, playing for over 100,000 people in total. In retrospect, it was especially funny to entrust this daring plan to a band that famously got lost inside of a theater. To further hype Spinal Taps involvement, concert organizers held a contest in which winners could party with the band on their private plane. Advertisement Advertisement Judging from surviving footage of the tour, the constant attention from fans and reporters meant that Shearer, McKean, and Guest had to stay in character as Derek Smalls, David St. Hubbins and Nigel Tufnel, respectively, as they hustled from coast to coast. Play The ambitious plan didnt totally work out. One review of the Vancouver show noted that Spinal Tap didnt hit the stage until an hour-and-a-half after its scheduled time so much for that legendary Spinal Tap punctuality. The review did admit, though, that the band actually rocked quite well. Sadly, these concerts didnt inspire Canada to alter the flag to feature a tiny replica of Stonehenge instead of a maple leaf. You (yes, you) should follow JM on Twitter (if it still exists by the time youre reading this). Weve certainly cooked ourselves up a pretty glowing review of the Revolutionary War, and why wouldnt we? Its the birthing moment of our proud nation, so making sure its got an awesome origin story is important. A more nuanced, confusing look at exactly how we ended up gaining our independence from Britain? Well, that doesnt make for as many fireworks. If you choose to dissect the actual events, though, theres a lot more weird bits of luck and random occurrences than you might remember. 5 The Word Independence Never Appears in the Declaration of Independence Don't Miss Or, as the document is actually called, The Unanimous Declaration of the Thirteen United States of America. In a strange, historical equivalent to the fact that Seinfeld never actually says Whats the deal, the word independence never appears once on the entire piece of paper, which seems so unlikely that you start to think they got halfway through, realized theyd never said independence and decided to keep it up the rest of the way, reasoning, Maybe somebody in the future will find this mildly interesting. 4 It Involved the First Ever Submarine Attack Zenit If you were asked to name the first time a submarine was used in war, you probably wouldnt be thinking back to redcoats and minutemen, but it did indeed happen during the Revolutionary War. Named, naturally, the Turtle, it was a one-man, oak submarine designed by David Bushnell to carry a keg of gunpowder and attempt to blow out the hull of British ships. Something that was attempted against the HMS Eagle in New York Harbor. The submarine parts worked just fine, but it was unable to penetrate the ships hull, and the homemade torpedo detonated harmlessly, making the whole thing a bit of a wash. 3 We Owe France A Whole Lot of Credit for the Win Advertisement This is a detail that most history buffs are probably well aware of, but doesnt jibe with the general independent vibe we like to ascribe to the Revolutionary War. (I am deeply sorry for how much that sentence sounded like something out of Hamilton.) The fact is, proud Americans would sure like to think our victory over the British was constructed out of pure elbow grease and gumption, and not from international assistance, much less from the French. In fact, it's extremely unlikely America would have won the war without French support, both financially and in the form of boots on the ground. For all that, we later refused to even let them have their own fries. 2 There Was An Assassination Plot to Kill George Washington Advertisement Advertisement Public Domain Maybe one of the reasons George Washington was considered such a great leader were his powers of intuition. Point in case being that he appointed a secret committee before signing the Declaration of Independence to look out for plans to take him out, and they immediately found one. Given that the person in charge of the assassination was to be Washingtons bodyguard Thomas Hickey, theres a good chance they would have successfully made it happen, too. Instead, it was uncovered, and Hickey was executed. To the joy of children/unstable young adults in formal wear everywhere, Hollywood keeps churning out movies featuring the Minions, the cartoon evil henchmen best described as a cross between a Twinkie and a sleep paralysis demon. The latest cinematic offering to feature the bug-eyed yellow blobs is Despicable Me 4, which sees the return of Steve Carrells Gru, the supervillain-turned family man, and also theres ah, who cares, its colorful nonsense that distracts children for an hour and thirty-five minutes. Play But there is some weird stuff going on in the Minions-verse. The first solo Minions spin-off, simply titled Minions, fleshes out the backstory of the titular creatures, all the way back to the dinosaur age where we learn that they evolved purely to serve the most despicable master they could find. Don't Miss When humans came along, the Minions found themselves regularly aiding some of the most immoral figures in history. As the narrator explains, They bounced from one evil boss to another, including a slave-driving Egyptian pharaoh, a vampire from the Dark Ages, and eventually, Napoleon Bonaparte. Yes, this movie reveals that the Minions fought in the Napoleonic Wars. Obviously, theres a big problem with continuing this trend into the first half of the 20th century. The Minions serve the evilest masters they can find? So were they anywhere near Germany in the 1930s perhaps? Advertisement Advertisement The movie makes it a point to show us that, shortly after working for Napoleon, the Minions created their own colony in a frozen cave. When they finally decide to re-emerge into the human world, its 1968. Thus, the movie conveniently side-steps a major chunk of world history, presumably to reassure audiences that the Minions in no way assisted Adolf Hitler. Got that everybody? The makers of Minions may have been extra-sensitive about this particular issue since there was a widespread conspiracy theory alleging that the design of the characters was inspired by an old photo of children being subjected to Nazi gas experiments while wearing specialized helmets. One ScreenRant video noted that the Nazi masks do bear a striking similarity to the general design of the Minions. Advertisement Advertisement The problem is, this is total bullshit. For one thing, the Minions were created because an artist wanted to design a character that looks like a pill with a goggle on it. And as Snopes pointed out, that photo, supposedly of minors being gassed by the Nazis, was actually taken around 1908, which was well before the advent of the Nazi Party. Plus, the people in the photo arent kids in gas masks, theyre adults wearing emergency suits for old-timey submarines. Advertisement The only thing thats at all creepy about the Minions is the fact that they probably murdered a man off-screen during the last movie. You (yes, you) should follow JM on Twitter (if it still exists by the time youre reading this). The living room with original stained-glass windows. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman When Sidney R. Bowen was a kid, architects would show up at his house in Mason City, Iowa, hoping to get a look inside. Bowen and his family lived in a Prairie-style home, the Samuel Davis Drake house on the cliffside of the Rock GlenRock Crest historic district essentially the only completed Prairie-style community in the country. (The neighborhoods architects, Marion Mahony Griffin and Walter Burley Griffin, shared an Oak Park studio with Frank Lloyd Wright, the most famous of all Prairie School architects, forging what Wright would later refer to as The New School of the Middle West.) I spent a lot of time in those houses and the details were so unlike everything else in Iowa, which was all either ranches or colonials the broad eaves and open plan, the indoor-to-outdoor connections, were unique at that time, he says. By the 1970s, Bowen was working in marketing at General Mills he landed Olympian Bruce Jenner on the Wheaties box and was ready to build a house of his own. He wanted that same, open-plan, landscape-responsive design and sought out Wrights disciple and apprentice John Henry Howe. He and I became close for the rest of his life, says Bowen. Howe first designed a little lakefront property in Minnesota for Bowen, then, several years later after Howe, got a job at Sara Lee, another, larger house in New Canaan, Connecticut. That house was completed in 1981. (Another famous Wright disciple, Edgar Tafel, who was based in New York, collaborated on the New Canaan project because Howe was in Minnesota and felt it needed someone on site.) Its clearly a property with Wright affinities theres stained glass, exposed wood and stone and an arced design, with a bowed wall of south-facing windows looking out onto the Connecticut woods. Last week, the New Canaan house, at 22 Father Peters Lane, went on the market asking $3.99 million. The home was designed in accordance with Wrights philosophy of compression and release smaller, low-ceiling bedrooms and other auxiliary spaces contrasted with grand, high-ceiling shared living spaces, Chau Ngo Prutting, the Douglas Elliman listing agent, told me. (Earlier this year, Prutting sold another architecturally distinguished New Canaan home, the Frank Lloyd Wrightdesigned Tirranna, for $6 million.) The wealthy Connecticut suburb is known for its abundance of mid-century modern homes, designed by Philip Johnson, Marcel Breuer, and other members of the Harvard Five, but the Frank Lloyd Wrightaffiliated homes are, Prutting noted, distinct from those harder-edged houses: organic with softer, curving lines and a careful consideration of the landscape. The little house is in a really unique spot its a seven-acre parcel that goes down almost to the reservoir. Its really in the woods; once you got there, no one drove by, says Bowen. Over the years, other houses have been built nearby, so its not quite so isolated as it once was, he adds, but being on seven wooded acres certainly helps. When we spoke, though, Bowen was quick to point out that the New Canaan house has been substantially altered in other ways the two owners after him took it from its original footprint of 3,000 square feet to about 7,200. It was a small house. It was probably inevitable that it would be changed, he says. The worst move was the new kitchen in the back. But these things happen. Bowen only lived in the house for a short time he found an irresistible plot of land on the Stamford waterfront, collaborated with Howe on another house there, and realized that this, not a corporate job (he was working at an executive-search firm then), was what he wanted to spend the rest of his life doing. Hes been an architect for the past 30 years. Howe wrote his letter of recommendation to MIT.) The kitchen was very compressed it was fine for a couple, but my clients wanted something larger, says Prutting. They used materials that matched and complemented the original home, she adds cypress wood and Delaware River stone (from a Pennsylvania quarry, not the river itself) that has a warm, pinkish hue. Kitchens are one of the many sticking points for buyers of older, architecturally significant homes in mid-century moderns and Wright houses, theyre typically small, functional spaces that dont square with the big, open centerpieces that modern-luxury owners expect. (A recent Wall Street Journal article on Frank Lloyd Wrightinspired home kits noted that this was one of the main distinctions between Wrights designs and the new kits.) The home also has a large primary suite, added by previous owners, and now clocks in at four bedrooms and six bathrooms. But many aspects of the house remain the arced shape inspired by Wrights hemisphere houses is designed to be warmed naturally by the sun, with south-facing windows. (Bowen told me they designed shutters to go over the windows in the evening he doubted they were still there, but then, windows are much better at heat-retention these days.) And the old living room with a stained-glass ceiling, which I made, stayed as is. And, he adds, although he didnt live there long, it helped take him to where he is now. Howe was a mentor to me in an interesting way, he says. Im his only living client. And while he doesnt live in a Howe house now, and hasnt for many years, In the end, it drove me back to what I cared about. The house has large, wood-framed windows and is designed in communication with the landscape. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman The home is located on nearly seven acres. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman The houses design is inspired by Frank Lloyd Wrights hemisphere houses. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman The house has had two additions since it was built, taking the total square feet from around 3,000 to just over 7,000. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman The original kitchen, in keeping with Frank Lloyd Wrights designs, was later expanded. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman A larger kitchen was added later. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman The homes large windows face south. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman A primary bedroom suite, added by subsequent owners. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman Bands of wood and windows are common features in the home. Photo: James Cooper/VHT Photography/Douglas Elliman South Korea Hit By DDoS Attacks South Korea is subject to widespread cyber attacks targeting various industries, including government and financial institutions, and this has caused significant disruption to public life. Organisations in South Korea will likely continue to face a very high level of exposure to cyber threats in the coming months. This is due to an elevated cyber threat amid recent heightened tensions with North Korea which are driving attempts ro disrupt critical infrastructure in the South this year. Threat actors with suspected ties to China and North Korea have been linked to ransomware and data encryption attacks targeting government and critical infrastructure sectors across the world between 2021 and 2023. Key Website Attacked These attacks mostly consist of direct-path attacks at key websites, including government agencies, tourism, law enforcement, and transportation. The spike first appeared in March 2024 and has been increasing. South Korean Ambassador to the United Nations Hwang Joon-kook, soke to the media on behalf of 57 member states of the United Nations and the European Union, including the United States and Japan, on the human rights situation in North Korea (DPRK). In his statement, Ambassador Hwang described the need to concrete change in DPRK to improve the welfare of its people, as the humanitarian situation is closely linked to its weapons development, creating harsh living conditions and a less secure world. This statement coincided with a second wave of DDoS attacks, leading to questions around the motives and coordination behind the latest round of cyber assaults by the DPRK regime. These attacks target key websites that aid in the smooth operation of society, including the Korean National Police, National Tax Service, and more. The widespread footprint of these DDoS attacks shows the coordination these adversaries are capable of. and various differen groups have climed responibilty for the attacks. North Korea is thought to be particularly motivated to pursue hostile cyber operations against South Korea in the coming months and military tensions on the Korean peninsula are at a very high level. This follows a series of escalating steps taken by the DPRK regime including a barrage of over 200 rounds of artillery near a disputed maritime border region in January and many commentators predict a military crisis is becoming more likely this year. Global Security Mag | Netscout | Dragonfly Intelligence | Radware | Cyber Defense News Mimecast | The Hacker News Image: sasha85ru You Might Also Read: Joint Opposition To Online Threats From North Korea: If you like this website and use the comprehensive 7,000-plus service supplier Directory, you can get unrestricted access, including the exclusive in-depth Directors Report series, by signing up for a Premium Subscription. Individual 5 per month or 50 per year. Sign Up Multi-User, Corporate & Library Accounts Available on Request Cyber Security Intelligence: Captured Organised & Accessible Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Rishi Sunak doesnt get it. This election is not a referendum on the past, he claimed yesterday, as his 2024 campaign and premiership entered its final hours. Although maybe thats unfair. Perhaps the Prime Minister understands only too well. Its just that he cant bring himself to acknowledge and articulate the truth which is that tomorrow the British people will deliver their verdict on the past five years of Conservative rule. And it will be damning. In the 2019 election I spent most of my time on the doorsteps of what became known as The Red Wall, those predominantly working-class constituencies in the north of England where voting for Labour was not so much a tradition as a muscle memory. And I heard the same thing. My familys always supported Labour. But theyve not done anything for us here. Its time for something different. Im going to give the Tories a chance. It would not be right to hand Rishi Sunak a blank cheque to continue with the broken promises and failed compromises that have characterised his anaemic administration, writes Dan Hodges And they did. They gave Boris Johnson and his party an 80-seat landslide, and an opportunity to permanently recast the political map of Britain. For many it was a tough decision. I remember sitting in a pub in Wrexham, talking to Mark, a security-guard covered in tattoos. He literally had to catch his breath as he contemplated voting Conservative for the first time in his life. My dad was a miner. Phew...the thought of his son voting Tory...Labours ingrained in people here, he told me. But Mark - and millions like him, swallowed hard - and took the plunge. They werent asking for much. To finally get Brexit done. Some sort of control of immigration. Maybe a few more pounds in their pay packets at the end of the month. Or a little bit more of the national pie shared beyond London and the South East. And then, when Covid came, simply to see their leaders making the same sacrifices they were being asked to make themselves. Five years ago people put their trust in the Tories. And that faith was not repaid. Brexit was not delivered. At least, not in the way Boris had promised. Immigration both legal and illegal spiralled further out of control. The cost-of-living crisis brought unprecedented financial hardship to households across the land. Levelling Up was abandoned. And as people sat grieving at home whilst the Covid dead were buried, inside No. 10 they partied. So, sorry, Prime Minister. The British people do see tomorrows vote as a referendum on the past. And they will not be looking back on the last five years and the decade that preceded it with fondness. Perhaps this is being a little uncharitable. Fourteen years of Conservative rule have not been the nightmarish hellscape portrayed by the liberal Left. David Cameron successfully stabilised the economy in the wake of the banking crisis. Theresa May managed barely to keep a divided nation out of the clutches of Jeremy Corbyn. Boris finally broke the parliamentary Brexit logjam. Liz Truss saved people from the worst excesses of the rapacious energy giants. In turn Rishi Sunak saved people from the worst excesses of Liz Truss. But after a decade and half in power, the debit side of the governments ledger is perhaps inevitably - heavily stained with red. And now that debt will have to be repaid. Weve heard a lot in the past few weeks about the dangers of a Labour supermajority. Fair enough. Untrammelled power always leads those wielding it to disaster. Just look at Mrs Thatcher and the poll tax, or Tony Blair and Iraq. But there is one thing worse than handing Keir Starmer a blank cheque tomorrow. And that would be to hand Rishi Sunak a blank cheque to continue with the broken promises and failed compromises that have characterised his anaemic administration. For our democracy to function, the political pendulum eventually has to swing. And everyone in Britain can sense it. Now is the time. Not because anyone can have particular faith in Sir Keir Starmer. He has spent this election hiding from the voters, hoping they wont notice him sneaking up Downing Street. We know less now about his prospectus for power than we did when he was elected Labour leader, securing his victory via 10 socialist pledges that have been quietly ditched. Rishi Sunak saved people from the worst excesses of Liz Truss, writes Dan Hodges But he has at least changed his party. And as a result has earned the chance to change his country. Or rather, the Tories have relinquished the right to stand in his way. They are no longer a functioning political party, but an inchoate rabble, trapped in Nigel Farages headlights. A single vote has yet to be placed in a single ballot box, and already the infighting, backstabbing, and blame-gaming has begun. Its over and we need to prepare for the reality and frustration of opposition, former Home Secretary Suella Braverman has written this morning, in an intervention that perfectly sums up the most shambolic election campaign in British political history. But in truth, no campaign could have saved Rishi Sunak and his government. Their fate was sealed months, if not years ago. When Boriss oven-ready Brexit was dumped unceremoniously in the trash. When legal migration was allowed to rocket to over 700,000 net new arrivals. When the nations food bills were allowed to soar by 600 per household. When HS2 was axed. When the first Covid fine landed on the doorstep of No. 10. Five years ago, working Britain put its faith in the Tories. And working Britain was betrayed. So in one respect Rishi Sunak in is actually right. Tomorrow will not be a referendum. It will rightly be a reckoning. For me there has never been any doubt in my mind: I will be voting today for the Conservative Party, for the very best of reasons. Never mind criticisms, never mind disappointment, I am with Boris Johnson when, with his customary charisma, he roared: If you want uncontrolled immigration, and mandatory wokery and pointless kow-towing to Brussels, then go right ahead and vote for Starmer. To that list of what to expect under Sir Keir-the-Corbyn-friend, Id add: If you want the rights of women to their own spaces to be further curtailed, violent trans-activists to gain more power, children to be indoctrinated with the notion that there are any number of genders, then vote for the man who lies awake at night wondering whether women can have a penis. Rishi Sunak addresses a Tory party rally at the National Army Museum in London this week Winston Churchill, says Bel Mooney, embraced all the values - from family, country and monarchy to and aspiration, resilience and freedom - that the Conservative Party holds dear But there is so much more profound reasons to know that the Conservative Party, for all its shortcomings, is the one that has at its heart whats essential about being British. Few people talk enough about those values, which should always be at the heart of political debate. Conservativism rests on a central belief in who we are. The Left has always laid claim to values, to idealism, to virtue. I used to believe them. How wrong I was. In February 1974, I pushed my newborn in his carrycot all over Balham, in South London. Both pram and I were laden with Labour Party leaflets; I walked the streets in the freezing cold, posting them through letterboxes and handing them to passers-by with all the smiling conviction of a Labour Party member. I suppressed my reservations. At 16, at a summer school I had heard anti-British propaganda for the first time. At 17, on a CND march in London, I had been horrified by the careless violence of the far-Left. Four years later, Id been shocked again during the Vietnam protest in front of the American Embassy in Grosvenor Square. How naive I was to imagine that the Left was all about peace and love when screaming protesters attacked the police. Was this really my side? At University College London, my idealism was shattered. I sat, silent, bored and disillusioned, as Trotskyists argued viciously with Maoists, and Marxists wrangled fine points of theory, and they all treated women like dirt. But they never mentioned the poor. What was I doing among such opinionated thugs? At university, for the first time in my life, I met people who had been to posh schools, lived in smart houses, drank wine and theorised confidently about the workers whose cause they vociferously espoused but about whose lives they knew nothing at all. Brought up in a council flat in Liverpool, I did know. And as I moved into the middle class, liberal-Leftist media elite, I often felt uneasy that the values I was brought up with could be so readily mocked and trashed by my new friends and colleagues. As they still are. Look at the BBC, and the universities... exactly the same arrogance. My working-class inheritance patriotism, hard work and aspiration was formed by the Family, the concept that was the bedrock of our society until it became diluted during the Blair years. My grandfather, who fought in two world wars, read the Daily Mirror and voted Labour. My young father, then a blue-collar worker, read the Liverpool Echo and Daily Mail and voted Conservative. Yet there was never any talk of politics at home. My people were preoccupied with earning a living, bettering themselves in every way possible, always putting the family first (even if it meant sacrifice), and living by the unspoken values which they knew made life worth living and made Britain great. Ask yourself which party embodies at its heart those values. Family. Home. Country. Christianity. Monarchy. Aspiration. Resilience. Respect. Standards in education. Duty. Sacrifice. Freedom. Tradition. Individual Responsibility. Keir Starmer speaks to Labour supporters on the final day of election campaigning in Wales Although each of those abstracts is worth an essay in itself, Labours Clement Attlee (prime minister when I was born in 1946) and the great Winston Churchill would have recognised and embraced them all. But theyre remote from Starmers Labour. In 2010 (after some years as a Lib Dem) I voted Conservative for the first time propelled by the preservation of the green belt, now under threat from Labours building plans. I always thought old Labour friends would agree on the kind of society we want to hand on to our children and grandchildren. But then came the irresponsible cesspit of the internet. The divisive fury of Brexit. The irrational but very real toxicity of the culture wars. The capture of institutions by those who would do Britain down the worst being the Left-leaning civil servants who have far too much power. The sheer lunacy of woke. The hypocrisy of media and arts-world peers who lazily espouse progressive issues such as unrestricted immigation that wont affect the streets they live on. The fear of being accused of Islamophobia if you dare to say you dont want Great Britain to be cowed by radical Islam. Sadly, I see the kind of people who were once friends and colleagues living, as it were, within a gated community of privileged virtue, while the rest of the population lurk miserably outside their shining walls, wondering what happened to traditional British values. At the heart of Conservatism is a deep respect and affection for kith and kin. Kin is easy there isnt a culture in the world that doesnt put family first. But kith signifies a rich, cultural mix of home, neighbours, community, shared values, and a profound need to belong and to protect. When Winston Churchill roused the British with We shall fight on the beaches... we shall never surrender he ignited deep emotions that still make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. Where are the Labour voices proclaiming a passionate love of Western civilisation? Recent memory hears the partys deputy leader Angela Rayner calling Conservatives scum. Does that deserve high office? The image of Starmer and Rayner taking the knee to Black Lives Matter remains seared on my brain. Who remembering what D-Day was about and how there are still people alive who bear faded concentration camp tattoos could vote for a party that still harbours anti-Semites? My visceral hatred of far-Left and far-Right was (and is) as powerful as ever. A healthy democracy like ours should encompasses the best of political traditions and never allow extremists in either main party to take over. Woe betide us all if a political landslide allows Labour to be unrestrained. It must be stopped. If you've ever dreamed of becoming a TikTok star, look no further - because you can now study to get a degree in 'influencing'. The bachelor's degree in content creation and social media will be offered from this September at South East Technological University (SETU) in Carlow - Ireland's first of its kind. It has already received 251 applications for around 50 places, with applicants hailing from as far as South Africa and Vietnam, according to The Sunday Times. The four-year degree will include modules such as creative video, celebrity studies, data analytics, podcasting, event management and psychology - and a work experience placement in the third year. And students may even be able to meet TikTok royalty, with stars such as Lauren Whelan - who has 1.7 million followers on the platform and herself studied at SETU - set to be invited to work with students. Ireland's first degree in influencing has attracted applications from all over the world. Pictured: TikTok star Lauren Whelan, who attended the university and could feature as a guest on the course SETU'S 'INFLUENCING' DEGREE: MODULES IN FULL YEAR ONE Introduction to Digital Marketing Introduction to Data Analysis for Digital Marketing Introduction to Media Studies 1 Social Media Entrepreneurship An Introduction and History of Public Relations Introduction to Media Studies 2 Professional Writing and Research in the Digital Age Information Technology Social Media Marketing YEAR TWO Visual Language and Communications Creative Digital Media Creative Writing and Narrative Crisis Management Fundamentals of Media and PR Law 1 Contemporary Photographic Cultures History of Photography Multimodal Media Practices Creative Video Creative Radio and Storytelling YEAR THREE Work Placement / Electives Content Writing New Media Ethics Data Journalism Radio Broadcasting Journalism YEAR FOUR Dissertation Podcasting and Multi-Screen Production Ireland on Screen Social Media Project Screen Stories Celebrity Studies Media & Society Advertisement Kayleigh Trappe, who runs a comedy account and is known for her impressions, has also been positive about the course, according to its lecturers. Lauren has recently launched her own podcast, Under The Influencer, which will explore current trends in the industry. Irene McCormick, a senior lecturer at the university, told The Times that she hopes the degree will help change inequality in the industry. White influencers currently earn 50 per cent more than some of their BAME counterparts, according to a report earlier this month from UK-based SevenSix Agency. She said: 'The influencer industry is a very white space at the moment, and we have a lot to figure out and there's a lot of research that needs to be done on this within the course. 'We have a lot of black Irish students already at SETU and more so than other colleges, which is great.' She added: 'It's interesting to still be defending it because people of a certain age are still quite baffled about how it's a career and it's a career with legs.' Dr Eleanor O'Leary, lecturer in media and communications at the university told Irish broadcaster RTE: 'It's an area that has a specific set of skills. Lecturer Irene McCormick said she met with influencer Kayleigh Trappe, who was very positive about the course The bachelor 's degree in content creation and social media will be offered from this September at South East Technological University (SETU) in Carlow (file image) TikTok star Lauren Whelan has 1.7 million followers on the platform and has launched a new podcast to explore industry trends 'It draws on existing media and PR and marketing skills but it's a new area in and of itself as well.' More than a quarter of applicants so far are from overseas while the process of hiring staff is still ongoing. Part of the course description reads: 'Do your family and friends complain about you being on your phone all the time? 'Well now Is your chance to put all that screen time to good use by proving that you can have a successful and exciting career using your digital devices to connect with millions of people across the world.' The influencing sector has doubled in value globally since 2019 and is now worth between 12billion and 14billion worldwide, according to O'Leary. Ria Reddy, who is also studying towards an 'influencing degree', previously hit back at people who said it was 'just taking pictures'. Ria, who pays 17,000 a year for the course in content creator at The Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies, says she has already made her money back. The course includes modules from brand building on social media and how to grow an online community, to making digital content stand out from the crowd. Ria Reddy, who is also studying towards an 'influencing degree' , previously hit back at people who said it was 'just taking pictures' Ria said: 'People who say content creation is a 'Mickey Mouse degree' or is just about taking pictures and posting them on Instagram aren't seeing 99 per cent of the work that we do on the course and they don't really understand fully what the course is about. 'Initially, when I wanted to come to the UK to study, I was worried because a 17,000 international student fee is a lot of money. Along with accommodation and expenses, it costs around 35,000 a year to study in the UK. 'To pay all that just to 'learn how to post pictures' would make no sense - financially and for my future. 'But content creation is so much more than that. Through studying this degree at Confetti I've not only learned about my field, but I'm now working in it - how many other students on more traditional courses can say that in their second year? And I expect that only to grow in my third year.' Ria started her own content creation business, The Network Theory (Thenetworktheory.com) in her second year of study, using skills she had learned from the degree. A young woman who had her phone stolen while holidaying in Zante has warned against using simple passwords after a thief was able to access her photos and online banking. Gen Z-er Lydia Coates took to TikTok to share how her phone was stolen while holidaying with her friends, captioning the clip: 'How one simple mistake in Zante cost me over 10,000.' In her video, Lydia warned: 'If you're planning to go on a girls or lads holiday this summer, do not make the same mistake as me!' In 2022, the TikToker had planned a budget holiday with a friend to Zante in Greece. On the second day of the trip, the two planned to take a boat trip together. Lydia packed a small bag for her phone, ID and cash and explains that she had it closely attached to her while on the boat. During the boozy boat trip, Lydia claimed that her bag was kept on her 'at all times'. 'The only time I didn't have my bag on me was when I was in the sea, but my friend was still on the boat so she had it,' she said. 'When I got back from the sea I got my bag, which was still there, but my phone was gone.' Since the boat trip was 'quite small' with around 50 or so people onboard, Lydia and her friend asked the DJ to ask the crowd if anyone had come across the missing phone. Organisers of the trip then promised to check each individual before getting off the boat to see who had pocketed the device. 'I was sort of at peace because if someone stole it, they're gonna find it anyway,' she recalled. However, she soon realised that she was wrong to assume organisers would take action. Lydia Coates, pictured, had over 12,000 stolen after someone hacked into her phone using her password which was the same as her birthday 'Of course they didn't search everyone so my phone was gone!' However, the missing phone was only the start of what became a very expensive holiday nightmare. 'My biggest mistake that holiday was putting my driving licence in the back on my phone,' she explained. 'My birthday, on my driving licence in the back of my phone, was my password and was also the password to my online banking.' Realising the fatal error, Lydia 'frantically' checked her bank account to see if there had been any withdrawals taken and was relieved to see that nothing had been moved while the phone was stolen. Comfortable that her cash was safe, Lydia said she 'just forgot' about the incident and went on using her friend's mobile for the duration of the trip. However, her luck was not to last. 'Lo and behold when I got home, I checked my mobile banking and a singular bank transfer of 12,242 had been sent to someone called Jessica,' she said. The stolen cash had come from Lydia's help-to-buy ISA, meaning that years worth of savings were lost. Devastated, Lydia contacted the police who told her to contact Zante police, where the theft had occurred. Lydia was thankfully able to get her money back, but the individual who took the money got away scot free 'When I contacted Zante police, they were absolutely no help,' she explained. 'Because this person had access to my phone, all of my gallery and all the photos that were ever on my phone, my online banking, my ID, I have had to open a identity fraud protection scheme. 'So now, for the rest of my life I am paying for protection against identity fraud because this person could take out as many loans, mortgages with my information.' 'The moral of the story is do not put your ID in the back of your phone case if you're going on holiday - or ever!' In a later video, Lydia explained that she resolved the issue by changing all of her bank details and signing her former account off as 'fraudulent'. After a number of meetings with banks and police, thankfully Lydia was able to retrieve the 12,242 that had been stolen from her. 'We assumed we could find the person who stole the money on Facebook from their name but they had given a fake name. 'It was not this person's first time robbing a bank or someone's details. 'This specific name was a name that had been used across multiple fraud sites as a fake name, so the real perpetrators weren't identified. The phone was identified as being at a location in Birmingham via an app but she was urged not to track it down. 'In my case, they got away with it, they got the money because I got the money back from the fraud protection and not from the person themselves.' The money was reimbursed thanks to her fraud protection scheme. Lydia's unfortunate encounter isn't the first and likely won't be the last, as it comes amid a surge in cases on phone theft in the UK. How to protect your mobile from e-bike i-jackers Criminals often use bikes and mopeds to snatch mobile phones from people, particularly at busy locations such as outside stations, shopping centres or concert venues. Often victims are approached from behind while talking or texting on phones. Criminals on mopeds or bicycles may mount the pavement to grab the phone or snatch it from the road. Sometimes when it's a moped, a pillion passenger will snatch it. While most thefts happen between six and ten at night, criminals operate during the day too, so always look out for what's going on around you. The Metropolitan Police has urged people to follow these steps to protect your phone: Be aware of your surroundings If you need to call or use your phone on the street, look out for anyone on a bike or a moped near you. Look up, look out Make it quick so you don't become distracted Don't text while you're walking you won't notice what's going on around you If that's not possible, stand away from the roadside, close to a building or wall, so no one can come up behind you Going hands-free can prevent a thief from snatching your phone out of your hand Use security features on your phone You must switch on your phone's security features to protect your phone Use the keypad lock so that thieves cannot immediately access your phone, or use the biometric authentication if your phone has it (fingerprint or facial recognition) Your phone may have other security features you can use these could allow you to wipe data, lock your handset, or prevent a thief from restoring a phone to its factory settings from another internet device Consider installing an anti-theft app. These can be an effective way of helping police trace your phone and identify the thief Know how to identify your phone if it's stolen Every phone has an IMEI number which helps police and insurance companies to identify it if it's stolen. UK network operators can also stop a stolen phone from working across their networks with its IMEI Find your IMEI number by dialling *#06# from your phone and keep a written note of it; if the phone is stolen, report the number to your mobile provider to stop it being used Register your valuables on an accredited property database. Never confront a thief or risk your own safety for the sake of your mobile Source: The Metropolitan Police Advertisement The capital has been particularly badly hit with some calling it the 'London epidemic' as more and more cases sweep through the city. The City of London Police said it is running a targeted operation that is disrupting phone snatching in the Square Mile. The operation was started due to the worrying rise the force saw in phone snatching in 2022, which carried on into last and this year. The force is even spraying criminals and their mopeds with a DNA spray in a bid to link them to crimes if they race away. The force advised people to remain vigilant in crowded areas and on the transport network and asked anyone who falls victim of a mobile phone robbery to contact the police straight away. M.I.A has launched a line called OHMNI which is said to 'protect' its wearers British rapper M.I.A has released a clothing range which she says will protect wearers from 5G, WiFi, and nanoparticles - which she describes as 'evil dust'. The OHMNI line created by the musician, whose real name is Mathangi Arulpragasam, includes a number of garments, among them are t-shirts, boxer shorts and a 'tin foil hat', designed to protect wearers from electromagnetic waves. Prices range from $50 for smaller items like boxers, to $400 for dresses and puffer jackets. The clothing range, designed by the 48-year-old rapper, who is best known for her tune Paper Planes, is described as 'your last frontier at preserving your privacy, autonomy, and rights over your body and your data'. According to What's The Jam, each item of clothing is made from OHMNIs original silver street shield textiles. British rapper M.I.A (pictured) models the Ohm Protection Dress, which retails for $300 on the brand's website One of the more talked-about items from the line is the Tin Foil Hat, which claims to protect wearers' brains and retails for $100 Another item the brand offers is the Protency Fitted Boxer (pictured) which are also made from its silver fabric and retail for $50 It says the brand uses silver due to its electrical conductivity which can help deflect electromagnetic waves from Wi-Fi and 5G. According to reports, M.I.A first announced the launch while speaking on Infowars, Alex Jones conspiracy theory-led show, before sharing more details on Instagram. During her interview with Alex Jones, she said the clothes are designed to protect people from what she described as 'evil dust' (nanoparticles). OHMNI states that its clothes have up to 99.999 per cent shielding effectiveness against these waves. Its website says: 'In the time of smart cities, digital crypto, AI, NeuraLink, hackable humans, zero privacy, deep mind, internal body data harvesting, and indiscriminate tracking surveillance, mind data mining, social media overload, augmented reality, social credit system, virtual dystopian midfield, we bring you the revolutionary future of fashion. 'OHMNI is your last frontier at preserving your privacy, autonomy, and rights over your body and your data. This is not your artist foray into fashion.' However, the brand also tackles those who may question whether protective clothing is a necessity. Its mission statement says: 'If the conspiracy theorists are wrong, good for you, you own some beautiful clothes made with pure silver and precious metals. According to the rapper, the line, which sells clothing made from silver, is 'not your artist foray into fashion' OHMNI's Sacred Heart Tee features a protective patch (pictured) over the heart, which it says will 'protect' the organ 'But, if they are right, you just might have saved the future of humanity.' The line, which has already generated much attention, does not mark the musician's first foray into controversy - in 2022, she was accused of promoting an anti-vax agenda. After Alex Jones was ordered to pay parents of the children killed in the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting almost $1 billion, M.I.A. mentioned him in a tweet. She wrote: 'If Alex Jones pays for lying, shouldn't every celebrity pushing vaccines pay too?' However, M.I.A. has also enjoyed considerable success - including being made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to music in 2020. Among the fashion line's garments are t-shirts, including The Sacred Heart Tee in white (pictured) which costs $50 The brand's mission statement says of its clothing 'if the conspiracy theorists are wrong, good for you, you own some beautiful clothes made with pure silver and precious metals' After being given the prestigious award by Prince William, she said it was a particularly meaningful accolade to receive because her mother once worked hand stitching medals for the palace. She said: 'Today I'm accepting this in honour for my mother who worked for minimum wage to give us a better life. 'As a working class first generation immigrant it's great to be recognised for my contribution. 'Having freedom to speak my truth and to do it through music has helped me speak for those who do not have those privileges. 'I will continue fight for those who are silenced or persecuted by others.' Queen Letizia's ex-brother-in-law who alleges he had an 'affair' with the royal says they dreamt of 'growing old together and starting a family' - as he reduces King Felipe to 'her lover'. Jaime del Burgo, 53, who is based in London, sent shockwaves through the Spanish Royal Family last December when he claimed he was still romantically involved with the Queen following her 2004 wedding to King Felipe. The businessman - who dated the Queen when she was still a newsreader and was married to her sister Telma from 2012-2014 - has now claimed that he is still in contact with the royal in an interview with Argentinian newspaper Clarin. He said: 'We have shared many years of our lives together. We have been a family. 'As I have always said, ours was not a relationship of lovers. The lover would be him , in any case. I mean Felipe.' Pictured: King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain pictured at Zarzuela Palace on June 27, 2024 in Madrid The father-of-one went on to describe his romance with Letizia as a 'committed, long-lasting, exclusive relationship'. Jaime claimed Letizia wanted to start a family with him and they shared the dream of 'growing old holding hands'. Elsewhere in the interview, Jaime said he was trying to expose the 'rottenness of the Crown' but was 'asked to flee' by Queen Letizia. However, the businessman goes on to claim that he still in contact with Letizia and last spoke to her on May 12. At the end of last year, Jaime made a series of shocking claims about his relationship in the book 'Letizia & I' by veteran royal journalist Jaime Penafiel. In January, the author was sacked by the newspaper El Mundo after 20 years. The businessman told the author that he met Letizia before 2000 and their relationship began on a romantic trip to Venice, years before she met King Felipe. Jaime - who is the son of the former politician Jaime Ignacio del Burgo - claims he was planning to propose to Letizia when she announced that she was dating a mysterious 'diplomat' over dinner at the Ritz hotel in Madrid in 2002. Describing how 'serious and significant' their relationship was, the author made the unlikely claim that Jaime was 'carrying an engagement ring his his pocket' that evening. Pictured: Jaime Del Burgo and his ex-wife Telma Oritz seen in 2012 before their wedding. The couple divorced in 2014 Letizia reportedly told him that she had 'met someone who would oblige her to quit her profession', which Jaime said led him to deduce her mystery partner was Felipe. After the pair reportedly decided to just be friends, Jaime is said to have advised Letizia: 'Don't announce the romance, just the wedding.' Following their engagement announcement in 2003, Letizia - who had divorced her first husband in 1999 - asked Jaime to be a witness at their wedding. What's more, the royal's ex-brother-in-law also made the far-fetched claim that he 'dealt' with Letizia's pre-nuptial agreement and helped to front the cost of the Queen's family's wedding outfits. He is quoted as saying: 'When the wedding with Felipe came round, I dealt with the pre-nuptial agreement as you know, amongst other things. 'I also had to pay Letizia's family's expenses because [former King] Juan Carlos refused to pay or even go halves with me. So with the help of my friend Felipe Varela, I dressed her mum, grandmother and her sisters. And with the help of Jaime Jason, her father, grandparents and a cousin.' Jaime also makes the incredible claim that the Queen asked to see him the night before the wedding at the exclusive El Latigazo restaurant in Madrid - where she asked him to 'never leave' her. He sensationally claimed: 'When we met, she took hold of my hand and asked me why I had never asked her to marry me. Obviously I didn't reply. I encouraged her as best I could. The last thing she said to me before we said goodbye to each other in that restaurant was a request: 'Never leave me.'' Queen Letizia (far right) pictured in Rome in July 2012 ahead of her sister Telma's (centre) wedding to Jaime del Burgo (left) In the book 'Letizia and I', her former brother-in-law makes the outlandish claim that he contributed towards the Queen's family's wedding outfits In the book, Letizia's alleged ex-lover describes Felipe as a 'kind-hearted man' and even goes on to say that he had a 'great friendship' with the royal. He told the author: 'I told him my problems and he told [me] his.' The businessman even claims that Felipe 'uses [him] as a good man because he felt incapable of calming [Letizia] down' on occasions. Following the wedding, Jaime described how Letizia was like a 'fox in a chicken coop' as she was 'cleverer than any of them'. Jaime - who says the Queen nicknamed him her 'yogi pal' - claims he still had a romantic relationship with Letizia even after the wedding in 2004. He also claims he has kept 'photographs, videos, mobile phones' and text messages as evidence. The businessman claimed that 'love was always there' in their relationship since they travelled to Venice together. The photograph Jaime shared on Twitter last night was taken during one of Letizia's pregnancies between 2005-2007. Pictured: King Felipe and Queen Letizia with their daughters Princess Leonor (left) and Princess Sofia (right) in June In the book, Jaime sensationally claims that Letizia whispered that she loved him when they were lying in a hammock by a pool at her home following Princess Leonor's birth. Jaime - who joked that Letizia's alleged ex-lover should have been his co-author - is quoted as saying in the book: 'Lying in the same hammock, under the pool porch, facing each other, Letizia told me 'I love you' and I responded 'I love you'.' Jaime Penafiel goes on to write that Jaime del Burgo subsequently wrote a play called 'La Hamaca, which in English is 'The Hammock', and edited it but never distributed it. Following this, Jaime alleges they 'took steps forward with the goal of being free' - which involved seeking legal advice and looking at properties in the US. Queen Letizia's sister Telma Oritz with her second husband Robert Gavin at the Princess of Asturias Awards in 2019 Pictured: King Felipe and Queen Letizia on their wedding day in Madrid in May 2004. Jaime Del Burgo claims he was going to propose to the newsreader until she announced she had met King Felipe One of the most damaging claims Jaime reportedly makes is that Queen Letizia suggested they have a child together using a surrogate in Los Angeles. Around this time, Jaime claims that he confronted Letizia after photos of her kissing Felipe appeared on the covers of Spanish magazines. He claims the Queen told him: 'I had to do it to protect us.' He says in the book Jaime del Burgo told him Felipe and Letizia had a 'difficult relationship' and told him: 'Felipe uses me as a good man because he felt incapable of calming her down.' In December, businessman Jaime Del Burgo shared this unseen selfie of Queen Letizia with his X followers. He claimed that the royal was wearing his pashmina and said it 'took care of her' Jaime Penafiel goes on to write that when Sofia was born, Jaime del Burgo became uncle to both of the girls. It then quotes him as saying: 'It was a beautiful period. I didn't have children, and those girls made me so happy. I was working in Brazil and suffered a pulmonary embolism. 'I was in intensive care for a fortnight. I managed to get the Albert Einstein Hospital to give me a telephone Letizia and I spoke to each other every day on [the phone]. 'During my visits to Madrid I would often go to the cinema with Felipe, Letizia and some friends. Letizia and I would always sit together, holding hands. They were moments of happiness.' However in August 2011, Jaime alleges Letizia abruptly ended their relationship when she called him and said: 'We can't continue seeing each other.' Following this, Jaime alleges that a female friend told him to get in touch with Telma - who he had met when he first started dating Letizia. Pictured: Telma Oritz and Jaime del Burgo seen in December 2014, before their split was announced The couple (pictured with Telma's daughter Amanda) relocated to New York after their wedding in 2012 before returning to Spain The following year, the pair got engaged after just two months of dating. The Queen's sister already had her daughter Amanda from her relationship with ex-partner Enrique Martin Llop. At this time, Jaime claims he was still close to Letizia and Felipe and he claimed he bonded with his future wife after the four of them went to the cinema in Madrid one day. He told the author: 'When we left it was pouring down and instead of returning in the car with Letizia and Felipe, I got a lift with Telma. When we arrived at the Pabellon del Principe where Felipe lived, it was raining so hard we couldnt leave the car. 'And we spent nearly an hour talking. Telma asked me to go to visit her one day in Barcelona where she was living at the time. And thats what I did. I rang her and went.' TIMELINE OF JAIME'S CLAIMS ABOUT HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH SPAIN'S ROYAL FAMILY Pre-2000 - Letizia Oritz, who was a newsreader at the time, meets Jaime del Burgo - the son of a politician - and the pair start dating - Letizia Oritz, who was a newsreader at the time, meets Jaime del Burgo - the son of a politician - and the pair start dating 2001 - Letizia and King Felipe meet on the site of a oil spillage. Jaime claims he was planning to propose when she told him about her new royal romance - Letizia and King Felipe meet on the site of a oil spillage. Jaime claims he was planning to propose when she told him about her new royal romance 2003 - Letizia and Felipe announce engagement. - Letizia and Felipe announce engagement. 2004 - the couple marry at Almudena Cathedral in Madrid. Jaime claims he was asked to be a witness during the ceremony - the couple marry at Almudena Cathedral in Madrid. Jaime claims he was asked to be a witness during the ceremony 2005 - the couple welcome Princess Leonor February 2007 - Letizia's sister Erika suddenly passes away - Letizia's sister Erika suddenly passes away April 2007 - Princess Sofia is born. During one of her pregnancies, Jaime claims Letizia sends him a selfie confessing her love. - Princess Sofia is born. During one of her pregnancies, Jaime claims Letizia sends him a selfie confessing her love. 2 010 - the couple reportedly profess their love for one another and allegedly meet with lawyers. Jaime claims they looked at properties in the US to move to. He also claims Letizia suggested they use a surrogate in LA to have a baby - the couple reportedly profess their love for one another and allegedly meet with lawyers. Jaime claims they looked at properties in the US to move to. He also claims Letizia suggested they use a surrogate in LA to have a baby 2011 - Jaime claims Letizia ends their relationship over the phone - Jaime claims Letizia ends their relationship over the phone 2 012 - Jaime marries Letizia's sister Telma. The couple relocate to New York - Jaime marries Letizia's sister Telma. The couple relocate to New York 2014 - Telma and Jaime announce their separation Advertisement In the book, Jaime outlandishly claims that Letizia had previously 'banned' Jaime and her sister from speaking to one another. Author Jaime Penafiel wrote: 'When [Jaime del Burgo] is going to marry Telma, it is Felipe who advises him on the marriage agreements and, over the years, they have maintained a great friendship.' After tying the knot in an intimate ceremony, the couple celebrated their marriage with a larger reception in Italy - which was attended by their family. Jaime del Burgo is quoted in the book as saying: 'When the guests congratulated us, Letizias turn came and kissing me on the cheek, she whispered into my ear, "Well be together again."' In 2012, the pair relocated to New York to start their married life - but Telma returned to Barcelona the same year before announcing their permanent separation in 2014. He then goes on to outrageously claim that Letizia 'didn't stop until she managed to make [Jaime's marriage fail' - citing it as the 'only battle he'd lost in his life'. The couple's first attempts at divorce had been squashed by the groom's father Jaime Ignacio del Burgo, who told a court that his son and Telma repented and wanted to give their marriage another go. In December, Jaime posted a selfie of Queen Letizia on X as 'evidence' of their relationship. In the selfie, the royal can be seen wearing a black pashmina - which Jaime claims belonged to him - and he also typed out a message, supposedly sent to him by the Spanish Queen. It read: 'Love. I wear your pashmina. It's like feeling you by my side. It takes care of me. 'It protects me. I count the hours until we see each other again. Love you. Get out of here. Yours,' After sharing the image, other X users questioned the validity of Jaime's claims - given there is no evidence that Letizia sent him the photo or accompanying message. The businessman has since deleted his X account. A spokesperson for the Spanish Royal Family told FEMAIL: 'We have no comment to make about this.' The Duchess of Edinburgh had Prince Edward and Lady Louise in hysterics this weekend when she took part in an unusual challenge while carriage driving. Sophie, 59, was seen participating in the Sandringham Driving Horse Trials on Saturday while her husband and daughter watched on. During the event, the royal was challenged to hold a wine glass full of sparkling water between her teeth as she drove along. The Duchess was then meant to place the glass down at the next stand - but missed the post. As she attempted to reverse back, Prince Edward, 60, and Lady Louise, 20, were spotted laughing hysterically from the sidelines. She showed off her skills as she picked up the wine glass full of sparkling water from the stand, holding it between her teeth as she drove along The Duke of Edinburgh was spotted with a large grin on his face and captured the hilarious moment on his phone The Duke of Edinburgh was spotted with a large grin on his face and captured the hilarious moment on his phone. Sophie looked elegant in a navy velvet jacket from Laurie & Jules, sapphire blue netted hat from Jane Taylor London, a chequered white maxi skirt and brown boots. Sophie's participation in the competition comes after she accepted an invitation to become the President of the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials. It has a long-standing relationship with the royal family and was founded and presided over from inception by the late Prince Philip. The Sandringham Horse Driving Trials said they are 'deeply appreciative' that the Duchess has taken on this role. In a statement, a spokesperson said: 'The Duchess's acceptance marks a continuation of the Royal Family's esteemed association with Sandringham Horse Driving Trials, and we are looking forward to a long relationship with Her Royal Highness.' Prince Edward was stood shielded from the sun in a straw hat as he donned a relaxed look consisted of a simple white polo shirt and baggy brown trousers. Meanwhile, Lady Louise looked chic in an oversized navy blue polo shirt which she tucked into camel-coloured trousers, showing off her sophisticated figure. Sophie was seen taking part in a carriage driving event at the Sandringham Driving Horse Trials last Saturday as her family watched on The Duchess was meant to put the wine glass down at the next stand but she missed, causing Lady Louise and Prince Edward to laugh The fun competition came as she accepted an invitation to become the President of the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials Sophie and Edward's daughter, Lady Louise (second from left) watched her mother compete in the challenge Sophie looked elegant in a navy velvet jacket from Laurie & Jules, sapphire blue netted hat from Jane Taylor London, chequered white maxi skirt and brown boots Duchess of Edinburgh is pictured holding a wine glass between her teeth as she drives a carriage The family were joined by Lady Louise's friend, Felix da Silva-Clamp (pictured far right) The St. Andrews University student paired the simple look with some brown leather Chelsea boots and a bright blue belt to tie the look together. She wore her wavy blonde tresses up in a stylish messy ponytail and went for a natural makeup look today. She made an impressive debut and managed to bag herself a silver medal in the three-day competition. It is believed her grandfather, Prince Philip, encouraged her to take up the sport. The family were joined by Lady Louise's friend, Felix da Silva-Clamp, with whom she seems to have formed a strong bond, as they both study at the same university in Scotland. Felix was driven to the event by the Duchess of Edinburgh, and the two were seen engaging in conversation as they watched the races. A psychologist has revealed that she has seen an increase in 'performative displays of friendship' - and how you can tell if you are in one. Dr Alison McClymont is a chartered psychologist who also creates online content about mental health topics. She is also a writer, whose debut book, How to Help Your Child Cope With Anything, will be published in August. In a video shared on TikTok by the British Psychological Society, Dr McClymont discussed how social media can impact friendships. Speaking in the clip, the psychologist said: 'The social media culture has increased what I call performative displays of friendship. Dr Alison McClymont (pictured) is a chartered psychologist who also creates content about mental health topics 'This is where people are encouraged to post images of things that they'll hashtag as friendship goals, or my BFF, or things that are essentially aspirational images of friendship.' How can you tell if you're in a performative friendship? According to Dr McClymont, seeing these kinds of images and hashtags can 'really evoke jealousy' for some people. If you then feel the pressure to create the illusion of a solid bond, you may be in one. She explained: 'If they see that, for example, that the person they thought was their special friend is out with somebody else, all of a sudden, they feel excluded. 'And actually, this might encourage that excluded friend to feel more pressure to protect their friendship with the other.' This can result in the person becoming 'more needy' towards that friend, she explained, adding: 'They might also start to feel...pressured in order to create images or create an aspirational online life that appears to be friendship goals.' In an effort to create the image of this aspirational friendship, people may end up booking trips away together, or buying their friend presents. By doing this, Dr McClymont said, they are doing things that they can document and post on social media, just to show other people. 'This might actually extend to overextending yourself time-wise, and even financially,' she said. According to the psychologist, social media culture has affected some people's friendships, making them more performative Viewers took to the comments section where they discussed the impact of social media culture 'And that financial and time overspend, if we want to call it, can actually start taking a toll on people's mental health. 'I've seen that within my clinic room - that people are actually feeling an anxious internal monologue of "well, if I don't do this, people won't think I'm a good friend".' Taking to the comments section, viewers shared their thoughts and experiences around how social media culture has affected their relationships. One wrote: 'I think if people werent able to take pictures/videos, theres lots of things people wouldnt bother doing. Life feels so performative and contrived now.' Another agreed, writing: 'This is one thing I've always been passionate about and it's leaving social media to be what it is, a simulation of reality, people get so caught up in it and start to believe it's real life.' And a third added: 'So true. Not even genuine friendships that are being bragged about on their social media.' Princess Elisabeth is going to complete a two year MA degree in Public Policy Crown Princess Elisabeth of Belgium has thanked the University of Oxford for three 'wonderful' years - as she prepares to move to Boston for her MA at Harvard. The royal, 22, moved to the UK in the autumn of 2021 to start her History and Politics undergraduate course at Lincoln College. The future European Queen enrolled at the institution under the name 'Elisabeth de Saxe-Coburg' and was a member of Lincoln College. Speaking about her time there, a spokesperson for the Belgian Royal Palace told the Oxford Mail: 'The Princess loved studying in Oxford and had a wonderful time in Lincoln College.' As well as being an active member of her college's boat club, Elisabeth would have completed around six written papers and a thesis in History or Politics in her final year to complete the degree. The royal moved to the city in the autumn of 2021 to start her History and Politics undergraduate course at Lincoln College (pictured when she started her degre) Princess Elisabeth's next endeavour is the renowned Harvard University in Boston, where the Princess passed entrance tests to. The Brussels Times reports she will be at the college's Kennedy School campus. The palace told the outlet: 'The Princess was also selected for an 'Honorary Award' from the Fullbright Program, the US Department of State's international educational exchange programme.' And it seems Princess Elisabeth is already immersing herself in American culture. In March, She hosted former US president Barack Obama when she joined her father King Philippe in Brussels. She took time out of her studies her studies at the time to carry out the rare royal engagement in her home nation. Elisabeth is next in line to the Belgian throne as she is the eldest child of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde. According to Belgian newspaper Le Soir, the princess completed a written Oxford entrance exam in history 'anonymously' so that her royal status would not affect her chances of being offered a place. Elisabeth is believed to have chosen the course herself, in agreement with her parents, and reportedly consulted with graduates from various universities and made her decision based on what would be most useful to her in her role as Queen later in life. Princess Elisabeth is pictured holding a polling card last month as she goes to vote Princess Elisabeth looks joyful as she walks down the steps of Oxford University in 2021 During her time at Oxford there was speculation about her love life amid reports she was dating an 'ordinary' young man. Belgian media reported that the 20-year-old had found love with fellow student Nicholas Dodd, 20, from Rochdale. Mr Dodd read History at the same college according to Het Laatste Nieuws, a Dutch-language newspaper based in Antwerp, Belgium. However, the rumours were quashed when Dodd's family said the reports were 'false'. 'They just go to the same college and study together. Just like all his other friends, I can't comment any further,' an unnamed family member told Manchester Evening News. When asked about the rumours, the Royal Palace refused to comment, according to French-language, Belgium-based television station RTL. After graduation, Princess Elisabeth is set to move to Boston to study for a two-year Masters degree in Public Policy at Harvard University. An accomplished 22-year-old by any measure, the official royal website says Elisabeth enjoys walking in nature, reading and playing the piano although like 'all youngsters her age', writes the palace, 'her taste in music is varied.' Elisabeth - who speaks Dutch, French, German, English, and has also taken classes in Mandarin Chinese - began attending royal engagements from a young age and was just nine when she delivered a speech at the opening of the Princess Elisabeth Children's Hospital. The brother of murdered Ruqia Haidari has revealed how her killer rang him to tell him to collect his dead sister's body. Taqi Haidari, from Victoria, Australia, spoke about the chilling phone call he received from his sister's husband, Mohammad Ali Halimi, after he murdered her in November 2019, during candid interview with 60 Minutes Australia. Speaking about the terrifying moment he learnt of his sibling's murder Taqi said: 'He was swearing at her, I was worried, he hung up the phone, I was so worried I freaked out and after that, about 10 minutes later, I had a call from Ali, he says "come and get your sister's dead body, I'm going to the police station", and he hung up. Ruqia was forced to marry the 25-year-old Afghan refugee and Uber driver by her mother Sakina Muhammad Jan, who paid a dowry payment to her daughter's soon-to-be killer. Just six weeks after the wedding ceremony in January 2020, when Ruqia turned 21, Halimi slashed her throat twice and left her on the floor of their Perth home to die. Taqi Haidari, from from Victoria, Australia, is the brother of Ruqia Haidari, who was murdered by her husband Talking about his sister's wedding, Taqi said there were no initial concerns about Ali. He said: 'The way he was behaving, the way he was talking, the way his personality was, I thought he was a good man.' Taqi only realised that there might be an issue after the wedding, when his sister moved to Perth with her new husband, and asked her family to not contact her again. A few weeks into the marriage, Ali sent his Ruqia's family a video complaining that she was not cooking or cleaning for him. Taqi said: 'I was so worried and very nervous, like stressed, what's going on, what's actually happening?' He tried calling his sister, but when she didn't answer, he called Ali - and that call has haunted him ever since. 'He was like ''it's none of your business, it's my life, you mind your own business'' and then he got mad at me, and he started swearing, yelling, screaming over the phone,' he said. 'I heard that she [Ruqia] just woke up, and she was saying, "who are you talking to? who are you swearing at?" you could hear her in the in the background, and then he hung up the phone.' Ruqia (centre) was forced to marry 25-year-old Afghan refugee and Uber driver Mohammad Ali Halimi (left) by her mother Sakina Muhammad Jan (right), who paid him a dowry payment Just six weeks after the wedding ceremony in January 2020, when Ruqia turned 21, Halimi slashed her throat twice and left her on the floor of their Perth home to die After hanging up, Ali went on to murder Ruqia by slitting her throat and leaving her to die as he drove himself to the police station. In a police statement, Ali said he snapped after a 'long period of rejection, emotional heartache and confusion', adding that Ruqia told him she had been forced into marrying him. However, while Taqi claims his sister wasn't pushed into the marriage, prosecutors accused Sakina of forcing her then 20-year-old daughter to marry Ali. She pleaded not guilty. A Federal Police investigation into the murder eventually uncovered the disturbing trail of events which led to the tragedy, including the role Sakina played. She was found guilty of coercing her daughter, on 25 November 2019, into marrying Ali Halimi. The two-week trial heard how Ali travelled from Perth to meet Ms Haidari's family in Shepperton in May 2019. The couple had been set up by Shukria Muqudas, a local matchmaker in the Hazara community, who was also a former friend of Muhammad Jan, ABC News reported. The court heard Ruqia did not want to get married. Social worker Kerrie Young, who knew the bride, had contacted police to raise concerns that Ruqia was being forced into the union. Ruqia was just 20 when she was forced into marriage with the man who went onto murder her 'I remember Ruqia indicating that she was given an ultimatum. She was advised that she should get married to this man,' she said. Federal police had travelled to Shepperton and interviewed Ruqia over fears 'she was at risk of forced marriage'. Despite the concern, two Islamic 'nikah' religious ceremonies took place to formalise the union prior to the wedding in November 2019, which 500 guests attended. The matchmaker told the court Ruqia wanted to end the relationship before the second nikah took place, but was overruled by her mother. The court heard that Ruqia told her parents: 'I don't want to get married I don't want this and I'm not going to accept this at all.' Sakina responded: 'Are you my mother or am I your mother? I can make decisions for you.' At this time, it is said the mother had already given a dowry payment to the groom. It's believed the mother did not want to stop the arranged marriage because she was fearful the family's reputation would be damaged. Sakina was charged in October 2020 by human trafficking investigators with the Federal Police. She pleaded not guilty but the jury, which deliberated for over a day, found her guilty. The forced marriage offence comes under Commonwealth law in Australia and has a maximum penalty of seven years in jail. Sakina was released on bail ahead of a pre-sentence hearing on July 23. Meanwhile, Ali Halimi was convicted of murder and was sentenced to 19 years in jail. King Felipe and Queen Letizia looked every inch the proud parents as Princess Leonor officially became a junior army officer today. The Spanish King and Queen travelled to Zaragoza in Northern Spain for today's ceremony, which saw Felipe hand out new appointments at the General Military Academy. The Spanish King and his wife showed no hint of turmoil at the ceremony, which came just hours after the latest bombshell claims from her former brother-in-law Jaime Del Burgo, who earlier this year suggested they had an 'affair' after her marriage to the King. The businessman - who dated the Queen when she was still a newsreader and was married to her sister Telma from 2012-2014 - has now claimed that he is still in contact with the royal in an interview with Argentinian newspaper Clarin. He said: 'We have shared many years of our lives together. We have been a family. 'As I have always said, ours was not a relationship of lovers. The lover would be him, in any case. I mean Felipe.' Pictured: King Felipe seen beaming at his daughter Princess Leonor during the military ceremony in Northern Spain today Pictured: Jaime Del Burgo and his ex-wife Telma Oritz seen in 2012 before their wedding. The couple divorced in 2014 Princess Leonor is less than one year into her training at Zaragoza military academy, where her father was also a student from 1985-1988. King Felipe was seen presenting his eldest daughter, 18, with a badge during the ceremony, which he attached to her uniform as she gave him a salute. The future Queen has received her ensign's commission at the Spanish General Army Academy today - meaning she is now a junior officer. Afterwards, the King placed a loving hand on his daughter's shoulders - before she took her spot next to him. Later, Queen Letizia, who was dressed in an elegant white floral dress, was also seen giving her daughter a warm hug - as Leonor's sister Sofia watched on. Princess Leonor will complete three years of training at the military academy before then moving on to the General Air Academy. When she first arrived at the academy, Leonor completed a module to help her adapt to military life - with the Palace releasing images of the royal taking part in lessons in the classroom. According to heraldo.es, she is staying in a cabin with as many as twelve other students and was given basic military equipment before the first training session. During her three years at the academy, Leonor will be entitled to a salary of 417-a-month. However, the palace has said she will not claim the salary. Rather like a boarding school, the military academy follows a strict timetable during the week but Leonor will be free to return home at the weekends if she's not on manoeuvres. Pictured: King Felipe puts a loving hand on his daughter Princess Leonor's shoulder as she officially became a junior officer today Queen Letizia, who was dressed in an elegant white floral dress, was also seen giving her daughter a warm hug The Spanish Royal Family - including Princess Sofia - were out in full force for the military ceremony today Princess Leonor looked smart with her long hair styled in a neat bun for the military ceremony in Northern Spain King Felipe was seen presenting his eldest daughter, 18, with a badge during the ceremony, which he attached to her uniform as she gave him a salute Left: Queen Letizia opted for an elegant white floral print dress. Right: Princess Sofia of Spain looked chic in a striped asymmetric dress Leonor's big day comes amid a turbulent time for the Spanish royal family, which began earlier this year with the publication of a bombshell book by veteran Spanish journalist Jaime Penafiel. Letizia's former brother-in-law told the author that he met Letizia before 2000 and their relationship began on a romantic trip to Venice, years before she met King Felipe. Jaime - who is the son of the former politician Jaime Ignacio del Burgo - claims he was planning to propose to Letizia when she announced that she was dating a mysterious 'diplomat' over dinner at the Ritz hotel in Madrid in 2002. Describing how 'serious and significant' their relationship was, the author made the unlikely claim that Jaime was 'carrying an engagement ring his his pocket' that evening. Letizia reportedly told him that she had 'met someone who would oblige her to quit her profession', which Jaime said led him to deduce her mystery partner was Felipe. After the pair reportedly decided to just be friends, Jaime is said to have advised Letizia: 'Don't announce the romance, just the wedding.' Following their engagement announcement in 2003, Letizia - who had divorced her first husband in 1999 - asked Jaime to be a witness at their wedding. Queen Letizia and King Felipe put on brave faces for Leonor's graduation from military school It was a proud and memorable moment for the royal family, as Felipe and Leonor saluted each other King Felipe offers Princess Leonor a supportive smile at the delivery of royal dispatches The proud parents were clearly determined to focus solely on Leonor and her achievements King Felipe and his eldest daughter exchanged a hug amid the delivery of royal offices at the military academy Princess Leonor, King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia and Infanta Sophia at the ceremony The King of Spain was seen making a salute as he carried out the delivery of offices He appeared deep in discussion with his younger daughter, Infanta Sofia Letizia looked stunning in a new floral midi dress from Maje Paris, paired with gold earrings and glittery sandals Letizia was wearing sandals once again, as the royal currently has a foot injury and can't wear heels Letizia was seen battling with the wind during the ceremony, which ruffled her hair and dress What's more, the royal's ex-brother-in-law also made the far-fetched claim that he 'dealt' with Letizia's pre-nuptial agreement and helped to front the cost of the Queen's family's wedding outfits. He was quoted as saying: 'When the wedding with Felipe came round, I dealt with the pre-nuptial agreement as you know, amongst other things. 'I also had to pay Letizia's family's expenses because [former King] Juan Carlos refused to pay or even go halves with me. So with the help of my friend Felipe Varela, I dressed her mum, grandmother and her sisters. And with the help of Jaime Jason, her father, grandparents and a cousin.' Jaime also made the incredible claim that the Queen asked to see him the night before the wedding at the exclusive El Latigazo restaurant in Madrid - where she asked him to 'never leave' her. He sensationally claimed: 'When we met, she took hold of my hand and asked me why I had never asked her to marry me. Obviously I didn't reply. I encouraged her as best I could. The last thing she said to me before we said goodbye to each other in that restaurant was a request: 'Never leave me.'' In the book, Letizia's alleged ex-lover described Felipe as a 'kind-hearted man' and even goes on to say that he had a 'great friendship' with the royal. He told the author: 'I told him my problems and he told [me] his.' The businessman even claims that Felipe 'uses [him] as a good man because he felt incapable of calming [Letizia] down' on occasions. In December, businessman Jaime Del Burgo shared this unseen selfie of Queen Letizia with his X followers. He claimed that the royal was wearing his pashmina and said it 'took care of her' King Felipe VI of Spain (C) attends the delivery of Royal offices of employment at the Zaragoza Military Academy Following the wedding, Jaime described how Letizia was like a 'fox in a chicken coop' as she was 'cleverer than any of them'. Jaime - who says the Queen nicknamed him her 'yogi pal' - claims he still had a romantic relationship with Letizia even after the wedding in 2004. He also claims he has kept 'photographs, videos, mobile phones' and text messages as evidence. The businessman claimed that 'love was always there' in their relationship since they travelled to Venice together. The photograph Jaime shared on Twitter was taken during one of Letizia's pregnancies between 2005-2007. In the book, Jaime sensationally claims that Letizia whispered that she loved him when they were lying in a hammock by a pool at her home following Princess Leonor's birth. Jaime - who joked that Letizia's alleged ex-lover should have been his co-author - is quoted as saying in the book: 'Lying in the same hammock, under the pool porch, facing each other, Letizia told me 'I love you' and I responded 'I love you'.' Jaime Penafiel goes on to write that Jaime del Burgo subsequently wrote a play called 'La Hamaca, which in English is 'The Hammock', and edited it but never distributed it. Following this, Jaime alleges they 'took steps forward with the goal of being free' - which involved seeking legal advice and looking at properties in the US. When I began working in television more than 40 years ago, it never occurred to me that enduring rampant misogyny would be part of the job. There weren't so many of us then. Angela Rippon was famous for reading the news and Sue Lawley for presenting Nationwide, but I don't recall any stories of stalkers or death threats hitting the newspapers. Of course, there was no social media. My big shock came in 1982 when I co-presented South Today together with Bruce Parker. We were the BBC's regional news programme covering the south of England and we were on air every night of the week. It was when I was visibly pregnant that the trouble started. I was inundated with little notes, delivered to me at the newsroom, along the lines of, 'How dare you appear on my television in that disgusting state?' 'Don't you have a husband at home to earn a living and take care of you?' and 'What do you think you're doing, taking a job from a man?' Breakfast TV presenter Louise Minchin received intimidating messages threatening the rape of her daughter The worst didn't have any notes inside the envelopes, just little piles of excrement, wrapped up in toilet paper no need for words. When I opened the first one, I was shocked beyond belief and rushed to the loo to be sick. Neither the editor nor my colleagues appeared overly concerned. They told me to throw them away and forget about it. There were three or four of these disgusting missives. I tried not to be upset. After all, I was a tough, ambitious young journalist, but I ranged from being disgusted, sad and furious that I should be suffering such sexism. The men on the team were never in any danger of such insults, but to be fair to them, they begged me to stop opening my post. They would do it for me. I didn't take up their offer. I might be a woman but didn't need mollycoddling. Of course, there was never any evidence to indicate who the senders were. I don't think it would have occurred to anyone to involve the police. It was harassment but I don't think anyone knew that word then. Happily, as far as I know, there were no dangerous stalkers involved. Flowers came occasionally, but again, no means of identifying the sender. I did get used to the idea that my regular appearances in people's front rooms potentially put me at risk. I always imagined things would improve and indeed campaigned vigorously for it to be better for the women who followed in our footsteps. We worked for the law to acknowledge the dangers of threats and stalkers, but the misogyny continues. I've had more than my share of death threats online and we know hatred of women and resentment at our apparent success is part of what some blokes call 'banter'. There's a sick Andrew Tate style of pub conversation about the desire to subjugate women, even if that involves violence. It is depressing to read about the catalogue of abuse that today's females face. Fern Britton was stalked for two years by a man who rented a cottage she owned, and sent flowers and cards, telling her to 'keep safe'. She was terrified and unable to sleep. Thank goodness for the stalking law, which banned him from going near her. It's the same law which saw former Newsnight anchor Emily Maitlis's stalker sent down for eight years. Meanwhile, breakfast TV presenter Louise Minchin received intimidating messages threatening the rape of her daughter. The man in question had revealed her home address and even described the cars in her drive. He was sent to prison for two years and eight months. There are so many more who've suffered. Channel 4's Cathy Newman, Denise Welch and Christine Lampard to name but three. They have all had the courage to use the law and bring the perpetrators to justice. It can't be easy to face a man you fear in court. But these dangerous, deluded men are being shown their behaviour is not acceptable. Former Newsnight anchor Emily Maitlis's stalker was jailed for eight years after a a three-decade fixation with the journalist, and breaking a restaining order 20 times As a younger woman, I foolishly believed the misogyny would subside as men grew used to women in positions of power or, if not, realised laws would put them at risk of incarceration if they misbehaved. I could not have been more wrong and can only hope the appearance of so many clever and powerful women in this year's election coverage may have an impact for the good. I've believed since I was a little girl that women must have their place at the table. We are more than half the population. If we are to be recognised as a vital part of our society, we must be heard in forming and analysing policy which affects us all. We must be there taking part. If I had a daughter, I would explain the horrors women like me have faced. And how we simply said: 'No, we're not having this. We'll change the laws and we'll protect ourselves.' Running away in fear and humiliation is not an option. You've got to keep on keeping on. Respect to all those brave women who fight for the right to be seen and heard without suffering abuse. My dogs don't need a groomer My heart goes out to David Beckham's daughter-in-law Nicola Peltz whose dog Nala died suddenly after she'd been to the grooming parlour. The little chihuahua was only nine and the breed tends to have a good life span. David Beckham's daughter-in-law Nicola Peltz and her dog, Nala, who died suddenly after she'd been to the grooming parlour One of mind, Frieda, is 18. I can't think what could have happened at the groomer's. Mine have never been. They wash each other's faces; I give them a good brush from time to time and do their pedicures under protest. They don't go in the shower. They'd hate it and they certainly won't be going for grooming, which they really don't need. RIP Nala. It only took St Paul's 900 years! After running for 900 years, girls are to join St Paul's Cathedral Choir for the first time. Pictured are Lila and Lois, aged 11 and 10 At last, girls are to join St Paul's Cathedral choir for the first time. It's only taken 900 years. Lila and Lois, pictured, will begin on Sunday and will be certain to sing as sweetly as any boy. They're 11 and 10 and will last longer than any of the lads. No danger of their lovely voices breaking. A far more valuable investment. The former director of the British Museum, Sir Mark Jones, thinks visitors to Britain should be charged 20 to enter our cultural institutions. I agree - it's what we pay if we go to Spain, Italy or Greece. Only we should have free entry to our own wonders. So much for the Garrick's revolution The Garrick Club has admitted its first two female members Dame Judi Dench who's 89 and Dame Sian Phillips who's 91. Is it too cynical of me to wonder if this is just another way of keeping women out of the club choose two who are too old and too wise to be bothered to attend? Dame Judi Dench, 89, is one of the first two female members to be admitted to the Garrick Club - which has previously only been open to men Who'd be Jill Biden just now no doubt dying of embarrassment as her husband struggles to make any sense, but desperate to remain First Lady. No Jill, ignore Tammy Wynette's advice and Don't Stand By Your Man. Tell him he's no longer fit to be President of such a vital democracy. Take him home for a rest and give the opportunity to someone who can string a few words together. Today host Jenna Bush Hager was left stunned on Wednesday's show after the NBC show got a sneak peek look inside an incredible New York City townhouse with TikTok star Caleb Simpson. During the latest episode of Today with Hoda & Jenna, contributor Donna Farizan revealed how she got the chance to tag along with Caleb - who found fame asking New Yorkers how much rent they pay - as they headed inside the jaw-dropping home of LoveShackFancy founder Rebecca Hessel Cohen. Rebecca and husband Todd Cohen started renovating their property more than six years ago, and even 42-year-old Jenna was impressed by the 'beautiful' house, which features a speakeasy, humungous closets and a carriage house. As Rebecca took Caleb and Donna inside her West Village abode, the latter said it was like 'being transported to France,' as designer Rebecca revealed that they always had 'a lot of fresh flowers' before sharing some details of the interior. 'All of this paneling is from Paris. It's all original, it's inspired by the Picasso museum,' she explained, before adding: 'There's a 156 antique sconces in this house,' as viewers got a glimpse of her lavish marble bathroom and ornate white fireplaces. LoveShackFancy founder Rebecca Hessel Cohen showed off her incredible NYC townhouse on Wednesday's episode of Today with Hoda & Jenna The stunning West Village property is certainly Parisian-inspired when it comes to the furniture Rebecca mentioned the fact that her house is full of antiques and she likes to have fresh flowers dotted around One living room in particular featured cream-colored armchairs draped in designer blankets, and an antique marble and gold coffee table as well as a curved sofa and built in bookcases. Rebecca then showed off one of the hidden bars in her house as a shocked Donna asked: 'How many speakeasies?' as she replied: 'You've seen two, you'll see more,' as she opened the door to one which was adorned with crystal glasses and a marble sink. The trio then stepped inside an elevator and headed to the street-level of the townhouse as Rebecca divulged: 'I need to feel inspired everywhere I am,' as they entered a dining room living area complete with more antique-looking furniture. Rebecca's rectangular dining table was covered in several cloths and adorned with fresh flowers with a huge white cabinet standing behind it and a beautiful chandelier completing the room. She then pointed out the gold mirrors in the room and described them as 'original' before she revealed they had all been turned into televisions, which left Donna stunned. She and Caleb then got the chance to wander around the kitchen which featured wooden cabinets and marble worktops as well as a very impressive black and gold stove and more antique sconces on the wall. As the trio headed outside into a small fairytale-like courtyard, which featured various plants and cloth-covered tables, they strolled into the carriage house to meet up with Rebecca's husband Todd, who is also her business partner. Rebecca revealed that the ornate gold mirrors actually work as televisions too A cloth-covered dining table is flanked by gold chairs as well as a stunning chandelier and various bouquets of fresh flowers One of the bedrooms has a chandelier hanging from the ceiling and the bed equally well adorned Rebecca is clearly a fan of the color pink and loves to show off her dining room set ups on Instagram The carriage house was just as cozy and included several sofas as well as three huge chandeliers, more ornate gold mirrors and many, many candles. Caleb then got the chance to climb the monkey bars in the couple's basement gym and even got to snoop around the 'many closets', including Rebecca's personal one - which she said she likes to keep 'very clean.' He finished off his tour by doing his usual testing of the bed, but unsurprisingly, Rebecca ordered him to take his shoes off first as her husband watched on. Almost a year ago in August 2023, the couple invited Architectural Digest into their home and Rebecca revealed that when they first purchased the property, it was 'a total shell.' 'But when I first walked through it and then out to the carriage house in the back -which was the most magnificent thing I've ever seen in New York City - I was like, "I don't know what we need to do, but we need to grab this house,"' she told the publication. Todd described the renovation process as 'intense' and explained: 'The house dates from the late 1800s, so you just had to have the nerve to go through with all those changes.' The couple, who share two daughters, described their children's bedrooms as LoveShackFancy-Land - referring to Rebecca's clothing brand. Rebecca was more than happy to give Today contributor Donna Farizan and TikTok star Caleb Simpson a tour of her home The mother-of-two revealed that she has several secret bars inside the property The incredible Manhattan house even has a fairytale-like courtyard and a carriage house Viewers also got a brief and quick look at Rebecca's lavish marble bathroom 'For their floor and spaces, it feels like that because that does make me feel warm and cozy, and I love it so much,' she told AD. 'But then, when I want to feel like an adult, and experience a beautiful and inspiring and textural and sophisticated environment, I can go to the upper floors. It was all about creating a balance.' She said of her husband: 'Todd was really cute about it all. He was always looking to add touches of pink throughout the house. Like all of a sudden, he'd say, "Maybe this room should be pink."' The happy couple enlisted the help of interior designer Benjamin Vandiver to renovate their stunning space. Concerning trend sees vegetables, hair bushes and lollipops used as sex toys Aussies are switching sex toys for light bulbs, vacuum cleaners and even kitchen utensils in a shocking trend sweeping the country. But the choice to reach for household items instead of a toy designed for self-pleasure is a dangerous one, warns sexologist Christine Rafe. The expert told FEMAIL she isn't one to criticise people's preferences in the bedroom - but urges men and women to think twice before using a hair brush or chilled vegetables during their solo bedroom performances. 'It's not uncommon... to have people presenting to emergency rooms with household objects lost, lodged or even smashed internally,' Ms Rafe said. 'While I certainly advocate for curiosity and creativity when it comes to sex and pleasure... household items like this are not designed for intimate use and can lead to injuries or infections,' she added. The list of household objects people admitted to using was broad, and included everything from electric toothbrushes to spoons, pens and even broom handles. Pillows and pillow cases, shower heads, gloves, electric shavers, washing machines, and lollipops also made the DIY sex toy list. Ms Rafe said she doesn't want to 'yuck anyone's yum' but would advise against using any of the items on the list to achieve orgasm. 'There's a lot of room for error in misusing household items for pleasure. As a Sex Therapist, I wouldn't recommend using a household object in place of a sex toy' And she admitted she was alarmed by how many people have been using fragile glassware inside their bodies in the pursuit of pleasure. According to a survey by retailer Lovehoney, 34 per cent of Australians have admitted to using ordinary objects when masturbating. The survey indicated two per cent of Australians have had serious medical repercussions after using household items - though experts suspect the true number might be significantly higher. 'Many people might be too embarrassed to report these incidents, but it highlights the importance of using safe, purpose-made sex toys to avoid any potential mishaps,' she said. 'When we're talking about delicate areas and using products that aren't fit for purpose, a lot of these [items] can have repercussions.' Ms Rafe said cost-of-living pressures and limited access to safe sex toys has led to more people experimenting with things lying around the house. The list shocked Lovehoney staff so much they used many of them in a recent ad campaign Australia's 'favourite' DIY sex toys revealed Pillow Showerhead Vegetables Electric toothbrush Glove Sock Mobile phone Hairbrush Washing machine Spoon/ Cooking Utensils Massage gun Glass objects Toiletries bottles (including deodorant cans & shampoo bottles) Torch Pen Makeup brush Broom handle Rubber Shaver Bubble Wand Vacuum Cleaner Cooking Oil Lollipop Light bulbs Advertisement 'As much as we continue to normalise sex toy use, embarrassment or shyness about purchasing sex toys still plays a role,' she said. 'Some people using these objects to explore specific kinks and find that certain household items cater to their unique fantasies.' This is backed up by the fact people are downloading cheap or free vibrator apps for their phones. She said that apps such as this on the App Store and Google have been downloaded more than five million times, proving that using a phone for self-pleasure has become 'so commonplace that apps like this exist'. Ms Rafe said masturbation is something to embrace, but needs to be done safely. 'It's a healthy part of a balanced lifestyle and can not only offer various mental health benefits but also general well-being benefits, such as stress relief, better sleep and improved mood,' she said. The team at Lovehoney was so shocked by the household objects trend that they featured some of them in adverts. They unveiled a series of 'unbannable' billboards across Australia encouraging customers not to use household objects, alongside the slogan: 'You deserve better.' Ms Rafe reminded those using low-tech substitutes such as vegetables to dispose of them after use. 'Our research did show that one person confessed to using the vegetable, a carrot, in their dinner afterwards,' she recounted. 'That's not something we would endorse.' Kmart has quietly launched a brand new stylish black boucle jacket that would look effortlessly at home on the streets of Paris, and it's already selling out in stores across Australia. The $40 garment is elegantly cropped and done in the chic woven loop-style boucle fabric that made Chanel suits famous. It comes with long sleeves, a button up front and mock pocket flaps with button detail. The timeless and classic jacket is ideal for smart, formal occasions and also for dressing up jeans and everyday outfits. Boucle style cropped jackets had been a fashion staple ever since Coco Chanel first launched her version in 1950. Fans have noticed that Kmart's jacket is an almost perfect dupe of Celine's covetable chasseur jacket in boucle tweed, also in black - which retails for an eye-watering $5,600. Celine's version is made with wool and cotton but Kmart's contains polyester, viscose, acrylic and nylon, making it much lighter to wear and at a far more attractive price. Instagram account Kmartinsider shared the incredible new find with its followers who were keen to get their hands on the stylish piece. Kmart's brand new $40 boucle jacket is a timeless classic that effortlessly elevates everyday wear The Kmart jacket has been called a perfect dupe of this Celine chasseur jacket which retails for $5,600 'Kmart is the nicest', one fan said. 'OMG running to the website,' another agreed. One woman gushed, 'perfection, and such a bargain!' 'So buying...running, not walking' said another. People couldn't believe how 'impeccable and polished' the Kmart jacket was. One fan thought the classic black jacket also needed to be released in other colours, particularly a cream version, which would be 'divine'. Shoppers pointed out that Target stocks a similar boucle jacket in both cream and black for $60. This isn't the first time Kmart has thrilled fans with its savvy dupes of more expensive, designer items. Their pop coloured $15 dollar version of the viral Stanley quencher cups which retail for $80, were a huge hit with fans and caused a buying frenzy. Medics have raised concerns about a viral TikTok of an American Influencer getting a 640 full-body MOT in Turkey that promotes itself as being able to pick up a host of conditions. Created by health and beauty tourism influencer Bryn Elise, the eye-catching video which has been viewed nearly 12million times, sees her undergo a 'VIP checkup' at the Memorial Hospital in Istanbul. However, doctors on social media immediately cautioned about potential risks. They warned about the risk of 'false positives' from such tests that can lead to people needlessly undergoing risky, invasive follow-ups and operations. In the clip Ms Elise is seen being led around the 'fancy' private hospital and undergoing a raft of checks including a blood analysis, electrocardiogram a type of heart test blood pressure, chest x-ray, abdominal and thyroid ultrasounds and a bone density scan. @bryn.elise Trying the VIP checkup package Memorial Hospital Bahcelievler To make an appointment i just went to the Memorial.com.tr website and filled out the contact form Or you can email memorial.eu@memorial.com.tr I'll make a followup video sharing my results soon original sound - Bryn Elise Dr Ashley Winter, a urologist based in Los Angeles , was one of the medics critical of the video stating that people need to be aware that every medical test carried the risk of 'false positives' where it incorrectly indicates something is wrong and can lead to unnecessary and even risky surgery Bryn Elise had a host of tests and scans included in her VIP package including a chest X-ray The 29-year-old influencer also had a bone density scan performed in a high-tech machine The clip, which has been seen almost 12million times, shows Ms Elise undertaking a heart 'stress test' which involves monitoring the organ while she uses a treadmill Accompanied by a personal translator she also underwent an eye test, a gynaecological exam, a heart scan and stress test and ate at the hospital's lavish restaurant. She said checkup cost a 'jaw-dropping' $810 (640), which even with the $700 (550) flights, was thousands of dollars cheaper than equivalent treatment in the US, adding it was 'the greatest thing I've ever done for my health'. In her video Ms Elise, who is in her late 20s and originally from Colorado, states: 'Doing this in the US would have cost me thousands and taken months to line up.' 'But in one day, we're doing it all scans, tests, meetings with specialists and the price of everything is jaw-dropping.' She didn't detail why she was undergoing these tests only stating she had a 'list of mysterious ailments'. While the clip does show Ms Elise discussing her results with an internal medicine specialist, she didn't reveal the results adding that would be the focus of a 'follow-up video'. But she did reveal that her eye-test revealed she had an astigmatism, a common imperfection in the shape of the eye which is routinely corrected by wearing glasses or contact lenses. However, British and American experts commenting on the videos were less impressed with the results. Reacting to the video Dr Ashley Winter, a urologist based in Los Angeles, said people needed to be aware that every medical test carried the risk of 'false positives' where it incorrectly indicates something is wrong. Writing on X she explained: 'A wrong result can lead to necessary fear, worry, and at worst, unnecessary invasive procedures or even unnecessary surgery. 'The chance of someone getting a false positive goes down when the person is at a higher risk of having an actual problem (ie. a specific symptom).' 'This is called a higher 'pretest probability.' This is why doctors don't recommend everyone get every test all the time.' She illustrated this point using an example from her specialty and tests for prostate cancer. 'If I order a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test on a random 85-year-old with no symptoms, I am likely to get a high result, which leads to fear and a possible biopsy (which has risks of sepsis). Then potentially a diagnosis of an intermediate risk prostate cancer that is unlikely to kill him, even if it went completely untreated,' she wrote. Continuing she said: 'Maybe then the patient is presented with all treatment options and despite the doctor recommending observation/surveillance, he is understandably scared and starts treatment with radiation and hormone suppression.' 'The hormone suppression causes fatigue, hot flashes, erectile dysfunction, night sweats. The radiation leads to bloody urine and urgency incontinence. He ends up in the emergency room and has an emergency procedure to stop the bleeding. 'He goes home with a fat urinary catheter in his urethra. He feels like garbage. He gets sepsis from a urinary infection that he got from having the catheter and dies. 'All because he was an 85 year old and someone randomly got an inappropriate screening test.' Dr Winter concluded her point by stating she has seen patients like this and every screening test for disease and health conditions carried similar risks. 'When doctors say they don't recommend everyone gets every test it is because we are thinking of situations like this,' she said. While some medics questioned whether the video was an advertisement by the Memorial Hospital Ms Elise told MailOnline the clip hadn't been sponsored nor did she earn a commission. She added that the only special treatment she received at the hospital was being given permission to film. Memorial Hospital itself provides a number of what it calls 'VIP packages' which vary in contents with some dedicated to men or women or tracking risks of particular diseases like cancer. It doesn't the list the price of these on its website but in the description encourages people to have one annually. 'Having check-up at least once a year is important for early diagnosis of possible diseases,' it reads. Pre-emptive health checks are not unusual in medicine. Some, like blood pressure tests, are so easy and un-invasive that they can be done routinely with little to no risk. Others do, by their very nature, have an extremely small risk of complications, such as scans involving radiation like X-rays, which carry an estimated less than one in a million risk of causing cancer. However, as discussed by Dr Winter, the other danger is false positives which can trigger a range of follow-up procedures which each carry additional risks. This is, in part, why some tests or scans are only recommended when patients have certain symptoms, have concerning results in another test like a blood test, or are in particular patient group at risk of a certain disease or condition. One example is bowel cancer screening, with the NHS sending free kits to people in England aged between 60-to-74 every two years as this age group is considered at higher risk of the disease, though there are plans to offer it to younger Brits soon. The influencer has made similar videos before documenting travelling to Thailand to get a $92 (72) tooth repair in Thailand or even going to Turkey for hair extensions for fraction of what it would cost in the US. A compulsive sperm donor, believed to have fathered up to 1,000 children, has suggested he is the real victim and was 'very vulnerable'. Jonathan Meijer, from the Netherlands, donated sperm on a mass scale, defrauding dozens of parents and eleven clinics across the globe. In an explosive Netflix documentary investigating this 'murky world', women told how they felt 'betrayed' and 'angry' after discovering how many other children the now 43-year-old musician has fathered. But in an interview Meijer, who has also been labelled a 'public health risk' and 'narcissist' today claimed he had 'no protection' as a private donor, making him 'very vulnerable'. And he argued there was 'absolutely nothing wrong' with fathering hundreds of children. Jonathan Jacob Meijer is a 43-year-old musician from the Netherlands - he's also thought to have fathered hundreds of children across the globe Meijer's children are dotted all over the world. About 375 live in the Netherlands, 80 in Germany, 35 in Belgium, four in Argentina, and two in Australia The Man With 1000 Kids premieres on Netflix today investigating 'the murky world of the fertility industry,' as well as how the Youtuber defrauded dozens of parents and eleven clinics across the globe He told the BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour: 'I offer something better than sperm banks. 'I offer directly fresh sperm which is better than frozen sperm. 'I give it for free, they don't have to pay me. They can have contact with me. They can ask me anything they want. 'How is this misleading? How is this false? He added: 'When I started as a private donor I was open about the number I have helped. 'But you run into so many problems with that, that I chose to follow the guidelines of the clinic' not informing people of number of children he has helped father. 'Yet I decided to give them an approximate number so that they have an idea,' he said. 'If I said "oh Ive helped 50 times", at least I was giving an approximate number. So they could see he is a mass donor. 'I gave them more than what the clinic would offer. In April 2023, a Dutch court ordered Meijer to stop donating semen to clinics, or face being fined 100,000 euros (88,000) per infraction They argued that Mr Meijer's continued donations violated the right to a private life of his donor children, whose ability to form romantic relationships are hampered by fears of accidental incest and inbreeding 'In a perfect world, that would be the best thing. Everybody could be open, I could be open and I wouldnt be vulnerable. 'As a private donor you are very vulnerable. I have had situations you cannot imagine because I was open about myself. 'I gave my address but when I decided not to help somebody, they stood in front of my door. 'Who is there to protect me? I dont have money in the bank, I dont have lawyers. 'I was very vulnerable, there is no protection for private donors.' Meijer was banned from donating sperm in the Netherlands in 2017, external after it emerged he was the father of 102 children, born from donations made to 11 clinics around the country. He continued donating in other countries until 2023, when one woman and a foundation supporting her filed a civil suit against Meijer, arguing he was increasing the risk of incest for his children. In his testimony, Meijer admitted having between 550 and 600 children. However, the court said he may have fathered up to 1,000 across several continents. The judge ultimately banned Meijer from donating sperm to new parents in the Netherlands, and said he would be fined 100,000 (85,000) per donation if he did so. He also impregnated women occasionally through 'natural donation' sex if the woman was single. Meijer told Woman's Hour: 'I already stopped donating for new recipients in 2019. I only donated for siblings. Over the years, Meijer lied to everyone, after it was unearthed he had developed an addition to donating sperm 'The court case was basically useless because I already stopped, and the court case did not prohibit me to help existing families.' Asked if there were families continuing to use Meijer as a sperm donor, he said: 'yes absolutely'. He added: 'All these outdated views like "the fear of inbreeding", the "identity crisis". Were now in 2024. 'We see lesbian couples everywhere. We see single mums everywhere. 'We know the donors are helping families. These outdated views, we should stop projecting them on these children.' Later, when questioned if he felt he had misled women, he also said: 'If you want exclusivity you go to the clinic. You pay 10,000 and then your donor is exclusive. 'If you don't want to share as a mother, why did you even choose this path? 'These mums in this documentary, they put on this act, I dont know why. Maybe they were hurt and they put this on me.' In the UK, current rules mean a single sperm donor can only create ten families in this country, with each family potentially including multiple siblings. But there is no regulation limiting the number of families that donors can create overseas. Some foreign centres allow sperm donations from the same person to be used to create a 1,000 or more separate families. Experts warn the issue is becoming pressing because more than half of donated sperm used in Britain is imported from abroad and demand for sperm donors is growing due to an increase in single women and same-sex female couples having children. The number of same-sex female couples having IVF jumped by 33 per cent between 2019 and 2021, according to fertility regulator, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). Meanwhile, the number of single women having artificial insemination rose by 26 per cent. Last year, Professor Jackson Kirkman-Brown, chair of the Association of Reproductive and Clinical Scientists, warned it could be 'psychological harmful' for children to discover they have hundreds or even thousands of half-siblings. He said: 'If you've always thought you're an incredibly special gift, suddenly finding there are 300 people who share 50 per cent of your DNA is a very difficult concept to get your head around.' It appears Meijer is now travelling the world, with one video showing him speaking on a beach in Tanzania and another from Italy Research also suggests people who are donor-conceived often feel pressure to keep in touch with dozens of half-siblings but this can be 'almost an impossibility' which can cause great stress. Asked later on Woman's Hour if he had an 'addiction' to donating sperm, Meijer said: 'An addiction always comes with a physical excitement. 'Please can they explain to me why it is exciting to be in a dirty bathroom ... I dont really see the addictive endorphins in that situation.' On whether he wanted to have a family of his own, he added: 'I want to have a large family. Its hard to find someone who also wants to have a traditional family with traditional values. 'I always talk about natural tribes and I would love to live like that. Most women are not interested in that. They want to have a career or are focused on materialism. 'I want to live very simply on a small farm, self-sustaining, self-sufficient.' The Man With 1000 Kids is now streaming on Netflix The number of Americans killed by food poisoning has surged by 50 percent in four years, according to a new CDC report. The US has also seen a 20 percent rise in the number of people hospitalized after eating bad food, and the same increase in potentially lethal cases. It comes amid emerging concerns about spoiled food served by some airlines after a Delta flight was forced to make an emergency landing when staff realized passengers were given contaminated food. About a dozen of those on board were evaluated by medics for signs of food poisoning, although it is currently unclear how many ate the food. The bacteria that most commonly contaminates food is Campylobacteria, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea and fever, and in rare cases, life-threatening sepsis. A Delta spokesperson told DailyMail.com its teams are probing the incident and have issued an apology to its costumers Food poisoning with different bacteria can kill if patients become severely dehydrated, leading to kidney failure or gets nervous system damage, according to Cleveland Clinic. The latest report found that food poisoning caused 31,492 infections, 7,588 hospitalizations and 184 deaths in 2023 up from 25,866 infections, 6,164 hospitalizations and 122 deaths in 2019. Some 85 percent of the cases in 2023 occurred on American soil, and 15 percent happened when an American picked up a bug abroad. The total number of cases is likely higher, the CDC said, because many cases of food poisoning go unreported, as few patients seek medical help for symptoms. There are many different bacteria and parasites that can lead someone to develop food poisoning. You can get it from eating food that is infected with harmful bacteria, most undercooked meat. One example is the Escherichia coli (E Coli) infections, which can cause bloody diarrhea, stomach cramps, fever and dehydration. In recent years, Americans have found this bacteria in their ground beef and lettuce. It's typically found in many different kinds of meat, including beef, chicken, turkey, deer and sheep. A rare, and particularly severe strain of this bug, called Shiga toxin-producing E coli (STEC), can lead to kidney failure. This type has seen one of a rise in prevalence over the past four years, according to the report, increased by roughly 33 percent from 2019 - rising from 2,514 cases to 3,351 cases. Other common bugs included salmonella, listeria and shigella - all of which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, fever and nausea and are commonly found in chicken, deli meats and beef, respectively. Incidence of these infections remained stable since 2019, the report said. Shigella infections have been spreading around homeless camps in Oregon, California and Pennsylvania, where lack of access to bathrooms makes people more likely to come into contact with human feces, which spreads the bug. Shigella is transmitted when someone comes in contact with fecal matter through sex, diapers, food or water E. coli (Escherichia coli) are bacteria that live in the intestines of healthy people and animals. But when people are exposed to the bacteria from other sources, like through other peoples feces, they can get food poisoning The federal government aims to reduce the incidence of many of these common infections by the end of the decade, as part of a wider public health campaign called The Healthy People 2030. However, the new findings show that the federal government has made 'a lack of progress toward foodborne disease reduction goals', the report states. The report cautioned, however, that the increase in the number of cases might not be because more people are getting sick each year. Instead it could be a sign that The Government has gotten better at detecting cases, thanks to scientific advances in monitoring technology. The new CDC report comes from the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network, which tests samples from people suspected to have food poisoning to determine the bug they are infected with. It covers 16 percent of the US population, or roughly 53million people and integrates ten different states, including Connecticut, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oregon, and Tennessee, California, Colorado, and New York. The CDC say that the regions included roughly approximates the demographics of the rest of the country. Americans are being warned about a potentially deadly virus spread by mosquito bites that is surging across the US. Health officials say soaring temperatures across the country mean infections are only set to increase, and Americans should take steps to protect themselves from bites which can kill within a week. A 'higher-than-expected' number of dengue fever infections have been recorded in the US so far this year, according to the CDC 1,0000 more than in the whole of 2023. More than 5,300 people have been killed by the infection across the world, mostly in tourist hotspots like Brazil, Mexico and Costa Rica, although officials warn US-borne cases are also on the rise. Your browser does not support iframes. The above shows the number of patients who tested positive for dengue despite not traveling outside of the United States The CDC warned last week that many infections which have been spotted across 38 states were linked to travelers returning to the US from countries where the disease is spreading rapidly. However, at least eight local cases have been detected within the states. In Florida, there are about 200 cases, including at least six locally transmitted, in people who have not recently traveled. Puerto Rico is currently experiencing an outbreak, recording around 1,500 infections, with an emergency declared in the US territory back in March. Massachusetts and New York are also experiencing some of the highest case numbers across the country, 50 and 134, respectively. Dengue fever cannot be passed from human-to-human. It is transmitted via bites from infected mosquitoes, which transfer the virus into a person's blood stream. For someone to catch the disease locally, the area's mosquito population has to have picked up the virus normally via biting an infected person who recently returned to the US from abroad. It could also be the case that infected mosquitoes have migrated into the area or arrived on boats or airplanes. Dengue is a potentially deadly virus passed to people by infected mosquitoes and was historically known as 'breakbone fever' While you can be tested to see if you've contracted dengue fever, there is no known treatment and doctors can only 'support' patients, prescribing medications that manage symptoms. About one-in-four people who are infected with dengue fever will show symptoms. These include pain in and around the eyes, muscle aches and joint pain, nausea and vomiting and a rash. Symptoms typically occur two weeks after being bitten by an infected mosquito and can last anywhere from two to seven days. In the United States, there is a dengue vaccine recommended for use in children between nine and 16 years old who have had a previous dengue infection if they are living in an area of the country where dengue is more common. If a patient's case progresses into severe dengue fever, which can occur in a matter of hours, it is considered a medical emergency and they should be hospitalized. In severe cases, people can experience uncontrolled bleeding, dangerously low blood pressure, organ failure and death, according to the CDC. Dengue fever is not contagious and is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito About one-in-20 people infected with the virus will develop severe dengue, which includes additional symptoms of abdominal pain, vomiting blood or blood in the stool and feeling extremely tired or restless. According to the NIH, without proper treatment, fatality rates of severe dengue could exceed 20 percent, especially among vulnerable populations like children. Of dengue cases recorded in the US this year, 745 have been in travelers those who tested positive after recently returning from abroad which was 'higher-than-expected' for this time of year. Dengue fever is endemic in many countries across the world, with countries in South America, Asia and Africa tending to report a higher number of cases. The CDC did not say which countries people were returning from, but so far this year Brazil has had the largest outbreak with 7.8million suspected dengue cases. The above shows the weekly number of dengue fever cases in the US The above shows approximate cases of dengue fever in countries around the world The above shows a world map highlighting the areas of risk for dengue fever. Public health officials are now warning there is an increased risk of dengue fever in the United States Large outbreaks have also been recorded in Argentina with 505,000 cases and Paraguay with 282,000 with other cases reported among 90 countries across six continents. Experts attribute the rise in dengue across the globe to warming temperatures, increasingly severe storms that bring large amounts of rain and flooding and more international travel. Dr Marty Makary, a doctor at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, told Fox because the illness is spread through mosquito bites, people should do what they can to reduce exposure and risk of bites. This can include wearing loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and pants or clothing treated with insecticides, using mosquito control inside and outside your house and applying bug spray. The above photos shows symptoms of the dengue rash. About one in four people who are infected suffer from symptoms of the virus, including a rash Mosquito populations flourish in standing water, so it is important to prevent and control any areas that could serve as a breeding ground for the bugs. Dr Makary added mosquito protection was especially important in southern states where temperatures are warmer. He said: 'It is spread by mosquitos and that's a good reminder to try to do what you can to reduce mosquito bites especially in the southern United States where this is more common.' The rise in dengue comes at the same time officials are also concerned of two other mosquito-borne illnesses: malaria and West Nile virus. The Florida Department of Health issued a 'mosquito-borne illnesses advisory last week' after four cases of locally acquired malaria were diagnosed in an area along the state's western coast. All individuals have been treated and recovered. Like dengue, malaria is often contracted abroad and the US reports about 2,000 cases a year. Symptoms include fever, flu-like illness, muscle aches, vomiting and diarrhea and the chills. If not treated quickly, it can lead to kidney failure, seizures and a coma. Another mosquito-borne illness health experts caution of is West Nile virus, which is the most common in the US, with an average of 2,200 cases per year. About 20 percent of those infected will exhibit symptoms, which include a fever and flu-like illness. Less than one percent will progress to a severe infection of West Nile neuroinvasive disease, which can be deadly. The above shows the number of illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths reported to date. The death is potentially linked to the Diamond Shruumz microdosing candies Federal officials are probing a death in a patient who may have consumed 'microdosing' candies now recalled across the US. The FDA gave no further details on the individual, but said the fatality was 'potentially associated' with Diamond Shruumz products, which are sold in vape shops across the US. At least 48 people have fallen ill after eating chocolate bars, cones and gummies made the the company in the past month, while 27 have been hospitalized with seizures, loss of consciousness and an abnormal heart rate. Customers across the US are being urged not to consume the products and to either put them in the trash or return them to vendors for a full refund. An investigation revealed the candies contained muscimol, a psychoactive chemical from the potentially toxic amanita mushrooms which can cause seizures. Pictured above are some of the products that have been recalled over the illnesses The candies are used to 'microdose', which involves taking very small amounts of a drug in order to test its physiological action while minimizing undesirable effects. They were typically sold in smoke and vape shops, as well as retailers that sell hemp-derived products such as CBD or THC for $25 each. In its recall notice, the California-based chocolate manufacturer said a number of customers had fallen ill after eating an entire bar at once. They said: 'It is crucial that all of our consumers refrain from ingesting this product while we, alongside the FDA, continue our investigation as to what is the cause of the serious adverse effects.' The illnesses have been recorded across 24 states. The states are: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota and Tennessee. The chocolate bars and candies say they contain a 'proprietary blend' of mushrooms 'with a kick' to allow someone to microdose. People have been hospitalized after eating 'microdosing' chocolate bars called Diamond Shruumz (pictured). People are being warned not to eat them This does not include psilocybin, which is illegal in the US at a federal level, but does include other active compounds linked to better mood and wellbeing. Mushrooms listed on labels include Lion's mane, which has been linked to anti-depressive effects, Reishi and Chaga, which some say can help to boost mood. It was not clear whether Amanita mushrooms which are large and red were also advertised as being in the products. Among those who have been hospitalized by Diamond Shruumz is a 15-year-old girl from Arizona. Her mother, Tina Griffin, wrote online: 'Yesterday, my 15-year-old daughter and her 16-year-old cousin ate these Diamond Shruumz microdosing chocolate bars (not real psilocybin) and ended up on ventilators and are currently in the ICU at the children's hospital. 'I don't want any other parents to have to go through this nightmare. 'The night before they overdosed there were other overdosese that came in.' The FDA first raised the alarm over Diamond Shruumz in early June, after receiving reports of illnesses from several states after consuming the chocolates. It has published five updates since then, updating its illness tally and on its investigation into the cause of the illnesses. The FDA, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and America's Poison Centers are investigating the outbreak. A dairy farm worker in Colorado has been infected with H5N1 bird flu, becoming the fourth human case in the outbreak so far. The man, who was not named, suffered a mild illness and conjunctivitis also known as pink-eye and has since recovered from the infection. He was treated with oseltamivir, or Tamiflu, an anti-viral used to treat flu infections that was also used to treat the previous patients. Revealing the infection in a release today, the CDC said that the risk to the public from bird flu remains low. It is the fourth human case of human bird flu to be diagnosed in the US this year amid an outbreak of the virus in dairy cows, following a case detected in Texas in March, and two cases in Michigan in May. The US government looking to fund a late-stage trial of Moderna's mRNA pandemic bird flu vaccine The above map shows the locations of the 139 dairy cattle herds where H5N1 infections have been confirmed. They are in 12 states The new farmer is thought to have contracted the infection from dairy cattle he worked with in the northeast of Colorado that are confirmed to be infected with the bird flu strain H5N1. There are no known links between this case and the others previously reported with each suspected to be a separate instance of the virus jumping from cows to humans. The CDC said in a release: 'Based on the information available at this time, this infection does not change CDC's current H5N1 bird flu human health risk assessment for the US general public, which the agency considers to be low. 'However, this development underscores the importancee of recommended precautions in people with exposure to infected animals.' Recommended precautions include the use of gloves, goggles or face masks while working with herds known to be infected with the virus. Pictured is the Texas farm worker who was infected with H5N1 in March. The infection began in the right eye, before spreading to the left Public health officials and epidemiologists were taken by surprise when bird flu infections started cropping up among dairy cows in late March this year. Now, a total of 139 herds across 12 states have had infections confirmed, raising concerns that the virus could mutate, making it better able to spread to humans. Colorado reported the most bird flu infected dairy herds over the last month, with 23 confirmed to have the infection. The latest human case only had symptoms in the eye, like the first two cases reported this year, suggesting the virus had not spread to other areas of the body. In late May, the second case in Michigan sparked alarm after the patient was reported to have respiratory symptoms. Doctors were concerned that the virus may have spread to the lungs, where it could gain mutations and then jump between people. The patient recovered, however, and there were no signs that they had spread the disease. In the latest case, CDC scientists confirmed the diagnosis after testing samples sent by Colorado's state laboratories, where tests for influenza were 'inconclusive'. They have already confirmed the patient is infected with an H5 virus, with confirmation that the case is H5N1 or bird flu expected in the coming days. Further tests have also been ordered on the samples to check for any worrying genetic changes. CDC officials say that they have held numerous calls with state and local health officials and farm workers since the case was identified. They have also supplied more PPE for farmers to the state and paid for local targeted advertising to warn of the risks of bird flu. It comes after the FDA revealed it was expanding testing for bird flu in dairy products, including ice cream, butter and cheese. The agency said last week it would swab 155 products bought from grocery stores nationwide for the virus. If any are positive, further tests will be carried out to determine whether the virus inside them is 'alive' or able to cause an infection in humans. Previous tests have shown bird flu virus fragments found in products do not multiply in lab experiments, revealing they are 'dead' or unable to make copies of themselves and infect humans. Officials say this is because of the pasteurization process, with heats milk and then quickly cools it in order to kill off any microbes. The expanded testing builds on previous, which found the virus in grocery store milks, cottage cheeses and sour creams, but in every case, the virus was 'dead' and unable to cause an infection in humans. Ground beef, infant formula and powdered milk were also all swabbed for the virus and all tested negative. When Alex Somervell found out that Ashley, a close family member, had handed 140,000 to not just one but three different, unrelated scammers, his first reaction was anger. In the shock of the moment, he blamed them for sending so much money within four months and not doing more due diligence. 'I was so upset. It was a human reaction, but one that I realise now wasn't helpful,' he says. But Alex's anger quickly turned to a desire to fight back against the criminals peddling these scams. He embarked on a mission to give victims the tools to stop these scams in their tracks. Alex Somervell, 32, who has previously appeared on BBC show Dragons' Den and set up a multi-million-pound business, created a new business to fight back against scammers Alex, 32, who has previously cut his teeth as an entrepreneur on BBC show Dragons' Den (he turned down the Dragons' money) and set up a multi-million-pound business with long-term business partner Jonny Pryn, created a new business to fight back. The concept was simple a free Scam Checker that anyone could use to gauge whether a text, website, letter or email was likely to be fake. The pair built an AI-powered tool in October last year that operates via messaging application WhatsApp, called Ask Silver. You can sign up to the service on its website, ask-silver.com, by submitting your phone number and email address, and you will automatically receive a message on WhatsApp from Ask Silver. You can then run unlimited checks for free on anything you suspect of being a scam. To do so, you need to snap a photo or screenshot of any email, website or leaflet you're worried about and send it to Ask Silver on WhatsApp. Silver uses AI to spot any red flags, telling users whether content is likely to be real or not, and provides suggestions for next steps on staying safe. Alex says: 'We realised that it's really common for parents to send a screenshot of a suspicious message to their adult children, asking whether it can be trusted. Family has become the first line of defence because there's no official way of checking. But we've built a checker that can work with more accuracy.' Alex and Jonny have connected the scanner to several databases of scam warnings, including the Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) warning list of unauthorised companies. Within seconds, the Scam Checker is able to check whether links lead to official websites or not, so you know whether they are safe to click on. It also detects any typical catchphrases or wording used by scammers, such as pressure tactics to assess the risk level. After sending the screenshot or image, you will receive one of three replies almost instantly. A red flag means there has been a match on the system with a known scam and you should under no circumstances engage with the website or email. Users can send screenshots to Silver, and the service uses AI to detect fraudulent content. A red flag means it's a known scam and the user must not engage with it An amber flag is sent where there isn't a match on the database. but there are very suspicious elements that suggest the email, text, letter or website is a scam. Users will rarely receive a yellow flag, which suggests the image appears to be legitimate, but you should still be careful. Alex says: 'The bar is set very, very high for the yellow flag, and we will never give anything a completely green light. We always encourage caution, because you can have legitimate communications within a larger scam, especially if the criminal is starting to socially engineer you to trust them. 'We always advise getting in touch with the organisation directly and not just responding to an email or text message.' Had Ashley, who does not want their real name to be revealed, used the Scam Checker to review the adverts that lured them into the scams before sending money, they may have been saved the pain and heartache. Somervell's business concept is simple a free scam checker that anyone could use to gauge whether a text, website, letter or email was likely to be fake Ashley had been roped into a cryptocurrency investment, which promised high returns on Bitcoin the most famous digital currency. They first made a 3,000 payment, and when that grew, continued to pile more money in. Over the next couple of months they would invest 80,000 on the cryptocurrency platform with the help of a fake financial adviser, who claimed to work for the company. However, it transpired that, although the account had been set up on a genuine platform, it had been opened in the name of the bogus financial adviser. This meant that Alex's family member could no longer access their money when they wanted to withdraw it. Over the next four months, they would make investments in two more scam ventures, one for a renewable bond, where the company behind it was listed on Companies House, and the second in Singaporean gold options. A total of 40,000 and 20,000 was invested in each of these respectively. Police visits, calls with the UK's fraud intelligence centre and the banks involved, all disappointingly came to little in the way of tracking down the fraudsters. Thankfully, the banks reimbursed his relative more than 104,000, as they acknowledged the money had been lost to sophisticated fraudsters. Criminals baiting Britain's most vulnerable rarely face the consequence of their actions. More than 2.9 million cases of fraud were reported last year, with 1.2 billion lost. Though fraud makes up around 40 per cent of all crime in the UK, it receives just 1 pc of police funding. 'The biggest realisation for me was that everyone, regardless of age or intelligence, will go through a vulnerable time when they're susceptible to scams,' says Alex. 'And it is happening all the time. Initially, I assumed you've got to be old or vulnerable to be scammed. But we've reached the stage where anyone can be scammed.' Three of Alex's friends, who are in their early 30s two of whom are tech entrepreneurs have also been scammed, losing between 40,000 and 160,000. Alex may not have received the justice he wanted for Ashley, but he has created a very valuable service that can be widely used to protect people. A key part of this is in reporting the scams, which Alex has made central to his Scam Checker. After screening the image and telling you how risky it is, Ask Silver then offers to report the scam to the authorities and relevant agencies, for example, your bank, for you. A 'red flag' response means the user must avoid interacting with the fraudulent text or email Reporting a scam can be a complicated process there are many ways in which you are expected to flag a suspicious message depending on how it is received. For example, scam text messages should be forwarded, via text, to 7726; fraudulent emails sent to report@phishing.gov.uk and fraudulent websites should be registered via a form on The National Cyber Security Centre website at ncsc.gov.uk. And any scam should also be reported to the organisation that is being impersonated in the message. For example, if the criminal purports to be from Royal Mail or HMRC, they must be alerted, too. 'It's so complicated that a lot of people don't report messages they receive. It needs to be far easier to do,' Alex says. 'By alerting the relevant groups there's a chance that that website, email address or phone number will get shut down. If we can get hundreds of people to report a certain number in a month, then we can try to build up enough pressure on a phone provider to say this is dangerous, and they should do something about it.' Though still a start-up, the company has already won an award from the FCA, and is expected to run a pilot with the National Trading Standards. Alex hopes that banks will begin to back the Scam Checker and share it with customers as a tool to protect themselves. He says: 'The scam data we receive will be invaluable to banks and the authorities, who can take action to stop the scammers. 'More than anything, I wanted to use my family's experience to help others and do good in the world.' j.beard@dailymail.co.uk Everyone has dreams of what theyll do when they retire, from foreign adventures to finally putting their feet up. But millions are saving too little for the lifestyle they desire and could run out of money in retirement unless they act. Our checklist gives the ten telltale signs that you could run out of cash when retired and what you can do to turn it around. As many as 72 per cent of workers are under-saving for even a moderate retirement income, according to trade body the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association. However, working out if youre putting away enough or are set for a shortfall is not straightforward, so read our guide. Boost: A small increase in pension payments can have a huge impact. If you raised your contributions from 5% to 6% at the age of 22, you would have an extra 54,000 by retirement 1) You have a pension through work -but dont know how much is paid in If you earn at least 10,000 a year and are aged between 22 and state pension age, you are likely to have a workplace pension, provided by your employer. The good news is you will have been automatically enrolled into the scheme when you began your job, unless you opted out. Unless you have checked your pension plan, there is a high chance you are not paying in enough for a comfortable retirement. Under the workplace pension rules, you must pay in a minimum of 5 per cent of your salary, and your employer at least 3 per cent. Many employers default to these minimums unless you query it. But most experts believe saving a combined 8 per cent of your salary will not be enough to secure even a moderate retirement lifestyle. ACTION: Ask your employer to increase your contribution. When day-to-day finances are hard enough to juggle, putting more away in a pension can feel like an impossible task. However, just a small increase can have a huge impact. If you raised your contributions from 5 per cent to 6 per cent at age 22, you would have an extra 54,000 by retirement age, according to calculations by pension provider Standard Life. If you increased them to 7 per cent, you would have an additional 108,000, and to 10 per cent an extra 271,000 a total pension pot of 705,000. Your employer will be able to tell you how to increase your contributions. Some may even match your rises, giving a bigger boost. 2) You are unsure what proportion of income to put into your pension Working out how much you will need for retirement is not easy, as it depends on complex variables such as how long you might live, what lifestyle you will want and whether you will still be supporting dependants or paying off a mortgage. There are a few rules of thumb. One is that the proportion of your income you save for retirement should be the equivalent of half your age when you begin saving. For example, if you start saving for retirement as a 22-year-old, you will need to put away 11 per cent of your income from then. If you start at age 40, you would need to save 20 per cent. ACTION: Try the rule of thumb above and if you seem to be falling short, increase your contributions now. If you have taken or may need to take time out of the workforce, you should save even more, if you can. It is never too late to start retirement saving. But if you begin late, you will need to save more. Rules: Under the workplace pension rules, you must pay in a minimum of 5% of your salary, and your employer must put in at least 3% 3) You are, or have been, self-employed People who work for themselves are among those most at risk of a pension shortfall as only about a third are saving into a pension, says the Association of Independent Professionals and the Self-Employed. Most employees are automatically enrolled into a company pension scheme, yet there is no equivalent arrangement for the self-employed. ACTION: Rebecca OConnor, a director at pensions firm PensionBee, says: Its a sweeping generalisation, but self-employed people are among those most at risk of under-saving for retirement, because often its hard to generate enough income this way to both make ends meet and set cash aside for the future. A good instant remedy is to start a personal pension and set up a small monthly direct debit. Setting up a personal pension is easy and can be done by you as an individual or through your company. You may not get employer contributions as those working for a company do, but you will still benefit from tax relief. This means that for every 80 you put in your pension, the Government will top it up to 100, if you are a basic-rate taxpayer. Higher-rate taxpayers will get 120 for paying in the same 80. > Essential guide: How pensions work - your guide to retirement saving Losing out: Savers have lost track of close to three million hard-earned pensions worth a staggering 27bn in the UK. It equates to just under 9,500, on average 4) You have lost track of your old pensions Savers have lost track of close to three million hard-earned pensions worth a staggering 27 billion in the UK. It equates to just under 9,500, on average. Pensions are alarmingly easy to lose track of, especially if you have changed jobs, name or moved home and failed to alert all your old pension providers. And once lost, pensions can be difficult to find again. If you have lost track of your pensions, you will miss out on the retirement income that they could afford you. ACTION: The Governments Pension Tracing service is a good starting point for finding lost pensions. It can be accessed at gov.uk/find- pension-contact-details. We collaborated with former pensions minister and This is Money retirement columnist Sir Steve Webb to put together a guide to helping you boost your retirement wealth by locating old pensions. 5) You told your employer that you plan to retire early When you join a company pension scheme, you will typically be asked when you want to retire. It is easy to respond optimistically that you plan to retire sooner than you actually do in the hope that this will leave you better placed to retire early. But answering optimistically can lead to a smaller retirement pot. That is because many pension schemes start to move your nest egg into safer investments in the final years running up to your target retirement date. The idea is this would protect you from any major dips in the value of your investments just before you retire. However, safer investments tend to have lower returns than other, riskier, options and so may lead to a smaller pot. ACTION: Check the target retirement date on your company pension scheme. If it is on the optimistic side, change it to a later date. You can also check what types of investments you hold in your pension. If you are unlikely to need to tap into your pension pot for years, you could invest in riskier investments. Financial burden: Over a million people have taken out a new mortgage that will run past state pension age in the past three years alone 6) You bought your home late in life There are many pension calculators online which will give you a sense of how much you might need in retirement and how much money your pension pot may pay if you keep saving at the same level until you cease work. The Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association will illustrate how much money you will need for a basic, moderate or comfortable retirement lifestyle. Visit retirement livingstandards.org.uk. Most calculators and pension lifestyle projections assume you will own your home outright by retirement so will not need to budget for rent or mortgage. More than a million people have taken out a new mortgage that will run past state pension age in the past three years alone, according to a Freedom of Information request by pension consultancy LCP. ACTION: If you will not own your home outright by the time you retire, you must factor that into your budget. If you use pension calculators to estimate how much you will need in retirement, ensure that you take your rent or mortgage into account. 7) You have opted out of auto-enrolment Most workers are automatically enrolled into a company pension, but can opt out at any point. Brian Byrnes, head of personal finance at Moneybox, says: Even short gaps in your pension contributions can have a big impact over time, so maintaining some form of contribution can help you stay in the habit of regularly saving for retirement, which is vital. ACTION: If you have opted out, ask to start contributions again. That way you will also receive contributions from your employer and a Government top-up. 8) Youre paying too much in fees No pension scheme is free you usually have to pay both the provider of the scheme and for the underlying investments you hold. But overpaying fees by even half a percentage point could knock tens of thousands of pounds off the value of your pension. Take, for example, a 40-year-old who has 25,000 in their pension. If they paid 1.5 per cent in fees, they would have 64,000 by the age of 67, assuming their pot grows by 5 per cent a year, according to retirement firm Profile Pensions. But if they paid 1 per cent in fees, their pot would be worth 73,000. ACTION: Check what fees youre paying. Shop around to see if your scheme is competitive or if you could get a cheaper service. You need a good reason to pay more than 1 per cent a year. You are unlikely to be able to move from a workplace pension scheme, but you can still check that youre not paying more than is necessary for the underlying investments. > Pension calculator: Are you saving enough - and when can you retire? 9) You have multiple low-earning jobs You should be automatically enrolled into your company pension scheme if you earn at least 10,000. However, if you have several low-earning jobs there is a risk you do not breach this threshold with any, so do not qualify for a company pension. ACTION: Open your own personal pension and start paying in an affordable monthly amount. Its particularly important when you are not in a company pension scheme but can afford to put money away for retirement. 10) You have taken time out of the workplace Even a year not paying into a pension can hurt your retirement savings. But it is often unavoidable due to caring responsibilities, ill health or redundancy. ACTION: Keep your state pension on track. For each year you work and pay National Insurance, you are earning credits towards your state pension. However, you can claim National Insurance credits even when you are not working. You may be able to claim if you take time out for childcare or are receiving Jobseekers Allowance, disability or sickness benefits. This means your state pension will not be hurt by any time out of the workplace. See: gov.uk/national-insurance-credits. If you take time out to look after children while your partner works, they can make contributions into a pension for you, if they wish. M&S chairman Archie Norman (pictured) said he was not happy with how joint venture Ocado Retail had performed Marks & Spencers bosses have hailed signs of progress at their online tie-up with Ocado. At the retailers annual meeting last year, chairman Archie Norman said he was not happy with how joint venture Ocado Retail, which is owned 50:50 between M&S and Ocado, had performed. But at yesterdays meeting, Norman said he was now not unhappy after signs of a turnaround at Ocado Retail. M&S chief executive Stuart Machin echoed his chairmans comments by highlighting that there had been more M&S products added to Ocado. Norman added: A joint venture is always hard work, theres always little points of friction and so on. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has outlined plans to sell 4billion worth of shares as the stock hits an all-time high. In a filing late on Tuesday, the billionaire revealed he would offload another 25m shares. The tycoon, who also owns The Washington Post newspaper, has not disclosed why he is selling the Amazon shares. It came as the stock hit a new record of $200.43 during the trading session. Cashing in: Amazon founder Jeff Bezos (pictured with girlfriend Lauren Sanchez), has outlined plans to sell 4bn worth of shares After the sale plan, Bezos would own about 912m Amazon shares, or 8.8 per cent of the group. Bezos, who stepped down as chief executive in 2021, has been trimming his stake in the online retailer. So far this year, he has offloaded shares worth an estimated 10.5billion. This included selling an estimated 6.5billion worth of Amazon stock in February. Bezos, 60, founded Amazon in 1994, growing it from an online bookshop to a global marketplace. Amazon posted a set of upbeat first-quarter results in April as it cashes in on bumper sales and the artificial intelligence wave. All this has sent shares up by over a third since the beginning of 2024. Bezos has already given away shares worth around 190million as part of his charity efforts, most recently in 2022. Since stepping back Bezos has been focusing on a space venture called Blue Origin. In October, he said that he was moving to Miami from Seattle to be near his parents and Blue Origins operations. Blue Origin needs to be much faster. And its one of the reasons that I left Amazon a couple of years ago, he said in December. The venture also puts him at odds with tech billionaire Elon Musk, who has been driving the space race with his company SpaceX. Blue Origin launched a six-person crew to the edge of space in May. Bezos is the worlds second-richest man, worth an estimated 168billion. Musk is worth 195billion. Rachel Cherwitz and Nicole Daedone have been charged in 'forced' labor probe Two former leaders of an 'orgasmic meditation cult' are attempting to throw out forced labor charges against them for second time in their bombshell Brooklyn court battle. Attorneys for the OneTaste execs, Rachel Cherwitz and Nicole Daedone, argued that the counts should be dropped because an FBI agent in charge of the probe ordered a key witness to destroy evidence which could have aided their defense. 'The government is trying to criminalize sex,' Cherwitz's attorney Duncan Levin told the reporters outside the federal court. 'Its not their job to be creative and see if they can put someone in prison for funsies,' Daedone's attorneyJennifer Bonjean, added. The two women are accused of forcing volunteers, contractors, and employees into sex acts using cult-like tactics in the federal indictment. Documents seen by DailyMail.com claim that FBI agent Elliot McGinnis advised former OneTaste employee Ayries Blanck to delete an email account during his investigation into the group. Rachel Cherwitz (left) and Nicole Daedone, two former honchos of an 'orgasmic meditation cult',donned matching beige outfits for their appearance in a Brooklyn court Wednesday The two women embraced on the street after the hearing Former OneTaste employee Ayries Blanck was allegedly advised by federal agent Elliot McGinnis to delete an email account which the OneTaste bosses say contained exculpatory evidence The defense says emails in the account could have contained information undermining Blanck's claims of abuse while working for OneTaste. Blanck claimed in a Netflix documentary that OneTaste 'forced and manipulated her into having sex and taking part in orgasmic meditation with OneTaste staff, supervisors, and customers'. OneTaste denies this, and the company launched a counter suit against Netflix for claiming it aired 'completely false' accusations and against Blanck for allegedly breaching a $325,000 settlement by speaking with the streaming service. Netflix first aired Orgasm Inc: The Story of OneTaste in 2022, five months before Daedone and Cherwitz were indicted for allegedly forcing women into sex acts. Both women deny the accusations. Now, lawyers for Daedone and Cherwitz are claiming that the deleted email account may also have detailed Blanck's journals, which comprised the basis of the documentary. The emails could also include further conversations between Blanck and the FBI, along with employees of the orgasmic meditation cult, the lawyers say. Bosses of 'orgasm cult' OneTaste Rachel Cherwitz and Nicole Daedone leave NYC courthouse with their attorneys, after the pair were charged with forced labor Both women are accused of forcing volunteers, contractors, and employees into sex acts using cult-like tactics in the federal indictment Cherwitz smiled and waved at the cameras after attending court on Wednesday At a heaing last year Daedone was charged with keeping OneTaste members in 'residential warehouses' Their letter argues: 'The involvement of the FBI in advising a key witness to delete emails represents a grave breach of protocol and a miscarriage of justice. 'It is fundamental to the integrity of the judicial process that all relevant evidence is preserved and available for examination. 'The destruction of evidence, especially when advised by a federal agent, is a direct affront to the principles of fairness and transparency that underpin our legal system.' According to the letter, Blanck and McGinnis exchanged emails which she asked the federal agent if she should 'disband and cancel the old email account.' The back and forth came after she received messages from two other purported OneTaste employees. McGinnis told Blanck that she should delete the account because the emails serve her no purpose 'other than making you feel uneasy.' Daedone and Cherwitz were all smiles as they appeared in the Brooklyn court on Wednesday to add this latest argument to their ongoing case for a dismissal. The two women donned their power heels with coordinated beige business blazers and matching skirts for the appearance. They even stopped to beam at onlookers and embrace each other outside the courthouse. Email between Blanck and McGinnis viewed by DailyMail.com show the FBI agent told the employee to delete an email account she was receiving messages from other workers on The two women allege McGinnis was 'directly involved' in the Netflix documentary on their 'cult.' In one scene, the agents name is seen written on a notepad The government has until August 14 to respond to the new allegations in the motion to dismiss, and a hearing to discuss the FBI claims has been set for later this year. Blanck became involved with OneTaste in 2012 and was 'positive' about her involvement until 2014 when she split with her partner. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, focuses on the final 15 minutes of the documentary, which discusses Blanck experiencing 'sexual violence' that was 'condoned' by the company. As part of the most recent court documents, lawyers for both women claim that McGinnis, was also 'directly involved' in the Netflix show. His name can be seen written on a notepad in the documentary, before the witness appears to speak on the phone. The letter continued: 'Agent McGinnis appears to have been intimately involved in the public relations aspect of this case even before an indictment was returned, calling into question both his objectivity and judgment.' Two other witnesses interviewed by McGinnis have also said they were 'coerced and pressured' by him into identifying themselves as victims in the case. Daedone and Cherwitz also sued the BBC over the accusations and traveled to London for the case in 2022 OneTaste was making $12million a year promoting 'orgasmic meditation' Cherwitz and Daedone separately argued that prosecutors used a privileged document to tailor the charges in the indictment. Jennifer Bonjean, a lawyer for Daedone, said in a statement that the investigation 'was corrupted out of the gate where it was led by a rogue FBI agent whose idea of a sound investigation was regurgitating scandalous tabloid allegations, he knew to be false and directing government witnesses to destroy potentially exculpatory evidence.' 'The government seeks to punish my client for what she thinks and believes, not for any crimes she has committed. But that is not how our criminal justice system was intended to work,' she added. Judge Gujarati denied Cherwitz and Daedone's motion to dismiss in May, rejecting arguments from their legal team that the indictment was legally deficient. In 2018, the FBI launched an investigation when ex-customers came forward saying they were left in debt after paying for expensive classes, and former employees said they were told to engage in sexual relations with potential clients to close sales. Prosecutors say that between 2004 and 2018, Daedone and Cherwitz deployed a series of abusive and manipulative tactics in order to obtain the labor and services of a group of OneTaste members, including volunteers, contractors, and employees. The indictment alleges that the duo used tactics designed to render the OneTaste members dependent on the group for their shelter and basic necessities and to limit members' independence and control. Members of OneTaste were allegedly kept in 'residential warehouses' where they were forced into sex acts. OneTaste sued Netflix for defamation over the documentary showcasing Blanck's rape claims, which aired five months before Daedone and Cherwitz were indicted The alleged victims were subjected to 'constant surveillance' and isolated from friends and family. When members could no longer afford OneTaste classes, they were pressured to take on debt, and that at times Daedone and Cherwitz even assisted them in opening new credit cards, according to the indictment. Daedone and Cherwitz have both pleaded not guilty to the charges and are free on $1 million and $300,000 bonds respectively. OneTaste's current leadership team say they stand behind the defendants. Cherwitz is still working with the company, but Daedone has taken a step back since being indicted last year. Lucy Letby made a chilling admission just days before she was found guilty of trying to murder yet another infant in her care. The killer nurse, 34, was convicted yesterday of the attempted murder of an infant known as Baby K. She was previously found guilty by another jury last August of the murders of seven babies and the attempted murders of six others, but faced a retrial on the charge relating to Baby K. During the recent retrial, Letby was fending off questions from Nick Johnson KC, prosecuting, about her 'fascination' with her tiny victims and the way she carried out repeated Facebook searches on their parents once she had killed them. At one point, she told him: 'I carry a lot of babies around in my head.' Listen to our #1 True Crime podcast, The Trial of Lucy Letby Lucy Letby was convicted yesterdof the attempted murder of an infant known as Baby K The killer nurse was previously found guilty by another jury of the murders of seven babies and the attempted murders of six others. Letby is pictured enjoying a night out with a friend Liverpool Women's Hospital, where Letby attended a six-month training course in 2015 Letby was sentenced to 14 whole life terms in August, and is now set to receive an additional sentence for the attempted murder of Baby K. With the criminal process against the 34-year-old former nurse now completed, at least for now, Cheshire Police are now reviewing her entire medical career. This will consider her time both at the Countess of Chester Hospital, where Letby began her nursing career in 2012, and Liverpool Women's Hospital, where she attended a six-month training course in 2015. Once this initial phase has been completed, the Operation Hummingbird team will decide how many cases to examine in microscopic detail. Some parents have already either come forward with suspicions themselves or else been contacted by detectives. A number have already had specialist family liaison officers assigned to them. These officers will now help guide them through the complexities of an investigative process that may take years to reach a point where Letby can potentially be brought to a third trial. In the meantime, senior detectives are expected to approach the killer in prison to see if she is ready to confess to other crimes against newborn babies most likely of attempted murder. So far she has maintained her innocence of all the crimes attributed to her including those she was convicted of in August. Letby was caught 'virtually red-handed' trying to kill the child, known as Baby K, in February 2016 Body worn camera footage issued by Cheshire Constabulary during the arrest of Lucy Letby However, the reality is that Letby now recognised as Britain's most prolific serial baby killer harmed infants so frequently and sometimes so randomly that even she may not know how many she attacked. It is understood that the new investigation will be focussed mainly on Liverpool Women's Hospital. But detectives are also likely to review the records of all babies born at the Countess of Chester Hospital where she is already known to have attacked babies in the year from June 2015 to June 2016. Letby started work there in January 2012 after finishing her nursing degree at Chester University. Previously she had visited the neonatal unit on work experience. Det Supt Paul Hughes, the senior investigating officer of Operation Hummingbird, said at the time of the killer's original trial: 'We are committed to a thorough investigation across the entire footprint of Lucy Letby while she was employed at the Countess of Chester Hospital and on placements at the Liverpool Women's Hospital. 'That investigation is ongoing, and in the cases identified so far the families have been contacted and are being supported. 'We will give an update on that particular part of the investigation when we can. The investigation needs to go on'. He added: 'We're not looking at deaths at LWH. We're looking at an overall time. Obviously there are a lot of years to go through, a massive amount of medical records, so it would just be unfair to speculate on that at the moment. But we are looking at a greater period of time'. Letby (pictured) began working at the Countess of Chester Hospital in January 2012 after finishing her nursing degree at Chester University Letby, who worked at the Countess of Cheshire Hospital, giving evidence in court last month The force has set up a reception team for parents wishing to express concerns about the early days of their newborn babies. Det Chief Insp Nicola Evans, the deputy SIO, said 'They'll speak to an investigator on this inquiry, and hopefully that means they will receive some answers pretty quickly'. During Letby's 10-month trial it emerged that she took home scores of confidential medical notes as 'souvenirs' of her reign of terror on the neonatal unit. Prosecutors suggested she used them to trigger memories of attacks she had carried out. The historic nature of the renewed investigation means that similar medical notes are unlikely to be found. It may also be that Letby only began to collect such souvenirs and reminders later in her criminal career. Detectives are likely to want to speak to colleagues who worked alongside Letby as long ago as 2012. Some may already have suspicions about her behaviour as a fledgling nurse, or even while she was studying for her medical degree at Chester University. This is the first picture of a Briton who rented the Airbnb which missing raver Jay Slater visited just before he disappeared. The man, using the name Ayub Abdul, booked the 40-a-night holiday rental online - and later hosted missing Jay at the holiday let in Tenerife just hours before he vanished. Spanish police hunting for Jay have already spoken to Mr Abdul and his unnamed friend and both men have been described as 'irrelevant' to their investigation. Jay is known to have gone back to the remote cottage called Casa Abuela Tina at 5am on the day he vanished on June 17. But he is known to have left the property at around 7.30am to catch a bus back towards his holiday apartment. A witness said he asked her when the next bus was. When she told him the next one wasn't until 10am, he is believed to have attempted to walk the 11 hours it would have taken him to get back to his holiday let. The man and another who was travelling with him stayed an extra day after he vanished and spoke to police. They gave the officers their details and fully cooperated with the investigation. Sources close to the inquiry have told MailOnline that the men are not relevant to Jay's disappearance. Last night, Jay Slater's mother told of her 'pain and agony' of her son's disappearance in Tenerife as she pleaded that 'we just want to find him'. It comes as: The men are understood to have met Jay, an apprentice bricklayer, from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, during the three-day New Rave Generation festival in the party island's Playa de las Americas. This is the first picture of a Briton who booked the Airbnb which Jay went back to with him and another man under the name Ayub Abdul Jay Slater vanished on the island of Tenerife on June 17 after going back to the Airbnb following a night out Missing Jay Slater's parents Warren Slater and Debbie Duncan seen leaving the Guardia Civil in Playa de las Americas after a meeting with police Mr Abdul booked the Casa Abuela Tina in the village of Masca around 19 miles from Playa de las Americas on June 14 for three nights and paid 120. The Airbnb booking was made at 15.48 on June 14 and within 90 minutes the men were at the two-bedroom property which was where Jay later sent two Snapchat images from. One showed him on the doorstep wrapped in a blanket and holding a cigarette while the other was a view of the valley below the property. He then told friends he was going to try and walk back 11 hours after being told there was no bus for Playa de las Americas until 10am and was last seen walking uphill in the wrong direction. Last night, Jay Slater's mother Debbie Duncan, 55, issued an emotional plea saying 'our beautiful boy' had 'his whole life ahead of him'. The loving mother has been on the Spanish island since June 18, having flown out there a day after her son vanished. In a statement, issued by British overseas missing persons charity LBT Global, Debbie gave an insight into what her son is like as a person, calling him a 'normal guy' who is a 'very popular man with a large circle of friends'. 'We are a very close family and are absolutely devastated about his disappearance,' she said. '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.' She went on to thank the Spanish police's 'tireless' efforts to find her missing son having scoured the terrain for 12 days. And she took the opportunity to hit out at the 'vile' conspiracy theories that have swirled on social media and the internet about Jay's disappearance, describing their impact on the family as 'distressing'. 'We do not have any information on his whereabouts,' she added. 'The Guardia Civil have worked tirelessly up in the mountains where Jay's last phone call was traced. 'They conducted a land search for 12 days which involved every resource they had available. 'Although the land search ended, the Spanish police still continue with their investigations into why Jay had travelled to the location so far away from his accommodation. 'We offer our sincere thanks to the Spanish authorities who continue to follow lines of enquiries. 'We are aware of the conspiracy theories and speculation on social media and some websites, and can only describe this as vile, the negative comments are extremely distressing to our family. 'We also embrace the love and support we have received from across the globe. It has not gone unnoticed, especially his home town in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire.' Jay Slater, 19, is pictured with his mother Debbie Duncan who flew out to Tenerife with other family members when he went missing Spanish police have returned to search the Airbnb (pictured) where Jay Slater stayed just before he disappeared in Tenerife more than two weeks ago Jay Slater posted this Snapchat of himself standing on the steps of the Airbnb villa The same steps can be seen on this close-up image of the Airbnb in Masca Shortly after Jay disappeared his friend Lucy Law, 19, told MailOnline how she had 'tracked' the men down to their apartment using the Snapchat images Jay had sent her arriving there at 11am two hours after he vanished. She told MailOnline: 'I asked them where Jay was. 'They said he had gone out to look for cigarettes and then he came back and was leaving to try and get a bus back into town.' Little else is known about the two men other than that they are black, British and in their late 30s to early 40s. The men were seen drinking Hennessey in bars and nightclubs in the party resort of Playa de las Americas during the three-day rave Jay attended. In a new development, two plain-clothes officers were sent to the property at 11am today. One officer (wearing sunglasses, left) is speaking to MailOnline's Nick Pisa and the other (wearing green, right) is seen with a local This is the two-bedroom property called Casa Abuela Tina where Jay Slater is believed to have spent the night In its Airbnb listing Casa Abuela Tina is described as being a farmhouse within the 'unique natural landscape' surrounding it It is known that Jay sent pictures of himself inside the house and from outside on Snapchat to his mum and friends The Airbnb is in the village of Masca about 20 miles from the party spot of Playa de las Americas MailOnline understands friends of Jay were sent a picture of him inside the car of the two men and this has been shared with investigating officers. It has also emerged on social media that police are investigating the theft of a Rolex watch from outside Papagayo's nightclub just hours before Jay vanished. There is no suggestion the apprentice bricklayer is involved in the theft but it is known that a large fight erupted outside Papagayo just as the NRG festival afterparty wrapped up. The two men booked the Airbnb for the entirety of the NRG festival and were due to leave on June 17 but after Jay disappeared, they were asked to stay on an extra day. Police questioned them at length, took their passport details and then allowed them to fly home and there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing by them. Friends of Jay have told MailOnline they sent Snapchat images of themselves at Gatwick Airport. Before they left the two men were seen in the bar next to the apartment drinking coffee. This was the final official search for Jay Slater on Saturday before Spanish police ended the hunt Police had called for an army of volunteers to help on Saturday but only six turned up. Jay's father and brother (pictured at back) also joined The mountainside near Masca where the search parties gathered for two weeks was quiet on the hillside on Sunday as Spanish police called off the search The man who stayed at the Airbnb with Mr Abdul is said to go by the nickname Johnny Vegas. On Sunday, Spanish police dramatically announced they were ending their search for Jay, but the case would remain open. His family have been left 'blindsided' by the decision to end the search after 14 days and have vowed to keep looking for answers, even enlisting the help of TikTok sleuths who continue to scour the mountainous region of Tenerife. On Monday, Jay's mother and father meet with officials to understand why police had halted the search. Wearing dark sunglasses Debbie Duncan, 55, and Warren Slater, 58, spent two and a half hours with senior investigators who briefed them on how they planned to take the probe forward. The meeting at the Guardia Civil HQ in Playa des las Americas on the holiday island of Tenerife came 16 days after the apprentice bricklayer was last seen on a mountain road an hour away in the isolated village of Masca. It was the first time the couple had been seen together since arriving in Tenerife to join the hunt for their son - Warren and Jay's brother Zak have visited Masca several times but Debbie has so far been too refused. Jay's father Warren along with with Jay's mother Debbie and a number of his friends have flown to the Spanish island Warren Slater (right), 58, and his son Zak (left), 24, pictured alongside volunteers at the remote mountain spot outside the village of Masca where Jay's mobile phone last pinged Speaking to media last week, TV sleuth Mark Williams-Thomas, who is working with the family, said: 'I need to speak to those people [two men] because they are the last people, other than the owner of the holiday rental, that saw Jay. 'They were in the bars of the strip area, certainly for two days, they mixed with Jay and Jay's group of friends that were there. They spent time in bars there, they say they drank Hennessy, which was their preferred drink. 'I know the nickname of one of those individuals. I have a photograph of that individual. He's about 6ft tall, he's quite stocky, he had a distinctive bright orange wristband on and he's got quite short black hair. 'It's very difficult to tell but I think he's probably aged around 30 to 40. One was slightly bigger and was much more chatty than the other.' A British Bollywood actress claims she was detained in Dubai for two months after she threatened to post about a friend on social media. Sofia Hayat, 39, who has starred in Waterloo Road and in the Indian version of Big Brother, was on a week long trip when she got in trouble. She fell out with someone she claims borrowed money from her - and she threatened to out them on Instagram, she said. She thought nothing of it until she tried to get on a flight - when her passport was seized by police who put her in a cell for six hours, questioning her for a further six hours, she claims. Sofia had unknowingly broken strict laws around posting defamatory comments on social media. Told to stay in Dubai - and without her passport - she was forced to rent AirBnbs in Dubai for two months. Sofia, a 39-year-old actress from Battersea, said she was held in a 'freezing, dirty and small' cell in Dubai after being detained for making defamatory comments about a friend Sofia said she saw another side of Dubai and would 'never go back' after her hellish experience Sofia from Battersea, London, was finally allowed home without a fine or imprisonment after she was brought before a judge, she says. But she claims her extended stay cost her 20,000 - and she lost a further 20,000 of business as a spiritual healer while she was away. Speaking now she is back in the UK, Sofia said: 'Dubai is actually a hell hole. 'I expected a modern country full of glamour, wealth and all the amazing things it appears to be on Instagram and TikTok. 'That's all a lie. I'll never go back. 'Being held like that is horrible. I was heartbroken and it was extremely lonely. 'I was constantly cancelling clients because I couldn't go home and worried all the time that I'd lose them. 'I couldn't book a long-term place to stay because I had no idea how long I'd have to be there. 'I was having trouble sleeping. I had no idea I'd committed a crime until I contacted the public prosecutor. I just wanted to go home.' Sofia flew to Dubai on December 28 last year from London - and was due to be there for seven days. What is the law about social media defamation in UAE? Under UAE law, publishing defamatory comments on social media is a criminal offence. In the UAE, any commentary posted (anonymously or not) may lead to criminal charges for defamation. Defamatory remarks made on social media or by any other digital means (including WhatsApp, TikTok, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, websites, SMS and email) may be an offence under the new Cybercrimes Law. Under Article 43 of the Cybercrimes Law it is an offence to insult others or attribute to them an incident that may make them subject to punishment or contempt by others using a computer network or any information technology means, carrying a penalty of a prison sentence and/or a fine of AED 250,000 AED 500,000. The new Cybercrimes Law also introduced a new offence for spreading rumours or fake news via digital means if this provokes public opinion against a state authority or if committed at a sensitive time (i.e. during an epidemic, emergency or disaster). Source: Clyde&Co Advertisement She fought with a friend who she claims borrowed money from her - and threatened to post about it on social media, she said. So instead of seeing out the rest of her trip in Dubai, she tried to go to Saudi Arabia to spend New Year's Eve with a friend. But at Dubai International Airport her passport was taken and she was held by police from 3am to 3pm, being questioned by up to five officers, she said. The cell she was in was 'freezing, dirty, and small', she said. Her phone was taken and she wasn't allowed to call anyone - but after six hours she was allowed to text a friend, she claims. 'They just threw me in a cell - they didn't tell me anything,' she said. 'When I asked what was going on, the policeman just told me to "shut up". 'At first I was having panic attacks. I was shaking and crying as they questioned me. 'They kept saying I'd threatened to expose a sex tape. I threatened to expose a name. 'In the end they did let me go, but I wasn't allowed to leave the country. 'Eventually I coped by meditating - I just imagined myself in London laughing about being detained in Dubai.' Sofia payed 250 a week for AirBnbs and had to attend the police station twice a week, she said. After eight weeks she was told by the public prosecutor that threatening to put someone's name on social media is actually a crime in Dubai, she said. She said the penalty for her actions could be two years in jail or a 50,000 fine. Sofia said she endured panic attacks as she was interrogated and held in a cell in Dubai At a hearing the judge authorised her release after it was heard money was owed, she said. However she is unsure exactly what happened in the hearing, because it was all in Arabic, she says. She was given no penalty and her passport was returned, she claims. Sofia was charged 400 at the Dubai airport for overstaying on her visa, she said, and flew home on February 26. 'I think the only reason I got out is because I have a British passport and I'm an ex Bollywood actress,' she said. The British Embassy in Dubai did not respond to a request for a comment. The family of an elderly British couple murdered in a suspected Muti killing after being abducted from their remote South African farm are urging their killers to reveal where their remains are so they can 'get closure'. Grandparents Tony and Gillian Dinnis, 73, and 78, vanished without a trace from their homestead near Middlerus in KwaZulu-Natal province in August last year. Police believe the retired couple, originally from Kent, were killed in a Muti killing - where their body parts are butchered for black magic, claiming they give people special powers. Their devastated family believe their fingers and ears were chopped off for 50,000 Rand (2,170) for a witchdoctor known as a Sangoma - while they were still alive before being murdered and their bodies dumped somewhere. Now they are calling on the suspects to tell them where Tony and Gill's remains are. Despite three arrests, police have not been able to press charges due to lack of evidence in what the family say has been a bungled investigation due to lack of resources. Ten months on their bodies have not been found. Anthony and Gillian Dinnis were kidnapped from their South African home and 'may have been dismembered with their body parts sold to witch doctors' a court heard Kate Anderson, their daughter, said she just wants the closure of knowing what happened to her parents through the return of their remains Gang members allegedly cut off Gillian and Anthony's (pictured together) body parts and travelled to Johannesburg to find a witch doctor to sell the bloodied parts for cash The couple have been married for 53 years and were 'devoted to each other' according to their family. They have five children and seven grandchildren. Tony and Gillian's daughter Kate Anderson, 52, said: 'My mum and dad always wanted their ashes mixed so they could be eventually scattered together. 'But we just don't know where they are. We have been told their fingers and ears were cut off. Under Muti ritual, this would've been done when they were still alive. 'The police have searched waterfalls along the river as Muti killings have to be carried out by running water. But they could be anywhere. The area is so remote and vast. 'All we want is justice and their remains back so we can get closure for them. 'I can't sleep at night worrying about where they are. They could've been scavenged by animals or they were thrown into the river.' What is a muti-killing? Muti killings involve the murder of someone in order to harvest body parts for incorporation into medicines and rituals. The removal of body parts traditionally takes place while the victim is still alive. The body parts are then taken to 'sangomas' (known as witchdoctors) to provide potions for their clients. Most sangomas or traditional healers often known as witch doctors are law abiding and abhor muti killings but confirm amongst them that there are those who are 'evil'. READ MORE: Child friends aged five and six who were abducted in a park and found murdered with genitals and body parts hacked off READ MORE: Fresh appeal to find torso in the Thames killer Advertisement The real estate agent who lives in Cape Town added: 'I am fearful we will never find them or get justice. 'The priority is to find them and to lay them to rest with respect. 'I haven't slept a night through since. We need to find my parents. Knowing that no one is actively looking for them is very troubling. 'We are so very heartsore that they seem to have been forgotten about. As they are still considered to be 'missing' why are there no efforts to find 'missing' people? 'If the police believe them to be deceased, why are they not doing anything? They simply don't care.' Tony and Gill emigrated to South Africa from Sandhurst, near Tunbridge Wells in 1988 with their five children. They had run a successful third generation family farm near Sandhurst raising sheep, growing vegetables as well as hops for the Whitbread brewery but moved for the chance of better farming prospects in South Africa. But they moved to the homestead near Middlerus - 45 minutes' drive from the nearest town of Mooi River - to retire around seven years ago, integrating with the local community. Kate's daughter raised the alarm after she could not get any contact from her grandparents and they knew immediately something was wrong as the couple's 4x4 was at the house. Search teams continue to look for the remains of the elderly British couple who vanished The couple vanished without a trace from their homestead near Middlerus in KwaZulu-Natal province last year The couple had been married for 53 years and were 'devoted to each other' The couple, from Kent, were abducted from their South Africa farm before the alarm was raised by their neighbour Kevin after he hadn't seen them in two days When they went inside the property - the kitchen table was untouched. Their plates left empty with their knives and forks on them as if they had just finished a meal. Glasses of juice were still on the table. Kate said: 'Everything was as they had left it. Pots on the stove, glasses of juice still there. It was like the Martians had beamed them up. It was the Marie Celeste.' Seven days after they disappeared the family began receiving ransom demands for 2m Rand to get their parents back. But Kate fears they were already dead and that the ransom demand was an effort to get even more money from the family. Ten months on and there is no end in sight to the conclusion of the case. Kate said: 'I am fearful we will never find them or get justice. It is so frustrating. There are no answers.' Attorneys for New York investment banker Jonathan Kaye are doubling down on their claims he has been 'wrongly charged' with assault after he was once again attacked and called anti-Semitic slurs while leaving court on Monday. Disturbing video obtained by DailyMail.com showed the moment the millionaire financier, 52, was met by a group of angry hecklers who began hurling insults and objects at him as he left a Brooklyn courthouse following his arraignment. At one point one member of the group, a male, was even seen putting his keys between his fingers as a makeshift knife, while approaching the banker as they followed him down the street. Kaye made his first court appearance after turning himself in to police earlier that day on second and third degree assault charges stemming from the June 8 altercation, in which he was seen punching a woman during a Brooklyn Pride parade event. A woman named Micah Phillip has since identified herself as the woman involved in the incident on social media where she shared photos of her injuries as well as her outrage over Kaye's downgraded charges in the wake of his court hearing. In a statement on Tuesday addressing the latest incident, attorney E. Danya Perry, of Perry Law, stood by Kaye's actions, claiming the altercation outside court proved last month's clash had been 'a vicious, hate-fueled group attack' from which their client was entitled to defend himself. Jonathan Kaye's attorneys have doubled down on their defense of the investment banker after he was attacked and called anti-Semitic slurs outside of court on Monday Disturbing video footage showed one member of the group putting his keys between his fingers as he approached Kaye Kaye, 52, the now former managing director at Moelis & Company, made headlines in early June after viral video showed him throwing a vicious punch at a female reveler at the Brooklyn Pride Parade on June 8 'Another horrific incident occurred just yesterday, right outside the courthouse after Mr. Kaye's arraignment. After the complainant, 'Micah P.', expressed her displeasure with the charges on social media, a number of her supporters attacked Mr. Kaye and his female counsel. They called Mr. Kaye a 'Jewish dog' and a 'f***ing Zionist pig,' and they physically assaulted him and counsel,' she said in a statement to DailyMail.com. 'Until he was thwarted, one of the attackers was preparing to stab Mr. Kaye by taking keys and putting them in between his knuckles as he rushed toward Mr. Kaye. These violent, anti-Semitic agitators were acting just as the complainant and her crew acted on the day of the incident. 'This relentless harassment demonstrates the true character of these aggressors and underscores the deeply ingrained prejudice motivating their actions.' Earlier on Monday, Phillips took to Instagram to share photos of her bloodied and battered face, while slamming prosecutors as 'cowards' and accusing them of letting Kaye off easy. 'Just found out Jonathan Kaye was arrested today and his felony assault charges were taken down to misdemeanors, so he can beat us up and cause permanent, lifelong injuries and get away with it because he's a rich white man?,' she wrote in the post. 'I don't even know how to move forward on this if folks have advice I'd love to hear it. The Brooklyn DA are cowards and I can't believe this man is going to be able to walk away with essentially no record of his terror,' she added. Micah Phillips identified herself as the woman involved in the June 8 fracas and took to Instagram on Monday to share photos of her injuries as well as her outrage over Kaye's downgraded charges in the wake of his court hearing Phillips slammed the 'system' for favoring 'rich white men', in response to Kaye's charges being downgraded to misdemeanors Monday's video showed Phillips's supporters following Kaye and his attorney while hurling anti-Semitic slurs, with at least one member of the group heard shouting, 'Zionist pigs' and 'Jewish dogs'. The man physically attacked the lawyer from behind and then tried to chase Kaye with his car keys between his fingers. A woman eventually told the attacker to run, which he did. DailyMail.com has reached out to the NYPD for comment. It comes after sources close to the financier came forward with his side of the story in the wake of the controversy last month, claiming the fracas had unfolded after a group of four female 'Queers for Palestine' supporters allegedly started taunting the Jewish financier and throwing liquids at him as he left a nearby restaurant that night. Earlier on Monday previously unseen footage obtained by DailyMail.com shed light on the events leading up to scuffle, showing the moment the two parties cross paths on the street in Brooklyn's Park Slope neighborhood, before getting into a heated physical confrontation. The CCTV images, captured by a nearby restaurant, show Kaye emerging from the right side of the sidewalk, where the group of revelers appear to be hanging out on the corner. The two parties appear to exchange words as Kaye walks by, but he continues walking, before glancing back at the group after they allegedly begin hurling slurs and insults. As he continues up the sidewalk, he crosses paths with someone who appears to be returning to the same group of friends in the corner, and they exchange words as well. It is unknown exactly what was said, but it was apparently provocative enough to cause Kaye to stop and turn around and approach the group. Upon leaving court, he and his lawyer were met by attackers, who threw a drink at his head while hurling anti-Semitic slurs Jonathan Kaye leaves Brooklyn Criminal Court after he was arraigned and released on his own recognizance for punching a woman at a Pride Rally in Brooklyn, with his lawyer, who was also reportedly attacked The confrontation quickly turns chaotic and physical, with Kaye seen being surrounded and then shoved into the street, off screen, catching the attention of nearby onlookers. After the altercation unfolds off camera, he reappears in frame seconds later and continues on his way down the sidewalk. Last month sources told DailyMail.com that Kaye, who is Jewish, had told the group they were 'on the wrong side', prompting the women to gang up on him Now, DailyMail.com understands Kaye had turned around and went back to confront the group after hearing the anti-Semitic slurs directed towards him. In a statement to DailyMail.com, Kaye's legal representative Danya Perry, Perry Law said: 'Mr. Kaye, a middle-aged Jewish man with no history of violence or aggression, was terrorized, assaulted, and surrounded by a group of unruly anti-Semitic protesters. 'What the previously released video clip does not show is what another video and other evidence we have shared with the DA does show: that these agitators formed a ring at him, doused him with two unknown liquids, shoved him to the ground, and hurled anti-Semitic slurs at him. New footage obtained by DailyMail.com shows the moment millionaire investment banker Jonathan Kaye first encounters a group of Pride parade-goers as he walks by them on the corner of a Brooklyn street on June 8 Kaye, 52, continues walking down the sidewalk where he then encounters another member of the group (red arrow) and the two exchange words It is unknown what was said between the two, but the exchange was enough to prompt Kaye to turn around and approach the group. The bankers' attorneys have claimed the group had hurled anti-Semitic slurs at him The confrontation quickly turns aggressive and violent, as the group gangs up on Kaye and shoves him onto the street 'Terrified and injured, Mr. Kaye managed to act in self-defense to escape the situation and return safely to his family. We are hopeful that the District Attorney will fully and fairly consider these facts, along with the surge of anti-Semitic acts, protests, and attacks that are ravaging our city. We will aggressively fight injustice, and we look forward to a full vindication for our client.' As previously reported by DailyMail.com, insiders close to the 52-year-old banker had claimed the viral clip did not capture the full clash, which they say began when the group began hurling anti-Semitic slurs at Kate, who is Jewish. Kaye is said to have told the group that they were 'on the wrong side', prompting the women to gang up on him, the source said. 'You could say that he initiated it, but he didn't,' a source told DailyMail.com. 'He just said 'you are on the wrong side', and then the four of them came at him - they threw liquids at him. He didn't know what the liquid was. They were shouting slurs at him. 'He fell or he was chest bumped, and can't remember that bit. But he ended up on the pavement with them four over him. 'He got up and swung at one as he was trying to escape, and then he ran.' They also claim that the footage shows Kaye covered in liquid, with a stain on his back, in the now-viral video. Pictures obtained by DailyMail.com show Kaye's clothes soaked in a red liquid, which he believes was Gatorade, and blood pooling around his ankle after he was shoved to the floor. After video of the incident went viral, posters with Kaye's face, home address, and cell phone number had been plastered in the area close to his $4million four-bedroom townhouse in pricey Park Slope, as neighbors erupted and demanded the father-of-three be arrested. Viral video had shown Kaye throwing a vicious overhand right at an unnamed woman in Brooklyn - where he also lives in a four bedroom townhouse in pricey Park Slope, valued at just over $4million A source with knowledge of the incident said the viral clip does not tell the whole story, which they claim began when a group of Queers for Palestine supporters attacked Kaye as he left dinner. Pictured: Kaye's injuries Pictures obtained by DailyMail.com show Kaye's clothes soaked in a red liquid, which he believes was Gatorade, and blood pooling around his ankle after he was shoved to the floor Defending the banker, who works as a Managing Director at Moelis & Company, a leading investment bank with offices in Midtown Manhattan, the source said the whole thing was 'super anti-Semitic'. They added: 'You can clearly see in the video, if you slow it down, that he's wet because they were throwing liquids at him. 'That video clip is cut and doesn't show the entire thing. He's never had one issue in his entire life never been arrested or anything. 'It was a super anti Semitic attack of four individuals ganging up against one Jewish man. It's left him completely traumatized.' Kaye was placed under investigation by the bank, with a spokesman confirming his identity and adding that they are taking the footage and allegations seriously. In the clip, the woman is seen being thrown to the floor by the force of the punch, as one onlooker unsuccessfully rushes to her aid. Others looking on are heard calling Kaye an 'a**hole' and telling him to 'go f**k himself' - earning his attention briefly before he abruptly walks away. Kaye, who lives his wife, owns multiple properties on the street, which he rents out to neighbors. One said she was 'shocked' when she saw the footage this morning, adding that the father-of-three always seemed 'normal', although she normally spoke with his wife. Another neighbor described scenes of chaos on the usually quiet street last night, as the victim's friends ran up and down screaming that Kaye had assaulted a woman. President Biden is facing mounting calls from Democrats to exit the presidential race following his disastrous debate performance and potential replacements are being floated left and right. Biden has thus far rejected the pressure, insisting he could still beat Trump come November, but should the 81-year-old change course and bow out of the race, there are a series of hurdles other Democratic candidates could face. One of the biggest challenges is how to raise a sum of cash big enough to take on Trump in a short amount of time. Biden's massive campaign war chest would not necessarily flow to a replacement for the president at the top of the ticket. And that is a considerable amount of money they could be leaving on the table. President Biden's campaign announced it raised $127 million in June and had $240 million cash on hand at the end of last month Even as Biden has struggled in the polls and bombed the first debate, his campaign has been raking in cash. The Biden campaign announced on Tuesday it raised $127 million last month, it's best fundraising month of the campaign to date. It had its best grassroots fundraising hour of the entire campaign from 11 pm to midnight, the night of the debate. In the second quarter of the year, the Biden team brought in a total of $264 million and finished last month with $240 million cash on hand. But if Biden exits the race, all that money does not just automatically go to the next Democratic presidential nominee. Federal candidates can make unlimited transfers of their funds to the national party, so if Biden leaves the race, the money could all end up with the Democratic Party, which can then spend the money on the new nominee. But the campaign cannot just transfer the money directly to the nominee, as there is a $2,000 limit per candidate per election. 'In order for the withdrawing candidate's committee to get the funds into the campaign account of a successor candidate's campaign, the withdrawing candidate would have to refund the money to the original donors, who could then contribute to the new candidate's campaign,' explained Trevor Potter, president of the Campaign Legal Center. Some major Democratic donors were holding off from making any decisions about the race immediately following Biden's performance as they waited to see what the debate would mean for the polling. Others called for Biden to step aside following his abysmal debate. By Tuesday, some Democratic donors appeared to be circling the wagons, telling DailyMail.com they were going to get to work to elect Biden and the time for panic over the debate had passed. Some of the names being floated as a potential replacements include Governors Gavin Newsom (California), Gretchen Whitmer (Michigan) and Josh Shapiro (Pennsylvania) as well as Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. But there is one name being floated who could use all that campaign cash as a replacement nominee without any hurdles: Vice President Kamala Harris. Campaign finance law allows her to share the campaign committee with Biden because the president and vice president run together as one ticket, so her name is already authorized. Vice President Kamala Harris could use the campaign cash as she shares a campaign committee with the president as his running mate should Biden exit the race 'If President Biden were to cease being a candidate and was succeeded as the nominee by Harris, she would maintain access to all the funds in the committee and could use them to advance her presidential candidacy,' Potter said. The amount of cash at her disposal would be considerable as the campaign said it had $240 million at the end of June. More details on just how much of that is specifically in the Biden campaign committee versus the party will become more clear with the Federal Election filings later this month. On Tuesday, former Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan became the first prominent Democrat to publicly back Harris to replace Biden. He said she is ready for the job. But the campaign cash laws is another potential point in her favor as well as new polling. A CNN poll released post-debate looked at hypothetical matchups between Democrats and Trump should Biden not be the nominee. While all the Democrats trailed the ex-president, Harris came the closest in a head-to-head matchup: 47 percent to 45 percent among registered voters. And now a Reuters poll has revealed that Michelle Obama could be the standout Democrat best poised to beat Trump - but there are even more hurdles to getting her the money. If Harris were not the nominee, the the campaign committee could be converted into a political action committee or PAC. A PAC could make independent expenditures efforts could not be coordinated and a PAC can only make a $3,300 donation to another candidate per election. Trump's campaign said it raised more than $111 million in June and ended the month with nearly $285 million cash on hand If Democrats were to replace Biden, campaign funds will be crucial for their fight to beat Trump. The presumptive Republican presidential nominee ended June with nearly $285 million cash on hand according to his campaign, wiping out Biden's on-hand cash advantage with just four months to go before Election Day. In total, the ex-president raised $331 million in the second quarter of the year including $111.8 million last month alone. After Thursday's disastrous CNN debate, President Joe Biden and the First Lady Jill tried to get ahead of the inevitable backlash, glossing over the debacle with a flurry of soft-ball publicity appearances. A quick stop off at a debate viewing party held by ardent Biden-loyalists was followed by a midnight visit to an Atlanta Waffle House. As the President still looking stunned after his televised humiliation greeted fellow diners who awkwardly remained seated, Jill swept up to the counter and giggled: 'Order for Biden.' But, for all her slick attempts to paper over the cracks, what happened next seemed highly revealing of her behind-the-scenes panic. One of the reporters who had made their way into the Waffle House alongside TV crews asked the President how he thought he'd performed in the debate with Donald Trump. Anthony Bernal, 51, (center in the beige suit) is Jill Biden's 'work husband' and accompanied the couple on their late night visit post Thursday's disastrous debate to Waffle House. Bernal has worked with the Bidens since 2008 and is known for his unfaltering loyalty. 'I think we did well,' Biden said, before straining a smile as he was hammered with follow-up questions about 'concerns' over his competency. Then came the blink-and-you-miss-it moment: Just behind Biden, but still in camera shot, Jill glanced across to an otherwise unassuming man, with thinning hair and in a beige suit jacket, who in turn raised his eyebrows and widened his eyes, looking alarmed. A silent but perhaps telling interaction for this man was Anthony Bernal, Jill's ever-present and most senior adviser. Behind White House walls, Jill refers to Bernal, 51, as her 'work husband', with the pair rarely seen apart. 'Bernal is the most powerful person in the East Wing [the First Lady's White House quarters], he has dominion over everything that happens in it, from trips and scheduling to speeches and messaging he's on senior calls every day,' Jill's biographer Katie Rogers says. Crucially, Bernal helps 'blueprint' and orchestrate 'how the president looks when [the public] see him, not just the first lady', Rogers added. And so, as pressure now mounts on Jill who Biden insiders describe as 'the one person' who could convince the ailing president not to run in 2024 and accusations swirl about the level of her influence inside the Oval Office, Bernal's role has also come under increased scrutiny. On Sunday, the Bidens escaped for a post-debate debrief and a reportedly pre-planned photoshoot with celebrity photographer Annie Leibovitz at Camp David. And it was from those cozy presidential log cabins that Jill made a phone call to Vogue magazine, providing a last-minute update to her cover interview, due out Monday. '[We] will not let those 90 minutes define the four years [Joe's] been president. We will continue to fight,' Jill insisted to Vogue. In the closing paragraphs of the lengthy magazine profile, Bernal appears quoted on the record. 'Her family means everything to her,' he purrs. 'At her core, she's a private person.' And nobody is more prepared to help Jill conceal her private struggles than Bernal. 'He is known to be sort of very overbearing. He can be aggressive [he] makes life hell for junior [White House] aides,' biographer Rogers says. At public events, in meetings, and even on family holidays, Bernal is a permanent fixture in the Biden furniture. Nothing, it seems, passes without his approval. 'He has an unmatched ability to influence things in the president's team,' one former co-worker told the New York Post in March. Bernal met Hunter Biden and his wife Melissa after Hunter was found guilty in his gun trial last month. He rushed to Hunter at a Delaware airfield, kissing him on the cheek and hugging him, before turning to Melissa and doing the same. It was Bernal who met Hunter Biden and his wife Melissa after Hunter was found guilty in his gun trial last month. Rushing to Hunter at a Delaware airfield, Bernal kissed him on the cheek and hugged him, before turning to Melissa and doing the same. It was Bernal who personally ferried Jill and the president from Atlanta's CNN studio after Thursday's debate, to the watch-party and that 'spontaneous' Waffle House visit. And it is Bernal who is now firmly by Jill's side, as she and a select circle of advisers including Hunter counsel the President not to cave to growing calls for his resignation from within the Democrat party. 'No order is beneath Bernal,' Rogers says. 'He wrangles the dog, carts the White House cat around in her cage, and makes sure that the various Biden children and grandchildren are transported to the appropriate weekend retreats.' But it is this closeness to the Bidens, and his undoubted loyalty, that has led to fears Bernal is afforded special protections. In March, a major investigation by the New York Post spoke to almost a dozen current and former White House staffers who accused Bernal of bullying and verbal sexual harassment. Allegations include Bernal 'often' speculating about the endowments of fellow political aides and even Secret Service agents. It is Bernal who is firmly by Jill's side, as she counsels the President not to cave to growing calls for his resignation from within the Democrat party. It is this closeness to the Bidens, and his loyalty, that has led to claims Bernal is afforded special protections. He has allegedly accused colleagues of having 'small penises' during arguments, and on one occasion remarked on a staffer's 'bulge in his khakis.' 'It was a lot of inappropriate remarks talking about other people's attractiveness and speculating about their sex lives at very weird moments,' another source claimed. Others allege that Bernal who is himself gay speculates aloud at work on the sexuality of other staff. 'I have heard him say inappropriate things about people's sexuality,' an insider who worked with Bernal told The Post. 'I heard him ask if people are gay all the time... I could think of more than one instance where he pontificated on whether someone was gay or not or said, "They are definitely gay".' 'It is Me Too classic Me Too,' another source claimed. Bernal who has worked for Jill throughout the Biden presidency, and previously held roles working for the family when Joe was Vice President to Barack Obama denies all allegations against him. In a statement to DailyMail.com he described the claims as 'false' and 'baseless' and 'nothing more than gay-hate and racism', adding: 'I conduct my personal and professional interactions with integrity, compassion, and care.' When the Post published their investigation in March, White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients said in a statement to the newspaper: 'The president and first lady have full confidence in Anthony's character, as do I. It is disappointing that he is the target of unfounded attacks from unnamed sources.' Outside of work, Bernal is intensely protective of his privacy. Bernal has allegedly accused colleagues of having 'small penises' during arguments, and on one occasion remarked on a staffer's 'bulge in his khakis'. Bernal denies all of the allegations against him. He went to school in Tucson, Arizona, graduating in 1991, before studying history and philosophy at the University of Texas. He took junior roles under President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore before starting work with the Bidens in 2008, when he joined the Obama campaign as part of Jill's staff. He quickly established himself as a key support figure a role he cemented following the death of the Bidens' 46-year-old son Beau from brain cancer in 2015. 'Part of that relationship is absolutely solidified because of how he was able to keep things quiet, keep their privacy intact [after Beau's death],' Rogers says. 'Somebody told me that he would walk in front of a speeding train for [Jill].' Such fierce loyalty has earned Bernal considerable influence, over both the first lady and the president. So as concerns mount about Joe Biden's fitness to serve and run for re-election in November, the extent of Bernal's role in the White House's obstinate refusal to countenance criticism must surely be questioned. A 19-year-old Indiana man now faces decades in prison and questions about his mental health after he allegedly strangled his mother to death. Conner Kobold, 19, has been charged with two counts of murder and one on aggravated battery in connection with the death of his mother, 43-year-old Shanelle Burns. On February 5, police were sent to the home where Kobold and Burns lived in Valparaiso. Burns was found unresponsive and not breathing in the living room as Kobold shockingly confessed to strangling her. She was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. Kobold now faces mental health investigations over both his decision to represent himself at trial and the reason he allegedly killed his mother. Conner Kobold, 19, has been charged with two counts of murder and one on aggravated battery in connection with the death of his mother, 43-year-old Shanelle Burns Burns gave her son 30 days to find a full-time job, clean his room and help out around the rest of the house. This is what is believed to have pushed Kobold over the edge Things had become strained between mother and son, to the point that she issued him with an eviction letter. She gave him 30 days to find a full-time job, clean his room and help out around the rest of the house. This is what is believed to have pushed Kobold over the edge. As Kobold attempts to be his own lawyer, Superior Court Judge Michael Fish called on a mental health professional to investigate his competency. 'I want Dr. (Anand) Popli to chime in on whether you're capable to represent yourself,' Fish said Friday. Fish asked: 'I guess the most important thing out of the gate here is for me to make sure that you understand the penalty for murder is 45 to 65 years. Do you understand that?' 'Yes, your honor,' said Kobold. Fish also tried to explain to him the advantages and disadvantages of being your own attorney and the qualifications they usually have. He was then asked: 'Do you believe you have any skills or abilities that would help you represent yourself?' Burns (pictured) was found unresponsive and not breathing in the living room as Kobold shockingly confessed to strangling her. She was later pronounced dead at a local hospital If convicted on all three counts, her son faces anywhere between 45 and 84 years in prison and $20,000 in fines Kobold responded: 'I believe my case is so unique that the only person who can explain what happened and why it happened is myself' Fish asked Kobold about his educational background, his experiences in a courtroom and with public speaking. Kobold said he has a high school education, had done public speaking while in school but had never been in court before. He then admitted that he had been in mental health facilities twice and gone through five different psychologists. Kobold said that despite his challenges, he would not be affected in acting on his own behalf in court. He was then asked if he planned to enter a plea or go to trial in his first act as his attorney. 'Whatever I can do to help the court and the jury make the best decision about my situation,' Kobold said. After being informed he had to make that decision himself, he said he would negotiate with the state first. On February 5, police were sent to the home where Kobold and Burns lived in Valparaiso Fish gave Kobold a waiver to represent himself pending what the doctor says about the defendant's mental health. If convicted on all three counts, Kobold faces anywhere between 45 and 84 years in prison and $20,000 in fines. A trial date is set for August 6. Questions have been raised about the effectiveness of deradicalisation programs after a university student was stabbed in the neck by a 14-year-old boy who was charged with planning a terrorist attack at a school last year. The teenager, wearing an army camouflage uniform, walked up behind the 22-year-old man and allegedly stabbed him in the neck and back near the main entrance of the University of Sydney on Tuesday morning. The teenager, having injured his hand in the alleged attack, was detained when he was catching a bus to the very same hospital where his victim was being treated. It has been revealed the 14-year-old was charged with planning a terrorist attack at an inner-city school in Sydney last September. He allegedly made violent threats to his classmates that mentioned the Christchurch mosque shooting in New Zealand in 2019, which left 51 people dead. The charges were dismissed in Surry Hills Children's Court on mental health grounds in February of this year, and the teen entered a deradicalisation program. Sunrise host Natalia Barr asked former police detective Peter Moroney on Wednesday morning if ongoing support and monitoring was needed at the conclusion of such programs. Barr asked former police detective Peter Moroney if deradicalisation programs were working after a 14-year-old boy, who was known to police, stabbed a 22-year-old student on Tuesday Paramedics rushed to the university at about 8.35am and took the student by ambulance to the Royal Prince Alfred hospital (pictured, police take evidence from the scene) 'These deradicalisation programs, I understand, are funded by the federal government and run by the states,' she said. 'Do we need to re-look at what happens after them? Because this kid was only in one five months ago I think.' 'It would be timely now, particularly in light of the three or four young individuals that have been arrested over the last six months,' Mr Moroney replied. 'It never hurts to stop and ask have we got this right, is there anything else in addition that we could be doing? 'From an Australian government perspective, we're putting over $150million into these deradicalisation programs. We want to know as the average taxpayer are they working? Are they doing what they should be doing? 'And if not, we've got to ask those questions and hold these systems and these processes to account.' 'Yeah, just ask the poor family of the 22-year-old who was stabbed in the neck yesterday at Sydney Uni,' Barr said. Mr Moroney said the programs could be effective but further monitoring was vital. 'What's most troubling about these ones is the age of these children,' he said. 'At some point they're going to be part of an educational facility, they're probably enrolled in school, whether they're attending or not. 'The deradicalisation programs are a point-in-time program, so whilst they might go through that program, they might get what they need whilst they're in the program, once they conclude that program, what monitoring and support are they given? 'If they fall back into that cycle, off we go again and we'll end up where we're ending up right now.' Pictured is the 14-yer-old boy arriving at the university in a army-style camouflage uniform Forensics are seen scouring the entrance of the university for clues on Tuesday NSW Police sources told media that terror is a likely motive for the attack. NSW Police, the Australian Federal Police and other government agencies are working together on the investigation. The teenager and his alleged victim were not known to each other. Photos of the deserted campus showed a backpack and a puffer jacket discarded at the entrance beside what appeared to be a bloodstain. Sydney University Vice Chancellor Mark Scott said he was 'shocked and saddened' by the incident said the victim's family had been offered support. A university spokesman said security had been boosted at the university. 'As a precautionary measure there may be an increased security and police presence on campus while investigations continue,' he said. 'The safety and wellbeing of our students, staff and members of the community is our priority, and we continue to work with authorities. 'Our support services are available for anyone who needs assistance. You can access free and confidential counselling and wellbeing support 24/7 with Student Wellbeing by visiting the health and wellbeing web page. 24-hour support is also available from Lifeline via text, online chat, or by calling 13 11 14. ' A mother who locked her adopted son in an eight-foot-by-eight-foot box for hours each day teared up after learning she would not have to serve jail time. Tracy Ferriter, 48, insisted they were 'a loving family' outside court after she was sentenced to serve probation and house arrest for her part in what has been dubbed the 'Boy in the Box' case. Ferriter pleaded guilty on June 24 to one count each of first-degree aggravated child abuse, third-degree felony false imprisonment and third-degree child neglect, the Atlanta Black Star reports. The devout Christian mom-of-four and her husband, Timothy, have claimed they locked their adopted teenage son in the box to discipline him for lying, stealing valuables, attacking relatives and threatening classmates. The Florida couple said the boy, who was adopted by the Ferriters as a toddler from Vietnam, suffered from ADHD and Reactive Attachment Disorder - which impairs a child's ability to form emotional bonds. Tracy Ferriter, 48, was seen tearing up after pleading guilty to one count each of first-degree aggravated child abuse, third-degree felony false imprisonment and third-degree child neglect Tracy (left) and Tommy Ferriter (back middle) are pictured with three of their children. The couple's three other children were removed from their house by Child Protective Services, including one child who is two years old 'We were living a life that's not what is portrayed in the media,' Ferriter claimed in a press conference following the hearing, as she cried dry tears. 'There was a lot of things that nobody knew,' she insisted. 'We were a completely loving family. I love my kids. We just tried to do the best that we could with what we had.' Tracy and her husband were arrested in February 2022 after their son ran away and revealed his grim plight to police, telling them he would rather be locked up in prison than sent back to his devout Catholic parents. He told the cops he ran away because I feel like nobody loves me,' and begged the officers to take him in because he would rather be in prison than back home, the affidavit adds. The boy would go on to describe how he was banned from the rest of his house, fed leftovers and forced to go to the toilet in a bucket. He also claimed he had been whipped, spanked with a belt, struck in the face and spat on by his parents who monitored him via a Ring camera and only let him out for lessons and yard work. [The victim] stated the spankings would take place in his bedroom and he would be naked bent over his bed. [The victim] stated he could recall one spanking was so painful he fell off his bed in pain, the affidavit states. The devout Christian mom-of-four and her husband claimed they locked their adopted teenage son in the box to discipline him for lying, stealing valuables, attacking relatives and threatening classmates Tracy Ferriter, left, and her husband, Timothy, were arrested in February 2022 after their adopted son told police officers what he had endured The couple locked the adopted son in an eight-foot-by-eight-foot box inside their garage, and only let him out for a few hours each day The shocking revelations followed a year-long child abuse investigation, sparked on January 28, 2021 when the teen ran away the Ferriter home at the 200 block of Crane Point North in the Egret Landing community, pictured When investigators later seized the Ring device they found thousands of videos showing the boy being bullied and locked up on a daily basis, according to filings. In one video in particular [the victim] was locked in his room after being found to have stolen chocolate cookies from the kitchen despite being told he was not allowed to have them, an arrest affidavit states. This behavior resulted in [the victim] having the covers removed from his mattress, his mattress picked up and tossed against the wall and Timothy grabbing [the victim] against the arm yelling at him. At a preliminary hearing, the unidentified child also testified that the abusive behavior began around late December 2021, shortly after the family moved to southern Florida from Arizona. The abuse then continued for six weeks straight, investigators have said. It is unclear, however, if there had been any abuse prior. The couple told cops the makeshift cage was a home office - despite it having no windows and no door handle on the inside but with a deadbolt and the only light switch located on the outside The couple were first reported to authorities on December 28 last year by builder Jacques Ben Aim who was paid $3,000 and given just two days to build a very strange office inside their garage When police first started investigating the abuse allegations, the parents claimed the makeshift cage in the garage was a home office - despite it having no windows and no door handle on the inside but with a deadbolt and the only light switch located on the outside. It was also fitted with a CCTV camera so the pair could monitor the youngster day and night as he slept, ate and spent up to 18 hours at a time inside the pokey drywall cube, only allowing him out to go to school, its alleged. The parents later changed their story - saying the room was intended as a disciplinary measure to safeguard the other family members from harm. Their three other kids lived normally at the familys spacious $750,000 property while their sibling was fed scraps and forced to do yard work and write lines for petty offenses such as stealing cookies, according to court filings. DailyMail.com later revealed that even the contractor who designed the prison cell thought it was suspicious. Jacques Ben Aim said he was told the free-standing structure would not require a window and should only have a lock on the outside of the door. He was asked to drill a hole in the ceiling for a video camera cord. The husband Timothy rang me and said he wanted an eight by eight foot office with no window, he told DailyMail.com. 'He said it should have its own ceiling so it was sealed completely. That meant it was like a cage but I said ok, its his money, what do I care if he doesnt want a window? On the last day he asked me to fit a lock but he wanted it reversed so that the knob was on the outside. Thats what set off the red lights,' he added. I could not think of a single reason to reverse the lock, accept one to lock someone inside. Ben Aim said he was so troubled by the specs that he called the Jupiter Police Department, warning that it could be used to keep someone prisoner. The detectives agreed it was suspicious, the contractor said, but couldnt act on the information because there was no specific evidence of a crime at that time. Aim said the free-standing structure would not require a window and should only have a lock on the outside of the door. He was asked to drill a hole in the ceiling for a video camera cord The unidentified teenager described his living conditions as 'dehumanizing' during Timothy's trial last year, the Palm Beach Post reports. Still, the boy pleaded with Circuit Judge Howard Coates for leniency after he was found guilty of aggravated child abuse, false imprisonment and child neglect. 'My father was a good person who just made a really serious mistake,' the boy said. 'He was not a bad parent.' But Coates sentenced the father on November 15 to five years in state prison, followed by five years probation. He was forbidden from having contact with any of his older children until they become consenting adults at the age of 18, while any contact with his youngest child must be supervised. The unidentified boy said he was banned from the rest of his house, fed leftovers and forced to go to the toilet in a bucket while the other children were free to roam the family's $750,000 property Timothy was also ordered to complete 40 hours of anger management and 40 hours of parenting classes, and undergo a mental health evaluation. 'There were plenty of opportunities that the defendant had to reflect on whether what he did was wrong,' Coates said at the sentencing. 'It appears that he never took the time to reflect, and he never concluded that what he did was wrong.' Attorneys representing his wife, Tracy, insisted that if she went to trial over the charges, she would have been found not guilty. But her attorney Marc Shiner said she decided to plead guilty to provide 'some peace for her family' and spare her children from having to endure another trial. 'Even though she had a very good chance of being exonerated, she really wanted to put this to rest so her children could have some peace,' he told WPTV. He added that his client is not 'a monster' and hoped that her case would shed light on Reactive Attachment Disorder. 'This is a human being who is extremely educated, loving, [and who] adopted children out of the goodness of her heart.' Timothy was found guilty of child abuse, and was sentenced in November to five years in state prison followed by five years probation Attorneys representing Tracy said she decided to plead guilty to provide 'some peace for her family' and spare her children from having to endure another trial Coates, the same judge who sentenced her husband, ultimately sentenced her to 10 years probation on the child abuse count and ordered her to serve two concurrent five-year probation terms for the other two counts. He also mandated her to pay a $2,000 fine, undergo a mental health evaluation, complete 300 hours of community service and serve house arrest for one year. The judge further rescinded her right to possess a firearm and said she could not vote until after her probation and her fine is paid in full. Additionally, Tracy will have to take anger management and parenting classes, and is banned from having any contact with the victim - who is now in foster care along with her other children. If she violates any of the terms of the probation, Tracy would face at least 75 months in prison with the potential for more time if she has another run in with the law within five years. But Tracy is now planning to move to Chicago to start a new life, and Coates agreed to allow her attorneys to file a motion to transfer her probation to Cook County, Illinois. An electric vehicle driver has been slammed as selfish after parking 'horizontally' at a charging station and blocking other motorists from using the site. A photo of a white BYD was shared to Facebook on Monday and showed the car connected to a charging station in the beachside suburb of Howrah in Hobart. The unoccupied car was seen parked sideways across the charging bays, restricting access for other drivers and blocking two motorbike parking spots. The bystander who took the photo vented their anger at the driver. 'Congratulations to this person yesterday, who managed to connect to the charger on the right, while parking sideways across the charging bay on the left AND a couple of bonus motorbike parking bays,' they wrote. Social media users were quick to condemn the BYD driver. 'Don't expect anyone who buys electric car to have any brains,' one wrote. 'They probably completely ran out of charge and had to push it there,' another added. A photo of a white BYD (pictured) showed the car connected to a charging station in the beachside suburb of Howrah in Hobart 'They are cuttin down on population by takin up all the parkin spaces so anyone else with a f***** normal car had no where to park,' was another reply. 'To be fair he drives a EV sense of self entitlement comes naturally to them,' another wrote. The selfish act of the BYD driver and other similar recent incidents has raised questions about electric vehicle etiquette. Motoring website Drive offered tips on the correct etiquette for EV owners. These include moving your car out of the charging bay and into a regular parking spot when your car has finished charging to avoid inconveniencing other drivers. This behaviour of leaving your vehicle on a charger longer than necessary is known as 'camping'. The NRMA offered other electric vehicle etiquette suggestions, including not to park non-electric vehicles at EV chargers. 'This practice is called 'ICEing' and refers to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles that park in a specially marked EV charging spot,' its website reads. The selfish act of the BYD driver and other similar recent incidents has raised questions about electric vehicle etiquette. Pictured: An EV parked across multiple spaces at a Queensland shopping centre in May The NRMA stated this causes the same frustration as an EV blocking a fuel pump. Another of their tips: 'Even if another driver has breached EV charging etiquette in your eyes, it is important to keep your cool.' The NRMA wrote drivers should not be tempted to leave angry notes on windscreens, yell at other drivers or try to unplug their unattended vehicles from the charger. Not parking sideways across a charging bay and blocking other parking spots is an obvious etiquette tip. A worker who claimed he was unfairly sacked could be referred to the AFP for allegedly giving misleading evidence while taking legal action against his boss. Imran Karim Budhwani claimed he had been unfairly dismissed by IT multinational Infosys after he refused to return to the office after the Covid pandemic. Mr Budhwani took the matter to the Fair Work Comission in March before his unfair dismissal application was rejected. The FWC published its decision this week with commissioner Phillip Ryan claiming the applicant 'knowingly gave false and misleading evidence'. 'I will refer the matter to the general manager of the commission to consider whether the applicant's conduct should be the subject of a referral to the Australian Federal Police,' he said. Mr Budhwani was hired to look after computers, printers and scanners at Infosys' North Sydney headquarters in 2018. When the Covid pandemic struck, the company required anyone working in the office to be vaccinated. FWC found that Mr Budhwani 'deliberately lied to (Infosys) by stating that he was vaccinated against Covid so that he could continue to attend the office'. Imran Karim Budhwani (pictured) claimed he had been unfairly dismissed by IT multinational Infosys, but the Fair Work Commission ruled against him Under cross examination, Mr Budhwani said 'he was only caught out lying about his vaccination status when he was asked to produce his vaccination certificate'. Despite his dishonesty, the company allowed him to temporarily work from home, though this meant there were some IT support tasks he could not carry out. His manager, Nimshy Osman, had to do the Sydney office work that Mr Budhwani could not do remotely, and asked the human resources department in the second half of 2022 if he could return to the office. The Covid vaccination rule was still in place, though, so Mr Budhwani was not allowed to work from the office. But more than a year after that, on November 2, 2023, Mr Osman was told the policy had been relaxed and unvaccinated employees could return to the office. The next day, Mr Osman called Mr Budhwani and told him to return to the office the following week. Mr Budhwani gave various reasons around health conditions and living arrangements which he said would prevent him from returning to the office until February or March, 2024. He was told he had to provide a medical certificate to be allowed to continue to work remotely. The medical certificate he provided was from a doctor in Maleny, Queensland, which was the first indication Infosys had got that Mr Budhwani was not living in NSW. On November 24, the company told him to return to the Sydney office from December 11 or provide evidence as to why he couldn't. When the Covid pandemic struck, Infosys (pictured) required anyone working in the office to be vaccinated Mr Budhwani emailed to say he had a medical condition and again said he wouldn't be able to come in until February or March. When the company told him to apply for leave and asked if he was living in Queensland, he did not reply. A follow up email was then sent on December 8, with an auto-reply which came back saying Mr Budhwani was on leave until December 11 - but he had not booked any leave. He then kept on changing his auto-reply to extend the leave he said he was on, without having asked for any time off. He continued to not respond and the company sacked him on December 21. Mr Budhwani then 'falsely deallocated' three laptops that had been issued to him, the FWC heard. 'In this respect, the applicant's conduct was reprehensible,' the commission said. Before the FWC proceedings last March, Mr Budhwani said a 'personal emergency' had been part of his decision to take leave, but on the first day of the hearing, he refused to answer questions about what that was. On the second day, he said it was an eviction notice and that he had extended his leave to move out and return to work. But he then found changed his story several times, including saying that one leave period was to spend time with a friend who had come to visit. Mr Budhwani also said he had met some 'good friends' at an Airbnb who 'had asked him to cat-sit their house for the period of 2 March 2024 to 21 March 2024'. His unfair dismissal application was not successful. A father has accused police of racial profiling after he was accused of trespassing at his apartment complex and arrested by officers. Tuck, 38, has lodged a formal complaint with ACT Police after the incident at his unit in the inner-south Canberra suburb of Narrabundah on June 27. Tuck, who is from Zimbabwe but moved to Australia with his wife and daughter 17 years ago, said he was recuperating after a hospital stay by his apartment complex's pool when a neighbour approached him. The neighbour, who lives in the same complex, began demanding to know who Tuck was and what he was doing. Tuck, who was wearing a hoodie, slippers and fleece track pants, said he was 'confused' by the neighbour's 'discourteous' questions. 'I wasn't sure if he was asking about my ethnic origin or whether he was asking about if I [live] within the complex,' he told the ABC. Tuck refused to tell the neighbour where he lived and returned fire by asking the man for the same information. The neighbour threatened to call the police, which Tuck welcomed because he thought they would stop the harassment. An Australian citizen, who originally comes from Zimbabwe, has accused police of racially profiling him when they arrested him a communal area of the apartments he lives in He was astonished to see three police cars pull up 15 minutes later - a response he thought was an 'over-reaction'. Tuck said three officers began interrogating him and asked where he lived. He pointed to his house which backs onto the pool and barbecue area. Police demanded photo identification, according to Tuck, which he did not have on him. However, he showed officers the keys for his house and the pool gate. Officers said they would have to get a photo ID from the house. 'I was offended at the suggestion that they would enter my house,' Tuck said. 'There was no search warrant. There was no report that there was anything illegal that they needed to search for in my house.' Tuck said the police aggression was such that he asked if they were going to shoot him. With Tuck resisting demand that he let them go in his house the officers began escorting him out of the pool area. 'I didn't take kindly to that, because I had a lawful right to be in the barbecue area,' he said. At this point he began filming the interaction. Tuck alleges that at this point an officer grabbed his wrist and said the phone was in his face. The officer then arrested Tuck on suspicion of trespassing. 'I was restrained on my right shoulder, and then they began to handcuff me behind my back,' Tuck said. 'I did not resist the arrest, I just gave up.' Officers also allegedly asked Tuck if he was intoxicated or had consumed marijuana, with one saying his eyes were red and his voice appeared slurred (stock image) Tuck told news website RiotAct that when the officer 'was trying to get the keys from my hand he cut himself on a key and told me he was adding assaulting an officer to the charge'. Officers also allegedly asked Tuck if he was intoxicated or had consumed marijuana, with one saying his eyes were red and his voice appeared slurred. He accused police of trying to 'strengthen the profile' they were trying to create. While one of the officers told him the arrest had nothing to do with the colour of his skin, Tuck doesn't believe that was the case. '[They believed] that I was an unemployed youth... you know, potentially of African or Indigenous descent, that was enjoying amenities unlawfully,' he said. 'I think they just hoped that indeed it was a trespass to confirm the narrative they'd created.' After being handcuffed, Tuck was bundled into a police van with officers taking his keys to enter the unit and eventually they ascertained it was his and released him. An ACT Police spokesman on Wednesday confirmed the incident to Daily Mail Australia. He said officers 'received a report of an alleged trespasser at an apartment complex in Narrabundah' and claimed a man had been 'belligerent. 'The man was asked to provide identification but became belligerent with police directions,' the spokesman said. 'As officers attempted to handcuff the man, he resisted, causing a minor injury to an officer's hand.' 'The man was eventually cuffed and placed in a police vehicle while officers conducted checks on the man's address. 'After confirming the man was a resident of the apartment complex, he was unarrested.' Despite alleging Tuck cut the officer's hand police said they were laying no charges. They also confirmed Tuck's complaint had been received and 'was being assessed in accordance with the AFP Complaints Management Framework'. Police in Philadelphia are searching for a registered sex offender after he managed to scam Walmart out of a crossbow. Investigators in Cumberland County are searching for Shawn Whiddon, 51, after he made off with the weapon in Lower Allen Township on Tuesday. Police say that Whiddon managed to scan a barcode that registered as a children's crossbow valued at $25, but walked out with an adult one worth $239. Officers also suspect that Whiddon committed a similar theft at another nearby store and are seeking him for unlawful use of a computer and retail theft. Whiddon was placed on the sex offender register following a conviction in 2001 for the offense of attempted 'carnal knowledge'. Investigators in Cumberland County are searching for Shawn Whiddon, 51, after he made off with the weapon in Lower Allen Township on Tuesday Police say that Whiddon managed to scan a barcode that registered as a children's crossbow valued at $25, but walked out with an adult one worth $239 The incident happened in Bedford County, Virginia, and he was originally indicted on charges of 'taking indecent liberties with a child'. Any further specifics on the case remain unclear at this time. He was ordered to have no contact with his victim and sentenced to three years in jail. In November 2007 Whiddon was also arrested after robbing a bank in Augusta, Georgia, of just over $4,100. In court papers seen by DailyMail.com, he entered the Regions Bank and told the teller: 'I need all your hundreds, fifties, and twenties'. The teller said she initially thought Whiddon was joking as he smiling, before he added: 'This is no joke. No die packs or bait money. Don't make me come back there or hurt anyone. I'm desperate'. Officers found his abandoned car in the area after the incident with handwritten notes requesting money from the bank, but he failed to use them in the robbery. After police caught up with him later that same day inside a motel he gave a full confession. In November 2007 Whiddon was also arrested after robbing a bank in Augusta, Georgia, of just over $4,100 Police say that Whiddon walked out with an adult one worth $239. A Barnett Expedition Crossbow priced at $239 from Walmart is seen here Whiddon later told a sentencing judge in 2008 that he had suffered with a drug problem for years and had robbed the bank to pay back drug dealers he owed. For the robbery he was sentenced to six and a half years behind bars, followed by three years of supervised release. In a court transcript, Whiddon previously told a judge that he was divorced and had two children of his own. He also said his occupation had been as an accountant for a plastics store in New York City. Victims of a prisoner who was filmed allegedly having sex with a female guard have slammed reports that he will not see further punishments, claiming 'this is not what we thought it meant to get hard time in prison'. Linton Weirich, 36, of West London, was seen in a clip filmed on a smuggled phone appearing to have sex with prison officer Linda De Sousa Abreu at HMP Wandsworth. The incident involving the prolific burglar, who is currently serving four years and nine months, led to police investigation with married De Sousa Abreu, 30, charged with misconduct in public office. The con, who was jailed after he stole 65,000 worth of goods from a safe in a luxury Kensington flat, was put in segregation but is unlikely to face any further punishment and is not under police investigation. One victim who was targeted by Weirich in January said: 'I was aware of the video. I just didn't know that was our burglar. The whole thing seems surreal. This is not what we thought it meant to get hard time in prison. Linton Weirich (pictured with his partner who is seven months pregnant) is the inmate who was filmed allegedly having sex with a female guard in a cell Prison officer Linda De Sousa Abreu (pictured) was charged with misconduct in public office Linda De Sousa Abreu tries to cover her face outside Uxbridge Magistrates' Court yesterday 'It sounds like the prison officer is the only one being punished, too.' Weirich had broken into the woman's home while she was having building works done but only managed to steal a few drills before being arrested. Officers had caught him because of the ankle tag he was wearing, the woman explained adding: 'I don't think he's the sharpest tool in the box.' Another one of his victims who said his bike was stolen by Weirich in December, told The Sun: 'He's definitely not the smartest cookie if he was just targeting all the people on his doorstep. 'I can see why police managed to catch him. It's hardly justice though if he's having fun in prison.' It comes as MailOnline revealed that Weirich's partner is seven months pregnant and went into hospital after suffering from stress fearing she could go into premature labour. A source close to her said: 'This is the last thing she needs in her condition, it's extremely upsetting. This stupid video has affected her health, she was hospitalised at the weekend through stress. She fears it will bring on premature labour.' Weirich was jailed for four and a half years for burglary at a dwelling and theft on June 7 at Kingston Crown Court. Weirich was jailed for four and a half years for burglary at a dwelling and theft on June 7 at Kingston Crown Court Linda De Sousa Abreu was seen carrying a large suitcase and hiding her face as she left Uxbridge Magistrates' Court yesterday Weirich was seen in the video filmed on a phone appearing to have sex with the prison officer De Sousa Abreu was arrested at Heathrow and had been due to catch a flight, the court heard The footage was allegedly filmed at HMP Wandsworth in South West London Photographs posted on his Instagram page show Weirich with the same arm tattoo as the man in the alleged X-rated video. Six years ago, Weirich pleaded guilty to dangerous driving on the M6 at Stafford. He also admitted assaulting a police officer with intent to resist arrest, driving without a licence and driving without insurance when he appeared at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court in March, 2018. Meanwhile, De Sousa Abreu, 30, who is married, appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court yesterday charged with misconduct in public office. The prison officer was arrested at Heathrow Airport on Saturday before she could catch a flight to see relatives in Madrid, a court heard yesterday. She was attempting to travel on a Portuguese passport, which was seized by the Metropolitan Police. De Sousa Abreu appeared in court charged with misconduct in public office by 'engaging in a sexual act with a prisoner in a prison cell.' Wearing a custody-issue grey tracksuit, she spoke only to confirm her name, date of birth and address. Weirich was jailed earlier this year after stealing 65,000 worth of goods from a safe in a flat Among the items he stole in a raid in 2022 were jewellery, belts, handbags and a suitcase A court artist's drawing of Linda De Sousa Abreu at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court yesterday Prosecuting Niamh McDonagh told the court: 'Ms De Sousa Abreu was apprehended at Heathrow Airport where a flight had been booked for Madrid. I believe she has relatives living there. 'A Portuguese passport was seized by police when she was apprehended. She is a Portuguese national with a Portuguese passport. ' Defending, Gayathri Yogarajah said De Sousa Abreu had notified HMP Wandsworth, telling them of her travel plans which was duly passed on to Scotland Yard. She was granted conditional bail and will appear for a plea and case management hearing on July 29 at Isleworth Crown Court. She must remain at an address in South West London given in court. Her Portuguese passport must remain with the police and she cannot make any attempt to retrieve it. She is forbidden from applying or being in possession of international travel documents and she must hand over her Portuguese Identity card that she could travel on. De Sousa Abreu is also forbidden to enter any UK port and must be electronically monitored between the hours of 9pm and 7am. Do YOU know Linton Weirich? Email: tips@dailymail.com Even if decades have passed since you watched an episode of Tom and Jerry, you will probably recall that mice are elusive creatures. Now experts may have discovered why - a study shows that they are masters of tactical deception. Researchers placed test chambers with a single entrance near a forest outside Warsaw, where they observed the social interactions between wild black-striped and yellow-necked mice. Over seven months, they recorded 21 instances where a mouse used deception to outwit their rival. In the most obvious cases, a black-striped mouse would run into the chamber while being pursued by a yellow-necked mouse. A recent study has shown mice to be masters of tactical deception Even if decades have passed since you watched an episode of Tom and Jerry, you will probably recall that mice are elusive creatures The black-striped mouse would quickly turn and hide just inside the entrance until its rival entered the chamber, before fleeing back out before the yellow-necked mouse turned around. The team, led by researchers at San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, said this is the first evidence of intentional tactical deception in mice. The study, titled Catch me if you can, was published in the Royal Society Open Science journal. It reads: This newly documented defensive behaviour of black-striped mice can be classified as pursuer evasion, since the evading mouse actively escapes an approaching mouse in order to avoid physical contact and a possible fight. It appears that, since black-striped mice cannot overcome yellow-necked mice with strength, they instead employ tactics and deception to outperform their opponents avoiding a physical confrontation. Canberra's new hot couple kicked off a fiery Midwinters Ball on Wednesday night, with controversial - and thrifty - dresses capturing attention. Josh Burns used the annual glitzy get-together to hard launch his long-rumoured relationship with Animal Justice League MP Georgie Purcell, who showed off her array of tattoos in a daring black gown with a thigh-high split. The Jewish Labor MP recently separated from his wife, and sparked romance rumours with staunchly pro-Palestine Ms Purcell in April. It was Ms Purcell's first time in the capital and she said it was a 'relief to be honest' that Mr Burns was there with her. Never one to shy away from controversy, Lidia Thorpe arrived in a pro-Palestine dress with the divisive phrase 'from the river to the sea embroidered down the front. Her white frock also had a blood-stained look at the bottom and her bag said 'Love Harder'. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his fiancee Jodie Haydon arrived just before 7.30pm and immediately began smiling and posing for photographs. Keen to avoid negative attention during the ongoing cost of living crisis Mr Albanese wore a simple black suit while Ms Haydon upcycled her sparkling dress from 2022. Melbourne designer Lucy Laurita restyled the dress with sustainable fashion in mind. Canberra's hot new couple Josh Burns and Animal Justice League MP Georgie Purcell debuted their relationship at the ball Politics' night of nights has arrived with this year's Midwinter Ball drawing in politicians from all sides including Lidia Thorpe who came in a Palestine-themed dress Just before 7:30pm Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his fiancee Jodie Haydon arrived with Ms Haydon's dress being upcycled from her 2022 appearance at the ball Ms Haydon upcycled her dress from two years ago. In 2022 left, and 2024 right The couple walked straight to hug Chalmers and his wife before posing for more photos. Opposition leader Peter Dutton was also present with his wife Kirilly, who donned a pink silk full length dress believed to be from ME+EM, which costs $1,450. Jim and Laura Chalmers arrived arm-in-arm with Ms Chalmers in a baby blue dress with rhinestones. Jim Chalmers arrived arm in arm with his wife Laura who came in a baby blue dress with rhinestones The prime minister (right) and fiancee Jodie Haydon )seocnd right) posed for photos with Treasurer Jim Chalmers and his wife Laura Ms Chalmers poured her slender frame into a powder blue Rebecca Vallance gown worth a staggering $1,500. The sleek number features a rounded neckline, cinched waist and princess seams to enhance her trim physique, before falling into a column skirt. It appears Ms Chalmers wasn't a fan of the original design and opted for alterations on the night, ditching the short cape sleeves which featured an embellished feather design. The journalist opted to keep her accessories to a minimum at the event, carrying her valuables in an Oroton clutch valued at $150. Ms Chalmers appeared to finish her head-turning ensemble in a pair of Le Silla beige 'Nicole' pumps made from transparent mesh with a pointed-toe silhouette. The Italian-made footwear adorned with sparkling crystals retail for $1,725. Opposition leader Peter Dutton arrived with his wife Kirilly who wore a pink silk gown believed to be from ME+EM, which costs $1,450 Jaquie Lambie, who stole the show last year, looked ethereal yet again in a bedazzling blue feathered gown, with her hair slicked up in a top knot and accessorised with a big chunky necklace and blue clutch Sky News host Peta Credlin dazzled in a multi-coloured, sparkling dress Jaquie Lambie, who stole the show last year, looked ethereal yet again in a bedazzling blue gown, with her hair slicked up in a top knot while wearing a big chunky necklace. She stopped halfway down the stairs and posed for photos. Teal MP Monique Ryan came in rocking a teal dress, sticking to her colours. Greens senators Larissa Walters and Dorinda Cox came with statements of their own, in the form of props brought along to the ball. Senator Cox arrived in a black sequin dress with a purse printed with 'Truth and Justice Now' in reference to Aboriginal equality. Senator Walters was spotted sporting some large pink earrings advocating for her pro-choice abortion stance. Minister for National Disability Insurance Scheme Bill Shorten came with his daughter Georgette, 22, who he called a 'stunner' in her chic champagne dress. Minister for NDIS Bill Shorten came with his daughter Georgette who wore a chic champagne dress Teals Monique Ryan, Allegra Spender, Zali Steggall, Kylea Tink, Zoe Daniel, Kate Chaney and Sophie Scamps joined for a group photo on the staircase Nationals leader David Littleproud and his wife Amelia came dressed in simple attire with Mr Littleproud in a bow tie and his wife in a vibrant yellow dress Senator Sarah Hanson-Young brought her partner Ben Oquist as her date Australian actor Rachel Griffiths (left) came with home affairs minister Clare O'Neill (right) Minster for Industry and Science Ed Husic came with his fiancee Fiona Scott Independent Member for Indi Helen Haines and her husband Phil were dressed classically for the ball The Midwinter Ball was one of few occasions politicians put their differences aside and come together to raise money for those in need, hobnobbing with corporate chiefs and journalists in the process. The annual event signals the beginning of parliament's long awaited five-week winter break. This year Labor was hanging for the reprieve provided by the ball more than usual, after the actions of first-term Senator Fatima Payman - and the prime minister's handling of the incident - overshadowed the government's long-awaited cost of living measures. Ms Payman crossed the floor to side with the Greens on a motion to recognise the state of Palestine, setting into motion a chain of events which culminated on Sunday with her indefinite suspension from the party room. Mr Shorten and his daughter were seen chatting with Minister for Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek and her husband Michael Coutts-Trotter Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles attended the ball with his daughter Isabella ABC journalist Annabel Crabb came in a slick silver dress and black blazer Member of the House of Representatives Melissa McIntosh came with her son Byron Shadow Minister for International Development Michael McCormack and his wife Catherine Shaw came arm-in-arm Nationals member Keith Pitt and Liberal member Karen Andrews joined forces for the night Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus was seen with his niece Fee Chemke-Dreyfus Mr Albanese's failure to decide upon her punishment swiftly dragged the chaos into a second sitting week. And Ms Payman has enjoyed sweeping support for her decision outside of the Labor party, opting to vote with her conscience and risking her career in the process rather than toeing the party line. The 29-year-old is weighing up her future. Journalists have been frothing over the saga but none who appeared at the ball this year spent any time on the topic, instead opting to mingle with politicians. ABC's Annabel Crabb came in a short silver dress and Nine editors Tony Maguire and Luke McIlveen entered in low-key outfits for the occasion. Some members have historically used the evening to make statements, like last year when Labor Senator Jana Stewart donned a white ballgown covered in passages from the Uluru statement. In 2022, Greens Leader Adam Bandt's partner Claudia Perkins was used as a billboard for her views on environmental policies, with giant lettering: 'Gas kills, coal kills'. That same year, independent Senator Lidia Thorpe stormed down the marble stairs in blue jeans and an Aboriginal flag t-shirt repeatedly screaming 'fossil fools' and extending her middle fingers to the assembled guests. Minister for Youth Anne Aly wore a knitted flowery sash Ms Aly's silk throw over was embroidered on the back with domestic violence statistics from 2024 Minister for Sports Anika Wells was photographed with Parramatta MP Andrew Charlton Greens senators Larissa Walters and Dorinda Cox came with statements of their own in the form of props brought along to the ball Ms Cox arrived in a black sequin dress with a purse printed with 'Truth and Justice Now' in reference to Aboriginal equiality Minister for Climate Change Chris Bowen brought his son Max along with him Minister for Resources Madeleine King celebrated in silver shiny shoes while her husband Jamie wore a kilt Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth and Speaker Milton Dick posed together Deputy leader of the Liberals Sussan Ley wore a midnight velvet semi-shoulderless dress which was stamped with a large gold broach The Midwinter ball raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for various charities each year, with $360,000 raised both this year and last. It has raised $5 million over its lifetime of 25 years and more than 640 guests attended the 2024 Midwinter Ball. Some notable charities who have received the funds in recent years are Rural Aid Australia, OzHarvest, Fearless Women, Roundabout Canberra, Pink Elephants and the Ukrainian Crisis Appeal. Notable absences at the 2023 event were Coalition Senator Jacinta Price and Senator Thorpe. Boris Johnson was unleashed as the Tory party's secret weapon last night, answering the Prime Minister's calls as he warned undecided voters a Labour landslide would be 'pregnant with horrors'. With just a day of campaigning left before Brits go to the polls, the former Prime Minister put to bed any rumours of a feud with Rishi Sunak in a last-ditch attempt to cling on to blue seats. Stepping out into the central London rally last night, Mr Johnson was surrounded by ardent supporters who clapped, whistled and chanted his name as he made a long-awaited return into the spotlight. During his impassioned speech, Mr Johnson called on voters flirting with backing Reform to 'draw back from the brink' to stop Sir Keir Starmer secure his party's projected supermajority tomorrow. He labelled Nigel Farage as a 'Kremlin crawler' and unleashed attacks on Labour's 'mandatory wokery' and 'uncontrolled immigration', bluntly adding that people who 'have a few thousand to spare' and 'actually want higher tax' should vote red. Mr Johnson went on to make a dig at Sir Keir Starmer saying it was 'way past his bedtime' after the Opposition leader admitted he tries to avoid working past 6pm on Fridays to spend time with his family. The former PM was not expected to make a return on the general election campaign but had decided to make a dramatic eve of the poll intervention after becoming 'vociferously angry and upset' over a predicted Labour supermajority. Hinting at the 'trivial' differences between himself and his former Chancellor Mr Sunak, Mr Johnson said he was a 'glad when the PM asked for help' and 'could not say no' because they both 'love our country'. Throughout his impassioned speech the ex-PM urged the public not to vote for a Labour Party 'pregnant with horrors' Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pictured arriving at the rally last night in central London A new MRP study by Survation, published within the final 48 hours of campaigning, predicted Labour would win 484 seats at this week's general election The former Mayor of London hit out at Labour's plans to hike taxes and said the party would not take a firm stance against Vladimir Putin, following his unjust invasion of the war in Ukraine. He went on to criticise Sir Keir for not being able to explain 'the difference between a man and a woman'. 'He sits there with his mouth open like a stunned mullet,' he said. Mr Johnson, who led the Tories to a landslide victory in 2019 against Jeremy Corbyn, added: 'They can achieve nothing in this election except to usher in the most left-wing Labour government since the war with a huge majority, and we must not let it happen. 'Don't let the Putinistas deliver the Corbynistas. Don't let Putin's pet parrots give this entire country psittacosis - which is a disease you get by the way from cosying up to pet parrots. 'Friends, if you actually - everybody if you actually want higher taxes next week, this year, if you feel you've got a few thousands to spare, then vote Labour on Thursday. If you want uncontrolled immigration and mandatory wokery, and pointless kowtowing to Brussels again, then go right ahead, make my day, vote for Starmer. 'But if you want to protect our democracy and our economy and keep this country strong abroad by spending 2.5 per cent of our GDP on defence which Labour still refuses to commit to, then you know what to do, don't you, everybody? 'There's only one thing to do - vote Conservative on Thursday my friends and I know you will. I know you will.' Boris Johnson made a surprise appearance to welcome Rishi Sunak onto stage last night as the Tories try ward off Labour's projected supermajority The Survation model, based on polling data from more than 30,000 voters, forecast the Tories would be reduced to just 64 seats in the House of Commons The Prime Minister outside the venue ahead of his rally in central London last night Mr Johnson's intervention is said to have come after the Prime Minister sent him a personal message last week asking him if there was anything at all he could do to help the final days of campaigning. While Mr Johnson has used his weekly Daily Mail column, social media and personal letters to electrify the flagging campaign he was largely kept a low profile on the campaign trail. Yet Tory strategists brought the former PM back into the spotlight, hoping he could electrify a flagging campaign and galvanise former Conservative voters to keep the faith when they head to the polls on tomorrow. Mr Johnson's appearance was a closely-guarded secret known only to a tiny handful of No10 officials. Even cabinet ministers attending last night's rally were kept in the dark. Last night a friend added: 'Boris loves the Conservative party and has always believed in being a big person. So when the call came to help, of course he answered. 'He's hoping that if he can give the Tories such fulsome backing after the way he's been treated by the party other disgruntled supporters will do the same too.' Following his speech, Mr Johnson welcomed the Prime Minister onto the stage who urged voters not to 'surrender to Labour' and 'fight for every vote'. Addressing the known tensions between himself and Mr Johnson - as well as wider strains within the Tory party - he told the audience: 'Isn't it great to have our Conservative family united, my friends?' Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson raise a pint on a visit to a London brewery in 2021 - before Mr Johnson was deposed as Prime Minister As he entered the rally, Mr Sunak told the audience 'Isn't it great to have our Conservative family united, my friends?' The ex-PM spoke after former cabinet minister and outgoing MP Michael Gove also urged the public not to vote for 'Corbyn-hugging' Starmer 'Just think, just think, it was just the other day when Keir Starmer was saying that Jeremy Corbyn would have been a better prime minister than Boris,' he added. 'Shameful. Can you imagine what that would have meant for Ukraine? What it would have meant for our country's security, our defence, the damage it would have done to our economy?' The PM - who is currently spending his last hours of campaiging on a whirlwind tour across the UK in a bid to gain 130,000 extra votes - told undecided voters they had '48 hours to save Britain from a Labour government'. 'I know you are tired, but we have to give it one last push. We have to fight for every vote. We have to fight for our values.' He concluded his speech by telling the audience: 'I love my country. My story would not be possible in any other country.' Boris' intervention came as: Mr Sunak said that just 130,000 voters in marginal seats could change the course of the election and prevent an 'unchecked' Labour government. Polling by Lord Ashcroft suggested Labour's huge lead could be trimmed to single figures if Tory voters return to the fold in the next 48 hours. Home Secretary James Cleverly branded Labour's immigration plans a 'con job' and warned the party would introduce an amnesty for tens of thousands of illegal migrants. Sir Keir insisted a Labour landslide would bring stability and be 'better for the country'. Another Reform candidate defected to the Tories with a blast at the 'racist, misogynistic, and bigoted' views of other senior figures. The PM and Labour leader spent the day criss-crossing the country in a bid to energise supporters to get out and vote tomorrow. Mr Johnson last night's said he had doubts about whether polls showing a giant Labour majority were accurate, saying he had faith that people would 'still show more sense on Thursday'. But he said traditional Conservatives 'cannot just sit back as a Labour government prepares to use a sledgehammer majority to destroy so much of what we achieved'. He warned that Sir Keir would water down Brexit, restore free movement and 'make us nothing but the punk of Brexit - taking EU law, but with no say in how it is made'. Campaigning in the East Midlands yesterday, Sir Keir Starmer said the attack on his working habits was 'bordering on hysterical' As the election battle enters its penultimate day, the PM visited an Ocado plant in Bedfordshire before 5am And he warned a Labour agenda would involve 'whacking up taxes on pensions and property, persecuting private enterprise, attacking private education and private healthcare - with all the pointless extra burden that will place on the taxpayer'. He mocked Sir Keir as the former 'disciple' of Jeremy Corbyn who is so in thrall to Left-wing activists that he looks like a 'stunned mullet' when asked to explain what a woman is. And he savaged Nigel Farage for his praise of Vladimir Putin's skills as a political operator. Mr Johnsons warned that Reform 'can achieve nothing in this election except to usher in the most left-wing Labour government since the war, with a huge majority,' adding: 'Don't let the Putinistas deliver the Corbynistas.' Mr Johnson's appearance attracted criticism from the opposing parties. The Lib Dems deputy leader Daisy Cooper said last night: 'This is an insult to everyone who made heartbreaking sacrifices during the pandemic. 'Rishi Sunak has reached a desperate new low, turning to a man who discredited the office of Prime Minister and lied to the country time after time. 'It is time to boot out this tired and sleaze-ridden Conservative Party, and elect Liberal Democrat MPs who will stand up for their communities.' A series of polls yesterday showed that Labour's poll lead is being squeezed as Reform's vote falls back - but suggested Sir Keir remains on course for a landslide majority. One Tory insider said: 'The squeeze is on, but it is very late.' A Redfield and Wilton Strategies survey of 20,000 voters found that Labour's lead had been trimmed by four points, but left them still 19 points ahead of the Conservatives. Polling by Lord Ashcroft published by the Mail yesterday also gives Labour a 19-point lead, with Labour's overall support dipping to 38 per cent - less than Jeremy Corbyn achieved in 2017. But a mega poll by Survation found that Labour were now '99 per cent' certain to get a bigger landslide than Tony Blair in 1997. The survey of more than 30,000 people, predicted that Labour will win a record 484 seats, with the Conservatives reduced to a rump of just 64, narrowly ahead of a rejuvenated Lib Dems on 61. Reform could get 16 per cent of the vote but win just seven seats, the poll found. In an interview with the Daily Mail, Mr Cleverly said voters worried about the threat of a Labour supermajority can still turn out tomorrow and 'make the opinion polls wrong'. He acknowledged that some people want to 'punish' the government after tough few years marred by Covid and the war in Ukraine. But warned he warned those considering Reform that the urge to give the government a 'slap' could lead to '15 years hard Labour' if they split the vote and give Labour a supermajority.' 'The vast bulk of votes have not been cast - you can decide what future you want. You can make the opinion polls wrong,' he said. 'The scale of the 'hovering pencil' cohort means the outcome is nowhere near as definitive as some of the commentary has suggested.' He said those toying with a vote for Reform to send a message to the Conservatives should consider whether 'the message you are looking to send, is worth five, 10, 15 years of hard Labour?' The PM dismissed suggestions the outcome of the election was a 'foregone conclusion' and said he was 'feeling energised' with two days to go Mr Sunak purchased McDonald's breakfast for reporters from a Beaconsfield service station in Buckinghamshire Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey fell from a surfboard in Bude, Cornwall, as he continued his stunt-filled campaign In a speech yesterday, Mr Sunak will urge voters worried about a big Labour majority to take action to prevent it. 'If you are worried about an unchecked, unaccountable Labour government you can stop that by offering us your support so we can stand up for you and be your voice in the next Parliament,' he will say. 'Your vote will determine whether your MP is just another addition to Starmer's supermajority or a local champion, someone who cares about you and will fight for your area and its needs. 'Do you want an MP who holds the Government to account or one who just unthinkingly backs Keir Starmer and whatever he wants to do?' Mr Johnson's appearance comes as Sunak began a 48 hour whirlwind tour across the country in desperate appeal to the public as pollsters project that tomorrow, Keir Starmer could win a bigger majority than Tony Blair's landslide win in 1997. Kicking off the last two days of campaigning, the current Tory leader claimed all the party needed was 130,000 votes to make the difference. 'It's not over until it's over,' Mr Sunak brazenly told downbeat supporters and party activists as they approach the finishing line of a grueling six-week drive for votes. His motivating words echoed that of Johnson's who last week jumped up to the aid of his former Chancellor telling voters 'it's not too late'. Starmer on the final days of the campaign trail yesterday The final MRP study by Survation yesterday, published within the last 48 hours of campaigning, predicted Labour would win 484 seats at this week's general election Sunak pictured on the final blitz of his campaigning rally 'There is still time between now and Thursday for the nation to swerve from the cliff edge,' Daily Mail columnist Mr Johnson wrote on Friday. 'We can collectively come to our senses. We can dodge the bullet.' The former PM, who resigned almost two years ago, went on to attack Starmer's own 'shockingly low' approval ratings. Mr Johnson added: 'Britain is about to jump the points and jink left, abruptly, in what could be a Left-wing socialist supremacy that lasts for a decade or more. 'And yet Starmer's own approval ratings are shockingly low the lowest ever for an Opposition leader on the verge of entering Downing Street, let alone of a triumph on the scale currently predicted. Poll after poll says the same.' Mr Johnson's appearance with Mr Sunak comes after the current PM welcomed his predecessor to join him on the campaign trail. Earlier this year Mr Sunak said the ex-PM could join him as he tries to build support for the Tories. Diffusing any concerns of a rift between the two leaders, Mr Sunak told The Sun's Never Mind the Ballots show that he had been in touch with the ex-PM at the end of last year. He said in April - months before he announced the election date: 'I spoke to him in person at the end of last year and we've messaged since then as well.' Asked if he would be invited to campaign on doorsteps and in the streets of Britain for the Tories, Mr Sunak added: 'That's a question for him. 'Anyone from the Conservative family who wants to see a Conservative re-elected and who doesn't think Keir Starmer is the right person to lead our country will be welcome on the campaign trail. 'Ultimately that's the choice. It's Keir Starmer or me as Prime Minister after the next election. 'If you want to keep cutting taxes, a more sensible approach to net zero, if you want to tackle illegal migration, then we are the people to do that for you.' The final MRP study by Survation yesterday, published within the last 48 hours of campaigning, predicted Labour would win 484 seats at this week's general election. The model, based on polling data from more than 30,000 voters, forecast the Tories would be reduced to just 64 seats in the House of Commons.It means the Tories would scrape into being the official Opposition, with the Lib Dems predicted to win 61 seats. Xi's visit to promote SCO cooperation, enhance China-Central Asia relations Xinhua) 08:10, July 03, 2024 BEIJING, July 2 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping left Beijing on Tuesday for a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and state visits to Kazakhstan and Tajikistan. During the summit in the Kazakh capital of Astana, Xi will discuss with his SCO colleagues development blueprints and build up consensus on cooperation, which is poised to add new impetus to maintaining peace and prosperity on the Eurasian continent and beyond. Countries on the vast Eurasian continent share a long history of exchanges, similar development tasks and a closely linked future. Xi's trip is expected to enhance China's cooperation with respective countries and help build a closer China-Central Asia community with a shared future. Students learn tea art under the instruction of a student (L) from Xinjiang Normal University during the 2024 "Chinese Bridge" Spring Camp for students from SCO countries, in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, April 15, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Fei) STRONGER TIES In early June, Xi, along with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, applauded via video link the signing of an intergovernmental agreement on the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project. The railway is a strategic project of connectivity between China and Central Asia that demonstrates their commitment to common development through cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The project is the latest example of the SCO family's cooperation and solidarity under the guidance of the "Shanghai Spirit." The SCO was created 23 years ago with the "Shanghai Spirit" being its founding values, which champion mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, consultation, respect for diversity of civilizations and pursuit of common development. Now, with nine member states, three observer states and 14 dialogue partners, it is the world's largest regional organization in terms of geographical scale and population. Xi has attended every SCO head-of-state summit since 2013, including through live videoconferences during the COVID period, and shared his thoughts and proposals on building stronger SCO ties and promoting development. Maintaining regional peace and security is the cornerstone of SCO cooperation. In recent years, SCO members have strengthened coordination in combating the "three evil forces" of terrorism, separatism and extremism, tackling drug trafficking, as well as safeguarding security in cyberspace and outer space. A major driving force of the SCO's development is an orientation towards economic growth and practical cooperation. The SCO has witnessed flourishing trade and investment cooperation among its members, with its share of global trade rising from 5.4 percent in 2001 to 17.5 percent in 2020, according to China's customs data. People-to-people exchanges and mutual learning have become another key component of SCO cooperation through the years. The bloc has witnessed burgeoning projects and activities, including the 2024 "Chinese Bridge" Spring Camp for students from SCO countries, which opened in Xinjiang in April, and the SCO agricultural universities alliance, which now fosters exchange of agricultural talents among over 20 universities from SCO member states. Belt and Road cooperation between China and other countries has yielded fruitful results, promoting connectivity and socio-economic development of regional countries, former SCO Secretary-General Bolat Nurgaliyev said. This is an epitome of the countries' cooperation based on equality and mutual benefit, and an important manifestation of the "Shanghai Spirit," he said. An aerial drone photo taken on May 4, 2023 shows a view of the Kapshagay photovoltaic power station in Almaty, Kazakhstan. (Photo by Kalizhan Ospanov/Xinhua) ANOTHER GOLDEN 30 YEARS China and Kazakhstan share a border of roughly 1,700 km and a long history of friendly exchanges between their peoples. Xi used "good neighbors, good friends and good partners" to describe the profound friendship between the two countries. The strategic guidance of the two countries' heads of state is a distinctive feature of China-Kazakhstan relations. During a state visit to Kazakhstan in September 2013, Xi proposed the Silk Road Economic Belt, an essential component of the BRI. When Xi visited the Central Asian nation again in September 2022, he received the Order of the Golden Eagle, the highest honor of Kazakhstan, from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The two leaders announced that China and Kazakhstan will work for building a community with a shared future defined by lasting friendship, a high degree of mutual trust and sharing weal and woe. The year 2022 marked the 30th anniversary of bilateral ties. In 2023, Xi and Tokayev met twice in China. They pledged that the two countries are ready to create another 30 years of golden period for bilateral relations. The two countries have built a full-fledged connectivity network to facilitate cross-border transport and trade. Thanks to cross-border railways, land border crossings and other logistic and trade facilities, China-Europe freight trains rumble like modern-day camel caravans, delivering products made in China to Central Asian and European countries, as well as wheat, fertilizers and other products from the landlocked country to China's Pacific harbors. China was Kazakhstan's largest trading partner in 2023, with two-way trade up by 32 percent year-on-year to reach 41 billion U.S. dollars. A variety of cultural and people-to-people exchanges serve as bridges to further strengthen their friendship. The entry into force of the agreement on mutual visa exemption is expected to increase cross-border travel. The Luban Workshop, a Chinese vocational workshop program training talents overseas, has been operating in Kazakhstan since last year. With Kazakhstan-China relations growing at a high level, it is believed that Xi's visit to Kazakhstan will open up new prospects for bilateral cooperation, said Gulnar Shaimergenova, director of Kazakhstan's China Studies Center. Wu Zhengpeng (2nd L), a teacher from Tianjin Urban Construction Management & Vocation Technology College of China, explains the usage of mapping devices to students at the Luban Workshop in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, April 12, 2023. (Photo by Kalizhan Ospanov/Xinhua) NEW IMPETUS Since the establishment of China-Tajikistan diplomatic ties more than 30 years ago, bilateral relations have withstood the test of the evolving international landscape and achieved a leapfrog development. In recent years, Xi and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon have maintained frequent interactions, forging a profound friendship and facilitating the growth of bilateral ties. In September 2014, Xi paid his first state visit to Tajikistan. Rahmon accompanied Xi for nearly 10 hours and warmly received him with a family banquet. "Good brothers walk hand in hand," Rahmon said. When Xi revisited Dushanbe in June 2019, he received the Order of the Crown from Rahmon. The two heads of state signed a joint statement on further deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership. During the China-Central Asia Summit in May 2023, the two presidents jointly announced the building of a China-Tajikistan community with a shared future featuring everlasting friendship, solidarity and mutual benefit, setting a clear goal for the development of bilateral relations. Tajikistan is one of the first countries to support the BRI and sign cooperation documents with China. Belt and Road cooperation between the two countries has yielded fruits, including the construction of the China-Tajikistan highway. The two sides are also exploring cooperation in green technology, digital economy and artificial intelligence to boost high-quality development. Recent years have witnessed an increasing number of Tajik students in the country's Confucius Institutes or in China. The first Luban Workshop in Central Asia has been operating in Dushanbe for two years, grooming many talents for Tajikistan's vocational education and the country's industrialization and modernization. "Tajikistan and China are the closest neighbors and partners," said Qanoatullo Saifulloev, deputy director of the state-run Khovar News Agency, adding that he believes Xi's upcoming state visit to his country will promote the continued development of bilateral relations and benefit the two brotherly peoples. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Feature: Two musicians' brotherhood, an epitome of China-Kazakhstan friendship Xinhua) 13:46, July 03, 2024 ASTANA, July 3 (Xinhua) -- In Almaty, the largest city of Kazakhstan, a street bears the name of the renowned Chinese musician Xian Xinghai. Nearby, another parallel street honors the Kazakh musician Bakhytzhan Baikadamov. Among the many heartwarming tales of friendship between the people of China and Kazakhstan, the story of these two musicians, who met and forged a bond during the turbulent time of war, stands out. It was often quoted by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visits to Kazakhstan as epitomizing the profound friendship between the two countries. At the outset of the Great Patriotic War, Xian, a renowned Chinese composer, arrived in Almaty after experiencing much hardship. By then, Xian was worn down by poverty and illness and had no one to turn to. Fortunately, the Kazakh composer Baikadamov took care of Xian and provided him with the comfort of a home, Xi said in a speech delivered at Kazakhstan's Nazarbayev University in 2013. "It was some time in the middle of November 1942. When my father was passing by a fence, he saw a thin man sitting on his suitcase, wearing a light sweater and holding a violin," Baldyrgan Baikadamova, Baikadamov's daughter, said about the fateful encounter. "My father spoke Kazakh and Russian, the composer responded in English and French. But it was obvious that the Chinese musician really needed help and had nowhere to go. So my father just took his hand and led him to us," she said. Baikadamov, well-versed in Kazakh folk music, was instantly captivated by Xian's compositions. They soon became bosom friends and devoted brothers despite their different nationalities, Xi noted in a signed article in the Kazakh media on Tuesday as he began his state visit to the Central Asian country. "Xian and my father always sat together. My father played the dombra (a Kazakh two-stringed plucked musical instrument), and Xian took notes for the melody. Then Xian played the violin and my father checked whether Xian was right or not. That's how they learned the Kazakh national folklore and culture together," the daughter said. Their collaboration led to several joint musical projects that blended Chinese and Kazakh musical traditions, and it was in Almaty that Xian composed his famous works Liberation of the Nation, Sacred War and Red All over the River. He also wrote the symphony Amangeldy based on the exploits of the Kazakh national hero. These pieces served as a rallying call to fight Fascists and proved immensely popular with the local people. Xian was finally overcome by homesickness and suffered from lung disease. He died in a hospital in Moscow at the age of 40 in October 1945. Xian did not have the chance to return to China. The news of Xian's death devastated her father, said the daughter. The friendship between Xian and his Kazakh friend became the subject of a movie named "The Composer," the first film co-produced by China and Kazakhstan and screened in 2019. In the same year, a special joint movie screening event was held in Astana, Beijing, and Macau, Xian's birthplace. Students from universities including Kazakhstan's Astana International University, China's Tsinghua University, and the University of Macau watched the film together via video link. Irsaliyev Nurali, one organizer of the joint screening event, told Xinhua that he and his friends were moved by the friendship between Xian and Baikadamov. "If more people (in our two countries) can cultivate this kind of friendship and relationship, the future will indeed be a golden one," he said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Ed Miliband's 'fantasy eco plans' will create tens of thousands more jobs in China than in the UK, senior Tories claimed last night. Labour's Shadow Energy Security Secretary wants to triple solar power capacity in the UK as part of his ambitious plan to deliver zero-carbon electricity by 2030. He wants solar farms to provide 50GW of energy by the end of the decade, up from 15.8GW earlier this year. It will mean a huge increase in the number of the panels harnessing the sun's rays - and more jobs in an industry that currently supports only 6,400 people. But new analysis by the Conservatives suggests Labour's clean power drive will be 'made in China', because its scale and speed means there will not be time to expand UK production to the required rate. Labour has watered down Mr Miliband's original pledge to borrow 28 billion a year to fund green initiatives - but it has retained his goal to achieve 'clean power' by 2030 Based on US Department of Energy estimates that each extra 1GW of production generates work for 2,000 more people, the Tories say Labour's plan will create another 71,837 jobs. And according to the International Energy Agency's latest assessment, 80 per cent of all solar panel manufacturing is based in China. So the Tories say Labour's solar expansion will end up creating 57,470 jobs in China - and only 14,933 in the UK. Last night Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden told the Mail: 'Labour aren't content with destroying jobs in the North Sea oil industry by refusing licences. Now they want to ship them to China. 'Their fantasy eco plans mean higher bills for families and making us reliant on China for decades - which our own National Security strategy identifies as the number one threat to our economy security. 'Do not let virtue-signalling trump the national interest. Do not surrender this country's light switch to Labour.' But a Labour spokesman insisted: 'This is more desperate Tory lies. After 14 years of failed Tory energy policy, jobs have gone overseas and our clean energy infrastructure has been imported from China and the rest of the world. Rishi Sunak has no plan to change it. 'Labour's plan means investment in 650,000 jobs of the future and creating Great British Energy. That'll lower people's bills with cheap, homegrown energy. 'The only way to stop the Conservatives' chaos and exporting of British jobs, is to vote for Labour on Thursday.' It comes after Mr Miliband told the Guardian that a Labour government will fill a 'vacuum of leadership' to take the lead on global efforts to tackle climate change. 'There is not a minute to waste in the drive for 2030 clean power and in the drive for climate action. The world is off track, Britain is off track and we intend to change that direction,' he said. Labour insists the plan will create 650,000 future jobs and lower bills (File photo) It remains unclear how much Labour's flagship pledge to deliver clean energy by 2030 will cost taxpayers. Last week it emerged that Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones had admitted the 28billion a year the party previously earmarked for green investment would not be sufficient to decarbonise the power system. 'No it's tiny. Hundreds of billions of pounds we need,' he told a meeting earlier this year in remarks that were seized on by the Tories. However Mr Jones clarified that most of the money will come from the private sector, pointing to the money being put into nuclear power stations Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C by their private owners. 'All these bits of kit which are owned by the private sector, in order to get to that net zero target will have to spend money and invest in their own businesses in order get there,' he told LBC radio. Labour see the much-maligned inheritance tax as a way to redistribute wealth, a party frontbencher has claimed. Darren Jones, the shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, told a public meeting that funds from the levy should be used to address 'intergenerational inequality'. In the leaked recording, Mr Jones - who will be responsible for public expenditure if Labour wins the election - said there is a 'bulk coming through the system of huge amounts of inherited wealth'. Last night senior Tories said the remarks, first reported by The Daily Telegraph, showed the 'cat's out of the bag' when it comes to the party's plans on taxes. Mr Jones is deputy to Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves, meaning he will wield power on taxation if Labour form a government on Friday. Darren Jones (pictured), the shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, told a public meeting that funds from the levy should be used to address 'intergenerational inequality' At the meeting in Bristol in March, he said: 'We've had a bit of a debate (on inheritance tax) in Westminster because there were some plans to abolish it... we didn't think that was the right thing to do, because there was going to be this kind of bulk coming through the system of huge amounts of inherited wealth in our country, largely off the back of housing asset values. 'For the intergenerational inequality point, we think it's important that inheritance tax remains because it does allow you to get some of that value back in, to be able to redistribute across generations.' Inheritance tax is currently charged at 40 per cent on the value of estates above 325,000. Up to six per cent of estates are set to be subject to the levy by the end of the next Parliament. British Chief Secretary to the Treasury Laura Trott pictured speaking at a press conference in June Laura Trott, the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, said: 'This is what we have been warning about and now the cat's out of the bag. Labour are saying one thing before the election, but make no mistake if they win, they will tax you, your home, your car, your pension. 'Now we know where they plan to tax first.' A Labour spokesman said: 'This is total nonsense. Nothing in our plans requires any additional tax to be increased. We have set out fully costed, fully funded plans, with very specific tax loopholes we would close. 'We have said very clearly that our interest isn't in raising taxes our priorities are economic growth and making working people better off.' A top pollster says there's only one Democrat who can beat Trump but not only have they never held office, they haven't even campaigned for Joe Biden yet this election season. While other former Democrats and liberal pundits have speculated on Biden's ability to hold the presidency through 2028, should he win, two elected members of the party's Congressional delegation have called on him to drop out Tuesday. Maine Democratic Rep. Jared Golden, 41, is now saying that he expects Trump to win after Biden's terrible debate performance while Lloyd Doggett of Texas, 77, he's actually 'OK' if Donald Trump wins in November. The fallout from the debate disaster just five days ago has left the party scrambling fro its immediate and long-term future, one that presumably wouldn't involve Biden. Now, pollster Ipsos tested several elected an unelected Democrats head-to-head with Biden and only one would beat him, according to their survey. A top pollster says there's only one Democrat who can beat Trump but they haven't even campaigned for Joe Biden yet this election season Michelle Obama, the former First Lady of the United States, currently polls with a massive 50-39 lead over former President Trump. Obama, 60, has never sought nor held any elected office but has often been seen as a dream candidate given her broad popularity. The poll was released the same week reports revealed that First Lady Obama has stayed away from the campaign trail because of her friendship with Hunter Biden's ex-wife Kathleen Buhle. The former first lady, one of the most popular figures in the Democratic party, hasn't posted about the 81-year-old president's re-election bid. Buhle and Hunter split in 2017 and details of the divorce resurfaced when she testified at his recent federal gun trial in Delaware. Axios reported that Michelle told others that her friend had been wronged by the Biden family, who have blamed Buhle for some of the lurid details of Hunter's behavior becoming public. The poll only contains negatives for the remaining power players of the Democrat Party, however. Only Vice President Kamala Harris (losing 43-42) comes within a point of Trump, according to Ipsos. Michelle Obama, the former First Lady of the United States, currently polls with a massive 50-39 lead over former President Trump Other Democrats currently in office do even worse: Governors Gavin Newsom of California (losing 42-39), Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan (losing 41-36), Andy Beshear of Kentucky (losing 40-36) and JB Pritzker of Illinois (40-34) all trail Trump. The poll actually shows positive news for Biden relative to his recent polling, as the survey shows him tied with Trump at 40 percent each. Michelle Obama has still never once given any impression she would run for any office. After reports surfaced of the Obama-Biden feud, White House spokesman Andrew Bates denied there was any rift between First Lady Obama and the Biden families. He said: 'The Biden and Obama families are like family to each other, and whomever made these claims about that relationship isnt familiar with it. 'The former President and First Lady have been two of the strongest supporters of President Bidens leadership and agenda.' Buhle accused Hunter of blowing his family's money on drugs and prostitutes and cheating while he spiraled into crack cocaine addiction. The poll was released the same week reports revealed that First Lady Obama has stayed away from the campaign trail because of her friendship with Hunter Biden's ex-wife Kathleen Buhle The poll actually shows positive news for Biden relative to his recent polling, as the survey shows him tied with Trump at 40 percent each She and Michelle became close during the Obama administration, but the dynamic between the Obama and Biden families has changed since, according to the report. During the Obama presidency the two women worked out in the gym together and would often have cocktails in the White House, They still have a close bond today that has reportedly sparked friction between Michelle and the Bidens. According to the report, Former President Obama described the Biden family as 'weird s***' following a fundraiser for the Beau Biden Foundation in 2017. Michelle was initially reluctant to campaign for Joe in 2020, but was ultimately persuaded to hit the trail when Democrats told her the stakes would be too high if she missed out. Now her husband has taken to the trail solo by appearing at multiple glitzy fundraisers with Joe. A White House spokesman and a representative for Obama both denied reports of a rift. Crystal Carson, a spokesperson for Michelle Obama said she is friends with both Kathleen and the Bidens. The fallout from the debate disaster just five days ago has left the party scrambling fro its immediate and long-term future, one that presumably wouldn't involve Biden facing Donald Trump Michelle Obama has still never once given any impression she would run for any office 'Mrs. Obama has already said she supports President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris campaign. 'She is friends with Kathleen and with the Bidens. Two things can be true. On Monday Dr. Biden graciously joined the family to celebrate the life of Mrs. Marian Robinson.' Biden remains insistent that he will not drop out of the campaign. The French 'Excalibur' has vanished from a rock it had been wedged in for the past 1,300 years. The famed Durandal sword is presumed to have been stolen from the southern village Rocamadour, despite it being wedged and chained to the stone 32ft off the ground. It has left the clifftop village bereft at the loss of its prized tourist attraction with the mayor Dominique Lenfant saying locals feel as though they have been stripped of a part of themselves. Police have launched an investigation but officers have been left baffled as to how the mystical sword was able to be taken due to its lofty and awkward position embedded in the cliff wall next to the sanctuary. The famed Durandal sword (pictured) is presumed to have been stolen from the southern village Rocamadour, despite it being wedged and chained to the stone 32ft off the ground Durandal was wielded by Roland, a legendary knight, with the sword's magical powers being mentioned in 11th century poem The Song of Roland Mayor Lenfant said the town was devastated, reported The Telegraph. 'We're going to miss Durandal. It's been part of Rocamadour for centuries, and there's not a guide who doesn't point it out when he visits,' she told La Depeche, a French newspaper. 'Rocamadour feels it's been stripped of a part of itself, but even if it's a legend, the destinies of our village and this sword are entwined.' According to legend, the sword could not be broken and was able to slice through boulders with one swoop due to it being the sharpest blade in existence. A myth says it was first given to Emperor Charlemagne by an angel before it was wielded by his nephew Roland, a legendary knight. Durandal is mentioned in 11th century poem The Song of Roland. In the epic, it tells of the sword's magical powers and said it contained one tooth of St Peter, the blood of St Basil, and the hair of St Denis. Roland is said to have tried to break the sword on a rock before his death at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass to stop it from getting in the hands of the army of Saracens he had valiantly fought. But he ending up throwing it into a valley where it miraculously flew for miles and ended up getting embedded into the Rocamadour's cliff. Ex-soap star Orpheus Pledger who spiralled into drug abuse and violence will beg for mercy today to avoid six more weeks behind bars in a late bid for freedom. Pledger, 30, faced Melbourne Magistrate's Court for sentencing on Wednesday over charges relating to his savage attack on a woman in the early hours of March 25. The vicious assault was captured by a motion-activated camera owned by Pledger which showed him grabbing the victim's hair and throwing her to the ground before stomping on her head. Images of the woman's injuries from the attack show bruises on the side of her face that bore a 'similar resemblance' to the sole pattern of Vans sneakers he owned. On Monday, he pleaded guilty to a raft of charges and was assessed for eligibility to be released on a community corrections order. Pledger sat quietly behind glass in the dock as Magistrate Justin Foster ordered he serve a further six weeks in custody to undergo a more 'extensive' assessment. His solicitor, Jasper MacCuspie, formally opposed the matter's adjournment and argued his client should be released having already spent 96 days in remand. Pledger was initially remanded in custody but a late application for Pledger to be bailed and released will now be heard in court at 3pm on Wednesday. Pledger underwent a brief CCO assessment on Tuesday, which Corrections Victoria determined was insufficient given details of the matter. Former Home and Away star turned thug Orpheus Pledger (pictured) will spent six more weeks behind in prison for the brutal assault of a woman in April The vicious attack caught on a motion-activated camera (pictured) which showed Pledger pulling the victim's hair, throwing her to the ground and stomping on her head Magistrate Foster told the court Corrections Victoria had requested additional time to produce a more detailed report on Pledger's 'complex needs'. 'I was hoping the matter could be dealt with today,' he said. 'But noting the seriousness of the offending ... In my view it's appropriate that take place.' Mr MacCuspie told the court his client had already served 96 days behind bars and that an extended stay would 'prejudice' Pledger. 'I understand the complexities with this manner ... (but Pledger) ought to be released from custody today,' he said. Magistrate Foster said Pledger needed an extended assessment because it hadn't been determined if it was influenced by a 'drug-induced psychosis or a mental health issue'. 'Your client has stomped on a woman's head,' he told Mr MacCuspie. The court heard on Monday that Pledger had a successful acting career which peaked with 339 episodes in popular soap opera Home and Away. But he suffered a devastating blow to his career when a role on a US television show fell through at the 11th hour, and sent the actor into a downward spiral. Pledger started associating with an 'antisocial' crowd and using methamphetamines recreationally which he admitted in court was effecting him at the time of the attack. The victim called Triple Zero warning police Pledger was in the midst of a mental health incident shortly before the assault, the court previously heard. She was heard saying 'he's coming' before the line cut out. Police arrived 15 minutes later and found the woman lying on the ground while Pledger was nowhere to be seen. He was arrested two days later and remanded in custody until April 15 when he was bailed for one day to receive a mental health assessment at the Northern Hospital. Pledger on Monday pleaded guilty to a raft of charges relating to the attack and was assessed for a community corrections order on Tuesday which was found to be insufficient The court heard on Monday that Pledger (left) had fallen into a downward spiral of using drugs such as meth after his soap character was killed off and he lost a role on a US television show A police prosecutor told the court on Monday that Pledger warned hospital staff that he was going to 'kill' the victim on multiple occasions. He then fled the hospital, after waiting about six hours for a consult, and returned directly to the victim's home. The court heard that when a family member told him he needed to return to custody, Pledger replied: 'Why? I haven't done anything wrong'. Magistrate Foster fumed when told Pledger had escaped from the hospital, saying he 'bent over backwards' to approve the bail condition. A three-day manhunt was launched before he was arrested again and officially refused bail and remanded in custody. Mr MacCuspie said he understood the magistrate's reservations about granting Pledger bail given his prior escape but said he would apply for his release. He argued that a 'standard mental health assessment' would be satisfactory for determining Pledger's mental state instead of an extra six weeks behind bars. His client's 96 non-consecutive days remanded in prison was beyond what he would have been sentenced given a lack of priors, Mr MacCuspie told the court. 'A further six weeks with severely prejudice Mr Pledger,' Mr MacCuspie said. Magistrate Foster said his time spent behind bars was 'well within range' of a sentence relating to the seriousness of the charges. Pledger is expected to be formally sentenced when he returns to court following the assessment in August. Orange Is the New Black's Lea DeLaria unleashed a profanity-laden rant against Donald Trump Monday, during which she appeared to call on Joe Biden to assassinate him. DeLaria's declaration came days after the Supreme Court ruled the president of the United States has immunity from prosecution for official acts in office, helping Trump's chances in his most recent reelection bid. The actress who played inmate Carrie 'Big Boo' Black one the hit Netflix show had some choice words as a result, though not for the Republican, but Biden and the conservative-dominated court. She called Associate Justice Clarence Thomas an 'Uncle Tom,' and beseeched Biden 'to take out' his now four-year rival. 'Done. I'm Done. I'm f**king seriously done,' the 66-year-old begins, in a clip that saw some commenters go on to accuse her of 'domestic terrorism'. The post, published on Monday, comes about a year after DeLaria revealed she had secretly wed longtime girlfriend Dalia Gladstone. Orange Is the New Black's Lea DeLaria unleashed a profanity-laden rant against Donald Trump Monday, during which she appeared to call on Joe Biden to assassinate him The actress played inmate Carrie 'Big Boo' Black one the hit Netflix show, and is seen here at right with costar Tarn Manning in a scene filmed in 2013 'The Supreme Court has p***ed me off so much right now. Like, so much,' she continues, appearing before her more than 1.1million followers in sunglasses and a fitted Yankee cap. 'Joe, you're a reasonable man. You don't wanna do this, but here's the reality,' she adds, before laying out her self-professed strategy. 'This is a f**king war. This is a war now. And we are fighting for our f**king lives. 'And these a**holes are gonna take it away,' she continues, with tears in her eyes. 'They're going to take it away.' Growing increasingly animated and curt, she proclaims, 'F**k you, Clarence "Uncle" Thomas. F**k you. 'Joe, you now have the right to take that b**ch Trump out,' she goes on to claim. In the dismal tirade, she urged Biden to 'blow him up', referring to Trump. 'Facts,' she says as a signoff. 'The Supreme Court has p***ed me off so much right now. Like, so much,' she continues, appearing before 1.1million followers in sunglasses and a Yankee cap, with tears in her eyes 'Joe, you now have the right to take that b**ch Trump out,' she rants She called associate justice Clarence Thomas an 'Uncle Tom,' a derogatory term for a black man considered to be excessively obedient to white people. He was one of six to vote in favor of the recent ruling She also appeared to beseech President Joe Biden 'to take out' his now four-year rival The clip sees her repeatedly curse out Trump and the GOP, branding them 'anti-democracy a**holes' and 'tyrants' In an accompanying caption, she continued her tirade against the former president, while challenging dissidents with different opinions. She again curses out Trump and the GOP, branding them 'anti-democracy a**holes' and 'tyrants.' Ignoring how the very same court made same-sex marriage legal less than a decade before, she claimed, 'Its all out war now. They will destroy us,' referring to the GOP. 'They only want power F**k them,' she wrote at one point. The argumentative post quickly sparked pushback, with commenters calling the rhetoric not only divisive, but dangerous. 'Shouldn't violent content like this be taken down,' one such person asked. Another person attempted to tag the FBI, writing, 'She is inciting violent acts on a former sitting president. 'If anyone else said this they [would] be paid a visit!' that person added. Commenters were quick to accuse her of 'domestic terrorism', with one asking if she was calling for the assassination of a former president DeLaria - seen here at last year's 'Dyke March' in NYC - did not respond to those inquiries The post published about a year after DeLaria revealed she had secretly wed longtime girlfriend Dalia Gladstone, a former receptionist who also lives in New York City Ignoring how the very same court made same-sex marriage legal less than a decade before, she claimed, 'Its all out war now. They will destroy us,' referring to the GOP Other went as far as to accuse DeLaria of domestic terrorism, with one person writing, 'Are you calling for the assassination of a former president?' Another similarly sniped, 'This sounds threatening and harmful to an ex president, is that legal? Wouldn't that be domestic terrorism?' DeLaria did not respond to those inquiries. Since starring in Orange Is The New Black, she's had a variety of bit parts on shows like Awkwafina is Nora from Queens. Most have been one-offs. In April of last year, she tied the knot with longtime girlfriend Gladstone, a former receptionist who also lives in New York City. Breaking the news to Page Six at the time, she said the marriage 'was not a big deal.' The U.S. Supreme Court struck down all state bans on same-sex marriage, legalized it in all fifty states, and required states to honor out-of-state same-sex marriage licenses in June 2015. British holidaymakers are taking legal action against a five-star resort in Cape Verde after being struck down with 'severe food poisoning'. Among the ten claimants is Graham Lamont, 59, who lost 17lbs in weight after being falling ill at Riu Palace Santa Maria and is still being treated by doctors to this day. The father was holidaying at the five-star resort last May to celebrate his daughter finishing school when he and his wife, Josephine Black, became unwell. The couple continued to feel under the weather - even having to take days off work - after they landed back on British soil, but whilst Josephine's health improved the NHS training manager continued to suffer. Grieving widow, Sarah Tootell, 44, whose trip to the West African island to scatter her late husband's ashes was wrecked when she became ill has also joined the lawsuit. Graham Lamont, 59, who lost 17lbs in weight after being falling ill at Riu Palace Santa Maria is still being treated by doctors to this day (pictured left to right: Graham Lamont, Josephine Black and their daughter Nina) He is among ten claimants who have joined in taking legal action against the five-star resort in Cape Verde (pictured) after falling ill Josephine, 53, who is also part of the legal probe began to become increasingly concerned about Graham has he continues to lose weight following the food poisoning. 'The amount of weight he's lost is such a big concern now and doctors have taken a number of blood tests to discover more about his illness,' she said. 'This is the last thing you expect from a five-star holiday and we now wish we'd never been. 'We've spoken to others who fell ill at the same time and have seen terrible reports about this hotel since coming home. 'I just wish we'd seen some of these reviews before we left.' The council worker and her husband from Glasgow, jetted off to the island for a week-long stay at the resort with their two kids on May 10. The trip, booked through TUI, was a chance to celebrate their daughter Freya, 18, finishing school and to enjoy a final family break before she began university. But it was not long before they began to suffer the effects of food poisoning at the same hotel where over 300 bouts have been reported since 2022. On May 13, Josephine suffered severe stomach cramps and diarrhoea while Graham fell ill with similar symptoms on May 16, just before they were due to return home. He later lost more than 17lbs in weight and remains ill to this day. 'The amount of weight he's lost is such a big concern now and doctors have taken a number of blood tests to discover more about his illness,' Graham's wife Josephine Black said. (Pictured: Graham with Josephine and their daughter Freya) Sarah Tootell's trip to island to scattering her husband's ashes was also wrecked after she became under the weather at the resort (Pictured: Sarah Tootell and her daughter Halle) Josephine said: 'This trip was booked as a special treat with Freya finishing school and as probably our last family holiday together before she starts university. 'We've never tried five-star or all-inclusive before and this seemed a perfect time. We couldn't have been more wrong. 'I started to be sick a day into the holiday and I have never felt so ill in my life. 'I was still ill on returning home but Graham has seemed to get the worst of it. He was so poorly, and had to travel the following day.' Sarah Tootell, from Bury, Lancashire, fell ill on the sun-kissed island where she'd headed on May 8 for a week-long stay with her daughter, Halle, nine. The trip, also booked via TUI, was the first time Sarah travelled alone with her child and was a chance to scatter the ashes of her husband, who died six years ago. But as they were returning on May 16, Sarah became feverish and later suffered severe sickness and diarrhoea. Tests by her GP back home confirmed that she had contracted shigella, a form of food poisoning that comes from eating or drinking contaminated produce. She continues to feel nauseous and still struggles to eat normally more than a month following the ordeal. 'This was the first time I had travelled on my own with Halle and took a lot of courage to book in the first place, so I'm devastated by the way things have turned out,' she said. 'I had concerns about the food, including the number of animals around and flies on some of the dishes left out. 'We always avoided these but there also seemed to be a lot of food brought back to life too, with ribs at lunchtime recycled in a rib curry at night, dishes like that.' After continuing to feel unwell on the way home, Sarah Tootell's GP later confirmed had contracted shigella, a form of food poisoning that comes from eating or drinking contaminated produce 'I had concerns about the food, including the number of animals around and flies on some of the dishes left out,' Sarah said (pictured: Sarah Tootell's daughter Halle) 'My GP said it was likely something from the holiday but I couldn't believe it when I got a call from public health who said I had tested positive for shigella,' she added. Jatinder Paul, serious injury lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, said: 'It's deeply concerning that we have been instructed to act year after year. 'Many of our clients have reported worryingly similar experiences and patterns that have left many of them seriously ill. 'Our clients understandably have many questions of how they came to be so ill and why people are still being sent to the resort, when based on what we're seeing, lessons don't appear to have been learned from previous illness outbreaks among guests.' MailOnline have approached Riu Palace Santa Maria for comment. A starving dog was left for dead on a pile of rubbish with the horrific discovery bringing animal rescuers to tears. Atticus, a five-year-old Staghound, was found infested with fleas and lice and in an emaciated condition in Melbourne's northwest on June 21. He weighed less than half his recommended weight when he was brought into the Lost Dogs Home where he is receiving life-saving treatment. Lost Dogs Homes' director Dr Jessica Wilde told the Herald Sun she believes Atticus had been starved for over six weeks. 'Horrific is the only the word to describe it, it's a devastating sight to see,' she said. It's not known when Atticus was left for dead and Dr Wilde said the will to live of the dog is extraordinary, after he probably had to eat dirt to survive. When he arrived at the Lost Dogs Home, Atticus was unable to eat, stand, or even lift his head up, but he is now able to stand on his own. Atticus is still unable to clean himself, eat or drink without assistance. Atticus still is unable to clean himself, eat or drink without assistance and is looked after by a foster carer each night He is being cared for in a dedicated room, covered in blankets and looked after by a foster carer each night. Dr Wilde said even after being inflicted with such sickening abuse, Atticus has a kind spirit and is showing glimpses of a friendliness. 'Every time we walk in, his tail starts wagging and he's trying his best to sit up and interact,' she said. Although there are positive signs, Atticus has a long road of recovery ahead of him and will remain in the care of the Lost Dogs Home for the next few months. Dr Wilde said the condition of Atticus had left staff in tears. 'The most difficult part of our job is that so many of the dogs that end up here have been let down by the people that were meant to love them,' she said. 'They just want to be loved.' A five-year-old Staghound called Atticus was found on June 21 infested with fleas and lice in an emaciated condition and is now being cared for at the Lost Dogs Home in Melbourne Dr Wilde said due to cost-of-living pressures, the Lost Dogs Home and other animal shelters have seen an increase in pets being surrendered, but 'there is no excuse' for cases like Atticus. Dr Wilde told the ABC the rise in numbers can also be attributed to 'pandemic pets' bought during the Covid pandemic being surrendered, as people stopped working from home and resumed their normal lives. The ABC reported the shelter recorded a 44 per cent increase to the total number of animals surrendered between 2021 and 2023 1,981 surrendered last year alone. An uninhabitable, rotting three-bedroom 'shack' in Sydney's inner-west has sold for $2.41million, as house prices continue to surge across the country. The home in Enfield, which requires more than $500,000 in repairs to become livable, went under the hammer on Saturday in front of 300 people with 25 registered bidders. Agent Matthew Blackmore of Richards Matthews Real Estate said he didn't expect the inner-west property to reach anywhere near $2million because of the work needed. 'It's probably the craziest auction I have ever seen in real estate,' he said. He said there were 'endless possibilities' for the next owner of the 570 square metre block of land. 'There are holes in the ceiling, the floor is very old timbers, and you have to be careful where you walk,' he said before the auction. But Mr Blackmore said the significant damage deterred none of the bidders. 'Some of the people calling about it told me they had seen the house many times and had always thought to themselves they'd buy it if it came on the market,' he said. A rotting timber house in Enfield, in Sydney 's inner-west, is not exactly what comes to mind when you imagine a $2.5million property in the city Selling agent Matthew Blackmore said there are holes in the ceiling, the floor is very old timbers and you have to be careful where you walk Mr Blackmore said the house was located on The Parade, the best street in Enfield, and because there were mostly established homes in the area, there were not many land value opportunities for buyers. Mr Blackmore also sold a house across the street that reached $200,000 above reserve, but it was a double-brick liveable home and the buyers moved straight in. 'For a house that you can't move straight into to only sell for a few hundred thousand dollars less is crazy,' he said. Some people at the auction were hoping to pick up the home for the bargain price of $1.5million, but Mr Blackmore said about half the bidders were bidding more than $2million. It is understood that most of the interested parties wanted to knock it down and rebuild a house, which would likely be worth $3.9million given the location. Because there is no supply in the current market, Mr Blackmore did not expect property prices to come down anytime soon. 'If there were another 10 houses like that they would be sold tomorrow,' he said. 'Good land in good suburbs are doing really well.' The median cost of a home in Australia grew by $59,000 to $794,000 in 12 months, according to CoreLogic's July report. It is understood that most of the interested parties wanted to knock it down and rebuild a house, which would likely be worth $3.9million The continued growth since February means average dwelling prices increased by eight per cent in the financial year 2023-2024. Housing sales also showed a strong recovery with an increase of 8.6 per cent on year-end figures, with Perth recording a historic 29 per cent increase in sales on its five-year average. CoreLogic's research director Tim Lawless said the national index had 'found a groove', rising between 0.5 per cent to 0.8 per cent month on month since February. 'The persistent growth comes despite an array of downside risks including high rates, cost-of-living pressures, affordability challenges and tight credit policy,' he said. However, chronic housing shortages across most of the country continue to plague those trying to buy their first home, with listings stalling in most states. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available Incredible before and after photos lay bare Hurricane Beryl's devastation across the Caribbean islands as the powerful storm makes its way toward Jamaica. Satellite photos obtained by DailyMail.com show vast swaths of greenery were completely demolished after the Category 4 storm barreled through the southeast Caribbean islands on Monday. Entire neighborhoods were also destroyed, with homes seen in ruins on the ground after Beryl tore through the area with sustained winds of 150mph. Six people were killed in the tundra, and many more are missing as food and water grow scarce on some of the islands. Across the region, photos and videos have captured downed powerlines and flash floods. Slide me Incredible before and after photos show the damage Hurricane Beryl brought to the island of Carriacao on Monday Slide me Entire neighborhoods were destroyed by the Category 4 storm The storm is expected to start losing some of its intensity, but will still be a major storm when it passes near or over Jamaica early Wednesday morning Videos posted to social media from the island of Martinique show heavy flooding in the streets as locals tried to clear the debris. In Barbados, videos also showed waves pounding into the shore, breaching walkways, felling palm trees and flooding roads in the capital. Banana trees were also snapped in half, and in some photos cows could be seen laying dead in green pastures, according to the Orlando Sentinel. 'The hurricane has come and gone, and it has left in its wake immense destruction,' said Ralph Gonsalves, the prime minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. He noted that nearly 90 percent of the homes on Union Island were destroyed, and 'similar levels of devastation' were expected on the islands of Myreau and Canouan. Slide me What appeared to be once luscious greenery was razed by the powerful storm Slide me The storm has already caused six casualties, though officials say more could be expected Meanwhile, in Grenada, Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell described the situation on its islands as 'grim' in a news conference on Tuesday. 'There is no power and there is almost complete destruction of homes and buildings on the island,' he said. 'The roads are not passable, and in many instances, they are cut off because of the large quantity of debris strewn all over the streets.' The Grenadian island of Carriacou seemed to fare worse than the larger island, with Kerryne James - the minister of climate resilience, environment and renewable energy - describing how water, food and baby formula have grown scarce. Three casualties have already been reported in Grenada and Carriacou - including one person who succumbed to their injuries after a tree fell on their home, according to Kerryne James, the minister of climate resilience, environment and renewable energy. Another casualty were reported in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and two others were in northern Venezuela - where five people were still missing as of Tuesday. But Mitchell warned on Tuesday: 'The possibility that there may be more fatalities remains a grim reality as movement is still highly restricted.' Across the Caribbean, photos and videos showed debris in the streets and downed trees Damaged constructions and trees are pictured after the pass of Hurricane Beryl in St. Vincent and the Grenadines A fisherman throws a rope across boats damaged by Hurricane Beryl at Bridgetown Fisheries in Barbados The storm is now making its way straight for Jamaica, where a Hurricane Warning remains in effect. It is expected to start losing some of its intensity, but will still be a major storm when it passes near or over Jamaica early Wednesday morning. Beryl will bring with it life-threatening winds and storm surge to the area, with local officials warning residents in flood prone areas to prepare for evacuation. 'I am encouraging all Jamaicans to take the hurricane as a serious threat,' Prime Minister Andrew Holness said in an address of Monday. Hundreds of evacuees have since arrived in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with every seat filled on flights from Montego Bay and Kingston, Local 10 News reports. The influx has even forced some airlines to start adjusting their schedules to accommodate as many Jamaicans as possible. Others, meanwhile, have had their vacation plans upended as cruise lines change their routes to avoid the storm. Carnival Cruise Line said Tuesday it was changing the trajectories of two of its ships. The Carnival Horizon, which was originally scheduled to make port at Grand Cayman on July 3, has canceled the visit and its scheduled trip to Cozumel, Mexico on July 4 was replaced with a visit to Nassau in the Bahamas on July 5. The Carnival Liberty was also moving its scheduled stop at Cozumel for July 5 to Tuesday, as the cruise attempted to avoid Beryl's path. 'The safety of our guests and crew is paramount, and we are continuing to monitor forecasts and factor in guidance from the National Hurricane Center, US Coast Guard and the port authorities to provide timely updates to our guests as more information becomes available,' the cruise line said. Norwegian Cruise Line also altered its routes for two cruises. The Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Breakaway canceled their trips to Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Belize, and Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico, CNN reports. Evacuees from Union Island arrive in Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines A local Jamaican man gets into the back of a taxi filled with supplies like water and perishables, as people prep for Hurricane Beryl, in Kingston As of Tuesday night, the eye of the storm was located about 360 miles east southeast of Kingston - with hurricane force winds extending outward up to 40 miles and tropical storm force winds extending outward up to 185 miles from the center. 'We are most concerned about Jamaica, where we are expecting the core of a major hurricane to pass near or over the island,' National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan said. 'You want to be in a safe place where you can ride out the storm by nightfall (Tuesday),' he warned. 'Be prepared to stay in that location through Wednesday.' Beryl is expected to slam into the Cayman Islands on Thursday and into the Yucatan Peninsula on Friday Once it hits the area, storm surges could be as high as eight feet above average as heavy rain drenches the island. 'This is a big hazard in the Caribbean, especially with the mountainous islands,' Brennan said. 'This could cause life threatening flash floods and mudslides in some of those areas.' Hurricane warnings are now in effect for Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, Cayman Brac and for Haiti's entire southern coast. Tropical storm warnings are also in place for the entire southern coast of Hispaniola. From there, Beryl is expected to slam into the Cayman Islands on Thursday and into the Yucatan Peninsula on Friday. A third sitting Democrat has turned on President Joe Biden, saying they believe the 'painful debate' against Trump has cost the Democrats. Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, 36, told KATU News that she believes the performance last week from President Biden the election. She told the outlet that she believes 'the damage has been done' and that she tuned in to the debate for just 'five very painful minutes'. Despite her damning comments, she stopped short of calling on him to drop out, and said that the Democrats have to accept the results of the primary elections. Gluesenkamp Perez said: 'A core tenet of democracy is that you accept the results of an election and the reality is that primary voting has already happened to a degree that Biden is the nominee.' Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, seen here, told KATU News that she believes the debate performance last week against has cost Biden the election Despite her damning comments, she stopped short of calling on Biden to drop out, and said that the Democrats have to accept the results of the primary elections She added: 'About 50 million Americans tuned in and watched that debate. I was one of them for about five very painful minutes. 'We all saw what we saw, you cant undo that, and the truth I think, is that Biden is going to lose to Trump. I know thats difficult, but I think the damage has been done by that debate.' It comes after Maine Democratic Rep. Jared Golden, 41, said that he expects Trump to win after Biden's terrible debate performance. 'After the first presidential debate, lots of Democrats are panicking about whether President Joe Biden should step down as the partys nominee,' he wrote for a Maine newspaper. 'Bidens poor performance in the debate was not a surprise,' he continued. 'It also didnt rattle me as it has others, because the outcome of this election has been clear to me for months: While I dont plan to vote for him, Donald Trump is going to win. And Im OK with that.' Golden became the second current member of Congress to buck Biden this week. Texas Democrat Rep. Lloyd Doggett, 77, first came forward on Tuesday, likening the hard decision he says Biden must make for the sake of the nation to the one made decades ago by another sitting Democratic president. 'I represent the heart of a congressional district once represented by Lyndon Johnson,' the Texan said in a statement. 'Under very different circumstances, he made the painful decision to withdraw. 'President Biden should do the same,' he continued. 'While much of his work has been transformational, he pledged to be transitional.' Lyndon B. Johnson chose to withdraw from the race in 1968 because rising casualties in the Vietnam war had made him extremely unpopular. Biden is facing plummeting support after his disastrous debate performance on Thursday. 'He has the opportunity to encourage a new generation of leaders from whom a nominee can be chosen to unite our country through an open, democratic process,' Doggett's statement continued. 'My decision to make these strong reservations public is not done lightly nor does it in a any way diminish my respect for all that President Biden has achieved.' Gluesenkamp Perez flipped a traditionally red seat in 2022 when she beat out Republican Joe Kent Joe Biden uses teleprompters to discuss extreme weather at the D.C. Emergency Operations Center in Washington 'After the first presidential debate, lots of Democrats are panicking about whether President Joe Biden should step down as the partys nominee,' Golden wrote Texas Rep. Lloyd Doggett became the first sitting Democrat in office to call for Joe Biden to get out of the presidential race President Joe Biden is said to be 'humiliated' and 'painfully aware' of his image following his car crash debate that saw him stumbling over his words and losing his train of thought 'Recognizing that, unlike Trump, President Biden's first commitment has always been to our country, not himself, I am hopeful that he will make the painful and difficult decision to withdraw. I respectfully call on him to do so.' While other former Democrats and liberal pundits have speculated on Biden's ability to hold the presidency through 2028, should he win, there have been no other sitting Democrats who have gone as far in their calls as Doggett. Doggett, 77, is a respected member of the Democrat House caucus, having served in the chamber since 1995. He also lauded Biden's work as president, but ultimately conceded Joe's debate performance was not one of a competitive candidate. The president retreated to Camp David with is wife, children and grandchildren to take a break from the campaign trial and weigh his options after the debate 'President Biden has continued to run substantially behind Democratic senators in key states and in most polls has trailed Donald Trump,' he said. 'I had hoped that the debate would provide some momentum to change that. It did not.' 'Instead of reassuring voters, the President failed to effectively defend his many accomplishments and expose Trump's many lies.' National Republican Congressional Committee Communications Director Jack Pandol criticized Doggett's announcement for coming too late. 'The cowards in the Democratic Caucus have spent every day after the debate in witness protection, too afraid to say what they're all thinking,' Pandol said in a statement. 'Americans remember House Democrats were complicit in covering up and gaslighting the public about the president's condition, and voters are primed to punish them in November.' Australia's richest woman Gina Rinehart has received Cambodia's highest honour for non-citizens in recognition of charity work she does for poor children in the south-east Asian nation. Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni bestowed the Royal Order of Sahametrei on Mrs Rinehart for 'distinguished services to the King and to the people of Cambodia' in a recent ceremony. Through her Hope Foundation scholarship, which is done in partnership with the Cambodian Children's Fund, Mrs Rinehart helps poverty-stricken Cambodian girls attend university. At the ceremony, Mrs Rinehart was photographed wearing a royal sash and flanked by nine girls from impoverished backgrounds who had been helped by the charity. Mrs Rinehart affectionately calls the girls helped by the charity her 'daughters', after first meeting them in 2019. Hancock Prospecting, Ms Rinehart's mining company, says on its website that the charity aims to 'break cycles of poverty and abuse and create positive change in Cambodia through intervention and education for the youth'. 'They started their lives very differently to each of us,' Mrs Rinehart said in a rare interview about the subject. 'They had to scavenge from sinking rubbish dumps in Cambodia, some of them sadly without parents. The rubbish dumps are not safe places for young girls.' Gina Rinehart (pictured centre) poses with some of the young Cambodian women she has helped educate through her company Hancock Prospecting's charitable endeavours The Royal Order of Sahametrei was bestowed on Ms Rinehart for 'distinguished Services to the King and to the people of Cambodia' A Hancock Prospecting insider told the Sydney Morning Herald in 2014 that Mrs Rinehart often looked forward to seeing 'her girls' and had twice flown them to Kuala Lumpur so they could see her receiving international awards. Hancock Prospecting supports a number of other charities focusing on promoting Indigenous businesses and education opportunities. In March, it was revealed the mining magnate had given away $100,000 tax-free raffle prizes to dozens of her staff at company parties. The billionaire's roughly 4,000 employees across her private company's mining, energy and agricultural divisions were all in with a chance of winning the 'life-changing' sums of money at the firm's black-tie events. It's understood that across the Christmas parties and Mrs Rinehart's birthday bash in February, about 70 staff received a tax-free $100,000 prize - equivalent to $7million. 'It's like a station hand who works in rural Queensland who wins 100 grand after tax, like a crazy, life-changing thing to happen,' one company insider told Daily Mail Australia. Mrs Rinehart received the highest award for non-Cambodian citizens from King Norodom Sihamoni (pictured centre) As executive chair of Hancock Prospecting, which mainly mines iron ore, Mrs Rinehart's personal wealth is estimated to be a jaw-dropping $50.48billion, according to The Australian's Richest 250 List. She was worth $37.1billion last year, putting her about where fellow mining magnate Andrew 'Twiggy' Forrest and his estranged wife Nicola sit this year. But in the course of the last 12 months her wealth jumped by another $13.4billion. The surge in her fortune was largely due to the performance of her majority-owned Roy Hill iron-ore mine in WA's Pilbara region, which posted a net profit of $2.7billion in 2023. That profit was due to record iron ore shipments of 63.3 million tonnes, with Ms Rinehart using the profit announcement to call on governments to remove red tape to allow for more mining expansion. Footage has emerged showing a Chick-fil-A worker appear to block a mother at the entrance gate to a gated apartment complex. The video, which was shared to TikTok in April, the fast food worker can be seen engaging in an argument outside the entrance gate to a complex in Georgia. It is claimed that the woman had tried to gain entry by following the man's vehicle through the security checkpoint without using her own key card. The woman however says the man had blocked her from entering the residence, which caused both of them to exit their vehicles. In the video, the woman can be heard explaining how the worker had called her a 'c***' off camera before she started recording. The video, which was shared to TikTok in April, the fast food worker can be seen engaging in an argument outside the entrance gate to a complex in Georgia The man, who is still in his chef's uniform from the fast food outlet, can be seen on the phone and even makes a grab at the women's phone. As he does so, the woman adds: 'Youre trying to assault me, and youre trying to snatch my phone, so when [the police] come, Ill be sure to let them know.' She then accuses him of trying to 'stop her' from entering into her apartment complex. According to the woman, the man works at the Chick-fil-A Dwarf House in Stockbridge. He can be heard telling her: 'Look at this trash'. The woman continues: 'He just tried to grab my phone, he is over here trying to come near my car and harass my son. 'My son is in the back seat right now, we just got home from school.' Meanwhile the man can be seen pacing around his vehicle on the phone to what is beloved to be the police. The man then tells her: 'Sweetie we have a card to get in, if you are supposed to be here you can get in.' In a follow up video, the girlfriend of the woman who shot the footage claimed that the man had harassed her three times prior to the video. She also claims that there had been problems with the security gate, hence the need for her partner to tailgate her way into the complex. The man can be seen pacing around his vehicle on the phone to what is beloved to be the police In a picture posted in a separate video, the woman claims the man, known as Tyler, apologized for his behavior In a picture posted in the video, the woman claims the man, known as Tyler, apologized for his behavior. It reads: 'I just wanted to apologize for behaving that way towards you. There's never any excuse for that. I'm so sorry for that.' Replying to a comment on the video, the woman adds that charges were filed against Tyler, it is unclear what stage those are now at. The woman says: 'The police insisted that charges are to be pressed, there is a report. He is going to court. He is wrong, he even apologized.' Meanwhile social media users have said the man bared a close resemblance to actor Emilio Esteves. One person remarked about the young man's resemblance to a well-known American actor: 'Why is Emilio Estevez causing drama?' Another added: 'Your ability to remain calm, cool and collected is phenomenal. 'That would have ended once the reach happened. He threw hands first, Id follow up.' Another posted: 'Is that Emilio Estevez?' The piece was titled: 'What it's like working for a doomed presidential candidate White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre may need advice from her own book that she penned four years ago as her boss Joe Biden's reelection chances plummet following a disastrous debate performance. Biden insiders continue to insist that the president, 81, will carry on against Donald Trump despite the massive fallout from his train wreck first debate from just five days ago. Jean-Pierre, who has been in the job since May of 2022 after replacing Jen Psaki, is a longtime figure who has worked for several Democrat politicians in the past. She has gained so much experience on campaigns that in 2020, before Biden was elected to his first term, she released a memoir called 'Moving Forward.' The book received a mild resurgence on social media this week, for reasons she might come to regret: an excerpt she used to promote it titled 'What it's like working for a doomed presidential candidate.' White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre may be looking for advice from herself four years ago as her boss Joe Biden's campaign continues to crumble Jean-Pierre has gained so much experience in Democrat politics that in 2020, before Biden was elected to his first term, she released a memoir called 'Moving Forward' The Salon excerpt was published on February 17, 2020, before Biden had clinched the nomination, in between Jean-Pierre's stints as Chief of Staff for now-Vice President Kamala Harris' flop campaign and her work with the eventually victorious Biden one. 'There's nothing more dispiriting than working on a dying campaign. The atmosphere resembles one of those sad birthday balloons with the air slowly seeping out as it deflates,' she writes. Jean-Pierre discussed her experiences working for two of the most notoriously disgraced men in Democrat Party history: Philanderer, ex-North Carolina Senator and failed presidential candidate John Edwards and former New York Congressman and convicted sex pest Anthony Weiner. Weiner's name has remained in the news over the years, after he spent time engulfed in a number of high-profile scandals that doomed his political ambitions and sent him to jail. The Congressman was caught on multiple occasions sending explicit snaps to various women - even during his political campaigns. But he failed to learn from his missteps and was later sentenced to 21 months in prison after he began sexting a 15-year-old girl. Jean-Pierre served as press secretary for Weiner as he was contemplating running for mayor of New York City in 2009. She calls Weiner 'one of the most gifted politicians I have ever encountered' but as many have since found out, incapable of self-control. Jean-Pierre discussed her experiences working for two of the most notoriously disgraced men in Democrat Party history: Philanderer, ex-North Carolina Senator and failed presidential candidate John Edwards (pictured) and former New York Congressman and convicted sex pest Anthony Weiner Weiner's name has remained in the news over the years, after he spent time engulfed in a number of high-profile scandals that doomed his political ambitions and sent him to jail Jean-Pierre 'wasn't burned by my association with Weiner' and quickly moved on to working for the 2012 Barack Obama campaign. However, she claims it taught her to not be easily impressed by her bosses and when it comes to politics, 'believe in the mission, not the messenger.' Before working for the man infamously known as 'Carlos Danger,' she cut her teeth working for Edwards, who imploded his campaign in one of the biggest Democrat political scandals of 2000s. Edwards - whom Jean-Pierre correctly points out was once considered 'Bill Clinton without the baggage' - ran as John Kerry's running mate in 2004 as a rising star in the party, ultimately losing to President George W. Bush and VP Dick Cheney. In 2008, he sought the Democratic presidential nomination, going against Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. He withdrew from the race after The National Enquirer revealed his affair with a campaign staffer while his wife, Elizabeth, battled cancer. Seven months after Elizabeth's death, Edwards was charged with campaign finance violations. It was alleged that he funneled nearly $1million in donations from wealthy socialite Bunny Mellon to his mistress - Rielle Hunter - with whom he fathered a child. But after a six week trial in North Carolina, a jury failed to reach a decision on five of the six counts he'd been facing. The acquitted him on the sixth, and a year later, the federal prosecutors who so zealously went after him agreed to drop the case. Jean-Pierre 'wasn't burned by my association with Weiner' and quickly moved on to working for the 2012 Barack Obama campaign Before working for the man infamously known as 'Carlos Danger,' she cut her teeth working for Edwards, who imploded his campaign in one of the biggest Democrat political scandals of 2000s Edwards has remained largely out of public view since his May 2012 acquittal on one charge of campaign finance fraud. A federal judge declared a mistrial on five other criminal counts after jurors couldnt agree if Edwards illegally used campaign money to hide his pregnant mistress as he ran for president in 2008. Unlike the Weiner escapade, Jean-Pierre said 'of all my career decisions, the one I most regret is choosing to join the John Edwards campaign in 2007 rather than Barack Obama's.' She said that when Edwards was finishing third in South Carolina in 2008 to Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, 'I couldn't get out of town fast enough.' Jean-Pierre reiterates her message on believing in Edwards' agenda - which she says she still does on most issues - and not the candidate himself. 'You, the volunteer or staffer, should believe in the politician's mission, their goal of changing society, more than in the politician him or herself,' she concluded. These are not even Jean-Pierre's only experiences working for a longshot presidential hopeful, as she served as Deputy Campaign Manager for Martin O'Malley's third place 2016 run. Jean-Pierre was forced to give her own explanation about the president's poor debate performance from the White House podium Tuesday. Jean-Pierre was forced to give her own explanation about the president's poor debate performance from the White House podium Tuesday The tense exchanges show how the issue of a declining president will overshadow the rest of this year's election, as nervous Democrats begin openly calling for Biden to step aside. 'We're not taking away from what you all saw or what the American people saw,' said Karine Jean-Pierre. 'We understand it was a bad night. It is not uncommon for incumbents to have a bad night on their first debate, and we are going to continue to do the work that we have been doing on behalf of the American people.' Her answers were greeted with incredulity in the White House briefing room as she explained that the president was simply suffering from a cold and had no plans to step aside. The poor performance has dominated news headlines ever since, triggering panic among Democratic donors who fear his campaign is sleepwalking into disaster. Questions in the briefing room about what sort of shape Biden will be in at the end of a second term and about dementia will not help. Jean-Pierre did her best to draw a line under the debate. She painted a picture of a busy president getting on with the job, traveling to Wisconsin later in the week, sitting down for an interview with ABC News' George Stephanopoulos, and hosting a solo press conference next week when NATO leaders are in town. She also confirmed he was holding a virtual meeting with Democratic governors, but would not answer questions about whether it was designed to offer reassurances. Falling 'space junk' has been unmasked as the culprit behind a bizarre UFO sighting this past May, which saw a large mysterious object fall from the sky onto a mountaintop resort. A landscaping crew working The Glamping Collective in North Carolina made the bewildering discovery, which for weeks left residents at a loss. The giant, foreign-looking object looked decidedly mechanical, but also appeared to covered in a strange material that appeared akin to fur. Those were actually frayed carbon fibers, a fact already aired to DailyMail.com by Smithsonian astrophysicist Dr Jonathan McDowell days after the find. Days ago, NASA confirmed the debris was actually part of a SpaceX satellite - the firm's Crew Dragon capsule that reached the International Space Station in 2023. Falling 'space junk' has been unmasked as the culprit behind a bizarre UFO sighting this past May, which saw a large mysterious object fall from the sky onto a mountaintop resort. The giant, foreign-looking object looked decidedly mechanical, but also appeared to covered in a strange material that appeared akin to fur. NASA confirmed the debris was actually part of a SpaceX satellite - the firm's Crew Dragon capsule that reached the International Space Station in 2023. In this image from April 2021, the SpaceX Crew Dragon is seen approaching the International Space Station for docking 'SpaceX has confirmed the re-entry of Dragon spacecraft trunk hardware to NASA following its service missions to the International Space Station,' the June 20 news release said. 'During its initial design, the Dragon spacecraft trunk was evaluated for re-entry breakup and was predicted to burn up fully. 'The information from the debris recovery provides an opportunity for teams to improve debris modeling,' the statement went on. 'NASA and SpaceX will continue exploring additional solutions as we learn from the discovered debris.' In a follow-up statement issued Friday, June 21, the space agency added; 'Most recently, the trunks that supported SpaceX's 30th commercial services resupply and Crew-7 missions re-entered over Saudi Arabia and North Carolina, respectively.' 'NASA is unaware of any structural damage or injuries resulting from these findings,' the statement went on, as thee other residents of the area reported to ABC 13 how they also stumbled upon fallen debris believed to be from space. One piece was three feet high, and so heavy it had to be carried out using a lawn mower, one citizen said. Two smaller objects were found by residents in nearby Franklin and Jackson County, a few miles from the luxury resort in Haywood County. A landscaping crew working The Glamping Collective in North Carolina (seen here) made the bewildering discovery, which for weeks left residents at a loss Astronomer Dr Jonathan McDowell already told DailyMail.com that the bizarre 'UFO' crash debris was from one of SpaceX 's reusable Cargo Dragon spacecraft (above) - a prediction now proven to be correct Justin Clontz (above) was working grounds maintenance at Glamping Collective, a luxury campsite in Haywood County, North Carolina when he made the bewildering discovery. he had to tow the 'UFO' out of the area with a riding lawnmower because it was so massive and heavy The big piece was found on a hiking trail, and several other smaller pieces fell in the backyards of nearby homes, people told Space.com. Officials in the new update said the debris was expected to burn up upon re-entry, but several turned up in tatters instead. The so-called furry object was one of them - something McDowell already predicted with to DailyMail.com. At the time, he added how he was 'very confident' in this assessment, stating 'We have coincidence in time and place. Comparing it to similar debris found in Australia and other parts of the world like Saufia Arabia and Canada, he went on to accurately predict it was 'a Dragon trunk.' 'The debris matches the expected location of these reentries,' McDowell told DailyMail.com. Days before, Clontz was working on grounds maintenance at the luxury campsite when he made the eerie discovery, after which told local news he was 'just shocked as to what it was.' He said at the time: 'It's once in a lifetime, you know, it don't happen every day.' As mentioned, the UFO-like debris' carbon fiber appeared to sport some kind of weird fur, as initial reports described the now very likely identified mystery object. 'We don't know what it is,' Clontz told local news earlier this month. 'We just know that it's not from up here.' Although this piece of SpaceX debris fell safely about a half-mile down a remote trail on Glamping's property, Dr McDowell noted that both governmental and private space programs have become dangerously lax with their space junk in recent years. Although this piece of SpaceX debris fell safely about a half-mile down a remote forest trail, Dr McDowell noted that both governmental and private space programs have become notably lax with their space junk in recent years. Above, the open trunk of a SpaceX Cargo Dragon craft SpaceX's Dragon 'trunk' has storage space of over 350 cubic-feet internally, with an extender option that expands its capacity to over 1200 cubic-feet of storage space. This cargo container comes with mounted radiators that help it regulate the temperature of sensitive items 'The risk to life and property is fairly small because the Earth is a big target and is mostly not covered with people but it's not tiny,' Dr McDowell wrote via email. 'We have seen some close shaves,' he said. Dr McDowell's work, which involves collecting and analyzing data from NASA's Chandra X-ray telescope observatory and other space-based astronomy platforms, often includes paying some attention to space traffic in Earth's orbit. 'The government is also taking unwarranted risks,' noted Dr McDowell, who publishes a monthly newsletter on space launches, 'as shown by the incident in Florida earlier this year when a bit of ISS came through the roof of someone's house.' That incident, this March, involved a 5,800-pound battery pallet plunging into a Florida home. The heavy metal object was later confirmed to have been discarded by the International Space Station (ISS) in 2021. 'The risk to life and property is fairly small - because the Earth is a big target and is mostly not covered with people - but it's not tiny,' Dr McDowell wrote via email about the SpaceX crash Dr McDowell's work, which has involved NASA's Chandra X-ray telescope observatory and other space-based astronomy platforms, often includes paying some attention to the space traffic in Earth's orbit. Above, another close-up of the SpaceX debris in North Carolina Meanwhile, back in March, a theoretical paper argued that atmospheric metal pollution from defunct satellites like those owned by Elon Mus's SpaceX could create an invisible shield around our planet that could weaken its magnetic field. The controversial paper was penned by Seattle based scientist Sierra Solter-Hunt, and claimed falling space junk like the frayed part found in May could very well weaken our magnetosphere. It cites specific satellite 'megaconstellations' like SpaceX's Starlink network, which may generate enough magnetic dust to cut our planet's protective shield in half, but spurred some skepticism from experts. In the worst-case scenario, the so-called 'Spacecraft dust' could lead to satellite disasters as well 'atmospheric stripping,' the author told Live Science - a phenomenon where increased levels of radiation could begin to blow away the outer edges of our atmosphere. The has already occurred naturally on planets like Mars and Mercury, the paper points out, making them especially uninhabitable. The head of an Aboriginal legal service that gets up to $30million a year in public funding has a dark past involving shocking abuse, and no legal qualifications. Hugh Woodbury, the chair of the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA), has been called on to step down after it was revealed he assaulted his pregnant partner by standing on her stomach. Mr Woodbury, 42, also slammed her arm in a door and called her a 'c***' in front of their two-year-old child in the 2020 incident. Despite serving a 12-month good behaviour bond and being fined $200 without conviction, NAAJA hired him as its head in March this year. In sentencing remarks made in October 2020 and reported by The Australian, judge Greg Borchers described Mr Woodbury as 'someone who doesn't stick at jobs'. 'I am not sure how I am to consider that you have had so many jobs, but you have never stayed at one,' the judge Borchers said. 'Almost each and every legal practitioner in this court house has one job, as a legal practitioner. 'You have had so many jobs and you have never stuck with any, apart from a long period of time with Parks and Wildlife ... that's a record of someone who doesn't stick at jobs.' Hugh Woodbury (pictured), the head of an Aboriginal legal service that gets up to $30million per year in public funding, has a dark past involving shocking abuse Judge Borchers said would not record a conviction because Mr Woodbury's partner said 'you are very supportive of her ... you are a good father and that you need some help'. He added that 'I do accept that you may, at some stage, wish to consider entering a legal course'. The violence Mr Woodbury unleashed on his partner and his lack of qualifications has led to a backlash against his appointment. 'Indigeneity cannot be the only thing on their CV, or they can't be appointed just because they happen to be interested in the job or are available,' Liberal senator Kerrynne Liddle said. She pointed out that earlier this year, NAAJA's services were not operating after losing dozens of staff and Aboriginal defendants were left to represent themselves in court. 'This is about an organisation who is supposed to be helping the most vulnerable people, and they are failing in doing that,' Ms Liddle said. The South Australian senator called on both the federal and Northern Territory governments to withdraw funding from NAAJA. Mr Woodbury, the chair of the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency (NAAJA), has been called on to step down after it was revealed he assaulted his pregnant partner by standing on her stomach. NAAJA's building in Darwin in pictured A spokesperson for the agency defended Mr Woodbury, telling Daily Mail Australia that he 'understands the needs of our communities'. 'He is young, smart, and passionate about empowering Aboriginal communities. We need more young Aboriginal people in leadership roles, not less.' They added that 'Aboriginal-led Boards require a range of perspectives from people with diverse educational and vocational backgrounds and NAAJA is no different. 'We have Aboriginal people with legal experience, those who have worked in social and community services and business. 'Mr Woodbury has extensive experience in the legal and community service sectors in the Territory, having worked as an Indigenous family liaison officer for the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia and as a welfare rights officer for the then Central Australian Legal Service.' The lead investigator in the murder trial of Karen Read who was accused of murdering her cop boyfriend has been relieved of his duties. Read, 44, was informed on Monday that jurors were unable to agree on whether she'd killed Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe, 46, with her SUV in January 2022. It marked the end of a contentious nine-week trial where Read alleged that she was the victim of a wide-ranging plot to frame her. In a sensational turn of events, lead detective Michael Proctor has now been transferred out of the local detective's unit for 'serious misconduct'. The officer will still be paid but his car, gun and gear have all been taken away, according to NBC Boston. Read, 44, was informed on Monday that jurors were unable to agree on whether she'd killed Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe This photo undated photo released by the Boston Police Department shows officer John O'Keefe Last month, Proctor testified in the trial that he had sent his friends and coworkers various text messages about Read, a financial analyst and college professor. Proctor called Read a 'whack job' and a 'c***' and referred to her as a 'babe' with 'no a**,' while also making light of her 'Fall River accent. In other messages, he joked about rummaging through her phone for nude photos during the investigation. Read's defense attorneys claim these texts support their theory that she was framed by police in a vast conspiracy to blame her for the killing. Proctor claimed that 'these juvenile, unprofessional comments had zero impact on the facts, the evidence and the integrity of the investigation.' Interim Col. Jack Mawn of the Massachusetts State Police previously took a strong stance against Proctor's comments and announced the move on Monday. In a statement, he said: 'The Department took immediate action to relieve Trooper Michael Proctor of duty and formally transfer him out of the Norfolk County District Attorneys Office State Police Detectives Unit. 'This follows our previous decision to open an internal affairs investigation after information about serious misconduct emerged in testimony at the trial. This investigation is ongoing.' Last month, Proctor testified in the trial that he had sent his friends and coworkers various text messages about Read On Tuesday, Governor Maura Healey said: 'The colonel made the right decision. I fully support the decision made by MSP on this. 'As you know, it's under internal investigation, and that process will have to go forward. 'This was the right move to remove him. This is a process. We have to wait for that process to go forward.' She also added that she had 'no tolerance for that behavior, frankly, with anyone in law enforcement, with anyone in public service.' Sources have since told NBC Boston that Proctor is also part of a federal probe into the handling of the case. The outlet reported that Proctor had graduated from the academy in 2014 and moved to work as a detective, earning $146,053 last year. His fate will be decided by an internal investigation and the a state commission which also handles allegation of police misconduct. On the evening of O'Keefe's death, he and Read had been drinking with a group of friends and were invited to his friend Brian Albert's home for an afterparty. Read and O'Keefe had been out drinking on the night of his death, before she drove him to an afterparty while she went home to sleep. He was found dead on the lawn of the afterparty's home hours later Read, who prosecutors say drank several alcoholic drinks beforehand, decided to drop her boyfriend at the afterparty before she went to his home - that O'Keefe shared with his orphaned niece and nephew - to sleep at around 1am. Court documents revealed the couple had been bitterly arguing for weeks beforehand. On the night O'Keefe died, Read left him a voicemail calling him a 'f****** loser', and telling him: 'John, I f****** hate you.' The couple had been dating for two years at the time of O'Keefe's death. He had been serving on the Boston Police Department for 16 years. According to Read's version of events, she woke up at 4am to find that O'Keefe never returned home, leading her to frantically drive out to try and find him. After finding O'Keefe's body outside Albert's home, which party attendees claimed he never entered, first responders on the scene alleged that Read repeatedly told them she hit him while in a panicked state. Vehicle data also found that Read reversed her SUV for 62 feet at 24mph near to Albert's home. O'Keefe's cause of death was listed as blunt force trauma and hypothermia, with pieces of Read's taillight found around his body, prosecutors said. Prosecutors had claimed Read and O'Keefe's relationship was on the rocks when he died In his closing argument on Tuesday, Norfolk County Assistant District Attorney Adam Lally said the claims that Read was framed was little more than 'rampant speculation.' Lally also pointed to hair and DNA from O'Keefe found on the rear end of Read's SUV. The defense countered that the taillight was actually broken by Read when she left in a panic to find O'Keefe when he never returned home. This included security video shown at trial showing Read clipping O'Keefe's vehicle as she backed out of her home to search for him. Read claimed that attendees at the afterparty beat him to death, and her attorneys presented phone data that showed O'Keefe's phone climbed dozens of steps at the time he was allegedly struck. Her attorney, Alan Jackson, claimed that these steps could have been the basement of Albert's home. Albert was never charged with any wrongdoing. Proctor opens an evidence box to show the jury a broken tail light while testifying Read's attorneys added that although first responders claimed Read spoke of hitting O'Keefe at the scene, they claimed this evidence was falsely given at a later date and not said at the time. A forensic engineer was brought in to evaluate the case, who testified that if O'Keefe had been struck by a vehicle at over 20mph he would expect to see more severe injuries. When her trail began, Read received a slew of support from true crime fans who camped outside the courthouse with signs reading 'Free Karen Read.' Many took to wearing pink as a show of support for Read, leading a judge to issue an order barring any clothing or accessories that could be perceived as encouraging, and banning them from coming within 200 feet of the courthouse. As the trial made national headlines, some observers were turned off by Read's apparent flippant attitude during the proceedings, leading her to be nicknamed 'America's happiest murder defendant.' She was seen winking to cameras and snacking inside the courthouse, which angered some critics. Prosecutors say they intend to retry the case in which the defense asserted that Read had been framed by police. An Australian dad has died after his helicopter crashed while fighting wildfires in Canada. Tom Frith's aircraft crashed on June 28 near the Fort Good Hope Airport in the remote Northwest Territories of Canada. Great Slave Helicopters, Mr Frith's employer, paid tribute to the father-of-two who was 'beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him'. 'He was a beacon of light, beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him,' a company statement said. 'Tom passed away while battling wildfire near Fort Good Hope, NT, a testament to his unwavering courage and dedication. 'As we navigate this time of sorrow, let us hold on to the memories of Tom his smile, laughter, the love, and the countless ways he made our lives better. 'His legacy will live on in his beautiful young family and the hearts of all who knew him. 'Our heartfelt condolences to Tom's wife, children, parents, brothers and all extended family and friends in Yellowknife and Australia.' Australian dad Tom Firth (pictured) has died after his helicopter crashed while fighting wildfires in Canada. Great Slave Helicopters, Mr Frith's employer, paid tribute to the father-of-two who was 'beloved by all who had the privilege of knowing him' More than 100 people paid tribute to Mr Firth on social media. 'Thank you, Tom, for your unwavering commitment and courage in everything you took on. You will be missed dearly,' Stephanie Yvonne said. 'As I sit and cry for Tom, I remember he was very professional, you could see he valued safety during his helicopter safety briefings,' Phranque McKay said. 'Sincere condolences for knowing such a wonderful man! 'I remember Tom as a kid being this fearless daredevil who had the guts to do the things other people wouldn't and who had so much love for his family,' Monique Brigid said. 'Hearing of his heroic passing protecting the community and doing what he loves, he was still all heart'. Northwest Territories Fire confirmed Mr Firth was the only person on-board when the helicopter crashed. Canada's Transport Safety Board has also launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash, with investigators working at the crash site on Sunday. NWT Fire's Mike Westwick said Mr Firth's death was a 'tragedy' felt by the firefighting community. 'Our thoughts are with the pilot's family, friends and colleagues in the wake of this tragedy. Our hearts are broken by the loss of a member of our wildfire family ' Mr Westwick said. 'The ripples of these events spread far and wide in the firefighting community in the NWT, Canada and beyond, given the close and interwoven personal connections formed over many years.' Canada is facing its worst fire seasons on record (pictured, fire at Edmonton's historic Hangar 11 in Edmonton, Alberta, on April 22) Authorities evacuated more than 3,500 people from Fort Nelson, British Columbia after a fast-moving blaze grew to 8 square kilometres within five hours (pictured) Mr Firth was battling the blaze near the small community of Fort Good Hope in British Columbia, which is home to about 500 people. The town has been under an evacuation order since mid-June due as an 8,000 hectare blaze threatens the town. Canada is facing one of its most severe fire seasons ever. During the winter, more than 150 fires from 2023 smoldered in underground peat bogs, and flared up again in February. At least 25 Democrat members of Congress are set to call on Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race in the coming days, while a pair of Senators have distanced themselves from the ailing president. The Democratic revolt in the House was expected to take place if Biden 'seems shaky in coming days' as one Democrat aide warned: 'the dam is broken.' In the Senate, it was revealed that centrist Joe Manchin needed to be pulled back from the brink as he prepared to become the first Biden ally to call for him to quit on one of the Sunday news shows. 'Nobody wants to be the first one to knife Julius Caesar,' a party insider said about Manchin's predicament. Tammy Baldwin, a Senator who faces re-election in Wisconsin, announced Tuesday morning she will not be joining Biden on stage when he campaigns in her hometown of Madison on Friday. The Democratic disses came on a whirlwind day in DC as three House members shocked the party by either telling Biden to drop out or stating he's already lost the election to Donald Trump. At least 25 Democrat members of Congress are set to call on Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race in the coming days Biden insiders continue to insist that the president, 81, will carry on against Trump despite his disastrous first debate just five days go. Despite their insistence, his support appears to be crumbling among fellow Dems. Maine's Jared Golden, Lloyd Doggett of Texas and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington State all either told Biden to drop out or said they believed he would lose to Trump on Tuesday. Those defections were in addition to the collection of 25 House members - commonly referred to as 'frontliners' due to their status as moderates in swing districts - who are set to break with Biden and day now. Manchin, a constant thorn in the side of the most progressive aspects of Biden's agenda, was planning on making the announcement on a major news show the Sunday following the debate. The now independent Senator who caucuses with the Democrats faced a 'full court press' from high-profile Democrats - including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer - to stop him from doing so, according to the Washington Post. 'Nobody wants to be the first one to knife Julius Caesar,' one Democratic Party official said of the decision to influence Manchin. Baldwin, who is running for a third term and leading in the polls despite Biden trailing Trump in Wisconsin, has not appeared at the president's side since January. Friday's Biden visit to Madison will the fourth consecutive trip to her state the president has made since then where Baldwin will be elsewhere, per the Washington Examiner. Centrist Joe Manchin was set to become the first Biden ally to call for him to quit on one of the Sunday news shows before anyone else until Democrat insiders convinced him not to, with a party insider claiming 'nobody wants to be the first one to knife Julius Caesar' Tammy Baldwin, a more progressive Senator than Manchin who faces re-election in the swing state of Wisconsin , will not be joining Biden as he campaigns in her hometown of Madison Friday, holding a separate event instead Whether Biden continues his 2024 bid for president after his halting debate performance against Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is largely his decision, Democrats and political strategists have said. But Biden is under pressure. Some donors have called for him to step aside, and other Democrats are worrying openly that he is not equipped to beat Trump in November. A Reuters/Ipsos poll taken after the debate showed one in three Democrats think Biden should end his re-election bid, while another Ipsos poll showed Michelle Obama as the only Democrat currently beating Trump. U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett became the first congressional Democrat to call for Biden to withdraw from the presidential race on Tuesday. He told NBC News in an interview that he hoped other Democratic lawmakers would follow his lead. 'It looks like the dam has broken,' the second aide, who spoke on behalf of the moderate frontliners, said. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi emphasized Biden's multiple legislative accomplishments during an interview with MSNBC Tuesday but said it was legitimate to ask whether his debate performance was a one-night thing or a broader health problem. She said Trump should be given the same scrutiny. 'I think it's a legitimate question to say, 'Is this an episode or is this a condition?' And so when people ask that question, it's legitimate, of both candidates,' Pelosi said. Immediately after the debate, Pelosi had shown strong support. 'Joe Bidens decision to go forward is a decision that we will all embrace because of the record he has and the performance that will come with it,' she said then. A poll of Democrats showed that one in three want Biden to quit Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington State says she believes 'the damage is done' after the debate White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Tuesday that Biden did not have an 'episode,' just a bad night. Vice President Kamala Harris, asked in a CBS News interview about Doggett's demand, said: 'Look, Joe Biden is our nominee. We beat Trump once and we're gonna beat him. Period.' Biden, speaking at a campaign event in Virginia on Tuesday evening without a teleprompter, blamed his performance on a lack of sleep and said his campaign had raised $38 million since the debate. 'The fact is that you know, I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple times, going through around 100 time zones ... before ... the debate. Didnt listen to my staff and came back and nearly fell asleep on stage,' he said. 'That's no excuse but it is an explanation.' Some Democrats suggested Biden should be thinking about the broader party's future. 'He has to be honest with himself,' Democratic Representative Mike Quigley, a moderate from Illinois, told CNN on Tuesday. 'It's his decision. I just want him to appreciate at this time just how much it impacts, not just his race, but all the other races coming in November.' U.S. Representative Jim Clyburn, the Democrat often credited with securing Biden's nomination in the 2020 presidential race, told MSNBC Tuesday he would support Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic nominee if Biden stepped aside. U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett became the first congressional Democrat to call for Biden to withdraw from the presidential race on Tuesday. He told NBC News in an interview that he hoped other Democratic lawmakers would follow his lead Jared Golden, a Maine Democrat, predicted on Tuesday that Trump would win the election Golden, a Maine Democrat, predicted on Tuesday that Trump would win the election, as did Washington state Democratic Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez. The president and his campaign are scrambling to bolster support. Biden will hold a meeting with Democratic governors virtually and in person at the White House on Wednesday and speak to lawmakers this week, White House officials said. One of the House Democratic aides said members were disappointed about the lack of outreach thus far. Doggett told NBC News he had asked the White House to speak personally with Biden about his call for him to drop out, but had not heard back from him. Biden's campaign held difficult phone calls on Sunday and Monday with important funders who questioned his plans to stay in the race. Asked Tuesday why Biden had not done more media interviews or press conferences after his debate raised questions, Jean-Pierre pointed to his visit to a Waffle House in Atlanta on the evening of the debate and subsequent interactions with supporters. Biden is scheduled to do an interview with ABC this week and plans to hold a news conference at the NATO summit next week. The Democratic Hill aide said a lot was riding on the ABC interview, with lawmakers looking to see that he can handle rapid-fire questions and not just orchestrated campaign appearances. Meanwhile, Biden's campaign said it and its Democratic allies raised $264 million in the second quarter, including $127 million in June and a record 'grassroots' fundraising haul on the day of Biden's debate. A mother has sparked fury online when she asked the public to 'normalize' charging other parents for their children's playdates. In a video on TikTok, she explained in a video that her daughter recently had a friend over to their house - and when the playdate was finished she asked the other girl's mom to Venmo her $15. She cited expenses such as chalk and 'wear and tear' on the couch, as well as the price of her child using supplies in the bathroom three times. That video, originally posted in early June, has since gone viral with more than 3.5 million views as many online openly disagreed with her plan - saying it will only leave her daughter without playdates in the future. But the mom, who posts under the handle @shay.nanigans87 and whose profile identifies her as a 'rage baiter' and 'child support hunter' - insists it is just a way for families to even out the costs of their get-togethers. TikTok user @shay.nanigans87 sparked fury by announcing in a video that she charged another mother for their children's playdate @shay.nanigans87 Contraversial but I think its a really good idea. What do you think? original sound - Shay.nanigans87 'Can we normalize sending the other family money for playdates?' she asks in the video with a straight face. She then goes on to share how she asked her daughter's friend's mother for money - sharing screengrabs of her conversation with the other mother. In the first message she writes: 'Thanks for letting Jamie play today, please help out with your share of the expenses for the playdate totaling $15 via Venmo! Let's do it again soon!' 'Because I can't keep doing these playdates if it's so expensive,' the TikTok mother explains in her video. But the other mother, identified in the video only as 'Melissa,' seemed taken aback by the request, asking: 'Expenses?' At that point, the mom explains that her daughter used 'supplies and food while she was here and this way we can do this more often without a monetary obligation on just one party.' The TikToker included screengrabs of the conversation she had with the other mother When the other mother asked which expenses she was referring to, the TikToker enumerated supplies and food her daughter used - including sitting on the couch and using the bathroom three times When Melissa asked which expenses she was referring to, the TikToker noted that her daughter had applesauce and fruit, had three juice boxes, played with chalk, used the bathroom three times and sat on the couch - which she said causes 'wear and tear.' Ultimately, the frugal mom said Melissa paid her the $15 she requested, and she thanked her. 'I just received the money, thank you so much,' she wrote in a message. 'Hopefully this will make it easier for us to do these playdates more in the future.' But many online believed her actions will have the opposite affect - and will wind up alienating her daughter from her classmates. 'Today, in How to sabotage your childs ability to make friends in one, easily quantifiable receipt' one X user wrote. 'When the kid asks why she never had play dates after Spring 24, show her this video,' added Martin Matthews, the CEO of a wealth management group in Georgia. Another suggested: 'Let's normalize shaming people like her who are cheap and entitled.' But when another X user said she would pay her then 'do my best to keep my child away from her and her kid,' the original poster said that was a 'good call.' 'I'd put up a poster with her face warning other mothers about her lack of scruples and entitled attitude,' she wrote. Many online found her request rude, with one woman saying she is 'cheap and entitled' The X user later said she would warn other mothers 'about her lack of scruples and entitled attitude' Others said they thought she may have had a point - until she decided to charge the mother for having her child sit on the couch. 'Everything was good until "wear and teach on the couch" charge for a dollar,' one X user wrote, saying it's 'weird to put a number on that. But when somebody else mentioned the charge for using the bathroom, he wrote: 'That was outta pocket as well.' Meanwhile on TikTok, somebody else said they would be 'very uncomfortable if the person hosting a playdate kept track of how many times my kid needed to use the bathroom.' His comment received more than 36,000 likes. Another X user said he thought she may have had a point until she decided to charge the mother for having her child sit on the couch He later noted that the bathroom charge 'was out of pocket as well' Another TikToker said that if she couldn't afford to host a playdate, 'then I simply wouldn't invite' them. 'Instead meet at a park and bring your own snacks,' she suggested. A third also questioned whether the mother was serious - noting her profile information. 'It's rage bait, right? pls' she asked. It remains unclear whether the mother was trying to provoke users with her video. DailyMail.com has reached out to the TikToker for comment. The family of a slain mother of three who allegedly died at the hands of her new housemate have broken their silence as they battle to sort out her financial affairs. Annette Kiss, 53, allegedly died when her new housemate Benjamin Art, 42, attacked her with a sword, meat cleaver, and claw hammer last Thursday at their Russell Lea share house in Sydney's west. When police arrived, they allegedly found Art lying on Ms Kiss' body with the sword in a harrowing scene that has devastated first responders. Days after the horror attack, friend Sharon Hacker launched a campaign to raise funds for Ms Kiss' three adult children - Six, Samuel and Hayely. On Wednesday, eldest son Six thanked the community for assisting them through grief as they now face costly legal and funeral expenses. As the days move on, the reality sinks in more and every day we miss her, he wrote. Unfortunately, being as young as she was, she never completed a will so we're now having to go through the courts to get the administration dealt with which will take quite some time and solicitors aren't cheap. The fundraiser was initially aimed to raise $10,000 to cover unforeseen expenses the family have incurred, but have since increased the fundraising efforts to $20,000. Annette Kiss, 55, was allegedly murdered by her new housemate last Thursday morning Being a solo business owner myself, the loss of income and business is starting to become quite the issue while we take time to deal with the grief and handle her affairs, Six explained. I've increased the goal here to help us get the legal matters dealt with and help support the loss of income over the next short while. Police allege housemate Art ran into the Russell Lea house last Thursday morning brandishing weapons, yelled at his four housemates to sit down, and started showing Ms Kiss texts from an unknown sender on his phone. 'You're trying to set me up, who you got to try and kill me? Who's the chick texting me?' he allegedly yelled, according to court documents. 'You're trying to set me up or get me killed, now you're trying to kill me.' Art allegedly held Ms Kiss by the neck before he grabbed the cleaver, while another female housemate used a chair to try to stop the alleged attack before she fled and called police. Detectives later said it was one of the worst crime scenes they have ever encountered. On Friday, a neighbour told Daily Mail Australia the surviving housemates are 'too traumatised' to return to the home and collect their things. Benjamin Art (pictured) has been charged over the alleged violent murder of his housemate The Russell Lea house is pictured where Annette Kiss was allegedly murdered Annette (centre) pictured alongside daught Hayley and son Samuel The fundraiser has already raised $10,630 raised of $20,000 On Friday, Art was was represented by solicitor Javid Faiz in Parramatta Bail Court on Friday. He did not apply for bail but it was formally refused. 'My client understands the seriousness of the matter,' Mr Faiz said outside court, according to the Daily Telegraph. 'He's instructed me not to make a release application today.' His matter will return to Burwood Local Court on August 22. Superintendent Christine McDonald said on Thursday that Art did not have a violent history, and said he was not in a romantic relationship with Ms Kiss. Tucker Carlson has boldly claimed Australia's housing crisis will result in a childless generation because it is too expensive for people to buy a home and start a family. The former Fox News presenter and right-wing commentator was speaking at Melbourne's Convention Centre on Monday night when he addressed immigration in Australia - which he described as the 'one reason' for the housing crisis - and also criticised Welcome to Country ceremonies and the 'lazy' Labor Party. Carlson admitted he was shocked when he learned how expensive it was to buy a home in Sydney, even in suburbs far away from the harbour. He said he was looking up house prices because he was considering buying property in Australia - but soon realised even someone with his bank balance could not realistically afford a home Down Under. 'It was so much more than I can afford and I have a decent job,' he told the crowd. 'How does anybody live here?' He said when he asked the question to a Sydney local, he was told many had left the city altogether or ended up homeless. 'I said, "That sounds like a crisis,"' Carlson added. Tucker Carlson has boldly claimed Australia's housing crisis will result in a childless generation because it is too expensive for people to buy a home and start a family 'Why is it happening? Immigration. There's only one reason and that's the reason. 'But nobody wants to say it like that because it sounds like an attack on immigrants. And that's how they get you to shut up. They say, "Shut up, racist."' Carlson said he was generally supportive of immigration, but that if there wasn't enough housing for a growing population, prices would rapidly rise. 'If it becomes too expensive for your children to buy a house in the country they were born in, you're erased, that's it. Your line ends and that's what's happening,' he said. 'If your children can't afford a house here then you have one person to blame and that's the people that run your government.' Sydney's median house price of $1.466million is 12 times an average, full-time salary of $98,218 - even with a 20 per cent deposit - and last year, a record 547,300 migrants flooded into Australia. The political commentator also brought up the history of Australia and Welcome to Country ceremonies, which show respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. He told those in the room they 'had nothing to apologise for - at all' when it came to the 'sins' of their ancestors, referring to the white settlers. 'And yet at every turn they're making you apologise,' he said. 'I have never seen a society more under attack than the one you're living in now and for less justification. 'Every time a commercial airline lands, every time any kind of ceremony opens, they send you the message that you're on someone else's land. The former Fox News presenter recently went on a speaking tour in Australia 'And I'm thinking to myself, and this is no slight against the people they're talking about at all, but this is Australian land and you're all Australians. 'And why would you ever put up with that? And who is this helping? Is it helping the people who are supposedly being honoured by these displays? No of course not.' Carlson was met with applause on his stance, and was further cheered on when he began tearing apart the Labor Party. He said he was stunned to find out there was 'no labour' within the Labor Party, in the sense that none of the politicians were qualified tradespeople. 'There's no actual labour in the leadership of the Labor party, none of them have had a job. They're all just parasites on the taxpayer,' he said. 'The laziest people in the country call themselves the Labor party.' Carlson flew back to the United States on Tuesday after wrapping up The Australian Freedom Conferences, presented by Mineralogy and organised by Clive Palmer. The pair visited Cairns, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Sydney and Melbourne for the conferences, with tickets first being released at about $200 each. This was drastically reduced to between $50 and $110 last month. Carlson had earlier spoke at the Hyatt Hotel in Canberra where he clashed with an AAP reporter after she asked about his views on 'Great Replacement Theory'. She said Carlson had spoken about how white Australians, Americans and Europeans were being replaced by non-white migrants '4,000 times' on his show. He responded by noting he had 'never said that whites are being replaced, not one time' and that his comments on the issue applied to all native-born regardless of race. 'If you think that's racist, that's your problem,' Carlson said. 'It's completely honest and real, not racist or scary, its factually true - its not a theory its a fact.' Carlson became exasperated when the reporter then went on to link his discussion of the Great Replacement Theory to a a racially-motivated mass shooting that left 10 dead in Buffalo, New York in 2023. 'Oh, God! Come on!' Carlson replied. 'How do they get people this stupid in the media? I guess it doesn't pay well.' Footage has captured the moment a tradie chased down a driver after they crashed into another car and allegedly tried to flee the scene. The incident unfolded at the intersection of Hellawell and Beaudesert roads between Acacia Ridge and Sunnybank Hills in Brisbane's south on Monday morning. The footage, which was shared by Dashcam Owners Australia, showed a blue Mazda hatchback driving through the intersection. The traffic lights were red for a full 17 seconds before the Blue Mazda barreled into traffic, colliding with a white Toyota hatchback. The Toyota hatchback did a 360-degree spin before smashing into a red Mazda SUV in the adjacent lane. All three cars came to a complete stop in the middle of the intersection as tradies rushed to the aid of the driver behind the wheel of the Toyota. The driver of the blue Mazda was seen getting out of his car and walking off to the side of the road. A tradie wearing a high-vis vest spotted the driver walking away from the scene of the crash and chased him down. Dashcam footage showed a blue Mazda hatchback running a red light and speeding through an intersection before smashing into traffic (pictured) The driver collides with a white Toyota hatchback, which does a 360-degree spin before smashing into a red Mazda SUV in the adjacent lane (pictured) The footage showed the tradie reach out and grab the driver before he raised his fist as other bystanders quickly intervened to stop him from leaving the area. Social media users praised the tradie for acting quickly and detaining the driver of the blue Mazda. 'Love how the guy bolts from the other side of the road and confronts the guy that caused the accident,' one person commented. 'Old mate in yellow shirt appears from bottom right and makes a b line for the driver of the Mazda, and duly takes him to the ground,' a second person wrote. 'God love the tradie who spotted old mate casually walking away and crash tackled him,' a third chimes. A fourth added: 'That tradie pinning him down. Thats the type of people who deserve Australian of the year awards. What a bloody legend'. 'This is cooked it's a regularly used intersection by my house it's always busy could have easily been fatal,' another person added. A tradie was praised for detaining the driver of the blue Mazda after he was spotted walking casually off the road and away from the scene of the crash Others shared well-wishes and messages of support to the drivers of the other vehicles. Queensland Police confirmed a 26-year-old Carseldine man was charged following the alleged traffic crash in Sunnybank Hills. 'It will be alleged at approximately 9.45am a blue Mazda 3 was travelling south on Beaudesert Road when it failed to stop at a red light near Hellawell Road,' a police spokesperson told news.com.au. 'It will be further alleged the car then struck two other vehicles, a Mazda CX30 and a Toyota Yaris. The driver of the Mazda 3 was taken into police custody at the scene.' The man was charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle and driving under the influence and is set to face Richlands Magistrates Court on August 6. An urgent health warning has been issued after a traveller with measles landed in Melbourne, visiting a busy McDonalds and multiple high-traffic shops along the Great Ocean Road. The returning traveller was infectious and arrived from overseas on Tuesday June 25, before visiting a McDonalds near the airport, toy shops and grocery stores in the southwest of Victoria. It is the 11th case of measles in Victoria this year. Measles is a highly infectious viral illness which spreads person-to-person, and can lead to uncommon but serious complications, such as pneumonia and brain inflammation. Anyone who was at the same stores as the traveller is urged to monitor for symptoms for the following two weeks. Anyone born during or since 1966 who does not have documented evidence of having received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, or does not have documented evidence of immunity, is at risk of measles. Unvaccinated infants are at particularly high risk of contracting measles. Victoria Department of Health issued the warning on Wednesday, June 3. Unvaccinated infants are at particularly high risk of contracting measles The virus spreads through droplets, contact with nose or throat secretions, as well as contaminated surfaces and objects. The measles virus can stay in the environment for up to two hours. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, sore or red eyes, a runny nose, and feeling generally unwell, followed by a red rash. The rash usually starts on the face before spreading down the body. Symptoms can develop between seven to 18 days after exposure, the health department advises. Outbreaks of measles have been recently reported in Asia - including Indonesia and India, Africa, Europe and the UK, the Middle East and the US. Former Home and Away star Orpheus Pledger has been released from custody on strict bail conditions just days after admitting to the brutal assault of a woman. Pledger appeared before Melbourne Magistrates Court in prison greys for the second time on Wednesday as his solicitor pleaded for bail. The ex-actor walked free from the court on Wednesday afternoon after a magistrate ruled he could spend the next six weeks living at his jazz musician father's home. Dressed in a grey tracksuit and clutching documents, Pledger was greeted by a large pack of TV cameras but declined to answer questions as a supporter pulled him to a nearby car. He kept his head down as he entered a white Nissan X-Trail while the driver beeped the horn several times at photographers. The former TV star had been expected to be sentenced by magistrate Justin Foster. He adjourned the matter for six weeks earlier on Wednesday, which would have left Pledger behind bars for an 'extensive' community corrections order (CCO) assessment. Pledger's solicitor Jasper MacCuspie argued the assessment wasn't necessary as the Victorian Institute of Forensic Mental Health (Forensicare) reported that he no longer met the requirements for involuntary treatment in custody. Orpheus Pledger is seen leaving the Melbourne Magistrate Court on Wednesday night after he was freed from bail The former soap star will spend the next six weeks living at his jazz musician father's home. Magistrate Foster granted Pledger's release on the condition that he resides at his father's home in Wahgunyah, along the northwest border of Victoria and NSW. He also ordered Pledger report to police once a week in Cowra, just across the border, and be held to a curfew between 11pm and 6am. His successful bid for freedom follows just 96 days in remand broken up by a three day manhunt launched after he fled a hospital while on a one-day bail agreement. The former soap star on Monday pleaded guilty to a raft of charges relating to a savage attack on a woman at a Melbourne home in the early hours of March 25. The vicious assault was captured by a motion-activated camera owned by Pledger which showed him grabbing the victim's hair and throwing her to the ground before stomping on her head. Pledger nodded from the dock as Mr MacCuspie relayed his intentions to follow the proposed bail conditions and engage with supports available while released. He then stared intently at the magistrate as he weighed up potential risks to the community after a series of missteps following the vicious attack. Former Home and Away star turned thug Orpheus Pledger (pictured) will be released into the public after being granted bail for the brutal assault of a woman in April The vicious attack caught on a motion-activated camera (pictured) which showed Pledger pulling the victim's hair, throwing her to the ground and stomping on her head The victim called Triple Zero warning police Pledger was in the midst of a mental health incident on the fateful night, the court previously heard. She was heard saying 'he's coming' before the line cut out. Police arrived 15 minutes later and found the woman lying on the ground while Pledger was nowhere to be seen. Images of the woman's injuries from the attack show bruises on the side of her face that bore a 'similar resemblance' to the sole pattern of Vans sneakers he owned. He was arrested two days later and remanded in custody until April 15 when he was bailed for one day to receive a mental health assessment at the Northern Hospital. Pledger fled from the hospital after telling staff he would 'kill' the victim numerous times, sparking a three-day manhunt before he was arrested for a second time. The court heard that when a family member told him he needed to return to custody, Pledger replied: 'Why? I haven't done anything wrong'. Magistrate Foster fumed when told Pledger had escaped from the hospital, saying he 'bent over backwards' to approve the bail condition. Pledger on Monday pleaded guilty to a raft of charges relating to the attack but will be freed to stay at his father's residence in far-northwest Victoria The court heard that Pledger had rekindled a relationship with his father while in remand, having previously lost contact with him as a child Police prosecutors opposed the bail application due to the risk of Pledger yet again breaking bail conditions and that a CCO assessment hadn't been completed. Magistrate Foster also raised concerns over granting bail without a conclusion to whether Pledgers offences were 'drug-induced or (due to) a mental health issue'. The Forensicare report however stated that Pledger had turned a corner after being detained for a second time and showed signs of an improved mental state. Mr MacCuspie told the court that he had been transferred from involuntary treatment to general population without incident. 'He hasn't profoundly enjoyed his time in custody ... but it does appear he has stabilised and appears to be doing better,' he said. The lawyer said his client 'accepts that he should have returned to court' when he fled on bail in April, adding: 'the position he is in today is different than than'. The report trumped a letter from Corrections Victoria to Magistrate Foster requesting Pledger be remanded for six weeks for an 'extensive' CCO assessment. Corrections argued his 'complex needs' required more than one day to assess if he was fit to be released into the public. Mr MacCuspie said extending Pledger's time behind bars would be 'prejudicial against Mr Pledger' and 'isn't appropriate in this circumstance'. 'He comes before the court with few priors and the first time being charged with anything of this severity,' he said. The court heard on Monday that Pledger (left) had fallen into a downward spiral of using drugs such as meth after his soap character was killed off and he lost a role on a US television show The court heard on Monday that Pledger had a successful acting career which peaked with 339 episodes in popular soap opera Home and Away. But he suffered a devastating blow to his career when a role on a US television show fell through at the 11th hour, and sent the actor into a downward spiral. Pledger started associating with an 'antisocial' crowd and using methamphetamines recreationally which he admitted in court was effecting him at the time of the attack. '(Pledger has) self-confessed troubles with drugs and perhaps some underlying mental health issues,' Mr MacCuspie told the court. He argued those issues are usual for matters before a magistrate's court and questioned how Pledger is 'more complex' than others cleared for a CCO. The court heard on Monday that Pledger had rekindled a relationship with his father while being held on remand after losing contact as a child. Mr MacCuspie relayed his client's intentions to learn how to play music from his musician father while residing 'as far removed from the victim as possible'. He will be required to return to court on August 16. An alternative healer told a diabetic grandmother 'darkness comes before dawn' as she lay dying at his slapping therapy retreat, a court heard. The 71-year-old was left 'howling in pain' before she died, having stopped taking insulin at a workshop run by the healer she described as a 'messenger sent by God'. Danielle Carr-Gomm died in October 2016 at Cleeve House in Seend, Wiltshire, where she was taking part in the event promoting Paida Lajin therapy - which involves patients being slapped or slapping themselves repeatedly. Hongchi Xiao, of Cloudbreak, California, is on trial at Winchester Crown Court accused of the manslaughter by gross negligence of Mrs Carr-Gomm, from Lewes, East Sussex. Yesterday, jurors heard that the practitioner believes Western medicines are 'evil' and doctors 'brainwash' people into taking it. Mrs Carr-Gomm became interested in trying alternative therapy because she was a vegetarian with a fear of needles - which are needed to inject insulin for diabetics. Xiao told the 30-person workshop that there were three stages to the healing process in Paida lajin, and that illness is the'darkness before dawn breaks'. However, the court heard that Mrs Carr-Gomm's condition became so bad after ditching insulin that she was seen to be 'vomiting, tired and weak'. Danielle Carr-Gomm, a 71-year-old diabetic woman, was left 'howling in pain' before she died Mrs Carr-Gomm, died at Cleeve House (pictured) in Seend, Wiltshire, in October 2016 Hongchi Xiao, 61, of Cloudbreak, California, is on trial accused of manslaughter She was heard crying and howling in pain, and was found 'alone in bed, pale, sweaty, drooling at the mouth and unable to talk'. Duncan Atkinson KC, prosecuting, told the jury that the 30 people attending the workshop at Cleeve House were 'keen disciples' of the defendant who was described as 'Master Xiao' in the event's programme. However, the prosecutor said that Mrs Carr-Gomm's condition became so bad after ditching insulin that she was seen to be 'vomiting, tired and weak'. Mr Atkinson added that Xiao, 61, 'congratulated' Mrs Carr-Gomm on stopping taking insulin on Monday October 17. Prosecutors allege Xiao knew he wielded 'influence' over Mrs Carr-Gomm when he praised her for stopping taking her insulin. They say that Xiao knew of the consequences of a type 1 diabetic not taking their insulin because Mrs Carr-Gomm became extremely unwell at a previous workshop and because a six year old boy died during another of his retreats. The prosecutor went on to say that participants at Cleeve House signed a disclaimer form which stated the practice was not 'meant for medical treatment'. Over the course of the retreat, they fasted for several days, only consuming a Chinese tea, and Xiao slapped them with him hand and a paddle. The prosecutor described how one of the participants saw within a day that Mrs Carr-Gomm 'was vomiting and observed that her condition was similar to that on the earlier occasion in Bulgaria when she had stopped her insulin injections'. Mrs Carr-Gomm wrote a testimonial for Xiao and described him as a 'messenger sent by God' One of her room-mates, Janine Stoodley, moved out of their shared room because of her condition. Mr Atkinson said that on the Wednesday, Mrs Carr-Gomm had not attended the workshop because of illness and was 'crying on her bed and howling in pain'. She had also been moved from her bed to a mattress on the floor after falling out of bed. Court heard that other participants interpreted her condition as a 'healing crisis' - a term used by the defendant as the process of the Paida Lajin taking effect. The prosecutor said: 'He identifies the signs of a healing crisis as including pain, vomiting, insomnia, giddiness and loud crying. 'The description by others of a healing crisis is indicative of their reliance on Xiao's leadership in dealing with Danielle Carr-Gomm's condition. 'It also underlined that the decision to seek help, to intervene, had to come from the defendant as the others relied on him and his interpretation of what was happening.' He added: 'This is a condition addressed by Xiao in his book. He suggests that it might appear that an illness has intervened as a result of Paida Pajin but it is in fact, he says, the result of the toxins leaving the body.' Mr Atkinson said that her condition worsened in the early hours of the Thursday and she then died. He added: 'Whilst she was conscious, she could have received medical care, including the administration of insulin, and this would have saved her. 'No-one was better placed than the defendant, the prosecution say, to make sure that this happened.' Paramedics were finally called at 2.54am on Thursday 20th, in cardiac arrest, lying on a mattress on the floor. The court heard Rigor mortis was already established, and she was confirmed to be dead at 3.11am. Xiao (seen at court this week) had written a book on Paida Lajin in which he stated that 'doctors are brainwashed by drug producers to act as salespersons for their drugs' He said that the sound of 'Paida-like slapping' was heard coming from her room late on the Wednesday while the defendant was with her. The prosecutor said that after Xiao was arrested, he said in interview that he had believed Mrs Carr-Gomm had been weak from fasting and had not needed an ambulance. He added: 'He denied that he had any influence over the students at all. He had no more responsibility than anyone else in attendance.' The court heard that Mrs Carr-Gomm had provided a testimonial for Xiao describing him as a 'messenger sent by God' who was 'starting a revolution to put the power back in the hands of the people to cure themselves and to change the whole system of health care'. Mr Atkinson said: 'Xiao knew that Danielle Carr-Gomm, by stopping her insulin injections, had created a source of danger, and he was all too aware that it was a source of danger. 'He knew of his influence over her, he knew the consequences of her not taking her insulin, and he had at least influenced and encouraged her decision to take the potentially fatal step of stopping her insulin.' Mr Atkinson said that Xiao had written a book on Paida Lajin in which he stated that 'doctors are brainwashed by drug producers to act as salespersons for their drugs'. In the book My Health, I Manage! E-Dao Paida And Lajin Self-Healing he states that the practice should be 'safer and more reliable than existing healing practices ... with no risk of poisoning or side effects' and that 'it should be effective on almost all diseases'. The three-week trial at Winchester Crown Court (above), which began on Monday, continues Paida lajin means 'slap and stretch' in Chinese, and practitioners like Xiao - who has no medical qualifications - believe the practice of slapping people in various positions can cure diseases and ailments. Mr Atkinson said: 'The messages that come from this book, very clearly, are that the defendant viewed drugs such as insulin as poisons which were contrary to, rather than conducive to health. 'Insulin was a cause of problems, and that in contrast Paida Lajin was a cure for illness, including diabetes.' Mr Atkinson said that Xiao told participants at an Australian seminar in 2015 that there was 'no pain, no gain'. Charles Row KC, defending Xiao, who denies the charge, told the jury that the defendant denied having a duty of care over Mrs Carr-Gomm who he had made 'absolutely clear' to that he was not medically trained. He said that Xiao had told her not to suddenly stop taking her insulin. He added: 'The defendant's case is that Danielle Carr-Gomm was a law unto herself, a strong, driven and independent woman. 'The degree of influence he had over Danielle Carr-Gomm is very much an issue, as is the question of whether he assumed responsibility for her safety.' Mr Row added that the defendant claimed that his actions were not causative of Mrs Carr-Gomm's death and he had not breached a duty of care for her. The three-week trial, which began on Monday, continues. Lisa Millar has been inundated with online abuse from keyboard warriors after she announced live on air that she was leaving ABC News Breakfast after five years as co-host. The veteran journalist shocked viewers on Wednesday by announcing she will step away from the program at the end of August. Social media trolls berated the morning news legend relentlessly in the hours following her resignation, sparking outrage from many of Millar's loyal friends, who jumped to her defence and called out the abuse. Among her biggest supporters was 'recovering former Murdoch columnist' Paul Syvret, who has known Millar for more than 25 years. 'I've known Lisa Millar personally and professionally for 25 years,' he posted on X. 'She is one of the most experienced journalists and broadcasters in the country, with the utmost integrity. The abuse here today is sickening.' Author Mike Carlton, who worked with Millar 'regularly' on ABC Sydney's drive time radio program, stepped in to defend her as well. 'She was always thoroughly professional and a delight to work with,' he tweeted. Lisa Millar has copped relentless abuse online since her resignation live on air during Wednesday's ABC Morning Breakfast ABC News Breakfast co-host Lisa Millar is leaving the program after five years at the helm 'The abuse is not only sickening, some of it suggests diseased minds.' Journalist Neil McMahon described Millar's resignation as 'a sign of the nasty derangement of many on this platform that posting this requires turning off replies to this tweet'. Millar, who has yet to publicly respond to the backlash, spoke of her pride as she announced she was leaving the show. 'What a blast the past five years has been, whether it was interviewing prime ministers and global thought leaders or getting karaoke encouragement from my childhood idol Gladys Knight,' she told viewers on Wednesday. 'In 35 years of journalism I've never done anything so exciting, unpredictable, and fun. It's only worked because of the awesome team in front of the cameras and behind the scenes who kept me laughing.' News Breakfast co-host Michael Rowland also shared his thoughts on the 'sad news'. 'Wishing Lisa all the best on those back roads and dog wrangling assignments. And enjoy the sleep-ins,' he wrote online after the program wrapped up. Another of Millar's colleagues, James Glenday, similarly thanked her for being a 'wonderful friend, colleague and mentor' to him. 'Sad she's leaving the show but happy she's going on to other big things,' he said. Millar's co-host Michael Rowland said the news of his colleagues departure was 'sad' Another of Millar's coworkers, James Glenday, said Millar had been a 'mentor' to him Millar will remain with the national broadcaster in a project-based role. 'I'm going to be having more adventures with Back Roads and Muster Dogs. Muster Dogs keeps getting bigger and bigger. So much to do, and exciting new projects. That means it's goodbye,' she said. Millar's stint on the show included last year's controversy when she wore a skirt with a high split that some viewers felt revealed too much. Millar said she was sickened by the comments especially given they were made so close to International Women's Day. 'The fact that what I wore on Monday attracted obnoxious commentary on Twitter, foul disgusting personal abuse that I wouldn't and couldn't repeat here - it was upsetting,' she said at the time. 'I am angry, on this International Women's Day. Angry on behalf of myself and also on behalf of other women, young women, who see those stories and see someone like me being violently abused day after day, for whatever reason bullies can find. 'I worry it might make you think that no progress is being made and it's not worth it being a woman in the public arena.' Millar went on to say she had received a wave of support in the wake of the trolling which had given her 'hope'. Millar will remain with the national broadcaster in a project-based role She joined the ABC in 1993 and is one of the network's longest-serving foreign correspondents, having worked as Bureau Chief in both the US and Europe Millar first filled in on ABC News Breakfast in 2018 and became a permanent host alongside Rowland the following year. She joined the ABC in 1993 and is one of the network's longest-serving foreign correspondents, having worked as Bureau Chief in both the US and Europe. Director of ABC News, Justin Stevens, said the network valued Millar 'immensely'. 'Lisa Millar is a superb journalist and broadcaster who personifies the very best values and attributes of ABC journalists,' he said. 'While we're sad to lose her from News, I'm excited to see her take up this opportunity and continue to go from strength to strength at the ABC. 'She's done a fantastic job presenting News Breakfast over the past five years one of the toughest jobs in Australian TV. 'The relentless hours never impeded her incredible warmth and energy, or her passion for delivering the best program for the audience.' Millar's final day with the program will be on August 23 A two-month manhunt continues for a man accused of knocking a pensioner to the ground while boarding a bus. The incident happened at a Hutton Street bus stop in Osborne Park in Perth's north-west shortly before 1pm on May 12. CCTV captured the elderly man walking toward the bus. Seconds later, a second man wearing a dark brown leather jacket, a printed t-shirt and black jeans knocked over the elderly passenger, who fell to the ground Shocked passengers on the bus rushed to help the elderly man, who sustained cuts and grazes to his arm. The bus driver also got out of his cabin to assist the victim along with passers-by, who helped the man back onto his feet. The 72-year-old was knocked to the ground by another man (pictured) at a bus stop on Hutton Street, in Osborne Park, in Perth's north-west on May 12 Passengers on the bus rushed to help the elderly man (pictured), who sustained cuts and grazes to his arm His alleged attacker initially alighted the bus but fled the scene a short time later. On Wednesday, Western Australia Police launched a public appeal by unveiling CCTV of the incident and images of a man they believe can assist with their inquiries. The man was described as aged 20-30 medium build and short dark brown hair. Anyone with information is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers. A couple have appeared in court accused of assaulting their daughter who they allegedly banned from having a social life. Yasmin Shinwary, 42, is accused of forcing daughter Fatima to 'obey' her commands, controlling her movements and blocking her from speaking to friends. She and husband Burhanullah Shinwary, 46, allegedly assaulted their daughter when she visited Hounslow High Street in west London to celebrate finishing her studies. The couple, who live in nearby Feltham, have been charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, while Ms Shinwary is accused of engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour in a family relationship. Yasmin and Burhanullah Shinwary have appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court in west London, charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm of their daughter Prosecutor Niamh McDonagh told Uxbridge Magistrates' Court: 'The victim is Ms Shinwary's daughter, and Ms Shinwary's husband - the victim's father - is also charged.' The couple, who moved to the UK from Afghanistan, were arrested and charged after an incident on June 27 when their daughter had 'gone to the high street in Hounslow with friends to celebrate the last day of college', Ms McDonagh said. Yasmin Shinwary is accused of assaulting her daughter that day by grabbing her on the arm, then standing by as her husband then allegedly attacked Fatima - leaving her with injuries to her face and hands. The couple are accused of punishing their daughter for going out to celebrate her last day of college with friends in west London's Hounslow High Street (stock photo) Mr Shinwary appeared in court on Saturday and was remanded in custody on a charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. His wife faced charges of coercive control and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. The couple are due to appear together at Isleworth Crown Court for a pre-trial hearing on July 29. Thousands of Aussies are eligible for new support payments as part of a scheme to offer workplace incentives. The Australian apprenticeship training support payment kicked in this week for specific trades deemed 'priority occupations' by the Albanese government. The new $5,000 payment is aimed at apprentices who work in areas that have a high demand for skilled workers both currently and in the future. If their occupation is in 'clean energy', workers are eligible for more money as part of the New Energy Apprenticeship Support Payment, which can be up to $10,000. Priority occupation list includes aged care workers, arborists, boat builders, bakers, locksmiths and beauty therapists, according to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR), the The $5,000 Australian Apprenticeship Training Support Payment is given to eligible workers in four instalments over two years, and apprentices must be undertaking a qualification at the Certificate III level or above. The New Energy Apprentice Support Payment is distributed over the course of the apprenticeship - which is up to $5,000 for part-time apprentices and up to $10,000 for those working full-time. Thousands of Australian workers are eligible for extra cash under the new government apprentice support payments Sectors eligible under the 'clean energy' category include agriculture and agritech technicians (pictured agriculture worker), as well as electricians, gas fitters and plumbers The sectors selected as 'clean energy' are also varied and include agricultural and agritech technicians, automotive electricians, regular electricians, gas fitters, glaziers, joiners, plumbers and welders. 'Its available where employers can provide apprentices with meaningful exposure, experience and work in clean energy,' the DEWR states. The two payments aimed to keep apprentices working towards their career goals. Employers can also access a payment if they hire apprentices in the listed occupations, as part of the priority hiring incentive. It provides employers with up to $5,000 in the first year of an apprenticeship, paid over two instalments. Aussies are urged to check if they are eligible for the new payments of up to $10,000 Apprentices can see the full eligibility list on the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations website. According to Apprenticeship Support Australia, The New Energy Support Payment is eligible for workers who have commenced or recommenced an Australian Apprenticeship with a new employer on or after January 1 2023. 'Or recommenced an Australian Apprenticeship after 1 July 2022 with the same employer after a break of greater than six months or twelve months if the commencement date was on or after 1 July 2022,' it said. Ukraine is too corrupt to join NATO, the US is set to tell leader Volodymyr Zelensky in a major blow to his nation's security ambitions. The defence bloc will request at its annual summit next week, in Washington DC, that Ukraine takes 'additional steps before formal membership talks progress', a senior US official told the Telegraph. Zelensky has been pushing for NATO ascension after Russia's brutal invasion ends to protect itself from future invasion, as the pact compels its members to militarily defend allies if they are attacked. But corruption, among other issues, has been a major thorn in the Ukrainian leader's side, blocking further relations with the West from developing. In 2022, after Ukraine formally applied for EU ascension, the EU Commission wrote of Ukraine that while 'preventing and combating corruption has been particularly high on the Ukrainian reform agenda since the Revolution of Dignity' in 2014, 'corruption remains a serious challenge.' Volodymyr Zelensky (pictured) has been pushing for NATO ascension after Russia 's brutal invasion ends in order to protect itself from future invasion The defence bloc will request at its annual summit next week, in Washington DC , that Ukraine takes 'additional steps before formal membership talks progress' (File image) Vladimir Putin (pictured) is meeting with China in Kazakhstan today to discuss defence and security Joe Biden's (pictured) administration says Ukraine is still too corrupt to join NATO Zelensky appears to be tackling the problem head on, particularly in the military. In September, he fired all six of his deputy defence ministers with no explanation weeks after dismissing his top defence minister. The US has recognised his efforts, with a State Department official telling the Telegraph: 'We have to step back and applaud everything that Ukraine has done in the name of reforms over the last two-plus years.' 'As they continue to make those reforms, we want to commend them, we want to talk about additional steps that need to be taken, particularly in the area of anti-corruption. It is a priority for many of us around the table,' the source added. NATO has given Ukraine a list of reforms it will be expected to carry out before it qualifies for membership, which officials said Zelensky was working through. 'Thats something Nato has been doing quietly under the radar that helps them get closer to membership', a source said. While Ukraine is working on furthering its relations with the West, Putin is doing the same with China. The despot is meeting with Xi Jinping at a Eurasian security and defence club in Kazakhstan today. While Ukraine is working on furthering its relations with the West, Putin is doing the same with China An infantrymen training with a T-80 tank is seen as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues in Donetsk Oblast Infantry secure the area for the 3rd Assault Brigade at sunset on July 1, 2024 in Kharkiv Region Putin and the Chinese president have expanded the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a club founded in 2001 with Russia, China and Central Asian powers, to include India, Iran and Pakistan as a counterweight to the West. Putin will hold a series of bilateral meetings on Wednesday on the sidelines of the July 3-4 SCO summit in the Kazakh capital, Astana, the Kremlin said. He is due to meet Xi, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and the leaders of Azerbaijan, Mongolia and Pakistan before an informal dinner hosted by Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. India said Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is expected in Moscow later this month, will not attend. He is sending Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar instead. Russia and China regard the SCO, which promotes common approaches to external security threats such as drug trafficking and focuses on countering any domestic instability, as a means to project their influence across Asia. "The leaders of the SCO member countries will discuss the current state and prospects for further deepening multifaceted cooperation within the organisation and improving its activities," the Kremlin said in a statement. At last year's virtual summit, the group issued a statement critical of what it called the negative impact of "unilateral and unlimited expansion of global missile defence systems by certain countries or groups of countries", without directly referring to NATO expansion and Western military assistance to Ukraine. Keir Starmer is frantically playing down fears Labour will get 'unchecked' power today as the election campaigns enters its final dash for the line. The Labour leader tried to quell mounting alarm that he is set for the biggest majority ever seen, insisting many seats will 'go to the wire' and polls do not predict the future. The twitchy message came as the PM makes a last-ditch effort to avert a complete Tory meltdown after getting a big boost from a joint appearance with Boris Johnson. At a rally last night, Mr Johnson warned that Sir Keir would use a 'sledgehammer' majority to bring in 'mandatory wokery' and 'uncontrolled immigration'. Mr Sunak is using the last day of campaigning to visit previously safe seats in Hampshire - with apocalyptic polls suggesting many will fall to Labour and the Lib Dems. A massive Survation poll - conducted using the MRP method - found Reform splitting the right-wing vote will gift Sir Keir the largest Commons majority in history, while Tory numbers fall to a record low. Touring broadcast studios this morning, Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride acknowledged that the Conservatives are on track for a dire result. He said Labour is almost certain to get an 'extraordinary landslide on a scale that has probably never, ever been seen in this country before'. However, the PM insisted Mr Stride had not 'quite' been conceding defeat - telling ITV's This Morning 'what Mel was doing was warning of what a very large Labour majority, unchecked, would mean for people'. He added: 'I'm fighting hard for every vote.' Other Tories privately insist that the reception on the doorstep has not been as bad as the polls indicate - and there have been glimmers of a narrowing in recent days, with the Reform surge seemingly ebbing. As the UK braces to learn who will be in charge for the next five years: There are claims Sir Keir will install Harriet Harman as the next head of the equalities watchdog, despite concerns over her support for gender ideology; Suella Braverman has effectively launched the Tory post-mortem saying the election is 'over' and high immigration was to blame for defeat; Mr Sunak has bizarrely insisted his favourite meal is 'sandwiches' during a This Morning interview; He also issued a warning to Sir Keir that he cannot be a 'great dad' and PM at the same time, after the Labour leader suggested he still wants to clock off on Friday evenings; Nigel Farage is still trying to seal the deal with voters in Clacton, as Reform struggles to turn votes into seats; A poll has suggested the SNP could remain the biggest party in Scotland after a threat from Labour. In Wales this morning, Sir Keir tried to quell mounting speculation about the scale of his win, insisting many seats will 'go to the wire' and polls do not predict the future Rishi Sunak (pictured on ITV's This Morning) is making a last-ditch effort to avert a complete Tory meltdown after getting a big boost from a joint appearance with Boris Johnson Mr Johnson took to the stage for the first time in the campaign last night as the Tories try ward off Labour's projected supermajority Your browser does not support iframes. Mr Johnson received a rapturous reception as he made a dramatic appearance at the central London rally last night. During an impassioned speech, Mr Johnson called on voters flirting with backing Reform to 'draw back from the brink'. He labelled Nigel Farage a 'Kremlin crawler' and unleashed attacks on Labour's 'mandatory wokery' and 'uncontrolled immigration', bluntly adding that people who 'have a few thousand to spare' and 'actually want higher tax' should vote red. Mr Johnson swiped at Sir Keir saying it was 'way past his bedtime' after the Opposition leader admitted he tries to avoid working past 6pm on Fridays to spend time with his family. Up until now the ex-PM had only endorsed specific Tory allies with video messages, as tensions linger with Mr Sunak over the latter's resignation triggering his eviction from Downing Street. The two men still did not appear together on stage last night. But playing down the 'trivial' differences between himself and his former Chancellor, Mr Johnson said he was a 'glad when the PM asked for help' and 'could not say no' because they both 'love our country'. On his first campaign stop of the day in Carmarthenshire, Sir Keir played down chatter about the scale of his victory, insisting that many seats will 'go to the wire'. Asked if he was worried about Mr Johnson joining the Tory attack, he said: 'Not in the slightest. I've been arguing that the last 14 years have been about chaos and division - and last night, they wheeled out the architect of chaos and division. 'That just shows the desperate, negative place they've got to in their campaign.' In his intervention last night, Mr Johnson hit out at Labour's plans to hike taxes and said the party would not take a firm stance against Vladimir Putin, following his invasion of Ukraine. He went on to criticise Sir Keir for not being able to explain 'the difference between a man and a woman'. 'He sits there with his mouth open like a stunned mullet,' he said. Mr Johnson, who led the Tories to a landslide victory in 2019 against Jeremy Corbyn, added: 'They can achieve nothing in this election except to usher in the most left-wing Labour government since the war with a huge majority, and we must not let it happen. A new MRP study by Survation, published within the final 48 hours of campaigning, predicted Labour would win 484 seats at this week's general election The Survation model, based on polling data from more than 30,000 voters, forecast the Tories would be reduced to just 64 seats in the House of Commons 'Don't let the Putinistas deliver the Corbynistas. Don't let Putin's pet parrots give this entire country psittacosis - which is a disease you get by the way from cosying up to pet parrots. 'Friends, if you actually - everybody if you actually want higher taxes next week, this year, if you feel you've got a few thousands to spare, then vote Labour on Thursday. If you want uncontrolled immigration and mandatory wokery, and pointless kowtowing to Brussels again, then go right ahead, make my day, vote for Starmer. 'But if you want to protect our democracy and our economy and keep this country strong abroad by spending 2.5 per cent of our GDP on defence which Labour still refuses to commit to, then you know what to do, don't you, everybody? 'There's only one thing to do - vote Conservative on Thursday my friends and I know you will. I know you will.' A Real Housewives of Cheshire star who celebrated splitting from her property mogul ex by burning her wedding dress is 'facing bankruptcy' after being left empty-handed amid a bitter 3million divorce battle. Lauren Simon, 51, says she has been 'destroyed' after her eight-year court war ended in her getting none of her multi-millionaire ex-husband's money - and is now facing a 1.2million bill to pay. The former Celebrity Big Brother contestant had initially been handed a 3million lump sum by a judge in 2018 after the end of her 13-year marriage to Paul Simon. But property tycoon Mr Simon, 54, then won an appeal against the order after claiming the couple only had 2million between them in assets, and he had no cash of his own. The pair later agreed to settle the case in February 2021, with Mrs Simon being given the right to live in a 1.8m mansion in Altrincham, Greater Manchester for life - but with no cash payout. However, they were dragged back to court by a specialist divorce finance company after it accused them of entering a 'collusive agreement' to avoid paying a 1.2million bill that Mrs Simon owes them. Real Housewives of Cheshire star Lauren Simon is facing potential bankruptcy after a bitter divorce battle with her property mogul ex ended in her getting nothing - and being left with a 1.2million bill to pay The 51-year-old once celebrated her divorce by torching her wedding dress (pictured) The former Celebrity Big Brother contestant had initially been handed a 3million lump sum by a judge in 2018 after the end of her 13-year marriage to Paul Simon (pictured) After claiming the no-cash divorce settlement was a ploy to avoid Mrs Simon paying what she owes, the company Integro Funding Limited - trading as 'Level' - was then joined to the divorce case, forcing the couple to be taken back to court. The divorce battle finally ended yesterday at the High Court, with Judge Mr Justice Peel saying Mrs Simon had confirmed she wanted to drop her claim and for the legal war to end - despite her ex's lawyers saying she will get no cash from the marriage. It means the reality TV star will walk away from her acrimonious split with none of her ex-husband's millions and no funds to pay Level's 1.2million bill, leaving her at threat of bankruptcy. 'She was crystal clear in not wanting any further litigation, which she said had destroyed her and her family,' said the judge. The court heard the couple married in November 2003 and had two children before separating in January 2016. They lived in a lavish 1.8million home in Bowden, Cheshire. Mrs Simon shot to fame in 2015 after she found a role on Real Housewives of Cheshire, which features the glamorous lifestyles of Cheshire women. She left the show in 2019, before returning in 2020. She earned 40,000-a-year, but also received perks and the chance to plug her brand of perfume, Lauren Stone Number One, which she launched at a lavish party in Hale Barns, the court heard. Following a bitterly contested hearing, Mrs Justice Parker awarded Mrs Simon the 3million lump sum as a final conclusion to the couple's married life in 2018, but that was later overturned on the husband's appeal. Mrs Simon and her ex were dragged back into court by a specialist divorce finance company after it accused them of entering a 'collusive agreement' to avoid paying a 1.2million bill that she owed them In 2021, after reaching the settlement with her ex, Mrs Simon gave an interview in which she described having a party at which she burned her wedding dress to celebrate the divorce. Lawyers for Level claimed that the agreement the former couple struck in 2021 was 'collusive' and that, in providing her with no cash, was 'seeking to exclude' the company from claiming its money back. The debt is unenforceable because Mrs Simon - who owes the money - has been left with no cash or assets, and the company has no claim on Mr Simon's wealth. The consent order was set aside by agreement in 2022 and Level were joined as a party to the case the same year in a bid to get their bill paid. But Mr Justice Peel said there was nothing the court could do to force the couple to reach a new cash settlement - and allow Level to be repaid - if they refused to do so. 'There have been no direct factual findings, based on tested evidence, but it is not difficult to reach a number of provisional conclusions,' he said. 'Husband and wife entered into an agreement... which included as one of its objectives an outcome to avoid repayment to Level of its loan. 'Other factors may have come into play, but it is probable, in my view, that preventing Level from recouping its monies was part of the motivation, and it was certainly one of the consequences.' He said it was Mrs Simon's application for a financial order that had brought the case to court and that the litigation lender could not ask for an order in her favour so that it could get its money back. 'Level are not entitled to seek financial remedies orders as between husband and wife,' he said. 'This court can only make distributive orders, whether by consent or otherwise, as between husband and wife, on application made by either or both of them. Mrs Simon (pictured outside the High Court) says she has been 'destroyed' after her eight-year court war ended in her getting none of her multi-millionaire ex-husband's cash 'It cannot make a distributive order upon application by Level so as to require the husband to pay the wife such sum as Level is entitled to. 'The wife does not seek any orders, including a consent order. Nor does the husband. Whatever their reasons for this, I cannot force them to apply for orders, whether by consent or otherwise. 'If wife and husband, for their own reasons, elect not to pursue financial remedy proceedings, there is precious little that Level can do about it.' The judge also added that 'no matter how unattractive the withdrawal by the wife of her application for financial remedies would be as an outcome so far as Level are concerned,' there is 'little they can do about that other than making her bankrupt and they would be unable to recoup any of the debt she owes to them'. Having made 'no order' on Mrs Simon's application, the judge said: 'Should either wife or husband wish to make an application for financial remedies in the future, it must be issued afresh. 'If such an application is made, Level is to be automatically joined as intervener, and the application must be served on them.' The court heard Level are bringing a separate civil case against Mrs Simon, seeking their money back. The judge said: 'Level is not without potential remedies, as its civil claim remains pending. I make no observation on the merits, or otherwise, of its claim for a sum which now stands at about 1.2m, including interest but excluding costs.' A Delta Airlines plane heading to Amsterdam has made an emergency landing in New York City after dozens of passengers were served spoiled food and fell ill during the flight. Delta flight 136 was traveling from Detroit, Michigan to The Netherlands when it was diverted to JFK Airport early this morning after it was discovered that a portion of the in-flight meal service had been spoiled, a Delta spokesperson told DailyMail.com. Medics met the plane after it landed at JFK and aid was provided to 14 passengers and 10 flight crew, all of whom declined to receive medical attention. Travelers were provided with hotel rooms and transportation, a Port Authority spokesperson confirmed, and said that all 'will be rebooked to continue to their destination'. The disruption on Wednesday morning came as millions took to America's skies for one of the busiest travel days of the year. TSA has warned that 32million will fly this week for July 4, piling the strain on an already stretched aviation industry. One seemingly frustrated passenger from the flight took to social media, asking how the airline was 'going to get me to Amsterdam today' after it had to divert 'because you served passengers "contaminated" food' on the plane. Delta Airlines flight 136 en route to Amsterdam diverted to New York City's JFK Airport after it was discovered that passengers were served 'contaminated food' during the in-flight meal service One seemingly frustrated passenger took to social media, asking how the airline was 'going to get me to Amsterdam today' after it had to divert 'because you served passengers "contaminated" food' on the plane The A330 plane, which had 277 customers on board, departed from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport just before 11pm Tuesday. The flight crew decided to divert to NYC learning that some passengers had been served spoiled food. Delta says the crew consulted with medical experts who recommended the diversion. The flight landed safely at JFK around 4am Wednesday, where passengers and crew were met by medics. 'There were 24 aided cases upon landing, including 10 members of the flight crew and 14 passengers, all of whom declined to receive medical attention,' a Port Authority spokesperson told DailyMail.com. 'Passengers were provided with hotel rooms and transportation and will be rebooked to continue to their destination.' Virginia, who was apparently on the flight, tweeted at the airline after the plane's emergency landing. She said: 'I need to know how you're going to get me to Amsterdam today - I'm on the plane that's emergency landing at JFK because you served passengers "contaminated" food. 'I don't need hotel/food vouchers I need to arrive in Amsterdam today.' The flight landed safely at JFK around 4am Wednesday, where passengers and crew were met by medics (file photo of JFK Airport) A Delta spokesperson told DailyMail.com its teams are probing the incident and have issued an apology to its costumers (stock photo) A spokesperson told DailyMail.com: 'Delta flight 136 from Detroit to Amsterdam diverted to New York's JFK early Wednesday morning after it was discovered that a portion of the in-flight meal service was spoiled. 'Medical crews were on site to meet the aircraft and treat any affected passengers and crew members. Delta teams will immediately work to gather information into how this incident occurred. 'This is not the service Delta is known for and we sincerely apologize to our customers for the inconvenience and delay in their travels.' It comes after a separate Delta plane was forced to make an emergency landing at JFK in April after an emergency slide fell off the aircraft. The Los Angeles-bound Delta flight 520 was diverted back JFK Airport at around 8.30am on April 26. The plane had been an hour into its journey when the freak incident set off an emergency alarm. No injuries were reported aboard the Boeing 767, which was carrying 176 customers, two pilots and five flight attendants at the time. A serial sex attacker dubbed the 'Coronation Street' rapist who was once Britain's most wanted man failed in his latest bid for freedom, it was announced today. Infamous criminal Andrew Barlow was handed 13 life sentences after a string of sex assaults on women and girls across five counties during the 1980s. The 68-year-old spent 34 years behind bars for 11 rapes, three attempted rapes, indecent assault and using a firearm to resist arrest. He was later found guilty of two more rapes in 2010 and 2017, committed during the 1980s. His final two convictions were for offences committed in 1981 and 1982. In one of his vile crimes, he raped a woman in front of her three-year-old child who was hiding behind the sofa. Barlow - dubbed the Coronation Street rapist because of the way he attacked his victims in their own terraced homes - was freed on parole in March last year, despite then justice secretary Dominic Raab attempting to halt his release. His initial release in 2023 left his victims furious after they campaigned tirelessly with their families to keep the rapist behind bars. Just six weeks later, he was hauled back to jail after breaching conditions, and today he discovered he failed in a bid to win freedom. In its ruling, the Parole Board decided he is too 'high risk' to be released but went on to recommend he be placed in an open prison instead. Andrew Barlow, a serial sex attacker dubbed the 'Coronation Street' rapist, was once Britain's most wanted man Pictured is Andrew Barlow, formerly known as Andrew Longmire In its ruling, the Board said he 'held attitudes supportive of or condoning sexual violence' but added: 'The panel heard that Mr Barlow was a quiet prisoner who gets on well with others on his wing.' It added: 'Having reviewed Mr Barlows offending history, his custodial behaviour, his time on licence and the evidence at the oral hearing, the panel considered Mr Barlow would present a very high risk of a contact sexual offence at this time. His risk of serious harm towards other people was considered to be very high.' The report concluded: 'The panel is not satisfied that release at this point would be safe for the protection of the public. 'The panel considered Mr Barlow to lack insight into his risk factors. However, on considering the criteria for recommending placement in open conditions, the panel recommended that Mr Barlow should be progressed in this way. 'It considered that he would present a low risk of absconding from an open prison and that a move to open conditions would allow him the chance to show that he can be trusted. 'It is now for the Secretary of State to decide whether to accept the Parole Boards recommendation. Mr Barlow will be eligible for another parole review in due course.' Some of the more horrific offences that Barlow, formerly known as Andrew Longmire, committed in his campaign of terror included of raping a 15-year-old girl by breaking into her home at around 8:45am when her parents had left the house. Barlow threatened the 'petrified' girl with a knife before pulling her clothes off and raping her. The cold cases were eventually solved thanks to advances in DNA technology and Barlow was given 13 life sentences for his horrific crimes Barlow was freed on parole in March last year, despite then justice secretary Dominic Raab (pictured) attempting to halt his release, slamming his crimes as 'despicable' The serial rapist would spend days carrying out reconnaissance on the victims' homes to work out their domestic routines. Knowing when a victim's partners or parents would leave for work allowed Barlow to attack the victims alone. The cold cases were eventually solved thanks to advances in DNA technology. Last year a relative of a woman Barlow raped in her own home in Greater Manchester in 1987 told Manchester Evening News: 'I took it on the chin in January and decided to get on with my life when Barlow was released - now this animal is back in our lives again. We told the authorities and they didn't listen. 'Someone has to be accountable for this. It will mean all the victims and their families are reliving the agony again like we had to in January when we tried in vain to stop his release. 'We told the authorities he was too high a risk and we have been proven right. 'I will like to sit down with someone from the Parole Board face to face and tell them what happened to our family because of Barlow'. The victim of an alleged terror stabbing at a university campus is a psychology graduate researching brain disorders. Melvern Kurniawan, 22, was allegedly stabbed in the neck and back with a kitchen knife by a 14-year-old boy at the University of Sydney at about 8.35am on Tuesday. Mr Kurniawan was walking to the Brain and Mind Centre, which is located on the campus, when the random attack allegedly took place. Bystanders rushed to his aid and helped stemmed the bleeding until paramedics arrived. He was taken to the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and is now recovering at home after he was discharged on Tuesday night. Mr Kurniawan's family broke their silence from their home in Sydney's Hills district on Wednesday following his terrifying ordeal. 'He is doing fine, really fine. He doesn't want to talk about it for now, just recover first,' his mother Desy told the Daily Telegraph. Melvern Kurniawan, 22 (pictured left with his family ) was allegedly stabbed in the neck and back with a kitchen knife by a 14-year-old boy at the University of Sydney at about 8.35am on Tuesday Some of Mr Kurniawan's friends, who visited his home, told the newspaper he is an academically gifted student with a 'brilliant mind'. 'He's the smartest guy we know It's awful this happened,' one said. Mr Kurniawan is a research assistant at the Brain and Mind Centre and is currently completing a thesis. The centre is a globally recognised institute that conducts world-leading research on developing treatments for conditions in the brain, The institute is also renowned for its leading mental health research. Mr Kurniawan is studying a Bachelor of Psychology with Honours in Neuroscience. He is conducting research into dementia, cognition and sleep. 'I hope to use my experience and knowledge of the relationship between the brain, behaviour, and psychology to assist people across diverse settings,' his LinkedIn page states. Mr Kurniawan was also a talented high school student with an impressive ATAR of 99.40. He topped his class in several subjects including English Extension Two and Legal Studies. The teenager, who was wearing an army cadet-style uniform, was arrested by police a short time later (pictured police at the crime scene at the university campus on Tuesday) Detectives from NSW Police and the Counter Terrorism Unit returned to the RPA hospital on Wednesday, where the teenager is currently being treated (pictured police at the crime scene on Tuesday) His alleged attacker who was wearing an army cadet-style uniform, was arrested by police a short time later. He remains under police guard in RPA Hospital as he undergoes a mental health assessment. Detectives from NSW Police and the Counter Terrorism Unit returned to the hospital on Wednesday. NSW Police Assistance Commissioner Mark Walton said the incident was not deemed a terrorist attack. An motive has not identified by investigators at this stage and no connection to an ideology has been made. Detectives have assessed that the boy acted alone and there is no evidence to suggest he is part of a larger organised group. Photos from the scene show a puffer jacket and a backpack beside what appears to be a bloodstain on the concrete at the university's entrance (pictured) The teenager has taken part in several government run deradicalisation programs after he was charged last year with threatening to carry out a terrorist attack. Footage captured by a CCTV camera showed the boy walking on Parramatta road before he entered the campus of the university just before 8.30am. He was seen walking out of the campus holding his right hand, which is understood to have been injured during the attack. Police said the boy boarded a bus to the RPA Hospital and told staff he had allegedly stabbed someone. Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said 'I am who I am' and admitted that he is 'not a church boy' when addressing explosive allegations that he sexually assaulted a former family babysitter. The claim was one of many made in a Vanity Fair article that took a deep dive into Kennedy's long history of 'reckless' behavior - chronicling his drug use, allegations of sexual assault and even claims he ate a dog - which he has denied. The magazine stated that in 1998 Kennedy and his then-wife Mary Richardson hired a 23-year-old woman, Eliza Cooney, as their part-time babysitter. Ms Cooney reportedly told the magazine that Kennedy groped her in the family kitchen. Kennedy has since said the article contains 'a lot of garbage', but when pressed by a podcast interviewer whether he denied the sexual assault allegation, he said: 'I'm not going to comment on it.' Robert F Kennedy Jr told the Breaking Points podcast on Tuesday, 'I am not a church boy' Vanity Fair published a story Tuesday that claimed independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. sent out a picture to a friend that showed him pretending to gobble down a barbecued dog in Korea. Kennedy said it was a goat in Patagonia On Tuesday afternoon, RFK Jr. pushed back at claims that he ate dog meat, saying the story was meant to 'distract us from President Biden's cognitive deficits' Kennedy told the Breaking Points podcast on Tuesday, 'I am not a church boy. 'I had a very, very rambunctious youth,' he told podcaster Saagar Enjeti. 'I said in my announcement speech that I have so many skeletons in my closet that if they could all vote, I could run for king of the world.' He additionally said the magazine was 'recycling 30-year-old stories,' and insisted: 'I'm not going to comment on the details of any of them, but it's you know, I am who I am.' Vanity Fair also shared a photo of Kennedy and a friend holding up a barbecued animal carcass which they are pretending to munch on. It said that Kennedy had texted the photo in question to a friend last year - recommending his pal try a restaurant in South Korea that serves dog meat. The magazine said a veterinarian identified the animal as a dog, as the animal had a telltale 'floating rib' found in canines. The friend who received the picture thought it was 'disturbing evidence of Kennedy's poor judgment and thoughtlessness, simultaneously mocking Korean culture, reveling in animal cruelty, and needlessly risking his reputation and that of his family,' according to Vanity Fair. Metadata from the photograph reportedly showed it was taken in 2010 - the same year that Kennedy contracted a brain worm. He has since fully recovered, his campaign has said. Robert F Kennedy Jr is pictured as a boy with his uncle John F Kennedy. He is running as an independent candidate in the presidential race Kennedy denied that the picture showed him posing with the barbecued carcass of a canine, claiming it was the carcass of a goat and that the picture was taken in Patagonia. 'Hey @VanityFair,' Kennedy wrote on social media platform X, 'you know when your veterinary experts call a goat a dog, and your forensic experts say a photo taken in Patagonia was taken in Korea, that you've joined the ranks of supermarket tabloids.' He gave the same explanation during a Tuesday afternoon appearance on Fox News. 'Keep telling America that up is down if you want. I'll keep talking about the fact that working families can't afford houses or groceries because our last two presidents went on a $14 trillion debt joyride, paid for by hard-working Americans,' the independent said. 'The DNC media's garbage pail journalism may distract us from President Biden's cognitive deficits but it does little to elevate the national debate or reduce the price of groceries,' he added. Vanity Fair's story suggests that Kennedy could have contracted the brain parasite in 2010 from the 'dog.' The candidate has said that he believed he contracted the tapeworm from food he ate - though it's unclear where he had that meal. At one point Kennedy suggested he contracted the parasite in India, while the campaign more vaguely pointed to his widespread travel in 'Africa, South America, and Asia.' In a divorce filing from his late ex-wife Mary Richardson, Kennedy said the tapeworm ate a portion of his brain leading to a 'brain fog,' which diminished his earning potential. Family members interviewed by Vanity Fair were skeptical of this explanation. They pointed to the 14 years RFK Jr. was a heroin user - from the age of 15 to 29, when he quit. 'One Kennedy has circulated a report from the National Institutes of Health on the impact of long-term heroin abuse, which surmises that the damage can alter the physiology of the brain, 'creating long-term imbalances in neuronal and hormonal systems that are not easily reversed' and 'which may affect decision-making abilities, the ability to regulate behavior, and responses to stressful situations,'' the magazine's Joe Hagan wrote. Kennedy, who is running in the November 5 presidential election against Democratic incumbent Joe Biden and Republican contender Donald Trump, has been called a potential election 'spoiler' by standing to take votes away from both major-party candidates. However he has not qualified on enough state ballots to win the 270 electoral votes needed for victory and was barred from a CNN televised debate last week because of this. Robert F Kennedy Jr was contacted for comment. Cooney was not reachable for comment. Labour is considering putting trans ally ex-minister Harriet Harman in charge of the equalities watchdog if it takes power, it was reported today. The former deputy Labour leader, who is standing down as an MP after more than 40 years, is said to be a candidate to lead the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). Its current leader, Baroness Falkner, has taken a tough stance on gender ideology and defended women's rights. But a plan for the Equalities Minister Kemi Badenoch to extend a five-year term due to end in November was scuppered by Rishi Sunak calling a surprise early election. If appointed Ms Harman will be a highly controversial choice as she is an outspoken supporter of trans rights and has said trans men cannot be fully excluded from women's services. In a 2022 interview with Sky the 73-year-old said: 'I stand behind the Gender Recognition Act, so as far as I'm concerned, women are women who are born women, but women are also women who are trans women. 'I think that we also need to recognise that in some respects there need to be same-sex services, which can be delivered and you can't have a blanket exclusion of trans women, but in certain circumstances, in narrow circumstances, you can restrict those services.' The former deputy Labour leader, who is standing down as an MP after more than 40 years, is said to be a candidate to lead the Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). It came as Labour leader Keir Starmer further hardened his position on gender rights rights, saying trans women with penises would not be allowed to enter female-only spaces. Last year Baroness Falkner was subjected to an 'ideologically motivated witch-hunt' by trans activists. Two Labour sources told the Times Ms Harman was being 'lined up', although a third said Baroness Falkner could yet be reappointed. Campaign Group Fair Play For Women said that if she was appointed it would mean 'the end of sex-based rights for women, children and gay people'. Ms Harman, who bows out as the longest serving female MP - known as the Mother of the House - is likely to be made a peer by a Labour government. The Tories and others may however question her suitability for the role on other grounds. The former MP for Camberwell and Peckham also led the Partygate probe that ruled against former PM Boris Johnson. And throughout her long parliamentary career she has been a torchbearer for civil liberties, so much so that she was nicknamed 'Harriet Harperson' by her critics. She has faced questions over her work for the National Council for Civil Liberties, a pressure group that granted 'affiliate' status to PIE, a group of predatory paedophiles who openly campaigned to legalise child sex in the 1970s. Last year Baroness Falkner was subjected to an 'ideologically motivated witch-hunt' by trans activists. Kishwer Falkner had been accused of bullying, discrimination and transphobia after her own staff at the EHRC filed a 40-page dossier of complaints against her. But after an independent review it was shelved. Insiders at the EHRC believe she was targeted after she backed legal reforms guarding the rights of biological women in sport and single-sex spaces. They said that the dossier of more than 40 complaints filed against her and then leaked to Channel 4 was made up of 'trivial' and 'petty perceived slights' made by those out to 'get her'. It came as Labour leader Keir Starmer further hardened his position on gender rights rights, saying trans women with penises would not be allowed to enter female-only spaces. The Labour leader was responding to criticism from JK Rowling over where those with gender recognition certificates who retain their male anatomy would be able to gain access. In an article for The Times last week, the Harry Potter author claimed that she will 'struggle to support' Labour at next week's election over the party's support of women-only spaces. Speaking to the same paper, Sir Keir was asked about a question she posed on X/Twitter, in which she asked: 'Do biological males with gender recognition certificates have the right to enter women-only spaces?' He replied: 'No. They don't have that right. They shouldn't. That's why I've always said biological women's spaces need to be protected.' Asked whether he would meet Ms Rowling, he added: 'I've indicated a willingness ... hopefully we can get that organised.' But it is the latest remark by the Labour leader to threaten to put him on a collision course with his own MPs after the election. In an article for The Times last week, the Harry Potter author claimed that she will 'struggle to support' Labour at next week's election over the party's support of women-only spaces. Last week shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson argued that female facilities were the right place for people with gender recognition certificates. GRCs currently require doctors to sign off and two years' evidence of living in a different gender - although Labour proposals could see that downgraded to a two-year 'cooling off' period. However, there is no requirement for people to have had reassignment surgery, or be planning to do so. Speaking on Times Radio, Ms Phillipson insisted that single-sex provision was important for women's 'dignity and safety'. But she stressed that there needed to be 'provision for trans people'. It was the second time she and Sir Keir had appeared to disagree. He also said children should not be taught gender ideology at school, in an apparent slapdown. Labour's leader said teachers did need guidance on sex and relationships education but that lessons should be age-appropriate. His comments appeared to contradict those made by Ms Phillipson the day before, when she failed to back the Government's proposed ban on children being taught about gender identity. Sir Keir Starmer has admitted he will almost certainly have to keep releasing prisoners early if elected Prime Minister amid fears jails will run out of space within days of the election. The Labour leader conceded that 'in all likelihood' the policy being pursued by the current government would remain in place. Britain's prison estate is severely overcrowded and numerous recent inspections have warned of dangerous conditions within jails due to staffing issues, endemic violence and widespread drug use. Sir Keir told the BBC: 'It simply wouldn't be realistic for me to say, ''the prisons are overcrowded on Thursday at 10 o'clock but somehow I've magicked up a new prison on Friday morning'' - that isn't going to happen.' When asked about prison overcrowding, he said: 'This has got to be a problem we'll inherit if we are privileged to come in to serve and I'm not going to sit here and pretend to you that I can build a prison on the first day of the Labour government. Sir Keir Starmer - seen yesterday on the campaign trail - has conceded he will have to continue releasing prisoners early 'There has been an absolute failure on prison building - half the money that was allocated hasn't been spent, and we haven't got enough prison places.' 'I have to say it's shocking to have to inherit a problem like that, that our criminal justice system has gotten to a point where we're releasing prisoners who should be in prison early and giving instructions to the police not to arrest in certain cases. 'That is how broken the system [is] - got to pick that up and start the fix, but also not just fix but renew and take forward.' His comments come after prison governors warned jails could run out of space within days, putting the public in danger. The Prison Governors' Association (PGA), which represents more than 95% of all prison governors and managers working in England and Wales, said the entire criminal justice system 'stands on the precipice of failure' as it called on the next government to tackle problems 'without delay'. The association believes there is 'no other option open' to government than to release more prisoners early to grip the 'crisis', adding: 'An uncrowded prison system should have no more than about 78,000 people in custody.' As of Friday, the prison population stood at 87,360 with a 'usable operational capacity' of 88,818, indicating almost 1,500 spaces are available. This does not include about 1,350 other cell spaces which are always kept free as a contingency measure, so prisons have the capacity to operate safely and respond to any urgent or unforeseen circumstances. In an interview today, PGA president Tom Wheatley warned prisons would face 'operational breaking point' - where they can no longer safely accept more inmates - within 'a week or two' of the election'. 'The government has known about this for ages,' he told the Financial Times. There are things they could have done, and didn't, right up until the election was called. 'They made it inevitable that someone else would have to make very difficult decisions.' A file photo of HMP Wandsworth in south-west London, which recently hit headlines after a prison officer was filmed allegedly having sex with an inmate Sir Keir told the BBC : 'It simply wouldn't be realistic for me to say, ''the prisons are overcrowded on Thursday at 10 o'clock but somehow I've magicked up a new prison on Friday morning'' - that isn't going to happen' The Government has expanded a scheme which allows some inmates to be released from jail up to 70 days early, in a bid to free up prison cells, but concerns have been raised that dangerous criminals could end up being eligible. Officials insist offenders will continue to be supervised under strict conditions and say anyone jailed for a serious violent, terror or sexual offence will not be eligible. The letter followed a threat from the prison officers' union last month that it could take the Government to court if overcrowding in jails gets worse. The POA has repeatedly raised fears prisons could be full by early July, and said it may launch a legal challenge under health and safety laws if safe capacity levels are breached because guards have 'no right to strike' in England and Wales. In a report published earlier this year, Whitehall's spending watchdog found overcrowding in prisons is now 'one of the biggest obstacles' to cutting the courts backlog. The Government's target of cutting the crown court backlog to 53,000 by March 2025 is 'no longer achievable', the National Audit Office (NAO) said. The Ministry of Justice is building six new prisons to create an extra 20,000 places as demand grows for cell spaces, partially because of the Government's recruitment campaign to hire 20,000 more police officers. About 6,000 spaces have been created already and about 10,000 will be built by the end of 2025. Failures in Britain's jails were recently thrust into the spotlight after a video emerged of a prison officer allegedly having sex with an inmate at HMP Wandsworth. Suella Braverman has launched an extraordinary post-mortem of the Tories' election before polling day - blaming failure to tackle immigration and 'woke' policies. The former home secretary insisted the contest is already 'over' and Conservatives must focus on the coming 'fight for the soul' of the party. She argued that support had been 'evaporating' on the left and the right, with Nigel Farage's Reform splitting the traditional vote, and the next move will decide whether the party 'continues to exist at all'. The brutal intervention comes as polls suggest Keir Starmer is on track for an enormous landslide tomorrow, picking up more seats than Tony Blair did in 1997. A huge Survation poll last night - conducted using the MRP method - found Reform splitting the right-wing vote will gift Sir Keir the biggest Commons majority in history, while Tory numbers fall to a record low. Touring broadcast studios this morning, Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride acknowledged that the Conservatives are on track for a dire result. He said Labour is almost certain to get an 'extraordinary landslide on a scale that has probably never, ever been seen in this country before'. Suella Braverman has launched an extraordinary post-mortem of the Tories' election before polling day - blaming failure to tackle immigration and ' woke ' policies A new MRP study by Survation, published within the final 48 hours of campaigning, predicted Labour would win 484 seats at this week's general election The Survation model, based on polling data from more than 30,000 voters, forecast the Tories would be reduced to just 64 seats in the House of Commons Ms Braverman herself is projected to hold on in Fareham & Waterlooville with a far smaller majority - although many of her potential rivals for the leadership could fall by the wayside. Writing in The Telegraph, Ms Braverman said victory should no longer be the goal for the Tories. 'Thursday's vote is now all about forming a strong enough opposition,' she wrote. 'One needs to read the writing on the wall: it's over, and we need to prepare for the reality and frustration of opposition.' Ms Braverman blamed the situation on a fracture within the Conservative Party resulting from the surge by Reform. She said: 'It is notable that Labour's vote share has not markedly increased in recent weeks, but our vote is evaporating from both Left and Right. 'The critics will cite Boris (Johnson), Liz (Truss), Rwanda, and, I can immodestly predict, even me as all being fatal to our 'centrist' vote. 'The reality is rather different: we are haemorrhaging votes largely to Reform. Why? Because we failed to cut immigration or tax or deal with the net zero and woke policies we have presided over for 14 years. 'We may lose hundreds of excellent MPs because of our abject inability to have foreseen this inevitability months ago: that our failure to unite the Right would destroy us.' Ms Braverman said the Tories need 'a searingly honest post-match analysis', 'because the fight for the soul of the Conservative Party will determine whether we allow Starmer a clear run at destroying our country for good or having a chance to redeem it in due course'. 'Indeed, it will decide whether our party continues to exist at all,' she added. India's version of Big Brother has sparked outrage after including a male contestant and his two wives in the line-up - with producers accused of promoting bigamy to millions. Influencer Armaan Malik, 36, and his two wives, Payal and Kritika, were brought onto Bigg Boss OTT, a reality TV programme which attracted 8.8million viewers last week. The throuple painted a harmonious portrait of married life together, even though the complicated relationship began after Armaan began an affair with Kritika seven years after he married Payal, her 'best friend', in 2011. Payal said: 'I didn't realise they would get so close but I totally accepted Kritika and we absolutely love each other and live together as a happy family.' But after Payal was voted off on Sunday, leaving her husband and her wife alone in the house, she revealed that she's been miserable since they all began living with each other. Influencer Armaan Malik, 36, (pictured, centre-right) and his two wives, Payal (pictured, centre-left) and Kritika (pictured, right) were brought onto Bigg Boss OTT The complicated relationship began after Armaan began an affair with Kritika seven years after he married Payal, her 'best friend', in 2011 Payal said: 'I didn't realise they would get so close but I totally accepted Kritika and we absolutely love each other and live together as a happy family' She revealed in an interview with Indian media that she was 'on the verge of committing suicide' after finding out about her husband's infidelity, and separated from him for a year. 'There was a time when we didn't want to see each other's face', she added. She also undercut the image of bigamy that she and her partners portrayed to the world. 'Be it in our vlogs or interviews, we have never promoted it. Whatever mistake Armaan did, I don't think any man in India should do. We managed to sustain it, but I don't think anyone else can do that.' While bigamy is not allowed in India by law, Muslims are allowed to marry multiple women under Islamic personal law. But Payal revealed that she's been miserable since they all began living with each other She revealed in an interview with Indian media that she was 'on the verge of committing suicide' after finding out about her husband's infidelity But Malik and his wives are Hindus, who aren't allowed to marry multiple partners under religious laws. Despite this, it is openly practised in India, according to supreme court lawyer Sanjay Hegde who told The Times: 'A man can indeed be prosecuted but only if the first wife brings charges. Not otherwise. It can't be a third party.' But the widespread practice of bigamy doesn't make it any less controversial, with many commentators slamming Bigg Boss OTT's producers for including the throuple. Commentator and author Parsa Venkateshwar Rao Jr said: 'The producers of these reality shows are always looking for something sensational or controversial and if there isn't anything, they create it, just to keep their mass viewership alive.' A dying mother has admitted killing her terminally-ill seven-year-old son by using a large dose of morphine to 'quietly end his life'. Antonya Cooper, from Abingdon, Oxfordshire, said her child Hamish had stage 4 cancer and was 'facing the most horrendous suffering' before his death in 1981. She said Hamish was 'telling me he was in pain and asking me if I could remove his pain' and that as a mother, she was 'not going to let him suffer'. The brave youngster had been battling neuroblastoma - a rare cancer that affects children - since the age of five and had been given just three months to live. And despite 16 months of 'beastly' cancer treatment at London's Great Ormond Street Hospital, Hamish's incurable illness had left him in constant agony. Speaking of her decision to give her little boy a large dose of morphine, Mrs Cooper said: 'It was the right thing to do. My son was facing the most horrendous suffering and intense pain, I was not going to allow him to go through that.' Now facing her own battle against terminal cancer, Mrs Cooper has described in heartbreaking detail how she helped her son die after he begged her to ease his suffering. Antonya Cooper, from Abingdon, Oxfordshire, said her lad Hamish had stage 4 cancer and was in 'a lot of pain' before his death in 1981 Hamish was facing unimaginable suffering and was in 'intense pain' while battling his cancer, his mother said Now facing her own incurable cancer, Mrs Cooper has spoken out about how she gave her son a 'large dose' of morphine to 'quietly end his life' 'On Hamish's last night, when he said he was in a lot of pain, I said: 'Would you like me to remove the pain?' and he said: 'Yes please, mama',' Mrs Cooper told BBC Radio Oxford. 'And through his Hickman Catheter, external, I gave him a large dose of morphine that did quietly end his life.' The dying 77-year-old was asked by BBC Radio Oxford if she believed her son knew she was intending to take his life. 'I feel very strongly that at the point of Hamish telling me he was in pain, and asking me if I could remove his pain, he knew, he knew somewhere what was going to happen,' she replied. 'But I cannot obviously tell you why or how, but I was his mother, he loved his mother, and I totally loved him, and I was not going to let him suffer, and I feel he really knew where he was going.' Mrs Cooper's admission comes as she fights to change the law on assisted dying. Assisted suicide - the act of intentionally helping someone to end their life - and euthanasia - the deliberate ending of a person's life - are both illegal in the UK. Mrs Cooper's admission to the BBC could now open her up to a potential police investigation. Quizzed over whether she understood she had potentially admitted to manslaughter or murder, she told the radio station: 'Yes'. Patriotic Hamish, with a Union flag on his hospital bed. spent 16 months undergoing 'beastly' cancer treatment at Great Ormond Street hospital after being diagnosed, aged five Describing the impact of her son's death, Antonya said it is like an 'amputation' and it takes time to 'learn to live with that amputation' (pictured: Hamish in late 1974) WHAT IS NEUROBLASTOMA? Neuroblastoma is a rare cancer that affects children and usually starts in the abdomen. Around 100 children, who are typically under five, are diagnosed every year in the UK. The disease affects approximately 800 new children annually in the US. In around half of cases, neuroblastoma spreads to other parts of the body, particularly the liver and skin. Neuroblastoma's cause is unclear. There may be a family-history link. The main symptom is usually a lump in the abdomen, which may cause swelling, discomfort or pain. If the disease affects the spinal cord, it can lead to numbness, weakness and loss of movement in the lower part of the body. Treatment depends on how advanced the cancer is and the risk it will return after therapy. Surgery, and chemo and radiotherapy, are commonly used. Source: Cancer Research UK Advertisement 'If they come 43 years after I have allowed Hamish to die peacefully, then I would have to face the consequences. But they would have to be quick, because I'm dying too,' Mrs Cooper added. Hamish died at home on December 1, 1981. In 1979, after his fifth birthday, Hamish started crying in pain and losing weight and with her mother's instinct, Antonya knew he was 'seriously ill'. But it took 13 weeks of visits to seven different GPs before she decided to take Hamish to see a private paediatrician at the John Radcliffe Hospital and even then, she was told there was 'nothing wrong'. Antonya 'insisted' on further examinations, including blood tests and an X-ray and it later transpired that Hamish had a grapefruit-sized tumour within his abdomen, namely stage 4 neuroblastoma. Hamish was then transferred to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), where he underwent chemotherapy, a bone marrow autograft, radiotherapy, and surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, which had shrunk to the size of a tangerine. His prognosis was three months and he subsequently underwent 16 months of treatment at GOSH, which 'ruined parts of his body' but extended his life. Antonya said she would have honest conversations with Hamish and his sister Tabitha, who were 'thick as thieves', about the 'probability of his not surviving'. While Hamish did not ask about death directly, there came a point later on where, in answer to one of his questions, Antonya said to him: 'Yes, Hamish, you probably will die.' This was incredibly challenging, but after his treatments ended, he returned to school, his hair started to regrow, and in the summer of 1981, the family enjoyed holidays by the sea. Antonya told PA Real Life that she would have honest conversations with Hamish and his sister Tabitha, (left) who were 'thick as thieves', about the 'probability of his not surviving' (Pictured: Hamish in Pembrokeshire with his granny in 1974) After his treatments ended, he returned to school, his hair started to regrow, and in the summer of 1981, the family enjoyed holidays by the sea BBC Radio Oxford asked Antonya if she understood she was potentially admitting to manslaughter or murder, and she replied: 'Yes' In the autumn, however, Hamish took a knock on one of his ankles and developed septic arthritis, which led to biopsies being taken and these later revealed that his cancer had 'returned with a vengeance'. At this point, Antonya said they 'knew that was the final journey' and, after receiving palliative care at home and being given morphine sulphate, Hamish died on December 1 1981. Describing the impact of his death, she said: 'The simplicity of it is that you suffer an amputation and it takes you time to learn to live with that amputation. 'You never get over it because you've lost that limb, it's gone forever, but you learn just to cope.' Mrs Cooper has now been diagnosed with incurable pancreatic cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy, which she said makes her feel 'rotten'. She now wants to campaign for the laws on assisted dying in the UK to change, joining the likes of Dame Esther Rantzen. Dame Esther, best known for presenting and producing the hit BBC show That's Life! from, is one of the nation's most well-known advocates for assisted suicide, after being diagnosed with stage four lung cancer last January. Last December, she revealed that she has signed up for Dignitas, the most well-known assisted suicide clinic in Switzerland, and said that she 'might buzz off to Zurich' if her complex cancer treatment doesn't work. In England and Wales, assisted suicide can be prosecuted with a maximum prison sentence of 14 years. But despite the enormous personal risk, her daughter, Rebecca Wilcox, hinted that she would help her mother attend a Dignitas clinic. Wilcox, herself a TV presenter, wrote in Saga magazine: 'If she goes at the moment it would be her only option for an assisted death she will have to go alone. It is against the law to accompany her. I would face prosecution for manslaughter and could receive up to 14 years in prison. Despite the enormous personal risk Dame Esther Rantzen's (pictured, right) daughter, Rebecca Wilcox (pictured, left), hinted that she would help her mother attend a Dignitas clinic 'Even if it doesn't go to trial, many people face a two-year investigation. I have a young family with two children, a busy home and a complex job. I shouldn't have to risk going to prison just to keep mum company, but I'm not sure I could let her go alone. 'It's an impossible decision to have to make: either risk possible prosecution at the worst time of my life, when I have just lost my adored mum, or do the unthinkable and let her die alone in a foreign country with no one she knows or loves to hold her hand.' Wilcox added: 'The thought of her actually dying is abominable, but the thought of her dying in pain is unthinkable. 'Her health is not great and her illness has no cure. The prognosis may lead to a painful death that might not be eased with palliative care and opioid painkillers.' Mrs Cooper is now coming to terms with her own incurable cancer four decades after her son's death. She added: 'I am not a religious person, but there is a tiny voice inside me that believes it would be wonderful if I could cuddle Hamish again.' A Dutch pensioner ended his life via euthanasia after he could not cope with the trauma he sustained in a brutal home robbery late last year, it has been revealed. Jan Beulenkamp, 77, suffered brain damage and a slew of other horrific injuries when he was violently attacked as he lay in bed at home in Liendenhof, Amsterdam-Zuidoost, in November. Shocking images from the aftermath of the assault showed the elderly Dutchman sporting horrendous bruises and lacerations across his face, neck and chest as he lay in a hospital bed. The doting grandfather, supported by his wife, children and a host of doctors and therapists attempted to rehabilitate but his quality of life plummeted as he battled with impaired speech, partial paralysis and mental trauma. Three months after the deplorable attack, Mr Beulenkamp opted to die via euthanasia, having been granted permission to end his life by Dutch authorities. His attacker meanwhile remains at large, prompting the Public Prosecution Service to offer a reward of 10,000 euros for any information leading to their arrest. Jan Beulenkamp, 77, suffered brain damage and a slew of other horrific injuries when he was violently attacked (pictured with grandkids) The pensioner, supported by his wife, children and a host of doctors and therapists attempted to rehabilitate but his quality of life plummeted as he battled with impaired speech, partial paralysis and mental trauma Shocking images from the aftermath of the assault showed the elderly Dutchman sitting bloodied and confused as he waited for police Three months after the deplorable attack, Mr Beulenkamp (pictured with grandkids) opted to die via euthanasia, having been granted permission to end his life by Dutch authorities The intruder, a Dutch-speaking man between 20 and 30 years old with dark skin according to a description given by the victims, rang the doorbell of the Beulenkamp household around 8:30am on November 26. Mrs. Beulenkamp answered the door, expecting to meet a neighbour - but was confronted by the robber who immediately threatened her with a firearm and demanded money. When she did not comply, he forced his way into the house and ransacked each room before rushing upstairs to find Mr. Beulenkamp still asleep in bed. The attacker repeatedly struck the pensioner with the butt of his pistol, inflicting severe injuries, before assaulting Mrs. Beulenkamp and fleeing the scene with stolen jewellery. Mr. Beulenkamp was treated in the hospital for serious wounds to his legs, head, and face following the attack. He initially showed positive signs of recovery, surprising hospital staff with his ability to communicate and walk just days after the heinous assault. But his condition quickly deteriorated, and the weeks that followed saw the pensioner suffer from impaired speech, coordination issues, and partial paralysis. His son and daughter shared their heartbreak over their father's rapid decline on the Dutch television programme Opsporing Verzocht - in English 'Investigation Requested' - which sheds light on crimes across the Netherlands. 'He did deteriorate and then he realised that it might not be right yet,' his son recounted. 'His speech and coordination were affected, but he was also paralysed on one side.' His daughter added: 'It was heartbreaking to see that he could no longer express himself and make things clear. Our joy of life has been destroyed.' In January 2024, Mr. Beulenkamp chose to undergo euthanasia, a decision supported by his family. People who die by euthanasia are typically given a barbiturate solution administered by doctors which stops their heart, although the method of Mr Beulenkamp's death has not been shared. The Netherlands has one of the most progressive euthanasia laws in the world, and has seen two high-profile cases in just the past two months. Under Dutch law, euthanasia is legal if performed by a physician under strict conditions, and if the patient's suffering is deemed unbearable with no prospect of improvement. Jan Faber and Els van Leeningen were married for almost five decades before they ended their lives at the same time in early June. The couple are pictured just days before their deaths Zoraya ter Beek (pictured), who suffered from depression and borderline personality disorder, decided that she wanted to die after struggling with mental health issues for over a decade because treatment had not helped her Beek is pictured here in 2017 with her do not resuscitate badge - something that is typically worn by elderly people with a terminal illness In early June, a devoted couple who spent their lives together after meeting as small children chose to die via euthanasia side by side. Jan Faber and Els van Leeningen, aged 70 and 71, were married for almost five decades before they ended their lives by lethal injection at the same time. Jan, who worked as a cargo boat operator, had been suffering from severe back pain for over 20 years, while his wife was diagnosed with dementia in 2022 which became so debilitating that she struggled to form sentences. In the moments before their deaths, the pair were surrounded by friends and family, including their son, who had found his parents' decision to end their lives hard to take. 'You don't want to let your parents die, so there have been tears,' Jan said of his son's reaction. 'Our son said, "better times will come, better weather" - but not for me.' Els said before her planned death: 'There is no other solution.' In May, a physically healthy Dutch woman died by euthanasia shortly after turning 29 because she didn't want to live with depression and anxiety. Zoraya ter Beek, who also suffered from trauma and borderline personality disorder, decided that she wanted to die after struggling with mental health issues for over a decade, while claiming that no treatment had helped her. She died 'a dignified death, which she longed for for years due to unbearable psychological suffering,' according to an obituary published by Dutch newspaper Algemeen Dagblad. Mr Beulenkamp's son and daughter shared their heartbreak over their father's rapid decline on the Dutch television programme Opsporing Verzocht - in English 'Investigation Requested' - which sheds light on crimes across the Netherlands Beek's case received global attention and ignited debate about assisted dying. Many who support euthanasia say it should only be available to terminally ill people facing an imminent, painful and undignified death. Others - like Beek - insist a comfortable, peaceful suicide should be an available option to people suffering from insurmountable mental anguish. In light of Mr Beulenkamp's death in January, police have intensified their efforts to solve this case. A reward of 10,000 euros has been offered for any information leading to the capture of the perpetrator. 'We do not rule out that the perpetrator came from the neighbourhood or knows the neighbourhood well. This is because there is no escape route for a car and the street is a dead end,' a police spokesperson stated. A text message has been sent to potential witnesses who were in the vicinity at the time of the robbery in an attempt to generate new leads. Boris Johnson's father Stanley has slammed officials for refusing to allow him off a diverted plane when it landed at Heathrow - causing the entire flight to be cancelled. The writer, 83, was aboard BA2641 from Malaga to London Gatwick on Friday when it was diverted to Heathrow due to a temporary runway closure. The Airbus A321 was due to refuel before making the short flight to Gatwick when the runway reopened, but Mr Johnson and two other passengers wanted to get off. This reportedly led to the plane missing its departure slot and being cancelled, with all passengers forced to disembark and catch a connecting bus to Gatwick. Mr Johnson has strongly defended his actions and insisted the pilot invited passengers to disembark at Heathrow before 'airport authorities' decided 'this could not be allowed to happen'. He also insisted he was helping a woman who was 'terrified' about getting back on the plane after losing her husband in a plane accident. Stanley Johnson, pictured last year in London, was aboard BA2641 from Malaga to London Gatwick on Friday when it was diverted to Heathrow due to a temporary closure of the runway The Airbus A321 was due to refuel before making the short flight to Gatwick when the runway reopened, but Mr Johnson and two other passengers wanted to leave. File photo The Malaga flight was one of 16 that had to be diverted after a separate British Airways plane was unable to take off at Gatwick, causing the runway to be closed for 50 minutes. Passengers told The Independent that Mr Johnson - who splits his time between London and Somerset - was among three passengers who wanted to get off after the plane landed at Heathrow. A woman called Annemarie said this led to a row, with the former MEP and the other passengers 'getting quite irate... hence the police' before the flight was eventually cancelled. But Mr Johnson has since written an op-ed for The Independent defending himself against criticism and insisting he did the right thing. He wrote: 'As we landed at Heathrow, the captain informed us that after we had taken on some fuel, we would make the ''short hop'' back to Gatwick. He went on to invite any passengers without luggage in the hold to disembark at Heathrow if they wanted to. 'I grabbed my bags from the rack and went to the forward entrance of the plane. Two other passengers joined me and the three of us stepped out of the door onto the top of the metal stairs which were already in place. 'All we had to do, I imagined, was to wait for the ground transport to arrive to take us into the terminal building. That was the mistake.' Mr Johnson said he and the other two passengers were not allowed to walk towards the terminal because Gatwick was the flight's official destination. He said he 'suspects' that he would have 'allowed myself' to be escorted back onto the plane, but took pity on a woman who said she had recently lost her husband in an air accident and was refusing to get back onboard. All flights were temporarily suspended at Gatwick Airport on Friday afternoon after a British Airways flight was forced to an emergency stop on the runway The father of the former Prime Minister added that he was unsure why police had to be called. Officials eventually decided to redefine the flight 'as a Malaga to Heathrow flight', he said, which 'effectively meant' the original flight to Gatwick was cancelled. Mr Johnson said he was 'truly sorry for the inconvenience caused to other passengers' but insisted he was glad that he 'stood my ground' and said he was thanked by 'the poor woman whose husband had just died in an air crash'. Friday's incident at Gatwick caused widespread chaos after all flights had to be temporarily suspended. BA2279 had been due to leave for Vancouver before it was forced to do a 'high-speed emergency stop' - leaving the Boeing 777 jet blocking the runway. Video footage taken from passengers onboard the flight showed fire engines making their way over to the stationary plane, with travellers being told take-off had been 'aborted'. The airport's runway was forced to close following a 'rejected take-off', according to flight tracking website Flightradar24. The website reported the closure at 12.53pm, reopening at 1.14pm. A British Airways spokesperson said at the time: 'Our pilots took the precautionary decision to cancel take-off due to a technical issue. Safety is always our top priority and we apologise to customers for the inconvenience caused.' It marked yet another hiccup this week for families trying to get away for the summer, with families flying from Birmingham Airport facing long queues due to delays at a new 60million security hall. British Airways and Heathrow have been contacted for comment in relation to the incident involving Stanley Johnson. Monique Zollner (pictured) was arrested with 180,000 worth of the drug last April after she arrived in the UK with it stuffed into two suitcases following a flight from Canada to Manchester A female drug mule who was caught smuggling 30 kilos of cannabis into the UK has been spared jail after a court heard her 16-year-old brother was shot dead in a gang war when she was four. Monique Zollner, 21, was arrested with 180,000 worth of the drug last April after she arrived in the UK with it stuffed into two suitcases following a flight from Canada to Manchester. At Manchester Crown Court, Zollner of Fallowfield, Manchester, faced up to three years in jail after she admitted importing cannabis but was freed with an 18-month suspended sentence when a judge ruled she was 'vulnerable' to her age, drug habit, lack of convictions and history of 'family trauma'. Zollner was aged just four when her brother Louis Brathwaite was gunned down during one of Britain's bloodiest turf wars in 2008. The schoolboy was killed when two hitmen shot him while he played slot machines with friends at a William Hill betting shop. Police inquiries revealed his killing was linked to two other murders of young men who died in gangland shootings at the height of gang warfare in South Manchester between the rival Gooch Close, Doddington gang and Longsight Crew. Zollner who was pictured stood at the graveside of Louis as part of a public appeal to catch her brother's killers had been 'traumatised' by the murder - plus another more recent but undisclosed incident. Zollner was aged just four when her brother Louis Brathwaite (pictured) was gunned down during one of Britain's bloodiest turf wars in 2008 Zollner who was shown pictured stood at the graveside of Louis as part of a public appeal to catch her brother's killers had been 'traumatised' by the murder The court heard she had become addicted to nitrous oxide and owed 2,000 to her mother Sophia. She eventually fell under the spell of a drug trafficker who promised her 16,000 if she embarked on the 4,000-mile journey from Toronto to Manchester via Frankfurt bringing the haul of cannabis with her. As she was being convicted, Zollner broke down and wept in the dock as Judge Sarah Johnston told her: 'So much of the harm these courts see on a daily basis has its roots in the illegal trade of drugs and you brought 30kg of cannabis into this city for onward distribution. 'But you are a vulnerable young woman and has suffered two incidents in your life, the first when you were a very young child and the second only a few years ago which I am satisfied have been appropriately categorised as major and traumatic. 'I'm not going to set out the details in open court but you have suffered a great deal as a consequence and your physical and mental health have deteriorated as a result and you have sought to self-medicate. 'It seems to me your family are at the most at risk of suffering, consequent upon your addiction or predisposition to abuse of nitrous oxide. 'But your candour about this is consistent with your growing maturity including a demonstration of genuine remorse and the green shoots of understanding as to the very serious offence you have committed. 'In my judgement, you need support as well as punishment and need assistance in reducing your use of nitrous oxide and instead developing more healthy coping strategies.' Louis (pictured) was killed when two hitmen shot him while he played slot machines with friends at a William Hill betting shop The court heard she had become addicted to nitrous oxide and owed 2,000 to her mother Sophia (pictured at Louis' inquest in 2013) Zollner (pictured) eventually fell under the spell of a drug trafficker who promised her 16,000 if she embarked on the 4,000-mile journey from Toronto to Manchester via Frankfurt bringing the haul of cannabis with her Earlier the court heard Zollner was detained on April 13 when suspicions were raised about luggage she was bringing into the UK. Miss Lisa Boocock, prosecuting said: 'Upon questioning she said she had no keys to the suitcases and accepted she had been given those suitcases to transfer them to someone else. 'There were a total of 60 packages of cannabis inside the cases weighing 500g each. In police interview she explained had accrued debt of 2,000 to her mother and in order to pay it off she had agreed with a male that she would bring in the two suitcases containing the cannabis and receive 8,000 for each one. 'There is an element of her playing a significant role in this enterprise.. However it might be considered there was some naiviety in her bringing the drugs into the country. ' Zollner who had no previous convictions was also ordered to complete 60 hours unpaid work, 15 rehabilitation activity days and a nine-month drug rehabilitation programme. Her counsel Adam Roxborough said in mitigation: 'There was an element of pressure that has engaged her into his activity and there has been an element of naiviety. 'She has never previously had any involvement with police in terms of arrest and she was very much influenced by others further up the chain. 'It is clear this is a vulnerable young women who has suffered major family traumas. These events came about as a result of a debt owned to her mother. 'It was foolish and again another example of her naivety and immaturity to not speak to her mother about it but when someone lends themselves to others more criminally sophisticated they become prey to what they wish. 'She wouldn't pay the debt in a conventional sense so she succumbed to pressure and temptation of repaying it in another way. It is plain she wasn't the organiser of this enterprise. The court heard Zollner (pictured) was detained on April 13 when suspicions were raised about luggage she was bringing into the UK Louis's killers have never been caught and a 50,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the convictions 'She was used presumably because she was someone less likely to attract the attention of the authorities, She is very remorseful and anxious for her family. She is heartbroken and disappointed in herself. 'Because of events in her life she has tried to self medicated using substances and she has been struggling with that. She does not have pro-criminal tendencies. She is a vulnerable individual who has been taken advantage of during what has been a very difficult life.' Louis's killers have never been caught and a 50,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the convictions. The teenager was not a member of a gang but was friendly with another youngster who was the intended target in the shooting on January 24 2008. Detectives believe Louis was mistakenly gunned down in an 'act of reprisal' after the murder of Halton McCollin, 20 who was shot dead ten days earlier as he queued for a takeaway meal. Giuseppe Gregory, 15, was shot dead in a gangland ambush May 2009 in revenge for Louis' murder. Inquiries revealed the killers of Giuseppe hailed from Fallowfield Mad Dogs - a splinter group from the Gooch gang - had set up a MySpace site in memory of Louis. Hidden camera footage has captured members of Italian hard-right leader Giorgia Meloni's youth wing performing fascist salutes and chanting 'Sieg heil'. In the wake of the scandal, Prime Minister Meloni told her Brothers of Italy party on Tuesday that it should expel from its ranks anyone who idolises Italy's fascist past, and to reject antisemitism, racism and nostalgia for its past dictatorships. Criticism has mounted after an undercover media investigation last week released a video of members of her party's youth wing making the fascist salutes. In a letter to party leaders, Meloni said she was 'angry and saddened' that their actions damaged the group's reputation. 'There is no room in Brothers of Italy for racism or antisemitism, nor is there space for those who are nostalgic for the totalitarian regimes of the 20th century or for any manifestation of foolish folklore,' she wrote. 'Our task is too great for those who have not understood its scope to be allowed to ruin it.' Hidden camera footage has captured members of Italian hard-right leader Giorgia Meloni's youth wing performing fascist salutes and chanting 'Sieg heil' (pictured) In the wake of the scandal, Prime Minister Meloni (pictured June 28) told her Brothers of Italy party on Tuesday that it should expunge from its ranks anyone who idolises Italy's fascist past, and reject antisemitism, racism and nostalgia for its past dictatorships Brothers of Italy traces its roots to a neo-fascist group set up after World War Two. However, Meloni has worked to distance herself from the far right in recent years and says her party is mainstream conservative. But in a blow to these efforts, opposition parties leapt on the investigation by the online newspaper Fanpage, which was titled 'The Meloni Youth'. The publication's journalist pretended to be an activist with National Youth, the youth wing of the Brothers of Italy party, and the report came out in two episodes last month. Fanpage said the footage from a hidden camera showed members of the movement doing fascist salutes, praising Benito Mussolini, defining themselves as fascists and instructing others to spread stickers with fascist slogans. This, Fanpage said, showed Brothers of Italy was a refuge for extreme right-wingers, belying Meloni's efforts to present a moderate image both at home and abroad. Meloni said on Tuesday the Brothers of Italy had to be transparent and consistent. 'Anyone who believes there can be a public image of Brothers of Italy that does not correspond to their private behaviour simply does not understand what we are, and thus is not welcome among us,' she said in the letter. 'There is no room in our ranks for those who play a caricature role that only serves the narrative our opponents want to create about us. 'I and we don't have time to lose with those who want to make us go backward.' Fanpage.it said the footage from a hidden camera (pictured) showed members of the movement doing fascist salutes, praising Benito Mussolini, defining themselves as fascists and instructing others to spread stickers with fascist slogans Fanpage published clips of youth members chanting 'Duce', a reference to Mussolini, and shouting 'Seig heil' - an expression adopted by the Nazis under Adolf Hitler However, Meloni and other lawmakers from her party also criticised the methods deployed by the journalists, saying that the report only represented a small majority of her party's youth movement rather than the party as a whole. Luca Ciriani, a Brothers of Italy lawmaker, also said the Fanpage report was based on fragmented, out-of-context images. Despite her efforts to distance the modern iteration of her party from Italy's fascist past, Meloni once again had to remind her party's leadership to move on. She also reminded them that Brother of Italy adhered to a 2019 resolution in the European Parliament which condemned all 20th century dictatorships. She said this was a 'position' that she has 'no intention of questioning'. The report showed that the party's project to bring it into the modern era was not complete, and that nostalgia remains for the days of Mussolini - Italy's fascist leader and 'Duce' (derived from Dux in Latin, or leader) from 1922 to 1945. He was summarily executed in 1945 by Italian partisans. Fanpage published clips of youth members chanting 'Duce', a reference to Mussolini, and shouting 'Seig heil' - an expression adopted by the Nazis under Adolf Hitler. One man was seen telling the journalists: 'I am a fascist'. Another said: 'We are comrades, not dumb a**holes' - contrasted with Meloni telling a crowd of National Youth members: 'I am proud of you.' The undercover reporter attended a meeting of the group, where people were seen chanting and making the fascist salutes. It also showed that Marco Perissa and Paolo Trancassini, senior members of the Brothers of Italy party, and Nicola Procaccini, an MEP, were also there. The clip showed how some greeted attendees with a 'gladiatorial salute' - which, the report says, is when two people grasp each other's wrists in a hand shake. Fanpage's report also showed a group chat where someone had posted the message: 'Jewish people are a race and I despise them.' Two youth members - Elisa Segnini and Flaminia Pace - resigned last week after the second instalment of the expose was released. They were not expelled, said a spokesperson for the Brothers of Italy party. Pictured: Meloni is seen speaking at a National Youth event in the Fanpage report Fanpage said the footage from a hidden camera showed members of the movement doing fascist salutes, praising Benito Mussolini, defining themselves as fascists and instructing others to spread stickers with fascist slogans (pictured) Liliana Segre, an Italian senator and holocaust survivor, asked on Italian television after seeing the reports from Fanpage: 'At my age, will I have to see this again?' 'Will I have to be kicked out of my country like I was once kicked out?' Lawmakers from the left of Italian politics spoke out against Meloni. Michela Di Biase, of Italy's Democratic Party, accused the National Youth of idealising those who 'stained the history of our country with the blood of persecution.' This video is no longer available This video is no longer available A great-grandmother hit and killed while crossing the road on her way to a volunteer shift has been remembered for her generosity and love of naughty jokes. Marjorie Morritt had just left home and was crossing Kinkaid and Midway Roads in Elizabeth East in Adelaide when she was allegedly struck by a Mitsubishi sedan on Tuesday morning. She was rushed to Lyell McEwin Hospital with serious injuries, where she died a short time later. She had been scheduled to start a shift at the same hospital, where she had volunteered for the last 24 years running activities in the mental health unit. Friends had been waiting for her with a cake to celebrate her 79th birthday. Ms Morritt's family have been overwhelmed at the love and support from the many people who knew her. 'The enormity of the value that she had in the community is overwhelming,' her son Peter told Seven News. Ms Morritt helped hundreds of people through her volunteering, despite her own health issues. Marjorie Morritt, 79, (pictured) was killed on her birthday after being allegedly struck by a car just metres from her home The great grandmother (pictured right) volunteered at Lyell McEwin Hospital in Adelaide for 24 years 'She wasnt one to sit at home. She was one who wanted to get out and engage and assist,' he said. Northern Healthcare Volunteer Association volunteer director Manju Shelke said the 79-year-old was 'always ready with a joke to lighten and brighten the offices when she signed in and out'. 'In recognition of her outstanding volunteer service, Marjorie was presented with the Premiers Certificate in May 2024 during National Volunteer Week for her commitment and dedication to volunteering,' she said. Ms Shelke said that the great-grandmother has left behind a 'wonderful legacy' and will be missed. There was an outpouring of emotion on social media for the volunteer, including from her grandchildren Kym Cullen and Benjamin Morritt, who said the family had been on a 'rollercoaster' of emotions. 'The best grandma,' grandson Benjamin Morritt wrote. Granddaughter Kym added: 'Love you grandma, forever in our hearts.' The popular volunteer and well-known parishioner at her church was described by others on Facebook as 'generous', 'caring' and someone who loved 'naughty' jokes. 'Marj was just lovely, she was so generous with her time and wisdom. Her presence in this world will be missed,' one wrote. A 22-year-old woman had her licence revoked and reported for careless driving (pictured the driver's car at the crash scene) Family and the wider community have expressed their sadness at the loss of the 'lovely' and 'generous' great-grandmother (pictured right) 'By god she was absolutely lovely she was so giving and caring and I used to love the conversations we would have. It was simply a pleasure knowing her happy birthday, Marj RIP,' another said. 'The sweetest lady, even with the naughty jokes that she told. Gone but never forgotten,' one person said. 'I used to see her at Munno Para at the cafe near the florist shop. Always used to say hello. She was a beautiful lady,' another said. The driver of the Mitsubishi, a 22-year-old woman from Hillbank, was charged with careless driving and lost her licence immediately. She was taken to hospital for mandatory drug and alcohol testing. South Australia Police urge anyone who witnessed the crash or who has dashcam footage to contact Crime Stoppers. Ms Morritt's death is the 45th life lost on South Australian roads this year. While Keir Starmer measures the curtains for his new life at No.10, there are signs that his ambitious Left-wing deputy might already be laying the groundwork to replace him as Labour leader. In public at least, Starmer and Angela Rayner are united. And with the polls pointing to a landslide Labour victory, they are preparing to hit the ground running. But behind the scenes, their relationship has been fractious to say the least. As Rayner readies herself to be Britains first female deputy prime minister, she is acutely aware that most powerful woman in Starmers putative new cabinet will not be her at all, but Rachel Reeves the incoming chancellor. Angela Rayner with Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria, right, at a campaign event on Saturday It stings that Ange is not inner circle, says my Labour mole. But Rayner has a trump card. Not only is she the elected deputy leader of the Labour Party a role from which Starmer is unable to oust her she is the darling of Labours grassroots membership. And its her popularity with party members that might explain four mysterious internet domain names pointing to a future Rayner leadership challenge. The sites are: raynerforpm.co.uk, angelaforpm.co.uk, angela4pm.co.uk and rayner4pm.co.uk all registered by a person or persons unknown. Intriguingly, they were set up on July 11, 2022, which was just three days after Rayner and Starmer had been cleared of breaching lockdown rules over a beer and takeaway curry controversially consumed with staff during a Hartlepool by-election campaign in April 2021. Or were the domain names established by an admirer of Rayner? Does Rayner know of their existence? For its part, Labour has denied the domain names have anything to do with its deputy, while a source added: There is only one party leader whose position is in any doubt and that is the Prime Minister, with Tory leadership candidates already jostling for position. Perhaps they were set up by an enterprising politico who will be able to sell them to Team Rayner if and when there is a leadership contest? Regardless, Angela Rayner seems surprisingly well prepared for such an eventuality, not least because it is Labour Party members who elect the leaders. Since the start of the year, Rayner has banked donations of 47,650 to run her political office. A former shop steward for Unison, one of the biggest trade unions in the country, Rayner is also supported by staff seconded by the union movement. In fact she has a team of eight on her payroll including a chief-of-staff, a private secretary and a number of policy advisers. In September 2022, Rayner received a 22,000 donation to fund a branded vehicle and related services. She already has the air of a deputy prime minister, said one Labour source. There was scarcely concealed glee in her camp yesterday when a poll showed that Rayner, one of the few frontbenchers to describe herself as a socialist, has emerged as the most popular choice among Labour voters to succeed Starmer. If she does, however, the rest of the country should be worried. Take, for example, Rayners comments in an online meeting with Left-wing activists in 2020. Not only did she praise former leader Jeremy Corbyn as being on the right track, she went further and endorsed the hard-line policies of Corbyns shadow chancellor John McDonnell, who has never hidden his Marxist leanings and once gleefully admitted he had campaigned for the overthrow of capitalism. The party must persist with the work McDonnell had been doing, she told the WebRoots Democracy Festival. Rayner had been as worried and apprehensive as anybody [about Starmer], she explained. I didnt want to go back to magnolia politics, I thought that is going to be really bad, and...this is going to be terrible. But, reassuringly, she had found that Starmer agreed with her on key points. I push him to push a bit more at times, she said, because Labour had to change Britain in a fundamental way not just, like, tweak it round the edges. She went on: If we dont continue with the work that John McDonnell was doing... then I think the Labour Partys finished. Angela Rayner with former leader Jeremy Corbyn in 2019. She has since praised him for 'being on the right track' Starmer and Rayner at the Labour conference in 2022, a year after he attempted to demote her during a botched shadow cabinet reshuffle In 2015 there was uproar in the Commons when, as shadow chancellor, McDonnell jokingly flicked a copy of Chinese dictator Chairman Maos Little Red Book across the Despatch Box to George Osborne as he criticised the governments relationship with China. Printed in its millions, the book was the notorious propaganda aid containing the key tenets of Maos Communist regime which is conservatively estimated to have caused 60 million people to starve to death. McDonnell even recited passages in the Commons. The toe-curling exchanges were edited out of the official Labour Party film of the proceedings just a few weeks later. Praise for the work of McDonnell, then, will dismay Starmers team, which has fought to distance him from the Corbyn era. Starmer served in Corbyns shadow cabinet and was architect of his second Brexit referendum plan. He has attempted to justify staying in the Corbyn shadow cabinet even though many of his colleagues, such as Yvette Cooper, quit or refused to serve in the first place in protest at his hard-line views by claiming that he never thought Corbyn would win the 2019 election. In 2021 there was another revealing insight into Rayners views when the police tried to assist officials who were trying to deport two illegal migrants in Glasgow. When a crowd intervened, and the officials released the two migrants, Rayner tweeted: Solidarity with the people of Glasgow. In the same year, Starmer attempted to demote Rayner during a botched shadow cabinet reshuffle. But Rayner emerged from the row with an improved job title and expanded policy brief. She is now deputy leader, shadow first secretary of state, shadow chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and shadow secretary for the future of work. Labours 131-page manifesto states that it will be working closely with trade unions and employers to promote better rights for workers under a proposed New Deal for employment. The changes will see the dismantling of any Tory legislation on employment since 2010. One proposed change could ban bosses from contacting staff outside office hours. Another could be to enshrine in law the right to work from home. The measures have been dubbed a skivers charter by the Tories. With one eye on the party membership, Rayner admits the New Deal was written hand-in-hand with her trade union paymasters. This is vital... it was developed in collaboration with you the trade union movement and it will be delivered with you, she has said. Work will finally pay, rights will be properly enforced, and crucially it will strengthen the role of trade unions in our society. Labour have selected at least 329 new candidates who are trade union members, with a significant number working as senior trade union employees. They include Laurence Turner the candidate in Birmingham Northfield who is head of policy at the GMB union which co-ordinated the strike by ambulance staff last year the biggest walkout in the history of the NHS. Antonia Bance, the candidate in Tipton and Wednesbury, is head of campaigns at the TUC, which has backed all the strikes in the NHS. Lee Barron, who is standing in the Northamptonshire constituency of Corby, is the Midlands Regional Secretary of the TUC. He previously named his Twitter profile unionbarron. Rayners plans will be music to the ears of this next generation of Labour MPs. The election could result in the highest number of trade union officials and members elected to Parliament in history. So who will the trade unionist MPs represent? Their constituents? Or the radical Left-wing trade unions and their trade unionist in chief, Angela Rayner. The wealthy are already fleeing Britain over fears about Keir Starmer's tax raids, it was claimed today. City lawyer Ayesha Vardag revealed a 'flood' of clients had already left ahead of what is expected to be a Labour landslide. Ms Vardaq, whose firm specialises in high-profile divorce battles, said the wealthy were opting for destinations such as Dubai and Monaco rather than risk hikes in capital gains and inheritance tax. It is the latest sign of anxiety about the prospect of a Labour government with potentially the largest majority in history. Sir Keir has insisted that apart from closing specific tax loopholes, nothing in his manifesto requires additional tax rises for 'working people'. But critics say his plans cannot be delivered without unleashing tax hikes yet to be declared to voters. There are claims the wealthy are already fleeing Britain over fears about Keir Starmer's (pictured today) tax raids A file image of the skyscape in the City of London, with fears of a brain drain under Labour Ms Vardag told the Telegraph: 'People are flooding out of the UK. The axis of the world is shifting away from England. And it's been destroyed with this idea that you get votes by bashing the rich.' She added: 'What's going to happen in a global world where you can live anywhere? People are going to grow their businesses and then move to Dubai or Monaco, selling their businesses where there is no capital gains tax. 'England is not so great that you want to give away half of your business when you can just move to another beautiful country. It's extraordinarily naive to think that everyone will stay.' Experts have already been warning about the possibility of a 'brain drain' as the wealthy choose to relocate. Miles Dean, head of international tax at consultants Andersen, told the Financial Times last month: 'People are leaving because of Labour. Tax is clearly the key weapon they have and they're going to use it to level down.' Ex-business secretary Jacob Rees-Mogg told the Mail on Sunday last month: 'If Sir Keir gets in, he will repeat the mistakes of the 1970s Labour government and provoke a brain drain of wealthy people our economy needs.' Lucy Letby's 'best friend' turned up in court every day to support the convicted serial killer during her latest trial - while her parents stayed away. Janet Cox worked alongside Letby on the neonatal unit of the Countess of Chester Hospital and has insisted she is innocent. Letby was originally found guilty in August of murdering seven children and trying to kill six others, but the jury failed to reach a verdict on the attempted murder of a premature girl known as Baby K. A jury convicted her of this count yesterday. Mrs Cox was a permanent fixture in the public gallery throughout the 13-day retrial. During the first trial, she sat next to Letby's parents, John, 77, and Susan, 63, but the couple did not attend the latest proceedings at Manchester Crown Court. Mrs Cox spoke briefly at the front door of her semi-detached home in Ellesmere Port on the Wirral when approached by MailOnline after the original verdicts. Janet Cox worked alongside Letby on the neonatal unit of the Countess of Chester Hospital and has insisted she is innocent. They are pictured together on a social occasion Mrs Cox was a permanent fixture in the public gallery throughout Letby's 13-day retrial Asked whether she still believed in her friend's innocence, she replied 'Yes' but refused to elaborate further. Numerous social media photos show Mrs Cox alongside Letby at parties and other social occasions. In one image they are both seen wearing Christmas jumpers, while in another they are seen holding cocktails in a bar with a group of other friends. Mrs Cox is not the only friend or colleague of Letby who has stood by her despite her conviction. Dawn Howe, a long-term friend, is among those who refuses to accept the jury's decision that the nurse is a baby killer. Speaking to the BBC's Panorama programme last summer, Ms Howe, 33, said: 'Unless Lucy turned around and said "I'm guilty" I will never believe that she's guilty. 'We know she couldn't have done anything that she's accused of, so without a doubt we stand by her. 'I grew up with Lucy and not a single thing that I've ever seen or witnessed of Lucy would let me for a moment believe she is capable of the thing's she's accused of. 'It is the most out-of-character accusation that you could ever put against Lucy. 'Think of your most kind, gentle, soft friend and think that theyre being accused of harming babies.' She also accused police of 'trying to build a case, to find someone culpable to find someone to blame' as she maintained Letby's innocence. Mrs Cox has struggled to come to terms with her friend's guilt Letby (right, with Cox) has maintained her claim to be innocent of harming babies Letby's parents, John, 77, and Susan, 63, attended their daughter's first trial but not her second During the original trial, Letby's parents John and Susan relocated from their home on a quiet cul-de-sac in Hereford, where they had lived for almost four decades after marrying in 1989, to Manchester so they could be nearby. Mrs Letby on occasion broke down in tears and appeared anxious during breaks when her daughter was undergoing particularly tough periods of questioning. Investigators suspect Letby had told them scant detail of the horrific nature of the crimes she was being accused of before it was laid out in front of them in court. And as the original guilty verdicts were returned, Mrs Letby broke into a series of anguished sobs which continued even after she had left the court. At one point she cried out: 'You can't be serious. This cannot be right.' Nothing suggests that Mr and Mrs Letby were anything but caring parents who showered her daughter with love from the moment she was born - five months after they married. A source told the Mail that Letby's mother was distraught when she was arrested wailing, crying and even telling police, 'I did it, take me instead,' in a desperate bid to protect her. Jurors took three and a half hours to find Letby guilty of the attempted murder of Baby K during the latest proceedings. Numerous social media photos show Mrs Cox alongside Letby, including here in a pub Letby - who is the most prolific child killer in modern British history - was 26 when she deliberately dislodged the breathing tube of Baby K in the first hours of her life. In the following hours, the cruel killer tried a further two times to murder the infant who was so tiny she would have fitted into Letby's open palm. After the first the nurse refused to come to the dock to hear the judge read out his sentencing verdicts, but these were read out by the prosecutor at the start of the latest proceedings as she watched on in court. Mr Justice Goss said colleagues at the Countess of Chester Hospital were forced to 'think the unthinkable' when they realised that Letby was deliberately hurting babies. Police searches of Letby's home uncovered grim mementoes of her victims: mountains of handover notes swiped from the hospital, a diary marking the dates that babies died, a Post-It note that read: 'I am evil, I did this'. Mr Justice Goss said: 'I am satisfied you started to keep these documents after those initial offences in June 2015 as morbid records of the dreadful events surrounding the collapses of your victims and what you had done to them. Letby is the most prolific child killer in modern British history 'Some of your victims were only a day or a few days old. All were extremely vulnerable. 'By their nature and number, such murders and attempted murders by a neonatal nurse entrusted to care for them are offences of very exceptional seriousness. 'This was a cruel, calculated and cynical campaign of child murder involving the smallest and most vulnerable of children, knowing that your actions were causing significant physical suffering and would cause untold mental suffering. 'You have shown no remorse. There are no mitigating factors.' Letby has denied harming any of the babies and supporters have launched a campaign to set her free. Just two months ago, an urgent warning was sounded about the state of Britain's second biggest prison. Chief inspector of prisons Charlie Taylor did not hold back in his excoriating assessment of conditions at category B Wandsworth Prison. In a long and damning list of areas of concern, he noted there were 'ongoing failings in security, severe overcrowding, vermin, drugs, violence and rising self-harm'. 'Relationships between staff and prisoners were poor or non-existent,' he said, noting that most staff at 'every level' were inexperienced. How ironic the latter remark seems now, given recent events behind the Victorian facade of the South London jail. For Wandsworth Prison, built in 1851 (it was intended for 964 inhabitants and now holds 1,513 men) has been catapulted into the spotlight again in recent days, courtesy of a tawdry viral video clip, that would appear to have been filmed in one of those self-same overcrowded cells. Linda De Sousa Abreu leaves Uxbridge Magistrate's Court on Monday on Monday, charged with misconduct in public office Linton Weirich, who is allegedly the inmate in the viral video, was jailed for four and a half years for burglary at a dwelling and theft on June 7 at Kingston Crown Court In this video (despite a ban on phones, predictably it circulated on WhatsApp) a woman wearing the uniform of a prison guard is seen performing a sex act and then having intercourse with a man who is apparently an inmate, while her discarded radio crackles with messages at her side. What is also clear is that someone else is present to film said events, someone who is smoking and who can be heard proclaiming: 'Guys we've made history, this is what I'm telling you,' before adding: 'This is how we roll in Wandsworth.' A police investigation was launched on Friday after officers were made aware of the video and an arrest was made later that day. On Saturday, Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, of Fulham, south-west London, was charged with misconduct in public office and she appeared in court on Monday where she was bailed to appear again at a later date. It should, of course, be noted that no pleas have been entered, nor has anyone been found guilty of any offence. But what is depressingly familiar is the scenario. A viral video clip, filmed in one of HMP Wandsworth's cells, appears to show a female prison officer having sex with an inmate while another films the encounter HMP Wandsworth, where the incident is alleged to have taken place, was intended for 964 inmates but now holds 1,513 men For whatever the outcome of enquiries at Wandsworth, there has been an alarming rise in the number of female officers from across the HM Prison Service found guilty of striking up illicit relationships. Only last week, a 26-year-old woman who had been a guard at HMP Altcourse, in Liverpool, was handed a 16-month suspended prison sentence after admitting misconduct in a public office. Kate Southern was accused of 'engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a serving prisoner, including engaging in sexual activity, sending letters and cards and communicating by telephone'. In March, two female prison workers appeared at Bolton Crown Court, accused of having simultaneous relationships with the same inmate. Aleesha Bates, 30, and Jodie Wilkes, 27, exchanged thousands of messages with a prisoner in an illicit love triangle at HMP Buckley Hall, Rochdale. Prison officer Bates was the first to start a relationship with an inmate who'd been jailed for drug trafficking offences. She was so infatuated she sent X-rated messages and naked photos, and even planned their future together once he was released. The second relationship, with operational support worker Wilkes, came to light in 2020 when a contraband phone containing 'dozens' of messages was found in the prisoner's cell. Both women admitted misconduct in a public office, with Bates sentenced to two years and eight months in prison and Wilkes handed a 12-month sentence, suspended for two years. And who could forget HMP Berwyn, Britain's biggest prison, hailed as a 212 million model for the rehabilitation of offenders when it opened in 2017. But just seven years later, HMP Berwyn in North Wales has acquired a very different reputation as the epicentre of a sex scandal engulfing the Prison Service. Last year it emerged that no less than 18 women working at the Category C 'super- prison' for adult males, with a 2,100 capacity, had been sacked or resigned after breaking the rules on relationships with inmates. Take the case of probationary officer Ayshea Gunn, who exchanged more than 1,200 phone calls, including explicit video calls, with prisoner Khuram Razaq. She even smuggled a pair of knickers into his cell, concealed in her bra. Jodie WIlkes who worked at HMP Buckley Hall, had a relationship with a prisoner, which came to light when a contraband phone containing 'dozens' of messages was found in the inmate's cell Probationary officer Ayshea Gunn, who exchanged more than 1,200 phone calls, including explicit video calls, with prisoner Khuram Razaq The officer even smuggled a pair of knickers into his cell, which she concealed in her bra In a similarly sordid tale, her fellow officer Emily Watson performed a sex act on an inmate in his cell on Christmas Day. Sadly, such sexual impropriety appears far from unique to HMP Berwyn in Wrexham, which calls cells 'rooms', blocks 'communities', and allows inmates to have their own phones and laptops. While this is not a problem exclusive to female staff in male prisons, the figures are stark. In the three years to March 2023, 31 female prison staff working in male prisons were sacked, including one who gave birth to her inmate lover's baby and another who had his cell number tattooed on her thigh. That's a more than 50 per cent rise on the 19 women sacked in the previous four-year period, and that figure doesn't include incidents recorded at private prisons, run by companies such as G4S, Serco and Sodexo. Five men working in male prisons, and one or two women working in women's prisons, were sacked for inappropriate relationships over the same period. According to those who have worked in the system, it's just the tip of the iceberg. As one former prison officer, who we are calling Officer A to protect his identity, tells the Mail: 'The numbers will be much, much higher than the figures that have emerged because these events are swept under the carpet if a sexual relationship ever comes to light, then normally the prison officer is given the chance to resign. They don't like this stuff to come out, it's hugely embarrassing.' To an outsider, it's hard to understand what drives an officer to risk an affair with an inmate, knowing they could lose everything if they are caught. So what exactly is going on behind prison walls? Vanessa Frake spent 27 years in the prison service, including as governor at notoriously tough men's prison Wormwood Scrubs. She is dismayed by the latest revelations. 'I think this has always happened in one form or another,' she says. 'But when you see the number of reported cases at somewhere like HMP Berwyn, you have to ask how that has happened.' An artist's impression of Linda De Sousa Abreu appearing at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court, charged with misconduct in public office Undoubtedly, she says, changes in prison staffing procedures are a factor. For about 150 years, under the terms of the 1823 Gaol Act, women's prisons were entirely staffed by women; men's prisons were staffed by men. It was only in the 1980s that cross-sex postings began to be advertised. Since then the acceleration in numbers of women entering the prison service has been steep; some 40 per cent of public sector prison staff are now said to be female. At the same time, perceptions of working in prisons have changed, says Vanessa. 'When I joined, I thought: 'This is going to be my career for the next 30 years.' Nowadays, unfortunately, the prison service isn't seen as a career, but rather as a sort of stop gap for young people who go in for a couple of years and then flit off [to something else],' she explains. The minimum entry age of recruits has dropped from 21 when Vanessa joined the prison service to just 18. 'In my opinion, that's too young,' she says. 'You've got kids of 18 walking around with 40- to 50-year-old career criminals.' She is not alone in raising concerns that younger, less committed recruits are more vulnerable to manipulation. 'Previously many officers in the tough prisons were ex-Armed Forces, who had a lot of real-life experience and were not easily intimidated,' says Officer A, who left the system seven years ago after ten years working in the north-east of England. 'But then they [started to] hire far more people straight out of school who were keen but lacked the confidence to deal with cunning, hardened criminals. 'If you are a 19- or 20-year-old, 5ft 4in woman, you won't have the confidence or presence to challenge these guys and they will see you as more pliable and easier to manipulate than a seasoned officer. It's the cold hard truth.' Another former officer, a woman we are calling Officer B, also warns junior officers are being given more responsibility: 'I talk now to ex-colleagues who say if someone has 18 months' experience, they might be the most experienced person on that wing, making decisions for the team. It's crazy.' Vanessa Frake, who spent 27 years in the prison service, is dismayed at the growing number of female officers having relationships with prisoners Vanessa, author of The Governor: My Life Inside Britain's Most Notorious Prisons, says there are also failings in training, vetting procedures and a lack of mentors. 'It's all so frantic now. You've got overcrowding, staff shortages, you've got all these things going on and then you've got somebody who walks in, someone who isn't seen as a young, vulnerable person, but as just another body, someone who is allegedly fully-fledged to walk out on a prison wing,' she says. Last year, Mark Fairhurst, general secretary of the Prison Officers' Association (POA), also blamed poor training and vetting for the rise in officers succumbing to corruption. Staff are frequently recruited centrally, with interviews conducted over Zoom, he warned, making it harder for bosses to spot potential problems. And while guards are reportedly struggling to keep inmates under control, the inmates keep a keen eye on the guards for vulnerabilities they may be able to exploit, explains Officer B. She spent seven years working in a Category B prison and recalls: 'To many prisoners, the sex itself isn't the goal it is a way of getting the officer in their pocket for other things such as smuggling in tobacco, drugs or mobile phones. They know a sexual relationship or flirting is a way of hooking you and hooking you is exactly the goal of the more cunning inmates. 'Inexperienced officers, particularly younger women in a men's prison, will feel like a fresh bit of meat on display.' The prisoners' motivations are clear. But why do officers fall for these tactics? Some commentators have put the trend down to an unconscious compulsion to pursue unsuitable partners, repeating tired cliches about women lusting after a 'bad boy'. Of course, there is a complex web of factors at play, which may include attraction or an urge to transgress. But in Officer B's telling, there is often a deliberate pattern of coercion by the inmate. 'You cannot show a single chink in your armour, or you are finished,' she says. 'I would warn recruits to never even speak about their personal life on the landings because prisoners would listen in and use this stuff against you. 'It might start off with something small; they might challenge you to a game of pool and say the winner gets a Mars Bar. Of course, you can't give them chocolate and if you do then you've broken the rules, and they've got you. 'The squeeze will begin. The next thing is they will ask 'can you bring this in for me' and the whole thing escalates from there.' Once one boundary is crossed, others quickly follow and the power dynamic shifts from officer to prisoner. 'The key thing is the inmate has nothing to lose they are already in prison,' says Officer B. 'For the prison officer, their entire life is on the line. If you've done something wrong and the inmate has the power to ruin your life, you'll do anything to stop that happening.' Notably, when sentencing Bates last month, Judge Elliot Knopf accepted the prison officer had been 'ensnared' by her lover, saying: 'He identified you as someone who could be approached' but adding: 'You did not have to accept that approach.' Aleesha Bates was charged with misconduct in public office after beginning a relationship with a prisoner at HMP Buckley Hall, where she worked as a prison officer Though some officers who have relationships with prisoners are charged, as in the case of Ayshea Gunn (seen above on her way to prison), many are told to resign instead, and will escape punishment As for the logistics of an illicit physical affair between a prison officer and an inmate supposedly under constant surveillance often, it seems, it's all too easy. 'There are actually lots of places they could potentially have sex,' says Officer B. 'The cupboards, maybe, if they had someone to keep watch and give a signal if there was someone coming. Even in a cell, if they were happy to live dangerously. 'There is a lock in there of course we would call it 'shooting the bolt' when you put it on a latch. 'And the officer could plausibly come up with an excuse, [saying] they needed to have a chat with this inmate, for example. 'I would never go into a prisoner's cell without another officer there, but I have known it to happen.' Officer A, meanwhile, recalls a colleague being caught committing sexual acts with an inmate in a prison's 'methadone room' a medical room where recovering addicts would receive treatment. 'It came to light because of a very distinctive tattoo she had above her groin, which a few colleagues knew about because she had told us, but of course no prisoners would have been aware of,' he says. 'Then a prisoner started talking about this tattoo the only way they could have possibly known is if the two of them had a physical relationship. 'She was never charged, but she was investigated and was told: 'Resign and you can walk away, or you will be arrested.' 'I believe she had also been smuggling drugs on behalf of this prisoner, which shows it is never just about the sex for these guys.' While the officer in that case may, astonishingly, have escaped punishment, for others the penalty for crossing the line is steep. On the other hand, notes Vanessa, too often manipulators behind bars are never punished for their actions. 'The whole focus is on the woman,' she says. 'What gets forgotten is there are prisoners who have the one thing the rest of the nation doesn't have, time. Time to work out who is vulnerable, who is new, who they can twist. What happens to that corrupter?' She points out that there are already legal structures for dealing with this type of behaviour but says they are not being used enough. 'There is the Bribery Act of 2010 and there is also the prison disciplinary system. These prisoners can be taken to court, can be moved. 'We need to be much more robust with these corrupters of staff as well.' A Prison Service spokesperson said: 'The overwhelming majority of our prison staff are hardworking and honest but thanks to our action including bolstering our Counter-Corruption Unit we are catching more of the small minority who are not.' China is bombing models of American fighter jets as part of a rehearsal of a military assault, new satellite photos have revealed. The images, taken by Planet Labs over a remote desert area in northwest China, show massive scorch marks next to low-tech models of F-35s and F-22s, some of the most advanced jets used by the US Army. The photos also show a long runway with several scotch marks at the top end. It is not currently known exactly what weapons were used to leave the marks, but the Times reported that the scale of them would suggest precision missiles were used. The desert, the Taklamakan in Xinjiang province, already hosts military testing sites. Three years ago, it was revealed that China had built up models of an American Ford-class aircraft carrier and two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. The satellite images, taken by Planet Labs over a remote desert area in northwest China, show massive scorch marks next to low-tech models of F-35s and F-22s Photos also show a long runway with several scotch marks at the top end It comes as a Chinese military drone hovered near an airport on a remote Taiwan island causing delays to flights, Taipei's military and local media said on Wednesday. Liberty Times said the drone was spotted around five nautical miles from Matsu's Nangan Airport on Tuesday, and it stayed around for about 20 minutes. Beijing claims democratic Taiwan as its own territory and has never renounced the use of force to bring the self-ruled island under its control. In addition to military pressure from Chinese warplanes and vessels that maintain a near-daily presence around the island, Taiwan has faced incursions from civilian and unidentified drones that surveil and harass troops. The army's Matsu Defence Command confirmed an unspecified 'Chinese military drone' was detected Tuesday morning. Matsu is around 200 kilometres northwest of Taipei, but much closer to mainland China. 'Since its flight route was close to the take-off and landing channels of civilian aircraft, the Nangan Airport Tower was notified to complete relevant handling to ensure aviation safety,' it said without elaborating. China's President Xi Jinping attends a meeting with Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana, Kazakhstan July 3, 2024 The F-22 (pictured) is one of the US' most advanced fighter jets China has become increasingly bullish against the West, in particular the US for its stance on Taiwan's independence. Taiwan and the US insist that the island nation ought to be an independent sovereign state, while China claims to control it. China has taken indirect military action against Taiwan as recently as May this year, holding a massive two-day exercise around the island as 'strong punishment' for the self-ruled nation's 'separatist acts.' In response to president William Lai calling on China to stop threatening the island and to accept that Taiwan is a self-governing nation, China sent naval and air patrols to similar what a full-scale attack would look like. China has also lashed out over the US strengthening relations with Taiwan, which has become a valuable partner for major nations in recent years due to the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, the world's largest independent semi-conductor maker. In June, the country's president Xi Jinping told European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen that he believed the US was trying to goad his nation into attack Taiwan. The FT reported that while he said he believed the US was trying to trick China into invading Taiwan, he would not take the bait. China launched live-fire drills in August 2022 after then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited the island, which she said was a sign of the US' 'unwavering commitment to supporting Taiwan's vibrant democracy.' Akhmed Yakoob is a sharp suited, super-rich lawyer who owns a yellow Lamborghini and has a magnificent Rolls Royce on order. The son of a milkman, he is aiming to become an MP in one of the most deprived parts of our bankrupt second city, Birmingham. Mr Yakoob, 35, who boasts he has made millions as a social-media-savvy criminal lawyer, is standing as an independent candidate in the inner-city constituency of Ladywood where he is appealing to fellow Muslims to vote for him. His star is rising. He has a huge following on TikTok where he complains about poor local bus services, unemployment, rubbish-strewn streets, lethally low NHS response times - and above all, the conflict in Gaza. And yet this is the man who stands accused of misogyny following some deeply disturbing comments he has made on social media about women. In a now deleted podcast whose contents have been reported by the Guardian and in local papers, Yakoob urged men in the community to control their women and oversee how they dress and behave. Self-proclaimed millionaire Akhmed Yakoob is a rising star among Birmingham's muslim voters The Parliamentary candidate has made Gaza the key issue in his election campaign Labour's sitting Ladywood MP Shabana Mahmood faces an onslaught at the ballot box He has apologised for claiming that 70 percent of hell is going to be women and saying he would give his wife a backhander if she made money dancing on TikTok. But it is not just his views on women. Equally concerning is his anti-Semitic rhetoric about the enemies of Allah who, in a podcast, he claimed are indiscriminately bombing over one million Palestinians. Yakoob has declared: I would never get into a debate with a Zionist...its just not worth it. Bees dont waste their time explaining to flies that honey is better than sh**. His extraordinary views have been condemned by Muslim womens rights groups and the Community Security Trust, which protects British Jews. But there is no doubting his popularity in Ladywood. Yakoob aims to oust the sitting Labour MP and shadow justice secretary Shabana Mahmood who won the seat in 2019 with a whopping 28,582 majority. The seat was presumed safe by Labour until the Gaza-Israeli conflict and the emergence of Yakoob in Ms Mahoods backyard. Last year, she abstained from a House of Commons vote on an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, to the anger of many of her Muslim constituents. Yakoob inflamed the situation, claiming - irresponsibly - that it was no longer safe for her to campaign in some streets of Ladywood because of the hatred felt towards her over this hot-button issue. Yakoobs name appears on a controversial list of candidates published by an organisation calling itself The Muslim Vote, which wants to ensure people choose pro-Palestine candidates at the ballot box tomorrow [Thursday]. The list includes candidates standing as independents, for the Greens, Left-wing firebrand George Galloways Workers Party of Britain, as well as a small smattering of Labour members who - against the wishes of the Party leadership - have publicly backed a Gaza ceasefire despite the October 7 atrocities by Hamas terrorists against Israel that sparked the conflict. The Muslim Vote, which is headquartered in Birmingham, is clear on its aims. The election signals a shift for Muslims no more political apathy. We will no longer tolerate being taken for granted. We are a powerful, united force of four million acting in unison, says its website. The lawyer stands accused of misogyny following disturbing comments on social media Yakoob, who has 175,000 followers on TikTok, has been using it to get his message across We are focused on areas where the Muslim vote can influence the outcome. It adds: We are here for the long term. In 2024 we lay the foundations for our communitys future. It promises an army of 20 million campaign supporters - many thought to be using TikTok and other social media sites - to help would-be MPs on its list get their message out before the election. And the tactic appears to be working. At the eleventh hour, Keir Starmer was this week parachuting activists into areas of Britain with large Muslim populations to shore up Labour votes. It may be too little, too late. Although the Labour machine is playing down the idea it will lose seats over the Gaza conflict, independent, Green and Workers Party candidates are hoping to capture enough votes to apply pressure on Sir Keir over his position on the Middle East in the future. The last-minute activists are concentrating on 31 Labour-held seats, Ladywood among them, according to the Financial Times. In 23 of those seats, Muslims make up more than 10 per cent of the local population (in Ladywood it is 49 per cent). Meanwhile, the party is deploying activists into two seats that it won in 2019 one of which is Oldham East and Saddleworth, which also has a high number of Muslim residents. This week, in a residential street in one of Oldhams most Islamic areas, graphic posters hung from awnings and shop windows depicting scenes of desolation in Gaza. Palestinian flags fluttered from lamp posts and cars. In the May local elections, Labour lost control of Oldham council, which it had held for over 13 years, after ceding seats to three independent councillors who ran on a pro-Palestine platform. Neighbouring Rochdale, where one in three residents are Muslim, saw George Galloway win a by-election earlier this year after running on a trenchant pro-Palestine ticket. He is campaigning again on the Gaza issue. Wealthy father-of-four Yakoob apologised for saying he would give his wife a 'backhander' The Labour Party has explicitly said it is committed to recognising Palestine as a state, but this may not be enough. Workers Party candidate Shanaz Siddique (Oldham East and Saddleworth) was a life-long Labour member until 2021. She has a credible chance of seizing the constituency from Labours Debbie Abrahams, and said that losing control of the council in May was a huge slap in the face for Labour. This community has historically blindly followed Labour as a working-class socialist party. Now it feels the party doesnt represent them, she added. As for Mr Yakoob, he was on social media yesterday boasting that he was going to end the reign of Ms Mahmood. I will dethrone her, he promised with what looked suspiciously like a grin. This despite recent revelations by the Guardian that he has a close allegiance to another independent Muslim candidate, standing in nearby Hall Green constituency, who once led angry protests over teaching about same-sex relationships in Birmingham primary schools. That link has not gone unnoticed by the citys thriving LGBT community. But, in our changing times, it may garner him support from the Muslim community as Labour tries belatedly to stem the tide. Armed attackers killed a woman in front of her horrified husband as they attempted to rob the couple outside an upmarket Newport Beach mall, police have said. The 68-year old woman, named as Patricia McKay from New Zealand, and her husband had been outside a Barnes & Noble at the Fashion Island mall when they were approached by two men at around 3.30 pm on Tuesday. A 'struggle' ensued, with one of the men fleeing the scene on foot and firing several rounds with a handgun as he did so, according to reports. The woman was then dragged into the parking lot as the two men got into a Toyota Camry being driven by a third man. The suspects then ran over McKay as they drove away from the scene, firing shots as they led the police on a high-speed chase, Newport Beach Police Sgt. Steve Oberon told DailyMail.com. A man is seen surrounded by officers as he is arrested. Police reportedly engaged in a high-speed pursuit with two of the suspects Pictures show a white police forensics tent in the parking lot at the scene of the attack Three suspects are in custody after the woman was killed in front of her horrified husband No one was struck by the gunfire, police confirmed. Cops began following the men in a cross-county pursuit shortly after the violent attack. They chased them into Los Angeles County after a pair of suspects jumped out near Los Alamitos, CBS reports. The suspects' car reached speeds of 110mph in the chase on the 105 freeway. Two jumped out of the car and began running around a neighborhood in South Gate. Police found one of the men hiding behind trash cans outside a house and arrested him. They also tracked down and arrested two other suspects in the fatal attack. Newport Beach Police officials identified the suspects as Jaden Cunningham, 18, of Lancaster, Malachi Eddward Darnell, 18, of Los Angeles, and Leroyernest Joseph McCrary, 26, of Compton. All three were booked on suspicion of homicide, robbery with a firearm and conspiracy. The woman's husband was not injured in the attack, police said, and the gunfire did not result in any other injuries. 'It is a shock,' Newport Beach Police Sgt. Steve Oberon said. 'It just doesn't happen normally here.' The 68-year old woman and her husband had been outside a Barnes & Noble at the Fashion Island mall when they were approached by two men General view of the Fashion Island Mall in Newport Beach, California Newport Beach Police and other law enforcement agencies search in South Gate for suspects believed to be involved in a fatal robbery at Fashion Island Mall on Tuesday Mayor Will O'Neill said he was 'furious' after hearing news of the attack, which he described as 'staggering'. 'I'm horrified. I'm mourning the loss of someone who died inside of our city because of crime... This is a tragedy and I'm furious. 'Newport Beach is a safe community and we're mourning the loss of someone,' he said. 'Frankly, to hell with these guys. These are thugs. Every community is now dealing with this. We have to do better as a society. We cannot tolerate this.' Georgian student Elene Deisadze was browsing TikTok in 2022 when she stumbled across the profile of a girl, Anna Panchulidze, who looked exactly like her. Months later, after chatting and becoming friends, they both separately learnt they were adopted, and last year decided to take a DNA test. It revealed they were not only related, but identical twins. 'I had a happy childhood, but now my entire past felt like a deception,' said Anna, an English student at university. Far from an innocent case of separation at birth, the sisters are among tens of thousands of Georgian children who were illegally sold in a decades-long baby trafficking scandal. The scheme, uncovered by journalists and families searching for lost relatives, saw babies stolen from their mothers - many of whom were told they had died - and then sold to adoptive parents in Georgia and abroad. Georgian student Elene Deisadze (L) was browsing TikTok in 2022 when she stumbled across the profile of a girl, Anna Panchulidze (R) who looked exactly like her Anna Panchulidze (L), Elene Deisadze (R) and Elene's adoptive mother, Lia Korkotadze Elene and Anna, now 19, began unravelling their hidden past two years ago Journalists have found that the illegal adoptions took place over more than 50 years, orchestrated by a network of maternity hospitals, nurseries and adoption agencies that colluded to take the children from their parents, falsify birth records, and place them with new families in exchange for cash. Elene and Anna, now 19, began unravelling their hidden past two years ago. 'We became friends without suspecting we might be sisters, but both of us felt there was some special bond between us,' Elene, a psychology student, told AFP. Last summer, both of their parents independently told the girls they had been adopted - revelations they had long planned to make. It was then that the pair decided to take the genetic test that would reveal they were identical twins. 'I struggled to process the information, to accept the new reality - the people who had raised me for 18 years are not my parents,' said Anna. 'But I feel no anger whatsoever, only immense gratitude to the people who raised me, and joy at finding my flesh and blood,' she added. The test for Elene and Anna was arranged with the help of Georgian journalist Tamuna Museridze, who runs a Facebook group dedicated to reuniting babies stolen from their parents. It has over 200,000 members - including mothers who were told by hospital staff that their babies had died shortly after being born, but then discovered years later they might be alive. Georgian twin sisters Anna Panchulidze (L), an English student at university, and Elene Deisadze (R), a psychology student, and Elene's adoptive mother, Lia Korkotadze Elene and Anna discovered they were twin sisters after a chance encounter on social networks, later learning they were among tens of thousands of Georgian children illegally sold to adoptive parents Georgian twin sisters Anna Panchulidze and Elene Deisadze embrace after being reunited Georgian journalist Tamuna Museridze, who runs a Facebook group dedicated to reuniting babies stolen from their parents, speaks during an interview with AFP in Tbilisi Museridze set up the group in 2021 in a bid to find her own family after learning she had been adopted. She soon uncovered the mass baby-selling operation. 'Mothers were told their babies had died shortly after birth and were buried at a hospital cemetery,' Museridze said. 'In fact, hospitals had no cemeteries, and babies were being secretly whisked away and sold to adoptive parents.' The new parents were often unaware the adoptions were illegal and told fabricated stories about the circumstances. 'Some people, however, consciously chose to circumvent the law and buy a baby' to avoid decade-long waiting lists, Museridze told AFP. She says she has evidence that at least 120,000 babies 'were stolen from their parents and sold' between 1950 and 2006, when anti-trafficking measures by reformist president Mikheil Saakashvili eventually quashed the scheme. In Georgia, new parents would pay the equivalent of many months' salary to arrange the adoption, while babies trafficked abroad were sold for up to $30,000, Museridze said. Elene's adoptive mother, Lia Korkotadze, decided with her husband to adopt after learning they couldn't have children a year into their marriage. 'But adopting from an orphanage seemed virtually impossible due to incredibly long waiting lists,' the 61-year-old economist told AFP. Georgian twin sisters Anna Panchulidze (L), an English student at university, and Elene Deisadze, a psychology student, attend an interview with AFP in Tbilisi on March 23, 2024 Georgian journalist Tamuna Museridze, who runs a Facebook group dedicated to reuniting babies stolen from their parents Museridze said she has evidence that at least 120,000 babies 'were stolen from their parents and sold' between 1950 and 2006 In 2005, an acquaintance told her about a six-month-old baby available for adoption from a local hospital - for a fee. Korkotadze said she 'realised that was my chance,' and agreed. 'They brought Elene right to my house,' Korkotadze said, never suspecting there was 'anything illegal.' 'It took months of excruciating bureaucratic delays to formalise the adoption through court,' she said. The tale of Anna and Elene mirrors that of another set of twin sisters - Anna Sartania and Tako Khvitia. They were separated at birth and sold to different parents, managing to reunite years later after finding each other on social media. More than 800 families have been reunited thanks to Museridze's Facebook group. Successive Georgian governments have made multiple attempts to investigate the scheme and have made a handful of arrests over the last 20 years. Interior ministry spokesman, Tato Kuchava, told AFP that an 'investigation is underway' into Museridze's revelations, but declined to provide further details. Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said last week in parliament that Tbilisi is among the world leaders in combating trafficking. But Museridze says the state's response has been lacking. 'The government did nothing tangible to help our efforts.' A prisoner who was filmed allegedly having sex with a female guard in an X-rated video is a TikTok fitness fanatic who published videos of his gruelling workouts, MailOnline can reveal. Linton Weirich, of West London, was seen in a clip allegedly filmed on a smuggled phone appearing to have sex with prison officer Linda De Sousa Abreu at HMP Wandsworth. De Sousa Abreu, 30, has been charged with misconduct in public office following a police probe into the incident. MailOnline can reveal that convicted burglar Weirich, 36, posted videos to TikTok showing his workout regimes. One clip shows him in the gym, while others show him undertaking exercises including skipping in a room - with one of the videos captioned: 'Let's get it'. Weirich was put in segregation but is unlikely to face any further punishment and is not under investigation. Linton Weirich (pictured with his partner who is seven months pregnant) is the inmate who was filmed allegedly having sex with a female guard in a cell Weirich can be seen working out in the gym and appearing to undertake a tough workout regime Three other clips appear to show him undertaking exercises including skipping at an unspecified address He was jailed for four and a half years for burglary at a dwelling and theft on June 7 at Kingston Crown Court (pictured: One of his workout videos) Prison officer Linda De Sousa Abreu (pictured), charged with misconduct in public office De Sousa Abreu tries to cover her face outside Uxbridge Magistrates' Court on Monday Six years ago, Weirich had pleaded guilty to dangerous driving on the M6 at Stafford. He also admitted assaulting a police officer with intent to resist arrest, driving without a licence and driving without insurance when he appeared at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court in March, 2018. A video shared by Weirich on TikTok shows him leaving prison in October last year after he was banged up for the offence. It comes as MailOnline revealed that Weirich's partner is seven months pregnant and went into hospital after suffering from stress fearing she could go into premature labour. A source close to her said: 'This is the last thing she needs in her condition, it's extremely upsetting. 'This stupid video has affected her health, she was hospitalised at the weekend through stress. She fears it will bring on premature labour.' Photographs posted on his Instagram page also show Weirich with the same arm tattoo as the man in the alleged X-rated video. Weirich was jailed for four and a half years at Kingston Crown Court after the raid on a Kensington flat Linda De Sousa Abreu was seen carrying a large suitcase and hiding her face as she left Uxbridge Magistrates' Court on Monday Weirich was seen in the video filmed on a phone appearing to have sex with the prison officer De Sousa Abreu was arrested at Heathrow and had been due to catch a flight, Uxbridge Magistrates' Court heard The footage was allegedly filmed at HMP Wandsworth in South West London Meanwhile, De Sousa Abreu, 30, who is married, appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court yesterday charged with misconduct in public office. The prison officer was arrested at Heathrow Airport on Saturday before she could catch a flight to see relatives in Madrid, a court heard yesterday. She was attempting to travel on a Portuguese passport, which was seized by the Metropolitan Police. De Sousa Abreu appeared in court charged with misconduct in public office by 'engaging in a sexual act with a prisoner in a prison cell.' Wearing a custody-issue grey tracksuit, she spoke only to confirm her name, date of birth and address. Prosecuting Niamh McDonagh told the court: 'Ms De Sousa Abreu was apprehended at Heathrow Airport where a flight had been booked for Madrid. I believe she has relatives living there. 'A Portuguese passport was seized by police when she was apprehended. She is a Portuguese national with a Portuguese passport. ' Defending, Gayathri Yogarajah said De Sousa Abreu had notified HMP Wandsworth, telling them of her travel plans which was duly passed on to Scotland Yard Weirich was jailed earlier this year after stealing 65,000 worth of goods from a safe in a flat Among the items he stole in a raid in 2022 were jewellery, belts, handbags and a suitcase (pictured: Weirich) A court artist's drawing of De Sousa Abreu at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court on Monday She was granted conditional bail and will appear for a plea and case management hearing on July 29 at Isleworth Crown Court. She must remain at an address in South West London given in court. Her Portuguese passport must remain with the police and she cannot make any attempt to retrieve it. She is forbidden from applying or being in possession of international travel documents and she must hand over her Portuguese Identity card that she could travel on. De Sousa Abreu is also forbidden to enter any UK port and must be electronically monitored between the hours of 9pm and 7am. A Prison Service spokesman said: 'Staff corruption is not tolerated and the former prison officer allegedly featured in this video has been reported to the police. 'It would be inappropriate to comment further while they investigate.' Donald Trump's campaign has raised $331million in the second quarter, topping the $264million President Joe Biden raised in the same period. The amount raised by Trump and the Republican National Committee is likely to heap even more pressure from Democrats who are already concerned about Biden's performance in the first presidential debate last week. Biden's team is eager to show fundraising strength after debate, which saw the President stumbling over his words and losing his train of thought several times. The incumbent's aides held difficult phone calls this week with important campaign financiers who questioned whether 81-year-old Biden should stay in the race. Meanwhile, Trump's campaign said its fundraising operation continues to thrive alongside growing voter enthusiasm for the Republican candidate. Donald Trump's campaign has raised $331million in the second quarter, topping the $264million President Joe Biden raised in the same period. The GOP hopeful is pictured during a campaign event at Historic Greenbrier Farms in Chesapeake, Virginia on June 28, 2024 Biden's team is eager to show fundraising strength after his disastrous performance in the presidential debate last week. Biden is pictured speaking at a post-debate campaign rally on June 28, 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina Trump, 78, out fundraised Biden in April and May, but fell short in June when Biden's campaign raised $127million to his $112million. The president's reelection effort has $240million in cash on hand, the Biden campaign has said. The Trump campaign, which reportedly earned $331million in the second quarter, says it has $284.9million in cash on hand. 'This fundraising momentum is likely to grow even more as we head into a world-class convention and see the Democrats continue their circular firing squad in the aftermath of Biden's debate collapse,' Trump campaign advisers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles said in a statement. The pair, in a statement to Bloomberg, touted the 'cash on hand advantage' they had from winning the quarter two money race and jabbed at a 'Biden burn rate that grows while yielding no tangible results for them.' Thursday was the best day of fundraising from 'small-dollar' or 'grassroots' donors to Biden's campaign, followed by Friday, when concern about the debate was causing waves of panic through Democratic circles, officials revealed. 'Our Q2 fundraising haul is a testament to the committed and growing base of supporters standing firmly behind the President and Vice President and clear evidence that our voters understand the choice in this election between President Biden fighting for the American people and Donald Trump fighting for himself as a convicted felon,' Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said in a statement. In the second quarter, 95 per cent of donations were under $200, a point the campaign underscored to portray broad support from average Americans instead of heavy reliance on wealthy donors. The total fundraising figures include donations to the Biden campaign, the Democratic National Committee and joint fundraising committees. Biden's reelection effort said it was spending the money on more than 200 campaign offices and more than 1,000 staff in political battleground states whose allegiance swings between the parties and which Biden needs to prevail over Trump in November's election. President Joe Biden endured a disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump in Atlanta last week. It has upended the president race Trump has kept a low profile in the days since Biden's disastrous debate performance, leaving the focus on the drama engulfing the Democratic Party as he and his campaign revel in a series of legal and political victories heading into the Republican National Convention this month. Trump's run began last week during the first debate, when Biden delivered a performance so dismal that he has spent the days since fending off calls from alarmed Democrats to step aside to save the party from losses up and down the ballot. On Monday, the US Supreme Court ruled that former presidents have broad immunity from prosecution, limiting the indictment against Trump for his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden. It's all but certain he won't face trial before Election Day. And on Tuesday, the judge in Trump's New York criminal hush money trial postponed his sentencing to weigh the impact of the Supreme Court decision. The flood of good news - along with a major fundraising haul that has eliminated what had been Biden's substantial cash advantage - has given Trump and his team cause for celebration as they head into the convention this month. But it has frustrated Biden supporters who would prefer to focus on Trump's sweeping second-term agenda and comments he made during the debate minimizing the Capitol riot and suggesting he might not accept the results of this election, either. While he sat for several radio interviews over the weekend and has been active on his Truth Social site, Trump has no public events on his schedule this week. Trump's team, recognizing that Biden's campaign faces intense pressure, is perfectly happy to keep the focus on the incumbent, according to people familiar with the strategy who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the campaign's thinking. President Joe Biden delivers remarks after receiving an operational briefing on extreme weather at the D.C. Emergency Operations Center in DC on July 2, 2024 Supporters hold up signs as President Joe Biden speaks at a campaign rally in Raleigh, North Carolina on Friday, June 28, 2024 In a statement, Trump campaign spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said, 'In a few weeks, a unified and enthusiastic Republican Party will formally nominate President Trump and by that time, he will select America's next Vice President from an impressive field of elected officials and business leaders, any of whom will represent a major upgrade to the current VP.' 'Team Trump will continue to build off the momentum earned by President Trump to grow our movement, raise the money we need to win, and head into the fall poised for a historic victory,' she added. The recent events could also impact the timing of Trump's vice presidential rollout - an announcement certain to garner a flurry of attention and a flood of stories about his chosen candidate's record and past statements. Campaign officials have repeatedly said Trump will announce his pick when he's ready and still caution that an announcement could come anytime. Biden and his allies, meanwhile, have tried to return the focus to Trump. They've noted that Trump again minimized the violence of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol during the debate and refused to denounce those who attacked police officers and stormed the building by breaking doors and windows. Trump also repeatedly declined to state unequivocally that he would accept the results of this November's election, saying he would do so only 'If it's a fair and legal and good election.' There is no reason to think it won't be, even as Trump for years has spread false fears about election fraud. Democrats have also called attention to Trump's mention of migrants entering the US illegally taking 'Black jobs' and 'Hispanic jobs,' arguing Trump was insulting people of color. Biden and his allies have also warned about the implications of the Supreme Court ruling declaring Trump immune from prosecution for key moments listed in the January 6 indictment. They have cited previous Trump comments that he would be a 'dictator' on his first day in office and his threats to prosecute political enemies. Over the weekend, Trump shared several posts on his Truth Social network reflecting his long-simmering grievances and threats of political retribution. Former US President and presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump gestures during a campaign event in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on June 22, 2024 Supporters of Former President Donald Trump during a rally at the historic Greenbrier Farms in Chesapeake, Virginia, on June 28, 2024 One of the posts suggested former Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney, a Republican critic, was 'guilty of treason' and asked supporters to share it if they wanted 'televised military tribunals.' Another post featured photos of Biden and other senior Democratic and Republican officials and suggested they should be jailed. 'Trump now has the cover he needs to jail and assassinate his opponents, direct the military to overturn a free and fair election, and take cash in bribes for pardons - with full immunity,' Biden campaign spokesperson Ammar Moussa charged in a statement. 'This November, the voters must stop Trump from turning the Oval Office into his throne room.' Jay Slater admitted to friends that he stole a 12,000 Rolex watch and was trying to sell it just hours before he vanished, a former detective has claimed. Mark Williams-Thomas, who is probing the 19-year-old apprentice bricklayer's disappearance from a remote mountainous area of Tenerife, posted an update on X on Wednesday morning. The investigator, who also probed Nicola Bulley's disappearance, claimed Jay's friends revealed the missing raver had sent them a Snapchat in the early hours of June 17 in which he admitted to stealing the luxury timepiece. Mr Williams-Thomas said that Jay was headed in a Seat Leon hire car to the rented Casa Abuela Tina Airbnb, near the village of Masca, with two older British men just after 6am when he made the shocking Rolex claim. MailOnline today revealed the first picture of one of those men, who used the name Ayub Abdul to book the 40-a-night holiday rental online. Although the former police detective has not been able to verify that an alleged theft took place, he said friends of Jay have assured him that the missing teenager would not have made it up. Mr Williams-Thomas said he was making the new information public to 'provide some clarity and clear up the total inaccuracies' fuelled by conspiracy theories. It comes as: Update: With so much speculation and inaccurate information and reporting - here is an update on our investigation into Jay Slaters disappearance. Please listen carefully to my overview. We have had full access to witnesses and our investigation is evidence based and remains pic.twitter.com/RuF47DIvTi Mark Williams-Thomas (@mwilliamsthomas) July 3, 2024 Jay Slater pictured with his mother Debbie Duncan. The teenager has been missing since June 17 Jay Slater's final Snapchat at the remote Airbnb before he went missing. It is not the same Snapchat as the one where he 'admitted to stealing an expensive watch'. The 40-a-night Casa Abuela Tina holiday rental near the remote village of Masca where Jay spent his final hours before going missing Mr Williams-Thomas described how shortly before 6am, Jay left the infamous Veronicas strip where he had been partying with friends on the final night of the three-day NRG festival in Tenerife's Playa de las Americas resort. He and the two men - who Jay and his friends had spent time with in the previous two days - made an hour-long journey on the motorway back to the Airbnb. It was during this journey that Mr Williams-Thomas claims Jay posted a Snapchat saying he had taken the 12,000 Rolex from an unknown person. MailOnline has approached Jay's family about the claims. Police previously said they were investigating a scuffle outside Papagayo Beach Club, where Jay was seen partying the night he went missing. It is believed a fight - involving a burly Eastern European man who reportedly had his valuable Rolex stolen - broke out after the venue had closed. One of Jay's friends, who had travelled to Tenerife to help in the search told detectives the alleged incident could have led to his disappearance. Mr Williams-Thomas said he was 'unable to validate' Jay's claim on Snapchat 'in terms of reported theft'. He added: 'However friends of Jay said he would not make this up and the watch was subject of later conversation between the friends.' The TV detective said Jay had contact with pals on social media while at the Casa Abuela Tina property. This included a Snapchat picture he sent to friends on the doorsteps of the cottage at 7.30am, in which he was holding a cigarette. Jay was last seen at around 8am when he tried to make his way back to his holiday accommodation. TV detective Mark Williams-Thomas (pictured) issued an update on Wednesday, claiming he had been told Jay had stolen a 12,000 Rolex and was trying to sell it Jay's family released this photo of the missing teenager on Tuesday Jay's mother Debbie Duncan and father Warren Slater leaving the Guardia Civil in Playa de las Americas Ayub Abdul (pictured) rented the Airbnb which missing raver Jay Slater visited just before he disappeared Jay was on his first-ever friends holiday with Lucy Law (pictured) and Brad Hargreaves when he went missing in Tenerife Brad Hargreaves (pictured) also said he spoke to Jay on the phone before he went missing He asked the owner of the Airbnb when the next bus to Los Cristianos was, but when she said 10am he set off on foot for what would have been an 11-hour walk. The Airbnb owner said she later saw Jay walking uphill in the vast mountainous area. Mr Williams-Thomas said Jay spoke to at least three friends via message and on the phone while walking back, telling them he was lost. Friend Lucy Law said Jay had called her shortly after he was last seen to say he was thirsty and had no water and just one per cent battery on his phone. Another friend, Brad Hargreaves, said he also spoke to Jay that morning and thought he had veered off the main road and may have slid down rocks. Mark said in a video update today: 'He was told to go back by two people to the rental. 'He said he could not do that and that he'd already been walking for 30 minutes and that he was now off road and was walking on a track where there were loose stones.' Jay sent his location at both 8.49am and 8.50am to friends, which showed him on a hiking trail in the rugged Rural de Teno park. He has not been seen or heard from since. Jay travelled to the Casa Abuela Tina Airbnb (pictured) in the village of Masca with two older British men before he went missing In its Airbnb listing Casa Abuela Tina is described as being a farmhouse within the 'unique natural landscape' surrounding it Mr Williams-Thomas claimed Jay left the holiday home because he was spooked. He said: 'We have received information that would suggest that Jay left the rental property and he would not return to the rental, even though that would have been the most sensible course of action, and also where he could have charged his phone, got some water and made contact with friends. 'We continue to investigate this aspect.' The two men Jay was with spoke to police on the island before flying back to the UK. Spanish police have said they are not 'relevant' to the investigation. Mr Williams-Thomas, who flew out to Tenerife last week to help, has been conducting his own investigation after Spanish cops called off the search on Sunday. He said his team believe there is no third-party involvement. He said: 'We have, however, ruled out hostage or kidnapping situation because no credible ransom demand has been made. 'We've no evidence at this stage to say there was a third party criminal involvement in Jay's disappearance.' He said he still had a number of lines of inquiry to look into, so was still 'keeping an open mind'. Spanish police called off the hunt for the apprentice bricklayer two weeks after he went missing Volunteers gathering ahead of the final 'massive search' for Jay Slater, which was called off by Spanish police the following day It comes after a Spanish judge revealed on Monday that there is 'no current evidence of criminality'. Many, including Jay's mother Debbie Duncan, believed he had been taken against his will. Cops on Tenerife called off the massive search on Sunday in a huge blow to Jay's family. However, on Tuesday, two plain-clothed police officers returned to the Airbnb. They spent around two hours searching the Airbnb. Last night, Jay's mother Debbie issued an update, saying: 'Jay is a normal guy who is in his third year of an apprenticeship, and he is a very popular young man with a large circle of friends. '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. We do not have any information on his whereabouts.' Debbie and Jay's father, Warren, as well as brother Zak, have stayed on Tenerife as they desperately search for answers. Former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson will face trial over 18 sex offence charges including one count of rape. A district judge at Newry Magistrates' Court said he was satisfied that Donaldson, 61, and his wife and co-accused Lady Eleanor Donaldson, 58, had a case to answer during a committal hearing today. They will next appear at Newry Crown Court on September 10 for an arraignment hearing ahead of their trial. During today's court appearance, Donaldson was asked if he wanted to say anything in answer to the charges. He responded: 'Not at this stage.' Donaldson is accused of one charge of rape, four of gross indecency and 13 charges of indecent assault. The charges span a time period between 1985 and 2008. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson leaving Newry Magistrates' Court following today's committal hearing A judge found Donaldson, 61, and his wife and co-accused Lady Eleanor Donaldson, 58, had a prima facie case to answer Donaldson has previously indicated that he will contest the charges against him. Eleanor Donaldson faces charges of aiding and abetting in connection with the alleged offences. There was a significant police presence when Donaldson arrived at Newry courthouse, but no repeat of the chaotic scenes of his last appearance in April. The small courtroom was packed for the hearing. Donaldson and his wife sat separated by court custody officers at the back of the room. Jeffrey Donaldson wore a navy blue suit and sported a beard. Eleanor Donaldson wore a cream jacket. After confirming their names and addresses, the charges were read in the preliminary enquiry (PE) hearing. Donaldson is now facing 18 historical sex offence charges following a review of the case by Northern Ireland's Public Prosecution Service. He had originally faced 11 charges when he first appeared in court in April. His wife is facing five charges and there are two alleged victims. District Judge Eamonn King said: 'I am satisfied on the basis of the papers before the court that there is a prima facie case to answer.' The court clerk then asked the defendants if they wanted to say anything at this stage in answer to the charges. Jeffrey Donaldson said: 'Not at this stage.' It has already been confirmed that Donaldson, who was the long-standing MP for Lagan Valley, is not running for re-election in the UK General Election this week He made the same response when asked if he wanted to tender any written statements of evidence at this stage of the proceedings. Both were released on continuing bail until September 10. It has already been confirmed that Donaldson, who was the long-standing MP for Lagan Valley, is not running for re-election in the UK General Election this week. He was arrested and charged in relation to the historical sexual allegations at the end of March. Donaldson resigned as DUP leader and was suspended from the party after the allegations against him emerged. It is understood that in a letter to DUP party officers at the time, he made clear he would be 'strenuously contesting' all charges against him. Weeks prior to his arrest, he had led the DUP back into Stormont following a two-year boycott of the powersharing institutions. Previous deputy leader Gavin Robinson has been appointed his successor as DUP leader. Jane Austen fans are set to lose their fight to save a historic hotel where the novelist spent her 18th birthday as plans to turn it into student flats are given the go ahead. Austenites hit out at the controversial proposal and said they were 'disappointed' to learn of the 'depressing' decision to turn the hotel where she spent her birthday into student flats. Plans to transform the Grade II listed Dolphin Hotel in Southampton, Hants, received a backlash from Pride and Prejudice devotees when they were first announced. An Austen fan club - and literary lovers from as far as the USA - objected to the plans in an effort to preserve the 'rich history' that the 500 year old building has. But they failed in their bid of persuasion and planning officers have recommended plans to turn it into 99 student rooms. Fans of Jane Austen have rallied together to object to the plans. Nicky Chapman, Cheryl Butler, Eliot Horn, Norma Mackie and Jason Butler are pictured outside The Dolphin Hotel In Austen's writings, she referenced an 'amusing' ball she attended at the Dolphin Ms Austen is said to have celebrated her milestone birthday at the hotel in 1793 A plaque commemorating Jane Austen, located on The Dolphin Hotel, Southampton The hotel in Southampton was regularly frequented by the Sense and Sensibility author and it was where she spent her 18th birthday on December 16, 1793. Dr Cheryl Butler, who set up a historical theatrical group named after Austen's favourite actress, accused Southampton City Council of neglecting its heritage. Speaking today, Dr Butler said: 'It's pretty depressing. I despair at the planning officers in Southampton. 'Everyone is disappointed but not surprised. 'I just think if this had been made more widely known earlier, there could have been more time to come up with an alternative. 'We had very little time to do anything but put in an objection. 'You think if the city was keen on its heritage, it would have put out an appeal to people to see if there was someone that could have done something with it, but it's just taking the easiest option.' Writer and comedian David Baddiel also waded into the row Norma Mackie pictured in a purple frock and matching fan outside The Dolphin Hotel Austen fans Nicky Chapman, Cheryl Butler, Eliot Horn, Norma Mackie and Jason Butler Dr Butler added: 'We as a society are constantly saying we need to do more about the heritage, but then when it actually comes down to it, it doesn't translate into doing anything.' Dr Butler also took issue with the suggestion that part of the student accommodation will feature a 'museum or interpretation centre'. The group's founder said it 'very much feels like lip service'. Dr Butler makes no criticism of students but said there are already 'lots' of student buildings. 'I just hope the students appreciate what they have got there', she added. Dr Butler set up the Sarah Siddons Fan Club, which is a historical re-enactment theatre company named after Austen's favourite actress. Member Norma Mackey previously criticised proposals. She said: 'I think they have shot themselves in the foot because they will lose a gem,' she added. 'If it goes, Southampton has lost quite a lot of its heritage. It's disrespectful to the architect that designed it.' Comedian and author David Baddiel, an ambassador of the author's Hampshire home museum, previously said Austen's heritage needs preserving. He said: 'I agree that important elements of our history that are about great artists - and I do very much think that Jane Austen is a great artist, and very under-rated even though she's so popular - should be preserved, and I would be very happy about preserving anything that Jane Austen is involved with.' The plans are to transform the Dolphin Hotel in Southampton (pictured) into student halls Baddiel also stressed the importance of student accommodation. He said: 'At the same time, students need accommodation. So for me, if there was a way of preserving within the halls of residence a tiny corner at least saying, 'This is where Jane Austen danced when she was 18', that would make me happy.' Not only is it steeped in Austen history, but the hotel was visited by Queen Victoria and Admiral Lord Nelson. A Southampton City Council planning officer's report, which recommended granting the application, said the principle of a student residential development was considered acceptable and supported given the 'established need' in the city. The report said: 'The concerns raised by third parties about the loss of this important and attractive hotel with a strong tourist draw is well articulated. 'However, the planning system, and our adopted development plan, doesn't protect the Dolphin Hotel from closure and the council cannot insist that an unviable business remains open. 'The council cannot insist that an existing hotel provides public access to certain parts of its demise. 'The Dolphin Hotel is currently closed and in need of investment.' The council's planning committee will sign off on the plans at a meeting this month. Up to 180 gravestones at two Jewish cemeteries in Cincinnati have been vandalized and destroyed, according to local groups who have described the destruction as a sickening anti-semitic attack. The FBI and police are investigating the damage done to the tombstones, some of which date back to the late 1800s. Shocking pictures show scores of tombs knocked over, with some pushed faced-down and others cracked in half. The Jewish Federation of Cincinnati said the vandalism took place between June 25 and Monday in two Jewish sections of the Covedale Cemetery complex. 'Our hearts go out to the families affected by this senseless vandalism. The Jewish community in Cincinnati is resilient and we are committed to repairing the damage and restoring the sanctity of these sacred spaces,' the federation said in a statement. The heavy tombstones appear to have been knocked off their bases Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati said that the destruction was discovered early on Monday morning 'We unequivocally condemn this act of hatred and desecration,' the statement went on. 'Our hearts go out to the families affected by this senseless vandalism. 'The Jewish community in Cincinnati is resilient, and we are committed to repairing the damage and restoring the sanctity of these sacred spaces.' The federation also asked anyone with information to come forward and help with the investigation. As of Wednesday morning, no arrests had been made, and the investigation is ongoing. Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati said that the destruction was discovered early on Monday morning. In a statement on Facebook, it said it is 'deeply saddened and outraged' and that the act of antisemitic vandalism... has left our community heartbroken. Most of the gravestones have been pushed face down, making it challenging to identify the affected families at this time,' it said, adding that it would inform the affected families as soon as possible. 'Your initial reaction is just sick to your stomach,' said the organisation's Executive Director Sue Susskind. Some of the stones have been cracked in the vandalism at the Ohio cemetery complex 'I mean, what we do is lay people to rest and take care of their final resting place, and we were not able to do that because somebody else came in and chose to do vandalism.' Susskind told CNN that law enforcement has granted permission for the gravestones to be repaired and inspected. She said some of them are so heavy that they will have to be lifted up and put back into place by cranes. The vandalism comes amid a surge in antisemitism in the US and abroad, with a monitor reporting a 'dramatic' increase in incidents after the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. In the latest figures, the from the Anti-Defamation League, which has tracked cases of antisemitism in the US since 1979, reported a 140 per cent increase from 2022 to 2023. A Wisconsin pastor has died in a devastating house fire which killed five other members of his family after he ran back into the blaze to try and save his grandkids. Steve Witte, 66, died along with his daughter Charis Kuehl, 38, and her daughter Stella, five, his other daughter Lydia Witte, 35, and two other grandchildren, Lena and Merci Henselin. The blaze broke out at his Necedah vacation rental near the Wisconsin Dells on Sunday where there was family gathering taking place. It is not clear what caused the fire. The pastor initially made it to safety, but he ran back to try and save two of his granddaughters after realizing they were still inside, Witte's friend Pastor Larry Schlomer told WMTV. 'It was such a tremendous loss, that many deaths within the same family,' he said. Wisconsin pastor Steve Witte (pictured with wife Mary) has died in a devastating house fire which killed six members of his family after he ran back into the inferno to try and save his grandkids 'It was startling. We live our life being ready for that moment when we get to meet our Savior, but when it happens like this, it is a startling moment.' The family had gathered to spend time with Witte after he had returned home from a mission in Asia. The pastor was lead of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod Asia Missions Team. 'His wife, Mary, his children, those were so important,' Schlomer added. 'That's why they were gathered so they could enjoy some time while he was back from his mission field. The heartbroken survivors are now in the position of having to plan six funerals. Two fundraisers have been set up to assist. A GoFundMe has been established for Kuehl's widow and her two surviving children, as well a GiveSendGo for Lena and Merci's family. Mom Charis Kuehl tragically died along with her youngest daughter Stella, aged five Pastor Witte's other daughter Lydia Witte was among the victims, along with her three nieces The Henselin's grief is compounded by the loss of their son Joel, 12, in a freak strangulation accident less than a year ago. Hannah and Karl Henselin have now lost three children in the space of a year. 'The pain of losing six members of one family cannot be described with words,' WELS president Mark Schroder said. 'By God's grace, a number of other family members survived. As of now, there are many unanswered questions; authorities continue to investigate.' The Juneau County Sheriff's Office said they were called to the property at around 2.25am on Sunday. The house was fully engulfed in flames with two to three people trapped inside. The Juneau County Sheriff's Office said they were called to the property at around 2.25am on Sunday Fire crews found three people trapped inside and battled the flames for around three hours As they led away survivors from the building, they told officers six people were missing. Fire crews battled the flames for three hours in total and those inside could not be saved. Neighbor Ken Zielinski said the flames were up to 20 feet into the air. 'During the day, we are close by, so we heard the kids playing in the pool and now... it's a shame,' he told WBAY. Democrats are scrambling for a potential replacement for President Joe Biden on the 2024 ticket after his embarrassing debate performance against Donald Trump. But Michelle Obama is so far the only potential Democratic challenger who could beat Trump, according to post-debate polling. Others names like California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Vice President Kamala Harris are being floated but none so far are faring better than Trump in polls. While the former first lady has not said anything publicly about any interest in being on the ticket, it appears she has one of the clearest paths toward getting added to the ballot and accepted by Democrats. Those within the Democratic Party have acknowledged, however, that party rules make it hard for other candidates to earn the nomination this year and if Biden doesn't agree to step aside, the prospects become essentially impossible. A new poll shows that former first lady Michelle Obama is the only Democrat ahead of Donald Trump in a potential 2024 match-up Delegates were finalized at selection on June 22 and were chosen on a state-by-state basis to represent support for the president in the nomination process. It's unlikely they would shift their backing. There are 43,933 pledged Democratic delegates for 2024 and to win the presidential nomination a candidate must earn a majority of them estimated at 1,968 this year. But many say they aren't changing this late in the game. 'That's not even remotely a topic of conversation,' Aaron Sims, a Biden delegate in Nevada, told ABC News on changing his vote from Biden to another candidate. And Sami Khaldi, a Biden delegate from Michigan, added: 'I am still supporting President Biden until this moment.' Democratic delegates are 'pledged' to a candidate meaning by party rules delegates 'shall in all good conscience' reflect the views of those who elected them. There is no official penalty if a delegate votes differently but if a Biden delegate simply sits out of the first round of balloting instead of backing the president, their vote would not count towards anyone. Michelle Obama, who has never held any elected position, has promising polling figures, popularity among voters and ability to draw from her husband's political connections and she might be just what the party needs to get back on track. Former President Barack Obama spoke on the phone with his former VP after the debate Thursday to offer support and private counsel. But behind the scenes, he has told allies that Biden's tough reelection path has grown even more challenging after stumbling his way through the showdown with Trump. There are only four months until the 2024 presidential election and the Democratic National Committee will have its official candidate decided by August 22, which is the last day of the nominating convention in Chicago, Illinois. If Michelle Obama were actually to become the party's nominee, they would need to act fast to convince Biden to bow out and recruit the former first lady to step-in before the Democratic Convention. Biden has so far rejected pressure to drop out and insists he can beat Trump in November. Newsom and Whitmer have dismissed chatter about them taking over for Biden and reaffirmed after the car crash debate their commitment to backing the president's reelection. And then comes the issue of money. Not only would a new candidate have to raise massive sums of cash in a short amount of time, but Biden's warchest would not necessarily automatically flow to his replacement and a shake-up could leave millions on the table. Michelle Obama has not expressed interest in making a bid for the White House and has never held public office. Still, her popularity among voters remains high 12 years after her husband ended his second term as president Biden's campaign announced Tuesday it raised $127 million in June, its best fundraising month of the campaign so far. From April through June, the Biden team brought in a total of $264 million and finished last month with $240 million cash on hand. If the president does leave the race, he can make unlimited transfers of funds to the national party meaning the money could all end up with the Democratic Party, which can then decide to spend the money on the new nominee. But the campaign cannot just transfer the money directly to the nominee, as there is a $2,000 limit per candidate per election. 'In order for the withdrawing candidate's committee to get the funds into the campaign account of a successor candidate's campaign, the withdrawing candidate would have to refund the money to the original donors, who could then contribute to the new candidate's campaign,' explained Trevor Potter, president of the Campaign Legal Center. Not only is Obama the only potential candidate that could beat Trump, but she beats him by a whopping 11 percent margin, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released Tuesday. Meanwhile, Trump and Biden at a tie with 40 percent each and 16 percent claiming they would not vote in a 2020 rematch or would vote for a different, third-party candidate. Every other politician included in the poll both Harris and a handful of Democratic governors aren't able to skirt ahead of the former president. Harris loses to Trump by one percent and Newsom loses by three percent, according to the Reuters/Ipsos survey of 892 registered voters between July 1-2. Whitmer fares even worse, falling behind the former president by five percent. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, a Democratic leader of a Republican state, is behind by four percent and Illinois Gov. J. B. Pritzker comes in last with a six percent disadvantage over Trump. Obama, however, gets 50 percent of the vote compared to Trump's 39 percent when the two were placed in a hypothetical head-to-head The latest poll comes amid widespread calls in the Democratic Party to replace Biden on the 2024 ticket after his disastrous debate performance against Donald trump. President Joe Biden fumbled for words and was hard-to-understand at the debate in Atlanta, Georgia on June 27 It's unclear if Obama, who said the potential of another Trump term is 'terrifying,' has any interest in seeking public office. But if she does, there is already a built-in network of strategists and loyalists who would be more than ready to jump-in to help propel their former boss's wife to the White House. For example, David Axelrod served as a senior political strategist to Barack Obama's 2012 campaign and has been an outspoken critic of President Biden and his push for reelection. It unclear if he would be welcomed back into the fold, but it's possible he could consult should the Obama's make a return to Washington. Other former Obama aides have aligned themselves to Biden's team and might not be as willing to abandon their new boss. For example, Jennifer O'Malley Dillon was former President Obama's 2012 deputy campaign manager. But after serving as Biden's deputy chief of staff in the White House, she is now helping lead his reelection bid. Additionally, once-Obama's campaign press secretary, Ben LaBolt is now the White House communications director. Wild letters from teenage girls wanting to 'snog' and 'bed' the Rolling Stones have been found in an old suitcase that belonged to Brian Jones and have gone up for auction. Multi-instrumentalist Jones kept the 3,000 handwritten letters that were sent to him from crazed fans from across the world in 1964. At the time the youthful band had already had two number ones and were at the forefront of the 'British Invasion' of rock and pop in America. Jones was a founding member of the Stones alongside Keith Richards and Mick Jagger in 1962, but was dismissed in June 1969 after he developed alcohol and drug problems. Less than a month later, he died by drowning in a swimming pool in his East Sussex home at the age of 27. The battered travel trunk was found in the attic of another Jones property in Woodley, near Reading, and was full to the brim with the fan mail. Some of the correspondence was polite and reserved, with one girl informing the guitarist she had 'dropped the Beatles' for the Stones because their hair wasn't long enough. But a lot of the letters were sent from lustful teenagers expressing their carnal desires for the band. Brian Jones (middle) was a founding member of the Stones alongside Keith Richards (far right) and Mick Jagger (centre left) in 1962 The start of a 18 side letter from 'Nicola' to Jones in which she said she would 'love to go bed' with the rock star One girl asked Jones if he would be her playmate while another, Nicola from Worcester, told him 'I would love to go to bed with you much to my boyfriend's annoyance'. She added: 'I'd better sign off now before I get too worked up!!!' Another girl wrote to Jones: 'I'm only 16 and they tell me I am too young for you. Is that true? If it is I think it will break my heart.' And another fan, Kath from Stratford-on-Avon, described how she was 'absolutely crazy' about Keith Richards who was 'easily the best Stone'. She vowed the next time she goes to a Rolling Stones concert she would 'jump on the stage and start snogging you.' Not holding back, she went on: 'I would like to go to bed with you...please try to oblige.' The letters were found in the attic of a house Brian Jones and his former girlfiend Linda Lawrence shared in the mid-1960s. The trunk had been left behind by them and acquired by a couple who bought the property in the 1970s. It has now been consigned for sale at Tracks Auctions of Lancashire by friends of the couple. Kath, 1 16-year-old schoolgirl, described in a letter how she was 'absolutely crazy' about Keith Richards who was 'easily the best Stone' Jones (Pictured with Jagger at Granada Studios) was once the 'most popular member of the band) The battered travel trunk was found in the attic of a Jones property in Woodley, near Reading, and was full to the brim with the fan mail The letters were found in the attic of a house of Jones and his former girlfiend Linda Lawrence (left) shared in the mid-1960s Another letter sent to Brian Jones whilst he was in the Rolling Stones Multi-instrumentalist Jones (pictured wearing light coloured trousers) kept the 3,000 handwritten letters that were sent to him from crazed fans from across the world in 1964 The collection of letters gives a powerful insight into the effect of The Rolling Stones and their music had on British and American teenagers Less than a month after being dismissed from the band, Jones died by drowning in a swimming pool in his East Sussex home Chad Craddock, from Tracks Auctions, said: 'In the early days Brian Jones was by far the most popular member of the band, particularly with the group's girl fans. 'Brian was always immaculately turned out and immaculately coiffed, this together with his softly spoken way and his androgynous looks made up his not insignificant appeal to the Stones female following. 'This amazing collection of fan letters found in an attic in a house Brian shared with his then girlfriend Linda Lawrence is testament to his popularity. 'One of the more striking features of the correspondence is the sheer number of letters it includes from American fans and the impact The Rolling Stones' first visit there in June 1964 had on American teenagers. 'This collection of letters gives a powerful insight into the effect of The Rolling Stones and their music had on British and American teenagers. 'In particular, it highlights the effect that the 'British Invasion', started by The Beatles in February 1964 and given great impetus by the Stones visit in June later that year, had in waking up the youth of America to the emerging music of the British beat groups.' The travel case measures 29ins x 17ins x 8.6ins is being sold in a timed auction that ends on July 15. An urgent health warning has been issued after a traveller with measles landed in Melbourne, visiting a busy McDonalds and multiple high-traffic shops along the Great Ocean Road. The returning traveller was infectious and arrived from overseas on Tuesday June 25, before visiting a McDonalds near the airport, toy shops and grocery stores in the southwest of Victoria. It is the 11th case of measles in Victoria this year. Measles is a highly infectious viral illness which spreads person-to-person, and can lead to uncommon but serious complications, such as pneumonia and brain inflammation. Anyone who was at the same stores as the traveller is urged to monitor for symptoms for the following two weeks. Anyone born during or since 1966 who does not have documented evidence of having received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine, or does not have documented evidence of immunity, is at risk of measles. Unvaccinated infants are at particularly high risk of contracting measles. Unvaccinated infants are most at risk. Picture: iStock Possible exposure sites, movements of infected person: June 24 - Departed from Singapore Changi Airport at 8:10pm June 25 - Arrived Melbourne International Airport, Terminal 2 at 5:25am June 25 - McDonalds, 173 Mickleham Road, Westmeadows (near the airport), from 7:00am to 9:00am June 25 - Coles, Colac from 11:00am to 12:00pm June 26 - Toyworld Warrnambool, 3:00pm to 3:50pm June 27 - Friendly Grocer, Port Campbell, 11:00am to 11:40am June 28 - Port Campbell Hotel, Port Campbell, 5:00pm to 7:00pm June 28 - Friendly Grocer, Port Campbell, 6:30pm to 7:30pm Victoria Department of Health issued the warning on Wednesday, June 3. The virus spreads through droplets, contact with nose or throat secretions, as well as contaminated surfaces and objects. The measles virus can stay in the environment for up to two hours. Measles is a very contagious disease that can be prevented with MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella. Picture: Yuri Dyachyshyn / AFP Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, sore or red eyes, a runny nose, and feeling generally unwell, followed by a red rash. The rash usually starts on the face before spreading down the body. Symptoms can develop between seven to 18 days after exposure, the health department advises. Outbreaks of measles have been recently reported in Asia - including Indonesia and India, Africa, Europe and the UK, the Middle East and the US. Karen Read was seen getting cozy with her married defense lawyer as a jury deliberated on whether she was guilty of murdering her cop boyfriend. Read, 44, and her lawyer Alan Jackson, 59, were filmed cuddling up to each other outside the upmarket steakhouse Smith & Wollensky in Boston on June 27. At the time of their intimate clinch, jurors were deliberating over whether Read murdered her boyfriend John O'Keefe who she is alleged to have struck with a car in the Canton area of Greater Boston in January 2022. A mistrial was declared Monday after jurors failed to reach a verdict. The short clip shared on social media shows Read smiling as Jackson grabs her by the chest. The person who took the video said it looked 'wrong and inappropriate.' Karen Read was seen getting cozy with her married defense lawyer Alan Jackson as a jury deliberated on whether she was guilty of murdering her cop boyfriend Jackson, a prominent Los Angeles attorney, married LA deputy district attorney Lisa Kassabian in 2011. He is seen with Read during her trial They told The New York Post: 'It was just her attorney kinda I don't know what you would call it. It looked inappropriate for an attorney-client type situation.' Jackson is a prominent Los Angeles attorney who secured disgraced actor Kevin Spacey's acquittal of sexual assault charges. He also represented disgraced movie mogul Harvey Weinstein in his LA rape trial. Jackson married LA deputy district attorney Lisa Kassabian in 2011. In an interview last year the California lawyer explained how he became 'intrigued' by Read's case. 'Once I heard the full story of John's death and saw some of the evidence, including the injuries on his right arm, I knew something was terribly wrong. I wanted to help,' he told Boston.com. 'I got into this business to right wrongs and there was no way I was going to walk away from this case.' The judge ruling a mistrial on Monday marked the end of a contentious nine-week court battle where Read alleged that she was the victim of a wide-ranging plot to frame her. Prosecutors countered that Read ran over O'Keefe to end their toxic relationship before leaving him for dead in the snow. On the evening of O'Keefe's death, he and Read had been drinking with a group of friends at the Waterfall Bar and Grill in Canton, around 14 miles south of Boston, and were invited to his friend Brian Albert's home for an afterparty. Read, who prosecutors say drank several alcoholic drinks beforehand, decided to drop her boyfriend at the afterparty before she went to his home - that O'Keefe shared with his orphaned niece and nephew - to sleep at around 1am. The person who took the video said the scene looked 'wrong and inappropriate' Read and attorney Alan Jackson laugh after recess at Norfolk County Superior Court in Dedham on May 2 Jackson married LA deputy district attorney Lisa Kassabian in 2011 John O'Keefe, 46, was found dead 6am on January 29, 2022, outside a house where Read dropped him off for an afterparty about 12.45am Court documents revealed that the couple had been bitterly arguing for weeks beforehand, and on the night O'Keefe died, Read left him a voicemail calling him a 'f****** loser', and telling him: 'John, I f****** hate you.' The couple had been dating for two years at the time of O'Keefe's death. He had been serving on the Boston Police Department for 16 years. According to Read's version of events, she woke up at 4am to find that O'Keefe never returned home, leading her to frantically drive out to try and find him. After finding O'Keefe's body outside Albert's home, which party attendees claimed he never entered, first responders on the scene alleged that Read repeatedly told them she hit him while in a panicked state. Vehicle data also found that Read reversed her SUV for 62 feet at 24mph near to Albert's home. O'Keefe's cause of death was listed as blunt force trauma and hypothermia, with pieces of Read's taillight found around his body, prosecutors said. Read and O'Keefe had been out drinking on the night of his death, before she drove him to an afterparty while she went home to sleep. He was found dead on the lawn of the afterparty's home hours later In his closing argument on Tuesday, Norfolk County Assistant District Attorney Adam Lally said the claims that Read was framed was little more than 'rampant speculation.' Lally also pointed to hair and DNA from O'Keefe found on the rear end of Read's SUV. The defense countered that the taillight was actually broken by Read when she left in a panic to find O'Keefe when he never returned home. This included security video shown at trial showing Read clipping O'Keefe's vehicle as she backed out of her home to search for him. Read claimed that attendees at the afterparty beat him to death, and her attorneys presented phone data that showed O'Keefe's phone climbed dozens of steps at the time he was allegedly struck. Her attorney, Alan Jackson, claimed that these steps could have been the basement of Albert's home. Albert was never charged with any wrongdoing. Jackson is a prominent Los Angeles attorney who secured disgraced actor Kevin Spacey 's acquittal of sexual assault charges Read's attorneys added that although first responders claimed Read spoke of hitting O'Keefe at the scene, they claimed this evidence was falsely given at a later date and not said at the time. A forensic engineer was brought in to evaluate the case, who testified that if O'Keefe had been struck by a vehicle at over 20mph he would expect to see more severe injuries. When her trial began, Read received a slew of support from true crime fans who camped outside the courthouse with signs reading 'Free Karen Read.' Many took to wearing pink as a show of support for Read, leading a judge to issue an order barring any clothing or accessories that could be perceived as encouraging, and banning them from coming within 200 feet of the courthouse. As the trial made national headlines, some observers were turned off by Read's apparent flippant attitude during the proceedings, leading her to be nicknamed 'America's happiest murder defendant.' She was seen winking to cameras and snacking inside the courthouse, which angered some critics. California beachgoers were left screaming and crying after a protective sea lion charged at them. Lauren Bertrand was visiting La Jolla Cove in San Diego on June 23 when she captured the footage of the angry sea lion. Bertrand's video first went viral on TikTok last month before resurfacing on YouTube this week. Prior to its attack on beachgoers, the marine mammal was swimming around the area with its babies, whom Bertrand also caught a glimpse of. The sea lion nearly came face to face with one swimmer before it swam away, leaving the humans unhurt. Lauren Bertrand was visiting La Jolla Cove in San Diego on June 23 when she captured the footage of an angry and protective sea lion The sea lion was with its pups before it waddled to shore and then charged at the swimming beachgoers Bertrand took the video while she was in a sitting area near the lifeguard station. She spotted the sea lion and claimed that it 'looked like a rock.' Bertrand and an unidentified onlooker then saw the swimming pups and were shocked to see how big they were. 'There goes your shot,' said the onlooker after the sea lion waddled to shore. Other bystanders in the sitting area couldn't stop staring at the animal, with beachgoers on the sand taking pictures on their phones. The marine mammal rushed into the water and spooked a child who fell over. She and another young girl who was close to the sea lion ran away from the scene while a group of swimmers just watched the animal leave. Bertrand took the video while she was in a sitting area near the lifeguard station with an unidentified female Bertrand thought the sea lion 'looked like a rock' when she first spotted it away from the swimmers This incident comes three months after an Instagram user known as @salissav captured a video of a man and his two young children getting dangerously close to a sea lion at La Jolla Cove. 'This was only the biggest idiot. Even after the sea lion made an aggressive move towards his child, he continued trying to get more photos,' the Instagram user wrote in the video description. 'If you are wondering why I did not intervene, I was located too far from this person for him to hear me over the noise of the ocean, seabirds, and other people.' Another sea lion charging incident in La Jolla Cove was captured on video last year by Japhet Perez Estrada. The sea lion rushed out of the water and charged at tourists who were close to the shoreline. 'People get bit here every summer, people get charged every summer, and for us locals, it's annoying because we like and respect the wildlife here,' said Perez at the time. 'I understand their excitement, and they want to get close, but it's nature. You got to give a distance.' Pup season usually occurs from early May to late October. Sea lions use that time to bond, nurse, and teach their pups how to swim Human interactions with sea lions and their pups could lead to aggressive behavior from the adult sea mammals, according to the city of San Diego's website. These interactions with a mom and her pups 'could result in injury or abandonment of sea lion offspring.' Pup season usually occurs from early May to late October and sea lions use that time to bond, nurse, and teach their babies how to swim. Sea lions frequent California beaches, and the signs at the locations warn visitors not to approach them if they spot one. The signs also indicate that sea lions bite, attack when feeling agitated, and note that it is illegal to harass them. Two former employees of the Calhoun City School District have been indicted and arrested for allegedly having sex with their students. Railey Greeson and Brooklyn Shuler, who both played important roles and each others' weddings within the last two years, were indicted Thursday by a Gordon County Grand Jury on three counts of sexual contact by an employee or agent in the 1st degree. The first two counts of the indictment alleges that Greeson had sex with two different male students while employed by the school district. Count 3 was against Shuler, 23, who is accused of having sexual intercourse with one male student. The grand jury claims the women 'reasonably should have known' all three of their alleged victims were enrolled as students at the time they were said to have engaged in sexual acts with them. Railey Greeson's mugshot photo following the indictment against her Brooklyn Shuler's mugshot photo. Both women were released on bond after being booked at the Gordon County Jail The indictment doesn't reveal the students' ages or which schools they were enrolled in at the time of the alleged sexual crimes against them. The two women were arrested and booked at the Gordon County Jail, where they were later released on bond, the Gordon Gazette reports. Greeson and Shuler allegedly had sex with these students at some point between October 29, 2021, and January 3, 2022, which predates both of their marriages. Shuler got married first in Tunnel Hill, Georgia, on November 12, 2022, according to her wedding registry website. Greeson was wed in Tennessee roughly a year after Shuler on October 7, 2023. Shuler named Greeson as her maid of honor, describing her as her 'best friend' and her 'ride or die'. Shuler didn't get the honor of being Greeson's matron of honor at her wedding but was a bridesmaid. Shuler, left, is pictured with her lifelong friend Railey Greeson. The two were in each other's wedding parties Greeson, left, and Shuler face decades behind bars if convicted of the charges against them It isn't yet clear which school these two lifelong friends were working for at the time of the alleged crimes. Greeson was a member of Calhoun High School's class of 2019, according to an Instagram post displaying professional photo taken of her in anticipation of her senior year. This puts her around the age of 23. Greeson was also mildly active on X, posting over two years ago about how she'd approach 'communicating feedback' to her students. 'Communicating feedback in the forms of grades and averages can really stress students out and cause them to struggle,' Greeson wrote. Her X profile reveals she attended Kennesaw State with her graduation date in 2023. Shuler's connection to the Calhoun City School District isn't clear, however, her relationship status is a bit more clear. It appears she's no longer with the man she married in November 2022, since he has a child with a new wife, according to his Facebook profile. Greeson is still featured on her husband's profile picture on his social media accounts. If convicted, Greeson and Shuler could face one to 25 years in prison or a fine of up to $100,000. If sodomy was involved in the alleged sex acts with the boys, the women could face up to 50 years behind bars. Jeremy Corbyn is drafting in rail union boss Mick 'The Grinch' Lynch as part of a last-ditch effort to cling on to his north London seat at tomorrow's general election. The ex-Labour leader, now standing as an independent, is hoping to embarrass his old party and hold the Islington North constituency he has represented since 1983. Mr Lynch, general secretary of the RMT union, will join the 75-year-old politician at an eve-of-poll rally tonight at Highbury Fields. The union chief - who brought misery to millions of Brits last year by overseeing a series of train strikes - will speak alongside other left-wing figures such as activist Owen Jones. But it comes after a slew of polls showed Mr Corbyn is facing a struggle to be re-elected as an MP, with Labour forecast to win the seat despite his independent bid. Ex-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, now standing as an independent, is hoping to embarrass his old party and hold the Islington North constituency he has represented since 1983 Mick Lynch, general secretary of the RMT union, will join the 75-year-old politician at an eve-of-poll rally tonight at Highbury Fields In a recent social media post, Mr Corbyn urged X users to 'Zoom in on my marrow'. Doing so revealed the words: 'Help us get out the vote in Islington North' Mr Lynch - who brought misery to millions of Brits last year by overseeing a series of train strikes - will speak alongside other left-wing figures such as activist Owen Jones Since replacing Mr Corbyn as Labour leader in 2020, Sir Keir Starmer has attempted to distance himself from his hard-left predecessor A Survation MRP study, published last night, showed Labour are estimated to win 42 per cent of the vote in Islington North tomorrow. Earlier this year, Mr Lynch explained why his RMT union would be backing Mr Corbyn in Islington North, despite supporting Labour candidates elsewhere. 'We will support all sorts of people in this election, because we're not affiliated,' he told the War on Want conference in February. He added: 'We will support Labour candidates. We will support socialist candidates. 'We will be supporting Jeremy Corbyn in the next election.' Since replacing Mr Corbyn as Labour leader in 2020, Sir Keir Starmer has attempted to distance himself from his hard-left predecessor. He stripped Mr Corbyn of the Labour whip in Parliament in October of that year, after the former party leader said allegations of anti-Semitism during his time in charge had been exaggerated by political opponents. Sir Keir then blocked Mr Corbyn from standing as a Labour general election candidate in March 2023. In May this year, Mr Corbyn was booted out as a Labour Party member after confirming he would stand as an independent candidate against the party he used to lead. Speaking to The Independent on the campaign trail recently, Mr Corbyn admitted some constituents did not know he had been expelled from Labour. But he added that after weeks of campaigning 'more realise I'm independent and that my values are the same'. 'We've got huge amounts of people helping, we've built the campaign in less than four weeks,' he told the website. 'We've had hundreds of people volunteering, we have knocked on probably 25 to 30,000 doors already.' In a recent social media post, Mr Corbyn urged X users to 'Zoom in on my marrow'. Doing so revealed the words: 'Help us get out the vote in Islington North' A seven-year-old British girl and her baby sister were found 'abandoned' in a car in Tenerife, local media reports. The girl and one-year-old baby were reportedly found on June 17 by a concerned local, who said the white Volkswagen Polo rental had been parked in the sun with the windows closed. After 15 minutes there was still no sign of the childrens' parents, and police were called to the scene at the Apolo Commercial Centre in Los Cristianos, according to a policing blog post cited by local news outlets. Officers convinced the seven-year-old to unlock the door and allow them into the car, where they found yoghurts and juices, as well as documentation identifying the man believed to be the girls' father. Police searched the shopping centre for the man, and located a 38-year-old Brit at a hair salon. He initially denied being the girls' father, and said he had a different name to the man they were looking for. Police officers at the scene where the two girls - aged seven and one - were found in a car The girls were reportedly found locked in the car, a white VW Polo, by a concerned local Apparently unable to locate the children's parents, police informed the local prosecutor's office, which ordered that the girls be transferred to a local maternal unit. Meanwhile, efforts to identify the girls' father with the help of the car rental company he had hired the vehicle from eventually proved successful. A driving licence and other information reportedly confirmed that the man police had spoken to at the salon was the girls' father, and that he had lied to cops about his identity. When they returned to the salon to detain him, hairdressers reported that the suspect had fled shortly after questioning. In another twist, a 35-year-old Polish man arrived at the scene, reportedly telling police that he was a friend of the person responsible for the girls. Officers found yoghurts and juices in a bag inside the car when they gained access A baby bottle and juice is seen in the footwell of the car He claimed that the man had asked him to pick them up, but the officers refused to release the children until their parents were fully identified. Eventually, police were able to track down the girls' mother, a 27-year-old British tourist. She was contacted and came to the shopping centre, where officers confirmed her identity and handed over the children to her. Police have opened a case, Canarian Weekly reports, and are seeking to arrest the girls' father on suspicion of child abandonment. Vladimir Putin is ready to share sovereignty of Crimea with Ukraine, according to an astonishing 'new peace plan'. The dictator sent his trusted interior minister Vladimir Kolokoltsev to the US with new proposals to end the war that the dictator started, say sources in both Moscow and Kyiv. Despite being sanctioned, Kolokoltsev was allowed into the US ostensibly to attend a UN meeting of police chiefs. But this was a ruse allowing him to travel to Washington on a VIP plane from Putin's presidential fleet to transmit to the US government the dictator's real demands for a peace deal, it is claimed. Leading Ukrainian TV journalist Dmitry Gordon said he had received details of the package from 'our intelligence sources', while Russian Telegram channel Gosdumskaya - which claims insider sources in Moscow - separately reported a similar set of Putin demands. Vladimir Putin (pictured) is ready to share sovereignty of Crimea with Ukraine , according to an astonishing 'new peace plan Ukrainian civilians walk among the rubble in war-torn central street of the city in Toretsk, Ukraine A bomb crater and residential buildings destroyed by a Russian air strike in the village of Borova The package is likely to be unacceptable to Ukraine, which would have to cede huge swathes of invaded territory, and be barred from joining NATO, but it is concessionary compared with Putin's demands in May. It would see the Kremlin dictator gain spoils from going to war. 'The main purpose of his [Kolokoltsev's] arrival was to hand over Russia's peace plan to the US authorities,' said Gordon, who said it was a Putin plan 'to end the war'. The demands were that Ukraine must completely withdraw from Donetsk and Luhansk regions, both of which are now partially annexed by Russia. But Russia would hand over Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station and the nearby town of Enerhodar to Ukraine. And he would discuss the possible transfer of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions to the control of Ukraine. Crimea would become a 'specially demilitarised administrative territory with dual subordination to Ukraine and the Russian Federation'. 'Ukraine must take on itself legally binding international guarantees, not to block the supply of water to Crimea,' said Gordon, reading from a document. Infantry secure the area for the 3rd Assault Brigade at sunset on July 1, 2024 in Kharkiv Region Soldiers work in the area as the building and the surrounding vehicles are reduced to wreckage after a Russian air strike on a post office in Ukraine's Kharkiv region Putin seized the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea in 2014 and vowed he would never return it to Ukraine. Ukraine would also control a 62-mile 'demilitarised zone' along the Dnipro River. The Ukrainian army would have a legal maximum size, and the country would be barred from joining NATO, a key Zelinsky goal. But Putin would not seek to block Ukraine joining the EU. The West would drop sanctions on Russian oil and gas, as well as banking. Gordon gave the army size as 350,000, but the Gosdumskaya Telegram channel said 150,000. The UN meeting that the Russian minister attended was a 'diversionary manoeuvre', said Gordon. Ukrainian servicemen of the Ochi reconnaissance unit launch a Furia drone to fly over Russian positions at the frontline in Donetsk A soldier rests as Infantry secure the area for the 3rd Assault Brigade at sunset on July 1, 2024 in Kharkiv Region 'The Donetsk and Luhansk regions cannot be transferred under the control of Ukraine, because this will cause, they say, the imminent genocide of the population of the territory, a third of which took part in hostilities against Ukraine,' said Gordon. There has been no official comment from the US, Russia or Ukraine over the alleged back channel contacts concerning Kolokoltsev's visit. Intriguingly, Kolokoltsev's plane was seen alongside former US president Donald Trump's aircraft as it arrived in Washington. Trump has vowed that he could rapidly halt the debilitating war if re-elected and hinted that this would involve Ukraine ceding territory in exchange for security assurances short of being a NATO member. Kolokoltsev, 63, has been Putin's Interior Minister for 12 years, in charge of Russian police. A hulking 6ft 5 knifeman laughed as he attacked two police officers with a Stanley knife before being tasered, as he is jailed for six years for attempted GBH. Bodycam footage shows Gordon Finnlayson, 39, launching himself at the police officers as they attended a house on March 8 this year. Northamptonshire Police had received a 999 call from Police Scotland reporting a Scottish man having his face slashed by another man. Upon arriving at the property, the officers were confronted with Finnlayson, who was wearing a T-shirt and shorts. He flew into a rage after officers told him to stop and put down the weapon he was holding in his hand. In the chilling clip, Finnlayson can be seen smiling and laughing as he slashes at one of the officers who lies on the floor, while her colleague tries to protect her. One of the officers can be heard screaming: 'Put the knife down! Put the knife down!'. Gordon Finnlayson, 39, (pictured) was jailed for six years for attempted GBH Pictured: Finnlayson can be seen smiling and laughing as he slashes at one of the officers who lies on the floor, while her colleague tries to protect her Finnlayson is heard calling one of the cops 'a b*tch' as he walks outside the property with only one shoe on and back-up officers arrive with tasers. One of the injured officers is heard tearfully telling a colleague: 'I don't know if I've been stabbed. Please check if I've been stabbed. I'm so sorry, I just stepped back.' Finnlayson was tasered and taken to police custody, where he continued to laugh as the circumstances of his arrest were read out. Both officers required medical attention and although one had initially feared she had been stabbed, both were thankfully found to have escaped serious physical injury. Finnlayson, of Duncarnock Crescent, Neilston, Glasgow, went on to be charged with two counts of Section 18 attempted wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, entering guilty pleas at Northampton Crown Court on April 24. Last week he was jailed for six years at Northampton Crown Court. The court heard Finnlayson had 35 previous convictions, including seven assaults on police officers. Finnlayson walks outside the property with only one shoe on and is tasered by back-up officers Finnlayson is tasered and arrested. He is told to put his hands behind his head by back-up officers One of the injured officers is heard tearfully telling a colleague: 'I don't know if I've been stabbed. Please check if I've been stabbed. I'm so sorry, I just stepped back.' Detective Inspector Nick Peters, of Northampton CID, said: 'These two officers showed incredible courage in the face of a violent and sustained attack by a man who was not only armed and much larger than them, but also appeared to be enjoying trying to seriously hurt them. 'During the incident, Finnlayson seemed to be trying to isolate the officers from one another so he could continue his assault without distraction. 'Without their determination and bravery in sticking together and protecting each other they could have been seriously or even fatally injured by him. 'Police officers come to work not knowing what their shift will bring, and although they are trained and prepared to deal with violent incidents, this is the kind of job no-one ever wants to face. 'With the officers' agreement we have released their body-worn video from the incident, which shows just how unpredictable, violent and frightening Gordon Finnlayson was that night. 'I'm really pleased to see such a strong custodial sentence handed down in this case, and want to thank all those involved for their work in ensuring a dangerous man has been brought to justice.' Newly released footage shows the moment an Atlanta-based rapper stirred controversy after asking all President Joe Biden supporters to leave his concert. Musician Waka Flocka Flame, whose real name is Juaquin James Malphurs, was performing at the Club Sky in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 27 when he addressed the crowd. The 38-year-old rapper could be heard telling his Democratic Party supporting fans: 'All Joe Biden voters, get out of my concert. We're gonna party right now for T24'- referencing GOP candidate Donald Trump's 2024 Presidential campaign. As his sudden announcement caused mixed reactions among the crowd, he quickly launched into his hit 'It's A Party' which was dedicated to Trump. Musician Waka Flocka Flame, whose real name is Juaquin James Malphurs, was performing at the Club Sky in Salt Lake City, Utah on June 27 when he addressed the crowd Footage of the moment soon went viral and garnered massive support from other Republican party supporters on X. One Trump lover wrote: 'I knew I have always liked Waka!!!' While another praised the rapper and said: 'That takes courage.' A Trump 2024 campaigner cheered, 'Nobody wants to be around them!' while another said, 'LOL everyone is sick of putting up with these losers.' Waka Flocka Flame had first endorsed Trump on X by expressing favor for the former president in October 2023. But he is not the only rapper to join the 'Black Americans for Trump' coalition this election. In early June, Detroit's Sada Baby joined Peezy and Icewear Vezzo to attend the Republican's roundtable discussion with local Black community leaders. Waka Flocka Flame had first endorsed Trump on X by expressing favor for the former president in October 2023 Biden insiders continue to insist that the president, 81, will carry on against Trump despite his disastrous first debate just five days go Talking about his political inclination, Vezzo later told FOX News: 'A lot of Democrats assume that [we're] just supposed to vote blindly. I feel like our votes should be worked for, I feel like our parents blindly voted for generations, but I think this generation is now understanding that we have to ask questions.' New York City rappers Sheff G and Sleepy Hallow, who had been indicted on murder conspiracy charges in May 2023, spoke at a Trump rally in the Bronx in May this year. St. Louis rapper Sexyy Red, a member of the coalition, also explained why so many black musicians had become Republican Party supporters during a podcast show. 'Once he started getting Black people out of jail and giving people that free money. Aww baby, we love Trump We need him back because, baby, them checks.' he told comedian Theo Von in October. The viral moment comes right after at least 25 Democrat members of Congress are set to call on Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race in the coming days, while a pair of Senators have distanced themselves from the ailing president. Biden insiders continue to insist that the president, 81, will carry on against Trump despite his disastrous first debate just five days go. Despite their insistence, his support appears to be crumbling among fellow Dems. The revolt in the House was expected to take place if Biden 'seems shaky in coming days' as one Democrat aide warned: 'the dam is broken.' France's desperate left-wing alliance has been going in search of extra voters in the United Kingdom as fears of a hard-right government intensify. Round one on Sunday propelled Marine Le Pen's National Rally (RN) closer than ever to government - but also left open the possibility that voters could yet block its path to power in the second and final round on July 7. Ms Le Pen's opponents in the left-wing alliance of the New Popular Front as well as President Emmanuel Macron's weakened centrists are all seeking to deny the hard right an absolute majority by rallying supporters in campaigning this week. These efforts now appear to have extended across the channel and to the shores of the UK - itself just one day away from its own general election on Thursday - with campaigners urging overseas voters to back the left wing, anti-RN coalition. According to one resident, who chose to remain anonymous, two French campaigners knocked on their door in London on Tuesday night at around 7pm. France 's desperate left-wing alliance has been going in search of extra voters in the United Kingdom as fears of a hard-right government mount. Pictured: A leaflet that was handed to the London resident by French campaigners looking for votes for the New Popular Front France's President Emmanuel Macron leaves the polling booth on Sunday. Macron 's weakened centrists and a left wing coalition are all seeking to deny the hard right an absolute majority by rallying supporters in campaigning this week The campaigners were a man and a woman, he recalled, who appeared to be targeting French voters living in the third constituency for residents overseas (Northern Europe), which represents all French citizens living in the British Isles. The campaigners told the resident that they wanted to speak to a French person living in the same building about who she was voting for. 'At around 7pm yesterday I answered the front door to my building to find a young man and woman, both smiling and each clutching a bundle of leaflets,' the resident, from the London borough of Southwark, told MailOnline. 'I assumed they were campaigning for the UK election, but clearly not. Both [were] French, though they both spoke excellent English. 'The man said he understood a fellow French citizen lived in the building and he wanted to speak to her in person, if possible. 'My neighbour either wasn't at home or was unable to get to the door. The man handed me a leaflet with Nouveau Front Populaire boldly printed across the top, and requested I hand it to her myself.' The resident said how the man told him 'it was important she [the neighbour] voted in France to stop Le Pen. His sidekick was nodding enthusiastically over his shoulder during the entire exchange. I took the leaflet. 'He wished me well, urged me a final time to ensure my neighbour saw the leaflet, and left. They hurried away and into the next street. I closed the door and left the leaflet for my neighbour. 'People must be pretty worried in France,' he added. It was not clear how the campaigners knew that a French person was living in the building, or how many doors they had knocked on. The resident also sent MailOnline photographs of the leaflet that was left with him by the French campaigners. These leaflets were adorned with the logo of the New Popular Front, a coalition that has been put together by the hard-left France Unbowed party, as well as the French greens, Socialists and Communists, in a bid to beat Le Pen's hard-right group. The leaflet declares in French that the coalition is 'facing the extreme right, for ecology, justice and equality' and adds: 'united, we can win'. This is coupled with a picture of Charlotte Minvielle, a member of The Ecologists party and candidate in the French National Assembly election for the third constituency for French residents overseas. The leaflet displays policies that would benefit expats, including promises to 'restore resources to public services for French people abroad', 'repeal the pension reform and make the calculation of retirement fair for French people abroad', 'promote French diplomacy in the service of peace and respectful of international law' and 'increase the budget for scholarships in French establishments abroad'. The coalition also says on the flyer it would 'act for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, for a just and lasting peace, the release of hostages and the recognition of a Palestinian state', and 'defend the sovereignty and freedom of the Ukrainian people'. At the bottom, the leaflet tells any prospective French voter: 'To participate in the legislative elections, you can vote online or in person,' adding that they can vote online from July 3 to July 4, or in person in France on July 7. Ms Minvielle won 39 percent of the vote in the first round of the election on July 30 in the third constituency. Her main contender is Vincent Caure, a member of Macron's Renaissance party, who also won 39 percent of the vote, making for a tight race in the overseas consituency. According to one resident, who chose to remain anonymous, two French campaigners knocked on their door in London on Tuesday night at around 7pm and handed them this flyer The French flyer is seen in the London resident's letter box. The campaigners told the resident that they wanted to speak to a French person living in the same building about who she was voting for in the upcoming French election Round one on Sunday propelled Marine Le Pen's (pictured on Tuesday) National Rally (RN) closer than ever to government - but also left open the possibility that voters could yet block its path to power in the second and final round on July 7 Meanwhile in France, French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, a close ally of President Macron, said today he believed a cross-party bid to deprive Le Pen's hard-right National Rally of a majority in next Sunday's parliamentary run-off could succeed. However, he dismissed suggestions that Macron's centrists could look to form a cross-party government in the event of a hung parliament. He instead proposed that moderates in the assembly work together to pass legislation on a case-by-case basis instead. Attal was speaking after more than 200 candidates across the political spectrum agreed to pull out of local contests to clear the path for whoever was best placed to defeat the RN runner in their voting district. 'What these withdrawals show is that we can avoid an absolute majority for the hard right,' Attal told France Inter radio of the 289-seat tally the RN would require to control France's 577-seat National Assembly. Asked about calls for the creation of a temporary cross-party government if no grouping achieved a majority, Attal said he would not impose on voters 'a coalition they did not choose'. 'I hope the (Macron-allied) Ensemble camp is a big as possible,' he said. 'After that we will seek to secure majorities on a project-by-project basis.' In a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Macron rejected the option of a coalition that would include the far left France Unbowed (LFI) party of Jean-Luc Melenchon, one participant said. It was unclear if he mentioned other coalition options. Their comments underline that, even if the RN does not come to power, France could face months of political uncertainty through to the end of Macron's term in 2027 - when Le Pen is widely expected to mount a challenge for the presidency. The Interior Ministry was due to release the candidate list for the second-round vote later but local media estimated up to 218 candidates had pulled out, reducing the number of districts in which the anti-RN vote risked being split. Before the withdrawals, pollsters had calculated the first round put the RN on track for 250-300 seats. The question remains whether voters will go along with the effort to block the anti-immigrant, eurosceptic party. Centrist voters may baulk at supporting a far left rival to the RN, while many left-wing supporters are so disillusioned with Macron that they will not stomach backing someone from his alliance. Le Pen said on Wednesday that she could reach out to other parties if the RN falls short of an absolute majority. Her prime ministerial pick Jordan Bardella has said he would decline to form a government without a sufficiently strong mandate. The RN came out well ahead in Sunday's first-round vote after Macron's gamble on a snap election backfired, leaving his centrist camp in a lowly third place behind the RN and a hastily formed left-wing alliance. Le Pen has worked for years to soften the image of the RN, but rights groups cite concerns about its 'national preference' and anti-migrant policies, while its profound euroscepticism would pose serious threats to future European integration. Demonstrators take part in a rally against hard-right after the announcement of the results of the first round of parliamentary elections, at Place de la Republique in Paris on June 30, 2024 It has signalled plans to reverse Macron's reforms, such as his unpopular move to increase the retirement age and economists question whether hefty RN spending plans are fully funded. Financial markets were reassured by the bid to create a so-called 'republican front' against Le Pen's party, lowering the risk premium on France's sovereign debt. 'The strategy would significantly limit the chances of Le Pen winning an outright majority,' Jefferies chief Europe economist Mohit Kumar said in a note. The National Rally has attacked the cross-party bid to block it as anti-democratic and an attempt to undermine voters' wishes. Bardella told Le Figaro newspaper: 'The real 'republican front' - that is us.' Colombia's married president Gustavo Petro has found himself in an outrageous scandal after he was accused of cheating on his wife with a transgender woman. The leftist president's office has refused to comment on a video circulating online that supposedly shows Petro walking with Colombian newscaster Linda Yepes after the inauguration of new Panamanian president Jose Raul Mulino on Sunday. The bombshell video, which shows a man and woman walking hand-in-hand before he stops to lovingly take her picture, has scandalized Colombia and the region, as reported by Telemundo. The president, who has been married to Veronica Alcocer since 2000, has not denied or confirmed that he is the man seen getting close to Yepes, only speaking out to say he is not gay, and slam those he called 'transphobic.' The former guerilla member wrote on X on Wednesday: 'I am heterosexual, but you will never hear or read a transphobic word from me. Because not only would he stop being a man, but also human.' Colombia's married president Gustavo Petro's office has refused to comment on a video circulating online that supposedly shows him walking with trans newscaster Linda Yepes The man in the viral video is seen taking a picture of the woman in Panama City The president, who has been married to Veronica Alcocer (pictured) since 2000, has refused to deny that he is the man seen getting close to Yepes, only speaking out to say he is not gay, and slam those he called 'transphobic' He added: 'I have always considered that intimacy is the "last level" of freedom, the last trench of being free, and I will preserve this principle until I write about myself or die. 'But these thousands of transphobic messages that have exploded in the hands of a right-wing, deeply exclusive, ignorant and discriminatory society must be rejected by the president.' Speaking on Univision, Yepes played coy when asked about the viral video. 'I was in Panama. I love Panama,' she said. When pressed further, she replied: 'I cannot speak about the details yet. Yepes has also claimed she has received death threats since the video emerged. While Petro has not confirmed he appears in the video, Telemundo pointed out that the president was seen wearing a similar outfit earlier in the day. Speaking on Univision, Yepes played coy when asked about the viral video While Petro has not confirmed he appears in the video, Telemundo pointed out that the president was seen wearing a similar outfit earlier in the day Telemundo also noted the man in the video appears to be accompanied by a bodyguard who looked similar to the one seen with Petro earlier that day. Petro's wife, a philanthropist, has not commented on the images. Moreover, his comments were not enough for many Colombians, who left angry messages under his social media statement. One comment ready: 'Your sexual orientation is irrelevant, but the use of pubic resources to finance your adventures would be of interest to us all.' Another read: 'It's incredible that you get accused of cheating and blame the ultra-right and the Nazis.' Petro, a supporter of Hugo Chavez and Fidel Castro, has been a loud voice against the US since taking power in 2022 after spending his life as a prominent left-wing figure in Colombia. Petro's wife has not commented on the images. They are seen in 2022 celebrating his election Yepes has also claimed she has received death threats since the video emerged In April, thousands of Colombians took to the streets in a rebuke of Petros reform agenda. While protests have been a constant since the former leftist guerrilla took office in 2022, theyve gained momentum of late. The president is struggling on various fronts, as one of his six kids is accused of corruption, as is his brother. Alarming Colombians further - Petro has floated the possibility of rewriting the constitution to spur social reforms that hes been unable to advance in the face of opposition by a hostile congress and conservative business groups. In May, Petro announced Colombia would break ties with Israel over the war in Gaza. Petro has described Israels actions in Gaza as 'genocide.' An alternative healer accused of the manslaughter of a diabetic woman who died after stopping taking her insulin at his slapping therapy workshop was previously convicted for the death of a six-year-old boy in Australia, a court has heard. Hongchi Xiao, 61, is on trial at Winchester Crown Court accused of the manslaughter by gross negligence of Danielle Carr-Gomm, 71, from Lewes, East Sussex. Mrs Carr-Gomm died at Cleeve House in Seend, Wiltshire, where she was taking part in the event in October 2016 which promoted Paida Lajin therapy, which sees patients being slapped or slapping themselves repeatedly. The trial heard that Xiao was previously convicted in an Australian court for the manslaughter of the six-year-old child who died after his parents stopped giving him his insulin after attending his workshops. The court heard that Xiao told the boy's parents to stop giving the life-saving medication to him and although it is not suggested the defendant gave a similar instruction to Mrs Carr-Gomm, the prosecution claim the defendant 'congratulated' Mrs Carr-Gomm after she informed him she had stopped her medication. The youngster started to become seriously ill and started 'vomiting black liquid', which Xiao put down 'to just part of self-healing body adjustment', and the boy then died in April 2015, 18 months before Mrs Carr-Gomm. Hongchi Xiao, 61 is on trial at Winchester Crown Court accused of the manslaughter by gross negligence of Danielle Carr-Gomm, 71 Mrs Carr-Gomm died at Cleeve House in Seend, Wiltshire, where she was taking part in the event in October 2016 which promoted Paida Lajin therapy Court artist drawing of Hongchi Xiao appearing at Winchester Crown Court charged with manslaughter of woman at slapping therapy workshop Duncan Atkinson KC, prosecuting, told the jury the family attended Xiao's Paida Lajin workshops in Hurstville, Sydney, which involved the participants slapping themselves and each other, and fasting. He said: 'The defendant himself did not perform any slapping on any of the participants. 'Shortly after the start of the workshop, as the judge who dealt with him in Australia found, the defendant told (the boy)'s mother to stop (his) insulin injections. 'Such an instruction is clear evidence of how strongly held the defendant's views were, for example, as to insulin being poison.' Mr Atkinson said that by day three the boy's mother told the workshop group of her son's deteriorating health and that he was 'vomiting, had high blood sugar levels and high ketone levels'. Despite this, Xiao continued to 'instruct' the mother to continue not giving the insulin to her son, the court heard, and his health continued to deteriorate. By the fifth day he was required to be pushed in a pram because he could not walk or stand to dress himself and started to 'vomit yellow and black liquid', the court heard. The court was told the mother confronted Xiao and told him: 'Look at this picture, last night he vomiting black stuff, all these things', to which he replied: 'Is the detox. All the bad stuff come from - come out from his body, his organ. It's just part of self-healing body adjustment.' Four days later, the boy was accompanied by his grandmother in his room when he began vomiting black liquid and had a seizure. As the grandmother went for help, she locked herself out of the room and hotel staff arrived who found the boy on the bed motionless, the court heard. The prosecution claim the defendant 'congratulated' Mrs Carr-Gomm (pictured) after she informed him she had stopped her insulin medication Mr Atkinson said that Xiao also returned and began 'slapping the boy's inner elbows' until paramedics arrived, but they were unable to resuscitate him and he died as a result of diabetic ketoacidosis. Mr Atkinson told the jury: 'The defendant was ultimately prosecuted for and convicted of (the boy)'s manslaughter. 'It follows that there can be no question but that the defendant owed (the boy) a duty of care whilst he was an attendee at his workshop, and that he breached that duty. 'He deprecated and deterred the use of conventional medicine even when he knew that to do so risked very serious consequences which could in turn be life-threatening. 'He advocated a course that he knew was not medically justified and was contrary to medical experience, and a boy died as a result. 'His actions towards Danielle Carr-Gomm occurred when the very real, obvious and serious risk of death had become all the more real and all the more obvious. 'They involved similar conduct, congratulating a Type 1 diabetic who replaced insulin with Paida Lajin, and taking no action to secure her help despite the cruel lesson that ought to have been provided by the boy's untimely death.' Xiao denies the charge and the trial continues. The first sitting Democrat to call for Joe Biden to withdraw from the election says that before going public, party leadership did not try to keep him quiet. Texas Democrat Rep. Lloyd Doggett, 77, came forward on Tuesday with a statement calling on Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race, saying if he did not Donald Trump would win the White House. He was the first Democrat in office to call for Biden to withdraw. Breaking his silence after turning on the top Democrat, the Texan - who has served since 1995 - told NPR that leadership within the party did not dissuade him from airing out his concerns publicly. 'I'm not a vulnerable member in this election,' Doggett said. 'So I'm able to step forward and speak out about what I think is so critical for our country in ways that perhaps some other people have not.' 'But I certainly have not gotten any discouragement from within the leadership of the party,' he added, indicating that top Democrats may actually condone ousting Biden. Texas Rep. Lloyd Doggett is the first sitting Democrat in office to call for Joe Biden to get out of the presidential race. He said Democrat leadership did not try to keep him quiet 'I think the concerns I'm voicing are widespread,' Doggett continued. 'I wish this had been resolved earlier.' The Democrat said he did not speak out about Biden's withdrawal sooner because he was worried about how Donald Trump could capitalize on such a party shake up. But because Biden has consistently faltered in the polls, especially after the first debate, Doggett said he had to speak up. 'He's worked now for a year and he's not been able to close the gap. And he made that gap wider after this debate, raising real questions in the minds of so many Americans as to its capability to govern a country now and over the next four years.' Still, if Biden is the Democrat nominee Doggett said he will support him. After the Texas Democrat released his statement calling on Biden to withdraw Tuesday, two other House Democrats similarly came out against the president. Though they did not explicitly call on Biden to withdraw, both Reps. Jared Golden of Maine and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington both said Tuesday they believe Donald Trump will beat Joe Biden come November. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the top House Democrat, along with others in party leadership, did not try to dissuade Doggett from going public with his concerns on Biden Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, seen here, told KATU News that she believes the debate performance last week against has cost Biden the election 'After the first presidential debate, lots of Democrats are panicking about whether President Joe Biden should step down as the partys nominee,' Golden wrote 'Bidens poor performance in the debate was not a surprise,' Golden wrote in an op-ed published in Maine. 'It also didnt rattle me as it has others, because the outcome of this election has been clear to me for months: While I dont plan to vote for him, Donald Trump is going to win. And Im OK with that.' Gluesenkamp Perez, meanwhile, told a Washington TV station that the debate will cost Biden the election despite only having watched five 'painful' minutes herself. 'We all saw what we saw, you cant undo that, and the truth I think, is that Biden is going to lose to Trump,' she said. 'I know thats difficult, but I think the damage has been done by that debate.' Further, reports indicate that a cohort of 25 Democrat lawmakers worried about their own elections are considering calling on Biden to withdraw. Whether Biden continues his 2024 bid for president after his halting debate performance against Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is largely his decision, Democrats and political strategists have said. President Joe Biden is said to be 'humiliated' and 'painfully aware' of his image following his car crash debate that saw him stumbling over his words and losing his train of thought Doggett likened the hard decision he says Biden must make for the sake of the nation to the one made decades ago by another sitting Democratic president. 'I represent the heart of a congressional district once represented by Lyndon Johnson,' the Texan said in a statement Tuesday. 'Under very different circumstances, he made the painful decision to withdraw. 'President Biden should do the same,' he continued. 'While much of his work has been transformational, he pledged to be transitional.' Lyndon B. Johnson chose to withdraw from the race in 1968 because rising casualties in the Vietnam war had made him extremely unpopular. Biden is facing plummeting support after his disastrous debate performance on Thursday. 'He has the opportunity to encourage a new generation of leaders from whom a nominee can be chosen to unite our country through an open, democratic process,' Doggett's statement continued. 'My decision to make these strong reservations public is not done lightly nor does it in a any way diminish my respect for all that President Biden has achieved.' 'Recognizing that, unlike Trump, President Biden's first commitment has always been to our country, not himself, I am hopeful that he will make the painful and difficult decision to withdraw. I respectfully call on him to do so.' Doggett, 77, is a respected member of the Democrat House caucus, having served in the chamber since 1995. He also lauded Biden's work as president, but ultimately conceded Joe's debate performance was not one of a competitive candidate. The president retreated to Camp David with is wife, children and grandchildren to take a break from the campaign trial and weigh his options after the debate 'President Biden has continued to run substantially behind Democratic senators in key states and in most polls has trailed Donald Trump,' he said. 'I had hoped that the debate would provide some momentum to change that. It did not.' 'Instead of reassuring voters, the President failed to effectively defend his many accomplishments and expose Trump's many lies.' National Republican Congressional Committee Communications Director Jack Pandol criticized Doggett's announcement for coming too late. 'The cowards in the Democratic Caucus have spent every day after the debate in witness protection, too afraid to say what they're all thinking,' Pandol said in a statement. 'Americans remember House Democrats were complicit in covering up and gaslighting the public about the president's condition, and voters are primed to punish them in November.' A spokesperson for Palestinian Islamic Jihad has claimed that Israeli prisoners in Gaza have tried to kill themselves after the terror group began treating them 'the same way Israel treats our prisoners'. The militant group did not provide any evidence to back its claims, nor did it specify what measures it had taken against its hostages. But Israel has long been accused of abuse and torture of Palestinian prisoners. 'Some enemy prisoners have attempted suicide as a result of the extreme frustration they are feeling due to their government's neglect of their cause,' Abu Hamza, a spokesperson for PIJ's armed wing, the Al Quds Brigades, said in a post on Telegram. 'We will keep treating Israeli hostages the same way Israel treats our prisoners,' he added. On Monday, Israeli authorities freed the director of Gaza's main hospital, Mohammed Abu Selmia, along with 55 other prisoners. Selmia, who was released without charge or trial after being detained since November when Israeli forces raided Shifa Hospital, claimed he and other detainees were held in brutal conditions and tortured. Israel denies the claims. Israeli hostages are seen cowering in an apartment in Gaza amid their rescue by the IDF A disturbing United Nations report published in April claimed Palestinians were forced to drink toilet water, were attacked by dogs and faced threats that their relatives would be killed Palestinian prisoner Rami Abu Mustafa, arrested by Israeli forces during operation in Khan Yunis months ago, receives medical treatment at Gaza European Hospital, Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on June 25, 2024 Families of hostages and supporters set a fire during a demonstration calling for a hostages deal and against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Relatives and supporters of Israelis taken hostage by Palestinian militants in Gaza in the October 7 attacks, demonstrate calling for their release in the Israeli coastal city of Tel Aviv on June 22, 2024 Despite Selmia spending more than six months behind bars without charge, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for an investigation into his release as furious government ministers said he should have remained in custody. They insisted Shifa hospital was used as a base by Hamas, but the doctor was released following a petition by rights groups to shut down a shadowy detention facility in southern Israel that they alleged was overcrowded with Palestinian prisoners and notorious for abuse. The case prompted the government to transfer the bulk of the Palestinian detainees held there to other facilities and to release some, like Selmia. 'The identity of the released prisoners is determined independently by the security officials based on their professional considerations,' Netanyahu wrote, before adding that he was calling for an investigation into the matter. In April, a shocking United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) report documented numerous instances of torture and abuse endured by Palestinian prisoners at the hands of the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). Israeli soldiers allegedly held detainees in cages, deprived them of food, water and sleep and tortured them during interrogation according to the report, which was pulled together following extensive interviews with Palestinian prisoners returning to Gaza. It documents torture and humiliation faced by Palestinians of all ages, genders and backgrounds held in makeshift detention facilities across Israel. Released Palestinians allege they were forced to drink toilet water, were attacked by dogs and faced threats that their relatives would be killed, adding that no one was immune to the grave ill-treatment. 'I saw people [in detention] 70 years old, very old. There were people with Alzheimer's, old people who were blind, people with disabilities who couldn't walk, people who had shrapnel in their backs and couldn't stand up, people with epilepsy and torture was for everyone. 'Even for people who didn't know their own names,' said one 46-year-old interviewee. 'We told them that someone was blind. They didn't care.' IDF forces have been accused of beating and torturing captured Palestinians - including UN staff Palestinian Faraj Samouni shows his wounds in his body as he catches up with his family in their makeshift tent after being released by the Israeli army in Deir al Balah, Gaza on July 01, 2024 Palestinian men who had been detained by Israeli forces speak to well-wishers and reporters after their release as they arrive for a check-up at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip on July 1, 2024 Another man, aged 41, also quoted in the report, said he was sexually violated with a hot metal rod. He said he was also beaten with shoes and watched as other detainees succumbed to their injuries. Israel, which accuses the released prisoners of lying, strongly denied the accusations and claims many of those at UNRWA, the UN agency that supports Palestinian refugees, are complicit in Hamas terror. Meanwhile, a UN investigation in June concluded that Israel has 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'. 'The commission found that the crimes against humanity of extermination; murder; gender persecution targeting Palestinian men and boys; forcible transfer; and torture and inhuman and cruel treatment were committed,' it added. The report noted Israel had committed various war crimes and crimes against humanity as well as violations of international humanitarian law (IHL) and international human rights law (IHRL). But Israeli officials immediately rejected the conclusions by accusing the UN commission of 'systematic anti-Israeli discrimination'. A Palestinian boy checks debris around a pool of blood at a UN school housing displaced people that was hit during Israeli bombardment in Nuseirat, in the central Gaza Strip, on June 6, 2024 Palestinian men walk along a narrow street past destroyed buildings in Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip on June 11, 2024 Palestinians check a UN school housing displaced people that was hit during Israeli bombardment in Nuseirat, in the central Gaza Strip A woman holds the hand of a boy killed in an Israeli airstrike at a UN school housing displaced Palestinians in Nuseirat, at a hospital ground in Deir el-Balah Israeli forces carried out deadly strikes Tuesday on southern Gaza and battled militants after issuing an evacuation order of Khan Younis on Monday, which a UN agency said would impact 250,000 Palestinians. Witnesses reported intense bombing and shelling around southern Gaza's main city, from which Israeli troops withdrew in early April after a devastating months-long battle. A hospital source in the city said shelling killed eight people and wounded more than 30 others. The bombardment came after a rocket barrage at southern Israel on Monday morning claimed by the PIJ, which has fought alongside Hamas. Some displaced people with nowhere to go were sleeping on the streets, witnesses said. Ahmad Najjar, a resident of the town of Bani Suhaila, said the Israeli evacuation order had caused 'a large displacement of residents' and spurred 'fear and extreme anxiety'. The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees estimates that 'around 250,000 people have been impacted by these orders', said UNRWA spokeswoman Louise Wateridge. 'We expect that almost all of these people will move from this area,' she said. Six consecutive days of intense battles followed a similar evacuation order issued last week for the Gaza City district of Shujaiya. Arab mediators' efforts, backed by the United States, have so far failed to conclude a ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas says any deal must end the war and bring full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, while Israel says it will accept only temporary pauses in fighting until Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007, is eradicated. A possible deal would also see the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza in return for the freedom of Palestinians jailed in Israeli prisons. The White House is struggling to calm the storm of outrage from Joe Biden's debate performance as Democratic lawmakers call for the president to exit the race and the White House staff are 'freaking the f*** out.' White House chief of staff Jeff Zients is scheduled to hold an all-hands-on-deck staff call at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday to pump up disillusioned staff and reassure them that Biden will remain the nominee. Additionally, Biden's campaign sent out an all-staff memo showing internal polls from battleground states that note Biden only dropped half a point in the fallout from his fumbling debate performance. The move came to pre-empt what is expected to be bad polling news for the president. 'We are going to see a few polls come out today and we want you all to hear from us on what we know internally and what we expect to come externally,' the memo, obtained by Politico, reads. 'Polls are a snapshot in time and we should all expect them to continue to fluctuate it will take a few weeks, not a few days, to get a full picture of the race.' The White House is trying to calm staff fears after President Joe Biden's debate performance - above Biden with his deputy chief of staff Bruce Reed, senior adviser Mike Donilon and Deputy Chief of Staff Annie Tomasini Amid the race to calm internal fears, there is a significant outreach operation to try and quell the growing calls for Biden to be replaced. The president has been on the phone to lawmakers trying to shore up his support on Capitol Hill amid worries Republicans will take control of the House and Senate - along with the White House - in the upcoming elections, giving them unchecked power to run the country. Biden also will meet with governors on Wednesday evening as he and his team scramble to stem even more defections. Meanwhile, Jill Biden has been dispatched to the battleground states of Pennsylvania and Michigan to tout Biden's accomplishments in the White House as polls show him trailing Donald Trump. The effort comes as questions continue to be asked about Biden's mental capabilities to handle the presidency and speculation about who could replace him as the Democratic presidential nominee. 'Everyone is freaking the f*** out,' an official told Axios. But there appears to be a reason for the freak out. A set of private polls from a pro-Biden super PAC showed the president losing ground about two points across all the most important battleground states, Puck news reported. Biden was also now trailing in New Mexico, New Hampshire and Virginia, three states that were thought to be safely Democratic. Biden trails Donald Trump in the Five Thirty-Eight polling average on the presidential race. The president will return to the campaign trail on Friday, when he heads to Madison, Wis. There he also will sit down with ABC News in his first post-debate interview. He'll travel to Pennsylvania on Sunday. The president also will hold a press conference next week, the White House announced. But Democrats are keeping their distance. Senator Tammy Baldwin, who faces re-election in Wisconsin, announced Tuesday morning she will not be joining Biden on stage when he campaigns in her hometown of Madison on Friday. And many Democrats worry the president is moving too slowly to calm the panic about his candidacy and mental fitness. White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients will hold an all staff call on Wednesday Donald Trump and Joe Biden at last week's debate where Biden fumbled in his answers There also is talk of a brewing Democratic revolt in the House. Maine's Jared Golden, Lloyd Doggett of Texas and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington State all either told Biden to drop out or said they believed he would lose to Trump on Tuesday. Those defections were in addition to the collection of 25 House members - commonly referred to as 'frontliners' due to their status as moderates in swing districts - who are set to break with Biden and day now. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi emphasized Biden's multiple legislative accomplishments during an interview with MSNBC Tuesday but said it was legitimate to ask whether his debate performance was a one-night thing or a broader health problem. She said Trump should be given the same scrutiny. 'I think it's a legitimate question to say, 'Is this an episode or is this a condition?' And so when people ask that question, it's legitimate, of both candidates,' Pelosi said. Biden, speaking at a campaign event in Virginia on Tuesday evening without a teleprompter, blamed his performance on a lack of sleep and noted he had done two international trips in the runup to the debate. 'The fact is that you know, I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple times, going through around 100 time zones ... before ... the debate. Didnt listen to my staff and came back and nearly fell asleep on stage,' he said. 'That's no excuse but it is an explanation.' He was in France for the 85th anniversary of D-Day and then in Italy for the G7. But he left out the seven days he spent at Camp David ahead of his showdown with Trump. He spent the week locked with aides in preparation for the debate. However, Biden rarely began before 11 am and broke in the afternoon for a nap, the New York Times reported. Some Democrats suggested Biden should be thinking about the broader party's future. 'He has to be honest with himself,' Democratic Representative Mike Quigley, a moderate from Illinois, told CNN on Tuesday. 'It's his decision. I just want him to appreciate at this time just how much it impacts, not just his race, but all the other races coming in November.' And Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, whose endorsement of Biden in 2020 helped him become the nominee, told MSNBC that he still wanted a presidential ticket with Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. But then he announced who he would endorse if Biden exited the race. 'I will support her if he were to step aside,' Clyburn said of Harris. Hurricane Beryl is predicted to rip through six US states, according to one terrifying model. The ferocious category five storm already left six people dead and caused significant damage after 165mph winds battered parts of the Caribbean. Previous modelling suggested that the hurricane could skim Texas at the weekend. Parts of the Lone Star State have since officially been added into the hurricane's forecast cone by the National Hurricane Center, with locals in southern parts warned to brace for heavy rains and gusty winds from Monday. However, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi and Kentucky could now also be swept up in the storm's path, one model presented by hurricane expert Dr Levi Cowan shows. Fishing boats damaged by Hurricane Beryl wade in the water at the Bridgetown Fisheries, Barbados, Tuesday, July 2, 2024 At least five of the so-called spaghetti models now indicate the hurricane will lash the US. Spaghetti models are strands showing the potential path of tropical cyclones. For Beryl, most of the five models which impact the US show Texas in the firing line, but one additional path suggests Louisiana could see some impact too, with one possibility the storm sweeping all six states. 'It's really dependent on where the hurricane is launching from by the time we get to Friday if it's coming off the Yucatan Peninsula far enough North, it may continue gaining latitude and threaten the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico, that could mean northern Mexico or Texas and the US Gulf Coast could be threatened,' Dr Cowan said. 'But if it crosses farther down say if it's a weaker storm then it would likely continue West more into Eastern Mexico.' Beryl's path will be determined by the level of pressure over the southeast If this drops, it will allow the storm to move northwards potentially spelling disaster for the US. Gulf Coast residents are being urged to keep an eye on the record-breaking storm, which is the earliest every category five hurricane ever in the Atlantic, Caribbean and Central American basin. Hurricane Beryl is predicted to rip through six US states, according to one terrifying model shown here on the pink line. Each of the different colored strands are spaghetti models which represent a possible path for the storm depending on various meteorological factors The ferocious category five storm already left six people dead and caused significant damage to parts of the Caribbean. Pictured: Destruction on the island of Petite Martinique, Grenada Parts of Texas have since been added into the hurricane's forecast cone by the national hurricane center Jamaica was under a state of emergency as the island was declared a disaster zone hours before the impact of Hurricane Beryl on Wednesday On Wednesday, Beryl was roaring toward Jamaica, with islanders scrambling to make preparations. In Kingston, people boarded up windows, fishermen pulled their boats out of the water before sitting around a table to play dominoes beside a bay, and workers dismantled roadside advertising boards to protect them from the expected lashing winds to come. A hurricane warning was in effect for Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Beryl was forecast to weaken slightly over the next day or two. However it is predicted to be at or near major-hurricane strength when it passes near or over Jamaica, near the Cayman Islands on Thursday and into Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula on Friday, according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center. Jamaica was under a state of emergency as the island was declared a disaster zone hours before the impact of Hurricane Beryl. Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said that the disaster zone declaration will remain in effect for the next seven days. Holness also announced an island-wide curfew between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesday. Security forces 'will be fully mobilized to maintain public order and assist with disaster relief. People walk amidst damaged property following the passing of Hurricane Beryl, in Union Island, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Members of the local environment agency protect sea turtles' nests ahead the arrival of Hurricane Beryl, in Cancun, Mexico As soon as the hurricane has passed, the security forces have developed strategic plans to counter any potential threat of looting or any other opportunistic crimes,' Holness warned. An evacuation order was also issued for communities across Jamaica that are prone to flooding and landslides. Holness urged Jamaicans to move away from low-lying areas. A hurricane watch was in effect for Haiti's southern coast and the Yucatans east coast. Belize issued a tropical storm watch stretching south from its border with Mexico to Belize City. Late Monday, Beryl became the earliest storm to develop into a Category 5 hurricane in the Atlantic and peaked at winds of 165 mph Tuesday before weakening to a still-destructive Category 4. Early Wednesday, the storm was about 125 miles southeast of Kingston. It had maximum sustained winds of 145 mph and was moving west-northwest at 20 mph, the center said. Hurricane Beryl tore through the island of St Lucia leaving a trail of devastation A man looks at damaged vehicles after devastating floods swept through the town after Hurricane Beryl passed off the Venezuelan coast, in Cumanacoa, Venezuela, July 2, 2024 Hurricane warnings were issued to the Mexican resort towns of Cancun and Cozumel sending people to the supermarket to buy provisions Mexico's Caribbean coast was preparing for Beryl on Wednesday, with the popular resorts of Cancun and Cozumel issued urgent hurricane warnings. The head of the country's civil defense agency the hurricane l is expected to make a rare double strike on Mexico. Laura Velazquez said the storm is expected to make landfall between late Thursday and early Friday along a relatively unpopulated stretch of the Caribbean coast between Tulum and the inland town of Felipe Carrillo Puerto. The hurricane is expected to weaken to a tropical storm as it crosses the Yucatan peninsula and reemerge over the weekend at storm strength into the Gulf of Mexico. Velazquez said that Beryl is then expected to hit Mexican territory a second time in the Gulf coast states of Veracruz or Tamaulipas, near the Texas border. As Beryl barreled through the Caribbean Sea, rescue crews in southeastern islands fanned out to determine the extent of the damage the hurricane inflicted on Carriacou, an island in Grenada. Three people were reported killed in Grenada and Carriacou and another in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, officials said. Two other deaths were reported in northern Venezuela, where five people are missing, officials said. About 25,000 people in that area also were affected by heavy rainfall from Beryl. The storm is expected to weaken as it moves westwards but still be near major hurricane strength as it passes over Jamaica Storm clouds hover over the mountains as people make last-minute preparations for the arrival of Hurricane Beryl on July 03, 2024 in Kingston, Jamaica Scattered debris clutters the waterfront after Hurricane Beryl passed the island of Carriacou, Grenada July 2, 2024 One fatality in Grenada occurred after a tree fell on a house, Kerryne James, the environment minister said. Carriacou and Petit Martinique sustained the greatest damage, with scores of homes and businesses flattened in Carriacou. Grenada's prime minister, Dickon Mitchell, said Tuesday there was no power, roads are impassable and the possible rise of the death toll 'remains a grim reality.' St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has promised to rebuild the archipelago. He noted that 90 percent of homes on Union Island were destroyed, and that 'similar levels of devastation' were expected on the islands of Myreau and Canouan. The last strong hurricane to hit the southeast Caribbean was Hurricane Ivan 20 years ago, which killed dozens of people in Grenada. A CNN segment discussing Joe Biden's ailing missteps descended into a shouting match between two guests. Scott Jennings, who served as a special assistant to President George W. Bush, appeared on OutFront on Tuesday to discuss the competency of Biden. He clashed with fellow guest Jamal Simmons, the former communications director for Vice President Kamala Harris. 'Are you comfortable with Hunter Biden running White House senior staff meetings? Do you think this is good?,' Jennings shouted before Simmons replied: 'Why are you yelling at me?' Jennings was discussing the concerning report about President Biden's cognitive abilities and another about how his son Hunter Biden has attended some White House meetings. A CNN segment discussing Joe Biden 's ailing missteps descended into a shouting match between two guests CNN commentator Jennings was talking about how Biden blamed his poor debate performance on his travel schedule. 'This is an amazing day,' he said. 'Number one, the New York Times reporting that hes lapsing in meetings. 'This is becoming more frequent. Number two, we found out today that a felon and a crack addict is now sitting in on White House senior staff meetings. 'And number three, the president is now tonight to his own donors, blaming a foreign trip that ended 12 days before the debate for his disastrous performance on Thursday.' Jennings claimed the Biden administration is 'off the rails.' But Simmons pointed to Donald Trump's criminal convictions for falsifying business records and the prosecution he faces for retaining government documents after leaving office. 'Are we sure Scott wasnt talking about the criminal felon that had the secret documents that he was holding in his bathroom in Mar-a-Lago?,' he asked. Scott Jennings (right), who served as a special assistant to President George W. Bush, appeared on OutFront on Tuesday to discuss the competency of Biden with Jennings was discussing the concerning report about President Biden's cognitive abilities and another about how his son Hunter Biden has attended some White House meetings 'Because there is a felon that we havent talked about tonight.' But Jennings began to raise his voice and said: 'Are you comfortable, Jamal? Are you comfortable with Hunter Biden running White House senior staff meetings? 'Do you think this is good? Do you think this is good?' Simmons responded: 'Why are you yelling at me?' However, Jennings continued his rant and said: 'Im asking you. Were talking about Joe Biden were talking about Joe Biden tonight, who is admitting to his own donors people in your party that he cant both perform and campaign. 'And you want to talk about the Mar-a-Lago documents case, which is not gonna come to trial before November. 'This is the sitting president. You worked for him. I wanna know if you were in a senior staff meeting, would you want Hunter Biden looking over your shoulder? Thats my question.' He clashed with fellow guest Jamal Simmons, the former communications director for Vice President Kamala Harris Simmons responded by claiming that MAGA Republicans like Trump and Marjorie Taylor Greene are attempting to take freedoms away from women and other groups. 'Thats not what they want,' he said. 'And thats the reason why I think that Trump is still gonna be in trouble when you get down to election day.' The heated interaction came after Biden blamed his globetrotting ahead of Thursday's disastrous debate for his poor performance. The 81-year-old president made the concession during a fundraiser in the ritzy D.C. suburb of McLean, Virginia Tuesday night. He told the crowd he 'wasn't very smart' for 'traveling around the world a couple times' before his showdown with presumptive Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump. 'I decided to travel around the world a couple of times shortly before the debate I didnt listen to my staff and then I almost fell asleep on stage,' the president said He added, 'It's not an excuse but an explanation.' A masked prowler has attacked a series of women in a terrifying spree across Sydney's west - and police have warned that he will strike again. The man was caught on camera at about 4am on Wednesday as he robbed a number of properties in Northmead, north of Parramatta. An hour later, the same man carjacked a Mitsubishi Outlander SUV as its owner bought fuel at the servo on Windsor Road at North Rocks. He then used the car as he attacked three women, police say. Officers claim the man first assaulting a 47-year-old woman from behind on the nearby Mons Road at about 5.20am. She tripped over as she tried to flee, with the assailant making off with her handbag. A 19-year-old woman called police at 5.40am after a figure - believed to be the same man - pulled a knife on her in Toongabbie. He stole her bag too and drove off in the stolen SUV, police allege. A masked prowler has attacked a series of women in a terrifying spree across Sydney's west - and police have warned that he will strike again The man was caught on camera at about 4am on Wednesday as he robbed a number of properties in Northmead, north of Parramatta At about 5.55am, a 27-year-old woman was attacked with a hammer in North Parramatta. 'The woman has handed the man her purse and mobile phone ... and (he) left the scene driving the SUV,' police said. The woman's male friends tracked her phone and found the man at a nearby home. He attacked one of the men with the hammer and escaped. Police riot officers and sniffer dogs are now searching for the thug. 'I describe this as particularly cowardly, just targeting women walking alone, in the early hours, from behind,' Superintendent Barry Vincent said. Police riot officers and sniffer dogs are now searching for the thug 'While we weren't able to come across this offender during the morning, it is of concern to us that the offending continues.' The ensuing chaos of the police search led to Christ the King Primary School in North Rocks to be briefly locked down as officers hunted for the offender nearby. There are now fears that the man may have been responsible for a series of break-ins in the area two days earlier - raising fears he will strike again. The man is described as being of medium build and in his 20s. He was last seen wearing all black, including a beanie, balaclava, gloves and Nike hoodie. Police say people should not approach him and should instead call the police if they see him. This is the moment a serial robber tells police officers arresting him that the car chase will look 'absolutely disgusting on tape'. Five crooks who targeted 14 premises including shops and even a hospital during the Covid lockdown in 2020 were today jailed for a total of 53 years. As all the gang are put behind bars, West Midlands police released footage of the moment the burglars were caught during a raid in Oldbury. Officers were led on a 15-minute chase before the red van was repeatedly rammed by officers before the getaway driver Nicholas Collins bizarrely moaned to officers about how the chase would look on video. While being led away in handcuffs, he said 'What was you chasing me for? Look what just happened. Course I'm upset, I'm going to prison now. You know, dangerous driving and whatever else. Five crooks who targeted 14 premises including shops and even a hospital during the Covid lockdown in 2020 were today jailed for a total of 53 years. Pictured: Footage of the gang during one of their raids Nicholas Collins tries to evade police in a red van before he is tasered and arrested by police Collins, 41, of West Bromwich, was jailed for six years and 20 months for conspiracy to burgle and driving offences 'It's going to be ridiculous on tape that is. That's going to an absolutely disgusting chase on tape that is lads. Thank you very much 'cos you know what I'm going to look like an absolute (expletive) (expletive) to everybody who sees that. And it's all because you were chasing me for what?' Collins was part of a gang who carried out robberies and ram raids across the Midlands. The crime spree began on January 6, 2020, when they drove to Stoke-on-Trent in a cloned car and stole two Audis before driving all three back to the West Midlands. The next day they used one of the Audis to raid a Subway in West Bromwich, where they stole a safe and ripped out the CCTV system. Hours later, they smashed a hole in the side of a garage in Wolverhampton, ransacking an office and stealing tools. The same day they moved on to a money transfer shop in Tipton, where they ripped open a roller shutter. While trying to remove a safe they were disturbed by officers and fled the scene. On January 19 two of the gang robbed a shop in Oldbury armed with crowbars which they used to threaten terrified staff. The workers were forced to kneel while the gang smashed their way into a safe and made off with thousands of pounds. Three days later on January 22 they tried to open a cash machine at a shop on Washwood Heath Road, Birmingham, but again were disturbed by police. As they fled the scene they left their tools behind. Despite the failed raid, the gang were not deterred and struck a shop in the Milking Ban area of Dudley on January 28. They used a 'jaws of life' machine, normally used by firefighters, to break in before blowing up a cash machine using gas. John Williamson, 42, of Smethwick, was given a 21-month jail sentence, suspended for two years for conspiracy to burgle Dean Isitt, 45, of Cradley Heath, was jailed for 16 years for the same offences Despite the raid, they fled empty handed again. On January 30 CCTV captured them breaking into Cannock Hospital where they tried and failed to take money from a cash machine. Footage shows them using their van to ram police officers as they escaped. On February 1 the gang ram-raided a shop on Lichfield Road, in Walsall Wood, which saw the entire entrance destroyed. They tried to drag a cash machine through the shop using heavy straps but were forced to abandon the raid when it became snagged on the shutters. On March 6 they used the same technique during a raid on a shop on Warstones Lane, Wolverhampton. They again failed to flee with the ATM when the straps snapped as it dragged through the wrecked shop. On April 25, police tried to stop a van carrying gang member Mark Lake, but he performed a U-turn and drove the wrong way up the junction 7 slip road on the M6. Dash-cam showed him driving at speed for about half-a-mile on the hard shoulder on the wrong side of the motorway. He abandoned the van and escaped on foot but when officers searched the vehicle they found scaffolding with straps. Mark Lake, 43, of West Bromwich, was jailed for 18 years for conspiracy to commit robbery and conspiracy to burgle They had been welded onto the vehicle chassis to make it easier for the gang to rip out cash machines. On June 4 the gang struck again when they stormed into a store on Turners Lane, Brierley Hill. They ripped the panic alarms from staff and started removing the tills before fleeing. On June 7, the group carried out their final robbery at a store on Howley Grange Road, Halesowen. Masked and armed with hammers and crowbars, they ran into the shop, terrifying an elderly customer and threatening the staff, forcing them into the rear office. They smashed and took the tills and demanded access to the safe, but failed to get in. Four days later officers caught the gang driving in a red van which had cloned number plates. Collins, who was driving, was tasered before being arrested. Mark Lake was trapped in the van and was arrested along with Darren Fitzpatrick who was found in a rear partition in the vehicle. A fourth member of the gang. Dean Isitt, was arrested as he tried to flee his home in Clyde Street Isitt was then arrested attempting to flee from his home address on Clyde Street, Old Hill, Cradley Heath. The gang were convicted of a string of offences including conspiracy to commit robbery, conspiracy to commit burglary and driving offences. Darren Fitzpatrick, 38, of Tividale, was jailed for 13 years for the same offences On Monday they were sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court. Lake, 43, of West Bromwich, was jailed for 18 years for conspiracy to commit robbery and conspiracy to burgle. Isitt, 45, of Cradley Heath, was jailed for 16 years for the same offences. Fitzpatrick, 38, of Tividale, was jailed for 13 years for the same offences. Collins, 41, of West Bromwich, was jailed for six years and 20 months for conspiracy to burgle and driving offences. A fifth man, John Williamson, 42, of Smethwick, was given a 21-month jail sentence, suspended for two years for conspiracy to burgle. Detective Constable John Marsh, of West Midlands Police Major Crime Unit, said: 'This was a prolonged series of really serious offending, which saw innocent members of the public terrorised in their workplaces as this gang used force to steal from shops and businesses around the region. 'The CCTV released shows just how ruthless and reckless they were. 'We pulled together mobile phone evidence, along with details of vehicles movements and forensics from items left at the scene of the gang's crimes to build a really compelling case.' Most voters believe Joe Biden's disastrous debate performance on Thursday was not caused by a cold or too much preparation, but by dementia. That is one of the most damning findings in an exclusive national poll for DailyMail.com. Only 10 percent of respondents accepted the White House's excuse that a cold was to blame for the President struggling to answer questions or hold his train of thought during a 90-minute showdown with Donald Trump. At the same time, it reveals that Trump, 78, has extended his lead over 81-year-old Biden to six points, deepening the crisis facing the president's reelection campaign. The White House has already had to fend off questions about whether the president is 'disabled' in a sign of how Biden's health moved to the center of the contest this week. J.L. Partners polled 1000 likely voters and asked them what they thought was to blame for Joe Biden's disastrous debate performance in Atlanta last week Now with Biden under intense pressure to step aside, our poll reveals how far those health fears have spread. Some 52 percent of respondents said dementia was the cause, including 17 percent of Democrats and more than half of independents. 'The debate confirmed what voters already feared about Bidenand then some,' said James Johnson, co-founder of J.L. Partners who conducted the poll. 'The finding that 52% of voters think his poor performance was down to dementia is hugely significant: No one is buying Biden's personal excuses or that of his staff. This is something they think is structural and a problem that is not going to go away. 'Majority views involving political figures are not normal in American politics due to high levels of polarization. Biden's health has bucked that: it is now a majority and uniting view that Biden is mentally unwell.' The poll asked 1000 likely voters from July 1 to 3 for their views. The results carry a 3.1 point margin of error. They show Trump with his biggest overall lead since DailyMail.com began tracking voter intentions. He has extended his lead by two points, since our last poll in March, to six points, as Biden's support dips and Trump's holds steady. And the results reveal how a stumbling debate performance has transported the question of dementia from the preserve of rightwing television anchors to the mainstream. Biden's halting performance, tailing off mid-sentence at times, sparked calls for him to step aside as the Democratic candidate. Biden was leading Trump this time last year, but has seen the former president steal a lead since then. Trump now has a six point advantage, according to our exclusive poll Even Donald Trump looked surprised by Biden's frail performance during their first presidential debate in Atlanta, Georgia, last week Adding to the pressure, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said it was now legitimate to ask whether his performance was an 'episode' or a condition. Biden allies and the White House continue to insist that he should not be defined by one 'bad night' in June. That triggered extraordinary scenes in the White House briefing room on Tuesday when Karine Jean-Pierre was quizzed about the debate. 'I think the American people need to get a yes or no answer on this,' asked a reporter. 'Does President Biden, at 81 years old, have Alzheimer's, any form of dementia or degenerative illness that caused these sorts of lapses?' Jean-Pierre answered: 'It's a no. And I hope you're asking the other guy the same exact question.' She also announced a hectic period of activity, including an interview with George Stephanopoulos of ABC News and a press conference next week, as the president shows he is getting on with the job. Biden visited the D.C. Emergency Operations Center in Washington on Tuesday. The White House also announced he will hold a press conference next week as it tries to fight back Biden himself addressed his performance at a campaign event hours later, when he apologized to donors. 'I decided to travel around the world a couple of times shortly before the debate ' he said. 'I didnt listen to my staff and then I almost fell asleep on stage.' His campaign has held a series of damage control calls with donors, staff members and party officials, as a trickle of voices urging him to stand aside threatens to become a torrent. The concern is a gift to the Trump campaign. The former president has maintained a low-profile, keeping his vice presidential announcement firmly on ice, as the focus stayed on the Biden camp. 'This is popcorn moment for us,' said a Trump world insider. 'Why would we try to generate headlines when the other side is falling apart like this?' The Prince and Princess of Wales have beefed up their team of advisors with the man credited for turning around Tesco. Nicknamed 'drastic Dave' for his willingness to employ the kind of cost-cutting measures that others fear to, Sir David Lewis has been described by one source as a 'genius' appointment. As of this week he has been appointed as a director of William and Kate's The Royal Foundation of the Prince and Princess of Wales. It is the umbrella organisation for all of the couple's major philanthropic efforts, covering areas as diverse as conservation, mental health and the emergency services and well as the princess' work in the 'early years' sector and the prince's Earthshot environmental prize. Sir David Lewis, pictured in 2017, has been described as a 'genius' appointment. He is credited with saving Tesco - and led the launch of the phenomenally successful Dove brand The prince and princess have quietly shelved plans to appoint a new CEO to run their royal household this year as they focus on Kate's cancer diagnosis and ongoing treatment The trustees - led by former Tory leader Lord Hague - each undertake a balance of responsibilities divided between strategic direction, governance, oversight and fundraising. They meet at least quarterly on a formal basis and are accountable in law for the work of the Foundation. They will also meet and speak regularly to the prince and princess. Sir David, 59, worked at Unilever for 27 years, where he rose to become president of global personal care and was credited as the brains behind the launch of the phenomenally-successful 'Dove' brand. It was also there that he earned his reputation for taking tough decisions, particularly in terms of cutting company spending. In a surprise move he left to become CEO of Tesco in 2014 at a particularly difficult time for the supermarket giant. It had just posted a 6.4billion loss, with sales slumping to their lowest level in 20 years after being hit by cut-price newcomers Aldi and Lidl. It was also teetering on the brink of a major accounting scandal after overstating its profits, which saw the value of its shares plummet. However the Yorkshire-born, Nottingham Polytechnic-educated executive didn't blink and was credited with turning around the supermarket chain's fortunes during his six-year stint. Drastic Dave lived up to his name by slashing superfluous parts of the empires, cutting thousands of jobs - and perks such as private jets - as well as reducing product lines. And just two years on, he was able to report annual profits of 162million - and rising. He also sharpened up the firm's social responsibility credentials, a move that will no doubt have gone down well at Kensington Palace. In 2020 he was also asked by the Government for advice on how to fix the food supply chain crisis during the Covid pandemic. Sir David left Tesco the same year without another job to go to, declaring his work was done. The self-confessed fitness fanatic, who lives in Richmond, Surrey, with his second wife, Helena, candidly admitted he wanted to 'take some proper time out with my family' - he has two daughters by his first marriage - and to 'recharge my batteries' as 'you pass this way only once'. However he has not stayed idle, joining a start-up renewable energy company - right up William's street - and holding roles within a range of companies including Morrisons, PepsiCo and healthcare firm Haleon. He is also a director of the World Wildlife Fund, which is also sure to have gone down well with the prince. He was knighted in 2021 for services to business. The Royal Foundation, set up in 2009, supports Kate and William's non-profit work Sir Dave Lewis was earlier this year brought in by the owners of Morrisons in an advisory role. Pictured: Sir Dave speaking at the British Chambers of Commerce conference in 2019 One royal source described his appointment to the Royal Foundation as 'genius', noting that William and Kate had taken care to attract trustees from a wide variety of backgrounds including film producer Dame Pippa Harris, entrepreneur and former Worldpay CEO Sir Ron Kalifa, lawyer Claire Wills, former BBC executive Alice Webb and make-up superbrand Charlotte Tilbury's CEO Lady Pinsent. They described the couple as quietly laying 'strong foundations' for their future philanthropic work. The prince and princess have, however, quietly shelved plans to appoint a new CEO to run their royal household this year as they focus on Kate's cancer diagnosis and ongoing treatment. The search was announced last September amid suggestions the Prince wanted a 'revolutionary' restructure to make their household more corporate. Anthony Fauci has dodged questions about Joe Biden's health after the president's concerning debate performance was blamed on him suffering from a cold. America's former chief medical advisor was asked by CBS host Major Garrett on Tuesday if he saw anything in the debate that would 'medically alarm him. However, the divisive medic who advised America's response to the Covid pandemic said: 'You know, I can't say.' 'I think it would be inappropriate to say that, Major, because when you're just looking at someone on a one-shot basis, you just don't know what could happen,' Fauci said. The doctor did suggest, however, that antihistamines used to treat cold and flu could have contributed to Biden's sleepy showing. Dr. Fauci tells @MajorCBS that he has "no doubt" President Biden has the mental capacity and vigor to carry on with his office, despite a shaky performance during last week's debate with former President Donald Trump. Full episode with Dr. Fauci on @TakeoutPodcast will be pic.twitter.com/lVpwjNYcVP CBS News (@CBSNews) July 2, 2024 'Did he have a bad cold? Did he take an antihistamine to make him groggy or what have you? We don't know what went on,' Fauci continued. On Wednesday, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, spend the best part of an hour being grilled on the President's health. She confirmed that while the 81-year-old still has a cold, he hasn't seen a doctor. Jean-Pierre claimed 'jet lag' from his two back-to-back international trips 12 days before the debate contributed to the president's poor showing. She also confirmed Biden hasn't had a medical examination since February. Antihistamines, such as Benadryl and Claritin, are popular in the US. Some are known to cause users to become sleepy, which Fauci seemed to be suggesting may have happened with Biden on stage during his debate performance. And Biden himself even admitted that he nearly dozed off on stage. The 81-year-old president made the admission during a fundraiser in the ritzy D.C. suburb of McLean, Virginia Tuesday night. He told the crowd he 'wasn't very smart' for 'traveling around the world a couple times' before his televised showdown with former President Donald Trump. Biden did back-to-back trips to France for a D-Day anniversary celebration and then onto Italy for the G7 in June. President Joe Biden speaks during a presidential debate with Republican candidate, former U.S. President Donald Trump, in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 27, 2024. Critics immediately after the event began questioning Biden's health and whether the 81-year-old is up to the job Former President Donald Trump ridiculed Biden for his age and wandering answers during the debate Upon his return, the president took a holiday at his vacation home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Then Biden spent a whole week at the presidential retreat Camp David resting and preparing for the debate. The New York Times reported Tuesday that Biden was so drained from the jet-setting that advisers cut debate prep short by two days - in order to fit in the beach trip. While at Camp David, debate prep didn't start before 11 a.m. and Biden was given time each day in the afternoon to take a nap. The president made the clear at the Tuesday campaign event his travel is 'not an excuse but an explanation.' Fauci, similarly agreed, saying his prognosis of Biden's bill of health would not be appropriate since the debate was too short to get an accurate assessment. Since the debate, a number of Democrat lawmakers have either called on Biden to withdraw from the race or have openly admitted they believe Trump will tounce him 'I think it would be unfair and inappropriate to try and diagnose something from just a 90-minute clip,' he said. Then the doctor said the same line many leading Democrats have used of the debate: 'It just looked like a bad night.' 'My interactions with him, I have to say, have been very, very positive,' Fauci added. Biden's physician, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, travels with him everywhere, and was see at the debate in Atlanta. But the 81-year-old Biden 'was not examined by the doctor,' en route to the debate, Jean-Pierre said. 'There's a cold. There's a jetlag. You combine that -- he continues to work on with for the American people day in and day out, around the clock. Things happen,' she said of Biden's debate performance. Shocking video captured the moment a jiu-jitsu-practicing lawyer fought off a thief who tried to swipe his phone while he ate lunch at a Taco Bell in New York. Kyle, 28, was enjoying a cheese quesadilla on a sunny Tuesday at the Taco Bell on Junction Blvd in Queens when the poacher attempted to steal his phone. Unbeknownst to the crook, the lawyer had a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and fended off the attack. Security camera footage showed Kyle immediately put the thief in a headlock and pushed him to the ground when he attempted to grab his phone. 'He wanted my phone. He had come up behind me and was asking me for money or something. I told him no and then he came back and lunged for my phone,' Kyle said in a Reddit post. Kyle, 28, was enjoying a cheese quesadilla at the Taco Bell on Junction Blvd in Queens when a thief tried to grab his phone with one hand and another on the door handle to make a quick exit 'He actually took a screenshot so I have the exact time it happened.' Kyle was eating at a counter seat next to the door when the sneak tried to grab the man's phone with one hand and another on the door handle to make a quick exit. The 28-year-old kept a tight grip and scooted out of his chair as he fought off the attacker. He quickly wrapped his arm around the thief, pushed him to the ground, and grabbed his cell phone off the floor. The attacker jumped off the ground while Kyle watched him leave restaurant with bated breath waiting to see if he would continue to fight. 'He was saying "Im good, Im good." I figured that he just wanted my phone and wasnt willing to fight anymore so I let him go,' Kyle said. Kyle used his purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu to fend off the attack and put the thief in a headlock and pushed him to the ground Kyle is a lawyer who has a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and started practicing in 2018 'The cops never came so if I held him there then Id probably still be there. 'Im a purple belt, I started in January 2018. What was going through my mind was probably thinking "oh s**t, I need to take this guy down," and then realizing I could have been stabbed.' New York City Police crime data shows robbery, felony assault and both petit and grand larceny have increased in the precinct the Taco Bell is located in. Robbery has soared 42.2 percent year to date, felony assault is up 30.2 percent, grand larceny has risen 6.7 percent and petit larceny increased 10.8 percent in the 115th precinct. An order keeping prime Madeleine McCann suspect Christian Brueckner behind bars has been dramatically overturned - dealing investigators a crucial blow. Convicted paedophile and rapist Brueckner, 47, was served the court document last year as he was due to be released from jail and it was used to detain him in custody while he went on trial for unrelated sex crimes. In June 2020 he was named as prime suspect for the 2007 abduction and murder of Madeleine McCann by German police but since then he has not been charged with any crime in relation to the case. He was due to have been released from prison early last year after being convicted of raping an elderly American woman in Praia ds Luz, Portugal, the same area Madeleine vanished from when she was three years old. The paperwork - described in Germany as a warrant - was issued to keep in him in jail so he could face three rape charges and two child sex abuse ones, said to have been committed in Portugal between 2000 and 2017 and his trial for these started in February. Convicted paedophile and rapist Christian Brueckner, 47, (pictured) was served the court document last year as he was due to be released from jail Brueckner is the prime suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann The trial in Braunschweig, near Hannover, Germany, has heard from several witnesses including two men who claim Brueckner was involved in Madeleines disappearance and a Scotland Yard officer investigating the case. Judge Ute Engemanns decision following a request from Brueckners legal team was announced in a brief press release from the court which said the Chamber revoked the arrest warrant at the request of the defence. There was no immediate comment from the prosecutors in the sex cases and from Hans Christian Wolters who is a spokesperson for the German McCann investigation but it is understood they can appeal. Brueckner last appeared in court in Braunschweig, Germany on Friday in a wheelchair after injuring his ankle and the application to have the warrant was made by his legal team was made last month. Speaking to MailOnline Brueckner's lawyer Philipp Marquort said:'This is great news for us and it's the end of the case - 99% certain. There was no immediate comment from the prosecutors in the sex cases and from Hans Christian Wolters who is a spokesperson for the German McCann investigation The trial in Braunschweig, near Hannover, Germany, has heard from several witnesses including two men who claim Brueckner was involved in Madeleines disappearance He was due to have been released from prison early last year after being convicted of raping an elderly American woman in Praia ds Luz, Portugal 'You just have to see the quality of the evidence presented so far to see there is no case to answer. 'His legal team is delighted with the news and I will be calling Herr Brueckner now to tell him. His main lawyer (Friedrich) Fulscher is on holiday. It means that the prison where he is serving his sentence has to start preparing him for his release, technically that should be next spring or summer but there is a good possibility it could happen later this year. The news was announced in a press release from the court and full details are expected to be announced at the next hearing on Friday. In a text message to MailOnline Mr Fulscher said:'I am the best,' adding a sunglasses emoji. It remains unclear exactly what will happen in this saga next following todays dramatic twist - but its possible Bruckner could be released imminently. And certainly his legal team are expected to begin pushing for this to happen immediately. In the event that he was freed it would potentially be much harder for authorities in Portugal, Germany or the UK to pursue him over the Madeleine case as he could drift back into the nomadic lifestyle he lived when previously freed - while still having access to legal resources to put obstacles in the way of anyone trying to investigate him. Republicans are taking aim at Vice President Kamala Harris as President Biden faces mounting calls to step aside as the Democratic presidential nominee paving the way for the vice president to potentially top the ticket come November. The vice president has been a staunch defender of the president and has pushed back on concerns over his poor debate performance and age. But some Democrats have already called for the president to drop out and Harris has been touted as a likely successor. Republicans are seizing on the fallout, accusing Democrats of covering up the president's true fitness and taking aim at Democrats in battleground states up and down the ballot. The Republican House campaign arm on Wednesday launched a digital ad zeroing in on the vice president as Republicans look to hold the House and expand their slim majority this fall. Republicans launch attacks on Vice President Kamala Harris a she appears to be frontrunner to replace President Biden should he exit the presidential race The ad accuses Harris of being an 'enabler in chief' with clips of her praising Biden. It also accuses the vice president of being the 'architect of the border crisis' as a leading administration official tasked with addressing the border. The digital spot ends 'Vote Republican. Stop Kamala.' 'Whether extreme House Democrats call on Joe Biden to step aside or not, Kamala Harris deserves the blame for many of the crises making life unsafe and difficult for American families -- and we plan to make her a prominent feature of the 2024 campaign,' said National Republican Campaign Committee Will Reinert in a statement. But Democrats slammed the line of attack and efforts to tie the vice president to the border. 'Republicans are fooling themselves if they think the American public will blame anyone besides Donald Trump and his feckless band of Republican extremists and phony moderates who killed a bipartisan border deal - all in an attempt to score cheap political points,' said Courtney Rice, spokesperson for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, in response. The GOP attack ad on Harris comes as a new CNN poll shows the vice president within two points of Donald Trump in a hypothetical head-to-head matchup. She does better in the polling than President Biden against the ex-president or other Democrats who have been floated as a replacement. The National Republican Congressional Committee which works to elect GOP House candidates released a digital ad targeting Vice President Harris amid Biden's debate fallout A new CNN poll shows Vice President Kamala Harris within striking distance of Trump in a hypothetical matchup 47 percent to 45 percent Former Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan became the first prominent Democrat this week to call for Biden to step aside and for Democrats to make Harris the nominee. Harris is the only potential replacement who would be able to seamlessly take control of the Biden campaign war chest should he drop out. But a Politico/Morning Consult poll last month found Harris has similar unfavorable ratings as Biden at 52 percent. For her part, Harris has rejected the prospect of being the party nominee so far. In response to Texas Democrat Rep. Lloyd Doggett's call for President Biden to withdraw from the presidential race, Vice President Harris says, "Joe Biden is our nominee. We beat Trump once and we're going to beat him again."@NidiaCavazosTV: "Are you ready to lead the country pic.twitter.com/rSanOZmMJn CBS News (@CBSNews) July 2, 2024 'Look, Joe Biden is our nominee. We beat Trump once and we're going to beat him again. Period,' Harris told CBS News on Tuesday. When asked if she is ready to lead the country if necessary, Harris responded 'I am proud to be Joe Biden's running mate.' The president and White House reiterated on Wednesday Biden would not be dropping out of the race. A Delta Air Lines flight was diverted to New York City after passengers and crew, including both pilots, were served moldy chicken, a traveler has revealed. Nancy Kirchoff, 65, was on the Amsterdam bound flight with her husband when it made an emergency landing at JFK Airport in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The pilot announced they were turning around because there was 'some type of food issue and people were sick', Kirchoff told DailyMail.com. 'They said they saw some mold on the chicken,' she added. 'I asked if anyone had gotten sick and they told us no one had been affected, but the pilots both ate the chicken.' Medics met the plane after it landed at JFK and aid was provided to 14 passengers and 10 flight crew, all of whom declined to receive medical attention. Delta Air Lines flight 136 en route to Amsterdam diverted to New York City's JFK Airport after it was discovered that passengers were served 'spoiled food' during the in-flight meal service One seemingly frustrated passenger took to social media, asking how the airline was 'going to get me to Amsterdam today' after it had to divert 'because you served passengers 'contaminated' food' on the plane The A330 plane, which had 277 customers on board, departed from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport just before 11pm Tuesday. The flight crew decided to divert to NYC after it was discovered that a portion of the in-flight meal service had been spoiled, a Delta spokesperson told DailyMail.com. 'We were probably halfway to Amsterdam, around Nova Scotia and starting to cross ocean when the pilot came on and said there was some type of food issue,' Kirchoff recalled. She said that the flight attendants then 'came around to each row and asked if everyone was feeling good or sick.' That's when she asked the crew about the food issue and was allegedly told that mold was discovered on the chicken. She also claims the flight attendants disclosed that both pilots had eaten the meal. DailyMail.com has approached Delta for comment. The traveler says she suspects the plane was diverted as a 'precautionary measure', adding that 'I didn't see anyone getting sick' during the flight. Kirchoff confirmed that her husband did eat the chicken during the flight's meal service, but thankfully 'he was fine'. The flight landed safely at JFK around 4am Wednesday, where passengers and crew were met by medics (file photo of JFK Airport) File photo. Nancy Kirchoff said she was told there was mold on the chicken - but was also told 'no one had been affected' The flight landed safely at JFK around 4am Wednesday, where passengers and crew were met by medics. 'There were 24 aided cases upon landing, including 10 members of the flight crew and 14 passengers, all of whom declined to receive medical attention,' a Port Authority spokesperson told DailyMail.com. 'Passengers were provided with hotel rooms and transportation and will be rebooked to continue to their destination.' A Delta spokesperson said the flight crew had consulted with medical experts who recommended the diversion before deciding to make the emergency landing. But one seemingly frustrated traveler tweeted at the airline after the emergency landing, complaining about the travel disruption. Virginia said: 'I need to know how you're going to get me to Amsterdam today - I'm on the plane that's emergency landing at JFK because you served passengers 'contaminated' food. 'I don't need hotel/food vouchers I need to arrive in Amsterdam today.' Kirchoff confirmed that she and her husband, who were going on a cruise to celebrate their 20th anniversary, have already been rebooked on another flight to Amsterdam, after having their ticket changed three times by the airline. They are expected to arrive in the Netherlands on Thursday, but do to the disruption have missed the first day of the cruise. They will board the voyage at its first port stop. A Delta spokesperson told DailyMail.com its teams are probing the incident and have issued an apology to its costumers (stock photo) A spokesperson told DailyMail.com: 'Delta flight 136 from Detroit to Amsterdam diverted to New York's JFK early Wednesday morning after it was discovered that a portion of the in-flight meal service was spoiled. 'Medical crews were on site to meet the aircraft and treat any affected passengers and crew members. Delta teams will immediately work to gather information into how this incident occurred. 'This is not the service Delta is known for and we sincerely apologize to our customers for the inconvenience and delay in their travels.' It comes after a separate Delta plane was forced to make an emergency landing at JFK in April after an emergency slide fell off the aircraft. The Los Angeles-bound Delta flight 520 was diverted back JFK Airport at around 8.30am on April 26. The plane had been an hour into its journey when the freak incident set off an emergency alarm. No injuries were reported aboard the Boeing 767, which was carrying 176 customers, two pilots and five flight attendants at the time. Donald Trump has a three-point edge over Joe Biden across the seven battleground states for the 2024 presidential election. Following a debate widely assessed as a disaster for President Biden, the former president is now seeing a bump with just four months until Election Day in November. Biden's campaign tried to get ahead of bad polling and downplay any future dip, writing last week: 'It will not be the first time that overblown media narratives have driven temporary dips in the polls.' Half of respondents who voted for Biden in 2020 now tell CBS News/YouGov polling they don't think he should be running for reelection this year and claim they are less likely to turn out in November. Nationally, Trump is ahead by two points, but in the much more consequential swing states of Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin the former president's advantage grows to three percent, which is outside the poll's 2.3 percent margin of error. New poll shows Donald Trump three points ahead on average in all seven swing states after the debate with Joe Biden last week Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin all voted red in 2016 and flipped to vote blue for Biden in 2020. Nevada voted Democrat in both elections but is considered a toss-up this year, and North Carolina voted Republican in the last two presidential races but is also a battleground in this election. The winner this year will come down to how the electoral college votes are attributed in these seven states. And it's not just preference for the candidates, but enthusiasm is also lacking on the left. After the debate, Democrats say they are less likely than right-leaning voters to show up to vote in the general election. A whopping 90 percent of Republican voters say they 'definitely' will vote in the November 5 election, while 81 percent of Democrats say the same. Only 71 percent of independent voters say they are for sure coming out to cast their ballots in the fall. New poll reveals that Democrats are 9 percent less motivated to vote in November than right-leaning voters Overall, 69 percent of registered voters don't think the 81-year-old president should be running for reelection, according to the poll. Even before polls were coming out showing a dire message to Biden after he stumbled through the CNN debate in Atlanta, his campaign was downplaying any dip. Biden's campaign manager Jen O'Malley Dillon wrote: 'On every metric that matters, data shows it did nothing to change the American people's perception, our supporters are more fired up than ever, and Donald Trump only reminded voters of why they fired him four years ago and failed to expand his appeal beyond his MAGA base.' 'If we do see changes in polling in the coming weeks, it will not be the first time that overblown media narratives have driven temporary dips in the polls,' she added. Buc-ees lovers have been left devastated after its first-ever travel center in the country was destroyed in a massive fire. Multiple emergency responders including from the Luling Fire Department and Caldwell County Office of Emergency Management responded to calls about the blaze at around 10.30am in Luling, Texas on July 1. The area around the building, which is located east of San Antonio along I-10, was immediately blocked off as crews ran to get the fire under control. Images shared by the departments show plumes of black smoke flying against the chain's smiling beaver mascot as most of the roof of the gas station remains collapsed. Multiple emergency responders responded to calls about a fire that had engulfed the first ever Buc-ee's travel center at around 10.30am in Luling, Texas on July 1 Images shared by the departments show plumes of black smoke flying against the chain's smiling beaver mascot Officials later clarified it was the original Buc-ees building that had opened doors in 2003 which sustained damage rather than the newly developed center directly across the road. In a Facebook post, the Fire Department wrote: 'Crews are working on a structure fire in the area of I-10 and 183 in Luling. Despite the sign and some information you may have seen, the fire is NOT the new Buc-ees travel stop.' Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the fire or if there were any casualties. Locals were warned to stay away from the area even after the fire was out due to cleanup efforts. Long-time customers prayed for the locals and responders as well as questioned what had happened on social media. One person wrote: 'Havent even been a month since it opened a brand new Buccees burnt to the ground in Luling TX! So sad!' And another wrote: 'Broke my heart when I heard about this on the news.' A third said: 'They had large equipment in there tearing it down. Probably a power line not off or a vehicle overheating. Who know until the investigation is complete.' While a fourth fan of the company wrote: 'As a fan of Buc-ees, Im shocked to see an old closed Buc-ees being burnt. But thank goodness the new one that recently opened was unaffected and unharmed.' But while the destruction of the oldest travel center left fans heartbroken, the newest building has caused massive outrage after the popular retailer made a major design change. Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the fire or if there were any casualties Buc-ee's was founded in 1982 Store by Arch 'Beaver' Aplin III and Don Wasek Long-time customers prayed for the locals and responders as well as questioned what had happened on social media The new location that opened on June 10 has been dubbed 'the world's largest convenience store' chain, measuring in at a whopping 75,000 square feet. But scores of customers have taken to social media to blast the retailer's decision to give its beloved beaver mascot an 'Ozempic-like' makeover. A TikTok user (@marrallmike) posted photos showing how the mascot had changed, with more than 700 people leaving negative comments about its new appearance, according to My San Antonio. 'What did they do to my beautiful boy? It looks like he's going to jump scare me at 4:00 am now,' the user wrote in the video's description box on opening day. 'The charm has been ripped away,' another commenter said. Locals were warned to stay away from the area even after the fire was out due to cleanup efforts Slide me A TikTok user posted photos of the store chain's beloved beaver mascot from two locations and more than 700 others have left negative comments regarding its new appearance Like its Baytown and Alabama locations, Buc-ee's in Luling has a beloved mascot statue - but it is noticeably different from the beaver's past appearance. The beaver statue outside the Luling location is sculpted, and instead of tiny hands that are disproportionate to his body, they are much bigger and longer. The mascot's toes are also showing and its eyes are shining and brighter than its predecessor. Many TikTokers have since voiced their displeasure over the statue swap, with one saying: 'I hope they put the original in the Smithsonian.' 'Every time I went to a Buc-ee's on a road trip, I would always take a picture with the statue. That lovable statue for years,' a commenter wrote. 'But on the most recent trip, I noticed something was wrong with it. Rip Buc-ee.' Other users have given him nicknames such as 'Hollywood Buc-ee' and 'Ozempic Buc-ee' - which has been hearted more than 300 times by fellow TikTokers. Although the mascot changes have upset TikTokers, one person claimed that only the new Buc-ee's locations, including Luling, are getting updated statues. 'None of the old ones have changed. Only the new stores are getting this model,' the commenter wrote. Buc-ee's was founded in 1982 Store by Arch 'Beaver' Aplin III and Don Wasek. It began as a chain of highway travel centers, and now has more than 40 U.S. locations. The logo and mascot were created by Aplin when he and Wasek first founded the store chain, the co-founder told CBS News in 2022. Buc-ee's has since become a force to be reckoned with among its retailer competitors. Prior to June its store in Sevierville, Tennessee, held the record for being the world's largest convenience store. A British tourist who died after he tried to save two children who were in difficulties in the sea at a beach in Spain has been named. Bryn Thomas, from Southampton, Hampshire, is said to have died after running into the water in a bid to help the children, aged six and seven, along with others on the Costa Blanca on June 7. The tragedy happened at La Roqueta beach in Guardamar de Segura south of Alicante during gusting winds of up to almost 40mph. At the opening of an inquest into the 52-year-old's death in Winchester, area coroner Jason Pegg told the inquest that Mr Thomas had gone into the sea to help the young swimmers. However, he got into difficulties himself and later died. Mr Thomas was reported to have died alongside a 46-year-old man, from Poland, after both children were saved. The tragedy happened at La Roqueta beach (pictured) in Guardamar de Segura south of Alicante during gusting winds of up to almost 40mph The tragedies in the last 24 hours means an incredible eight people have now drowned in the province of Alicante, which Guardamar del Segura is part of, in the first seven days of June The causes of death were given as encephalic anoxia and mechanical asphyxia due to submersion. Two other people were rushed to hospital with breathing difficulties following the incident. The full inquest will be heard next year. The Spanish Civil Guard was quoted in reports saying: 'Two people lost their lives. One was British and the other Polish. They were both trying to help two young children who were in difficulties in the sea. The sea conditions were pretty bad.' Social media giant Meta has unveiled plans for a massive data center which will bring 1,000 jobs to a rural county in America's heartland. The big tech firm, which owns Facebook and WhatsApp, intends to build the $800 million hub in Wyoming's Cheyenne. The 715,000 square foot center is scheduled to open by 2027, Cowboy State Daily reports. At the peak of its construction the scheme, dubbed Project Cosmo, will generate 1,000 skilled construction jobs, its organizers said. The announcement was made at the Cheyenne Frontier Days Event Center, with U.S. Senators. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon, Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins, and other politicians in attendance. Social media giant Meta has unveiled plans for a massive data center which will bring 1,000 jobs to a rural county in America's heartland It is considered the largest ever investment in the tech sector and might explain why several energy companies are building solar farms nearby. However, not everyone is thrilled about the prospect of more big tech in town. Several neighbors previously expressed concerns about noise and traffic resulting from the build. 'Oh, hell no, we don't want it here,' local Rachel Riter said. 'We bought our house 18 years ago and we could look out the back of our house into somebody else's backyard, where cattle grazed. Nobody is happy about it.' But Bradley Davis, Meta's director of data centers and economic development, said the company has tried to work with the community. Mark Zuckerberg's tech firm, which owns Facebook and WhatsApp, intends to build the $800 million hub in Wyoming 's Cheyenne. The 715,000 square foot center is scheduled to open by 2027. Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., Wyoming were at the unveiling of the plans 'In all of our data centers, we're committed to being a good neighbor, a member of the community and looking to make sure that whatever we're doing in our operations are not going to be a disturbance to anybody nearby,' he said. The facility is designed to house network computers that will store, process and transmit data across the world. Meta will join the likes of Microsoft and others in bringing a data center to Cheyenne. It has so far refused to state how much electricity will be needed to power the facility. However, a similar sized center in Odense, Denmark used 517,718 megawatts of energy in 2022. Cheyenne runs on about 43,800 megawatts per year. Part of the agreement stipulates that Meta cannot use any more water than for a standard business of 100 employees. The company will also fund miles of new roads around the data center, as well as water and sewer pipes. At the peak of its construction the scheme, dubbed Project Cosmo, will generate 1,000 skilled construction jobs, its organizers said An Oregon company is constructing the facility, but locals can find employment thanks to new educational programs being offered in Wyoming, according to Cheyenne LEADS CEO Betsey Hale said The existence of the project had been kept under wraps using stringent NDAs. Davis said Cheyenne was chosen for its robust infrastructure, access to a skilled workforce and proximity to renewable energy. 'I can tell you that folks from Cheyenne check the box on all fronts,' he said. Advertisement Labour is on course to win the largest Commons majority in almost 200 years as a new mega poll suggested Sir Keir Starmer's party could win 431 seats in today's election. Despite Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson joining forces to warn against handing Labour a 'supermajority', a YouGov MRP survey of more than 42,000 people gives Sir Keir a majority of 212. That would be the biggest margin for a party in the modern era of the Houses of Parliament since reform of the electoral laws in 1832. The figure of 431 is very similar to the findings of a second mega poll by More in Common, which gave Labour 430 seats. The Tories are forecast to end the election with just 102 seats, their worst ever result, with a low estimate of 78. Some 16 Cabinet ministers are expected to lose their seats, including Chancellor Jeremy Hunt. Several MPs mooted as potential successors to Mr Sunak are also under threat, including Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt in Portsmouth North and former immigration minister Robert Jenrick in Newark. It comes after Sir Keir frantically tried to play down fears Labour will get 'unchecked' power yesterday as the election campaigns entered its final dash for the line. The Labour leader tried to quell mounting alarm that he is set for the biggest majority ever seen, insisting many seats will 'go to the wire' and polls do not predict the future. Despite Rishi Sunak and Boris Johnson joining forces to warn against handing Labour a 'supermajority', a YouGov MRP survey of more than 42,000 people gives Sir Keir a majority of 212. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. The twitchy message came as the PM makes a last-ditch effort to avert a complete Tory meltdown after getting a big boost from a joint appearance with Boris Johnson . The twitchy message came as the PM makes a last-ditch effort to avert a complete Tory meltdown after getting a big boost from a joint appearance with Boris Johnson. At a rally last night, Mr Johnson warned that Sir Keir would use a 'sledgehammer' majority to bring in 'mandatory wokery' and 'uncontrolled immigration'. Mr Sunak is using the last day of campaigning to visit previously safe seats in Hampshire - with apocalyptic polls suggesting many will fall to Labour and the Lib Dems. Ministers under threat According to the YouGov MRP, 16 ministers could lose their seats: Jeremy Hunt, Chancellor (Godalming and Ash) Penny Mordaunt, Leader of the House (Portsmouth North) Grant Shapps, Defence Secretary (Welwyn Hatfield) Alex Chalk, Justice Secretary (Cheltenham) Mark Harper, Transport Secretary (Forest of Dean) Gillian Keegan, Education Secretary (Chichester) Michelle Donelan, Science Secretary (Melksham and Devizes) Lucy Frazer, Culture Secretary (Ely and East Cambridgeshire) David T C Davies, Wales Secretary (Monmouthshire) Steve Baker, Northern Ireland Minister (Wycombe) Johnny Mercer, Minister of State for Veterans' Affairs (Plymouth Moor View) Greg Hands, Minister for London and Minister of State for Trade Policy (Chelsea & Fulham) Michael Tomlinson, Minister of State for Countering Illegal (Mid Dorset and North Poole) Esther McVey, Minister of State without Portfolio (Tatton) Advertisement A massive Survation poll - conducted using the MRP method - found Reform splitting the right-wing vote will gift Sir Keir the largest Commons majority in history, while Tory numbers fall to a record low. Touring broadcast studios this morning, Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride acknowledged that the Conservatives are on track for a dire result. He said Labour is almost certain to get an 'extraordinary landslide on a scale that has probably never, ever been seen in this country before'. However, the PM insisted Mr Stride had not 'quite' been conceding defeat - telling ITV's This Morning 'what Mel was doing was warning of what a very large Labour majority, unchecked, would mean for people'. He added: 'I'm fighting hard for every vote.' Other Tories privately insist that the reception on the doorstep has not been as bad as the polls indicate - and there have been glimmers of a narrowing in recent days, with the Reform surge seemingly ebbing. As the UK braces to learn who will be in charge for the next five years: There are claims Sir Keir will install Harriet Harman as the next head of the equalities watchdog, despite concerns over her support for gender ideology; Suella Braverman has effectively launched the Tory post-mortem saying the election is 'over' and high immigration was to blame for defeat; Mr Sunak has bizarrely insisted his favourite meal is 'sandwiches' during a This Morning interview; He also issued a warning to Sir Keir that he cannot be a 'great dad' and PM at the same time, after the Labour leader suggested he still wants to clock off on Friday evenings; Nigel Farage is still trying to seal the deal with voters in Clacton, as Reform struggles to turn votes into seats; A poll has suggested the SNP could remain the biggest party in Scotland after a threat from Labour. Rishi Sunak (pictured on ITV's This Morning) is making a last-ditch effort to avert a complete Tory meltdown after getting a big boost from a joint appearance with Boris Johnson Mr Johnson took to the stage for the first time in the campaign last night as the Tories try ward off Labour's projected supermajority Your browser does not support iframes. Mr Johnson received a rapturous reception as he made a dramatic appearance at the central London rally last night. During an impassioned speech, Mr Johnson called on voters flirting with backing Reform to 'draw back from the brink'. He labelled Nigel Farage a 'Kremlin crawler' and unleashed attacks on Labour's 'mandatory wokery' and 'uncontrolled immigration', bluntly adding that people who 'have a few thousand to spare' and 'actually want higher tax' should vote red. Mr Johnson swiped at Sir Keir saying it was 'way past his bedtime' after the Opposition leader admitted he tries to avoid working past 6pm on Fridays to spend time with his family. Up until now the ex-PM had only endorsed specific Tory allies with video messages, as tensions linger with Mr Sunak over the latter's resignation triggering his eviction from Downing Street. The two men still did not appear together on stage last night. But playing down the 'trivial' differences between himself and his former Chancellor, Mr Johnson said he was a 'glad when the PM asked for help' and 'could not say no' because they both 'love our country'. On his first campaign stop of the day in Carmarthenshire, Sir Keir played down chatter about the scale of his victory, insisting that many seats will 'go to the wire'. Asked if he was worried about Mr Johnson joining the Tory attack, he said: 'Not in the slightest. I've been arguing that the last 14 years have been about chaos and division - and last night, they wheeled out the architect of chaos and division. 'That just shows the desperate, negative place they've got to in their campaign.' In his intervention last night, Mr Johnson hit out at Labour's plans to hike taxes and said the party would not take a firm stance against Vladimir Putin, following his invasion of Ukraine. He went on to criticise Sir Keir for not being able to explain 'the difference between a man and a woman'. 'He sits there with his mouth open like a stunned mullet,' he said. Mr Johnson, who led the Tories to a landslide victory in 2019 against Jeremy Corbyn, added: 'They can achieve nothing in this election except to usher in the most left-wing Labour government since the war with a huge majority, and we must not let it happen. A new MRP study by Survation, published within the final 48 hours of campaigning, predicted Labour would win 484 seats at this week's general election The Survation model, based on polling data from more than 30,000 voters, forecast the Tories would be reduced to just 64 seats in the House of Commons 'Don't let the Putinistas deliver the Corbynistas. Don't let Putin's pet parrots give this entire country psittacosis - which is a disease you get by the way from cosying up to pet parrots. 'Friends, if you actually - everybody if you actually want higher taxes next week, this year, if you feel you've got a few thousands to spare, then vote Labour on Thursday. If you want uncontrolled immigration and mandatory wokery, and pointless kowtowing to Brussels again, then go right ahead, make my day, vote for Starmer. 'But if you want to protect our democracy and our economy and keep this country strong abroad by spending 2.5 per cent of our GDP on defence which Labour still refuses to commit to, then you know what to do, don't you, everybody? 'There's only one thing to do - vote Conservative on Thursday my friends and I know you will. I know you will.' President Joe Biden privately told a key ally he is weighing whether or not to drop out of the presidential race, a shocking admission that points to the dismal state of his candidacy. Biden, coming off of last week's disastrous debate performance, acknowledged he only has through this weekend to convince voters he is mentally up for the job. He'll be in Madison, Wisconsin, on Friday, where he will sit for an interview with ABC News. He travels to Pennsylvania on Sunday. 'He knows if he has two more events like that, we're in a different place' by the end of the weekend, the ally told The New York Times. The White House strongly denied this. 'That claim is absolutely false. If the New York Times had provided us with more than 7 minutes to comment we would have told them so,' White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates wrote on X. Biden called into a campaign staff meeting on Wednesday to give them a pep talk and tell them he's staying in the race and going to win. 'Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can as simply and straightforward as I can: I am runningno ones pushing me out. Im not leaving. Im in this race to the end and were going to win,' he said, according to reports. If Biden exits the race with Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris would be seen as the frontrunner to replace him. Biden and Harris had lunch at the White House on Wednesday. Democrats have fretted Biden will no long be able to defeat Trump in November. Even Biden staff have needed reassurance as more than 25 lawmakers have expressed doubts about the president's electability. President Joe Biden has privately told a key ally he is weighing whether or not to drop out of the presidential race The reports Biden is eying the exit door are piling on as donors, lawmakers and top party officials worry the president isn't up for the campaign. There is also frustration that Biden is waiting to long to get back out there and show himself as a strong, energetic leader. A major donor told TMZ that 'it's only a matter of time' before Biden bows out. Another ally told CNN that Biden understands the next stretch of days are critical to whether he can save his candidacy, noting what it would take him to accept: 'It's just not working.' 'He sees the moment. He's clear-eyed,' the person said. As to what it would take would be the polls are plummeting, the fundraising is drying up, and the interviews are going badly,' that person said. 'He's not oblivious.' The White House is struggling to calm the storm of outrage from Biden's debate performance as Democratic lawmakers call for the president to exit the race and the White House staff are 'freaking the f*** out.' White House chief of staff Jeff Zients held an all-hands-on-deck staff call at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday to pump up disillusioned staff and reassure them that Biden will remain the nominee. On the call, he acknowledged Biden didnt have a great debate performance last week but told staff that hes a great president and urged them to stay together. He didn't have a great night but that was one night and what we all know is he is a great president, Zients said per reports. He made three key points: keep your head down and keep working for the American people while the campaign handles the election; hold your head high as the administration has accomplished so much; and stick together. The call lasted about 10 minutes. Zients didn't take questions but said concerned staff should email him. He repeated Biden's quote that when you get knocked down, you get back up. 'That's what he is doing and that's what we all need to do ... follow the president's lead,' he said. Additionally, Biden's campaign sent out an all-staff memo showing internal polls from battleground states that note Biden only dropped half a point in the fallout from his fumbling debate performance. The move came to pre-empt what is expected to be bad polling news for the president. 'We are going to see a few polls come out today and we want you all to hear from us on what we know internally and what we expect to come externally,' the memo, obtained by Politico, reads. 'Polls are a snapshot in time and we should all expect them to continue to fluctuate it will take a few weeks, not a few days, to get a full picture of the race.' Vice President Kamala Harris would be the frontrunner to replace Biden if he drops out The White House is trying to calm staff fears after President Joe Biden's debate performance - above Biden with his deputy chief of staff Bruce Reed, senior adviser Mike Donilon and Deputy Chief of Staff Annie Tomasini Amid the race to calm internal fears, there is a significant outreach operation to try and quell the growing calls for Biden to be replaced. The president has been on the phone to lawmakers trying to shore up his support on Capitol Hill amid worries Republicans will take control of the House and Senate - along with the White House - in the upcoming elections, giving them unchecked power to run the country. Biden also will meet with governors on Wednesday evening as he and his team scramble to stem even more defections. Meanwhile, Jill Biden has been dispatched to the battleground states of Pennsylvania and Michigan to tout Biden's accomplishments in the White House as polls show him trailing Donald Trump. The effort comes as questions continue to be asked about Biden's mental capabilities to handle the presidency and speculation about who could replace him as the Democratic presidential nominee. 'Everyone is freaking the f*** out,' an official told Axios. But there appears to be a reason for the freak out. A set of private polls from a pro-Biden super PAC showed the president losing ground about two points across all the most important battleground states, Puck news reported. Biden was also now trailing in New Mexico, New Hampshire and Virginia, three states that were thought to be safely Democratic. Biden trails Donald Trump in the Five Thirty-Eight polling average on the presidential race. Democrats are keeping their distance. Senator Tammy Baldwin, who faces re-election in Wisconsin, announced Tuesday morning she will not be joining Biden on stage when he campaigns in her hometown of Madison on Friday. And many Democrats worry the president is moving too slowly to calm the panic about his candidacy and mental fitness. White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients will hold an all staff call on Wednesday Donald Trump and Joe Biden at last week's debate where Biden fumbled in his answers There also is talk of a brewing Democratic revolt in the House. Maine's Jared Golden, Lloyd Doggett of Texas and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington State all either told Biden to drop out or said they believed he would lose to Trump on Tuesday. Those defections were in addition to the collection of 25 House members - commonly referred to as 'frontliners' due to their status as moderates in swing districts - who are set to break with Biden and day now. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi emphasized Biden's multiple legislative accomplishments during an interview with MSNBC Tuesday but said it was legitimate to ask whether his debate performance was a one-night thing or a broader health problem. She said Trump should be given the same scrutiny. 'I think it's a legitimate question to say, 'Is this an episode or is this a condition?' And so when people ask that question, it's legitimate, of both candidates,' Pelosi said. Biden, speaking at a campaign event in Virginia on Tuesday evening without a teleprompter, blamed his performance on a lack of sleep and noted he had done two international trips in the runup to the debate. 'The fact is that you know, I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple times, going through around 100 time zones ... before ... the debate. Didnt listen to my staff and came back and nearly fell asleep on stage,' he said. 'That's no excuse but it is an explanation.' He was in France for the 85th anniversary of D-Day and then in Italy for the G7. But he left out the seven days he spent at Camp David ahead of his showdown with Trump. He spent the week locked with aides in preparation for the debate. However, Biden rarely began before 11 am and broke in the afternoon for a nap, the New York Times reported. Some Democrats suggested Biden should be thinking about the broader party's future. 'He has to be honest with himself,' Democratic Representative Mike Quigley, a moderate from Illinois, told CNN on Tuesday. 'It's his decision. I just want him to appreciate at this time just how much it impacts, not just his race, but all the other races coming in November.' And Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, whose endorsement of Biden in 2020 helped him become the nominee, told MSNBC that he still wanted a presidential ticket with Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. But then he announced who he would endorse if Biden exited the race. 'I will support her if he were to step aside,' Clyburn said of Harris. Air Europa passengers have recalled the terrifying moments they experienced during a bout of extreme turbulence that left 30 injured. A Uruguayan man was among 325 passengers on board flight UX 045 traveling from Madrid to Montevideo that was diverted to Natal, Brazil on Monday when it encountered turbulence so rough it left some travelers with head, face and spinal injuries. Cell phone footage recorded by one of the travelers showed two men pulling him from the overhead compartment. And earlier this week, a mother on the same flight described her horror at watching her two-year-old son get flung from his seat to get trapped in the ceiling above. Now, another passenger who was ejected has come forward to regale their horror. The man, who did not reveal his name, told the Channel 10 program Subrayado: 'We assume it was an air hole because the plane dropped for a while and then righted itself. We flew (out of the seats). I broke the ceiling and all of the plumbing that was inside.' A passenger told Uruguayan television network Channel 10 that 'flew' out of his seat and found himself in the Air Europa aircraft's ceiling. Two passengers were able to lower him from the area above the overhead baggage area. But when he made it to the ground, he noticed that his wife and two women were on the ground injured. Despite the terrifying experience, he intends to fly again. Cecilia Laguzzi was traveling with her husband and their two children when she woke up and found her two-year-old son (seen sitting on her lap) inside the Air Europa aircraft's ceiling A man is lowered from the overhead compartment area after he got thrown into the aircraft's ceiling after it was hit by turbulence during the course of its flight from Madrid to Montevideo, which caused the captain to request permission for an emergency landing He recalled supporting himself from the damaged overhead bin area until he made it back to the floor and noticed that his wife and two female passengers were injured and strewn across the floor. He added he thought about 'everything' when the plane started to decline and that 'a world went through his head in 20 seconds.' He said his wife was 'beaten' by the 'very painful' incident. The shocked passenger estimated that Air Europa Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner went through turbulence for 30 seconds as it flew over the Atlantic Ocean. 'Horrible, right?' he said. 'Those are things that happen.' Bolivian doctor, Cecilia Laguzzi, told Brazilian news outlet G1 that she was traveling with her husband and two children when she woke up and found the youngest, a two-year-old, trapped in the ceiling. 'Part of the plane collapsed and the child was up there crying. My husband had to go and bring him back down,' she said. The flight landed around 2:30 am local time at Natal International Airport, where paramedics were already awaiting on the ground. At least 30 passengers were rushed to area hospitals in Natal and received treatment for abrasions or orthopedic traumas. A further six passengers remained hospitalized in with severe injuries, Air Europa said in a statement. Passengers on Air Europa flight UX045 await to deplane after the aircraft carrying 325 travelers landed in Natal, Brazil. At least 30 passengers were treated for injuries, but six remain hospital in Brazil A male passenger is helped out of the overhead bin after he was ejected from his seat when an Air Europa flight from Spain to Uruguay encountered turbulence over the Atlantic Ocean Passengers deplane Air Europa flight UX045 in Natal, Brazil after Monday's emergency landing First responders wait near the runway to assist passengers as they deplaned from the Air Europa Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner that made an emergency landing in Natal, Brazil after it was hit by severe turbulence during its flight from Madrid to the Uruguay capital city of Montevideo A second passenger Maximiliano, who withheld his last name, told Reuters that the aircraft started to plunge. 'From one moment to the next, the plane destabilized and went into a dive,' he said. 'The people who didn't have seat belts went up in the air and hit the ceiling, and they got hurt - those who had seat belts on, not so much.' Air Europa dispatched a replacement aircraft Monday to take the passengers to Montevideo. However, the passengers had to travel 192 miles by bus, which were provided by the airline, to Recife International Airport. The new plane departed Tuesday and landed at Carrasco International Airport at 7:20 am local time. A female passenger told Uruguayan news outlet Montevideo Portal that the customers have set up a WhatsApp group chat to go over plans to file a lawsuit against Air Europa. 'Beyond the fact that accidents can happen, and it could be that the turbulence did not appear on the radar, etc., etc., the issue was everything afterwards, which was very poorly managed: from when the plane began to fall until we got on the plane from Recife to Uruguay,' she said. She indicated that first responders had difficulties entering and exiting with the stretchers and wheelchairs that were required to remove the injured passengers. The entire process took four hours before the rest of the passengers, who were not injured, were allowed to deplane. The passengers boarded a different Air Europa on Tuesday for their trip back home to Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay A seat on Air Europa flight UX045 was severely damage as a result of turbulence First responders treated passengers from Air Europa flight UX045 at Natal International Airport after the aircraft landed at 2:30 am on Monday The Air Europa incident took place less than two months since one passenger died and dozens were hurt when turbulence hit a Singapore Airlines flight from London to Singapore. Some scientists have warned of worsening turbulence tied to climate change. The most common cause of turbulence is the unstable weather patterns that trigger storms, which can be detected by weather radar, allowing pilots to fly around potential patches. Recent incidents have increased concern in the air travel industry about seat belt and safety practices. An international agreement, the Montreal Convention, makes airlines liable for physical injuries from accidents on international flights, which can include turbulence, regardless of whether they were negligent. A woman has been accused of scamming hundreds of people by impersonating her social worker wife in online therapy sessions for two years before she died. Tammy Heath-Randolph allegedly treated unsuspecting patients using Peggy Randolph's name as she was a licensed therapist. The accusations came to light following Tammy's death in February 2023 as a client discovered on social media that she was the one treating them, according to the Tennessee Department of Health. Peggy worked for Brightside Health from January 2021 to February 2023 and her wife was allegedly treating all her online patients so she could see more people in person. The therapist voluntarily retired her license in August 2023 following an investigation by Brightside Health which found she shared her log-in details with her wife. Tammy Heath-Randolph has been accused of scamming hundreds of people by impersonating her social worker wife in online therapy sessions for two years Peggy is accused of helping Tammy impersonate her in online therapy sessions for nearly two years. Authorities said she knowingly defrauded hundreds of patients using the Brightside Health platform. But the social worker denied the accusations and said she did not know her unlicensed wife Tammy was treating people under her account. Investigators said Peggy was being paid for the sessions her wife conducted. An internal Brightside Health investigation claimed Tammy had been seeing all of her wife's online patients 'and had been for a long time'. The scheme is said to have been carried out so Peggy had more time to see other patients in person. She allegedly treated unsuspecting patients using Peggy Randolph's name as she was a licensed therapist. File image Peggy worked for Brightside Health from January 2021 to February 2023 and her wife was allegedly treating all her online patients during that time The accusations came to light following her death in February 2023 as a client discovered on social media that Tammy was the one treating them, according to the Tennessee Department of Health. File image Following the loss of her license, the social worker was ordered to pay a $1,000 penalty. The investigation against Peggy was dropped because she voluntarily retired her license. It only came to light after Florida and Tennessee released documents on her conduct in May. A Brightside Health spokesman said Peggy was fired and reported to state licensing authorities as soon as they learned of the allegations. 'We're extremely disappointed that a single provider was willing to violate the trust that Brightside and, most importantly, her patients had placed in her,' the spokesman told CBS. The company has refunded all of the impacted patients who allegedly saw Tammy. DailyMail.com has contacted Brightside Health for comment. His mother Antonya Cooper, 77, is now facing her own battle with the disease Hamish was five-years-old when he was diagnosed with stage four cancer Police are 'making enquiries' after a dying mother has admitted to killing her terminally-ill seven-year-old son by using a large dose of morphine to 'quietly end his life'. Antonya Cooper, from Abingdon, Oxfordshire, said her child Hamish had stage 4 cancer and was 'facing the most horrendous suffering' before his death in 1981. The former chair of Neuroblastoma UK revealed the youngster had been 'in a lot of pain' as he reached the end of his short life. She said Hamish was 'telling me he was in pain and asking me if I could remove his pain' and that as a mother, she was 'not going to let him suffer'. The brave youngster had been battling neuroblastoma - a rare cancer that affects children - since the age of five and had been given just three months to live. And despite 16 months of 'beastly' cancer treatment at London's Great Ormond Street Hospital, Hamish's incurable illness had left him in constant agony. Since Ms Cooper shared her decision to give her little boy a large does of morphine over four decades ago, Thames Valley Police have launched an investigation. Thames Police have are making enquiries after Antonya Cooper, from Abingdon, Oxfordshire, admitted to killing her cancer-stricken son Hamish by using a large dose of morphine to 'quietly end his life' She said Hamish was facing unimaginable suffering and was in 'intense pain' while battling his stage 4 cancer before his death in 1981 Now facing her own incurable cancer, Mrs Cooper has spoken out about how she gave her son a 'large dose' of morphine to 'quietly end his life' A spokesperson from the police force said: 'Thames Valley Police is aware of reports relating to an apparent case of assisted dying of a seven-year-old boy, in 1981. 'At this early stage, the force is making enquiries into these reports and is not in a position to comment further while these investigations continue.' Speaking of her decision to give her little boy a large dose of morphine, Mrs Cooper said: 'It was the right thing to do. My son was facing the most horrendous suffering and intense pain, I was not going to allow him to go through that.' Now facing her own battle against terminal cancer, Mrs Cooper has described in heart-breaking detail how she helped her son die after he begged her to ease his suffering. 'On Hamish's last night, when he said he was in a lot of pain, I said: 'Would you like me to remove the pain?' and he said: 'Yes please, mama',' Mrs Cooper told BBC Radio Oxford. 'And through his Hickman Catheter, external, I gave him a large dose of morphine that did quietly end his life.' Discussing her decision last May she added: 'We had watched him brave through all that beastly treatment, we had had him for longer than the original prognosis, so the time was right.' The dying 77-year-old was asked by BBC Radio Oxford if she believed her son knew she was intending to take his life. 'I feel very strongly that at the point of Hamish telling me he was in pain, and asking me if I could remove his pain, he knew, he knew somewhere what was going to happen,' she replied. 'But I cannot obviously tell you why or how, but I was his mother, he loved his mother, and I totally loved him, and I was not going to let him suffer, and I feel he really knew where he was going.' Mrs Cooper's admission comes as she fights to change the law on assisted dying. Assisted suicide - the act of intentionally helping someone to end their life - and euthanasia - the deliberate ending of a person's life - are both illegal in the UK. Mrs Cooper's admission to the BBC could now open her up to a potential police investigation. Quizzed over whether she understood she had potentially admitted to manslaughter or murder, she told the radio station: 'Yes'. Patriotic Hamish, with a Union flag on his hospital bed. spent 16 months undergoing 'beastly' cancer treatment at Great Ormond Street hospital after being diagnosed, aged five Describing the impact of her son's death, Antonya said it is like an 'amputation' and it takes time to 'learn to live with that amputation' (pictured: Hamish in late 1974) WHAT IS NEUROBLASTOMA? Neuroblastoma is a rare cancer that affects children and usually starts in the abdomen. Around 100 children, who are typically under five, are diagnosed every year in the UK. The disease affects approximately 800 new children annually in the US. In around half of cases, neuroblastoma spreads to other parts of the body, particularly the liver and skin. Neuroblastoma's cause is unclear. There may be a family-history link. The main symptom is usually a lump in the abdomen, which may cause swelling, discomfort or pain. If the disease affects the spinal cord, it can lead to numbness, weakness and loss of movement in the lower part of the body. Treatment depends on how advanced the cancer is and the risk it will return after therapy. Surgery, and chemo and radiotherapy, are commonly used. Source: Cancer Research UK Advertisement 'If they come 43 years after I have allowed Hamish to die peacefully, then I would have to face the consequences. But they would have to be quick, because I'm dying too,' Mrs Cooper added. Hamish died at home on December 1, 1981. In 1979, after his fifth birthday, Hamish started crying in pain and losing weight and with her mother's instinct, Antonya knew he was 'seriously ill'. But it took 13 weeks of visits to seven different GPs before she decided to take Hamish to see a private paediatrician at the John Radcliffe Hospital and even then, she was told there was 'nothing wrong'. Antonya 'insisted' on further examinations, including blood tests and an X-ray and it later transpired that Hamish had a grapefruit-sized tumour within his abdomen, namely stage 4 neuroblastoma. Hamish was then transferred to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), where he underwent chemotherapy, a bone marrow autograft, radiotherapy, and surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, which had shrunk to the size of a tangerine. His prognosis was three months and he subsequently underwent 16 months of treatment at GOSH, which 'ruined parts of his body' but extended his life. Antonya said she would have honest conversations with Hamish and his sister Tabitha, who were 'thick as thieves', about the 'probability of his not surviving'. While Hamish did not ask about death directly, there came a point later on where, in answer to one of his questions, Antonya said to him: 'Yes, Hamish, you probably will die.' This was incredibly challenging, but after his treatments ended, he returned to school, his hair started to regrow, and in the summer of 1981, the family enjoyed holidays by the sea. Antonya told PA Real Life that she would have honest conversations with Hamish and his sister Tabitha, (left) who were 'thick as thieves', about the 'probability of his not surviving' (Pictured: Hamish in Pembrokeshire with his granny in 1974) After his treatments ended, he returned to school, his hair started to regrow, and in the summer of 1981, the family enjoyed holidays by the sea BBC Radio Oxford asked Antonya if she understood she was potentially admitting to manslaughter or murder, and she replied: 'Yes' In the autumn, however, Hamish took a knock on one of his ankles and developed septic arthritis, which led to biopsies being taken and these later revealed that his cancer had 'returned with a vengeance'. At this point, Antonya said they 'knew that was the final journey' and, after receiving palliative care at home and being given morphine sulphate, Hamish died on December 1 1981. Describing the impact of his death, she said: 'The simplicity of it is that you suffer an amputation and it takes you time to learn to live with that amputation. 'You never get over it because you've lost that limb, it's gone forever, but you learn just to cope.' Mrs Cooper has now been diagnosed with incurable pancreatic cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy, which she said makes her feel 'rotten'. She now wants to campaign for the laws on assisted dying in the UK to change, joining the likes of Dame Esther Rantzen. Dame Esther, best known for presenting and producing the hit BBC show That's Life! from, is one of the nation's most well-known advocates for assisted suicide, after being diagnosed with stage four lung cancer last January. Last December, she revealed that she has signed up for Dignitas, the most well-known assisted suicide clinic in Switzerland, and said that she 'might buzz off to Zurich' if her complex cancer treatment doesn't work. In England and Wales, assisted suicide can be prosecuted with a maximum prison sentence of 14 years. But despite the enormous personal risk, her daughter, Rebecca Wilcox, hinted that she would help her mother attend a Dignitas clinic. Wilcox, herself a TV presenter, wrote in Saga magazine: 'If she goes at the moment it would be her only option for an assisted death she will have to go alone. It is against the law to accompany her. I would face prosecution for manslaughter and could receive up to 14 years in prison. Despite the enormous personal risk Dame Esther Rantzen's (pictured, right) daughter, Rebecca Wilcox (pictured, left), hinted that she would help her mother attend a Dignitas clinic 'Even if it doesn't go to trial, many people face a two-year investigation. I have a young family with two children, a busy home and a complex job. I shouldn't have to risk going to prison just to keep mum company, but I'm not sure I could let her go alone. 'It's an impossible decision to have to make: either risk possible prosecution at the worst time of my life, when I have just lost my adored mum, or do the unthinkable and let her die alone in a foreign country with no one she knows or loves to hold her hand.' Wilcox added: 'The thought of her actually dying is abominable, but the thought of her dying in pain is unthinkable. 'Her health is not great and her illness has no cure. The prognosis may lead to a painful death that might not be eased with palliative care and opioid painkillers.' Mrs Cooper is now coming to terms with her own incurable cancer four decades after her son's death. She added: 'I am not a religious person, but there is a tiny voice inside me that believes it would be wonderful if I could cuddle Hamish again.' This comes shortly after calls for a change in laws surrounding assisted dying have emerged, with legislation being considered in Scotland, the Isle of Man and Jersey. It has not only been Dame Esther Rantzen who has spoken out about legislation, with broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby describing the currently law as 'increasingly unbearable.' Great British Bake Off presenter Dame Prue Leith, has also said there needs to be 'less pearl-clutching' and more constructive conversation on the issue. In December, Dame Esther Rantzen - who has stage 4 lung cancer - revealed she had joined Dignitas. However those in opposition of the changing the law are concerned legalising assisted dying could put pressure on vulnerable people to end their lives for fear of being a burden on others. They have also argued the disabled, elderly, sick or depressed could be potentially be at risk. Labour were tonight accused of secretly plotting a raid on council tax after their Treasury deputy-in-waiting said he understands the 'frustration' of not making richer people pay more. Darren Jones, in line to be number two at the Treasury under a Labour government, told a constituency meeting the current system was 'very out of date', blaming a 'capitalist democracy'. As one of the 17 taxes Labour have been unable to rule out, shadow minsters have been repeatedly pushed on their plans to reevaluate council tax but have failed to say they would not raise the tax. The party has only ruled out increases to income tax, national insurance and VAT - but has refused to explicitly rule out any others. But Mr Jones, currently shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, said that Labour would not be elected if they suggested a revaluation of the charge, a leaked recording of the meeting reveals. Asked whether those in homes worth more than a million pounds should pay more, he told the meeting he 'gets the frustration'. Darren Jones, in line to be number two at the Treasury under a Labour government, told a constituency meeting the current council tax system was 'very out of date', blaming a 'capitalist democracy' Tory Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Laura Trott, said: 'Labour have been caught saying the quiet part out loud' 'Now you can say that the whole system is like c*** and needs to be changed,' he said, adding that he agreed the council tax system is 'very out of date'. Mr Jones's comments - which were made at a meeting in his Bristol constituency in May - were jumped on by the Tories. Tory Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Laura Trott, said: 'Labour have been caught saying the quiet part out loud. 'Darren Jones admitted that talking about any of their secret taxes on the family home before the election would cost them votes. 'The real risk of a Labour supermajority cannot be clearer. A vote for anyone other than the Conservatives will deliver a Labour Government, intent on taxing your home, your pension, your car - even your children's education. 'Do not give them a supermajority to lock in higher taxes for a generation.' In the recording, Mr Jones was asked why Labour would not pledge to raise council tax on properties worth more than 1million. He replied: 'Let me be frank with you about council tax, right. Any party has ever suggested revaluing council tax has never been elected. They just haven't.' When the questioner pointed out that Labour could do it because they are leading in polls, Mr Jones said: 'They won't if they start telling everyone they have to pay more council tax.' When the man persisted, saying that only those with houses worth more than 1million will pay more, Mr Jones says: 'There'll be people in this village that will pay a lot more council tax than they currently do, many of them older people. 'So the fact is again, I get the frustration but you live in a capitalist democracy. 'So that requires people to vote for you to have power to hold power in order to be able to do things within a framework people are willing to work within. 'Now you can say that the whole system is like c*** and needs to be changed....' Told the question was not about that, but instead arguing that increasing council tax for those 'who can definitely afford it' would mean the money could be given to working class people, Mr Jones replied: 'And I agree with you that council tax system is very out of date.' Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves's advisor Neil Amin Smith has previously said 'it is likely to be better to revalue and reform council tax at a national level'. He also claimed this reform was 'overdue'. Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves herself said in 2018: 'We need a radical overhaul of the tax system because our current system of wealth taxation isn't working' Mr Jones has previously been recorded saying that Labour is considering an inheritance tax raid to 'redistribute' wealth if it gets into power. He also suggested higher death duties would be used to tackle 'inter-generational inequality'. Pat McFadden, Labour's national campaign coordinator, failed to rule out such a move yesterday. He told Good Morning Britain: 'From that moment we've said that nothing in our manifesto requires us to raise any taxes beyond the very specific things that we've set out in the manifesto, and that remains the position on this as with anything else.' Ms Reeves's tax tzar Sir Edward Troup, a former Tory Treasury special adviser, also raised the prospect that Labour could target inheritance tax. He told LBC that 'inheritance tax will have to be on the agenda, but it will be unpopular' because Labour would have to raise money somehow. To do this, he said they would have to look at the smaller taxes, adding: 'And inheritance tax is not a tiny tax. You know, it's a reasonable size tax. 'And so inheritance tax will have to be on the agenda, but it will be unpopular.' Ms Reeves herself said in 2018: 'We need a radical overhaul of the tax system because our current system of wealth taxation isn't working.' It came as a leading City forecaster warned that Ms Reeves would launch a 15bn tax raid on pensions, capital gains and inheritance if Labour wins a supermajority. Analysts at the investment bank Citi said that she could launch a stealth raid on workers' pay packets. Benjamin Nabarro, its chief UK economist, said Labour would 'ultimately tax and spend more than the current baseline', the Telegraph reported. Bim Afolami, the economic secretary to the Treasury, said: 'Labour are plotting a hidden tax raid that is not in their manifesto and if they are given a super-majority on Thursday they will be free to impose it.' A Labour spokesperson said: 'If the best the Tories can offer on the day of the election is a recording of Darren Jones explaining why Labour has no plans to raise council tax, then it shows the utterly desperate state they are in. 'Any other interpretation of his words is entirely false, scaremongering nonsense.' Chinese airlines launching more routes to Europe than peers for summer travel season 14:44, July 03, 2024 By Tu Lei ( Global Times An aircraft from Xi'an, the capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, arrives at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport in Budapest, Hungary, June 29, 2024. Direct flights between Xi'an, the capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province, and Budapest resumed on Saturday. (Photo: Xinhua) Chinese airlines are ramping up efforts to launch more international routes for the summer travel season, with flights to Europe becoming a rising source of traffic. Industry data showed that Chinese airlines have taken a majority of the market share in terms of current China-Europe routes. On Tuesday, China Eastern Airlines launched a direct flight from Shanghai to Marseille, France, carrying 242 passengers. With the launch of this flight, regular direct passenger routes have been opened for the first time between China and southern France, and China Eastern will operate 19 routes and 244 flights (round trip) every week in the European region, the airlines said. China Eastern is not alone. Europe has become a hot market for Chinese airlines seeking new routes, and some carriers even said their overseas flights in summer are expected to exceed the level of the same period in 2019. On Thursday morning, a plane carrying 213 passengers operated by China Southern Airlines began its maiden flight from Guangzhou, South China's Guangdong Province to Budapest, Hungary. The new route means China Southern now operates 53 international routes departing from Guangzhou, including 11 routes to Europe. On June 16, Air China said that it would launch and resume 13 international routes including launching the Beijing-Dhaka and Chengdu-Milan routes. In terms of the European market, Air China said it is one of the key carriers between China and Europe, with a market share of over 28 percent. Europe is also the region where Air China has the largest international capacity deployment, with 32 routes and 53 daily flights between China and Europe, exceeding the 2019 level by 116 percent. Chinese airlines have taken a majority of the market share in terms of current China-Europe routes, per industry data. Industry data from CADAS sent to the Global Times on Tuesday showed that as of June this year, the recovery rate of domestic airlines on the China-Europe route has reached 112.8 percent, compared with 43.2 percent of foreign airlines. In terms of flight volume share, Chinese carriers on the China-Europe routes accounted for 73.9 percent. Notably, there has been no significant change from before the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of market share between respective carriers from the two regions. Some European airlines told the Global Times that they are facing delays in aircraft delivery due to component production and supply chain issues, which to some extent has affected the recovery speed of international routes for some players. In addition, the slow recovery of European airlines on China-Europe routes is also related to the need to bypass Russian airspace, which increases flight time and costs, according to market watchers. Market watchers said the rising capacity of the China-Europe market is also a reflection of the Civil Aviation Administration of China's ambition outlined earlier this year, as the regulator vowed to resume 80 percent of international routes this year, while some airlines have said that their recovery pace is faster than the target. China's civil aviation achieved a rapid recovery of domestic flights in 2023, while its next goal is speeding up the recovery of international flights, especially from Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, and this summer will be a critical period for the full recovery of Chinese airlines, Zhu Xiaohan, a senior analyst from CADAS, told the Global Times on Tuesday. Market watchers said the efforts made by Beijing, such as the unilateral visa-free policy for citizens from many countries to visit China adopted in recent months, are also helping boost the flying capacity of airlines. In the latest example, China's Foreign Ministry said on June 25 that it will extend its visa-free policy to New Zealand, Australia, and Poland. According to the National Immigration Administration, the number of foreigners coming to China in the first quarter of this year more than tripled compared with the same period in 2023. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun) The daughter of the President of Cameroon has sparked rumours that she is in a same-sex relationship by sharing a picture of her kissing another woman. Brenda Biya, 26, received furious responses to her post with homosexuality illegal in the country her father rules. Paul Baya, now 91, became Cameroon 's president 42 years ago, making him one of Arica's longest-serving leaders. An Instagram post by Ms Biya shows her kissing Brazillian model Layyons Valenca with the accompanying caption: 'I'm crazy about you & I want the world to know.' Cameroonians who engage in same-sex acts or relationships can be jailed for up to five years, but since Ms Biya lives elsewhere, she is not subject to this law. Brenda Biya, 26, daughter of Cameroonian president Paul Biya, 91, has sparked rumours that she is gay by sharing a picture of her kissing Brazillian model Layyons Valenca Ms Biya is the daughter of the Cameroonan President. Homosexuality is illegal in Cameroon Ms Biya is a musician who goes by the name King Nasty. Though she did not explicitly state her sexual orientation in her post, she followed it up by sharing an article by French newspaper Le Monde saying she had 'come out' as well as messages of support from many others. Shakiro, a transgender activist from Cameroon, was one of those who praised the musician, hoping the post could be a 'turning point for the LGBTQ+ community in Cameroon' as Ms Biya positions herself as 'a voice for social change in a country where taboos are deeply rooted'. Shakiro lives in Belgium after seeking asylum following an 'attempted homosexuality' conviction back in Cameroon. However, Ms Biya's social media intervention has not been met with unanimous praise. A number of social media users from Cameroon shared homophobic comments in response. Ms Biya posted again the following day, captioning a picture of her: 'Why tf [the f***] u so opinionated?' Nevertheless, some have questioned whether the artist shared the picture with publicity in mind. Other responses suggested coming out is a privilege only a lucky few Cameroonians can enjoy without fear. LGBT activist Bandy Kiki said: 'I love this for Cameroon's First Daughter. 'However, it highlights a harsh reality: Anti-LGBT laws in Cameroon disproportionately target the poor. Wealth and connections create a shield for some, while others face severe consequences.' Pictured: Paul Biya in 2011. Cameroon's laws against homosexuality have drawn criticism from human rights groups during his 42-year leadership of the country Cameroon's laws against members of the LGBT community have led to criticism from human rights groups in the past, including in 2022, when Human Rights Watch urged the country to 'take urgent action to revoke this discriminatory law and to ensure that the human rights of all Cameroonians, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or sex characteristics, are upheld'. Human rights lawyer Alice Nkom, who defends LGBT people in Cameroon, described Ms Biya as a 'model of courage... sending an important universal message of love'. Against a backdrop of media outlets in Cameroon being sanctioned in the past for depicting homosexuality, most publications and broadcasters are yet to report on their president's daughter's recent posts, nor has Mr Biya or his government commented. Ms Biya has been contacted for comment. White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients on Wednesday told freaked-out staff to keep their heads down, do their job and ignore the fallout from President Joe Biden's terrible debate. His message came amid a report that Biden privately told a key ally he is weighing whether or not to drop out of the presidential race, as the campaign waits in dread for new polling numbers and Democratic lawmakers are fleeing in droves. Zients' call was one of many moves the White House is making as it tries to calm the storm and reassure staff, lawmakers and donors that Biden can win re-election in November. On the call, Zients acknowledged Biden didnt have a great debate performance last week but told staff that hes a great president and urged them to stay together. White House Chief of Staff Jeffrey Zients (right) reassured staff about President Biden He didn't have a great night but that was one night and what we all know is he is a great president, Zients said per reports. He made three key points: keep your head down and keep working for the American people while the campaign handles the election; hold your head high as the administration has accomplished so much; and stick together. 'Execute, execute, execute,' he told them repeatedly while urging them to 'tune out' outside noise. The call lasted about 10 minutes. Zients didn't take questions but said concerned staff should email him. He repeated Biden's quote that when you get knocked down, you get back up. 'That's what he is doing and that's what we all need to do ... follow the president's lead,' he said. Biden, meanwhile, is engaging in personal outreach, calling Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Delaware Sen. Chris Coons, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn. The moves come as Democrats worry Biden may be acting to late to shore up his support amid calls for his exit from the race. There also are reports of frustration among top donors that Biden didn't join a Monday call from the campaign, giving them an update on the situation. Meanwhile, Biden acknowledged he only has through this weekend to convince voters he is mentally up for the job. He'll be in Madison, Wisconsin, on Friday, where he will sit for an interview with ABC News. He travels to Pennsylvania on Sunday. 'He knows if he has two more events like that, we're in a different place' by the end of the weekend, the ally told The New York Times. The White House strongly denied this. 'That claim is absolutely false. If the New York Times had provided us with more than 7 minutes to comment we would have told them so,' White House deputy press secretary Andrew Bates wrote on X. Biden called into a campaign staff meeting on Wednesday to give them a pep talk and tell them he's staying in the race and going to win. 'Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can as simply and straightforward as I can: I am runningno ones pushing me out. Im not leaving. Im in this race to the end and were going to win,' he said, according to reports. The president and his team have engaged in a massive outreach campaign to reassure nervous staff, lawmakers, donors and allies of Biden's ability to beat Donald Trump in November. If Biden exits the race with Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris would be seen as the frontrunner to replace him. Biden and Harris had lunch at the White House on Wednesday. Democrats have fretted Biden will no long be able to defeat Trump in November. President Joe Biden has privately told a key ally he is weighing whether or not to drop out of the presidential race The reports Biden is eying the exit door are piling on as donors, lawmakers and top party officials worry the president isn't up for the campaign. A major donor told TMZ that 'it's only a matter of time' before Biden bows out. Another ally told CNN that Biden understands the next stretch of days are critical to whether he can save his candidacy, noting what it would take him to accept: 'It's just not working.' 'He sees the moment. He's clear-eyed,' the person said. As to what it would take would be the polls are plummeting, the fundraising is drying up, and the interviews are going badly,' that person said. 'He's not oblivious.' Additionally, Biden's campaign sent out an all-staff memo showing internal polls from battleground states that note Biden only dropped half a point in the fallout from his fumbling debate performance. The move came to pre-empt what is expected to be bad polling news for the president. 'We are going to see a few polls come out today and we want you all to hear from us on what we know internally and what we expect to come externally,' the memo, obtained by Politico, reads. 'Polls are a snapshot in time and we should all expect them to continue to fluctuate it will take a few weeks, not a few days, to get a full picture of the race.' Vice President Kamala Harris would be the frontrunner to replace Biden if he drops out The White House is trying to calm staff fears after President Joe Biden's debate performance - above Biden with his deputy chief of staff Bruce Reed, senior adviser Mike Donilon and Deputy Chief of Staff Annie Tomasini Amid the race to calm internal fears, there is a significant outreach operation to try and quell the growing calls for Biden to be replaced. The president has been on the phone to lawmakers trying to shore up his support on Capitol Hill amid worries Republicans will take control of the House and Senate - along with the White House - in the upcoming elections, giving them unchecked power to run the country. Biden also will meet with governors on Wednesday evening as he and his team scramble to stem even more defections. Meanwhile, Jill Biden has been dispatched to the battleground states of Pennsylvania and Michigan to tout Biden's accomplishments in the White House as polls show him trailing Donald Trump. The effort comes as questions continue to be asked about Biden's mental capabilities to handle the presidency and speculation about who could replace him as the Democratic presidential nominee. 'Everyone is freaking the f*** out,' an official told Axios. But there appears to be a reason for the freak out. A set of private polls from a pro-Biden super PAC showed the president losing ground about two points across all the most important battleground states, Puck news reported. Biden was also now trailing in New Mexico, New Hampshire and Virginia, three states that were thought to be safely Democratic. Biden trails Donald Trump in the Five Thirty-Eight polling average on the presidential race. Democrats are keeping their distance. Senator Tammy Baldwin, who faces re-election in Wisconsin, announced Tuesday morning she will not be joining Biden on stage when he campaigns in her hometown of Madison on Friday. And many Democrats worry the president is moving too slowly to calm the panic about his candidacy and mental fitness. Donald Trump and Joe Biden at last week's debate where Biden fumbled in his answers There also is talk of a brewing Democratic revolt in the House. Maine's Jared Golden, Lloyd Doggett of Texas and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington State all either told Biden to drop out or said they believed he would lose to Trump on Tuesday. Those defections were in addition to the collection of 25 House members - commonly referred to as 'frontliners' due to their status as moderates in swing districts - who are set to break with Biden and day now. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi emphasized Biden's multiple legislative accomplishments during an interview with MSNBC Tuesday but said it was legitimate to ask whether his debate performance was a one-night thing or a broader health problem. She said Trump should be given the same scrutiny. 'I think it's a legitimate question to say, 'Is this an episode or is this a condition?' And so when people ask that question, it's legitimate, of both candidates,' Pelosi said. Biden, speaking at a campaign event in Virginia on Tuesday evening without a teleprompter, blamed his performance on a lack of sleep and noted he had done two international trips in the runup to the debate. 'The fact is that you know, I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple times, going through around 100 time zones ... before ... the debate. Didnt listen to my staff and came back and nearly fell asleep on stage,' he said. 'That's no excuse but it is an explanation.' He was in France for the 85th anniversary of D-Day and then in Italy for the G7. But he left out the seven days he spent at Camp David ahead of his showdown with Trump. He spent the week locked with aides in preparation for the debate. However, Biden rarely began before 11 am and broke in the afternoon for a nap, the New York Times reported. Some Democrats suggested Biden should be thinking about the broader party's future. 'He has to be honest with himself,' Democratic Representative Mike Quigley, a moderate from Illinois, told CNN on Tuesday. 'It's his decision. I just want him to appreciate at this time just how much it impacts, not just his race, but all the other races coming in November.' And Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, whose endorsement of Biden in 2020 helped him become the nominee, told MSNBC that he still wanted a presidential ticket with Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. But then he announced who he would endorse if Biden exited the race. 'I will support her if he were to step aside,' Clyburn said of Harris. American couples have been left trapped in their hotel suites as Hurricane Beryl ripped through the Caribbean and put a damper on their honeymoons. Emma Steinke and her new husband Alex, both 26, flew 12 hours from Chicago and landed in Grenada around 5 p.m. on Saturday. On Sunday the couple was told to hunker down in their honeymoon suite at the Sandals resort to brace for impact from the deadly category five storm. The new bride documented their time together on TikTok sharing her 'hurricane haul' from the gift shop which included a bag of chips, a granola bar, chocolates and candles. 'It was a bit surreal. We had just gotten to paradise, so it was a lot to process, especially being from the Midwest, where we don't experience this,' Emma told People. Emma and Alex Steinke, both 26, flew 12 hours to Grenada only to be stuck in their honeymoon suite as Hurricane Beryl ripped through the Caribbean The new bride documented their experience showing the destruction to the Sandals resort Fences around the property were toppled, chairs knocked into the pool and the head of a palm tree was completely severed 'It progressed so rapidly that when we started our travel day, it was a tropical storm, and by the time we landed, it was a hurricane watch,' she says. 'We are staying inside. The resort instructed guests not to leave their rooms until they say it's safe, so we've been following their instructions. We've been keeping our phones charged as well and trying to conserve water/food as much as possible.' As the storm ripped through Grenada and damaged about 98 percent of the buildings on the islands, water seeped through their hotel room walls and they were forced to take down the television to avoid electrical damage. On Tuesday the couple was allowed out of their room and they documented the destruction done to the resort. Fences around the property were toppled, chairs knocked into the pool and the head of a palm tree was completely severed. 'As far as we can tell, at the resort, there isn't much damage so we're hoping we can get a few more days of sun and be able to experience the island a little bit,' Emma said. Sea waves break as Hurricane Beryl approaches Kingston, Jamaica on Wednesday Workers save pieces of a tin fence that was blown apart as winds from Hurricane Beryl passes through Kingston on Wednesday 'It's unfortunate but it is what it is. We're hoping it doesn't affect anything like our flight out but we're well aware it could,' adds Emma. 'We're mostly just hoping everyone remains safe, especially the island natives and the staff at our resort that are working so hard for us.' Another couple, Scarlette and Brady from Ohio, got married on June 29 and flew to Negril, Jamaica for their honeymoon and are bracing for impact from the storm. 'Hurricane Beryl is en route to hut us sometime this afternoon,' Scarlette said on TikTok. 'The wind is picking up just a bit and the waves were nothing like this yesterday. We are Midwesterners, we're from Ohio, so we have never experienced a hurricane before. 'The resort has done a great job in making us feel safe. We went to the gift shop yesterday and picked up some snacks and water and we're going to move all of this furniture into our room.' Scarlette and Brady got married on June 29 and flew to Negril, Jamaica as Hurricane Beryl is approaching New modeling suggests the hurricane will move through six U.S. states and a hurricane warning is in effect for the popular beach towns of Cancun and Cozumel in Mexico. The National Hurricane Center forecasts that devastating winds and life-threatening storm surges are expected to begin in Jamaica Wednesday afternoon and spread into the Cayman Islands. Damaging winds and heavy rainfall are predicted over portions of the Yucatan Peninsula and Belize on Thursday. Three people were reported killed in Grenada and Carriacou and another in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, officials said. Two other deaths were reported in northern Venezuela, where five people are missing, officials said. About 25,000 people in that area also were affected by heavy rainfall from Beryl. One fatality in Grenada occurred after a tree fell on a house, Kerryne James, the environment minister said. The storm ripped through Grenada (pictured) and damaged about 98 percent of the buildings on the islands Three people were reported killed in Grenada and Carriacou (pictured) and another in St. Vincent and the Grenadines Carriacou and Petit Martinique sustained the greatest damage, with scores of homes and businesses flattened in Carriacou. Grenada's prime minister, Dickon Mitchell, said Tuesday there was no power, roads are impassable and the possible rise of the death toll 'remains a grim reality.' St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has promised to rebuild the archipelago. He noted that 90 percent of homes on Union Island were destroyed, and that 'similar levels of devastation' were expected on the islands of Myreau and Canouan. The last strong hurricane to hit the southeast Caribbean was Hurricane Ivan 20 years ago, which killed dozens of people in Grenada. A smiling Vladimir Putin reunited with his 'old friend' Xi Jinping in Kazakhstan on Wednesday for a session of an international group founded to counter Western 'hegemony'. 'Russian-Chinese relations, our comprehensive partnership and strategic cooperation, are experiencing their best period in history,' Putin said, reaffirming Russia's relationship with China. In his brief opening comments, the Chinese premier called Putin his 'old friend' and said Sino-Russian relations were at a 'high level.' 'In the face of the turbulent international situation and external environment, the two sides should continue to uphold the original aspiration of friendship for generations to come,' Xi said. The pair met on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in the Kazakh capital of Astana - a regional political and economic bloc that the two leaders see as a counterweight to US 'hegemony' in international affairs. Xi Jinping (left) referred to Putin (right) as his 'old friend' ahead of the summit on Wednesday Dealing with terrorism will be a central talking point at the summit in Kazakhstan this year Putin attends a meeting with Kazakh President as leaders meet to discuss security concerns Rescuers carry the body of a person killed during a missile attack in Kharkiv, Ukraine, in May The Shanghai Cooperation Organization was set up in 2001 by China and Russia to discuss security concerns in Central Asia and the wider region. Other members are Iran, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Observer states and dialogue partners include Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Putin today hailed the group as 'strengthening its role as one of the key pillars of a fair multipolar world order' in opening remarks of a meeting with Xi that were published on Russian state TV. For Putin, the meeting is about 'prestige and the symbolic optics that he's not alone,' Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, said. Indeed, the Russian leader on Wednesday had multiple meetings with other leaders on the sidelines of the summit, all diligently aired by Russian state TV. The SCO also helps China project its influence, especially across Central Asia and the Global South. Xi called for 'bridges of communication' between countries last week and wants to further promote China as an alternative to the U.S. and its allies. Besides Putin and Xi, and summit host President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, other leaders attending include Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, President Emomali Rakhmon of Tajikistan, and President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyzstan. President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus will attend because his nation is becoming a full member. Iran is still choosing a successor to President Ebrahim Raisi, killed in a helicopter crash in May, with a runoff election Friday, so acting President Mohammad Mokhbar will attend. Other guests of the SCO include President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan. Also present will be U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who is visiting Central Asia. Guterres wants 'to position the U.N. as an inclusive organization that's talking to all the big clubs,' said Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center. For host Kazakhstan and the other Central Asian nations, the meeting is a way to further their cooperation with bigger, more powerful neighbors. Kazakhstan, for instance, frequently engages with both neighboring Russia and China, while also pursuing links with the West, with visits this year from U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken and British Foreign Secretary David Cameron. Countering terrorism will be a key focus for the summit. Russia had what it has called two terrorist attacks this year, with more 145 people killed by gunmen at a Moscow concert hall in March, and at least 21 people were killed in attacks on police and houses of worship in the southern republic of Dagestan in June. In the March violence, the U.S. warned Russian officials about the possibility of an attack - information that was dismissed by Moscow. The SCO is not a collective security or economic alliance, and there are 'significant security differences between its members,' said Nigel Gould-Davies, a senior fellow for Russia and Eurasia with the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London and a former British ambassador to Belarus. The 'principal value' of the organization lies in the optics of non-Western countries gathering together, he added. Ukrainian servicemen ride a T-72 tank in the Donetsk region in June amid the Russian invasion Taiwanese armoured vehicles roll down a street in Kinmen on May 24 as China warned its leadership was pushing it into 'a perilous situation of war and danger' President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey meets with Putin at the SCO summit in Astana Members of the delegations, led by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, hold talks on the sidelines of the SCO in Kazakhstan on Wednesday Putin gestures alongside Erdogan during their meeting at the summit on Wednesday Gabuev agreed, saying the SCO is a place for conversation rather than a platform where 'collective decisions are made, implemented and have an impact.' This year, close Moscow ally Belarus will become a full member of the organization, and its admission indicates how Russia wants to bolster blocs of non-Western countries. Gould-Davies said the SCO is raising its profile 'by growing its membership rather than by deepening its cooperation.' Guterres may use the meeting to talk to Putin about how Russia is 'disrupting the coherence of the U.N.,' Gabuev said. Russia has vetoed U.N. Security Council sanctions on monitoring North Korea and a vote on stopping an arms race in outer space. With Guterres unlikely to visit Moscow, the Astana meeting is likely his best chance to speak to Putin, Gabuev added. There could be 'a lot of sideline discussions on Ukraine, as it is a big issue which concerns all of us,' a senior Kazakh official told The Associated Press. The official was not authorized to talk publicly, and thus spoke on condition of anonymity. Gabuev said Putin will try to show there's a 'big club of countries' that are 'ambivalent' toward the war in Ukraine. A Chicago commuter was viciously attacked by thieves who choked him unconscious and rifled through his pockets. The 49-year-old victim's ordeal on February 17 was caught on harrowing surveillance video obtained by Fox News. Fernando Loyo-Rodriguez, Wilker Gutierrez Sierra, Carlos Carreno-Carreno and Yonnier Guasamucare Garcia, who are all Venezuelan migrants, have been charged with attempted murder and robbery. The footage shows four men appear to befriend their victim in the train car before he is suddenly seized from behind. The man is choked and loses consciousness. As he falls to the ground, one of the suspects covers the camera. A Chicago commuter was viciously attacked by thieves who choked him unconscious and rifled through his pockets When he moves back, one of the group is seen rummaging through his pockets. Police said one of the suspects held a knife to the victim's throat during the attack. The group made off with $400 and a cellphone and left their victim unconscious in the back of the train car. The suspects, who are aged 18 to 22-years-old, were arrested 45 minutes later. They had only been in the country for a few months prior to the incident, with three of the accused previously picked up for shoplifting. The men appeared in Cook County court on Tuesday status-detention hearing. Carreno-Carreno, Loyo-Rodriguez and Guasamucare Garcia were put in custody, while Gutierrez Sierra was let out on ankle monitor. They are due back in court on August 28. The crime has reignited debates about immigration in the US, as it follows a spate of other high-profile crimes allegedly committed by migrants. The 49-year-old victim's ordeal in February was caught on harrowing surveillance video Yonnier Guasamucare-Garcia (L) and Carlos Luis Carreno-Carreno (R) are among four suspects who have been charged Among them is the horrific rape and murder of 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray in Houston, Texas last month. Venezuelans Johan Jose Rangel Martinez and Franklin Jose Pena Ramos have been charged in connection to the crimes. Prior to that the death of nursing student Laken Riley allegedly at the hands of migrant Jose Ibarra prompted Riley's father to describe her killing as a 'rallying call' for secure borders. Similarly, the grieving family of mom-of-five Rachel Morin blamed Biden's border policy for her death. Morin's naked body was found on a Maryland hiking trail almost a year ago. Prosecutors claim illegal migrant Victor Martinez Hernandez, 23, lay in wait hiding for her before carrying out the sick attack. The issue has become a flashpoint ahead of the November election and a cornerstone of Donald Trump's campaign. Migrants Wilker Miguel Gutierrez Sierra (L) and Fernando Yohandy Loyo-Rodriguez (R) make up the final suspects of the group aged 18-22 The footage shows four men appear to befriend their victim in the train car before he is suddenly seized from behind The presidential hopeful has vowed to deport millions of migrants who entered the US illegally if elected. However, several studies have indicated that migrants are less likely to commit crimes than native-born Americans. One study by Stanford economist Ran Abramitzky found that immigrants are 30 percent less likely to be incarcerated than are white, US-born individuals. The Briton at the centre of the Jay Slater mystery broke his silence today - and told MailOnline: 'He came to my Airbnb alive and he left my Airbnb alive.' Ayub Qassim invited Jay, 19, back to his rented holiday cottage after a rave in Tenerife hours before he vanished on June 17. Qassim, 31, was jailed nine years ago for being the mastermind behind a sophisticated operation to flood Wales with Class A drugs. He booked the 40-a-night holiday rental online under the name Ayub Abdul. Spanish police hunting for Jay have already spoken to Qassim and the unnamed friend he was travelling with known only as 'Johnny Vegas'. Ayub Qassim invited Jay, 19, back to his rented holiday cottage after a rave in Tenerife and says: 'He came to my Airbnb alive and he left my Airbnb alive' Jay Slater, 19, went back to Qassim's remote cottage called Casa Abuela Tina at 5am on the day he vanished The 40-a-night Casa Abuela Tina holiday rental near the remote village of Masca where Jay spent his final hours before going missing The men stayed on the island for an extra day after Jay went missing to speak to police although both have been described as 'irrelevant' to their investigation. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline today Qassim said: 'The only comment I have to make is that Jay came to the house alive, and he left the house alive. 'I let the geezer stay at mine because he had nowhere else to go, his friends had all left him. 'I know Jay, through friends, I'm not going to bring someone back to mine if I don't know them. 'I'm doing the geezer a favour and now my face is all over the news. It's a bit mental. I haven't even done anything.' Now Qassim is back at his family's flat in Barking, east London. In 2015 Qassim was the ringleader of a London-based crime gang who imported heroin and crack cocaine to Cardiff. When police raided a property there, they found drugs, cash, mobile phones and digital scales. Qassim was sentenced to nine years and nine months. Qassim insisted he had had no argument with Jay and he had even given him a blanket to sleep in. Qassim, 31, was jailed nine years ago for being the mastermind behind a sophisticated operation to flood Wales with Class A drugs Qassim booked the Airbnb, which Jay went back to with him and another man, under the name Ayub Abdul In its Airbnb listing Casa Abuela Tina is described as being a farmhouse within the 'unique natural landscape' surrounding it The Airbnb owner said she later saw Jay walking uphill in the vast mountainous area A Snapchat picture Jay sent to friends on the doorstep of the cottage at 7.30am, in which he was holding a cigarette He added: 'If I'd fallen out with him would he even come to mine? 'There were no problems. You've seen the last images of him with his red blanket around him. 'I don't know if he had beef elsewhere because I don't know him that well, I only know him through friends.' Former detective turned TV sleuth Mark Williams-Thomas flew to Tenerife to help with the search - and said he wanted to speak to the two men who rented the apartment Jay last visited. But Qassim said he had only spoken to authorities in Tenerife. He said: 'I've spoken to the Spanish police and they've told me not to speak to anyone which is why I've been quiet. 'I've not spoken to Mark Williams-Thomas or anyone like him because he doesn't have any jurisdiction in Tenerife, and I haven't done anything wrong.' Asked how well he knew Jay and what he thought of the conspiracy theories surrounding his disappearance, Qassim said: 'Everyone knows each other. I'm not going to slander anyone. 'He's a cool guy, Jay. He ain't got a problem with me, I haven't got a problem with him or his mates. We just all talk to each other and everything was sweet.' Jay went back to Qassim's remote cottage called Casa Abuela Tina at 5am on the day he vanished on June 17. TV detective Mark Williams-Thomas (pictured) issued an update on Wednesday, claiming he had been told Jay had stolen a 12,000 Rolex and was trying to sell it Jay was on his first-ever friends holiday with Lucy Law (pictured) and Brad Hargreaves when he went missing in Tenerife Brad Hargreaves (pictured) also said he spoke to Jay on the phone before he went missing But he is known to have left the property at around 7.30am to catch a bus back towards his holiday apartment. A witness said he asked her when the next bus was. When she told him the next one wasn't until 10am, he is believed to have attempted to walk the 11 hours it would have taken him to get back to his holiday let. The man and another who was travelling with him stayed an extra day after he vanished and spoke to police. They gave the officers their details and fully cooperated with the investigation. Sources close to the inquiry have told MailOnline that the men are not relevant to Jay's disappearance. It is shaping up to be the most seismic general election in a quarter of a century. Brits will wake up fresh on Friday morning to a clear result, as Keir Starmer could have claimed victory and Rishi Sunak admitted defeat - or visa versa - before the sun rises. So whether you are a politico or just want to see who is to become your next MP, you'll need to make sure you have plenty of coffee and biscuits to see you through the night - or just set an alarm. After polling stations close at 10pm tonight, the counting process begins in 650 constituencies across the UK. The first seats to be announced will be around midnight, and the last around 6am, if everything goes to plan. The crunch time will be between 3am and 4am when the bulk of the results will flood in. And with Rishi Sunak's seat of Richmond and Northallerton due to be declared at 4am, this could be the moment when he concedes the election to Labour - and in a worst-case scenario loses his own seat. Before then he could lose two of his most trusted lieutenants. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps (Welwyn Hatfield) and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt (Godalming and Ash) are both under threat in their seats, and are due to find out their fate around 3.30am. Elsewhere, Sir Keir should be confirmed back in his safe Labour seat of Holborn and St Pancras around 4.15am, which will come after his predecessor Jeremy Corbyn finds out whether he has defeated Labour as an independent in Islington North at 3am. 4am will also be a key time for Reform. It is the expected declaration time for Clacton, where leader Nigel Farage is making his eighth attempt to become an MP. Use our graphic below to find out what time your MP is set to be announced. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer at an eve of poll event in East Kilbride, Scotland Rishi Sunak knocking on doors during the last day of the campaign Nigel Farage delivered his last campaign speech at Clacton pier, in the constituency where he is standing Among the early seats to be called will be Basildon and Billericay in Essex, where Tory chairman Richard Holden is standing. This could be one of the first upsets of the night. The former MP for North West Durham sparked anger when he was the sole candidate presented on what was expected to be a shortlist of three names, according to local Tory members. He would replace John Baron, who announced he would stand down as an MP in October last year in what should be a safe Conservative seat, with Mr Baron having won a majority of 20,412 over his nearest Labour opponent in 2010. But polls say it could be lost, with Reform even in with a shout of winning it. Here is how the evening is likely to progress, assuming there are no recounts or other delays: 10pm Polling stations close and exit polls are published. 11pm The first seats to declare are likely to be Blyth and Ashington at around 11.30pm and Houghton and Sunderland South at around 11.45pm. Both are in north-east England and both are defended by Labour. Houghton and Sunderland South has been won by Bridget Phillipson for Labour at every election since the seat was created in 2010, where she is defending a narrow majority of 3,271, while Blyth and Ashington is a new constituency at this election, where Labour is defending a notional majority of 6,118. The outcome may provide a guide to what to expect in seats where Labour has small majorities - in particular how Reform UK performs and what happens to the level of Conservative support. Midnight Swindon South is likely to be the first battleground seat of the night to declare at around 12.15am, where former justice secretary Sir Robert Buckland is defending a majority of 5,650 and where Labour candidate Heidi Alexander - who was MP for Lewisham East from 2010-18 - needs a swing of 5.7 percentage points to win. Opinion polls suggest this is the sort of seat Labour ought to win comfortably, and as such the result will be a pointer to what could happen over the rest of the night. Broxbourne in Hertfordshire is due at around 12.30am: a seat held continuously by the Conservatives since its creation in 1983, with a majority in 2019 of 19,192, the result giving an early indication of how the Tories are faring in their traditional Home Counties heartlands. 1am East Kilbride & Strathaven, Hamilton & Clyde Valley and Rutherglen will provide a first indication of patterns of voting in Scotland. All three are being defended by the SNP and all are Labour targets, with Rutherglen needing a 6.0-percentage point swing to change hands, Hamilton & Clyde Valley 8.2 points and East Kilbride & Strathaven 12.8 points. A direct swing in the share of the vote of 10 percentage points from the SNP to Labour in Scotland could see Sir Keir Starmer's party pick up 15 constituencies. Elsewhere, the Liberal Democrats could make their first gain of the night in Harrogate & Knaresborough, which they last held between 1997 and 2010 and where they need an 8.0-percentage point swing to take the seat from the Conservatives, ranking it at number 21 on the party's target list. Leigh & Atherton in Greater Manchester is ranked at number two on Labour's target list: a new seat this election, but one where the Tories are defending a notional majority of just 293. 2am The flow of results will now start to pick up, with just over 60 seats due to declare between 2am and 3am. A win for Labour in Tory-held Cannock Chase in Staffordshire, expected to declare at around 2.30am, would suggest the party is on course for a record-breaking win: the seat needs an enormous 21.5-percentage point swing to change hands, ranking it at number 304 on Labour's target list. The party held the seat from 1997 to 2010 but it has been Tory ever since, with a 2019 majority of 19,879. The Lib Dems should discover if they have been able to gain one of their longshots, Stratford-on-Avon, from the Conservatives: a seat they need a 17.8-point swing to win and which was held until this year by former Tory chancellor Nadhim Zahawi, who is not standing this time. Workers' Party leader George Galloway will learn if he has held on to Rochdale in Greater Manchester, which he won at a by-election in February this year. The result from Sir Keir Starmer's constituency of Holborn & St Pancras is due at around 2.30am. The Labour leader is defending a very safe majority of 22,766 and is one of 12 candidates standing in the seat. Mid Bedfordshire, due to declare at around 2.45am, was won by Labour from the Tories at a by-election in October 2023, marking the first time Sir Keir's party had represented the seat since its creation in 1918. Based on the size of the swing Labour needs to win again (when compared with the 2019 notional result), the seat ranks at number 263 on the party's target list - so a Labour victory here would suggest the party is on track for an enormous Commons majority. Also worth watching will be the results from Bolsover in Derbyshire, held by Labour from 1950 to 2019 - for much of the time by veteran left-winger Dennis Skinner - until the Tories won at the last election, and which Labour will hope to win back; Peterborough and Redcar, two of Labour's key targets; and Torbay in Devon, which could fall to the Lib Dems if Sir Ed Davey's party is doing exceptionally well. 3am This is likely to be the busiest time of the night, with nearly 250 declarations expected over the next hour. Islington North is due to declare, where Independent candidate and former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn is standing. Mr Corbyn has previously won the seat for Labour at every general election since 1983, but is no longer a member of the party and is contesting the seat with six others, including Labour candidate Praful Nargund. The result is due from the new seat of Great Grimsby & Cleethorpes, where the Tories are defending a notional majority of 9,759: the sort of constituency Labour has to win (the swing needed is 11.8 points) to be sure of a comfortable majority. Justice Secretary Alex Chalk is one of the Cabinet ministers most at risk at this election and the result from his seat of Cheltenham is due at around 3am, where he is defending a tiny majority of 1,421. The constituency would fall to the Lib Dems on a swing of 1.3 percentage points, ranking it at number six on the party's target list. The result is also due at around 3am from Chingford & Wood Green, which former Tory leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith has won at every general election (including its former incarnation as Chingford) since 1992, but where he is defending a majority of just 1,604 and which would change hands on a swing to Labour of 1.5 points. Five other candidates are standing, including Shama Tatler for Labour and the Independent Faiza Shaheen, who was Labour's candidate here in 2019, meaning there could be a partial split in the Labour vote. Sir Ed Davey's seat of Kingston & Surbiton is due to declare at around 3.15am, where the Lib Dem leader is defending a majority of 11,174. Witney in Oxfordshire, a seat won by the Tories at every election since its creation in 1983 and which was once represented by former prime minister David Cameron, is due to declare at this time - another seat that could fall to the Lib Dems if Sir Ed's party is having a very strong night. Also due at around 3.15am is the result from Bristol Central: a new seat at this election and one of the Green Party's top targets, where candidate Carla Denyer is hoping to beat Labour's Thangam Debbonaire, previously MP for Bristol West. At around 3.30am the result is likely from the new constituency of Godalming & Ash in Surrey, where Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt is one of six candidates. Mr Hunt could be at risk: he is defending a notional Tory majority of 10,720 and the seat has been heavily targeted by the Lib Dems, who need a swing of 9.7 points to win. At around 3.30am the result is likely from the new constituency of Godalming & Ash in Surrey, where Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt is one of six candidates. Mr Hunt could be at risk: he is defending a notional Tory majority of 10,720 and the seat has been heavily targeted by the Lib Dems, who need a swing of 9.7 points to win. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is another Conservative 'big beast' potentially in trouble and the result from his seat of Welwyn Hatfield in Hertfordshire should come in around this time. Mr Shapps has held the seat since 2005 but is defending a majority of 10,773 and Labour needs a swing of 10.4 percentage points to win. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps is another Conservative 'big beast' potentially in trouble and the result from his seat of Welwyn Hatfield in Hertfordshire should come in around this time. Mr Shapps has held the seat since 2005 but is defending a majority of 10,773 and Labour needs a swing of 10.4 percentage points to win. House of Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt will find out if she has held her seat of Portsmouth North, which she has represented since 2010. She is defending a majority of 15,780 and a swing to Labour of 17.2 points would see her defeated. Another Cabinet minister, Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, will discover her fate at Chichester. Ms Keegan is defending a majority at this election of 19,622, with second-place party the Lib Dems needing a swing of 19.3 points to take a seat they last held - as the Liberal Party - 100 years ago. Tatton in Cheshire, once the seat of former chancellor George Osborne and held since 2017 by Government minister and TV presenter Esther McVey, is due to declare, which would fall to Labour on a 17.4-point swing. Other key seats to watch this hour include Ribble Valley in Lancashire, Thanet East in Kent and Scarborough & Whitby in North Yorkshire - all seats Labour needs to win to be sure of a majority in the next parliament - along with Tory-Lib Dem battlegrounds such as Eastleigh in Hampshire, Wells & Mendip Hills in Somerset and Newton Abbot in Devon, to see how well the Conservatives hold off any potential surge by Sir Ed's party in south-west England. 4am Enough results should be in now to know which party is on course to win the election and by what margin. Dartford in Kent is the longest-running 'bellwether' constituency in the country and is due to declare at around 4am. Since 1964, whichever party wins Dartford has also gone on to form the government. Conservative candidate Gareth Johnson is defending a majority here of 14,704, with Labour needing a swing of 15.9 points to take the seat. Douglas Alexander, who held a number of cabinet roles during the Labour governments of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, has not been an MP since 2015 but is standing this year in Lothian East, Labour's top target in Scotland where the SNP is defending a majority of 2,207. Rishi Sunak's seat of Richmond & Northallerton, in North Yorkshire, should declare at around this time. The Prime Minister is defending a huge notional majority of 24,331 and is one of 13 candidates standing in the constituency, making it the most contested seat in the country. The result from Sir Keir Starmer's constituency of Holborn & St Pancras is due at around 4.15am. The Labour leader is defending a very safe majority of 22,766 and is one of 12 candidates standing in the seat. Rishi Sunak's seat of Richmond & Northallerton, in North Yorkshire, should declare at around this time. The Prime Minister is defending a huge notional majority of 24,331 and is one of 13 candidates standing in the constituency, making it the most contested seat in the country. Clacton in Essex should declare, which is being defended by Giles Watling for the Conservatives and where Reform leader Nigel Farage is one of nine candidates. It is Mr Farage's eighth attempt to become an MP. Clacton in Essex should declare, which is being defended by Giles Watling for the Conservatives and where Reform leader Nigel Farage is one of nine candidates. It is Mr Farage's eighth attempt to become an MP. The residents of Ashfield in Nottinghamshire will find out at around 4.30am if their next MP is former Conservative-turned-Reform candidate Lee Anderson, who won the seat (as a Tory) in 2019; Independent candidate Jason Zadrozny, who came second in 2019; new Conservative candidate Debbie Soloman; or Rhea Keehn for Labour, whose party held the seat from 1979 to 2019. Former House of Commons leader Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg will learn if he has won the new seat of Somerset North East & Hanham, where the notional Tory majority is 16,389 and which Labour would take on a swing of 14.3 percentage points, ranking it at number 165 on the party's target list. The residents of Ashfield in Nottinghamshire will find out at around 4.30am if their next MP is former Conservative-turned-Reform candidate Lee Anderson, who won the seat (as a Tory) in 2019; Independent candidate Jason Zadrozny, who came second in 2019; new Conservative candidate Debbie Soloman; or Rhea Keehn for Labour, whose party held the seat from 1979 to 2019. Former House of Commons leader Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg will learn if he has won the new seat of Somerset North East & Hanham, where the notional Tory majority is 16,389 and which Labour would take on a swing of 14.3 percentage points, ranking it at number 165 on the party's target list. The Greens will discover whether they have held on to Brighton Pavilion in East Sussex, where Caroline Lucas was the party's MP from 2010 to this year, and where their new candidate is Sian Berry. They will also find out if the Greens' co-leader Adrian Ramsay has managed to win the new seat of Waveney Valley in East Anglia, which is being treated as a notional Conservative defence. A key result from Northern Ireland is due at around 4.30am in Lagan Valley, where Sinn Fein has stood aside in the hope of giving the Alliance Party a better chance of gaining the seat from the DUP. 5am Northampton North, a bellwether seat at every general election since February 1974, is due to declare; Labour needs a 3.9-point swing to gain the constituency from the Tories. Former prime minister Liz Truss will learn if she is back in her seat of Norfolk South West, where she is defending an enormous majority of 24,180. The Leicestershire constituency of Loughborough, a bellwether at every general election since February 1974, is due to declare at around 5.30am; Labour needs a 5.9-point swing to gain the seat from the Tories. Also due at around 5.30am is the result from Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester, where Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner is defending a majority of 4,689. Also due at around 5.30am is the result from Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester, where Labour deputy leader Angela Rayner is defending a majority of 4,689. Two of the most remote constituencies in Scotland should declare during this hour: Caithness, Sutherland & Easter Ross and Orkney & Shetland, both of which the Lib Dems are hoping to win, while results should come in for two of Labour's top London targets: Finchley & Golders Green and Hendon, both held since 2010 by the Conservatives. 6am Among the final results to declare should be the London boroughs of Ilford North and Ilford South, both safe for Labour; the new constituency of Selby in North Yorkshire, which Keir Mather - the youngest MP at the end of the last parliament - is hoping to win for Labour and overturn a notional Tory majority of 14,838; and Farnham & Bordon, a new seat that straddles the borders of Hampshire and Surrey, which could bring the Lib Dems a late gain at the expense of the Conservatives. 7am and later Recounts could delay some of the declarations from earlier, but every seat is due to begin counting overnight so there is a good chance all 650 results will be in by mid-morning. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Wednesday that President Joe Biden is still battling a cold - 18 days after he originally caught it on his international trip. But remarkably, despite having a disastrous debate against Donald Trump that aides in part attributed to the common illness, he still hasn't been checked out by the doctor. 'He still has a lingering cold,' she told DailyMail.com when asked about Biden's health. The White House has given multiple, revolving explanations for Biden's terrible debate performance, where he trailed off when answering questions and switched between topics with no segue: a bad cold, too much debate prep, and not feeling great. Biden, himself, added a new excuse to the mix when he blamed jet lag from his international travel for his performance. But the president had been back in the country 12 days before the debate began and Jean-Pierre had not mentioned the jet lag when she talked to reporters on Tuesday. 'My bad. I did know that,' she insisted when pressed on the jet lag. 'I was focused on the cold.' Jean-Pierre was grilled about Biden's debate performance for the vast majority of her hour-long press briefing on Wednesday. 'It's the jet lag and also the cold,' she said of the matter. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Wednesday that President Joe Biden still has a cold She also said the octogenarian president hasn't had a medical examination since his annual physical in February. Biden's physician, Dr. Kevin O'Connor, travels with him. He was seen by reporters at the president's villa in Italy. O'Connor also traveled with Biden to the debate in Atlanta. But the 81-year-old Biden 'was not examined by the doctor,' en route to the debate, Jean-Pierre said. 'There's a cold. There's a jetlag. You combine that - he continues to work on with for the American people day in and day out, around the clock. Things happen,' she said of Biden's debate performance. A cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website. It usually last less than a week. Biden returned from attending the G7 in Italy on June 14. Before that he had been in France for the D-Day anniversary. The debate was June 27. 'The fact is that you know, I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple times, going through around 100 time zones ... before ... the debate. Didnt listen to my staff and came back and nearly fell asleep on stage,' Biden said Tuesday night of his debate performance. 'That's no excuse but it is an explanation.' But he left out the seven days he spent at Camp David ahead of his showdown with Trump. He spent the week locked with aides in preparation for the debate. However, Biden rarely began before 11 am and broke in the afternoon for a nap, the New York Times reported. Jean-Pierre slammed the nap report. 'Let me be very clear about this; this is a president that wakes up every morning and puts the American first...I am not going to speak to...unnamed sources out there,' she said. And, she argued, Biden should be commended for pushing through debate with a cold. Jean-Pierre also denied a report that Biden privately told a key ally he is weighing whether or not to drop out of the presidential race, a shocking admission that points to the dismal state of his candidacy. Biden, coming off of last week's disastrous debate performance, acknowledged he only has through this weekend to convince voters he is mentally up for the job. He'll be in Madison, Wisconsin, on Friday, where he will sit for an interview with ABC News. He travels to Pennsylvania on Sunday. 'He knows if he has two more events like that, we're in a different place' by the end of the weekend, the ally told The New York Times. Jean-Pierre described the report as 'absolutely not' true. 'He is clear eyed, and he is staying in the race,' she said. Biden, himself, called into a campaign staff meeting on Wednesday to give them a pep talk and tell them he's staying in the race and going to win. 'Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can as simply and straightforward as I can: I am runningno one's pushing me out. I'm not leaving. I'm in this race to the end and we're going to win,' he said. President Joe Biden also blamed jet lag for his bad debate performance Biden's physician Dr. Kevin O'Connor has not examined him recently, the White House said If Biden exits the race with Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris would be seen as the frontrunner to replace him. Biden and Harris had lunch at the White House on Wednesday. Democrats have fretted Biden will no long be able to defeat Trump in November. Even Biden staff have needed reassurance as more than 25 lawmakers have expressed doubts about the president's electability. The reports Biden is eying the exit door are piling on as donors, lawmakers and top party officials worry the president isn't up for the campaign. There is also frustration that Biden is waiting to long to get back out there and show himself as a strong, energetic leader. 'He was busy dealing with his schedule and also speaking directly and engaging with supporters and spending time with his family,' Jean-Pierre said of the president's schedule. A major donor told TMZ that 'it's only a matter of time' before Biden bows out. Another ally told CNN that Biden understands the next stretch of days are critical to whether he can save his candidacy, noting what it would take him to accept: 'It's just not working.' 'He sees the moment. He's clear-eyed,' the person said. As to what it would take would be the polls are plummeting, the fundraising is drying up, and the interviews are going badly,' that person said. 'He's not oblivious.' The White House is struggling to calm the storm of outrage from Biden's debate performance as Democratic lawmakers call for the president to exit the race and the White House staff are 'freaking the f*** out.' White House chief of staff Jeff Zients held an all-hands-on-deck staff call at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday to pump up disillusioned staff and reassure them that Biden will remain the nominee. On the call, he acknowledged Biden didn't have a great debate performance last week but told staff that he's a 'great president' and urged them to 'stay together.' 'He didn't have a great night but that was one night and what we all know is he is a great president,' Zients said per reports. He made three key points: keep your head down and keep working for the American people while the campaign handles the election; hold your head high as the administration has accomplished so much; and stick together. The call lasted about 10 minutes. Zients didn't take questions but said concerned staff should email him. He repeated Biden's quote that when you get knocked down, you get back up. 'That's what he is doing and that's what we all need to do ... follow the president's lead,' he said. Joe Biden insists he is in the 2024 race to the end amid a chorus of calls for him to step aside. The president and Vice President Kamala Harris called into a campaign staff meeting on Wednesday during their lunch to reassure them after Biden's disastrous debate performance led to calls for him to bow out of the race. 'Let me say this as clearly as I possibly can as simply and straightforward as I can: I am running,' Biden said on the call, according to reports. He added: 'No one's pushing me out. I'm not leaving. I'm in this race to the end and we're going to win.' The assurance comes after a New York Times report that said Biden told a key he was considering ending his reelection bid. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris sought to reassure campaign staff of the reelection viability during a lunchtime call on Wednesday 'He knows if he has two more events like that, we're in a different place' by the end of the weekend, the ally said in reference to the debate performance and upcoming events for the president. The White House denied the report with Biden's deputy press secretary Andrew Bates writing on X: 'That claim is absolutely false. If the New York Times had provided us with more than 7 minutes to comment we would have told them so.' White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre also told reporters during her briefing on Wednesday that Biden is not preparing to exit the race. Biden is holding the annual Independence Day party at the White House on Thursday and traveling to Madison, Wisconsin on Friday where he will also sit down with ABC News for his first post-debate interview. The President will then head to a campaign stop in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on Sunday. Both Wisconsin and Pennsylvania are key swing states that will help determine the outcome of the 2024 race. In those states and the five other battlegrounds, Trump has pulled ahead in polling following their debate in Atlanta, Georgia on Thursday, June 27. New poll shows Donald Trump three points ahead on average in all seven swing states after the debate with Joe Biden last week Since the debate, Biden and his team have conducted widespread damage control and reached out to reassure party members, staff, lawmakers, donors, allies and voters that Biden is still a viable candidate that can beat Trump again. But many within the party are looking for other options and are floating those like Vice President Kamala Harris, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. None are able to beat Trump in nationwide and battleground state polling and all fall behind Biden in his chances of winning against the former president. A Brazilian influencer died on Tuesday due to complications related to a surgery to increase the size of her buttocks. Aline Ferreira, 33, had polymethyl methacrylate applied to the buttocks during the procedure at the unlicensed Ame-se clinic in the city of Goiania on June 23. Correo Brazilenze obtained access to a preliminary report which indicated that Ferreira was in a comma was went into cardiac arrest last Friday and on Sunday. Her husband told Brazilian news outlet G1 that Ferreira returned to their home in Brasilia the day of the operation and was doing well. However, her medical condition began to worsen the next day when she had a fever. Brazilian influencer and mother-of-two, Aline Ferreira, died Tuesday at a hospital in Brasilia, the capital of the South American nation. The 33-year-old woman underwent a butt lift procedure on June 23 that was carried out by a biomedical scientist at a clinic that was not licensed to perform such operation Grazielly da Silva, the biomedical scientist who owns the site and who performed the procedure on influencer Aline Ferreira, was arrested Tuesday. She claims she never injected polymethyl methacrylat into the model's buttocks Ferreira's husband reached out to the clinic of Grazielly da Silva, the biomedical scientist who owns the site and who performed the procedure and was told that it was normal and that she should take medicine for the fever. Ferreira developed an abdominal pain on June 26 and fainted the following day. She was admitted to Asa Norte Regional Hospital and remained there until Saturday, when she was transferred to a private hospital in the town of Asa Sul. Ferreiras family said that da Silva injected 30 ml of polymethyl methacrylate to each of her buttocks, according to Metropoles news outlet. Aline Ferreira was known for sharing tips on fashion and travel on her social media platform The 33-year-old was feeling well and went home following her butt lift procedure on June 23, but her medical condition worsened in the following days. She reportedly went into cardiac arrest on Friday and Sunday before she passed away Tuesday Brazilian influencer Aline Ferreira died Tuesday, nine days after undergoing a BBL surgery However, da Silva countered the familys claims when she visited Ferreira at the hospital and alleged that she had only applied a biostimulator and suggested that the infection may have been caused by the bedsheets at the influencers home. Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency suggests that polymethyl methacrylate, an injectable gel, should only be used to treat serious diseases, like polio, in the event they provoke the development of body deformities. Da Silva was arrested Tuesday as part of the investigation into crimes against consumer relations. The Goias Civil Police said it had shut down her clinic because it did not have a health license and was not registered with the Regional Council of Biomedicine of Goias. Ferreira, a mother of two, was known for creating content about fashion, travel and day-to-day living on her social media platforms. Prince William and Kate have been donating privately to Hurricane Beryl relief efforts after the powerful storm tore through islands in the south-east Caribbean, it is understood. The natural disaster has led to at least six people being killed in Grenada, Venezuela and St Vincent and the Grenadines. As the storm worsens, a hurricane warning has been put in place for Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac. The Prince and Princess of Wales, who carried out a royal tour in the Caribbean in 2022, are said to be supporting current relief efforts and continuing to follow the impact closely. It is unknown house much the royal couple have donated to relief efforts at this time. Hurricane Beryl was forecast to be near major-hurricane strength when it passed near or over Jamaica early on Wednesday, and near the Cayman Islands on Thursday and into Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula on Friday, according to the National Hurricane Centre. Prince William and Kate have been donating privately to Hurricane Beryl relief efforts it is understood. Pictured: The couple in the Bahamas during the Caribbean royal tour in 2022 Fishing boats damaged by Hurricane Beryl wade in the water at the Bridgetown Fisheries, Barbados, Tuesday, July 2, 2024 A man looks at the debris in the Caribbean Terrace neighbourhood of Kingston, Jamaica A hurricane watch was in effect for Haiti's southern coast and the Yucatan's east coast, as Belize issued a tropical storm watch stretching south from its border with Mexico to Belize City. Late on Monday, Beryl became the earliest storm to develop into a Category five hurricane in the Atlantic and peaked at winds of 165mph on Tuesday before weakening to a still-destructive Category four. On Wednesday, the storm was about 250 miles east-southeast of Kingston, Jamaica. It had top winds of 145mph and was moving west-northwest at 22mph, the centre said. Three people were reported killed in Grenada and Carriacou and another in St Vincent and the Grenadines, officials said. Two other deaths were reported in northern Venezuela, where five people are missing, officials said. One fatality in Grenada occurred after a tree fell on a house. A fisherman checks the boats he secured as Hurricane Beryl approaches, in Kingston, Jamaica Members of the local environment agency protect sea turtles' nests ahead the arrival of Hurricane Beryl, in Cancun, Mexico A man looks at damaged vehicles after devastating floods swept through the town after Hurricane Beryl passed off the Venezuelan coast, in Cumanacoa, Venezuela, July 2, 2024 Storm clouds hover over the mountains as people make last-minute preparations for the arrival of Hurricane Beryl on July 03, 2024 in Kingston, Jamaica Last year, William and Kate similarly made personal donations to the Turkish earthquake relief fund, along with King Charles and Queen Camilla after the royals were left 'horrified by the harrowing images'. More than 55,000 people were killed when the earthquake his southern regions of the country. Palace sources confirmed the couple had made a personal donation to aid rescue efforts at the time, but it is unknown how much this donation was. What has Sir Keir Starmer done to deserve a super-majority? Did he save a drowning puppy? Did he win the Victoria Cross? Has he filled his party with politicians of such scintillating brilliance that we would gladly hold open our wallets and invite them to spend our money for us? Has he been proved right on policy? Of course not. The Labour leaders only superpower is to say what people want to hear. When he was rising through Labours ranks, he was a man of the Left. When he was seeking the leadership in 2020, he promised to uphold Jeremy Corbyns manifesto. Nor does his Shadow Cabinet exactly whelm. The man Labour wants as foreign secretary is David Lammy who, in an episode of Celebrity Mastermind, thought that Henry VIII had been succeeded by Henry VII. Your browser does not support iframes. As for policy, Starmer has got the big calls woefully wrong. Lets remember that, when Boris Johnson unlocked the country after the Covid restrictions in 2021, Sir Keir predicted 100,000 new cases a day of what he glibly called the Johnson variant. (In the event, infections plummeted.) Don't surrender your voice... just get out and make your vote count, writes Prime Minister RISHI SUNAK Your vote counts 130,000 of you can stop the supermajority that Sir Keir Starmer craves. Those 130,000 can make clear that you dont want a massive council tax hike, a pay-per-mile scheme for drivers or to be forced to make expensive Net Zero changes to your home. Deny Starmer that supermajority, and we can stop these things. So dont surrender your voice to Labour. Vote Conservative today. We are the only party who will stand up for you. The Liberal Democrats only issue with Starmer is that he doesnt go far enough when it comes to reversing Brexit, eroding womens rights and changing who can vote. A vote for them is a vote to bring back free movement, encourage dangerous gender self-identification and bring in a political system where your voice can be ignored. Reform wont deny Starmer the supermajority he wants because whether you think it is fair or not, they just wont win enough seats to oppose Labour. Their deputy leader has said that it would be great for them to get one, two, three, four, five elected MPs. Just imagine that: Hundreds and hundreds of Labour MPs opposed by just one, two, three, four, five elected MPs. But we can stop this together we can make the difference. Ask your friends, ask your neighbours: do they want their family to pay more than 2,000 extra in tax? Do they want Labour rewriting the rules so they can stay in power for decades? Do they want eco-dogma put ahead of their family finances and our energy security? If the answer to these questions is no, then they must come out and vote Conservative. Dont surrender to Labour, get out there and vote. I love this country. My grandparents came here with very little, yet today I have the honour of serving as your Prime Minister. I will work night and day for you, to deliver a Britain with lower taxes, secure borders and strong defences. I know people are frustrated with me, with our party. But this election will have lasting consequences. We must deny Labour the supermajority they want, and only a vote for the Conservatives can do that. I know the past few years have been tough but my values are your values: I believe in hard work, aspiration and family. Your vote can stand up for those values not just today, but for the next five years. I want to cut your taxes, Keir Starmer will raise them and if he gets that supermajority, hell raise them even further. I want to control our borders, Keir Starmer has no plan to deal with illegal migration. I want to strengthen our defences in this more dangerous world, but Keir Starmer wont match our commitment to raise defence investment to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2030. A huge number of seats in this election will be decided by a few hundred votes, so what you do will make a big difference. Your vote can make it more likely that your Conservative candidate is elected so that they can be your voice, represent your values and fight for you and your area. And prevent Labour from rewriting the rules so they can stay in power for decades if they win. Today, I need your vote to defend our vision of Britain: to back lower taxes, controlled borders and a secure future for our country. Join with us and we can make a difference and stop the socialist supermajority. Dont surrender your voice to Labour. Send an MP to Parliament who will stand up for you, your neighbours and your values. Vote Conservative. Advertisement Labour would have kept us locked up for months more for no gain whatsoever. Yet, if the polls are to be believed, this is the man we will put into No 10 with the biggest majority ever enjoyed by the leader of a single party. Well, you might say, that is the Conservatives fault. As the old chestnut has it, oppositions dont win elections, governments lose them. Perhaps. But, again, is it proportionate? The polls suggest the Tories will get fewer MPs than at any time in their history. We can all agree that they made mistakes. How, over 14 years in office, could they not have done? But what abomination merits annihilation on such a scale? Did they mount a coup attempt? Collaborate with enemy powers? Lose a war? Theyve achieved nothing in 14 years, I keep being told on the doorstep. But is that really fair? Cast your mind back to 2010, when Gordon Brown was dragged kicking and screaming from No 10, his Chief Secretary helpfully leaving a note to tell his successor that there was no money left. David Cameron inherited a larger deficit than that of Greece. But, with careful stewardship, the British economy grew faster than any comparable EU state right up to the lockdown. Under the Tories, Britain built two million new homes. We cut street crime to record low levels (other than in Sadiq Khans London). We began with an under-performing school system and ended up with the best readers in the Western world. People on the lowest wages stopped paying income tax, helping to shift nearly five million from long-term economic inactivity into work. Brexit gave us the first vaccine rollout in the world, and has allowed us to join the fastest-growing trading alliance on the planet, the Pacific Partnership. We led resistance to Vladimir Putins expansionism in Ukraine. By the way, anyone who still smugly asks Wheres the 350million for the NHS we were promised? a reference to the pledge written on the side of Boris Johnsons Brexit campaign bus thereby disqualifies themselves from the debate. So vast have been the increases that figure is now above 700million. We should have used a bigger bus. Of course, huge increases in the NHS budget dont mean much to people still struggling to get an appointment with their GP. But why are they struggling? Why, despite the record investment, are waiting lists so high? The answer is obvious, though we have crammed it into the remotest corner of our minds. Britain went through a pandemic. We missed screenings and check-ups. We did less outdoor exercise than we should have. Problems piled up. Our amnesia about the lockdowns goes some way to explain our irritation at the Government. We dont like to think about the fact that we paid ourselves to stay home, so we grumble about higher taxes as though they had come out of a clear blue sky. We forget that the Bank of England covered the costs of the lockdown by printing money, and complain about price rises as though they were a function of ministerial sadism. But the Conservatives had to play the hand they were dealt, from the financial crisis they inherited in 2010 to the pandemic. How would Labour have played that hand? Or, to be more precise, what can we learn from their past attitudes about how they will react in a future crisis? We know that Starmer would have had a much longer lockdown. Not only did he oppose the lifting of restrictions in July 2021. He wanted them reimposed at the end of that year. His faith in the power of government is one of the few things that he has been consistent about. And faith really is the word. How else are we to describe his insistence last month that he would let a loved one remain on an NHS waiting list for surgery (presumably in considerable discomfort) rather than use private healthcare? The Labour leaders only superpower is to say what people want to hear. When he was rising through Labours ranks, he was a man of the Left When he was seeking the leadership in 2020, he promised to uphold Jeremy Corbyn s manifesto That position has literally no logic behind it: by insisting on using the NHS, he would be taking up someone elses place. But, for Sir Keir, going private would be an act of sacrilege. The same quasi-religious impulse lies behind his determination to push more kids from private schools into state schools, some of them already at capacity, by making Britain the only country in Europe to tax education. It also explains his plan for a nationalised energy company. When has state control ever improved things? Hello? Great British Energy? I need someone to look at my meter. Certainly, comrade, we can get an engineer to you on June 10, 2032. Starmer has got the big calls woefully wrong. When Boris Johnson unlocked the country after the Covid restrictions in 2021, Sir Keir predicted 100,000 new cases a day David Cameron inherited a larger deficit than that of Greece. But, with careful stewardship, the British economy grew faster than any comparable EU state right up to the lockdown Great. Can you make it in the afternoon? Ive got the boiler man coming in the morning. The more the state does, the more it needs to spend. That is why Labour always always ends up raising taxes. Labour MPs keep repeating the line that they wont raise income tax, National Insurance or VAT. So we can reasonably infer that they will instead tax businesses, savings, property and inheritance. There is still time to avert the worst. A few more Conservative votes in key constituencies can ensure that Labour is held in check. It can ensure that the Opposition will be headed by a Conservative who will push for lower taxes, strong defence and secure borders, rather than by the Lib Dems Sir Ed Davey. If you think that Britain needs even higher spending and even more wokery, fine: vote Labour with a clean conscience. If you want us to sidle back apologetically to the EU, cancel the Rwanda scheme and give the vote to 16-year-olds, that is of course your right. We are a democracy. But if you think that taxes and spending are high enough already, that Britain is capable of self-government, that we should decide who is allowed into the country and that more socialism will make us poorer, then I have to ask whether, in order to clobber the Tories, you are prepared to clobber the people around you. Because, believe me, there will be a price to pay. To paraphrase Neil Kinnock from 1983, if Labour wins today, I warn you not to own your home. I warn you not to run a business. I warn you not to drive a car. If Labour wins today, I warn you not to save money or turn on your heating or rely on your pension. Above all, I warn you not to die. It is bitterly ironic that all the Tory policy failures that have so disillusioned the public are precisely the areas where Starmers government will be even worse. His frontbench might now pose as the champions of moderation and fiscal rectitude, but a new Labour government is bound to preside over rising taxes, expanding bureaucracy, higher public debts and growing immigration. Starmers own approval ratings are dismal: polls by Ipsos and YouGov in May had it at minus 18 and minus 20 points respectively n other areas, like Ashfield in Nottinghamshire currently held by ex-Tory Lee Anderson, now with Reform UK a vote for Nigel Farages party may be the best way of hitting Labour Just as border controls are diluted, so negotiations will reopen for the Brussels empire to bring the UK back into its orbit. The unions will be emboldened, the woke zealots will step up their bullying. Britain will continue down the dismal path away from the rule of law towards a rule of lawyers. If anyone has any doubts about how depressing a sweeping Labour triumph will be, just imagine the celebrations inside Whitehall, home to the sclerotic, obstructive civil service blob. Right-on pressure groups will feel all their Christmases have come at once, as will the BBC. In the final hours of campaigning, Conservative prospects might seem desperate but there are a few glimmers of hope that should encourage Tory activists and voters. One is that the opinion polls may have the picture badly wrong. After all, they were mistaken over the outcomes of the 2015 and 2017 General Elections, as well as the 2016 European Union referendum. The post-count inquests into the failure of pollsters to accurately capture Conservative mood in the country are as much a feature of elections as the exit poll. Optimism can also be found in Westminsters first-past-the-post system by which our democracy has always been governed. Yes, this process which bestows strong administration and stability by focusing electoral rewards on the winning party rather than distributing them proportionately on the basis of vote share could hand Starmer a landslide not at all commensurate with the popular vote. But in the shallowness of Labours support lies the Tories escape route. The Conservative-held marginal seats that Labour is counting on could evaporate dramatically if small numbers of voters change their minds. And that could undoubtedly happen. According to the respected peer and polling analyst Lord Ashcroft, writing in todays Mail, almost half of all voters are still undecided, while one in five of those who voted Conservative in 2019 say that they dont know what theyll do, or that they will not vote at all. In practice, that means that a major upset is still possible. As Rishi Sunak put it yesterday, 132,000 voters in the most tightly fought seats could decide whether the UK has a hung Parliament or Labour majority. That is why anyone who does not want to hand Sir Keir Starmer untrammelled power should carefully read this guide. Throughout the country, there are scores of constituencies in which Mail readers can make a real difference. In a string of Tory battleground seats, like Dunstable, Wyre Forest and North Somerset, the results could be decided by a few hundred votes either way. In Weston-Super-Mare, just one percentage point separates the Tory and Labour candidates, while the gap is just two points in Dartford. In other areas, like Ashfield in Nottinghamshire currently held by ex-Tory Lee Anderson, now with Reform UK a vote for Nigel Farages party may be the best way of hitting Labour. The result is anything but settled. A supermajority for Labour where Starmer could absurdly gain unprecedented power in the Commons on the back of an even smaller share of the vote than Jeremy Corbyn won in 2017 will be anything but super. At the very least, in our two-party system, every government especially one that will be as doctrinaire as Starmers needs a powerful opposition. But readers should take heart because, with judicious use of your vote, you can not only install a credible counterweight to Labour in the Commons, but you can stop this Starmergeddon nightmare from unfolding in the first place. Labour supermajority 'would wreck Britain': Rishi Sunak issues 11th-hour warning as polls suggest the Conservatives are doomed to electoral wipeout Rishi Sunak today appeals to disaffected Tory voters to return to the fold to prevent a socialist supermajority wrecking Britain. Writing in the Daily Mail, the Prime Minister urges former Tory supporters considering staying at home today or voting Reform to lend their votes to the Conservatives again to stop Sir Keir Starmer winning unchecked power. Mr Sunak acknowledges that people are frustrated with me, with our party after a tough period in which Britain has been hit by Covid and the fallout from Russias invasion of Ukraine. But he warns that the election will have lasting consequences if it produces a landslide which would embolden Labour to raise taxes even further. I need your vote to defend our vision of Britain: to back lower taxes, controlled borders and a secure future for our country, he writes. Join with us and we can make a difference and stop the socialist supermajority. Rishi Sunak has urged disaffected Tory voters who may at stay at home or vote Reform to back the Conservatives once again in a bid to stop Keir Starmer Rishi Sunak has warned that Starmer winning unchecked will have lasting consequences Polls suggest that up to half the voters who backed the Conservatives in 2019 could desert them today, with some backing Reform, some staying at home and others even backing the Lib Dems or Labour. Mr Sunak points to analysis suggesting that as few as 130,000 voters in key seats could change the course of the election, and says that a huge number of seats in this election will be decided by a few hundred votes. In his final campaign speech last night, Mr Sunak said his experience as a Southampton football fan had taught him that the game isnt over until the final whistle goes and that theres fight in the underdog. It came as: A series of mega-polls predicted a Labour landslide, but said that with dozens of seats too close to call, a Tory wipeout could still be averted if supporters turn out; A Labour adviser on the economy warned changes to inheritance tax would be on the agenda and said pensioners should be taxed at least as hard as those people who are of working age; Sir Keir said he was taking nothing for granted before later changing his tune to declare he was ready for government and vowed to hit the ground running; He added that there were no circumstances in which the UK would join the EUs single market or customs union in his lifetime; Labours former deputy leader Harriet Harman was reported to be in the running to take over the equalities watchdog, causing concern among womens groups. Mr Sunak said his experience as a Southampton football fan had taught him that the game isnt over until the final whistle goes and that theres fight in the underdog Mr Sunak visited Braishfield Primary School in Hampshire today whilst on his campaign trail (pictured) Mr Sunak hit the campaign trail in Hampshire at 2pm yesterday, kicking off with a visit to Braishfield Primary School, where Caroline Nokes is the Tory candidate in Romsey and Southampton North. The two leaders have focused their campaigns on very different seats with Labour targeting ambitious areas which were once considered safe for the Tories. The Prime Minister has generally stuck to Conservative heartlands aiming to mitigate the damage on polling day, rather than striving to secure new ground. Analysis suggests 45 out of 54 seats visited by Mr Sunak are Conservative defences, including nine where his party has a notional majority of more than 20,000. Sunak has warned that Labour may wind up in power for the next two decades if they land a supermajority Ahead of his final speech of the campaign, the Prime Minister warned Labour could end up in power for 20 years if it wins a supermajority. Before appearing at Romsey Rugby Football Club near Southampton, he warned the public: If you vote for anyone other than the Conservatives, you could find yourself with a Labour government not just for five years, but for ten, 15, 20 years. Four years ago, Keir Starmer ran for Labour leader promising to raise income tax on the top 5 per cent of earners, to abolish universal credit, to scrap tuition fees, to nationalise the utility companies, and to defend free movement. Starmer now says he has changed his mind on all these things. But how can you trust someone who changes their mind on so many issues? How do you know that, if it was politically expedient, he wouldnt just change his mind again on all of these questions? Mr Sunak added: His constant U-turns show two things: that he was wrong before. And that he hasnt even the courage of his own past lack of convictions. A female prison lawyer has sparked debate after prison bosses hauled her into a room and deemed her smart grey two-piece suit and high heels 'inappropriate' to wear while visiting male inmates. The blonde-haired lawyer, posting to a now deleted X account, @thesecretbrief, described how she had chosen her fitted outfit thinking she looked 'smart and professional', but was left aghast after being pulled aside. On the now-deleted post she wrote: 'When I set off early this morning I *thought* I looked smart & professional. 'But oh no! I was called into a room at an HMP & told that staff had RADIOED through to others that my attire was inappropriate for a male prison 'I'm in a fitted grey suit with a skirt that almost completely covers my knees.' The blonde-haired lawyer, posting to a now deleted X account, @thesecretbrief, described how she had chosen her fitted outfit thinking she looked 'smart and professional', but was left aghast after being pulled aside On her now-deleted X profile, the unidentified lawyer describes herself as an 'experienced, proactive police station Defence lawyer' and reveals she has appeared on BBC2 show, Forensics On her X profile, which is no longer visible, the unidentified lawyer describes herself as an 'experienced, proactive police station Defence lawyer' and reveals that she has appeared on the BBC2 show, Forensics. She also describes herself as 'shoes obsessed' and a 'feminist'. Many of her followers were quick to reference her treatment in light of a female prison officer who has been accused of having sex with an inmate at Wandsworth prison. Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, has been charged with misconduct in a public office after an X-rated video of the alleged activity was shared on social media. One X user jibed: 'Judging by the last few days, even the staff uniform is inappropriate for a mens prison! What did they want you to wear? Trackie bottoms and a t-shirt?' Another wrote: 'Given the many and varied challenges in the prison environment at present, this is what they chose to raise concerns over? Madness. You look very professional.' While a third commented: 'Thats the thing though. If that womans prison uniform was enough to drive that poor man wild, imagine what this *checks notes* perfectly normal business attire is going to do to them all.' Another user, who is male, wrote: 'I am no expert here but this looks like a very smart two piece business suit. 'I would wear a two piece business suit on a prison visit. No observations ever made to me about dress code. I would seek clarification on this.' One female follower felt she 'shouldn't' have to change how the lawyer dresses, but it might help resolve the situation. She wrote: 'I think its a lovely outfit, but I would wear trousers and flats and have my hair pinned back, and no, you shouldnt have to do that, and you shouldnt have to hide your shape etc, but if thats what they are asking and it stops them pulling you up for it.' Another said it might have been better to leave the high heels behind for safety reasons. They wrote: 'I actually think the outfit looks smart, but for going to a male only prison I would wear wide legged casual grey suit trousers to match the suit jacket and change the heels for smart flat black Bally shoes or court heel. 'They might have been thinking safety aspects.' According to the official HM Prison and Probation service guidelines, 'all visitors to prisons must adhere to a strict dress code.' Among the banned items are 'hats or scarves and head coverings which are not worn on religious grounds, inappropriately damaged clothing, non-prescription glasses ie sunglasses, see-through/ revealing clothing, items of clothing that display offensive abusive or insulting words or gestures an mini or very short skirts/dresses unless worn with leggings.' Other items which may result in a visitor being turned away include 'shorts which are shorter than mid-thigh to knee length, vsible or exposed underwear and smart watches.' The guidelines add that the list is 'not exhaustive' and 'establishments may add or remove items to this list, in accordance with what is deemed necessary and proportionate in that establishment.' It adds: 'It is up to prison staff to make decisions and judgements as to when clothing is inappropriate. When making these decisions, staff will always consider decency and diversity. 'You may be asked to adjust clothing or wear alternative clothing if available. As a last resort your visit may be cancelled if the dress code cannot be followed.' Prison officer Linda De Sousa Abreu, 30, has been accused of having sex with an inmate at Wandsworth prison The interim boss of a nationalised shipyard has been handed a 26,000 hotel and subsistence allowance after being flown in from Canada to take up the post. John Petticrew was installed as interim chief executive of Ferguson Marine Port Glasgow in late March after David Tydeman was axed from the role. Details unearthed by the Mail show he has been handed a hotel and subsistence allowance of 25,620 for a six month period in the role. He has also been provided with car hire for six months, although FMPG did not disclose the costs. In addition, he made an expenses claim in April for a 1,709 Air Canada economy class flight and 537 subsistence during a trip in March, when he was a non-executive director prior to his appointment as chief executive. John Petticrew was appointed interim chief executive of Ferguson Marine in March Scottish Conservative transport spokesman Graham Simpson said: The SNPs ferries scandal continues to haemorrhage taxpayers money at an astonishing rate, as betrayed islanders continue to wait for the desperately needed new ferries that are six years late. This lavish expenses package for Ferguson Marines interim chief executive will stick in the throat of many Scots - and it wouldnt have been necessary if SNP ministers hadnt made his predecessor just another scapegoat for their monumental incompetence. Its shameful that no SNP heads have rolled for this national scandal. Mr Tydeman had his contract terminated after warning of more delays to the contract at the centre of Scotlands ferries fiasco. The Glen Sannox was originally supposed to be finished in early 2018, while the Glen Rosa was due to be handed over by the end of that year. The two ships are due to cost 360million, compared to an original estimate of 90million, and the Scottish Government also handed the previous private operator of the shipyard a 45million loan. After his appointment, Mr Petticrew told MSPs that there are challenges with completing the LNG fuel system for the ferries by the planned target of the end of May. Mr Petticrews annual salary has not been disclosed. But his predecessor, David Tydeman, was paid 232,500-a-year. The Glen Sannox is now due to be handed over by the shipyard in the week beginning 19 August following another three-week delay. The two ferries being built at the Port Glasgow shipyard are late and overbudget In an update to MSPs last week, Mr Petticrew said challenges linked to the ships liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion system were the main problem. In his regular monthly progress update, external to MSPs, Mr Petticrew said: The LNG system has been well-documented as the biggest challenge we were facing since our last report. It has proved even more difficult and has impacted the progress in other areas, namely the engine compartments. Mr Petticrew listed a number of remaining challenges, which include acceptance trials and sign-off by safety regulator the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. The second ship, Glen Rosa, was launched from the slipway earlier this year and fitting out work is expected to be complete by September 2025. A Scottish Government spokesman said: 'This figure does not reflect actual or anticipated spend. It is the limit on what can be claimed for accommodation and meal subsistence over a six-month period, reflecting the fact that the CEO will not return to Canada within his six-month tenure. 'The interim Chief Executive of Ferguson Marine's remuneration package is in line with the requirements of the Scottish Public Finance Manual.' Scots voters can deal the the failing SNP a crushing blow by backing Rishi Sunak at the polls today, according to the Scottish Tories. Senior figures warned a series of key seats in Scotland were on a knife-edge and urged frustrated supporters to step-in and stop the Nationalists at the ballot box. Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross insisted the SNP could finally get its comeuppance if disaffected voters in 12 battleground constituencies stuck with his party and shunned others such as Reform UK. In a plea to those who support the Union, he said they can ensure Nicola Sturgeon is squirming for hours on live television in her role as an ITV pundit as the results come in tonight. His rallying cry came as Mr Sunak also made an impassioned plea to former Tory voters to return to the party to prevent a socialist supermajority wrecking Britain. Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross issued a rallying cry to unionist voters to help 'bring down' the SNP John Swinney could be cut down to size Writing in todays Daily Mail, he warned those considering staying at home today or voting Reform that they would be helping to usher in a period of unchecked Labour power, Mr Ross said there was never a more important time to unite behind his party. He added: The key seats where it is going to be either a Scottish Conservative elected as a champion for their local area or a Nationalist MP are on an absolute knife edge, and it will come down to a very small number of votes separating the two parties. That is why it is really important that people get out there and vote, because they could wake up on Friday morning thinking I didnt bother to vote but a Nationalist has got in through the back door. Or if they vote for Reform, Labour or the Lib Dems in these seats then that is only helping the SNP. Given how tight these contests are, it is really important that people unite behind the Scottish Conservatives in these key seats to deliver the strongest possible message that the Nationalists have let down Scotland the last 17 years they have been in power because they have continually obsessed about independence. He said he has seen a general apathy from some people who are now considering not voting at all - and warned them they will regret not voting if the SNP secures victories by a small margin. Asked whether these voters could be motivated by the prospect of seeing Ms Sturgeon either celebrating on TV or commentating on the SNP being crushed, he said: Yes, I think thats a great incentive for people to get out there and cast their vote for the Scottish Conservatives to stop the SNP is to see Nicola Sturgeon on the TV for hours squirming that the party she led, the party that has caused so much division across Scotland and has failed so many people and communities is finally getting its comeuppance. It has been a long time coming and they deserve to lose seats all over the country for the way they have failed public services and taken their eye off the ball by focusing on independence above everything else. He said the SNP will struggle to recover from a heavy defeat, and added: This can be the first stage in bringing down the SNP. If we can reduce their numbers in these key seats where it is a straight choice between the Scottish Conservatives and the SNP then that can lead to kickstarting the next campaign, towards 2026, when we can get them out of power in Scotland as well. Scottish Conservative chairman Craig Hoy said a vote for any other part - or not voting at all - risked letting the SNP getting in by the back door. He added: Voters can crush the SNP and end their independence obsession for good if they vote Scottish Conservative in key seats up and down Scotland where its a straight choice between us or the nationalists. A detailed Survation poll, which uses data from over 30,000 people across the UK to predict every individual seat, estimated that the SNP is on course to fall to just 10 MPs, compared to 48 after the 2019 general election. The multilevel regression and post-stratification (MRP) survey model, which uses probabilities to estimate each partys chances of winning individual seats, predicted that Labour would win 38 Scottish seats, with the SNP on 10, Liberal Democrats five, and Conservatives four. Individual seat forecasts, which are separate to national projections, suggest the Tories could be on course to win five Scottish seats. They show Mr Ross is on track for victory in Aberdeenshire North and Moray East. The MRP survey also predicted a Tory win in West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, where UK nuclear and renewables minister Andrew Bowie has been MP, but its lead is projected at just 0.02 per cent. It also forecasts that the Tories will hold three southern Scotland seats: Dumfries and Galloway; Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweedale; and Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk. The SNP is forecast to win Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey but the Tories are only 3.8 percentage points behind - with Reform polling at 10.3 per cent. In Gordon and Buchan, the SNP is just 1.3 percentage points ahead of the Tories but with 9.5 per cent intending to vote Reform. Mr Ross said: People are considering voting for Reform and we are reminding them that Reform cant win in Aberdeenshire North and Moray East or in any constituency in Scotland. Not a single opinion poll suggests they will win, or get close to winning, in Scotland but they can help the SNP to victory. We are reminding people when they go into the polling booth on Thursday that the risk of voting Reform is electing an SNP MP who will simply obsess about independence. David Duguid, who was removed as Tory candidate for Aberdeenshire North and Moray East by senior party officials because of concerns about his health as he continues to recover in hospital from a spinal condition, yesterday said he had been confident he would beat the SNP before Mr Ross replaced him as candidate. He said the decision to remove him as candidate came as a shock and claimed that party officials had told him his condition wasnt as bad as they had thought. Mr Duguid said: Id be lying if I said events of the last few weeks havent taken their toll on myself and my family. But no matter what the future may hold I remain as determined as ever to continue my recovery and rehabilitation. On the final full day of campaigning, SNP leader John Swinney urged SNP supporters to get out and vote, and suggested a handful of votes could decide close contests around the country. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said Scotland is at a pivotal moment and voters are crying out for change, while Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said many former SNP voters are disillusioned with the scandals and their mishandling of public services. A failure by medical staff to spot the cry for help of a distressed Royal Marine recruit probably contributed to his suicide, a coroner has concluded. Teenager Connor Clark confessed, just two days before he took his life, to self-harming in order to get out of basic training duties at the Commando Training Centre. But the military doctor who treated his wound allegedly neglected to raise the alarm about his mental state. Senior Devon coroner Philip Spinney said yesterday that the failure to hold a case conference to inform Connors instructors about his disturbing behaviour probably or more than minimally contributed to his death at Lympstone in Devon. Tracy Clark, mother of the 18-year-old from Norwich, said she would have driven there myself and taken him home had she been made aware of the self-harm episode. An inquest into the death of Royal Marine rookie Connor Clark has found medical staff failed to spot his 'cries for help' (pictured at age 14 with his mother Tracey) The 18-year-old had confessed to self harming two days before he took his own life (pictured: his mother Tracey) She added: Connor and I were very close. I know my son and I know how proud he was. The fact the doctor didnt take his self-harming seriously is beyond me. It is a cry for help. There should have been a plan in place to check on him. Surgeon Commander Jon Bedford expressed regret over not taking Connors self-harm more seriously. The vulnerable recruit had cut his arm on a radiator but made the wound worse himself before seeking attention. Mr Bedford said: I did not adhere to the guidance and thus made a poor and wrong decision in not seeking a case conference. I felt [his action] was done to increase the gravity of the injury so he had sufficient reason to visit the medical centre. Mr Spinney said Connor had become overwhelmed by his own shortcomings on the training course, including losing equipment and poor performance on the parade square. This is said to have led to the teenager being abused by his training team of battle-hardened corporals and sergeants. The Mail exclusively revealed the death in June 2021 and later unearthed the findings of an internal investigation. That report acknowledged the negative comments and aggressive behaviour he was repeatedly subjected to may have played a part in the tragedy. It led to a raft of changes to training protocols and measures to improve the welfare of recruits. The inquest also heard how vital opportunities to prevent Connors death were missed on the night of his disappearance. Faulty CCTV cameras meant his escape over a fence surrounding the base went unnoticed for two hours. Surprisingly, nobody from the training centre searched outside its perimeter when they realised he was missing despite a makeshift noose being found close to his accommodation. The fact the doctor didnt take his self-harming seriously is beyond me. It is a cry for help. There should have been a plan in place to check on him, his mother said Surgeon Commander Jon Bedford expressed regret over not taking Connors self-harm more seriously (pictured: Connor Clark) His body was subsequently found next to an adjacent railway line. The coroner described the response to his sudden departure as inadequate. Connor left a heartbreaking note for mum Tracy apologising for his actions and saying mistreatment had shattered his self-esteem. He described himself as weak, a slacker and dim-witted, words he suggested the instructors had used. The young adult was three weeks into a four-week Recruit Orientation Course. Fellow recruits said Connor suffered more thrashings than colleagues and described a hostile atmosphere towards recruits. The coroner returned a verdict of suicide. A Royal Navy spokesman said: Our personnel are our most valued asset and we take the condition of their health and wellbeing extremely seriously. The biggest lie about general elections is that they dont change anything. The truth is that votes cast today will decide not only the direction the UK goes in the next five years, but the long-term future of Scotland. Scots have become so used to SNP dominance of our political landscape that it is difficult to remember a time when that was not the case, a time when not everything revolved around the interminable and circular debate about independence. Could such times return? Is there a realistic possibility that the days when the SNP used Scotland as nothing more than a prop to sustain its constitutional obsession could be coming to an end? The contests of 2015, 2017 and 2019 were a foregone conclusion, with the pro-UK parties looking defeated before a single vote had been cast. This time is different. This time the Nationalists are facing an existential crisis as their popularity has plummeted following a series of egregious failures and scandals: failure in their delivery of policy at Holyrood and the scandal that prompted a long-running police investigation into party finances. Scotland said No to independence in 2014, and now voters have a chance to bring the past 10 years of toxic nationalist debate to an end On top of which weve had the resignations of two First Ministers in 18 months and the ignominious collapse of the SNPs coalition with the extremist Greens. But politics isnt a spectator sport. If ordinary Scots want to change the result of this game, they need to get involved. We might be told by those with a vested interest in low turnout that the final result has been pre-ordained, that your individual vote isnt going to change anything. The truth is that it could change everything. True, Keir Starmers Labour looks set to form the next government with a large majority. And Scotland looks set to contribute significantly to Labours total of MPs for the first time in 14 years. But in Scotland there is a different argument being made, by an increasingly desperate and despondent SNP that hopes the polls are wrong and that it can still be relevant in Scotlands political arena. That argument is simple: if a majority of constituencies in Scotland return Nationalist MPs, that will be a mandate to open independence negotiations. Its a deeply flawed and dishonest premise. How can one side in a debate claim a mandate for negotiations when the other side the UK Government explicitly doesnt recognise such a mandate? Theres the added complication that John Swinney claims his party already has such a mandate from the 2021 Holyrood elections, which begs the question of what good another mandate will do if the first one cant be delivered. But ever since the Supreme Court confirmed that Holyrood has no authority to hold another divisive, debilitating referendum on independence, the Nationalists have been panicked into political dead ends. That doesnt mean theyve stopped being a threat to the Union it just means their rhetoric has become increasingly hysterical. However implausible their manifesto commitment to independence negotiations is, make no mistake: the SNP will use any size of victory today to step up their attack on the very existence of the UK and Scotlands rightful place in it. The democratic will of the Scottish people as expressed in the 2014 independence referendum will once again be undermined by the same party that demanded that referendum in the first place. So reject any notion your vote doesnt count, that it wont make a difference. You are the only thing standing in the way of another five years of Nationalist division and failure. Today is the day to stand united in defence of our country and against a toxic political philosophy that has thrived on negativity for far too long. Today is the day to draw a line, at last, under the Nationalist confidence trick of blaming all our ills on our compatriots living south of the Border. Today one small cross, written in pencil in the privacy of a polling booth, can deal a fatal blow to those who would divide us all over again. Right across Scotland there is a golden opportunity to remove the SNP from the Commons. All you have to do is vote for the pro-UK party best placed to win. That means, in the Borders and the North-East, supporting the Tories. For many Scots, that will feel like a step too far. Yet only the Tories can mount a realistic challenge to the Nationalists in these areas. And after all, with Rishi Sunak on a hiding to nothing at UK level, a vote for the Scottish Conservatives can hardly be interpreted as a vote for the continuation of this Conservative government. And it means supporting outgoing Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross in Aberdeenshire North and Moray, a seat the SNP have high hopes of winning. It means voting for Scotland Office minister John Lamont in Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk. And it means in West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine the pro-UK case can only be made by the Tory candidate, energy minister Andrew Bowie. But its not enough to defend: pro-UK voters need to attack, to remove incumbent Nationalist MPs and prevent them returning to Westminster and using UK taxpayers money to fund their continuing campaign against our nation. So in Gordon and Buchan, a vote for the Conservatives is the only way of removing the SNPs Richard Thomson. Its the same story in two other vital target seats, Angus and Perthshire Glens, currently held by Nationalist Dave Doogan, and Perth and Kinross-shire, where Pete Wishart is fighting for survival. But political Unionism has never been particularly adept at setting aside party differences and focusing on the greater good. In all these seats, Nigel Farages Reform party is misleading voters into believing that they have a chance of victory. But all its doing is increasing the chance of the SNP winning. Scots across the country have different political priorities such is the privilege of living in a democracy. But unless you support independence above everything else education, the health service, the economy, taxation, international affairs, defence then the SNP cannot represent you. And unless the SNP are removed from their position of being Scotlands biggest party, at both Westminster and Holyrood, then they will continue to claim, dishonestly, that they speak for Scotland. They will carry on projecting a fake image of Scotland as more progressive, more tolerant, more welcoming in short, more exceptional than our fellow citizens in England. And they will never stop agitating for another independence referendum. They will stop all such activity on only one condition: that you choose to stop them. Today we all have an opportunity to do exactly that. We would be letting Scotland down if we failed to grasp it with both hands. Now, Arizona Democrat Raul Grijalva is urging Biden not to run again A second sitting Democrat has called on President Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race, striking another blow to the campaign as defectors trickle out against him. Arizona Democrat Raul Grijalva, 76, is urging Biden not to run again, The New York Times reported Wednesday. He is the second sitting Democrat to call for the president's withdrawal. Two other House Democrats have openly said they believe former President Donald Trump will beat Biden - and that lack of confidence will surely be a topic of conversation between the party leaders which is planned for this evening. 'If he's the candidate, I'm going to support him, but I think that this is an opportunity to look elsewhere,' Grijalva said. 'What he needs to do is shoulder the responsibility for keeping that seat and part of that responsibility is to get out of this race.' Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz., became the second sitting Democrat to publicly call for President Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 election The first sitting Democrat to call for Joe Biden to withdraw from the election says that before going public, party leadership did not try to keep him quiet. Texas Democrat Rep. Lloyd Doggett, 77, came forward on Tuesday with a statement calling on Joe Biden to withdraw from the presidential race, saying if he did not Donald Trump would win the White House. He was the first Democrat in office to call for Biden to withdraw. Breaking his silence after turning on the top Democrat, the Texan - who has served since 1995 - told NPR that leadership within the party did not dissuade him from airing out his concerns publicly. 'I'm not a vulnerable member in this election,' Doggett said. 'So I'm able to step forward and speak out about what I think is so critical for our country in ways that perhaps some other people have not.' 'But I certainly have not gotten any discouragement from within the leadership of the party,' he added, indicating that top Democrats may actually condone ousting Biden. 'I think the concerns I'm voicing are widespread,' Doggett continued. 'I wish this had been resolved earlier.' Grijalva has served in the House since 2003 Texas Rep. Lloyd Doggett is the first sitting Democrat in office to call for Joe Biden to get out of the presidential race. He said Democrat leadership did not try to keep him quiet The Democrat said he did not speak out about Biden's withdrawal sooner because he was worried about how Donald Trump could capitalize on such a party shake up. But because Biden has consistently faltered in the polls, especially after the first debate, Doggett said he had to speak up. 'He's worked now for a year and he's not been able to close the gap. And he made that gap wider after this debate, raising real questions in the minds of so many Americans as to its capability to govern a country now and over the next four years.' Still, if Biden is the Democrat nominee Doggett said he will support him. After the Texas Democrat released his statement calling on Biden to withdraw Tuesday, two other House Democrats similarly came out against the president. Though they did not explicitly call on Biden to withdraw, both Reps. Jared Golden of Maine and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez of Washington both said Tuesday they believe Donald Trump will beat Joe Biden come November. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, the top House Democrat, along with others in party leadership, did not try to dissuade Doggett from going public with his concerns on Biden Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, seen here, told KATU News that she believes the debate performance last week against has cost Biden the election 'After the first presidential debate, lots of Democrats are panicking about whether President Joe Biden should step down as the party's nominee,' Golden wrote 'Biden's poor performance in the debate was not a surprise,' Golden wrote in an op-ed published in Maine. 'It also didn't rattle me as it has others, because the outcome of this election has been clear to me for months: While I don't plan to vote for him, Donald Trump is going to win. And I'm OK with that.' Gluesenkamp Perez, meanwhile, told a Washington TV station that the debate will cost Biden the election despite only having watched five 'painful' minutes herself. 'We all saw what we saw, you can't undo that, and the truth I think, is that Biden is going to lose to Trump,' she said. 'I know that's difficult, but I think the damage has been done by that debate.' Further, reports indicate that a cohort of 25 Democrat lawmakers worried about their own elections are considering calling on Biden to withdraw. Whether Biden continues his 2024 bid for president after his halting debate performance against Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is largely his decision, Democrats and political strategists have said. President Joe Biden is said to be 'humiliated' and 'painfully aware' of his image following his car crash debate that saw him stumbling over his words and losing his train of thought Doggett likened the hard decision he says Biden must make for the sake of the nation to the one made decades ago by another sitting Democratic president. 'I represent the heart of a congressional district once represented by Lyndon Johnson,' the Texan said in a statement Tuesday. 'Under very different circumstances, he made the painful decision to withdraw. 'President Biden should do the same,' he continued. 'While much of his work has been transformational, he pledged to be transitional.' Lyndon B. Johnson chose to withdraw from the race in 1968 because rising casualties in the Vietnam war had made him extremely unpopular. Biden is facing plummeting support after his disastrous debate performance on Thursday. 'He has the opportunity to encourage a new generation of leaders from whom a nominee can be chosen to unite our country through an open, democratic process,' Doggett's statement continued. 'My decision to make these strong reservations public is not done lightly nor does it in a any way diminish my respect for all that President Biden has achieved.' 'Recognizing that, unlike Trump, President Biden's first commitment has always been to our country, not himself, I am hopeful that he will make the painful and difficult decision to withdraw. I respectfully call on him to do so.' Doggett, 77, is a respected member of the Democrat House caucus, having served in the chamber since 1995. He also lauded Biden's work as president, but ultimately conceded Joe's debate performance was not one of a competitive candidate. The president retreated to Camp David with is wife, children and grandchildren to take a break from the campaign trial and weigh his options after the debate 'President Biden has continued to run substantially behind Democratic senators in key states and in most polls has trailed Donald Trump,' he said. 'I had hoped that the debate would provide some momentum to change that. It did not.' 'Instead of reassuring voters, the President failed to effectively defend his many accomplishments and expose Trump's many lies.' National Republican Congressional Committee Communications Director Jack Pandol criticized Doggett's announcement for coming too late. 'The cowards in the Democratic Caucus have spent every day after the debate in witness protection, too afraid to say what they're all thinking,' Pandol said in a statement. 'Americans remember House Democrats were complicit in covering up and gaslighting the public about the president's condition, and voters are primed to punish them in November.' Retired American astronaut William Anders, who was part of the Apollo 8 mission in 1968, was attempting a solo flyby near a friend's house when the plane suddenly shifted and crashed into a lake, killing him. The 90-year-old died after the small aircraft he was piloting crashed near Orcas Island in early June, resulting in a fireball as the plane hit the water which was caught on video. Anders, whose 'Earthrise' photo showed the planet as a shadowed blue marble from space in 1968, had texted a friend to say he planned to do a flyby near her house on the western shore of Orcas Island, the National Transportation Safety Board said in its preliminary report. The friend said Anders' flybys were not unusual, according to the NTSB. She said that he typically did two flybys, and while he sometimes rocked the airplane wings, 'he never performed any kind of aerobatic maneuvers.' Retired American astronaut William Anders, who was part of the Apollo 8 mission in 1968, was doing a flyby near a friend's house when it crashed into a lake , killing him The 90-year-old died after the small aircraft he was piloting crashed near Orcas Island in early June, resulting in a fireball as the plane hit the water which was caught on video Around 11:37am on June 7, the friend began to hear the 'familiar' noise of his airplane, the NTSB said. Shortly after, she saw the older-model Beech A45 overhead traveling north along the shore in front of her house. She briefly lost sight of the plane as it flew behind trees. When she saw it come back into view it was heading south and flying over the water. After it passed by, she saw the left wing drop and thought it was part of his routine. But the wing continued to drop as the plane plummeted toward the water below. At the same time, another witness on the same shoreline north of Anders' friend's home, was using his phone to film the vintage airplane passing by, the NTSB said. Over the course of the video, the plane can be seen plunging toward the water in a near vertical dive before its right wingtip strikes the water. The friend and the person who took the video were the only two witnesses to come forward, the NTSB said. The plane sank near the north end of Jones Island, which is off the western shore of Orcas Island, San Juan County Sheriff Eric Peter said. Anders, whose 'Earthrise' photo showed the planet as a shadowed blue marble from space in 1968, had texted a friend to say he planned to do a flyby near her house on the western shore of Orcas Island, the National Transportation Safety Board said in its preliminary report This image from an NTSB investigation shows where both a witness with a camera and Anders' friend saw him crash The body of the 90-year-old Anders was recovered that afternoon. Most of the wreckage was recovered in the week following the crash and has been stored for further examination, the agency said. Anders' 'Earthrise' photograph, the first color image of Earth from space, is one of the most important photos in modern history for the way it changed how humans viewed the planet. The photo is credited with sparking the global environmental movement for showing how delicate and isolated Earth appeared from space. Anders, a retired major general, has said the photo was his most significant contribution to the space program along with making sure the Apollo 8 command module and service module worked. The photograph, the first color image of Earth from space, is one of the most important photos in modern history for the way it changed how humans viewed the planet. The photo is credited with sparking the global environmental movement for showing how delicate and isolated Earth appeared from space. The astronauts were under orders to get pictures for potential lunar landing sites while orbiting 70 miles above the moon. Anders, a retired major general, has said the photo was his most significant contribution to the space program along with making sure the Apollo 8 command module and service module worked Anders famously took a picture of Earth and part of the moon's surface, named Earthrise, during the Apollo 8 mission 'We came to explore the moon and what we discovered was the Earth,' Anders is fond of saying. By July 1969, Apollo 8 was overshadowed by Apollo 11's Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin moon landing. Borman and Anders never flew in space again, and Soviet cosmonauts never made it to the moon. Anders recalled in a 1997 NASA oral history interview that he didn't think the Apollo 8 mission was risk-free but there were important national, patriotic and exploration reasons for going ahead. He estimated there was about one in three chance that the crew wouldn't make it back and the same chance the mission would be a success and the same chance that the mission wouldn't start to begin with. He said he suspected Christopher Columbus sailed with worse odds and recounted how earth looked fragile and seemingly physically insignificant, yet was home. Anders said: 'We'd been going backwards and upside down, didn't really see the Earth or the Sun, and when we rolled around and came around and saw the first Earthrise. 'That certainly was, by far, the most impressive thing. To see this very delicate, colorful orb which to me looked like a Christmas tree ornament coming up over this very stark, ugly lunar landscape really contrasted.' His son, retired Air Force Lt. Col. Greg Anders, told The Associated Press after his father's death that the family was devastated. 'He was a great pilot and we will miss him terribly,' he said. Teeth clenched with fear as he grips the steering wheel of his Toyota Yaris, this is the terrified face of a California man fleeing huge wildfires in the Golden State. The unidentified resident is one of over 28,000 who've been ordered to evacuate Butte county after the Thompson wildfire burned through more than 3,000 acres - with further destruction a certainty. The fire broke out just before noon on Tuesday around 70 miles north of the state capital Sacramento, and has since grown to nearly 4.7 square miles. Governor Gavin Newsom has had to declare a state of emergency, as crews battled to try and contain the raging inferno which can be seen from space. Images captured in the area show helicopters dropping water on the flames while brave firefighters attempted to battle the fire on the ground. The unidentified resident is one of over 28,000 who've been ordered to evacuate Butte county The Thompson fire, seen here, broke out just before noon on Tuesday around 70 miles north of the state capital Sacramento Cal Fire said that the blaze had grown to over 3,500 acres on Wednesday afternoon and was zero percent contained in an update. CBS News reported that over a dozen aircraft, 50 engines and 15 dozers were currently engaged in the firefight. They also said that four firefighters had been injured battling the blaze, with 1,400 crew members attending the scene alongside eight helicopters. Due to the fires, around 13,000 people around the east of Lake Oroville were ordered to evacuate according to Butte County Sheriff's Office. Residents stood on hillsides in the night, watching the orange glow, as aircraft made water drops to keep the fire from spreading. A crew of more than a dozen firefighters saved one home as goats and other farm animals ran to find safety. Garret Sjolund, the Butte County unit chief for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said: 'The conditions out there that are in our county this summer are much different than weve experienced the last two summers. 'The fuels are very dense, brush is dry. And as you can see, any wind will, move a fire out very quickly.' The ongoing conditions have led Pacific Gas & Electric to implement targeted public safety power shutoffs in parts of Northern California to prevent fires from being ignited by downed or damaged wires. Over a dozen aircraft, 50 engines and 15 dozers were currently engaged in the firefight Due to the fires, around 13,000 people around the east of Lake Oroville were ordered to evacuate according to Butte County Sheriff's Office A firefighter runs while battling the Thompson Fire burning in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday Oroville is expected to see record high temperatures of 110 or over for the next five days, with warnings that Saturday may reach an all-time record high of 113. Meanwhile the Basin Fire in Fresno County has burned over 13,000 acres and is currently only 26 percent contained. California governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Wednesday in a bid to ensure resources are available to help battle the ongoing blazes. Newsom said: 'We are using every available tool to tackle this fire and will continue to work closely with our local and federal partners to support impacted communities. 'As we head into some of the most challenging months of wildfire season, the state is better prepared than ever to protect at-risk communities with new tools, technology and resources.' Authorities have warned of full legal consequences for any illegal use of fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday. A boat crosses Lake Oroville with a smoldering hillside behind as the Thompson Fire burns in Oroville, Calif., on Wednesday, July 3, 2024 Flames consume vehicles on Bessie Lane as the Thompson Fire burns in Oroville, Calif., on Tuesday, July 2 Flames engulf a home during the Thompson fire in Oroville, California on July 2, 2024 The smoke plume from the #ThompsonFire continues to grow this morning as winds and temperatures rise. More than 28,000 people are under evacuation orders at this time. pic.twitter.com/fnArZZiorA Nic Merianos (@NickMerianos) July 3, 2024 'Dont be an idiot, cause a fire and create more problems for us,' said Butte County Sheriff Kory L. Honea. 'No one in the community is going to want that. And we certainly dont want this.' The ongoing blaze comes as California was already on high alert for wildfires, with incessant high temperatures and winds exacerbating fire risks. Parts of the state have already been subjected to 'extreme' levels of heat risk, according to the National Weather Service's Index. The conditions could last until Sunday or longer, with some areas being warned that life-threatening triple digit temperatures could linger. The conditions have been caused by a ridge of high pressure just off the West Coast and a separate ridge that spawned heat warnings and advisories from Kansas and Missouri to the Gulf Coast states, according to the National Weather Service. It is no exaggeration to say that Britons today are living through the most dangerous geopolitical period since the Second World War. The threat is all around us: from ever-multiplying jihadi terrorism, a resurgent Iran, a muscle-flexing Russia waging its unjust war in Ukraine and even from China, which only two months ago GCHQ director Anne Keast-Butler warned posed a genuine and increasing cyber risk to the UK. It is against this bleak and unsettling backdrop that, if the polls prove correct, Sir Keir Starmer will be appointed our countrys new prime minister on Friday. It is a prospect that profoundly alarms me. As the Mail reported on Tuesday, former Ministry of Defence chief Dr Rob Johnson has just issued a devastating assessment of our ever-depleting military capability, warning that a country once renowned for its might is now so short of infrastructure, personnel and weapons that we are, as Dr Johnson put it, unprepared for a conflict of any scale. Britons today are living through the most dangerous geopolitical period since the Second World War It is against this bleak and unsettling backdrop that, if the polls prove correct, Sir Keir Starmer will be appointed our countrys new prime minister on Friday Last week Rishi Sunak warned that Russia does not want [the Tories] to be re-elected' What a terrifying prediction that is a state of affairs that, I believe, would sharply deteriorate under a Labour government. Nor is this just my view as a former commanding officer who saw action in some of the worlds fiercest warzones, but one shared by many senior military figures, both retired and operational, with whom I speak often. The numbers speak for themselves: When I joined the army in 1977, it boasted a regular fighting strength of about 150,000. Today, those numbers have diminished to less than half that at around 73,000. As Dr Johnson made plain, it is not just people we lack either: we are desperately short of ammunition, ships and aircraft too. Yes, it is only fair to point out that successive governments from both sides of the House have presided over this diminishment of our military might, initially prompted by the collapse of the former Soviet Union in 1991. As a decade of relative peace and prosperity followed, nobody questioned our shrunken capacities. But the world of quiet diplomacy which Tony Blair the last Labour leader to be elected inherited in 1997 did not last long. The devastating Islamist terrorist attacks on the US in 2001 heralded the start of the war on terror, joined in time by other multiplying threats from across the globe. Yet politicians did not reinvest in our military in response. We fought long wars in Iraq and Afghanistan while simultaneously diminishing our forces. Not even when Putin launched his terrible full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 did we recognise the error of our ways. We have heard much from politicians warning of the threat posed by the Russian leaders grandstanding, but the Government has still not to put it bluntly put its money where its mouth is. Nonetheless, we cannot accuse the Conservatives of sidelining defence. In March, Rishi Sunak pledged new funding for our nuclear deterrent, and the Tory party election manifesto states it will increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2030 to secure British interests. In contrast, Labour has made no such specific pledge in its manifesto beyond a soggy promise to do the same as soon as possible, accompanied by an assertion of its unshakeable commitment to NATO. Yet earlier this year Shadow Defence Secretary John Healey committed the party to a defence pact with the EU which would mean an almost certain weakening of the crucial North Atlantic Alliance. Pictured: Young Russian soldiers parade through the centre of Moscow It is not just lack of commitment to defence by Labour that should concern us, but the toxic ideology at its heart. The reality is that while Sir Keir has adopted policies calculated to appease centrist voters hence his important proclamation in the Mail in April that security would always come first under his leadership a core cabal of his party are ardent peaceniks, who prefer to base what passes for their foreign policy on pacifist dogma rather than the national interest. Look no further than the partys former leader Jeremy Corbyn and his despicable anti-West, anti-Semitic rhetoric. This is the man who was pictured only six years ago making the salute of the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood, an organisation described by a government enquiry as counter to British values and democracy. Yes, Corbyn has since been expelled from the party, but Starmer has failed to purge similar belief systems from Labour. Take Afzal Khan, the Labour candidate for Manchester Rusholme who was forced to apologise in 2019 after sharing what appeared to be an anti-Semitic conspiracy on social media. Or Naz Shah for Bradford West, who was suspended in 2016 after claiming Israeli Jews should be relocated to America and posting an article that likened Zionism to the Islamist terror group Al Qaeda. Are we to believe that, once Sir Keir is given the keys to Downing Street with an unprecedented majority, those set on letting our military waste away will remain quiet? Let us not forget that in common with every Labour manifesto since that of Ed Miliband in 2015 Sir Keir has committed to recognising the state of Palestine should he become leader. It is insulting to Israel and would only to lead to a deterioration in the all-important relations between us. We depend heavily on Israeli weapons, as well as intelligence I have personal experience of the regularity and frequency with which we have exchanged life-saving information. All of this would be imperilled under a Labour government. As for Russia, last week Rishi Sunak warned that Russia does not want [the Tories] to be re-elected. I would go further: Putin would be delighted to have Labour in power. I do not believe for a minute that Sir Keir is a Russia appeaser, but he will not be as robust a cheerleader for Ukraine as either Sunak or, particularly, Boris Johnson and Putin knows it. The fact is that defence is simply not in Labours DNA. In fact, in sections of the party there is an ingrained hostility to the military. How else to interpret the fact that the party intends to repeal and replace the legislation designed to end the legal pursuit of British soldiers over incidents that took place decades ago, and which effectively gives an amnesty to the IRA and loyalist terrorists who killed thousands? Whatever your personal stance on this and I for one find it horrendously unjust the consequences will be clear. Our armed forces already have such a desperate recruiting problem that, earlier this year, the then Chief of General Staff Sir Patrick Sanders called for the country to train a volunteer citizen army, ready to fight a land war. Why would anyone want to fight for a country that allows them to be hounded by the courts decades later? Voters understandably concerned about the cost of living, schooling and the state of the NHS should think about this as they head to the polls. Even in these dangerous times, defence is often not at the forefront of their minds. It should be. If we cannot properly defend ourselves, then we cannot defend everything else we hold dear. Colonel Richard Kemp is a former infantry commanding officer in the British Army. Buc-ee's is looking to expand its business into Oklahoma. The chain, which started in Texas in 1982, prides itself for having the 'cleanest restrooms in America' and a full stock of snacks at their travel centers, is looking to open locations in Lafayette and Ruston, Louisiana. This news comes as the company opened their largest travel center to date in June in Texas. The company, famous for its giant stores and Beaver mascot, did not specify where in Oklahoma the road stop would open. Buc-ee's has been rapidly expanding beyond its Southern roots. While Texas, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky are where most of their stores are located, a lone Colorado store in Johnstown shows their reach is widening. A new location in Oklahoma's major cities may be in the cards for Bucc-ee's given the company's expansion strategy The chain started in Texas in 1982 and prides itself for having the 'cleanest restrooms in America' and a full stock of snacks at their travel centers Buc-ee's strategically places these one-stop shops along highways, often in rural areas near larger cities, making them convenient pit stops for travelers. A new location in Oklahoma's major cities may be in the cards given the company's expansion strategy. Oklahoma City is the 20th largest city in the U.S. with a population around 700,000, while Tulsa has population of around 400,000 people. Buc-ee's strategically places these one-stop shops along highways, often in rural areas near larger cities, making them convenient pit stops for travelers The company, famous for its giant stores and Beaver mascot, did not specify where in Oklahoma the road stop would open The company has broken several world records in the last few years. The Luling store in Texas is the largest convenience store in the world at 75,593 square feet. Not only does Buc-ee's have some of the biggest stores, they also have the also have the world's longest car wash with the Katy, Texas store clocking their conveyor belt at 255 feet. Author Neil Gaiman has denied allegations of sexually abusive behaviour against two women during consensual relationships. According to an investigation for the Tortoise podcast hosted by journalist and broadcaster Rachel Johnson, the award-winning British writer was alleged to have sexually assaulted one of the women within hours of their first meeting, when she was 22 and he was 61. She made a complaint to police about him, although he was never interviewed or accused of any criminal offence because of lack of evidence. He has strenuously denied any sexual misconduct and any allegation of non-consensual sex. Mr Gaiman, 63, is the author of books including The Sandman, American Gods and the children's book Coraline, and co-wrote Good Omens with author Terry Pratchett, which was later turned into a television series by the BBC and Amazon. Author Neil Gaiman (pictured in August 2019) has denied allegations of sexually abusive behaviour against two women during consensual relationships Mr Gaiman, 63, (pictured in New York last month) is the author of books including The Sandman, American Gods and the children's book Coraline, and co-wrote Good Omens with author Terry Pratchett, which was later turned into a television series by the BBC and Amazon The women's allegations were revealed in a podcast series by Tortoise Media, 'Master: the allegations against Neil Gaiman', which made clear that both women were in consensual relationships with the writer. They both claim they were subjected to physically painful and degrading sexual encounters during their relationships with Mr Gaiman. One of the women told the podcast they had a three-week sexual relationship and that he told her: 'I'm your master. Call me master.' She said he had choked her and that one encounter was so painful that she lost consciousness, and that she found it 'abhorrent and degrading'. The woman said she met Mr Gaiman in 2022 while he was married to his then wife Amanda Palmer. The pair were in an open marriage and lived in separate houses on the exclusive island of Waiheke, near Auckland. The woman alleged when she arrived at Mr Gaiman's house the writer sexually assaulted her that night. But the podcast featured a message she sent him the next day, in which she wrote: 'Thank you for a lovely, lovely night. Wow x.' Both women claim they were subjected to physically painful and degrading sexual encounters during their relationships with Mr Gaiman (pictured in 2013) Tortoise reported that she sent Mr Gaiman numerous text and video messages in which she explicitly said she had consented during their sexual encounters, and also said she loved him and was grateful to him. The woman told the podcast: 'At the end of it he made me feel like it was consensual, but it wasn't consensual.' She added: 'He sort of lured me if you will into his psychological labyrinth. So it was not straightforward at all.' The woman reported Mr Gaiman to the police after he returned to Britain. Tortoise reported that Mr Gaiman was aware of the police complaint and offered to speak with officers, but that they did not interview him and dropped the complaint because of lack of evidence. Tortoise reported that he insisted their sexual encounters were entirely consensual and that they did not have full sexual intercourse. The second woman met Mr Gaiman when she was 18 in 2003. They began a relationship when she was 20, and he was in his mid-40s. She told the podcast that she submitted to sex but had not wanted or enjoyed it, and that they once had sex when she had explicitly told him she did not want to do so. She said: 'I never wanted any of the stuff he did to me, including the more violent stuff. But I did consent to it.' Tortoise reported that Mr Gaiman denied any unlawful behaviour with K, and that he was 'disturbed by her allegations'. Representatives for Mr Gaiman, who lives in the US, did not respond to a request for comment from the Daily Mail. A Romanian man jailed over the deaths of 39 people in a lorry trailer in Essex will be deported without paying a penny to his victims' families. Marius Mihai Draghici, 51, fled the UK after the Vietnamese nationals died in the airtight sealed container as it was being transported by ferry from Zeebrugge in Belgium to Purfleet in October 2019. In August 2022, Draghici, who was said to be a 'right-hand man' in a long-running people-smuggling ring, was detained in Romania and extradited back to the UK. Last year, he pleaded guilty at the Old Bailey to 39 counts of manslaughter and conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and was jailed for 12 years and seven months. On Wednesday, prosecutor Ben Holt told a confiscation hearing before Judge Mark Lucraft KC that Draghici would not be pursued for proceeds of crime. Marius Mihai Draghici, 51, fled the UK after the Vietnamese nationals died in the airtight sealed container. He was jailed for 12 years and seven months Thirty-nine Vietnamese nationals were killed in an airtight sealed container being transported by ferry from Zeebrugge, Belgium to Purfleet in October 2019 He told the Old Bailey: 'Following an investigation, no assets have been discovered and in any event it is understood Mr Draghici will be deported shortly and therefore no proceedings are to be pursued.' The defendant had joined the brief hearing by video link from Stocken category C prison in the East Midlands and declined the services of a translator. It is understand that he will serve the remainder of his prison sentence in Romania following his deportation. Sentencing last year, Mr Justice Garnham had said Draghici was an 'essential cog' in a criminal conspiracy which made 'astonishing profits out of the exploitation of people desperate to get to the UK'. In all, 11 men have been convicted of their involvement in the lucrative people-smuggling ring. In addition to Draghici, four other men were jailed for between 13 and 27 years for the manslaughters of the men, women and children. Eleven men have been convicted for their involvement in the people-smuggling ring They are: Ringleader Gheorghe Nica, 47, of Basildon, Essex, haulier boss Ronan Hughes, 44, of Armagh, Maurice Robinson, 29, of Craigavon, who found the bodies, and Eamonn Harrison, 27, of County Down, who had collected the victims on the continent. To date, more than 283,000 in ill-gotten gains has been ordered to be paid by defendants as compensation to the victims' families. Reform were tonight silent on calls to suspend a candidate who claimed on social media that banks were 'owned by the Jews'. Angela Carter-Begbie will appear on the ballot in Queen's Park and Maida Vale despite calls from her Tory opponent for Nigel Farage to withdraw the party's support for her. The Reform candidate who was last month exposed for comparing the Covid-19 vaccine rollout to the Holocaust last year said during a discussion about funding Ukraine: 'Because the banks want to make it a new place. They are owned by the Jews.' Samia Hersi, her Conservative rival in the London constituency, said: 'The Reform Party and Nigel Farage must suspend Angela Carter-Begbie as their candidate in light of these racist and anti-Semitic comments. 'This is awful and there should be no space for anti-Semitism and racism in politics.' Angela Carter-Begbie will appear on the ballot in Queen's Park and Maida Vale despite calls from her Tory opponent for Nigel Farage to withdraw the party's support for her after she said 'Jews run the banks' Party leader Nigel Farage expressed 'regret' at Reform UK 'letting some bad people' stand as candidates at the election A spokesman for Campaign Against Anti-Semitism said: 'The Jewish community has long been subjected to medieval conspiratorial accusations of controlling banks and the economy. 'Such tropes have no place in 21st century Britain. 'The Party should urgently investigate.' Neither Reform nor Ms Carter-Begbie could be reached for comment yesterday. Nigel Farage has expressed 'regret' at Reform UK 'letting some bad people' stand as candidates at the election. And he caused outrage last month when he suggested that the West had provoked Russia's invasion of Ukraine with the expansion of the EU and Nato. Rishi Sunak later said that Mr Farage was an 'appeaser' of Russian president Vladimir Putin, while Boris Johnson branded Reform 'Putinistas' earlier this week. Ms Carter-Begbie has also described the King as 'weak' on social media in the past, suggesting that he was under the control of global elites. And, last April, she commented on the vaccine rollout: 'I have said the behaviour of the jab was slowly repeating the holocaust movement. Put people in camps, make them lose there [sic] jobs, make them homeless. 'Holocaust is a name of a movement.' It comes as her fellow Reform candidate Darren Ingrouille, standing in Chelmsford, was revealed to have compared people with autism to 'vegetables'. Responding to a user who described himself as an 'autistic father of twin boys', the candidate said in a now-deleted post: 'I can understand that you have learning difficulties, many of us reasoned humans would have a better perspective on this... Keep plugging away; or just keep favouring your own kind; vegetables.' Nigel Farage pledged to stamp out racism from the party and said: 'From Friday my first two big jobs are to professionalise the party and to democratise it Former minister Vicky Ford, the Tory candidate in Chelmsford, said on Wednesday night: 'Every part of me is so disgusted by this. No words.' Mr Ingrouille also previously told a woman: 'Please don't breed, whatever you do.' He did not respond to a request for comment last night, but on Tuesday shared a post reading: 'There is now a coordinated campaign being run by the Conservatives via CCHQ, with collaboration from the corrupt MSM [mainstream media], to discredit Reform UK.' The party has already dropped several candidates over offensive comments or past support for far-Right organisations, with Mr Farage blaming a vetting company for poor background checks. The Reform leader last night said: 'It's all gone wrong in the last few months. I regret that I didn't quite realise what the extent of the problem was a month ago, but I'll sort it out. 'I sorted it out in Ukip, I had no problems with it in the Brexit Party. From Friday my first two big jobs are to professionalise the party and to democratise it.' A beloved father-of-three who was allegedly stabbed to death on a pier has been remembered as a 'kind and gentle soul' by loved ones. Andres Pancha, 45, was fishing on Frankston Pier when he was allegedly attacked by homeless man Forrest Stevenson, 36, just after 6am on Saturday. Police say the father-of-three did not know his alleged attacker. Mr Pancha's loved ones said he would be remembered for his passion for fishing and his kind and gentle nature in a post on GoFundMe. 'It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our beloved friend, brother, Daddy, husband and cousin, Andres,' the post read. 'He was senselessly attacked by an unknown assailant while doing something he loved fishing. This unimaginable act has left our family devastated and in profound grief. His absence leaves an irreplaceable void in our lives. 'In honour of Andres' memory, we ask that you keep his spirit alive by cherishing your loved ones and spreading kindness wherever you go.' Stevenson was arrested on the nearby foreshore a short time after the alleged attack with Mr Pancha found unresponsive on the pier. Filipino father-of-three Andres Pancha, 45, was fishing on Frankston Pier when he was allegedly attacked by homeless man Forrest Stevenson, 36, just after 6am on Saturday Mr Pancha's loved ones said he would be remembered for his 'kind and gentle nature' Police said the men were not known to each other. Mr Pancha visited the fishing spot in Victoria's southeast once or twice a week. His friend and former colleague Lee Seddon took to social media to pay tribute to the beloved fisherman. 'Had the pleasure to work and sail with Andres Pancha on the Iron Chieftain. He was a true gentleman. Loved his fishing and young family,' he said. 'So shocking to hear he has been taken so young and in this terrible way. 'Fair winds and smooth seas.' Another friend said he had only recently spoken with Mr Pancha. 'Still young and already gone, RIP Andres Pancha. We will miss you,' Cor Glover said. Mr Pancha visited the Frankston Pier in Victoria's southeast once or twice a week Stevenson, 36, is of no fixed address and promotes himself on social media as an amateur artist who tattoos his own body Stevenson has no fixed address and promotes himself on social media as an amateur artist who tattoos his own body. He appeared at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Sunday wearing a disposable face mask and black t-shirt. Homicide Squad detective senior constable Kate Lynch told the court police required 12 weeks to compile a brief of evidence. The process usually takes six weeks, but the court was told an extension was needed for pathology and DNA test reports to be completed. Stevenson was remanded in custody until November 6. Magistrate Marc Sargent told the court the accused needed prompt medical attention to make his time in custody 'more comfortable'. Boris Johnson may have told wavering Tory voters to help avoid a landslide Labour victory during his surprise, sole appearance on the campaign trail on Tuesday night. But even the former Prime Ministers father has admitted he will cast a tactical vote for the Liberal Democrats today. Stanley Johnson, a former Conservative MEP, said he wanted to boost Ed Daveys party in his constituency due to their views on the European Union and the environment. Admitting Boris would probably accuse him of apostasy for his crime, he said he would back Helen Baxter in the Queens Park and Maida Vale constituency. The latest YouGov polling shows the Liberal Democrats finishing third in the seat, just ahead of the Tories, with the Greens in second and Labour winning the contest comfortably. Boris Johnson's father Stanley (pictured) has pledged to give his vote to the Liberal Democrats in a tactical move despite being a former Conservative MEP In Mr Johnson's Queens Park and Maida Vale constituency, the Lib Dems (leader Ed Davey seen) are polling in third, behind the Greens and Labour There I was coming out of the Underground station at Queens Park and there was this lady called Helen Baxter and she had her voting card and so on, Mr Johnson told the Telegraph. I said to her one of the things which has upset me most of all in this campaign is the fact that two crucial issues, first Britains relationship with Europe, and second, the whole question of - and this links to the first of course - the environmental policy, have not had the airing they deserve. And she said, well actually the Lib Dems do indeed have a strong policy on both these issues, and she presented me with her card, and yes, lo and behold, the whole third part of her programme was exactly Europe. So then I said to myself, well why should tactical voting not play its part here? Im a dyed in the wool Conservative, but in this particular case what matters is to try and boost the Lib Dems in a constituency which the Tories have absolutely no chance to win. The Conservative party constitution does not explicitly ban members from voting for other parties. Ms Baxter said: Boris Johnsons dad is voting for me, the Lib Dem candidate in Queens Park and Maida Vale and agrees with us about the damage caused by his sons disastrous Brexit. Your vote counts 130,000 of you can stop the supermajority that Sir Keir Starmer craves. Those 130,000 can make clear that you dont want a massive council tax hike, a pay-per-mile scheme for drivers or to be forced to make expensive Net Zero changes to your home. Deny Starmer that supermajority, and we can stop these things. So dont surrender your voice to Labour. Vote Conservative today. We are the only party who will stand up for you. The Liberal Democrats only issue with Starmer is that he doesnt go far enough when it comes to reversing Brexit, eroding womens rights and changing who can vote. A vote for them is a vote to bring back free movement, encourage dangerous gender self-identification and bring in a political system where your voice can be ignored. Reform wont deny Starmer the supermajority he wants because whether you think it is fair or not, they just wont win enough seats to oppose Labour. Prime Minister RISHI SUNAK writes: 'Ask your friends, ask your neighbours: do they want their family to pay more than 2,000 extra in tax?' Their deputy leader has said that it would be great for them to get one, two, three, four, five elected MPs. Just imagine that: Hundreds and hundreds of Labour MPs opposed by just one, two, three, four, five elected MPs. But we can stop this together we can make the difference. Ask your friends, ask your neighbours: do they want their family to pay more than 2,000 extra in tax? Do they want Labour rewriting the rules so they can stay in power for decades? Do they want eco-dogma put ahead of their family finances and our energy security? If the answer to these questions is no, then they must come out and vote Conservative. Dont surrender to Labour, get out there and vote. I love this country. My grandparents came here with very little, yet today I have the honour of serving as your Prime Minister. I will work night and day for you, to deliver a Britain with lower taxes, secure borders and strong defences. I know people are frustrated with me, with our party. But this election will have lasting consequences. We must deny Labour the supermajority they want, and only a vote for the Conservatives can do that. I know the past few years have been tough but my values are your values: I believe in hard work, aspiration and family. Your vote can stand up for those values not just today, but for the next five years. I want to cut your taxes, Keir Starmer will raise them and if he gets that supermajority, hell raise them even further. I want to control our borders, Keir Starmer has no plan to deal with illegal migration. I want to strengthen our defences in this more dangerous world, but Keir Starmer wont match our commitment to raise defence investment to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2030. 'I want to cut your taxes, Keir Starmer will raise them and if he gets that supermajority, hell raise them even further,' the Prime Minister Rishi Sunak writes (pictured: Keir Starmer) A huge number of seats in this election will be decided by a few hundred votes, so what you do will make a big difference. Your vote can make it more likely that your Conservative candidate is elected so that they can be your voice, represent your values and fight for you and your area. And prevent Labour from rewriting the rules so they can stay in power for decades if they win. Today, I need your vote to defend our vision of Britain: to back lower taxes, controlled borders and a secure future for our country. Join with us and we can make a difference and stop the socialist supermajority. Dont surrender your voice to Labour. Send an MP to Parliament who will stand up for you, your neighbours and your values. Vote Conservative. A 'closeted' Neo-Nazi has been convicted of the hate crime murder of his gay former schoolmate. Samuel Woodward, 26, was found guilty of killing 19 year-old Blaze Bernstein by jurors in Los Angeles Wednesday. Woodward and Bernstein met over Christmas 2018 after Bernstein - who was also Jewish - spotted his former classmate on Tinder and struck up a conversation. Bernstein was visiting family in California on winter break when he went out with Woodward and disappeared. His body was found days later buried in a shallow grave at Borrego park in Lake Forest, having been repeatedly stabbed in the face and neck. Samuel Woodward, pictured here last month, was found guilty of killing 19 year-old Blaze Bernstein by jurors in Los Angeles Wednesday Bernstein, seen here, was visiting family in California on winter break when he went out with Woodward and disappeared According to NBC Los Angeles, there were audible cheers in the courtroom after Woodward was also found to have committed a hate crime. The two men attended the same high school, the Orange County School of the Arts and reconnected on the dating app Tinder only months before the attack while Bernstein was home, according to testimony from the months-long trial. Prosecutors allege that Woodward singled out the gay, Jewish college sophomore after joining the violent, anti-gay, anti-Semitic group known as Atomwaffen Division. Woodward claims he was never a full-fledged member and simply joined because he had a 'desire to form a meaningful connection with a group.' His defense said that Woodward did not hate Bernstein and didn't plan to kill him, but that Woodward was conflicted by own sexuality and acted in a fit of rage. They also argued that Woodward's undiagnosed autism left him vulnerable to being recruited into white supremacist groups. The question during the trial has not been whether Woodward killed Bernstein but the reasons for the killing and circumstances under which it occurred. The case has taken years to come to court. Woodward is seen here with a markedly different appearance at a court hearing in January 2018 Blaze Bernstein's parents read a statement at a press conference in front of the Orange County Sheriff's department after their son's body was found a week after he had disappeared Scenes from the alleged murder have been presented to the jury during the trial. Bernstein's shallow grave is seen here In his testimony, Woodward gave a chilling account during the trial and recalled how he repeatedly stabbed the college sophomore after trying to grab a cellphone he feared he had used to photograph him. The charge against Woodward had included enhancements for a hate crime and the personal use of a deadly weapon. He now faces up to life in prison without the possibility of parole when he is sentenced, a date for which has not been scheduled. The case took years to go to trial after questions arose about Woodward's mental state and following multiple changes in defense attorneys. Woodward was deemed competent to stand trial in late 2022. The Biden Administration is taking a victory lap for its first 'large' deportation flight of Chinese nationals since Biden has been in the White House - 116 Chinese sent back to their home country over the weekend on the US tax-payer dime. However the charter flight only carried 116 citizens of the People's Republic of China-- less than 1% of the 55,922 Chinese who illegally entered the US in the first eight months of fiscal year 2024, according to government statistics. The October through June tally of Chinese who have snuck into the US has already surpassed all of fiscal year 2023's total of 52,700, and there are still four months left in FY '24. The percentage of Chinese deported under Biden is even smaller when you consider at least 153,259 have entered the US without authorization since he took office in January 2021. The flight comes at a time when US officials have been under intense scrutiny for allowing so many Chinese migrants in, as they flood over the border in record numbers. A recent photo of a migrant deportation flight carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement The Department of Homeland Security, which announced the flight in a weekend press release, would not say how long the migrants on the flight had been in America. The flight was conducted in 'close coordination' with the Chinese government the release said. In the past, the US has been unable to deport Chinese citizens since their own government would not take them back. US officials cannot land planes in China without the government's permission, and repatriation flights from the US to any country usually requires the participation of the home country, DHS officials told DailyMail.com. This might explain why there haven't been an earlier flights under the Biden Administration, one US official added. These Chinese migrants were dropped off at a transit center near San Diego after they were processed and screened by federal immigration authorities Figures from US Customs and Border Protection show how many Chinese migrants have been encountered at both the norther and southern border of the US since 2021 Many of the migrants flooding the border are doing so legally with the help of CBP One - the app the Biden administration has used to fly thousands into the country 'This removal flight is the result of Secretary Mayorkas continued efforts to engage the PRC (People's Republic of China) on areas of mutual interest,' Tuesday's press release stated. 'Together, the United States and PRC are working to reduce and deter irregular migration and to disrupt illicit human smuggling through expanded law enforcement efforts. Biden officials also pointed out they have recently secured cooperation from Ecuador to require visas from Chinese migrants who travel to South America to make the journey from that continent up through Central American and eventually to Mexico. Chinese migrants encountered by DailyMail.com in San Diego in recent months described traveling from their homeland to South America and then flying into Mexico or walking there along with South American migrants. Then they paid Chinese smugglers known as 'snakeheads' who are operating in synchrony with Mexican cartels to get into the US at the southern border, DailyMail.com was first to report in February. Chinese migrants are largely entering the US through the southern border, with most of them illegally crossing into the San Diego, California area before asking for asylum. Women's' relationship with handbags may date back thousands of years. Researchers have discovered ancient wall carvings depicting what appeared to be handbags designed with a square case and short, half circle handle. Some date back 12,000 years, which predates makeup, perfume and hairbrushes. The earliest imagery was discovered in Turkey among the ruins of Gobekli Tepe, an ancient megalithic temple, which featured large stone pillars etched with bags. Researchers have uncovered the same design in Mexico, Iraq and parts of South America, raising even more questions about the meaning of the motif - specifically how distant civilizations imagined the same object. The earliest imagery was discovered in Turkey among the ruins of Gobekli Tepe, an ancient megalithic temple, which featured large stone pillars etched with bags The Gobekli Tepe was built in 9,000 BC, featuring large, T-shaped stone pillars arranged in circles that were likely used for social events and rituals While the images are nearly identical to modern-day purses, experts have suggested that many of the images are of baskets. But some have also argued that the idea of a handbag could have been created by ancient civilizations. The first modern handbag was designed in 1841 England by Samuel Parkinson, who needed a traveling case for his wife that could carry her belongings which were too big for a purse. Since then, the accessory has become a must have fashion item among both women and men. The most expensive handbag ever is the Mouawad 1001 Nights Diamond Purse that costs $3.8 million The Gobekli Tepe was built in 9,000 BC, featuring large, T-shaped stone pillars arranged in circles that were likely used for social events and rituals, Some of its structures feature of what appeared to be clothing, belts, loincloths and handbags. While experts do not know exactly what the motifs mean, they have theorized that ancient humans saw the design in relation to the cosmos, Live Mint reported. Archaeologists have made similar discoveries in Iraq when they uncovered the Relief with Winged Genie in 1846, which was a relief that once stood in a palace between 883 and 859 BC Many experts have agreed that it was made to carry magic potions that the genie would sprinkle throughout the halls, but other translations have suggested the art shows a purse filled with intoxicants The square 'bag' may stand for the Earth and the connected circle was a symbol of spirituality. Ancient text has shown that past civilizations believed the Earth was flat, which may be why they showed it as a square in their art. However, some researchers have argued that the design was the connection between our planet and the sky. Another early example of a clutch has been found in Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, made about 5,000 years ago, which show gods carrying a small, square purse that symbolized prosperity. And while archaeologists have found evidence of baskets and tool bags used by the civilization, they have yet to uncover what has been found etched in walls. Archaeologists have made similar discoveries in Iraq. Giant rock slabs found among the ruins of a Assyrian palace built between 883 and 859 BC depicted Genie's with wings who carried a handbag. The structure features a genie with large, feathered wings holding what some have claimed is a handbag - while others are sure it is a small bucket. Many experts have agreed that it was made to carry magic potions that the genie would sprinkle throughout the halls, but other translations have suggested the art shows a purse filled with intoxicants. Historian Dr David Miano said in a recent YouTube video: 'These figures on the Assyrian palaces often have human bodies and animal heads, they're called the Apkalu.' The same motif has also been found in Tula, Mexico among ruins created by the Toltecs Giant stone statues on top of the Star Pyramid show figures clutching a handbag to their side - the structures were created in 750AD He continued to explain that they are minor deities with the power of protect, which has been determined in ancient writings. 'They're carrying these things that people call handbags, but in reality they're buckets these are buckets to carry water sacred date palms,' said Dr Miano, noting archaeologists have found ancient buckets in Iraq that look similar to the etchings. He noted that archaeologists have uncovered the actually buckets in the region. The same motif has also been found in Tula, Mexico among ruins created by the Toltecs, which shows a human-like figure holding a bag while surrounded by a snake. Giant stone statues in Tula also show figures clutching a handbag to their side - the structures were created in 750AD. '[A handbag] is a very simple device, anyone could come up with that,' said Dr Miano. 'You don't need to learn it from another culture, you can invent it yourself.' Major coastal cities like New York City, Boston and Philadelphia could be 'inundated' by untreated sewage flooding into streets and basements, a study has warned. Scientists determined that the mid-1850s pipe networks, coupled with rising sea levels and increased rainfall are enough to overload the systems and send wastewater flowing through the streets. The pipes originally discharged into streams and rivers before being redirected toward wastewater treatment facilities that cut through cities. The systems were also designed to handle up to 1.75 inches of rainfall per hour in areas like New York City, for example. But new models predict the amount of rainfall could exceed by two inches per hour over the next three decades. Older coastal cities like New York City, Boston and Philadelphia could be 'inundated' by untreated sewage flooding into streets and basements. Pictured: Boston residents experienced coastal flooding during heavy rainfall in January 2024 New York City is one of the top metropolises at risk of sewage flooding because the pipes, built in the mid-1850s, weren't made to withstand rainfall exceeding 1.75 inches per hour. Pictured: Man tries to unblock sewage grate after Hurricane Irene hit Coney Island in 2011 In the new study, published in the journal Water Management Modeling, researchers at Drexel University analyzed Camden, New Jersey - an area prone to flooding - to determine how climate change could impact the systems along the East Coast. The city, which borders the Delaware River, constructed its system in 1845, making it comparable to those in New York, Boston and Philadelphia. The team created climate models to simulate future flooding and Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs), which is when systems collect rainwater runoff, sewage and industrial waste into one pipe, by 2100. Precipitation in the city is already up to 10 percent higher than the baseline set in 1999, but the new model showed that future precipitation will increase by 30 percent. It also determined that sea levels will rise by nearly six feet by the end of the century, leading sewage flooding to increase by between 21 and 66 percent. The results have suggested that sewage-tainted floods would last for nearly 65 days. The model found that increases in the intensity of precipitation see flooding last for nearly 65 days. Roughly 40 million people live in areas with combined sewer systems, making it critical that steps are taken to mitigate the risk of overflow. Pictured: Coney Island residents try to unblock a sewer grate in 2011 In 2019, sewage flooded into about 300 homes in Jamaica, Queens, destroying furniture, electronics and other belongings as the putrid waste spread throughout the area. Pictured: Sewage backup that filled Cynthia McKenzie's home in Jamaica Queens in November 2019 The team proposed one solution that would involve diverting upstream storm water away from Cramer's Hill, the main sewer system - located in the northern corner of Camden - but the researchers said they're still looking into other possible options. 'It's exciting to work with them now on the development of solutions that can also reduce flooding and make Camden's neighborhoods more resilient to climate change,' said Franco Montalto, a professor at Drexel University and the study's lead author. In recent years, federal agencies have claimed they're taking steps to resolve the sewage flooding but the researchers said the efforts aren't enough. The Department of Environmental Protection introduced a $62 million project to upgrade the infrastructure by replacing the sewers with larger pipes, but it didn't stop New York residents' basements from flooding during heavy rainfall last year. A storm saturated areas across New York in September, causing sewer water to flood into the streets, subway stations and people's homes from over 7,400 miles of pipes. 'We're in this new territory where we're seeing higher intensity rainfalls like this,' Daniel A. Zarrilli, former climate policy adviser to the mayor told the New York Times. 'Once you've exceeded the capacity of the sewers themselves, that's what causes these backups. When the pipes can't handle it, it backs up.' Earlier this year, one Boston resident said three separate rainstorms caused his home to overflow with sewage each time and his efforts to block the floods only made it worse. '[It] started coming up through the shower right there,' he told CBS News, adding that when he tried to block the shower drain the sewage came up through the toilet. 'For probably 15, 16 hours, we're talking about thousands of gallons running through here,' he said. 'Going through the back of the house, going into my dining room, going into my bedroom and into the kitchen, like everything is ruined.' In 2019, sewage flooded into about 300 homes in Jamaica, Queens, destroying furniture, electronics and other belongings as the putrid waste spread throughout the area. 'It's messy,' one resident who posted photos of murky water covering the floor of a basement bedroom told AP News. 'When you open it, it just smells. It makes you want to vomit. The odor is just unbelievable,' she said. Roughly 40 million people live in areas with combined sewer systems, making it critical that steps are taken to mitigate the risk of overflow. NASA is set to launch an 'alien-hunting' telescope that experts believe will uncover an inhabited planet by 2050. The Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) will search for 'wide variety of biosignatures' given off by living organisms after it launches around 2040. Dr Jessie Christiansen, a chief scientist for NASA, is sure HWO will find 'a signal in the atmosphere of a planet in the habitable zone of a star like our sun within our lifetime.' Scientists working on the project have identified 25 Earth-like planets around sun-like stars as potential candidates. Astrophysicist Jessie Christiansen who works with NASA on the search for Earth-like exoplanets has come forward to say the US space agency's planned new telescope, the Habitable Worlds Observatory (concept above), may find proof of alien life 'in our lifetime' Three NASA contracts totaling $17.5 million will go into effect this summer, constructing HWO's next-generation hardware and code needed to one day pull in nearby exoplanet data in rich new detail. Above a front view mock-up of HWO's light and EMF collection mirror HWO has been deemed a 'Super Hubble' telescope that would directly image Earth-size circling other stars. The observatory will also feature a mirror similar to that of James Webb and ultra-precise optics to scrutinize the atmospheres of these worlds for signs of life.. The space agency's exoplanet team of astronomers, physicists, engineers and scientists met last January in New Orleans to consider the tools needed for the job. Berkeley astronomer Dr Courtney Dressing, a co-leader of HWO's Science Architecture Review Team (START), proposed kitting out HWO with the capacity to detect a 'wide variety of biosignatures.' So-called 'biogenic' gases, produced by living organisms; aerosols and other airborne pollutants; 'surface biosignatures,' like the infra-red heat produced by vegetation, and more artificial 'technosignatures' that would be made by a civilized alien race all 'could be detectable with HWO,' Dr Dressing noted. 'Additional information about the planet and planetary system,' she continued. 'It [will be] required to interpret biosignatures and rule out false positives.' Nevertheless, one astrophysicist who serves as chief scientist for NASA's Exoplanet Science Institute at the CalTech, Dr Jessie Christiansen, believes HWO could find proof of extraterrestrial life not too long after it's launched in 2040. 'I believe, in our lifetime, something like HWO will see a signal in the atmosphere of a rocky planet in the habitable zone of a star like our sun that we think is life,' Christiansen told New Scientist. 'A big part of my job is working on that,' as she told Pasadena Weekly last month. 'We're coming up with science questions that we would want that telescope to answer,' Dr Christiansen explained. 'We use that to define how big of a telescope, looking at what part of space, for how long, do we need? We take that to NASA and say, 'Hey, build this.'' The Hubble Space Telescope's focus on visual light caught many more of a galaxy's older, redder stars and younger, bluer stars (left). But the infra-red sensors on the newer James Webb proved better at imaging masses of gas and dust that were free-floating along a galaxy's spiraling arms, as well as catching a glimpse of the dense galactic core of star systems (right). In the middle image, a combined view of both telescopes' sensors Building off of the technology and success of the James Webb telescope, NASA is developing a multi-billion successor tasked with searching for life on Earth-like planets as soon as the early 2040s. Above, another concept for this planned Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO) Collecting electromagnetic spectra from outside the spectrum of visible light, such as infra-red and UV light, and even x-rays, is one method astronomers use to get a better sense of what is out there in the universe. The Hubble Space Telescope's focus on visual light caught many more of a galaxy's older, redder stars and younger, bluer stars, for example. But the infra-red sensors on the newer James Webb proved better at imaging masses of gas and dust free-floating along a galaxy's spiraling arms, as well as catching a glimpse of the dense galactic core of star systems. 'We've been able to look at stars with such precision and such exquisite instruments that we can see planets around them,' Dr Christiansen noted. 'Now, we know that there are thousands of planets, and most stars have planets.' But, despite over 5,000 new exoplanets logged and a few dozen Earth-like candidates she added: 'We still haven't found a planet like the Earth, a rocky planet in a habitable zone of a star like the sun.' Military contractors Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin and Ball Aerospace (BAE Systems) will begin their portion of the work on the HWO this summer, per NASA. The companies' two-year and $17.5 million effort will include building 'ultra-stable' optical sensor systems, which NASA hopes will be 'beyond current state-of-the-art tech' to help keep their HWO project working in orbit for as long as possible. Northrop Grumman's contribution to that effort will be a protective support to the telescope's optical train, which they hope can ensure HWO withstands unexpected events in the harsh environment of space. This year's spend however is nothing compared to the $11 billion in total that NASA hopes the US government will devote to their HWO telescope. By the end of its official mission, which will focus on directly imaging at least 25 prime candidates for potentially habitable worlds, Dr Christiansen wonders if the humanity will ever be the same. 'It might start a revolution in life, religion, philosophy and science,' she said, although the astrophysicist confessed that the public's reaction might surprise her. 'It might be a headline for a day,' she admitted, 'and then everybody just goes back to what they were doing.' Forty million years before the dinosaurs roamed the Earth, a far stranger monster was top of the food chain. Scientists have discovered the fossilised remains of a giant six foot-long salamander-like monster with an enormous 'toilet seat-shaped head'. Named Gaiasia jennyae after the Gai-as Formation in Namibia where it was found, this terrifying creature would have lurked in swamps and lakes eating anything that came near. And with a skull more than two feet long and a set of impressive interlocking fangs, palaeontologists believe Gaiasia would have been a fierce ambush predator. Co-lead author Dr Jason Pardo, of the Field Museum in Chicago, says: 'It's got a big, flat, toilet seat-shaped head, which allows it to open its mouth and suck in prey.' Scientists have discovered a terrifying prehistoric predator with an enormous 'toilet seat-shaped head' (pictured: artist's impression) One of the specimens was so well preserved researchers were able to find an articulated skull and spine hidden in the rock Although Namibia is just north of South Africa today, 300 million years ago it would have been far further south near the northernmost point of Antarctica today. At this time the Ice Age was nearing its end and the lands nearer the equator were drying up and becoming forested. But in the warmer areas near the poles swamps and lakes still existed where this bizarre new species could make its home. Dr Pardo and his co-author Claudia Marsicano of the University of Buenos Aires discovered the fossilised remains of four creatures in a rock formation dating back 280 million years. Considerably larger than a person so more than 6 feet and with a massive skull and huge fangs, Gaiasia would have been a terrifying but slow ambush hunter. Dr Marsicano says: 'When we found this enormous specimen just lying on the outcrop as a giant concretion, it was really shocking. 'I knew just from seeing it that it was something completely different. We were all very excited.' This creature gets its name from the Gai-as Formation in Namibia where it was found in a rock face dating back 280 million years Researchers discovered four well preserved specimens of Gaiasia jennyae in a region of modern day Namibia The researchers believe that Gaisia (pictured) would have been a fearsome, if slow, ambush predator that lurked at the bottom of lakes and swamps One of those specimens was particularly well preserved, featuring an articulated head and spine which reveals an extremely unusual feature. Gaiasia's skull displayed a highly unusual set of interlocking large fangs creating a unique bite for early tetrapods the four-limbed vertebrates that evolved from lobe-finned fishes and gave rise to amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Doctor Pardo says: 'It has these huge fangs, the whole front of the mouth is just giant teeth ' This unusual jaw structure would have let this ambush predator grab and hold large prey in the prehistoric swamps of Namibia. It is these features which made it one of the top predators in the prehistoric ecosystem. Researchers were surprised to discover that the ancient animal had a full set of interlocking fangs which was highly unusual for creatures from this period Gaisia s a evolutionary holdover related to species which died out 40 million years ago, however, researchers believe it would have been one of the top predators in its ecosystem The earliest known dinosaurs appeared during the Triassic Period approximately 250 to 200 million years ago, but Gaiasia pre-dates them by 40 million years. Doctor Pardo says: 'There are some other more archaic animals still hanging on 300 million years ago, but they were rare, they were small, and they were doing their own thing. 'Gaisia is big, and it is abundant, and it seems to be the primary predator in its ecosystem.' The species is detailed further in a new study published today in Nature. Archaeologists have discovered evidence of a lost civilization that once lived in South American at least 4,000 years ago. They uncovered ancient drawings on a flat-top mountain in Venezuela, which featured colorful designs of dot patterns, leaf motifs and stick figures that may have been part of a mysterious ritual. Lead researcher Jose Miguel Perez-Gomez told DailyMail.com that previous studies have found no signs of human activity in the region, suggesting the art was made by a previously unknown civilization. The difference between the newly discovered group and other cultures is based solely 'on stylistic comparisons to other places in the region,' suggesting it could be ground zero for the emerging of this culture.' Archaeologists have discovered evidence of a lost civilization in Venezuela depicting ancient rituals in 4,000-year-old drawings The rock art was discovered on a mountain in Canaima National Park which could be ground zero for where the indigenous culture first developed The rock art was discovered in Canaima National Park in Bolivar state that spans more than 11,500 square miles. 'What we are seeing is a new culture of hunter-gatherers who likely arrived in the Canaima National Park area at the end of the Pleistocene,' which lasted from between 2.5 million and 11,700 years ago,' Perez-Gomez said. 'They settled, evolved there, and then spread to the rest of the region, reaching places as far as the Amazon Basin.' Some of the drawings, like those that appeared to depict a leaf, are located in out-of-reach areas, and situated on a clean oval-shaped rock space that may have inspired the artist to create this particular design, reads the study published in the journal Rock Art Research. The hunter-gatherers used red ochre - a natural oxide pigment made from ground up clay, quartz and chalk - that had a slight orange hue. Other motifs resembled claviforms, a club-shaped image or symbol, with faded figures underneath and surrounding it that could be a sign of successful hunting endeavors. More research needs to be conducted to understand the meaning behind the drawings and what they represent, according to the study. 'Stylistic comparisons so far show similarities to rock paintings near the Brazilian border, which have been dated to around 4,000 BP,' he continued, adding: 'However, the newly found rock art is much cruder, suggesting it could be even older.' The artwork featured stick figure drawings of people, dot patterns and distinct leaf motifs on a rock wall that might have been used as both a shelter for indigenous hunter-gatherers and the site for enacting ritual activities The researchers arent sure why the ancient people created the art, but they could be related to birth, disease, nature or hunting Although some drawings showed signs of organic disturbances such as lichen, algae, roots or wasp nests, the archaeologists noted the overhanging area of the rock wall had preserved the panels Although some drawings showed signs of organic disturbances such as lichen, algae, roots or wasp nests, the archaeologists noted the overhanging area of the mountain had preserved the panels. 'These findings are exceptional because they are new to science, filling a gap in a region never before explored in archaeological terms,' Perez-Gomez said. 'They also provide context for other regional studies in northern Brazil, the Guianas, and even southern Colombia.' Perez-Gomez said the depictions could be related to birth, disease, nature or hunting, but the location probably had a meaning and an importance within the landscape, just as churches have a meaning for people today. The mountain's location hinted at the type of people who may have created the drawings because it lies between the Arauak and Aparuren Rivers that flow in opposite directions. The secondary river is connected to the Tirica River that drains into the Caroni River, positioning the mountain at the center of a natural walkthrough in this valley for game migration, the study said. Some of the drawings were in out-of-reach areas that required the team to climb a ladder to photograph them The hunter-gatherers used red ochre - a natural oxide pigment made from ground up clay, quartz and chalk - that had a slight orange hue The researchers have called for the site to be protected and are optimistic that they will discover more rock art sites in the park which spans 11,583 square miles Perez-Gomez noted that faded graffiti was also found on the rock wall dating back to 1947 which appeared to belong to Spanish explorer Captain Felix Cardona Puig, who discovered the area. Pottery fragments and stone tools also littered the area, suggesting they may have been used by the hunter-gatherers who created the art. 'All this evidence indicates that we are in the presence of a new culture,' Perez-Gomez told DailyMail.com. Some motifs resemble claviforms, a club-shaped image or symbol, with faded figures underneath and surrounding it that could be a sign of successful hunting endeavors Some of the drawings, like those that appear to depict a leaf, (pictured) are located in out-of-reach areas, and is situated on a clean oval-shaped rock space, which may have inspired the artist to create this particular design' Perez-Gomez and are working with researchers in neighboring countries to determine whether the same cultural groups made the rock art He and his co-author have called for the site to be protected and are optimistic that they will discover more rock art sites in the park which spans 11,583 square miles. The park itself is larger than countries like El Salvador or Belgium, so it wouldn't be surprising to find even more traces if research continues more in-depth, depending on resources, Perez-Gomez told Axios. The pair are working with researchers in neighboring countries to determine whether the same cultural groups made the rock art. This is relevant not only for Venezuela but points at a cultural and ethnic richness that will enhance, worldwide, how we think about the region, said Perez-Gomez. A NASA astronaut has captured jaw-dropping pictures of destructive Hurricane Beryl from space. Matthew Dominick shot the images as the International Space Station traveled more than 200 miles above the Caribbean on July 1. 'Peering down into the eye with the 50 to 500 mm lens gave me both an eerie feeling and a high level of weather nerd excitement,' Dominick shared in an X post. Hurricane Beryl has killed at least six people and is predicted to bring life-threatening winds and storm surge to Jamaica. The astronaut pointed his lens to Earth on Monday when Beryl made its first landfall in the Caribbean islands Dominick pointed his lens to Earth on Monday when Beryl made its first landfall in the Caribbean islands. At the time, the hurricane was still a Category 4 with 130mph winds. The images show the storm swirling around the Atlantic Ocean with a well-organized eye at the center, SWNS reported. NASA studies hurricanes from space through images like those taken by the astronaut as the 'vantage point helps scientists understand how climate change impacts hurricanes and learn how communities can better prepare.' The ferocious Category 5 storm has already caused significant damage after 165mph winds battered parts of the Caribbean. Storm surges of up to nine feet above typical tide levels are likely in Jamaica, as well as heavy rainfall. National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan said: 'There is a big hazard in the Caribbean, especially with the mountainous islands. Matthew Dominick shot the images as the International Space Station more than 200 miles above the Caribbean on July 1 'Peering down into the eye with the 50 to 500 mm lens gave me both an eerie feeling and a high level of weather nerd excitement,' he said in an X post 'This could cause life-threatening flash floods and mudslides in some of these areas.' A new model has also predicted Hurricane Beryl will rip through six US states. Previous data suggested that the hurricane could skim Texas at the weekend. Now parts of the state have been added to the hurricane's forecast cone by the National Hurricane Center. Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi and Kentucky could now also be swept up in the storm's path, one model presented by hurricane expert Dr Levi Cowan shows. At least five spaghetti models, data broken down in strands that show a storms potential path, now indicate the hurricane will lash the US. The images show the storm swirling around the Atlantic Ocean with a well-organized eye at the center Hurricane Beryl has killed at least six people and is predicted to bring life-threatening winds and storm surge to Jamaica For Beryl, most of the five models that impact the US show Texas in the firing line, but one additional path suggests Louisiana could see some impact too, with one possibility of the storm sweeping all six states. 'It's really dependent on where the hurricane is launching from by the time we get to Friday if it's coming off the Yucatan Peninsula far enough North, it may continue gaining latitude and threaten the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico, that could mean northern Mexico or Texas and the US Gulf Coast could be threatened,' Dr Cowan said. 'But if it crosses farther down say if it's a weaker storm then it would likely continue West more into Eastern Mexico.' Beryl's path will be determined by the level of pressure over the southeast. If this drops, it will allow the storm to move northwards potentially spelling disaster for the US. Gulf Coast residents are urged to watch the record-breaking storm, the earliest Category 5 hurricane ever in the Atlantic, Caribbean and Central American basin. A parasitic vampire fish has been spotted in a Virginia river that is rarely seen by humans and while it is invasive, experts said it's a good sign. An Alexandria local pulled what is called a sea lamprey from the Potomac River with his bare hands and tossed the nearly two-foot-long eel-like creature onto dry land. The fish gets the nickname for its sucker-like mouth and pointed teeth, which it uses to latch onto its victim and feed on their bodily fluids - sometimes feasting for weeks. The Potomac River has been long polluted and government agencies have taken steps to clean it up, making the lamprey's appearance a sign that the pollution is finally ebbing away because the creature is sensitive to toxins . An Alexandria local pulled what is called a sea lamprey from the Potomac River with his bare hands and tossed the nearly two-foot-long eel-like creature onto dry land Sea lampreys are an invasive species initially native to the Atlantic Ocean, but they invaded the Great Lakes in the 1800s through manmade canals and shipping docks. The population started growing in the Potomac in 2002, which experts believed was a positive sign for the river. The resurgence of sea lamprey is another indication that water quality is getting better, Jim Cummins, the then-associate director for the Living Resources Section told the Potomac Bay Reporter at the time. Sea lamprey are fairly sensitive to pollution. The 23-year-old man posted an Instagram video of him catching the vampire fish, claiming it was the first sea lamprey caught in the Potomac River. The fish migrate from the Chesapeake Bay to the freshwater river each year to lay their eggs, which suggests this is not the first sighting. However, he appeared shocked, repeatedly saying: 'Oh my gosh' as the person recording dares him to put the lamprey on his arm. 'I'm not doing that,' he said, but called his catch 'insane.' People responded to the video, saying that because its an invasive species and should be removed. 'They eat other fish and infect them with parasites with a bite so, they'll eventually die. They are invasive. Check what damage they did in Michigan and what they had to do to fix it,' one person commented. A single female can produce as many as 100,000 eggs and as the population rose in the Great Lakes during the 1940s and 1950s, they nearly decimated the lake trout and whitefish, prompting efforts to eliminate them. Another person simply said: 'Kill it.' The river was given a B grade last year for its cleanliness, up from the D ranking it received in 2011. Studies are being conducted to determine if the river will be clean enough to lift the ban on swimming in the next two to three years, according to the Potomac Conservancy. While social media called for the sea lamprey to be killed, its presence in the is not harmful to the ecosystem. The Chesapeake Bay Program said after the lamprey reaches maturity at four to five years, they leave the freshwater rivers to live out the rest of their life in the ocean. The fish gets the nickname for its sucker-like mouth and pointed teeth, which it uses to latch onto its victim and feed on their bodily fluids - sometimes feasting for weeks The lamprey has the appearance of an eel, with a long body measuring between 12 and 22 inches long and brown and yellow skin that is covered in dark spots. It has a sucker-like mouth and pointed teeth to grasp onto its victim and feed on their body fluids, sometimes for as long as three weeks until the fish dies. Lampreys have existed for millions of years, but they have become threatened by habitat loss and chemical treatments called lampricide which kill lamprey larvae and has reduced their population by more than 90 percent. They have the appearance of an eel, with a long body measuring between 12 and 22 inches long and brown and yellow skin that is covered in dark spots. These fish can accidentally latch on to humans who are swimming in the water, and while the bite wont be fatal, it is painful and untreated wounds could cause an infection. Sea lamprey are native to the area and have existed in the Potomac for years, but they dont typically take fishermens bait and the polluted water has previously hidden them from view. The fish is believed to have once been plentiful in the Chesapeake Bay, which flows into the Potomac, but the population was reduced in part because of increased sediment, pollution, and blockage of spawning areas by dams. Since 1989, the Alice Ferguson Foundation has spearheaded the Annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup and the DC Water Clean Rivers Program has invested $2.6 billion to reduce pollution. Australia's citizenship test 1. What do we commemorate on Anzac Day? a. The landing of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps at Gallipoli, Turkey during World War I b. The arrival of the first free settlers from Great Britain c. The landing of the First Fleet at Sydney Cove 2. What are the colours of the Australian Aboriginal Flag? a. Black, red and yellow b. Green, white and black c. Blue, white and green 3. What is the Commonwealth Coat of Arms? a. The national anthem b. Australias national flower c. The official symbol of Australia, which identifies Commonwealth property 4. What happened in Australia on 1 January 1901? a. The Australian Constitution was changed by a referendum b. The separate colonies were united into a federation of states called the Commonwealth of Australia c. The Australian and New Zealand Army Corps was formed 5. What is the capital city of Australia? a. Brisbane b. Canberra c. Perth 6. Which of these is an example of freedom of speech? a. People can peacefully protest against a government action b. Men and women are treated equally in a court of law c. Australians are free to not follow a religion 7. Which of these statements about government in Australia is correct? a. The government does not allow some religions b. The government in Australia is secular c. Religious laws are passed by Parliament 8. Which of these is an example of equality in Australia? a. Everyone follows the same religion b. Men and women have equal rights c. Everyone belongs to the same political party 9. Which of these is a responsibility of Australian citizens aged 18 years or over? a. To attend local council meetings b. To vote in federal and state or territory elections, and in a referendum c. To have a current Australian passport 10. Which of these statements about passports is correct? a. Australian citizens can apply for an Australian passport b. Permanent residents can hold an Australian passport c. Australian citizens need a passport and visa to return to Australia 11. Which of these statements about voting in Australian elections is correct? a. People are free and safe to vote for any candidate b. Voting is by a show of hands c. People must write their name on their vote 12. What is the name of the legal document that sets out the basic rules for the government of Australia? a. The Australian Federation b. The Australian Commonwealth c. The Australian Constitution 13. What is a referendum? a. A vote to change the government b. A vote to change the Australian Constitution c. A vote to change the Prime Minister 14. Which arm of government has the power to interpret and apply laws? a. Legislative b. Executive c. Judicial 15. Which of these is a role of the Governor-General? a. The appointment of state premiers b. Signing all Bills passed by the Australian Parliament into law c. The appointment of the Head of State 16. Which of these statements best demonstrates Australian values about freedom of expression? a. Everyone can peacefully express their opinions within the law b. People with different views from me need to keep quiet c. Only approved topics can be discussed 17. Should people in Australia make an effort to learn English? a. People in Australia should speak whichever language is most commonly spoken in their local neighbourhood b. There is no expectation to learn any particular language in Australia c. Yes, English is the national language of Australia and it helps to get an education, a job, and to integrate into the community 18. In Australia, can you encourage violence against a person or group of people if you have been insulted? a. Yes, if you do not intend to carry out the violence b. No, it is against Australian values and the law c. Sometimes, if I feel very offended 19. Should people tolerate one another where they find that they disagree? a. It is against the law to disagree with one another b. No, people only need to treat each other with respect if they agree with one another c. Yes, peaceful disagreement reflects Australian values in relation to mutual respect 20. Which of the following is an example of contributing to the Australian community? a. Volunteering or fundraising for a charity is a great opportunity to strengthen our community b. I should not make any effort to get to know other people c. People in Australia should not contribute to the community because Australia is a free country Try Australia's citizenship test here. Australia answers: 1a; 2a; 3c; 4b; 5b; 6a; 7b; 8b; 9b; 10a; 11a; 12c; 13b; 14c; 15b; 16a; 17c; 18b; 19c; 20a You need 15 out of 20 (75 per cent to pass) Canada answers: 1c; 2a; 3d; 4b; 5a; 6d; 7d; 8c; 9a; 10b; 11d; 12b; 13d; 14b; 15c; 16d; 17d; 18d; 19c; 20a You need 15 out of 20 (75 per cent to pass) Brits who partake in a cheeky wee in the sea may need to budget an extra 635 for their holidays in Marbella where authorities are set to roll out new penalties as part of a Costa del Sol tourist cleanup drive. Councillors in the holiday hotspot in southern Spain have declared bathers will face fines of up to 750 if they are caught performing 'physiological evacuations in the sea and on the beach'. The measure, which has been approved in a plenary session and is now awaiting public scrutiny, formulates part of a wider legislation aimed at cracking down on the impact of tourism in the Spanish resort region. It comes after lawmakers in Vigo, a city in the Galicia region, rolled out a similar rule some two years ago. The fine will be doubled for each repeat offence, meaning a second penalty will be set at 1,500 euros and the third up to 3000. But the move has been criticised and even ridiculed by locals, many of whom regularly partake in the practice themselves and say it is impossible to regulate and enforce. Councillors in the holiday hotspot in southern Spain have declared bathers will face fines of up to 750 if they are caught performing 'physiological evacuations in the sea and on the beach' Councillors in the holiday hotspot in southern Spain have declared beachgoers will face fines of up to 750 if they are caught performing 'physiological evacuations in the sea and on the beach' Tourists flash their bottoms on the beach in Spain Brits who partake in a cheeky wee in the sea may need to budget an extra 635 for their holidays in Marbella Most commentators agreed that urinating on the sand is understandably seen as an offence and can be policed. But urinating in the sea is a different story. 'Who's going to find the culprits - the jellyfish?' one incredulous interviewee said when asked about the measure by Mario Picazo for Spanish television show 'Tiempo al tiempo', according to media outlet El Correo. 'Let them worry about other things - this is idiotic!' another said. 'What would a policeman be looking for? You can't see, I don't understand anything.' Other outlets openly criticised the measure, declaring that weeing in the sea was 'one of the most widespread customs in our country'. Despite the outrage, the measure has actually been in place in Malaga ever since 2004 - albeit with much lower penalties. Bathers can be fined up to 300 at present if they are caught urinating at the beach. But these fines would be bumped up considerably if the new legislation passes, along with a raft of other measures. These include a series of new restrictions limiting ball games and paddleboards in parts of beaches where the activities could be seen to 'disturb other beach users'. Beachgoers will also have to obtain authorisation from the relevant authorities before holding any parties, public events or competitions on the 25 beaches in Marbella affected by the legislation. Marbella24horas later reported other restrictions will prevent people from leaving umbrellas or parasols in the sand to reserve a space on the beach, and from leaving cigarette butts, rubbish and food scraps in the sand. Parking caravans or motorhomes by the beach will also be prohibited where it 'contravenes the applicable traffic regulations'. These measures in Marbella come months after authorities on the island of Mallorca rolled out new penalties to crack down on chaos created by drunken tourists. Drunken Brits are seen in the streets of Spanish holiday resort Magaluf this summer Partygoers can be seen sitting on the pavements with their heads in their hands after a long night of hitting the town In Magaluf - one of the most notorious party destinations popular with Brits - tourists are now subject to draconian laws that prohibit drinking on the streets or buying alcohol in corner shops past 8.30pm. Anyone breaking the rules introduced on May 11 could be fined up to 1,500 (1,350). If someone's offence is decided to be more serious, the fines could increase to 3,000 (2,550). The strict new regulations also prohibit tourists from organising drinking parties in public, spraying graffiti, riding scooters and displaying nudity. They are set to stay in place until at least 2027, at which point the regulations will be reviewed for effectiveness and impact. Got itchy feet but don't want to give up your career? A digital nomad visa could be the answer. It gives you the legal right to work remotely from a country that's not your permanent place of residence. But where to go? A destination you can call home for a while might be a good idea. Here we reveal, courtesy of research by recruitment firm William Russell, the 10 destinations offering the longest visa stays. Topping the list in joint first place with five-year digital nomad schemes are Spain and Albania. Spain's attractive scheme allows non-EU workers the chance to work remotely there for 12 months, but this can be extended for up to five years Albania's digital nomad scheme is initially issued for 12 months, but can be extended for up to five years Spain's attractive scheme allows non-EU workers the chance to work remotely there for 12 months, but this can be extended for up to five years. A similar scheme in Albania is also available, where the visa is initially issued for 12 months but can also be extended to a maximum of five years. However, the process is not straightforward. Applicants for Spain's digital nomad visa must have an undergraduate or postgraduate degree from a university, college or business school of prestige - or at least three years of work experience in their current field. LONGEST DIGITAL NOMAD VISAS 1= Spain - 5 years 1= Albania - 5 years 2 Mexico - 4 years 3 El Salvador - 4 years 4= Germany - 3 years 4= Malta - 3 years 4= Taiwan - 3 years 4= Cyprus - 3 years 5 Norway - 2 years 6 Portugal - 2 years Source: William Russell Advertisement Digital nomads must provide proof that they have worked for their company for at least three months, need proof of accommodation in Spain and must earn at least double Spain's minimum wage. As of February, the minimum wage is 1,134 (960/$1,213), according to the government of Spain - that means digital nomads must earn 2,268 (2,055/ $2,426) per month. To register for the visa, digital nomads will be required to pay a 75 (64/$81) registration fee, as well as 15 (13/$16) for a residency card. Meanwhile, wannabe nomads looking to move to Albania will have to apply for a 'visa for digital mobile workers' - a type D visa. This requires you to have a valid contract with an employer, a document proving professional capacity, proof of accommodation in Albania, a 12-month back-dated bank statement, an invitation from a resident of Albania and several other documents and forms. There is currently no minimum income listed on the Republic of Albania's visa website. People who don't want to move to Europe might find Mexico's digital nomad scheme attractive. Slightly shorter than the options available in Spain and Albania, digital nomads can extend their visa for up to four years, but will need to provide some proof of income to qualify. Digital nomads can extend their visa for up to four years in Mexico, but will need to provide some proof of income to qualify El Salvador's digital nomad visa initially lasts for two years, but can be renewed for an additional two years Applicants need to have a monthly income equivalent to 300 days of the minimum wage in Mexico City - around 3,417 ($4,338) - or they'll need to own a property in Mexico worth 40,000 days of minimum wage in the district the property resides in. Currently the daily minimum wage in the 'geographic area of the free zone on the Northern Border' is 374.89 Mexican pesos (16/$20.23) and in the rest of the country the daily minimum wage is 248.93 Mexican pesos (10.77/$13.62), according to the embassy of Mexico for the UK. In joint third position with Mexico, El Salvador's digital nomad visa initially lasts for two years but can be renewed for an additional two years. Digital nomads will need to ensure the amount they earn per month 'is not less than $1,460' (1,112), according to El Salvador CIP. Rounding off the top five longest digital nomad visas are Germany in joint fifth with Malta, Taiwan and Cyprus, where remote workers can obtain a visa for up to three years. Norway (9th) and Portugal (10th) round off the top 10, with schemes offering up to two years. William Cooper, marketing director at William Russell, warns: 'There are many things that you need to think about before relocating to another country and officially becoming a digital nomad. For example, in most countries, it's deemed necessary for you to have international health insurance. 'This ensures that you will be covered for the cost of things such as doctor visits, diagnostic tests and hospital treatment when living abroad. 'However, to minimise the chance of you needing to claim on your international health insurance, it's a good idea to research the state of the healthcare system in the country that you're planning on relocating to. 'Countries such as Malta and Taiwan have excellent healthcare systems in place for their residents, including expats and digital nomads, so it's unlikely that you would be left with expensive medical costs.' Real Housewives of New Jersey star Dolores Catania, 53, has revealed the behind-the-scenes secrets to her ageless skin - and the exact products she uses to achieve that glowing complexion. Catania revealed her $1,000 skincare routine in a new two-part series that was posted to her TikTok account this month. The reality star, who has been a part of the Bravo series since 2016, has been open about her looks since being in the spotlight, and has shared some of the cosmetic procedures she's decided to have with fans of the show. In 2019, the mom-of-two underwent a facelift, neck lift, and eyelid surgery with Dr. Mark Karolak in New Jersey, and a temporal lift in 2023. She also underwent liposuction on some areas of her body, like her arms, in May 2021, as well as a tummy tuck and thigh lift in 2020. Real Housewives of New Jersey star Dolores Catania , 53, has revealed the behind-the-scenes secrets to her ageless skin Catania doesn't use a traditional cleanser - she begins her routine with the $48 Cleansing Balm by Oak Essentials, which works to take off makeup Having good skin is extremely important to Catania, and she gave viewers a step-by-step look at what she does every day - starting off with a good double cleanse, of course. But Catania doesn't use a traditional cleanser - she begins her routine with the $48 Cleansing Balm by Oak Essentials, which works to take off makeup. 'It kind of loosens up all that gunk and makeup on your face, or, say you were out in the sun, whatever it is that you have on your skin that's gonna be hard to get off,' she explained, as she rubbed the balm all over her face. She revealed that she liked this product as the first step in order to really clean the skin before she applied other topicals. Once she's done with the cleansing balm, she wipes it off with a face towel, and then goes in with the $75 ReVive Foaming Cleanser. 'This is my cleanser, it has a little exfoliating in it, which is a big deal for me, because listen, let's face it, I haven't always taken care of my skin like this,' the fitness franchise owner said. As Catania washed off the cleanser, she joked that she felt like she had lost weight from getting rid of all the junk. After that, she uses the $92 Daily Peel Pads from Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare which consists of two steps - a pad for exfoliating, and a pad for neutralizing and hydration. The Real Housewives of New Jersey star also gave viewers a closer look at her skin after she had applied some of the serums Catania has been a part of The Real Housewives of New Jersey since 2016, when the seventh season aired As Catania washed off the cleanser, she joked that she felt like she had lost weight from getting rid of all the junk The Bravo stars rubs this peel not only on her face, but on her neck as well. However, Catania warned viewers not to use these every day, as they can dry out the skin a bit. 'You're gonna thank me for this, these products are, for me, the bomb,' she admitted. Then, it's time for all of her lotions and potions - like the $87 Vitamin C Serum also by Dr. Dennis Gross. 'Don't forget to use your Vitamin C, it firms the skin, and brightens it, you almost feel like a new person,' she said. 'Take the time out for yourself, it's really important.' 'So, now that my peel has kicked in, my Vitamin C is working, I have my RCA Skin hyaluronic acid, it's for hydrating and smooths out fine lines and wrinkles,' Catania continued. She added that the $125 serum was great to use during the morning and the night. Catania highlighted that taking care of the skin was an essential for her, and urged people to start doing so when they're young - joking that maybe you wouldn't end up needing a facelift later. Catania highlighted that taking care of the skin was an essential for her, and urged people to start doing so when they're young - joking that maybe you wouldn't end up needing a facelift like her Season 14 of The Real Housewives of New Jersey is currently airing on Bravo, with much of the cast divided Beauty breakdown! Dolores' skincare faves $48 Cleansing Balm by Oak Essentials $75 Foaming Cleanser by ReVive $92 Daily Peel Pads by Dr. Dennis Gross $87 Vitamin C Serum by Dr. Dennis Gross $125 Hyaluronic Acid serum by RCA Skin $140 Pro-Collagen Marine Cream with SPF 30 by Elemis $45 Lip Plumper by Dr. Dennis Gross $455 red light therapy mask by Dr. Dennis Gross Advertisement 'Start it young, and maybe you won't need a facelift later on,' she said. One of her final steps was using a moisturizing cream that contained SPF, specifically the $140 ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream with SPF 30. 'I am ashamed to say I have never used SPF before, and I've paid the price, because I've had to have some work done because of my fine lines and wrinkles,' she shared. She urged viewers not to leave the house without wearing SPF, even if you're not going outside or to the beach. Catania also suggested wearing SPF while driving and putting it on your hands to avoid sun damage later. Finally, Catania plumped up her lips with the $45 gloss by Dr. Dennis Gross. But, at the end of the clip, she surprised viewers by showing them her absolute favorite product, which was a $455 red light therapy face mask by the doctor, which she uses at night. Red light therapy is a treatment that involves putting red light on the skin, as it's thought to have anti-aging benefits, like reducing wrinkles and scars, per Cleveland Clinic. 'Even Dr. Mark Karolak, my facial surgeon who everyone knows, recommends this,' she said. 'This is great for healing, production of collagen, I mean, it's just so beneficial, and it's cute!' The mystery surrounding the unfortunate guest who lost control of their bowels in a bed at Gwyneth Paltrow's Hamptons home has now been solved by insiders who have named the person at the center of the scandal. DailyMail.com can reveal that the culprit behind the mortifying incident is socialite and celebrity hanger-on, Derek Blasberg. The internet was whipped into a frenzy last week when a blind item in a popular gossip newsletter claimed that Goop founder Paltrow, 51, had been tasked with cleaning up someone's 'Ozempic-induced diarrhea' at her home. But insiders have claimed that media personality Blasberg, 42 - once described as 'one of showbizs most well-connected men' - only conveniently blamed it on the popular weight loss wonder drug before allegedly fleeing the property. 'Its not Ozempic, thats just what he told everyone,' the insider said, before revealing how the secret made its way through the Hamptons set. The mystery surrounding the celebrity who lost control of their bowels in a bed at Gwyneth Paltrow's Hamptons home has been solved DailyMail.com can reveal that the person involved in the mortifying incident is socialite and celebrity hanger-on, Derek Blasberg, 42 (pictured) Despite best efforts, the secret slowly made its way through the Hamptons set, and four weeks ago someone even posted several poop emojis on one of Blasberg's Instagram posts featuring Gwyneth 'Gwyneth told Oprah, Jerry and Jessica Seinfeld, and Larry David,' they continued. 'Its shocking how many people know this story and how he has managed to keep it out of The Post probably via his best friend [socialite Dasha Zhukova] - whose mom just married Rupert Murdoch.' Blasberg is no stranger to spending time with Paltrow at her five-bedroom Long Island home, where she hosted her wedding to Brad Falchuk. In 2022 the fashion expert posted a snap of himself and the actress celebrating her 50th birthday at the sprawling property. And it appears someone tried to out Blasberg as the phantom pooper four weeks ago when they commented two poop emojis, a toilet emoji and a dynamite emoji on the Instagram post. Speculation first kicked off last week when a blind item report started circulating via an email newsletter called Popb***h. 'The story goes that a recent houseguest of Gwynnie's catastrophically s**t themselves in bed while staying there, then fled back to the city before they had to face the music,' it read. Revealing that the scandal had become 'the Hamptons set's favorite piece of gossip to text to each other,' the report continued: 'Ozempic-induced diarrhea is becoming a very hot topic of conversation between hosts there - because so many of their guests are using it. So expect launderettes to be fully booked from July 4.' Blasberg is no stranger to spending time with Paltrow at her home on Long Island - pictured in 2018 when she tied the knot with Brad Falchuk Fashion expert Blasberg previously posted a snap of himself and the actress at her 50th birthday celebrations at the property in 2022 Spokesperson for Blasberg and Paltrow did not respond to requests for comment. Blasberg most recently worked as the head of fashion and beauty partnerships at YouTube and is a contributing editor at Vanity Fair, Architectural Digest, and several international editions of Vogue. Blasberg, who penned Very Classy: Even More Exceptional Advice for the Extremely Modern Lady, not only counts Paltrow as a close friend but also frequently spends his time with the likes of Karlie Kloss, Sienna Miller, Kendall Jenner and Demi Moore. Thanks to his influence and connections as a top fashion journalist, socialite, and television personality, his birthday parties often serve as a warm-up to the Met Gala for his A-list attendees. For his 42nd birthday bash in April, A-list stars such as Anne Hathaway, Kate Hudson, Jake Gyllenhaal and Andy Cohen were in attendance. In 2022 his bash was attended by Jeff Bezos, Hailey Bieber, and Leonardo DiCaprio among others. Blasberg is also a senior staffer at the Gagosian Gallery and has contributed texts to The New York Times, WSJ Magazine, Elle, Womens Wear Daily, Glamour, and The London Sunday Times over the course of his career. Blasberg most recently worked as the head of fashion and beauty partnerships at YouTube - pictured with Karlie Kloss (L) and Sienna Miller (R) DailyMail.com has reached out to representatives of Derek Blasberg and Gwyneth Paltrow for comment According to the blind item, the popularity of Ozempic is causing an issue among the rich and famous as they holiday together in the Hamptons. Ozempic, typically used to treat diabetes and allow people to shed weight quickly, has a common side-effect that affects one in 10 users. The active ingredient of semaglutide not only triggers weight loss but causes gastrocolic reflex, which can lead to explosive and uncontrollable diarrhea. In recent months, a handful of celebrities have admitted to using Ozempic, including Oprah, Elon Musk, Sharon Osbourne, Chelsea Handler and Robbie Williams. Comedian Amy Schumer also admitted to taking the drug in 2022 but revealed she had to quit due to side effects. 'I was one of those people who felt so sick,' she said. Blasberg has built up influence and connections as a top fashion journalist, socialite, and television personality (pictured with Nicky and Paris Hilton) Weight loss drugs work by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone made naturally in the body that helps slow the passage of food through the stomach, in turn making people feel less hungry. It also alters the brain's appetite regulation so that users feel satisfied despite eating less and they also don't experience cravings for treat foods. Clinical trials show that 30 per cent of patients experience diarrhea on Wegovy, compared to 16 percent on the placebo, according to the drug's prescribing information. Common side effects of Ozempic include constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, according to the drugs label. Meanwhile, longer-term side-effects have also started to emerge. Bethenny Frankel showcased her toned tummy in a new swimsuit snap on social media Tuesday. The Skinny Girl founder, 53, continued to look 'thinner than ever' in a black and white two piece as she stood by the pool of her house in the Hamptons. The former reality star donned a long-sleeve scuba top with a zip collar and matching bikini bottoms. Her long, dark hair was styled in natural waves and she wore camera ready makeup with a red lip. She accessorized with a pair of sunglasses on her head. Bethenny Frankel, 53, showcased her toned tummy in a black and white two piece. 'I guess B-kini season is officially in session,' she posted 'This summer I choose me. I choose happiness. I choose love. I choose laughter. I choose truth vs fear,' said the former Real Housewives of New York star, who recently broke up with fiance Paul Bernal, 45. 'I choose this I guess B-kini season is officially in session.' 'Is it me or is single looking really good on her ? Is she looking younger because the stress is gone ? ' wrote one admirer. 'You go Bethenny, live your best life.' advised a fan. 'And dont let anyone interfere with your happiness. Only good people in your life.' 'Same here,' agreed a fan, adding, 'Choosing me was THE BEST decision Ive ever made.' In a video in her Instagram Stories, Frankel revealed during a walk along the beach that she's having some problems with her neighbors. 'When I tell that Mother Goose just hissed at me,' she said referring to a flock of ducks by the bay, 'I feel like I just walked into an alley and I'm unsafe. I gotta get the heck out of here.' 'They just said "not today," and I get it. It's your turf. I'm not going to play games.' The Just B with Bethenny Frankel podcast host described the tense situation between woman and bird as 'Honestly, It's like I'm head of the Gambino Crime Family and they said "get off our turf." I'm going.' In a video in Instagram Stories, Frankel revealed she's having some problems with her neighbors - a group of geese 'When I tell you that Mother Goose just hissed at me, I feel like I just walked into an alley and I'm unsafe. I gotta get the heck out of here,' she said The day prior she sizzled in a white one-piece In addition to B-kini season, Frankel has been enjoying her summer vacation with daughter Bryn, 13 and has declared it to be a 'cute girl summer' Frankel has been vacationing in the Hamptons following her breakup with fiance Paul Bernal, 45 (Pictured in Santa Monica in June 2022) In a clip as she walked along the shore in a navy blue, green and white bikini, with a beige Panama hat, the Business is Personal author continued, 'I know when I'm not wanted, and that, that was where I was not wanted.' Referring to herself, she said, 'One of these things did not look like the other and we all know who it was.' Describing the beef between her and the fowl, she continued, 'And they know that a bird s**t on me last night. So, they're like, "You got s**t on? that was nothing compared to what's going to happen today."' Frankel has been enjoying her summer vacation with daughter Bryn, 13, whom she shares with ex-husband Paul Hoppy. Mother and daughter have been enjoying a 'cute girl summer.' Nicole Kidman's adopted daughter Bella Kidman Cruise posted a rare image to social media on Tuesday. The artist, 31, posted an image of herself and her three friends as they attended the 2024 Glastonbury festival. In the photo, the friends looked out into the distance as they wrapped their arms around each other and sat on a hill at the event. Bella, who was adopted by Nicole and then-husband Tom Cruise in 1992, captioned the image: 'The best'. Bella and her brother Connor (born in 1995) have endured a strained relationship with the To Die For actress over the years. Nicole and Tom divorced in 2001 following an 11 year marriage, and were given joint custody of the children. However, the adopted children reportedly remained 'loyal to their father' and decided to live with him, meaning they were raised in the controversial church of Scientology. Nicole hasn't been pictured publicly with her eldest two children since 2007, and she was reportedly 'devastated' after the pair didn't attend her father's funeral in 2014. Nicole Kidman 's adopted daughter Bella Kidman Cruise posted a rare image to social media on Tuesday It had also been reported that she was eager for Connor and Bella to attend The American Film Institute (AFI) ceremony last year, where she received America's highest honour for a career in film. While Connor, who is believed to be 'extremely loyal to his dad' Tom, didn't appear to show Nicole any public support for her achievement, daughter Bella liked one of her mother's Instagram posts about the award. Despite a reported rift between Nicole and her eldest children - something Connor and Bella deny - the actress has previously spoken of her 'unconditional' love for Connor and Bella, in light of their 'choices to be Scientologists'. The artist posted a photo of herself and her friends as they attended the 2024 Glastonbury festival The A-list couple adopted Connor and Isabella in the early 1990s after Nicole suffered an ectopic pregnancy and a miscarriage - and was told as a result she might find it hard to conceive. She previously opened up in an interview with Tatler about her fertility issues with Tom, and how she felt a 'yearning' for children. 'The loss of a miscarriage is not talked about enough. That's massive grief to certain women,' she said. She did not address her relationship with her adopted children in the interview - however Nicole did speak about the motherly instinct; whether one's children are biological or adopted. She said: 'Whether you're an adoptive mother, whether you're a foster mother, whether you're a biological mother it's the emotion of attaching to a child and helping to guide them and rear them [that is important].' Bella and her brother Connor (born in 1995) have endured a strained relationship with Nicole (pictured) over the years Isabella, known as Bella, and Connor, are the only children Tom and Nicole share together. Connor was adopted by Nicole and the action star not long after he was born in 1995, but the exact timeline remains unclear. Sister Isabella was adopted by the couple three years earlier in 1992. The Hollywood pair - who got married in 1990 - divorced in 2001. Isabella, known as Bella, and Connor, are the only children Tom and Nicole share together. Pictured together in 1996 The Top Gun: Maverick actor also shares daughter Suri Cruise, 17, with ex-wife Katie Holmes. Meanwhile, the Moulin Rouge actress shares daughters Sunday Rose Kidman Urban, 15, and Faith Margaret Kidman Urban, 13, with husband Keith Urban. Tom and Connor have been spotted out on occasion attending sporting events together. Nicole has said in the past that she prefers to keep her relationship with her kids private. Harvey Keitel, the actor best known for Pulp Fiction and Reservoir Dogs, enjoyed a rare public outing with his wife Daphna Kastner on Tuesday. The adorable couple, who have been married since 2001, were spotted strolling hand-in-hand through the picturesque streets of Milan. Harvey, 85, looked casual in a black t-shirt and plaid shorts, while Daphna, 63, flaunted her summer style in a pink sundress. Both sported sandals as they strolled through the city, stopping for luxury shopping at high-end boutiques. The vacationing love birds share one son together, Roman, who was born in 2004. Harvey Keitel, the actor best known for Pulp Fiction and Reservoir Dogs , enjoyed a rare public outing with his wife Daphna Kastner on Tuesday The adorable couple, who have been married since 2001, were spotted strolling hand-in-hand through the picturesque streets of Milan In addition to Roman, Harvey has two other children from previous relationships: Stella, born in 1985 with actress Lorraine Bracco, and Hudson, born in 2001 with Lisa Karmazin. The family currently resides in New York City, where they maintain a relatively private life away from the public eye. In 2021, Harvey shared the story of how he met Daphna over 20 years ago, revealing that his good friend Robert De Niro played a pivotal role in their introduction. 'I met my wife in Rome at a party for Robert,' Keitel said of their first meeting in the 80s on The Late Show. 'She allowed me to take her to dinner at the [Dal Bolognese Roma]. Then I called her back again a second night. She came and we had dinner together a second night. ' And then I asked her if she would like a drink in my hotel room and she said, "No, thank you." And I spent a lot of money on her. It was a good restaurant,' he added, with a laugh. Harvey then said that after their initial meeting, he didn't see Daphna again for 17 years until they reconnected at another party hosted by De Niro. 'And there was this girl who I bought two dinners for at the Dal Bolognese 17 years ago and it was my wife, Daphna. And we stayed together. 'And seven weeks later, I was going to a film festival in Italy and I asked her to come with me. She said yes.' Harvey, 85, looked casual in a black t-shirt and plaid shorts Daphna, 63, flaunted her summer style in a pink sundress Both sported sandals as they strolled through the city, stopping for luxury shopping at high-end boutiques The vacationing pair share one son together, Roman, who was born in 2004 The pair enjoyed the Italian shopping spree In addition to Roman, Harvey has two other children from previous relationships: Stella, born in 1985 with actress Lorraine Bracco, and Hudson, born in 2001 with Lisa Karmazin The pair perused one of the many high end shops in Milan Harvey cut a cool figure in his laid-back ensemble In 2021, Harvey shared the story of how he met Daphna over 20 years ago, revealing that his good friend Robert De Niro played a pivotal role in their introduction Keitel is best known for his roles in iconic films such as "Pulp Fiction" and "Reservoir Dogs," both directed by Quentin Tarantino 'And on the flight, I said, What do you think about getting married? She gave a great answer: she said, "OK."' He concluded, 'The topper was, we get pregnant about a year later, and our son is born on Robert De Niros birthday.' Harvey can currently be seen in the Peacock series The Tattooist of Auschwitz, based on the eponymously entitled novel, It tells the powerful true story of a Jewish prisoner who was tasked with tattooing ID numbers on prisoners' arms in the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp during World War Two. Brandi Glanville says she's seriously considering taking legal action against Bravo after her dealings with the network have 'ruined' her health, leaving her with physical and mental ailments that have left her unable to work over the past year. '[I've] been left no choice but to sue Bravo,' the 51-year-old reality star said in a series of posts on X/Twitter Tuesday. 'This stress has ruined my health.' The Salinas, California native said she has 'uncontrollable stress induced' angioedema as result of her dealings with her former employer, as she hasn't 'worked for a year' due to related symptoms. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum said that she's too 'depressed to do [her] podcast' and too 'swollen' to make money off platforms such as Cameo or OnlyFans, as result of the stress and resultant symptoms she's experienced. Glanville said she's 'BEING USED AS A FALLGUY' by the network, presumably in connection with a lawsuit filed by Caroline Manzo, 62, accusing Glanville of sexual misconduct while filming the fourth season of The Real Housewives Ultimate Girls Trip in Morocco. Brandi Glanville, 51, says she's seriously considering taking legal action against Bravo after her dealings with the network have 'ruined' her health, leaving her with physical and mental ailments that have left her unable to work over the past year. Pictured in LA in April Glanville said she has 'receipts [for] days' in regards to Bravo, adding that she wanted 'so desperately to tweet all of [her] receipts but [her] lawyers' won't let her. She added: 'I do appreciate all of ur support more than you know. My cast from [Morocco] has been so amazing and supportive & I love those gals!' Glanville - who denied sexual assault allegations in a statement to DailyMail.com - ostensibly alluded to 'false allegations' made in Manzo's lawsuit in one tweet. Glanville listed a series of consequences she faced amid tumult during filming in Morocco in January of 2023: She said she 'was fired' from the show; 'removed from the cast;' and 'held hostage in a hotel in Morocco for days!' She said that other cast members on the reality series 'rallied' to her side and didn't 'want to continue' with the series without her. Glanville said that she's 'been canceled from all jobs' due to the 'bad' and 'untrue' coverage of the issue. Glanville's most recent Brandi Glanville Unfiltered podcast, an interview with Jon Gosselin, was posted on May 15. Earlier this year on the podcast, Glanville said that she decided to start an OnlyFans account in July of 2023 as she was facing severe financial difficulties, and felt she acclimated to it well. The reality star opened up about her situation in a series of posts on X/Twitter Tuesday Glanville's legal team has advised her to keep her 'receipts' under wrap for the time being Glanville said that she has struggled to find employment in the wake of her dealings with Bravo, as she hasn't 'worked for a year' The Salinas, California native said she has 'uncontrollable stress induced' angioedema as result of her dealings with her former employer RHONJ alum Caroline Manzo has sued Bravo over Glanville's conduct on the set of a show 'I joined OnlyFans because I didnt have any income and it saved my life,' Glanville said. 'At the time I was like, being desperate and then when I got on it - Im really feeling my sexual being at 51.' She said that some of her subscribers on the platform were partial to her feet, which came at a good time amid her swelling symptoms. 'Mine have bunions and they are not good, but we got some money from my feet,' she said. 'I had to do it because my face was swollen and I could only do feet pictures.' In her lawsuit against Bravo, Manzo accused Glanville - who is mother to sons Mason, 21, and Jake, 17, with ex-husband Eddie Cibrian, 51 - of touching and kissing her without her consent, and said that Bravo producers encouraged the conduct for more salacious content. Manzo has accused the network of sexual harassment, sexual battery, gender discrimination and negligence. Baby Reindeer creator Richard Gadd has been offered a near seven-figure deal by Netflix to stop rival services taking him, sources claim. Netflix has reportedly offered the writer and actor, 35, almost 1million to exclusively work to create more smash hit programmes for them. Autobiographical black comedy-thriller Baby Reindeer, based on Richard's own experiences, was released on Netflix in April. The miniseries followed an aspiring comedian and sexual assault victim who gets stalked by a woman he meets bartending at a pub. A TV insider told The Sun: 'This is not a done deal, with both the streamer and Richard negotiating the details of a contract which would see him start work on a new show as soon as possible. Baby Reindeer creator Richard Gadd, 35, has reportedly been offered a new deal by Netflix to stop rival services taking him (pictured in June) He is responsible for smash hit autobiographical black comedy-thriller Baby Reindeer, based on Richard's own experiences, was released on Netflix in April The miniseries followed an aspiring comedian and sexual assault victim who gets stalked by a woman he meets bartending at a pub. 'The fact that it could end up being worth seven figures reflects just how much Netflix want to keep him in house following the incredible response to Baby Reindeer. 'They are hoping they can come to an agreement that will see Richard produce a string of shows for them, which could prove just as successful and thought-provoking.' It comes after reports that Richard's next project will be a Scottish drama series under US network HBO and the BBC. Richard will write and executive produce the six 45 minute episode drama series, which will span almost 40 years from the 1980s to the present day, covering the relationship between two men from their meeting as teenagers to their falling out as adults. Lions will start production in Glasgow in early 2025 with Alexandra Brodski and Eshref Reybrouck set to direct while Wendy Griffin will produce the series. Tally Garner and Morven Reid will act as executive producers for Mam Tor Productions, Richard, Gaynor Holmes for the BBC and Gavin Smith for BBC Scotland. The news is a welcome distraction from reports that Baby Reindeer real-life stalker Fiona Harvey is demanding 135 million from Netflix after claiming the streaming giant's series was not based on a true story. Baby Reindeer portrays Richard's character Donny Dunn being stalked by Martha, who has been in prison for a historical crime and is sent to prison for stalking him. A TV insider said: 'This is not a done deal, with both the streamer and Richard negotiating the details of a contract which would see him start work on a new show as soon as possible' They continued: 'The fact that it could end up being worth seven figures reflects just how much Netflix want to keep him "in house" following the incredible response to Baby Reindeer' It comes after reports that Richard's next project will be a Scottish drama series under US network HBO and the BBC Internet sleuths easily discovered the character was based on Fiona. Netflix has pledged to 'vigorously defend' a lawsuit worth millions of dollars. It comes after Fiona was left too afraid to go to the grocery stores as fans of the Netflix show continue harassing her, her lawyers have claimed. The 49-year-old Scot, who claims she is the inspiration behind the Netflix stalking drama, is suing the streaming giant for at least $170million for defamation and negligence. Speaking on News Nation's CUOMO, Harvey's attorney Richard Roth argued that Harvey is not a public figure, adding that she felt she needed to reveal herself as the real-life Martha because she was being harassed. 'She's been harassed, she's been stalked, she's getting death threats, she's afraid to go out and buy groceries and she's not a public figure,' Roth said. 'She's destroyed, she's shattered.' Her attorneys are arguing that it was defamatory to Harvey to depict Martha character as a convicted felon. 'When Netflix starts the series, it doesn't say, "this is based on a true story," doesn't say, "this is inspired by a true story,"' Roth explained. Meanwhile, Baby Reindeer real-life stalker Fiona Harvey is demanding 135 million from Netflix after claiming the streaming giant's series was not based on a true story and has led to her being unfairly harassed 'It says five words - "This is a true story" - so you better make sure its true.' The attorney continued: 'Spoiler alert, during the series, it comes up that she was convicted of stalking and spent four and a half years in jail. Never happened. She was never even arrested. 'And then at the end of the series, she pleads guilty to four different counts of harassment and then gets four more felony convictions. 'So, they portrayed this woman as a two-time convicted felon when she's never even been arrested for anything.' Roth went on to say that the series made it too easy to identify the woman who inspired Martha. 'Make her from a different heritage. Give her a different accent,' Roth suggested, before adding: 'They did nothing. 'Everything in here leads to Fiona Harvey, and its very easy to find out who it is.' Netflix has said that it intends to 'defend this matter vigorously' and stand by Gadd's 'right to tell his story.' MailOnline has contacted Netflix for comment. There's no mistaking Robert Irwin is the son of the late wildlife warrior Steve. And a resurfaced snap has fans doing a double take. In 2019, Robert, 20, re-created an iconic photograph of his father feeding Australia Zoo's most dangerous crocodile 'Murray'. In the image, the teenager looks eerily similar to Steve, dressed in the same Australia Zoo uniform of Khaki coloured shorts and matching shirt. The photo shows Robert perilously close to the dangerous animal, just like Steve. One social media user re-shared the side by side comparison to Facebook on Wednesday. 'Steve Irwin and his son. Same place, same crocodile, 15 years apart,' the post read alongside the caption 'Geez Steve was a bloody legend hey !!' Fans were quick to share their thoughts on the comparison. There's no mistaking Robert Irwin, 20, is the son of the late wildlife warrior Steve but a resurfaced snap had fans doing a double take. Both pictured 'He would be so proud x,' one fan commented. 'Aussie icons,' another wrote, while a third pointed out 'Dad looks calm, son looks worried.' Steve, known as 'The Crocodile Hunter', was tragically killed when he was barbed by a stingray on September 4, 2006, at Batt Reef near Port Douglas in far north Queensland. In 2019, Robert re-created an iconic photograph of his father feeding Australia Zoo's most dangerous crocodile 'Murray' The news of Steve's tragic death sent shockwaves across Australia and around the world as his fans grieved the tragic loss. Steve's family has carried on his mission to promote and protect wildlife through Australia Zoo. A society couple has tied the knot surrounded by Sydney's social set in a lavish three-day wedding in France. Alexander Porter - whose family owns Australia's leading condom brand Four Seasons - said 'I do' with partner Chris Ledlin on Tuesday evening. Their wedding took place at Chateau de la Napoule, a restored French castle, located in Mandelieu-la-Napoule - about a 15 minute drive from Cannes. Like his brother Michael Porter, who married longtime partner Billy Mitchell in an Italian wedding last year, the event is a three-day extravaganza attended by celebrities, business moguls and influencers. Among the notable stars is Jackie 'O' Henderson, who has been enjoying her time off from The Kyle & Jackie O show while holidaying in Europe. The radio star stole the show on the couple's big day, looking ever inch the Hollywood movie star in a $5,500 Mariam Seddiq white strapless bridal gown that featured a puff skirt. She completed her look with a pair of long black Opera gloves and Valentino shades. Joined by her close friend Gemma O'Neill, the 49-year-old blonde beauty also carried a Paco Rabanne 1969 ball chainmail disc clutch, worth an eye-watering $1,700. Society couple Alexander Porter and Chris Ledlin tied the knot surrounded by Sydney 's social set in a lavish three-day wedding in France, including Jackie 'O' Henderson (pictured) who stole the show in a $5,500 designer dress Porter (left) - whose family owns Australia's leading condom brand Four Seasons - said 'I do' with partner Ledlin (right) in Cannes on Tuesday evening The radio star posted several photos of the event on her Instagram page, and explained that the two grooms encouraged all female guests to wear white. 'Prepare yourselves cause we're going a bit extra today!!!! The boys said "make sure you bring the glam" and encouraged girls to wear white if they wanted to (before the wedding police shoot me down!),' she wrote. 'This was honestly the most beautiful wedding I have EVER seen and probably will ever see in my lifetime. Wow!!!! Thank you for allowing us to share in your spectacular and ever so loving & special day,' she added. The two grooms both looked incredibly dapper in matching cream tuxedo jackets with white shirts, black trousers and bow ties. Jackie stole the show on the couple's big day, looking ever inch the Hollywood movie star in a white strapless gown by Mariam Seddiq with long black Opera gloves and Valentino shades The radio star posted several photos of the event on her Instagram page, and explained that the two grooms encouraged all female guests to wear white Joined by her close friend Gemma O'Neill, the 49-year-old blonde beauty also carried a Paco Rabanne 1969 ball chainmail disc clutch, worth an eye-watering $1700 They looked overjoyed as they posed for photos outside of the castle while toasting with Champagne. At the reception, the French Riviera lit up as fireworks were set off while the couple cut their cake. The wedding extravaganza is a three-day event, with a welcome party taking place at Villefranche-sur-Mer on Monday. Jackie later whipped off her gloves at the evening reception. She is pictured with the groom's brother-in-law Billy Mitchell The blonde beauty snapped selfies as she made her way to the wedding on a private yacht In photos from the first day of celebrations, Alexander looked smart in a stylish cream suit, tortoise shell sunglasses and tan leather shoes. Meanwhile, Chris dressed for the summer soiree in a black vest and matching trousers. For the pre-game warm up, Jackie stunned in a very revealing low-cut $3,000 Zimmermann floral dress. She also did an impromptu photo shoot at the seaside mansion The blonde beauty posed in front of the stunning bar Jackie (right) posed with Gemma (left) ahead of the stunning ceremony She later almost suffered a wardrobe malfunction as her assets were close to spilling out of her outfit. 'Oh my God, my boobs! I hate showing boobs,' she said in a recent video as she adjusted her dress. Meanwhile, Gemma wore a black $1,600 Zimmermann corset dress. Alexander is following in the Porter family footsteps, who made their wealth from condoms and lubricants, as a brand manager for the company. At the reception, the French Riviera lit up as fireworks were set off as the couple cut their cake The two grooms arrived to their wedding in a vintage car Jackie seen posing with Alexander's brother Michael, who is the founder of pimple patch business Skin Control, and his long-time partner Billy Mitchell The wedding extravaganza is a three-day event, with a welcome party taking place on Monday In photos from the first day of celebrations, Alexander (left) looked dapper in a stylish cream suit, tortoise shell sunglasses and tan leather shoes His new husband Chris works for YouTube. Alexander's brother Michael, who is the founder of pimple patch business Skin Control, said 'I do' to his long-time partner Billy Mitchell in Italy in July 2023. The now-married pair, who originally planned to marry in 2020, are entrenched in Sydney's elite social scene, with their guests including bikini model Natasha Oakley and liquor heir Theo Chambers, socialite Nadia Fairfax-Wayne and stylist Caroline Tran. Their wedding will be a three-day extravaganza attended by celebrities, business moguls and influencers Their ceremony was officiated by Victoria's Secret model Bridget Malcolm. The multi-day event included a welcome party at the restaurant Locanda La Tirlindana, where the couple arrived via vintage Porsche to music and dancing in the cobblestone streets. The glamorous affair was also a child-free event, with the couple strongly advising guests to leave their children at home. For the pre-game warm up Jackie stunned in a very revealing low-cut $3,000 Zimmermann floral dress alongside Gemma Ellidy Pullin, whose story of becoming pregnant with the sperm of her late partner Alex 'Chumpy' Pullin inspired millions of Aussies, is now facing backlash from her loyal fans over unpleasant comments she made on a podcast. During a recent episode of her Darling, Shine! podcast, the 31-year-old model was asked by a listener about her friendship with her friend and co-host Chloe Fisher. Her blunt response - which saw her whinge about having to record the podcast and make time for friends who live interstate - was criticised by some listeners as 'mean'. 'We've never had a fight. The only fights we have are f***ing to do with the dumba*** podcast, which stresses us the f*** out,' she said of her relationship with Chloe. '[Because] I have other s**t going on, so does Coco.' One fan claimed in a Facebook group that Ellidy's comments were a 'kick in the gut' to long-time listeners. During the same episode, Ellidy also said she did not have time to call friends who live interstate because she is 'busy and doesn't like sitting on the phone'. 'My friends should know I'm a bit of a long-distance person,' she said. Ellidy Pullin, whose story of becoming pregnant with the sperm of her late partner Alex 'Chumpy' Pullin (pictured together) inspired millions of Aussies, is now facing backlash from her loyal fans over unpleasant comments she made on a podcast 'I love you all so much. I make an effort. I go to Sydney all the time. You name it, even if your guinea pig is having its birthday, I'm hopping on a plane and I'm going to be there. 'I make an effort, but if I'm not down there, I'm not talking to you all the time. I hope you're well.' She went on to say some of her friends become 'devastated' when she doesn't respond to their text messages or call them back. 'I sometimes get people being, like, devastated [that] I'm not responding or calling them back. But I've been busy and please don't take this personally but I can't sit on the phone,' Ellidy said. 'Don't base our friendship on how many minutes I speak on the phone to you and all that s**t.' During a recent episode of her Darling, Shine! podcast, the 31-year-old model (right) was asked by a listener about her friendship with her friend and co-host Chloe Fisher (left). Her blunt response - which saw her whinge about having to record the podcast and make time for friends who live interstate - was criticised by some listeners as 'mean' It comes after Ellidy recently said she was finally open to new love, four years after Chumpy's shocking death. The Olympic snowboarder was 32 when he drowned while spearfishing on the Gold Coast in July 2020 - but through an incredible IVF and sperm-retrieval process, Ellidy was was able to have his baby, a girl named Minnie. She recently opened up on life with her daughter and their kelpie-cross dog Rummi. She said there was still some of her late partner's sperm available if she wanted 'another Chumpy bubba', but she was considering other options. 'I do see myself having a baby one day with someone else, maybe in like five years' time, but I can't really see myself getting married,' she told the Gold Coast Bulletin. Ellidy revealed that while she was not yet at the point where she wanted to date anyone long-term, she had had some flings while on holiday. 'What goes on in Bali can stay in Bali. But I couldn't imagine bringing anyone home,' she told the publication. One fan claimed in a Facebook group that Ellidy's comments were a 'kick in the gut' to long-time listeners 'Right now I'm just really happy with the three of us me, Minnie and Rummi.' She said Rummi gave her reason to get up in the morning after Chumpy's sudden death in the winter of 2020. The kelpie needed her walks, so they would get up at 5am and walk on the beach for an hour, which Ellidy said was 'therapy and meditation' for her and kept her grounded. Rummi was Chumpy's dog, who loved him so much that the model sometimes felt like a 'third wheel', but now the kelpie never leaves her side. She said that part of Rummi, and part of her, are still waiting for Chumpy to walk back in the door and that she even has a recurring dream where that happens. Sir Ian McKellen got candid about the injuries he suffered after his shocking stage fall during a West End production two weeks ago. The 85-year-old X-Men alum whose recovery was aided by his BFF Anthony Hopkins took to his X on Tuesday to share an update after he revealed he had pulled out of the national tour of Player Kings a day before. 'Just two weeks after my accident onstage I want to assure my many well-wishers that the injuries (to wrist and neck) are on the mend,' he wrote. 'My doctors promise a complete recovery - but only if I avoid work over the next few weeks.' Sir Ian was playing John Falstaff in a production of Player Kings at the Noel Coward Theatre on June 17 when he lost his footing in a fight scene and plunged from the stage into the audience. After the shock incident, he was rushed to hospital to receive treatment and the remainder of his performances for the week were cancelled to allow him to rest. Sir Ian McKellen got candid about the injuries he suffered after his shocking stage fall during a West End production two weeks ago; (pictured 2022) The 85-year-old X-Men alum whose recovery was aided by his BFF Anthony Hopkins took to his X on Tuesday to share an update after he revealed he had pulled out of the national tour of Player Kings a day before; (pictured June in Player Kings) 'Meanwhile the show goes on and the Player Kings company start their four weeks tour without me,' Ian continued on X. 'Any actor will say that missing a performance feels somewhat shameful, even when he is not to blame. None of us ever wants to let down our audience,' he added. Sir Ian announced last Thursday that he was having 'physiotherapy, light exercise and a lot of essential rest at home' after three nights in hospital. The actor was in a scene involving the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy when he fell off the front of the stage, and was heard to cry out in pain as staff rushed to help. In his statement last Thursday, Sir Ian said: 'After three nights in hospital, the effects of my fall onstage have been fully analysed and I'm now having physiotherapy, light exercise and a lot of essential rest at home. 'Meanwhile, my part in Player Kings is filled by the redoubtable David Semark supported by Robert Icke's amazing production and cast. 'The many messages of love and support will, I am sure, aid the speedy recovery that my doctors have promised me.' Player Kings, a production of Henry IV, parts one and two, adapted and directed by Robert Icke, ended its run at the Noel Coward Theatre on Saturday. 'Just two weeks after my accident onstage I want to assure my many well-wishers that the injuries (to wrist and neck) are on the mend,' he wrote But looking like he is on the mend, Sir Ian couldn't wipe the smile off his face as he larked around with close friend and fellow actor Anthony in matching checkered jackets The play will then move to the Bristol Hippodrome next month before being staged in Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle. A post on the Player Kings X account said last Thursday: 'David Semark will be playing the role of Sir John Falstaff for the final three scheduled performances of Player Kings at the Noel Coward Theatre in London while Ian McKellen recuperates following his fall on Monday 17 June.' It added: 'We look forward to Ian returning to the production, which begins a national tour in Bristol on Wednesday 3 July, before visiting Birmingham , Norwich and Newcastle.' Last Friday, audience member Johanna Dart described the dramatic moment Sir Ian McKellen 'flew head first' into her when he fell off stage, adding: 'Getting crushed by Gandalf the Grey, that's something you don't expect.' Ms Dart, who was in the front row, said Sir Ian seemed to trip on a stage prop before falling with his head hitting her knee 'quite hard'. The 30-year-old, from Leatherhead, Surrey, was later pictured sobbing in hospital where she said she was taken with soft tissue injuries after the incident. Understudy David Semark, 52, is taking his place as Falstaff, Shakespeare's irreverent comic character. Semark said Sir Ian had called him to let him know he would be playing the role. He said: 'The first person I heard it from was Sir Ian. We then had a discussion about the role... But I am holding a place open for Sir Ian. I walk in the shadow of greatness.' Audience member Paul Critchley said last Monday that it was a 'shock' to witness the fall. The Methodist minister from Downham Market, Norfolk recalled how Sir Ian seemed to trip as he moved downstage to take a more active part in the scene before falling off the stage directly in front of the audience. Sir Ian's career has spanned more than six decades and seen the actor perform at theatres around the country. On screen he is best known for playing Magneto in the X-Men films and Gandalf in Peter Jackson's fantasy trilogy, based on the books from JRR Tolkien. Sir Ian McKellen at the press night performance of Player Kings at the Noel Coward on April 11 Members of the audience gather outside the Noel Coward Theatre in London after the fall On the stage he has played a number of Shakespearean characters including Richard II, Macbeth, Coriolanus, and King Lear. His many acting credits have led to a number of accolades over the years including several Olivier Awards. A spokesman for the Noel Coward Theatre said: 'We are very sorry this rare accident occurred during a performance of Player Kings. 'We maintain the highest standards of safety and are conducting a thorough investigation with the producers.' AFL player and TikTok chef Christian Petracca has returned to the kitchen after undergoing surgery on his shocking injuries. The 28-year-old Demons star is recovering at home after surgery to repair four broken ribs, a punctured lung and a lacerated spleen, sustained in a marking contest during the King's Birthday loss to Collingwood. Taking to TikTok a few days after being discharged from ICU, Petracca shared his eating habits while he recovers post-injury. He revealed he is eating meals that reduce inflammation and support overall immune health, including porridge and soup. And the Norm Smith Medalist is relying on his fiancee Bella Beischer to help him with the cooking. 'I'm not really allowed to do much at the moment so Bella has been helping me out with some of the heavy lifting,' he revealed. 'Sometimes I have enough energy to cook, and other days I just have to chill out and take it easy.' The 28-year-old revealed friends and family had also been sending him food to help out during the tough period. Melbourne midfielder and TikTok chef Christian Petracca has returned to the kitchen after undergoing surgery on shocking injuries In June, Petracca gave an emotional TV interview that saw him almost break down in tears as he opened up about the toll his injury has taken on his loved ones - and revealed a new detail about his health battle. 'The first few weeks were pretty traumatic, to be honest,' he told Fox Sports' AFL 360 show. '[I was in] ICU, into a ward, and then in and out of hospital. 'I got rushed back into hospital about a week ago early in the morning for a few check-ups. I woke up with a few complaints and went straight to hospital. The 28-year-old is recovering at home after surgery to repair four broken ribs, a punctured lung and a lacerated spleen, sustained in a marking contest during the King's Birthday loss to Collingwood Taking to TikTok a few days after being discharged from ICU, the footy star shared his eating habits while he recovers post-injury 'It's been quite stressful, it's something I've never experienced. 'My first year I did my ACL [anterior cruciate ligament in the knee] and I was a bit young and naive and brash and didn't understand the severity of the injury. Now, at 28, it's a lot different.' Petracca then struggled to hold back tears as he revealed the impact on Beischer and family after he had to isolate himself for the first 10 days he spent at home in order to guard against infection. 'I'm getting quite emotional thinking about it... probably more on how it's impacted my fiancee. That's probably been the hardest thing, to be honest,' he said. The Norm Smith Medalist is relying on his fiancee Bella Beischer to help him with the cooking 'It's been challenging for both of us, but we're getting through it. 'The support I've received from everyone, it's been remarkable - my fiancee, my parents, my family, her parents, my friends, the whole footy world - it's been awesome. 'But it's still really raw for me.' Petracca proposed to Beischer in Lake Como, Italy in October of 2022. She's currently enjoying a European getaway. And Jackie 'O' Henderson has taken to her socials to share a recent discovery comparing life Down Under to her current holiday spot in France. Posting to her stories, the 49-year-old radio star talked about how she thought French seagulls 'sound different' to their Aussie counterparts. In the video, Jackie can be seen in her hotel room admiring the view outside and talking to her best friend Gemma O'Neill. 'Have you noticed that even their seagulls make different noises to ours?' Jackie asks. After Gemma pointed out that she had observed no difference Jackie decided to imitate the sound of the local variety of seabird. 'The noise they [French seagulls] make is like, ''oh-woo'', ''oh-woo''. 'The ones back home go, "Argh, argh". Our seagulls are like the ''Karens'' of the seagull world,' Jackie joked. Jackie 'O' Henderson has revealed the bizarre difference between Australian and French seagulls. Pictured: Jackie (R) and her friend Gemma (L) Posting to her stories, the 49-year-old radio star talked about how she thought French seagulls 'sound different' to their Aussie counterparts Jackie's current overseas jaunt has included stopovers in Scotland and Greece. She recently attended the wedding of Four Seasons condom brand heir Alexander Porter and his partner Chris Ledlin on the French Riviera. The lavish three-day affair took place at Chateau de la Napoule, a restored French castle, located in Mandelieu-la-Napoule - about a 15 minute drive from Cannes. Jackie stole the show on the couple's big day, looking every inch the Hollywood movie star in a $5,500 Mariam Seddiq white strapless bridal gown that featured a puff skirt. She completed her look with a pair of long black Opera gloves and Valentino shades. She recently attended the wedding of Four Seasons condom brand heir Alexander Porter and his partner Chris Ledlin on the French Riviera The lavish three-day wedding in France took place at Chateau de la Napoule, a restored French castle, located in Mandelieu-la-Napoule - about a 15 minute drive from Cannes At the reception, the French Riviera lit up as fireworks were set off while the couple cut their cake. Alexander is following in the Porter family footsteps, who made their wealth from condoms and lubricants, as a brand manager for the company. His new husband Chris works for YouTube. The glamorous affair was also a child-free event, with the couple strongly advising guests to leave their children at home. Jodie Comer looked distressed as she was seen on the set of 28 Years Later for the first time. The Killing Eve actress, 31, was announced in April to be starring in the second sequel to the 2002 film 28 Days Later, with Danny Boyle returning as director. Reprising his role from the first movie, Oscar-winning Cillian Murphy will return as Jim, joined by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, Erin Kellyman and Jack O'Connell. Jodie, who will play a Geordie character in the post-apocalyptic flick, was spotted filming in the Northumberland countryside on Tuesday, in the first pictures of her in character. The Liverpudlian star's character appeared to be in a state of concern in the snaps, while a younger character was seen trying to keep hold of her arm. Jodie Comer looked distressed as she was seen on the set of 28 Years Later for the first time in Northumberland on Tuesday The Killing Eve actress, 31, was announced in April to be starring in the second sequel to the 2002 film 28 Days Later Jodie wore a long cream cardigan over a tartan shirt as well as a floral, mud-stained dress, with white tights and light pink legwarmers. Jodie recently revealed she had been taking inspiration from Girls Aloud star Cheryl for her Newcastle accent. According to an interview with ELLE UK, Jodie has been looking back at old episodes of Cheryl on The X Factor to master the twang. The original, zombie apocalyptic film debuted in cinemas 22 years earlier in 2002 - with Cillian taking on a leading role. The sequel is slated to be the third instalment in the franchise and the first in an upcoming trilogy. Danny, who directed 28 Days later, as well as original writer, Alex Garland, are also returning. The pair notably only served as executive producers on the second movie, 28 Weeks Later (2007). Both Danny and Alex are producing the new project alongside Andrew Macdonald, Peter Rice and Bernie Bellew, while Cillian is an executive producer. While talking to The Independent earlier this year in January, Cillian revealed if he would possibly star in the franchise once again. Jodie was spotted filming the post-apocalyptic flick in the Northumberland countryside Film maker Danny Boyle (Pictured left) is returning as director after being at the helm for 28 Days Later The Liverpudlian star's character appeared to be in a state of concern in the snaps A younger character was seen trying to keep hold of her arm Jodie wore a long cream cardigan over a tartan shirt as well as a floral, mud-stained dress She also sported white tights and light pink legwarmers 'I would be there in a flash,' he admitted. 'I made two movies with both of those guys, and I would love to work with them again. Of course, I'm there.' In the 2002 film, Cillian took on the role of a bicycle courier who wakes up from a coma only to find that an 'incurable virus had spread throughout the U.K.' and 'a handful of survivors try to find sanctuary.' Alongside Murphy, other stars that were cast in the movie included Naomie Harris, Christopher Eccleston, Megan Burns and also Brendan Gleeson. A sequel titled 28 Weeks Later came out in 2007, with director Juan Carlos Fresnadillo stepping behind the camera. Robert Carlyle, Rose Byrne, Jeremy Renner, Harold Perrineau and Catherine McCormack starred in the second instalment. It is Jodie's second apocalyptic film in recent years, after her heartwrenching performance in the climate crisis drama The End We Start From. Jodie starred as Mother in the movie adaptation of Megan Hunter's novel which sees her character navigating motherhood for the first time during a terrifying apocalyptic flood. The film, which was released in the UK in January, begins with Jodie giving birth before she embarks on an extraordinary journey of strength and resilience as she raises her baby during the first year of his life during the climate crisis. The original, zombie apocalyptic film debuted in cinemas 22 years earlier in 2002 - with Cillian taking on a leading role The sequel is slated to be the third instalment in the franchise and the first in an upcoming trilogy Danny (centre), who directed 28 Days later, as well as original writer, Alex Garland, are also returning She revealed that she was terrified when she began filming as she had to work with 15 different babies on set. She told the BBC: 'I started this process quite literally terrified. My hands were visibly shaking when I met an eight-week-old on set. I was like, "Oh my god, what have I done?" 'It's one thing to act and think about everything else, but then actually being conscious of this precious little being and making sure that they're safe.' Jodie said she felt that during the process, she followed the arc of her character - as both herself and Mother began overwhelmed by motherhood but later settled in. Paul Mescal has revealed he wanted to look 'big and strong' for his role in Gladiator 2 as he discussed bulking up for the blockbuster film. The actor, 28, takes on the role of Roman Empire Lucius Verus, the grown-up son of Lucilla, portrayed as a child in the Oscar-winning original from 2000 film starring Russell Crowe. Paul worked out to gain muscle for his role in the flick but told Vanity Fair he didn't want to end up looking like an 'underwear model'. He said: 'I just wanted to be big and strong and look like somebody who can cause a bit of damage when shit hits the fan. 'I think also, sometimes, one could, in striving for that perfect look, end up looking more like an underwear model than a warrior.' Paul Mescal has revealed he wanted to look 'big and strong' for his role in Gladiator 2 as he discussed bulking up for the blockbuster film The actor, 28, takes on the role of Roman Empire Lucius Verus, the grown-up son of Lucilla, portrayed as a child in the Oscar-winning original from 2000 film starring Russell Crowe 'Muscles start to grow, and that can be deemed aesthetic in certain capacities, but there is something about feeling strong in your body that elicits just a different feeling.' Paul added that you 'carry yourself differently' with more musle and he felt it had a positive impact on him 'psychologically' that benefited the film. The sequel will centre on Lucius (Paul), the nephew of Commodus and son of Maximus' former lover Lucilla (Connie Nielsen). Lucius was previously portrayed by Spencer Treat Clark in the original Gladiator, who idolised Maximus for his battles. The sequel will be set after Maximus' death, following Lucius, who has long thought that his mother is dead only to clap eyes on her when he is brought to Rome as a slave. The cast also includes Joseph Quinn as Emperor Caracalla, Fred Hechinger as Emperor Greta as a pair of brothers who rule a decaying and corrupt Rome. Meanwhile returning Gladiator stars Connie Nielsen (Lucilla) and Derek Jacobi (Senator Gracchus) will also be returning for the sequel. Director Ridley Scott, 86, is back to helm the reported 250M sequel, after the original bagged five Oscars including Best Director, Best Actor and Best Picture, as well as earning 400M worldwide. Paul worked out to gain muscle for his role in the flick but told Vanity Fair he didn't want to end up looking like an 'underwear model' Russell Crowe portrayed Roman general Maximus Decimus Meridius in the original and won the Oscar for Best Actor for his work in the film The original story is set in 180 AD, followed Maximus (Crowe) returning home after leading Roman forces to victory over Germanic tribes. Meanwhile, his Emperor, Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris), is secretly murdered by his treacherous son Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix), after telling him he was unfit to rule. After Maximus refused to pledge his loyalty to Commodus, he murdered his family, as Maximus is captured by slave traders as he must fight his way through various obstacles to get his vengeance against Commodus. The film from director Ridley Scott and writers David Franzoni, John Logan and William Nicholson is still considered a classic. While there had been talk of a sequel since 2001, it never fully came to fruition since 2018 when Paramount gave the project a green light. Gladiator won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Crowe. Gladiator 2 is expected to debut in cinemas later this year. From unusual brand deals to merchandise, there are a multitude of ways that celebrities have tried to rake in extra cash over the years. But there is one very well-trodden path that most people in the limelight want to keep on the down-low - selling pictures of their feet. From Blac Chyna to Kerry Katona to Karrueche Tran, there is a star-studded list of names who have tried their hand, or foot, at this unique business venture. Most recently, Lily Allen, 39, admitted that she has launched an OnlyFans account to sell pictures of her feet for just 8 a month. Here, MailOnline takes a look at all the celebs who have made big money through the most common fetish... Karrueche Tran In March of this year, actress and model Karrueche Tran defended herself against critics after she took up the bizarre business endeavor (pictured in May 2024) In March of this year, actress and model Karrueche Tran defended herself against critics after she took up the bizarre business endeavor. The 35-year-old beauty tweeted pictures of her feet with a link to the account on March 1 and March 12. Following this, she took to X (formerly Twitter) after reading comments criticizing her for doing it. The Los Angeles native said, 'LOL at all the comments regarding OF,' in a tweet she subsequently deleted. The stunning actress remarked on comments speculating that she had started the account due to financial problems. The Claws actress said in her tweet: 'I'm not going broke.. just a smart play.' Karrueche, who's also been seen on the TV series Vanity, declared that 'foot fetish is the number one fetish in the world' and that 'there's nothing sexual that will be on my page.' The 35-year-old beauty tweeted pictures of her feet with a link to the account on March 1 and March 12 The stunning actress remarked on comments speculating that she had started the account due to financial problems The Los Angeles native said, 'LOL at all the comments regarding OF,' in a tweet she subsequently deleted The Bay star pointed to bodily autonomy in defending her right to monetize the images. 'It's literally my feet and if people are willing to pay, then what's the problem?' she added. Karrueche said separately in a tweet that she would be forwarding a portion of her OnlyFans earnings to Los Angeles-based charities, Page Six reported at the time. She added that she is also helping other people make a living with her latest endeavour, according to the outlet. 'I have a team that helps with the page, so they'll be able to eat from this as well,' Tran said. 'There's a stigma around OF but there's literally chefs, musicians, yoga instructors, etc. on there.' She set prices on the account of a $24.99 monthly subscription, $52.48 three-month subscription, or $104.96 six-month subscription on the page. Blac Chyna In 2020, Blac Chyna joined the list of famous faces who make extra cash from their feet - and charged a $50 monthly subscription fee (pictured in June 2024) In 2020, Blac Chyna joined the list of famous faces who make extra cash from their feet - and charged a $50 monthly subscription fee. The star, 36, real name Angela Renee White, shared a video of her tattooed legs and feet squashing some grapes as she encouraged her followers to pay up to see more. She wrote: 'Foot Freak Monday's. Fans Only (link in bio) (subscribe to see more)' as she hashtagged #footfetishnation #toes and #footporn among other things. She was charging a $50 a month subscription fee, but offered a three-month package for $127.50, giving fans 15% off. Or fans could opt for a year's subscription which will set you back $450 but which gives you 25% off. However, the reality star, who now goes by her birth name, quit the subscription-based service and shed her X-rated image in December 2022, despite raking in a whopping $2 million in two years thanks to her provocative uploads. The star, 36, real name Angela Renee White, shared a video of her tattooed legs and feet squashing some grapes as she encouraged her followers to pay up to see more However, the reality star, who now goes by her birth name, quit the subscription-based service and shed her X-rated image in December 2022 , despite raking in a whopping $2 million in two years thanks to her provocative uploads (pictured in August 2023) She instead turned to 'clean' platform Passes in a bid to showcase her 'authentic self' - and because she is aware that her young children 'see everything.' 'OnlyFans was catered to exploiting myself,' she told DailyMail.com exclusively. 'Blac Chyna, because of my past, it was like 'she's a super exotic dancer turned this'. There were all these labels, and I was being even more sucked into it by being on OnlyFans and putting myself in a box. 'It was just exploiting myself to get obviously money, but it wasn't showing my authentic self.' Kerry Katona Kerry Katona made herself a fortune by selling snaps of herself on OnlyFans, asserting that it made her 'a millionaire again' in 2022 (pictured in May 2024) Kerry Katona made herself a fortune by selling snaps of herself on OnlyFans, asserting that it made her 'a millionaire again' in 2022. The mother-of-five usually charges around 14.76 per month for fans to subscribe to her page on the 18+ website and access her raunchy content. Speaking to The Mirror in July 2021, the star said she was earning as much as 'tens of thousands a month' by sharing sultry snaps and images of her feet. Since starting her account, Kerry has been able to open her very own online clothing company, KerryBoutique, as well as a dating app with her fiance Ryan Mahoney. She has also been able to send her daughter Dylan-Jorge to a private school thanks to her financial stability. Kerry revealed she has a lot of people with feet fetishes asking for images of her feet, which promoted the move. The mother-of-five usually charges around 14.76 per month for fans to subscribe to her page on the 18+ website and access her raunchy content (file image) In July 2021, the star said she was earning as much as 'tens of thousands a month' by sharing sultry snaps and images of her feet Kerry revealed she has a lot of people with feet fetishes asking for images of her feet, which promoted the move Appearing on the comedy podcast Straight To The Comments! in March of this year, the former Atomic Kitten star revealed that members of the public have said her children should be put in care because of her racy career choice, and hit out at the double standards. Speaking to hosts Josh Pieters and Archie Manners, former lap dancer Kerry mused: 'I was like, 's**t, how am I going to pay my rent?' I had all five kids at home at the time and someone mentioned OnlyFans and I thought, 'well my pictures are out there anyway.' 'So, I sat the children down and I said, '"ook, there's no work, I'm struggling, how would you feel if I started at OnlyFans?" I said, "obviously, it'll only be topless.''' She continued: 'A lot of it is smoke and mirrors, I'm not doing anything that you've not seen on the big screen when you go to the cinema. Ash Williams Comedian Ash Williams shocked viewers of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! Australia in January 2021 when he admitted that he made money from strangers and their foot fetishes (pictured in 2018) Ash, who was quickly nicknamed the 'Foot King' by one particular buyer, had co-stars Grant Denyer and Abbie Chatfield in stitches when he explained how you never share pictures of your soles first as it's the creme de la creme Comedian Ash Williams shocked viewers of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! Australia in January 2021 when he admitted that he made money off strangers and their foot fetishes. Ash, who was quickly nicknamed the 'Foot King' by one particular buyer, had co-stars Grant Denyer and Abbie Chatfield in stitches when he explained how you never share pictures of your soles first because it's the creme de la creme. 'I stopped doing it because he wanted more artistic direction on the feet pics.' Ash, who claimed no-one would ever be throwing around $1,000 for photos, went on to provide his tips on getting a foot fetishist hooked. 'They love soles. That is the creme de la creme. If you show your soles... that's it. It's just the best part of the foot. You never show soles first,' he said. Several of Ash's foot images were found posted to WikiFeet, a website some have dubbed 'OnlyFans for feet'. The website contains a gallery of celebrity feet snaps, which lets its users rank and rate them out of five. It is astoundingly popular and reportedly gets more than 3.2 million visits a month, with feet being one of the most common fetishes in the world. Several of Ash's foot images were found posted to WikiFeet , a website some have dubbed 'OnlyFans for feet' The site has a section dedicated to the podcaster, where it lists his shoe size as a 12, and rates his pictures 4.5 out of 5 Also available on WikiFeet are screen shots from the 2012 'tickling video' that Ash starred in The foot fetish site has a section dedicated to the podcaster, where it lists his shoe size as a 12, and rates his pictures 4.5 out of 5. Most of the images are quite tame - showing Ash dangling his feet by a pool, or close ups of his tootsies. Also available on WikiFeet are screenshots from the 2012 'tickling video' that Ash starred in. In that video, the shirtless hunk is strapped to a table, with leather restraints around his ankles, as an unknown person tickles the soles of his feet. The comedian doesn't seem at all embarrassed by the clip, and even joked about the 'bad English accent' he did in the video in a Facebook post made in 2018. Katie Price In 2022, Katie Price, 46, also cashed in by flogging pictures of her 'perfect' feet on OnlyFans In April 2022, it was widely reported that Katie was selling feet pics on OnlyFans for a price of 2.25, including a video she took while getting a pedicure In 2022, Katie Price, 46, also cashed in by flogging pictures of her 'perfect' feet on OnlyFans. During a Q&A on her OnlyFans page about her favourite body part in February 2022, the mother announced that she 'would have to say it's her feet' and that she has 'small, good, princess feet'. According to The Sun, she explained: Everyone always says how nice my feet are. I look after my feet really well. They're soft, small, and even though I broke them two years ago they're still intact. 'People are fascinated about my feet, apparently my feet are on some fetish sites.' The former glamour model jokingly promised to send close-up of her tootsies to anyone who wanted them and has even rubbed cream into her heels in a suggestive manner. Katie said: 'So if there is anyone who is interested in my feet I can always slip them in the DMs. 'But I have to say I do have perfect, Pricey feet. Like me, a perfect little package.' Following this, in April 2022, it was widely reported that Katie was selling feet pics on OnlyFans for a price of 2.25, including a video she took while getting a pedicure. She posted the clip on the platform 'for all the foot lovers'. Raquel Leviss and Charli Burnett Vanderpump Rules stars Raquel Leviss (pictured above during the 2021 episode) and Charli Burnett went into business together in an episode of the show to sell pictures of their feet On an installment of the programme from November 2021, the pair made the business decision in order to raise cash for a nose job (Charli Burnett pictured) They uploaded pictures of their feet on the website FeetFinder, including some questionable snaps that included spaghetti Former Vanderpump Rules stars Raquel Leviss and Charli Burnett went into business together in an episode of the show to sell pictures of their feet. On an installment of the programme from November 2021, the pair made the business decision in order to raise cash for a nose job. They uploaded pictures of their feet on the website FeetFinder, including some questionable snaps that included spaghetti. Charli said she felt 'no shame' and that it was 'so easy to do it,' with the pair telling The Sun they made around $600. Carmen Electra American actress Carmen Electra revealed last year that the top requests that she receives on OnlyFans revolve around her feet (pictured in June 2024) American actress Carmen Electra revealed last year that the top requests that she receives on OnlyFans revolve around her feet. In an interview, the Baywatch star, 52, divulged that she gets 'so many foot requests' on the X-rated site, which she considers to be 'the funniest thing.' 'I'm always like, 'What would you want to see me do with my feet? Should I stomp grapes? Put whipped cream on them?' she mused to People. Over the years, she revealed that while she finds the demand to see her feet as comical, it's not too surprising. 'Back in the day on the Internet, there were pages dedicated to my feet in high heels. I accidentally stumbled upon it once so I've always known that existed,' she recalled. In May 2023, she told People that her OnlyFans features snaps of her in lingerie as well as photos from her holidays and posts about her beauty tips. She also noted that her account would treat her admirers to 'more sexy, classy pictures and videos.' Lily Allen Finally, Lily Allen became the latest celebrity to join the list of A-Listers who are putting their feet to good use Finally, Lily Allen became the latest celebrity to join the list of A-Listers who are putting their feet to good use. The pop star-turned-actress, 39, has set up her own account on OnlyFans, which is used primarily for people to sell their own adult content, under the title 'Lily Allen FTSE500'. Last week Lily joked that she'd been told she could 'make a lot of money selling foot content' after discovering her feet had been 'rated quite highly on the internet.' And it seems that she's followed through with her idea and has already posted six exclusive pictures of her feet for her subscribers to access. One of the pictures is captioned 'sole trader,' and underneath another, she wrote: 'Just bought these at the airport. Will take them off later.' Another photo is captioned, 'summer pedicure,' while another simply says: 'Morning.' The pop star-turned-actress, 39, has set up her own account on the social media platform, which is used primarily for people to sell their own adult content, under the title 'Lily Allen FTSE500' A subscription to her site is just 8/$10 a month Sharing the news that she had officially launched her Only Fans over on her Instagram Story, Lily posted the link to her page alongside a snap of her painted toes One of the pictures is captioned 'sole trader,' and underneath another, she wrote: 'Just bought these at the airport. Will take them off later' Lily has a five star 'beautiful feet' rating on WikiFeet, which is 'a Wikipedia for famous people's feet' While it's not known how many subscribers she has, the account has got over 200 'likes' since it was started a week ago. 'I have a lady who comes and does my nails and they informed me that I have five stars on WikiFeet, which is quite rare,' Lily said on her Miss Me? podcast. Sharing the news that she had officially launched her Only Fans over on her Instagram Story, Lily posted the link to her page alongside a snap of her painted toes. She wrote: 'She's done it' alongside a laughing emoji, before joking: 'What is this going to do to my algorithm?' Referencing her and Miquita's chat on the podcast she added: 'If you don't listen to #missme podcast on @bbcsounds... this whole post is going to look very strange indeed'. Some have turned it down... In August 2023, Margot Robbie was offered 250,000 (AUD$492,000) to sell photos of her feet However, not all celebs who have been asked to share snaps of their feet by fetishists have been forthcoming - not even for a high price. In August 2023, Margot Robbie was offered 250,000 (AUD$492,000) to sell photos of her feet. The Barbie actress, 34, had been offered the eye-watering sum of money to share photos of her feet by Fun With Feet, a platform where people can buy and sell their feet pictures. In a letter to the Dalby, Queensland-born star, a representative of the platform wrote: 'Dear Margot, My name is Liz and I make thousands selling feet pics on Fun With Feet.' 'I would love to collaborate with you on some Barbie-inspired content that'll earn us both millions. Plus, Fun with Feet are offering to pay you 250K as a starting bonus. 'If I'm right, we'll be able to capitalise on our likeness - and the world's obsession with all-things Barbie - to no end, all thanks to our feet! Liz also extended the offer to Ryan Gosling, who stars alongside Margot in the Barbie movie. Eamonn Holmes was back on air for his GB News Breakfast show on Wednesday, after bowing out of Tuesday's programme due to feeling unwell. Although, this time, the 64-year-old broadcaster's usual co-presenter Isabel Webster was missing and instead replaced with Ellie Costello. Eamonn looked back to his normal self on the show and erupted into a rant about 'workshy Britain', taking a swipe at people 'not wanting to work,' after Sir Keir Starmer suggested he would not work after 6pm on Fridays if he became Prime Minister. The TV star usually works on Mondays to Wednesdays each week, but has confirmed he will be stepping in on Friday to help with the General Election coverage. The presenter, who last week said he is 'on borrowed time', sparked concern on Wednesday among viewers after suddenly going missing halfway through a 7:45am interview. Eamonn Holmes was back on air for his GB News Breakfast show on Wednesday, after bowing out of Tuesday's programme due to feeling unwell The broadcaster, 64, bowed out of his GB News Breakfast show early on Tuesday after feeling unwell Eamonn stayed silent throughout the interview, leaving Isabel to ask the questions, before he left the desk offscreen. Isabel then presented the final 90 minutes of the show solo without explaining Eamonn's absence. A spokesperson for GB News told MailOnline that the star was forced to leave early due to ill health, explaining: 'Eamonn had to finish a little earlier today as he was feeling unwell. He hopes to be back tomorrow.' A friend added that Eamonn was in good spirits, despite having to go home early. The TV personality spoke about his health problems at last week's TRIC Awards, with the industry event also marking his first public appearance since he split from wife Ruth Langsford. The star has had a tough year, and admitted at the annual bash that he feels as though he is on 'borrowed time' because his father died at 65 of a fatal heart attack. Eamonn was seen arriving at the awards in a wheelchair as he suffers from chronic back pain and is undergoing painful physio sessions. Speaking in January he said the 'harsh reality' could be that he may never be able to walk alone again unaided. Ruth meanwhile is said to be grappling with 'agonising guilt' over her extranged husband's health problems. The presenter sparked concern after suddenly going leaving halfway through a 7:45am interview with Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Mental Health Maria Caulfield on Tuesday Eamonn was pictured a week ago at the TRIC Awards in his wheelchair as he was comforted by former colleague Charlotte Hawkins Claims have emerged that Ruth is torn between helping Eamonn and moving on with her life, with a source telling Bella magazine that Ruth feels 'terribly guilty' and seeing recent photos of her ex looking 'frail has been torture for her'. 'Even though she has every right to live her life and do what is right for her - she's convinced the public will see her as abandoning Eamonn in his time of need as he struggles with his health,' the insider explained this week. Eamonn previously praised Ruth for her 'amazing' support after he suffered a fall down stairs of their home in November 2022. In 2016, the star underwent a double-hip replacement operation lasting three-and-a-quarter hours after living with acute pain for many years. Then in 2018 Eamonn detailed his battle with shingles and how he was struck with the virus on his son Declan's wedding day. His years of chronic back pain started in spring 2021 - which came completely out of nowhere. The pain become so severe that it left him reliant on a walking stick, but soon found out the root cause. Eamonn was seen arriving at the awards in a wheelchair and using a walker as he suffers from chronic back pain and is undergoing painful physio sessions Eamonn spoke about his health problems at last week's TRIC Awards, with the industry event also marking his first public appearance since he split from wife Ruth Langsford (pictured in 2022) Eamonn made his first public appearance since news of his shock divorce at Tuesday's TRIC Awards He eventually discovered it was three slipped discs that affected the movement of his right leg. In September 2022, Eamonn was forced to step away from his GB news show as he underwent vital back surgery to aid his chronic back pain. Then in November 2022 he endured a horrific accident which saw him fall down a set of stairs at his home in Surrey leading him to break his shoulder weeks after his huge spinal surgery. Shortly before their splie Ruth said she 'lives in hope' that his mobility will improve. Speaking to Woman's Weekly, Ruth said: 'I don't know how much Eamonn's mobility will improve. We live in hope. 'He does the physio, but there might have to be some acceptance that this might never be 100% right. With any care situation - and there are millions of carers in this country - it isn't always easy. It's testing but we manage as a family.' Ruth added: 'I look at Eamonn, who's had his health and back problems, and it makes you realise how important your health is.' Discussing his woes at the beginning of the year, Eamonn himself said: 'It's as if somebody up there is playing with my life. In the past year I've had an operation on my back which went wrong and has confined me to a wheelchair. 'I've fallen and broken my shoulder. Honestly you could not make it up.' He added: 'I have tried every treatment, but you go. Maybe I'll never get out of it,' which is a harsh reality to face.' Eamonn admitted he didn't even know if he would be able to attend the annual TRIC Awards, however his new high tech equipment has allowed him to be more comfortable. Ella Rae Wise showed off her taut abs in a stylish yellow bikini set as she continued filming TOWIE's upcoming series in Cyprus on Wednesday. The blonde beauty, 24, was joined by love interest Dan Edgar, 34, once again, after confirming their relationship is back on. The reality TV stars were seen sharing a steamy kiss in the sea on Tuesday, despite calling off their romance in May after she accused Dan of 'cheating' on her. Ella looked incredible in a skimpy bikini and matching skirt, while Dan looked handsome in an off-white linen co-ord. And as they continue their holiday romance, the couple were all smiles as they posed for photos by the beach. Ella Rae Wise, 24, showed off her taut abs in a stylish yellow bikini set as she continued filming TOWIE's upcoming series in Cyprus on Wednesday The blonde beauty was joined by love interest Dan Edgar, 34, once again, after confirming their relationship is back on Ella looked incredible in a skimpy bikini and matching skirt, while Dan looked handsome in an off-white linen co-ord Elsewhere, Jordan Brook, 29, looked more than loved-up with his girlfriend Sophie Kasaei, 34. The smitten couple looked happier than ever as Jordan placed a sweet kiss on Sophie's cheek. After posing for a slew of snaps, they joined Amy Childs and her nine-month-old twins Billy and Millie for dinner. Chloe Meadows looked stylish in a risque cut-out brown dress and sandals as she joined Jordan and Harry Derbidge. Former Love Island star Elma Pazar flashed her toned torso in a sheer skirt and matching crop top. Courtney Green flashed her toned legs in a thigh-high split aztec co-ord and elevated her frame with gorgeous wedges. Junaid Ahmed held up a peace sign as he beamed for a photo in a stylish red co-ord. Ella previously revealed Dan had cheated on her with his ex-girlfriend Hannah Rally while she was on holiday in Dubai. And as they continue their holiday romance, the couple were all smiles as they posed for photos by the beach Elsewhere, Jordan Brook , 29, looked more than loved-up with his girlfriend Sophie Kasaei , 34 The smitten couple looked happier than ever as Jordan placed a sweet kiss on Sophie's cheek After posing for a slew of snaps, they joined Amy Childs and her nine-month-old twins Billy and Millie for dinner Jordan and Sophie chatted to Amy about their life while cuddling up to her baby boy They tucked into delicious food during the trip to Cyprus Amy appeared in great spirits as she enjoyed a some downtime with her two youngest children Amy's cousin Harry later joined them for a cuddle with his nephew Amy looked incredibly glamorous in a multi-coloured green kimono Chloe Meadows looked stylish in a risque cut-out brown dress and sandals as she joined Jordan and Harry Derbidge Former Love Island star Elma Pazar flashed her toned torso in a sheer skirt and matching crop top Courtney Green flashed her toned legs in a thigh-high split aztec co-ord and elevated her frame with gorgeous wedges Junaid Ahmed held up a peace sign as he beamed for a photo in a stylish red co-ord Chloe looked sensational in her stylish evening attire, adorned with gold motifs Freddie Bentley bared his chest as he unbuttoned his black shirt and wore vibrant zebra print budgy smuggler Danny Imbert showed off her skimpy physique in tiny yellow shorts and plunging bralette Saffron Lempriere stunned in a one-shoulder swimsuit and stylish brown trousers The couple couldn't take their hands off each other as they larked around in the ocean. Just two months since Ella confirmed their split, the appeared to forget all about her cheating claims. At the time, Essex beauty Ella told her followers she is 'happily single' during a Q&A on her Stories and also took a savage swipe at her love rival Amber Turner and her co-stars. One fan asked: 'Are you single?' She replied: 'Yes and happily single. Focusing on myself and my brand'. While another follower asked: 'Thoughts on some of the other TOWIE girls comments on you?' Ella hit back and replied: 'All I will say is they think they're bl**dy perfect. The sun doesn't shine out of their a**** trust me.' Dan and Ella's short-lived romance, only took off on a recent TOWIE cast trip to Bali as they were seen packing on the PDA while filming series 33. Dan and Ella's short-lived romance, only took off on a recent TOWIE cast trip to Bali as they were seen packing on the PDA while filming series 33 The romance had followed Dan's messy and emotional split from Amber Turner (pictured), who was also on the trip. He later got together with Hannah The pair were reportedly open to continuing their romance over the summer as they discussed their future while filming their final scenes for the latest series. The romance had followed Dan's messy and emotional split from Amber Turner, who was also on the trip. He later got together with Hannah. A source has since told The Sun: 'Dan was dating Hannah for around nine months, they got together shortly after he split from Amber. 'Things were going really well and he even told her he loved her but he said he wasn't ready for anything serious. Next thing he is in Bali for Towie filming and is getting with Ella. 'Hannah was obviously really shocked, but she just didn't want the drama to decide to wash her hands of him. But they ended up getting together again when Ella was out of town in Dubai.' After returning to the UK, Ella was reportedly 'furious' with Dan's behaviour, the source added: 'Ella ended up finding out what happened between Dan and Hannah and was furious. 'She confronted Hannah about it and called her embarrassing as well as some other choice words. It got pretty nasty but was really was the last straw for Hannah. Ella seems to have forgiven him for now.' Songwriter Jon Hume has launched a lawsuit against media giant Universal Music Group over the Aussie smash hit tune Be Alright by Dean Lewis. Hume, 40, who was born in Australia and later rose to fame in the Kiwi band Evermore, co-wrote the song which topped charts around the world in 2018. His suit claims that portions of an original recording he made of the song before it was recorded by Lewis, 36, were used in the final release without his knowledge or permission. He filed the legal action in Nashville, U.S. on June 19 against UMG, reported The Courier Mail on Wednesday. Hume, who co-wrote the song with Lewis, produced what is known as a 'demo' [or demonstration] recording of the pop ballad. The musician who divides his time between Los Angeles and Nashville, said in his suit that he played all the instruments on the demo and was told at the time it would not be used in the final recording. Hume now alleges that he learned in December that his recording formed part of the hit version of the song. He is now seeking damages including 'statutory' damages, compensatory damages reasonable attorneys' fees, and costs from [UMG] for using his work 'without permission' reported the publication. Songwriter Jon Hume has launched a lawsuit against media giant Universal Music Group over the Aussie smash hit tune Be Alright by Dean Lewis. Hume, 40, (pictured) co-wrote the song which topped charts around the world in 2018 Universal Music Australia told the publication they had 'no comment' about the lawsuit. Be Alright was a massive global hit and topped the ARIA chart in Australia and was a top 30 hit smash in the U.S. and reached the top 20 in the U.K. It was also a number one hit in Belgium, the Czech Republic and Singapore. Hume's suit claims that portions of an original recording he made of the song before it was recorded by Lewis, 36, were used in the final release without his knowledge or permission. Pictured: Dean Lewis on stage in the U.S. in May Known as a producer and a songwriter, Hume penned the 2019 hit Purple Hat for Sofi Tukker, and wrote and produced the 2020 U.K. smash Dead Celebrities by Easy Life. After Be Alright Hume continued to work with Lewis and co-wrote the Aussie performers 2022 hits How Do I Say Goodbye and Hurtless. It comes ahead of Lewis's forthcoming third studio album, The Epilogue, on which Hume produced the tune Hume Memories. Hume filed the legal action in Nashville, U.S. on June 19 against UMG reported The Courier Mail on Wednesday. Pictured: Hume fronting Evermore in Melbourne in 2009 The hitmaker will tour Australia with Daniel Seavey as his the support act on Lewis's upcoming national tour. This marks a significant milestone for the 25-year-old, who first rose to fame as a member of the boy band Why Don't We following his stint on American Idol. Daniel will join Lewis on a seven-date tour across Australia kicking off on October 30, at the Civic Theatre in Newcastle. Tickets for the Dean Lewis Epilogue tour are on sale here. Rosie Huntington Whiteley and Naomi Campbell wore sexy bridal ensembles as they joined a very leggy Halle Bailey at the Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda show in Sardinia. The Alta Moda show showcases the fashion house's new jewellery range, known as Alta Gioielleria. The event was high-glamour and Rosie, 37, lead the charge wearing a long cream dress with spaghetti straps with a dramatic sleeved-train worn over the top. She linked arms with a friend, wearing her caramel locks in a slicked back fashion. Supermodel Naomi, 54, looked incredible wearing a long gown in the same colour which had a sexy crossover section at the cleavage and a keyhole detail at the front. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Naomi Campbell wore sexy bridal ensembles as they joined leggy Halle Bailey at the Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda show in Sardinia on Tuesday Naomi looked incredible wearing a long gown which had a sexy crossover section at the cleavage and a keyhole detail at the front, (left) and (right) Halle Bailey Billionaire Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez were also present, with Lauren wearing a chic black see-through long gown by the fashion house Jeff's fiancee Lauren had been wearing the brand earlier in the week as she sipped on an Aperol spritz in Greece The number had a long train detail which floated down behind her and she completed her look with a pair of sunglasses. Actress Halle, 24, added a pop of colour with a bold yellow dress which was strapless in design and had a sexy thigh-split. She wore a statement necklace and earrings as she posed for pictures and completed her look with shoes that were in the same hue as her dress. Within Alta Gioielleria lies the culture, folklore, and artistic traditions of particular regions of Italy told through crafted gold and gemstones. Naomi spoke to Vogue about the collection and said: 'I have to say, I recognize Italy in these pieces. 'From hints of Baroque architecture and renaissance paintings to the vibrant sun-drenched colors of the Mediterranean. 'When I wear one of their creations, I feel like Im carrying a piece of Italy with me.' Elsewhere, Alessandra Ambrosio, 43, looked incredible flashing her underwear beneath a long embellished dress which had a statement gold metal corset belt. Alessandra Ambrosio looked incredible flashing her underwear beneath a long embellished dress which had a statement gold metal corset belt She walked tall in the sheer, glittering number as she made her grand entrance at the event She looked over her shoulder as she gave a glimpse of her vertiginous gold platform heels. Actor Christian Bale, 50, and his wife, American stunt performer Sibi Blazic, 54, brought some serious glamour to proceedings in black. And billionaire Amazon boss Jeff Bezos, 60, and his fiancee Lauren Sanchez, 54, were also present, with Lauren wearing a black see-through gown by the fashion house. Before this trip, the couple were sunning themselves in Greece, with Lauren sharing pictures of herself wearing a yellow and white printed Dolce And Gabbana dress. The couple had been on their $500 million yacht in Greece all week. Actor Christian Bale and his wife, American stunt performer Sibi Blazic, brought some serious glamour to proceedings in black Naomi looked chic as she made her way down the runway to her seat in a pale gown with cape detailing The light wind gently blew the chiffon fabric of her dress creating a dramatic effect Naomi was accompanied by designer Domenico Dolce who had his pet pocch in tow Rosie later slipped off her cape to reveal a stunning evening dress which suited her perfectly In one social media image, Lauren was reclining on an outdoor lounge in the photo and sipping on an orange Aperol spritz. 'Don't they say an Aperol a day keeps the doctor away?' she captioned it. Emily In Paris star Lucien Laviscount, 32, wore a chic cream wraparound shirt and sequinned trousers for his smiling entrance. And Georgina Rodriguez, 30, was seen wearing a floral mini dress and strappy heels with a blazer worn over her shoulders - though there was no sign of her partner Cristiano Ronaldo, 39 Kitty Spencer, 33, was pictured posing with her hands on her hips wearing an embellished blue strapless gown as she stood in the sunshine. And Emma Weymouth, 38, wore a plunging metallic gown which had thigh-high side splits. Georgina Rodriguez was seen wearing a floral mini dress and strappy heels with a blazer worn over her shoulders - there was no sign of her partner, Cristiano Ronaldo Kitty Spencer was pictured posing with her hands on her hips wearing an embellished blue strapless gown as she stood in the sunshine Emma Weymouth wore a plunging metallic gown which had thigh-high side splits Emily In Paris star Lucien Laviscount, 32, wore a chic cream wraparound shirt and sequinned trousers for his smiling entrance Meanwhile, Naomi's former maid slammed the supermodel for flaunting the infamous designer dress she wore while serving out for her punishment for attacking her. Speaking to DailyMail.com, housekeeper Ana Scolavino, 58, says she is still traumatized by the 2006 incident that saw Campbell hurl her diamond-encrusted cellphone at her in a violent fit of rage. Scolavino's head was split open by the impact as she tried to escape the star's New York apartment - and she later struggled to find work due to the crippling anxiety she suffered as a result of the assault. Naomi was ordered to complete five days of community service and anger management classes, but drew further controversy when she showed up to her last day of her sentence in an ornate silver designer dress. And now the iconic Dolce & Gabbana gown has been put on display at a new exhibit celebrating her life and career at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The infamous Dolce & Gabbana gown Naomi wore on her last day of her court-ordered community service in 2007 has been put on display at a new exhibit celebrating her life and career The supermodel's former housekeeper Ana Scolavino, who was assaulted by Naomi in 2006, slammed the move as 'weird' and 'in poor taste' Dolce and Gabbana, aged 64 and 60, appear to be the darlings of the fashion world once again. Kim Kardashian, 42, was signed up as creative director for their show in Milan last year and made the face of its latest advertising campaign leaving her sister Kourtney, 45, livid. Just six months earlier, the brands founders and co-owners, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, personally styled Kourtney for her wedding to rock-drummer Travis Barker. Yet it was only in 2018 that Stefano Gabbana reportedly responded to an online photo of the Kardashians by commenting, The most cheap people in the world. Accused of racism, homophobia (despite both men being gay and having been a couple for 18 years until 2004), misogyny, fraud and general jaw-dropping insensitivity, it seems the pair cannot afford to be so picky when it comes to their celebrity endorsements nowadays. The design partnership was founded in the early 1980s after its two founders met in a Milan nightclub and put on their first show using one of Dolces bedsheets as a curtain. Theyve dressed everyone from Cardi B and Madonna to Blake Lively and the Princess of Wales, charging as much as $60,000 for one of their extravagant frocks. Kim Kardashian (pictured in Puglia, Italy,) was signed up as creative director for Dolce & Gabbanas spring show in Milan and made the face of its latest advertising campaign, her sister Kourtney was livid. Christian Bale looked happier than ever as he linked arms with Sibi Blazic, his wife of 24 years, at the Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda fashion show in Sardinia on Tuesday. The Batman star, 50, cut a dapper figure in a black suit, which he paired with an open collar shirt. The actor was all smiles as he tucked a pair of sunglasses into his smart shirt as he arrived at the star-studded event with his American stunt performer wife, 54. Sibi looked sensational in a black figure-hugging midi dress, which boasted stylish semi-sheer long sleeves. She added inches to her frame in a pair of leopard print heels and carried her belongings in a matching clutch. Christian Bale looked happier than ever as he linked arms with Sibi Blazic, his wife of 24 years, at the Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda fashion show in Sardinia on Tuesday The Batman star, 50, cut a dapper figure in a black suit, which he paired with an open collar shirt, while his wife Sibi, 54, looked sensational in a black figure hugging midi dress The couple enjoyed a drink as they walked hand-in-hand to their seats at the star-studded show, which also had Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Naomi Campbell and Halle Bailey in attendance. Dolce & Gabbana's Alta Moda launches the fashion house's jewellery collection in an annual four-day extravaganza. The long-time couple reportedly met through actress Winona Ryder while she and Christian were working on Little Women in 1994 and Sibi was Winona's assistant at the time. The two hit it if off, eloped to Las Vegas in 2000 and welcomed their two children, daughter Emmeline in 2005 and son James in 2014. The couple have very cute nicknames for their kids, as Christian revealed in his 2019 Golden Globes acceptance speech for his role as Dick Cheney in Vice. 'Thank you to my beautiful wife who said less is more,' he said while accepting the Best Actor award. 'Say less right now, she knows the dumb crap that can come out of my mouth sometimes. I can sink and ruin a perfectly good movie and a so-so career in one speech. I wouldn't be working without her. 'And thank you for our beautiful children, Banana and Burrito. They've given me a love and a soul I never thought possible.' The couple enjoyed a drink as they walked hand-in-hand to their seats at the star- studded show, which launches the fashion house's new jewellery collection Christian, who is well known for being a method actor who completely transforms himself for roles, credits his wife with his success. 'She's had to be married to so many different characters over our marriage I know it truly would be impossible to do it without her. She's such a good, strong woman.' He has also joked that his wife prefers some of the characters he's played over him. 'My wife definitely had favourites. She was like, "Ah, I miss him. He's gone. You're a d**k. I want you to be that character again,"' he told People. Christian is currently filming The Bride alongside Jessie Buckley, Annette Bening, Penelope Cruz and Gyllenhaal's husband, Peter Sarsgaard. 'A lonely Frankenstein travels to 1930s Chicago to seek the aide of a Dr. Euphronius in creating a companion for himself. 'The two reinvigorate a murdered young woman and the Bride is born,' the film's synopsis reads. Lauren Sanchez stunned as she joined her billionaire fiance Jeff Bezos at the star-studded Dolce & Gabbana show in Sardinia on Tuesday evening. The beauty, 54, and her businessman partner, 60, looked every inch the glamorous couple as they arrived at the high fashion event. Lauren showed off her gorgeous curves in a strapless black sheer dress which revealed her toned physique. The lace number featured pretty ruffle detailing and was cinched in at the waist with a corset-style top. She completed the look with platform heels and accessorised with dangly silver earrings to add a touch more glamour. Lauren Sanchez stunned as she joined her billionaire fiance Jeff Bezos at the star-studded Dolce & Gabbana show in Sardinia on Tuesday evening The beauty, 54, and her businessman partner, 60, looked every inch the glamorous couple as they arrived at the high fashion event Beside her Jeff looked dapper in a black suit and dark shades as he carried his drink with him. It comes after earlier this week Lauren wowed as she soaked up the sun in an ultra-mini white dress while on Jeff's $500 million yacht. The loved-up couple had been enjoying a relaxing and romantic getaway in Greece alongside the brunette beauty's ex-boyfriend Tony Gonzalez, his wife October, and a few of their other pals - including Kim Kardashian. And, the future Mrs. Bezos made sure to show off her sizzling physique while on the lavish vacation. Most recently, Lauren took to Instagram to put on a stylish display, wowing in a crochet dress with a series of cutouts that accentuated her trim waistline. The mom-of-three - who is engaged to the Amazon founder - paraded her fit figure in the tiny number as she held her long locks back in the wind. Lauren dazzled in the white dress, which featured a strapless neckline and a crochet pattern. She showed off her strong arms as she kept her hair from blowing in the wind. The former journalist opted for minimal makeup, which complemented her natural beauty. After the event she took to her Instagram Story to thank the brand for the 'most magical evening' It comes after earlier this week Lauren wowed as she soaked up the sun in an ultra-mini white dress while on Jeff's $500 million yacht The loved-up couple had been enjoying a relaxing and romantic getaway in Greece alongside the brunette beauty's ex-boyfriend Tony Gonzalez, his wife October, and a few of their other pals - including Kim Kardashian She showed fans that she was really was more in love with her partner and her life than ever before by captioning the photo with a simple heart. Her most recent snap comes after she touted her fun-filled lifestyle online. Over the weekend, the former journalist proved she was still young at heart as she jumped on a jet ski and rode the waves while sizzling in a gold bikini. The skimpy swimsuit put her ample assets on full display as she and Jeff had a blast on the shimmering blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Kim - who has long hailed Lauren as one of her best friends for 'life' - also joined the couple in her own jet ski. The reality TV star, 43, who was joined by TV personality Olivia Pierson on a separate jet ski, looked at ease. She slipped into a silver co-ord with a bikini top and biker-style shorts before stopping to pose up a storm for a series of selfies. Lauren and Kim have formed a tight friendship in recent years - with the pair regularly stepping out for dinners together, along with Jeff, who is also close with Kris Jenner. Just a few days before Lauren and Jeff's trip to Greece at the beginning of June, the former reporter put on another dazzling display as she and Jeff celebrated her eldest son's graduation from college. They were joined by the Gonzalez family, with all participating in a graduation photoshoot together, before heading out to dinner to honor Nikko. Lauren and Jeff (seen in May) have been island hopping on his luxury $500 million mega yacht Koru since the beginning of June - with Koru meaning 'new beginnings' in Maori The proud mom shared a montage of photos and clips from the festivities in a video posted to her Instagram afterward. Lauren and Jeff have been island hopping on his luxury $500 million mega yacht Koru since the beginning of June - with Koru meaning 'new beginnings' in Maori. Jeff's 230-foot tall yacht, which he commissioned in 2018, currently holds the record for being the world's tallest superyacht. The Koru is the second-largest sailing ship in the world. Senator Sarah Hanson-Young stunned onlookers at the Midwinter Ball in Canberra on Wednesday night as she stepped out in a see-through gown. The Australian Greens politician, 42, who was the youngest woman to be elected to federal parliament, looked stunning in the sheer black frock. Glittering beneath the light with diamantes, the outer layer of the dressed poured down the South Australian senator's figure and ended at the ankles. A second nude layer underneath hit her mid-thigh as she posed up a storm with her husband-of-two-years, executive director of The Australia Institute, Ben Oquist. Pulling her dark locks back into a glamorous up-do, Sarah matched her bold red lip with vibrant nail polish on her fingers and toes. Accessorising with a few staple pieces of silver jewellery, Sarah was all smiles as she cuddled up to her partner who looked dashing in a black tuxedo. Sarah and Ben tied the knot in 2022 when the South Australian Greens Senator took a weekend off during a busy election campaign to marry her 'best friend'. The lovebirds exchanged vows in front of 80 guests at Lobethal Road Wines which is less than an hour northeast of Adelaide. Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, 42, stunned onlookers at the Midwinter Ball in Canberra on Wednesday night as she stepped out in a see-through gown with husband Ben Oquist. Both pictured The Australian Greens politician, 42, who was the youngest woman to be elected to federal parliament, looked stunning in the sheer black frock Due to Covid border restrictions, the two families were unable to meet in person until the big day. Sarah donned a stunning strapless lace dress by Adelaide designer Alexis George for the happy occasion. Colleagues in attendance at the ceremony included Greens senate candidate Barbra Pocock, former Greens leader Bob Brown and member for Sydney Alex Greenwich. Glittering beneath the light with diamantes, the outer layer of the dressed poured down the South Australian senator's figure and ended at the ankles 'Because of Covid, my side of the family, the family who live in Victoria and Ben's side of the family who live in New South Wales haven't actually met until now, so it's a lovely bringing together of the two families,' Sarah told The Advertiser at the time. 'We've been friends for a long time and as the pandemic was hitting we kind of fell in love and it just happened. 'It was this beautiful transition from friendship into something more intimate and I feel like I am marrying my best friend. We just both feel so lucky.' Ben proposed earlier in 2022, while the pair were celebrating Sarah's 40th birthday on Kangaroo Island, after two years of dating. Gemma Collins jetted off to another holiday destination via a private plane as she posed with cabin crew in an Instagram snap on Wednesday. The TOWIE alum, 43, flaunted her wealth by flying on a luxury jet just days after splashing out on a 1000-a-night trip to Benidorm. Gemma boasted to her Instagram followers to 'never stop dreaming', while showing off her wealth. She looked incredibly glamorous in a strapless green top and matching trousers, teamed with bright pink Givenchy sliders and a Chanel bag. She captioned her post: 'Your thoughts become your REALITY. NEVER STOP DREAMING. you can have the life YOU WANT.' Gemma Collins, 43, jetted off to another holiday destination via a private plane as she posed with cabin crew in an Instagram snap on Wednesday The TOWIE alum flaunted her wealth by flying on a luxury jet just days after splashing out on a 1000-a-night trip to Benidorm Gemma boasted to her Instagram followers to 'never stop dreaming', while showing off her wealth It comes after Gemma took her followers inside her 1,000-a-night luxury presidential suite getaway as she soaked up the sun in the Spain. Gemma enjoyed some five-star treatment during her lavish getaway as she posted a clip of her lavish accommodation at the Melia Villaitana Hotel on Tuesday. The TV personality candidly admitted that because she is 'very lucky' and lives in a 'nice house' she 'only wants the best' rooms when she goes on holiday. Starting off her video tour, Gemma said: 'So guys if know about me, you know obviously I am very lucky. 'I live in a nice house so when I come on holiday my room has to be beautiful. 'You know this is what holidays are about. At home you do have to put the dish washer on and do you laundry. 'When you are on holiday you want the magic so lets check out this hotel room. I only like the best rooms. 'I could be in the most amazing place but if the room is not right its kills the vibes.' Gemma enjoyed some five-star treatment during her lavish getaway as she posted a clip of her lavish accommodation at the Melia Villaitana Hotel on Tuesday The TV personality candidly admitted that because she is 'very lucky' and lives in a 'nice house' she 'only wants the best' rooms when she goes on holiday Dressed in a lime green beach dress, Gemma looked thoroughly impressed as the hotel staff revealed where she would rest her head for the night As they opened up the room into a huge reception area complete with a grand wooden tables, Gemma was blown away After asking her hotel guide Jose if she could move in permanently, she then moved onto her private two-floor patio It featured a private jacuzzi, gorgeous sea views and a four-poster sun bed Gemma then wandered into her grand bedroom which featured a king bed The TV personality also shared a little tour through her large walk through wardrobe Gemma also shared snaps of the resort's shared pool alongside the the hotel restaurant Dressed in a lime green beach dress and with a coffee in hand, Gemma looked thoroughly impressed as the hotel staff revealed where she would rest her head for the night. As they opened up the room into a huge reception area complete with a grand wooden tables, Gemma was blown away. She then took her 2.2million followers into the living room and shouted 'this is what I am taking about, baby' as she revealed a large open living room with black marble tables and a flat screen TV. After asking her hotel guide Jose if she could move in permanently, she then moved onto her private two-floor patio. It featured a private jacuzzi, gorgeous sea views and a four-poster sun bed. She then wandered into her grand bedroom, which featured a king bed and a large walk through wardrobe. To end her tour of the beautiful property, Gemma showcased her large marble bathroom which came complete with a marble shower and bath. The reality star's lavish holiday comes after she opened up about her incontinence struggles amid fears her bladder will leak on her wedding day. Gemma is engaged to Rami Hawash for the third time after the businessman proposed during their idyllic Maldives getaway back in February Gemma is engaged to Rami Hawash for the third time after the businessman proposed during their idyllic Maldives getaway back in February. While she is excited to tie the knot, she spoke openly about her struggles with incontinence and plans for the big day in an interview with this week's new! Magazine. Gemma said: 'We need to normalise things like bladder leaks, I'm really struggling with it at the moment and I know others are too. 'If I get married, I'll get married in the woods. I want it to be earthy. And I'll be putting on a liner in my knickers on my wedding day because there's going to lots of laughing and tears and I certainly don't want to be leaking then.' Andy Allen paid a moving tribute to his old friend Jock Zonfrillo on Wednesday's episode of MasterChef. With tears in his eyes, the 36-year-old fan favourite announced to the remaining five contestants on the cooking show that Jock was his 'food hero'. Fighting back his emotions, Andy added that he learnt 'so much' from the late chef, who died suddenly in April, 2023 at age 46. 'When you first applied to be part of this competition you named someone that you considered to be your food hero,' Andy began. 'And all of you... you named a family member. For me, although I loved growing up on burgers, unfortunately, it's not my mother. But it's our late, great mate Jock. 'The time that we spent cooking in this kitchen and creating an energy where people like you could just reach for the stars and succeed with everything you do, I learnt so much about that from Jock,' he went on. 'He taught me so much more, probably, about being a good husband, being a good son, um, and hopefully, one day, me being a good dad. 'I miss him a lot,' he added as fellow judge Poh Ling Yeow wrapped her arm around him. Andy Allen paid a moving tribute to his old friend Jock Zonfrillo on Wednesday's episode of MasterChef. Andy and Jock are pictured at the Melbourne Cup in 2022 Fighting back his emotions, Andy said he learnt 'so much' from the late chef, who died suddenly in April, 2023 at age 46. It comes after Andy recently revealed what it was really like returning to the show for season 16 after the tragic death of mate Jock. Andy appeared on The Project in April and said that he almost didn't return to MasterChef this year, but is now 'so glad' he decided to push through the grief. 'It was tough. I didn't know if I was going to do it. I'm so glad that I did, I really am, but it was hard,' he told the panel. 'The first scene [of the show] is just me in the kitchen alone, all dark, just me... that got me going good.' 'I miss him a lot,' added Andy. Pictured: Sofia Levin, Poh Ling Yeow and Christophe Novelli Andy went on to say everything changed 'once the contestants came in, once the new three judges came in', and he found himself getting 'swept up'. 'It was just business. That whole MasterChef thing, the spirit, the passion, it just sweeps anyone up, and it did the exact same thing to me,' he added. Jock was found dead at Zagame's House hotel in Carlton, near Melbourne's CBD, at about 2am on April 30 last year. The chef was laid to rest in a private funeral in Sydney surrounded by 200 family and friends. Pallbearers included his wife Lauren and MasterChef co-host Andy Allen. Alice Evans' lawyers have accused her ex-husband Ioan Gruffudd of giving his fiancee Bianca Wallace $77,000 in just a single month while she was struggling for cash to look after their children. In bombshell court papers, Evans claims the Fantastic Four actor stopped paying him either child or spousal support in April. According to a court filing on July 1 seen by MailOnline, she claims she is in a dire financial crisis, behind on rent and utility payments and struggling to put food on the table for their daughters Ella, 14, and Elsie, 10. Meanwhile, she alleges Gruffudd, 50, and Wallace have been travelling the world and even recently bought new Rolex watches. A page from the court filing appears to show the $77,000 that Gruffudd is said to have paid out to Wallace in December last year. The biggest single payment is $53,760 - for a 'loan repayment'. It seems that there are three of them in the divorce battle, with Evans, 55, saying that Wallace made a 'completely false' and highly defamatory attack on her on Instagram in April this year. In the post, aspiring actress Wallace said she had been contacted by thousands of people who claimed Evans had abused or threatened them - declaring that she was going to 'stand up' to 'bullies'. Alice Evans pictured with her two daughters - amid her messy divorce from Ioan Gruffudd Gruffudd is pictured kissing his smiling fiancee Bianca Wallace in an Instagram post announcing their engagement in January Gruffudd paid Wallace $77,000 in December 2023, Evans says. This image from the court filing appears to show the payments in question Evans' lawyers argue this means that Wallace was in breach of a custody stipulation, which forbids either of them from being negative about the others in front of the children. Because their eldest daughter, Ella, has Instagram, her lawyers say this is a breach. In the papers, Evans adds that Ella was very upset when a school friend told her about the post and 'cried out she never wants to see Ioan again.' The documents say that Evans' lawyers emailed Gruffudd's lawyers to ask for Bianca's Instagram post to be removed, but received no response. They note that Bianca used the pronoun 'we' in the post, which implied that her fiancee agreed with her. It is also the case that Evans, after hundreds of outbursts on social media and elsewhere in the immediate aftermath of their separation in 2021, is subject to a restraining order which means that she was not able to respond at the time. The filing is an urgent request for funds. In it, Evans, who met Gruffudd on the set of the film 102 Dalmatians, says: 'As it stands, I have very little money coming in each month. I earn approximately $300 per month in royalties. 'I have drained all of my personal savings paying my prior attorneys in this case and paying for my expenses 'I have some personal property, such as vintage designer items, held in storage, that I could possibly sell, but they are in danger of being sold at auction because I cannot pay the monthly storage fee (Ioan stopped paying post-separation even though our daughters' childhood mementos are stored there.)' Evans, Ella, Elsie and Gruffudd attending the premiere of Show Dogs in Hollywood in 2018 Wallace, Gruffudd's fiancee, smiling in this Instagram post She adds: 'As it stands, I am behind on rent and utility payments, and friends have started dropping off groceries and food so the children and I can eat. I will be applying for food stamps and welfare. 'While I am struggling to put food on the table for our children, Ioan is jet setting around the world. Ioan could not appear at his noticed deposition for custody issues because he travelled to the UK. Since April 2024, according to his Instagram page and press releases, he has been in the UK, Cardiff, Sardinia, Rome, Spain, and Seattle. 'Based upon stories in the media, Ioan purchased an expensive engagement ring for his fiancee and they recently purchased new Rolex watches. ' She acknowledges she signed a prenuptial agreement in 2007 before marrying Gruffudd. It gives her 20 per cent of his earnings as spousal support in the event of a split, or 10 per cent if they have children. She notes: 'This provision punishes me for having children, which I contend offends the public policy of the State of California that both parents are to contribute to the financial support of the children, especially in this case where I now have 100% custody of the children.' At the time of the prenup, which is attached to the filing, Gruffudd said he had a net worth of 2million, and she had $40,000 in various accounts. The couple split up in January 2021, and in September of that year he went public with Wallace, who was an extra on the show Harrow which was filmed in Australia. It was only at the end of 2023 that some interim spousal and child support was settled. The agreed payment was $3,000 a month in interim child support and $7,000 a month in spousal support. Evans says that Gruffudd only paid the spousal support from December 2023 to April 2024 and has paid nothing since. Her lawyers say that he earned on average $21,000 a month in 2023, but during the marriage had earned between $500,000 and $1million a year. They claim that Gruffudd earns tens of thousands of dollars a month, per his tax filings, and that he also received 'approximately $390,000 from the sales proceeds of the home just in December 2023'. 'In this case, a disparity in access to funds to pay fees exists because Alice earns only a few hundred dollars per month, while Ioan's self-reported average monthly income on his Income and Expense Declaration filed January 24, 2024, is $21,023 for the 36 months ending December 31, 2023 and $18,264 for the 12 months ending December 31, 2023,' the legal filing states. 'Moreover, Ioan continues to get roles in movies, such as Bad Boys 4, which was just released this year. Ioan also received approximately $390,000 from the sales proceeds of the home just in December 2023.' Evans is asking the court to pay her attorneys and alleges that he has been paying two different law firms and a forensic accountant. It was initially understood that the financial issues would go to trial by April 2024 but that has now been put off to August. 'Alice is applying for public assistance because she is unable to support herself and the children,' her lawyer states in the latest legal filing. 'It appears that the financial trial will be several months away and Alice will not be able to survive without the receipt of guideline spousal support. 'Ioan has the ability to pay spousal support based upon his greater ability to earn income and his ongoing lavish lifestyle. For these reasons, Alice requests guideline child and spousal support.' The issue of custody has been settled, with both parties signing a stipulation two months ago. Following an evaluation by a child custody expert, which took several months, Evans was granted 100 per cent custody. Gruffudd had wanted a 50-50 arrangement. Her lawyer Janina Verano also says that since May 2023, Gruffudd has not seen the children outside of reunification therapy nor has he 'exercised his court ordered right' to have a telephone call with them three times a week. Reunification therapy ended in February this year. 'Ioan has not telephoned the children or returned their text messages since May of 2023,' Evans says. She adds: 'The children have been left in limbo and are completely confused about when or if they will see Ioan.' Through an order filed by her lawyer, Evans says that she does not agree to the sealing or keeping private of their stipulation, or custody agreement in its entirety, which is what Gruffudd has requested - accusing him of being 'disingenuous' in his request to seal the legal proceedings in order to 'protect the children'. Evans' attorney notes that Gruffudd 'did not seek to seal any of DVRO [domestic violence] pleadings nor any of the custody pleadings wherein he falsely accuses Alice of abusing the children' - calling out the fact that he only wishes to seal those proceedings in which the allegations were resolved. Evans was made subject to a restraining order by her estranged husband in February 2022 after she posted a number of messages about him and his new girlfriend on social media and allegedly sent him over 100 texts. One suggested: 'You've got your nuts stuck in her veneers.' She denied abusing or harassing him. The order was extended for three years in August 2022, and Evans was forbidden from posting about either Gruffudd or Wallace. In June last year, elder daughter Ella, then 13, applied for a restraining order against Gruffudd after a custody visit ended in chaos. She said: 'I was so mad at my dad because this was an overnight visit, and I had told him in the past that I didn't want to meet his girlfriend who was now his live-in girlfriend.' She claimed that Wallace had slammed a door against her head as she was running from their apartment after pouring milk and mustard around in protest. In publicly available documents she said that she was 'afraid' of her father and said that he had threatened to 'call the police on her anytime she misbehaves' during visits. The request for a restraining order was dropped in court by Ella, who faced her father's legal team. The couple married in Mexico in 2007 after meeting on the set of the Disney film 102 Dalmatians. Gruffudd's representatives were contacted for comment. Anthony Albanese's fiancee Jodie Haydon turned heads on Wednesday night when she stepped out at the Midwinter Ball in Canberra wearing an upcycled gown. The financial services professional, 45, and the Prime Minister, 61, arrived just before 7.30pm and looked every inch the loved-up couple as they posed for photographs. Mr Albanese appeared keen to avoid negative attention during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, opting to don a simple black suit, while Ms Haydon chose a glittering gown she last wore in public in 2022. Melbourne designer Lucy Laurita restyled the dress, which featured a plunging neckline, with sustainable fashion in mind. Ms Haydon once again looked sensational in the sequin showstopper she first wore at the 2022 Midwinter Ball. It comes just days after Ms Haydon was confused for Australia's new Governor-General Sam Mostyn during an embarrassing blunder by the ABC. ABC News host Gemma Veness was reporting on the swearing-in ceremony which took place at Parliament House on Monday when the mix up occurred. Ms Haydon walked out of Parliament House that morning alongside Mr Albanese to greet waiting media. Anthony Albanese 's fiancee Jodie Haydon turned heads on Wednesday night when she stepped out at the Midwinter Ball in Canberra wearing an upcycled gown. Pictured (L) in 2024 and (R) in 2022 But over the footage, Veness told viewers: 'We can see Sam Mostyn on our screens now arriving in Canberra for that swearing in ceremony.' A moment later, as the duo approached the cameras, Veness realised her mistake and corrected herself, adding: 'In fact, my apologies... that is in fact Jodie Haydon.' Later in the Senate, Ms Mostyn was seen smiling as she walked in just as the swearing-in ceremony was about to begin. The financial services professional, 45, and the Prime Minister, 61, arrived just before 7.30pm and looked every inch the loved-up couple as they posed for photographs Mr Albanese appeared keen to avoid negative attention during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, opting to don a simple black suit, while Ms Haydon chose a glittering gown she last wore in public in 2022 Melbourne designer Lucy Laurita restyled the dress, which featured a plunging neckline, with sustainable fashion in mind Journalist Gemma Veness confused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese 's fiancee Jodie Haydon for the woman of the hour, Sam Mostyn Last week the government passed legislation to provide the Governor-General with a $709,000 annual salary - $200,000 more than her predecessor. The reason for the $200,000 boost follows the constitutional requirement that the Governor-General's pay cannot be changed in the five-year term and is set in relation to the chief justice of the High Court's remuneration. The pay rise sparked outrage among the Coalition and the Greens for being out of touch during a cost of living crisis but ultimately passed through parliament without too much difficulty. On Monday, politicians from across both major parties filled the Senate to watch as Ms Mostyn, a known republican, vowed to 'be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty, King Charles III, his heirs and successors according to law'. Mark Wright and Spencer Matthews have teamed up for the first time on a new fashion campaign for Marks & Spencer. Given their names, the pair are an apt choice as ambassadors for the high street brand, who are keen to attract younger men to their fashion range. The reality stars, and former lotharios, described their surprise collaboration as 'the brand partnership you didn't know you needed' in an amusing video they posted on their social media accounts on Wednesday. Spencer, 35, joked: 'Ever since the first day I met you I've been thinking 'we should do an M&S campaign together.'' On the clothes they're modelling, Mark, 37, said: 'We wear it well, chose it well and this is for you.' Mark Wright and Spencer Matthews have teamed up for the first time on a new fashion campaign for Marks & Spencer The reality stars, and former lotharios, described their surprise collaboration as 'the brand partnership you didn't know you needed' in an amusing video they posted on Instagram Spencer joked: 'Ever since the first day I met you I've been thinking 'we should do an M&S campaign together'' Spencer added: 'Prepare for your head to spin clean off your body when you see all the clothes we have to show you.' Mark and Spencer are arguably the biggest stars from the reality TV revolution, starring in ITV's TOWIE and E4 series Made In Chelsea before carving out their own long-lasting careers. Their collaboration marks the latest celebrity brand ambassador deal M&S has launched following A-list star Sienna Miller's clothing range. A host of household names including Jamie Redknapp and Marvin Humes, as well as influencer and former Love Island star Molly-Mae Hague have recently been announced as new names working with M&S Food. Mark has previously been interviewed by Spencer, explaining he is driven by money and the fear of losing his fame and status following years of hard work. Spencer admitted he and Mark are equivalents, saying: 'We've had an extremely similar entry to fame, and I guess I'm the Chelsea version of him In Mark's words we were men that women just love to hate.' Before the duo settled down, Spencer with wife Vogue Williams, with whom he shares three children, and Mark, actress Michelle Keegan, they became known for their womanising antics. Mark dated the likes of former TOWIE co-stars Lucy Mecklenburgh and Sam Faiers while Spencer conquered the Chelsea set by romancing Louise Thompson and Lucy Watson. Their collaboration marks the latest celebrity brand ambassador deal M&S has launched following A-list star Sienna Miller's clothing range Before the duo settled down, Spencer with wife Vogue Williams, with whom he shares three children, and Mark, actress Michelle Keegan, they became known for their womanising antics Spencer previously admitted he and Mark are equivalents, saying: 'We've had an extremely similar entry to fame, and I guess I'm the Chelsea version of him' Mark married former Coronation Street star Michelle in 2015 and together the couple live in an Essex mansion they built from scratch (pictured September 2023) Spencer and wife Vogue met filming reality series The Jump and married in 2018, together the couple share children Theodore, Gigi and Otto (pictured October 2023) But after leaving their respective reality shows, the pair have evolved, both personally and professionally, with Mark presenting Extra TV in the US and starring in his own BBC travel series alongside his dad and brother, and Spencer launching his non-alcoholic brand CleanCo, as well as previously filming his fly on the wall show with wife Vogue. Spencer said: 'Having Mark and I working together is pure genius and makes me laugh every time I think about it. We've had a really good time collaborating together with M&S and this new activewear is amazing and everything I need from my sportswear.' Mark added: 'M&S is such an iconic British brand, and I couldn't be happier to be joining the team and working with Spencer... definitely another pinch me moment.' Savannah Chrisley has revealed the heartbreaking words her mom, Julie, uttered to her after her sentence was overturned as she begged her daughter to stay by her side. The 34-year-old has been fighting for her parents' freedom after they were put behind bars for tax evasion in 2022. At the time, Julie, 51, received a prison sentence of seven years when she was convicted of bank fraud and tax evasion, alongside her 55-year-old husband, Chrisley Knows Best star Todd Chrisley, who received a 12-year sentence. However, on Friday, a panel of judges from the US Circuit Court of Appeals reevaluated Julie's sentence and decided to overturn it. Now, Savannah - who has been acting as a bonus mom to her younger family members - has shared the bitter truth about the 'really big news' as she detailed how her mom's reaction 'broke her heart.' Savannah Chrisley has revealed the heartbreaking words her mom Julie uttered to her after her sentence was overturned as she begged her daughter to stay by her side In an episode of her Unlocked podcast, Savannah discussed the overturned sentence and shared an update on her mom's mental health. She revealed that Julie had an overwhelming amount of emotions surrounding her release. Savannah said: 'She's like, "I know you want to have your own life and I want you to do that, but for the first few months, you're going to have to stay with me."' The 34-year-old admitted that it 'broke her heart' to hear those words. Savannah noted that she wanted to make sure her mom's mental health would be a priority upon her release. She added: 'I have to let her process things. There's going to be a lot of things when she comes home that is not going to be easy and the PTSD that these men and women suffer from being in prison is horrendous.' The 34-year-old reality TV star revealed that her goal was to welcome her mom home for Thanksgiving after her seven-year sentence was overturned. She confessed that if her mom came home in time for the holidays, life would be 'so much better.' The 34-year-old has been fighting for her parents' freedom after they were put behind bars for tax evasion in 2022 Now, Savannah - who has been acting as a bonus mom to her siblings - is raving about the 'really big news' 'Now we sit and wait, hopefully, no more than 90 days to go for that hearing. Hopefully, she comes home. If she comes home, oh, my gosh, life will be so much better. 'I'm making it my goal that by Thanksgiving she is home.' Savannah also explained that she was worried about the heightened press that would surround her and her siblings once her mom got home. On Friday, a three-judge panel from the 11th US Circuit Court of Appeals decided to reevaluate Julie's sentencing. Initially, Julie was found responsible for the fraud scheme dating back to 2006, however, the judge has now ruled that there was no evidence of her involvement before 2007, partially exonerating her from the conspiracy, The Sun reported. Julie's case will now return to a lower court for resentencing, providing an opportunity for a potentially reduced prison term for her punishment over what the appellate panel called a 'narrow issue.' 'We're pleased that the Court agreed that Julie's sentence was improper, but we're obviously disappointed that it rejected Todd's appeal,' Alex Little, an attorney for the couple, said in an email message to the AP. She noted that Julie (seen with Todd in 2017) had an overwhelming amount of emotions surrounding her release Todd was sentenced to 12 years and wife Julie was given seven years behind bars, heading off to prison in January 2023 (the family seen in 2016) He said the Chrisley family was 'hopeful for more good news in the future.' The reality star couple was found guilty in July 2022 of conspiring to defraud community banks out of more than $30 million in fraudulent loans. The Chrisleys were also found guilty of tax evasion by hiding their earnings while showcasing an extravagant lifestyle. Todd was sentenced to 12 years and wife Julie was given seven years behind bars, heading off to prison in January 2023. Since then, Savannah has been raising brother Grayson, 17, and 11-year-old niece Chloe, while filming a new reality show with the kids, 27-year-old brother Chase Chrisley, and Nanny Faye. Blake Lively has expressed her undying attraction to husband Ryan Reynolds, nearly 12 years after they tied the knot. The 36-year-old actress took to Instagram on Tuesday to leave a flirty comment about her 47-year-old spouse after his Deadpool & Wolverine costar Hugh Jackman, 55, shared a muscley snapshot of him. The Canadian actor bared his toned biceps while wearing a white tank top during a break in the stars' Shanghai, China press tour. He pointed at the camera, with red and yellow purses set on a table in the background a subtle nod to the colors of his and Jackman's characters' costumes. Lively joined the comments to write: 'My thirst has been trapped.' Blake Lively expressed her undying attraction to husband Ryan Reynolds after his Deadpool & Wolverine costar Hugh Jackman , 55, shared a muscley snapshot of him on Instagram The 36-year-old actress left a flirty comment about her 47-year-old spouse; pictured in 2022 Lively joined the comments to write: 'My thirst has been trapped' Her playful note racked up more than 18,000 likes from amused fans. And Jackman joked in the caption to his nearly 32 million followers: '"You want me to put this away?' Ryan Reynolds, co-star, mouth breather, a**hole.' Keeping up their lighthearted banter, Ryan added: 'This photo is from my private collection. How dare you?' Taking to his Instagram Stories, Reynolds geotagged their location and added, 'You've brought shame upon my house.' On Wednesday the father-of-four uploaded a carousel of images on Instagram as he looked back on their time in China. Engaging his 51.5 million followers, he penned, 'Leaving Shanghai is bittersweet This was the first stop on the #DeadpoolAndWolverineTour. 'As we make our way to Korea, we want to thank the people of Shanghai for the incredible hospitality and warmth.' He added, 'Ive been lucky to visit China five times and as of today, the beautiful sights and sounds of Shanghai for a third time. Thank you from the heart of our bottom and thank you @theshanghaimuseum for the unforgettable tour last night.' Jackman joked in the caption to his nearly 32 million followers: 'You want me to put this away? Ryan Reynolds, co-star, mouth breather, a**hole' Reynolds and Lively struck up a romance in 2011, before marrying in September 2012 And wrapping up the capiton, he wrote: 'So excited to unleash #DeadpoolAndWolverine here July 26th!' In the series of photos Reynolds and Jackman posed with director Shawn Levy. Meanwhile, Blake was active on social media this week, sharing outtakes from her time in Italy, where she recently filmed A Simple Favor 2. Reynolds and Lively struck up a romance in 2011, before marrying in September 2012. They share daughters James, nine, Inez, seven, Betty, four, and a one-year-old baby. Jax Jones was left horrified after an Ibiza night out with fellow artists Jason Derulo and Joel Corry resulted in a humongous 22,000 euro bar tab. The English DJ and producer, 36, has been working with the musicians on their new collaboration track Tonight (D.I.Y.A). And it seems they have been getting into the party spirit amid the song's promo, after Jones took to Instagram on Tuesday to reveal the hefty bar bill they wracked up. Jones shared a carousel of pictures from over the last week, with the first a selfie of him, Derulo and Corry having some drinks after launching their song. But the tenth and final snap in the post was a picture of their 22,380 euro [19,000] tab, which included 51 bottles of Moet & Chandon and eight Dom Perignon Vintages. However fans weren't best pleased with the post, as they compared the astronomical bill to their wages for an entire year. Jax Jones was left horrified after an Ibiza night out with fellow artists Jason Derulo and Joel Corry resulted in a humongous 22,000 euro bar tab last week It seems the trio have been getting into the party spirit amid the song's promo, after Jones took to Instagram on Tuesday to reveal the hefty bar bill they wracked up Jones captioned the post: 'The last week has been such a buzz. Swipe to the end to see the bar bill Jason and Joel left me with. 'We launched a new song with Jason and Joel. Cheers! The bar bill from the first picture thanks Jason and Joel. Guess I'll be doing the dishes then.' Just days before the post, Derulo shared a video about the same mammoth bill, captioned: 'How it feels on a night out in Ibiza.' The clip showed Derulo raise his eyebrows when given the bill before passing it to Corry, who eventually handed it to Jones. 'Bro we're having the best time, so good to be here as friends,' Jones could be heard saying before the bill reached him. But as he saw the price, the clip went black and white as the trio's song started playing with the lyrics 'I just died in your arms tonight, didn't even try to escape. I just died in your arms tonight, I knew I should have waked away.' Replying to Derulo's video, Jones commented: 'How could you leave me with the bill guys??' Some fans felt bad for Jax being left with the huge tab and found the clip funny, commenting: 'Not it transitioning to the black and white colors to show the sadness. That honestly was the perfect transition for the song, love it!'; Jones captioned the post: 'The last week has been such a buzz. Swipe to the end to see the bar bill Jason and Joel left me with' Jones shared a carousel of pictures from over the last week, with the first a selfie of him, Derulo and Corry having some drinks after launching their song (Pictured in June) Just days before the post, Derulo shared a video about the same mammoth bill, captioned: 'How it feels on a night out in Ibiza Replying to Derulo's video, Jones commented: 'How could you leave me with the bill guys??' 'That's when u get up to use the bathroom,'; 'Jason had that look like the hell,'; 'Not even the soul was left to pay the bill.' However other fans were less impressed, and accused the You Don't Know Me hitmaker of 'boasting' amid the cost of living crisis. They wrote: 'I love your music but I dont think its so good to be boasting about how much you spent on a night out when people in this country are genuinely struggling,'; '19k, Jesus, that was my wages for the year last year and more than I will get this year, must have been a good day/night,'; 'When they drink the money we earn half a year in 1 night (angry face),'; 'That's lotsa champy and Prosecco for the two of them, cheeky,'; '51 bottles of Moet Chandon, 8 bottles of Dom Vintage, etc. That bill looks rather reasonable.' That wasn't the only slightly controversial part of the Ibiza for Derulo, after he was slammed for posting a fire on the island as a metaphor for returning to a 'toxic ex'. The Instagram video showed a cloud of smoke rising from a distant fire before Jason emerges from his palatial poolside accommodations with a drink in hand. Some fans felt bad for Jax being left with the huge tab and found the clip funny, commenting: 'Not it transitioning to the black and white colors to show the sadness' The clip showed Derulo (Pictured in June) raise his eyebrows when given the bill before passing it to Corry, who eventually handed it to Jones However other fans were less impressed, and accused the You Don't Know Me hitmaker of 'boasting' amid the cost of living crisis 'Fire,' he wrote beside the cloud of smoke with a skull emoji. 'Walking back to my ex like,' he added as he began to happily walk outside. One viewer replied with fury, saying: 'What's wrong with u? First before publishing you should think about the people who have suffered from the fire of a business in Ibiza,'; 'Second, the video is not funny at all and I suppose you have the conscience to apologize and delete it. I don't understand that a video has to be made about a misfortune like a fire to gain likes. I hope you reconsider.' Another fan informed Jason the fire was at a warehouse near the Ibiza Airport and claimed people had lost their jobs due to the disaster. 'Jason is not funny,' they said. 'The place that caught fire is called Citubo and is an important reference for the island. Many people have now lost money and jobs. A little respect.' Reality TV star Lisa Vanderpump has announced that her father John Vanderpump has passed away. The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills veteran shared the news on her Instagram page on Wednesday morning. There was a photo of Lisa, 63, posing with her dad outdoors in their native England. The image is several years old. 'I will miss you daddy Broken-hearted. Rest in peace,' wrote the Vanderpump Rules star and producer in her caption. Lisa did not say what her father passed away from or where he died. Her daughter Pandora Vanderpump addressed her grandfather's death in the comments section of Lisa's post by sharing a heart emoji. Gretchen Rossi shared two red heart emojis and two prayer emojis while Teresa Giudice said, 'So sorry for your loss.' Mario Lopez posted two red heart emojis. Reality TV star Lisa Vanderpump has announced that her father John Vanderpump has passed away. The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills veteran shared the news on her Instagram page on Wednesday morning 'I will miss you daddy Broken-hearted. Rest in peace,' wrote the Vanderpump Rules star and producer in her caption. Lisa did not say what her father passed away from or where he died Lisa is the youngest child of John and Jean Vanderpump. The family lived in Dulwich, south London, where her father worked as a creative advertising director. Lisa told the DailyMail.com several years ago: 'My parents gave me a great upbringing but they didnt give me anything financially, so Ive always had autonomy in my life.' This comes after Lisa has experience tremendous loss. In 2018, Lisa's brother, Mark Vanderpump, passed away by suicide at the age of 59. Her mother Jean died a year later in 2019. This comes after Vanderpump said in May she thinks Vanderpump Rules could end 'every year.' The TV star has enjoyed huge success with the long-running reality series, but Lisa fears that it could still end at any time. Speaking to Us Weekly, Lisa explained: 'Every year I think, "Oh, this is gonna be the last year."' Season 11 of Vanderpump Rules was dominated by Tom Sandoval and Rachel Leviss' cheating scandal. But Lisa is now keen to move on from the high-profile saga. In 2019, Vanderpump shared a throwback photo of an outing with her mother Jean (second from left) who died in 2019 and brother Mark (far left) who passed in 2018 The TV personality - who first found fame on 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills' - shared: 'We're taking a little breath here. I've got to open another restaurant. 'I think we're kind of done talking about Scandoval/Sandoval. So I think everybody needs to have it kind of all breathe a little bit.' Earlier this month, Lisa revealed that 'Vanderpump Rules' is 'on hiatus'. The reality TV series enjoyed a resurgence following the 2023 cheating scandal, but Lisa recently confirmed that the show has been paused 'just for a little bit'. This comes after Vanderpump said in May she thinks Vanderpump Rules could end 'every year.' Pictured during season one Speaking to E! News about the future of the show, Lisa shared: ''Vanderpump Rules' is on hiatus just for a little bit. Let it breathe. I think we were going around in circles for a little bit.' Lisa also confirmed that she'll be focusing on her business interests in the short term. She said: 'I have a restaurant to open in September, so I have to be full-steam ahead on that. 'I was away just before I opened Wolf working with Gordon [Ramsay]. That put a lot of pressure on us. I really need a couple of months to do that now.' What's more, Lisa is keen to take a break from the show for a short while. She explained: 'It's been a very busy year, three shows on the air and two restaurants to open. I wouldn't mind a breath myself.' Hollie Nasser has officially moved on following her high-profile split with investment banker Charlie Aitken, with the Sydney socialite going public with her new flame. Hollie shocked Sydney's well-heeled social clique in late 2021 after her affair with investment banker Charlie Aitken, husband of her best friend Ellie Aitken, was made public leading to a spectacular breakdown of two marriages. Complicating things further was the fact Mr Aitken was in business with Hollie's investor husband, Chris Nasser. But that all appears to be a distant memory now, with Hollie now loved up with IT company managing director Marshal de Saxe, who she has been with for more than a year. They were seen together at Derby Day celebrations last November as they enjoyed a drink together at the G.H Mumm marquee inside the Birdcage. Hollie told the Daily Telegraph that the pair had a 'strong connection' from the start and are 'still going really strong'. 'He's very smart, very kind, and all my girlfriends love him, which is good,' Hollie said. The mum-of-two said she had 'moved on' from her old social circles and was focusing on her family. Hollie Nasser is now loved up with IT company managing director Marshal de Saxe Hollie shocked Sydney's well-heeled social clique in late 2021 after her affair with investment banker Charlie Aitken (far right), husband of her best friend Ellie Aitken (second right), was made public leading to a spectacular breakdown of two marriages, including hers with husband hris 'CJ' Nasser (far left) 'I'm in a very happy place now. It was a horrific few years and they were definitely hard, but I think I've come out the other side a lot stronger and happier. 'I've got a beautiful life. I've got beautiful kids, beautiful friends, a beautiful partner.' Hollie and Mr Aitken's short-lived romance came to a halt in May 2022, with Hollie confirming the news in a statement. 'With regards to my private life; my focus is my daughters, I have chosen not to be in a relationship,' she said. 'Chris has always been a loving and devoted father. We are working together to co-parent our children. 'The past nine months have been very difficult and I have expressed my apologies to my family and others involved.' Hollie said the pair had a 'strong connection' from the start and are 'still going really strong' They were seen together at Derby Day celebrations last November as they enjoyed a drink together at the G.H Mumm marquee inside the Birdcage Hollie later embarked on a brief relationship with with finance executive James Hodgman, launching their romance at a racing event in November 2022. In a loved-up photo, the mother-of-two couldn't wipe the smile off her face as she embraced Hodgman and posed for the camera. But the pair's love was short lived after Hodgman was allegedly embroiled in an eastern suburbs brouhaha in February last year, which was understood to be the reason behind the split. Valerie Bertinelli just celebrated being six months alcohol free with her equally sober boyfriend, Hoarse Whisperings blogger Mike Goodnough. The 64-year-old former Food Network star - who boasts 4.1M social media followers - publicly announced her milestone on Monday after wiping her entire Instagram account. Valerie's 53-year-old silver fox commented on her post: 'Funny how we both just randomly decided to stop drinking only weeks before we met each other.' LA-based Bertinelli originally met Mike via Instagram before chatting on the phone and eventually meeting in person for the first time in his home state of New York. 'He's just very special. He treats me with so much respect and so much kindness and so much patience and I really want to show him that back, but you know it's really hard. He's amazing. He's a good man. He's an incredibly talented writer. I like soak up his words he's so talented. He's a god to me. I think I said too much!' the Indulge cookbook author gushed on the May 13th episode of The Jennifer Hudson Show. Valerie Bertinelli just celebrated being six months alcohol free with her equally sober boyfriend, Hoarse Whisperings blogger Mike Goodnough (pictured June 8) 'You know when you're happy and you just want to, like, share it with everybody? Yeah that's me now. I'm not going to jump on any chairs or sofas or anything [like Tom Cruise did in 2005]. It's totally surprising and not what I expected. 'I said this a million times while I was going through my healing for the last two years that I am more than happy I will be blessed to live my life with my cats and my dog. I'm very good alone. I like being alone. I'm really starting to like me, which has been a long process. Most of the time I like me, so I don't need that in my life. But when it comes along you just kind of go, "Okay I guess I'm doing this!"' Valerie's mention of 'last two years of healing' was a direct reference to her 2022 divorce from ex-husband #2 Tom Vitale, whom she paid a $2.2M divorce settlement to after acrimoniously ending their decade-long marriage. Bertinelli also suffered the loss of her amicable ex-husband of 20 years - legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen - in 2020 with whom she shared 33-year-old son Wolfgang Van Halen. The two-time Daytime Emmy winner also received congratulatory comments on her sobriety post from former talk show host Rosie O'Donnell, The Matrix alum Joe Pantoliano, Desperately Seeking Susan alum Rosanna Arquette, and The Color Purple alum Rae Dawn Chung. On Tuesday, Valerie pondered the idea of 'eating or drinking to numb/avoid the pain' in order to avoid 'developing the tools to make us feel safe in an unsafe world.' 'Maybe if you take away those numbing tools then you start avoiding feelings altogether because they're just too painful. You disengage, isolate,' Bertinelli wrote. 'When we don't allow ourselves to feel the pain, we can't allow ourselves to get to the other side to where we can feel the joy. It's just too damn scary to feel the pain. And what if that joy isn't on the other side? How am I supposed to trust that?! The 64-year-old former Food Network star - who boasts 4.1M social media followers - publicly announced her milestone on Monday after wiping her entire Instagram account Valerie's 53-year-old silver fox commented on her post: 'Funny how we both just randomly decided to stop drinking only weeks before we met each other' LA-based Bertinelli originally met Mike via Instagram before chatting on the phone and eventually meeting in person for the first time in his home state of New York (pictured June 7) The Indulge cookbook author gushed on the May 13th episode of The Jennifer Hudson Show: 'He's amazing. He's a good man. He's an incredibly talented writer. I like soak up his words he's so talented. He's a god to me' She continued: 'I said this a million times while I was going through my healing for the last two years that I am more than happy I will be blessed to live my life with my cats and my dog. I'm very good alone. I like being alone. I'm really starting to like me, which has been a long process. Most of the time I like me, so I don't need that in my life. But when it comes along you just kind of go, "Okay I guess I'm doing this!"' (pictured June 2) Valerie's mention of 'last two years of healing' was a direct reference to her 2022 divorce from ex-husband #2 Tom Vitale (L, pictured in 2014), whom she paid a $2.2M divorce settlement to after acrimoniously ending their decade-long marriage Bertinelli also suffered the loss of her amicable ex-husband of 20 years - legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen (R) - in 2020 with whom she shared 33-year-old son Wolfgang Van Halen (M) The two-time Daytime Emmy winner also received congratulatory comments on her sobriety post from Rosie O'Donnell, Joe Pantoliano, Rosanna Arquette, and Rae Dawn Chung On Tuesday, Valerie pondered the idea of 'eating or drinking to numb/avoid the pain' in order to avoid 'developing the tools to make us feel safe in an unsafe world' (pictured May 30) 'I believe there is always joy and relief on the other side. At some point, we just have to slay that dragon and trust that joy will meet us there because the way we've been going about it just isn't working anymore.' The One Day at a Time alum - whose sitcom pilot Hungry was not picked up by NBC - will next have a voiceover role in Disney Junior's 2025 animated series Robogobo alongside Cynthia Erivo, Alan Cumming, Ana Gasteyer, and Alison Pill. Valerie hasn't had an acting gig since concluding her role as divorced writer Melanie Moretti in Suzanne Martin's sitcom Hot in Cleveland, which aired for six seasons on TV Land spanning 2010-2015. Have YOU got a story? Email tips@dailymail.com Brad Pitt looked polished while arriving on set in London. The Fight Club star, 60 whose 32-year-old girlfriend recently expressed interest in kids together rocked a slightly unbuttoned cream shirt that teased his chest. He paired the look with matching jeans and tan boots tucked underneath. His dirty blonde locks were pushed to the side as the actor prepared to go on camera. The Mr & Mrs Smith actor accessorized with layered gold necklaces and sunglasses. This sighting comes two months before the eight year anniversary of his split from wife Angelina Jolie, whom he is still fighting with over custody of their six children, even though most of them are adults now. Brad Pitt looked polished while arriving on set in London The Fight Club star, 60, rocked a slightly unbuttoned cream shirt that teased his chest The scene for the untitled racing film was being shot at the Langan's Brasserie in the Mayfair district of London. The restaurant was turned into a Las Vegas supper club where Pitt's character attends a poker night. Pitt is set to co-produce the film and act as a retired Formula One driver who gets back behind the wheel. Production on the film began in 2023 and will include scenes from this season's British Grand Prix and Abu Dhabi races. As DailyMail.com previously reported, all 10 F1 teams will featured, including the sport's drivers and the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile. Actor Damson Idris is slated to play the Moneyball star's rookie team-mate for APXGP, a fictional team in the lineup. The cast also includes Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem, Tobias Menzies, Sarah Niles, Kim Bodnia, Samson Kayo and Callie Cooke. Formula 1 vet and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton who recently signed to drive for Ferrari had a hand in producing the project. It is slated for a summer 2025 release. He paired the look with matching jeans and tan boots tucked underneath His dirty blonde locks were pushed to the side as the actor prepared to go on camera The Mr & Mrs Smith actor accessorized with layered gold necklaces and sunglasses The scene for the untitled racing film was being shot at the Langan's Brasserie in the Mayfair district of London Pitt's sighting for film comes amid the Bullet Train star's ongoing bitter divorce from Angelina Jolie, 49. The Oklahoma's eight-year divorce battle from his estranged wife has been impacting his relationship as he and his current girlfriend are struggling to fully 'move on,' insiders have claimed. Brangelina's convoluted break-up looks set to last almost as long as the relationship that preceded it; the pair have been locked in a bitter legal battle since their shock split in 2016. Though the pair were deemed legally single five years ago, a contentious dispute dubbed 'the war of the roses' over their French property and winery, Chateau Miraval, has slowed down proceedings. Insiders claim that the actor is desperate to sever all ties to his ex for good in order to finally 'shake off' the demons from their marriage. 'Brad really wants this to be finalized more than anything,' a source told DailyMail.com exclusively. 'If it were up to him entirely, this would have been wrapped up a long time ago.' The former couple were married from 2014 to 2019 and shared a blended family with kids Maddox, 22, Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 18, Pax, 20, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 15. Pitt's sighting for film comes amid the Bullet Train star's ongoing bitter divorce from Angelina Jolie, 49; seen in 2014 They shared a blended family with kids Maddox, 22, Zahara, 19, Shiloh, 18, Pax, 20, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 15; seen in 2014 He has since moved on to the much younger ex-wife of The Vampire Diaries star Paul Wesley, Ines de Ramon. Pitt and the 32-year-old actress since late 2022 and are reportedly eager to let the relationship progress. An insider revealed: 'Brad wants to move forward with Ines, and he can't when he is technically still married to the mother of his children.' Twilight star Taylor Lautner's wife, Taylor Dome, revealed that she was left 'terrified' after recently discovering a 'hard lump' on her breast while in the shower. During Wednesday's episode of her podcast The Squeeze, which she co-hosts with her spouse, the 27-year-old influencer, who is also a registered nurse, revealed that she's 'had a few little health scares over the past couple months.' While washing her body, Dome recalled the frightening moment that she felt a lump on her boob. 'I kinda, like, paused for a second and was like, "Wait. What?" And then I pressed on it again and started to feel it. And there was this hard lump there,' the College of the Canyons graduate said. The discovery left her 'completely froze' as she stood in the shower 'literally thinking every single thought in the world.' Twilight star Taylor Lautner's wife, Taylor Dome, revealed that she was left 'terrified' after recently discovering a 'hard lump' on her breast while in the shower Lautner, 32, added that the lump was 'very noticeable' and said in moments like that 'of course, your mind goes to, you know, the worst.' 'Feeling something that is foreign in your body, especially there, it was terrifying, and I just kind of like immediately started bawling,' she said. Dome said she started 'sobbing' once she told Lautner, who knew something was 'wrong' before she even confided in him. 'When you told me, I was terrified but trying not to show you that I was terrified,' he said. 'I [didn't] want you any more worried than you were.' After going to a a breast center for an ultrasound, Dome said thankfully 'everything was clear.' 'The tissue can just, like, move around hormonally. It can change,' she said. 'It's still there to this day, and it hasn't gone away.' Launter said 'it's weird and scary because you can only feel it going from one direction.' 'It could have been there for who knows how long,' he added. During Wednesday's episode of her podcast The Squeeze, which she co-hosts with her spouse, the 27-year-old influencer, who is also a registered nurse, revealed that she's 'had a few little health scares over the past couple months' While washing her body, Dome recalled the overwhelming moment that she felt a lump on her boob 'I kinda, like, paused for a second and was like, "Wait. What?" And then I pressed on it again and started to feel it. And there was this hard lump there,' the College of the Canyons graduate said Dome went on to remind other woman to take this as a 'reminder to do the self-examination in the shower.' 'Breast cancer doesn't run in my family, but I've had a lot of cancer within my family, so I think that's why I was also very scared,' she said. 'It's also just important for people to know as hard as it is to know that it is very normal for that to happen.' About a month after the scare, Dome revealed that she found herself 'in a very depressive state.' 'I was not wanting to get out of bed period,' she shared. 'I did not wanna work at all. I was just aimlessly scrolling, aimlessly watching Netflix. I was having really bad anxiety attacks.' At that time, she said she was 'just laying in bed,' unable to move and 'crying.' Dome went on to credit her husband for sticking by her side and laying next to her as she tried to figure out what was wrong. Lautner and Dome tied the knot at Epoch Estate Wines, outside of Paso Robles, California, in November 2022, exactly one year after getting engaged The couple went Instagram official with their relationship in October 2018 'It had been a long time since you had like a bad anxiety attack like that,' he recalled. 'This was one of those where your chest feels like it's caving in. I've never had one nearly as bad as this,' Lautner said. Ultimately, Dome realized that she was exhibiting side effects from going off birth control. Although she had not actively planned on going off the pill, she said she was left without a current birth control prescription after her regular doctor retired. After two weeks of feeling unwell and not like herself, she realized that she was 'withdrawing' from her birth control, which she has been on for ten years. 'Once I've realized it, I slightly felt better about it [but] there was nothing I could do about it besides to figure out how to get back on my birth control,' Dome noted. The couple launched The Squeeze podcast, in which they speak openly about mental health; seen last month at The Cameron Boyce Foundation's Cam For A Cause 3rd Annual Gala Dome ended up contacting the doctor who referred her to the breast center about the issue and received a new prescription 'literally within minutes.' 'That was my one positive from my lump,' she mused. 'That was able to help solve the problem.' 'We're lumpy, but we're healthy,' she declared. Lautner and Dome tied the knot at Epoch Estate Wines in November 2022, exactly one year after getting engaged. The couple went Instagram official with their relationship in October 2018 and have gone on to launch their The Squeeze Podcast, in which they speak candidly about mental health. Jay Leno's dementia-stricken wife Mavis was seen sporting an apparent black eye as she was spotted with the host on an outing in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Late night legend Leno, 74, has been caring for Mavis, 77, and was recently appointed her conservator. Mavis - who wed Leno in 1980 - was seen with a dark bruise around her right eye as she was driven around in LA by her devoted husband. The dementia Mavis suffers from is so advanced that she sometimes doesn't recognize him and doesn't remember what her birthdate is, court documents found by DailyMail.com revealed earlier this year. The ex-Tonight Show host petitioned Los Angeles Superior Court in January to be appointed Mavis' conservator because her condition makes her unable to handle her own affairs. Jay Leno's dementia-stricken wife Mavis was seen sporting an apparent black eye as she was spotted with the host on an outing in Los Angeles on Tuesday Mavis - who wed Leno in 1980 - was seen with a dark bruise around her right eye as she was driven around in LA by her husband In a filing supporting Leno's petition, her court-appointed attorney, Ronald Ostrin, shed new light on Mavis's diminishing mental capacity that has brought sadness to the couple's otherwise 'perfect' marriage of 43 years. 'According to (Mavis') neurologist, Dr. Hart Cohen, she has advanced dementia, sometimes does not know her husband Jay, nor her date of birth,' Ostrin said. 'She has lots of disorientation, will ruminate about her parents who have both passed and her mother who died about 20 years ago.' Dr. Cohen - who was called in to treat Mavis after she had a car crash in 2018 - told Ostrin that Leno 'Loves his wife very much and wanted to bring this matter out of respect to her. 'He said that Mr. Leno is such a nice man and treats Mavis like gold.' Discussing their marriage at the Feminist Majority Foundation's 16th Annual Global Women's Rights Awards & Gala earlier this year, Leno told Fox News that he and Mavis are closer than ever. 'We've been married 44 years. It gets easier. It doesn't get harder,' he said. 'We do everything together. I go home every night, make dinner and sit around. We enjoy each other's company,' he added. Leno was affectionate with a beaming Mavis as they posed for photos on the red carpet, protectively wrapping his arm around her shoulder and pulling her close. The couple took the gala stage later that night, where Leno choked back tears as he said that marrying the philanthropist was 'the smartest thing I've ever done.' 'We have a lot of fun,' he gushed to the crowd. 'People say marriage is difficult. I don't get it. I enjoy her company. I enjoy taking care of her. We have fun. Leno was seen running errands with his wife Leno stepped out with his longtime wife Mavis at an awards gala for women's rights in Los Angeles in May 'We've been married 44 years. It gets easier. It doesn't get harder,' he said. (Pictured in 1981) 'She's the most independent woman I ever knew. Again, I just couldn't be prouder of her.' He added, 'I am part of her legacy and that's what I'm proudest of.' Mavis is a lifelong philanthropist and has been the chair of the Feminist Majority Foundation's Campaign to Stop Gender Apartheid in Afghanistan since 1997. Jennifer Garner showed off her toned figure this week as she stepped out in Los Angeles. The 52-year-old actress who is reportedly 'done' helping ex Ben Affleck and his wife Jennifer Lopez through marriage woes wore black leggings as she ran errands in Santa Monica. The mother-of-three wore a navy, crew neck, short-sleeved shirt with the activewear look, rounding it out with white sneakers. Her bouncy brunette locks were pulled into a ponytail and she wore round, black-rimmed sunglasses. It comes amid chatter that Affleck, 51, and Lopez's, 54, marriage has been 'over for months.' Jennifer Garner showed off her toned figure this week as she stepped out in Los Angeles The 54-year-old actress wore black leggings as she ran errands in Santa Monica Garner was spotted on a coffee run, sporting a black watch and wearing black earbuds. Missing from the scene were the three children she shares with Affleck Violet, 18, Fin, 15, and Samuel, 12. The Alias alum has made a conscious decision to step back from the 'circus' surrounding her ex-husband's marriage to Lopez, according to insiders who claim the ongoing situation has unearthed 'painful' memories for the actress. Garner and Affleck have been pictured together in recent weeks amid ongoing speculation that his two-year marriage is on 'shaky ground.' Insiders had previously revealed that she had been acting as a 'counselor' to the couple, desperately trying to help them fix their alleged issues. Sources now say the Elektra star has decided to remove herself entirely. 'Jen eventually got to a place where she was like, "Sorry, figure this out yourself,"' an insider told DailyMail.com. 'It was beginning to become too painful for her because it was bringing back so many memories of their divorce,' the person added. The mother-of-three wore a navy, crew neck, short-sleeved shirt with her activewear look, rounding it out with white sneakers Jennifer Lopez and Garner's ex-husband Ben Affleck rekindled in 2021 and married in a Las Vegas ceremony the following July, before throwing a lavish wedding at his Georgia estate in August 2022; seen in 2023 Jennifer was last seen in a video for her skincare line JLo Beauty Affleck and Garner were married from 2005 until their divorce was finalized in 2018. 'Throughout their marriage there were times when Jen felt like she was second to JLo even though there was no communication between her and Ben for years,' the source explained. 'She was surprised at how public he became when they reunited because he was always a man who wanted to be out of the spotlight when they were married. 'Jen opened up her home and her life to JLo because she had moved on from the past. She cares about JLo and cares about their kids and how it will affect all of them. 'But in the end, it is not Jen's circus, not Jen's monkeys and she is done playing marriage counselor to her ex-husband and his wife,' it was noted. DailyMail.com previously revealed that Garner, 52, was acting as a 'counselor' to ex Ben Affleck and Lopez as she desperately tried to help them fix their alleged issues; Jennifer and Ben pictured in June Garners withdrawal comes after DailyMail.com revealed her rumored fiance, businessman John Miller, 46, was tiring of how involved she was in trying to fix Afflecks marriage. 'John wants nothing more than for Ben to be okay, but it isnt his girlfriends responsibility to play babysitter to him,' a person close to the situation said. 'That is for Ben to figure out on his own and for his wife to handle. It isnt Jens responsibility, and he has told her this.' Lopez recently returned to the United States after a trip to Italy, where she was pictured spending time with close pals during a boat day in Positano. Lara Flynn Boyle is reflecting on her sobriety journey as her first film in four years, Mother Couch, is set to debut this week. She costars with Ewan McGregor and Lake Bell. The 54-year-old Twin Peaks actress, who was the subject of headlines over the years about her drinking, says those days are long gone as she got sober five years ago. 'Those disco boots, theyve had their time,' Lara shared with People on Wednesday. Back in 2018, the Daily Mail shared photos of Lara drinking out of a Johnnie Walker bottle while behind the wheel of her car in a Westwood parking lot. Boyle did not comment on whether those photos caused her to want to stop drinking. But she did allow: 'Some people are allergic to it; some people are un-allergic to it.' Lara Flynn Boyle shared she has been sober for five years. Without going into detail about what caused her to stop drinking, she told People: 'Some people are allergic to it; some people are un-allergic to it'; seen in 2017 Seen in the film Death In Texas in 2020. She is now starring in her first film in four years with Mother Couch The Wayne's World alum - who rose to fame as Donna Hayward on Twin Peaks in 1990 - also revealed that she has dealt with her own #MeToo experiences. 'Ive been in situations that were not called for,' Lara shared without naming names. 'Ive walked out of meetings and had repercussions for it. We all go through it.' Although those moments were kept private, the Iowa native's dating life was exposed throughout the years, including her romance with Jack Nicholson, the 87-year-old who is 33 years her senior. However, that relationship marked a turning point for Lara. 'I left with a bang when it came to actors. Then I went, "OK, Im done now."' the Baby's Day Out actress explained. After that experience, Lara found the one, marrying Texas real estate developer Donald Ray Thomas in 2006. 'I have a lovely marriage,' she gushed. 'We were together that night and ever since.' Despite all she has gone through, Lara has never considered leaving the industry. 'I never wanted to bow out,' she recalled to the outlet. 'Any moment I was feeling down or sorry for myself, I made sure I did not complain. My mom used to sometimes bring me articles about other actresses to show me Im not the only one getting a raw deal.' 'Those disco boots, theyve had their time,' the Twink Peaks star confessed, six years after the Daily Mail released paparazzi shots of her drinking out of a Johnnie Walker bottle while behind the wheel of her car in a Westwood parking lot The Wayne's World alum - who rose to fame as Donna Hayward on Twink Peaks in 1990 - also revealed that she has dealt with her own #MeToo experiences: 'Ive been in situations that were not called for. Ive walked out of meetings and had repercussions for it. We all go through it' For some, that 'raw deal' could include the industry's ageism, but Lara doesn't take it personally. 'The thing that gets my goat is when actresses talk about ageism in Hollywood,' Lara confessed. 'Ageism is human nature. Its not Hollywoods fault. Its all of our fault. Myself included. I like looking at pretty people on the camera.' But, the actress confessed that she doesn't enjoy watching herself on camera. 'If you want to call me Norma Desmond, go for it,' she quipped. 'Whenever I catch a reflection of myself in a lens, Im like, "Oh, cut."' However, soon enough, people will be able to see the Red Rock West star on-screen again four years after her last movie. The star doesn't view her return to the screen as a comeback because, in her eyes, she never left. As she put it: 'You dont want an article to read, "Boyles Second Chance" or "Look Whos Back." Im right here'; seen in Twin Peaks Lara landed the role in the dark comedy Mother, Couch, which hits theaters July 5. The film also stars Taylor Russell, Ewan McGregor, Lake Bell, Ellen Burstyn, and Rhys Ifans. The film's writer-director, Niclas Larsson, has been intrigued by Lara since he was a child reading tabloids at his mother's hair salon in Sweden. 'The only type of literature I was exposed to between the age of 5 to maybe 10 was gossip magazines,' he reminisced. 'And Lara was on the cover a lot.' So when Niclas wrote the script, he immediately pegged Lara as the chain-smoking daughter who has little patience for her argumentative mother's (Ellen) unfolding drama at a furniture store. Seen in Men In Black II in 2002 'Im like, "Whats up with Lara? Whats up with the excellent actor Lara Flynn Boyle?" I knew I needed someone who physically and mentally lived through something,' he said. 'I dont think anyone can imagine what it is like to go through what a lot of women went through in the late 90s, early 2000s.' Because the director does, in fact, enjoy seeing her on screen, he noted to People, 'Im putting her in every movie I make. Lets see how Mother, Couch goes.' 'You have to promote yourself,' the icon chimed in about managing expectations in Hollywood, 'but then you have to sit back and wash your hands of it.' But Lara doesn't view this as a comeback because, in her eyes, she never left. As she put it: 'You dont want an article to read, "Boyles Second Chance" or "Look Whos Back." Im right here.' Homes Under the Hammer host Martel Maxwell was left gobsmacked just as much as viewers after a couple revealed they had spent 1million on a house they've never seen. The presenter, 47, couldn't contain her shock as she learnt Doug and his wife Sophie made a colossal investment without having seen the inside of the Victorian property. Doug, who is a property developer and builder, chose to buy a four-bedroom home in Brixton but when the house went up for auction it had a guide price of 668,000. The property developer turned the place into his dream home after a spending a 908,000 staggering sum to renovate it for him and his beloved wife Sophie. 'We're going to move in here, a bit of an upgrade from the one-bedroom flat we're in at the moment,' Doug said. Homes Under the Hammer host Martel Maxwell (pictured) was left gobsmacked just as much as viewers after a couple revealed they had spent 1million on a house they've never seen Doug (pictured), who is a property developer and builder, chose to buy a four-bedroom home in Brixton but when the house went up for auction it had a guide price of 668,000 Digging deeper, Martel questioned: 'I'm guessing you'd viewed it and really knew that you wanted it to commit that amount of money?' 'We hadn't viewed it. We viewed it from the outside! I only knew about it the day before the auction,' Doug recalled. 'I definitely wouldn't recommend not viewing it but...,' to which the host replied astounded: 'It's funny isn't it, committing almost 1m without seeing it.' The investment didn't come without any obstacles as the builder revealed they eventually discovered some leaks in the roof - yet it would have 'taken a lot for him to be upset'. 'And nearly a million quid, I think that's the most egregious breaking of our Hammer golden rule yet,' the host added. Doug and Sophie moved into the Victoria property while works were still underway, as the builder began carrying them out himself. The couple captured viewers with their inspiring story about luck and destiny, and revealed it costed a total of around 75,000 to renovate it within a year and a half. In the end, they quite literally both reaped what they sowed as an estate agent revealed the property was worth 1.5m. The property developer turned the place into his dream home after a spending a 908,000 staggering sum to renovate it for him and his beloved wife Sophie The couple captured viewers with their inspiring story about luck and destiny, and revealed it costed a total of around 75,000 to renovate it within a year and a half (Doug and host Martel pictured) The investment didn't come without any obstacles as the builder revealed they eventually discovered some leaks in the roof - yet it would have 'taken a lot for him to be upset' Doug ultimately confessed they couple was already thinking of selling up the stunning property due to 'changes in working from home' Martel has been a presenter on the beloved property show since 2017 Doug ultimately confessed they couple was already thinking of selling up the stunning property due to 'changes in working from home'. The stunning episode comes after Homes Under the Hammer veteran Tommy Walsh has admitted he is 'happy' and 'not in any pain' as he shared a positive health update amid his battle with cancer. The TV star, 67, is currently battling the disease, which is just under his lung, but revealed he is nearly in remission. The presenter, who has previously battled throat cancer, said the cancer is 'slowly shrinking and disappearing' as he continues his radiotherapy treatment called SABR. Stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) is the use of multiple small radiation beams to deliver high dose radiotherapy. This is shaped to the size of the tumour and spares the surrounding normal tissue and organs as much as possible. SABR is most often used on small, well-defined tumours. For Tommy, the treatment has 'worked really well' as he continues to fight and beat the cancer. He told The Mirror: 'So I had to have this new treatment called SABR and what it is is radiotherapy which targets it to an exact spot without damaging the organs around it. So they used that and it shrunk. 'It is now not anywhere else. It is going away. Because it is shrinking it will shrink down to nothing and disappear. I will then just have to have annual checks. It has worked for me really well. 'They thought it was in the lung and then I would have been in trouble. Surgery would have been serious. So I did not want but we had that as a backup. The SABR treatment has worked and I am healthy so I have not been in any pain.' Love Island's Casa Amor bombshell Lucy Graybill was filmed getting cosy with an E4 star, just days before she headed into the villa. Viewers saw the blonde beauty join five other sexy bombshells heading into the main villa on Monday, while the girls were whisked away to Casa Amor. And while Lucy no doubt headed into the villa with hopes of finding love, she appeared to still be catching the attention of another male hunk before flying out to Mallorca. The Scottish retail boss was filming cosying up to Celebs Go Dating hunk Connor McGhee, 25, with sources claiming the pair enjoyed an on/off three-year romance. Connor previously dated Lottie Moss and Chloe Burrows during his appearance on the E4 show, and was filmed cosying up to Lucy in a now-expired post on her Instagram Stories. Love Island's Casa Amor bombshell Lucy Graybill was filmed getting cosy with an E4 star, just days before she headed into the villa The Scottish retail boss was filming cosying up to Celebs Go Dating hunk Connor McGhee, 25, with sources claiming the pair enjoyed an on/off three-year romance A source also told The Sun: 'Connor and Lucy were a thing for about three years on and off and were in contact just days before she entered the villa. 'The pair were dating before Lucy entered Love Island and things were starting to get serious for them. 'They planned to rekindle their romance and recently enjoyed a loved-up date in Glasgow. But things quickly fizzled out shortly before Lucy jetted off to Majorca to appear on the show.' Before heading into the villa, Lucy revealed she'd set her sights on two different hunks, saying: 'I'm not afraid to pull the boys. We are all there for the same reasons but I will go about it in a respectful way, staying true to myself. 'They have got to be good-looking but also need great banter. 'I like to wind my partner up and have some fun. I want someone who can be my best friend as well as my boyfriend. 'Ciaran and Wil are both my front runners at the moment so I am looking forward to going in there, getting to know them and assess the energy.' Since she entered the villa, Lucy has caught the eye of Will Anderson, despite him being coupled up with Uma Jammeh. Viewers saw the blonde beauty join five other sexy bombshells heading into the main villa on Monday, while the girls were whisked away to Casa Amor In scenes set to air on Wednesday night, it appears that Lucy's focus has turned back to Will, with the pair heading to the hideaway terrace for a private chat LOVE ISLAND 2024: MEET THE CASA AMOR GIRLS Emma Milton NAME: Emma Milton AGE: 30 FROM: Manchester OCCUPATION: Fashion Content Creator WHO DO YOU HAVE YOUR EYE ON IN THE VILLA? I had a brief thing with Joey a few years ago. Weve been friends for years and I would be open to reconnecting with Joey. We get on really well and we have a lot of mutual friends. I am also friends with Grace in Manchester, so its a little bit awkward. WHAT KIND OF ISLANDER ARE YOU GOING TO BE? I am ready to bring my fashion and looks into the Villa. Im a really good communicator and always ready to give good advice to help someone. ................................................................................................................................. Jessica Spencer NAME: Jessica Spencer AGE: 25 FROM: London OCCUPATION: Fashion Stylist WHO DO YOU HAVE YOUR EYE ON IN THE VILLA? I have my eyes on Ayo, despite his connection with Mimii. I fancy Ayo so much. Wil also seems like a catch and someone I want to explore a connection with. WHAT KIND OF ISLANDER ARE YOU GOING TO BE? Im funny, flirty, sassy and ready to find love. ................................................................................................................................. Diamante Laiva NAME: Diamante Laiva AGE: 21 FROM: London OCCUPATION: Natural beauty business owner WHO DO YOU HAVE YOUR EYE ON IN THE VILLA? Wil - he gives that energy like hes got something to him. Hes not opened up yet. I feel like hes waiting for me to arrive, he just doesnt know it yet. So hes been reserving himself. WHAT KIND OF ISLANDER ARE YOU GOING TO BE? I have so many different moods, I cant even describe to you what kind of person I am for starters. If I have a problem with something, whoever it is, Ill tell them right then and there. I dont feel the need to whisper behind someones back. ................................................................................................................................. Ruby Dale NAME: Ruby Dale AGE: 23 FROM: Surrey OCCUPATION: Social media content creator WHO DO YOU HAVE YOUR EYE ON IN THE VILLA? Wil seems kind and intelligent. He seems lovely. WHAT KIND OF ISLANDER ARE YOU GOING TO BE? I am going to be a very dramatic Islander, a very loud Islander and a very entertaining Islander. ................................................................................................................................. Lucy Graybill NAME: Lucy Graybill AGE: 26 FROM: Glasgow OCCUPATION: Retail Store Manager WHO DO YOU HAVE YOUR EYE ON IN THE VILLA? Ciaran and Wil are both my front runners at the moment so I am looking forward to going in there, getting to know them and assess the energy. Hopefully I can swoop in at the right time. WHAT KIND OF ISLANDER ARE YOU GOING TO BE? I am always honest and speak my mind but Ill definitely be someone that Islanders can come to for support. ................................................................................................................................ Ellie Jackson NAME: Ellie Jackson AGE: 22 FROM: Cardiff OCCUPATION: Senior Executive Assistant WHO DO YOU HAVE YOUR EYE ON IN THE VILLA? I have chatted to Ciaran in the past and am looking forward to reconnecting with him in Casa Amor. WHAT KIND OF ISLANDER ARE YOU GOING TO BE? I can guarantee I will make everyone in the Villa laugh but at the same time, I do have a fiery personality. My friends would say I am a little chaotic. Advertisement In Tuesday's show she also appeared to explore an interest in Ciaran Davies, despite his insistence he'll stay loyal to Nicole Samuel. And in scenes set to air on Wednesday night, it appears that Lucy's focus has turned back to Will, with the pair heading to the hideaway terrace for a private chat. Sitting on the swing with her, he reveals: 'I definitely feel a connection between the two of us.' Lucy replies: 'Obviously I've not had a lot of time with you, I don't think we've forced anything though' Wil agrees: 'No it's just flowed, hasn't it? 'You've made your intentions clear, but I like that. It's nice to know.' But as the two continue to get closer, what will this mean for Uma? The next day whilst relaxing by the pool, Matilda receives a surprise text which sends shockwaves through the Villa. What will the text read, and what will it mean for the Islanders? Love Island continues at 9pm on Wednesday night on ITV2 and ITVX. Lady Victoria Hervey looked elegant in a red maxi dress The Grand Prix Ball 2024 in support of Make-A-Wish at The Peninsula Hoteln in London. The socialite, 47, turned heads in the striped one-shoulder number, which she teamed with rose sparkling sandals. Lady Victoria embraced the summer vibe in the gorgeous look and added a chic set of pearl jewellery, including dazzling earrings, a necklace, matching bracelet and maxi ring. The model rocked a light blow-dry as she smiled gracefully while sitting on the car inside the event. It comes after Lady Victoria flashed sideboob in a sheer purple dress at the star-studded 55th annual TRIC Awards at Grosvenor House, London last week. Lady Victoria Hervey looked elegant in a red maxi dress The Grand Prix Ball 2024 in support of Make-A-Wish at The Peninsula Hotel The socialite, 47, turned heads in the striped one-shoulder number, which she teamed with rose sparkling sandals The star, who attended Cannes in May, protected her modesty with the dress' intricate green designs. Victoria's dress featured bounds of purple netting and she matched it with shiny dark teal leggings and pointy silver high heels. The famed It Girl, a star of the original celebrity run of ITV's Love Island, finished her look with a silver bangle. The Television and Radio Industries Club Awards, launched in 1969, sees celebrities come together to celebrate the achievements of online and on-screen productions. Earlier in May, Victoria put on a show-stopping display as she was captured chugging away from a bedazzled bottle on the red carpet at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The English socialite captured everyone's attention as she made a glamorous entrance at the premiere of the French animated drama The Most Precious Of Cargoes. She posed drinking from the lavish bottle, a customised edition from Judith Leiber's collection of Big Bubbles champagne bottles - which ranges in price from 390 to 4,680. Lady Victoria flashed a sultry look to the camera guzzling the luxurious drink, stopping to strike a few poses. Lady Victoria embraced the summer vibe in her gorgeous look She added a chic set of pearl jewellery, including dazzling earrings, a necklace, matching bracelet and maxi ring Earlier in May, Victoria put on a show-stopping display as she was captured chugging away from a bedazzled bottle on the red carpet at the 77th Cannes Film Festival She posed drinking from the lavish bottle, a customised edition from Judith Leiber 's collection of Big Bubbles champagne bottles - which ranges in price from 390 to 4,680 The former model didn't miss another chance to own the star-studded red carpet, dazzling in a jaw-dropping bejewelled gown. The show-stopping number was covered in countless gleaming rhinestones over a nude semi-sheer panel with gold sequinned embellishments. The incredible dress also presented stylish large shoulder pads, giving a touch of regality to her ensemble - and a split hem in the maxi sleeves which opened up graciously. Shannon Beador relayed an emotional apology to her daughters following her September 2023 DUI arrest. In a sneak peek of the Real Housewives of Orange County season 18 premiere, the 60-year-old star sat her girls down for a heart-to-heart, in which she tearfully apologized for her behavior. 'I'm so sorry and humiliated that I disappointed you. Like, what kind of example am I at 59 years old?' Beador said to the girls Sophie, 22, and twins Stella and Adeline, 19. She also expressed regret over not being able to visit Stella in Paris, where she was studying abroad, as she was not able to leave the country following her legal woes. Shannon pled no contest to her DUI charge, and the hit-and-run charge was later dismissed. Have YOU got a story? Email tips@dailymail.com Shannon Beador relayed an emotional apology to her daughters Sophie, Stella, and Adeline following her September 2023 DUI arrest in a Bravo teaser for RHOC In a sneak peek of the Real Housewives of Orange County season 18 premiere, the 60-year-old star sat her girls down for a heart-to-heart, in which she tearfully apologized for her behavior The reality television personality was sentenced to 40 hours of community service, and ordered to complete a nine-month alcohol program after the incident, in which she crashed into a home in Orange County. Shannon explained that a fight with ex John Janssen led to her getting behind the wheel last fall after she had been out drinking. In the seven-minute teaser shared by Bravo, she revealed Janssen had warned her not to drive, calling her a 'drunken idiot.' 'I got in an accident a second later because I revved up the engine so he could know how mad I was. And, I lost control of the car immediately,' she admitted to her three girls, who she shares with ex-husband David Beador. In March, David was charged with two misdemeanors related to a traffic stop; he was pulled over by Newport Beach Police for allegedly driving over 100mph on February 4. Shannon described her September DUI as a 'terrible mistake' as she addressed the arrest at BravoCon 2023 in November. 'It's been a tough six weeks, but I will tell you that I made a terrible, terrible mistake and I'm incredibly grateful that it didn't hurt anyone,' Beador told the audience at the time. She also said she completed '28 days of behavioral wellness' counseling with an alcohol specialist. Shannon shares her three daughters with ex-husband David Beador; pictured in 2017 Season 18 of The Real Housewives of Orange County will premiere on July 11 In an earlier season 18 trailer, released in June, Beador's co-star Tamra Judge accused her of 'not taking responsibility' for crashing her car into a residential property last fall However, in an earlier season 18 trailer, released in June, Beador's co-star Tamra Judge accused her of 'not taking responsibility' for crashing her car into the residential property while under the influence. After witnessing her former pal order a vodka soda, the 56-year-old reality star confronted Beador. Shannon begged Judge to 'stop' attacking her. 'I need to stop what? Uncovering your bulls**t?' Judge fired back. Kimberley Garner and Christine McGuinness were among the glamorous arrivals at the 2024 Grand Prix Ball at The Peninsula London on Wednesday. Ahead of the British Grand Prix at the iconic Silverstone Circuit this weekend, guests headed to the swanky venue for the charity event, with other stars including Sophie Hermann in attendance. Showcasing every inch of her incredible figure, Sophie slipped into a plunging white gown adorned with beaded detailing. The dress offered a glimpse of her ample cleavage, and boasted a gorgeous plunging back and matching scarf detailing. Kimberley's dazzling dress featured a pretty fishtail skirt, with the star posing alongside one of the famous cars as she arrived at the ball, which will raise money for the Make A Wish Foundation. Kimberley Garner (left), Christine McGuinness (right), and Sophie Hermann (right) were among the glamorous arrivals at the 2024 Grand Prix Ball at The Peninsula London on Wednesday Showcasing every inch of her incredible figure, Sophie slipped into a plunging white gown adorned with beaded detailing Meanwhile Christine flaunted her eye-popping curves in a dramatic bronze metallic gown as she posed for snaps at the ball. The mother-of-three exuded glamour in the plunging dress, that highlighted her ample cleavage. Sophie showed off elegant sense of style by arriving for the ball in a gorgeous white halterneck gown with a black spotted print. The Made In Chelsea star finished her look with thin silver hooped earrings, and swept her glossy blonde tresses into a sleek ponytail. Lady Victoria Hervey also cut a chic figure in a pretty orange striped kaftan dress, while Abbie Quinnen slipped into a plunging pink thigh-split gown. The British Grand Prix will once again take place at Silverstone on Sunday, with actress Hannah Waddingham set to perform the National Anthem. The Ted Lasso actress will take to the stage to sing God Save the King at the famous Silverstone racecourse on Sunday 7 July. In a statement, Hannah said of her upcoming big moment: 'Its the most enormous pinch-me moment to perform the National Anthem ahead of this years race. I feel deeply privileged. Ahead of the British Grand Prix at the Silverstone Circuit this weekend, guests headed to the swanky venue for the charity event, with stars including Sophie in attendance The dress offered a glimpse of her ample cleavage, and boasted matching scarf detailing The reality star also posed up a storm alongside one of the cars on display at the ball Kimberley slipped into a beautiful white gown adorned with beaded detailing Kimberley beamed as she posed for snaps inside the dining hall Meanwhile Christine flaunted her eye-popping curves in a dramatic bronze metallic gown as she posed for snaps at the ball The mother-of-three exuded glamour in the plunging dress, that highlighted her ample cleavage Christine's dress boasted a boned corset which amplified her tiny waist as well as a figure-hugging fishtail skirt She accentuated her dainty features with a glamorous bronzed make-up palette and styled her blonde locks in bouncy curls The charity gaga is held annually ahead of the British Grand Prix at Silverstone and this year will raise money for the Make A Wish Foundation Christine looked sensational as she posed on one of the cars at the event on Wednesday Sophie showed off elegant sense of style by arriving for the ball in a gorgeous white halterneck Sophie's gown had a black spotted print and she paired with silver hoop earrings The former Made In Chelsea star was also seen twirling her gown during the event Sophie is seen posing on one of the cars during the event Lady Victoria Hervey showed off her chic sense of style in an orange kaftan dress with a delicate striped print The socialite teamed her look with thin-strapped silver heels as she posed for snaps Abbie Quinnen showed off her svelte physique in a plunging magenta dress, with a revealing thigh-split skirt The dancer's look highlighted every inch of her incredible figure The atmosphere and excitement at Silverstone for the British Grand Prix last year was utterly electric and I cant wait to be a part of it again. I am immensely proud of my British roots and I will remember this honour all my life.' The Emmy winner added went on to pledge her support for British drivers Lewis Hamilton, George Russell and Lando Norris. She said: ''Ill of course be cheering on our British drivers - The mighty Lewis, George and Lando Cmon Chaps! Lets DO this!' Hannah will certainly be in good company at the event as the four-day festival line-up will also see rockers Kings Of Leon will open proceedings on Thursday. British rapper Stormzy will headline on Friday, while on Saturday, fans will be for a treat when Pete Tong presents Ibiza Classics with Jules Buckley and The Essential Orchestra. Other performers during the four-day event at the home of British motorsport include he Snuts, Self Esteem, Jordss, Ghetts, Anna De Ferran and Arielle Free. Performer Hannah has previously starred in West End musicals like The Wizard of Oz, A Little Night Music and Into the Woods before finding global fame on Apple TV's Ted Lasson. She also currently stars in Universal Pictures' The Fall Guy and Sonys The Garfield Movie, with the latter seeing her revisit her singing days with her performance of the track I'm Back. Kimberley recently showed her mystery ex-boyfriend what he's missing with a set of sizzling hot swimwear snaps after revealing that she had 'just broken up with someone'. The star - who is expanding her range to include a line for men - confirmed her relationship status at the screening of The Idea Of You at the Ham Yard Hotel in Soho, London. Abbie's dress also includes sexy side cut-outs to accentuate her figure Victoria Brown slipped into an elegant lace gown with a pretty V-neck Sarah-Jane Crawford dazzled in a black fishtail gown adorned with sequins The radio presenter's gown sparked as she arrived at the event Sarah-Jane swept her brunette tresses into a sleek bun, and she finished her look with a statement red lip Melly Myers cut a fashionable figure in a polka dot dress paired with a black YSL clutch bag She told Eden Confidential: 'I've just broken up with someone. Right decision and I am in a really good place.' Kimberley's last known romance began in summer 2023, when it was revealed that she was going out with financier Andreas Anthis. The star was spotted for the first time with Andreas last July, as they packed on the PDA while walking her dog Sasha in London. The reality star previously dated her MIC co-star Richard Dinan. Since finding fame on the show in 2012, Kimberley has made a name for herself as a successful swimsuit brand entrepreneur. She recently spoke about how the lengths she had to go to in order for her business to be taken seriously. The designer told MailOnline: 'I think people sometimes think that Im only the face, but I am responsible for every bit of the business.' 'I was 18 when I started my first company - I came up with an idea, stayed up for days learning how to register the company and teaching myself. It became very successful overnight.' Kimberley went on: 'However, as I was only 18, no one ever imagined it was mine. I was a young blonde girl with a soft voice. 'So, I pretended to be the Intern! I handled all the meetings, phone calls, and emails for the company. She finished: 'When it became a success, I put all the revenues into starting Kimberley London.' Newly single Kelly Bensimon appeared in high spirits as she stepped out in New York City after making the shock decision to call off her wedding to with Scott Litner. Just two weeks after cancelling her nuptials at the last minute, the Real Housewives of New York alum, 56, beamed as she flashed a smile at onlookers while heading to the gym. For the laid-back outing, the former Editor of Elle Accessories sported a pair of oversized black sunglasses, a grey crop top and a pair of tiny black shorts. She completed her sporty look with a crossbody purse, gold watch, coordinating bangles, sneakers and her long light brown hair styled in loose waves. The reality star called off her nuptials to fiance Scott Litner just four days before she was set to walk down the aisle on June 29. Newly single Kelly Bensimon appeared in high spirits as she stepped out in New York City after making the shock decision to call off her wedding to with Scott Litner In a statement to Page Six last Tuesday, the former reality star said: 'I have decided that my two daughters are my priority and I wont be moving forward with this wedding.' She has since revealed that her decision was due to Scott's refusal to sign a prenup, which she called 'the ultimate red flag.' But Scott reportedly believes this is an 'excuse.' 'Scott still wants to marry Kelly and though it will not happen in a few days as originally expected, he believes they can get back to a place where it does happen,' a source told DailyMail.com. 'He is upset for a multitude of reasons. So many wheels were in motion for the wedding, it was going to be a very special day and now that isn't happening.' But Scott reportedly believes this is an 'excuse.' 'Scott still wants to marry Kelly and though it will not happen in a few days as originally expected, he believes they can get back to a place where it does happen,' a source told DailyMail.com. 'He is upset for a multitude of reasons. So many wheels were in motion for the wedding, it was going to be a very special day and now that isn't happening.' The 56-year-old Real Housewives of New York alum called off her nuptials to fiance Scott Litner just four days before she was set to walk down the aisle on June 29 She has since revealed that her decision was due to Scott's refusal to sign a prenup, which she called 'the ultimate red flag' (seen with Litner) They continued: 'Though Kelly mentioned the reason being the lack of a prenup, Scott feels that is just an excuse and that it had to be something else. 'He is looking to figure out where it went wrong and is looking to right any of this. 'Scott didn't want a prenup because he considers himself more traditional, and having a prenup makes it feel to him that you are already putting a damper on a lifelong relationship. He didn't want to make the marriage a business deal.' The insider explained that those closest to Scott and Kelly had been left stunned by the recent turn of events. 'Friends were actually surprised and thought everything was going well with the two,' the source explained. 'So for any type of strain in their relationship that may have been going on, friends didn't see this coming at all.' Bensimon kept her mind off her cancelled wedding by taking a family trip to the Hamptons on Saturday A source close to Kelly then told People that she is now taking time to focus on herself. Just one day later, she told Us Weekly: 'I haven't come this far in business and life to start making poor decisions because of a man. 'He of all people should have understood the need to protect each other before we tied the knot. I'm truly shocked he refused a prenup.' The reality star, who has a reported net worth of $10million, said that Scott, who is a wealth advisor, 'thought that I would enter this union without legal protections in place, that I would leave everything to faith.' The reality television personality and financier had been preparing for an intimate June 29 ceremony. Kelly and Scott were supposed to have two ceremonies a backyard wedding in Boston for their closest loved ones followed by a larger party in the Hamptons. The couple got engaged last summer over Fourth of July weekend, when the financier popped the question on a trip to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, where she vacationed as a child. The reality television personality and financier had been preparing for a June 29 ceremony; pictured with Scott in February Kelly was famously previously married to Gilles Bensimon, the famed photographer, from 1997 to 2006 and they share daughters Sea, 26, and Teddy, 23. Meanwhile, Scott has been married twice and also has children. The businessman proposed on a speedboat while she was clad in a bikini, catching her completely off guard. 'Scott proposed to me, literally in Wisconsin near where I was raised,' she told DailyMail.com. 'I was raised in Rockford, Illinois, and he proposed to me in Lake Geneva Wisconsin.' Ellen DeGeneres chose not to address her fans before quietly canceling four scheduled shows in Dallas, San Francisco, Seattle, and Chicago on her 32-date comeback tour Ellen's Last Stand... Up. 'Unfortunately, the Event Organizer has had to cancel your event,' Ticketmaster informed customers on Wednesday. 'You don't need to do a thing. We'll issue a refund to the original method of payment used at time of purchase, as soon as funds are received from the Event Organizer. 'It should appear on your account within 14-21 days. Please Note: If the tickets were transferred to you, the refund will go to the fan who originally purchased the tickets from Ticketmaster.' The 66-year-old controversial comedian's cancellations came hours after SF Gate homepage editor Gabe Lehman published his detailed review of her show Monday night at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa, CA. Ellen DeGeneres chose not to address her fans before quietly canceling four scheduled shows in Dallas, San Francisco, Seattle, and Chicago on her 32-date comeback tour Ellen's Last Stand... Up Ticketmaster informed customers on Wednesday: 'Unfortunately, the Event Organizer has had to cancel your event' 'Let me catch you up on what's been going on with me since you last saw me,' Ellen told the audience. 'I got chickens. Oh yeah, and I got kicked out of show business for being mean.' DeGeneres added: 'I used to say, "I don't care what people say about me." Now I realize I said that during the height of my popularity.' The 34-time Emmy winner noted how the first time she was 'kicked out of show business' it was for coming out as a lesbian in 1997. 'Next time, I'll be kicked out for being old. Old, gay and mean, the triple crown,' Ellen - who said her intention was never to hurt anyone - wisecracked. 'I can be demanding and impatient and tough. I am a strong woman. I am many things, but I am not mean.' DeGeneres' scandal was sparked by a single tweet penned by comedian Kevin T. Porter in March 2020 asking people for the 'most insane stories you've heard about Ellen being mean,' which amassed 2,600 replies. Four months later, BuzzFeed News published an expose featuring one current and 10 former employees of the Louisiana-born funnywoman's former self-titled daytime talk show alleging racism, workplace bullying, and sexual harassment. The 66-year-old controversial comedian's cancellations came hours after SF Gate homepage editor Gabe Lehman published his detailed review of her show Monday night at the Luther Burbank Center for the Arts in Santa Rosa, CA (pictured February 17) Ellen - who lamented over being 'kicked out of show business' twice - claimed to the crowd: 'I can be demanding and impatient and tough. I am a strong woman. I am many things, but I am not mean' DeGeneres' scandal was sparked by a single tweet penned by comedian Kevin T. Porter in March 2020 asking people for the 'most insane stories you've heard about Ellen being mean,' which amassed 2,600 replies Four months later, BuzzFeed News published an expose featuring one current and 10 former employees of the Louisiana-born funnywoman's former self-titled daytime talk show alleging racism, workplace bullying, and sexual harassment (pictured in 2022) By August 2020, WarnerMedia had launched an internal investigation, Ellen had issued a formal apology to her 255 employees, and (from L-R) executive producers Jonathan Norman, Kevin Leman, and Ed Glavin were all fired from the show DeGeneres - who also apologized to fans on air - broadcast her final episode of The Ellen DeGeneres Show on May 26, 2022 after 19 seasons When fans in the crowd of the three-time Grammy nominee's Monday show asked her if she had any plans to star on 'Broadway or movies' she dismissively scoffed: 'Um, no. This is the last time you're going to see me. After my Netflix special, I'm done' Ellen famously voiced the forgetful fish Dory in Pixar films Finding Nemo (2003) and Finding Dory (2016) as well as the DVD special feature Exploring the Reef with Jean-Michel Cousteau (2003) - and one fan begged her for another she stated: 'No, I'm going bye-bye, remember?' DeGeneres is next scheduled to perform on Monday at the Paramount Theatre in Denver, CO And on August 16, the Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient and her wife - retired actress Portia DeGeneres (R, pictured February 14) - will celebrate their 16th wedding anniversary By August 2020, WarnerMedia had launched an internal investigation, Ellen had issued a formal apology to her 255 employees, and executive producers Ed Glavin, Kevin Leman, and Jonathan Norman were all fired from the show. DeGeneres - who also apologized to fans on air - broadcast her final episode of The Ellen DeGeneres Show on May 26, 2022 after 19 seasons. When fans in the crowd of the three-time Grammy nominee's Monday show asked her if she had any plans to star on 'Broadway or movies' she dismissively scoffed: 'Um, no.' 'This is the last time you're going to see me. After my Netflix special, I'm done,' Ellen said of her upcoming one-hour show taping this fall. DeGeneres famously voiced the forgetful fish Dory in Pixar films Finding Nemo (2003) and Finding Dory (2016) as well as the DVD special feature Exploring the Reef with Jean-Michel Cousteau (2003) - and one fan begged her for another. 'No,' the Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient dismissed. 'I'm going bye-bye, remember?' Ellen is next scheduled to perform on Monday at the Paramount Theatre in Denver, CO. And on August 16, DeGeneres and her wife - retired actress Portia DeGeneres - will impressively celebrate their 16th wedding anniversary. Have YOU got a story? Email tips@dailymail.com Tom Cruise was in high spirits as he made a rare appearance with his sister Marian on his 62nd birthday on Wednesday. The actor had been filming scenes for the long-awaited sequel Mission Impossible 8 at Longcross Studios and was boarding his helicopter in Battersea with his sibling. Tom was joined by Mission Impossible director Christopher McQuarrie and his wife Heather to board the chopper after another day's work on the film. Marian was equally happy as she made her way along the landing pad, cutting a relaxed figure in a black padded jacket and matching loose trousers. Tom has three sisters, Marian, Lee-Ann and Cass, and the actor has remained close to all of his siblings throughout his life. Their mother Mary Lee died in 2017. Tom Cruise was in high spirits as he made a rare appearance with his sister Marian on his 62nd birthday on Wednesday The actor had been filming scenes for the long-awaited sequel Mission Impossible 8 at Longcross Studios and was boarding his helicopter in Battersea with his sibling (pictured) Tom offered a brief wave as he jumped into the chopper after another day of filming In a 2006 interview with Parade magazine, Tom detailed the abuse he endured growing up from his father Thomas Cruise Mapother III, who died in 1984. He said Thomas 'was a bully and a coward... the kind of person where, if something goes wrong, they kick you. It was a great lesson in my life - how he'd lull you in, make you feel safe and then, bang!' He added: 'For me, there's something wrong with this guy. Don't trust him. Be careful around him. There's that anxiety.' The sighting also comes just days after Tom also enjoyed a rare outing with his son Connor, who he shares with his ex-wife Nicole Kidman. Cruise and Kidman tied the knot in 1990 with their divorce being finalized in 2001. During the course of their marriage, the pair adopted two children: Connor and Isabella, 31. Tom and Nicole adopted their daughter Isabella when she was born in December 1992, and three years later, also adopted Connor at birth in January 1995. During a past interview with Vanity Fair in 2007, the Moulin Rouge actress opened up about the decision to adopt after suffering a miscarriage. 'From the minute Tom and I were married, I wanted to have babies. And we lost a baby early on, so that was really very traumatic. And that's when we would adopt Bella.' Marian was equally happy as she made her way along the landing pad, cutting a relaxed figure in a black padded jacket and matching loose trousers Tom was joined by Mission Impossible director Christopher McQuarrie and his wife Heather to board the chopper after another day's work on the film As the Mission Impossible star turned 62 on Wednesday, he flashed his famous smile as he prepared to board the helicopter Tom has three sisters, Marian, Lee-Ann and Cass, and the actor has remained close to all of his siblings throughout his life. Their mother Mary Lee died in 2017 Tom's sisters have previously supported him throughout his career (Marian ,far left and Tom's mother Mary Lee, right, are pictured in 2007) In a 2006 interview with Parade magazine, Tom detailed the abuse he endured growing up from his father Thomas Cruise Mapother III, who died in 1984 The sighting also comes just days after Tom also enjoyed a rare outing with his son Connor, who he shares with his ex-wife Nicole Kidman Cruise and Kidman tied the knot in 1990 with their divorce being finalized in 2001. During the course of their marriage, the pair adopted two children: Connor (pictured) and Isabella, 31 While Cruise seemingly still has close relationships with Isabella and Connor, the actor notably has a strained relationship with daughter, Suri, 18 It was recently revealed that Suri dropped the surname of Cruise amidst her estrangement from father, Tom Cruise Kidman added, 'There's a complicated background to that, given that I never speak much about many things. One day maybe that story will be told.' Both Isabella and Connor have followed in their father's footsteps and also became Scientologists, which Nicole opened up about during an interview with the Australian publication, Who, in 2018. 'They are adults. They are able to make their own decisions. They have made choices to be Scientologists and as a mother, it's my job to love them.' Connor has also previously gushed about his mother while talking to Woman's Day back in 2014. 'I love my mum.' 'I don't care what people say, I know that me and mum are solid. I love her a lot. My family means everything.' While Cruise seemingly still has close relationships with Isabella and Connor, the actor notably has a strained relationship with daughter, Suri, 18 - whom he welcomed with Katie Holmes. It was also recently revealed that Suri dropped the surname of Cruise amidst her estrangement from father, Tom Cruise. The 18-year-old notably graduated from high school earlier this month - and now goes by the name of Suri Noelle, which also happens to be her mother, Katie's, middle name. In the teen's school production of The Addams Family: A New Musical late last year in December, she was also credited as Suri Noelle rather than Suri Cruise. Katie and Tom tied the knot in 2006, one year after they welcomed their daughter. However, their divorce was finalized in 2012. A source told DailyMail.com earlier this year in April that the Top Gun: Maverick actor 'does not exist' to Suri - who is headed to Pittsburgh's Carnegie Mellon University in the fall. 'Suri will not have any contact with her father, despite being 18, and even if he called, she would not answer.' The insider added, 'He does not exist to Katie or Suri, and his daughter does not want to rely on him for anything. She feels that she has one parent and that is her mother.' And in March of last year, a separate source told DailyMail.com that Cruise 'has no part in her life.' Shortly after Tom's latest outing with his son, Connor, the Top Gun: Maverick actor was seen having a blast at Glastonbury on Saturday. He was joined by his Mission Impossible co-star, Simon Pegg, as well as X-Files actress Gillian Anderson as they watched Coldplay's set during the festivities. As the Modi Govt navigates a new power dynamic, the increased presence and assertiveness of the Opposition suggest a challenging path ahead The 18th Lok Sabha has the potential for positive functioning. The Modi government said they wanted consensus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought agreement and criticised the Opposition for causing problems. Modi stated that in his third term, his Government would aim to build consensus. The Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, also emphasised the importance of the Opposition's role in representing the 'voice of the people' in the House. But at the start of the session, they couldn't agree on important issues. Congress leader Sonia Gandhi wrote in an editorial recently in an English daily that Prime Minister Narendra Mod was "Preaching consensus, provoking confrontation." Sonia Gandhi criticised Prime Minister Modi for not acknowledging the electoral outcome and for promoting confrontation over consensus. She expressed disappointment with the first few days of the 18th Lok Sabha, pointing out that there's no sign of a changed attitude from the Prime Minister. The 18th Lok Sabha is a significant shift in Indian politics, marking the first time in a decade that Modi is leading a Parliament from a less dominant position. This shift in power dynamics requires him to navigate a coalition and contend with a more assertive opposition. The Modi government now relies on crucial support from two key allies - JD(U) and TDP. This means the NDA allies could significantly influence the Government's plans and actions, a departure from the substantial majority the BJP enjoyed in 2019 and 2014. The increased presence of the Opposition in various parliamentary panels is likely to generate greater engagement. The first session of the current Lok Sabha began with a strong Opposition asserting its rights. Before the session started, there was a dispute over the appointment of BJD M.P Bhartruhari Mahtab as the pro-tem Speaker to administer. The Congress and the INDIA bloc members felt that Congress MP Kodukkunil Suresh, elected eight times, should have been given the position. However, the BJP argued that they followed the rules. Mahtab was elected to the House seven times in succession, while Suresh lost two elections. This appointment is significant as the Speaker plays a crucial role in the Indian parliamentary system as the head of the Lok Sabha, responsible for maintaining order, conducting debates, and ensuring the House's smooth functioning. Secondly, Rahul Gandhi said he would back Om Birla, the NDA candidate, but only if the Deputy Speaker position, usually given to the Opposition, was assured. While Thambi Durai of the AIADMK, a BJP ally at the time, served as the Deputy Speaker from 2014 to 2019, the position remained vacant from 2019 to 2024. Article 93 states two Lok Sabha members will be selected as the Speaker and Deputy Speaker. Om Birla has been re-elected as the Speaker of the 17th Lok Sabha, bringing continuity and stability to the House. After being congratulated, the newly elected Speaker took out a paper and read a resolution against the 1975 Emergency imposed by late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. This surprising move caught many off guard and caused tension with Congress, as the Emergency was declared on the same date in 1975. This led the Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, to lead a group to the Speaker to express their objection to a political statement from the chair. Fourthly, some opposition parties thought the president's inaugural speech to a joint session of Parliament ignored the country's most serious problems. Also, the Opposition called for removing the Sengol, which the Prime Minister had installed with much fanfare before the Election. Fifthly, Rahul and other Opposition MPs proposed discussing the leakage of the NEET question paper first. The Speaker, however, insisted that a discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address, a significant issue, should be held first. The first week's confrontation shows despite the decrease in numbers, the BJP is unlikely to change its working methods. An energised opposition will also be belligerent.The proceedings in Rajya Sabha also saw disruptions and adjournments as Opposition members raised slogans demanding a discussion on the NEET question paper leak issue. There was also a heated argument between the Chairman and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge.The functioning of the House lies with the Speaker, a position of utmost importance in maintaining order and ensuring fair debates. The Rajya S bha Chairman presides over the Upper House. A functioning House is necessary and a prerequisite for a healthy democracy. The need for constructive cooperation between the Government and the Opposition cannot be overstated. The House functions effectively in addressing the pressing issues facing the nation. Both sides must recognise the truth and collaborate to make Parliament more organised. After all, the Government is accountable to Parliament. The parliamentary system emphasises collective responsibility, accountability, and flexibility. As former President Pranab Mukherjee said, its functioning is based on Debate, Dissension, and Decision. (The writer is a popular columnist; views expressed are personal) Even as a high-level panel of the Bihar Government has launched a probe into the recent spate of bridge collapses across the State, yet another incident on Wednesday involving a bridge over the Gandak river in Siwan district of the State has raised serious concern about the quality of infrastructure and public safety. The latest bridge collapse marks the seventh such incident in a span of just 15 days in the State and second in Siwan district in the last 11 days. Mercifully, however, despite the severity of these collapses, there have been no casualties thus far. With the States rivers swelling due to continuous heavy rain, the possibility of more such incidents occurring in the coming days cannot be discounted, members of the Bihar Engineering Services Association (BESA) have warned. The troubling series of incidents began on June 19 with the collapse of an under-construction bridge in Araria, followed by collapses in Siwan on June 22, East Champaran on June 23, and Kishanganj on June 24. The collapse of the bridge over the Gandaki river in Deooria Block in Siwan district on Wednesday has severed essential connections between several villages and Mahrajganj, leaving the locals at the receiving end. Deputy Development Commissioner Mukesh Kumar said the exact cause is under investigation. Senior officials from the block have already reached the site, he added. A portion of a bridge in Deoria block collapsed this morning. The exact cause is being investigated, he added. The incident took place around 5 am. As per initial information, the bridge was constructed in 1982-83. Repair work was going on the bridge for the last few days, Kumar added. Villagers suggested that heavy rainfall over the preceding days may have contributed to the collapse, with a surge in Gandaki river potentially weakening the bridges structure. This incident follows closely on the heels of another bridge collapse in the district just 11 days ago. On June 22, a portion of a bridge collapsed in Darounda area, prompting the Bihar Government to set up a high-level committee to investigate these occurrences. The cave-in was also reported from the Bheja police station area of Madhubani district, situated in the States northern extreme, along the borders with Nepal. The bridge that collapsed in Bihars Thakurganj was built in 2007-08, and had been rendered unusable after it developed a crack and sank by a foot. Similarly, a bridge in Thakurganj block succumbed to rising water levels in the Bund River following heavy rains, causing it to sink by a foot and crack, rendering it too dangerous for use. The bridge, located in Khoshi Dangi village of Patharia panchayat, was constructed in 2007-2008 with funds from the MP budget of the then MP Md Tasleemuddin of Thakurganj and was connecting several panchayats. This incident follows the collapse of an under-construction bridge in the Madhubani region on June 28 which was being built by the Rural Works Department of the Bihar government at a cost of `3 crore since 2021. Following the collapses, the blame game has already begun, intensifying concerns about accountability and oversight in Bihars infrastructure management. Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took a swipe at the bridge cave-in in the State while Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi smelled a possible conspiracy behind the incidents, implying a deliberate attempt to defame the BJP-led State Government. Why has the State suddenly started witnessing incidents of bridge collapse? Why is it happening after the Lok Sabha polls? Why were such incidents not taking place a month before? I suspect some conspiracy behind it. Authorities concerned must look into this aspect, Manjhi said. He also acknowledged the use of sub-standard materials by contractors as a contributing factor and assured that the State Government is taking action against those responsible. It is happening because of the sub-standard material being used by contractors. The state government is taking action against such contractors. The state authorities are probing the matter as well. I also request them to probe the conspiracy angle, he added. Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav took a sarcastic jibe at the Nitish Kumar-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government in Bihar. In a post on X, he wrote, Congratulations! The double power of the double engine government has led to only five bridges collapsing in just nine days. The Indian dream of having an alternative to Twitter (now X) has been shattered as the desi social media platform launched in 2020 with much fanfare, and with many top Indian politicians and Government departments joining in, is to shut down. The world came to know about the yellow bird, Koo, stopping to chirp when its co-founders penned a touching note on Wednesday about the tough decision to bid adieu. The disheartening news has been received with anguish by many Koo users. Die-hard Koo fan Vinit Goenka, former Governing Council Member of CRIS, Ministry of Railways, is upset with the news. This shutdown will be a significant setback for those who believe in the democratic values of social media, as it highlights the unending dominance of Western media and their colonisation of the social media app space, he said. In an emotion-filled post on LinkedIn, co-founders Aprameya Radhakrishna and Mayank Bidawatka shared their frustrating journey and insurmountable challenges, writing, We explored partnerships with multiple larger internet companies, conglomerates, and media houses, but these talks didnt yield the outcome we desired. They expressed their regret, saying, While we would have loved to keep the app running, the high cost of technology and services to maintain a social media platform has forced us to take this tough decision. Founded in India, Koo soared to great heights, spreading its wings to Kenya and Brazil while in its prime. Its rise in Kenya followed the countrys indefinite ban on Twitter for deleting a tweet by Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari. Around 2021, Koos popularity surged in India amid a contentious spat between the Indian Government and Twitter. This conflict prompted calls to expand the ecosystem of homegrown digital platforms, echoing strongly across the virtual world and propelling Koo to prominence. For a while, it seemed that this homegrown platform would significantly challenge and perhaps even surpass Twitters popularity in India. However, this anticipated turn of event never came to pass as Twitter managed to smoothen its relationship with the Government. Koo experienced a rollercoaster ride in its short existence. At its peak, this indigenous platform boasted around 2.1 million daily active users, approximately 10 million monthly active users, and over 9,000 VIPs, including some of the most prominent personalities from various fields. We were just months away from beating Twitter in India in 2022 and could have doubled down on that short-term goal with capital behind us, they said. Unfortunately for us, the mood of the market and the fund crunch got the better of us, the note mentioned as the founders signed off. Cyber Crime Bhopal has arrested two members of a gang from Tikamgarh who cheated people by advertising to sell iPhones at low prices on Instagram. The accused also used to advertise to sell iPhones at low prices on social media platforms with fake SIM cards. For this, the accused used to activate two SIM cards on the documents of a consumer while selling SIM cards. One of these SIM cards was given to the consumer. While the other SIM card was sold to the gang selling iPhones at low prices at an arbitrary price. Cyber Crime Team Bhopal officials said that Shahrukh and Nilesh, residents of Tikamgarh, work as SIM card sellers. Both of them used to set up stalls to sell SIM cards in the market in Tikamgarh. During this, the villagers who used to buy SIM cards and give documents for KYC to activate them, used to activate two SIM cards simultaneously on those documents. But, they used to give only one SIM card to the villagers. Also, the second SIM card activated in the name of an unknown villager was sold to cyber fraudsters. Shahrukh and Nilesh used to charge an arbitrary amount from cyber thugs for this SIM card. Cyber Crime Team Bhopal officials said that 10 mobile phones, 68 SIM cards have been seized from accused Shahrukh and Nitesh. Apart from this, 2 bank passbooks, 5 cheque books, 3 bill books and 10 ATM cards of various banks have been recovered from the accused. Police are continuously raiding to arrest other accused who are absconding in the case. During police interrogation, the accused said that they used to put up a stall to sell SIM cards by putting umbrellas in the market. On May 13, Hina Khan (name changed), a resident of Bhopal, lodged a complaint in Cyber Crime Bhopal. In this, she said that she saw an advertisement for selling mobile on Integrity_mobile on Instagram. After booking it, a WhatsApp number was received. With the instructions given on it, they transferred the money for mobile booking. After this, by calling on WhatsApp, fraud of Rs 188999 rupees was done through different means in the name of custom-pay, refund. Cyber Crime Police had registered a case on the complaint of Hina Khan. Shahrukh (Tikamgarh) is a graduate who used to activate SIMs through KYC as an agent and make them available to other accused. Nilesh Yadav (Tikamgarh) is 10th pass, he used to check SIM activation and make them available to other cyber accused. About 15 days ago, Cyber Police had arrested 5 accused in this case from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. About 15 days ago, Cyber Police had arrested 5 accused in this case from Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. They were arrested about 15 days ago Ashish Yadav (Delhi), who is a graduate, apart from advertising on Instagram, used to contact customers through WhatsApp and prepare fake bills for fraud. Ankit Namdev (Jhansi), who is a graduate, used to open fake accounts in his own name. Ankit Kumar (Jhansi) is a 12th pass. He used to buy fake accounts and sell them to accused Ashish Yadav and when the fraud money came into the accounts, he used to withdraw cash from the accounts and deposit it in other accounts after deducting commission. Abhishek Yadav (Madhya Pradesh) is a 12th pass. / In a move poised to stir political waters, the Punjab government has submitted a parole request for National Security Act (NSA) detainee Amritpal Singh to the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to allow the pro-Khalistan Sikh preacher to take his oath as a Member of Parliament (MP) from Khadoor Sahib. Currently, Amritpal is detained under the stringent NSA in Assam's Dibrugarh Jail. The development comes a day after the National Investigating Agency (NIA) had given the go-ahead to the Baramulla MP-elect Sheikh Abdul Rashid, popularly known as Engineer Rashid, to take oath. Jailed since 2019 in Delhis Tihar Jail after he was charged by the NIA under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for his alleged involvement in a terror funding case. He is currently lodged in Tihar jail, Rashid has been granted two-hour custody parole to take oath as a Lok Sabha MP on July 5. Amritpal, on the other hand, has been detained under the NSA since April 2023, with the State Government extending his detention for another year. Despite his detention, Amritpal contested Lok Sabha polls from the jail and went on to secure a resounding victory from the Khadoor Sahib parliamentary seat defeating Congress candidate Kulbir Singh Zira with nearly two lakh votes. Amritpals case is unique as he was elected, with over four lakhs votes polled in his favour, while being in jail, underscoring the public support he commands. His advocate and also a former MP Rajdev Singh Khalsa said that the initial application was submitted to Amritsar Deputy Commissioner. As the case registered in Amritsar, we moved for parole through the District Magistrate, who then forwarded it to the Punjab Home Secretary. The Home Secretary has now taken it up with the Lok Sabha Speaker, said Khalsa. Highlighting the urgency of the matter, Khalsa noted that an elected member has just 60 days to take the oath. As of now, the Lok Sabha Speaker has not acted on the application, but we remain hopeful for a swift response, he said, adding that Amritpal Singhs case has been a point of contention due to its political and legal implications. He added that Amritpals family has also sought an audience with the Lok Sabha Speaker to expedite the parole process. We requested a meeting with the Speaker yesterday, and we hope to receive a response soon, Khalsa noted. On February 23, 2023, thousands of his supporters stormed the Ajnala police station in Amritsar under his leadership. This led to the issuance of a non-bailable warrant against him. Amritpal went into hiding on March 18 and was subsequently arrested by Punjab Police in Moga on April 23. Since then, he has been detained in Dibrugarh Jail in Assam, accused of supporting Khalistani ideology. In response to the parole request, the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla is expected to coordinate with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to ensure the necessary security arrangements are in place for Amritpal to take his oath. Khalsa expressed optimism that the oath-taking could be arranged within a week. The oath-taking ceremony must take place in the Lok Sabha, as it is the designated venue for such proceedings. The Lok Sabha Speaker has the authority to arrange this, and we expect that security measures will be a primary consideration in setting the date, he said. Amritpals family has also sought clarity on the process. We have requested a formal meeting with the Lok Sabha Speaker to discuss the arrangements, said Amritpals father Tarsem Singh. Bharatiya Janata Party candidate for the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council by-election Bahoran Lal Maurya on Tuesday filed his nomination papers in the presence of states top BJP leaders, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and his Cabinet colleagues. Tuesday was the last day for filing nominations for the Legislative Council. The BJP had announced Maurya as its candidate for the Legislative Council elections on Monday. The tenure of this seat ends in July 2028. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed confidence that Maurya would win the by-election and effectively address the issues of the common people in the Legislative Council. In addition to Yogi, other prominent attendees included BJP state president Chaudhary Bhupendra Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, and ministers Suresh Khanna, Swatantra Dev Singh, JPS Rathore, Kapil Dev Aggarwal, and Baldev Singh Aulakh. Maurya is likely to be declared elected unopposed on Wednesday, the day of scrutiny of nomination papers, as the Samajwadi Party has decided against fielding its candidate. Maurya was elected to the UP Legislative Assembly from Bhojipura constituency in Bareilly district twice in 1996 and 2017. In the 2022 Legislative Assembly elections, he lost to Shazil Islam of the SP by a margin of over 9,400 votes. The by-election was necessitated by the resignation of SP MLC Swami Prasad Maurya in February earlier this year. Swami Prasad Maurya left the BJP and joined the Samajwadi Party before the 2022 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections and unsuccessfully contested from Fazilnagar, Kushinagar district. Later, the SP made Swami Prasad Maurya a member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council. However, there was opposition within the party over his tirade against Ramcharitmanas, Lord Ram and Sanatan Dharma, after which he broke ties with the SP and formed the Rashtriya Shoshit Samaj Party. The notification for the Legislative Council bypoll was issued on June 25, and July 2 is the last day of making nominations, while scrutiny will be held on July 3. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is July 5. Delhi BJP leaders and workers on Wednesday staged a protest here over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's remarks against the saffron party and sought an apology from him. The protesters assembled near Jaisalmer House and tried to move towards the Congress headquarters on Akbar Road, raising slogans against Gandhi and his party. Addressing the protesters, BJP Yuva Morcha's national president Tejasvi Surya said it was not the time to deliver speeches but to "vigorously protest against the insult of Hindu society". "The way Rahul Gandhi accused the entire Hindu society of being violent, is an unpardonable offence. The Congress and Rahul Gandhi are repeat offenders and in the past, they tried to create a fake narrative of saffron terrorism." he charged. BJP MPs Manoj Tiwari and Bansuri Swaraj, and other senior leaders of the party were present during the protest. "Those who insult Hindus need to be given a befitting reply. He said Hindu society is violent. He may even say Hindus should be shot," Tiwari said targeting Rahul Gandhi. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said if Hindus were violent, the temple in Mathura have been built by now. "Unless Rahul Gandhi, a poll-time Hindu, apologises, we will continue to protest," he said. In his first speech as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Gandhi had launched a no-holds-barred attack on the BJP, accusing it of practising violence and spreading hate, drawing massive protests from the treasury benches, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Assam Chief Minister and Jharkhand BJP Assembly election co in-charge Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has termed the Jharkhand government decision to postpone distribution of appointment letters to candidates who have passed the Post Graduate Trained Teacher Competitive Examination as victory of lakhs of students. Sarma sharing his views through his X handle said, The postponement of PGT in Jharkhand is a victory for lakhs of youth of the state. Finally, the government had to postpone it, accepting the demand of the youth. Appointments should be made free and fair and the matter should be investigated by the CBI. At the same time, Leader of Opposition, Jharkhand Legislative Assembly, Amar Kumar Bauri said through his X-handle that Not just postponement, CBI investigation and strict action is necessary. The JMM-Congress-RJD government will not be allowed to play with the future of the youth. The fight for the rights and rights of lakhs of youth of the state will continue the matter is not limited to the PGT examination only, the appointment scam has been carried out under a big conspiracy in the state under the protection of the JMM-Congress-RJD government. The demand is clear the state government should hand over the investigation of this appointment scam to the CBI and ensure strict action against those who set it up and got it done. Amar Kumar Bauri said that the postponement of the appointment letter distribution program of the Postgraduate Trained Teacher Competitive Examination is a victory for lakhs of students of Jharkhand. The state government will have to get this matter investigated by the CBI. The Bharatiya Janata Party will not tolerate any kind of scam in appointment, playing with the future of the students. If the state government does not get this matter investigated by the CBI, then in the coming time, the Bharatiya Janata Party will fight the battle from the road to the Assembly in a phased manner with the students of the state. It is known that the Jharkhand government had fixed the program of giving appointment letters to the candidates who passed the Postgraduate Trained Teacher Competitive Examination on 3 July 2024. In which 1500 candidates were to be given appointment letters. But on the one hand the students are sitting on dharna regarding the irregularities in this examination, on the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party, Jharkhand Pradesh also held a press conference on Monday and demanded a CBI investigation into this matter. After which, after the instructions of the Chief Minister's Secretariat, the Education Department has postponed this program. Bank of India (BoI) Officers Association Jharkhand State Unit Ranchi Zone organised a cluster meet at XISS, in which about 350 staff members working in various branches in Ranchi city and nearby areas participated. On this special occasion, Federation of Bank of India Officers Association President Comrade G Nageshwar, General Secretary Comrade Nilesh Pawar and Chairman Comrade Sanjay Das addressed the staff members present. Nageshwar informed everyone in detail about the current activities related to the banking world. President Nilesh Pawar said that the Federation has been raising the issue related to officers seriously at the national level and will continue to do so in future. Chairman Sanjay Das gave the message of staying united and strong. Jharkhand unit general secretary Sunil Lakra extended a warm welcome to Nageshwar and Nilesh Pawar on their arrival in Jharkhand, the land of Bhagwan Birsa, for the first time after assuming the position of president and general secretary and expressed gratitude to all the office bearers of the federation for sharing their views in this cluster conference. AIBOC Jharkhand state secretary Prakash Oraon, Bihar unit general secretary Ganesh Pandey, Jharkhand unit president Amit Kumar, vice president Benjamin Murmu, deputy general secretary Manish Narayan, all executive members and a large number of officers from Ranchi city and nearby branches were present on the occasion. The Delhi High Court on Wednesday rejected a plea seeking disqualification of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from contesting elections and said that person who filed the plea appeared to be suffering from mental health issues. A Division Bench of Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela asked the local Station House Officer (SHO), Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and the District Judge to keep a watch on the petitioner, Captain Deepak Kumar and exercise their powers under the Mental Healthcare Act, if necessary. The bench said they were in agreement with the single judge, who had earlier rejected the plea, that the petition and the appeal are replete with unsubstantiated, disjointed, scandalous and preposterous allegations."Are you well?" an exasperated bench asked the appellant, adding he needs medical help. The plea has alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was hatching a conspiracy and was involved in an act of terrorism. The plea further alleged that Modi and his accomplices attempted to destabilise national security by planning a fatal crash of an Air India flight in 2018 which the petitioner commanded as a pilot. He alleged that Modi made a false oath or affirmation which otherwise must be made after the nomination paper has been submitted to RO (returning officer). While dismissing the plea, the bench said, All the allegations in the present appeal are a figment of imagination of the appellant and bereft of any material particulars."During the hearing, the bench said, Are you well? Your application is inchoate. It is going from one end of the spectrum to another. It is going from they have taken false oaths to the three people you are naming be debarred from contesting elections to saying that the plane you were flying crashed to your daughter being missing to some former CJI trying to kill you. Are you well? No human being can understand the petition. Responding, the petitioner said, Yes I am well, Sir. The petition is very clear, Sir. Yes, my daughter is being kidnapped, there is a police report to this effect. I was also kidnapped and taken to a police station where they bargained with me that if I keep my mouth shut, they will hand over my child back to me. The bench told him the plea makes no sense and the single judge was right in holding that it was replete with unsubstantiated allegations.While dictating the order, the division bench said it was of the opinion that the appellant, if not suffering from hallucination, is conjuncting facts and certainly needs medical help. But the appellant insists he is well and needs no medical help. However, keeping in view the provisions of the Mental Health Act, this court directs the SHO of the local police station, SDM and district judge to keep a watch on the appellant and if required, may exercise the discretion conferred on them, individually or collectively, under the said statute, it said. On May 30, the single judge had rejected the plea saying the allegations levelled were reckless and unsubstantiated and the petition was tainted with malafide and oblique motives and such averments in a petition cannot be entertained. Former chief minister and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) executive president Hemant Soren would be chairing a meeting of the legislature party of the ruling INDIA bloc on Wednesday, sources said. The meeting assumes importance as this is the first time that Hemant will be meeting all MLAs of INDIA bloc, though he had met several MLAs after his release from jail on bail. The last time Hemant Soren had called a meeting of the legislature party of INDIA alliance was on the day he was arrested on January 31. The MLAs were asked to sign and authorise the then chief minister Hemant Soren to take any decision in eventuality of any action by ED against the latter. Soren then had designated Champai Soren as his successor. Wednesday's meeting is also important as the development comes within days of Soren coming out of jail on June 28 after being granted bail by the Jharkhand high court. We have been called to attend the meeting at 11am on Wednesday to discuss the strategy for upcoming assembly elections, an MLA said, requesting anonymity. Another MLA, however, said they cant rule out some major decisions being taken at the INDIA bloc meeting. Sources said that in the meeting the JMM/Congress leadership will discuss the coming Assembly election and the strategy on how to check BJP. Speculation is also ripe that a section of INDIA bloc leaders will also press for reinstating Hemant Soren as Chief Minister and to fight the coming Assembly election on Hemant leadership. A JMM leader requesting anonymity said, There is strong sympathy for Hemant Soren after he was released from jail on bail. After coming from jail he has become stronger, as the High Court has clearly stated that there is no direct evidence against Hemant Soren in the land scam. Soren resigned as chief minister on January 31, minutes before he was arrested by the federal agency , and passed on the baton to Champai Soren. As he languished in jail, his party won three Lok Sabha seats this year, two more than its tally in 2019; its partner, the Congress, won two. The BJP-led NDA won nine of the 14 Lok Sabha seats in the state, three less than 2019. All the five seats won by the JMM-Congress combine in the state this time are reserved for scheduled tribes. Sources said that the INDIA bloc leaders will also discuss the induction of Kalpana Soren the newly elected Gandey MLA and wife of Hemant Soren in Champai Sorens cabinet. The Prestige Institute of Engineering Management and Research (PIEMR) organized the Tech HR Meet 2024 in Hyderabad to enhance collaboration between academia and industry. The event brought together HR and technology professionals from companies such as Deloitte, Honeywell, Schneider, JP Morgan Chase, TCS, Avantel, Veritas Prime, Berkadia, and Rockwell, representing sectors such as ITES, Telecom, Automation, and core technologies. Ketan Jain, Director of the Prestige Education Foundation, expressed delight at hosting top HR professionals and business leaders in Hyderabad. He highlighted that this was the first time PIEMR had organized a Tech-HR Meet outside Indore, aiming to provide greater industry exposure to faculty and students, expand the institute's reach, and improve career opportunities for students. Jain said the event provided students with opportunities to secure high-paying jobs in product development and design, emphasizing core engineering branches such as electronics, automation, and mechanical engineering. PIEMR aims to attract leading technology companies to Indore, contributing to Madhya Pradesh's goal of achieving a USD 1 trillion economy. Dr. Ajai Chowdhry, Padma Bhushan awardee and HCL co-founder, highlighted India's progress trends and future HR needs. He emphasized the importance of developing software and hardware products in India, in addition to providing services. Dr. Chowdhry noted India's potential in AI, quantum computing, semiconductor chip design and packaging, and EV component manufacturing. Dr. Brahmankar, National Innovation Director, stressed the importance of fostering creativity and problem-solving skills among students. He urged industries to recruit students by conducting hackathons and offering innovative projects. Dr. Manoj Kumar Deshpande mentioned that the Tech-HR meet concluded with a thought-provoking panel discussion on "Corporate Expectations from Academia." Senior HR and tech industry professionals shared their insights in a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Atul Negi, Dean of the University of Hyderabad. Dr. Davish Jain and Dipin Jain, Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Prestige Education Foundation, expressed that the Tech HR Meet is a testament to PIEMR's commitment to providing its students with a holistic educational experience aligned with the ever-changing needs of the tech industry. They added that it would pave the way for future collaborations between the institute and leading technology companies. In a significant victory against trans-border narcotic smuggling networks, Punjab Police has made substantial recoveries in Amritsar, seizing 10 kg of heroin in two separate incidents. The operations resulted in the arrest of four individuals involved in drug trafficking, delivering a major blow to the illegal drug trade in the region. In the first operation, the Amritsar Commissionerate Police arrested Lakhwinder Singh, also known as Lakha, from Khemkaran, and recovered five kg of heroin from his possession. The state Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav said that Lakha was in direct contact with a Pakistan-based drug smuggler named Ali. The consignment was transported using drones, a method increasingly employed by traffickers to evade border security. Police teams also seized a Splendor motorcycle that Lakha was using at the time of his arrest. The entire search and seizure process was documented via videography in the presence of a Gazetted Officer, adhering to the provisions of new criminal laws. This meticulous approach is part of an ongoing investigation to trace both backward and forward linkages in the case. Amritsar Commissioner of Police (CP) Ranjit Singh Dhillon shared that the arrest was made based on reliable intelligence that Lakha was en route from Khemkaran to Amritsar with the drug consignment. A trap was laid by CIA-2 teams under the supervision of ADCP CITY-2 Abhimanyu Rana, leading to Lakha's capture. An FIR (No. 130) has been registered under sections 21C, 23, and 25 of the NDPS Act at Police Station Islamabad in Amritsar. In a parallel operation, the Counter Intelligence (CI) Amritsar apprehended three drug smugglers Rasal Singh of Naushehra in Tarn Taran; Jaskaran Singh of Vanieke in Amritsar; and Amritpal Singh of Sahura in Amritsar. The arrest led to the recovery of another five kg of heroin, bringing the total heroin seized in Amritsar to approximately 27.2 kg in less than a weeks time. The trio was intercepted at Baghdhian Morh in Ranike village after CI Amritsar received intelligence that they had retrieved a narcotics consignment dropped by drone at Dhanoe village near the border. The police also impounded a Yamaha scooter used by the smugglers, bearing registration number PB-02-DW-4187. DGP Gaurav Yadav emphasized that the trio had direct connections with Pakistan-based drug smugglers. The search and seizure operation was similarly documented in the presence of a Gazetted Officer. An FIR (No. 37) has been lodged under sections 21, 25, and 29 of the NDPS Act at Police Station State Special Operation Cell, Amritsar. These successful operations underscore the ongoing efforts of the Punjab Police under the directives of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in their war against drugs. The coordinated actions of the police teams and the use of reliable intelligence have proven effective in curbing the activities of drug trafficking networks operating across the India-Pakistan border. The DGP reiterated the commitment of the Punjab Police to continue its rigorous crackdown on narcotics smuggling, ensuring that those involved are brought to justice. The investigations remain active, aiming to dismantle the broader networks and hold accountable all those connected to these illegal activities. 27.2kg Heroin Recovered from Amritsar in Five Days June 28: Amritsar Commissionerate Police busted two separate cross-border drug smuggling cartels being operated by Pak-based smugglers with the arrest of three drug traffickers after recovering 9.2 kg heroin (8.2Kg+1Kg) from their possession. June 29: Amritsar Rural Police busted two more Pak-backed drug smuggling rackets with the arrest of six persons after recovering 8kg heroin and three pistols from their possession July 2: Amritsar Commissionerate Police arrested drug smuggler identified as Lakhwinder Singh alias Lakha of Khemkaran after recovering 5kg heroin from his possession July 2: Counter Intelligence Amritsar has arrested three drug smugglers after recovering 5kg heroin from their possession Xi, Kazakh president attend opening ceremony of trans-Caspian international transportation route Xinhua) 15:21, July 03, 2024 ASTANA, July 3 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev jointly attended here Wednesday an opening ceremony of the Trans-Caspian international transportation route via video link. Xi is on a state visit to Kazakhstan and will attend the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) On the occasion of Doctors Day, a Mega Mahila Swasthya Evam Drishti Suraksha Camp was organized at Community Health Center, Goelkera under the joint aegis of Women Doctors Wing, IMA Jharkhand, District Administration, Health Department and Forest Department, Government of Jharkhand on Monday. TB, Malaria and Sickle Cell Anemia were also screened in the camp. From 14th June, a multi-dimensional health campaign is being run continuously in the remote areas of West Singhbhum on the theme of WHO, My Health My Right. The camp was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Deputy Commissioner, West Sinbhum, Kuldeep Chaudhary. Civil Surgeon Dr. Sahir Paul and DFO Podahat Forest Division, DDC, SDM Chakradharpur were present in this ceremony. Thousands of primitive tribal families and poor families of backward classes residing in Tatiba, Santh, Binua, Rengalbera, Tarasol, Lorai, Kundrugutu and Kendeyang villages benefitted from this multi-dimensional health campaign. Medicines were given to women suffering from inflammation of the cervix. Screening for sickle cell anaemia was done. The identified patients suffering from cataract and retinal diseases will be taken to Ranchi's Kashyap Memorial Eye Hospital for systematic treatment. This camp was mainly focused on identification and treatment of cervical cancer, breast cancer and eye diseases in Jharkhand. Notably, Dr. Bharti Kashyap, Chairperson, Women Doctors Wing, IMA Jharkhand has been continuously working for the last 10 years to make Jharkhand free from cervical cancer. Under the campaign spearheaded by her, digital video colposcope and cryo machine have been installed in 14 big government hospitals of the state for identification of genital swelling and treatment of cervical pre-cancer. Even before this, in the year 2013 and 2016, she examined the eyes of lakhs of government school children and elderly people in the remote villages of Saranda area under the Drishti Suraksha Abhiyan. Thousands of children and elderly people were also given free spectacles. Not only this, hundreds of children were operated for cataract and sent back to school. Dr. Bharti Kashyap said that the objective of this campaign is that the primitive tribal community and the underprivileged should get the full benefit of Drishti Suraksha Abhiyan and Mega Mahila Swasthya Suraksha Abhiyan. Also, Cryo treatment of women suffering from pre-cancer from the camp area should be done to make them cancer-free and send them home safely. She said that surgical treatment of all the elderly and children of this area who are losing vision due to cataract, glaucoma and retina diseases will be done in the Superspeciality Eye Hospital in Ranchi. In the camp testing of tuberculosis, malaria and anaemia was done and a data bank was created, which will help the government in making health policy for this area. A wide network of trained human resources is also being created. In the camp, many gynecologists are also being trained in digital video colposcope guided cryo treatment, so that this system can run smoothly in government hospitals. Through the camp, health awareness among women of primitive tribes and backward classes was spread, so that they could identify their disease on time and reach the right place for timely treatment. As many as1695 beneficiaries came to the multidimensional health camp, in which around 300 eye patients came and 97 patients were found to be suffering from cataract and retina diseases. A total of 130 patients came for cervical cancer screening, in which 11 patients were given digital video colposcope guided cryo treatment, in which 5 were of cervical pre-cancer and 6 were of cervical erosion. All these 11 patients wld have developed carcinoma cervix later. Two patients were found to have carcinoma cervix in very advanced stage and were referred to RIMS, Ranchi. The DC said on the occasion that he is serious about eliminating cervical and breast cancer. The Women Doctors Wing has shown great readiness in examining and treating hundreds of women in this scorching heat. In future also, the administration will provide full support in the camps of Noamundi and Chakradharpur. Civil Surgeon, Dr. Sahir Paul said that every year 67 thousand women in the country die of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among all types of cancer spread in India. This type of cancer is the most preventable and successfully curable cancer. What is Jharkhand Model? For the elimination of cervical cancer disease in women in Jharkhand, the Women Doctors Wing has prepared a special plan Jharkhand Model in collaboration with the Jharkhand government. In 2021, the Health Department and the team of Women Doctors led by Dr. Bharti Kashyap, after a long discussion with the country's top cancer gynaecologists, concluded that if we follow the third part of WHO's cervical cancer elimination policy 90-70-90 and modify it and implement it in Jharkhand, then a state with less resources like Jharkhand can get a lot of success in cervical cancer elimination. Then it was decided to implement this Jharkhand model, created for a state with limited resources, in the state. In 2021, this decision was sent to all the civil surgeons for implementation by the then campaign director. After talking to the cancer specialist, it came to light that if we screen 6% of such women of reproductive capacity, who are in the high-risk category or who have possible symptoms of genital inflammation and if we treat them, then we will be able to screen 100% of the women suffering from genital inflammation. The number of such women of reproductive capacity in Jharkhand is currently 2,70,000 (two lakh seventy thousand). The Health Minister, acting on this, made it mandatory to screen 6% of such women in 2021. Apart from this, under the Surakshit Matritva Yojana, screening of women coming after twelve weeks of childbirth and the women accompanying them, who were in the high-risk category or who have any possible symptoms, was also made mandatory. The Health Department has implemented this model in Jharkhand and through this, screening of 6% of such women of reproductive capacity was ensured who have symptoms of genital inflammation or fall in the high-risk category of cervical cancer. This initiative has brought very positive results. A target of 2,70,678 was set by the Women Doctors Wing, IMA and the State Health Department for screening of cervical cancer in the financial year 2021-2022 from April 2021 to March 2022. And till now a total of 3,49,784 such women of reproductive capacity have been screened. Ahead of the Assembly polls, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday announced that Sarpanches can now undertake development works up to Rs 21 lakhs in their Gram Panchayats without e-tendering. Previously this limit was Rs 5 lakh. Additionally, the Chief Minister announced that Sarpanchs can now claim travel expenses at a rate of Rs 16 per kilometer when using their car or taxi for Gram Panchayat work. The bill for claiming TA/DA will now be approved at the level of the BDPO, he added. The Chief Minister made these announcements while addressing Panchayat representatives from across the state at the State-Level Panchayati Raj and Sarpanch Sammelan organized in Kurukshetra. Addressing the issue faced by Gram Panchayats regarding the cost of soil filling, the Chief Minister announced that once the Gram Panchayat passes and sends the resolution for soil filling, this cost will now be included in the work estimate. Previously, the cost of soil filling was not included in the work estimate, requiring the filling work to be done either through MNREGA or at the village's own expense. To address the issue of junior engineers not preparing estimates for several months, the Chief Minister announced that once the Sarpanch uploads a resolution passed by the Panchayat for any development work on the HEW portal, the junior engineer will be required to prepare and upload the estimate within 10 days. This measure aims to expedite the pace of development works. Announcing the increase in the prescribed fees for lawyers handling court cases, Chief Minister said that the fee for lawyers at the district or sub-division level will be raised from Rs 1,100 to Rs 5,500, and the fee for cases in the High Court and Supreme Court will be increased from Rs 5,500 to Rs 33,000. Additionally, the Chief Minister announced an increase in the expenditure limit from the Panchayat Fund for events organized by the Gram Panchayat. The limit for Independence Day and Republic Day events, as well as programs organized for the visit of any special officer or minister, will be increased from Rs 3,000 to Rs 30,000. Similarly, the limit for expenses related to purchasing the national flag, distributing sweets on national festivals, and publicizing Panchayat activities will be increased from Rs 500 to Rs 5,000. In light of government programs to be held in villages, the Chief Minister also announced that the post of Sarpanch will now be included in the protocol list. The Sarpanch will sit with the DC and SP during such events. On this occasion, the Chief Minister also announced an increase in the monthly honorarium of Safai Karamcharis in rural and urban areas by Rs 1000. Describing village governance as a strong picture of democracy, the Chief Minister stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set a target of making India a developed nation by the year 2047. To achieve this goal, it is crucial for every village to be developed. The Chief Minister assured that the state government will ensure there is no shortage of funds to accelerate pace of development in the villages. Referring to the discrimination by previous governments in village development, the Chief Minister said that they often avoided allocating funds for this purpose. Before 2014, the State Finance Commission grant for Panchayats was Rs 600 crore. Under PM Modi's leadership, this grant for Haryana has increased to Rs 2968 crore. Furthermore, Rs 7276.77 crore has been allocated for rural development in the budget for the financial year 2024-25, compared to Rs 1898.48 crore during the year 2013-14 under the previous government. Referring to the various powers provided to Panchayati Raj institutions, Chief Minister stated that the current government is continuously working to strengthen these institutions. In addition to providing 50 percent representation to women, the state's educated Panchayats are being made smarter. The present government has appointed 3,000 computer operators in Gram Panchayats. Additionally, Gram Panchayats are now permitted to purchase a desktop, printer, and UPS through GeM from their own funds, enabling them to become IT-enabled and modern, and to operate central and state-level portals effectively. He further mentioned that to expedite development works, the state government has decided that unregistered contractors will now be able to undertake work up to Rs 50 lakhs in a year. If these works are completed on time, these contractors will be eligible to take on projects worth Rs 1 crore the following year. Approves 43% stipend increase for MBBS Interns In another event, Saini sanctioned a 43% increase in the stipend for MBBS interns of all Govt. and private Institutions affiliated to Pt BD Sharma UHS, Rohtak. Now the interns will receive Rs 24,310 which is a significant increase from the present stipend of Rs. 17000. Giving more information in this regard, an official spokesperson informed that the last revision in the internship stipend was done in 2018, from Rs. 12,000 to Rs 17,000 per month. Considering the above factors, the revised stipend for MBBS interns is proposed to be Rs. 24,310 per month, which includes the DA adjustment over the period from 2018 to 2024. Ignoring a farmers complaint led to the suspension of the sub-district magistrate (SDM) of Khaga Tehsil in Fatehpur district of Uttar Pradesh. The SDM was suspended on Tuesday, following Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths instructions to this effect. During the suspension period, the SDM will be assigned to the Lucknow office of the commissioner and secretary of the Revenue Council, and departmental action will be initiated against him. Ravikaran Singh, a farmer from the village of Pai in Fatehpur, had submitted a complaint letter regarding a land dispute to SDM Atul Kumar on June 15 during Sampoorna Samadhan Diwas. Despite the seriousness of the matter, SDM Atul Kumar allegedly did not address the complaint promptly with seriousness. As the officer failed to resolve the issue facing the farmer, the matter was probed by the Prayagraj divisional commissioner and the inspector general of police, Prayagraj zone. Notably, both officials found SDM Atul Kumar guilty in their investigation reports. Consequently, CM Yogi suspended Kumar. Dedicated to transforming Uttar Pradesh into a trillion-dollar economy, the Uttar Pradesh government approved the special investment region act during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at Lok Bhavan on Tuesday. The Nodal Investment Region for Manufacturing Act (NIRMAN) aims to attract major investors from both within India and around the world to invest in Uttar Pradesh. The governments move is likely to promote ease of doing business, boost economic development, and create new employment opportunities for the general public. Providing details about the decisions made by the UP Cabinet, Principal Secretary (Infrastructure and Industrial Development) Anil Kumar Sagar stated: This Act has been created to develop special investment regions in the state. Similar acts are currently in place in three states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka. With this, UP will become the fourth state to implement this Act. He explained that special investment regions are large investment areas where cluster development occurs, and the powers usually held by the state government or other departments are decentralised to the authority level. This decentralisation has two main benefits: first, any changes needed in the master planning can be done there itself. Second, all the NOCs and clearances that usually require state-level approval are also decentralised. According to the ease of doing business concept, the more decentralised the process, the better we can serve the investors, he added. Sagar stated that the purpose of the new Act is to establish large investment regions and provide them with legal protection. He emphasised that creating such significant investment areas is crucial for Uttar Pradesh to achieve its goal of becoming a one trillion dollar economy. He further said, Right now we have not fixed the minimum limit of land for investment in the Act. However, similar to the Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority, which has an area of 5,000 hectares, the special investment regions will also cover large areas. He also said that the proposal includes the creation of at least four special investment regions in Uttar Pradesh, each located in one of the states four geographical areas. We have a substantial land bank available, with approximately 20,000 acres ready for allotment, he pointed out. In another decision to foster a conducive environment for industrial investment in the state, the UP Cabinet also approved a proposal to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and MSMEs. Finance Minister Suresh Khanna said: Similar to the Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, a large convention centre or multipurpose hall of this calibre will be established in Lucknow and Varanasi. This facility will allow MSMEs to showcase their products, promoting both industrial investment and providing encouragement to those involved in MSMEs. He emphasised that this initiative would significantly enhance MSME production in Uttar Pradesh. The Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, developed by ITPO, is renowned for its excellent infrastructure and hosts national and international trade fairs regularly. Now, similar events will be feasible in Uttar Pradesh as well. The UP Cabinet also approved the proposal to temporarily employ more than 2,200 teachers, who were removed from service in 2023 on the instructions of the Supreme Court, on honorarium in non-government aided secondary schools. Khanna explained, There are vacant teaching positions in non-government-aided secondary schools, adversely impacting educational operations. To ensure smooth functioning of education, these 2,200 teachers, released from service as per the Supreme Court directives in 2023, will be temporarily re-appointed. Those teaching in classes IX and X will receive Rs 25,000 each, while those teaching in classes XI and XII will receive Rs 30,000 each as honorarium. Governor Mangubhai Patel said that along with making education knowledge-based, it will have to be centered on the values of service and sensitivity. Students should always remember the values ??of education and their institution. Dont forget the struggles of your parents, respect their contributions, and be grateful. Shri Patel was addressing the I.E.S. groups silver jubilee celebration. He also appealed to the people and students present to join the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign. Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Skill Development and Employment, Shri Gautam Tetwal was present on the occasion. Patel said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, a new National Education Policy has been implemented to build a capable, strong, prosperous, and developed India. He said that coordination between professional and practical aspects of education is necessary. The institute will have to prepare the coming generation according to the needs of the future. For this, various dimensions of the new National Education Policy will have to be implemented effectively. He appreciated the achievements made by the students of the institute at the national and international level in the fields of sports, self-employment, management, etc., and congratulated the 25 years of effective leadership and management of the institute. Addressing the Silver Jubilee celebrations, Minister of State Shri Gautam Tetwal appreciated the efforts of the institute to promote more meritorious students. Chairman of Madhya Pradesh Private University Commission, Dr. Bharat Singh Sharan talked about continuing the cooperation, activism, and commitment of the institute to realize the concepts of developed India. Patel inaugurated the program by lighting the lamp. I.E.S. University Chancellor Engr. Shri B.S. Yadav welcomed Shri Patel with a bouquet and presented a shawl, shriphal, and memento. Governor Shri Patel presented 25 saplings to the institute for planting on the occasion of its silver jubilee. He also honored the meritorious students in the function. Chancellor Engr. Shri B.S. Yadav gave the welcome speech and I.E.S. Group CEO Shri Devansh Singh proposed the vote of thanks. Madhya Pradesh minister Prahlad Patel strongly criticized the statement made by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha and said that Rahul Gandhi calling Hindus violent is a part of the anti-Sanatan hidden agenda of the Congress and the Indy alliance. By doing this, Rahul Gandhi has once again tried to insult Sanatan, against which there is anger across the country. The signals that this message of Rahul Gandhi has sent to the country are extremely dangerous.State government minister Shri Prahlad Patel said that the whole country has seen the way Rahul Gandhi continuously insulted parliamentary rules and traditions during the discussion on the motion of thanks on the President's address on Monday. But he crossed the limits of decorum when he committed the crime of calling our Indian culture violent. Shri Patel said that during his long parliamentary tenure, he had never seen such disregard for rules and traditions. Patel said that I challenge the Congress Party and Rahul Gandhi that if anyone's name is taken in the whole world for non-violence, harmony and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, then it is Sanatan culture. We never discussed our religion by getting someone's children bricked into the wall. We never thought of expanding religion with a sword. Rahul Gandhi should comment on these people who indulge in violence, then he will know.Minister Mr Prahlad Patel said that the way Rahul Gandhi has behaved in the Lok Sabha on the very first day as the Leader of the Opposition, he has told what his agenda is going to be for the next five years. The people of the country may have voted for the Congress because there should be a strong opposition in the country, but the Congress has turned that support of the people into a campaign against Hindus. Mr Prahlad Patel said that the Congress has always had a hidden agenda, which has been attacking our culture, insulting our traditions. Therefore, there is no surprise in this behaviour of Rahul Gandhi, there is only regret and sadness and we take it as a challenge. I also want to warn the people of the country that their understanding of the hidden agenda of the Congress should also increase and I would request those who are associated with parliamentary traditions and rules not to take this incident lightly. He said that this is a serious incident and the message that has gone across the country through this statement of Rahul Gandhi is extremely dangerous. We all have to be cautious about this unbridled behaviour of a person who is in the position of Leader of the Opposition.State government minister Shri Prahlad Patel said that the statement given by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha on Monday is not only unfortunate, it has once again proved that the Yuvraj of Congress has neither understanding of religion nor knowledge of schemes. He only wanted to mislead the Parliament and the people of the country through lies. He said that Rahul Gandhi's first speech as Leader of the Opposition was full of lies, disappointment and factless things. Not only this, his conduct during his speech was also not at all in accordance with parliamentary dignity. The discussion in the Lok Sabha was on the President's address but Rahul Gandhi did not say a single word about it. This proves that Rahul Gandhi had already decided that he just has to throw mud on Sanatan Dharma, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party, and try to tarnish their image. Rahul Gandhi spoke only and only lies in the House and tore apart the parliamentary dignity with his conduct. Patel said that Rahul Gandhi in his speech not only insulted Hindus, called Hindus violent, hateful and liars, but also lied and only lied on all matters - Agniveer, farmers, Ayodhya, mike. (): Former Bolivian President Evo Morales on Sunday accused his political ally-turned-rival President Luis Arce of deceiving the Bolivian people by staging a self-coup last week to earn political points among the electorate, marking a sharp downturn in an already fraught relationship. Morales was initially among the countrys most powerful voices to say that approximately 200 members of the military who marched on Bolivias government palace alongside armoured vehicles on Wednesday had attempted a coup detat. We are convinced that democracy is the only way to resolve any difference and that institutions and the rule of law must be respected, Morales wrote in a post on the social media platform X on the day of the military action. We reiterate the call for all those involved in this riot to be arrested and tried. But on Sunday, Morales joined others who believe Arce himself orchestrated a self coup to win the sympathy of Bolivians at a time when his popularity is extremely low. Arce disrespected the truth, deceived us, lied, not only to the Bolivian people but to the whole world, Morales said in a local broadcast program on Sunday. Morales is throwing his support behind an accusation made by former Gen. Juan Jose Zuniga, who allegedly led the coup attempt. Morales said Zuniga informed colleagues and family of his plan before carrying it out, and that while in custody he told authorities that Arce had betrayed him. The president told me: The situation is very screwed up, very critical. It is necessary to prepare something to raise my popularity, Zuniga quoted the Bolivian leader as saying. That theory was quickly adopted by Arces political enemies, who dubbed it a self-coup. At some point the truth will be known, a handcuffed Gen. Juan Jose Zuniga told reporters while being transferred to prison Saturday. Morales called for an independent investigation into the Wednesday military action in a post on X on Sunday. Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - A Command and Staff academies aimed at promoting cooperation between them and raising awareness of the challenges posed by terrorism, illegal migration and organised crime, got underway on Tuesday at the headquarters of the Command and Staff Academy in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, with the participation of representatives from 11 African countries People Before Profit Westminster candidate Councillor Shaun Harkin has praised the Derry Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign and called for people to support their pre-election rally. Cllr Harkin said: "There are many in the establishment who want to move Gaza from the front pages. "Leaders in Westminster and Stormont have stood with Israel while it attempts to erase the Palestinian people. "But Palestine is a central election issue. If you can't stand against genocide and apartheid what will you ever stand for? "Israel may still have powerful friends in governments but throughout the world the people have risen to oppose genocide. "Here in Derry the IPSC have been inspirational in their campaigning for a ceasefire and end to genocide. "They have raised thousands of pounds to help the Palestinian people in Gaza. "The IPSC are the best of Derry. Ordinary decent people showing the kind of humanity and compassion that political leaders seem to have lost long ago. "The campaign to boycott the White House on St. Patrick's Day started in Derry and spread all over Ireland. "When Sinn Fein broke the boycott and drowned the shamrock with Genocide Joe Biden their actions hurt people in Derry more than anywhere else. "But Sinn Fein are not alone in rolling out the red carpet for Biden Administration representatives. "The SDLP backed the apartheid regime when they voted for a DUP motion in Stormont supporting an interpretation of antisemitism that's been used to criminalise criticism of Israel. "And their recent claims of 'scaremongering' in regard to Stormont and BDS shows they can't be trusted on Palestine solidarity. "On the doors during this election campaign Gaza was the issue that many people wanted to talk about. "The IPSC have kept the issue of Palestine foremost in our minds and in our hearts. For that they deserve great credit. "People Before Profit call on anyone who can to come out to Free Derry Corner on Wednesday night at 7pm." Over sixty members attended a 25th anniversary party for Mid Ulster Stroke Survivors Group last Tuesday. Among those attending the celebration in the Assembly Rooms of First Presbyterian Church Cookstown were Mid Ulster District Council Chairman Councillor Eugene McConnell and Chief Executive Adrian McCreesh, and representatives of the Stroke Association. Founder member Mary Convery and current Chairperson received a certificate of appreciation and a bouquet for all her hard work. An anniversary cake was cut by founder members Derek Short and Mary Convery, this was followed by a delicious lunch served by Joanne Loughrin. South Derry woman Mary Convery was there at the groups formation 25 years ago and has watched its growth over the years. Mary, who was working in nursing home Milesian Manor in Magherafelt, was contacted by the in house speech and language therapist about setting up a stroke support group. It all started when Mary was put in contact with a young man in his 40s who had fallen out of his lorry. He had brain damage and his speech was affected. It was sad seeing a younger man struggling. He often got frustrated that he couldnt do what older members of the groups were able to do, Mary said. From then on Mary started taking local people who had suffered a stroke to the group in Cookstown. The stroke survivors group meet every Tuesday in the First Presbyterian Church, Cookstown. At the moment there are 23 members. The members' ages range from early 40s to 80s. The group covers Maghera, Magherafelt, Cookstown and all the outlying areas of Mid Ulster. Mary continued: The group offers the chance for people to share their stroke story and have a sense of community. It helps people not feel isolated. They will have a cup of tea, biscuits, sandwiches and have a different programme activity planned for each week. There are all different walks of life that come to the group, from farmers to teachers. Stoke doesnt discriminate. It can affect anyone at any time. Reflecting on the progression of the group, Mary said she is very proud of group member Diane. Diane had her first stroke at 34. She won an award for young stroke survivors a few years back, said Mary. Its amazing to see how the members progress in their time in the group. When they first come they can be withdrawn and shy but they soon get chatting to each other. The group is a good way to build their confidence and compare notes on their different experiences. Mary said the groups members have built lasting friendships. They have developed real connections and friendships and that is so important, she added. The Mid Ulster Stroke Survivors Group is on break for the summer now and will start up again in September. The opening of the new brand home for The Muff Liquor Company was attended today by celebrity investors in the company including Russell Crowe, Ronan Keating and Ryan Tubridy. Investors Ed Sheeran and Jimmy Carr sent good wishes to the launch event, unable to attend in person today but plan to visit the new facility in the coming months. The Muff Liquor Company was founded in 2017 by local entrepreneur Laura Bonner. The company launched its first product in early 2018 and now boasts a portfolio of award-winning spirits including vodka and gin which are potato based as well as a peated Irish whiskey. The company also announced today that it has received an initial order for 30,000 bottles of spirits for the US market from its new distributor in the US, The Lucas Bols Company. Lucas Bols is one of the leading cocktail and spirits players in the worldwide cocktail market and signed with the company in April of this year. The deal gives the Lucas Bols Company exclusive rights to import and distribute Muff Liquor products in the United States of America. We are thrilled to welcome Russell, Ryan and Ronan to our new brand home in Muff, Laura Bonner, CEO and founder of The Muff Liquor Company said. Together with Ed Sheeran and Jimmy Carr they have been wonderful supports of the company and I know they share our passion for creating a genuinely world-class spirit company. We are getting ready for a big push in the US market later this year and this first order is a huge statement of the confidence by The Lucas Bols Company in our brand. We have exciting plans for the US market in the second half of this year. Stormonts Finance Minister has been accused of taking MLAs for fools after a 300 million funding announcement was made just days before the General Election. Caoimhe Archibald was again forced to defend the timing of the announcement of the in-year June monitoring round exercise at Stormont earlier this week. Answering questions on Tuesday, the Sinn Fein minister said it was vital that under-resourced Stormont departments received the funding as quickly as possible. But SDLP Opposition leader Matthew OToole repeated his claim that making the announcement so close to election day risked jeopardising civil service integrity. Executive ministers met on Monday to agree the in-year June monitoring round exercise, at which previously unallocated funds were distributed to departments. Health, education and social house building were the main beneficiaries of the allocation of 250 million of resource spend and 50 million of capital money. Some 122 million was allocated to the under-pressure Department of Health. An outstanding pay settlement for non-teaching educational support workers will be funded from 43.7 million allocated to the Department of Education. Addressing the issue during ministerial question time in the Assembly, Mr OToole said he had been previously told by Ms Archibald that a consultation on revenue-raising measures could not be published due to the pre-election period. He said: Why could that not be published but a 300 million monitoring round could be published? Ms Archibald said: I have been very clear that I considered the pre-election guidance in making the decision to proceed with the June monitoring round. I did so on the basis that June monitoring is normal and routine business of the Executive and therefore it is appropriate to proceed with it during the pre-election period. Given the financial pressures right across our departments, it was vital they had confirmation of the additional funding allocations as soon as possible to give certainty as soon as possible. I also think it was important to give certainty to all of those who rely on those services, whether they are healthcare workers, those on waiting lists, our classroom assistants, school bus drivers and all of those parents who may be able to benefit from the childcare. Any delays in June monitoring could risk overspend or lead to greater adverse impact than would have been the case had decisions been taken earlier. Mr OToole responded: Your position is that four days difference would have jeopardised public services, but you also say that a routine report setting out consultation responses without any policy intent could not be published because of the pre-election period. But totally normal and routine business to have an exceptional Monday morning Executive meeting, for three podiums to be set out in the Great Hall for you, the First and deputy First Ministers. With respect I think you are taking us for fools and I think you and your department have jeopardised civil service integrity and impartiality by pushing yesterdays monitoring round. Ms Archibald said she had set out the position four times for Mr OToole. She added: The pre-election guidance is clear that each case should be considered on its own merits. A man has been remanded in custody at Derry Magistrate's Court today after breaching his bail within days after his mother claimed he used 'emotional manipulation'. James Kelly (36) of Rinmore Drive in Derry appeared charged with criminal damage to a window at his mother's house and possessing pregablin on July 1. A police officer connected the accused to the charges and opposed bail. The court heard that police were called to an ongoing domestic incident where the defendant's mother said he had damaged a window at the property. She told police before she left the defendant had called her on multiple occasions demanding 'who do you think you are locking the door?' The court heard that Kelly became 'aggressive' towards his mother and his two sisters threatening to harm himself if he was told to leave. When searched nine pregablin tablets were found in his jacket. At interview Kelly said he had found the door locked but there was a window damaged and he used that to enter the house. He denied damaging the window and said he woke up to his mother and sisters shouting at him. Kelly claimed his mother was abusive towards him 'treating him like a black sheep'. As regards the drugs the defendant said he had been addicted months ago and didn't know the tablets were there. A police officer said they had 'major concerns in relation to bail' as the defendant had breached bail within a short period of time. Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said that it was accepted Kelly had issues but that this incident had not escalated. He asked for bail to an address approved by the police. District Judge Barney McElholm said that if there was 'a suitable address far enough away' he might consider bail. But as Kelly was in court again within days he refused bail and remanded him in custody to appear again on July 25. A Romanian national asked could he be deported after he was remanded in custody at Derry Magistrate's Court on exposure charges. Marciel Sotir (57) of no fixed abode appeared charged with two counts of exposure in Quayside Shopping Centre in Derry on July 1. A police officer connected the accused to the charges and opposed bail. The court heard that around 5.10pm the defendant entered the shopping centre wearing no footwear and tried to urinate in a store exposing himself. A security officer intervened and escorted Sotir from the premises and he was then alleged to have urinated against metal shutters in full view of members of the public including children. When police arrived they spoke to security officers and the defendant and it was discovered he was on bail for offences in Belfast and was to reside there and not touch alcohol. Sotir was said to have refused to provide a breath sample and a search of his property revealed a nearly empty vodka bottle. At interview the defendant said he entered the shopping centre to use the toilet but had been prevented from doing so and said he went behind a car to urinate. A police officer opposed bail due to the lack of address and said CCTV still had to be obtained. The court heard that Sotir was also subject to immigration proceedings. Defence counsel Brendan Kearney said he was applying for bail to an address approved by police. When District Judge Barney McElholm indicated he was refusing bail the defendant, who had been using an interpreter throughout the proceedings, asked coukd he be deported. Judge McElholm said that he did not have the power to deport him and refused bail. Sotir was remanded in custody to appear again on July 18. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. From photonics to defense: more to be done for Polish-Taiwan industrial cooperation VIGO Photonics, a Polish company specializing in mid-wave infrared (MWIR) and long-wave infrared (LWIR) detectors and modules, is becoming increasingly central to European efforts to gain greater autonomy on key semiconductor technologies, especially when the photonics sector sees growing aerospace and defense applications in sensing, optical communication, and laser-based weapons. As a part of the Polish delegation to SEMICON Taiwan 2023, Adam Piotrowski, VIGO Photonics CEO, pointed to integrated photonics as a development goal and highlighted the need to work with partners to incorporate signal processing into VIGO's sensor platform. In fact, the Polish company opened its Taipei office in 2020 as its first foothold in the East Asian market. Also in 2023, as a part of the European Union's Important Project of Common European Interest Microelectronics and Communication Technologies (IPCEI ME/CT), VIGO Photonics officially commenced the HyperPIC project to develop photonic IC for mid-infrared sensing applications and subsequently build the world's first production line for mid-infrared photonic IC. The R&D phase runs from 2023 to 2027, while the first industrial deployment phase runs from 2024 to 2029. "When I was in Taiwan in September, we were just demonstrating the first roadmap for the building blocks of photonic IC, such as detectors, lasers, and waveguides," indicated Piotrowski. "So our roadmap was defined just before my visit to Taiwan, and since then, we have been progressing quite well with demonstrating and testing the building blocks." At this stage, VIGO has all the basic building blocks and can go forward with decreasing the losses and improving efficiency. Lack of integrators in Taiwan challenges industrial and defense cooperation Cooperation with Taiwan, however, is not without challenges. "For us, the situation with Taiwan is quite difficult," indicated Piotrowski to DIGITIMES Asia during a recent interview at VIGO Photonics' headquarters on the outskirts of Warsaw. For now, approximately half of VIGO's revenue comes from industrial applications, such as the machines for automotive manufacturing where VIGO's detectors are deployed, and though Taiwan is making a lot of microelectronics components, there aren't many integrators of industrial components, according to Piotrowski. "So we are not having so many customers in Taiwan right now." Beyond industrial applications, VIGO Photonics is also active in the defense industry. The LWIR detectors offered by VIGO, for instance, can be deployed to IR sensors within smart munitions to detect military vehicles emitting heat in the form of mid-infrared radiation, especially in degraded environments. The MWIR detectors, on the other hand, can be applied to protect aircraft from infrared-homing missiles, such as directional infrared countermeasures (DIRCM), as the MWIR region of the IR spectrum is optimal for missile detection. Instead of using single-element detectors that rely on a rotary mechanism for area scanning, VIGO uses multi-element detectors to enable a wider field of view without relying on mechanical scanning. MWIR detectors can be applied to infrared countermeasure. Credit: Northrop Gruman "There is a lot of happening in the defense application: we're working with both Polish and European governments, in addition to US defense companies," said the VIGO CEO. The company recently expanded its office in the US to target large defense contractors like Lockheed Martin, restocking the sensors in smart munitions in support of Ukraine. Alongside smart munitions, VIGO is also supplying detectors for drone applications. However, just like for industrial applications, the lack of system integrators in the Taiwanese defense industry has limited the cooperation opportunities with VIGO Photonics. According to the company CEO, VIGO has no contact with Taiwanese arms manufacturers, even when it comes to drones, a sector in which Taiwan lacks system integrators. "At this stage, Taiwan is a good customer of our customers," said Piotrowski. Though the results of market explorations show that it's not a good moment for doing direct sales, the CEO sees it as a good moment for opening collaboration in the future. Meanwhile, Maciej Nowakowski, Director of Operations at the Polish Technological Forum on Photonics (PPTF), pointed out that though Polish component suppliers see limited opportunities provided by the Taiwanese market at this stage, companies focusing on the manufacturing process are increasingly developing the Taiwanese market. "There's a growing interest and actual presence - certainly business discussions between Polish companies who are providing manufacturing equipment," observed Nowakowski. "It turns out that we might have some developments in the manufacturing and machinery industry, while in the semiconductor and defense sectors, it is not progressing as easily or as quickly as initially expected." Limited understanding of Taiwan's market potential In September 2023, a delegation of the Taiwanese defense industry visited Poland. Led by Hu Kai-Hung, chairman of the Taiwan Defense Industry Development Association (TW-DIDA) and also the chairman of Taiwan's prime contractor Aerospace Industrial Development Corp. (AIDC), the delegates met with the Polish Chamber of National Defense Manufacturers (PCNDM), and subsequently a MoU was signed between the TW-DIDA and PCNDM. Back in 2022, Taiwan's military also showed interest in acquiring the automatically-loaded 120mm Rak mortar system developed by Poland's biggest defense group PGZ, ultimately seeking to produce them in Taiwan and integrate them with domestically-built chassis. Taiwan's defense industry delegation visited Poland in Sep. 2023. Credit: TW-DIDA At the moment, according to Nowakowski, there are challenges with working with Polish defense companies, especially when their capacities are overbooked to support either the Polish military or the defense efforts in Ukraine. Consequently, the responsiveness from Polish companies to engage in new projects at this moment without actionable market information could be difficult, observed the PPTF director who has vast experience in the defense industry and continues to engage with the sector. "Are there programs on the market that we can be involved in ?" said Nowakowski, emphasizing that for Polish companies in the sector, "the general understanding of Taiwan's market potential is actually little when it comes to making priorities in the sales or marketing department, making it hard to for them to engage with Taiwanese market when their agenda is quite occupied." The need to go beyond simple 'buy and sell' Regarding potential opportunities for satellite industrial cooperation - an area of strategic interest for both Poland and Taiwan - Nowakowski heeded against a lack of industrial cooperation standards that Polish suppliers are more familiar with. "When it comes to cooperation with the European Space Agency, for example, there are lines of project with clear instructions on how to engage, how to present technologies, and how to set ideas for cooperation," he noted. As nations seek greater autonomy in strategic industrial sectors, particularly those related to national security, cooperation models have to be adjusted as well. The nation plans to launch EagleEye, the first satellite designed and built in Poland and also its most advanced and largest, in 2024 for high-resolution earth imaging. In 2025, Poland plans to launch its first military observation satellites. "Poland aspires to get a complete set of capabilities in this area, so certainly we would not like to have key decisive components dependent on foreign suppliers," said Nowakowski. He stressed, however, the opportunity for Poland to build capabilities together with partnering nations. "So far, cooperation with Taiwanese companies is largely confined to simple 'buy and sell', while Polish companies are more interested in actual industrial cooperation in terms of 'building something together based on Polish or Taiwanese components'", he indicated. "Building capabilities together and developing a technology that will be manufactured both in Poland and Taiwan would be more in line with our needs, instead of buying key components in Taiwan and building important systems upon them." Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. As many as 200 jobs are to be lost after medical technology company BD announced today it is to close its plant in Drogheda, Co Louth. The company, which has been in Dorogheda for 60 years, will be wound down over the next two and ahalf years Drogheda TD Ged Nash has slammed B-Ds decision to close its Drogheda plant saying: This is devastating news for 200 loyal workers and their families. It is also a massive blow for Drogheda. Drogheda is Irelands largest town. It will now lose its only large-scale IDA-backed manufacturing company. This government and its agencies are asleep at the wheel when it comes to investment in Drogheda. It is easier to work to retain jobs than create them. The question for this government and the IDA is when did you know about B-Ds plans, and what have you done to keep these jobs in Drogheda? Fine Gael and Fianna Fail seems content to see Drogheda, with already enormous rates of commuting to Dublin, become an effective dormitory town to supply the city with workers. Droghedas location, skills and infrastructure should make it an ideal location for jobs investment yet all we are treated to is patronising lip-service from this government. This government must now set up an expert-led enterprise task force to address the question of investment in Drogheda to avoid our area becoming a foreign direct-investment backwater. The loss of jobs in Drogheda due to the closure of the Becton Dickinson (BD) site is a major blow to the local community, Deputy Fergus ODowd, Fine Gael TD for Louth and East Meath, said. I am deeply concerned and disappointed that BD intend to discontinue manufacturing at their Drogheda site. No effort must be spared to aid staff in securing new employment. BD has operated out of Drogheda for over 60 years and has played a major role in supporting the local economy, so this is truly devastating news for the employees and their wider families, who have in many cases worked for this company for generations. Everything must be done to ensure that staff and their families get the support they need, whilst also seeking alternative employment and upskilling. It is now imperative that we do all we can to attract more investment to Drogheda in light of this announcement. Drogheda has the workforce and infrastructure to be a hub for industry and we have a 40-acre IDA site which is primed and ready to provide highly skilled employment. I have spoken directly with BD and I will remain in contact to ensure that appropriate redundancies are provided and that the company meet their statutory obligations, as they have promised. I have impressed upon the Minister for Enterprise, Peter Burke, to ensure that the Government provides the affected staff with whatever assistance is required at this difficult time and to work with the state agencies to ensure that engagement is maintained at the highest level, so all avenues are pursued to safeguard jobs, if there is any possibility to do so, concluded Deputy ODowd. Tanaiste and Minister for Defence Micheal Martin has said that an inquest hearing into Private Sean Rooney's death is expected to take place shortly. The Tanaiste was providing an update on the progress being made in the investigation to Louth TD Ruairi O Murchu. Private Rooney was killed in an incident on 14th December 2022, in which a number of his colleagues from the 121st Battalion were injured. The Tanaiste said he has consistently expressed both my and the Government's determination that all of the facts and circumstances of the incident are fully established and that no stone is left unturned to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. An initial indictment hearing of persons charged in connection with the incident took place on 14 July 2023, with further hearings taking place on 30 August 2023, 15 December 2023 and most recently on 07 June 2024. The Irish Government was represented in court at all these hearings by its Beirut-based lawyer and the Irish Ambassador. The Tanaiste said that the central focus of his most recent visit to Lebanon in May was a meeting with the Lebanese Minister for Foreign Affairs and the legal representative of the Lebanese Minister for Defence. The Tanaiste continued: I left the Lebanese Minister and officials in no doubt with regard to the absolute determination of the Irish Government in ensuring that those responsible for Private Rooneys death are brought to justice and that lives of Irish peacekeepers must be valued. I also emphasised the need to speed up the legal proceedings and the additional distress that the lack of progress is causing Private Rooney's family. I was very disappointed to learn at the most recent hearing on 7th June, that, once again, none of those indicted for the killing of Private Sean Rooney appeared in court at the hearing. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for 12 February 2025. Following the hearing, I have again stressed my unhappiness with the progress of the Trial to date and have made that very clear directly to both Lebanese authorities and to the UN. We continue to maintain close contact with them on this matter. I will continue to make strong representations in this matter with the Lebanese authorities and with the United Nations. Private Rooneys family has been, and will continue to be, kept informed of developments as they happen. Separately, he said the investigation by An Garda Siochana for the purposes of preparing a report for the Coroner has been completed and the Defence Forces have supported this investigation. Finally, I wish to assure the House that my Department, the Embassy in Cairo, the Consulate in Beirut and I will continue to monitor developments and to push for progress in this regard very closely, the Tanaiste concluded. Culture Club and Roe River Books said they are delighted to announce that Arthur Mathews will be in conversation in Roe River Books, Dundalk on Friday July 26th at 7pm talking about his latest book Walled in by Hate: Kevin OHiggins, his friends and enemies. Arthur is the co-creator of Father Ted and contributor to some of the most iconic comedy shows of the past 30 years. Walled in by Hate, published by Merrion Press, is a fascinating exploration of the short yet remarkable life of Kevin OHiggins, one of the most divisive figures in the early years of the Irish State, whose legacy and career are still debated to this day. Mathews examines OHiggins through the prism of his friends and enemies, the relentless murder manhunt that followed his assassination, as well as his relationship with Lady Lavery - hidden from his wife Brigid - that lasted for several years until his death. Arthur Mathews was born in Meath in 1959. With Graham Linehan he co-created and wrote the classic comedies Father Ted and Big Train. He has also written for some of the most iconic comedy shows of the past 30 years including: The Fast Show, Harry Enfield and Chums, The Catherine Tate Show and Brass Eye amongst many others. He co-wrote the stage musical I, Keano and the feature film Wide Open Spaces. With Matt Berry he has co-written the television shows Toast of London and Toast of Tinseltown (each a winner of The Rose dOr) as well as Squeamish About and The Road To Brexit. He also wrote the book Well-Remembered Days, an imagined autobiography of Eoin OCeallaigh, a writer, poet, nationalist, playwright, civil servant, commentator and champion of the traditional values of Ireland. Many will remember the brilliance of the Border Fascist. An hilarious satire of border life published in the end of year edition of Hot Press magazine through the 1980s. At a time when there was no Irish comedy to speak of this was unmissable and quickly gained a cult following. Arthur Mathews place as one of the great writers in British comedy is assured and perhaps with Graham Linehan the greatest that Ireland ever produced. Admission is free but booking is essential to guarantee your place, demand will be high. Booking link: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/932477915547?aff=oddtdtcreator By BOB MARTIN Eagle Times Staff CLAREMONT, N.H. MacGlaflin Farm will be holding its second annual Open Farm Day on July 13, where farming enthusiasts can learn about the process that goes into the products they buy and consume. The event offers a variety of activities, including a hot dog lunch, face painting, cheese samples, ice cream and tours of the farm. This is a free community event, said Co-Owner Julie MacGlaflin. We will have milk sampling from New England Dairy, and The Cruisin Cow ice cream truck will be here. You can take a guided farm tour, or go on your own to tour of the farm and see where the cows are milked. A bunch of our tractors and farm equipment are here so people can climb in, get some photos and check them all out. MacGlaflin said the fun event has a focus on showing people where dairy products start before items hit the shelves. She and her husband, Jason, and his father, Ed, will be on hand to talk about the ins and outs of the farm. There will be volunteers at the event to discuss various aspects of the farm, as well. Nowadays people are so far removed from where their food comes from, she said. Ive done many field trips over the years, and a lot of kids really dont know where their food starts. We, as best as we can in a few hours, try to answer questions that people might have about the process. She explained that there are some adults who may understand that milk comes from a cow, but never really seen it in action, or even touched a cow. McGlaflin pointed out that there are a lot less farms now than 50 or 60 years ago, and people often dont have a friend, cousin or grandpa who own a farm like in years past. We want people to come and see the care we put in to raising our animals, and obviously to see where their milk starts, said McGlaflin. Yes, it ends up at your school or grocery store, but this is where it starts. A lot of people dont know what goes into raising a baby calf. MacGlaflins Farm is a second-generation farm started in 1971 by her father-in-law Ed MacGlaflin, and for more than 50 years they have been producing top-quality, local milk. Nearly all of Jasons life, he worked with his father at the farm. Julie MacGlaflin also grew up on a farm in Vermont, showing that farming is in all of their blood. She joined the team in 2015 after selling her small Vermont dairy farm and marrying Jason. We both grew up dairy farming, and while we dont sell milk directly off the farm, we are members of the Agri-Mark Cooperative, she said. Cabot Cheese and McCadam Cheese are the brands where that milk comes from; it could have started here. It becomes the cheese that you see in the store. The farm began in Connecticut but moved to the Granite State in 1996. According to the farms website, the family milks 450 cows as part of Agri-Mark. They also raise their own calves and crop about 600 acres of farmland. The MacGlaflins believe that the treatment of cows directly impacts the quality of the milk produced, and they take such excellent care of them by providing a happy, healthy environment. Another point of pride is practicing sustainability, to not only reduce their environmental impact, but also set the stage for future generation of farmers and customers. Open Farm Day will be the perfect opportunity to talk directly to a dairy farmer and get to know where your food comes from first-hand. McGlaflin said it is a good chance for people in the community to become better educated on the overall process and know a little bit about what they are eating. Its shaping up to be quite the event for the community, MacGlaflin said. We expect a good turnout. The family friendly event takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 35 Case Hill Road, and additional information can be found at macglaflinfarm.com. 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(Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan) ASTANA, July 3 (Xinhua) -- China and Kazakhstan are companions on the path to modernization, said Chinese President Xi Jinping here Wednesday when jointly meeting the press with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Noting his talks with Tokayev were amicable, friendly and fruitful, Xi said he and Tokayev signed a joint statement between the two countries. Xi said he and Tokayev agree that both China and Kazakhstan are at a critical stage of development and revitalization. The two sides will continue to carry forward the fine tradition of mutual support, deepen political mutual trust, promote the synergy of development strategies, and be solid supporters that can be relied on and trusted by each other, Xi said. Xi said China and Kazakhstan have set a new goal of doubling two-way trade at an early date. The two sides agreed to continuously deepen cooperation in such traditional areas as economy, trade, investment, production capacity, interconnectivity and energy, Xi said. The two sides will also jointly foster new growth points for cooperation in critical minerals, new energy, scientific and technological innovation, aerospace, digital economy and other fields, Xi said. Xi said the Chinese side will hold China tourism year in Kazakhstan in 2025. The Chinese side has also decided to open the second Luban Workshop in the Central Asian country, he said, adding that the two sides will expand cooperation in such fields as media, think tanks, as well as films and television, and encourage more sistership among provinces and cities of the two countries. The two sides have pledged to continue working closely in international affairs and strengthen coordination and cooperation within the framework of the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the China-Central Asia mechanism as well as other multilateral frameworks, he said. Xi said that China and Kazakhstan have agreed to jointly implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, three key initiatives proposed by China. China supports Kazakhstan in joining BRICS cooperation mechanism, playing the role of a "middle power" on the international stage and making its due contribution to global governance, Xi said. For his part, Tokayev said that Xi's visit has special historical significance and will be a new starting point to promote the Kazakhstan-China relations to a higher level. China is a friendly neighbor and a permanent comprehensive strategic partner of Kazakhstan, Tokayev said, adding that the Kazakhstan-China relations have always been based on mutual respect and trust and there are no unresolved issues between the two countries. In history, China has never harmed Kazakhstan's interests, and the friendship between the two peoples is unbreakable and has been passed down from generation to generation, Tokayev said. China is Kazakhstan's largest trading partner and the most important foreign investor country, and the investment and cooperation of Chinese enterprises have effectively promoted the national development of Kazakhstan, Tokayev said. Stressing Kazakhstan's commitment to continuously strengthening all-round friendly and mutually beneficial cooperation with China, Tokayev said the country welcomes more Chinese companies to invest in Kazakhstan and will provide all necessary and favorable conditions for them. Upholding the principles of peaceful diplomacy, Kazakhstan and China share similar positions on many international and regional issues, said Tokayev, adding that Kazakhstan is ready to enhance communication and collaboration with China within multilateral frameworks like the China-Central Asia mechanism, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the United Nations, among others. Friendship is the common asset of Kazakhstan and China, which is more precious than gold, Tokayev said. Kazakhstan looks forward to making joint efforts with China to achieve greater accomplishments in Kazakhstan-China relations in a new "golden 30 years." (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) 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. They have concluded the countdown from No.16 to No.1 - and readers now get the chance to have their say. Read More What is the best beach in Cork? Over the next few weeks, our Cork coastlines will battle it out to see who will be crowned Cork's best beach, by you, our readers. Last week, Ballyrisode took on Tralispean. Today, Ballydonegan goes head-to-head with Silver Strand. As of yesterday, Cork Prison housed 334 prisoners and was operating at 113% capacity. As a result, additional shifts had to be worked to maintain the necessary staffing levels, and activities such as workshops for prisoners had to be cancelled. A Cork Prison officer told The Echo that staff are being stretched and are absolutely exhausted. He said they have not been granted more staff, but theyve added lots more overtime. You can work there every day if you want. He said that, on top of an extra 360 hours a year each officer can work, 65,000 overtime hours have been added nationally to the Prison Service. I know one lad who did 72 hours overtime in two weeks, he said. Pressure Theres huge pressure on staff, he said, adding: You can be compelled to work more, but compelling is rare with extra overtime. When there are not enough officers, this can result in activities for prisoners not running. It goes down to affecting prisoners, thered be workshops closed, he said, explaining that escorts and security posts must be filled, so basically there would be no workshops for the prisoners if there are not enough officers. The officer said the number of prisoners had gone up to 350 before, in a facility that was built to hold 275. "Safety is built on numbers, and everybody is concerned about them. Most prison riots start when the prisons are overcrowded, multiply that with short staffing and it means hassle the prisons way of dealing with it is give them overtime and theyll work. While older and longer serving staff would always take on overtime, he said the new staff "dont want to it at all, theyve no interest in doing the overtime." The Prison Service is recruiting at the moment, but its been slow, he said, addin that a common occurrence at the moment was gardai leaving the force and coming to work in the prison service instead. No Control A spokesperson for the Irish Prison Service explained that it must accept all prisoners committed by the Court Service. They told The Echo: As such, the Prison Service has no control over the numbers committed to custody at any given time and for various reasons, including population growth and increased garda, numbers in custody have increased. The Irish Prison Service continually monitors staffing requirements and vacancies across the organisation, which arise as a result of multiple factors such as mobility, resignations, promotions and retirements, and recruitment campaigns are launched accordingly. The Irish Prison Service is working closely with officials in the Department to take steps to ensure a safe working environment for staff, and the safety and security of people in custody. The spokesperson explained that under Budget 2023, a 6.5m additional package was secured to provide for additional staff recruitment and to support rehabilitation and training and this year, an additional circa 27 million was secured for the Irish Prisons Service budget which includes approximately 9m in staffing to provide for increased pay roll costs, recruitment, and 65,000 additional hours to help with current pressures. The Irish Prison Service recruited 194 Recruit Prison Officers in 2023, and it is expected that the number recruited in 2024 will be 300, they said, adding additional hours have been provided pending staff recruitment to maximise service delivery. The requirement to support prisons remains under review each quarter to allow for improvements in opening hours and access to services including education services, the spokesperson concluded. Garda presence on Cork city streets is set to be beefed up over the summer, with the addition of six uniformed members on patrol during daylight hours. The Cork City Policing Unit will deploy the additional gardai to enhance public safety and support the summer trading period. The initiative, in collaboration with Community Policing, has been welcomed by the Cork Business Association, whose president Aaron Mansworth said it was important people felt secure in the city. It comes as businesses in the city centre have raised concerns about safety. The owner of SpitJack on Washington St, Richard Gavin, said that some people no longer feel safe, which he said is deterring potential customers from spending time in the city. Reputation THE summer trading period is crucial for our members, and it is imperative that we drive results, said Mr Mansworth. Equally important is that the people of Cork feel secure and are encouraged to spend time in the city. We are a city known for its warm welcomes, and our significant tourism trade depends on maintaining this reputation. We welcome the additional resources and look forward to continue working in collaboration with An Garda Siochana on further initiatives to strengthen their presence in our city. The increased garda presence aims to foster a safer environment, ensuring that Cork city remains a vibrant and inviting destination for both locals and tourists. Highlighting incidents of antisocial behaviour that his business has been victim to, Mr Gavin had called for more garda presence on the streets. We need to keep the streets safe and get more police out on the street, he said. Its getting ridiculous. We are having people breaking into the building, and products that have been delivered and left outside the door being stolen or damaged. We had 12 bottles of milk left outside and somebody took a knife and stabbed all 12 bottles. Just destroyed it. And people arent coming out at night, because they feel unsafe. Dedicated A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana told The Echo that it is dedicated to ensuring the safety of all communities in Cork city and that it takes reports of antisocial behaviour seriously and actively addresses such issues. An Garda Siochana works with community leaders, stakeholders, and the Cork Business Association with a view to addressing local issues, the spokesperson said. We encourage members of the public to report all incidents of antisocial behaviour and criminality to An Garda Siochana in Cork city. The allocation of Garda resources takes a number of factors into consideration, including but not limited to, population, crime trends, operational strategies, and the policing needs of individual areas which are kept under constant review. The spokesperson said garda recruitment is ongoing and accelerating, and it is intended to run garda recruitment campaigns on an annual basis to ensure a steady stream of trainees entering the Garda College. The Garda Commissioner is on public record as stating that not only does An Garda Siochana need to grow to 15,000 sworn officers, but further to meet population growth and increased demands for service, the spokesperson added. A CANCER genetics pilot programme in Cork University Hospital for some cancer types over the last year has dramatically reduced timelines for patients for counselling and genetic results from two years down to six weeks. However, the Irish Cancer Society has highlighted how the HSE staffing moratorium has impacted on the ability to deliver various cancer services with radiation equipment at the Cork Cancer Centre in the Cork University Hospital (CUH) currently lying idle. Professor Roisin Connolly, director of Cancer Research at UCC and academic director of CUH/UCC Cancer Centre has said additional funding could lead to significant improvement for Cork patients. Prof Connollys comments come as the Irish Cancer Society has asked for an additional 20m in 2025 in new recurrent funding for the National Cancer Strategy in its pre-budget submission. The organisation also highlighted the need for an assessment of the funding needs of cancer services in addition to this extra 20m per annum minimum funding, to ensure full implementation of the National Cancer Strategy by 2026, and an end to the recruitment embargo. Prof Connolly told The Echo: The Irish Cancer Society have rightly highlighted the HSE moratorium on staffing is really affecting our ability to optimally deliver cancer services. Even with cases of extended staff leave or retirement, were not able to replace staff. One issue is the embargo, another is ensuring we have the capacity to train and retain staff. As an example, UCC has a new masters programme for radiation therapy, which is a huge advantage. But we need to ensure, as a country, that we are training the staff necessary to run our cancer services and also retaining the staff through ensuring they are content in the workplace. Prof Connolly said the CUH Cancer Centre has radiation equipment that is lying idle at the moment, explaining: We and others around the country have technology that cannot be staffed currently due to the embargo. Prof Connolly, who works as a medical oncologist at the CUH, said there is more positive news for Cork and the region, as the CUH/UCC Cancer Centre was moving towards accreditation by the Organisation of European Cancer Institutes (OECI) as a centre of excellence for cancer care, research, and education. She said enhanced funding of this critical area is an urgent need, explaining: Our cancer clinical trials unit in CUH has been active for over 20 years, but only about 3% of our patients currently get onto a clinical trial. Were really keen to expand that to 6%, which is the national benchmark, and beyond to the 10% OECI benchmark. More core national funding for clinical trials would be hugely beneficial. We know if patients get onto a trial, then patient outcomes are better. Participation in clinical trials allows patients to get access to new drugs sooner than they can be approved in the country, and patients also benefit from new devices to make better treatment decisions, new radiation and surgical techniques, and survivorship or supportive care interventions. Prof Connolly said that as well as expanding the offering at Cork, having clinical trials available closer to home in other hospitals in the region such as University Hospital Kerry would also make a huge difference in peoples lives. Another area of success in Cork, but that would also benefit greatly from additional funding support, is cancer genetics. There has been a cancer genetics pilot programme in Cork University Hospital for some cancer types over the last year which Prof Connolly said has dramatically reduced timelines for patients for counselling and genetic results from two years down to six weeks. This needs to be expanded and sustained, so we can work alongside national colleagues to roll out the National Strategy for Accelerating Genetic and Genomic Medicine in Ireland, because it means that patients in our region dont have to travel to Dublin for this service, as well as reducing wait times, she said. They are hoping for ringfenced funding so that the pilot can be sustained and expanded from diagnostic testing to predictive testing for family members. That could lead to preventative strategies that reduce cancer risk in both patients and family members, including, for example, preventive surgeries to reduce breast or ovarian cancer risk, she said. Having adequate infrastructure for preventative oncology and also for cancer survivorship initiatives, is a priority area for our cancer centre. Aer Lingus and the union representing its pilots are to meet at the Labour Court on this afternoon, following the announcement that 76 further flights are to be cancelled. The meeting at the industrial dispute body is the latest attempt to bring the two sides together to hammer out a resolution. In order to continue to protect as many services as possible from the continuing and highly disruptive impact of IALPAs continuing industrial action, Aer Lingus has had to take the step of cancelling 76 additional flights over the course of Monday 8th July to Wednesday 10th July (inclusive)," a statement from the airline said. "Implementing these cancellations is to enable us to protect as many services as possible for as many of our customers as possible. These cancellations will be implemented today, and details will be communicated to impacted customers. Details of the services impacted are set out on the Travel Advisory page of aerlingus.com. "Customers impacted by these latest cancellations between 8th July and 10th July will be given the option to change their flights for free. They will also be able to claim a refund or voucher. These options will be communicated directly to impacted customers as well as travel agents, while the Aer Lingus Travel Advisory page will also have up to the minute information on all the options. "Aer Lingus fully understands the anxiety being experienced by customers given the uncertainty caused by IALPAs industrial action and is giving impacted customers as many options as possible. After facilitating eight hours of discussions on Monday, the Labour Court decided to use its authority to have a formal meeting on Wednesday, after which it will issue a recommendation. The meeting is being held a week after the Irish Air Line Pilots Association (Ialpa) began an indefinite work-to-rule, resulting in them withdrawing from out-of-hours services. An eight-hour strike was also held on Saturday, during which hundreds of pilots marched around the airport, holding signs that read two years talking, deal now and no pilots, no profits. Staff from a Cork school took part in a charity skydive to raise funds for a new sensory room at the weekend. St Marys Special School in Rochestown caters for 75 children with special education needs. On Sunday last, 14 staff members, including principal Kerri Hollywell, travelled to Offaly to take part in a tandem skydive to raise money to install a new sensory room at the school. The sensory room will help our students with self-regulation and to manage their sensory needs which will in turn increase independence and their ability to access their education, Ms Hollywell told The Echo. After a long, nervous wait due to cloudy weather, we eventually managed to skydive for St Marys on Sunday afternoon. Ms Hollywell said the fundraiser has exceeded its target of 12,000, with more donations still coming in. The more we raise the more we can do to provide necessary resources for our students, she said. ST Mona is the patron saint of Sherkin island, and has a townland, Kilmona, a church, St Monas, and a proud Sherkin island woman, Mona ODriscoll, all named in her honour. I am so lucky to have a sense of place, and Sherkin is truly home to me. Its really grounding to know where you come from, and I have so much to be grateful for having grown up here on the island, reflected Mona. Although she has enjoyed living in other places such as Australia, Denmark and the UK, shes really happy she made the decision to settle back home on the island. There are a lot of ODriscoll families in the area stretching over to Baltimore and Cape Clear, so in these parts the way to distinguish one ODriscoll family from another is to give them a reference, so my family were always referred to as The Globes. My late father Pat Connie was always referred to as Pat the Globes O Driscoll. He was a native Sherkin man, and my mother Mary Kate came from Lisheen over on the mainland. My parents met each other when my father went out to a platform dance outside Minihans pub in Lisheen. He crossed over in his punt and moored it in Turk Head, and then walked the couple of miles over to the dance where he met my mother, and the rest, as they say, is history. The platform dances were a feature of Irish rural life in 1950s and were often situated at the crossroads. They served as the dance hall in rural areas at a time when many people did not have cars, nor the means to travel to towns and cities to frequent dance halls. Long summer evenings were enjoyed by young and old at many of the platform dances in West Cork and beyond, when local musicians would accompany the enthusiastic dancers, and, just like what happened between Monas parents, they were places where romance blossomed. Mona O' Driscoll who lives on Sherkin, West Cork. Picture Dan Linehan My parents were wonderful people and they went on to have seven of us, said Mona. The first to come along were my two older twin brothers Gerard and Martin, then Kevin, my sister Margaret, John Joe, myself, and then the youngest, my sister Maria. Three of us still live on the island, myself, and my brother and sister. I have great memories of when I was small going to visit my grandmother Margaret Hegarty in Lisheen. She lived in a tiny house with a thatched roof near the church. We would cross from the nearest point on Sherkin, then scramble off the boat in Turk Head, and practically fly up the two miles as fast as our little legs could carry us. She would be waiting for us with a big fry that she would have cooked on her small range. She always gave us biscuits and treats, she was lovely to us. Ill always remember those visits to her with great fondness. As our family got bigger, my mother was not able to get off the island as often as she would have liked to see her, my father was kept busy farming, and its not aways easy to get away when cows have to be milked. I recently found a letter written by my mother to my grandmother saying that she was sorry that she could not come out as often as she would have liked, she would have to wait until the children were a bit hardier. I am sure she missed her though you would never hear her complaining. She was a fantastic mother. She did absolutely everything by hand. There were no disposable nappies in those days. She didnt have a washing machine. She used to bath us all on a Saturday night in the kitchen and wrap us up in a towel beside the fire to dry our hair, of course there was no such thing as having hair-dryers either in those times. Mona has wonderful stories of her childhood on Sherkin. Shed make a big jug of cocoa and wed drink it by the fire and wed beg her to tell us ghost stories. Some of the stories involved spooks that rose up from the sea and carried children away with them. Looking back on it now, I am sure that my mother told us some of those stories to warn us of the dangers of the sea, and especially to keep us away from going near the strand at night, and my father taught us all how to swim. A healthy respect for the power of the sea was certainly instilled in us. As children, we loved playing on the strand, and my brothers used to go Wrecking, that is they foraged for bits of things that were washed up on the shore. Then they used them to make their own replicas of the trawlers they would have seen around the island. They painted them and put the names on them and everything. We all were expected to work on the farm and help with chores such a feeding the calves and haymaking. I was always fed up having to help out during the summer when the visitors came to the island, and I used to be dying to get away to play with my friends. Everyone helped with the haymaking, and even the summer visitors were roped into it. My mother used to have a dinner whistle, and when youd hear it across the fields, you knew that food was coming. We would run back to the house and help bring out pots of tea and sandwiches to the haymakers. Many people who came to Sherkin during the summer months became our friends for life, and it was great to see their arrival like the swallows, which the islanders always welcomed by leaving their shed doors open for them to nest. My mother made her own butter and sold it in ONeills, the Sherkin Shop. She used to roll it into fancy little balls for special occasions. The closure of the shop in 2006 was a great loss to the island. For us, the island community, it was more than just a shop, it was a meeting place. Everyone used to gather there of a morning and exchange the news and have a great chat. It was a Sunday morning ritual after Mass that youd meet all the neighbours there. It was also the local post office, and that too was an awful blow to the island when it closed along with the shop. It means that now you have to travel to Skibbereen to the nearest post office, and I feel very sorry for some of the older residents who cannot walk down to the local shop and post office now to collect their pension like they used to. Mona O' Driscoll. Mona said that 15 or 20 years ago there were much better services on the island. I remember blood pressure clinics, getting the flu injections and chiropodist clinics on the island, but now all of that is gone. When I was growing up, my mother used to take one or two of us out visiting her women friends, this was called scoraiochting. They would sit around together for hours just chatting and drinking tea and eating fruit cake. It was always a treat to get something nice that was different from what youd get in your own house, and of course we loved listening in to the conversation. I remember the pictures of the American president John F Kennedy and his wife Jackie adorned the walls of the houses, including in my own house, and the women would all be chatting about the style of Jackie O. We used to get a box from America from relatives of my parents who lived there. It always contained lovely clothes for us, and one year I remember getting a beautiful bonnet with ribbons which I loved so much I even wore it to bed! I went to the primary school in Sherkin which has since closed down. "For secondary school I went to Skibbereen, but for my third level education I was delighted to be able to do my degree right here on the island, I just had to walk down the road. I completed my BA in Visual Art in 2014, which is a TU course on the island, and it was a wonderful experience. My father rented a granny flat adjacent to the home of a lady they knew in Baltimore for us when we were in secondary school, previous to that we boarded out with families my parents knew. I was around 16 then when I lived with my older siblings, and my mother used to send us out on a Sunday night with cakes, her home-made brown bread and butter, vegetables and supplies for the week. We were given a certain amount of pocket money and if you used it up too fast you wouldnt be long learning how to budget to make it last the week. Looking back now, it was a great life education. Everything was organic in those days, all the veg and potatoes were grown on the farm, and we always had plenty of fish to eat. My father even used to make his own cod liver oil, and he knew plenty of cures for all kinds of things. My mother used to cut our hair, and my aunt told me that my grandmother used to pick chamomile on her walks around the island and rinse her hair with that. Islanders used to pick carrageenan moss and add it to everything, I remember my mother making blancmange with it. Mona said they had a great social life through the island rowing club. I loved going to the regattas in Schull and other places around, and it was great to learn how to row a boat, a strong tradition in this part of West Cork to be sure. She is currently working on a community scheme fund by Cork County Council to document all the names of the townlands and the roads of the island. I want to compile all these place names and put them on a map so that they can be seen visually. I am speaking with the older residents to do my research, they carry the knowledge of the island. "My father knew every nook and cranny of the place, and I feel its important to document this before it gets lost forever. I am also a presenter on Sherkin Island radio Sherkin Sounds and Surrounds. It can be accessed on Soundcloud. My sister Margaret, who lives in Florida, is delighted to be able to tune in and hear all about whats happening on Sherkin. Creative residents like Mona, combined with the artistic talents of many other residents, ensure that theres always something interesting going on on Sherkin island. More info on Sherkin Sounds and Surrounds can be found on their Facebook page Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. Googles goal of lowering its carbon footprint is in trouble as the technology companys energy consumption has increased due to the amount of power needed for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. According to the internet giants annual environmental report, its greenhouse gas emissions have increased by 13 percent in the past year, due mostly to the AI data centers and supply chains, reported The Guardian. The report said its 2023 emissions had reached 14.3 metric tons. As we further integrate AI into our products, reducing emissions may be challenging due to increasing energy demands from the greater intensity of AI compute, and the emissions associated with the expected increases in our technical infrastructure investment, the report said. The internet company has a goal of cutting its total greenhouse gas emissions by half by the end of the decade and using carbon removal to tackle its remaining emissions output, The Hill reported. Since 2019, Googles emissions have risen by 48 percent, the report said. Reaching net-zero emissions by 2030 is an extremely ambitious goal and we know it wont be easy. Our approach will continue to evolve and will require us to navigate significant uncertainty including the uncertainty around the future environmental impact of AI, which is complex and difficult to predict. In addition, solutions for some key global challenges dont currently exist, and will depend heavily on the broader clean energy transition, the report stated. According to estimates from the International Energy Agency, the total electricity consumption by Googles data centers could be twice those of 2022 levels 1,000 terawatt hours in 2026, which is roughly the electricity demand of Japan, The Guardian reported. The manufacturing and transportation of computer chips and servers needed for use in data center training and deployment also produce a great deal of emissions. AI data centers will use 4.5 percent of the worlds energy by 2030, research firm SemiAnalysis said. A Google data center in Belgium. Google Another issue with the AI explosion is water use, with one study saying AI could lead to the water usage equivalent to almost two-thirds of Englands annual consumption by 2027. Co-founder of Microsoft Bill Gates said big tech companies being seriously willing to use green energy to power AI would help tackle the climate crisis. The companies have become big investors in renewable energy in an effort to achieve their climate targets. AI is at an inflection point and many factors will influence its ultimate impact including the extent of AI adoption, our ability to mitigate its footprint, and the pace of continued innovation and efficiency, the Google report said. While we remain optimistic about AIs potential to drive positive change, were also clear-eyed about its potential environmental impact and the collaborative effort required to navigate this evolving landscape. Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions. Outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, DC on June 28, 2024. Craig Hudson for The Washington Post via Getty Images The Supreme Court of the United States has overturned a 40-year ruling Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council that instructed lower courts to give deference to federal agencies when federal laws are seen as ambiguous. The decision means agencies will have a harder time regulating the environment, workplace safety, public health and other major issues. The majority opinion, written by Chief Justice John Roberts, said the court gravely erred when it gave agency regulators deference in the interpretation of federal laws back in 1984. Chevrons presumption is misguided because agencies have no special competence in resolving statutory ambiguities, Roberts wrote, as Inside Climate News reported. Courts do. The Biden administration has argued that resolving legal ambiguities involves policymaking that is better decided by political players than judges. In response, Roberts said the elected officials of Congress expect courts to interpret the meaning of laws, which can be changed by Congress. To the extent that Congress and the Executive Branch may disagree with how the courts have performed that job in a particular case, they are of course always free to act by revising the statute, Roberts wrote in the opinion. However, Congress has increasingly included environmental and health-related policy within budget legislation that leaves its intent open to interpretation. This means the overturning of Chevron will give more power to courts and less to federal agencies with expertise on the matters. The decision makes it potentially easier for those who oppose federal regulations to initiate new litigation to challenge them, bringing increased uncertainty to industries and business, reported The New York Times. If Americans are worried about their drinking water, their health, their retirement account, discrimination on the job, if they fly on a plane, drive a car, if they go outside and breathe the air all of these day-to-day activities are run through a massive universe of federal agency regulations, said Lisa Heinzerling, a Georgetown University expert in administrative law, as The New York Times reported. And this decision now means that more of those regulations could be struck down by the courts. The decision is a big victory in a long drive to reduce federal government power. The ruling could bolster conservative efforts to counter rules by Bidens U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to limit human-caused global heating from oil and gas, vehicles and power plants, reported CNN. There is no substantive area that this doctrine does not touch, said Kent Barnett, a professor at University of Georgia School of Law specializing in administrative law, as CNN reported. Over the years, courts have invoked Chevron to uphold regulations, and it has become one of administrative laws most-cited cases. Industry advocates have called for courts to abandon it as an instrument of government overreach. What would happen in a world without Chevron? If this Goliath of modern administrative law were to fall? wrote associate Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch, then a judge in a federal appeals court, in an immigration case in 2016, as reported by Inside Climate News. It seems to me that in a world without Chevron very little would change except perhaps the most important things. In most cases involving Chevron deference, agencies are using broad legal authority given to them by Congress before the recognition or understanding of climate change. Depending on the case, agencies have been given differing degrees of direction from Congress. For instance, vehicle rules in the Clean Air Act are more explicit than power plant regulations. In almost all cases involving challenges to Biden policies, the opposition has found what they view as mistakes in the legal interpretation of agencies or legal ambiguities. Its very hard to write statutes in technical, controversial areas and not have a shred of ambiguity, said Heinzerling in an interview before the Supreme Court decision, as Inside Climate News reported. Even if someone is really trying to be careful, people with enough money and enough lawyers can, after the fact, really bring ambiguity out of something that was intended to be clear. The overturning of Chevron means the burden of legal interpretation of regulatory law has been placed on judges, who usually look to knowledge of the most recent technology and science in the interpretation of regulatory law. Associate Justice Elena Kagan issued a biting dissent, saying a cornerstone of administrative law had been removed by the decision. Chevron deference has become part of the warp and woof of modern government, supporting regulatory efforts of all kinds to name a few, keeping air and water clean, food and drugs safe, and financial markets honest, Kagan wrote. Kagan added that federal agencies had been tasked by Congress to address regulatory interpretation, which usually involves technical or scientific subject matter. Agencies have expertise in those areas, Kagan wrote in the dissent. Courts do not. With a US ban of its hyper-popular drones more likely than not, DJI has been diversifying into products that won't be affected by the Countering CCP Drones Act, like backup batteries. Now the company is entering the e-bike arena with the Avinox Drive System that will go up against the likes of Bosch, Bafang, Shimano and SRAM. The Avinox system promises a relatively light 2.52 kg (5.6 pound) weight (5.39 kg including the batteries), while offering up to 105Nm (850W) of peak torque/power and 600Wh or 800Wh battery options. It uses GaN 3x fast charging tech, so the 800Wh battery can be charged from 0 to 75 percent in 1.5 hours. A planetary gearset and polymer gears allow for a balance of size, weight and power output, along with a quiet ride, according to DJI. The system offers four standard riding assist modes, Auto, Eco Trail and Turbo, along with a Boost mode for extra power when required. The Auto mode uses what DJI calls "multi-sensor fusion" to continuously adjust assistance based on riding resistance. Avinox includes a two-inch OLED full-color touchscreen display to control the assist modes and display pertinent information. It allows riders to connect their smartphones to access features like security, data recording, sharing and real-time bike status/location. You can also use the app to access and customize assist levels and parameters. Finally, it comes with dual Wireless Controllers with Bluetooth connectivity for a "clutter-free handlebar setup," the company wrote. The Avinox system appears to out-spec some popular systems from Bosch, Shimano, Brose and others thanks to the lower weight, extra torque and higher-capacity batteries. It'll first appear with a new bike brand called Amflow, which is launching the new PL model weighing in at 19.2kg (42 pounds) on the low-end for electric mountain bikes (eMTBs). The Amflow PL also includes a four-bar linkage structure and "cutting-edge geometry," a rear shock co-tuned with FOX, and an SRAM rear derailleur. As for the US ban on DJI's drones, the Countering CCP Drones Act has passed through Congress as part of the National Defense Authorization Act. It's now set to be reviewed by the Senate and if approved, would likely be signed into law by President Biden. In a counterpoint article, DJI wrote: "This act damages not just DJI, but also the broad ecosystem of operators, businesses and public safety agencies that rely on their technologies to conduct safe and efficient operations." DJI's Avinox Drive system will be sold only to manufacturers, so no retail price is available. The Amflow eMTB doesn't have an exact price yet, but will be sold for between 7,000 and 12,000 ($7,500 and $12,850) in Europe. It's due to be released in Q4 2024 "through authorized dealers in Germany, the UK and Australia, amongst others," the company said. Its data centers used to power AI are making the companys path to carbon neutrality a bumpy one. Googles greenhouse gas emissions spiked by nearly 50 percent in the last five years, due to data centers required to power artificial intelligence, according to the companys 2024 Environmental Report. The report shows the companys progress towards meeting its self-proclaimed objective of becoming carbon neutral by 2030 despite this additional challenge. Using AI features (let alone training the models) uses a lot of energy. In 2023, researchers at AI startup Hugging Face and Carnegie Mellon University found that generating a single image using artificial intelligence can use as much energy as charging a smartphone. Google has a lot of AI projects on the go. Alongside the likes of Gemini, generative AI tools, it's using the technology to add over 100 languages to its translation services. And there's also the rumored AI chatbots. According to the report, Google said it expects its total greenhouse gas emissions to rise before dropping toward our absolute emissions reduction target, without explaining what would cause this drop. Mat Smith The biggest stories you might have missed Meta is changing its policy for the most-moderated word on its platforms How Apple redesigned its Photos app around customization A new Resident Evil game is in the works from the director of Resident Evil 7 You can get these reports delivered daily direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here! Three miles of I-94 will have special sensors and communication equipment. Canvue The Alphabet-backed startup Cavnue has started constructing the smart highway as part of a new pilot project for smart highways. The new smart road is one long tracking system, designed to inform both Michigans Department of Transportation (MDOT) and drivers about potential issues ahead, It's hoped that the project will help relieve traffic congestion and even prevent accidents. The pilot program of the highway is located between Ann Arbor and Detroit, Michigan, with future plans to extend the smart highway to 40 miles in six more phases that would connect to both cities. Continue reading. If the future of drone sale is looking dicey With a US ban of its hyper-popular drones increasingly likely, DJI has been diversifying into something very different. Enter the Avinox Drive, an e-bike motor system that will go up against dominant players like Bosch and Shimano. The Avinox system, on paper at least, appears to out-spec some popular systems from those rivals, thanks to the lower weight, extra torque and higher-capacity batteries. DJI however wont be making bikes, so lets see how it fares. The system will first appear with a new bike brand called Amflow, which is launching the new PL model weighing in at 19.2kg (42 pounds) on the low-end for electric mountain bikes (eMTBs). Continue reading. Fortunately not a gritty 10-part action drama. The latest title to join the Netflix Games roster is a modern remake of Minesweeper, ancient timekiller on 90s Windows PCs. The classic PC puzzle game has been reimagined with an international setting, tasking the player with very literally looking for underwater mines Continue reading. SALINEVILLE, Ohio Everything was always about wildlife for Jimmy Giannone while growing up in what his family and friends called Dangeloville. Giannone is the fourth-generation owner of Dangelo Family Farm, in Salineville, Ohio. Inspired by his love for nature and his grandfather, who had a similar passion for the land, he started applying his extensive background in agriculture conservation to his farm management practices when he took over the family farm roughly two years ago. Giannone shared some of these practices with visitors when he hosted a pasture walk on June 27 and detailed his efforts to restore native warm-season grasses and wildflowers on the farm to promote soil health and attract wildlife. We have this land the way it is because of all the hard work that everybody before me has done and Im so gratefully gifted to have a piece of land to continue that legacy on, Giannone said. Im a laborer of the land and picking up where my grandparents left off. History In 1915, Giannones great-grandparents emigrated from Italy and bought the land that would become Dangelo Family Farm. They paid $950 for 113 acres of farmland. Together with their 12 children, they ran a small dairy farm operation. Giannones grandfather, Patsy Dangelo, took over operations in the late 50s with the help of his six brothers. Eventually, they transitioned from dairy to raising 20 Hereford cows for beef. Dangelo sold the cows in 2017 because of old age and inability to keep up with operations anymore. Meanwhile, Giannone was studying wildlife and fishery resources at West Virginia University. After graduating in 2019, he got a job with Pheasants Forever, a non-profit conservation organization, in northwest Ohio. I really enjoyed learning the ag side of things and working with large-scale landowners to put conservation on the ground, he said, about working at Pheasants Forever. However, he always wanted to live close to home, so as soon as an opportunity arose to move back to Columbiana County, he took it. Coming home Giannone worked at the Columbiana County Soil and Water Conservation District and Pollinator Partnership as a state pollinator biologist before moving to his current job as a soil conservationist at the U.S. Department of Agricultures National Resource Conservation Service in Carroll County. It was in 2022 when Gianonne realized he needed to put his own conservation expertise and advice into practice. I cant just go to a farm and start telling them what they need to do to save a bobolink because theyre not going to care, Giannone said. I have to relate to them, and get something to work with their operation in order to make a change and conservation to help evolve land (and) help any species that were trying to target and protect. Giannone bought two bred heifers from friend and former co-worker, Pete Conkle, who works as the district program coordinator for Columbiana Soil and Water Conservation, in 2022 to graze 13 acres of the farm. By 2023, he had bought two more cows. He established six paddocks of about 2.2 acres each surrounded by a five-strand, high-tensile electric fence. The fence, in particular, reminds Giannone of a conversation he had with his grandfather shortly after he sold off his cows. He wanted me to tear (the fence) down. And I said, What if I want to use that someday? He said, You dont wanna do that. So I tore down the fence and five years later, here I am putting fence back up, Giannone said. Everything I do (is) a big influence of my grandfather. Today, he has added three more calves to his operation and an above-ground waterline, grows hay and is restoring native warm-season grasses and wildflowers to the farm. 1 of 5 Native grasses and wildflowers This summer, Giannone began prepping one of his 2-acre paddocks for native warm-season grasses and wildflowers. So far, he has sprayed the ground with herbicides, to kill off the cool-season grasses, and tilled the ground. Cool-season grasses grow much faster than warm-season grasses, often outcompeting natives. In order to combat this, Giannone sprays the ground with herbicides. He will spray the paddock three more times this year, with his last herbicide application falling in October. He will then select native grasses and wildflowers based on the palatability ratings of his operations. Next spring, he plans to seed Indiangrass, switchgrass and big bluestem, and wildflowers such as compass plants, cup plants and a variety of sunflowers. Giannone anticipates the benefits to be massive, especially for soil and cow health. The paddock he chose to plant the native plants on is rock-solid ground, almost like shallow bedrock. Giannone cant put a stepping post more than 1 to 2 inches deep in the ground. However, hes confident the deep root systems of native plants will break up that soil and create additional soil structure and organic matter. The native plants will also benefit his cows. Native root systems pull micronutrients from deep in the soil to be stored in the plant matter. When the cows graze, they will absorb these nutrients that cant be provided by cool-season grasses, and they will recycle the nutrients back into the field, creating a constant cycle of healthy soil, Giannone said. Additionally, the warm-season grasses will provide cows with forage, extending the grazing season and offering a lush alternative to cool-season grasses that struggle in the summer heat. Cool season grasses go through a big flush of grazing in the springtime and then, like now, theyre slowing down. So were not seeing the growth or the tonnage produced that we would throughout the year, Conkle said. Those native grasses, they thrive on that hot dry climate, so now theyre exploding in growth. Despite the benefits, Giannone knows the process of establishing natives is time-consuming and can be expensive. When establishing natives, the process usually takes around two years: one year for site preparation and one year for seeding. Cows cannot graze on the paddock until a year after the first seeding. But, in the long term, it might be worth selling a few cows to dedicate a few acres to establishing native species. Long-term, that five acres youre planting is going to almost add the amount of forage that (is on) maybe eight or nine acres, Giannone said. Already, he has a section of farmland with native vegetation. The cows do not eat it, but he doesnt see it as wasted space. If anything, it promotes other wildlife on the farm like endangered pollinators such as bees, butterflies and birds. On top of all his conservation efforts, Giannone opened up his own plant nursery called Native Plant Nursery this year, where he sells 30 different species and roughly 2,000 plants. Giannones love for his ancestral land and wildlife stems back to a quote that hangs in the barn overlooking the lush pastures. We dont inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow from our children. I feel like (with) my grandparents and their family that was always a thought process of theirs, Giannone said. We have to work for it to preserve it and make it healthy for our kids. That quote there really hits deep because I think thats how this land has (been) treated for the last 100 years. (Liz Partsch can be reached at epartsch@farmanddairy.com or 330-337-3419.) Dairy processor Muller is inviting farmers to become the third cohort of its Next Generation initiative, which aims to drive supply chain resilience and reduce carbon emissions. Muller Next Generation, first launched in 2018, is a three-year programme for farmers between the ages of 25-40, which aims to develop the skills of 25 farmers to improve sustainability and profitability. The aim of the programme is to provide farmers with support to help improve supply chain collaboration, animal welfare, responsible sourcing and reductions in environmental impact. The initiative forms part of the dairy processors overall Sustainability Action Plan, driving progress against its goals to reduce emissions on supplying farms by 30% by 2030. Muller Next Generation includes tailored workshops, farm visits, keynote speakers, and visits to Muller sites. Focus areas include the environment and sustainability, leadership and delegation, market analysis, succession planning, marketing, communication and business improvement planning. The group will meet three times per year, enabling the farmers to share best practice and knowledge. Richard Collins, head of agriculture at Muller Milk & Ingredients said: We need to continue to tackle carbon emissions, secure the next generation of talent and drive supply chain resilience. We incentivise farmers to tackle the issues which we know are important for our customers and consumers and the Next Generation initiative is further evidence of the action were taking to make a difference. We know from the first two cohorts that there are a number of dairy farmers in the UK who have a great talent and passion for the industry, and were excited to welcome applications for the next round of future elite dairy farmers. Applications close 26 July 2024, with the first meeting taking place in the autumn. The outlook for global poultry markets is further improving, driven by accelerated growth in poultry meat consumption and supply growth in many markets. This is according to Rabobank, which says that after four years of disruptive conditions, poultry markets are moving toward more normal market conditions. Global trade is expected to become more competitive than in the past two years due to shifts in trade flows. Despite a 2% increase in global chicken prices, chicken remains a competitively priced protein option, as prices of pork and beef have increased by 4% and 5%, respectively. However, operations remain a critical area of focus for producers, according to Rabobanks report. Feed prices have hit their lowest point after two years of decline, and have increased for the first time in two years (+1%) due to weaker-than-expected harvest predictions in Brazil, North America, and Europe. According to Nan-Dirk Mulder, analyst at Rabobank, strong emphasis on procuring feed ingredients and optimising feed formulations will be necessary, particularly considering the risk of a La Nina season on global crop harvests, which could affect major grain producers. Most of this global growth has been driven by strong local market conditions rather than trade, he explained. This is particularly true for emerging markets in Southeast and South Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Lower feed prices have made chicken more affordable, supporting demand recovery. The EU and the US are performing well this year, Rabobank says, with relatively strong demand, controlled production growth, and rising prices. The main exceptions to this relatively strong market environment are China and Japan, where the industry has experienced overly ambitious growth rates above 3% this year, which negatively impacted local profitability. Brazil had also been heading toward an oversupply, but recent production cuts are expected to help balance the markets. In Q1 2024, global poultry trade dropped by 5% YOY, with a 40% reduction in Chinese imports being a notable cause, the report explains. The weak and oversupplied domestic chicken market in China was the primary driver behind this significant drop in trade. Key exporters to China Brazil, the US, and Russia have all felt this decline. Mr Mulder said: We expect that these countries will seek alternative markets to offset the impact of reduced Chinese trade, particularly affecting chicken feet and leg markets. Additionally, the new EU import quota for Ukraine will impact global trade in breast meat and whole chicken, particularly as Ukraine will increasingly look for alternative markets. Avian influenza remains a critical concern for the poultry industry globally, requiring an ongoing strong focus on biosecurity practices to mitigate risks, Rabobanks report says. Risks are currently shifting back into the Southern Hemisphere, with recent outbreaks in Australia and ongoing cases in South Africa and Latin America. These outbreaks could lead to sudden shifts in trade flows, both for imports and exports. Pembrokeshire Creamery has launched Wales first milk processing facility, marking a milestone in the mission to bring fully Welsh milk to consumers. The dairy is the only BRCGS-accredited liquid milk facility in Wales, meaning it is the only facility able to supply major retailers with Welsh milk. Previously, Welsh milk was bottled in factories in England before being transported back to Wales to be sold in stores. By removing this, Pembrokeshire Creamery says it is reducing food miles, increasing supply chain efficiency and supporting farming communities. The site, which has created around 80 new jobs, has the capacity to bottle more than a million litres of milk a week. And the firm has recently announced major deals to supply own-branded milk to Asda and Lidl stores across Wales. When the dairy reaches full capacity, it will be able to supply around 2 million litres of milk a week, according to the company. The Welsh government has awarded support with 5m grant funding through the Food Business Investment Scheme and an additional 1.4m of grant funding from the Food Business Accelerator Scheme. Funding support has also been provided by HSBC and to date, nearly 20m has been invested in the site. The company recently announced plans to support the development of a second milk processing line and automated trolley fillers, meeting the growing demand for locally sourced milk. Mark McQuade, managing director of the creamery said: Were creating new markets with major retailers for authentic Welsh milk which in turn is helping us complete our mission to deliver sustainably sourced Welsh milk. We are already committing to more investment and increasing our capacity - and we would like to thank all of the people locally, our staff and suppliers, who have supported us as weve built and opened our new state-of-the-art facility. Agri-tech firm Saga Robotics has announced a significant expansion of its Thorvald robotic services across the UK for the upcoming growing season. With newly established hubs across the country, Saga has become a provider of autonomous robotic services, with hopes of setting a new standard for efficient strawberry production. The agri-tech firm is operating on an area four times larger than last season due to strategic expansion and collaboration with nine leading strawberry growers. With the next-gen Thorvald robotic services, the company now treats nearly 10% of all strawberries in the UK. According to Saga, the Thorvald achieves a 60-90% reduction in pesticide usage and delivers a 40% return on investment for customers. A single robot over its lifetime is equivalent to the annual greenhouse gas absorption of around 3,000 mature trees, reducing 150 tonnes of emissions, the firm explains. Sandy Booth, owner of New Forest Fruit Company, highlighted the benefits of integrating Thorvald into their operations. She said: Over the past few years, we have been working on integrating robots into our strawberry-growing operation. Moving our focus towards using non-chemical crop protection via robotic technology will help to protect the environment as we strive towards achieving our goals for innovation and sustainability. The Thorvald 3 robot employs high-intensity UV-C light to control powdery mildew, thus significantly reducing the need for chemical interventions. Additionally, it is outfitted with an expanding array of automated tools, including advanced data collection capabilities, and predatory mites dispensing. Anne Dingstad, CEO of Saga, explained Thorvald's benefits: "In an era where sustainability and health are paramount, our autonomous robotic platform Thorvald represents a significant leap forward. We're not just reducing chemical usage; we're creating a synergy between technology and nature for a healthier, safer, and more sustainable approach to food production. As we expand, the UK's leading growers are increasingly choosing Thorvald as their environmentally sustainable and commercially viable service for pest management." Prime Minister Narendra Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday sought to give a roadmap for his government in the NDAs third term and outlined the fight against poverty as the prime focus in the next five years. Replying to the Motion of Presidents Address in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi lamented that certain sections of society remained deprived of basic amenities, even decades after Independence and highlighted how his government was working to bring them into the mainstream. A determined and decisive fight will happen in the next five years for the betterment of poor and downtrodden, to uplift their living standards, PM Modi said. He added that the next five years will see saturation of basic welfare schemes for the marginalised communities. Work of the past 10 years is just an appetizer, the main course is yet to begin, said PM Modi, emphasising his belief that development so far has been 'trailer' and the real progress was yet to come. He said that those who have been ignored and neglected for decades after Independence are getting due attention in his government. For Divyangs, our government is working to make their life simpler and easier and enable them to live a dignified and respectful life. For the transgender community, our government has made laws for them and sought to bring them into the mainstream. They have been included in the Padma awards, PM Modi told the Upper House. They are not only acknowledged but also worshipped in our government, said the Prime Minister. A momentous 13,000 crore project was launched for the Vishwakarma Samaj for empowering them with skills while under PM SVAnidhi scheme, street vendors and hawkers have been connected with the banking system, PM Modi said, highlighting his governments focus on empowering the marginalised class. He also said that Tier II and Tier III cities will play a pivotal role and serve as a growth engine of the nation. NFU Scotland is urging crofters to participate in the Scottish governments proposals which seek to modernise the sector. The union is calling on its 850 crofting members to get involved in the debate on crofting law reform, sparked by the recent publication of a government consultation. It is also urging crofters to participate in a series of public meetings with Scottish government officials from the Crofting Bill team to support the consultation. These commence in Inverness today (3 July) followed by Thurso on Thursda, with a further 13 meetings to be held throughout the summer. There are around 20,000 crofts across the crofting counties, which are in the Highlands & Islands and in designated areas in Scotland. More than 750,000 hectares of land in Scotland is in crofting tenure, with approximately 33,000 people living in crofting households. Chair of NFU Scotlands Crofting Committee, Arthur Macdonald, said the Crofting Bill was an important piece of legislation for the nations crofters. He said: Our committee will be working closely on this consultation, in collaboration with the wider crofting membership, to ensure member views are fully represented. I would encourage our crofter members to take a look at the proposals and think about how the changes may make it easier to be an active crofter and a little tougher to be an inactive one. I would also encourage members to attend one of the many roadshows organised to discuss the Bill. Amending crofting legislation will help but we know that the agencies who are responsible for delivering it need to be able to do so, and resources are an issue that we will be considering as part of our response. The consultation, which runs until 2 September 2024, seeks views on a range of proposals for modernising crofting. The Scottish government said it wanted to help to create opportunities for new entrants and encourage the active management and use of crofts. The crofting system must also support effective and sustainable land use, it explained. During a rally outside Christopher Creek Winery in April 2021, Joseph Foppoli takes down a sign calling for his brother, then-Windsor Mayor Dominic Foppoli, to resign. Marlena Sloss/Special to the Chronicle 2021 Dominic Foppoli, who resigned as Windsor mayor in 2021 amid a criminal investigation into sexual assault allegations, is accused of illegally draining Christopher Creek winerys coffers. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle 2020 Joseph Foppoli speaks outside Christopher Creek Winery in April 2021 before a rally calling for Windsor Mayor Dominic Foppoli to resign. Marlena Sloss/Special to the Chronicle 2021 The owners of Christopher Creek winery lied to the public and to customers about Dominic Foppolis involvement in the business as sexual assault allegations mounted against the then-mayor of Windsor in 2021, according to a lawsuit filed by his brother. In the complaint, Joseph Foppoli says Dominic Foppoli illegally drained the winerys coffers to fund a lavish lifestyle abroad. Dominic Foppoli, who resigned as mayor in May 2021 amid a criminal investigation into the assault allegations, fired his brother when Joseph Foppoli raised concerns about financial misconduct, according to the wrongful termination lawsuit. Joseph Foppoli seeks unspecified damages. He was not available for comment Wednesday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Along with Dominic Foppoli and Christopher Creek Winery, co-owners Brian Noble, Elisa Cuadros Lawson and Jean Michele Cuadros were named as defendants in the suit, filed Tuesday. In an emailed statement signed by Christopher Creek Winery Ownership, they said they vehemently deny all of Joes unfounded accusations including that his departure was retaliatory. Regretfully, Joes departure was the culmination of a series of ongoing performance issues, including his second DUI arrest last year, that he would not take an active role in correcting, according to the statement. Joseph Foppolis lawyer, Michelle Dye Neumann, said in an interview that his January 2023 arrest for driving under the influence occurred more than a year before he was fired and had absolutely no relation to his termination. There were no performance issues, there were no write-ups, she said. According to the lawsuit, Joseph Foppoli began working for Two Kings Wine Co., which operates under the name Christopher Creek Winery, in 2013 as the chief operating officer with a 4.4% ownership. The winery is on the outskirts of Healdsburg. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Beginning in 2021, more than 12 women came forward to police and in a series of Chronicle investigations to accuse Dominic Foppoli of sexual assault or misconduct in incidents that took place from 2002 to 2021. Joseph Foppoli appeared at an April 2021 rally outside of Christopher Creek Winery calling on his brother to resign his position as mayor. He told the gathered crowd that he had asked his brother to step down as the winerys CEO and that Dominic Foppoli had reluctantly agreed. Dominic will not be part of his winery moving forward, Joseph Foppoli said at the time. In subsequent months, representatives of Christopher Creek Winery, including Joseph Foppoli, did not respond to multiple emails from the Chronicle seeking clarity about Dominic Foppolis role with the company. According to the lawsuit, Joseph Foppoli tried to remove his brother from participating in management of Christopher Creek Winery and Two Kings, and have Dominic Foppolis shares moved to a trust. He also asked him to step down as the winerys chief executive officer. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Dominic Foppoli not only resisted and refused all efforts to remove him from management and association with the wine company, but continued to be heavily involved, the lawsuit states. At the same time, Joseph Foppoli said, company managers lied to the public and members of the wine industry over Joseph Foppolis objections, telling them that Dominic Foppoli was no longer involved. Dominic has been acting as CEO whether he officially holds that title, according to Christopher Creek, I dont know, Neumann said. Hes the boss, he calls the shots. Then early this year, Joseph Foppoli said that he grew more and more concerned that his brother was using the Two Kings as his personal bank, spending money on his personal travel, personal expenses and illegally draining Two Kings funds to use on personal expenses. In the complaint, Joseph Foppoli says he wasnt paid overtime or given rest breaks as legally required, and that Dominic Foppoli failed to follow the corporate formalities for keeping his personal accounts and Two Kings accounts separate. The former mayors brother also alleges that he observed that Two Kings and the board members were engaged in numerous financial improprieties and failures to abide by California law. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The lawsuit does not specify these violations. In May, Joseph Foppoli said he voiced his concerns about the alleged financial improprieties to company managers and requested to review the winerys financial records. In retaliation, Joseph Foppoli alleges, he was then fired. In March, the California Attorney Generals Office announced that it was suspending its criminal investigation into Dominic Foppoli, citing statutes of limitations on some of the cases. At the time, Dominic Foppoli, who had relocated to Italy, said in a statement that he planned to return to Windsor. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jane Fondas fellow prison inmates were only mildly impressed by her stellar movie career. Jane Fondas fellow prison inmates were only mildly impressed by her stellar movie career The actress and activist, 86, was jailed again over her protesting in 2019 for crowding, obstructing, or incommoding while raising awareness about climate change in Washington, D.C. and she has now told how her fame meant very little to other convicts. She told hosts Ted Danson, 76, and Woody Harrelson, 62, on SiriusXMs Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast about her fifth stint in jail, which only lasted a night: I was the only white person there. A lot of other prisoners black women could have cared less who I was. They had far more important things to think about and none of them had seen any of my movies. But the inmates had a bit of interest in the fact she had appeared alongside Jennifer Lopez, 54, in the 2005 romantic comedy Monster-in-Law. She added: They had seen Monster-in-Law. I pulled that card and they were mildly impressed, but not really. They went right back and talked about what they were dealing with which was survival issues. It was an eye-opener. Double Oscar-winner Jane was joined at one of her Washington Fire Drill Friday climate change protest events by Cheers star Ted, who said: (For) most people in this world, especially people of colour (getting arrested is a) way different (experience.) Jane added: Theres something very liberating about engaging in civil disobedience. Its like putting your whole body on the line where your deepest values are, and you dont get many chances in life to do that. Even though were treated okay once were there because they dont want to make a stink because were white and famous. Lara Flynn Boyle gave up dating actors following her high-profile romance with Jack Nicholson and quit booze five years ago. Lara Flynn Boyle gave up booze and dating actors The 'Twin Peaks' star enjoyed much-publicised relationships with her TV co-star Kyle MacLachlan as well as David Spade and Nicholson - who she dated on an off from 1999 until the early 2000s - but she's revealed she quit dating actors after splitting from 'The Shining' star. Lara told PEOPLE magazine: "I left with a bang when it came to actors. Then I went, 'Okay, Im done now'." The actress - who was previously wed to John Patrick Dee in the mid-1990s - went on to settle down with real estate mogul Donald Ray Thomas. They tied the knot in Texas in 2006. She said of her current husband: "I have a lovely marriage. We were together that night [we first met] and ever since." Lara went on to reveal that not only did she give up dating actors, she also quit drinking alcohol five years ago after her previous party antics became a staple in the tabloids. She insisted her wild child days naturally came to an end and she gave up booze. Lara added to PEOPLE: "Those disco boots, theyve had their time. Some people are allergic to it; some people are un-allergic to it." Lara also explained that despite all the attention she got at the height of her fame, she never considered walking away from Hollywood, adding: "I never wanted to bow out. Any moment I was feeling down or sorry for myself, I made sure I did not complain. "My mom used to sometimes bring me articles about other actresses to show me Im not the only one getting a raw deal." She previously opened up about being a tabloid target in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter earlier this year - insisting a career in the spotlight was her "choice" and she dealt with the repercussions. She explained: "Well, its not always a pony in a parade, but I chose my career. I chose the highs, and I chose the lows. This career I have chosen has been kinder to me than it hasnt. "If I cant roll with the bumps, then I have no business riding the roller coaster. Of course, Im a human being and there are going to be questions that come into your head or your heart. I dont know if this is good or bad, but I have weathered the storm with a lot of negative publicity and at the end of the day, Ill take the negative publicity and keep on rolling. Its worth it." Robert De Niros late grandson has been hailed as a sweet wild boy by his mother on the first anniversary of the teenagers death. Robert De Niros late grandson has been hailed as a sweet wild boy by his mother on the first anniversary of the teenagers death The 80-year-old Raging Bull actors girl Drena De Niro, 52, was left broken when her 19-year-old son Leandro De Niro-Rodriguez was killed on 2 July, 2023, by an accidental drug overdose of substances including fentanyl, bromazolam, alprazolam, aminoclonazepam, ketamine and cocaine. Drena posted a series of never-before-seen photos of Leandro and one of his grave to mark a year since his shock passing, with the opening snap in her series of images on Instagram showing Leandro posing in a leather jacket and leather pants with his arms open wide. She captioned the carousel of images: I KNEW this kid was jacking my clothes behind my back!!! Today we celebrated sweet wild boy Leo (black heart emoji).. in your short time here you made the world a brighter place. You are deeply loved like the sun loves the moon and the moon loves the sea. Thank you to everyone of you who held me, @carlosmare and our family in your arms and hearts through the darkest days.. I can only hope to pay it forward.. #cantspelllovewithoutleo (red heart, sea, sunshine, red heart, bat, white dove, dog, lion, three stars and four shooting star emojis) #bigmargiela #neonguts #rumi. Among the pictures shared by Drena was a snap of a set of lines from a poem about the power of someones presence and a snap visiting her sons grave. It was adorned with several vases of flowers, and the devastated mother concluded her Instagram picture set with a snap of Leandro face-on to the camera smiling. Leandros father Carlos Mare Rodriguez also posted on Instagram mourning his son on the anniversary of his death. He put up a black photo with the caption: Year One. Rest in Peace Rest in Me Leo. #youcantspelllovewithoutleo (praying hands, white dove, red heart and broken heart emojis.) Carlos added his late sons loved ones had made a cake in his honour, and posted throwback videos of Leandro dancing in the street. Actor Robert said in a statement about his grandsons death: Im deeply distressed by the passing of my beloved grandson Leo. Were greatly appreciative of the condolences from everyone. We ask that we please be given privacy to grieve our loss of Leo. A spokesperson for the New York Police Department said at the time of Leandros death a male was found unconscious, unresponsive and was pronounced deceased by emergency services on scene after police received a 911 at around 2.23pm on 2 July last year. The New York City chief medical examiners office confirmed Leandro had died from an accidental drug overdose. Drena said on Instagram days after her boys passing: Someone sold him fentanyl laced pills that they knew were laced yet still sold them to him. So for all these people still f****** around selling and buying this s***, my son is gone forever. Whitney Port "took a little breather" from attempting to have a baby after a string of devastating losses. Whitney Port is ready to resume her fertility journey The 39-year-old reality star had three miscarriages and a chemical pregnancy before she and husband Tim Rosenman decided to opt for surrogacy, only for their two attempts at embryo transfer to end in losses too, prompting the couple to put their plans to give six-year-old son Sonny a sibling on hold so the 'Hills' alumni could focus on herself. Whitney told E! News: "I took a little breather from the fertility situation. "I decided to take a few months off from thinking about it and talking about it and proactively doing anything about it so that I could take care of myself." But now the family are planning to spend a chunk of their summer on the East Coast, which will include a period of time working "with this amazing doctor in New York", Spring Fertility's Dr. Catha Fischer. Whitney said: "After a bunch of tries here, with both myself and a surrogate, we're going to do another round of egg retrieval in New York. "And in the meantime, looking for a surrogate for the next transfer." Whitney urged other women considering surrogacy not to feel "guilty" or bad about themselves. She said: "Try to take the guilt completely off the table. "So many women feel like they want to do the whole thing through and feel less about themselves because they may not be able to carry or it doesn't happen for them. "And I just want women to know that it doesn't make them any less of a woman." While the brunette beauty is grateful she carried Sonny to term, she doesn't feel it is necessary to be pregnant again to bond with any future children. She said: "It wasn't like I felt more connected to Sonny through my pregnancy or felt more connected to him when I gave birth. "I really started to fully connect with him when he was a toddler. So, I really want women to understand that." King Charles bestowed special honours on Queen Camilla and Edward, Duke of Edinburgh at a ceremony in Scotland. King Charles inducted Queen Camilla and Prince Edward to the Order of the Thistle The monarch inducted his wife and his brother to the Order of the Thistle - Scotland's greatest order of chivalry - making them Royal Knights of the Order during a service at St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh on Wednesday (03.07.24) which was attended by William, Prince of Wales and Prince Edward's wife Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh. The appointments were made as gifts from the King, who is the sovereign of the Order, and he was present at the service in Scotland alongside his family members. Among the royals unable to attend the service were Princess Anne, who is recovering at home following a stint in hospital after an accident involving a horse, and Catherine, Princess of Wales, who has been undergoing chemotherapy treatment following her cancer diagnosis earlier this year. Inductees to the order are chosen for making contributions to Scottish life. Camilla is patron of a number of charities based in Scotland, while Edward was chosen to mark his 60th birthday earlier this year and to honour his commitment to the Duke of Edinburgh award and the National Youth Orchestras of Scotland. Others who were inducted into the order during Wednesday's service included forensic anthropologist Baroness Sue Black, human rights activist Sir Geoff Palmer and womens rights campaigner Baroness Helena Kennedy - who were all handpicked by the King. During the monarch's annual trip to Scotland, the King and Queen will also attend an event commemorating the 900th anniversary of the Edinburgh Castle. It's believed the itinerary has been shortened to avoid overshadowing the UK general election, which takes place on Thursday (04.07.24). The share of women's garments was around 47.34 per cent of Chinese garment exports to Saudi Arabia during January-April 2024. Chinese garment exports to the partner country totalled $769.005 million during this period. Out of the shipment, the value of women's garments was $364.019 million. The analysis of garment exports by gender showed that exports of garments for men from China were significantly lower than those for women. According to Fibre2Fashion's market insight tool TexPro, the shipment of garments for men was valued at $205.838 million, which was 26.77 per cent of Chinese total garment exports to Saudi Arabia in the first four months of the current year. The country exported unisex garments worth $189.583 million, accounting for 24.65 per cent of the total. Garment exports for babies were noted at $9.565 million (1.24 per cent) in the same period. During January-April 2024, Chinese garment exports to Saudi Arabia totalled $769.005 million, with women's garments making up 47.34 per cent ($364.019 million). Men's garments accounted for 26.77 per cent, unisex garments 24.65 per cent, and baby garments 1.24 per cent. Compared to the same period in 2023, total exports fell by 14 per cent. Chinese total garment exports to Saudi Arabia were $894.985 million during the same period in 2023. Therefore, trade declined by around 14 per cent this year. During January-April 2023, the share of women's garments was 49.60 per cent, unisex garments 25.49 per cent, men's garments 24.19 per cent, and baby garments 0.72 per cent of the total exports to Saudi Arabia. The shipment was recorded at $2,518.613 million during the whole of 2023. Chinese exports of women's garments were valued at $1,124.703 million, making up 44.66 per cent of the total. The shipment of unisex garments was $693.632 million (27.54 per cent), men's garments $672.329 million (26.69 per cent), and baby garments $27.949 million (1.11 per cent) during this period, as per TexPro. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL) Sonakshi Sinha got married to longtime beau Zaheer Iqbal on June 23, 2024. The two registered their marriage at Sonakshis home before heading to a bash in an upscale restaurant. Since then, Sonakshi has been quite active on social media, sharing glimpses of her life post marriage with Zaheer Iqbal. The latest one was some new snaps she shared from a romantic getaway they're currently enjoying. She offered a panoramic view from an infinity pool and it was indeed stunning. Jordan Parker is a breaking news reporter for The San Francisco Chronicle. He graduated from Sacramento State University in May 2022 with a degree in journalism. During his time there, he spent three years as a reporter and editor for the university's award-winning student newspaper, The State Hornet. He spent his senior year of college serving as The Hornet's first Black editor in chief, leading the organization to two Pacemaker awards and several other national honors from the Associated Collegiate Press. When he's not chasing down a story, he likes watching movies, traveling and trying new restaurants. The company will address critical agility and specialisation shortages facing enterprises and consulting firms SYDNEY, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Outsized, a global leader in the high-end independent talent market, has announced its strategic expansion into the Australian and New Zealand (ANZ) region. With a network of over 30,000 independent consultants and skilled contractors, Outsized is as the only on-demand talent platform specialising in high-end roles. In 2023 alone, Outsized grew it's platform by over 50% in terms of talent members. Off the back of very strong year-on-year revenue growth since its inception in 2016, Outsized closed its Series A fundraising round in Q4 2023, and is on an expansion journey across the Asia-Pacific region. The local Outsized team will be led by Sara Kahlau, a seasoned expert in talent models and innovation. Sara, previously at Booz & Co and icare NSW, and most recently a leader in the global on-demand talent market, brings a wealth of experience to her role as Managing Director, ANZ. Outsized differentiates itself by taking a unique "human-first" approach, in contrast to the highly transactional model prevalent in the talent industry which traditionally serves to benefit clients only, albeit without long-lasting partnerships. This includes role scoping support, contracting, and relationship management, ensuring mutual benefits for clients and talent. This approach has been pivotal to Outsized's success, as evidenced by client reviews[1], across the wider APAC region, Africa, and the Middle East, and is set to redefine talent engagement in Australia and New Zealand. "With Outsized, our customers in ANZ can expect a tailored approach that aligns talent solutions with strategic business objectives," Sara affirmed. "Our model ensures clients have access to all the skills they need whenever they need them, without the fixed costs, through our unique talent pool and virtual bench products, giving clients on-tap access to pre-vetted, highly skilled talent curated to their individual needs. "In ANZ, demand for flexible, independent talent solutions is growing rapidly," noted Sara Kahlau. "Outsized fills a critical gap in the market by offering an intuitive platform that not only meets business needs for agility and expertise but empowers talent to shape their careers on their terms." The ANZ expansion coincides with a trend where businesses increasingly turn to independent talent for agility, innovation and efficiency. In 2023, Outsized experienced an increase of 154% in the number of independents on contracts, up from an increase of 45% the year prior. Some of the key growth areas Outsized expects to see in the ANZ market includes Data, AI, Digital Transformation, Technology, Cybersecurity, and Sustainability/ESG. Recent studies indicate that 88% of Australian businesses need talent with the right skills, especially in areas like Project Management, Business Analytics, and Digital Transformation[2]. Outsized's expansion strategy is bolstered by its existing relationships with major consulting firms and its specialisation in sectors including financial services, insurance, healthcare, and government. "As we expand our footprint in ANZ, Outsized remains committed to delivering unparalleled value to our clients and talent partners," concluded Anurag Bhalla, co-founder of Outsized. "We are excited to embark on this journey, redefining the future of work through innovative talent solutions." About Outsized Outsized is a talent-on-demand platform for highly-skilled independent professionals. It enables large enterprises and consulting firms in Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East to implement flexible workforce models by providing access to vetted talent from a host of professional disciplines. With a focus on experienced professionals, and full-time contracts, Outsized empowers and supports both the people and the businesses that use its platform. Outsized has local teams based in Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, South Africa, India, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, and is committed to creating a sustainable, win-win ecosystem for clients and talent. [1] https://www.trustpilot.com/review/outsized.com [2] Labour Market Update - December 2023 | Jobs and Skills Australia Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2452910/Sara_Kahlau_MD_ANZ.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/outsized-expands-into-anz-offering-innovative-solutions-to-flexible-talent-needs-302188082.html NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR RELEASE PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION OR DISSEMINATION DIRECTLY, OR INDIRECTLY, IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES. Kobo Resources Inc. ("Kobo" or the "Company") (TSX.V: KRI) is pleased to announce that it has closed its second tranche (the "Second Tranche") of previously announced non-brokered private placement of units (the "Units") for gross proceeds of $2,995,497 (the "Offering"). Under the second tranche of the Offering, 8,558,563 Units were issued at a price of $0.35 per Unit. Closing of a first tranche of the Offering (the "First Tranche") and concurrent brokered private placement (the "Concurrent Financing") occurred on June 4, 2024, at which time the Company issued an aggregate of 12,622,504 units. Together with the First Tranche, the Company raised gross proceeds of $7.413 million following the closing of the Second Tranche. Edward Gosselin, CEO and Director of Kobo commented: "The successful completion of the Company's private placement represents an important milestone for Kobo, demonstrating the market's confidence in our team and in our 100%-owned Kossou Gold Project. Having the overwhelming support of existing and new shareholders, we can build on this foundation for aggressive growth at Kossou as we continue to develop our key assets and create value for all stakeholders." He continued: "Importantly, partnering with Luso Global Mining and its parent company, Mota-Engil, offers us exceptional synergies and leverages their extensive experience in West Africa, particularly in Cote d'Ivoire. We are excited to build on our strategic partnership with Luso Global Mining as we expand our presence in Cote d'Ivoire through the Kossou Gold Project and explore future opportunities." Alexander Shaw, CEO of LGM commented: "We are thrilled to collaborate with the team at Kobo as they build on the success of the Kossou Gold Project, positioning ourselves as Kobo's strategic partner in these endeavors. Additionally, our goal is to support Kobo's team in any other significant opportunities in the region. Our parent company has a proven track record of success in West Africa, and we look forward to extending our support to help advance Kobo's strategic vision in the region." Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one-half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole common share purchase warrant, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles its holder to acquire one Common Share at a price of $0.55 per share until June 4, 2026. The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Offering and the Concurrent Financing to expand its 2024 diamond drill program on its Kossou exploration permit, initiate a soil geochemical survey and a geological exploration program on the Kotobi research permit and for general corporate and working capital purposes. As previously announced, Luso Global Mining, B.V. ("LGM"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Mota-Engil SGPS, S.A. ("Mota-Engil"), has participated in the Offering as a lead investor. LGM subscribed for an aggregate of 7,368,565 Units in the Second Tranche, representing 7,368,565 Common Shares and 3,684,283 Warrants, for an aggregate subscription price of C$2,578,998. Prior to the closing of the Second Tranche, LGM beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, an aggregate of 2,857,143 Common Shares and 1,428,571 Warrants subscribed under the First Tranche, representing approximately 3.05% of the then issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis, and 4.50% of the then issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of the Warrants held by LGM only. Immediately following the closing of the Second Tranche, LGM beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 10,225,708 Common Shares and 5,112,854 Warrants, representing 9.99% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis, and 14.27% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially-diluted basis, assuming the exercise of the Warrants held by LGM only. The securities of the Company beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by LGM, are held for investment purposes. LGM has a long-term view of the investment and may acquire additional securities including either on the open market or through private acquisitions or sell the securities including either on the open market or through private dispositions in the future depending on market conditions, reformulation of plans and/or other relevant factors. An early warning report relating to this transaction will be filed on SEDAR+ under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca. To obtain a copy of such report, please contact Miguel Pinto de Magalhaes Miguens at +351 927 520 913 LGM is an entity governed under the laws of The Netherlands indirectly wholly-owned by Mota-Engil. The head office of LGM is situated at Kingsfordweg 151, Office 01.26, 1043 GR, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The head office of the Company is located at 388 Grande-Allee Est, Quebec City, QC, G1R 2J4. The Units were issued pursuant to the "accredited investor" or another exemption (other than the listed issuer financing exemption) from the prospectus requirements in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions. The securities issued under the second tranche of the Offering are subject to a statutory hold period until November 3, 2024 in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. The Company paid finders' fees in an aggregate amount of $1,540 in connection with the Second Tranche. The Units and underlying Common Shares and Warrants have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold to, or for the account or benefit of, persons in the "United States" or "U.S. persons" (as such terms are defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act and all applicable U.S. state securities laws or compliance with an exemption from such registration requirements. This press release is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to qualification or registration under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. About Mota-Engil Founded in 1946, Mota-Engil is a multinational organization with expertise in construction, mining, and infrastructure management across a number of sectors, including Engineering, Mining and Construction, Environment and Services, Transport Concessions, and Energy. Mota-Engil is a market leader in the Portuguese construction industry, occupying a prominent position among the top 15 construction companies in Europe. Mota-Engil operates in 21 countries across Europe, Africa, and Latin America with a workforce of over 50,000 employees and EBITDA exceeding 800 million in 2023. More specifically, Mota-Engil operates in 13 African countries and is the mining contractor for eight operating mines, including Fortuna Silver's Seguela Gold Mine and Endeavour Mining's Lafigue Gold Project in Cote d'Ivoire, Managem's Gold Mines Boto in Senegal and Tri-K in Guinea-Conakry, as well as for other mining operations located in Angola, Guinea, Mozambique, and South Africa. About Kobo Resources Inc. Kobo Resources is a growth-focused gold exploration company with a compelling new gold discovery in Cote d'Ivoire, one of West Africa's most prolific and developing gold districts, hosting several multi-million-ounce gold mines. The Company's 100%-owned Kossou Gold Project is located approximately 20 km northwest of the capital city of Yamoussoukro and is directly adjacent to one of the region's largest gold mines with established processing facilities. The Company is drilling to unlock the potential size and scale of Kossou within 9+ km strike length of highly prospective gold in soil geochemical anomalies with excellent rock and trench sampling results. The Company completed ~6,000 m of RC drilling and ~5,400 m of trenching in 2023 and is planning on additional drilling and trenching in 2024. Significant gold mineralisation has been identified at three main targets within a 300 m wide, 2+ km long, pervasively altered structural corridor defining a potentially large mesothermal gold system. Kobo's common shares trade on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "KRI". For more information, please visit www.koboresources.com. 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. Cautionary Statement on Forward-looking Information: This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. 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", "anticipates", "plans", "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. In this news release, forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to; the proposed use of proceeds; the completion of the Company's business objectives, and the timing, costs, and benefits thereof; development and exploration costs; the Company's ability to complete or not its diamond drill program on the Kossou Gold Project and the Company's ability to conduct the proposed exploration program on its Kotobi exploration permit, located in Cote d'Ivoire. 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; and the delay or failure to receive requisite approvals. 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 the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240702983184/en/ Contacts: For further information, please contact: Edward Gosselin Chief Executive Officer and Director 1-418-609-3587 ir@kobores.com The Special Committee of the Board of Directors of ARC Document Solutions, Inc. (the "Company") (NYSE:ARC), a leading provider of digital printing and document-related services, announced that it received a non-binding proposal on April 8, 2024 from the Company's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Kumarakulasingam Suriyakumar, outlining Mr. Suriyakumar's intent to explore and evaluate a potential acquisition of all of the outstanding shares of the Company not already owned by Mr. Suriyakumar in a going-private transaction at a purchase price of $3.25 per share in cash (the "Proposed Transaction"). On June 27, 2024, Mr. Suriyakumar, Dilantha Wijesuriya, the Company's President and Chief Operating Officer, Jorge Avalos, the Company's Chief Financial Officer, Rahul Roy, the Company's Chief Technology Officer, Sujeewa Sean Pathiratne, a private investor, and certain entities affiliated with such persons (collectively, the "Acquisition Group") agreed in principle that they will work with each other to negotiate and consummate the Proposed Transaction. A copy of Mr. Suriyakumar's proposal is attached to the Schedule 13D filed by the Acquisition Group with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission on June 28, 2024. The Acquisition Group currently beneficially owns approximately 19.6% of the Company's outstanding shares of common stock, $0.001 per share. In response to the proposal, on April 8, 2024, a special committee of the board of directors of the Company consisting entirely of independent, disinterested directors (the "Special Committee") was formed to review and evaluate the Proposed Transaction. The Special Committee retained William Blair & Company, L.L.C. to provide financial advice and K&L Gates LLP as legal counsel to assist in its ongoing review and evaluation of the Proposed Transaction and the Company's other strategic alternatives. Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr is acting as legal counsel to the Company. The Special Committee intends to carefully consider the Proposed Transaction with the assistance of its independent financial and legal advisors. No assurances can be given regarding the terms and details of any transaction, that any proposal made by the Acquisition Group regarding a proposed transaction will be accepted by the Special Committee, that definitive documentation relating to any such transaction will be executed, or that a transaction will be consummated in accordance with that documentation, if at all. The Company and the Special Committee do not intend to comment on or disclose further developments regarding the Special Committee's consideration of the proposal unless and until it deems further disclosure is appropriate or required. The Company's stockholders are advised to take no action at this time. About ARC Document Solutions (NYSE: ARC) ARC partners with top brands around the world to tell their stories through visually compelling graphics. We use advanced digital printing technology, sustainable materials, and innovative techniques to bring their vision to life. ARC also provides other digital printing and scanning services to a wide variety of industries all over North America and in select markets around the world. Follow ARC at www.e-arc.com. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements that are based on current opinions and assumptions of management regarding future events. Words and phrases such as, "will," "intends," and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements and all statements other than statements of historical fact, including, but not limited to, any the Company's expectations regarding the Proposed Transaction, the terms and conditions of the Proposed Transaction, and the Special Committee's actions in respect thereof, including considering all potential strategic alternatives to maximize shareholder value, could be deemed forward-looking statements. We caution you that such statements are only predictions and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition to matters affecting the construction, managed print services, digital printing industries, or the economy generally, factors that could cause actual results to differ from expectations stated in forward-looking statements include, among others, the factors described in the section titled "Part I - Item 1A. Risk Factors" of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 and future filings and reports that the Company makes from time to time with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law. Contact: David Stickney VP Corporate Communications & Investor Relations 925-949-5114 SOURCE: ARC Document Solutions View the original press release on accesswire.com DCI Indonesia's expansions, backed by its focus on industry best practices, sustainability, and alignment with customer trends, reinforce its strategic advantage. SAN ANTONIO, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost & Sullivan recently analyzed the data center services industry and, based on its findings, recognized DCI Indonesia with the 2024 Company of the Year Award for a fifth consecutive time. The company is the leading data center services provider in Indonesia, offering best-in-class, scalable, and reliable data center colocation services and solutions. Its portfolio includes colocation, bare metal, physical security, data center connectivity, cooling, and power management to improve operational excellence, enabling customers to grow and thrive. The company supports a diverse client base, including global cloud service providers, major e-commerce and social media companies, telecommunication service providers, financial services industries, and enterprises from various verticals. DCI currently offers 83 megawatts (MW) of power capacity across Cibitung, Karawang and Jakarta, where clients can directly connect with 4 of the world's biggest cloud platforms. The DCI Indonesia Platform maximizes headcount efficiency in data center operations and provides customers with improved power usage effectiveness and energy cost stability. Furthermore, DCI offers Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), as well as green energy from biomass and solar farms as they lead the sustainability front in the industry. Nishchal Khorana, global vice president and program leader for ICT at Frost & Sullivan, observed, "DCI Indonesia reinforces its strategic advantage with a compelling value proposition of tailored solutions and carrier-neutral facilities-the highest Tier IV service quality, best practice AI-driven operations, and competitive pricing. The company is an established data center operator with a 100% power uptime track record for over a decade, trusted by hundreds of clients in its portfolio to house their most critical IT infrastructure." DCI Indonesia is a member of a global business community that meets high social and environmental impact standards. With its sterling reputation and a client-centric approach at its core, it establishes ongoing trust with customers and fosters long-lasting relationships that extend throughout the data center service lifecycle. The company generates over USD $90 million in revenue, achieving at least 25% year-on-year growth with an impressive net profit margin. Its stellar growth momentum and trajectory are a testament to its service leadership, its ability to earn client trust and loyalty, and its capability to capture market share. The company is well-positioned to drive the data center service space into its next growth phase, capturing market share and sustaining its strategic leadership in the coming years. "DCI Indonesia pioneers the highest standards, enabling its scalable, reliable, and carrier-neutral capabilities and services to meet clients' ever-evolving digital infrastructure needs. Backed by its focus on operational excellence and sustainability, the company continues to expand in Indonesia," added Riana Barnard, Best Practices Research Analyst. Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents a Company of the Year Award to the organization that demonstrates excellence in terms of growth strategy and implementation in its field. The award recognizes a high degree of innovation with products and technologies, and the resulting leadership in terms of customer value and market penetration. Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare industry participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the sector. 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, megatrends, 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: Tarini Singh P: +91-9953764546 E: tarini.singh@frost.com About DCI Indonesia PT DCI Indonesia Tbk (DCI) is the first Tier IV data center in Southeast Asia that provides secure data center infrastructure services, guaranteeing a 99.999% SLA colocation or only five minutes of downtime per year. As a neutral data center operator, DCI is supported by 70+ network service providers. DCI Platform has 7 data centers in 3 locations: Cibitung, Karawang, and Jakarta with a total potential power capacity approaching 1,000 megawatts (MW). With world-class operating standards, and equipped with state-of-the-art data center equipment, DCI provides maximum availability for customers to access their critical assets. This includes financial institutions, network service providers, e-commerce players, cloud service providers, and companies from other sectors. DCI has maintained a 100% uptime track record since its establishment. This performance stems from the proven experience of the leadership team in information technology, data center services, and infrastructure management, spanning over 25 years. The demand for data centers in Indonesia continues to grow rapidly. DCI responds to this by committing to build sustainable data centers across its existing and new locations. Contact: DCI Marketing E: marketing@dci-indonesia.com Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2453096/DCl_Indonesia_Award.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/dci-indonesia-awarded-by-frost--sullivan-for-world-class-operational-excellence-enabling-customers-to-grow-and-thrive-and-securing-a-market-leading-position-302188402.html Battery Mineral Resources Corp. BATTERY MINERAL RESOURCES INITIATES NEW DRILLING PROGRAM AND ANNOUNCES ENCOURAGING DRILL RESULTS FROM ITS PUNITAQUI COPPER MINE IN CHILE 03-Jul-2024 / 07:00 CET/CEST The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. NEWS RELEASE BY BATTERY MINERAL RESOURCES CORP. Download PDF Download multimedia Vancouver, British Columbia | July 02, 2024 05:30 AM Pacific Daylight Time Battery Mineral Resources Corp. (TSXV: BMR) ("Battery" or "BMR" or the "Company") is pleased to announce encouraging drill core assay results from the new 2024 underground exploration and in-fill drill program at the Punitaqui mine complex ("Punitaqui") in Chile. The Company announced on May 13th, 2024, that it had resumed mill operations and production of copper concentrates at Punitaqui. Coincident with these activities, exploration drilling has resumed with an underground drilling campaign in the Sand Andres and Cinabrio mines. Highlights Assay results from drillholes (see Table 1) have returned with encouraging results as follows: Drillhole SAM-24-01: 4.3 meters ("m") at 1.4% ("CuT") total copper and 24 g/t grams per tonne ("Ag") silver SAM-24-02: 4.0m grading 1.1% CuT & 7.8g/t Ag SAM-24-04: 3.5m at 1.0% CuT & 23.3g/t Ag SAM-24-05: 4.3m at 1.2% CuT & 19.2g/t Ag This initial underground San Andres drilling targeted a scheduled production area and totaled 282 meters of diamond core drilling in 5 drillholes (see Table 2 and Figure 1). Of the five holes drilled, three were designed to confirm the modelled geology, mineralization and copper grade within the planned extraction area (SAM-24-01, SAM-24-02 and SAM-24-05). The remaining two holes explored along the direction of the existing resources to the north and south to test for extensions of the mineralization (SAM-24-03 and SAM-24-04). The 2024 San Andres drill program is designed to confirm resources identified by previous drilling programs and expand these resources north and south along strike and at depth. All holes reached target depth and have intersected the targeted shale horizons that host the copper mineralization. This drilling confirmed copper grades and better delineated the extent of the mineralization in the upper and lower shale units within and adjacent to the planned extraction area. These drill results have been added to the three-dimensional geology and resource models which BMR's mining engineers will use to update the current mine designs and optimize mining schedules. Currently, one contract underground diamond drill is operating on-site. The drill is currently operating in the Cinabrio underground where 14 drillholes totalling 426.5 meters have been completed. This campaign is focused on three planned production areas. Assay results for the Cinabrio drillholes are pending and drilling is continuing. Battery CEO Martin Kostuik states; "With the same team that was hugely successful in our prior campaign, we are pleased to announce these new encouraging copper intercepts. This drilling confirmed the copper grades which exist in the current geological model and better delineated the extent of the mineralization. We believe these new results demonstrate our keen understanding of the geological controls of the copper mineralization and how a well planned and executed drilling program has the potential to provide the Company with additional copper resources. These potential new resources are important in that they could provide additional sources of feed to the mill without the need for extensive capital investment in mine development to access them. We look forward to providing further exciting updates for the 2024 Cinabrio - San Andres drill program in the coming weeks." On the heels of a very successful surface drill program of 33,000 meters, which culminated in BMR reporting resources of 6.172 million tonnes of Indicated at 1.14% CuT and 3.07 million tonnes of Inferred at 0.93% CuT (see press release August 16th, 2022 ), BMR initiated this new underground drill program. As a reference, the Punitqui mill is planned to consume approximately 1 million tonnes per annum. During the current operational ramp-up period, the underground drilling program is focused on accessible targets within existing Inferred Resource to upgrade the resources to a higher resource category as well as targeting areas adjacent to Inferred Resource to potentially add new resources. The 2024 drill plan allows for some flexibility in terms of timing and sequencing of target areas which permits the drilling to be shifted between the Cinabrio mine and the adjacent San Andres underground. San Andres Mine Sample assay results, reported herein, are from the first five underground drill holes completed on Level 448 at San Andres as part of the 2024 drilling program. Drillhole SAM-24-01: was designed to test the San Andres "Targeted Stratigraphic Unit" ("TSU") within the central part of a scheduled extraction area located above Level 448. The hole began in the upper part of the TSU and finished in the andesite above. The hole intersected the mineralized intervals in the upper shale unit between 0m - 27.8m, copper intercepts included 1.4m at 0.9% CuT & 24g/t Ag and 1.8m at 0.9% CuT & 15.6g/t Ag. The lower shale unit was intersected between 35m - 45m and produced a 4.3m at 1.4% CuT & 4.4g/t Ag result before terminating in andesite at 54m. These results confirm both the modelled geology and extent of the mineralization within the central part of the planned extraction area. Drillhole SAM-24-02: tested the TSU unit within the northern part of the same scheduled extraction area. The hole started in the upper part of the TSU and finished in the andesite. The hole intersected a mineralized interval within the upper shale unit between 0m - 29.2m; 2.2m at 0.9% CuT & 23.7g/t Ag. The lower shale was cut downhole between 37.7m to 43.4m and intercepted 4.0m at 1.1% CuT and 7.8g/t Ag. These intercepts confirm the geological modelling of the shale units that host the copper mineralization as well as the extent and the grade of the mineralization within the modelled shales. Drillhole SAM-24-03: was designed as a step-out hole to test targeted stratigraphic unit TSU to the north of the planned extraction area. Hole started in the upper part of the TSU and finished in the andesite. The hole tested the targeted shale horizons but intersected weakly anomalous copper mineralization in both the upper and lower shale units. Drillhole SAM-24-04: was designed as a step-out hole and tested the targeted stratigraphic unit TSU south of the same scheduled extraction area. The hole started in the upper part of the TSU and finished in the andesite. The drill hole intersected mineralized intervals in the upper shale unit between 0m - 51m; 2.0m at 1.4% CuT & 41.5g/t Ag and 3.5m at 1.0% CuT and 23.3g/t Ag. The lower shale unit was intercepted between 37.7m to 43.4m downhole and produced 1.0m at 0.9% CuT and 9.5g/t Ag. The resulting intercepts may contribute to additional resources because the intercepts confirmed the modelled geology and copper grade and extended the copper mineralization. Drillhole SAM-24-05: was designed to test San Andres TSU within the southern part of the scheduled extraction area. The hole began in the upper part of the TSU and finished in the footwall andesite. The hole intersected the mineralized intervals in the upper shale unit between 0m - 32.2m; 1.8m at 0.7% CuT & 19.5 g/t Ag and 2.4m at 0.6% CuT & 19.4g/t Ag and within the lower shale unit from 39.8m to 45.8m; 4.3m at 1.2% CuT & 19.2 g/t Ag. These intercepts have confirmed the modelled geology and better delineated the grade and extent of the copper mineralization. Figure 1: San Andres Drilling Hole Location Plan- Level 448 Table 1: San Andres Level 448 Significant Drillhole Intercepts Drillhole Number Downhole Interval From (m) Downhole Interval To (m) Downhole Sample Interval (m) Sample Estimated True Interval Width (m) Total Copper CuT (%) Silver Ag (Grams per tonne) (g/t) SAM-24-01 4.00 8.00 4.00 1.44 0.85 24.00 20.00 25.00 5.00 1.80 0.89 15.60 35.00 47.00 12.00 4.32 1.38 4.40 SAM-24-02 0.00 6.00 6.00 2.16 0.90 23.70 36.00 47.00 11.00 3.96 1.14 7.80 SAM-24-03 NSR - No Significant Results SAM-24-04 32.00 36.00 4.00 2.00 1.35 41.50 46.00 53.00 7.00 3.50 1.04 23.30 61.00 63.00 2.00 1.00 0.88 9.50 SAM-24-05 6.00 10.00 4.00 1.80 0.67 19.50 23.75 29.05 5.30 2.39 0.63 19.40 39.80 49.30 9.50 4.28 1.18 19.20 Note: All Intercepts reported as estimated true widths intervals Table 2: San Andres Drillhole Summary Hole Number Collar UTM Easting (m) Collar UTM Northing (m) Collar Elevation (mASL) Depth EoH (m) Hole Inclination (Dip) Azimuth Hole Type & Size SAM-24-01 287890.8 6598875 449.8 54.0 22.4o N259.9oE Diamond HQ Core SAM-24-02 287889.8 6598878 449.8 47.9 20.9o N278.0oE Diamond HQ Core SAM-24-03 287876.5 6598926 449.8 58.0 26.0o N254.1oE Diamond HQ Core SAM-24-04 287893.0 6598861 449.9 72.7 17.4o N205.3oE Diamond HQ Core SAM-24-05 287892.6 6598862 450.0 49.3 24.1o N244.9oE Diamond HQ Core Background - San Andres Deposit The San Andres resource is part of the Punitaqui project which is situated within a 25km long mineralized district that is a classic IOCG and manto style copper belt that is comprised of manto and structural controlled copper-silver veins. San Andres is a zone of copper mineralization located 500m southwest of the high-grade Cinabrio deposit mined by Glencore and Xiana Mining. Prior to 1998, only limited extraction of high-grade copper oxides was undertaken at San Andres by small groups of local miners. In 2000, a Chilean national company La Empressa Nacional de Mineria ("ENAMI") developed two underground exploration tunnels targeting copper sulphides. In 2005, via an option process, San Andres became part of the Punitaqui mine complex. Historic wide-spaced drilling completed by the previous operators between 2011- 2017 totaled 58 holes for 5,927m. During 2021 - 2022 BMR completed 38 diamond drillholes totalling 8,212m. On October 3, 2022, BMR published an NI 43-101 resource for San Andres at a 0.70 Cu% cut-off. Indicated Sulphide Resource of 1,736,000 tonnes grading 1.06% CuT and 4.83 g/t Ag. Inferred Sulphide Resource of 303,000 tonnes at 0.82% CuT and 4.03g/t Ag Note: Scientific and technical information pertaining to the San Andres Resource was extracted from the Company's NI 43-101 "Technical report on Punitaqui Copper Complex Coquimbo, Chile" dated as of September 30,2022 with an effective date of August 16, 2022, prepared by Garth Kirkham (Kirkham Geosystems Ltd.) an Independent Qualified Person in accordance with NI 43-101. San Andres is a tabular sedimentary horizon known as the "Targeted Stratigraphic Unit" ("TSU") within a volcanic sequence. This sedimentary horizon is variably mineralized and has a variable width ranging from 5m - 30m. It consists of an interlayered volcano-sedimentary sequence composed of dark colored laminated and unlaminated shales, volcanoclastic sandstone, conglomerates and breccias and tuff breccias. Most of the copper mineralization is hosted in the shale units within the TSU package. There is a variable component of syngenetic pyrite. The horizon dips 40 to 50 degrees to the east and is cut-off at depth by the moderately west dipping San Andres fault. Mineralization consists of veinlets and irregular disseminations in both the fine and coarse-grained clastic rocks and locally within the volcanic rocks above and below the host unit. The host horizon is also cut and offset by other faults with a wide range of orientations. Quality Control Sample preparation, analysis and security procedures applied on the BMR exploration projects are aligned with industry best practice. BMR has implemented protocols and procedures to ensure high quality collection and management of samples resulting in reliable exploration assay data. BMR has implemented formal analytical quality control monitoring for all field sampling and drilling programs by inserting blanks and certified reference materials into every sample sequence dispatched. Sample preparation is performed BMR Los Mantos Preparation Lab. Samples are dried then crushed to 70% < -2 millimeters and a riffle split of 250 grams is then pulverized to 85% of the material achieving a size of <75 microns. Sample pulps & rejects were then delivered to ALS Global - Geochemistry Analytical Lab in La Serana, Chile and sample analyses by ALS in Lima, Peru. ALS analytical facilities are commercial laboratories and are independent from BMR. All BMR samples are collected and packaged by BMR staff and delivered upon receipt at the ALS Laboratory. Samples are logged in a sophisticated laboratory information management system for sample tracking, scheduling, quality control, and electronic reporting. These prepared samples are then shipped to the ALS Laboratory in North Vancouver for analyses by the following methods: ME-MS61: A high precision, multi-acid digest including Hydrofluoric, Nitric, Perchloric and Hydrochloric acids. Analysed by inductively coupled plasma ("ICP") mass spectrometry that produces results for 48 elements. ME-OG62: Aqua-Regia digest: Analysed by ICP-AES (Atomic Emission Spectrometry) or sometimes called optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) for high levels of Co, Cu, Ni and Ag. Certified standards are inserted into sample batches by ALS. Blanks and duplicates are inserted within each analytical run. The blank is inserted at the beginning, certified standards are inserted at random intervals, and duplicates are analysed at the end of the batch. Qualified Persons Peter Doyle, Vice President of Exploration and Michael Schuler, Chile Exploration Manager for Battery Mineral Resources Corp., supervised the preparation of and approved the scientific and technical information in this press release pertaining to the Punitaqui exploration drill program. Mr. Doyle and Mr. Schuler are qualified persons as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Scientific and technical information pertaining to the Punitaqui Resource was extracted from the Company's NI 43-101 "Technical Report on Punitaqui Copper Complex Coquimbo, Chile" dated as of September 30,2022 with an effective date of August 16, 2022, prepared by Garth Kirkham (Kirkham Geosystems Ltd.) an Independent Qualified Person in accordance with NI 43-101. All mineral resources have been estimated in accordance with Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and Petroleum ("CIM") definitions, as required under NI 43-101. Cut-off grades are based on a price of US$3.50/lb copper, US$20/oz silver and several operating costs, metallurgical recoveries, and recovery assumptions, including a reasonable contingency factor. About Battery Mineral Resources Corp. Battery Mineral Resources' mission is to build a mid-tier copper producer and it has recently initiated mine and mill operations at the Punitaqui Mining Complex, a historic copper-gold-silver producer, in the Coquimbo region of Chile. Battery Mineral Resources is unique because it leverages the inherent value from its 100% owned subsidiary, ESI Energy Services Inc., a renewable energy equipment rental and sales company. The Company's portfolio also consists of two cobalt assets and one graphite asset located in North America, South America and South Korea. The Company is focused on providing shareholders accretive exposure to copper and the global mega-trend of electrification while being focused on growth through cash-flow, exploration, and acquisitions in favorable mining jurisdictions. Forward Looking Statements This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements include statements relating to drilling results and their impact on potential future mine production, statements relating to future drilling campaigns and statements relating to future mine operations, and in each case reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections of the Company on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the ability of the Company to obtain sufficient financing to complete exploration and development activities, risks related to share price and market conditions, the inherent risks involved in the mining, exploration and development of mineral properties, government regulation and fluctuating metal prices. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Battery undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements contained herein whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. Contact Details Battery Mineral Resources Corp. Martin Kostuik, CEO +1 604-229-3830 info@bmrcorp.com Company Website https://bmrcorp.com/ Battery Mineral Resources Corp. Media Channels VISIT FACEBOOK VISIT LINKEDIN VISIT TWITTER Tags BATTERY MINERAL RESOURCESPUNITAQUI COPPER MINEDRILLING PROGRAMPUNITAQUI MINE COMPLEXSAN ANDRES DRILL PROGRAMSAN ANDRES Dissemination of a CORPORATE NEWS, transmitted by EQS Group. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Port makes significant investments in air quality monitoring equipment and web-based data-sharing The Port of Hueneme launched a new air quality monitoring website to provide visitors with near-real time information on air quality in South Oxnard. The website portcaresaboutair.org provides current data, a map view, historical data, and a glossary of air quality terms. Port of Hueneme's air quality monitor. Maritime operations impact adjacent communities, and the Port of Hueneme has made a commitment to step up as a regional leader in the transition to zero emission technologies. In the fall of 2021, the Oxnard Harbor District's Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to pass a resolution to commit the Port of Hueneme to decarbonize operations at the Port of Hueneme as part of their commitment to transitioning to a zero-emission future. This resolution effectively laid the foundation for the Port's Community Air Quality Monitoring Program, as well as parallel zero emission commitments to protecting the environment and supporting a healthy quality of life locally. The new website demonstrates the Port's commitment to the community to be a conscientious steward of the local environment and will further enhance the ongoing air monitoring of particulate matter in communities with environmental and health outcome disparities. The transformation of numerical data into culturally competent visual forms, such as charts, graphs, maps, and dashboards, will better aid the surrounding communities to understand and communicate accomplishments as well as identify opportunities for improvements. "By offering the local community access to a website available in both English and Spanish that monitors local air quality, the Port will be able to ensure accessibility for our diverse community," said Celina Zacarias, President of Oxnard Harbor Commission. Residents of South Oxnard had initially approached the Port of Hueneme with questions pertaining to air quality in their neighborhood. Through the Port's ongoing community listening campaign efforts, the voices of local residents advocating for the installation of air quality monitors to gather much needed community specific data were heard. In 2019, the Port's Board of Harbor Commissioners voted to fund the installation of the first Environmental Protection Agency reference grade air quality monitoring station at Haycox Elementary School located in South Oxnard. This was an ideal location in the community on which to locate the monitoring equipment. Port of Hueneme's air quality monitor. "Community air quality information is usually put forth in highly technical language and graphics which assume significant educational privilege," said Giles Pettifor, the Port's Environmental Manager. "The Port's work has been to turn this model on its head and to seek not only equitable access to environmental information but equitable understanding of that data. This website is a significant step towards that goal." EPA reference grade monitors produce the highest accuracy data, which will better inform the air quality concerns of the local community. This new website is the latest part of the Port's ongoing commitment to environmental transparency as well as community engagement and education regarding the environment. The website provides resources to better understand air quality and simplify the many scientific complexities of air quality through interactive videos and diagrams in English and Spanish. The passage of this resolution further propelled the Port's Environmental Management Framework (EMF) to go above and beyond compliance with federal, state and local regulations, and to also implement greater pollution prevention measures. "I applaud the Port of Hueneme in taking this monumental step toward a Zero Emissions Future! South Oxnard will greatly benefit from the Port's willingness to listen to the community about our Air Quality concerns and for making such a bold commitment to reach the 2030 goal. We appreciate that the Port's community outreach has been genuine and most importantly consistent in giving us tools like this website so that we can learn and see for ourselves and help others understand air quality in our region. I would like to also thank the Port's leadership for being visionary enough to push forward and allowing staff like Giles Pettifor and Miguel Rodriguez to continue charging forward!" shared local community member and South Oxnard leader Carolina Gallardo Magana. A bird flying at the Port of Hueneme's Harbor As air in the Ventura County air basin swirls about with wind and seasons, the data shown on this new website will show community air quality readings which are influenced by all local sources of air contaminants. These sources include our cars, buses and trucks driving on local roads and freeways, industrial and agricultural work, and wildfires. As sources of pollution from traditional diesel fueled equipment are phased out and replaced with zero emission alternatives, local pollution levels of certain pollutants are anticipated to fall over time and the air quality website will show these reductions over the years it will take. The Port is working to plan and implement this transition away from fossil fuels for most of the equipment working on Port as well as things like the ships themselves and the trucks delivering food and essential products to our homes and local stores. This type of sustainability work highlights the years long efforts of the Port's environmental stewardship program known as PHRESH (Port of Hueneme Reducing Emissions, Supporting Health), which was developed in partnership with the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District to assess and address climate actions and adaptation at the Port like reduced emissions, air quality regulations and resiliency goals. PHRESH is the first program in the State of California to partner with an air quality regulator to collaboratively develop a climate plan together. "Partnerships like these are foundational in the success of bold initiatives to address and co-create a comprehensive plan for emission reductions and a zero-emission future here at the Port of Hueneme," said Port of Hueneme Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Director Kristin Decas. The Port of Hueneme In addition, the Port of Hueneme is excited to use this new online platform to leverage their $500,000 award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that will expand the Port's existing air quality monitoring network by installing four new air monitoring stations across Ventura County to better understand, and communicate, air data across the Oxnard Plain and beyond. The Port of Hueneme's "Ventura County Community Air Quality Monitoring Network" project was selected among 131 other projects, in 37 states, to receive a portion of the $53.4 million from the American Rescue Plan Enhanced Air Quality Monitoring Competitive Grant Program. This project is being implemented as a team with VCAPCD, CSUCI and the local environmental group CFROG. About the Port of Hueneme The Port of Hueneme is one of the most productive and efficient commercial trade gateways for niche cargo on the West Coast. Five locally elected Port Commissioners govern the Port. The Port consistently ranks among the top ten U.S. ports for automobiles and fresh produce. Port operations support the community by bringing $2.8 billion in economic activity and creating 24,997 trade-related jobs. Trade through the Port of Hueneme generates more than $236 million in direct and related state and local taxes, which fund vital community services. In 2017, the Port of Hueneme became the first port in California to become Green Marine certified and was voted the Greenest Port in the U.S. at the Green Shipping Summit. www.portofh.org . Press Contact Letitia Austin Public & Government Relations Manager laustin@portofh.org (805) 816-8324 SOURCE: Port of Hueneme View the original press release on accesswire.com SHANGHAI, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- UnionPay International has launched its largest-scale summer marketing campaign targeting outbound tourists from China, featuring multiple benefits including merchant discounts up to 33%, favorable exchange rates, and cashback of up to 12% from banks. Over 10,000 global merchants and more than 10 commercial card-issuing banks have participated, covering popular destinations like France. A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link. The UnionPay global acceptance network has expanded to 182 countries and regions outside China's mainland. It offers diverse payment options including cash withdrawal, card payment, QR code payment, and mobile payment, allowing tourists to choose based on their preferences and the local acceptance environment. In Europe, UnionPay cards are accepted at over 90% of the regions, while in Australia and New Zealand, they can be used at over 95% of merchants' POS terminals. Cardholders can make card payments or withdrawals without the need to exchange currency in advance. In destinations like Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, a large number of merchants have already adopted UnionPay QR code payment. Besides, over 5000 schools overseas accept UnionPay card payments. Students go abroad can enjoy exclusive discounts on payments through Flywire. They can also benefit from cashback rewards and other exclusive benefits using the UnionPay Zhuojun Card for international students of Bank of China. This campaign spans 25 countries and regions, encompassing various scenarios like department stores, restaurants, hotels, transportation, and tourist attractions. Cardholders can enjoy ticketing and consumption discounts offered by major airlines such as United Airlines and Cathay Pacific, as well as at Hong Kong International Airport, Narita and Kansai Airports in Japan. Exclusive promotions are also available for Royal Caribbean's "Spectrum of the Seas", Hong Kong Octopus card, and Japan's Suica card. Popular department stores such as Harbour City in Hong Kong SAR, Matsuya Ginza in Japan, and Harrods in the UK, Galeries Lafayette in France, as well as over 20 shopping villages in Europe offer discounts for UnionPay cardholders. Now, UnionPay cardholders can enjoy preferential exchange rates for all their expenses in Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, and Singapore, same in popular merchants in destinations like Dubai and Fiji. In Hong Kong SAR, South Korea, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States, cardholders can enjoy instant discounts or cashback offers when using UnionPay QR code or mobile payment. In France, cardholders have the opportunity to receive complimentary tickets to the Louvre Museum with qualifying purchase made using their UnionPay card at participating merchants nationwide. Domestic commercial banks, including the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, offer exclusive cashback or instant discount offers to UnionPay cardholders. Source: UnionPay International A policy perceived to be a ban on Pride flags spurred a recall effort against two members of the Sunol Glen school board. The recall effort was leading in initial results as of Tuesday evening. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle Two school board members facing recall over a perceived Pride flag ban in their tiny East Bay district are losing their efforts to remain on the board, according to early results released Tuesday night by the Alameda County Registrar of Voters. Ryan Jergensen, president of the Sunol Glen school board of trustees, was losing his recall with 53.8% voting in favor. His colleague Linda Hurley was losing with 52.75% in favor of recall. The county had counted 473 ballots as of 9 p.m. Final results could be available in a day or two, but they wont be confirmed until after the long Fourth of July weekend. The Sunol Glen district serves around 270 students in a single K-8 school. The district caught national attention last fall when the board voted 2-1 to ban the display of all flags except the U.S. and California state flags a move perceived as targeting the Pride flag, which caused a community-wide uproar. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Parents and community members quickly targeted Jergensen and Hurley, who both voted in favor of the flag ban, for recall. The third board member, Peter Ted Romo, did not face recall and would be the only remaining trustee if his colleagues are removed from office. The two open seats may be filled by appointees from the Alameda County Board of Education, who are chosen by the president of the county board. Were cautiously optimistic that were ahead on both counts, said Matt Sylvester, a Sunol Glen parent who helped lead the recall campaign. Were hopeful things will turn out the way we want. Reached by phone, Jergensen said he hadnt yet seen the early results and was too busy with family to comment Tuesday night. Hurley could not be reached. If Jergensen and Hurley are recalled, they will join at least four other school board members ousted this year over implementing policies perceived as anti-LGBTQ, among other things. Trustees have been recalled in Orange, Yolo and Riverside counties, including most recently the president of the Temecula Valley Unified School District. The recalls are tied to recent conservative takeovers of California school boards, with candidates often campaigning on parental rights platforms. In at least 12 school districts, trustees have put in place policies that would require schools to out transgender students to their parents. California legislators have passed a bill that would ban such outing policies. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Sunol Glen school trustees never implemented such a policy, but the flag ban dustup spread far beyond the single school, which sits in the heart of unincorporated Sunol. Residents with no direct ties to the school took sides, and school board meetings regularly erupted into yelling matches between neighbors. With the recall vote now complete, some community members said they were eager to put the controversy behind them, even as they noted that the next race for open school board seats happening in November is likely to stir frustrations again. Whatever ends up happening with the school board, whether the configuration changes or doesnt change, people are watching and engaged and not going away, said Kelly Goldsmith, a Sunol parent who helped lead the recall effort. Casting a vote is never a light matter, but theyre even more consequential now. You cant take local elections for granted. July 3, 2024 Amsterdam, the Netherlands - Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced the appointment of Ms Ling Liu as the Chief Region Leader of Philips Greater China, effective immediately. Ms Liu is now a member of Philips' Executive Committee, reporting to Philips CEO Roy Jakobs. She succeeds Andy Ho, who has decided to retire after a long and successful career. Ms Liu and Mr Ho continue to work together to ensure a smooth handover. "Ling is a talented, trusted leader and I am delighted that she will join Philips' Executive Committee as the Chief Region Leader of Philips Greater China," said Roy Jakobs, CEO of Royal Philips. "She is a proven executive who brings a wealth of international experience and deep HealthTech expertise in China. I would also like to express my deep gratitude to Andy for his exceptional leadership in delivering on our commitment to supporting China's national health strategy and becoming a trusted partner for professional customers as well as individual consumers. At the same time as driving sustained financial and operational performance over the last nine years." Ms Liu joined Philips in 1998 and has held multiple roles across the business, living and working in Greater China, the Netherlands and North America. Most recently, she was Chief Commercial Officer in Greater China, following her role as Head of Finance for Philips in North America. She has a track record of driving execution and boosting performance, developing teams and delivering outstanding value to customers and partners. She is passionate about delivering quality care and contributing to sustainable healthcare in China. Ms Liu holds a master of finance and control from Maastricht University, a master's degree in management engineering from Shanghai University, and a bachelor's degree in physics from Zhejiang University. 2023 marked the 100th anniversary of Philips in China, an achievement that stands as a testament to Philips' commitment and dedication to improving people's lives through meaningful innovation and fostering strong partnerships in China. With sustained growth and being Philips' second largest market, it has been one of the major growth engines for the company. Philips China is focused on supporting China's national health strategy, supplying hospitals with solutions for their clinical and research needs, and empowering consumers to manage their health and well-being. With the aim of better serving the Chinese market, Philips is committed to its 'In China, For China' strategy, which focuses on local innovation, manufacturing, services and partnership. Additional information on Philips' Executive Committee can be found here . For further information, please contact: Ben Zwirs Philips External Relations Tel.: +31 6 1521 3446 E-mail: ben.zwirs@philips.com Dorin Danu Philips Investor Relations Tel.: +31 20 59 77055 E-mail: dorin.danu@philips.com About Royal Philips Royal Philips. Forward-looking statements This release contains certain forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations and business of Philips and certain of the plans and objectives of Philips with respect to these items. Examples of forward-looking statements include statements made about the strategy, estimates of sales growth, future EBITA, future developments in Philips' organic business and the completion of acquisitions and divestments. By their nature, these statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to future events and circumstances and there are many factors that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these statements. Attachments VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 03, 2024's belief that the uranium industry in Canada is poised for significant expansion as nuclear energy is likely to play a pivotal role in the clean energy transformation. The proposed acquisition by Paladin Energy, as reported by CarbonCredits.com on June 26, 2024, highlights the growing strategic importance of uranium in the global energy landscape. The article, titled "Paladin Energy Offers C$1.14 B to Canada's Fission Uranium. What does it mean for Uranium Mining?" by Saptakee S, notes: "Australian uranium mining giant Paladin Energy Ltd. has announced a C$1.14 billion ($833 million) all-stock offer to acquire Canadian mining firm Fission Uranium Corp. Using uranium in nuclear power significantly contributes to achieving climate goals by providing reliable energy that reduces the global carbon footprint. Thus, this deal can bring a paradigm shift in uranium mining." Peter Born, President of Bedford , commented, "The increased M&A activity in the Athabasca Basin, exemplified by Paladin's offer for Fission Uranium, is a strong signal of the market's recognition of uranium's critical role in the transition to green energy. This reinforces our belief that the Sheppard Lake project and our Ubiquity Lake and Close Lake projects are strategically valuable and warrant accelerated due diligence and exploration efforts." The Sheppard Lake Uranium Project, located just south of the Athabasca Basin, is of particular interest to Bedford . The project's strategic location and the promising results from recent surveys at the neighbouring Ubiquity Lake have strengthened the company's confidence in its potential. Identifying key uranium markers, such as anomalous helium and methane emissions at Ubiquity Lake, provides a robust foundation for targeted exploration. Bedford remains committed to conducting all exploration activities to the highest environmental standards. The Company is dedicated to minimizing its environmental footprint and ensuring that all operations are sustainable and responsible. Additionally, Bedford values its relationships with local communities and indigenous groups and is committed to working collaboratively to ensure that its activities bring positive benefits to these stakeholders. As the demand for clean energy solutions continues to grow, Bedford is poised to play a significant role in the global transition towards sustainable resource development. The Company will continue to leverage innovative techniques and ramp up its exploration efforts to maximize the value of its uranium projects and contribute to the world's green energy future. Dr. Peter Born, P.Geo., is the designated qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and the president of the Company and is responsible for and has approved the technical information contained in this release. About Bedford Metals Corp. Bedford Metals Corp. (TSX-V: BFM, FWB: O8D, ISIN: CA0762301012) is a mineral exploration company. We create value for our shareholders by identifying and developing highly prospective mineral exploration opportunities. Our strategy is to advance our projects from discovery to production. The Ubiquity Lake Uranium Project, covering 1382 hectares, lies just south of the bottom lip of the Athabasca Basin, adjacent to ALX Uranium's Carpenter Lake Project to the east. Situated near the Cable Bay Shear Zone, parallel to the Virgin River Shear Zone, which hosts Cameco's Centennial uranium deposit, the project holds immense potential. Furthermore, it is located 100 km west of Cameco's past-producing Key Lake uranium mine, underscoring the strategic significance of its location. The Close Lake Uranium Project lies on the eastern side of the Athabasca Basin, adjoining claims held by Cameco Corporation, the largest uranium producer in the world. The project is approximately 245 hectares and lies within the primary exploration corridor, which hosts the Keys Lake Mine, the Cigar Lake Mine and the McArthur River Mine. Access to the property is done through a network of roads and trails. For further information, please contact the Company at info@bedfordmetals.com or 604-622-1199 or visit the Company's website at www.bedfordmetals.com . On behalf of the Board, Bedford Metals Corp. "Peter Born" President 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 may include forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under the applicable laws. CONTACT: MRKT360 INC https://mrkt360.com Alex Zertuche alexz@mrkt360.com For E.S.T Office Hours, Call 1 416-477-0587 Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0d7531a8-ddf0-4ac0-9548-dacd7dc3d160 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/290fe4a9-1cee-4944-beb2-6e067557333f Milan, Italy--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2024) - Electe Srl has launched an AI-based data analytics platform to help companies achieve success through data. It provides a powerful and accessible platform for companies seeking to better interact with their data. Electe Introduces AI-based Data Analytics Platform To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/212816_db2fb50bc4351a9e_002full.jpg According to Fabio Lauria, the company CEO, Electe is committed to clients' success and business growth. Electe has built a reputation for helping businesses experience success with the right information. "At Electe, we take great pride in the work we do," says Lauria. Electe's AI-based data analytics platform is designed to revolutionize how SMEs interact with their data. It offers the following features that aim to help clients' businesses forward: Document Analysis: Easily analyze and interpret complex documents with Electe's AI capabilities, saving time and improving accuracy. Data Visualization Dashboards: Transform raw data into intuitive charts and customizable dashboards, making data comprehension simpler and more actionable. Predictive Analytics: Anticipate market trends and outcomes with Electe's predictive analytics tools. One-Click Report Generation: Electe's platform is user-friendly, featuring one-click report generation that eliminates the need for a dedicated team of experts, making advanced analytics accessible to everyone. Transforming businesses, driving growth Lauria reflected on the company's journey, stating, "Electe was born out of a determination to turn challenges into opportunities. Our goal is to provide businesses with the tools they need to succeed, leveraging the power of data analytics to drive growth and innovation." For SMEs and business leaders looking for a breakthrough to elevate their business, Electe is here to help. Its AI-powered data analytics platform will transform how businesses utilize information, providing companies with the tools to stay ahead of the competition. Electe's customer support team is ready to assist clients and answer any questions. Those ready to take their business to the next level with Electe's cutting-edge analytics platform may visit Electe's website at https://www.electe.net to begin their journey to innovation. About Electe Srl Electe is an Italy-based firm focused on providing AI-driven data analytics solutions. Founded by Fabio Lauria, the platform's mission is to make advanced analytics accessible to all businesses, transforming the way they interact with their data. The platform believes that with the right information, every business can achieve success. Contact Info: Name: Fabio Lauria Email: info@electe.net Organization: Electe Srl Website: https://www.electe.net To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/212816 SOURCE: Plentisoft LONDON, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Scorpios, the renowned beach concept and creative gathering place, in partnership with art tech pioneers HOFA Gallery, announces 'Evolving Perspectives' the second edition of their Encounters summer arts programme. Running from 18 July to 18 September, this 9-week series expands to take place across Scorpios' two stunning beachfront locations, Mykonos and the newly opened Bodrum. Featuring immersive installations and live music performances, the programme will showcase AI and visual artists, headlined by Joseph Klibansky, Random International, and Sougwen Chung - all revered for pushing the boundaries of art and technology. Building on the success of 2023's inaugural edition launched with Turkish AI artist and director Refik Anadol, his special collaboration with the Yawanawa Indigenous communities of Brazil's Amazon, was regarded as a profound exploration of the relationship between human consciousness and nature. Over half a million people attended last year's programme, generating $3 million in artwork sales, with Refik Anadol's Yawanawa heritage project alone selling out in hours and raising $1.5 million for the preservation campaign. HOFA Co-founder Elio D'Anna says: "The 2023 season of Encounters was a groundbreaking and very successful programme that brought together AI and digital artists, musicians, and an audience of global changemakers and creatives through a series of live performances and installations. "This year's 'Evolving Perspectives' programme continues to push boundaries, making it the most exciting synchronisation of visual art and cultural engagement, while also delivering a very powerful message on the power of AI and human-machine collaboration to help us achieve a more harmonious coexistence with nature." The Mykonos lineup headlines Dutch contemporary artist Joseph Klibansky from 18-21 July 2024. Celebrated for his innovative use of technology in art and sculpture, will present 'Tree of Life' merging digital art with environmental stewardship. This collection creates a unified visual narrative rich in depth and storytelling, featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colours inspired by nature. The new 'Tree of Life' collection includes a large-scale video sculpture installation to be exhibited at Scorpios Mykonos, along with 1,000 unique digitally painted fine art prints with a matching digital companion. Each artwork boasts its own unique traits, ensuring every piece is one-of-a-kind. Moreover, Klibansky combines visual art with environmental awareness. For every artwork sold, the partnering non-profit One Tree Planted will plant physical trees in the Amazon. In Bodrum between 22-25 August 2024, the art group Random International, a German duo with studios in London and Stockholm, will present an immersive installation that invites visitors to engage physically with a seemingly sentient, digital swarm. Titled 'When Tomorrow Comes', the work features a custom tracking system and flocking algorithm to create an interactive digital sculpture blending technology with human perception and interaction. 3 sets of 150 limited signed edition prints of 'When Tomorrow Comes' will be available for purchase. A global name in human-machine collaboration, and multi-award winning Chinese-Canadian artist Sougwen ?? Chung will perform a live showcase with the robotic system D.O.U.G. (Drawing Operations Unit Generation at Scorpios Bodrum between 5-8 September 2024. The single scheduled performance during that weekend offers a unique opportunity to experience their groundbreaking collaborative work. Chung's innovative approach to combining human artistry with AI technology has earned them international acclaim, including a spot on TIME Magazine's TIME100 AI list as one of the world's most influential people in AI and the TIME Impact Award 2024. Accompanying the performance will be the debut of 'Genesis II: Body Machine', a collection of unique artworks. The works in 'Body Machine' speculate on the future of the robotic form intertwined with the human body. Each bespoke work is generated from the artist's drawing choreography captured in three dimensions and paired with exclusive signed prints. All prints and digital artworks will be available for purchase through Scorpios Collect. The headline artist events are also supported by a programme of featured AI and visual artists, encompassing music into these collaborative events, they will take place throughout the 2024 summer season in both Mykonos and Bodrum. Scorpios Co-Founder Thomas Heyne says: "We use digital art to create holistic experiences. Interaction and immersion enhance the overall experience, taking guests on a journey where they feel inspired. We are excited to welcome Joseph Klibansky, Random International, and Sougwen Chung to this year's Encounters program, showcasing how AI can teach us about living in harmony with nature." WWW.THEHOUSEOFFINEART.COM WWW.SCORPIOS.COM WWW.SCORPIOS.COM/ENCOUNTERS WWW.SCORPIOSCOLLECT.COM Media contact:Emma-Louise O'Neill; emmalouise@thehouseoffineart.com; +44 7515 136909 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2452902/Tree_of_Life_Joesph_Klibanksy_HOFA_Gallery.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/scorpios-summer-cultural-series-redefines-ai--visual-art-in-mykonos--bodrum-302188305.html During its annual event "BIG UP", French Tech Saint-Etienne Lyon awarded the BIG Start-up of the Year trophy, honoring a start-up that exemplifies the region's innovation and richness. French Tech Saint-Etienne Lyon, a non-profit association established in 2015, promotes the creation, growth, and internationalization of innovative companies in Lyon and Saint-Etienne. Designated as one of the 17 French Tech Capitals by the French government until 2026, it follows the roadmap of La Mission French Tech under the Ministry of Economy, integrating the Lyon St Etienne region into a network of over 100 French Tech Communities across five continents. French Tech Capitals and Communities serve as entry points for French start-ups into the global French Tech ecosystem. On June 17, during the French Tech Saint-Etienne Lyon board meeting, which included founders and CEOs of local start-ups and innovation stakeholders like incubators, clusters, and large corporations, Brenus Pharma was named BIG Start-up of the Year. "By winning this award, Brenus Pharma stood out among 12 shortlisted candidates, meeting criteria of innovation and positive impact on our territory. We are proud to have Brenus Pharma among our members, now recognized as a promising player in our network, perfectly reflecting the values of La Mission French Tech," said Lucie Texier, General Delegate of French Tech Saint-Etienne Lyon. About French Tech Saint-Etienne Lyon: Alongside actors supporting innovation, French Tech Saint-Etienne Lyon unites and animates the local ecosystem. It contributes to environmental and social transitions for a sustainable and inclusive innovation and entrepreneurship territory. The association has over 539 members, including 475 start-ups and 64 public and private partners. About Brenus Pharma Brenus Pharma is a French biotech developing a pioneering discovery platform, Stimulated-Tumor-Cell (STC), leading the way to a new generation of therapeutic cancer vaccines. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240703702575/en/ Contacts: Marion BRUN contact@brenus-pharma.com MILAN, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GTP Bioways Group is a French company operating as Biotech CDMO (Contract Developing and Manufacturing Organisation), specialising in R&D Services, process development and production of mAbs, enzymes, proteins, nanodrugs, ADCs and F&F. GTP Bioways Group, with multiple locations across France, specializes in delivering comprehensive services to biopharmaceutical companies. From preclinical development to commercial stages, the group focuses on utilizing cutting-edge technologies to advance innovative therapies. GTP Bioways Group's services are seamlessly integrated with those of the Olon Biotech division. This integration enables Olon Biotech to expand and diversify its technological offerings, supporting every stage of the lifecycle, from R&D and preclinical phases to industrialization, through microbial and mammalian fermentation and biotherapeutics. Additionally, Olon Biotech will provide comprehensive services for the development and production of innovative ADC classes, offering a complete solution from mAbs to linkers, payloads, conjugation, and fill-and-finish processes. GTP Bioways operates a total of four sites in France (Toulouse, Labege, Veyre-Monton, and Saint-Julien-en-Genevois) focused on development, clinical trial and cGMP manufacturing. The headquarters are based in Toulouse. The four centers operate according to the highest quality standards, in line with reference GMPs and are regularly inspected by the relevant regulatory authorities. The business areas on which GTP Bioways focuses include biologics manufacturing and ADC manufacturing (using mammalian and microbial fermentation technology), nanodrug manufacturing, fill and finish and analytical development - including HCP and immuno assay. In particular, the company has consolidated a strong expertise in the business areas in which it operates. Evidenced by a significative number of successfully developed biological processes, the management of a broad and diversified range of expression systems (mammalian, bacterial, yeast, insect cells) and molecules (mAbs, antibody fragments, cytokines, fusion proteins, enzymes, antigens). In addition, the group possesses significant expertise in bioconjugation and fill & finish. The CDMO services offered make up an integrated platform capable of supporting customers from drug discovery, through the entire development process with a special focus on the pre-clinical phase, phase I and phase II. Since its foundation, Olon Group has consistently pursued a strategy of growth, consolidation, and global market expansion through both internal development and strategic acquisitions. Each acquired business has contributed valuable expertise, enhancing Olon's technological capabilities. In line with this strategy and aiming to advance its innovative and high-tech offerings to customers, Olon has acquired GTP Bioways Group. GTP Bioways Group's specific capabilities in fully supporting CDMO biotechnology projects also in the early phase of new molecule development (pre-clinical, phase I and phase II), perfectly complements Olon's current assets, to enrich and broaden the offering to customers. "The acquisition of GTP Bioways Group implies a strong and significant strengthening of Olon's service pipeline with the aim of creating new business opportunities, acquiring new customers and high-potential market areas, and ultimately continuing the company's growth," stated Paolo Tubertini, CEO, Olon Group. In Q3 2024, Olon will finalise its 25m investment in a facility operating under extremely high containment, fully dedicated to the development and the production of Ultra High Potent API - payloads and payload-linkers for antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Olon relies on more than four decades of experience in manufacturing cytotoxic products. With the acquisition of GTP Bioways, Olon Biotech will be able to offer full services for the development and production of ADCs, capable of supplying everything from mAbs to linkers, payloads, conjugation and fill and finish. Contact info - Sabrina Spina, Olon Press Office. sspina@olonspa.it / +39 338 6674289 HOD HASHARON, Israel and LUXEMBOURG, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- TIGI (TASE: TIGI), a provider of renewable heat generation and storage solutions and services with offices in Israel and Austria, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a partnership with Eren Groupe , a leading global player in energy transition. Eren will participate in a fundraising round to become a minority shareholder of TIGI and boost its growth. Furthermore, the two companies will set up dedicated platforms for developing, financing, and operating renewable heat projects via an innovative Heat-as-a-Service model, making clean energy accessible and affordable for industries globally. Up to 40M Euros will be made available for equity financing of projects providing capacity to finance projects valued at 100M Euros. As the energy market transitions from natural gas to renewable energy, the heat sector has become a focal point, representing a large share of global energy demand. Recent developments, particularly in the wake of the war in Ukraine, have triggered an increased drive for transition away from fossil fuels. TIGI has recently completed the acquisition of Austrian-based SOLID, a leader in large-scale solar thermal heating systems. TIGI and SOLID installed over 250 systems in over 30 countries and cater to a variety of industries and geographies. Finalizing the agreement with Eren, a pioneer of renewable energies in Europe, creates a combined global partnership that spans technology leadership, global execution, and strong financial capacity. "We are pleased to be partnering with TIGI to jointly form a first-of-its-kind renewable heat project platform," commented Yonatan Shek, Managing Director of Eren Groupe. "We believe that large-scale renewable thermal energy presents a considerable global opportunity that was previously underserved but has recently gained momentum. I believe that by joining all three companies' expertise, technology, and know-how, we set the premise for the next important step of our journey to facilitate the energy transition and a route for further decarbonization." Zvika Klier, CEO of TIGI, states, "This marks the dawn of a pivotal journey for TIGI. We are excited to join forces with Eren to provide a platform for Heat-as-a-Service projects. This collaboration and the recent announcement with SOLID take us one step closer to being a renewable heat powerhouse, offering end-to-end solutions globally. With a tightly focused international team and projects spanning multiple continents, TIGI is set to make a significant impact on the global transition to clean energy." About TIGI TIGI develops renewable heat generation and storage solutions and services, generating savings and reducing environmental impact. It supplies efficient systems that include its own patented and highly efficient solar thermal collectors, industrial heat pumps, smart storage, and cloud services. For more information, please visit www.tigisolar.com About Eren Groupe Over the past 20 years, Paris Mouratoglou, David Corchia and their teams have significantly contributed to the expansion of new and renewable energy sources. They have executed projects with a combined capacity of more than 15 GW through ambitious and successful partnerships forged with major energy companies, notably EDF and TotalEnergies, as well as local businesses and entrepreneurs in over 40 countries. In recent years, Eren has been broadening the scope of its ambitions to become a key player in the energy transition and decarbonization. For more information: www.eren-groupe.com For media inquiries, please contact: TIGI Noa Rozental marketing@tigisolar.com Eren Groupe Brunswick Group Sarah Levy-Quentin EREN@brunswickgroup.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/tigi-enters-into-a-strategic-partnership-with-eren-groupe-to-meet-growing-demand-for-renewable-heat-solutions-302188764.html JERSEY CITY, N.J., July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- InsightAce Analytic Pvt. Ltd. announces the release of a market assessment report on the "Direct Primary Care Market"- By Type (Clinical Services,Telehealth Services, Laboratory Services, Consultative Services),Care Setting (Office-Based DPC Practices, Home-Based DPC Practices, Telehealth-Only DPC Practices, Hybrid DPC Practices), End Users (Individuals, Employers, Small Businesses, Large Corporations, Insurance Companies (offering DPC as part of their plans)), Region, Market Outlook And Industry Analysis 2031." Global Direct Primary Care Market is estimated to reach over USD 80.4 billion by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.50% during the forecast period. The Direct Primary Care (DPC) market refers to the sector of the healthcare industry focused on the delivery and consumption of primary care services through a direct payment model between patients and healthcare providers. In DPC, patients typically pay a periodic fee (monthly or annually) to their primary care physician or practice, which covers a wide range of basic medical services. These services often include preventive care, routine check-ups, chronic disease management, urgent care visits, and sometimes telehealth consultations, depending on the practice. Patients pay providers directly for primary care services, bypassing traditional fee-for-service payments typically mediated by insurance companies. DPC practices aim to provide comprehensive and accessible care without the administrative complexities associated with insurance billing. Download Free Report Brochure with ToC and Excel Pivot: https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/request-sample/2559 List of Prominent Players in the Direct Primary Care Market: One Medical Oak Street Health Paladina Health Forward Health Crossover Health EverMed Plum Health Nextera Healthcare Boston Direct Health PeakMed Market Dynamics: Drivers: Direct Primary Care (DPC) stands out for its emphasis on personalized care and fostering stronger patient-physician relationships, which allows for more time and attention per patient visit compared to traditional healthcare models. By operating outside the conventional insurance framework, DPC effectively reduces the administrative burden associated with billing and coding, enabling physicians to dedicate more focus to patient care. This streamlined approach not only enhances the patient experience but also meets the growing demand for healthcare that is personalized, accessible, and affordable. As a result, alternative models like DPC are experiencing increasing adoption and growth, driven by patient preferences for comprehensive, relationship-centered care that prioritizes their individual health needs. Challenges: Many patients and healthcare providers remain unfamiliar with the DPC model. Educating both groups about the benefits and mechanics of DPC is crucial but often requires significant effort and resources. Establishing and maintaining a DPC practice requires careful financial planning. Setting appropriate membership fees that cover operational costs while remaining affordable for patients can be challenging, especially in areas with varying socioeconomic conditions. Regional Trends: The traditional healthcare system's strain, including long wait times and administrative burdens, has led patients and providers to seek more efficient and patient-centered care options like DPC. In the United States, where healthcare costs remain disproportionately high, both employers and individuals are increasingly turning to DPC's flat fee model as an attractive and affordable option. Favorable regulatory conditions and policies supporting telehealth and innovative healthcare models have further bolstered the adoption of DPC, facilitating easier access to care and enhancing the overall patient experience. Curious about this latest version of the report? @ https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/enquiry-before-buying/2559 Recent Developments: In May,2024, Plum Health Direct Primary Care, A Detroit-based health services company is branching out into three additional mid-Michigan regions, providing individuals, families, and employers with enhanced-access primary care memberships. Plum Health Direct Primary Care, A Detroit-based health services company is branching out into three additional mid-Michigan regions, providing individuals, families, and employers with enhanced-access primary care memberships. In Nov, 2023, Forward Health launches CarePods, a standalone medical facility driven by AI. Without a physician or nurse present, take a blood test, monitor your blood pressure, and swab for diseases. Direct Primary Care Market Report Scope: Report Attribute Specifications Market Size Value In 2023 USD 57.3 Bn Revenue Forecast In 2031 USD 80.4 Bn Growth Rate CAGR CAGR of 4.50% from 2024 to 2031 Quantitative Units Representation of revenue in US$ Bn and CAGR from 2024 to 2031 Historic Year 2019 to 2023 Forecast Year 2024-2031 Report Coverage The forecast of revenue, the position of the company, the competitive market structure, growth prospects, and trends Segments Covered By Type, By Care Setting, By End user, By Region. Regional Scope North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Latin America; Middle East & Africa Segmentation of Direct Primary Care Market. Global Direct Primary Care Market - By Type Clinical Services Telehealth Services Laboratory Services Consultative Services Others Global Direct Primary Care Market - Care Setting Office-Based DPC Practices Home-Based DPC Practices (including house calls) Telehealth-Only DPC Practices Hybrid DPC Practices Global Direct Primary Care Market - End Users Individuals Employers Small Businesses Large Corporations Insurance Companies (offering DPC as part of their plans) Global Direct Primary Care Market - By Region North America- The US Canada Mexico Europe- Germany The UK France Italy Spain Rest of Europe Asia-Pacific- China Japan India South Korea Southeast Asia Rest of Asia Pacific Latin America- Brazil Argentina Rest of Latin America Middle East & Africa- GCC Countries South Africa Rest of the Middle East and Africa For More Customization @ https://www.insightaceanalytic.com/customisation/2559 Why should buy this report: To receive a comprehensive analysis of the prospects for global Direct Primary Care market To receive industry overview and future trends of global Direct Primary Care market To analyze the Direct Primary Care market drivers and challenges To get information on the Direct Primary Care market size value (US$ Mn) forecast till 2031. Major Investments, Mergers & Acquisition in global Direct Primary Care industry Other Related Reports Published by InsightAce Analytic: Hospital-At-Home Market Acute Care Telemedicine Market mHealth Solutions Market Urgent Care Apps Market Chemotherapy At Home Services Market About Us: InsightAce Analytic is a market research and consulting firm that enables clients to make strategic decisions. Our qualitative and quantitative market intelligence solutions inform the need for market and competitive intelligence to expand businesses. We help clients gain competitive advantage by identifying untapped markets, exploring new and competing technologies, segmenting potential markets and repositioning products. Our expertise is in providing syndicated and custom market intelligence reports with an in-depth analysis with key market insights in a timely and cost-effective manner. Contact Us: InsightAce Analytic PVT. LTD Tel.: +1 551 226 6109 Email: info@insightaceanalytic.com Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insightace-analytic-pvt-ltd/ Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1729637/InsightAce_Analytic_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/direct-primary-care-market-size-to-reach-usd-80-4-billion-by-2031--latest-report-by-insightace-analytic-pvt-ltd-302188775.html MUNICH, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Sungrow, the global leading PV inverter and energy storage system provider, is proud to announce that its subsidiary company, Sungrow Deutschland GMBH has been included in the Most Wanted Employer 2024 list by Zeit Verlagsgruppe in cooperation with Kununu. Sungrow Deutschland GMBH is listed on the 17th place out of 1,.200 companies, first within its category, "Energy". The company received an impressive score of 4.85 out of 5, confirming its high standards for the wellbeing of its employees. The ZEIT publishing group has developed the "Most Wanted Employer" in collaboration with the employer rating platform Kununu, providing an independent and reliable metric that could help employees find their future ideal employer. "We are thrilled to receive the Most Wanted Employer Award, as it highlights our steadfast commitment to prioritizing our employees' wellbeing in line with our mission of 'Clean Power for All,'" said Mr. Moritz Rolf, Vice-President of Sungrow Europe, responsible for DACH, BENELUX, CEE, Nordics and Turkey. "The ongoing success of Sungrow Deutschland and our global teams is a reflection of their dedication and hard work. We celebrate this accomplishment and extend our heartfelt gratitude to each team member for their invaluable contributions." The well-being, fair treatment and strong professional development of its employees sits at the core of Sungrow's strategy. Sungrow is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment that promotes growth, respects diversity, and nurtures every team member's potential. The company has received globally a number of distinctions for its working environment and human resources ethics. Over the past 27 years, Sungrow has been focusing on the main business of new energy, continuing to convert natural resources into stable and convenient clean energy through technological innovation and application practice, and building a bridge of connection, hoping to connect more upstream, downstream and ecological partners, and work together to build a sustainable future. About Sungrow Sungrow Power Supply Co., Ltd. ("Sungrow") is a global leading PV inverter and ESS provider with over?515?GW of power electronic converters installed worldwide as of?December?2023. Founded in 1997 by University Professor Cao Renxian, Sungrow is a leader in the research and development of solar inverters with the largest dedicated R&D team in the industry and a broad product portfolio offering PV inverter solutions and ESS for utility-scale, commercial & industrial, and residential applications, as well as internationally recognized floating PV plant solutions, NEV driving solutions, EV charging solutions and renewable hydrogen production systems. With a strong 27-year track record in the PV space, Sungrow's products power over 170 countries worldwide.?For more information about Sungrow, visit www.sungrowpower.com. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2453462/image_1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2453463/Sungrow.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2439560/Logo_Sungrow_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/sungrow-deutschland-earns-the-top-position-in-its-category-on-the-most-wanted-employer-2024-list-302188781.html DUSSELDORF, Germany, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Geekplus, the global leader in mobile robot and smart logistics solutions, has collaborated with Korber to deploy more than 20 autonomous mobile robots for the wine distributor Hawesko Group. The project brings warehouse automation to the company's Tornech, Germany, facility, where in-house logistics service provider IWL handles 20 million bottles of wine and champagne annually. With this new implementation, Geekplus robots now operate 330 shelves across an expanded 6,000-square-meter area. "Geekplus is proud to continue our longstanding partnership with Korber, which has now grown to more than 3,000 robots deployed in eleven countries," said Geekplus' Simon Houghton. "We work together to create unique solutions for customers like the Hawesko Group, helping them solve the challenges they currently face while enabling them to easily scale up their level of automation to meet future demands." Through the integrated interaction of modern software and automation, the Hawesko Group has increased warehouse performance by 50 percent. Behind the scenes, all operational warehouse processes converge on Korber's digital logistics platform. The WMS acts as an operational hub, while the subdivided Unified Control System (UCS) optimizes the control of the automated technology portfolio and creates extended communication interfaces to the robotics application. Because of this, pick performance in the expanded area has more than doubled. "Given the growth in online retail, the importance of efficient processes to support e-commerce fulfillment has increased significantly. High-performing and resource-efficient solutions are required to address increasing customer demands and seasonal fluctuations," said Michael Brandl, Executive Vice President Software EMEA at Korber Business Area Supply Chain. "The new solution accomplished this for the Hawesko Group through an integrated combination of WMS, AMR technology and UCS." Mobile order fulfillment robots have consistently proven themselves in the logistics services segment. By using any of Geekplus' suite of Goods-to-Person solutions, companies find their storage space can be used up to 30 percentmore effectively. Additional robots can be integrated without any interruptions to operations. "Compared to the use of conventional automation solutions, the expansion in Tornesch proved to be the most economically effective solution, creating not only additional storage capacity but also the necessary freedom for future expansion," explained Frederick Paulsen, Project Manager Information Logistics at IWL. "Capacities for up to 100 additional racks, which corresponds to approximately 40,000 additional article items, are possible in the future in the existing space." Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2453058/Geekplus_1.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2373458/4793687/Geekplus_logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/geek-and-korber-accelerate-e-commerce-warehouse-operations-at-hawesko-group-302188267.html This photo released by relatives on March 21, shows the family who was killed in a crash in San Franciscos West Portal: Matilde Moncada Ramos Pinto, 38, and her husband, Diego Cardoso de Oliveira, 40, with their two sons: 3-month-old Caue and 1-year-old Joaquin. Courtesy photo People board the bus near a large memorial on the corner of Ulloa Street and Lennox Way in the West Portal neighborhood of San Francisco, where Matilde Moncada Ramos Pinto, 38, her husband, Diego Cardoso de Oliveira, 40, and their sons, 3-month-old Caue and 2-year-old Joaquim were killed March 16 when an SUV crashed into the bus stop as they waited on their way to the zoo. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle San Francisco prosecutors said Tuesday that they filed felony vehicular manslaughter charges against the woman accused of striking and killing a family of four in the citys West Portal neighborhood in March. Prosecutors said Mary Fong Lau, 78, was driving 65-72 mph and apparently did not attempt to slow down when she slammed into the bus shelter where the Brazilian Portuguese family was waiting for a bus to the San Francisco Zoo. Advertisement Article continues below this ad After a lengthy review of the evidence in the case, prosecutors said they did not believe mechanical failures accounted for the crash. They found Lau to be at fault and charged her Tuesday with four counts of felony vehicular manslaughter, according to the San Francisco District Attorneys Office. This was a horrific incident, and we all know the impact it had on the family and the entire city, San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said at a news conference where the charges were announced Tuesday afternoon. Lau had not been arrested as of Tuesday afternoon, but Scott said officers were attempting to bring her into custody. Investigators looked at every aspect of the case and could not find any evidence indicating the SUV malfunctioned, Scott said. Toxicology tests indicated that drugs and alcohol were not a factor in the crash, prosecutors said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While this news is very difficult to take in, Ms. Lau appreciates that the District Attorneys Office and SFPD didnt rush in their decision making process and conducted a thorough investigation, Laus attorney, Sam Geller, said in a statement. This tragedy is something that Ms. Lau continues to mourn while she learns to live with this unspeakable reality. She extends her condolences to the entire family, friends and community of the Oliveira-Pinto family. Now that the decision has been made by the District Attorneys Office to press charges, we will review the evidence and take it one step at a time in presenting her defense, Geller said. Police secure an area around West Portal Station after a fatal car crash involving an SUV in San Francisco. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle Laus 2014 GLK-Series Mercedes SUV allegedly veered into an oncoming lane of traffic and then plowed onto the sidewalk at high speed, nicking the West Portal Library before barreling into the waiting family on March 16, police said. San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins said she wanted to ensure the investigation was conducted properly and thoroughly to rule out medical or mechanical issues before making a charging decision. We have evidence the vehicle was traveling at excessive speeds far outside the norm, Jenkins said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The father and 1-year-old son were killed on impact. The mother and infant son died in the days after. They were identified by the San Francisco medical examiners office as Diego Cardoso de Oliveira, 40, of Brazil; Matilde Moncada Ramos Pinto, 38, of Portugal; Joaquin Ramos Pinto de Oliveira, 1; and Caue Ramos Pinto de Oliveira, 3 months. The details of the case proved disquieting for many San Francisco residents, some of whom brought flowers and stuffed animals to a sprawling memorial erected at the scene of the crash at the intersection at Ulloa Street and Lenox Way. Although the crash occurred about a block away from the West Portals main shopping district, the incident became a catalyst for a long-discussed overhaul of neighborhood road crossings on West Portal Avenue, where traffic and Muni trains routinely get waylaid in the street, and pedestrians have to stay on high alert in the crosswalk. The overhaul stalled amid neighborhood backlash. Supervisor Myrna Melgar, who represents West Portal, said she was relieved the family and the community could get some closure. Advertisement Article continues below this ad PORT VILA, Vanuatu, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading multi-asset broker, Vantage Markets (or Vantage), is pleased to announce it has been awarded the 'Best Multi-Asset Broker' award at the Online Money Awards. This recognition reflects Vantage Markets' ongoing commitment to providing a high-quality trading environment and good value to its community of traders worldwide. Over the years, the broker has built a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness. Its dedication to high standards and continuous improvement has earned it a loyal client base. Traders worldwide value the comprehensive educational resources and customer support that Vantage provides, which help them make informed decisions and enhance their trading skills. By ensuring transparency in fees, and regularly upgrading its platform, Vantage aims to provide competitive trading conditions tailored to the varied needs of modern traders. The platform also delivers real-time market data, ultra-fast execution speeds, a user-friendly interface, and advanced trading tools, which are essential for effective trading. The company's commitment to security and compliance further ensures that clients' funds and personal information are protected. Marc Despallieres, Chief Strategy & Trading Officer at Vantage, says, "We are deeply honoured to receive the 'Best Multi-Asset Broker' award from the Online Money Awards. At Vantage, we strive to provide the best trading environment for our clients, where informed decision-making is integral to our services. This award reflects our team's dedication to offering superior trading solutions and innovative services across a diverse range of financial instruments. "Thank you, Holiston Media, for this recognition. We remain committed to setting new industry benchmarks and delivering exceptional value to our extensive community of traders worldwide, who trust in our brand. Our platform is designed for efficient trade execution with low latency, catering to the diverse trading needs of our global community of traders." For more information about Vantage and its services, please visit www.vantagemarkets.com . About Vantage Vantage Markets (or Vantage) is a multi-asset broker offering clients access to a nimble and powerful service for trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs) products, including Forex, Commodities, Indices, Shares, ETFs, and Bonds. With over 13 years of market experience, Vantage transcends the role of broker, providing a trusted trading ecosystem, an award-winning mobile trading app , and a user-friendly trading platform that empowers clients to seize trading opportunities. Download the Vantage App on App Store or Google Play. trade smarter @vantage Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2453092/Vantage_award.jpg Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1745281/Vantage_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/vantage-markets-honoured-with-best-multi-asset-broker-award-at-online-money-awards-2024-302188608.html Kunstliche Intelligenz hat spatestens nach dem Raketenstart von Chat GPT das Leben aller verandert. Doch der Superzyklus steht nach Meinungen von Experten erst am Anfang. Wahrend Aktien wie Nvidia von der ersten Aufwartsentwicklung stark profitieren konnten, versprechen aussichtsreiche Player aus der 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. Nutzen Sie die Chance! 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! LONDON and CAIRO, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Gupshup, the world's leading Conversation Cloud, in collaboration with Meta, the Sudan Medical Specialization Board and non-profit Shabaka today announced the launch of a telemedicine chatbot providing healthcare access for Sudanese refugees in Egypt, Eritrea, Saudi Arabia, , Libya, Djibouti and other neighboring countries. The innovative solution aims to bridge the gap in healthcare services for the Sudanese refugee population. The ongoing conflict and violence in Sudan has forced over 8.6 million people to flee their homes, with many seeking refuge in neighboring countries This initiative aims to address the urgent healthcare needs of over 800,000 Sudanese refugees who currently have limited access to essential medical services in Egypt and its neighboring countries. By leveraging the chatbot, patients can now connect with healthcare professionals via WhatsApp, making medical assistance more accessible and efficient. The chatbot, accessible through WhatsApp via a web URL or QR code, will be promoted by participating doctors and Shabaka, a non-profit organization which is a part of the Africa Foundation of Development (AFFORD) based in the UK. After providing initial information, patients are routed to a triage team of healthcare professionals who evaluate their issues before connecting them to one of over 18 specialty doctors supporting the service. The telemedicine chatbot provides a seamless omnichannel experience for refugees to connect with medical professionals from any internet-enabled device in a secure and regulatory-compliant manner. It currently supports Arabic and English, with additional languages to be added based on demand. "We are honored to be part of this humanitarian project that aims to provide essential healthcare services to Sudanese refugees in need. By leveraging the power of conversational AI and the reach of WhatsApp, we can make a significant impact on the lives of these individuals who have faced immense challenges. This project is a testament to our belief that technology can be a force for good, and we are dedicated to continuing our efforts to support humanitarian causes around the world," said Beerud Sheth, Founder & CEO of Gupshup. "The partnership with Gupshup and Meta allowed several Sudanese medical professionals to successfully engage in our very effective telemedicine program to service civilians in need following the eruption of the war and various challenges in accessing healthcare services", said Dr Sara Ibrahim Abdelgalil, Senior Advisor and Project Lead- Telemedicine at Shabaka. With the launch of the chatbot, Gupshup, Shabaka and the Sudan Medical Specialization Board hope to make a positive impact on the lives of refugees and inspire others to join the effort to improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations worldwide. The telemedicine chatbot is a shining example of how technology can be leveraged to address pressing social issues and improve the lives of those in need. By providing a convenient and accessible platform for healthcare access, this initiative has the potential to transform the lives of thousands of Sudanese refugees in the region. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2453094/Gupshup.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2182479/Gupshup_Logo.jpg Contact: Vandana Vandana.v@gupshup.io View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/gupshup-and-meta-along-with-sudan-medical-specialization-board-and-shabaka-launch-telemedicine-chatbot-for-sudanese-refugees-302188802.html CHICAGO, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "Anti-Migrating Agent Market by Type (Non-ionic, Anionic, Cationic, Amphoteric), Grades (Technical, Food, Pharmaceutical), Application, Chemistry (Organic, Inorganic), End-Use Industry (Textile, Plastics, Paper), and Region - Global Forecast to 2029", size is projected to reach USD 224 million by 2029 from USD 159 million in 2024, at a CAGR of 7.0% during the forecast period. The major drivers for the anti-migrating market are burgeoning demand in the textile industry, the rise in digital printing applications, and the increased focus on high-quality, durable products. The textile industry relies heavily on anti-migrating agents to ensure color fastness and prevent dye migration, which is critical for maintaining the quality and appeal of textiles. As textile markets expand globally, the need for effective anti-migrating agent continues to grow. Browse in-depth TOC on "Anti-Migrating Agent Market" 157 - Tables 79 - Figures 240 - Pages Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=18108292 The amphoteric agent type is the fastest growing type, in terms of value, during the forecast period. The amphoteric agent segment is estimated to be the fastest-growing product type in the anti-migrating market due to its versatile nature. Amphoteric agents, which can carry both positive and negative charges depending on the pH, offer versatility in their application. This adaptability makes them suitable for processes that require stability across varying pH levels. Amphoteric agents are often used in complex textile treatments and specialty coatings where pH variations can occur. Based on application, digital printing is the fastest growing application in terms of value in the anti-migrating market. Digital printing application is the fastest-growing application in anti-migrating market due to the high demand for high-quality digital prints on fabrics and other materials has surged with advancements in printing technology. Anti-migrating agent ensures that the inks used in digital printing do not spread or blur, providing sharp and clear images. This application is particularly important in the fashion industry, custom apparel, and home textiles where precise and vibrant prints are highly valued. Based on chemistry, the organic segment is the second fastest growing chemistry in the anti-migrating market. Organic chemistry is estimated to be the second fastest growing end-use industry of the anti-migrating market, due to the growing demand from textile and printing industries. One of the major advantages of organic anti-migrating agents is their biodegradability and lower environmental impact compared to inorganic agents. This characteristic aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions in various industries. However, organic agents can sometimes be less stable under extreme conditions, such as high temperatures or strong chemical exposure, which can limit their application in certain scenarios. Based on source, natural segment the is the fastest growing source in the anti-migrating market. The natural segment is estimated to be the fastest-growing source in the anti-migrating market, due to the growing demand for eco-friendly products. Natural anti-migrating agents, derived from natural materials like plant extracts, biopolymers, and other renewable resources, these agents provide an environmentally sustainable solution that meets the growing demand for green and sustainable textile production. These agents are biodegradable and typically have a lower environmental impact compared to their synthetic counterparts. Incorporating these agents allows the textile industry to enhance the quality and durability of dyed fabrics while supporting sustainable and eco-friendly manufacturing practices. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=18108292 Based on grade, pharma grade is estimated to be the fastest-growing segment of the anti-migrating market. The pharma grade is estimated to be the fastest growing grade in the anti-migrating market. These agents are used to prevent the unwanted migration of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) or excipients during the manufacturing and storage processes of various pharmaceutical products, including tablets, capsules, and topical formulations. Formulated with high purity and consistency, pharma-grade anti-migrating agents ensure the stability and uniform distribution of APIs within the product, which is critical for maintaining efficacy and safety. They are developed to comply with regulatory requirements set by authorities such as the FDA and EMA, ensuring that they are free from contaminants and impurities. Based on end-use industry, textile end-use industry is estimated to be the fastest-growing segment of the anti-migrating market. The textile industry is estimated to be the fastest growing end-use industry of the anti-migrating market, due to the increasing consumer demand for high-quality, durable textiles and the rise of e-commerce. Additionally, advancements in textile manufacturing technologies, such as digital printing and sustainable dyeing processes, are further boosting the demand for effective anti-migrating agent. Moreover, the textile industry increasingly demands sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. Many modern anti-migrating agents are developed to be biodegradable and non-toxic, aligning with the industry's move towards greener practices. This not only helps in reducing the environmental impact of textile production but also meets consumer preferences for eco-friendly products. Asia Pacific is the fastest growing region, in terms of value, during the forecast period in the anti-migrating market. Asia Pacific represents the fastest-growing region in the anti-migrating market during the forecast period due to its robust industrial base, particularly in textiles. Countries like China, India, and Bangladesh are major global players in textile manufacturing, producing vast quantities of garments and fabrics that require high-quality dyeing and printing processes. The textile industry's growth in these countries necessitates the extensive use of anti-migrating agent to ensure the quality and durability of textile products. Additionally, the increasing adoption of digital printing technologies in Asia Pacific is boosting the demand for anti-migrating agents. Digital printing requires precise control over dye and pigment behavior to achieve high-resolution prints, making anti-migrating agents essential. China's leadership in technology adoption and innovation in manufacturing processes further supports this trend. Request Customization: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=18108292 Market Players Some of the key players in the global anti-migrating market are SNF (Germany), Rudolf GmbH (Indonesia), Zschimmer & Schwarz Holding GmbH & Co KG (Germany), Sarex Chemicals (India), Archroma (Switzerland) and others. These players have adopted various strategies such as mergers & acquisitions, joint ventures, and expansion to strengthen their market position. Browse Adjacent Market: Specialty Chemicals Market Research Reports Related Reports: TEXTILE CHEMICALS MARKET - Global Forecast to 2026 FABRIC FINISHING CHEMICALS MARKET - Global Forecast to 2024 About MarketsandMarkets MarketsandMarkets has been recognized as one of America's best management consulting firms by Forbes, as per their recent report. MarketsandMarkets is a blue ocean alternative in growth consulting and program management, leveraging a man-machine offering to drive supernormal growth for progressive organizations in the B2B space. We have the widest lens on emerging technologies, making us proficient in co-creating supernormal growth for clients. Earlier this year, we made a formal transformation into one of America's best management consulting firms as per a survey conducted by Forbes. The B2B economy is witnessing the emergence of $25 trillion of new revenue streams that are substituting existing revenue streams in this decade alone. We work with clients on growth programs, helping them monetize this $25 trillion opportunity through our service lines - TAM Expansion, Go-to-Market (GTM) Strategy to Execution, Market Share Gain, Account Enablement, and Thought Leadership Marketing. Built on the 'GIVE Growth' principle, we work with several Forbes Global 2000 B2B companies - helping them stay relevant in a disruptive ecosystem. Our insights and strategies are molded by our industry experts, cutting-edge AI-powered Market Intelligence Cloud, and years of research. The KnowledgeStore (our Market Intelligence Cloud) integrates our research, facilitates an analysis of interconnections through a set of applications, helping clients look at the entire ecosystem and understand the revenue shifts happening in their industry. To find out more, visit www.MarketsandMarkets.com or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Contact: Mr. Rohan Salgarkar MarketsandMarkets INC. 630 Dundee Road Suite 430 Northbrook, IL 60062 USA: +1-888-600-6441 Email: sales@marketsandmarkets.com Research Insight: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/anti-migrating-agent-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Content Source: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/anti-migrating-agent.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1951202/4609423/MarketsandMarkets.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/anti-migrating-agent-market-worth-224-million-by-2029--exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302188691.html Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2024) - Therma Bright Inc. (TSXV: THRM) (OTCQB: TBRIF) ("Therma" or the "Company"), a developer and investment partner in a wide range of leading-edge, proprietary diagnostic and medical device technologies, is pleased to provide a market update on the state of the business, including: $1,000,000 CAD private placement capital raise, Venowave's pending HCPCS and CPT codes update, Digital Cough Analyzer, powered by AI4LYF, update, InStatin and Inretio investment updates, and Company's Strategic Review progress. $1M CAD Private Placement Capital Raise: As announced on June 10 and June 21, 2024, Therma Bright closed the first and second tranches of a $1,000,000 CAD private placement capital fundraising effort, securing $854,500 CAD and $145,500 CAD, respectively. The proceeds from the offering will be used for investment in the Digital Cough Analyzer (DCA) and InStatin Inc., as well as to cover outstanding company debts and costs associated with investor relations, and general working capital. Venowave's Pending HCPCS and CPT codes: On Wednesday, May 29, 2024, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), a division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, held its First Biannual 2024 Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System (HCPCS) Public Meeting and proposed pricing for the Venowave VW5, assigning a new HCPCS Level II code. The Company agreed with the proposed pricing and code designation, and looks forward to the prospect of receiving approval for the permanent HCPCS and CPT codes. MarketDigital research projected the deep vein thrombosis global market alone to "reach USD 1554.91 Million by 2032". This was further confirmed by a January 2024 ResearchAndMarkets global report that stated, "the deep vein thrombosis market is expected to see steady growth in the next few years. It will grow to USD $1.26 billion in 2028." And this is only one (1) market of nine (9) circulatory issues the Venowave codes will cover. Digital Cough Analyzer powered by AI4LYF: Therma Bright will be working with the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) on its formal 513(g) request to obtain information regarding the classification and regulatory requirements for its acoustic AI-powered Digital Cough Analyzer (DCA) technology. The Company looks to deploy the DCA as a remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) solution. In a 2023 Precedence Research report, the "global respiratory monitoring devices market size accounted for USD $1.50 billion in 2022, and it is expected to hit around USD 2.99 billion by 2032". Inretio and InStatin Investments Update: Progress continues with Inretio's Preva ischemic stroke device and InStatin's chronic lung and asthma treatment solution. As formerly announced, Therma Bright is excited about its investment of just over 8%% in Inretio and 17% in InStatin, as the market outlook for both spaces is very promising. iDataResearch estimates the global coronary stents global market size to "reach a value of more than USD $4.8 billion in 2029." BioSpace news reported that the global asthma treatment market size is anticipated to reach "USD $30.1 billion by 2030." Company's Strategic Review Progress: In March 2024, the Company announced it was conducting a Strategic Review, which aimed at evaluating and exploring a broad range of initiatives and alternatives to maximize shareholder value, including (i) continuation as a standalone public business, (ii) engagement with a strategic investor and/or acquisition, (iii) a merger or spin-off that may involve all or part of the Company's assets, or (iv) other options to be discovered. Therma also announces that pursuant to the Company's 10% rolling stock option plan and in compliance with the policies of the TSXV, it has granted incentive stock options to certain directors, officers and consultants of the Company to purchase up to an aggregate of 5,631,000 common shares of the Company. The options are exercisable for a period of three years at a price of $0.05 per share. In addition, the Company announces that it has revised the partial consideration payable under a consulting agreement previously disclosed in its news release dated May 22, 2024. Subject to TSXV approval, instead of issuing share purchase warrants exercisable for 5,000,000 common shares of the Company, Therma will grant to the consultant 5,000,000 stock options, each of which is exercisable for a period of three years at a price of $0.05 per share. "It's been a great first half of 2024," expressed Rob Fia, CEO of Therma Bright. "In addition to the $1M CAD in a private placement capital raise, we are moving forward with many of our core business initiatives, including waiting for final approval from CMS on the permanent codes for the Venowave and FDA's feedback on our 513(g) application for our Digital Cough Analyzer powered by AI4LYF. We're pleased to see that our four key investment efforts are based around industries and technologies with great growth horizons that total a market size of upwards of USD $39.1 billion by 2030. It's an exciting time for our team, partners, and shareholders." 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 of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons (as defined in the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration is available. About Therma Bright Inc. Therma Bright is a developer and partner in a wide range of leading edge, proprietary diagnostic and medical device technologies focused on providing consumers and medical professionals with quality, innovative solutions that address some of today's most important medical and healthcare challenges. Therma Bright Inc. trades on the (TSXV: THRM) (OTCQB: TBRIF) (FSE: JNX). Visit: www.thermabright.com. Therma Bright Inc. Rob Fia, CEO rfia@thermabright.com Follow us on Twitter FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking" statements. These statements relate to future events such as the commercialization of Venowave, DCA, and InStatin, and related technology as described in the news release. All such statements involve substantial known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results to vary from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, they should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and they will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether such results will be achieved. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated due to several factors and risks. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions on the date of this news release, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable securities regulations. 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 press release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/215289 SOURCE: Therma Bright Inc. Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2024) - Blue Thunder Mining Inc. (TSXV: BLUE) (the "Company"), announces that its previously announced name change to Mines D'Or Orbec Inc. will be effective on Friday, July 5, 2024. The Company's trading symbol is not being changed and will continue to be BLUE. Muus Project Update The Company is pleased to announce that it is commencing its 2024 exploration campaign at its Muus Gold Project in Chibougamau, Quebec. The campaign was designed in collaboration with IAMGOLD Corporation ("IAMGOLD") and approved by the IAMGOLD-Orbec Technical Committee. The Muus Project comprises about 25,250 hectares in the richly endowed Chibougamau-Chapais district, which has historically produced over 3 billion pounds of copper and 4 million ounces of gold. Muus is located at the intersection of two mineralised structures, which respectively host IAMGOLD's multi-million-ounce Nelligan Gold Project and the high-grade (over 12 g/t Au) Monster Lake Gold Project. Previous work on the Muus Project has identified several mineralised occurrences and documented the potential for both Nelligan and Monster Lake style gold mineralisation as well as for volcanogenic massive sulphide (VMS) copper-gold mineralisation. The Company's CEO, Dorian L. (Dusty) Nicol, commented, "We are very excited to be restarting exploration work at our Muus Gold Project. The proposed work program has benefited enormously from the participation of the IAMGOLD team with their in-depth understanding of the district's geology and mineralisation. This collaboration, together with our enhanced understanding of the styles of mineralisation and targets at Muus, will enable us to implement a highly focused and cost-effective exploration program. The objective will be to define high-quality drill targets for testing this autumn and winter." Exploration Program The upcoming program will comprise of: Geologic mapping and geochemical sampling Geophysics (Induced Polarization) Glacial till sampling The objective of the program is to define targets for drilling during this winter. Geologic Mapping and Geochemical Sampling Geologic mapping and geochemical sampling will be undertaken in specific areas with the objective of better defining the style(s) of mineralisation and identifying targets for future drilling. This work will be undertaken in five areas (see Figure 1): Area A - Lac Bernard Sud showing . The objective of this fieldwork is to document the structural setting of the orogenic style on mineralisation of the Lac Bernard area. This area hosts a significant gold in glacial till anomaly (up to 36 grains of gold per sample) and is believed favorable for Nelligan-style gold mineralisation. Drilling in this area in 2022 was not able to reach the target depth but displayed hydrothermal alteration consistent with an orogenic gold mineralising system. . The objective of this fieldwork is to document the structural setting of the orogenic style on mineralisation of the Lac Bernard area. This area hosts a significant gold in glacial till anomaly (up to 36 grains of gold per sample) and is believed favorable for Nelligan-style gold mineralisation. Drilling in this area in 2022 was not able to reach the target depth but displayed hydrothermal alteration consistent with an orogenic gold mineralising system. Area B - Chesbar and Lac Rane areas . The objective of this fieldwork is to prospect in the areas around VMS showings (including massive chalcopyrite) in the northern part of the claims. The program will also test for continuity of the mineralisation between the three known showings. . The objective of this fieldwork is to prospect in the areas around VMS showings (including massive chalcopyrite) in the northern part of the claims. The program will also test for continuity of the mineralisation between the three known showings. Area C - Inflexion along the Guercheville Deformation Zone (GDZ). The objective of this fieldwork is to evaluate the prospectivity along a part of the GDZ, where it curves from an E-W strike to an WNW-ESE strike. Structural complexities are prospective for orogenic gold systems. Figure 1 - Distribution of areas for geologic mapping and geochemical sampling. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6951/215242_d57ca8a594178a38_001full.jpg Geophysics (Induced Polarization) The objectives of the Induced Polarization (IP) surveys are: Northern IP (Lac des Sables): define drilling targets near the Lac des Sables mineralised occurrence. The Lac des Sables showing (Cu, Zn, Ag) is a poorly documented mineralised area (VMS possibly) located in the neck of a fold, in the Obatogamau Formation (i.e., lithological and structural setting similar to these of the nearby Monster Lake Gold Project). The objective of the IP survey is to identify sulfide bodies to be tested by drilling. Southern IP (Lac des Vents / PS-3): define drilling targets near the Lac des Vents / PS-3 mineralised occurrence. The Lac des Vents / PS-3 showing is a gold mineralisation located along an E-W striking fault (GDZ). The aim of the IP survey is to identify anomalies to be tested by drilling. Figure 2 - Geological setting of the proposed IP surveys (red lines). To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6951/215242_d57ca8a594178a38_002full.jpg Glacial Till Sampling Later in the field season, the Company intends to conduct infill glacial till sampling to the east of Lac Bernard. The aim of this survey is to identify additional gold anomalies along the GDZ and to locate the source of the significant gold anomalies (up to 36 grains of gold per sample) detected in 2021 by a till survey (see Figure 3). The details of this program are still being defined. Figure 3 - Geological setting of the proposed till survey (dashed black lines). To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6951/215242_d57ca8a594178a38_003full.jpg Qualified Person Technical information in this news release has been approved by Dorian L. (Dusty) Nicol, the Company's CEO (PG, FAusIMM, Member of I'Ordre des geologues du Quebec), who is a Qualified Person ("QP") for the purpose of National Instrument 43-101. About the Company Orbec is a gold company that owns 100% of a large mineral claim position near Chibougamau, Quebec. The Muus Gold Project covers approximately 25,250 hectares of prospective ground in the eastern part of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. The Muus Gold Project is prospective for gold mineralisation and is adjacent to and on strike with IAMGOLD's 5-million-ounce Nelligan Gold Project. Orbec has announced that exploration of the Muus Gold Project will advance in technical collaboration with IAMGOLD, which owns approximately 12.5% of the Company. Field work completed during 2022 established that the northern portion of the Muus Gold Project is also prospective for copper-gold volcanogenic massive sulphide mineralisation, as well as confirming that it is prospective for high-grade gold mineralisation similar to IAMGOLD's nearby Monster Lake gold deposit. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Dorian L. (Dusty) Nicol, CEO & Director For more information, please visit our website www.bluethundermining.com, or contact Mr. Dorian L. (Dusty) Nicol, info@bluethundermining.com. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the anticipated content, commencement, anticipated exploration program results, the ability to complete future financings, the ability to complete the required permitting, the ability to complete the exploration program and drilling, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the state of the financial markets for the Company's equity securities, the state of the commodity markets generally, variations in the nature, the analytical results from surface trenching and sampling program, including diamond drilling programs, the results of IP surveying, the results of soil and till sampling program, the quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, variations in the market price of any mineral products the Company may produce or plan to produce, the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required, including TSX Venture Exchange acceptance, for its planned activities, the inability of the Company to produce minerals from its properties successfully or profitably, to continue its projected growth, to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, the potential impact of COVID-19 (coronavirus) on the Company's exploration program and on the Company's general business, operations and financial condition, and other risks and uncertainties. All the Company's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedarplus.ca and readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical reports filed with respect to the Company's mineral properties. This news release contains information with respect to adjacent or similar mineral properties in the Chibougamau District in respect of which the Company has no interest or rights to explore or mine. Readers are cautioned that the Company has no interest in or right to acquire any interest in any such properties, and that mineral deposits, and the results of any mining thereof, on adjacent or similar properties, are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties or any potential exploitation thereof. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/215242 SOURCE: Blue Thunder Mining Inc. Highlights: Total revenue of $9.9 million for Q1 2025, reflecting YoY growth of 31% from the comparative quarter 40% gross profit margin for Q1 2025 Positive Adjusted EBITDA of $105,366 for Q1 2025 Segmented Revenue for Q1 2025: Vape - B2C: $7.8 million, B2B: $1.2 million Cannabis - B2C: $0.8 million Expanded 180 Smoke Vape Store's brick-and-mortar retail presence to 30 locations solidifying its position as the largest omni-channel specialty vape retailer in Ontario 1 Increased system-wide loyalty accounts to over 235,000 members across Canada Vaughan, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2024) - Delota Corp. (CSE: NIC) (FSE: S62) ("Delota" or the "Company"), a leading Canadian omni-channel retailer of nicotine vape and alternative tobacco products, is pleased to report it has filed its quarterly financial statements, management discussion and analysis, and associated certifications (collectively, the "Quarterly Filings") for the three months ended April 30, 2024. The Quarterly Filings may be accessed under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Cameron Wickham, CEO of Delota, commented, "I am very pleased with our first quarter financial results which demonstrate strong momentum and growth. Our focus remains on driving revenue growth, positive adjusted EBITDA and improved margins. Our run-rate revenue is healthy and consistent at approximately $40 million annually and our efforts to optimize and scale the business have been successful in creating a cash flow positive business with the infrastructure to support future growth and expansion. Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding our footprint across Ontario both organically, through the opening of new stores, and strategically through M&A opportunities. Our proven approach in leveraging our existing infrastructure and templated store designs has consistently delivered optimized returns on investment and accelerated revenue growth. This is an exciting phase for Delota as we advance towards becoming the largest national specialty retailer of nicotine vape and alternative tobacco products." Financial Highlights: Total revenue of $9,883,883 for the three months ended April 30, 2024 (" Q1 2025 "), reflecting YoY growth of 31% as compared to the three months ended April 30, 2023 (" Q1 2024 ") "), reflecting YoY growth of 31% as compared to the three months ended April 30, 2023 (" ") 40% gross profit margin for Q1 2025 Positive Adjusted EBITDA of $105,366 for Q1 2025 Segmented Revenue for Q1 2025: Vape - B2C: $7,819,519, B2B: $1,220,412 Cannabis - B2C: $843,952 Other Highlights: On June 20, 2024, the Company opened a 180 Smoke Vape Store located at 70 Joseph Street, Parry Sound, Ontario expanding 180 Smoke's brick-and-mortar presence to 30 locations. On April 29, 2024, the Company announced the expansion of its product portfolio with the addition of nicotine-based Siberia White Snus pouches through a partnership with GN Canada, the exclusive Canadian distributor and partner with global snus leader GN Tobacco. On April 11, 2024, the Company provided a corporate update on its significant growth and progress. On April 2, 2024, the Company changed its stock symbol from "LOTA" to "NIC" on the Canadian Securities Exchange. The new stock symbol is intended to better align with its mission of becoming the largest national specialty retailer of nicotine vape and alternative tobacco products. On February 5, 2024, the Company completed debt settlements in the amount of $215,000 with certain creditors of the Company to preserve cash for working capital through the issuance of 1,535,715 units of the Company at a price of $0.14 per unit. Select Financial Information The following selected financial information as at and for the three months ended April 30, 2024 and the year ended January 31, 2024 are derived from the Company's consolidated financial statements. Three Months Ended April 30, 2024 Year Ended January 31, 2024 $ $ Revenue 9,883,883 34,069,680 Net income (loss) (508,188 ) (1,992,576 ) Net earnings (loss) per share - basic and diluted (0.02 ) (0.07 ) Working capital (deficit) (604,863 ) (771,198 ) Total assets 14,018,560 13,735,729 Total non-current liabilities 6,899,362 6,565,672 Total liabilities 13,924,196 13,351,331 Capital stock 7,807,481 7,592,481 Warrant reserve 99,398 99,398 Contributed surplus 510,159 507,005 Accumulated deficit (8,322,674 ) (7,814,486 ) Shareholders' equity (deficiency) 94,364 384,398 Adjusted EBITDA The Company's "Adjusted EBITDA" is a non-IFRS metric used by management that does not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and may not be fully comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Management defines Adjusted EBITDA as the net income (loss) reported, before income taxes and other expense (income) items such as finance costs, finance income, gains and losses related to derivative liability valuations, and adjusted for share-based compensation, depreciation and amortization expenses, gains and losses related to the revaluations of its right-of-use assets and lease liabilities and foreign exchange differences. The reconciliation of net income (loss) to Adjusted EBITDA is presented below. For the Three Months Ended April 30, 2024 2023 $ $ Net loss for the period - as reported (508,188 ) (324,624 ) Depreciation and amortization 132,610 145,759 Interest and accretion expenses 203,918 29,736 Stock-based compensation 3,154 - Fair value adjustment of derivative liabilities 293,831 - Deferred tax recovery (15,944 ) (15,944 ) Lease adjustments (13,341 ) (84,751 ) Foreign exchange loss 9,326 6,367 Adjusted EBITDA 105,366 (243,457 ) About Delota Corp. Delota is the largest omni-channel specialty vape retailer in Ontario with a mission of becoming the largest national specialty retailer of nicotine vape and alternative tobacco products. The Company's growth strategy includes aggressively growing its flagship brand, 180 Smoke Vape Store, by expanding its retail footprint organically in Ontario and select provinces across Canada, strengthening its national e-commerce platform, and through strategic M&A to accelerate growth and market consolidation. The Company is committed to expanding its nicotine product assortment, enhancing customer experience, and growing its loyalty accounts, which now exceeds 235,000 members. Investors interested in learning more about Delota can visit www.delota.com. For further information, please contact: Delota Corp. Julia Becker Capital Markets T: (604) 785-0850 E: ir@delota.com Cameron Wickham Executive Vice Chair and CEO T: (905) 330-1602 E: info@delota.com Cautionary Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements or information". Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as: anticipate, intend, plan, goal, seek, believe, project, estimate, expect, strategy, future, likely, may, should, will and similar references to future periods. Examples of forward-looking statements in this press release include statements made regarding information about future plans, expectations and objectives of the Company overall. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. The Company may not actually achieve its plans, projections, or expectations. The forward-looking statements and information are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Company. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the adequacy of our cash flow and earnings, the availability of future financing and/or credit, developments and changes in laws and regulations, consumer sentiment towards the Company's products, failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, government regulations, competition, loss of key employees and consultants, and general economic, market or business conditions, the impact of technology and social changes on the products and industry, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in disclosure documents filed by the Company with the securities regulatory authorities in certain provinces of Canada and available at www.sedarplus.ca. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, we undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. 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 release. 1 Based on number of retail stores in Ontario. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/215276 SOURCE: Delota Corp. PARIS, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- HR Path, a global leader in HR consulting, announces a record 500 million fundraising from Ardian, a world-leading private investment house. This landmark fundraising,the largest of the company's history, marks a significant milestone in HR Path's success story. It will play a crucial role in driving the next phase of HR Path's growth and international expansion in the United States, Canada, Germany, the Nordic countries and Australia. HR Path: HR Transformation for Efficient and Customized HR Management The optimization of recruitment, the development and retention of talent and the effective management of human resources are key success factors and competitive advantages for companies. HR Path employs a unique model to address these challenges in a global market driven by a multitude of technological solutions. By offering a comprehensive and customized approach to the full range of HR issues companies face, the Group positions itself as a true "one-stop shop for HR." Through its three business lines - Advise, Implement & Run - HR Path provides consultancy services, HR systems implementation and payroll outsourcing, enabling companies of all sizes and sectors to effectively transform and optimize their HR functions. A Record Fundraising to Enter a New Phase of Growth This position has enabled HR Path to establish itself as one of the world's leading HR consultancies. The group now operates in 22 countries, employs over 1,800 people, and serves over 3,000 clients worldwide. It has a turnover of 215 million, with a CAGR of 25% since 2021. To accelerate this growth, HR Path, has just closed a 500 million funding round from Ardian. "Securing this 500 million financing from Ardian is a transformative step for HR Path," said Francois Boulet, co-founder and CEO of HRPath. "This partnership underlines their confidence in our business model and our growth trajectory. We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the HR Path partners, our employees, and customers for their unwavering support and dedication. With the support of the team and Ardian, we are poised to expand our HR digital transformation services on a global scale and deliver unparalleled value to our clients." HR Path intends to use the new funding to continue and accelerate the external growth strategy initiated in 2009, which has seen the integration of 38 companies in 12 countries. The group plans to make new targeted acquisitions in strategic markets - such as the United States, Canada, Germany, the Nordic countries and Australia - to expand HR Path's value proposition and strengthen its position in the global market. Cyril Courtin, Co-founder and CEO of HR Path, added, "We also extend our gratitude to our partners, such as Societe Generale Capital Partenaires (SGCP), one of our first financial partner and in particular Marc Jacquin, Director of Participations at SGCP, for their support and collaboration. This significant investment enables us to accelerate our growth plans and further innovate our service offerings. We are excited about the opportunities ahead and are committed to driving excellence in HR services worldwide." Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1813833/HR_Path_Logo.jpg Media contact: fabienne.latour@hr-path.com View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hr-path-secures-record-500-million-in-financing-from-ardian-to-accelerate-its-international-acquisition-strategy-and-consolidate-its-position-as-a-leader-in-hr-transformations-302188872.html PAN GLOBAL ADVANCES EXPLORATION AT CARMENES COPPER-NICKEL-COBALT-GOLD PROJECT IN NORTHERN SPAIN PR Newswire VANCOUVER, BC, July 3, 2024 TSXV: PGZ | OTCQX: PGZFF | FRA: 2EU Pan Global holds 100% of mineral rights on 56.5km 2 Carmenes Project area, centred over two past-producing polymetallic mines Profunda and Providencia mines are associated with breccia-pipe-style Cu, Ni, Co and Au mineralization High grades in underground grab samples Providencia - 22 samples average 2.53% Cu, 1.28% Ni, 0.68% Co, 0.6g/t Au, 3.1g/t Ag Profunda - 8 samples average 10.30% Cu, 0.18% Ni, 0.19% Co, 0.1g/t Au, 15.6g/t Ag in underground grab samples A previously drilled hole at Profunda intersected 7.72% Cu, 0.11% Co, and 0.09% Ni over 1.95m in the wall of a mined out cavity, verifying the high-grade nature of mineralization previously extracted intersected 7.72% Cu, 0.11% Co, and 0.09% Ni over 1.95m in the wall of a mined out cavity, verifying the high-grade nature of mineralization previously extracted Gossan samples with assays up to 10.5g/t Au indicate additional untested potential to expand the underlying sulfide mineralization near the Providencia mine samples with assays up to indicate additional untested potential to expand the underlying sulfide mineralization near the Providencia mine Excellent potential for new discoveries on numerous untested targets for new discoveries on numerous untested targets Systematic geochemistry surveys, mapping, and drill permitting commenced VANCOUVER, BC, July 3, 2024 /CNW/ - Pan Global Resources Inc. ("Pan Global" or the "Company") (TSXV: PGZ) (OTCQX: PGZFF) (FRA: 2EU) is pleased to announce that exploration has commenced at the Company's 100%-owned, 5,653-hectare (56.5 km2) Carmenes copper, nickel, gold, cobalt project ("Carmenes" or the "Project"), located in the province of Leon, northern Spain. The area has a history of mining and the Project is 70 kilometers southeast of Orvana Minerals' Orovalle gold, copper, silver mining operation in the same geological belt. "The Carmenes Project is being advanced in conjunction with the Escacena Project and represents a compelling addition to Pan Global's exploration pipeline in Spain, targeting exceptionally high-grade copper, nickel, and cobalt, which are all metals critical for the global energy transition, plus a potentially significant association with gold," said Tim Moody, Pan Global's President & CEO. "The Project includes the former Divina-Providencia ("Providencia") and Profunda copper, cobalt, and nickel mines, both with excellent potential to significantly expand the mineralization laterally and at depth. These types of breccia pipe deposits typically occur in clusters, and the area is highly prospective for discovery of additional breccia pipes." In addition to the early stage exploration work at Carmenes, resource delineation drilling is ongoing at the La Romana target in the Company's flagship Escacena Project in the Iberian Pyrite Belt, southern Spain. Further drill results will be reported as soon as available, including results for recently completed drill holes at the rapidly growing Canada Honda target. Encouraging progress is also being made to access the Company's large Bravo target located immediately to the east of La Romana. Investor webcast: The Company will host an investor webcast with CEO Tim Moody on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 1 p.m. Eastern Time / 10 a.m. Pacific Time to discuss the Carmenes Project opportunity and provide an update on the ongoing work at the flagship Escacena Project. A Q&A session will follow a short presentation. Please register in advance: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_n-hhdVY1Qy2_M4XzfCIIgw Planned Exploration and New Results at Carmenes The Carmenes Project is a highly prospective area for carbonate-hosted breccia "pipe" style mineralization, with evidence of high grades of copper, nickel, cobalt and gold. Initial exploration priorities include the former Profunda and Providencia mine areas, targeting extensions to the copper-nickel-cobalt mineralization beneath the mine workings and recently mapped gossans. Numerous other smaller historical mine workings occur throughout the project area, highlighting the potential for additional breccia pipes and other styles of mineralization. Pan Global has commenced systematic exploration in the Carmenes Project following an initial phase of reconnaissance sampling and a detailed review of past exploration in the area. The program includes detailed mapping and surface geochemistry surveys, drill planning at Profunda and Providencia, and follow-up of targets identified from past exploration. Table 1 (below), includes assay results from new rock samples recovered by Pan Global from within the underground mine workings and surface gossans at Providencia and Profunda, and previously unreported underground sample results acquired with the mineral rights from the previous owners, "Sociedad de Investigacion y Explotacion Minera de Castilla y Leon, S.A." (SIEMCALSA). A plan map of the Providencia target and gossan sample locations is provided in Figure 2 (below). Cross sections through the Providencia and Profunda mines with sample locations are provided in Figure 3. The Pan Global and SIEMCALSA rock samples were assayed using the same laboratory and sampling protocols. The underground samples consisted of rock chips from the walls of former mine tunnels/stopes. Average grades from the combined Pan Global and SIEMCALSA underground samples at Providencia and Profunda, include: Providencia (22 samples) - 2.53% Cu, 1.28% Ni, 0.68% Co, 0.6g/t Au, 3.1g/t Ag Profunda (8 samples) - 10.3% Cu, 0.18% Ni, 0.19% Co, 0.1g/t Au, 15.6g/t Ag Reconnaissance mapping by Pan Global at the Providencia target has identified breccias hosting the historical mine workings, and surface gossans, over an area more than 300 x 100 meters. The target area at Profunda has similar dimensions. Assay results for six samples of gossans (rock chips of gossan outcrops and float) collected at Providencia average 3.8g/t Au, 0.41% Cu, 0.28% Ni, 0.10% Co and 3.7g/t Ag. The results highlight additional untested potential for significant gold and copper-nickel-cobalt mineralization beneath the gossans outside the mine workings. Table 1 - Rock sample assay results, including grab samples or rock chips from the walls in the historical underground mine workings at Providencia and Profunda, and samples of gossan from the Providencia target PROVIDENCIA UNDERGROUND Cu Co Ni Au Ag U SAMPLE COMPANY TYPE % % % ppm ppm ppm D808458 PGZ Grab 1.34 0.40 0.64 0.24 <0.5 50 D808459 PGZ Grab 0.30 0.77 0.45 0.07 <0.5 20 D808460 PGZ Grab 0.09 0.05 0.11 0.46 <0.5 10 D808470 PGZ Grab 4.51 1.16 2.09 0.96 1.8 100 D808471 PGZ Grab 0.25 0.53 0.40 0.07 <0.5 10 D808472 PGZ Grab 0.02 0.01 0.05 0.26 <0.5 <10 21266 SIEMCALSA Grab 4.76 1.00 2.89 0.74 1.2 110 21267 SIEMCALSA Grab 0.81 0.08 0.14 0.19 2.5 20 21268 SIEMCALSA Grab 0.61 0.05 0.07 0.19 2.0 170 21269 SIEMCALSA Grab 0.16 0.03 0.05 0.05 <0.5 10 21270 SIEMCALSA Grab 4.47 0.30 0.71 0.19 2.1 10 21271 SIEMCALSA Grab 0.30 0.03 0.07 0.14 <0.5 <10 21272 SIEMCALSA Grab 3.95 1.34 2.74 0.34 1.8 10 21273 SIEMCALSA Grab 2.22 0.76 1.06 1.11 5.2 <10 21274 SIEMCALSA Grab 1.36 0.90 1.53 0.34 1.7 10 21275 SIEMCALSA Grab 5.87 1.49 3.51 1.20 1.5 10 21276 SIEMCALSA Grab 6.48 2.14 4.71 1.06 2.3 <10 21277 SIEMCALSA Grab 1.49 0.34 0.61 0.18 1.3 <10 21278 SIEMCALSA Grab 0.08 0.03 0.05 0.15 <0.5 10 21279 SIEMCALSA Grab 0.89 0.28 0.42 0.42 2.4 <10 21280 SIEMCALSA Grab 5.24 1.27 1.36 2.05 2.1 10 21281 SIEMCALSA Grab 10.35 1.94 4.56 3.23 16.0 <10 PROFUNDA UNDERGROUND Cu Co Ni Au Ag U SAMPLE COMPANY TYPE % % % ppm ppm ppm D808463 PGZ Grab 5.20 0.06 0.14 0.25 13.00 50 D808477 PGZ Grab 2.45 0.04 0.13 0.26 6.70 40 D808478 PGZ Grab 10.40 0.08 0.09 0.11 10.60 410 26623 SIEMCALSA Grab 11.25 0.51 0.33 0.03 14.20 370 26624 SIEMCALSA Grab 7.21 0.28 0.15 0.02 5.70 1310 26625 SIEMCALSA Grab 27.20 0.27 0.24 0.09 35.30 610 26626 SIEMCALSA Grab 7.59 0.20 0.21 0.03 4.00 1610 26627 SIEMCALSA Grab 11.10 0.09 0.16 0.05 35.20 2090 PROVIDENCIA GOSSAN Cu Co Ni Au Ag U SAMPLE COMPANY TYPE % % % ppm ppm ppm D808457 PGZ Grab 0.66 0.17 0.56 1.04 6.20 20 D808469 PGZ Grab 0.87 0.12 0.44 1.02 1.90 20 G806208 PGZ Float 0.22 0.09 0.30 10.55 2.40 20 G806209 PGZ Float 0.36 0.10 0.17 3.05 5.70 10 G806234 PGZ Grab 0.22 0.06 0.11 3.39 1.60 20 G806235 PGZ Grab 0.16 0.08 0.11 3.66 4.10 20 Carmenes Project background The Carmenes Project area comprises three Investigation Permit's (total 4,028 hectares) that were acquired 100% by Pan Global from the Spanish state-owned exploration company SIEMCALSA together with all associated exploration data, and two additional granted Investigation Permits (total 1,625 hectares) that were obtained as a result of mineral rights applications by the Company's wholly-owned subsidiary, Minera Aguila Sociedad Limitada (MASL). There are no royalties on any of the mineral rights. The Profunda and Providencia copper-cobalt-nickel mines were operated continuously between 1860 and 1880, and intermittently until the 1930s. Mine grades (unverified) include 1.9% Cu, 1.8% Ni, 0.9% Co at Providencia and 2.2% Cu, 1.5% Ni, 0.9% Co at Profunda.1 Elevated uranium also occurs in the upper levels at Profunda, in the supergene zone. The mines produced copper and cobalt concentrates, both containing nickel. Underground mining extended to approximately 100m depth below surface at Providencia and 260m depth at Profunda, and mineralization remains open to depth and along strike at both. A smelter was installed in the 1920s for the mines but was destroyed during the Spanish civil war in the 1930s, and further mining was affected by water ingress in the deeper levels of the mines. Subsequent plans to restart mining did not eventuate. Artisanal mining occurred elsewhere in the area to the 1960s. SIEMCALSA began exploring in the area from 2009 to 2017, and through a Joint Venture (JV) on part of the area with Riedel Resources (ASX: RIE) from 2017 to 2019 when exploration stopped. SIEMCALSA focussed on four target areas, Profunda, Providencia, Fontun, and Valverdin. The exploration data indicates numerous other untested targets that require follow-up exploration. Four diamond drill holes were completed during the SIEMCALSA JV with Riedel Resources, testing IP-chargeability targets. This included hole CMN-3, that drilled in the main breccia at the Profunda mine, intersecting grades of 7.72% Cu, 0.11% Co, 0.09% Ni, 0.44% U and 0.24% Zn over 1.95m in the wall of a 7-meter-wide previously mined stope2. The Providencia mine area was outside the JV and not drilled. Soar Financial engagement Pan Global is pleased to announce that Soar Financial Partners (a brand of NorthStar Communications GmbH) ("Soar") has been retained to support public relations activities pursuant to an agreement ?entered into between the Company and Soar dated June 26, 2024 (the ??"Public Relations Agreement"), subject to the acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V")?. The Public Relations Agreement has an initial term of six months and includes fees and a grant of 300,000 stock options of Pan Global ?(the "Options") that vest quarterly at an exercise price of $0.20 per common share and with expiration 36 months following the date of grant. Soar does not currently own any shares of the Company and the fees paid are for ?services only.? __________________________ 1 Instituto Geologico y Minero de Espana, Mongografia N.o 4 - Recursos Minerales, 2003, pp186-187 2 Riedel Resources media release and ASX Announcement dated October 26, 2018 titled "Drilling Programme Highlights Exploration Potential and Validates Exploration Strategy": https://cdn-api.markitdigital.com/apiman-gateway/ASX/asx-research/1.0/file/2995-02039382-6A905981 About Pan Global Resources Pan Global Resources Inc. is actively targeting copper-rich mineral deposits, given copper's compelling supply-demand fundamentals and outlook for strong long-term prices as a critical metal for global electrification and energy transition. The Company's flagship Escacena Project is located in the prolific Iberian Pyrite Belt in southern Spain, where a favourable permitting track record, excellent infrastructure, mining and professional expertise, and support for copper as a Strategic Raw Material by the European Commission collectively define a tier-one jurisdiction for mining investment. The Pan Global team comprises proven talent in exploration, discovery, development, and mine operations - all of which are committed to operating safely and with utmost respect for the environment and our partnered communities. The Company is a member, and operates under the principles, of the United Nations Global Compact. Qualified Person Alvaro Merino, Vice President Exploration for Pan Global Resources and a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approves the scientific and technical information in this media release, including the exploration and sampling by SIEMCALSA. Mr. Merino is not independent of the Company. QA/QC Rock samples delivered to the ALS sample preparation facility in Seville were prepared and assayed at the ALS facility in Ireland. All samples were crushed, split and pulverized using methods CRU-31, SPL-22Y and PUL-31. Gold analysis was by 30gm Fire assay with AA finish (Au-AA23). Multi element analysis was undertaken using a 4 acid digest with ICP-AES finish (ME-ICP61). Overgrade samples were analyzed using 4 acid digest with ICP-AES finish (OG62). Certified reference materials were inserted at a 1/25 samples. The grab sample results are selective by nature, and may not be representative of average grades for the mineralization. On behalf of the Board of Directors Forward-looking statements Statements which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions regarding the future. It is important to note that actual outcomes and the Company's actual results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information included in this media release are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, economic, competitive, governmental, environmental, and technological factors that may affect the Company's operations, markets, products, and prices. Readers should refer to the risk disclosures outlined in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis of its audited financial statements filed with the British Columbia Securities Commission. The forward-looking information contained in this media release is based on information available to the Company as of the date of this media release. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information. NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/pan-global-advances-exploration-at-carmenes-copper-nickel-cobalt-gold-project-in-northern-spain-302188704.html Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2024) - Lorne Park Capital Partners Inc. (TSXV: LPC) ("LPCP") is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has approved the declaration of a cash dividend of $0.008 per common share, payable on July 31, 2024, to the shareholders of record as of July 17, 2024. This represents a 14% increase over the previous quarterly dividend. The dividend payments qualify as eligible dividends for Canadian income tax purposes. The declaration, amount and payment of future cash dividends are subject to the Board of Directors' continuing determination that the payment of dividends is in the best interests of the Company, its shareholders and is in compliance with all laws and agreements of the Company applicable to the declaration and payment of cash dividends. The ability of the Company to pay future dividends will be reviewed on a quarterly basis taking into consideration actual and forecasted cash flows and the macroeconomic outlook at that point in time. About Lorne Park Capital Partners Inc. LPCP was created to bring together boutique investment management and wealth advisory firms in order to deliver robust, cost-effective investment solutions to affluent investors, foundations, estates and trusts. LPCP's unique strategy creates better alignment between investment managers and wealth advisors while providing them with additional resources to accelerate their growth. For further information, please contact: Robert Sewell Chief Executive Officer Lorne Park Capital Partners Inc. investor.relations@lpcp.ca (905) 337-2227 Cautionary Notes Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains statements which constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information may be identified by such terms as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "estimates", "may", "could", "would", "will", "plan", and other similar expressions. Forward looking information in this news release includes, without limitation, LPCP's objectives, goals and future plans. Forward-looking information addresses possible future events, conditions and financial performance based upon management's current expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions. In particular, the forward-looking information contained in this news release reflects assumptions about the timing and results of the amalgamation and regulatory approvals. Management of LPCP considers the assumptions on which the forward-looking information contained herein are based to be reasonable. However, by its very nature, forward-looking information inherently involves known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such information. Such risks include, without limitation, changes in economic conditions, applicable laws or regulations. Accordingly, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. LPCP disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. /NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES, ANY FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THIS RESTRICTION MAY CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF U.S. SECURITIES LAW/ To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/213635 SOURCE: Lorne Park Capital Partners Inc. A firefighting C-130 Hercules tanker releases fire retardant on a ridge while battling the Thompson Fire near Oroville (Butte County) on Wednesday. The fire, which began on Tuesday, has already scorched more than 3,500 acres. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle A Pacific Gas and Electric Co. firefighting helicopter releases water over a hot spot while battling the Thompson Fire near Oroville on Wednesday. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Transmission towers are seen in an area scorched by the Thompson Fire near Oroville on Wednesday. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Cal Fire investigators stand by at a cordoned area as fire crews continue to battle the Thompson Fire near Oroville on Wednesday. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Flames are seen on a ridge at Potters Ravine Recreation Area near Lake Oroville during the Thompson Fire near Oroville on Tuesday. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Firefighters continued assessing the damage Wednesday but were only able to confirm four destroyed structures, said Rick Carhart, a spokesperson for Cal Fire/Butte County Fire Department. Photos posted on social media showed houses and vehicles that had burned. California heat live updates: Excessive heat warnings continue as temps set to peak; fires burn across state Advertisement Article continues below this ad Four firefighters have suffered minor heat-related injuries. No injuries to residents were reported. The cause of the fire was under investigation. The fire broke out just before 11 a.m. Tuesday near Cherokee and Thompson Flat roads in Oroville. Approximately 12,000 homes were ordered to evacuate, which encompasses about 28,000 residents, Carhart said. On Wednesday morning the fire was 0% contained. The fire prompted Gov. Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency in Butte County. We are using every available tool to tackle this fire and will continue to work closely with our local and federal partners to support impacted communities, Newsom said in a statement. As we head into some of the most challenging months of wildfire season, the state is better prepared than ever to protect at-risk communities with new tools, technology and resources. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A home is engulfed in flames during the Thompson Fire near Oroville on Tuesday. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Carhart said the blaze is burning into the heavy populated area of Kelly Ridge, where there are a number of homes on small lots. The winds are definitely moving the fire, Carhart said. So a lot of our efforts have gone towards structure protection, just getting in front of those in between the fire to make sure that they dont burn. By Wednesday afternoon, smoke from the Thompson Fire began drifting into the Bay Area, more than 120 miles south of the blaze. The smoke was worse just south of the fire, where federal air quality sensors reported hazardous conditions. Butte County began distributing N95 masks to Oroville residents to protect against the smoke, which officials warned could cause irritation and difficulty breathing. On top of the smoke, residents in the area battled extreme heat. Temperatures Wednesday were expected to break 110 degrees in the afternoon and get even hotter over the weekend. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On Tuesday, the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area was fully shut down due to the fire. Park officials said on Facebook the park would remain closed at least through the Fourth of July. Staff at the State Water Project also evacuated on Tuesday afternoon, wetting the ground behind them as they left to try to prevent their facilities from burning, according to the California Department of Water Resources. The State Water Project is the largest state-owned water and power generation system in the nation. A crew of incarcerated firefighters from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Antelope Conservation Camp march along Canyon Drive while battling the Thompson Fire near Oroville on Tuesday. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle After evacuating, employees continued to operate facilities remotely with the exception of the Hyatt Powerplant near Oroville Dam, which was shut down by Pacific Gas and Electric Co. deenergizing power lines in the area. A spokesperson for the Department of Water Resources said Wednesday afternoon that there is still no threat to Oroville Dam, the tallest earth-fill dam in the U.S. Carhart encouraged people to be very, very careful with any activities theyre planning this week, especially with the Fourth of July holiday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad South Pacific Metals Corp. (TSXV:SPMC)(FSE:6J00) ("SPMC" or the "Company"), an emerging gold-copper exploration company operating in the heart of Papua New Guinea's proven production corridors, is pleased to announce it has launched a systematic and aggressive exploration program to evaluate its 3,000 square kilometre (km2) portfolio of four gold-copper projects. Generative exploration programs at Anga, Osena, Kili Teke and May River Projects will focus on achieving near-term discoveries and identifying additional growth opportunities. Highlights: Boots-on-the-Ground Exploration in the Mineral-Rich Kainantu District: Design of surface sampling, mapping and prospecting programs is currently underway for both the Anga and Osena Projects, located in the Kainantu Gold District and mantling K92's tenements that host their producing Kainantu Gold Mine; Surface Sampling Analysis at Osena: Submission of 550 surface soil, rock and trench samples collected at the Ontenu porphyry copper-gold prospect in fall 2023 (under previous management) for assaying; Kili Teke Porphyry Copper-Gold Deposit Expansion: Desktop analysis of comprehensive datasets (geochemical, geophysical, geological and drilling) to identify near-resource targets for possible deposit expansion; and May River Target Evaluation: Comprehensive desktop review and re-interpretation of extensive historic and modern datasets (geochemical, geophysics, geological, and drilling) is underway to target large-scale porphyry copper-gold and epithermal gold vein systems proximal to the Frieda River Deposit. Figure 1: Location of South Pacific Metal's Projects within Papua New Guinea Four Projects Covering 3,000 km Across the Most Well-Endowed Metal Province in the World "With new management and our experienced in-country team in place, the Company is streamlined and laser-focused on the tremendous exploration potential of all four projects," stated Michael Murphy, Executive Chairman & CEO. "Having recently traveled to Papua New Guinea for a series of site reviews and stakeholder meetings with government officials and community members, it's clear that each of our assets has the potential to demonstrate generational importance. Our strategy is to advance these projects methodically and ethically, so that we have clear, near-term visibility into the true size of the exploration opportunity." Anga Project Comprised of 461 km of exploration licenses in the highly mineralized and prospective Kainantu District, the Anga Project is located immediately northeast of and adjacent to K92's operating Kainantu Gold Mine, known for its gold, copper and silver outputs (see Figure 1). Anga's southwestern project boundary is approximately 3 km from where K92 is currently completing exploration drilling on the Arakompa lode-gold vein system, where multiple wide and high-grade gold zones have been intercepted (see K92 news release dated June 10, 2024, and February 21, 2024). Surface sampling and mapping work completed by the Company in 2022 (then under Kainantu Resources Ltd.), including preliminary geological mapping, surface sampling (rock and soil) and geophysical surveying (airborne magnetotellurics), indicates that Anga hosts similar geology, surface geochemical signatures (Au-Te-Bi) and geophysical signatures to that observed to be associated with mineralized gold veins at K92. Project data is being re-evaluated under new management and with a better understanding of regional mineralization styles to prioritize regions and complete new exploration work programs. Osena Project Covering 626 km of strategic ground, the Osena Project is located southwest of and adjacent to K92's tenements that host the Kainantu Gold Mine (see Figure 1). Priority prospects include Ontenu, a porphyry copper-gold and epithermal gold system with exposed porphyritic diorite intrusive phases hosting chalcocite, covellite and bornite, located within a highly mineralized corridor that extends more than 40 km northeast across the Kainantu District. While new surface sampling activity is planned to kick-off later in the year, the Company can confirm that 550 surface soil, rock and trench samples were collected in September 2023 (under previous management) were securely and properly stored since that time, but never sent for assaying. These have now been forwarded on for assaying to Intertek Laboratory in Lae, Papua New Guinea. Results, anticipated to be available in Q3 2024, will aid in determining priority areas to drill test for subsurface porphyry copper-gold and epithermal gold mineralization. Kili Teke Project The Kili Teke Porphyry Copper-Gold Complex, situated within a 252 km exploration licence in Enga Province, represents a substantial asset located 20 km northwest of the Mt. Kare gold deposit and 40 km west of Barrick's newly re-started Porgera Gold Mine (see Figure 1). The Project hosts an Inferred Mineral Resource of 237 Mt at 0.6% CuEq (0.34% Cu, 0.24 g/t Au, and 168 ppm Mo) totaling 802 kt Cu, 1.81 Moz Au, and 40 kt Mo.1 Although drilling extends to depths of 1,000 m, the mineral resource does not include drilling below 650 m depth, nor does it include all high-grade skarn drill intercepts. Skarn intercepts can be very high-grade, for example hole KTD0025 intercepted 7.8 m of 13.3% Cu, 11.75 g/t Au and 21.07 g/t Ag within 54 m of 2.1% Cu, 1.82 g/t Au and 3.87 g/t Ag (from 878 m depth down hole). Through a preliminary review of the Project's data, the Company has identified multiple avenues to possibly optimize and expand the mineral resource, including identifying near-resource copper-gold drill targets. The Company will commence a comprehensive desktop analysis of the Project's extensive technical dataset, which includes regional airborne magnetics and radiometrics, multi-element geochemical and assay data from surface rocks, soils and drill core, and drill core photos to complete the targeting exercise. May River Project The May River Project spans 1,697 km of exploration licenses in East Sepik Province, immediately west of and adjacent to the tier-1 Frieda River Cu-Au Project, one of the world's largest undeveloped copper-gold projects having 26 Blbs contained Cu and 20 Moz contained Au.2 The Project hosts several compelling porphyry Cu-Au and epithermal Au-Ag prospects, including the Mountain Gate porphyry Cu-Au and the Skiraisa epithermal Au targets, within host rock and structural setting identical to that hosting the Frieda River deposit. May River also hosts a 7 km north-northwest trending Cu-Au mineralized corridor within which occurs with two drill-confirmed high-sulfidation gold occurrences. As part of the 2024 exploration program, the Company will complete a comprehensive desktop review of all historical and modern geological, geochemical and structural data across the entirety of the Project. The primary goals are to identify where to drill known prospects such as Mountain Gate and Skiraisa, and to identify new large-scale porphyry Cu-Au systems similar to that at nearby Frieda River. "Our proximity to existing, successful producers like K92 Mining and others are an added plus," Mr. Murphy continued. "Relationships matter and it's beneficial to be in a position to visit and trade notes with the neighbours. Results from on-the-ground exploration programs and desktop reviews will be used to refine drill targets and identify new ones. Anga and Osena remain our top priority projects as we zero-in on targeting possible extensions of structures hosting lode-gold veins from the nearby K92 project." 1Please refer to the 2022 N.I. 43-101 Technical Report for the Kili Teke Project, by Kainantu Resources Ltd., with an effective date of 18 November 2022. 2Please refer to PanAust 2018 Updated Feasibility Study for the Frieda River Project. Qualified Person The scientific and technical information disclosed in this release has been reviewed and approved by Darren Holden, Ph.D., FAusIMM, a "Qualified Person" as defined under the Canadian Institute of Mining National Instrument 43-101, 2014 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Dr. Holden is a technical advisor to the Company. The 2022 N.I. 43-101 Technical Report for the Kili Teke Cu-Au Project, Papua New Guinea, was prepared by Graeme J. Fleming, MAIG, an Independent "Qualified Person" as defined under the Canadian Institute of Mining National Instrument 43-101, 2014 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. About South Pacific Metals Corp. South Pacific Metals Corp ("SPMC") is an emerging gold-copper exploration company operating in the heart of Papua New Guinea's proven gold and copper production corridors. With an expansive 3,000 km land package and four transformative gold-copper projects contiguous with major producers K92 Mining, PanAust and neighbouring Barrick Gold, new leadership and experienced in-country teams are prioritizing thoughtful and rigorous technical programs focused on boots-on-the-ground exploration to prioritize discovery across its portfolio projects: Anga, Osena, Kili Teke and May River. Immediately flanking K92's active drilling and gold producing operations to the northeast and southwest, SPMC's Anga and Osena Projects are located within the high-grade Kainantu Gold District - each having the potential to host similar-style lode-gold and porphyry copper-gold mineralization as that present within K92's tenements. Kili Teke is an advanced exploration project situated only 40 km from the world-class Porgera Gold Mine and hosts an existing Inferred Mineral Resource with multiple opportunities for expansion and further discovery. The May River Project is located adjacent to the world-renowned Frieda River copper-gold project, with historical drilling indicating potential for a significant, untapped-gold mineralized system. SPMC common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX.V: SPMC) and Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FSE: 6J00). For further information please contact: Michael Murphy, Executive Chairman and CEO South Pacific Metals Corp. Tel: +1 604-428-6128 Email: info@southpacificmetals.ca Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Disclaimer and Forward-Looking Information Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainty affecting the business of SPMC. In making the forward-looking statements, SPMC has applied certain assumptions that are based on information available to the Company, including SPMC's strategic plan for the near and mid-term. There is no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements may involve various risks and uncertainty affecting the business of the Company. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because of the context of the statements, including such words as "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "plans", "may", "estimates", or words of a similar nature. Forward-looking statements or information in this news release relate to, among other things: formulation of plans for drill testing; and the success related to any future exploration or development programs. These forward-looking statements and information reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant operational, business, economic, regulatory or other unforeseen uncertainties and contingencies. These assumptions include, without limitation: success of the Company's projects, prices for metals remaining as estimated, currency exchange rates remaining as estimated, availability of funds for the Company's projects, capital, decommissioning and reclamation estimates, prices for energy inputs, labour, materials, supplies and services (including transportation), no labour-related disruptions, no unplanned delays or interruptions in scheduled construction and production, all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals are received in a timely manner, and the ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive. The Company cautions the reader that forward-looking statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation: fluctuations in gold prices, fluctuations in prices for energy inputs, labour, materials, supplies and services (including transportation), fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar versus the U.S. dollar), operational risks and hazards inherent with the business of mineral exploration, inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks and hazards, the Company's ability to obtain all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals in a timely manner, changes in laws, regulations and government practices, including environmental, export and import laws and regulations, legal restrictions relating to mineral exploration, increased competition in the mining industry for equipment and qualified personnel, the availability of additional capital, title matters and the additional risks identified in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR+ (available at www.sedarplus.ca). Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, described, or intended. Investors are cautioned against undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances. Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company's property. SOURCE: South Pacific Metals Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com Joint Program to Upgrade Columbia Model 107-II Helicopters to New and Enhanced Model-107-III Configuration; Coatesville Heliplex Selected as Development Site COATESVILLE, PA / ACCESSWIRE / July 3, 2024 / Piasecki Aircraft Corporation (PiAC), a global leader in advanced Vertical Take Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft development, and Columbia Helicopters (CHI), the world's premier tandem rotor helicopter OEM, MRO, and operator, today announced a strategic collaboration to deliver upgraded heavy-lift helicopters worldwide. Piasecki and Columbia Helicopters Sign Partnership Agreement From left: David Balevic, Columbia Helicopters; Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey; John Piasecki, Piasecki Aircraft The collaboration will upgrade existing Model 107-II helicopters to a new, more fuel-efficient, powerful and robust Columbia Model CHI-107-III configuration. This partnership supports customers in essential services such as emergency response, aerial firefighting, forestry, infrastructure, and defense. The military variant of the Model 107-II is the CH-46E Sea Knight (Phrog), which served with the U.S. Marine Corps and Navy, as well as allies in Sweden and Japan. Modifications and testing will take place at Piasecki's 219,000-square-foot heliplex facility in Coatesville, Pennsylvania - acquired in 2023 from Lockheed Martin Sikorsky after the S-76 and S-92 helicopter production lines at the site were closed and hundreds of jobs were lost. Piasecki's acquisition of the facility was championed by Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6), Governor Josh Shapiro, and the Chester County Economic Development Council to create new jobs that leverage the unique aerospace skills in the region. "For generations, Pennsylvanians have served their country and supported their families by manufacturing military helicopters at this Coatesville facility. I fought to support Piasecki's helicopter remanufacturing because nobody is more up to the task of maintaining our Nation's military aircrafts than the workers here in Southeastern Pennsylvania," said Senator Casey in a separate announcement. "This is a new chapter for Coatesville and I'll keep fighting to make sure these jobs are here to stay." "Piasecki, with its state-of-the-art manufacturing and robust tech workforce, is a driving force of revitalization in Coatesville," said Representative Houlahan in a separate announcement. "Now, with the announcement of the production of CH-46 helicopters and additional jobs being created, our region will continue to lead the way in domestic aviation manufacturing. I look forward to seeing Piasecki grow and will continue to do everything I can to support that." The Heliplex will also serve as CHI's new field site, expanding opportunities on the East Coast. The partnership covers the development of comprehensive product support plans for the Columbia Model CHI-107-III - including establishing an FAA Part 145 Repair Station at the facility. "We are thrilled to partner with Columbia Helicopters, a company that shares our heritage with the tandem helicopter, and our commitment to innovation and excellence in the rotorcraft industry," said John Piasecki, CEO of Piasecki Aircraft. "This collaboration represents a significant step forward in the evolution of tandem rotor helicopters and promises to deliver enhanced capabilities to a wide range of military and civil applications. We look forward to working together to advance the future of this vertical lift technology and generate hundreds of jobs for our communities." "The new Columbia Model 107-III will transform the heavy-lift helicopter market, providing unrivaled performance and versatility for our customers," said David Balevic, CEO of Columbia Helicopters. "We are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what is possible, and together with our partners at Piasecki, will deliver enhanced heavy-lift aircraft that save lives, protect nations, and build industries for decades to come." About Piasecki Aircraft Corporation (PiAC) Piasecki is an award-winning developer of vertical lift aircraft. It specializes in the design, fabrication, and flight testing of experimental rotorcraft and unmanned air vehicles and has developed and flown more than 25 advanced VTOL and UAV aircraft to date. Customers include the U.S. Air Force Research Lab and AFWERX; the U.S. Army Futures Command Aviation and Missile Center and Medical R&D Command; NAVAIR; DARPA; and SOCOM; as well as leading OEMs such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing. Piasecki is a recipient of numerous awards including the Presidential National Medal of Technology, Smithsonian Air & Space Achievement Award, and the prestigious Tibbitts Award for small business innovation from the U.S. Department of Defense. PiAC has been a proud member of the Vertical Flight Society for more than 50 years. For more information, please visit piasecki.com. About Columbia Helicopters (CHI) Columbia Helicopters is the global leader in heavy-lift helicopter operations and a trusted expert in maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. Backed by over 65 years of experience, Columbia operates internationally, often conducting operations in remote, austere conditions, providing safe and reliable aircraft and qualified personnel that meet demanding global transport requirements. Columbia leverages its position as the OEM and FAA Type Certificate holder for both the Model 234 Chinook and 107-II helicopters to provide responsive modifications, lifecycle support, and MRO services trusted worldwide by a diverse customer base. For more information, please visit www.colheli.com. Contact Information Aaron Endre piasecki@endrecommunications.com Esme Roberts esme.roberts@williamsnicolson.com SOURCE: Piasecki Aircraft View the original press release on newswire.com. NIAGARA FALLS, NY / ACCESSWIRE / July 3, 2024 / The City of Niagara Falls is excited to announce its exclusive partnership with Solar Simplified to bring innovative Community Solar solutions to local residents and businesses. This forward-thinking initiative guarantees a 10% savings on all applied solar credits directly on customers' utility bills, prioritizing support for Low and Moderate Income (LMI) households. By choosing Solar Simplified, Niagara Falls is leading the way in making solar energy more accessible and cost-effective. This partnership not only delivers significant savings to those who need it most but also sets a new standard for sustainable energy solutions in urban environments. The city's proactive decision to embrace Community Solar means residents and businesses can now benefit from renewable energy without needing individual solar panel installations. "Solar Simplified is on a mission to democratize solar energy, ensuring it's accessible and affordable for everyone, especially Low and Moderate Income households," said Aviv Shalgi, CEO of Solar Simplified. "Our collaboration with the City of Niagara Falls will not only help residents save on their electricity bills but also contribute to the growth of renewable energy infrastructure in New York State. This project exemplifies our commitment to serving communities with tailored solar solutions." Mayor Robert Restaino expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasizing its alignment with the city's sustainability goals and dedication to providing economic relief for residents. "The City of Niagara Falls is proud to join forces with Solar Simplified to deliver the transformative benefits of Community Solar to our community," said Mayor Robert Restaino. "This initiative not only underscores our commitment to clean energy but also ensures our most vulnerable residents reap significant savings on their electricity bills. We are thrilled to be at the forefront of a greener, more sustainable future for Niagara Falls." Community Solar projects allow multiple customers to subscribe to a single solar array, providing each subscriber with a share of the energy generated. This model is particularly beneficial for individuals and businesses without the resources or suitable property for individual solar installations. By joining this Community Solar initiative, all Niagara Falls residents and businesses can actively support the city's green initiatives while enjoying lower energy costs. Residents and businesses interested in participating in Community Solar can enroll at www.SolarSimplified.com/NF or contact Solar Simplified at 888-420-9831 to learn more. About Solar Simplified: Solar Simplified is a leading national Community Solar aggregator, revolutionizing the industry by removing customer-associated barriers and risks, allowing Solar Developers and IPPs to scale quickly and effectively. With a commitment to sustainability and equity, we aim to make clean energy accessible to all through community-focused engagement and consumer education. The ability to handle acquisition, management, billing, and collection makes Solar Simplified the best choice for Community Solar aggregation. If you're a developer, IPP, asset owner, or financier of community solar projects and want to learn how Solar Simplified can improve your project economics, please reach out to us at developers@solarsimplified.com. Contact Information Sasha Lukovenko VP of Sales and Marketing sasha@solarsimplified.com 312-216-0978 SOURCE: Solar Simplified View the original press release on newswire.com. NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / July 3, 2024 / Cisco Systems Inc. By Shaniqua Ingol At Cisco, we believe the growth of our company is inextricably linked to the growth of our people. That's why we are proud to host Cisco Illuminate, our employee development series that shines a light on continuous learning and development. This company-wide event helps employees uplevel their skills throughout the year to compete in an ever-changing business landscape. Exciting Speakers on a Range of Subjects? Cisco Illuminate lets participants tap into engaging sessions led by industry experts and cultural thought leaders from Cisco and beyond. Past events have included speakers like Oprah Winfrey, Andrew Ng, and Michelle Obama, covering topics that support attendees' personal and professional growth. With sessions on a variety of subjects such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, Well-being, and Leadership Development, this event is designed to create a growth mindset and prepare our employees for the future of work.? Interactive and Engaging Formats? Learning comes in many forms, and we know everyone learns differently, so Cisco Illuminate features a mix of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and interactive workshops. Attendees can choose to livestream the event from home, gather at a watch party on campus, or peruse the recordings library. By embracing various learning modalities, we empower our employees to thrive. For us, it's not just a moral necessity but a strategic advantage, helping us shape an inclusive future for all. Employees can continue to expand their skills on their own schedule with access to on-demand platforms like Masterclass, LinkedIn Learning, and Coursera. Next Illuminate is Approaching We are gearing up for our next Cisco Illuminate on June 25-26 that will enable Cisconians to enhance their skills in topics like AI, innovation, and well-being. In addition to Cisco and Splunk leaders and experts, employees will hear from James Clear, the New York Times bestselling author of Atomic Habits, on how to boost productivity and foster personal growth. By fostering an inclusive environment that empowers our team to learn and tackle the world's greatest challenges, we create a more inclusive future for all. Our employees are the heart and soul of Cisco Illuminate, and their experiences speak volumes. But don't just take our word for it-read their stories and see the impact firsthand! "Grateful for Cisco Illuminate - our program dedicated to global employee development. Last quarter's self-paced learning option promoted inclusivity and flexibility, accommodating the diverse schedules of Cisconians worldwide. This approach supports our commitment to an inclusive workplace by respecting our team's varied work hours and their customer-centric problem-solving." Aurelia Takacs - Program Manager, Strategy and Planning, Belgium "I loved participating in Cisco Illuminate Your Team! The transformative workshops provided invaluable opportunity to connect with our teams, fostering collaboration, connection, and trust - the very core elements that make teams thrive. We explored how open communication, mutual support, and shared goals drive exceptional business results" Elena Lewis - Leader, Customer Delivery, North Carolina "It's not a surprise to many of my peers that I always look forward to Illuminate - in actuality, I'm sure I cause a couple of headaches talking about Lumi and the amazing team behind the event all year round. As an attendee of the Illuminate events in the past, I have always admired how every session showcases the power of creativity and collaboration." Brinda Thangada - Communications Manager, Customer Experience, Chicago Explore more ways that Cisco supports its employees' learning and development in our latest FY23 Purpose Report. View original content here. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Cisco Systems Inc. on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: Cisco Systems Inc. Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/cisco-systems-inc Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: Cisco Systems Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Fortitude Gold Corp. (OTCQB:FTCO) (the "Company") declares its monthly dividend of $0.04 per common share payable on July 31, 2024 to shareholders of record as of July 19, 2024. Fortitude Gold is a gold producer, developer, and explorer with operations in Nevada, U.S.A. offering investors exposure to both gold production and dividend yield. Dividends may vary in amount and consistency or be discontinued at the Board of Directors' discretion depending on variables including but not limited to operational cash flows, Company development requirements and strategies, construction, spot gold and silver prices, taxation, general market conditions and other factors described in the Company's public filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. About Fortitude Gold Corp.: Fortitude Gold is a U.S. based gold producer targeting projects with low operating costs, high margins, and strong returns on capital. The Company's strategy is to grow organically, remain debt-free and distribute substantial dividends. The Company's Nevada Mining Unit consists of seven high-grade gold properties located in the Walker Lane Mineral Belt and an eighth high-grade gold property in west central Nevada. The Isabella Pearl gold mine, located on the Isabella Pearl mineralized trend, is currently in production. Nevada, U.S.A. is among the world's premier mining friendly jurisdictions. Cautionary Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. If you are risk-averse you should NOT buy shares in Fortitude Gold Corp. The statements contained in this press release that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. When used in this press release, the words "plan", "target", "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend" and "expect" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, the statements regarding the Company's strategy, future plans for production, future expenses and costs, future liquidity and capital resources, and estimates of mineralized material are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based upon information available to the Company on the date of this press release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those discussed in this press release. Contact: Greg Patterson 719-717-9825 greg.patterson@fortitudegold.com www.Fortitudegold.com SOURCE: Fortitude Gold Corporation View the original press release on accesswire.com RedChip Companies will air interviews with BioVie, Inc. (Nasdaq:BIVI) and bioAffinity Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:BIAF) on the RedChip Small Stocks, Big Money show, a sponsored program on Bloomberg TV, this Saturday, July 6, at 7 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). Bloomberg TV is available in an estimated 73 million homes across the U.S. Access the interviews in their entirety at: BioVie: https://www.redchip.com/assets/access/bivi_access bioAffinity Technologies: https://www.redchip.com/assets/access/biaf_access In an exclusive interview, Cuong Do, President and CEO of BioVie, who will share insight into the Company's pipeline of late-stage clinical programs targeting unmet medical needs in neurodegeneration and liver disease. BioVie's lead asset, bezisterim (formerly NE3107), has demonstrated the ability to modulate TNFa production, leading to significant clinical improvements. Patients treated with bezisterim experienced reduced inflammation and insulin resistance, improved motor control and "morning on" symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD), enhanced cognition and function, and better brain imaging scans in Alzheimer's disease (AD), as well as reduced DNA methylation levels. The Company's strategic priorities include launching a Phase 2b trial for Parkinson's in Fall 2024, initiating a Phase 3 trial for Alzheimer's in mid-2025 with a new once-daily formulation of bezisterim, continuing partnering discussions for bezisterim's geographic rights, and commencing an ascites Phase 3 trial upon identifying a suitable partner. Maria Zannes, President and CEO of bioAffinity Technologies, appears on the RedChip Small Stocks, Big Money show on Bloomberg TV to provide a corporate update. bioAffinity Technologies is an emerging player in early-stage cancer diagnosis. Its flagship product, CyPath Lung, improves detection of early-stage lung cancer by analyzing the lung microenvironment. The noninvasive test has shown high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy. Lung cancer often goes undetected until it reaches late-stage when treatment options are less effective. Early detection increases survival and reduces medical costs. With commercialization underway, including a pilot program in Texas and the US DoD's purchase of tests for ongoing research, the Company is well-poised for growth. The lung cancer screening market is projected to reach $5.7 billion by 2030. The Company's flow cytometry platform, enhanced by AI-driven automated data analysis, is being developed to aid in noninvasive diagnosis of COPD and asthma, which have a combined global market expected to reach $8.2 billion by 2027. The Company holds extensive U.S. and international patents. Insiders show strong support for the Company with ownership at 39% and increasing. With a highly experienced leadership team, bioAffinity Technologies is well-positioned to drive innovation in early-stage cancer diagnosis. About BioVie Inc. BioVie Inc. (NASDAQ: BIVI) is a clinical-stage company developing innovative drug therapies for the treatment of neurological and neurodegenerative disorders and advanced liver disease. In neurodegenerative disease, the Company's drug candidate bezisterim inhibits inflammatory activation of ERK and NF?B (e.g., TNF signaling) that leads to neuroinflammation and insulin resistance, but not their homeostatic functions (e.g., insulin signaling and neuron growth and survival). Both are drivers of AD and PD. In liver disease, the Company's Orphan drug candidate BIV201 (continuous infusion terlipressin), with U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") Fast Track status, is being evaluated and discussed with guidance received from the FDA regarding the design of Phase 3 clinical testing of BIV201 for the treatment of ascites due to chronic liver cirrhosis. The active agent is approved in the U.S. and in about 40 countries for related complications of advanced liver cirrhosis. For more information, visit www.bioviepharma.com. About bioAffinity Technologies, Inc. bioAffinity Technologies, Inc. addresses the need for noninvasive diagnosis of early-stage cancer and diseases of the lung and broad-spectrum cancer treatments. The Company's first product, CyPath Lung, is a noninvasive test that has shown high sensitivity, specificity and accuracy for the detection of early-stage lung cancer. CyPath Lung is marketed as a Laboratory Developed Test (LDT) by Precision Pathology Laboratory Services, a subsidiary of bioAffinity Technologies. Research and optimization of the Company's platform technologies are conducted in its laboratories at Precision Pathology and The University of Texas at San Antonio. For more information, visit www.bioaffinitytech.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and X. About RedChip Companies RedChip Companies, an Inc. 5000 company, is an international investor relations, media, and research firm focused on microcap and small-cap companies. For 32 years, RedChip has delivered concrete, measurable results for its clients. Our newsletter, Small Stocks, Big Money, is delivered online weekly to 60,000 investors. RedChip has developed the most comprehensive service platform in the industry for microcap and small-cap companies. These services include the following: a worldwide distribution network for its stock research; retail and institutional roadshows in major U.S. cities; outbound marketing to stock brokers, RIAs, institutions, and family offices; a digital media investor relations platform that has generated millions of unique investor views; investor webinars and group calls; a television show, Small Stocks, Big Money, which airs weekly on Bloomberg US; TV commercials in local and national markets; corporate and product videos; website design; and traditional investor relation services, which include press release writing, development of investor presentations, quarterly conference call script writing, strategic consulting, capital raising, and more. To learn more about RedChip's products and services, please visit: https://www.redchip.com/corporate/investor_relations "Discovering Tomorrow's Blue Chips Today" Follow RedChip on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/redchip/ Follow RedChip on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RedChipCompanies Follow RedChip on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redchipcompanies/ Follow RedChip on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RedChip Follow RedChip on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@redchip Follow RedChip on Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/c-3068340 Subscribe to our Mailing List: https://www.redchip.com/newsletter/latest Contact: Dave Gentry RedChip Companies Inc. 1-407-644-4256 info@redchip.com SOURCE: RedChip View the original press release on accesswire.com Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2024) - Hertz Energy Inc. (CSE: HZ) (OTCQB: HZLIF) (FSE: QX1) (the "Company" or "Hertz") announces that it has terminated the Option Assignment Agreement dated August 4, 2023 (the "Assignment Agreement") among the Company, Brascan Resources Inc., BHBC Exploracao Mineral LTDA, and RTB Geologia e Mineracao LTDA. Following the termination of the Assignment Agreement, the Company has relinquished its option to acquire the Patriota Lithium Project located in Brazil. The Company has no further obligation under the Assignment Agreement. About the Company The Company is a British Columbia based junior exploration company primarily engaged in the acquisition and exploration of energy metals mineral properties. The Company's lithium exploration projects include the Lucky Mica Lithium Project, the AC/DC Lithium Project, and the Snake Lithium Project. The Lucky Mica Project is 939 hectares located within the Arizona Pegmatite Belt in the Maricopa County of Arizona, USA. The AC/DC Project is 26,500 hectares located in the renowned James Bay Lithium District in Quebec, Canada, just 26kms southeast of the Covette Lithium Project owned by Patriot Battery Metals and is contiguous to Rio Tinto's Kaanaayaa project claims. The Snake Lithium Project is 21,700 hectares located west of AC/DC near other notable projects including Harfang Exploration, Brunswick Exploration and Ophir. The Company's uranium projects include the Cominco Uranium Project located in Bathurst Inlet, Nunavut, Canada and its recent applications for Exclusive Prospecting Licenses in Namibia. For further information, please contact Mr. Kal Malhi or view the Company's filings at www.sedarplus.ca. On Behalf of the Board of Directors Kal Malhi Chief Executive Officer and Director Phone: 604-805-4602 Email: kal@bullruncapital.ca Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this new release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/215290 SOURCE: Hertz Energy Inc. The "Netherlands Data Center Market Investment Analysis Growth Opportunities 2024-2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Netherlands Data Center Market was valued at USD 1.20 Billion in 2023, and is expected to reach USD 2.40 Billion by 2029, rising at a CAGR of 12.25%. This report analyses the Netherlands data center market share. It elaboratively analyses the existing and upcoming facilities and investments in IT, electrical, mechanical infrastructure, general construction, and tier standards. It discusses market sizing and investment estimation for different segments. Amsterdam is a preferred destination for businesses seeking reliable and scalable hosting solutions from 2024 to 2029. The Netherlands data center market is witnessing significant investments, acquisitions, and expansion, with companies including Google, Microsoft, and Digital Realty actively participating in ventures. Numerous prominent investors in the Netherlands data center market have established a significant presence, driving robust growth and innovation. Noteworthy investors include AtlasEdge, CyrusOne, Digital Realty, Equinix, EdgeConneX, Global Switch, Google, Interconnect, Iron Mountain, Keppel Data Centers, Microsoft, NorthC, NTT Global Data Centers, Switch Datacenters, QTS Realty Trust, Yondr are among others. The Netherlands data center market benefits from a diverse array of construction contractors, locally and globally renowned, catering to the needs of major operators in the data center sector. Companies like Arup, BENTHEM CROUWEL ARCHITECTS, Deerns, Dornan, DPR Construction, HDR (Hurley Palmer Flatt), Kirby Group Engineering, Linesight, Mercury, Royal HaskoningDHV, RED, Salute Mission Critical, and Turner Townsend contribute their expertise to the infrastructure development. However, it's essential to note that construction costs in this dynamic market experience minor fluctuations and variations, often influenced by factors related to land acquisition and development activities. These fluctuations require careful monitoring and strategic planning to ensure optimal project outcomes and cost efficiencies. In December 2023, the Municipality of Amsterdam implemented stringent restrictions on constructing new data centers within city borders. The new regulations stipulate that new data center developments must demonstrate clear benefits to Amsterdam and comply with rigorous environmental standards. This shift makes business parks in Amsterdam crucial locations for future data center developments throughout the forecast period. Dutch data center operators harness huge amounts of renewable energy through PPAs with energy companies. In June 2023, Google inked a 15-year PPA with Kronos Solar EDPR, a subsidiary of EDP Renewables, to procure solar energy from four upcoming photovoltaic plants in the Netherlands. The agreement, valued at 40 MW, aligns with Google's commitment to carbon-free energy usage by 2030. The Netherlands' colocation data center market is witnessing an increase in the construction of self-built data centers by cloud providers such as Google and Microsoft. In recent years, the Netherlands has witnessed steady growth in adopting and penetrating cloud computing services. For instance, over 90% of organizations in the country have adopted cloud technology as one of their core service offerings. Leading cloud service providers, including Google, AWS, Microsoft, and Oracle Cloud, are actively providing cloud on-ramp services through various data center facilities in Amsterdam. AWS, for instance, offers these services in Digital Realty's AMS7 facility, while Google utilizes Equinix's AM3 facility. Microsoft operates from Digital Realty's AMS8 facility, and Oracle Cloud is in Equinix's AM4 facility. WHY SHOULD YOU BUY THIS RESEARCH? Market size is available in terms of investment, area, power capacity, and Netherlands colocation market revenue. An assessment of the data center investment in the Netherlands by colocation and enterprise operators. Investments in the area (square feet) and power capacity (MW) across locations in the country. A detailed study of the existing Netherlands data center market landscape, an in-depth market analysis, and insightful predictions about industry size during the forecast period. Snapshot of existing and upcoming third-party data center facilities in the Netherlands Facilities Covered (Existing): 120 Facilities Identified (Upcoming): 10 Coverage: 47+ Locations Existing vs. Upcoming (Area) Existing vs. Upcoming (IT Load Capacity) Data Center Colocation Market in the Netherlands Market Revenue Forecast (2023-2029) Retail Wholesale Colocation Pricing The Netherlands data center market investments are classified into IT, power, cooling, and general construction services with sizing and forecast. A comprehensive analysis of the latest trends, growth rate, potential opportunities, growth restraints, and prospects for the industry. Business overview and product offerings of prominent IT infrastructure providers, construction contractors, support infrastructure providers, and investors operating in the industry. A transparent research methodology and the analysis of the demand and supply aspects of the industry. KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED What are the driving factors for the Netherlands data center market? How many data centers have been identified in the Netherlands? What is the growth rate of the Netherlands data center market? How much is the investment in the Netherlands data center market expected to grow? Who are the key investors in the Netherlands data center market? Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 141 Forecast Period 2023 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $1.2 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $2.4 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 12.2% Regions Covered Netherlands VENDOR LANDSCAPE IT Infrastructure Providers Arista Networks Atos Broadcom Cisco Systems Dell Technologies Extreme Networks Hewlett Packard Enterprise Huawei Technologies IBM Juniper Networks Lenovo NetApp Oracle Pure Storage Wistron (Wiwynn) Data Center Construction Contractors Sub-Contractors Arup BENTHEM CROUWEL ARCHITECTS Deerns Dornan DPR Construction HDR (Hurley Palmer Flatt) Kirby Group Engineering Linesight Mercury Royal HaskoningDHV RED Salute Mission Critical Turner Townsend Winthrop Engineering and Contracting Support Infrastructure Providers ABB Alfa Laval Caterpillar Climaveneta (Mitsubishi Electric) Cummins Delta Electronics Eaton Guntner HITEC Power Protection Johnson Controls Kohler-SDMO KyotoCooling Legrand Piller Power Systems Riello UPS Rittal Rolls-Royce Schneider Electric Siemens Socomec STULZ Vertiv Data Center Investors AtlasEdge CyrusOne Digital Realty Equinix EdgeConneX Global Switch Google Interconnect Iron Mountain Keppel Data Centres Microsoft NorthC NTT Global Data Centers Switch Datacenters QTS Realty Trust Yondr EXISTING VS. UPCOMING DATA CENTERS Existing Facilities in the Region (Area and Power Capacity) Amsterdam Other Cities List of Upcoming Facilities in the Region (Area and Power Capacity) REPORT COVERAGE IT Infrastructure Servers Storage Systems Network Infrastructure Electrical Infrastructure UPS Systems Generators Transfer Switches Switchgears PDUs Other Electrical Infrastructure Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems Rack Cabinets Other Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems CRAC CRAH Units Chiller Units Cooling Towers, Condensers Dry Coolers Economizers Evaporative Coolers Other Cooling Units General Construction Core Shell Development Installation Commissioning Services Engineering Building Design Fire Detection Suppression Systems Physical Security Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) Tier Standard Tier I Tier II Tier III Tier IV Geography Amsterdam Other Cities For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/839tpc 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240703896489/en/ Contacts: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 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! 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REDDING, Calif., July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- According to a new market research report titled, 'Nannochloropsis Market Size, Share, Forecast, & Trends Analysis by Form (Frozen, Liquid, Powder, Fresh Pastes), Application (Aquafeed, Extraction Companies)- Global Forecast to 2031,' published by Meticulous Research, the Nannochloropsis market is projected to reach $14.0 million by 2031, at a CAGR of 8.5% from 2024 to 2031. In terms of volume, the Nannochloropsis market is projected to reach 122 tons by 2031, at a CAGR of 9.4% during the forecast period of 2024-2031. Download Sample Report Now- https://www.meticulousresearch.com/download-sample-report/cp_id=5233 The growth of the Nannochloropsis market is driven by the increasing demand for algal protein, the growing demand for protein-rich and lipid-rich aquafeed, and the rising demand for omega-3 fatty acids. However, the complex production process restrains the growth of this market. Furthermore, the growing demand from the biodiesel industry is expected to offer market growth opportunities. However, the risk of Nannochloropsis contamination is a major challenge impacting the growth of the Nannochloropsis market. Nannochloropsis is a genus of green microalgae, a nonmotile sphere shaped with an average diameter of 2-5 microns. It is found in both fresh and marine environments. There is a great interest in Nannochloropsis production, primarily because it contains a considerable amount of lipids and protein, making it a very interesting nutritional profile. Nannochloropsis cell mass comprises 50-55% crude protein. It has been used in the production of aquafeed, nutraceuticals, and feed supplements for several decades. Get a Glimpse Inside: Request Sample Pages- https://www.meticulousresearch.com/request-sample-report/cp_id=5233 The Nannochloropsis market is segmented by form (frozen, liquid, powder, and fresh pastes), application (aquafeed, extraction companies, and other applications), and geography (North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa). The report includes an extensive assessment of the key strategic developments by leading market participants in the industry over the past four years (2021-2024). The Nannochloropsis market has witnessed several partnerships, agreements, collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions in recent years. The key players operating in the Nannochloropsis market are Proviron Industries NV (Belgium), Reed Mariculture Inc. (U.S.), Necton S.A. (Portugal), BlueBioTech Group (Germany), Allmicroalgae Natural Products S.A. (Portugal), Algatechnologies Ltd. (A Part of Solabia Group) (Israel), A4f Algae for Future (Portugal), Green Aqua Company SGPS S.A. (Portugal), AlgaSpring B.V. (Netherlands), Archimede Ricerche S.r.l (Italy), Astaxa GmbH (Germany), and Shaivaa Algaetech LLP (India). Key Findings in the Nannochloropsis Market Study: Among all the forms studied in this report, in terms of value, in 2024, the frozen segment is expected to account for the largest share of over 61.5% of the Nannochloropsis market. The large market share of this segment is attributed to the higher adoption of frozen Nannochloropsis in aquafeed applications, especially in aquaculture hatcheries to establish the initial step of an artificial food chain considering its high nutritional value and rich source of fatty acids (EPA, ARA). Moreover, this segment is also projected to register the highest CAGR of 8.9% during the forecast period of 2024-2031 because frozen Nannochloropsis biomass promotes easier management in biomass production of lipid-enriched rotifers. Have Specific Research Needs? Request a Customized Report- https://www.meticulousresearch.com/request-customization/cp_id=5233 Among all the applications studied in this report, in 2024, the aquafeed segment is expected to account for the larger share of 73% of the Nannochloropsis market. The large share of this segment is attributed to the extensive use of Nannochloropsis sp. in aquaculture due to its nutritional value and ability to produce valuable chemical compounds, such as pigments (zeaxanthin, astaxanthin, and canthaxanthin) and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Based on geography, the Nannochloropsis market is majorly segmented into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. In terms of value, in 2024, Europe is expected to account for the largest share of 35.7% of the Nannochloropsis market. This region is also slated to register the highest CAGR of 9.0% during the forecast period of 2024-2031. Europe's large market share is attributed to the growing aquaculture industry and need for aquafeed, increasing health awareness, rising demand for omega-3 fatty acids, and increasing demand for algae protein. Additionally, the growing demand from the biodiesel industry is expected to create lucrative opportunities for Nannochloropsis manufacturers in the region. Browse In-depth Report Now- https://www.meticulousresearch.com/product/nannochloropsis-market-5233 Scope of the Report: Nannochloropsis Market Assessment-by Form Frozen Liquid Powder Fresh Pastes Nannochloropsis Market Assessment-by Application Aquafeed Extraction Companies Other Applications Nannochloropsis Market Assessment-by Geography North America U.S. Canada Europe Spain Portugal Germany Italy France U.K. Denmark Sweden Rest of Europe Asia-Pacific China Japan India Australia Rest of Asia-Pacific Latin America Brazil Mexico Rest of Latin America Middle East and Africa Egypt Saudi Arabia South Africa UAE Rest of Middle East & Africa Unlock Opportunities: Buy Now- https://www.meticulousresearch.com/Checkout/99176287 Related Reports: Microalgae Market by Distribution Channel (Consumer Channel, Business Channel), Type (Spirulina, Chlorella, Dunaliella Salina, Haematococcus Pluvialis), Application (Nutraceuticals, Food & Beverages, Animal Feed, Cosmetics) - Global Forecast to 2028 Spirulina Market by Distribution Channel (Consumer Channel, Business Channel), Product Type (Powder, Tablets, Capsules, Flakes, Phycocyanin Extract), Application (Nutraceuticals, Food and Beverages, Agriculture, Animal Feed) - Global Forecast to 2028 Chlorella Market by Technology (Open Pond), by Product Type (Extract, Capsules) by Source (Chlorella Vulgaris, Chlorella Pyrenoidosa or Sorokiniana) by Application (Nutraceutical, Food & Beverage, Animal Feed), Geography - Global Forecast to 2028 Haematococcus Pluvialis Market by Product (Astaxanthin Ingredients (Oleoresin, Beadlets), Astaxanthin Bulk Finished Products (Capsules, Tablets), Application (Food and Beverages, Nutraceuticals, Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics), and Geography - Global Forecast to 2027 Dunaliella Salina Market by End User (Extraction Companies, Food & Beverage Companies, Feed Companies, Nutraceutical & Health Supplement Companies, Pharmaceutical Companies, Cosmetics Companies) and Geography - Global Forecast to 2028 About Meticulous Research Meticulous Research was founded in 2010 and incorporated as Meticulous Market Research Pvt. Ltd. in 2013 as a private limited company under the Companies Act, 1956. Since its incorporation, the company has become the leading provider of premium market intelligence in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. The name of our company defines our services, strengths, and values. Since the inception, we have only thrived to research, analyze, and present the critical market data with great attention to details. With the meticulous primary and secondary research techniques, we have built strong capabilities in data collection, interpretation, and analysis of data including qualitative and quantitative research with the finest team of analysts. We design our meticulously analyzed intelligent and value-driven syndicate market research reports, custom studies, quick turnaround research, and consulting solutions to address business challenges of sustainable growth. Contact: Mr. Khushal Bombe Meticulous Market Research Inc. 1267 Willis St, Ste 200 Redding, California, 96001, U.S. USA: +1-646-781-8004 Europe: +44-203-868-8738 APAC: +91 744-7780008 Email- sales@meticulousresearch.com Visit Our Website: https://www.meticulousresearch.com/ Connect with us on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/meticulous-research Content Source: https://www.meticulousresearch.com/pressrelease/453/nannochloropsis-market-2031 Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1757980/Meticulous_Research_Logo_1.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/nannochloropsis-market-to-reach-14-0-million-by-2031---exclusive-report-by-meticulous-research-302188858.html A home is seen engulfed in flames during the Thompson Fire in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Inmate firefighters with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Antelope Conservation Camp march along Canyon Drive while battling the Thompson Fire in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle A home is seen engulfed in flames during the Thompson Fire in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle An inmate firefighter with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Antelope Conservation Camp Crew 4 constructs a hand line while battling the Thompson Fire in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Rocco Olhiser, a firefighter with the Colusa Fire Department, carrie a hose while battling the Thompson fire in Oroville, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Flames are seen on a ridge at Potters Ravine Recreation Area near Lake Oroville during the Thompson Fire in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Flames consume a structure and vehicle on Bessie Lane as the Thompson Fire burns in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. An extended heatwave blanketing Northern California has resulted in red flag fire warnings and power shutoffs. (AP Photo/Noah Berger) Noah Berger/Associated Press A women runs while cars evacuate as the Thompson Fire burns, Tuesday, July 2, 2024, in Oroville, Calif. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Ethan Swope/Associated Press An evacuee winces as flames jump the road as the Thompson Fire burns, Tuesday, July 2, 2024, in Oroville, Calif. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Ethan Swope/Associated Press Inmate firefighters dig a firebreak as the Thompson Fire burns, Tuesday, July 2, 2024, in Oroville, Calif. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope) Ethan Swope/Associated Press The Thompson Fire near Oroville on Tuesday, July 2. ALERTCalifornia The fast-moving Thompson Fire began burning homes in Oroville as approximately 13,000 residents of Butte County were ordered to evacuate on Tuesday. As of 9:57 p.m. Tuesday, the fire, which started around 11 a.m., had scorched 2,135 acres and was 0% contained with more than 500 firefighters battling the blaze. While Cal Fire reported that there was no known damage or destruction, photos shared on social media by Associated Press and local news media showed that houses and vehicles had burned. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Live Updates: Latest on California heat wave, wildfires Latest on California heat wave, wildfires California fire map & tracker: Latest updates on active fires throughout the state Cal Fire-Butte County Capt. Dan Collins said the area where the fire broke out is sparsely populated, but that the blaze headed toward the Kelly Ridge area of Oroville, which is more populated. Oroville has a population of about 20,000. The cause of the fire remained under investigation. The Butte County Sheriff expanded evacuation orders throughout the day as fire danger continued to grow. Many people evacuated in East Oroville, which borders Lake Oroville. Some unincorporated communities were also ordered to evacuate. Shelters were set up at the Oroville Church of the Nazarene and Gridley/Butte County Fairgrounds. Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Tuesday night that California had secured a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help local, state and tribal agencies fighting the fire to apply for 75% reimbursement of eligible firefighting costs. Flames are seen on a ridge at Potters Ravine Recreation Area near Lake Oroville during the Thompson Fire in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Stephen Lam The California Department of Water Resources, which operates massive Lake Oroville, reported that facilities around the 770-foot Oroville Dam had been evacuated and dam managers were remotely monitoring and managing the reservoirs flows. Helicopter crews fighting the fire were using water from the reservoir. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Water service from the states second largest reservoir was continuing without interruption, officials said, and there was no risk to the integrity of the dam. Due to the unpredictable nature of fire, there is always a chance that State Water Project facilities may be damaged, said Raquel Borrayo, spokeswoman for the Department of Water Resources in the Oroville field division. However, staff have enacted precautionary measures including wetting down potentially at-risk areas with water trucks, in addition to performing regular vegetation management activities and maintaining defensible spaces around Oroville facilities throughout the year. The Hyatt Powerplant at the dam, which delivers electricity to the grid, went offline when Pacific Gas and Electric Co. deenergized power lines to the area because of the fire. The plant is one of many hydroelectric operations on the Feather River. Cal Fire officials urged residents to adhere to the evacuation orders and to make preparations ahead of time. A home is seen engulfed in flames during the Thompson Fire in Oroville, Calif., Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Stephen Lam Sometimes (people) wait until they physically see the fire, and thats too late, Collins said. The earlier folks get out, the better. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The San Francisco Fire Department is sending five engines and 18 firefighters to aid with the firefight. Firefighters from South San Francisco, San Bruno and San Mateo were also headed to assist in the fire battle. The Thompson Fire broke out Tuesday morning at Cherokee and Thompson Flat roads. The "Western Europe Data Center Construction Market Industry Outlook Forecast 2024-2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Western Europe Data Center Construction Market was valued at USD 9.01 Billion in 2023, and is expected to reach USD 14.41 Billion by 2029, rising at a CAGR of 8.14%. The increasing demand for data centers nationwide will provide significant opportunities for construction contractors to generate revenue. Some well-known construction contractors in the Western Europe data center construction market include AECOM, AEON Engineering, Arup, Basler Hofmann, Bouygues Construction, Callaghan Engineering, Cap Ingelec, Collen, DPR Construction, Future-tech, Mercury, PM Group, Turner Townsend, Winthrop Engineering and Contracting, and many more. Major players Colt Data Centre Services (COLT DCS), CyrusOne, DATA4, Digital Realty, Echelon Data Centers, Equinix, Global Switch, Iron Mountain, NTT Global Data Centers, Orange Business Services, Vantage Data Centers, Yondr, and others have made substantial investments in the Western Europe data center construction market. Microsoft, Meta (Facebook), and Google are the major hyperscale operators investing in the Western Europe data center construction market. The Climate Neutral Data Center Pact has significantly improved the sustainability of Western European data centers. By 2030, all signatories commit to powering their facilities with renewable energy. By October 2022, over 100 companies had signed the Climate Neutral Data Center Pact, representing over 90% of European data center capacity. Western Europe is the top choice for hyperscale facility development due to free and air-based cooling availability. This advantage helps reduce power consumption in these regions. Data center investors are increasingly choosing locations like Spain, Portugal, Greece, and others with abundant renewable energy and reasonable land prices. Industry leaders like Microsoft, Meta, and Google are at the forefront of developing sustainable hyperscale facilities. Colocation data center developers also contribute by adopting initiatives like HVO, sustainable construction materials, and green facades. Significant growth has been made in greenfield and modular data center developments. The modular data center developments are increasing as construction methods are deemed inefficient due to labor shortages, budget constraints, and construction delays in certain countries across the region. The increased demand for modular solutions from data center operators is increasing the revenue of modular data center solutions providers such as Vertiv, Dell Technologies, and HPE, among others. The government's interest in promoting data center investments through land for development, renewable energy procurement, and reducing electricity tariffs will drive the colocation market in Europe during the forecast period. KEY TRENDS Rising AI Wave Boost Data Center Investment Continuous growth in AI propels an increased need for data centers and supports the growth of the Western Europe data center construction industry. Cutting-edge technologies increase demand for advanced data storage and processing facilities. Western Europe experienced a surge in establishing and expanding data centers to accommodate the escalating demand. Data centers are pivotal in supporting the infrastructure for developing and deploying AI solutions. Due to the rising use of AI, Western Europe's growing data center industry positively impacts the economy, generating job opportunities and fostering innovation in the technology sector. Utilizing Advanced Cooling Technologies Growing sustainability efforts drive data centers to adopt innovative cooling methods. Large operators focus on reducing power use with approaches like tropical testbeds and underwater centers. Data centers use diverse cooling methods, such as free cooling and underwater centers, demonstrating a commitment to cost-effective, eco-friendly operations. Liquid immersion cooling, using dielectric oil, proves cost-effective for managing heat from high-performance servers. "Direct-to-chip cooling enhances efficiency by directly cooling chips, addressing the sustainability challenges of traditional water cooling. Immersion cooling solutions, including Direct-to-Chip Cooling, aim to overcome sustainability challenges tied to water consumption in traditional cooling methods, making operations more eco-friendly and efficient. Chip-Level Security in Data Centers Data centers are increasingly focusing on improving security at the core level through chip-level security a trend highlighting a growing commitment to enhanced safeguards. This involves implementing advanced security measures directly at the chip level to address threats more effectively and strengthen overall resilience. Chip-level security emphasizes hardware-based protections, using microarchitecture features to strengthen data centers against evolving cyber threats. This trend marks a move toward comprehensive security integration, with chip-level measures as a foundational layer for a robust security posture in data center environments. SEGMENTATION INSIGHTS Embracing modular power infrastructure in data centers is poised to yield long-term cost savings. These systems boast higher efficiency, require less maintenance, and save space. Monitoring's importance is on the rise, fueled by the uptake of real-time monitoring software featuring automation and AI capabilities. This technology predicts maintenance needs, identifies component failures, and executes automatic switchovers for uninterrupted operations. Cooling techniques in regions with favorable climates are on the upswing, including using evaporative coolers to cool data centers efficiently. Anticipate data centers to adopt innovative designs like district heating as part of their evolution. Beyond the initial setup, data centers focus on enhancing physical security. They are utilizing real-time data center infrastructure management systems (DCIM) for continuous monitoring and management of facilities. KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED What is the growth rate of the Western Europe data center construction market? What is the estimated market size in terms of area in the Western Europe data center construction market by 2029? How big is the Western Europe data center construction market? What are the key trends in the Western Europe data center construction industry? How many MW of power capacity is expected to reach the Western Europe data center construction market by 2029? Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 406 Forecast Period 2023 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2023 $9.01 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $14.41 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 8.1% Regions Covered Europe Market Overview Historical vs Present Market Scenario Data Center Construction Cost Across Western Europe Data Center Design Certifications Uptime Institute Tier Standards Leed Certification Tia 942 Certification Market Opportunities Trends Rising AI Wave Boost Data Center Investment Utilizing Advanced Cooling Technologies Surge in Industrial Electricity Rates Rising Expansion of District Heating Systems Chip-Level Security in Data Centers Market Growth Enablers Integration of Ocp and Hyperscale Infrastructure Solutions Expansion of 5G Services Leading to Edge Data Center Investments Data Localization Laws by Western European Countries Green Initiatives in Western Europe Market Restraints Supply Chain Disruptions Hampering Market Growth Shortage of Skilled Data Center Professionals Location Challenges for Data Center Development VENDOR LANDSCAPE Prominent Support Infrastructure Providers 3M ABB Airedale International Air Conditioning Alfa Laval Carrier Caterpillar Condair Climaveneta Cummins D'HONDT THERMAL SOLUTIONS Daikin Applied Delta Electronics Eaton ebm-papst EMICON INNOVATION AND COMFORT Enrogen FlaktGroup Grundfos Guntner GESAB HiRef HITEC Power Protection Honeywell Johnson Controls KOHLER-SDMO KyotoCooling Legrand Mitsubishi Electric Munters Nlyte Software (Carrier Global Corporation) Perkins Engines Piller Power Systems Riello Elettronica (Riello UPS) Rittal Rolls-Royce Schneider Electric Siemens Socomec STULZ Trane (Ingersoll Rand) Vertiv ZIEHL-ABEGG Prominent Construction Contractors AECOM AEON Engineering APL Data Center ARC:MC Ariatta ARSMAGNA Artelia Arup Atkins Basler Hofmann BENTHEM CROUWEL ARCHITECTS Bouygues Construction Cap Ingelec Collen Deerns DPR Construction Eiffage EYP MCF Ferrovial Future-tech ICT Facilities IDOM ISG JCA Engineering JERLAURE Kirby Group Engineering Linesight LPI Group M+W Group (EXYTE) Mercury NORMA Engineering PM Group PQC Quark RED Engineering Design Reid Brewin Architects Royal HaskoningDHV Skanska SPIE UK Starching STO Building Group STS Group studioNWA TPF Ingenierie TTSP Turner Townsend Winthrop Technologies Prominent Data Center Investors AtlasEdge Aruba China Mobile Colt Data Centre Services (COLT DCS) CyrusOne DATA4 Digital Realty Echelon Data Centres EdgeConneX (EQT Infrastructure) Equinix Euclyde Data Centers Meta (Facebook) Global Switch Google Iron Mountain (IO) KDDI (Telehouse) LCL Data Centers Microsoft Nautilus Data Technologies NDC-GARBE Data Centers Europe NTT Global Data Centers Orange Business Services Proximity Data Centres Pure Data Centres T5 Data Centers Telecom Italia Sparkle Vantage Data Centers VIRTUS Data Centres (ST Telemedia Global Data Centres) Yondr New Entrants CloudHQ Form8tion Data Centers (Thor Equities) Global Technical Realty Goodman Mainova WebHouse Nation Data Center (NDC) SEGMENTATION Infrastructure Electrical Infrastructure Mechanical Infrastructure General Construction Electrical Infrastructure UPS Systems Generators Transfer Switches Switchgear PDUs Other Electrical Infrastructure Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems Racks Other Mechanical Infrastructure Cooling Systems CRAC and CRAH Units Chillers Units Cooling Towers, Condensers, and Dry Coolers Economizers Evaporative Coolers Other Cooling Units Cooling Techniques Air-based Cooling Liquid-based Cooling General Construction Core Shell Development Installation Commissioning Services Engineering Building Design Fire Detection Suppression Physical Security DCIM/BMS Solutions Tier Standards Tier I Tier II Tier III Tier IV Geography UK Germany France Netherlands Ireland Switzerland Italy Spain Belgium Portugal Other Western European Countries For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/8ng8zt 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. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240703875485/en/ Contacts: ResearchAndMarkets.com Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager press@researchandmarkets.com For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900 VALENCIA, Spain and BRUSSELS, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Seeking alternatives to obtain oocytes without ovarian stimulation is a pioneering line of research in reproductive medicine. The inconveniences that the process of ovarian stimulation can generate are a current barrier for some women and couples who are considering starting a reproductive treatment. In fact, 1 out of every 5 couples do not start the search for a second child for this reason. Ovarian stimulation is the initial part of assisted reproduction treatments, and it is the phase of infertility treatments in which the least relevant advances have been achieved to date. It is one of the main psychological barriers for women when deciding to begin this path towards motherhood. Many of them are concerned about how this process may affect them physically and emotionally. With the aim of making progress in this field, IVI RMA GLOBAL has signed an exclusive agreement with Lavima Fertility, Inc., a US company in the fertility sector which owns the rights to CAPA-IVM, a completely novel hormone-free fertility treatment technology. Together, IVI RMA Global and Lavima Fertility have opened a pioneering line of research aimed at eliminating ovarian stimulation in women who wish to begin assisted reproduction or egg vitrification treatment. "We are aware that the ovarian stimulation phase can be faced with some anxiety and can be a brake on the decision to begin treatment. For this reason, at IVI and together with Lavima Fertility, we have taken the initiative and we are going to challenge science to try to optimize this very delicate part of the treatment for some patients," explains Dr. Nuria Pellicer, gynecologist at IVI Valencia. A clinical study has begun at the IVI Valencia headquarters under the direction of Dr. Ernesto Bosch, director of the clinic, and Dr. Nuria Pellicer, together with the scientific director of IVI RMA Global, Dr. Juan Antonio Garcia Velasco. Lavima Fertility is supporting this clinical study by providing the CAPA-IVM and culture media supplements that allow immature oocytes to mature outside of the women's ovaries in vitro and without the need of ovarian stimulation. This investigation will later be joined by the rest of the IVI RMA Global group's clinics. "Our main objective is to continue benefiting women through research, and to eliminate the psychological barrier of those who decide not to start treatment, worried about the physical and emotional effect that ovarian stimulation may have on them, although the symptoms associated with this process are usually moderate and pass in a few days," says Dr. Bosch. In spite of being a fundamental step in the treatment of fertility, it is estimated that 20% of couples who would like to look for a second child do not do so due to their reluctance regarding the possible effects of ovarian stimulation: "Finding formulas to improve this process from science is an exciting and hopeful project for us, in our continuous research work, and allows us to continue helping in a pioneering way and with the latest advances to women who trust us with their greatest desire," concludes Dr. Pellicer. "Avoiding controlled ovarian stimulation together with the trigger hormones in ART represents clearly a great scientific and clinical innovation," says Prof. Dr. Johan Smitz from Lavima Fertility. Immature eggs are retrieved from unstimulated small follicles. The oocyte-cumulus-complexes are then matured in a novel two-step process in vitro using several culture media supplements. This technology is called CAPA-IVM. Five randomized clinical studies have been conducted in Asia and over 850 babies have been born already using this novel hormone free fertility treatment technology, underlying the safety of CAPA-IVM. "We are excited about the research collaboration between IVI RMA Global and Lavima Fertility in the field of hormone-free fertility treatment. IVI RMA Global is the largest IVF chain in the world and working together with IVI RMA Global clinics in this field would allow to bring CAPA-IVM to many more patients worldwide in the future," concludes Prof. Smitz. About IVI IVI was founded in 1990 as the first medical institution in Spain to specialize entirely in Human Reproduction. Since then, it has helped more than 250,000 children to be born thanks to constant innovation and the development of the most innovative assisted reproduction treatments. It is one of the European centers with the best pregnancy rates; in fact, most couples who consult IVI for infertility problems achieve their goal. In addition, it has a team of more than 2,500 professionals, including the best gynecologists in the world. IVI is part of the IVI RMA Global group, present in 15 countries. In addition to Spain, it is present in Portugal, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Nordic countries, United Kingdom, USA, Canada, Panama, Brazil and Chile. For more information: Lucia Renau lucia.renau@ivirma.com Ricardo Pedros ricardo.pedros@ivirma.com APPLE TREE Anais Priego ap@appletree.agency Clara Martinez cla@appletree.agency About Lavima Fertility, Inc. Lavima Fertility was founded in 2020 as a spin-off from the Free University of Brussels (VUB). Lavima owns the worldwide exclusive license to the CAPA-IVM technology which was originally developed at Free University of Brussels by Prof. Johan Smitz and co-workers. The CAPA-IVM technology is a novel, completely hormone free fertility treatment technology. Several thousands of patients have been treated with CAPA-IVM in Asian countries and Australia. More than 850 babies have been born after CAPA-IVM cycles. The CAPA-IVM technology is protected by granted patents in major territories. Lavima Fertility is cooperating with leading IVF clinics to evaluate the CAPA-IVM technology for various patient cohorts with the aim to further optimize the technology and complete the clinical development of the CAPA-IVM System Kit. www.lavimafertility.com For more information: Ande Rosenthal andre.rosenthal@lavimafertility.com Johan Smitz johan.smitz@lavimafertility.com Finsbury Growth & Income Trust PLC - Transaction in Own Shares PR Newswire LONDON, United Kingdom, July 03 For immediate release 03 July 2024 FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC (the "Company") MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES The Company announce that it has today purchased 208,658 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 843.87 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 47,729,029; 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 177,262,274. The figure of 177,262,274 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 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 Im neuen, kostenlosen Spezialreport stellen wir drei aussichtsreiche Unternehmen vor, die bei einem weiteren Anstieg uberproportional profitieren konnten. Handeln Sie jetzt und sichern Sie sich Ihren kostenfreien Report! BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / July 3, 2024 / In an industry where success often hinges on the backing of major labels, Boston-born hip-hop artist and MIH Universal founder Matt Corman has defied the odds. Grossing over $1 million from digital streaming alone, Corman has risen to the top 1% of musicians and songwriters worldwide, all while remaining completely independent. Matt Corman Matt Corman for ZIPLOCK music video Corman, celebrated for his hit single "Word to the Wise," has shared stages with big names like Post Malone, Rae Sremmurd, and Trippie Redd. His impressive career took off when he made history as the first alumnus to perform at his college homecoming concert, attracting over 3,000 attendees. This success paved the way for sold-out headline shows across the United States, proving his wide appeal and drawing power. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Corman saw an opportunity. Doubling down on his music, he committed to releasing a song every Friday. This relentless work ethic and strategic consistency paid off, leading to millions in streaming revenue and a rapidly growing fan base. In addition to his solo success, Corman's entrepreneurial spirit shines through in his partnership with E11even Vodka, the official vodka brand of 11miami. Together, they released the song "LIVE MORE," which he performed to a packed house at Club 11, further cementing his influence in both the music and business worlds. As the founder of MIH Universal, Corman has released over 200 singles, amassing over 200 million streams and maintaining 5 million monthly listeners. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and self-belief in a fiercely competitive industry. Before his full-time music career, Corman graduated from Southern New Hampshire University and worked in various corporate roles, including at Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Toast Inc. However, the pandemic marked a turning point, driving him to fully immerse himself in his passion for music. Matt Corman's journey is a beacon of hope for independent artists worldwide. In a cut-throat and challenging industry, he has shown that with hard work, strategic planning, and unwavering dedication, it is possible to achieve monumental success without the support of a major label. For more information on Matt Corman and his latest projects, please visit his website or follow him on social media About Matt Corman Matt Corman is a Boston-born hip-hop artist and entrepreneur celebrated for his hit single "Word to the Wise." Corman's independent releases have garnered over 200 million streams and 5 million monthly listeners. He is the founder of MIH Universal and a pioneer in music production, personal branding, development, and marketing. Contact Information Dan Gardner Media Manager gdan83102@gmail.com SOURCE: MIH Universal View the original press release on newswire.com. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2024) - Lode Gold Resources Inc. (TSXV: LOD) (OTCQB: SBMIF) ("Lode Gold " or the "Company") is pleased to provide a Mid Year Shareholder Update regarding its 3-Step Restructuring & Growth Strategy and Plans for 2024. The 3-Step Business Plan was signed off by the Board in October 2023; since then it has been focused on systematic execution of the plans to unlock value for shareholders. Step 1: Lode Gold completed an oversubscribed Private Placement C$2.08M Lode Gold completed an oversubscribed Private Placement C$2.08M Added engaged and long-term shareholders: 3 Institution shareholders own 59% Market capitalization increased from $3.3M in November 2023 to $14M June 2024 Improved balance sheet and enhanced Board and Management Team Canada: Confirmed Reduced Intrusives (RIRGS) in Yukon on its WIN asset on the southern end of the Tombstone Belt. Snowline and Seabridge is on the Tombstone Belt . https://lode-gold.com/news/new-discovery-stratabound-confirms-reduced-intrus-8748/ . https://lode-gold.com/news/new-discovery-stratabound-confirms-reduced-intrus-8748/ Expanded grounds in New Brunswick within the 20 M Oz Appalachian gold corridor (same geological analogue as New Found Gold and Dalradian). Increased 100% owned ground from 1,461 hectares to 2,858 hectares Increased 100% owned ground from 1,461 hectares to 2,858 hectares Commissioned a QMAG geophysical survey (1,151-line kilometres) on its Golden Culvert and Win projects in the Yukon . It was flown out of Seabridge Gold's 3-Aces camp southwest of Lode Gold's properties. This is a collaborative alliance with other Yukon explorers such as Snowline Gold, Seabridge Gold and Aben Minerals to ensure efficiency in spend and to maximize savings . It was flown out of Seabridge Gold's 3-Aces camp southwest of Lode Gold's properties. This is a to ensure efficiency in spend and to maximize savings Completed an updated Yukon 43-101 Technical Report, in active preparation for a Spin Co US: Pivoting strategy to focus on underground opportunity and completed the geological model for a high- grade underground gold mine at Fremont, Mariposa ~500km from Equinox Gold's Castle Mountain on the prolific mother lode belt. Lode Gold: Target 2M Oz at 5 g/t Au with a 3 g/t Au cut-off Background: Mariposa, California is the original gold rush county, where gold mining started in 1848 Currently in California, there are over 700 permitted and operating mines, 14 are gold mines. Several have been re-started in recent years including Equinox Gold Mining operation was suspended in 1942 due to gold mining prohibition in World War II Unlike other brownfield projects that have been mined out; this mine was just ramping up production when they were ordered to 'suspend' mining All previous owners of this project had only focused on open pit possibilities Lode Gold, for the first time, since mining at 8 g/t was suspended in the 1940's-- has commissioned a study to evaluate the opportunity for an underground potential Key Findings: Fremont is an orogenic deposit with structural controls, with confirmed mineralization at depth (step out hole hit structure 1,000m below surface and 1,300 m in the strike of the structure) Mineralization is evidenced on 4km of strike along the property (on the 190km Mother Lode Belt) 42,700 m of RC and diamond drilling has been completed. 23 km of historical underground workings Current MRE only represents 16% of the upper 500 m structure (only 2 of the 6 projects on the property) High-grade areas are controlled by transverse faults Average channel sampling: 4.7 g/t Au (Vein Avg True Width: 1.92 m) Mineralization is hosted in a body that has veins with 5 g/t Au, 2 g/t Au of stockwork between veins, and stockwork of 1 g/t of Au outside the veins 2 g/t Au of stockwork between veins, and stockwork of 1 g/t of Au outside the veins 40% of mineralization is in veins , 30% in the stockwork between the veins, and 30% is outside the veins , 30% in the stockwork between the veins, and 30% is outside the veins Only small portions of the veins were mined; stockworks outside the veins were not mined. Historical production equals 16% of current M+I resource Key Catalyst/Upcoming drill plan: 4,500 m of step-out and infill drilling (upper 500 m of structure, short drill holes) to expand current resources and to confirm high grade underground potential stockworks outside the veins were not mined. Corporate: Retained Marty Stratte - formerly part of the permitting team at Equinox Gold 2018-2021 and until recently he was on the Board of Lode Gold, before returning to private practice in California. Equinox Gold was purchased in 2018 for $180M and permitted in 2021 - and until recently he was on the Board of Lode Gold, before returning to private practice in California. Equinox Gold was purchased in 2018 for $180M and permitted in 2021 The technical team, led by Jon Hill, has been enhanced with the recruitment of Buddy Doyle, a highly experienced geologist with 40 years experience at Rio Tinto , Western Potash and Amarillo, to head up exploration in Canada. Amarillo (3M Oz at 2 g/t Au), discovered and delineated by Buddy, was sold for $180M to Hochschild , Western Potash and Amarillo, to head up exploration in Canada. Amarillo (3M Oz at 2 g/t Au), discovered and delineated by Buddy, was sold for $180M to Hochschild Carlos Saban, a geologist skilled in exploration and mine development, formerly from Bonaventura , was added to the team to develop a conceptual geological model for a high-grade underground mine. Target: 2M Oz at 5g/t Au (3g/t Au cut off) , was added to the team to develop a conceptual geological model for a high-grade underground mine. Target: 2M Oz at 5g/t Au (3g/t Au cut off) Jon Hill, head of the Technical Committee at Lode Gold, is a strategic exploration geologist who is instrumental in its pivot to investigate a high-grade underground mine potential at Fremont. He has held senior management roles at Anglo-Gold Ashanti and has spear-headed multi-million dollar greenfield and brownfield exploration projects in Brazil and Colombia. Jonathan serves as a Director on the boards of Royal Road Minerals, Lavras Gold, Avanti Gold, and is actively involved in Jaguar Mining Marketing & IR: Lode Gold added capital market, M&A, IR and marketing expertise and marketing expertise Launched new website at www.lode-gold.com Series of marketing initiatives, community outreach, site visit including PDAC mention by Northern Miner https://www.northernminer.com/joint-venture-article/jv-article-lode-gold-to-spin-out-yukon-and-atlantic-assets/1003864550/ https://www.northernminer.com/joint-venture-article/jv-article-lode-gold-to-spin-out-yukon-and-atlantic-assets/1003864550/ Recent media coverage on BNN Bloomberg https://www.bnnbloomberg.ca/butterfly-effect-gives-lode-gold-new-wings-1.2080640 Catalysts Upcoming in the next 12-18 months: Lode Gold to execute Strategy & Plans with a Butterfly Effect: Small investments to capitalize on levers for strong value creation over the upcoming months Step 2 - Strategy & Plans : Lode Gold to further unlock shareholder value: Execute a spin out of key Canadian Assets that in 2020 has a market cap of $30M to create a stand-alone pure play exploration company with assets in highly prospective regions that has recently seen heavy investments. Each shareholder before the record date will have shares of the new Spin co, named Gold Orogen. Lode Gold to further unlock shareholder value: Execute a spin out of key Canadian Assets that in 2020 has a market cap of $30M to create a stand-alone pure play exploration company with assets in highly prospective regions that has recently seen heavy investments. Step 3 - Strategy & Plans: Fremont to seek strategic partnership and to pursue a high- grade underground mine potential. Target: 2M Oz at 5g/t Au (3g/t Au cut-off). Key initiative: 4,500m Drill Campaign to prove high grade underground thesis. Of note, our capitalization confirms that the market recognizes that we have been undervalued, rising from a low of $3.3 million in October 2023 to over $14 million by June 2024. This industry prioritizes people first and we are focused on building a dedicated core team with both capital markets and technical expertise. Detailed biographies can be found here. https://lode-gold.com/corporate/directors/ Lode Gold's new strategic direction is centered on unlocking shareholder value by separating key assets, creating two pure play companies, attracting new investors, and building a strong team that can lead and execute. We thank our shareholders and stakeholders for their long- term support as we continue to focus our efforts in executing our growth plans. STOCK OPTIONS Lode Gold has granted incentive stock options to various directors, officers, and consultants to purchase 13,352,157 common shares at an exercise price of $0.05 per share exercisable for a period of five years. The options granted to various directors and officers vest immediately. The stock options are subject to the terms and conditions of the Company's stock option plan and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange. ABOUT LODE GOLD Lode Gold is a Canadian exploration and development company with grassroots and advanced exploration properties in highly prospective and safe mining jurisdictions. Its Golden Culvert and Win Projects, Yukon, covering 99.5 km2 across a 27-km strike length, are situated in a district-scale, high-grade-gold-mineralized trend within the southern portion of the Tombstone Gold Belt. Gold deposits and occurrences within the Belt include Fort Knox, Pogo, Brewery Creek and Dublin Gulch, and Snowline Gold's Valley target on its Rogue property in the Selwyn Basin. Its McIntyre Brook Project, New Brunswick, covering 111 km2 and a 17-km strike length in the emerging Triple Fault Gold Belt, is surrounded by Puma Exploration's Williams Brook Project (5.55 g/t Au over 50m) and is hosted by orogenic rocks of similar age and structure as New Found Gold's Queensway Project. The Company is also advancing its Fremont Gold development project in the historic Mother Lode Gold Belt of California where 50,000,000 oz of gold has been produced. Fremont, located 500km north of Equinox Gold's Castle Mountain and Mesquite mines, has a PEA with an after-tax NPV of USD $217MM, a 21% IRR, 11-year LOM, averaging 118k ounces per annum at USD $1,750 gold. A sensitivity to the March 31, 2023 PEA at USD $2,000/oz gold gives an after-tax NPV(5%) of USD $370MM and a 31% IRR over an 11-year LOM. The project hosts an NI 43-101 resource of 1.16 Moz at 1.90 g/t Au within 19.0 MT Indicated, and 2.02 Moz at 2.22 g/t Au within 28.3 MT Inferred. The MRE evaluates only 1.4 km of the 4 km strike length of the Fremont property that features five gold-mineralized zones. Significantly, three step-out holes at depth hit mineralized structure, typical of orogenic deposits that often occur at depth. Fremont is located on private land in Mariposa, the original gold rush county and is 1.5 hours from Fresno, California. The property has year-round road access and is close to airports and rail. Please refer to the Fremont Gold project PEA dated March 31, 2023 under NI 43-101 guidelines. The technical report has been reviewed and approved by independent "Qualified Persons" Eugene Puritch, P.Eng., FEC, CET, and Andrew Bradfield, P.Eng. both of P&E, and Travis Manning, P.E. of KCA. QUALIFIED PERSON STATEMENT Buddy Doyle, FAusIMM is the author of this news release. The scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Jonathan Victor Hill, Director, BSc (Hons) (Economic Geology - UCT), FAusIMM, and who is a "qualified person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.lode-gold.com or contact: Kevin Shum Investor Relations info@lode-gold.com 1-647-725-3888 Ext 702 Forward-Looking Statements Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. WARNING: The Company relies upon litigation protection for "forward-looking" statements. The information in this release may contain forward-looking information under applicable securities laws. This 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. 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, changes in laws or regulations, failure to obtain regulatory, exchange or shareholder approval, 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/215361 SOURCE: Lode Gold Resources Inc. OSLO, Norway, July 3, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Reference is made to the stock exchange notice by Aker BioMarine ASA ("AKBM") today regarding the sale of its ownership position in the Feed Ingredients business to a new company to be established ("Aker BioMarine Antarctic Holding II AS") owned 60% by American Industrial Partners ("AIP") and 40% by Aker ASA (via its wholly owned subsidiary Aker Capital AS, hereinafter "Aker"). In February 2024, Aker BioMarine announced a strategic review of its ownership position in the Feed Ingredients business. The transaction is an important step in crystallizing value and enabling a more focused Aker BioMarine. Based on Aker BioMarine's estimated excess cash following closing, Aker BioMarine is planning to pay an extraordinary dividend of NOK 35 to NOK 45 per share. Accordingly, Aker expects to receive gross cash proceeds between NOK 2.4 and NOK 3.1 billion, subject to final purchase price adjustments and the contemplated refinancing of Aker BioMarine. After an equity investment in Aker BioMarine Antarctic Holding II AS in the area of NOK 1.4 billion and a shareholder loan in the area of NOK 200 million to the acquired entity, Aker will realize net cash proceeds between NOK 0.8 and NOK 1.5 billion from the transaction. Aker will participate in the further value creation of the Feed Ingredients business through its 40 percent ownership in Aker BioMarine Antarctic Holding II AS. By partnering with and investing together with AIP, Aker will ensure a continued focus on krill-based ingredients for fish- and animal feed in a jointly owned company. Aker will continue its efforts to further streamline and focus Aker BioMarine within the human health and nutrition business as a 78% shareholder in Aker BioMarine. Closing of the transaction is expected during the third quarter of 2024, subject to obtaining the necessary competition clearances. For further information and details about the transaction and terms, please refer to Aker BioMarine ASA's stock exchange announcement from today, available at Aker BioMarine's ticker "AKBM" on: www.newsweb.no and at www.akerbiomarine.no Media contact: Atle Kigen, Head of Media Relations and Public Affairs, Aker ASA Tel: +47 90 78 48 78 Email: atle.kigen@akerasa.com Investor contacts: Fredrik Berge, Head of Investor Relations, Aker ASA Tel: +47 45 03 20 90 Email: fredrik.berge@akerasa.com Christopher Robin Vinter, VP IR & Corporate Finance, Aker BioMarine ASA Tel: +47 91 16 08 20 Email: christopher.vinter@akerbiomarine.com This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation article 7 and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to MAR article 17 and Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This stock exchange announcement was published by Laila Hop, Paralegal, Aker ASA, on July 3, 2024, at 20:01 CEST. This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com https://news.cision.com/aker-asa/r/aker-asa--streamlining-aker-biomarine--crystallizing-value-and-re-investing-in-feed-ingredients-busi,c4010122 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/aker-asa-streamlining-aker-biomarine-crystallizing-value-and-re-investing-in-feed-ingredients-business-302189194.html 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. Im Schatten des Basispreises notieren Goldproduzenten aus der zweiten Reihe sowie Explorationsunternehmen noch weit weg von ihren historischen Hochststanden entfernt und bieten dadurch erhebliches Aufholpotential. In diesem kostenlosen Report geben wir Ihnen Favoriten an die Hand, die aufgrund von Sondersituation die Chance auf eine Kursvervielfachung besitzen. Handeln Sie Jetzt! Fordern Sie jetzt den brandneuen Spezialreport an und profitieren Sie von dem weiter steigenden Kurs des Edelmetalls. Sichern Sie sich jetzt Ihren kostenfreien Report. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2024) - Roscan Gold Corporation (TSXV: ROS) (FSE: 2OJ) (OTCQB: RCGCF) ("Roscan" or the "Company") announces the results of the Company's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders held on June 28, 2024 (the "Meeting"). Shareholders holding 40.30% of the shares were represented in person or by proxy at the Meeting. All the matters submitted to the shareholders, as set out in the Notice of Meeting and Information Circular dated May 17, 2024, were voted in favour, including: (a) Election of Directors to the Board of the Company as listed below; (b) the approval of the omnibus long-term incentive plan; and (c) the appointment of RSM Canada LLP as the auditors of the Company for the ensuing year. Sir Samuel E. Jonah, Nana B. Sangmuah, Greg Isenor and Michael Gentile were re-elected to serve as directors of the Company, with the percentage of votes cast for each director as follows: Nominee Votes For % For Votes Withheld % Withheld Sir Samuel E. Jonah 139,390,305 98.571% 2,020,484 1.429% Nana B. Sangmuah 133,982,933 94.747% 7,427,856 5.253% Greg Isenor 138,923,733 98.241% 2,487,056 1.759% Michael Gentile 141,068,405 99.758% 342,384 0.242% The Board of Directors approved on June 28, 2023, the granting of a total of 4,612,000 incentive stock options (the "Options") to employees, officers, directors and consultants of the Company. The Options are exercisable at a price of $0.10 per Common Share, have a term of five years, and will vest immediately. The Options were granted pursuant to the Company's incentive stock option plan and are subject to regulatory approval. In addition, the Board of Directors also approved and granted 2,460,000 restricted share units, and 2,000,000 performance share units, to directors and officers, which will vest at least a year from the date of the RSU and PSU grants. About Roscan Roscan Gold Corporation is a Canadian gold exploration company focused on the exploration and acquisition of gold properties in West Africa. The Company has assembled a significant land position of 100%-owned permits in an area of producing gold mines (including B2 Gold's Fekola Mine which lies in a contiguous property to the west of Kandiole), and major gold deposits, located both north and south of its Kandiole Project in West Mali. For further information, please contact: Nana Sangmuah President & CEO Tel: (902) 832-5555 Email: info@Roscan.ca Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking information is characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, changes in the state of equity and debt markets, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in obtaining required regulatory or governmental approvals, and other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, including those risks set out in the Company's management's discussion and analysis as filed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Forward-looking information in this news release is based on the opinions and assumptions of management considered reasonable as of the date hereof, including that all necessary governmental and regulatory approvals will be received as and when expected. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, other than as required by applicable securities laws. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/215407 SOURCE: Roscan Gold Corporation Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2024) - Riverside Resources Inc. (TSXV: RRI) (OTCQB: RVSDF) (FSE: 5YY) ("Riverside" or the "Company"), today announced that the company will be participating in the 2024 Rule Symposium Investor Conference on July 7-11, 2024. The conference, hosted by Rick Rule, is being held at The Boca Raton Resort in Boca Raton, Florida. Presentations will be recorded and available on the website and also through contacting the Company. President and CEO, John-Mark Staude, states "Riverside has been a long standing sponsor and pleased again to join Rick Rule and his line up of investment professionals to discuss the latest trends in mineral resources and metals exploration. Riverside has had Rick Rule as a lasting strong supportive shareholder and welcomes the opportunity to meet investors in person, on-line and generally update about the coming company catalysts for Ontario, drilling with Fortuna Mining, copper discovery, rare earth elements and the royalty portfolio of Riverside." In corporate news, Riverside has entered into an investor relations agreement (the "IR Agreement") with Incite Capital Markets ("Incite"). The IR Agreement is for a minimum term of six months commencing on June 27, 2024 with Incite acting as part-time investor relations, whereby Incite will be paid a fee of $7,500 per month. The IR Agreement is subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange. Incite provides expertise in capital markets, corporate communications, and investor and media relations and does not hold any interest, directly or indirectly in Riverside or its securities. About Riverside Resources Inc.: Riverside is a well-funded exploration company driven by value generation and discovery. The Company has over $5M in cash, no debt and less than 75M shares outstanding with a strong portfolio of gold-silver and copper assets and royalties in North America. Riverside has extensive experience and knowledge operating in Canada and Mexico leveraging its large database to generate a portfolio of prospective mineral properties and royalties. In addition to Riverside's own exploration spending, the Company also strives to diversify risk by securing joint-venture and spin-out partnerships to advance multiple assets simultaneously and create more chances for discovery. Riverside has properties available for option, with information available on the Company's website at www.rivres.com. ON BEHALF OF RIVERSIDE RESOURCES INC. "John-Mark Staude" Dr. John-Mark Staude, President & CEO For additional information contact: John-Mark Staude President, CEO Riverside Resources Inc. info@rivres.com Phone: (778) 327-6671 Fax: (778) 327-6675 Web: www.rivres.com Eric Negraeff Investor Relations Riverside Resources Inc. Phone: (778) 327-6671 TF: (877) RIV-RES1 Web: www.rivres.com Certain statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking information. These statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology (e.g., "expect"," estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "plans"). Such information involves known and unknown risks -- including the availability of funds, the results of financing and exploration activities, the interpretation of exploration results and other geological data, or unanticipated costs and expenses and other risks identified by Riverside in its public securities filings that may cause actual events to differ materially from current expectations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/215416 SOURCE: Riverside Resources Inc. Multiple Independence Day celebrations around the Bay Area are being disrupted by extreme heat and ongoing fire emergencies. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/The Chronicle 2018 Several Bay Area cities and surrounding regions are canceling or reducing Fourth of July events due to excessive heat and fire dangers, including Lake Oroville, where the Thompson Fire has surged to more than 3,500 acres. California State Parks officials announced the cancellation of Orovilles Independence Day fireworks due to the ongoing wildfire, which has caused extensive damage and evacuations, leading Gov. Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency in Butte County. Fourth of July 2024: The best parades, festivals and fireworks around the Bay Area Advertisement Article continues below this ad Multiple agencies, including Cal Fire, the California Highway Patrol and the Butte County Sheriffs Office, are dedicating resources to firefighting, thereby depleting resources for the planned celebration. The Lake Oroville State Recreation Area is temporarily closed to aid fire suppression efforts and is expected to remain closed until at least Friday, July 5, with possible extensions based on fire conditions. A firefighting aircraft drops fire retardant ahead of the Thompson Fire on Wednesday, July 3, in Oroville. At least 12,000 Butte County residents have been evacuated as they flee the Thompson Fire that has burned over 3,500 acres. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images The city of St. Helena, located roughly 10 miles south of the Toll Fire burning near Calistoga, has also canceled its Fourth of July fireworks show. Officials cited the risk of wildfire, extremely high temperatures and very dry conditions as reasons for postponing the fireworks show to a later date when conditions are more favorable. Advertisement Article continues below this ad However, the Wine Country celebration at Crane Park will still proceed on Thursday with a community event featuring a bike parade, childrens activities and a performance by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers cover band, Petty Rocks. Meanwhile, Antioch has canceled its Independence Day parade due to an excessive heat warning but assures residents that other festivities will proceed as planned. Starting at 6 p.m. in historic Rivertown, the celebration will feature rides, games, music and food trucks, culminating with a fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. Organizers encouraged residents to stay cool by visiting shaded or air-conditioned areas during peak heat hours. Samantha Lara, 4, celebrates the Fourth of July parade in Redwood City in 2017. Bay Area cities are adjusting Independence Day plans due to heat and fire threats. Michael Macor/The Chronicle San Francisco is expected to enjoy its first fog-free Fourth of July since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic halted celebrations, with warm and clear skies expected for the fireworks display. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Temperatures will vary across the city, with the west side reaching the mid-70s, and the east side experiencing highs in the low 80s. Duboce Triangle may see a high of 83 degrees, making it the hottest Independence Day since 1931. Official fireworks over San Francisco Bay will start at 9:30 p.m., though coastal areas like Pier 39 and Crissy Field may still see fog. Bay Area residents should visit event sites on Thursday morning to check on the status of planned activities. SIXGEN, an Annapolis, MD-based full-spectrum solutions provider of cybersecurity products and expertise to U.S. national intelligence, defense and critical infrastructure customers, acquired Secure Enterprise Engineering, Inc., a Hanover, MD-based provider of cybersecurity products and services across various domains. This acquisition brings capabilities, software products, tier I engineers and longstanding customer relationships to SIXGEN. It marks the companys first acquisition following Washington Harbour Partners (WHP) investment in the company in November 2023. Secure-EE utilizes its proprietary intellectual property to deliver a comprehensive suite of capabilities across multiple software infrastructure layers and cyber environments, including data management, provisioning, cyber tooling and command & control. Grounded in its unified platform of data management and integration based on the Joint Cyber Warfighting Architecture (JCWA), Secure-EE enables operators to focus on mission objectives rather than system configuration and infrastructure management. Additionally, the companys Distant Rook platform, designed for automated provisioning of joint deployable hunt kits, further enhances the impact of SIXGENs RAVEN ecosystem, offering customers rapid integration of new tools for dynamically evolving missions. Led by Jack Wilmer, CEO, SIXGEN is a leader in cybersecurity, dedicated to supporting the U.S. Department of Defense, intelligence community, and other federal agencies. The acquisition follows the companys recent additions to its executive leadership team, with Jack Wilmer as Chief Executive Officer and Jonathan Sholtis as Chief Operating Officer. SIXGEN has also recently appointed renowned cybersecurity leaders across the digital battlespace to their Board of Directors, with Andrew Boyd and Lieutenant General Charles Moore. FinSMEs 03/07/2024 Although no official list has been released yet, media reported that more than 200 third-placed candidates have withdrawn from the French election race. These candidates mainly comprise left and centre candidates who have stepped aside to prevent the far-right National Rally (RN) from gaining seats. As a result, there will now be around 108 three-way races instead of the initially anticipated 300 read more Marine Le Pen, member of parliament and French far-right National Rally (Rassemblement National - RN) party leader, arrives at the RN party headquarters in Paris, France, July 1, 2024. Reuters In an attempt at thwarting the far-right National Rally (RN) from gaining power, scores of candidates have withdrawn from the upcoming second round of Frances parliamentary elections. This move, dubbed the republican front, aims to consolidate the anti-RN vote and prevent Marine Le Pens party from securing an absolute majority in the National Assembly. More than 200 candidates, primarily from French President Emmanuel Macrons centrist camp and the broad left-wing New Popular Front (NPF) alliance, have stepped aside to bolster the chances of defeating RN candidates in the second round of elections. Advertisement French newspaper Le Monde reported that 221 candidates withdrew, including 130 from the left and 82 from Macrons centrist alliance, Ensemble. This strategic move has led to around 108 three-way races instead of the initial 300-plus three-way contests. Other than two constituencies where four candidates qualified, the remaining seats will reportedly see two-way races. The political parties had till 6pm (local time) on July 2 to register their candidates. A flyer reading Right turn? Turn left! lies on the pavement prior to the second round of the early French parliamentary elections, in Nantes, France, July 2, 2024. Reuters Macron and French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal have previously stated the importance of blocking RN from power. Attal expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, I need to prevent the National Rally from achieving an absolute majority in the National Assembly because it would be and I say it from the bottom of my gut it would be terrible for the country and the French. Has this political maneuver been used before? The republican front tactic has been used before, most notably in 2002 when voters rallied behind Jacques Chirac to defeat Jean-Marie Le Pen, Marine Le Pens father, in a presidential contest. Also Read: How does France vote? What is the electoral process? However, it remains uncertain whether voters will heed the guidance of political leaders in the current climate, especially given Marine Le Pens efforts to soften her partys image. What happened in the first round? In the first round of voting, the RN emerged as the frontrunner with approximately 33 per cent of the vote. The NPF secured 28 per cent, while Macrons centrist bloc garnered just over 20 per cent. Pollsters initially estimated that the RN could win between 250-300 seats in the 577-seat National Assembly, but the recent tactical withdrawals could significantly alter this projection. Advertisement Marine Le Pen acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, We cannot agree to form a government if we cannot act. That would be the worst of betrayals of our voters. Supporters of French far right leader Marine Le Pen react after the release of projections based on the actual vote count in select constituencies, June 30, 2024 in Henin-Beaumont, northern France. File Image/AP However, she hinted at the possibility of forming alliances, saying, If we have, say, 270 lawmakers, we need 19 more, we will go to others and ask them if they are ready to participate with us in a new majority. What could be the outcome? If no party secures a clear majority, France could face a period of political uncertainty. Attal suggested that mainstream right, left, and centre parties could form ad hoc alliances to pass legislation. Advertisement Meanwhile, Xavier Bertrand, a senior member of the centre-right Republicans (LR) party, proposed forming a provisional government until the next presidential election, reported Reuters. Also Read: Why a far-right government in France is unlikely soon In a foretaste of potential tensions, Le Pen accused Macron of preparing key public sector appointments to hinder the RNs ability to implement its policies. When you want to counter the results of an election by nominating your people to jobs, and when that stops [the government] from being able to carry out policies which the French people have asked for I call that an administrative coup detat, she said. Advertisement What could RN in power mean for France? The RNs rise has sparked concerns among various groups. The party is known for its anti-immigrant, eurosceptic stance and its plans to cut funding to the EU. Human rights organisations worry about the potential impact on ethnic minorities, while economists question the feasibility of the RNs spending plans. A person walks past posters which read our lives depend on your votes, during the first round of the early French parliamentary elections, in Nantes, France, June 30, 2024. File Image/Reuters In response to these concerns, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk urged pro-EU parties to address voter concerns and counter rising nationalism. Financial markets reacted cautiously, with some relief that the far-right had not performed better, but also apprehension about the risk of policy paralysis. Public sentiment remains divided. A survey by pollster Ifop showed that a small majority of mainstream conservative voters would back the left-wing candidate best positioned to defeat an RN rival, except when the candidate was from Jean-Luc Melenchons radical left-wing France Unbowed (LFI) party. Advertisement Also Read | Anti-immigration, anti-Islam, Pro-Putin: About Marine Le Pens party The RNs potential ban on the Muslim headscarf and plans to restrict the rights of dual-nationality French citizens in defence, security, and nuclear industry jobs have further polarised opinions. Le Pen highlighted her commitment to these policies, stating, There are a number of issues regarding Islamist ideologies and the headscarf is only one of them. The upcoming second round of parliamentary elections in France, just days away on July 7, is set to be a pivotal moment in the countrys political history. With inputs from agencies With a population of 1.8 million, the Indian diaspora in the UK constitutes approximately 2.5 per cent of Britains population. Rishi Sunak, once a source of pride for Britains Indian community, now encounters their increasing discontent due to rising living costs and economic stagnation. The opposition Labour Party leads by over 20 points in opinion polls. The disillusionment of British Indians with Sunak and his Conservative Party could be decisive on July 4 read more British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak visits the DCS group distribution centre as part of a Conservative general election campaign event, in Banbury, UK, July 2, 2024. Reuters File The upcoming UK general election, set for July 4, 2024, is a crucial event that may determine the countrys political direction for years to come. Among the many factors influencing this election, the British Indian vote stands out as particularly significant. With an estimated 1.8 million people of Indian origin living in the UK, their political preferences could be a decisive factor in the elections outcome. Why is the British Indian vote important? Advertisement The British Indian community represents approximately 2.5 per cent of the UKs population, a significant and growing demographic. This community is known for its high levels of education, professional success, and economic contribution. According to data, Indian households lead in high-income brackets, with 42 per cent earning 1,000 or more weekly between 2015-2018. Despite comprising only a small portion of the population, they contribute over 6 per cent to UKs GDP. This economic clout translates into substantial political influence, making their vote highly sought after by all major political parties. Have UK Indians fazed away from Sunak? Rishi Sunaks ascent to the role of prime minister in 2022 marked a historic milestone as he became the UKs first prime minister of Indian descent. This event was celebrated by the British Indian community, reflecting their growing influence in UK politics. Britains Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is greeted during a visit to the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir while on the general election campaign trail, June 29, 2024, in London. AP However, the initial euphoria has given way to growing dissatisfaction due to rising living costs and economic stagnation under Sunaks leadership. Ashwin Krishnaswamy, a UK-based technology investor, told SCMP, A lot of pain points are coming out in the open and the larger diaspora is going with the sentiment of an anti-Tory wave. People are saying that maybe its time to bring a new government. Advertisement Sunaks campaign has been about looking to the future. But in the past you [Conservative Party] have had so many leadership changes, [people are thinking] what is the guarantee that you will remain, Priyajit Debsarkar, a London-based Indian author, told SCMP. How has the cost-of-living crisis impacted the community? The UK has been grappling with a cost-of-living crisis, with prices for essential goods rising faster than household incomes since late 2021. This economic strain has disproportionately affected the British Indian community, many of whom are small business owners and professionals in sectors like healthcare and education. Striking NHS healthcare staff march during a protest amid an ongoing dispute with the government over pay, in London, UK, May 1, 2023. File Image/Reuters The NHS is a big disaster. There is a huge pay disparity in the NHS between different sections of doctors, said Krishnaswamy, stating the loss of confidence in the Conservative government. The communitys concerns about the National Health Service (NHS), which employs over 60,000 Indian medical professionals, further compound their dissatisfaction. Advertisement What has the role of the Hindu community been? The Hindu community, making up a significant portion of the British Indian population, has been particularly vocal about their political and social concerns. In the run-up to the election, both UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour Leader Keir Starmer have made efforts to engage with Hindu voters. Sunak visited the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Neasden, where he promised to make the community proud, while Starmer visited the Swaminarayan Temple in Kingsbury, pledging to build a strategic partnership with India. An honour to be back at Kingsbury temple today alongside hundreds of worshippers to recognise the immense service of the Hindu community in Britain. pic.twitter.com/lXnRfi2XKb Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) June 28, 2024 Advertisement The Hindu Manifesto launched by an umbrella group of British Hindu organisations has called on elected representatives to protect Hindu places of worship and tackle anti-Hindu hate. This mandir stands as a great statement of the contributions that this community makes to Britain, said Sunak. Starmer echoed this sentiment, stating, If were elected next week, we will strive to govern in the spirit of sewa to serve you and a world in need. How has Labour appealed to the community? Advertisement The Labour Party, traditionally enjoying strong support among British Indians, has capitalised on the dissatisfaction with the Conservative government. Labour Leader Keir Starmer has positioned the party as a stable and competent alternative, resonating with voters frustrated by the rising cost of living. House rents are 100 per cent higher than six to seven years back, Supriyo Chaudhuri, CEO of e1133 Ltd, a higher education firm, told SCMP. If you are a new immigrant, you cant [afford to] buy a house. Chaudhuri criticised Sunak for not addressing public services and the cost-of-living crisis, pointing out the need for a change in government. UK Opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer speaks at the launch of the Labour Partys manifesto, in Manchester, UK, June 13, 2024. File Image / Reuters Labours campaign slogan, Its time for change, reflects their strategy to position themselves as a government-in-waiting, ready to address the issues facing the country. The partys ability to connect with the British Indian community and address their concerns could be pivotal in the upcoming election. For the Conservative Party, obviously, they have Rishi Sunak a British Indian leader for the first time. Its an unknown factor how much it will matter to British Indian voters that the leader of the party is from their background, Sunder Katwala, director of the British Future think tank, told PTI. Also Read | Blue, red, green, orange: How do political parties in UK pick colours and what do they symbolise? With significant economic and demographic influence, the British Indian communitys concerns about the cost-of-living crisis, healthcare, and public services are key issues ahead of the election. Whether Rishi Sunak can regain their support or Labours promise of change will resonate more strongly remains to be seen. What is clear is that the British Indian vote matters more than ever in this pivotal election on Thursday. With inputs from agencies Bringing an unconventional twist to the UK elections, candidates such as Count Binface, AI Steve, and even Elmo from the Muppets are eyeing a seat in the Parliament. From promises like capping croissant prices to opening 24-hour cannnabis cafes, these figures have made the polls fun read more Dressed in a silver outfit with matching cape and wearing a silver trash can as a helmet, Count Binface is competing in the UK elections. Reuters As Rishi Sunak or Keir Starmer gear up to take center stage and potentially claim victory in the upcoming British election on Friday, they are stepping into a realm of political theater like no other. Amidst the vibrant spectacle of democracy in action, alongside the traditional contenders, stand a cast of characters as diverse as they are unconventional. From a man sporting a trash can as a helmet to a figure reminiscent of Elmo from the Muppets, these personalities add a splash of color and satire to the electoral landscape. Advertisement They represent the quirky side of British politics and are among the eclectic mix of over 4,500 candidates vying for Parliaments 650 seats. Heres a closer at these unique candidates. Count Binface Dressed in a silver outfit with a matching cape and wearing a silver trash can as a helmet, Count Binface, the self-proclaimed intergalactic space warrior, leader of the Recyclons from planet sigma IX, will be challenging Prime Minister Sunak in his constituency in northern England. Thats right, under the British system I get to stand against Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, its brilliant, Binface, aka comedian Jonathan Harvey, told Reuters. Among his eye-catching policies are promises to price-cap croissants at 1.10 pounds ($1.39), national service for all former prime ministers, and that he should represent the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest. It might be true that on Thursday night or Friday morning I havent beaten Rishi Sunak numerically, Binface, who has been endorsed by one national newspaper, the Daily Star tabloid said. But I would argue the moral victory will be mine, he added. Count Binfaces policies include price-cap croissants at 1.10 pounds ($1.39), national service for all former prime ministers, and representation in the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest. Reuters This isnt the first time Binface is competing, he is a familiar face or helmet at British elections, having stood against two ex-prime ministers, Theresa May in 2017 albeit then in his former guise as Lord Buckethead and Boris Johnson in 2019. He also contested the London mayor elections in 2021 and in May this year when he won 24,000 votes. Advertisement If elected to victory this time, Binface aims to make the July 4 election Bindependence Day. The Loonies The veterans of the UK comedy candidate genre belong to the Official Monster Raving Loony Party which was formed in 1982 and has regularly contested elections ever since. This year it is fielding 22 candidates, including Howling Laud Hope, the party leader, Baron Von Thunderclap, and Earl Elvis of East Anglia. The Official Monster Raving Loony Party which was formed in 1982 and has regularly contested elections ever since. This year it is fielding 22 candidates, including Howling Laud Hope, the party leader, Baron Von Thunderclap, and Earl Elvis of East Anglia. AFP Since its inception, the party has fought 76 by-elections and participated in every general election with candidates including R. U. Seerius, The Flying Brick, Bananaman Owen, Mad Cow-Girl, Sir Oink A-Lot and Lady Lily The Pink. Advertisement Despite their colorful campaigns, the Loonies have yet to send an MP to Parliament. In fact, the Howling Laud Hope had told BBC that if any candidate gets too many votes, they will automatically be kicked out on the grounds that they have been insufficiently loony. AI Steve AI Steve aims to make history as the worlds first AI lawmaker, represented by Sussex businessman Steve Endacott. Hes stepping into the political fray alongside traditional candidates to represent Brighton Pavilion in Brighton and Hove. AI Steve is represented by Sussex businessman Steve Endacott in the UK general elections. Reuters Endacott, chairman of Neural Voice, a company specialising in personalised voice assistants, conceived AI Steve to revolutionise political accessibility. AI Steves unique selling point lies in its ability to engage constituents around the clock. Endacott said through advanced AI technology, voters can interact with AI Steve to discuss policies and express concerns, ensuring their voices shape decision-making. Advertisement Meanwhile, the Psychedelic Movement Party candidate in Southend is standing on pledges to ignore the law and open 24-hour cannnabis cafes. The Mitre pub Chris French, owner of The Mitre pub in Richmond, London, has taken an unconventional route by registering his pub as a political party and nominating himself as the sole candidate for Richmond Park in the general election. His primary motivation? Utilising the opportunity for free advertising on 77,000 ballot papers. French, 47, who has owned The Mitre for more than eight years, shared his rationale with the PA news agency: Our little pub in Richmond is a hidden gem, but many locals are unaware of its existence despite living here for decades. This got me thinking about ways to raise awareness, and about a year ago, it struck me that registering for election candidacy would provide free publicity through the ballot papers. Advertisement Although he doesnt anticipate defeating sitting MP Sarah Olney of the Liberal Democrats, French remains upbeat about securing at least one votehis own. Ill definitely be voting for myself, so thats one vote guaranteed, he quipped, humorously adding, If I only get one vote, it might be quite a chilly evening. Hopefully, Ill manage to secure two votes, he said. Elmo Elmo, the red Muppet character who speaks in a high-pitched falsetto voice and frequently refers to himself in the third person will be competing in this years UK elections. again. Portrayed by Bobby Smith, Elmo will be contesting against Labour leader Starmer and plans to change the law on fathers rights. Elmo, the furry red monster competed against UK PM Boris Johnson in 2019 elections. Reuters In the last elections, he competed against ex-UK PM Boris Johnson, securing eight votes to Johnsons 25,351. Keeping jokes aside, Count Biface said it was important to protect democracy in a year when over half the eligible humans on your planet would go to the polls. Im here to cherish it, to defend it, to celebrate the fact that anyone in the UK can not just vote but you all stand for election whatever your platform or however idiotic you look, he said. I urge everyone do go out to vote, and most importantly, make your vote, count. With input from agencies Israels top generals are pushing for a ceasefire even if it means allowing Hamas to remain in power temporarily. This has put them at odds with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. We explain the rationale behind the generals call for a ceasefire, focusing on issues of military readiness, the threat from Hezbollah, and the fate of Israeli hostages read more There is a growing divide within Israels leadership about the ongoing war in Gaza. Israels top generals are pushing for a ceasefire even if it means allowing Hamas to remain in power temporarily, The New York Times reported citing interviews with six serving and retired generals. Their stance paints is sharply in contrast with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus opposition to any truce or end to the war before Hamas is completely wiped out. Advertisement We explain the rationale behind the generals call for a ceasefire, focusing on issues of military readiness, the threat from Hezbollah, and the fate of Israeli hostages. Military equipment and readiness concerns The Israeli generals call for a ceasefire is partly driven by concerns about the countrys military readiness. According to the New York Times, some officials believe that Israel is under-equipped for prolonged conflict after going through its longest war in decades. Earlier this year, Ron Tomer, President of the Manufacturers Association of Israel, had told Times of Israel that around October 2023, certain military production lines were under-utilised due to budget constraints. Further exacerbating the issue is the significant reduction in arms shipments from key allies. In May, United States President Joe Biden announced a halt to certain arms shipments that could be used in Gaza, though he said that this did not include defensive systems like the Iron Dome. President Joe Biden announced a halt to certain arms shipments that could be used in Gaza. File image/Reuters Simultaneously, there were reports of a noticeable drop in American weapon deliveries, with only a handful of shipments arriving in recent months compared to the higher numbers seen earlier in the conflict. The Haaretz Daily, after tracking the number of American military and civilian cargo planes landing in Israel from US military bases around the globe, had reported that there have been around 173 shipments since October 7, the day Hamas attacked Israel. Advertisement The majority of flights arrived in October (22), November (47), December (32), and January (20). The numbers started dropping significantly, with only eight planes arriving in February and 11 in March. In April, there was an uptick to 17 flights due to the firing exchange with Iranian missile and drone attack against Israel. However, the numbers decreased again in May and June, with only seven and nine shipments landing in Israel, respectively. Similarly, British-approved arms export licenses to Israel plummeted by more than 95 per cent after the wars onset, hitting a 13-year low. Several reports, the earliest from just a week after the October 7 attack, have pointed out that critical military equipment was in short supply in several army units. Advertisement The Hezbollah threat Another major factor influencing the generals call for a ceasefire is the looming threat from Hezbollah. Since October, the Lebanese militia has been engaged in low-level hostilities with Israel, frequently launching missiles, rockets, and drones into northern Israel. This has prompted fears of a broader conflict, with Israeli officials warning of the potential for an all-out war. Hezbollah, which has declared its military actions as a show of solidarity with Hamas, poses a significant threat due to its substantial arsenal and large number of fighters, estimated at around 100,000. The groups capability to potentially overwhelm Israels Iron Dome defense system adds to the urgency of addressing this threat. Advertisement Israeli generals believe that a truce with Hamas could create the necessary breathing space for the IDF to regroup and prepare for a possible escalation with Hezbollah. Moreover, a ceasefire could pave the way for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions on the northern front. Hezbollahs deputy leader has indicated that a full ceasefire in Gaza could lead to a cessation of hostilities along the Lebanon-Israel border, highlighting the interconnected nature of these conflicts. The fate of Israeli hostages A third critical reason behind the generals push for a ceasefire is the hostages. Even now, 120 Israelis are still being held in Gaza, either dead or alive. The generals believe that a truce would be the most effective means of securing their release. Advertisement Prime Minister Netanyahu has so far resisted proposals for a ceasefire that would involve a phased return of Israeli hostages. This stand has led to widespread protests and calls for his resignation. The public in Israel is growing impatient by the day. The prolonged conflict and the lack of a clear postwar strategy have only fuelled the existing frustration more. Israelis have been holding protests for months to pressurise the government to strike a deal to free hostages held by Hamas. Reuters The militarys shift towards supporting a ceasefire is the sign of a broader recognition of the need for a sustainable resolution to the conflict. Without a clear plan for Gazas future, the IDF has found itself repeatedly engaging in battles in territories it had previously cleared of Hamas fighters. They keep returning, because Israel is focused only on fighting at the moment, not managing the cleared areas. This has created a cycle of violence with no apparent end in sight. In a nutshell The push for a ceasefire by Israels top generals is based on concerns about military readiness, the significant threat posed by Hezbollah, and the urgent need to secure the release of Israeli hostages. As the conflict drags on, the divide between the military and political leadership is visibly growing wider. The call for a truce appears to be based on a strategic reassessment of the realities on the ground. Meanwhile, the political leadership, especially Prime Minister Netanyahu, remains adamant in dragging the conflict on, without addressing these concerns. With inputs from agencies Ever since Joe Bidens poor performance at the first presidential debate, there have been calls to replace him as the Democratic candidate and California Governor Gavin Newsoms name has been cropping up. With his good looks and ability to take on the Republicans, the 56-year-old seems a likely successor but polls suggest that he doesnt have what it takes to go up against Donald Trump read more US President Joe Biden is greeted by California Governor Gavin Newsom at San Francisco International Airport. After Biden's debate debacle, Newsom has hovered around the edges reminding the Democrats that he is there should the 81-year-old commander in chief fail. File image/Reuters The high-stakes presidential debate between US President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump wrapped up on June 27 and it went horribly wrong for Biden. It was such a train wreck of a performance that some high-profile Democrats have called on the president to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race or be replaced as the partys nominee. As Biden feels the heat from his fellow Democrats, a list of names has begun circulating as possible successors and all of them have one name in it: California governor Gavin Newsom. And fanning the flames of speculation that he could replace Biden became even more prominent after reports emerged that he would be heading to New Hampshire to headline a Democrat campaign on July 8. Advertisement When asked about the possibility of being a replacement candidate, Newsom dismissed the claims, saying he remained firmly behind Biden. I will never turn my back on President Biden, he was quoted as telling CNN. Lets take a closer look at who is Newsom and how he has gotten so close to the top of the Democratic party. Early life Born in 1967, Newsom is a fourth-generation San Franciscan. He made it through school and university despite his dyslexia and later got into business. He was initially married to former district attorney and now Fox News personality, Kimberly Guilfoyle, but two years into their marriage, they went their separate ways. Today, Newsom is married to Jennifer Siebel and the two of them have four children. On the other hand, his ex-wife Guilfoyle is now engaged to Donald Trump Jr. Gavin Newsom and his family. He split with his previous wife after two years of marriage and is now settled down with Jennifer Siebel. File image/Reuters In 1992, he opened PlumpJack Winery with an investment from Gordon P Getty, the son of oil tycoon J Paul Getty. Over the years, his business has grown to encompass restaurants and hotels before he turned his attention to politics. He has even written a book about dyslexia after trying, and failing, to find a book to show his own children all the proceeds of which went to charity. Newsoms politics Newsoms start in politics began in 1996 as he joined the board of the Parking and Traffic Commission. He was then described by the local media as a social liberal and a fiscal watchdog. Advertisement He spent a number of years at the coal face of his states politics, before in 2003 he became mayor of San Francisco of which he served two terms. What propelled him to national prominence was his backing for same-sex marriages in 2004. He later ran for the post of lieutenant governor and won it in 2010. One of the highlights of his tenure as lieutenant governor was designating the avocado as Californias state fruit. Incidentally, Newsom loves avocados and tries to eat one six to seven days a week. In 2019, Newsoms stock rose when he secured a landslide victory and became the governor of California. As governor, Newsom has introduced new laws in the state, making California a sanctuary for women seeking abortions. He has also made it a green haven by banning the sale of new fossil-fuel cars by 2035. Advertisement He has also introduced policies beneficial to illegal immigrants, like offering undocumented immigrants the opportunity to get health insurance. California governor Gavin Newsom helps cleanup a homeless encampment along a freeway in San Diego. Newsom has come under fire for Californias high rate of homelessness. File image/Reuters However, his rule as California governor hasnt been without criticism. Only 47 per cent of voters in California approve of his performance in a survey, down from 57 per cent in March last year. The Golden States economy isnt too golden; it is tied for the nations highest unemployment rate and not a single city in the state has been added to the top 20 ranking of hot labour markets. Data reveals that crime statistics of the state are also higher than the national average. Additionally, the state has a notoriously high rate of homelessness. He also drew criticism for his COVID-19 policies. He was at the centre of a controversy when he was pictured visiting a Napa Valley restaurant for a dinner party while he asked Californians to adhere to social distancing guidelines. After receiving backlash for contradicting the spirit of his guidelines and precautions, Newsom acknowledged that the faux pas resulted in a loss of his moral authority during the pandemic. Advertisement A Biden surrogate In recent times, it has been reported that Newsom has been running a shadow campaign with some Republicans claiming hes been plotting a clandestine effort to supplant Biden as his partys nominee. MSNBC, a famous US network, has also described him as a Biden surrogate because of how often he comes out batting for the party. He also has no issues reeling off the facts or trading barbs with Republicans. But when asked about him replacing Biden, he has categorically denied it. When asked by MSNBC if Biden should step down after the first US presidential debate, Newsom replied: You dont turn your back because of one performance. What kind of party does that? Advertisement He added: This president has delivered. We need to deliver for him at this moment. California Governow Gavin Newsom speaks to reporters in the spin room after the presidential debate between President Joe Biden and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. Many view Newsom as Bidens surrogate one with similar policies but one who isnt afraid of trading barbs with Republicans. File image/Reuters Newsoms chances In the off-chance that Newsom does replace Biden as the Democrat nominee, does he have what it takes to beat Trump? A March Rasmussen Reports survey of 912 likely voters found that Trump would lead by 17 points (51 per cent to 34) if Newsom were the 2024 Democratic nominee. In February 2024, an Emerson College Polling survey of 1,225 showed that Trump would win in a hypothetical White House race against Newsom by 10 points (46 per cent to 36). A November 2023 Fox News poll of 1,001 registered voters found that Trump would win an election against Newsom by four points (49 per cent to 45). The Guardian has reported that it remains unclear if the California governor truly has what it takes to amass national support in an increasingly divided country. As Bill Whalen, a policy fellow at the Hoover Institution think tank in Palo Alto, California, told The Guardian: There is such a thing as perhaps being too attractive, or, more to the point, looking like the person whose photo comes with the new wallet that you buy at the department store. Thats Gavin Newsom. With inputs from agencies A stampede at a religious gathering in Hathras has claimed the lives of 121 people and left scores of others injured. As officials begin investigations, multiple theories have come to the fore about the cause of the tragedy. Heres what we have learned so far read more Confusion, screams, chaos. On Tuesday (July 2), hundreds of people had gathered in Phulrai village in UPs Hathras to listen to Bhole Baba, a self-styled godman without realising that in no time they would be a part of, perhaps, the worst horror of their life a stampede. A whopping 121 people, most of them women, died on Tuesday as a stampede unfolded at the end of the religious event. Of those who have died, most of them have been identified by officials, with Aligarh Zone Inspector General of Police (IG) Shalabh Mathur telling PTI, One hundred and sixteen people have died in the stampede incident in Hathras. A compensation of Rs 2 lakh each has been announced for the families of the dead and Rs 50,000 for the injured. Advertisement As family and friends mourn the loss of their loved ones, many senior police officials, along with the forensic unit and a dog squad, have reached the spot, trying to ascertain what caused the deadly stampede. Primary investigations are already providing some clues as to what happened and heres what we know so far. Overcrowding One of the reasons for the stampede that is being provided is overcrowding. Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh told reporters that overcrowding was one of the reasons behind the stampede at a religious congregation in Phulrai village. According to Singh, after the satsang concluded, devotees began running after Bhole Babas car, while others bent down to collect soil from the venue and fell. This led to a stampede, resulting in the loss of over 100 lives. Singh added that it was some kind of ritual for the devotees to touch the self-styled godmans feet and collect pair ki dhool as a blessing after the satsang. A huge police force was deployed at the satsang venue. I am told that people rushed to touch the feet of Bhole Baba and tried to take soil (of the path he walked on), causing the stampede and many people fell into a nearby drain, he was quoted as telling the Indian Express. Advertisement Devotees at the religious gathering where a stampede broke out, in Hathras district. Officials blame overcrowding for the tragedy and are investigating the matter. PTI He also pointed out that the number of people present at the venue exceeded much more than the permitted limit. The exact number of people who attended the satsang organised by Bhole Baba is still unknown, but Hathras District Magistrate Ashish Kumar has said that the organisers had sought permission for the private programme. He added that this would be investigated at a later stage. Even eyewitnesses corroborate the UP chief secretarys statement, saying that the crowds rushed towards the guru, causing the tragedy. Log unka darshan karna chahte the aur gaadi ka dhool lena chahte the (people wanted his darshan and take the soil from the road on which his car left the venue). After the satsang got over, people started leaving in groups and because it was raining, many slipped and people kept falling on each other and got crushed, Vikas Kumar, whose grandmother was among those deceased, told Indian Express. Advertisement Humid weather, suffocation Another theory behind what led to the stampede is the hot and humid weather. Inspector General of police (Aligarh Range) explained, said: The exact reasons are yet to be worked out but initial reports suggest that it was the closed enclosure of tent and prima facie it seems that suffocation led to discomfort for those there and they ran here and there, leading to the stampede. This was echoed by ADG (Agra Zone) Anupam Kulshreshtha, who said most of the followers were women and as they felt suffocated, they started to leave in a hurry. Advertisement An injured arrives in an ambulance at the Sikandrarao hospital in Hathras district. At least 120 people are dead and scores are injured after a stampede at a religious gathering of thousands of people. AP A policeman who was stationed at the satsang said that there were over 1 lakh people crammed inside the tent at the event and it was hot and humid. Feeling uncomfortable inside the tent led to the people wanting to leave and that caused the stampede. One eyewitness told Hindustan Times, Once they (the followers) were allowed to leave the venue, the crowd pressure became uncomfortable with hot and humid weather leading to suffocation and caused the stampede. A survivor of the stampede told Hindustan Times: There was a huge crowd of followers on the spot. It all happened when the satsang ended and all were in a haste to leave the enclosure. There was no way out and everybody fell on each other and the stampede took place. When I tried to move out, I found motorcycles parked outside, blocking the way. Many fainted while others died. Advertisement Another survivor recounting to Times of India said, There was a large crowd at the site. There was no way out, and people fell on each other and fainted. When I tried to move out, there were motorcycles parked outside, which blocked my way. A sandal is pictured where a stampede killed 121 people during a Hindu religious gathering in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh. AFP FIR filed A day after the stampede, the police filed an FIR against the organisers of the religious congregation. Mukhya sevadar Devprakash Madhukar and other organisers have been named in the first information report (FIR) filed at the Sikandara Rao police station late Tuesday, a senior officer told PTI. The FIR has been registered under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 110 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 126 (2) (wrongful restraint), 223 (Disobedience to order duly promulgated by the public servant), 238 (causing disappearance of evidence), the officer said. Moreover, the UP government has also launched two helpline numbers 05722227041 and 05722227042 after the Hathras stampede incident. With inputs from agencies A photograph, taken during the rehearsals for the 2023 Pakistan Day Parade, seemed to show a JF-17 jet carrying a Raad missile, a nuclear-capable projectile. This photo evidence suggests that the Pakistani military is on the path to make a significant strategic enhancement to its air force. In the context of the quickening arms race in Asia, this is also likely to be a cause of concern for India read more The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) has confirmed that Pakistan's JF-17 fighter aircraft was photographed flying with the Ra'ad I nuclear-capable missile onboard. Image source: X/@RanaSuhaibphoto Pakistan appears to be arming (or at least testing out) its nuclear-capable Raad missiles on the JF-17 jets, which are jointly developed by Pakistan and China. The development comes after years of efforts to phase out Pakistan Air Forces aging Mirage fighter aircraft from their nuclear striker role. In the context of the quickening arms race in Asia, this is also likely to be a cause of concern for India. We take an in-depth look at all of this. Advertisement Replacing the aging Mirage III/Vs For years, regional and global media outlets have reported on Pakistans intent to incorporate the dual-capable Raad air-launched cruise missile (ALCM) onto the JF-17 jets. Islamabad appeared eager to do this in order to replacing the aging Mirage III/Vs in their nuclear strike role. Despite being over half a century old, Pakistan was still repairing and upgrading many of the Mirage planes from its fleet. That was largely the courtesy of budget constraints. With the induction of the Sino-Pakistani JF-17, that situation was expected to change. However, whether the JF-17s would indeed replace the Mirage aircraft remained unclear. Until March 2023, that is. In March 2023, an aviation photographer who goes by @RanaSuhaibphoto on X, captured an image that partially dispelled the uncertainty around the integration of nuclear capable missiles with the JF-17 platform. Advertisement This photograph, taken during the rehearsals for the 2023 Pakistan Day Parade, seemed to show a JF-17 jet carrying a Raad missile- a subsonic, standoff ALCM. This visual evidence aligned with previous reports and suggests that Pakistan is actively testing or even implementing the transition from Mirage III/Vs to JF-17s for their nuclear missions. Still, there was no confirmation if the missile indeed was the nuclear capable Raad. The evidence: Nuclear-capable missiles on JF-17 Now, the Federation of American Scientists (FAS) has provided further clarity. They addressed this image of a JF-17 Thunder Block II jet equipped with what appeared to be a Raad ALCM. FAS compared this configuration to previous versions of the Raad-I and Raad-II missiles showcased in past Pakistan Day Parades (2017, 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2024). They observed that the fin arrangements of the missile on the JF-17 resembled the twin-tail configuration of the Raad-I, rather than the newer x-shaped tail of the Raad-II. Given that the older Raad-II design is considered outdated, it is likely that Pakistan has made significant progress in equipping its JF-17s with Raad-I missiles, possibly supplementing or replacing the Mirage III/Vs in the nuclear strike role. Advertisement Image courtesy: Federation of American Scientists (FAS) Significance of this confirmation This photo evidence suggests that the Pakistani military is on the path to make a significant strategic enhancement to its air force. The full integration, which may not be too far now, means that Islamabad will see its nuclear deterrence boosted. This is also a reminder of the deepening defence cooperation between Pakistan and China. The JF-17, developed jointly by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and Chinas Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corp, is poised to take over the nuclear strike duties from the aging Mirage III and V aircraft. With over 130 operational JF-17s, Pakistan is on a path to modernising its air force with more advanced and versatile aircraft. Advertisement Broader regional context and implications for India In Asia, there is an ongoing and deepening nuclear arms competition. The top players in the southern region of the continent are India, China, and Pakistan. Pakistan is actively pursuing capabilities such as Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRVs) with its Ababeel missile, while India is similarly advancing its MIRV technology for its Agni-P and Agni-5 missiles. China has already deployed MIRVs on several of its DF-5B and DF-41 ICBMs. China and Pakistan have been cooperating in matters of defence. AFP Additionally, Pakistan is developing other short-range, lower-yield nuclear-capable systems like the NASR (Hatf-9) ballistic missile, aimed at countering conventional military threats from India below the strategic nuclear level. These advancements, coupled with heightened regional tensions, raise concerns about an accelerated arms race and the potential for escalation in a conflict between India and Pakistan. Advertisement Islamabad currently holds 170 nuclear warheads as of 2024, and its nuclear warheads are stored separately from its missiles, assembling them only when necessary. This means that even if JF-17 jets are equipped with Raad missiles, they are unlikely to carry nuclear warheads during patrols. Pakistans nuclear posture remains focused on countering Indias conventional and nuclear capabilities. Unlike India, which has declared a No First Use policy, Pakistan emphasizes smaller, tactical nuclear weapons to counter Indias superior conventional forces. Pakistans warhead designs primarily use highly enriched uranium (HEU), produced at facilities in Kahuta and Gadwal, Punjab. PM Modi has decided to skip the 24th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit set to take place in Kazakhstans capital Astana on July 4. India, which will be represented by S Jaishankar, has said that the dates of the SCO conflict with that of the first session of Parliament. Relations between India and China, which dominates the group, also remain strained over the stand-off in Eastern Ladakh read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been constantly attending the SCO since 2015. PTI The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is slated to be held on July 3 and 4 in Kazakhstans capital Astana. India will be represented by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar after Prime Minister Narendra Modi decided to skip the meeting. The SCO was founded at a summit in Shanghai in 2001 by the presidents of Russia, China, the Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Comprising India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, the SCO is an influential economic and security bloc that has emerged as one of the largest transregional international organisations. Advertisement But what do we know about the summit? And why isnt Modi attending this time? Lets take a closer look: What we know about summit Kazakhstan is hosting the summit in its capacity as the current chair of the grouping. S Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation to Astana for the summit, the MEA said. He is likely to meet his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of the summit. If it takes place, it will be the first high-level meeting between Indian and Chinese officials after the formation of Prime Minister Narendra Modis 3.0 government following the recent general elections in India. According to The Times of India, the summit will examine counterterrorism in the backdrop of the growing footprint of ISIS in Eurasia and growing radicalisation. India on Tuesday said the leaders of the grouping are expected to review its activities over the past two decades and discuss prospects of multilateral cooperation. The situation in Afghanistan, the Ukraine conflict and boosting overall security cooperation among the SCO member countries are expected to figure in the summit. Indias priorities in SCO are shaped by the prime ministers vision of a SECURE SCO, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. S Jaishankar will lead the Indian delegation to Astana. PTI SECURE stands for Security, Economic cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environmental protection. Advertisement At the summit, the leaders are expected to review the organisations activities over the past two decades and discuss the state and prospects of multilateral cooperation, it said. Topical issues of regional and international importance are also expected to be discussed at the meeting, it said in a statement. India was the chair of the SCO last year. It hosted the SCO Summit in the virtual format last July. Why isnt PM Modi attending? The Indian prime minister usually attends the SCO which provides an opportunity for heads of the state of the eight-member bloc to meet on the sidelines of the summit. Indeed, India had earlier said Modi would attend the SCO meet. Advertisement A security team had even visited Kazakhstan to prepare for Modis trip, as per Hindustan Times. According to The Wire, the official reason India has given for Modi dropping out is that the dates of the SCO conflicted with that of the first session of Indias Parliament. As per The Times of India, Modi has been constantly attending the SCO since 2015 when India wasnt a full member. India joined the grouping despite China and Russia having a massive influence in the group to promote its own interests in Central Asia. Advertisement Participation in SCO summits has also helped India maintain the facade of multi-alignment, amid the rapidly growing ties with the US, the piece noted. But a look at recent history shows that Modi and Xi havent had much interaction at summits. According to The Times of India, Modi and Xi met only briefly at the BRICS Summit in South Africa last year. They also had a brief interaction at the Bali G20. Modi and Xi did not meet at the 2022 SCO Summit in Samarkand. Advertisement Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese president Xi Jinping at BRICS Summit in South Africa. ANI Modi skipping the summit is therefore tinged with significance given that relations between the two nations have also remained frozen over the stand-off in Eastern Ladakh. According to The Times of India, India recently let a US delegation visit Dharamsala drawing protests from China. New Delhi has also refused to let direct flights with Beijing resume. Relations between the two countries hit a low ever since the eastern Ladakh border stand-off erupted on 5 May, 2020, following a violent clash in the Pangong Tso (lake) area near Galwan. Since the May 2020 clashes, the two sides have so far held 21 rounds of Corps Commander-level talks to resolve the stand-off. The 22nd meeting is due to be held. According to the Chinese military, the two sides have so far agreed to disengage from four points namely the Galwan Valley, the Pangong Lake, Hot Springs, and Jianan Daban (Gogra) in eastern Ladakh. India is pressing the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) to disengage from the Depsang and Demchok areas, maintaining that there cannot be restoration of normalcy in its relations with China as long as the state of the borders remains abnormal. For its part, China continues to maintain that the boundary question does not represent the entirety of China-India relations, and it should be placed appropriately in bilateral relations and managed properly. As per The Times of India, the last high-level talks in February witnessed both sides agreeing to keep the peace but saw no concrete results. People in the know told the newspaper there was no tangible forward movement in the talks. The likely meeting between Jaishankar and Wang also gains importance in this light. Indias association with the SCO began in 2005 as an observer country. It became a full member state of SCO at the Astana summit in 2017. India has shown a keen interest in deepening its security-related cooperation with the SCO and its Regional Anti-Terrorism Structure (RATS), which specifically deals with issues relating to security and defence. Pakistan became its permanent member along with India in 2017. With inputs from agencies Indian-origin is a badge many British politicians in the UK are wearing. A record number of over 100 British-Indians are contesting the general election on July 4. Fifteen out of 63 Indian-origin candidates made it to UK parliament in 2019. What can we expect in 2024? read more Then-UK Home Secretary Priti Patel and then-UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak attend a reception to celebrate the British Asian Trust, at The British Museum, in London, Britain, February 9, 2022. File Image/Reuters As the United Kingdom (UK) prepares for its general election on Thursday (July 4, 2024), the Labour Party appears well-positioned for success. Amidst this potential shift in political dynamics, the role and influence of Indian-origin Members of Parliament (MPs) continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the countrys legislative agenda. The outgoing UK Parliament featured 15 Indian-origin MPs, eight from Labour and seven from the Conservative Party, among the 65 non-white MPs elected, marking a significant diversity milestone in British political history and setting a new record for the 1.8 million-strong community. Advertisement Several significant milestones have marked the increasing presence of Indian-origin British politicians, notably Rishi Sunaks historic appointment as the UKs first prime minister of colour in 2022. Data shows that Indian households lead in high-income brackets, with 42 per cent earning 1,000 or more weekly between 2015 and 2018. Despite comprising almost 3 per cent of the UK population, they contribute over 6 per cent to the GDP, highlighting their substantial economic and potentially influential political footprint. A look at Indian-origin MPs & candidates across the UK political spectrum A record number of Indian-origin candidates are contesting seats in the 2024 UK general election across major political parties. The Conservative Party, in power for 14 years and facing voter dissatisfaction, features several prominent Indian-origin MPs seeking re-election. Shailesh Vara, a solicitor, has held the North West Cambridgeshire seat since May 2005. Alok Sharma and Priti Patel have retained their seats since 2010, while Rishi Sunak, elected MP for Richmond (Yorkshire) in 2015, now serves as prime minister. Priti Patel walks on the day of the Britains Conservative Partys annual conference in Manchester, UK, October 2, 2023. File Image/Reuters Gagan Mohindra was the MP for South West Hertfordshire before Parliaments dissolution. Claire Coutinho, of Goan Christian descent, represents East Surrey and serves as Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. Advertisement All except Alok Sharma are contesting the upcoming election. The Conservatives have also introduced new candidates, including Shivani Raja for Leicester East and Ameet Jogia for Hendon. Abbas Merali, a Kenyan-Gujarati Muslim councillor, is contesting Harrow West against Labour Friends of Indias Gareth Thomas, the constituencys successive MP. Also Read: Why a possible Labour win could be good news for India The Labour Party, poised for a sweeping victory in the upcoming elections with its call for change, boasts an unprecedented number of Indian-origin MPs and first-time candidates, marking a historic diversity triumph in British politics. Navendu Mishra represents Stockport, while Preet Kaur Gill, the first British Sikh female MP, serves as UK Shadow Minister for Primary Care and Public Health, re-elected from Birmingham Edgbaston in 2019. Advertisement On Thursday 30th May, Parliament will be dissolved until the General Election. I will be standing for re-election as Labour MP for Birmingham Edgbaston. Promoted by AJ Webb on behalf of PK Gill both at 14-16 Bristol Street, B5 7AF. pic.twitter.com/rJFCGtQoKq Preet Kaur Gill MP (@PreetKGillMP) May 29, 2024 Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, the first turbaned Sikh MP, represents Slough. Other Labour MPs include Lisa Nandy (Wigan), Seema Malhotra (Feltham and Heston), and Valerie Vaz (Walsall South). Virendra Sharma, who represented Ealing Southall since 1997, has announced he will not seek re-election in 2024. Advertisement Notably, the Labour Party has pitched Islington councillor Praful Nargund to contest against their former leader Jeremy Corbyn who is contesting as an Independent following his ouster from the party in 2020. Its an honour to have been chosen as Labours candidate for Islington North and I look forward to the campaign ahead. I promise to be a truly local MP, that represents all families and businesses that call this special place their home. Only Labour can change the country and https://t.co/FBXnXwMysL Praful Nargund (@prafulnargund) May 24, 2024 Among first-time Labour candidates are former London Deputy Mayor Rajesh Agarwal (Leicester East), Baggy Shanker (Derby South), Uday Nagaraju (North Bedfordshire), Hajira Piranie (Harborough, Oadby and Wigston), Shama Tatler (Chingford and Woodford Green), Kanishka Narayan (Vale of Glamorgan), Ryan Jude (Tatton), and Primesh Patel (Harrow East). Piranie and Jude are contesting in constituencies Labour hasnt won since 1945. Other Labour Indian candidates include Harpreet Uppal, Jas Athwal, Jeevun Sandher, Kirith Entwistle, Pavitar Mann, Satvir Kaur, Sojan Joseph, Sureena Brackenbridge, and Warinder Juss. Also Read: Why the British Indian vote matters in the July 4 UK general election The Liberal Democrats have nominated multiple Indian-origin candidates, including Munira Wilson, re-elected from Twickenham in 2019. Other candidates include Gayathri Sathyanath for Havant, Anita Prabhakar for Nottingham East, Parmjit Singh Gill for West Bromwich, and Dhruv Sengupta for Feltham & Heston. The increase in Indian-origin candidates across parties suggests a potential rise in parliamentary representation, surpassing the previous record of 15 MPs. Controversies around Indian-origin politicians The landscape for Indian-origin politicians is not without controversies. For instance, Labours Sonia Kumar, contesting Dudley North, faced controversy when incumbent Conservative MP Marco Longhi targeted her in a letter to British Pakistani voters, potentially exploiting religious and ethnic tensions. The Conservative candidate for Dudley North - the former MP Marco Longhi - has highlighted and underlined the name (ethnicity) of his Labour opponent "Sonia KUMAR" in a letter specifically targetting voters of British Pakistani/Kashmiri heritage in the constituency. pic.twitter.com/xEylbN8s7D Sunder Katwala (@sundersays) June 17, 2024 Keith Vaz, a former Labour MP now running independently, resigned as chair of the Home Affairs Select Committee in 2016 amidst allegations involving soliciting male sex workers and attempting to purchase illegal drugs. His subsequent suspension from the House of Commons in 2019 effectively ended his Labour Party career. How is Labour wooing British Indian voters after initial divide? The political landscape for British Indians has undergone significant shifts, particularly in their relationship with the Labour Party. During Jeremy Corbyns leadership, the party experienced a decline in support from the Indian community due to controversies surrounding Kashmir and perceived anti-India sentiments. Economic factors have played a crucial role in this political realignment, as the British Indian community has prospered economically, influencing their political priorities and inclining some toward Conservative policies. Under Keir Starmers leadership, Labour is working to rebuild its relationship with the Indian community, increasing engagement, fielding more Indian-origin candidates, and renewing outreach efforts. An honour to be back at Kingsbury temple today alongside hundreds of worshippers to recognise the immense service of the Hindu community in Britain. pic.twitter.com/lXnRfi2XKb Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) June 28, 2024 Labour is also adjusting its foreign policy approach and focusing on domestic issues important to British Indians. However, challenges persist, including Conservative gains under Rishi Sunak, religious divisions within the community, and generational differences in political leanings. Also Read | Blue, red, green, orange: How do political parties in UK pick colours and what do they symbolise? The political landscape is evolving with the departure of longstanding Indian-origin MPs such as Labours Virendra Sharma, making way for new faces. Meanwhile, the Labour Party has criticised the incumbent Conservatives under Sunak for perceived shortcomings in their promises regarding relations with India, proposing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) should they win the upcoming elections. Hindu community within Indian diaspora state their demands A major part of the British Indian diaspora in the UK is the Hindu community, now Englands third-largest religious group. A coalition of 29 prominent Hindu organisations released the inaugural Hindu Manifesto UK 2024, calling for recognition of anti-Hindu hate crimes and equal representation among other key issues. The British Hindu community, numbering over a million and comprising 3 per cent of the total population, represents a formidable electoral bloc. Their increasing numbers and heightened political awareness are expected to play a crucial role in the upcoming election, potentially influencing outcomes in pivotal constituencies as Labour seeks to capitalise on its message of change and return to power. A collective of Hindu organisations released a Hindu Manifesto ahead of UK elections. X/Hindus for Democracy Indian-origin MPs are addressing critical issues, focusing on concerns relevant to the diaspora and broader societal challenges. Anti-Hindu hate has emerged as a significant issue, with organisations calling for Hinduphobia to be recognised as a distinct category of religious hate crime, citing the need for enhanced protection of Hindu communities and places of worship. Immigration and citizenship policies remain central, with MPs advocating for fair and transparent regulations that acknowledge the contributions of the Indian diaspora. Efforts include streamlining visa processes, work permits, and naturalisation procedures Simultaneously, there is a push for greater representation in political and media spheres, as British Hindus seek increased visibility in councils, Parliament, and mainstream media. It was a pleasure to welcome @RishiSunak and Akshata Murty to #NeasdenTemple today. pic.twitter.com/EEOC9SXccE Neasden Temple (@NeasdenTemple) June 29, 2024 Educational reform is another priority, particularly concerning the teaching of Hinduism in schools. Reports suggest that current approaches often lead to misconceptions and bullying. MPs are calling for more accurate and respectful curriculum content, along with improved handling of faith-targeted hate incidents in educational settings, aiming to address concerns about the quality of Hinduism education and its impact on Hindu students. Also Read: Who can replace Rishi Sunak as Tory leader if UK PM loses the polls? Economic and healthcare improvements are at the forefront of the current agenda, with MPs focusing on enhancing UK-India trade relations and fostering bilateral investment by leveraging historical and cultural ties. Additionally, efforts are underway to improve access to healthcare and social welfare programs, particularly for vulnerable segments of the Indian diaspora. With inputs from agencies Elena Kadvany has been a reporter on the Chronicles Food & Wine team since 2021. She covers the ins and outs of the Bay Area food industry, from breaking news about the latest restaurant openings to investigative stories into wage theft and workers rights. In 2024, her food writing portfolio won second place in the Society for Features Journalism Excellence-in-Features awards. Previously, she covered restaurants and education for the Palo Alto Weekly; her work has also been published in Bon Appetit and the Guardian, and her reporting has been recognized by the California News Publishers Association. She can be reached at Elena.Kadvany@sfchronicle.com. The Keir Starmer-led Labour Party has secured a landslide win in the UK general elections, ousting Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party. This win has the potential to reshape India-UK ties for the better. Heres how read more Britain's Labour Party leader Keir Starmer gives a thumbs up to his supporters after he was elected for the Holborn and St Pancras constituency, in London. Starmer has vowed to stamp out anti-Hindu hate from the UK. AP Sunaks out and Starmers in. The United Kingdom general election results have been announced and as predicted the Labour Party, led by Sir Keir Starmer, has secured a triumphant win against the Conservatives. With this, the United Kingdom sees a dramatic change in government a first in 14 years. Starmer, who will become Britains next prime minister, said after his personal win from his north London seat, Tonight, people here and around the country have spoken. They are ready for change. The change begins right here because this is your democracy, your community and your future. You have voted and now it is time for us to deliver. Advertisement With a Labour win, there are bound to be policy changes not only at home, but also internationally. including the UKs relations with India. Lets take a closer look at what a Labour win means for New Delhi. New Delhis old anxieties Sunaks exit and the Labours return to power in the UK might reignite some of Indias old anxieties about bilateral ties. Under previous chief Jeremy Corbyn, the Labour Party was widely perceived as antagonistic towards New Delhi. In September 2019, the Labour Party passed an emergency motion on Kashmir after India repealed Section 370 granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The motion noted that there is a major humanitarian crisis taking place in Kashmir, and called for international observers to enter the region. It further took note of the enforced disappearance of civilians, the overall prevalence of human rights violations and the house arrest/imprisonment of mainstream politicians and activists. It added that the people of Kashmir should be given the right of self-determination. The motion led to a huge backlash from the British India community, prompting Corbyn to later clarify that it views Kashmir as a bilateral matter between India and Pakistan. And when Labour lost the 2019 polls, many credited that defeat to the Kashmir motion. However, under Starmer, the party has reinvented itself and moved away from previous stances, including that on Kashmir. Starmer himself has declared that Labour would seek a closer relationship with India and the British Indian community, which numbers around 1.8 million and contributes over six per cent to the British economy. Advertisement Britains Labour Party leader Keir Starmer speaks on stage in Manchester, England. Starmer has reinvented the Labour Party and moved it away from predecessor Jeremy Corbyns far-Left policies, including having an anti-India stance. File image/AP Tough stance on anti-Hindu, Khalistan hate A Labour win with Starmer in charge will see a change in stance on the matters of Hindu hate. While visiting the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir in Kingsbury last Friday, Starmer had said there is absolutely no place for Hinduphobia in Britain and that Labour would build a new strategic partnership with India. If were elected next week we will strive to govern in the spirit of seva to serve you and a world in need, he said. Strengthened by Hindu values, youre not only contributing massively to our economy, youre bringing innovation and expertise that keeps us competitive on the global market. Advertisement The party has also vowed to stamp out anti-India sentiments within its ranks and build a strong strategic partnership with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led administration. Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer during a visit to the Shree Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu temple in Kingsbury, London, while on the General Election campaign trail. File image/AP And its not just words. In April, the party initiated an investigation into one of its Sikh councillors, Parbinder Kaur for allegedly sharing posts that support Khalistani terrorist groups and militants who have assassinated public figures in India. Last September, Labour also demoted Indian-origin shadow minister for reportedly having links with pro-Khalistani extremists. Go-ahead to FTA Besides these issues, the Labour has said it is ready to go" on striking a f ree trade agreement (FTA) with India if it wins the elections. Advertisement In late June, the partys shadow foreign secretary David Lammy laid out his ambitions of the FTA being a floor not a ceiling of the partnership he aspires to with his friend External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Many Diwalis have come and gone without a trade deal and too many businesses have been left waiting, said Lammy, referring to the missed Diwali 2022 deadline set by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson for the FTA. Britains Shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy has promised a reset of ties with India if Labour came to power. File image/Reuters My message to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Trade Minister Piyush Goyal is that Labour is ready to go. Lets finally get our free trade deal done and move on, he said, adding he will be in Delhi before the end of July if elected to government on July 4. Lammy said the Conservatives have over-promised and under-delivered on the UKs relations with India. Advertisement He also promised a reset of ties with India if Labour came to power. He said: With Labour, the days of Boris Johnson reciting that old verse from Rudyard Kipling in Asia are over. If I recite a poem in India, it will be Tagore because with a superpower like India, the areas of cooperation and the areas for learning are limitless. India and the UK have completed 13 rounds of FTA negotiations, but talks have stalled amid the election cycles both in India and the UK. The Deccan Chronicle also notes that unlike Sunak, who was extra-cautious about showing any overt India bias due to his inherent Indianness, Starmer could freely demonstrate positive India biases, as they would make eminent sense, economically, and even from partisan lens. It will be interesting to see what happens next and if Starmer can build on existing India-UK ties. But as they say, only time will tell. With inputs from agencies Over 120 people were crushed to death in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras on July 2 while attending a satsang of a self-styled godman, Bhole Baba. Overcrowding, cramped spaces and mismanagement are some reasons why such tragedies occur. Theres also scientific explanation of these stampedes read more Men look at the site of a stampede at Hathras in Uttar Pradesh on July 3, 2024. AFP India witnessed one of its worst tragedies on Tuesday (July 2) when hundreds of people were trampled to death in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras. As many as 121 devotees, including women and children, were killed in the stampede at a satsang, a prayer meeting, of self-styled godman, Bhole Baba, in the Ratibhanpur village in the Hathras district. The Uttar Pradesh Police has lodged a First Information Report (FIR) against the organisers of the religious event, accusing them of concealing evidence and flouting conditions. As per the complaint, the organisers had sought permission for about 80,000 people but 2.5 lakh people attended the religious congregation. Advertisement But, why do such stampedes occur? Whats the science behind it? How to stay safe in such situations? Lets understand. Reason for stampedes India has seen several stampedes at temples or religious events over the past years. In fact, a 2013 study in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction (IJDRR) found that religious gatherings and pilgrimages account for 79 per cent of stampedes in India. While overcrowding is an obvious factor, mass panic, cramped spaces and improper management are other reasons that lead to stampedes. Dirk Helbing, a professor of computational social science at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, told Deutsche Welle (DW) in 2022 that it is generally believed that stampedes happen due to panic. That is considered to be a state of mind determined by anxiety and fear, which would come with an increased level of adrenaline. As a consequence, the flight and fight instinct might be activated. That would cause people to run away in panic relentlessly, perhaps even trampling other people that are in their way. While such a thing can happen, most crowd disasters are not of this kind, he added. In the West, these disasters usually take place at venues of music concerts and nightclubs, while in developing countries like India, most of the crushes happen at religious gatherings. Speaking to Mint in 2015, Faisel T Illiyas, one of the authors of the IJDRR study said, Most of the religious festivals are located in areas like banks of rivers, hilly terrains or mountain tops. These areas lack proper pathways, posing a geographical risk to the pilgrims. Forensic experts inspect the site of a stampede in Hathras in Uttar Pradesh on July 3, 2024. AFP Experts say a lack of crowd management also triggers such tragedies. In developed countries, there is a safety system that is in place. Organisers have to approach local authorities to get a kind of licence to have the mass gathering. After that, the authorities, after looking at the capacity of the venue, issue a certificate to the organisers licensing them. In India, there is [a] lack of safety, licensing and registration systems, Illiyas said at the time. Advertisement ALSO READ: Bhole Baba was allowed to leave first even as people were crushed: Inside the Hathras stampede Science behind stampedes When crowds reach a critical density, they become threatening, Jeff Wise, a science writer and author, wrote in a Psychology Today article in 2010. He said crowds continue to increase in size or density until there are 10 people per square metre. According to Wise, unidirectional stampedes take place when a crowd responds to an unexpected positive or negative change in force. A positive change in force might occur when a crowd is stopped by a barricade or a narrowing in a passageway; a negative force is the release of constraining pressure, as for instance might occur when a gate is opened, he explained. Advertisement The other is turbulent stampede, which Wise defines as two crowds merging from different directions or when an immobile crowd panics. A 2023 study on human stampede literature published in Prehospital and Disaster Medicine laid out how such disasters occurred. in normal situations, the crowd moves in a free or laminar flow. When density increases, the flow changes to stop-and-go waves. This can lead to loss of movement control by the crowd and individuals are pushed randomly crowd turbulence. Speaking to DW, Professor Helbing said that crowd turbulence happens when several people are present in a space with little room to move and there is a high density of people with individuals pressed between each other. He said this can result in transmission of forces between bodies. Advertisement Those forces add up and push people around in unpredictable ways, sometimes over distances of several meters. In such conditions, it is very difficult to keep balance and stay on ones feet, Heling stated. After some time, if someone falls, it creates a gap in the crowd. Due to the person who stumbled, those standing next to that individual lack a counterforce to prevent them from falling due to the pushing. Helbing told DW that this could lead to other people tripping as well, triggering a deadly domino effect. To stop themselves from going down, people may trample others. People at the bottom of the crowd eventually die of traumatic asphyxia, the 2023 study noted. Advertisement What to do in such situations? First of all, how will one know if a crush is about to happen? According to Anna Sieben, an associate professor of cultural and social psychology at the University of St. Gallen in Switzerland, people often do not realise they are in a stampede event. She told DW that people could recognise a potential stampede if there is uncontrollable swaying in all directions, which reflects high pressure in the crowd. Sieben recommends making oneself heard and shouting for help if they feel a stampede is about to occur. Everyones focusing in the same direction, and sometimes not always they might not realise that there is a way out, or a less crowded situation in the back or at the sides of the crowd, DW quoted her as saying. If you are attending an event where there is a large number of people stuffed in a small space, be aware of all the exits. If there is an emergency, you may not have access to your nearest exit. Take the next exit and leave the venue as soon as possible. The victims of a stampede who suffered compressive asphyxia can be saved if administered first aid such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), quickly and correctly. Planning for such disasters in advance can also help in avoiding them. This can be done by ensuring there is enough space and preparing the staff in case of a stampede. With inputs from agencies I have resigned as per the decision of the JMM-led alliance. Our alliance is strong, Champai Soren said after coming out of Raj Bhavan. All know what had happened with Hemant Soren Ji I was given the responsibility by the coalition partners. Now, the alliance has decided in favour of Hemant Soren Ji, he said read more Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren on Wednesday resigned from his post, following which JMM leader Hemant Soren called on Governor CP Radhakrishnan and staked claim to form the government. Earlier in the day, leaders and MLAs of the ruling coalition at a meeting at Champai Sorens residence here unanimously decided to elect Hemant Soren as the JMM legislature party leader. I have resigned as per the decision of the JMM-led alliance. Our alliance is strong, Champai Soren said after coming out of Raj Bhavan. Advertisement All know what had happened with Hemant Soren Ji I was given the responsibility by the coalition partners. Now, the alliance has decided in favour of Hemant Soren Ji, he said. Hemant Soren was released from jail on June 28 after nearly five months, after the high court granted him bail in a money laundering case linked to an alleged land scam. He had resigned as the CM shortly before his arrest on January 31. This will mark Hemant Sorens third term as Chief Minister of Jharkhand, a state established in 2000 after its separation from Bihar. According to reports, discussions are also underway to assign Champai Soren new responsibilities, potentially as the chairman of the UPA coordination committee and working president of JMM. In response to these developments, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey tweeted, The Champai Soren era in Jharkhand has come to an end. He blasted JMM, describing it as a family-centric party and urging the outgoing Chief Minister to follow in the footsteps of Bhagwan Birsa Munda and confront alleged corruption under Hemant Sorens leadership. Advertisement Champai Soren, aged 67 and a long-time associate of JMM founder Shibu Soren, has been an integral part of the partys leadership for decades. I would like to say without hesitation that I have given a free hand to agencies to take stringent action against corruption and the corrupt. Government will not interfere anywhere. They should work honestly for honestyI would like to tell the citizens that no corrupt will be safe from the law. Ye Modi ki guarantee hai, said PM Modi read more In a rare refence to investigative agencies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that he has given free hand to the agencies to take stringent action against corruption and asserted that the government will not interfere anywhere. Addressing the Rajya Sabha during the Motion of Thanks to the Presidents Address, PM Modi said that the fight against corruption is not to win or lose elections but its his mission and conviction as this menace has hollowed out the nation. Advertisement I would like to say without hesitation that I have given a free hand to agencies to take stringent action against corruption and the corrupt. Government will not interfere anywhere. They should work honestly for honestyI would like to tell the citizens that no corrupt will be safe from the law. Ye Modi ki guarantee hai, said PM Modi. He said he is working wholeheartedly to free the country of corruption and to build hatred against corruption in the minds of common people. #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi says, "For me, the fight against corruption is not the scale for electoral wins or losses. I am not fighting corruption to win or lose elections. This is my mission, my conviction. I believe that corruption is one such termite that has hollowed out the pic.twitter.com/IVkJEt6x3N ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 For me, the fight against corruption is not the scale for electoral wins or losses. I am not fighting corruption to win or lose elections. This is my mission, my conviction. I believe that corruption is one such termite that has hollowed out the nation. I am working wholeheartedly to free this country of corruption and to build hatred against corruption in the minds of common people, he said. Advertisement The Opposition has invariably accused the Modi government of unleashing investigative agencies like Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Bureau of investigation CBI) on leaders from the opposite camp framing them in fake corruption cases, a charge outrighly rejected by the government. Hitting out at the Congress, he said that the grand old party has started running Bhrashtachari bachao andolan now as they invariably do drama when the corrupt are sent to jail. #WATCH | Speaking in Rajya Sabha on Motion of Thanks to President's Address, PM Modi says," Congress has started running Bhrashtachari bachao andolan now. When the corrupt are sent to jail they do hungama...It's being said that investigative agencies are being pic.twitter.com/pYHO1726Rg ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 Advertisement When the corrupt are sent to jail they do hungamaIts being said that investigative agencies are being misusedBhrashtachar kare AAP, sharabghotala kare AAP aur AAP ki shikayat kare Congress, AAP ko court mein leke jaye Congress, ab karyawahi ho toh gaali de Modi koAnd now they are partners.Congress had presented facts against AAP in a press conference, now they must tell if those facts were correct or not., said the PM. Advertisement On the issue of Manipur, he said the government is continuously making efforts to normalise the situation in the northeast state. #WATCH | Speaking on Manipur in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi says, "The government is continuously making efforts to normalise the situation in Manipur. More than 11,000 FIRs have been registered and over 500 people arrested. Incidents of violence are continuously reducing in Manipur. pic.twitter.com/LYKNdfiXyW ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 More than 11,000 FIRs have been registered and over 500 people arrested. Incidents of violence are continuously reducing in Manipur. Today, schools, colleges, offices and other institutions are open in the state. The Central and State government is talking to all stakeholders to restore peace. The Union Home Minister stayed there for many weeksCentral govt is extending all cooperation to Manipur to tackle the flood situation. Today, 2 teams of NDRF have reached Manipur, said the PM. He also warned those trying to add fuel to fire will be rejected by Manipur .Congress had imposed Presidents rule in Manipur 10 times, he added to drive his point home. He said the amount of work the BJP-led government has done in the northeast region in last 5 years would have taken the Congress 20 years. Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die after PM Modis speech on Motion of Thanks to Presidents Address. With inputs from agencies An FIR has been filed against the organisers of the event. However, families of the deceased have claimed that the name of the preacher was not mentioned in the complaint read more Devotees at the religious gathering where a stampede broke out, in Hathras district, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. PTI While 121 people died and 28 others were left seriously injured, the self-styled godman Bhole Baba aka Baba Narayan Hari is nowhere to be found. The worst-case stampede case that India has seen in a while, the Satsang held at Hathras for Bhole Baba has sent ripples through people in authoritative positions who have been held responsible for the accident. Meanwhile, a plea was filed in the Supreme Court on Wednesday over the incident that alleged serious negligence and highlighted the administrations failure to control the crowd. Advertisement Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the district hospital in Hathras where the injured are currently receiving treatment. #WATCH | Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath meets and inquires about the health of the persons injured in the stampede incident, at Hathras government hospital pic.twitter.com/HW5u4q4ziv ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 Couldnt find Baba ji The Uttar Pradesh police have conducted searches at Ram Kutir Charitable Trust in Mainpuri district to hunt down Bhole Baba. We did not find Baba Ji inside the campusHe is not here, said deputy SP Sunil Kumar. Meanwhile, an FIR has been filed against the organisers of the event. However, families of the deceased have claimed that the name of the preacher was not mentioned in the complaint. The FIR states that the organisers had initially sought permission for a gathering of 80,000 people but 2.5 lakh devotees showed up for the event. The many lapses at Hathras The Uttar Pradesh Police have identified several lapses in the way the religious event was organised in the Hathras village. There were no clear demarcations for entry and exit points The event had no emergency exit routes Event organisers did not arrange any medical facilities at the Satsang There were no sufficient fans or coolers to help attendees beat the heat Lack of food and water arrangements There was no barricading on the route through which Bhole Babas cavalcade passed through Sources have also revealed that organisers have not disclosed the details of the permission they sought from authorities What caused the stampede? Prima facie it seems that the stampede was caused due to extreme heat and humidity. Advertisement However, several theories have come to the fore including the one that suggests that people rushed toward the preacher as he was leaving to touch his feet which could have triggered the stampede. The deaths were a result of a pratha or ritual where the preachers followers touch his feet to collect pair ki dhool (foots dust) and seek his blessings. While the Hathras stampede incident has brought back painful memories of the many deadly overcrowding incidents that India has seen in the past, many religious events have set good precedents too read more Devotees at the religious gathering where a stampede broke out, in Hathras district, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. PTI It was a Tuesday afternoon when people gathered at an event ground in Uttar Pradeshs Hathras to attend a satsang under the sweltering heat. Little did they know a deadly stampede would disrupt their lives. The death toll, since July 2, has risen to 121 while several attendees have been left seriously injured. Self-styled godman Bhole Babas satsang was an event for 80,000 people, the religious gathering however, in no time, swelled up with over 2.5 lakh devotees. This transpired into overcrowding, while the urge to follow the ritual of touching the preachers feet to collect his foots death led to the stampede. Advertisement Many devotees rushed towards Suraj Pal aka Bhole Baba, as he decided to leave the venue all of a sudden, to seek his blessings. Several people, mostly women and children, got crushed in the commotion. With Bhole Baba absconding and event organisers refusing to reveal the exact details of the kind of permission they sought for the event, police are scrambling to put a pin on the key accused. Meanwhile, several lapses were found in managing and organising the satsang. For example, the event had no clear demarcation of entry and exit points, no emergency exits and no barricading to separate the crowd from the stage. While the Hathras stampede incident has brought back painful memories of the many deadly overcrowding incidents that India has seen in the past, many religious events have set good precedents too. Case in point: Kumbh Mela and Amarnath Yatra. The success story of Kumbh Mela Held every 12 years, Kumbh Mela is the largest religious congregation that the country witnesses. Millions of people, from within the country and the world, attend the event. Maha Kumbh is held in Prayagraj. Except for the two incidents of 1954 and 2013, the crowd management at Kumbh Mela has more or less been a smooth process. Advertisement From police deployment to crowd control, the event is well-managed. In 2019, a team of 10 information technology experts was employed to review the most densely populated areas at the mela. The next Kumbh Mela will be held in 2025 and authorities have already started to take necessary steps to ensure there are no untoward incidents. The government will make use of artificial intelligence-powered mechanisms and tools to manage crowds and has asked police to embrace the technology ahead of the religious event. Meanwhile, in terms of police force, manpower will be increased by manifold. Senior mela authorities have said that 60,000 to 80,000 police officials will be deployed at Maha Kumbh to control the sea of devotees who will attend the event. Advertisement How Amarnath Yatra weathers the storm of overcrowding Another mass religious gathering, Amarnath Yatra is held in Kashmir every year. While cases of stampedes are rare, the Amarnath Yatra does see other forms of accidents including the ones where buses fall off gorges, causing injuries and deaths. However, as this years yatra is ongoing, the event has not reported any accidents due to overcrowding. The yatra is well-equipped with service providers, including ponywalas, paalki and dandiwalas and pithuwalas to ensure devotees reach the Amarnath caves located in the Himalayas safely. Police officials also ensure that pilgrims are released in batches in different time frames to avoid overcrowding. Advertisement What do NDMA guidelines suggest? In 2014, the National Disaster Management Authority came out with a comprehensive guideline to be followed in cases of overcrowding. Heres what it suggests: Capacity Planning: Staging points should be planned for physical or virtual locations through which each visitor must pass. Each staging point should have sufficient facilities for rest, food, water, and hygiene Understanding Crowd Behaviour: It is essential to identify and separate miscreants that create a ruckus. Action should be taken immediately with tact and firmness, without inviting undue attention from the general public, which may be there if force is used. Stakeholder Approach: Organisers of events, and law enforcement agencies must rethink crowd control and encourage community stakeholders (NGOs, Business Associations, Schools/ colleges, Neighbourhood societies/associations/Mohalla committees) to take ownership in events for unity of purpose, faster decisions/response, better coordination etc With inputs from NDMA There are at least five criminal cases, including molestation, against Suraj Pal, alias Bhole Baba. As many as 121 people were killed in a stampede at his satsang in Hathras on June 2 read more 121 people, including women and children, died in Hathras stampede which was led by Self-styled godman Bhole Baba. Source: X. Bhole Baba, whose 121 followers died in a stampede during his satsang in Hathras, has five criminal cases against him, including molestation. Also, he was posted as a head constable in Etawah about 28 years ago, but was terminated from services after allegations of rape against him. He, however, keeps telling his disciples that he took a Voluntary Retirement Scheme (VRS) from Uttar Pradesh Police 5 criminal cases against Bhole Baba Bhole Baba has been known for his controversial satsangs. Five criminal cases against him that have been filed in Agra, Etawah, Kasganj, Farrukhabad and Rajasthans Dausa. Advertisement Self-styled godman Suraj Pal, who is known as Bhole Baba to his followers, told them that he had served in the intelligence department of the Uttar Pradesh police and had quit his job after 17 years of service to embark on a spiritual journey as a preacher. Bhole Baba used magical powers to resurrect a minor girl According to The Indian Express, Bhole Baba along with his wife Premvati and four other people, was charged with using his purported magical powers to resurrect a 16-year-old girl who passed away in Agra in 2000. Back then, the self-styled godman was residing in Kedar Nagar, in the Shahganj neighbourhood of Agra. After the incident, a case was filed on March 18, 2000, against six people, including Bhole Baba and his wife - under the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisement) Act and IPC Section 109, which punishes abetments when crimes committed for which there is no express provision for punishment. Suraj Pal (Bhole Baba), along with over 200 people, reached the cremation ground where the body was taken by her family for the last rites. He and others stopped the family from performing the last rites and tried to convince them that he could resurrect her, the report quoted Tejveer Singh, the station house officer of Shahgan, as saying. Advertisement As per records in the police station, the godman forcibly took the body of the teenage girl and placed it at a spot on the cremation ground. Singh said there were a few people with the family members of the girl who raised an objection and one among them even informed the cops. On getting the call, the police immediately reached the spot, but there was a verbal conflict between them and Bhole Baba as well as his supporters. The godman claimed that he could resurrect the girl. His supporters started pelting stones at the police team. Additional police personnel were called in and the situation was brought under control. We arrested Pal and the others involved, Singh claimed. Advertisement As per the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Agra - Suraj Kumar Rai - a chargesheet was filed against the accused. Further investigation was conducted after fresh evidence was emerged. On the basis of evidence collected during the further investigation, a closure report was filed in the case, Rai said. Who is Bhole Baba? Bhole Baba, a 58-year-old self-styled godman, on Tuesday (June 2) led a satsang in Hathras in which an incident of stampede took place when he suddenly left the venue and his followers started rushing towards his car to collect dust/soil stirred up by tires. He hails from a Dalit family in Bahadur Nagar village of Kasganj district, about 65 km from Hathras where the stampede occurred. Advertisement In 1999, he changed his name to Narayan Sakar Vishwa Hari and started holding satsangs. He told his followers that he felt an inclination towards spirituality and world peace. After completing his education from Etah district and before joining UP police, he assisted his father in farming during his young days. Bhole Baba, who as per his devotees had no religious mentor, has been organising satsangs with his wife which are usually attended by hundreds of people. He used to hold satsangs every Tuesday and before the Hathras stampede incident. Last week, he held a similar event in the Mainpuri district of Uttar Pradesh. Advertisement He has zero social media presence and has followers beyond Uttar Pradesh to Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Also, the preacher and his acolytes have maintained a distance from the media. At the peak of Covid-19 pandemic in 2022, Bhole Baba held a similar satsang in UPs Farrukhabad. While the district administration permitted only 50 people to attend the event, more than 50,000 people reached the event venue. The self-styled godman has a security team named Narayani Sena that consists of men and women guards who escort him from his ashram to the satsang venues. Zaffar Ali, husband of Bahadur Nagar village pradhan, Najis Khanam was quoted as saying by media reports that Bhole Baba has no children and his wife is known as Matashree. As per Ali, Bhole Baba has built an ashram on his 30-bigha land in the village where people from other districts and different states would visit to seek his blessings. They were provided accommodation at the ashram, he said. Ali further said that Bhole Baba left the village about five years ago, suspecting a conspiracy against him. We heard he is now residing in Rajasthan. Last year, he returned to the village and entrusted his property to a trust. A manager now oversees the affairs of the ashram, Ali said. Also Read: Hathras stampede incident FIR doesnt mention Bhole Baba, family of 121 deceased fume Also Read: 121 dead, 28 injured & Bhole Baba absconding: How Hathras stampede case is unfolding Modis visit to Vienna comes within days after he took oath as the Prime Minister of India for the third consecutive time and months after India-Austria Startup Bridge was launched in February to foster innovation and entrepreneurship between the two countries read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Austria on July 9 and 10 becoming the first Indian leader to travel to the country in 41 years. PM Modi would first travel to Russia and from there he is expected to depart for Austria. The last Indian PM to visit Austria The last Indian prime minister to visit Austria was Indira Gandhi in 1983. She had also visited the country in 1971. Who was the first Indian PM to visit Austria? Advertisement Former prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Indian leader to visit Austria in 1955. In November 1999, the then Indian President KR Narayanan made Indias first state visit to Austria after which in 2011, ex-President Pratibha Patil travelled to the country. India-Austria high-level engagements under PM Modis leadership Modis visit to Vienna comes days after he was sworn in as the Prime Minister of India for the third consecutive time and months after both the countries launched India-Austria Startup Bridge which was introduced in February this year to foster innovation and entrepreneurship between the two countries. Ever since becoming the Prime Minister, Modi has maintained cordial ties with Austria. In the first term, the PM held a bilateral meeting with then-Austrian Chancellor Christian Kern in St Petersburg on June 2, 2017, on the sidelines of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. During his second term as PM, on October 30, 2021, Modi met then Austrian Chancellor, Alexander Schallenberg on the sidelines of COP-26 in Glasgow. On May 26, 2020, PM Modi also had a telephone conversation with President Alexander Van der Bellen. Both leaders exchanged views on measures taken in their countries to manage the adverse health and economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic. They also reiterated their shared desire to further strengthen and diversify India-Austria relations in the post-Covid world. Advertisement As PM Modi prepares for his first trip to Vienna, lets look at the ties between India and Austria. India-Austria relations 1 - Diplomatic relations between India and Austria were established in 1949. 2 - From November 2023 to November 2024, India and Austria are observing the 75th year of establishment of bilateral relations. 3 - India also contributed to the independence of Austria. Back in 1953, India intervened in favour of Austria in its negotiations with the Soviet Union on the State Treaty of Austria. This resulted in the independence of Austria in 1955. 4 - The Indo-Austrian Joint Economic Commission (JEC) was established in 1983 that provide a forum for bilateral interaction between the governmental Advertisement 5 - Ministries and Chambers of Commerce and Industry. There have been more than 200 collaborations, including 100 technical collaborations and 60 joint ventures between Indian and Austrian firms especially in the fields of steel, manufacturing technology, railway and transport, equipment and metallurgy. 6 - The bilateral trade between India and Austria is balanced. India exports electronic goods, apparel, textiles, footwear, rubber articles, vehicles and railway parts, electrical machinery and mechanical appliances to Austria, while it imports machinery, mechanical appliances, railway parts, iron and steel. 7 - On February 25, 2013, Austrias first two satellites TUGSAT-1/BRITE and UniBRITE were launched by Indias PSLVC20 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. Advertisement 8 - India and Austria have so far signed more than 20 memorandum of understandings (MoUs) including those on air services; promotion and protection of investments; infrastructure cooperation in railways, health; cooperation in science and technology, agriculture; and technology cooperation in shipping and ports. Indians in Austria As per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), there are an estimated over 31,000 Indians living in Austria, the majority of them from Kerala and Punjab. The Indian diaspora mainly consists of professionals working primarily in the health care sector and in the multilateral UN bodies, businessmen and self-employed individuals. They are roughly evenly divided between NRIs and PIOs. Advertisement Over 500 Indian students are pursuing their higher education in Austria, the MEA said. We feel proud of the wisdom and intelligence of the people of this country, in these elections. They defeated propaganda. They prioritised performance. They rejected the politics of deceit and put stamp of victory on the politics of trust, said PM Modi read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in the Rajya Sabha on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address, on Wednesday. ANI Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday was all praise for the wisdom and intelligence of the people of India who defeated propaganda and prioritised performance to give him the third term during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi says, "We feel proud of the wisdom and intelligence of the people of this country, in these elections. They defeated propaganda. They prioritised performance. They rejected the politics of deceit and put stamp of victory on the politics of trust." pic.twitter.com/IzQ7SrhcYV ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 Advertisement Addressing the Rajya Sabha on the Motion of Thanks to the Presidents Address, PM Modi said, We feel proud of the wisdom and intelligence of the people of this country, in these elections. They defeated propaganda. They prioritised performance. They rejected the politics of deceit and put stamp of victory on the politics of trust. Amid disruptions from the Opposition benches, he said in the history of independent India and parliamentary journey, the public has given the mandate to a government for the third consecutive time after many decades. #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaks in Rajya Sabha on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address, he says, "In the history of independent India & parliamentary journey, It has happened after many decades that the public has given the mandate to a government for the pic.twitter.com/F9OdwhmAUM ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 Advertisement After 60 years, it has happened that the government has returned after being in power for 10 years. I realise this is not an ordinary thing. Some people deliberately tried to black out this decision given by the public, said PM Modi, adding, This opportunity given to us for the third time by the people of the country is to realise Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat. Advertisement He said that the next five years of his term will ensure saturation of basic facilities and focus on fight against poverty. #WATCH | Speaking in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi says, "The next five years are to ensure saturation of basic facilities and for the fight against poverty. This country will emerge victorious against poverty in the next five years, and I am saying this based on the experience of the pic.twitter.com/JntSGUs9id ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 This country will emerge victorious against poverty in the next five years, and I am saying this based on the experience of the past 10 years. When India will become the third largest economy in the world, its impact will be on every sphere of life, said the Prime Minister. PM Modi said that for his party BJP, the Constitution is not just a compilation of articles but its spirit and words are very important too. It acts like a lighthouse for governments, he said adding the Constitution Day will disseminate the spirit of the Constitution in the country. He took potshots at the Congress for its statement that the country was bound to grow irrespective of who was in power. Advertisement Those who ran the government on the auto-pilot mode can only make such statements, PM Modi said. Meanwhile, Opposition MPs raised slogans of LoP ko bolne do to disrupt PM Modi speech and walked out of the House, alleging that the Leader of Opposition was not allowed to speak. #WATCH | In Rajya Sabha, Opposition MPs protest, raise slogans and walk out as PM Modi speaks on Motion of Thanks to President's Address. The Opposition MPs say that the LoP was not allowed to speak and that he should be allowed for the same. As they walk out, PM Modi says, pic.twitter.com/rmPZpoNugY ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 As they were making their way out, PM Modi said, The country is watching that those who spread lies do not have the strength to hear the truth. Those who do not have the courage to face truth, do not have courage to listen to the answers to questions that were raised in these discussions. They are insulting the Upper House, the glorious tradition of the Upper House. With inputs from agencies In his address in Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that actions are being taken to hold accountable those who destroy the path to the future of this countrys youth read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday, assured that stringent action in the NEET-UG 2024 paper leak incident and said those behind it will not be spared by his government. In his address in Rajya Sabha, PM Modi said: I assure youth that the government will not spare those playing with their future. I assure one thing, people who have defrauded our youth will not go unpunished, the prime minister emphasised. Actions being taken One after the other, actions are being taken to hold accountable those who destroy the path to the future of this countrys youth, PM Modi further said. Advertisement We have brought in strict laws to deal with the issue and are strengthening the entire system, the prime minister emphasised in his remarks. The PM also assured that his government is working towards ensuring an atmosphere where students will not be worried about examinations, but rather just focus on their studies. PM Modi slams Opposition of playing politics The prime minister accused the opposition parties of playing politics with the future of the youth of the country. In her speech, the President talked about the paper leak. I expect the entire house to rise above politics and discuss the issue. But unfortunately, the issue, which is about the future of the country, is being politicised by them. What can be more unfortunate than this? PM Modi said in his reply to the Motion of Thanks on Presidents address in Rajya Sabha. #WATCH | PM Narendra Modi says, "In her Address, the President called paper leak, a major issue. I had expected all parties to speak by rising above party politics. But, unfortunately, they sacrificed even such a sensitive and important issue, an issue related to the future of pic.twitter.com/qgGOO9E8qi ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 Necessary steps being taken Advertisement In his address in Lok Sabha on Tuesday (June 2), PM Modi said that the government is working on a war footing to stop incidents of paper leaks. He also told the Lower House that those playing with the future of youngsters will not be spared. Those who played with the future of students will not be spared. Arrests have been made from across the country in connection with NEET, the prime minister said. He further said that the Central government has already instituted a stringent law (to prevent paper leaks). Necessary steps are being taken to strengthen the examination system, he added. The paper leak case is being probed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Advertisement Earlier this week, Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi had written a letter to PM Modi requesting for a debate on NEET in parliament. Gandhi called the NEET-UG 2024 paper leak a betrayal of a lifetime dream of many students. Gandhi, in his letter, claimed that a parliamentary debate would be a first step towards rebuilding and restoring the faith of the students. Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha witnessed multiple disruptions as the INDIA bloc continued uproar, demanding for an immediate discussion on NEET paper leak. The NEET, an entrance examination for admission in medical colleges across India, has been marred by allegations of irregularities, including paper leaks, prompting protests. Advertisement The head of the National Testing Agency (NTA), that conducts NEET, has been removed. With inputs from agencies UCSF must offer charity care, adopt price caps and invest hundreds of millions of dollars into St. Marys Medical Center and St. Francis Memorial Hospital to win state approval for their takeover. Attorney General Rob Bonta had filed a complain to stop the merger. Michael Macor/The Chronicle UCSF must offer charity care, adopt price caps and invest hundreds of millions of dollars into St. Marys Medical Center and St. Francis Memorial Hospital to win state approval for their takeover. Attorney General Rob Bonta had filed a complain to stop the merger. Benjamin Fanjoy/The Chronicle UCSF must continue charity care, adhere to price growth caps and invest hundreds of millions of dollars into St. Marys Medical Center and St. Francis Memorial Hospital, the two struggling San Francisco hospitals it is acquiring for $100 million, under a settlement reached with the California attorney general. The settlement, announced Tuesday, resolves a complaint brought by the attorney general that sought to halt the deal over concerns it could harm peoples access to medical services that are currently available at St. Marys and St. Francis including emergency and psychiatric care quash competition and create a monopoly for inpatient hospital services in San Francisco. Under the terms of the agreement, UCSF must maintain the same services that now exist at the two hospitals, continue to accept Medicare and Medi-Cal public insurance, provide charity care equal to at least $6.5 million at St. Francis and $3.5 million at St. Marys, and invest at least $430 million in infrastructure and technology improvements. The terms were approved by a San Francisco Superior Court judge and cover the period of 10 years after the deal closes Aug. 1. Advertisement Article continues below this ad For seven years after the deal is completed, UCSF must negotiate contracts with insurers for the two hospitals separately from the rest of UCSF Health. This is to prevent UCSF from engaging in so-called all or nothing contracting, in which large providers can compel insurers and employers to contract with all hospitals in their system, or not at all. This practice has come under fire in recent years, as Californias health care market has gotten increasingly consolidated, for being anticompetitive. Additionally, UCSF must cap annual increases on how much the hospitals can charge insurers to no more than 4% each year. These measures are meant to maintain competition in the health care market. A rally organized by the California Nurses Association at City Hall on March 18. Nurses at St. Marys and St. Francis hospitals were concerned about the impact UCSFs acquisition of the two facilities would have on patient care. Bronte Wittpenn/The Chronicle San Franciscans deserve access to high-quality, affordable health care services, Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement. I take my responsibility to protect access to medical services in California seriously, and I am grateful to the Regents, UCSF Health and Dignity Health for working cooperatively and in good faith with my office to put the health of San Franciscans first. St. Marys and St. Francis have long treated many of the citys poorest residents, including unhoused residents and patients on government insurance. When the UC Regents in 2023 approved UCSF advancing negotiations to acquire the two hospitals, it raised concerns among many medical staff and others whether the community hospitals would continue to serve this vulnerable population. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This week alone, West Bengal reported two cases of public flogging of women, drawing the ire of the opposition in the state. The first case involved a Trinamool Congress worker, going by the name JCB, who allegedly beat a woman and a man in Uttar Dinajpurs Chopra read more Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday spoke out against the mob lynching incidents reported in West Bengal under the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government and slammed the Oppositions selective attitude on atrocities against women. This week alone, West Bengal reported two cases of public flogging of women, drawing the ire of the opposition in the state. The first case involved a Trinamool Congress worker, going by the name JCB, who allegedly beat a woman and a man in Uttar Dinajpurs Chopra. Advertisement Replying to a debate on a motion thanking President Droupadi Murmu for her address to the joint sitting of Parliament, Modi said a viral video recently showed a woman being publicly beaten up, but the opposition parties have remained silent. The Oppositions selective attitude on atrocities against women is very worrying. I have seen a video from Bengal on social media where a woman was being beaten. The incident that happened in Sandeshkhali was also atrocious. But even the senior leaders (of the opposition) have not said a word about it, PM Modi said. #WATCH | "The Opposition's selective attitude on atrocities against women is very worrying...I have seen a video from Bengal on social media where a woman was being beaten...The incident which happened in Sandeshkhali....But even the senior leaders (of the opposition) have not pic.twitter.com/iD26yzNo0g ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2024 The case of mob lynching in WB In Chopra, a man and a woman were beaten publically by a TMC worker JCB. Meanwhile, Chopra MLA Hamidul Rahaman said that the woman was an evil beast and that her activities were unsocial and thus she received the said treatment. Advertisement West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose on Monday sought a report from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on the flogging of a couple in public in Uttar Dinajpur districts Chopra, officials said. The governor is shocked by the incident, which was caught in a video, and called it barbarous, they said. He condemned the incident and has sought an immediate report from CM Banerjee, an official told PTI. The police on Sunday registered a case after the video of the incident that happened on Friday went viral on social media, sparking widespread outrage. With inputs from PTI Any delay in reforming the existing system is a sure prescription for more avoidable tragedies read more Muslim pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba, the cubic building at the Grand Mosque, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Monday, 17 June 2024. AP The deaths of more than 1,300 Hajj pilgrims, including 49 from India, reportedly because of extreme high temperatures in Mecca and Medina, are the latest disaster in a series of man-made tragedies to hit Islams holiest pilgrimage attended by millions of devout Muslims from different corners of the world. The fact is that the Hajj has become almost synonymous with such incidents. Its recent history is littered with accidents that have caused loss of lives and often provoked diplomatic rows with other countries over allegations of mismanagement by Saudi authorities. Advertisement All religious pilgrimages are prone to accidents, including our own India (for instance, Amarnath Yatra and Kumbh Mela latest being a fatal stampede in Hathras), but Hajj is particularly vulnerable because of the size of the congregation and the duration of the pilgrimage. And time is ripe for the Muslim world, especially Saudi Arabia which organises and supervises the mammoth congregation, to seriously rethink the way it is run now. At the heart of any such review should be a willingness to prioritise safety over religious dogmatism and fervour. By the way, the 1,300 figure of casualties is a conservative official estimate, and the unofficial toll is likely to be considerably higher. Meanwhile, there have been allegations of mismanagement and lack of proper facilities to protect vulnerable pilgrims from the effects of unprecedented heat. Many Indian Hajjis have joined the chorus of criticism. Pilgrims from Kerala, Hyderabad and Kashmir have been particularly vocal in voicing their anger over allegedly inadequate facilities and official indifference to their concerns. Similar allegations have been echoed by Pakistani pilgrims. A video posted by purports to show extremely poor arrangements in the scorching heat". More details of the real scale of the tragedy and whether it could have been avoided are likely to emerge in the coming days and weeks. A time-bound independent inquiry is needed to establish facts and identify factors other than extreme temperatures that might have contributed to such a high toll. Advertisement To the dismay of the bereaved families, Saudi authorities have sought to effectively disown any responsibility blaming the tragedy on allegedly unauthorised pilgrims and unscrupulous travel agents who helped them. Saudi Health Minister Fahd bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel said that 83 per cent of the 1,301 fatalities were unauthorised pilgrims who walked long distances in soaring temperatures to perform the Hajj rituals in and around the holy city of Mecca. Egypt, whose nationals accounted for more than half the casualties has revoked the licenses of 16 travel agencies that helped unauthorised pilgrims travel to Saudi Arabia. But that has failed to assuage public anger and feelings reportedly continue to run high. Advertisement What has happened has happened but the big question to be asked is whether the 1,000 plus deaths will change anything. Will things be better after this tragedy? The answer, on the basis of past experience, is: unlikely. Now, a quick recap of the tragedies that have marred the Hajj pilgrimage over the years: In 2015, a stampede killed some 2,300 worshippers in what is still regarded as by far the deadliest Hajj disaster. It happened during the stoning of the devil ritual in Mina, near Mecca. It came close on the heels of the death of more than 100 people when a crane toppled onto Meccas Grand Mosque on the eve of the pilgrimage. Advertisement The accident touched off a furious public row with Iran whose nationals accounted for more than half the casualties. Its Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameini accused the Saudis of mismanagement and called upon all Islamic countries to challenge the management of Mecca and Medina. Deaths caused by stampedes during the stoning" ritual in which worshippers throw pebbles at three headstones to symbolise their rejection of Satan also happened in 2005 and 2006. Other major accidents include a fatal crush in 1990 inside a pedestrian tunnel leading out from Mecca towards Mina and the Plains of Arafat causing killing 1,426 pilgrims; in 1975 a gas explosion in a tented accommodation housing pilgrims claimed 200 lives; and a tent fire in 1997 left more than 300 dead. Advertisement The tents have since been belatedly made fireproof. An elementary precaution that, if taken earlier, would have saved many lives. To put it in perspective, the Saudis have over the years taken a number of measures to improve pilgrims conditions and crackdown on unruly behaviour but clearly a lot still needs to be done in the areas of safety and crowd control. As pointed out earlier, the main problem is the sheer scale of Hajj enterprise, its nearly month-long duration and nature of its complicated rituals which include running (yes literally running between Safa and Marwa mountains to commemorate a seminal moment in early Islamic history; throwing stones at the devil and walking around the Kaaba). And compounding all this is the scramble to touch the sacred black stone or kiss it though it is considered un-Islamic. Try imagining nearly three million people fired up by religious passion and carried away by the significance of the event vying with each other at the same time to complete all these rituals. Older and frail people often struggle and some lose control as their fitter peers try to elbow them out. At densities above six to seven persons per square metre, individuals cannot move, groups are swept along in waves, individuals jostle to find breath and to avoid falling and being trampled, and hundreds of deaths can occur as a result, says a Wikipedia entry. The situation is tailor-made for accidents. Given the size of the congregation, no amount of crowd control can really avert the risk of something going wrong at some point. Despite widespread concerns, there has been no serious debate on how to deal with the problem because of religious sentiments associated with Hajj. But time has come to find creative ways of making the pilgrimage safer and less physically exhausting, especially for older people, without ruffling religious sensitivities. Broadly, there are broadly four aspects that need a fresh look: Reducing the long duration of the pilgrimage; dispensing with primitive rituals like stoning the devil; restrictions on approaching Kaaba; and capping the number of pilgrims to a more manageable size. True, there have been attempts to cap pilgrim numbers by reducing country-wise quotas but these have largely failed in the face of demands for more quotas, and complaints of discrimination from smaller countries. The result is a year-on-year increase rather than decrease in Hajj quotas. Recently, India had its quota raised under the Bilateral Hajj Agreement for 2024 following heavy diplomatic lobbying including a major intervention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the highest level. Thanking the Saudi government, Modi said had said that he requested the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia to increase the Haj quota for our Muslim brothers and sisters in India" as previously due to a smaller quota, only the influential people would get the chance to go for Haj. This is how the system works to make everyone happy: The host country, its friendly international allies and wannabe Hajjis. And, of course, it is good for businesses, travel agencies, touts, hoteliers, transport companies and tourism honchos. But after the latest tragedy, it cant continue to be business as usual without risking more loss of lives. Any delay in reforming the existing system is a sure prescription for more avoidable tragedies. Phil Schiller, Apples head of App Store development and former marketing chief, has been selected for this observer role at OpenAI. As an observer, Schiller will be able to attend board meetings at OpenAI, but he wont have the same voting rights as full board members read more There are concerns that some OpenAI board meetings might discuss sensitive matters related to Microsoft's involvement with the company. In such scenarios, Microsoft could request Schiller's exclusion from these discussions. Image Credit: Reuters, Reuters Apple is set to take on a new role as a board observer at OpenAI, a development that was revealed during WWDC 2024. This move is part of a broader partnership aimed at enhancing both companies AI capabilities. Phil Schiller, Apples head of App Store development and former marketing chief, has been selected for this observer role at OpenAI. As an observer, Schiller will be able to attend board meetings at OpenAI, but he wont have the same voting rights or influence over decisions as full board members. Advertisement A report from Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the situation, indicates that Schiller has not yet attended any OpenAI board meetings. Schiller transitioned from his role as Apples marketing chief in 2020 to focus on App Store development and new product launches. Despite not being directly involved in Apples latest AI projects, his extensive experience at Apple made him a suitable choice for the observer position. In June, Apple announced the integration of ChatGPT with its latest operating system updates, alongside its own AI features branded as Apple Intelligence. The partnership with OpenAI reportedly doesnt involve any financial transactions, which likely explains Apples observer status. Interestingly, Microsoft also holds an observer role at OpenAI, which could create tension given the competitive nature of their relationship. There are concerns that some OpenAI board meetings might discuss sensitive matters related to Microsofts involvement with the company. In such scenarios, Microsoft could request Schillers exclusion from these discussions. Through this partnership with OpenAI, Apple aims to offer its users access to a highly popular chatbot, potentially opening up new revenue streams. By providing the paid version of OpenAIs ChatGPT, Apple can benefit from App Store fees, adding to its revenue. For OpenAI, this partnership means gaining access to Apples large user base, particularly those interested in AI and advanced language models. This collaboration is part of Apples broader push into AI, with the company also seeking similar partnerships with Google and AI startup Anthropic. Advertisement In China, Apple is exploring potential agreements with local companies that have government approval for their AI and language model technologies. Potential partners include Alibaba and Baidu, as Apple plans to expand the availability of its AI features in this market. The AI features previewed at WWDC will initially be available only in US English later in 2024. The international rollout of Apple Intelligence will take more time, as Apple needs to navigate various local regulations and address concerns from EU regulators to ensure compliance. Overall, Apples new observer role at OpenAI is a strategic move to bolster its AI capabilities and enhance its product offerings. This partnership represents a significant step in Apples ongoing efforts to integrate advanced AI features into its ecosystem, promising exciting developments for its users and the tech industry at large. Last year, BYDs overall production for battery-only and hybrid vehicles, exceeded 3 million units, outpacing Teslas 1.84 million. While BYD produced 1.6 million battery-only cars and 1.4 million hybrids, Tesla remained the leader in BEV production alone. read more In response to the rising influence of Chinese EVs, the European Union recently announced additional tariffs on Chinese EV manufacturers to mitigate the threat to EU's EV industry. Image Credit: AFP Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD is on course to surpass Tesla in battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales this year, with its market share expected to rise significantly, according to a report by Counterpoint Research. This development highlights the evolving nature of the global EV market. In the second quarter, BYDs BEV sales saw a nearly 21 per cent increase year-on-year, reaching 426,039 units. In contrast, Teslas deliveries for the same period dropped by 4.8 per cent, totalling 443,956 vehicles. Advertisement Last year, BYDs overall production, which includes both battery-only and hybrid vehicles, exceeded 3 million units, outpacing Teslas 1.84 million cars for the second consecutive year. While BYD produced 1.6 million battery-only passenger cars and 1.4 million hybrids, Tesla remained the leader in BEV production alone. However, BYD lost its position as the top EV vendor to Tesla in the first quarter. Despite this, Counterpoint Research emphasized that China continues to be a dominant force in the BEV market, with BYD at the forefront. Chinese BEV sales are projected to be four times those of North America in 2024, with China maintaining over 50 per cent of the global BEV market share until 2027. By 2030, Chinese BEV sales are expected to exceed the combined sales of North America and Europe. In response to the rising influence of Chinese EVs, the European Union recently announced additional tariffs on Chinese EV manufacturers to mitigate the threat to EUs EV industry. BYD is likely to be hit with a 17.4 per cent tariff, SAIC to 38.1 per cent duty, and Geely will see a 20 per cent duty, on top of the standard 10 per cent duty that is already imposed on imported EVs. These provisional duties will be implemented starting July 4, unless ongoing discussions with Chinese authorities yield a resolution. EU hopes that its new tariffs will create a level playing field for European EV manufacturers, who are struggling to compete with the lower-priced Chinese imports. Counterpoint Researchs associate director, Liz Lee, suggested that these tariffs might drive Chinese automakers to focus on emerging markets like the Middle East and Africa, Latin America, Southeast Asia, and Australia and New Zealand. Advertisement Global BEV sales are anticipated to reach 10 million units in 2024, alongside the continued decline of internal combustion engine vehicles. This growth will be supported by efforts to enhance cost-efficiency and affordability for EVs and their batteries. For creators of original content, protecting their work remains challenging. However, sudden changes in Googles algorithm can drastically reduce website traffic, leaving publishers with no recourse read more Googles spam policies explicitly mention that sites copying content from other sources, modifying it slightly, and republishing it are considered abusive scraping. However, it has been silent on whether such results get deranked. Image Credit: AFP A recent study has revealed that Googles search algorithm still ranks AI-generated, SEO-focused content higher than original content, despite the companys efforts to improve search results. As reported by 404 Media, AI-powered articles frequently appeared for basic queries in Google News results at the beginning of the year. In response, Google announced significant algorithm changes and new spam policies in an attempt to enhance the quality of search results. By the end of April, Google claimed that the rollout of these changes was complete. Elizabeth Tucker, a director of product management at Google, shared in a blog post that the adjustments had reduced low-quality, unoriginal content in search results by 45 per cent, exceeding their initial goal of a 40 per cent improvement. Advertisement Despite these efforts, AI-generated spam content remains a prevalent issue in Google News, as per an investigation by the Wired. Lily Ray, senior director of search engine optimization at the marketing agency Amsive, highlighted that the problem is widespread, and told the publication that some of her clients have noticed their articles being rehashed by AI, resulting in content that closely mimics the original but is essentially a jumble of AI-rewritten text. In the investigation, it was clear that some blog sites were completely dependent on AI, even getting their images generated by AI. This was visible due to some noticeable flaws in the illustrations. Upon reaching out to a creator of one such blog, an Italian marketing agency confirmed they used an AI tool for content creation. They asserted that their process respects intellectual property, though their attribution practices were minimal, often limited to a single hyperlink at the end of a given article. When contacted for a response about the blog in question, Google declined to comment on specific websites but reiterated that their updated spam policies prohibit creating low-value, unoriginal content at scale to rank well on Google. Googles spokesperson, Meghann Farnsworth, emphasized that the company takes action against sites globally that violate their policies. Googles spam policies explicitly mention that sites copying content from other sources, modifying it slightly, and republishing it are considered abusive scraping. Despite this, Farnsworth did not confirm whether the mentioned blog violated these policies or if it would be de-ranked in Google News results. For creators of original content, protecting their work remains challenging. Andrew Boyd, a consultant at the online link-building service Forte Analytica, expressed the anxiety and frustration within the industry. He pointed out that sudden changes in Googles algorithm can drastically reduce website traffic, leaving publishers with no recourse. Advertisement The persistence of low-quality, AI-generated content in search results is causing tension in the SEO industry. Ray expressed frustration, noting that while some publishers strive to produce high-quality content, they are often outperformed by inferior, AI-generated articles. This situation creates a disincentive for publishers to invest in quality content, potentially eroding user trust in search results. Despite Googles efforts to refine its search algorithm and enforce stricter spam policies, AI-generated content continues to dominate search rankings, creating challenges for original content creators. The ongoing battle against spam highlights the need for more robust measures to ensure high-quality, trustworthy content remains at the forefront of search results. The founders of Koo wanted to position the app as an alternative to Elon Musks X, formerly Twitter. They believe most media outlets and VCs dont want to deal with the wild nature of a social media company read more The extended funding drought, which has pressured startups globally to focus on revenue growth and financial stability, proved too challenging for Koo. The founders admitted that the tough economic climate had overwhelmed them. Image Credit: Koo Koo, the Indian social media platform that sought to compete with Elon Musks X, is shutting down its operations after discussions of a potential acquisition with Dailyhunt failed. Despite receiving over $60 million in funding from notable investors such as Tiger Global and Accel, Koo encountered significant challenges in growing its user base and generating revenue over the past two years. A failed attempt to raise funds In February, TechCrunch reported that Koo was in talks with Dailyhunt, an internet media startup valued at $5 billion, for a potential sale. However, these discussions did not result in an agreement, as confirmed by Koos founders on Wednesday. Advertisement Koo aimed to attract users in India by providing a platform similar to X, where they could express themselves in multiple local languages. The platform gained initial traction during a period of tension between Twitter and the Indian government. Koos meteoric rise The conflict arose when Twitter resisted the governments opaque requests for content removal, leading to allegations by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey that the Indian government had threatened to shut down the social network and raid the homes of its employees. The Indian government denied these allegations, with a top minister at the time accusing Dorsey of trying to downplay a controversial period in Twitters history. Taking advantage of the situation, Koo presented itself as a compliant alternative, promising to follow local regulations. This strategy attracted many high-profile Indian politicians to the platform, although almost none from the opposition party. Koo also expanded its app to Brazil in an attempt to grow its user base internationally. Why is Koo shutting down? Founders Aprameya Radhakrishna and Mayank Bidawatka revealed in a LinkedIn post that they had explored partnerships with various larger internet companies, conglomerates, and media houses, but none led to the desired outcome. Many potential partners were reluctant to deal with user-generated content and the unpredictable nature of a social media platform. Advertisement However, the extended funding drought, which has pressured startups globally to focus on revenue growth and financial stability, proved too challenging for Koo. The founders admitted that the tough economic climate had overwhelmed them. Indian entrepreneurs and investors have long sought to develop local alternatives to popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, and YouTube. However, the struggles faced by Koo underscore the difficulty of competing with established American companies that have proven more adept at serving even the most diverse segments of the Indian market. Originally, GPAI started with 15 member nations and has since expanded to 29. Indias proposal aims to further expand this body to include nearly 44 countries by early next year, with plans to reach 65 countries by February read more GPAI members also agreed that the group would lead global discussions on AI governance, ensuring the technology remains safe and trusted. This collective agreement underscores the importance of GPAI's role in the future of AI governance and innovation. Image Credit: Reuters India is making significant strides in its effort to establish the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) as the leading authority on all matters related to AI, including regulations and the development of a global framework. Major countries such as the US, France, Canada, the UK, Japan, Korea, Brazil, and Argentina have agreed on this initiative, with a ministerial sign-off and final negotiations set for July 3, according to government insiders. A formal announcement is expected soon after. Advertisement Indias current chairmanship of GPAI reflects its commitment to responsible AI development and use. By expanding GPAI to include more countries, especially from the Global South, India aims to strengthen the alliances influence on global AI policymaking. This expansion aligns with Indias vision of a more inclusive and participatory global AI governance structure. Union Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted in December that New Delhi is actively negotiating with the 29 member countries of GPAI to reach a consensus on a declaration statement concerning the proper use of AI, establishing guardrails for the technology, and determining its treatment. He noted a global convergence in thinking about AI, acknowledging its potential benefits and the importance of managing its dangers. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has been engaged in intense negotiations over the past six months, focusing on including OECD nations in GPAI and increasing the Global Souths partnership in AI regulation. Key issues under discussion include AI collaboration across governments, establishing common standards, compute capacity, and regulatory frameworks. Originally, GPAI started with 15 member nations and has since expanded to 29. Indias proposal aims to further expand this body to include nearly 44 countries by early next year, with plans to reach 65 countries by February. Advertisement This expansion seeks to address the current dominance of European Union nations and the limited presence of developing countries, particularly from the Global South. The effort to consolidate various AI-related bodies under the GPAI umbrella aims to create a central and more robust organization, thereby avoiding duplication of efforts. In December, the 29 GPAI member nations unanimously adopted the New Delhi resolution, which committed to positioning GPAI at the forefront of shaping AIs future. This resolution emphasized innovation and collaborative AI applications in sectors such as healthcare and agriculture. GPAI members also agreed that the group would lead global discussions on AI governance, ensuring the technology remains safe and trusted. This collective agreement underscores the importance of GPAIs role in the future of AI governance and innovation. Speaking to journalists after the meeting, party spokesperson Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat said, The prime minister should pave the way after the largest parties Nepali Congress and UML said they would form a new government together. This is also included in the decision. read more Nepali Congress president Sher Bahadur Deuba Wednesday asked Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda to resign and pave the way for the formation of a new government, as the ruling coalition partner CPN-UML withdrew support after a power-sharing deal with the largest party to oust the former guerrilla leader. The Prime Minister should resign after the largest parties NC and UML said that they would form a new government together," Deuba told reporters after a crucial meeting of the party at his residence at Budhanilkantha on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Advertisement Deuba, 78, and Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) chairman K P Sharma Oli, 72, - both former premiers - inked a power-sharing deal Monday night to form a new government. They agreed to share the Prime Ministerial position on a rotation basis for the rest of the term of the Parliament. Meanwhile, the largest party in the ruling coalition - CPN-UML - withdrew support to Prime Minister Prachanda-led government. Our party has withdrawn support to the government, said Bishnu Rijal, deputy chief of UMLs publicity committee. The CPN-UML has eight ministers in the Prachanda Cabinet, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport Raghubir Mahaseth. The CPN-UML joined the government on March 5, after Prime Minister Prachanda allied with the CPN-UML, ditching its year-long partnership with the Congress. All the UML ministers have submitted their resignations to the Prime Minister, Rijal added. Nepali Congress, the largest party in the 275-member House of Representatives, has 89 seats at present, while CPN-UML has 78 seats. Their combined strength of 167 is sufficient for a majority of 138 seats in the lower house. Prachandas party has 32 seats. The Nepali Congress Central Work Performance Committee (CWC) earlier in the day met at Deubas residence at Budhanilkantha to discuss the current political situation and the partys future strategy. The meeting reviewed the latest political situation in the country and discussed the future course of action, said NC spokesperson Prakash Sharan Mahat. Advertisement The meeting also endorsed the agreement reached between Deuba and Oli to form a new coalition and share the post of Prime Minister on a rotation basis, he said. The meeting mainly discussed the agenda and modality of formation of the new coalition government. The seven-point deal finalised between Deuba and Oli on Monday night includes the sharing of the remaining three-year term of Parliament between the two parties, the ministerial division, provincial leadership roles and a rotation for the prime ministerial position. Oli will assume the post of Prime Minister in the first phase and after one-and-a-half-year, the Nepali Congress will get the leadership of the government. Advertisement Speaking to journalists after the meeting, party spokesperson Dr Prakash Sharan Mahat said, The prime minister should pave the way after the largest parties Nepali Congress and UML said they would form a new government together. This is also included in the decision. Other parties, too, are supporting the new Nepali Congress-UML alliance. So, the Nepali Congress CWC has requested the prime minister to pave the way, he added. Mahat said a new government will be formed through the constitutional process if the prime minister does not pave the way for the formation of a new government. Meanwhile, the spokesperson of Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal Manish Suman said that his party will support the new coalition but has not yet decided on joining the government. JSP Nepal has five members in the Parliament. Rastriya Prajatantra Party with 14 members in the House of Representatives and Lokatantrik Samajwadi Party with four seats have also indicated support for the new coalition. Advertisement However, embattled Prime Minister Prachanda has refused to resign from the post and said he would rather face a vote of confidence in Parliament. According to the constitutional provision, the prime minister losing a majority support in the House will be required to prove a majority within 30 days. The prime minister must seek a vote of confidence once a ruling alliance withdraws support. This will be the fifth time Prachanda, 69, will seek a vote of confidence within a term of one and a half years. The former guerilla leader has won three votes of confidence in Parliament. The CPN-UML has already urged Prime Minister Prachanda to step down from the position so that a new government can be formed as per the constitutional provision. Advertisement It also asked all the political parties to join the national government under the leadership of Oli to bolster political stability in the country. Nepal has had 13 governments in the last 16 years, indicating the fragile nature of the Himalayan nations political system. While China and the Philippines agreed to de-escalate tensions in the disputed South China Sea and to maintain dialogue and consultations on the issue in a meeting held in Manila on Tuesday, significant differences remained between the two sides, according to a report read more In this handout photo provided by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, Philippine Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, left, and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong shake hands during the Philippines and China 9th Meeting of their Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea in Manila, Philippines, on Tuesday. AP While China and the Philippines agreed to de-escalate tensions in the disputed South China Sea and to maintain dialogue and consultations on the issue in a meeting held in Manila on Tuesday, significant differences remained between the two sides, according to a report. The meeting took place after several rounds of maritime confrontations between the two countries, which raised concerns of a potential wider conflict in the South China Sea, one of the worlds busiest shipping routes. At Tuesdays bilateral consultative mechanism meeting in Manila, co-chaired by Chinas deputy foreign minister Chen Xiaodong and the Philippine foreign ministry undersecretary Theresa Lazaro, the two sides exchanged views on the situation in the South China Sea, particularly tensions at Second Thomas Shoal. Issues covered in the talks included ways to improve the sea-related communication mechanism between the two countries and how to promote dialogue between their coastguards. The two sides made substantial progress on developing measures to manage the situation at sea, but significant differences remain, the South China Morning Post quoted the Philippine foreign affairs department as saying in a statement released on Tuesday night. What the two sided agreed on China and the Philippines both believe that maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea is in the interests of both, and is also the common goal of regional countries, according to a Chinese foreign ministry statement released late on Tuesday night The two sides also agreed to continue to maintain dialogue and consultation to control disputes and differences, added the statement, which described the meeting as frank and constructive. An agreement was signed to improve communications during emergencies at sea and both sides agreed to continue talks on enhancing ties between their coast guards but no details were provided. Another confidence-building plan was the convening of an academic forum among scientists and academics to improve marine scientific cooperation. Sticking points While both the sides affirmed their commitment to de-escalate tensions without prejudice to their respective positions, Lazaro, however, told Chen that Manila would remain relentless in protecting its interests and upholding its sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea, according to a statement by Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, using Manilas name for South China Sea waters within the Philippines exclusive economic zone. China, for its part, reiterated its claims over the waterway, including the Second Thomas Shoal, which has emerged as an epicenter of the dispute. Three of Manilas ships were damaged on June 17 when Chinese sailors surrounded and boarded them while wielding edged weapons, and one Filipino sailor lost a finger. Manila had hoped China would promise to pay for the damage they caused during the most recent incident. But the meeting ended without any substantial agreement on the issue. Meeting after dramatic standoff Manila and Beijing have a long history of maritime territorial disputes in the hotly contested waterway but last months incident was the most serious in a number of escalating confrontations. Chinese coast guard personnel wielding knives, sticks and an axe surrounded and boarded three Philippine navy boats on June 17 during a resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal. Advertisement A Filipino soldier lost a finger in the clash, with Manila also accusing the Chinese coast guard of looting guns and damaging three boats as well as navigational and communication equipment. Beijing insisted its coast guard behaved in a professional and restrained way and blamed Manila for the clash. A handful of Filipino troops are stationed on a rusty warship deliberately grounded on Second Thomas Shoal in 1999 to assert Manilas claims to the area. Chinas sweeping claim China 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. Chinese forces have used water cannon and military-grade lasers and collided with Filipino resupply vessels and their escorts in previous confrontations near disputed reefs. Second Thomas Shoal lies about 200 kilometres (120 miles) from the western Philippine island of Palawan and more than 1,000 kilometres from Chinas nearest major landmass, Hainan island. China deploys coast guard and other boats to patrol the waters around the shoal and has turned several reefs into artificial militarised islands. With inputs from agencies Netanyahu is slated to address the joint session of the House of Representatives and the Senate on July 24 during a visit to Washington read more Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden are likely to meet in Washington later this month when the Israeli premier visits the US to address a joint session of Congress. The President has known Prime Minister Netanyahu for three decades. They will likely see each other when the prime minister is here over the course of that week, but we have nothing to announce at this time, Times of Israel report quoted a White House official as saying. Advertisement Netanyahu is slated to address the joint session of the House of Representatives and the Senate on July 24 during a visit to Washington. According to a CNN report, which was the first to report about a likely Biden-Netanyahu meeting, said the logistical details of their meeting expected at the White House were still being finalised. While the US has maintained its strong support for Israel both diplomatically and in providing weapons amid the war in Gaza, Biden has on some occasions expressed concerns about Israels conduct. For instance, he once termed Israels bombing campaign in Gaza as indiscriminate while also labeling its military response on another occasion as over the top. In a call with Netanyahu in April after the killing of aid workers, Biden urged him to take more steps to protect civilians in Gaza, saying US policy may change otherwise. Republicans have criticised Biden, a Democrat, for this and said urged more support for Israel. There has been mounting international criticism of Israels conduct and of US support for its ally in a war that has so far killed tens of thousands and created a humanitarian crisis. Nearly 38,000 people have been killed during the war in Gaza, the local health ministry says, with many more feared buried in rubble as nearly the entire enclave has been flattened and most of its 2.3 million population displaced. There is also widespread hunger in Gaza. The war has led to genocide allegations that Israel denies. Advertisement Israels assault on Gaza began after Palestinian Islamist group Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and abducting 250 hostages to the Hamas-governed enclave, according to Israeli tallies. With inputs from agencies Demonstrators participate in a rally outside the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday in Washington, D.C. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Regarding Supreme Court rules ex-presidents have broad immunity, dimming chance of a pre-election Trump trial (U.S. & World, SFChronicle.com, July 1): Building a kingdom As Ben Franklin said, A republic if you can keep it. July 1, 2024, is the date it was lost. Under Mondays outrageous decision by six Supreme Court justices, the president of the United States is authorized to act like a king, immune from criminal law and free to commit any crime he perceives will advance his agenda, his party, friends and cronies, personal power, wealth or thirst for revenge, without fear of criminal prosecution. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Remember these names: Samuel Alito, Amy Coney Barrett, Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh, John Roberts and Clarence Thomas, the radical six whove thrown the rule of law in America on the trash heap of history, setting the stage for tyranny that will come. July 1 will go down in history as the tragic end of America as a country created by rebellion against the idea of government by kings. Read their fatuous decision and weep for your country. Jamie Harris, Lafayette Conservatives taking over The Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that Donald Trump is immune from prosecution for official acts but the justices returned his case to the trial judge to decide which of the former presidents acts may be prosecutable. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Practically speaking there will be no trial before the November election, and if elected, Trump will have his Justice Department end the case. Who said Trump was not above the law? With Trumps likely election and the probable implementation of Project 2025, a set of proposals from the conservative Heritage Foundation to reshape the federal government and consolidate executive power, our countrys transition from a democracy to a banana republic will be well on its way. Ralph Stone, San Francisco Remember RBG The ghost of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg is with us this week, and shes saying Beware! Advertisement Article continues below this ad Between the spectacle of the Joe Biden-Donald Trump presidential debate and the slew of horrifying rulings from this Supreme Court, were looking at an incipient right-wing takeover of the country if the national political picture does not change. I love Biden. To quote U.S. representative John L. Lewis, Biden is a man of courage. Like our beloved Notorious RBG, Biden needs to step down while it is still possible to pass the torch. If RBG had retired during the Obama presidency, we would have a very different Supreme Court and a better chance of preserving our fragile democracy. The Democratic Party needs to provide a fresh team to appeal to voters. We have Sens. Chris Coons, Mazie Hirono, Tim Kaine and Mark Kelly; Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer; Rep. Ruben Gallegos, and even Ambassador Rahm Emanuel and former Rep. Beto ORourke. Amelia Marshall, Oakland Advertisement Article continues below this ad Too much power The Supreme Courts decision regarding presidential immunity for official acts is catastrophic for the upcoming presidential election. Giving presidents that kind of power leaves them free to do almost anything: Put a political opponent in jail (e.g., Joe Biden, Hunter Biden, Hilary Clinton), close down any U.S. agency they dont like (e.g., Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Justice), expel millions of migrants from the U.S., and use the military to imprison or kill U.S. citizens they dont like. It is time for influencers to come forward and convince their fans and followers to not vote for Donald Trump, a twisted, lying, ignorant person. I realize that famous people may not ordinarily speak about politics. The future of the United States now depends on everyone speaking up. Mary Gardner Advertisement Article continues below this ad Court is tainted Sadly, it appears that the United States Supreme Court is hell-bent on destroying our democracy. 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 I suppose this was to be expected after the six conservatives overturned Roe v. Wade, including at least three who perjured themselves when they testified at their Senate confirmation hearings that they recognized the precedential authority of Roe. The presidential immunity decision is further proof of just how corrupt and anti-democratic the conservative majority of the court has become. They have crowned Donald Trump as king in whose court they are happy to serve as court jesters. Zhang presented himself as an obstetrician-gynecologist at a renowned Shanghai hospital during their six-year romance. In addition, he declared that he was a graduate of a Chinese medical school of distinction. He painted a convincing picture of a successful professional, and Huang never challenged his story. Three months after their first meeting, they began dating read more Zhang's practice of putting off Huang's pleas to visit him at the hospital, citing a busy schedule full of clinical exams or procedures, was one possible red flag A man in China was found guilty of fraud after tricking his girlfriend out of 2.6 million yuan (about 3 crore) by posing as a physician at a renowned hospital. Zhang, who was formerly working at a hotel, was fined 250,000 yuan (about Rs. 29, 22, 396) and given an 11-year, six-month prison sentence for his acts. The specific dates of the occurrences were not disclosed when the court released the cases contents to the public in May. The South China Morning Post said that Zhang started the fraud in 2016 after getting to know Huang, his girlfriend who worked at a mall. Advertisement Zhang presented himself as an obstetrician-gynecologist at a renowned Shanghai hospital during their six-year romance. In addition, he declared that he was a graduate of a Chinese medical school of distinction. He painted a convincing picture of a successful professional, and Huang never challenged his story. Three months after their first meeting, they began dating. Zhangs practice of putting off Huangs pleas to visit him at the hospital, citing a busy schedule full of clinical exams or procedures, was one possible red flag, though. They started going on dates frequently on the hospital lawn as their relationship grew. However, Zhang became addicted to gambling by November 2016 and racked up large debt. He began stealing money from Huang on the guise of investing in a house, but he really used it for debt repayment and gambling. Huang gave Zhang more than 2.6 million yuan during their romance. Concerns were raised by Huangs family when Zhang started to withhold the money. Huang eventually became upset with the state of affairs and checked to see if Zhang was working at the hospital. To his surprise, Zhang was not. The prosecution stated throughout the trial, Love is beautiful, but one must also be wary of sweet traps. Following the social media virality of the case information, Huang received a lot of sympathy from users. One user wrote, She was too blinded by love. The decision comes amid rising trade tensions between the EU and China. Germanys economy ministry can review and stop transactions deemed to have national security implications, and Berlin and the EU are trying to reduce risks from economic ties with Beijing. read more A Volkswagen logo is seen during the New York International Auto Show, in Manhattan, New York City, U.S., April 5, 2023. File Photo- Reuters Germany will block the planned sale of Volkswagen subsidiary MAN Energy Solutions gas turbine division to a Chinese company, two government sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday. The decision comes amid rising trade tensions between the EU and China. Germanys economy ministry can review and stop transactions deemed to have national security implications, and Berlin and the EU are trying to reduce risks from economic ties with Beijing. The planned sale of the German business to Chinese state-owned CSIC Longjiang GH Gas Turbine Co (GHGT) was announced in June 2023 at an undisclosed price, but MAN Energy Solutions said in September the government would take a close look. Advertisement GHGT belongs to the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), which dominates the Chinese shipbuilding industry. Some German politicians are concerned that China might use the gas turbines not for civilian purposes but to power warships.Asked about the decision at a news conference, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser welcomed it for security reasons. Economy Minister Robert Habeck said Germany generally welcomed investment but that technologies important for public order must be protected and that was why the deal was stopped. MAN Energy Solutions said it respected the governments decision and would start a structured process to wind down the new development of gas turbines.We will carry out this phase with the utmost care, taking into account the interests of our employees, customers and partners, a spokesperson said in an emailed statement. The business has some 14,000 employees. One source had told Reuters on Tuesday that the group would retain its profitable turbine service business. The German government has called on firms to reduce their dependence on China the countrys most important trade partner - and is pressing for a level playing field for companies. The EU is also taking action against what it believes are unfair Chinese subsidies in the electric vehicle sector, though Germanys VDA auto association has urged the European Commission to drop its planned tariffs. Following his debate performance with his Republican rival, former President Donald Trump, Democrats and donors alike are worried about President Joe Bidens prospects read more Washington: President Joe Bidens disastrous debate performance has reverberated across the Democratic Party, forcing lawmakers to grapple with a crisis that could upend the presidential election and change the course of American history. The Democratic president has signaled he has no intention of dropping out of the race against Donald Trump despite the halting and uneven debate delivery that threw a spotlight on questions about Bidens age and capacity to be president. But as Democrats make the case that the stakes of the election are momentous challenging no less than the foundations of American democracy itself they are wrestling with how to approach the 81-year-old who is supposed to be leading the charge for their party. Advertisement Heres how Democrats are handling the aftermath of the debate: Raising alarm Rep. Lloyd Doggett, a Democrat from Texas, on Tuesday became the first sitting Democrat in Congress to call for Biden to withdraw from the race. In a statement, he praised Biden but said he has the opportunity to encourage a new generation of leaders from whom a nominee can be chosen to unite our country through an open, democratic process. Recognising that, unlike Trump, President Bidens first commitment has always been to our country, not himself, I am hopeful that he will make the painful and difficult decision to withdraw. I respectfully call on him to do so, Doggett said. A number of other congressional Democrats have tip-toed in recent days toward outspoken concern not just over Bidens performance during the 90-minute debate on Thursday night, but also the level of transparency that Bidens team has offered about his mental fitness. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., told a local CBS-affiliated television station this week that he was horrified by both Bidens performance and Trumps falsehoods during the debate. People want to make sure that this is a campaign thats ready to go and win, Whitehouse said. That the president and his team are being candid with us about his condition that this was a real anomaly. Rep. Jamie Raskin, a prominent Democrat from Maryland, said on MSNBC, There are very honest and serious and rigorous conversations taking place at every level of our party. Advertisement Raskin said Democrats needed Biden at the very centre of their campaign to make the argument that the Republican Party is slipping towards authoritarianism under Trump, but also raised the possibility that Biden would not continue as the presidential candidate. Some are concerned that Bidens weaknesses could tamp down potential voters enthusiasm, creating a ripple effect that hurts Democrats as they try to hold on to a narrow Senate majority and take back control of the House. Down-ballot Democrats are already confident they can outperform Biden in swing races, but if large numbers of voters reject Biden, it could also impact them. Advertisement Rep. Mike Quigley, D-Ill., told CNN on Tuesday that he wanted Biden to recognise how much this impacts not just his race but all the other races coming in November. According to the Wall Street Journal, some Democrats are now openly questioning whether Biden should step aside for a new nominee. We have to be honest with ourselves that it wasnt just a horrible night, Rep. Mike Quigley (D., Ill.) said on CNN on Tuesday. I wont go beyond that out of my respect and understanding President Joe Biden, a very proud person who has served us extraordinarily well for 50 years. But its his decision. I just want him to appreciate at this time just how much it impacts, not just his race, but all the other races coming in November. Advertisement Several prominent Democratic donors voiced significant anxiety over Bidens electoral prospects. Three donors specifically lamented that Bidens increasing vulnerability could jeopardise the partys ability to retain the Senate and regain control of the House. Feeling it out The debate infused a new dynamic into an election contest that had been marked by few surprises. Voters were familiar with both Biden and Trump and had previously decided between the two in 2020. Still, many House Democrats were caught in a state of uncertainty as they faced a barrage of questions on the Friday morning after the debate. Some chalked it up as little more than a bad night for Biden, but others are watching closely to see how voters react and whether Biden can execute a quick political recovery. Advertisement Rep. James Clyburn, a South Carolina Democrat who helped Biden win the Democratic nomination in 2020, urged his party last week to stay the course and chill out. By Tuesday, Clyburn was still supporting Biden for president, but also told MSNBC that Biden may decide otherwise. Clyburn added that he would support Vice President Kamala Harris if Biden withdrew. Clyburn and others like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., are recommending that Biden prove to the American people that he is ready for another four years in office by going out and taking tough interviews something he has rarely done in recent years. Biden will sit for an interview with ABC, his first since the debate, later in the week. Both Clyburn and Pelosi told MSNBC at midday Tuesday that they had not spoken directly with Biden since the debate. But Pelosi still emphasised that the president is on top of his game, in terms of knowing the issues and what is at stake. She called on both Biden and Trump to face tests for their health and mental acuity. I think it is a legitimate question to say is this an episode or is this a condition. So when people ask that question, its legitimate of both candidates, Pelosi said. Meanwhile, rank-and-file lawmakers are watching to see how voter polls register the impact and whether it spills into down-ballot races. For months, vulnerable House Democrats have been distancing themselves from some of Bidens policies. That phenomenon could become more pronounced after the debate. Rep. Jared Golden, a moderate Democrat from Maine, was already looking for ways to convince potential Trump voters to support him. While I dont plan to vote for him, Donald Trump is going to win, Golden said in a Bangor Daily News op-ed. And Im OK with that. With inputs from AP External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Astana, Kazakhstan, on the sidelines of the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and pressed for the safe and expeditious return of Indian nationals stuck in the war zone read more External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Astana on Wednesday. Image Courtesy: @DrSJaishankar External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday met his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov in Astana, Kazakhstan, on the sidelines of the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and pressed for the safe and expeditious return of Indian nationals stuck in the war zone. Several Indians were lured to Russia on the pretext of getting good jobs but were forced to fight the war with Ukraine. Good to meet Russian FM Sergey Lavrov in Astana today. Wide ranging conversation on our bilateral partnership and contemporary issues. Noted the progress in many areas since our last meeting in December 2023. Raised our strong concern on Indian nationals who are currently in pic.twitter.com/pPlM4HSesr Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 3, 2024 Advertisement Taking to X he said, Good to meet Russian FM Sergey Lavrov in Astana today. Wide-ranging conversation on our bilateral partnership and contemporary issues. Noted the progress in many areas since our last meeting in December 2023. He said he also raised Indias strong concern over Indian nationals who are currently in the war zone. Pressed for their safe and expeditious return, he added. He also discussed the global strategic landscape and exchanged assessments and views. Earlier on Tuesday, Jaishankar met his Kazakh counterpart Murat Nurtleu and the two leaders exchanged views on various issues, including Indias increasing engagement with Central Asia. Delighted to meet DPM & FM Murat Nurtleu of Kazakhstan in Astana today. Thanked him for the hospitality and arrangements for the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit. Discussed our expanding Strategic Partnership and Indias increasing engagement with Central Asia in various pic.twitter.com/0Z6t3SyPxG Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 2, 2024 Advertisement Delighted to meet DPM & FM Murat Nurtleu of Kazakhstan in Astana today. Thanked him for the hospitality and arrangements for the SCO Council of Heads of State Summit. Discussed our expanding Strategic Partnership and Indias increasing engagement with Central Asia in various formats. Also exchanged views on regional and global issues, he wrote in a post on X. Jaishankar will represent India at the two-day SCO Summit beginning today which is expected to focus on the regional security situation and ways to boost connectivity and trade. Advertisement The SCO, comprising India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, is an influential economic and security bloc that has emerged as one of the largest transregional international organisations. Indias priorities in SCO are shaped by Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of a SECURE SCO. SECURE stands for Security, Economic cooperation, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environmental protection, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement ahead of the summit. At the summit, the leaders are expected to review the organisations activities over the past two decades and discuss the state and prospects of multilateral cooperation, said the MEA, adding,Topical issues of regional and international importance are also expected to be discussed at the meeting. Advertisement The situation in Afghanistan, the Ukraine conflict and boosting overall security cooperation among the SCO member countries are likely to figure in the summit. Generally, the Indian Prime Minister participates in the SCO summit. However, PM Modi is not participating in the annual meeting this year as he is occupied with the ongoing Parliament session. With inputs from agencies Russian authorities accused Vinatier of failing to register as a foreign agent while collecting information about Russias military and military-technical activities which could be used to the detriment of the countrys security. read more French citizen Laurent Vinatier, right, is escorted into a cage in a courtroom in the Zamoskvoretsky District Court in Moscow, Russia on Friday, June 7, 2024. File Photo- AP A French citizen arrested in Russia has pleaded guilty to criminal charges involving illegally collecting information on military issues in the country, state news agency Tass said Wednesday. Laurent Vinatier was arrested in the Russian capital in June as tensions flared between Moscow and Paris following French President Emmanuel Macrons comments about the possibility of deploying French troops in Ukraine. Russian authorities accused Vinatier of failing to register as a foreign agent while collecting information about Russias military and military-technical activities which could be used to the detriment of the countrys security. Advertisement Under Russian law, the offense is punishable by up to five years in prison. Vinatier is an adviser with the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, a Geneva-based nongovernmental organization. A judge previously ordered him to be remanded in pretrial detention until Aug. 5. The NGO said in June it was doing everything possible to assist our colleague Laurent, including by helping to secure legal representation for him. Russias Federal Security Service said Wednesday that during his visits to Moscow, Vinatier established numerous contacts with representatives of the expert and scientific community, including political scientists, sociologists, economists, military experts and government officials, the Russian Interfax news agency said. Russias Investigative Committee said Wednesday that it questioned seven witnesses with whom the accused held meetings to collect information in the field of military and military-technical activities, Tass said. It said authorities ordered a linguistic forensic examination of audio recordings of the meetings and electronics that were seized from Vinatier. Vinatier admitted his guilt while being questioned, Tass said, citing the Investigative Committee. The report did not explain why there were audio recordings of the meetings and said that Vinatiers criminal activities were stopped by the Investigative Committee and Russias Federal Security Service. Advertisement The charges against Vinatier stem from a recently adopted law that requires anyone who collects information on military issues to register with authorities as a foreign agent. Human rights activists have criticized the law and other recent legislation as part of a multi-pronged Kremlin crackdown on independent media and political activists intended to stifle criticism of its actions in Ukraine. Arrests on charges of spying and collecting sensitive data have become increasingly frequent in Russia since it sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022. Recent high-profile arrests include Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was arrested on espionage charges in March 2023, and U.S.-Russian journalist Alsu Kurmasheva, who was taken into custody in October 2023 on the same charges as Vinatier. The death toll from the accident has risen to 121 while the police have identified most of the victims. Most of the casualties were among children and women read more Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday offered condolences over the Hathras stampede incident. The death toll from the accident has risen to 121 while the police have identified most of the victims. Most of the casualties were among children and women. Devotees on Tuesday came to the Satsang from various districts of Uttar Pradesh as well as neighbouring states. In a post on X, the Russian Embassy said, President of Russia Vladimir Putin sent a condolence message to President of India Droupadi Murmu & Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi over the tragic stampede in Uttar Pradesh." Advertisement President of #Russia Vladimir Putin sent a condolence message to President of #India Droupadi Murmu & Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi over the tragic stampede in #UttarPradesh: Kindly accept the most sincere condolences over the tragic accident in Uttar Pradesh. pic.twitter.com/pWBrYnoMWO Russia in India (@RusEmbIndia) July 3, 2024 A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court over the Hathras stampede incident alleging the administrations failure to control the crowd present at the Satsang. The plea, filed by advocate Vishal Tiwari, further alleges that serious lapses and negligence in organising the event of such a large scale have been found which shows an unfaithful duty of care towards the public by the government authorities. Meanwhile, Bhole Baba, the priest for whom the event was organised is absconding. The plea has raised questions about the failure of the administration and the police. As the SCO expands its agenda and welcomes new members, deep-seated contradictions threaten its efficacy. Can an organisation that purports to fight terrorism effectively do so with members who engage in it? read more Kazakhstan is currently hosting the 24th Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Astana from July 3-4. The last summit was held under the chairmanship of India, albeit virtually, exactly a year ago. Interestingly, for the SCO, the US Independence Day also coincidentally falls during the summit. It ironically looks at an alternative security architecture dominated by China and Russia, especially as several of its members are subjected to geopolitical and geo-economic contestations. This non-Western, even anti-Western, character is further emphasised by the presence of Moscow and newly inducted member Tehran, both heavily sanctioned by the West. The quest for new definitions and markers for an emerging multipolar world order remains an underlying theme. Advertisement India is represented by Dr S Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, although Kazakhstans President Tokayev had invited Prime Minister Modi to attend virtually. Some commentators speculate that Modis decision to forgo the summit stems from Chinas dominance within the grouping, the presence of Pakistan, and ongoing tensions between New Delhi and both nations. The official reason cites scheduling conflicts and the ongoing Parliament session. But then PM Modi is also heading to Russia and Austria the following week. Its worth recalling that ironically, India and Pakistan both joined the SCO together in 2017 after more than fifteen years of protracted negotiations. This also happened at the Astana Summit. While Russia wanted India to be part of the Shanghai Five (later known as the SCO), the Chinese predicated that on the entry of Islamabad. This years summit unfolds amidst heightened global disruptions, aiming to address a range of critical issues, from rising security tensions and mounting protectionism to intensifying competition in high-tech space. The Eurasian space itself has its own geo strategic competition not only from Turkey, the US, and others, but also between China and Russia, particularly in Central Asian landscape. India, with its Connect Central Asia policy, must navigate this complex landscape carefully, avoiding any concessions to geopolitical competitors within the SCO. This is particularly crucial as Chinas presence and narratives, and Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) are increasingly becoming non-transparent and less reliable. Incidentally, as the birthplace of the BRI, Kazakhstan was among the first Central Asian countries to join the infrastructure project after it was launched in 2013. This highlights how dependencies can arise in the absence of viable alternatives. One of the key objectives of the SCO was to fight against extremism and terrorism. However, due to geopolitics, it ended up including countries that are determined to use cross-border terrorism as an instrument of their foreign policy. Ironically, these countries are also supported by a permanent member of the UNSC and founder of the SCO, which puts technical holds on the designation of terrorists at the 1267 committee, thereby giving state and non-state actors a big breather and moral and material boost. Advertisement The SCO does have a robust Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) to cooperate and collaborate and possibly counter terrorism, with regular exercises among member states. But of what use is that when one witnesses the double-speak and false standards by the very actors acting mischievously? Furthermore, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, principles enshrined in the SCO charter, are threatened by the hegemonic ambitions of certain powerful members. Under Indias presidency last year, the theme was aptly advanced and crafted by PM Modi as Secure SCO. SECURE stood for Security, Economy and Trade, Connectivity, Unity, Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and Environment. Indias focus will likely remain on these core principles, guided by mutual respect, shared interests, and sensitivity to each others concerns. Advertisement The SCO is experiencing growth both in its membership and in the scope of its activities. Iran joined in 2023, Belarus is set to join this year, and several Middle Eastern nations are seeking observer or dialogue partner status. Furthermore, the organisation is also expanding in the areas of its deliberations and programs, from infrastructure, investment, and informatics to trade, technology, physical and digital connectivity, and intra-regional migrationlet alone deliberations on regional and global security issues, which have diluted its ambit and actionability to a certain extent. The importance and intensity of South-South cooperation and the fight against increasing protectionism in the West are becoming more salient. Advertisement The SCO Foreign Ministers Council, meeting on May 20-21, engaged in substantive discussions on deepening cooperation within the organisation. Key areas of focus included environmental protection, humanitarian and cultural exchange, transport interconnectivity, and various aspects of security - food, economic, and energy. The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to regional security, particularly combating what SCO Secretary General Zhang Ming has termed the three evil forces: terrorism, extremism, and separatism. This commitment extends to tackling drug trafficking, cybercrime, and other transnational threats. Modernisation efforts are also underway to make the SCO more topical and resilient to emerging challenges. The next meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Governments is scheduled to be held in Pakistan for the first time in autumn this year as they take on the SCO Presidency. How the dynamic between India, China, and Pakistan eventually plays out may impact the trajectory of cooperation within the SCO in the times to come. Advertisement While the Astana Declaration of 2024 is expected to address the emerging regional and global landscape, including challenges and SCO initiatives promoting peace and harmony, its true impact hinges on member states adherence to their own established norms and standards. Only through genuine transparency, trust, and truth can the SCO effectively fulfil its role in maintaining regional stability. The author is the former Indian Ambassador to Jordan, Libya and Malta and is currently a Distinguished Fellow with Vivekananda International Foundation. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. A video widely shared on social media showed the attacker chasing the young soldiers, repeatedly stabbing them both before one of them regains his composure and opens fire with a rifle. The spokesman confirmed that one of the soldiers shot dead the assailant but could not say whether it was Sergeant Aleksandr Iakiminskyi, who was pronounced dead on arrival in hospital read more An Israeli soldier shot dead an attacker who stabbed him and another serviceman in a mall Wednesday before dying of his wounds in the latest attack linked to Gaza war tensions, media reports said. A police spokesman told AFP that an Arab Israeli stabbed the two soldiers in the mall in the northern town of Karmiel. Police said it was a suspected terror attack, the latest in a series since the war on Hamas started on October 7. Advertisement A video widely shared on social media showed the attacker chasing the young soldiers, repeatedly stabbing them both before one of them regains his composure and opens fire with a rifle. The spokesman confirmed that one of the soldiers shot dead the assailant but could not say whether it was Sergeant Aleksandr Iakiminskyi, who was pronounced dead on arrival in hospital. The Ynet news website and other media said it was Iakiminskyi, 19, who managed to open fire before collapsing from his wounds. The second soldier, who has not been named, was in serious condition in hospital. Police Northern District commander Shuki Tahauka told reporters that the assailant was neutralised at the mall and that security measures had been tightened in the region following the attack. The accused assailant came from the village of Nahf, near Karmiel. The Hamas militant group that is fighting Israel in Gaza hailed the attacker as a hero and said his action was a natural response to the suffering of people in the Palestinian territories. The knife attack came amid soaring tensions in Israels Palestinian community as the Israel-Hamas war rages in the Gaza Strip. At least 16 people have been killed in attacks in Israel since October 7. Jaishankar, who is here to represent India at the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and carrying out various bilateral meetings on the sidelines, also met his Belarusian and Tajikistan counterparts Maksim Ryzhenkov and Sirojiddin Muhriddin respectively. read more External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday met UN chief Antonio Guterres and discussed global hotspots and their larger implications apart from the reform of the UNSC. Jaishankar, who is here to represent India at the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and carrying out various bilateral meetings on the sidelines, also met his Belarusian and Tajikistan counterparts Maksim Ryzhenkov and Sirojiddin Muhriddin respectively. Always a pleasure to meet UNSG @antonioguterres. Appreciate his insights on the state of the world. Discussed global hotspots and their larger implications, Jaishankar posted on the social media platform X. Advertisement He further said that he spoke about the reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), preparations for the upcoming Summit of the Future in September, and prospects for meaningful India-UN partnership. He also held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Tajikistan, Belarus, Uzbekistan and Russia. During his meeting with Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov, Jaishankar said he appreciated the steady progress in India-Uzbekistan ties and discussed ways to take it forward to a higher level. Glad to meet Tajik FM Sirojiddin Muhriddin today in Astana. Took stock of our bilateral partnership and cooperation on multilateral forums. Appreciate the exchange of views on the regional situation, Jaishankar posted on the social media platform X along with the photos of the meeting. Pleased to meet FM Maksim Ryzhenkov of Belarus today. Welcome Belarus to the SCO as its newest member. Discussed our bilateral relationship and its future growth potential, the Minister posted earlier on X. The meeting of the two Foreign Ministers came days after the first-ever India-Belarus Consular Dialogue that was held on June 28 in Minsk. The Indian delegation was led by Dr Aman Puri, JS (CPV), while the Belarusian delegation was led by Andrei Kozhan, Head of General Directorate for Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus, a statement from the MEA said on Tuesday. Advertisement With nine member states India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyz, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan the SCO has emerged as an influential economic and security bloc and one of the largest trans-regional international organisations. Belarus will be the 10th nation to join as a member. Kazakhstan is hosting the summit in its capacity as the current chair of the grouping. Volunteers clean up Ocean Beach in San Francisco after the Fourth of July holiday in 2016. Friday is expected to be the Bay Areas dirtiest beach day of the year. Connor Radnovich/The Chronicle 2016 From Stinson Beach to the Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, the Bay Areas beaches offer some of the best recreation, views and ocean wildlife sightings in California. A dynamic ocean and shifting weather mean the coast is ever-changing, sometimes in subtle ways a new tide pool reef exposed or a drifting dune and sometimes in larger, more explicit ones a hollowing out of sand against a seawall or a crumbling bluff. But a few things remain predictable. It is almost certain that amid a heat wave, Friday will be the Bay Areas dirtiest beach day of the year with an estimated 3,300 pounds of trash strewn across our coast, based on prior data sets. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In 2023, more than 1,300 volunteers from the Surfrider Foundation where I lead efforts to fight plastic pollution spent the day after the Fourth of July removing and sorting over 100,000 pounds of trash from beaches across the country. The sheer volume of pollution was disheartening. But, on the upside, the data we collected allowed us to analyze what type of trash is most prevalent, enabling us to present evidence as we advocate for policies to eliminate plastic pollution. For example, last year, in addition to the July 5 cleanups, 2,854 Bay Area volunteers collected 5,713 pounds of trash. Of those, the top 10 items consisted of: Cigarette butts, 8,490 Plastic fragments smaller than a dime, 2,847 Aluminum cans (beverage), 1,848 Plastic bottles (beverage), 1,498 Glass bottles (beverage), 1,404 Shotgun wads, 1,389 Glass fragments, 1,307 Plastic bottle caps and rings, 1,233 Plastic fragments larger than a dime, 1,201 Foam fragments smaller than a dime, 1,085 Its no secret that single-use plastic food ware, cigarette butts, balloons and other trash do tremendous harm to marine wildlife and human health. And no one wants to surf, swim and play at a beach littered with trash. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In addition, July 4 festivities also introduce the toxic plastic and chemical residue of used fireworks to our marine systems. In a May 2024 San Francisco Civil Grand Jury Report on illegal fireworks noted that most noticeably around the July 4th holiday, thousands of explosions from illegal fireworks occur in the neighborhoods and skies above the city. The report spelled out how those fireworks pollute our water and land, including from the use of perchlorate, a chemical used in fireworks to help shoot them into the night sky that settles in the soil and water, where it can remain in the environment to be absorbed by plant life and can affect the development of fish in the water it pollutes. Firework debris also contaminates the soil and water with microplastics, the report said. Measurements of microplastics in the River of Thames in England indicated a 1,000% increase after a New Years Eve fireworks show. Microplastics, particles smaller than 5 millimeters that shed as plastic degrades, have been detected throughout the human body, including in the blood, heart, brain, lungs, saliva, liver, kidneys, testicles, breasts and placenta. According to a paper published in Harvard Medicine magazine, microplastics smaller than 1 micrometer, known as nanoplastics, worry researchers the most because they can even infiltrate cells. The good news is that more people are declaring independence from single-use plastics and replacing them with reusable options, the kind of water bottles, food ware and containers that will be brought back home rather than left in the trash on the sand, or blowing into our ocean. And more people are using the growing body of evidence on how plastic harms human health, marine life and our planet to pressure politicians to ban unnecessary single-use plastics. This matters, because although July 5 might be the dirtiest beach day of the year, any day the beach and ocean suffer from plastic pollution is a bad day for all of us. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 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 If youd like to get involved and lend a hand to cleaning up Bay Area beaches on Friday, visit Surfrider.org to find a cleanup near you. By joining Surfriders grassroots volunteer community, your efforts will leave the beach better than youll find it, and youll also contribute to gathering valuable data about the kinds of trash that litter our beaches. That data helps Surfrider coordinate efforts across advocacy, conservation and health-focused policy to reduce single-use plastics at the local, state and national levels. India has been actively expanding its diplomatic efforts beyond its immediate neighborhood, engaging in significant outreach to various regions. In recent years, India has been strengthening ties with Japan and Taiwan in the Pacific, Israel, Turkey, and the Gulf states in the Middle East, and Western Europe. read more The visit will be his first trip to Russia since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. It also holds significance as it coincides with a NATO summit in Washington, where Ukraine is set to be a major agenda item. File Photo- Reuters Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Moscow next week for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin amid deepening China-Russia relations. The timing of Modis visit is significant as it comes on the heels of deteriorating relations between the US and Russia and Moscows growing dependence on China. A key challenge for Indias strategy is the deepening alignment between Russia and China. Following its isolation from the West due to the Ukraine conflict, Moscow has increasingly relied on Beijing for support. China has also become a primary buyer of Russian energy resources. This burgeoning Sino-Russian alliance poses a strategic difficulty for India, especially given Moscows subordinate position in the partnership. This raises concerns about Beijing potentially leveraging its influence over Moscow to exert pressure on New Delhi. Advertisement Trade and economic relations Despite growing strategic and military ties with the US and other key Western players, India has refrained from publicly criticising Russias invasion of Ukraine. India even ramped up the purchase of Russian crude despite initial pressure from the US, saying such a move is required to control domestic oil prices. Russia has had strong ties with India since the Cold War, and New Delhis importance as a key trade partner for Moscow has grown since the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022. India has become a key buyer of Russian oil following sanctions imposed by the US and its allies that shut most Western markets for Russian exports. Indias crude oil import bill increased by 19 percent in April 2024, reaching $13 billion compared to the same month last year, according to a Financial Express (FE) report. This rise is primarily due to reduced discounts on Russian oil, despite the continued high volumes of imports. Russia, which became Indias top crude oil supplier following the Russia-Ukraine conflict, has significantly cut its discounts. The previous discounts of $8-10 per barrel have shrunk to $3-4. As a result, Indias savings from discounted Russian crude decreased from $5.8 billion in April-August 2023 to $2 billion in September 2023-February 2024 period. In FY23, India saved approximately $5.1 billion due to these discounts, and $7.9 billion in the first eleven months of FY24. In the first days of the conflict, the United States-led Western alliance imposed a slew of sanctions on Russia, including a ban on key Russian banks from the worlds dominant financial messaging system, SWIFT. The sanctions dealt a body blow to Russias ability to trade with partners, including India, one of Russias closest allies going back to the Cold War era. Advertisement Before it attacked Ukraine, Russia was a relatively small trader with India, not figuring among Indias top 20 partners. In the 2021-22 financial year (1 April to 31 March), trade between India and Russia accounted for a meager 1.3 percent ($13 billion) of Indias total trade. Where their relationship has been close has been in the supply of armaments, which has spanned decades. Since 2000, India has been the largest importer of Russian armaments, which was valued at $39.5 billion, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. Strategic interests & geopolitical rivalries Washington has sought to isolate Moscow diplomatically and economically in response to the Ukraine war, imposing a range of sanctions and freezing Russian assets in foreign countries. This has led to heightened tensions between the two nations, making Indias Advertisement The United States views its partnership with India as vital in addressing its concerns about Chinas disruptive behavior in the Indo-Pacific region. Meanwhile, the US also perceives Russia as a strategic threat. However, India has a longstanding and significant relationship with Russia, which remains a major supplier of arms and oil to New Delhi. The visit will be his first trip to Russia since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. It also holds significance as it coincides with a NATO summit in Washington, where Ukraine is set to be a major agenda item. It would also help alleviate concerns that New Delhi is increasingly aligning itself with the West at the expense of its relationship with Moscow, thereby allowing China to gain ground, analysts noted. Advertisement It will be a good opportunity for Moscow to project in the media the image of President Putin receiving a leader of a country like India in the context of the Washington summit, said Aleksei Zakharov, a Moscow-based expert on India told Reuters. Indias objective is to ensure that Russia is not in Chinas corner and that, even if it does not explicitly support India, it maintains a permanent neutrality in the India-China territorial disputes. Ties between India and China have been frosty since a deadly border war in 2020. The leaders of Russia and India have held annual summits since 2000 but the last in-person meeting was in 2021, when Putin visited Delhi. Advertisement While the US has expressed concerns about Indias relations with Russia, it has also expressed confidence in Indias ability to navigate the relationship. Modis visit comes after a two-year hiatus in annual in-person summits with Putin. During this time, India has avoided criticizing Russias actions in Ukraine, instead advocating for diplomatic solutions. The next meeting had been due in Moscow in 2022 when Russia attacked Ukraine, but it did not happen, while Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping elevated their ties, pledging a new era of partnership in May. The absence of Modis visits to Moscow had given rise to speculation that there was some kind of drift in the Indo-Russia relationship, said analyst Nandan Unnikrishnan, of the Observer Research Foundation think tank in New Delhi. So I think Modis visit will end that kind of speculation, he said. And we dont want to spoil our relationship with any party, whether its Russia, the United States, or anyone because of another relationship. India has been actively expanding its diplomatic efforts beyond its immediate neighborhood, engaging in significant outreach to various regions. In recent years, India has been strengthening ties with Japan and Taiwan in the Pacific, Israel, Turkey, and the Gulf states in the Middle East, and Western Europe. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also visited New Delhi recently. These efforts are particularly significant as they impact Indias standing in the Indo-Pacific and its relationships with the West. India aims to reduce its trade dependence on China, but its northern routes are blocked due to the situation in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Alternative routes through Iran, Armenia, and Russia are becoming increasingly challenging. Instead, India is focusing on the Middle East as a natural corridor to connect with the West, accessing Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia through the Eastern Mediterranean. This strategic approach also heightens Indias interest in East Africa. However, this expanding geopolitical connectivity places India at odds with China and Russia. The visit is supposed to strike a balance between the two countries to tackle the challenges of the new world order without compromising on bilateral relations. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a forum established by China and Russia in 2001 as a guardian of security in the Eurasia region, will meet for their summit on July 3-4 in Kazakhstans capital city of Astana read more Russias President Vladimir Putin arrived in Kazakhstan on Wednesday for regional security and defence talks, the Kremlin said, as well as a series of bilateral meetings, including with Chinese and Turkish leaders. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a forum established by China and Russia in 2001 as a guardian of security in the Eurasia region, will meet for their summit on July 3-4 in Kazakhstans capital city of Astana. The leaders of the SCO member countries will discuss the current state and prospects for further deepening multifaceted cooperation within the organization and improving its activities, the Kremlin said in a statement on its website. Advertisement While the meeting is likely to be dominated by Russia and China, leaders or representatives of Azerbaijan, Belarus, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Qatar, Kyrgyzstan, China, Mongolia, the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Turkey and Uzbekistan, are also expected to attend. United Nation Secretary General Antonio Guterres, is also expected, Russian agencies said on Tuesday. On Tuesday, Russia said Putin will hold series of bilateral talks, including with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan. Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is expected in Moscow this month, will not attend and the country will be represented by Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, the ministry said on Tuesday. At last years virtual summit, the group issued a statement critical of what it said was the negative impact of unilateral and unlimited expansion of global missile defence systems by certain countries or groups of countries, without directly referring to NATOs expansion and Western military assistance to Ukraine. In Singapore, caning is a legal punishment for serious offences including rape, armed robbery and vandalism read more A Japanese man has been sentenced to 17.5 years in prison and 20 strokes of the cane by a Singapore court for raping and sexually assaulting a woman in 2019, according to court documents. This case marks the first instance of a Japanese national receiving corporal punishment in Singapore. The Singapore High Court issued the sentence to Ikko Kita, a 38-year-old hair stylist, on Monday. Kita was found guilty of assaulting a 20-year-old female Singaporean university student who was intoxicated at the time. The incident occurred in the early hours of December 30, 2019, as reported by the South China Morning Post. Advertisement Court documents reveal that Kita, who did not know the woman, took her to his apartment by taxi and committed non-consensual sexual acts while recording the incident. He later sent the footage to a friend, according to Channel News Asia. Kita was arrested by police later that same day and released on bail the following day. He was formally charged in a lower court in May of the previous year and has been in custody since then. Presiding Judge Aedit Abdullah described the assaults as brutal and cruel, emphasising that the severity of the sentence was warranted given the circumstances, particularly the victims intoxicated and vulnerable state. Kita pleaded guilty to the charges. The Japanese embassy in Singapore confirmed that Kita is the first Japanese national to receive caning as part of his punishment. In Singapore, caning is a legal punishment for serious offences including rape, armed robbery and vandalism. Russia currently exports its natural gas to Europe via only two routes: through a Soviet-built pipeline which runs through Ukraine and via the TurkStream pipeline to Turkey which runs along the bed of the Black Sea. read more Russia is ready to continue gas supplies to Europe via Ukraine after the current transit agreement expires at the end of 2024, Russian state news agencies reported on Wednesday, citing Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak. Future gas transit depends on whether Ukraine wants to continue the arrangement or not, he was quoted as saying. A five-year deal on Russian gas transit via Ukraine to Europe, the only remaining trade and political agreement between warring Moscow and Kyiv, expires after Dec. 31 2024. Advertisement Russian gas supplies to Europe, once a key source of revenue for Moscow, have plummeted following the Kremlins decision to send tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24 2022. Transit through its territory depends on Ukraine. They have their own established rules. It depends on their desire. Russia is ready to supply, Novak was quoted as saying by the RIA state news agency. Ukraine has said it does not plan to prolong the five-year deal with Russian pipeline gas exporting monopoly Gazprom (GAZP.MM), opens new tab or to sign another one. Last month, an Azeri presidential advisor told Reuters that the European Union and Ukraine had asked Azerbaijan to facilitate discussions with Russia on the gas transit deal. While the EU has cut most of its Russian gas imports, some central European countries still depend on gas from Russia via the pipeline that crosses Ukraine. Austria still receives most of its gas through this route. Russia currently exports its natural gas to Europe via only two routes: through a Soviet-built pipeline which runs through Ukraine and via the TurkStream pipeline to Turkey which runs along the bed of the Black Sea. Advertisement Russia supplied a total of around 63.8 bcm of gas to Europe by various routes in 2022, according to Gazprom data and Reuters calculations. That volume decreased, by 55.6%, to 28.3 bcm last year. At their peak in 2018-2019, annual flows to the European region reached between 175 bcm and 180 bcm. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus Liberal Party and its ally Jagmeet Singh-led New Democratic Party or NDP are losing the confidence of the countrys voters, according to a report, citing a survey read more Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus Liberal Party and its ally Jagmeet Singh-led New Democratic Party or NDP are losing the confidence of the countrys voters, raising doubts about Trudeaus leadership ahead of next years general election, according to a poll. According to a Hindustan Times report, citing a Leger poll for the National Post, the support for NDP will suffer a dip of one percentage point, down from 18 per cent during the 2021 Federal elections to 17 per cent, if the polls were to be held today. Advertisement Significantly, more of the those sampled felt their impression of the NDP and Singh had worsened, as only 20 per cent viewed them more favourably as against 32 per cent earlier. The NDP faced troubling signs during the June Federal by-election in Toronto-St. Pauls, where its vote share declined from 17 per cent to 11 per cent, marking a catastrophic outcome for Trudeaus party, which lost a seat it had held since 1993. Singh took over leadership of the NDP in October 2017. Before his leadership, the NDP held 44 seats in the House of Commons and nearly 20 per cent of the vote share in the previous federal election. By 2021, these numbers had significantly decreased, with the NDP electing 25 MPs and holding approximately 18 per cent of the vote share. We look at this as a message that people are sending. They are frustrated with Trudeau. Theyre done with Trudeau, and they are frustrated with the Liberal party, and theyve got reasons to, said Singh last week. However, the minority Trudeau Government is surviving with the support of the NDP, after they entered into a supply and confidence agreement in March 2022. While Singh is silent on whether he will continue to back Trudeau, he said things for the government are getting worse. We hear this again and again: things are getting worse, not better. The Liberals have had nine years to make improvements, and they havent," he said. As per the overall figures from the Leger poll, the Conservative Party has 41 per cent support, far ahead of the Liberals, who are at 27 per cent. If elections were held now, the Conservatives would secure 218 seats, as against just 67 for the incumbent. Advertisement Trudeaus party recently suffered a major upset in a special election for a Toronto district it has held for three decades. Opposition Conservative candidate Don Stewart won the Toronto-St. Pauls district by almost 600 votes, 42.1 per cent over the Liberal candidates 40.5 per cent. This was obviously not the result we wanted, but I want to be clear that I hear the concerns and frustrations, Associated Press quoted Trudeau as saying in Vancouver. These are not easy times. And it is clear, that I and my entire Liberal team, have much more hard work to do to deliver tangible, real progress that Canadians can see and feel, he added. Advertisement The Liberals had held Toronto-St. Pauls since 1993. It is one of 338 seats in Canadas House of Commons. Losing in Canadas largest city, a traditional Liberal stronghold, does not bode well for Trudeau ahead of the election expected in the fall of 2025. Trudeau has said he intends to lead the party into the next election. The Liberals have been in power since 2015 but are trailing badly in the polls amid concerns over the cost of living. With inputs from agencies The report notes the difficulty in pinpointing specific uses of these upgrades without access to classified information. However, it indicates significant developments in satellite monitoring equipment at sites like Bejucal and Calabazar, particularly noteworthy given Cubas lack of its own satellites or space program read more US based center for international studies have released new satellite images of Cuba to support their claim saying the country is upgrading its intelligence capabilities in 4 military bases with possible links to China. It has been allehed that Cuba is potentially letting Chinese have these bases to use it for spying on the United States. Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies on Tuesday published this report, according tp which, these images were captured between March and April. Advertisement They indicate recent construction activities at three sites near Havana and ongoing work at a previously undisclosed location not far from the US naval base at Guantanamo Bay. The report notes the difficulty in pinpointing specific uses of these upgrades without access to classified information. However, it indicates significant developments in satellite monitoring equipment at sites like Bejucal and Calabazar, particularly noteworthy given Cubas lack of its own satellites or space program. Bejucal, historically known for storing nuclear weapons for the Soviet Union during the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, is the largest site among the list, suspected of monitoring electronic communications for China. Recent satellite imagery suggests extensive updates at Bejucal, including new enclosures for electronic antennas. Sites near Havana, namely Wajay and Calabazar, have also witnessed expansion, with analysts noting the installation of antennae, radar dishes, and other equipment possibly used for satellite monitoring. The fourth site, El Salao, appears to still be under construction. Located near Guantanamo Bay, its presence and ongoing development raise security concerns for the US, as per the report. According to CSIS analysts, satellite imagery indicates progress on an antenna array at El Salao, capable of tracking signals over vast distances, up to 15,000 kilometers. Advertisement The US Office of the Director of National Intelligence declined to comment on the CSIS report. However, previous reports have suggested Chinas financial investments in Cuban facilities aimed at enhancing intelligence capabilities. In response, Pentagon press secretary Major General Pat Ryder assured that the US remains vigilant, stating, Were confident that we can continue to meet our security commitments. China dismissed the CSIS findings, with the Chinese Embassy in Washington calling them baseless accusations. Cuban officials similarly refuted the claims, dismissing them as unfounded. The U.S. side has repeatedly hyped-up Chinas establishment of spy bases or conducting surveillance activities in Cuba, Liu Pengyu told VOA in an email. Advertisement The U.S. should immediately stop its malicious smearing of China, Liu said, adding, The U.S. is no doubt the leading power in terms of eavesdropping and does not even spare its Allies [sic]. Cuba has also belittled the report calling it just a write up in the The Wall Street Journal. Without citing a verifiable source or showing evidence, it seeks to scare the public with legends about Chinese military bases that do not exist and no one has seen, according to a post by Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio on the X social media platform. The CSIS report speculates that these monitoring stations could provide China with crucial data on US military activities, including exercises, missile tests, and satellite communications over sensitive military sites. The rule came after President Joe Biden, a Democrat, in a 2022 executive order instructed federal agencies like HHS to take measures to ensure transgender peoples access to healthcare. read more A US judge on Wednesday blocked the Biden administration from enforcing a new rule against discrimination based on gender identity in healthcare. US District Judge Louis Guirola in Gulfport, Mississippi, sided with 15 Republican-led states that sued to challenge the rule, arguing that it exceeded the administrations authority. The rule was finalized in May and was set to take effect on Friday. It states that a federal prohibition on sex discrimination, part of the Affordable Care Act health insurance law, extends to discrimination against transgender people. Advertisement The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which issued the rule, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The rule came after President Joe Biden, a Democrat, in a 2022 executive order instructed federal agencies like HHS to take measures to ensure transgender peoples access to healthcare. In his remarks, Biden admitted that he did not have a good debate, and said he wasnt very smart for travelling around the world a couple times before the debate read more US President Joe Biden's words come amid intra-party worries over his mental capacity ahead of the November election. Reuters US President Joe Biden on Tuesday blamed his recent foreign travels for his debate debacle. I wasnt very smart. I decided to travel around the world a couple of times shortly before the debate, Biden said while talking to donors at a fundraiser in a Virginia suburb of Washington DC. I didnt listen to my staff and then I almost fell asleep on stage. In his remarks, Biden admitted that he did not have a good debate, and said he wasnt very smart for travelling around the world a couple times before the debate. Advertisement Biden also apologised by saying he was sorry for the performance. Its not an excuse but an explanation. Bidens words come amid intra-party worries over his mental capacity ahead of the November election, and after a Texas congressman became the first sitting Democratic politician to call for him to step down following the debate. I am hopeful that he will make the painful and difficult decision to withdraw, Rep. Lloyd Doggett said in a statement Tuesday. President Biden seemed to struggle with some of his comments during a discussion with former President Donald Trump last Thursday. The presidents remarks at the fund raiser was just for six minutes, which is far shorter than what he speaks on such occasions. Meanwhile, the White House said Biden will travel to Wisconsin on Friday. He will conduct a sit-down interview with George Stephanopoulos from ABC News, while on the campaign trail. He will travel to Philadelphia on Sunday. And next week, he will host a NATO press conference, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters at her daily news conference. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held their second meeting in less than two months on Wednesday. This is their fifth in-person meeting since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and their second meeting since Putins re-election in March. read more Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks to Chinese President Xi Jinping during the 2022 Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. File Photo- AP Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have instructed national companies to agree on terms of delivery for the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline as soon as possible, Interfax reported, quoting Russian deputy prime minister Alexander Novak. Work will continue on agreeing the terms and parameters. Instructions have been given to do this as soon as possible, Interfax quoted Novak as saying. Putin and Xi held talks on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Astana. Advertisement Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held their second meeting in less than two months on Wednesday, further solidifying their frequent communication. The two leaders met in Astana, Kazakhstans capital, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit. This is their fifth in-person meeting since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and their second meeting since Putins re-election in March. In their previous meeting in May, Xi and Putin pledged to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership, including enhancing defense and military cooperation. Notably, China has been expanding its influence in Central Asia, a region traditionally within Russias sphere of influence. China surpassed Russia as Kazakhstans largest trading partner last year, with bilateral trade reaching a significant $41 billion. Democrats have increasingly voiced the possibility of Vice President Kamala Harris replacing Joe Biden on the presidential ticket after the presidents poor debate performance last week. John Raoux/Associated Press As the cacophony of concerns about President Joe Bidens electability reaches its peak, some Democrats are looking to their best alternative: Vice President Kamala Harris. After three years of facing negative polling, initially poor reviews of her effectiveness in office and a maelstrom of social media heckling, Harris is emerging as Democrats best option to keep the presidency. Harris has reportedly spoken to Biden several times since his stumbling debate performance. The two had lunch Wednesday at the White House, and Harris joined a meeting between Biden and Democratic governors Wednesday evening. Conversations about who could replace Biden initially circled around Democratic governors including Gavin Newsom of California and Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan. Support now, however, appears to be coalescing around Harris, the former California senator and attorney general. Newsom and Whitmer attended the governors meeting, where Newsom said he stood with the president. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Despite this flurry of generally positive attention from Democrats, Harris has been pushing back on any speculation about her future and has repeatedly expressed her support for Biden. Look, Joe Biden is our nominee, she told CBS News on Tuesday after appearing at a fundraiser in San Francisco. We beat Trump once, and were going to beat him again, period. Harris has stayed loyal to Biden in private as well, news outlet NOTUS reported Wednesday. Her staff was told not to fuel any chatter about her potentially replacing him at the top of the ticket, and she reportedly defended him to several high-profile Black celebrities in Los Angeles over the weekend, NOTUS reported. Theres a world where she could have sat quietly. It wasnt a given that she was going to respond in this way, Rachel Palermo, Harris former deputy communications director, told the Chronicle. This was an intentional response and shows how she views her role and how strongly she defends the president. Harris polling has been as bad as Bidens or worse since she took office. But support for her has shown signs of ticking up in recent days as concerns about Biden have mushroomed. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She will make a high-profile appearance Saturday in New Orleans at what is expected to be a friendly audience at the Essence Festival of Culture, hoping to boost enthusiasm among people of color a part of the electorate whose enthusiasm for Biden has dropped. A Washington Post-Ipsos poll last month shows that while Black voters overwhelmingly back Biden, only 62% say they are absolutely certain to vote in November, compared with 74% reporting the same thing four years ago. The growing interest in Harris is rooted in the belief that she would be more competitive against former President Donald Trump, which is backed by some recent post-debate polling. A CNN/SSRS poll recorded after the debate found that Harris was in a statistical dead heat with Donald Trump among registered voters (Trump 47% to Harris 45%). Thats slightly better than Biden is faring against Trump (Trump 49% vs. Biden 43%), a margin that hasnt changed since CNN last polled in April. The difference for Harris over Biden: She performs better among independent voters and women. And she also is closer to Trump in the polls than three Democrats frequently mentioned as Biden replacements: Newsom, Whitmer and Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, all of whom are largely performing about as well as Biden. Part of the reason is that the poll also found that most respondents didnt know who those three are, with 48% saying they had no opinion of Newsom, 50% feeling the same way about Buttieg and a whopping 69% not having an opinion on Whitmer. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In another survey taken in the days after the debate, 40% of the respondents who backed Biden four years ago said he should end his run. The survey, which was carried out by OpenLabs, a progressive nonprofit that conducts polling for several Democratic groups, found that Harris and the others mentioned above all fared better than Biden against Trump in battleground states. The bad news for Harris is that only 38% of Americans approve of her while nearly half dont, according to an amalgamation of polling by fivethirtyeight.com. But Harris has advantages that other would-be Biden replacements wouldnt. She could access the tens of millions in the Biden-Harris campaign war chest. Campaign finance experts told NBC News that if Biden were to drop out and Harris became the new nominee, she would control much of that money. If someone else was chosen as the presidential candidate, however, they wouldnt be able to. Biden has made no indication he will step down. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Because primary elections are over, it would be difficult, though not impossible, for him to do so at this point. If he did, the Democratic Party could theoretically choose a different candidate through its official nominating process this summer. That typically takes place at the Democratic National Convention, though the party has planned to do a virtual nominating process in early August ahead of the convention to ensure that Biden makes it onto the Ohio ballot, which has an early deadline. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled for Aug. 19-22 in Chicago. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said it is absolutely false that Biden is considering whether to stay in the race. One of the reasons why he picked the vice president, Vice President Kamala Harris, is because she is indeed the future of the party. And hes very proud to have partnered with her and continue to partner with her, Jean-Pierre told reporters Wednesday. One of Bidens most important allies, Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, told MSNBC on Tuesday that he would support Harris if (Biden) were to step aside. Former Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Ohio, called for Harris to be the partys presidential nominee in a Newsweek opinion piece. Witnessing Joe Biden struggle was heartbreaking. And we must forge a new path forward. After deep reflection over these past few days, I strongly believe that our best path forward is Kamala Harris, Ryan wrote Monday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Her closest allies, however, pushed back against speculation that she could replace Biden. All of the chatter thats going on, these are all hypotheticals. As it stands today, President Biden is running again, and Vice President Harris will be on the ticket as vice president, Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Oakland, told the Chronicle. Ive known her for many years, and shes well prepared, shes smart for any office. But I think to speculate and she even said that shes running for vice president. I mean, this is the Biden-Harris ticket until if the president decides otherwise. If Harris becomes her partys nominee, she could run on the administrations popular policy record, including her forceful efforts to protect abortion rights and her ability to push back against the rights fixation on race. This is who the vice president has always been. She has always been a strong leader, and we have seen that throughout her time in the administration, be it how shes been leading on abortion for the party, what she has done meeting with over 100 foreign leaders, said Ashanti Gholar, the president of Emerge, a national organization dedicated to recruiting and training Democratic women to run for office. This new burst of positive attention does not surprise me, but unfortunately, a lot of people are waking up to that because theres been so much negative coverage of her, Gholar said. Part of that negative coverage is rooted in how Harris was handed a portfolio of difficult issues to tackle, from taking on the root causes of illegal immigration to bolstering voting rights. She made little headway on either. Gholar, who has served as the director of African American Engagement for the Democratic National Committee, said part of that negative coverage is rooted in Harris being the first woman and the first woman of color in that role, adding that expectations for her were elevated. It is what women have to deal with if theyre the vice president, if theyre in Congress, if they are the mayor, Gholar said. The rules change, and the expectations are higher, and unfortunately for some people, youre never going to meet their expectations. But halfway through her term, she found her voice in her former hometown of San Francisco, taking the administrations lead on talking about abortion rights after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. Even the social media response to Harris has taken a slightly positive turn after years of mocking. In the past few days, memes have been flying around based on Harris quoting her late mother, Shyamala Gopalan, in a 2023 appearance, where Gopalan chided her daughters for thinking too parochially and not considering the world around them. You think you just fell out of a coconut tree? Harris said, quoting her mother, who was a pioneering cancer researcher in the East Bay. You exist in the context of all in which you live and what came before you. The Google Pixel 9 series is set to launch in a month. According to a report by Android Authority, Google will introduce new machine learning (ML) features branded as Google AI under the tagline Discover Google AI at its best. This will include features similar to Microsofts Recall. Discover Google AI at its best Google AI will feature both new and existing tools. For example, Circle to Search is already available on Pixels and some non-Pixel devices, and Gemini (AI assistant) is available on all Android phones. New Features Add Me: This feature ensures everyone is included in group photos. It sounds like an upgraded version of Best Take from the Pixel 8 series, which could change expressions and merge different takes. Add Me suggests Google is focusing on capturing what matters in photos with the help of AI. Studio: Likely the same as the Creative Assistant app, Studio will integrate into the Pixels screenshot editor app to create stickers. It might also function as a generative AI image generator, similar to Apples Image Playground. Google has been developing its own image and video-generating models, with ImageFX lets users try the Google Imagen 2 model, and VideoFX (in closed beta) extends this to video. Pixel Screenshots: This feature is similar to Microsofts Recall. Unlike Recall, which captures everything you do, Pixel Screenshots only works on screenshots you take. It adds metadata like app names and web links, which a local AI (likely the multimodal Gemini Nano) processes. You can then search for specific screenshots by their contents or ask a bot questions about them. Launch Date The Pixel 9 series event is scheduled for August 13th, with at least three variants expected. It remains to be seen if the best Google AI features will be exclusive to the flagship model. Source Nothing has announced Rashmika Mandanna, popular Indian actress, as the brand ambassador for CMF products. The company roped in actor Ranveer Singh as the face of its smartphones when it launched the Nothing Phone (2a) earlier this year. As the brand ambassador for CMF products, Rashmika will be featured prominently in digital, print, and TVC campaigns, representing the innovative spirit and stylish essence of CMF products, said the company. After confirming the display and camera specs, CMF has also unveiled customisable design of the CMF Phone 1. The phone will come in a replaceable rear cover in four colours Black, Orange, Light Green and Blue. Black and Light Green have a subtle texture formed directly into the case, while Blue and Orange have an elegant vegan leather layer embedded on top, said the company. The teaser image shows interchangeable accessories such as a lanyard connector, a stand, and more that connects to the part of the rear cover. View this post on Instagram A post shared by CMF by Nothing (@cmf.tech) Regarding the partnership, Vishal Bhola, President, Nothing India, said: We are delighted to welcome Rashmika Mandanna to the CMF family. CMF by Nothing embodies our philosophy of creating beautiful, functional, and thoughtful devices that enhance everyday experiences. We believe that technology should not only be innovative but also a source of joy and self-expression. Rashmika Mandanna, with her dynamic personality, vibrant edgy spirit and dedication to her craft, makes her a wonderful fit for CMF by Nothing, and we are excited to have her represent our brand and inspire our consumers. Commenting on the partnership, Rashmika said: I am delighted to partner with CMF by Nothing as their brand ambassador, a brand that truly reflects the culture of innovation. Discovering CMF reminded me of my own journey of starting something new and exciting. The impressive colours and unique products instantly appealed to me. This collaboration felt very natural because I love edgy designs and great aesthetics. I cant wait to join forces with CMF and produce something exceptional. Microsoft Corp. has agreed to pay $14.4 million to settle allegations it retaliated and discriminated against employees who took protected leave, the California Civil Rights Department announced on Wednesday. Mark Lennihan/Associated Press Microsoft will pay $14.425 million to settle a suit accusing the company of discriminating against employees in California who take leave from work because they are ailing or disabled, or need to take care of a child or other household member, state officials announced Wednesday. In a lawsuit filed in Santa Clara County Superior Court, the California Civil Rights Department said the technology company penalizes workers who take leave, many of them women or people with disabilities. They are given lower performance ratings by supervisors and therefore are less likely to receive promotions or salary increases, the department said. And because they are not given credit for working while on leave, they also lose annual bonuses based on work time, the suit said. Microsoft did not acknowledge any wrongdoing but agreed to compensate employees and hire an independent consultant to review compliance with the settlement and changes in the companys practices. The settlement, if approved by a judge, will compensate workers in California who have taken leave since May 2017 for reasons such as disability, illness or family care. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Whether its to look after a newborn child or take care of your own health, workers generally have the right to take time off without worrying about consequences at work, the Civil Rights Departments director, Kevin Kish, said in a statement. By allegedly penalizing employees for taking protected forms of leave, Microsoft failed to support workers when they needed to care for themselves or their families. The settlement announced today will provide direct relief to impacted workers and safeguard against future discrimination at the company. In response, Sarah Naciri, a Microsoft spokesperson, said the company is committed to an environment that empowers our employees to take leave when needed and provides the flexibility and support necessary for them to thrive professionally and personally. While we believe the agencys allegations are inaccurate, we will continue to listen, learn, and support our employees. Microsoft is based in Redmond, Wash., and has offices in 14 California communities, including San Francisco, Palo Alto and Mountain View, with a total of 6,700 employees in the state. Any employees who worked at Microsoft for at least 90 days since May 2017 will be eligible for compensation under the settlement if they took time off under the companys protected leave program, which covers parental leave, family caretaking, pregnancy and disability leave, said Civil Rights Department spokesperson Rishi Khalsa. He said additional benefits will go to those who show Microsoft penalized them for taking leave. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks to reporters in the spin room following the CNN debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump in Atlanta on Thursday, June 27. Newsom said he will affirm his support for Biden during the president's meeting with other Democratic governors on Wednesday, July 3. Andrew Harnik/TNS SACRAMENTO Gov. Gavin Newsom will travel to the White House on Wednesday to stand with President Joe Biden during a meeting with Democratic governors, a Newsom spokesman said. Newsoms travel plans mean he will leave California as the state weathers a scorching heat wave and lawmakers race to place last-minute measures on the November ballot. Newsom has been a staunch ally of Biden since he launched his reelection bid. He has doubled down on his support of the president in the wake of Bidens stumbling debate performance last week, even as pundits have floated him as a potential presidential contender should Biden step down from the ticket. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Newsom described the calls for Biden to step down as unnecessary following the debate. I think its unhelpful, and I think its unnecessary, he told MSNBC host Alex Wagner on Thursday. Weve got to have the back of this president. You dont turn your back because of one performance. What kind of party does that? Newsom spokesman Nathan Click said Tuesday that Newsoms position that Biden should remain the nominee has not changed. Biden plans to meet with the Democratic governors in a meeting closed to the media at 6:30 p.m. Eastern time, according to the White House. The meeting comes as calls for the president to step down grow louder and questions swirl about his fitness for office after he appeared to lose his train of thought multiple times during the debate last week. Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, said Tuesday that its legitimate for voters to question Bidens fitness for office, but she said the same is also true of former President Donald Trump, whom she noted is also old and prone to sometimes confusing rambling. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Pelosi reiterated her belief that Biden is fit to run for president again but called on him to prove himself to voters. I think its a legitimate question to say, 'Is this an episode or is this a condition?' When people ask that question, its completely legitimate of both candidates, Pelosi said during an interview with MSNBC. Both candidates owe whatever test you want to put them to, in terms of their mental acuity and their health. Shortly after details of Newsom's trip to Washington were made public, he announced he was dropping an effort to place a last-minute measure before California voters in November that would have competed with an initiative spearheaded by district attorneys to increase punishments for theft and drug possession. Lawmakers face a Wednesday deadline to pass remaining measures that they wish to place on the ballot. They plan to vote on two bills Wednesday that would place measures on the ballot asking voters to approve bond funding for climate projects and education facilities. The governor must sign those measures in order to place them on the November ballot by midnight Wednesday. Newsoms office did not immediately respond to questions about whether he would return to the state in time to sign the measures or whether Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis would sign them in his absence. Advertisement Article continues below this ad California Gov. Gavin Newsom, shown on May 10, announced Tuesday night he is abandoning a proposed ballot measure that would have competed with an initiative to increase punishments for theft and drug possession.. Rich Pedroncelli/Associated Press SACRAMENTO Gov. Gavin Newom announced Tuesday night he is abandoning a proposed ballot measure that would have competed with an initiative to increase punishments for theft and drug possession. Newsom and lawmakers had introduced the measure Sunday night. It was a last-minute attempt to counter an initiative spearheaded by a group of district attorneys to roll back parts of Proposition 47. Lawmakers would have needed to pass the measure and have it signed by Newsom by midnight Wednesday to get it on November ballots. But they ran out of time to make needed amendments to the proposal, he said in a statement. Newsoms decision to pull the measure came the same evening he announced plans to fly to Washington on Wednesday to stand with Biden during a meeting with Democratic governors as questions swirl about the presidents ability to run for reelection. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Newsom did not specify what amendments were needed. We are unable to meet the ballot deadline to secure necessary amendments to ensure this measures success and we will be withdrawing it from consideration, Newsom said. Voters passed Proposition 47 to downgrade drug possession and thefts worth less than $950 to misdemeanors in the face of overcrowded jails. The district attorneys measure would undo parts of Proposition 47 by eliminating the $950 threshold for a third theft, meaning someone caught stealing more than twice could be charged with a felony, regardless of the value of the merchandise stolen. It would do the same for a third drug possession charge. It would also increase jail time for repeat thefts and organized retail theft and includes provisions to compel people with multiple drug possession convictions into treatment. The competing measure would have more narrowly cracked down on repeat theft and fentanyl dealing. It would have increased punishments for dealing fentanyl and made it easier for district attorneys to prosecute repeated thefts as felonies if they happened within three years of each other. It also stipulated that if both measures passed, the measure with more votes would become law and the other would be void. Advertisement Article continues below this ad That drew condemnation from supporters of the district attorney-led measure. This basically creates an either or choice, said Cory Salzillo, a lobbyist representing sheriffs. During a Tuesday afternoon hearing on the bill, Salzillo also pointed out that Newsom and Democratic lawmakers introduced the measure after insisting for months that they didnt think Proposition 47 should be changed. Proponents, respectfully, have said that we dont need to address our out-of-control theft crisis by amending Prop 47, by going back to the ballot. But yet here we are. It begs the question what has changed? he said. In the same hearing, a lobbyist representing district attorneys argued the burden of proof in the legislative proposal was too high and that it would be difficult for prosecutors to argue that people had met the value and time thresholds in the bill. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Some civil liberties and criminal justice reform advocates raised concerns that the legislation was still too punitive, despite lawmakers efforts to craft it as a less-punitive alternative to the district attorneys measure. Sen. Aisha Wahab, a Hayward Democrat who co-authored the measure, pushed back on criticisms from both sides. We are giving this back to the voters to decide, she said. We are threading the needle of a very sensitive subject without causing additional harm. Lawmakers have also drawn criticism for including in their measure a provision that could make it easier to try fentanyl dealers for murder, known called Alexandras Law. That proposal was introduced in standalone legislation last year and is named after a 20-year-old Temecula (Riverside County) woman who died after taking a pill laced with fentanyl. The womans father, Mark Capelouto, had advocated at the Capitol in support of the measure, but lawmakers rejected it. Alexandras Law is also part of the district attorneys measure, which Capelouto supports. He said lawmakers added the policy proposal, including his daughters name, to their competing measure without consulting his family. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Bob Egelko has been a reporter since June 1970. He spent 30 years with the Associated Press, covering news, politics and occasionally sports in Los Angeles, San Diego and Sacramento, and legal affairs in San Francisco from 1984 onward. He worked for the San Francisco Examiner for five months in 2000, then joined The Chronicle in November 2000. His beat includes state and federal courts in California, the Supreme Court and the State Bar. He has a law degree from McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento and is a member of the bar. Coverage has included the passage of Proposition 13 in 1978, the appointment of Rose Bird to the state Supreme Court and her removal by the voters, the death penalty in California and the battles over gay rights and same-sex marriage. Satellite imagery shows China expanding spy bases in Cuba By Jeff Seldin July 02, 2024 New satellite images of Cuba show signs the country is installing improved intelligence capabilities at four military bases with suspected links to China, potentially providing Beijing with a network of facilities that could be used to spy on the United States. The imagery, presented in a report Tuesday by the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies, was taken in March and April. It indicated new or recent construction at three sites near the capital, Havana, as well as work on a previously unreported site not far from the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay. "Without access to classified materials, pinpointing the specific targets of these assets is nearly impossible," the report said. "Nonetheless, the growth of space-monitoring equipment at sites like Bejucal and Calabazar is notable given that Cuba lacks its own satellites or space program." Bejucal is the largest of the four sites, according to CSIS analysts and first came to prominence during the 1962 Cuban missile crisis, when the base was used to store nuclear weapons for the Soviet Union. More recently, it has gained prominence as a major signals intelligence monitoring station, suspected to be tracking electronic communications for China. The new satellite pictures show evidence that Bejucal has seen expansive updates, including a new electronic antenna enclosure. Two other sites near Havana a Wajay and Calabazar a have seen growth as well, with CSIS analysts citing evidence of an expanding and evolving mission, including the installation of antennae, radar dishes and other equipment that could help those using it to monitor satellites. The final site, El Salao, appears to be still under construction. But its location, not far from the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay near the city of Santiago de Cuba, and the structures themselves, could be cause for concern for the U.S. The imagery collected by CSIS shows progress on what appears to be an antenna array with a diameter of 130 to 200 meters (425 to 655 feet). Similar arrays, according to the analysts, have shown the ability to track signals up to 15,000 kilometers (9,300 miles). The U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence declined to comment on the CSIS report. But it follows a report last year by The Wall Street Journal that China was paying Cuba several billion dollars to build a spy facility. U.S. officials later said that China had upgraded its intelligence facilities in Cuba in 2019 but that U.S. pushback had prevented Beijing from achieving its goals. "We're confident that we can continue to meet our security commitments," said Pentagon press secretary Major General Pat Ryder while briefing reporters Tuesday. "We know that the PRC [People's Republic of China] is going to continue to try to enhance its presence in Cuba, and we will continue to keep working to disrupt that," he said in response to a question from VOA. "We're continuing to monitor this closely, taking steps to counter it." China on Tuesday rejected the findings of the CSIS report, with the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in Washington calling them "nothing but slander." "The U.S. side has repeatedly hyped-up China's establishment of spy bases or conducting surveillance activities in Cuba," Liu Pengyu told VOA in an email. "The U.S. should immediately stop its malicious smearing of China," Liu said, adding, "The U.S. is no doubt the leading power in terms of eavesdropping and does not even spare its Allies [sic]." Cuba also pushed back against the CSIS report, singling out a write-up in The Wall Street Journal. "Without citing a verifiable source or showing evidence, it seeks to scare the public with legends about Chinese military bases that do not exist and no one has seen," according to a post by Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister Carlos Fernandez de Cossio on the X social media platform. The CSIS report says monitoring stations in Cuba could help China to acquire needed capabilities and insights as it tries to militarily surpass the United States. "Collecting data on activities like military exercises, missile tests, rocket launches, and submarine maneuvers would allow China to develop a more sophisticated picture of U.S. military practices," the report said. "Cuban facilities would also provide the ability to monitor radio traffic and potentially intercept data delivered by U.S. satellites as they pass over highly sensitive military sites across the southern United States," the report said. Such monitoring stations could also help China gain access to what the report describes as a "treasure trove of data" from commercial communications transiting the southeastern U.S. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Canada assumes command of Standing NATO Maritime Group Two National Defence 2024-07-02 News release Yesterday, Commodore (Cmdre) Matthew Coates of the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) assumed command of Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG2) during a Change of Command ceremony held in Toulon, France. Cmdre Coates assumed command from Rear Admiral Yannick Bossu of the French Navy. His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Charlottetown is deployed with SNMG2 as part of Operation REASSURANCE and is now the group's flagship. In coordination with its NATO partners, Canada continually looks for opportunities to contribute to peace and stability in Central and Eastern Europe. Quotes "The appointment of Commodore Matthew Coates to command Standing NATO Maritime Group Two shows the continuing respect our NATO allies have for the professionalism and leadership of the Canadian Armed Forces. Our members are our most visible symbol of Canada's ongoing commitment to the NATO alliance and to international security and cooperation around the world." Vice-Admiral Bob Auchterlonie, Commander, Canadian Joint Operations Command "I am honoured and humbled to assume command of Standing NATO Maritime Group Two. Assuming command of this task group is an extraordinary privilege and I look forward to the challenge; knowing that together, united by a common purpose and a common set of values and procedures, the Alliance is stronger than the sum of its individual parts." Commodore Matthew Coates, Commander, Standing NATO Maritime Group Two Quick facts Since 2014, Canada has deployed RCN frigates on a persistent rotational basis to be employed primarily for exercises and operational tasks in the NATO Maritime Command's areas of responsibility. HMCS Fredericton and HMCS Halifax were flagships of the Canadian-led Command of SNMG1 in 2021. HMCS Toronto was the flagship of the Canadian-led Command of SNMG2 in 2019. SNMG2 is one of NATO's four standing naval maritime immediate reaction forces, which routinely conduct operations in the Mediterranean Sea. These groups provide NATO with a continuous maritime capability for operations and other activities in peacetime and in periods of crisis and conflict. They also help to establish Alliance presence and deterrence, demonstrate solidarity, conduct routine diplomatic visits to different countries, support transformation and NATO interoperability, and provide a variety of military maritime capabilities to ongoing missions. SNMG2 is a multinational, integrated maritime force made up of warships from various allied countries. These warships, including their air assets, are permanently available on a rotational basis to NATO to perform different tasks ranging from participating in exercises to intervening in operational missions. With Cmdre Coates' appointment, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) currently lead two NATO multinational groups. Canada has been the Framework Nation of the NATO Multinational Battlegroup Latvia since its inception in June of 2017, and will continue to do so as the battlegroup is augmented to a brigade. They are part of the largest reinforcement of NATO collective defence in a generation. As Canada's fighting force at sea, the RCN deters conflict, defends Canada's interests and values, promotes Canada's economic prosperity, and supports the rules-based international order. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address July 2, 2024 Release Readout of Senior DoD Official's Meeting With Peruvian Minister of Defense Department of Defense Spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Devin T. Robinson provided the following readout: Ms. Jana Nelson, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Western Hemisphere Affairs met with Peruvian Minister of Defense Walter Astudillo at the Pentagon on June 26. Minister Astudillo and DASD Nelson discussed air domain awareness capability development and countering transnational criminal organizations, as well as the effects of climate change, which is increasing the frequency and intensity of natural disasters that affect Peru. They also exchanged views on expansion of defense infrastructure, regional coordination, and other frameworks to enhance bilateral cooperation. The meeting reaffirmed the United States' strong defense and security partnership with Peru, as the two nations work together to promote a stable and secure hemisphere based on a foundation of respect for democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3824423/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address July 2, 2024 Transcript Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh Holds an Off-Camera, On-the-Record Press Briefing DEPUTY PRESS SECRETARY SABRINA SINGH: OK. All right. Good morning, everyone. I just have one quick thing at the top and then happy to just dive in. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov will visit the Pentagon tomorrow to meet with Secretary Austin. This visit underscores the ongoing commitment of the United States to support Ukraine's sovereignty and security. Secretary Austin and Minister Umerov will discuss the bilateral defense cooperation, regional security issues and ways to strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Ukraine. A readout following the meeting will be available online tomorrow. And with that, happy to dive in and take questions. Q: So can we get a pier update? Are there plans to get the pier back up and running now that you've seen some of the World Food Program some of the feed forward? What's the status on that? MS. SINGH: The status of the pier right now, as you know, it was disconnected late last week. It was moved to Ashdod for the high sea states. The pier remains in Ashdod right now. We're still assessing when it can be re-anchored when sea states calm a bit. We'll provide an update when I have more for you. In terms of the distribution, you did see that some distribution did start back up over the weekend. It is going to take a few days to move some of that aid out of the marshaling area that had built up over time. For more on that, I'd refer you to the World Food Program to speak to it, like how long that's going to take. But I just know that the aid is slowly moving out of that marshaling area. Q: Did DOD have any role in helping encourage World Food Program, that it could get this distribution moving? MS. SINGH: Well, I mean we have a role in that. We're certainly at the table with USAID, with others in terms of our coordinating efforts when it comes to aid. But this is a decision that was arrived at by the World Food Program, so I'd really refer you to them to speak to their decision to start distribution back up. Q: US raptor is the first multi-domain exercise with the Japan and South Korea last Saturday. How was the exercise? And did you have any plans to do another exercise with Japan and South Korea? MS. SINGH: I don't have more on that exercise. Sorry, I was looking for my tablet and I don't seem to have that. I don't have more on that exercise and no plans I don't have anything to preview in terms of future exercises. I'd refer you to INDOPACOM to speak to anything more that they have planned. Yeah. Q: OK. One more. Do you have any indication that those Korea sent their troops to Ukraine to support Russia? MS. SINGH: I don't have anything for you on that. We certainly know that North Korea is supporting Russia's efforts in Ukraine with supplying them different military support, but I don't have anything for you on any specific troops going into Russia at this time. Yeah. Natasha. Q: Thanks, Sabrina. Do you have any more information about what led to the heightened alert state of the military bases in Europe? Was there any specific intelligence about a particular threat or was this just out of an abundance of caution ahead of some of the bigger events that are happening there? MS. SINGH: Yeah. As you can appreciate, I won't speak to intelligence matters, but due to a combination of factors and not related to a single threat, but it was due to a combination of factors potentially impacting the safety and security of service members stationed in the European theater. US European Command is taking steps to increase vigilance for our service members, their families and our facilities. This was done out of an abundance of caution. I won't get into more specifics, other than that, but I'd refer you to EUCOM for any more questions that you have on force protection measures. Q: And was this for all bases across Europe or was it just for select? MS. SINGH: Yeah. As you can appreciate, just from here, not going to get into specific locations and bases, but I would refer you to EUCOM to speak to that. Q: Yes. Can you give us an update on the F-16 pilot and maintainer training? How many pilots and maintainers have graduated? Where are they now? How many are in the pipeline and when can Ukraine expect to see those F-16s? MS. SINGH: In terms of when Ukraine is going to get the F-16s and start using them, I'd refer you to the Ukrainians to really speak to that. I don't have any updates to provide on pilot training. It's ongoing. I think we had more numbers that we put out a few months ago, but I just don't have any updates from that. Q: So are there pilots still in the pipeline at the Arizona base? MS. SINGH: I believe there's still pilots training right now in Arizona. Q: OK. And just on a different topic, the NATO summit in D.C. is next week. Can you talk a little bit about Secretary Austin's goals for that summit? MS. SINGH: I think we'll have more to share closer to the NATO summit, not just ready to preview some of that just yet. Of course, he'll be participating in various meetings. The Department of Defense will play a role in the NATO summit, but it is an interagency effort, but we'll have more to you closer to the summit. Q: Just following up on Lara's question. Sorry, I have a little bit of a cold. I think I'm past the contagious stage. Yeah. I think. So do you have anything on his participation in that summit, like what the schedule is going to be and what he--or any other top people from DOD will be over there? And also if I could just make a request for some sort of background or ahead of time about the specific DOD perspective on the summit? Thanks. MS. SINGH: Let us come back to you on a backgrounder for the summit. I will reiterate as you know, but this is not just the DOD taking part in the NATO summit. Of course, this is going to involve state and other agencies that are going to be participating. I candidly do not have his schedule in front of me right now, so I can't go through a readout of sort of what the secretary's schedule looks like at this moment. I think we'll have more for you in the coming days. He will be doing a variety of events and participating in various meetings. But give us just a little bit more time and we will get back to you on kind of what his engagements look like. Q: Thanks. On this heightened alert status for US bases in Europe, is this at all correlated like with the Euro Cup and the Olympics? Is this expected to go beyond the status for weeks and weeks or is it short-term more specific? MS. SINGH: We don't have a timeline. I would refer you to EUCOM to really speak to any changes when it comes to their force protection measures that they're taking. What I can tell you is it's a combination of factors. It's not a single threat. You mentioned some very large, big events that are taking place in Europe. That's certainly a factor, but it's one of many factors. But for more details, I'd refer you to EUCOM. Q: Hi, Sabrina. The hurricane that's uh threatening in the Caribbean, has the Department of Defense started preparations for that? I mean some of the islands there are almost automatically ask us for aid. What are we doing? MS. SINGH: Not to my knowledge, but of course we're going to monitor any type of major weather storm like that, but not to my knowledge. If that changes, I'm happy to keep you updated. Q: OK. Another question. Could you say anything about the potential about the preparations for potential evacuation operation in the Middle East? There was an article about that late last week. MS. SINGH: Yes, I saw. So obviously, I've seen some of the reporting on that. I think this refers to the Wasp MEU moving into the Eastern Med. We are, of course, a planning organization, but the purpose of the Wasp moving is really to promote regional stability and to be another deterrent in the region. There are no plans for any type of military assisted departure right now. Of course, we are a planning organization. I've seen some of those reported those reports, but really the Wasp is moving there to bolster deterrence and for regional stability. Q: So the purpose of leaving it there was security projection rather than it wasn't about preparations for an evacuation? MS. SINGH: That's right. The purpose of the wasp meu or sorry, the Wasp MEU moving into that AOR is to is power projection. It is to bolster deterrence in the region. It's about regional stability. We are a planning organization, but that is the purpose of why it moved. And you have to remember, and I know, I think I said this at the podium on Friday, that we also had the Ford in the region. We also had the 26th ARG/MEU was there late last year. So these types of rotations are normal, and this was a planned movement. And so I'll just leave it at that. Q: So Sabrina, what specific capabilities does the Wasp bring to the region in terms of deterrence? MS. SINGH: For more specifics, I'd refer you to the Marine Corps to speak to more specifics of the Wasp, but it allows for flexibility, and it provides another capability to the commander in the region. It has 2,000 Marines or over 2,000 Marines on board as well. This is again just one of those that it was a planned movement. It just provides additional support in the region. Q: Yeah, yeah. So just getting back to the increased alert status in Europe, you said that the Olympics and those events were one factor. Without getting into the nature of the intelligence, is there anything concrete or specific in the intelligence that's driving this or not? MS. SINGH: Well, I can tell you that it's not a single threat. I'm not going to get into more specifics on the intelligence itself, but it's not a single threat. It's a combination of different factors that has led to EUCOM taking steps to increase vigilance for our service members, but unfortunately, I'm just going to have to leave it at that. Q: One more on that. MS. SINGH: Sure. Q: Are any of our bases in Indo-Pacific or in CENTCOM under similar, or AFRICOM, under similar threat level raising to Charlie? MS. SINGH: Well, so we don't usually talk about our force protection levels or any changes, so I would refer you to those various AORs to speak to their force protection measures. Q: But so is this limited to European command? MS. SINGH: I would just say that I've seen some of the reporting out of the weekend, the questions that right now are about European Command, there are additional steps that we're taking to increase vigilance for our service members, but I'm just not going to get into any more specifics on force protection. Q: And you said that you all don't normally talk about this. Clearly, this one was put out there. Why was it put out there? Was there a reason that you wanted kind of everybody who's based in, or their families who are based in Europe to be a little more aware? MS. SINGH: Look, I can't speak to the why some people feel compelled to talk about some of these changes. What I can just tell you is that the commander for the theater felt that there were additional steps needed to increase vigilance for our service members, for their families. This is also something that happens all around the world. It's at the commander's discretion and it was out of an abundance of caution. As Liz and others have mentioned, there are a combination of factors, including events that are taking place in that theater that just out of due diligence, it's good to make sure that our service members are taking the precautionary measures that they need to for themselves and their families. MS. SINGH: Anything else? OK. Q: Is the commander of European Command capable of speaking to the press? MS. SINGH: Yes. He is. Anyone else? OK. All right. Thank you, everyone. https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3824159/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address July 2, 2024 By David Vergun, DOD News Marine Corps' Force Design Is Focused on Pacing Challenge From China The National Defense Strategy places a primary focus on the need to strengthen U.S. military deterrence against China and defeat it if necessary. The Marine Corps implemented its "Force Design" strategy six years ago to address that challenge. Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Eric Smith discussed the progress that has been made in force design and some of the challenges at an event at the Brookings Institution, a nonprofit policy and governance research group in Washington. Threats from Beijing include its stated goal of seizing Taiwan, if necessary, as well as building military outposts on tiny islands in the South China Sea that do not belong to China. The importance of allies and partners in the first island chain nearest to the Asian mainland are important to controlling the sea lanes in this contentious environment, he said. The first island chain includes Japan, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea and Australia. Force design includes making Marines more mobile and less of a target, while increasing the range, precision and lethality of their weapons, Smith said. For example, the Marine Corps got rid of all its tanks, which would not be useful in a war with China. Long-range fires such as artillery, loitering munitions and rocket-assisted projectiles along with unmanned aerial systems like the MQ-9A Reaper would play a big role in a conflict, he said. Radar and sensors would also be important. The Marine Corps' air capability is modernizing, as well, with the F-35B Lightning II fighter jet, the CH-53K King Stallion helicopter, and the MV-22 Osprey all performing well, he said. As for amphibious ships to transport Marines and their equipment, a minimum of 31 are needed, he said. That's the number needed to produce three, amphibious-ready groups for Marine expeditionary units: one on the East Coast of the U.S., one on the West Coast of the U.S. and one in Okinawa, Japan. A lot of money can be saved in building these vessels on a multiship, multiyear procurement, he said. Shipbuilders need to be employed, or they will go elsewhere to work. Another thing that needs to be increased is munitions production, Smith said. Again, workers need to stay employed, or they'll find jobs elsewhere. Joint All-Domain Command and Control development is also important for connecting sensors with shooters and shooters with each other, he said. Advances in autonomy and machine learning will also play an increasingly important role in force design. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Minister Tsahkna: US security assistance allows Estonia to fast-track the reinforcement of its defence capabilities Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 02.07.2024 Today 2 July, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna met with the visiting delegation of the US Congress to discuss US contribution to the defence and deterrence posture of the Baltic States and continued military support to Ukraine. "The political and military leadership of the US in NATO and within the wider Euro-Atlantic security architecture is irreplaceable," Tsahkna said at the meeting with the delegation that was headed by Tom Cole, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, and included representatives Mario Diaz-Balart, Chuck Fleischmann, Chuck Edwards and Jake Ellzey. At the meeting, the foreign minister highlighted US security assistance to the Baltic States, which is an important addition to our own defence spending. "Estonia is serious about defending itself, demonstrated by the fact that we have raised our defence spending to exceed 3.4% of GDP," Tsahkna said. "US security assistance is an important addition, allowing us to implement several capability-building projects more quickly and accelerate the reinforcement of Estonia's military capabilities." The Baltic Security Initiative (BSI) established in 2020, through which the US Department of Defence supports the independent defence capabilities and interoperability of the Baltic States, and the Foreign Military Financing programme of the Department of State have been crucial for the Baltic States. Tsahkna assured that every dollar contributed by the USA to Estonia's security is matched with six dollars from Estonia and all security assistance is diverted back to the US economy through defence procurements. The minister underlined that it was in the interests of the Euro-Atlantic region for Allies to increase their defence spending and set the minimum target of 2.5% of GDP. Speaking about supporting Ukraine, Minister Tsahkna noted that Estonia aimed to allocate 0.25% of GDP to support Ukraine and if all like-minded countries did the same, Ukraine would be able to win the war. "The worth of the Ukraine aid bill adopted in the US Congress this spring is in the same range, and in addition to weapons, it also gave Ukraine hope, which is vital," the minister said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'Manila's provocations in South China Sea to be responded with countermeasures' Global Times By Fan Wei, Chen Qingqing and Hu Yuwei Published: Jul 02, 2024 08:27 PM Updated: Jul 02, 2024 09:52 PM The Philippines, in ignoring growing domestic calls for seeking constructive dialogues and consensus with China in tackling divergences on the South China Sea issue, has continued to make provocations not only in maritime issues but also in the legal sphere, for which China is fully prepared, and its moves that jeopardize China's legitimate interest will be responded with countermeasures. On Monday, three Philippine coast guard vessels attempted to supply personnel and materials to the Philippine coast guard vessel 9701 illegally stationed at the Xianbin Jiao. The whole process was closely monitored and controlled by China Coast Guard (CCG), Liu Dejun, spokesperson of the CCG said on Tuesday. China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands, including Xianbin Jiao, and adjacent waters. The retention of Philippine ship at Xianbin Jiao violates China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights, contravening the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and undermining peace and stability in the region, the spokesperson said. "China firmly opposes this behavior and the CCG will continue to conduct right protection law enforcement in its jurisdictional waters and safeguard national territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.'' After the infringement activities related to Huangyan Dao, also known as Huangyan Island and Ren'ai Jiao (Ren'ai Reef), were resolutely countered by the CCG, the Philippines has attempted to assert its presence at China's Xianbin Jiao. Recent on-site images obtained by the Global Times showed that in addition to frequently transporting fresh water, fuel and food, the Philippines has also attempted to deliver building materials, suspected to be cement, to the illegally stationed Philippine Coast Guard ship at Xianbin Jiao. These actions by the Philippines warrant high vigilance. The Philippines is employing alternating provocative tactics around Huangyan Dao, Ren'ai Jiao and Xianbin Jiao. As we blocked their provocations at Ren'ai Jiao, they may make infringing moves at Xianbin Jiao and stage another illegal grounding with their warship, Ding Duo, deputy director of the Institute of Maritime Law and Policy at the National Institute for South China Sea Studies, told the Global Times on Tuesday. "We need to fully prepare for such potential provocations in these so-called gray zone areas," Ding said. Some experts pointed out that the Philippines' actions have strategic intentions. As Xianbin Jiao, located between Ren'ai Jiao and the Philippines' Palawan Island, is closer to the Philippine mainland. The Philippines intends to develop Xianbin Jiao into a maritime "base" for illegally supplying Ren'ai Jiao and a "foothold" for conducting infringement activities in the South China Sea, they noted. Besides its provocations in the South China Sea, the Philippines continued accusing China, and confused right and wrong, toward which China has clarified its stance. Philippine Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, navy spokesperson on South China Sea issues, was quoted as saying in a Reuters' report on Tuesday that the CCG's actions against Philippine vessels on June 17 were the "most aggressive" in recent history. In response to a question regarding the matter at the regular press conference on Tuesday, Mao Ning, spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said that Ren'ai Jiao is China's territory. The root cause of the current situation is that the Philippines infringed on China's rights and made deliberate provocations. The Philippines needs to stop those infringement activities and provocations at once, and return as soon as possible to the track of resolving differences through dialogue and consultation, Mao said. Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Chen Xiaodong and Philippine Foreign Undersecretary Theresa Lazaro co-chaired the 9th meeting of the China-Philippines Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea (BCM) in Manila on Tuesday, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said. Both sides had candid and constructive exchanges on the South China Sea situation, particularly on managing the situation at Ren'ai Jiao. China reiterated its sovereignty over the Nansha Islands, including Ren'ai Jiao, and adjacent waters, asserting its sovereign rights and jurisdiction over relevant maritime areas, the ministry said. China urged the Philippines to immediately stop maritime infringements and provocative actions, and to abide by the provisions of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), urging the Philippines to return to dialogue and consultation to properly handle disputes. They acknowledged that maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea serves the interests of both countries and is a common goal of regional countries. They agreed to continue dialogue and consultation through mechanisms like the BCM to manage contradictions and differences. During the meeting, both sides also exchanged views on enhancing maritime communication mechanisms, promoting dialogue between their coast guards, and advancing cooperation in marine science, technology, and environmental protection. Growing calls Rising tensions between China and the Philippines due to the latter's provocations also worry many Filipinos. "As a Filipino and as an Asian, I don't want my country to be a battleground," Raul Lambino, Chairman of the Association for Philippines-China Understanding, said in a recent conference commemorating the 70th anniversary of Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence in Beijing. Lambino's remarks struck a chord with many participants at the conference. Also, 33 major Filipino Chinese business and civic organizations, led by the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII), fervently advocate for the de-escalation of territorial disputes, urging these issues to be addressed through diplomatic channels and constructive dialogue among friends. "The recent misunderstandings regarding maritime territory have become increasingly concerning, with the potential to unnecessarily escalate into a crisis that could destabilize the economic development of the Philippines, China, and the broader Asian region," FFCCCII President Dr Cecilio K. Pedro told the Global Times. A peaceful resolution to the sea dispute is essential for Philippine economic development, to prevent the erosion of traditionally strong bilateral relations between the Philippines and China which could also negatively affect both our two countries and the wider Asian region, Pedro said. "I believe the vast majority of Filipinos, particularly those of us in the business sector, are deeply invested in upholding peace and stability to ensure unimpeded and sustainable economic development," he added. To be met with countermeasures The Philippines filed a claim with the UN to an extended continental shelf as it seeks recognition to its entitlements beyond its 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, and it has welcomed Vietnam's recognition of its UN filing, Reuters reported on Monday. However, Malaysia opposed the Philippine submission to the UN, saying it is projected from the baselines of Sabah, according to media reports. These current confrontations, note verbales, and statements reflect that the disputes over territorial sovereignty and maritime delimitation in the South China Sea are very complicated and cannot be resolved by unilateral actions, such as unilaterally submitting delimitation applications or through international judicial and arbitration procedure, Ding said. "If the disputant countries attempt to exclude China in their bilateral negotiations and consultations, it's unrealistic," the expert said. Also, according to the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) rules, submissions involving disputes will not be considered. Thus, the Philippines' request for delimitation beyond 200 nautical miles is unlikely to be reviewed substantively and will probably be deferred or suspended, Ding noted. The Philippines' suggestion to consider delimitation or negotiations for the South China Sea continental shelf with certain disputant countries is an attempt to legitimize the illegal award of the so-called South China Sea arbitration, some experts said. "They believe that the ruling has resolved the disputes, clarifying the areas of contention and respective claims, and that China has no legitimate claims. Hence, they seek to exclude China from maritime delimitation talks, negotiating directly with other disputant countries," Ding said. "Such approach poses certain risks to our claims. Although it won't substantively impact our legal claims, it might have negative political, diplomatic, and public opinion consequences. We will take effective countermeasures," the expert said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Exclusive: Evidence shows Philippines attempting to transport construction materials to China's Xianbin Jiao Global Times By Fan Wei Published: Jul 02, 2024 01:21 AM After the infringement activities related to Huangyan Dao, also known as Huangyan Island and Ren'ai Jiao (Ren'ai Reef), were severely countered by the China Coast Guard, the Philippines has attempted to assert its presence at China's Xianbin Jiao. According to previous reports from the Philippine media, in April this year, the Philippine Coast Guard began dispatching ships to anchor in the waters of Xianbin Jiao and continuously sent coast guard vessels to deliver supplies to the illegally stationed Philippine ships there. Recent on-site images obtained by the Global Times showed that in addition to frequently transporting fresh water, fuel, and food, the Philippines has also attempted to deliver building materials, suspected to be cement, to the illegally stationed Philippine Coast Guard ships at Xianbin Jiao. This series of actions by the Philippines warrants high vigilance. Some experts told the Global Times that the Philippines aims to turn Xianbin Jiao into a maritime "base" for illegally supplying Ren'ai Jiao and a "foothold" for conducting infringement activities in the South China Sea. However, this move will only increase China's law enforcement presence at Xianbin Jiao. The Philippine ship asserting its presence at Xianbin Jiao is the Philippine Coast Guard's largest vessel, the "BRP Teresa Magbanua" (hull number MRRV-9701), the Global Times learned. This ship was built by Japan's Mitsubishi Shipbuilding based on the Japan Coast Guard's Kunigami-class patrol vessel. Japanese media reports indicate that the ship is approximately 96 meters long, with a gross tonnage of nearly 2,300 tons, and can carry up to 67 crew members, with an endurance of up to 15 days. It is also one of the most advanced ships in the Philippine Coast Guard, touted as a "force multiplier" capable of supporting Philippine Navy operations. The Philippine Coast Guard has defined the ship's role as a "quick response platform" capable of performing personnel transport and logistical supply missions at sea. Since April of this year, the vessel has entered the waters of China's Xianbin Jiao and has been continuously active there. Philippine Coast Guard spokesperson Jay Tarriela previously said at a press conference that the Coast Guard's actions were intended to prevent China from successfully reclaiming land on Xianbin Jiao. However, recent footage obtained by the Global Times showed that the Philippines has been frequently and continuously delivering supplies, including building materials, to the BRP Teresa Magbanua. This move indicates an intent to change the status quo of Xianbin Jiao and escalate the infringement activities in the South China Sea. The footage showed that since May, the Philippine Coast Guard has deployed ships 4402, 4404, and 4409 in rotation to deliver supplies to the BRP Teresa Magbanua. Supplies including fresh water, fuel, and food, as well as rotating personnel, were delivered to the BRP Teresa Magbanua on May 3 to 9, May 14, and May 23 to June 3. In a recent interview with the Global Times, Yang Xiao, deputy director of the Institute of Maritime Strategy Studies under the China Institute of Contemporary International Relations, said that the "BRP Teresa Magbanua" is one of the most advanced ships of the Philippine Coast Guard. Due to the large number of crew members it carries on a daily basis, there is significant consumption of living supplies. The frequent deployment of various types of ships by the Philippines to supply the "BRP Teresa Magbanua" and rotate personnel underscores the Philippines' intention to maintain a long-term presence at Xianbin Jiao, achieving a quasi-permanent military presence. This intention is also "hidden" in some of the details of their illegal resupply operations. Upon closely examining related footage, the Global Times found that during the resupply operations, the Philippines frequently transported mysterious box-shaped items to the "BRP Teresa Magbanua." In one illegal resupply operation on May 23, the "BRP Teresa Magbanua" hoisted large bags marked "MABUHAY PORTLAND" from the Philippine Coast Guard's 4409 ship. A person working in the construction materials industry in the Philippines told the Global Times that "MABUHAY PORTLAND" is a construction materials brand in the Philippine market, which primarily produces cement. Yang said that the various actions by the Philippines indicate their intention to replicate the illegal grounding of a warship at Ren'ai Jiao in the South China Sea in 1999. the Philippine vessel 9701 has now become a maritime platform that operates for the long term around Xianbin Jiao. Transporting a large amount of supplies and even suspected construction materials suggests that the Philippines intends to eventually establish a permanent facility on Xianbin Jiao. The Philippines' actions have strategic intentions. Currently, conducting activities from within the country to Ren'ai Jiao and other illegally occupied reefs involves a considerable distance. "Xianbin Jiao, located between Renai Jiao and the Philippines' Palawan Island, is closer to the Philippine mainland. The Philippines intends to develop Xianbin Jiao into a maritime "base" for illegally supplying Renai Jiao and a "foothold" for conducting infringement activities in the South China Sea," Yang said. The Philippines illegally grounded a warship at Ren'ai Jiao more than 20 years ago, and to this day, they are still trying to "replicate" this tactic. Yang said the Philippines fails to realize that this opportunistic idea has no feasibility at all. "Even though they illegally grounded a warship at Ren'ai Jiao, we thwarted their attempts to build permanent facilities. Now, at Xianbin Jiao, the Philippines is even less likely to succeed," Yang said. China currently has absolute control over both Ren'ai Jiao and Xianbin Jiao. Not only are there Chinese Navy ships conduct patrols in the waters, but the China Coast Guard also conducts regular law enforcement to safeguard rights in this region, Yang said. Additionally, Chinese fishermen operating in these waters will voluntarily stand up to prevent any infringement by the Philippines. Therefore, any schemes by the Philippines are utterly impossible to achieve. Furthermore, the surrounding countries in the South China Sea will no longer tolerate the Philippines' blatant attempts to alter the status quo in the South China Sea, especially actions such as grounding on uninhabited islands and building permanent facilities, Yang said. The Global Times learned that China currently maintains an absolute advantage in the sea waters of Xianbin Jiao with the presence of maritime law enforcement forces. Additionally, Xianbin Jiao is a traditional fishing ground for Chinese fishermen, many of whom have long been conducting fishing operations there. Footage shows that during the Philippines' illegal resupply operation on May 23, a Chinese fishing boat even approached closely, standing firm against the infringement actions of the Philippine Coast Guard. Yang said that the Philippines may not yet realize that their actions at Xianbin Jiao are a strategic blunder. As a countermeasure, China will undoubtedly increase its maritime law enforcement presence at Xianbin Jiao, potentially making it a permanent regular presence. "Xianbin Jiao is closer to the Philippine mainland, and the forward deployment of China's maritime law enforcement forces will further reduce the space for the Philippines to carry out infringements in the South China Sea," Yang said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement by PM Netanyahu Israel - Prime Minister's Office Press Releases The 37th Government 02.07.2024 Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today: "Anonymous sources briefed The New York Times that Israel will be prepared to end the war before all of its objectives are achieved. I do not know who these anonymous sources are, but I am here to make it unequivocally clear: This will not happen. The war will end once Israel achieves all of its objectives, including the destruction of Hamas and the release of all of our hostages. The Government directed the IDF to achieve these war objectives and the IDF has all the means to achieve them. We will not capitulate to the winds of defeatism, neither in The New York Times nor anywhere else. We are inspired by the spirit of victory." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Denmark chairs the inaugural meeting of NATO's Transatlantic Quantum Community NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation 02 Jul. 2024 On Tuesday (2 July 2024) the Transatlantic Quantum Community (TQC) held its inaugural meeting in Brussels. Last September, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called for the development of a dedicated network which would enhance Allied cooperation and harness the benefits of quantum technologies to strengthen deterrence and defence. Since that point, NATO's Quantum Technologies Strategy was agreed and the Alliance's International Staff collaborated with NATO members to establish the Community. The Transatlantic Quantum Community is Allied led but participation is voluntary. More than half of Allies are already involved, including the United States, Canada, France, Italy and Czechia and the initiative is championed by Denmark as the first national chair. The Community will bring together quantum experts from national governments, industry, academia, funding bodies, and research institutions and will help encourage Allied innovation enabling NATO protect its technological edge. The role of quantum technologies in the security environment is growing and the Community will help NATO engage with critical issues. These include funding and technology challenges, talent development and partnership opportunities. The Transatlantic Quantum Community's first annual plenary is expected to take place this autumn. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address AFP chief: New defense concept fortifies PH's watch of EEZ, WPS Philippine News Agency By Priam Nepomuceno July 2, 2024, 3:34 pm MANILA -- The Philippines' Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC) has stepped up its ability to protect its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) and territories beyond this, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said Tuesday. "Nakita natin yun importansya ng ating EEZ, (pati) na rin po yun mga features natin katulad ng Pagasa Island ay nasa labas ng exclusive economic zone. But still, we consider that a territory of the Philippines, meron na nga po tayong komunidad sa Pagasa Island. Meron siyang sariling mayor, at so, kailangan po natin depensahan natin ito (We saw the importance of our EEZ and our features (in the WPS) like Pagasa Island which is outside our EEZ. But still, we consider that as a territory of the Philippines, we have a community in Pagasa Island and it has an elected mayor, so we need to defend that)," Brawner said at the Pre-SONA (State of the Nation Address) Special "Resibo ng Serbisyo ng Pangulo" over state-run PTV. In the past, Brawner said the Philippines' defense concept was merely based on its baseline, which means that the AFP will have to wait for a potential enemy to come before mounting operations against this threat. Earlier, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said CADC will allow the Philippines to address its ongoing maritime security challenges and would enable the AFP to address contemporary threats to Philippine territorial integrity and sovereign rights. He said the CADC is a convergence of various strategies to give a more holistic approach to dealing with critical socio-economic factors like food security, energy sustainability, and environmental resilience. Brawner, meanwhile, said the AFP's patrols in the WPS would continue to ensure that the Filipino fisherfolk would be able to go about with their normal activities. Survey operations will also continue to check and determine the status of resources in the WPS, he said. "Marami pa tayong ginagawang operations na di pwedeng sabihin dito. But of course, tuloy-tuloy po ang gagawin maritime and air patrols (We are doing a lot of operations that we cannot give details due to security reasons. But of course, our maritime and air patrols will continue)," he said. He said the military has also stepped up its monitoring of activities within the country's territorial waters. He also said the AFP continues to strengthen ties with allied nations through the holding of multilateral maritime cooperative activities (MMCA). "Sa mga susunod na buwan ay marami pa tayong makikitang (In the next months, we would see more editions of) MMCA. This time, pati mga bansa sa Europa, gustong sumama. Gustong sumama ng France, United Kingdom, Germany, pati na rin dito sa region natin, New Zealand (some countries in Europe also want to join. France, United Kingdom, Germany, and our regional neighbor New Zealand) also wants to join us. Welcome po lahat ng mga bansang ito (All these countries are welcome) to join us in our joint sail activity," Brawner added. (PNA) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN says Israel's war machine has displaced 1.9 million in Gaza Iran Press TV Tuesday, 02 July 2024 5:11 PM The UN humanitarian coordinator for Gaza says Israel's war on the territory has unleashed a maelstrom of human misery, with 1.9 million people now displaced across the narrow populated territory. Sigrid Kaag told the UN Security Council on Tuesday that more than 1 million people are "desperately seeking shelter and safety" in Gaza. She said that "1.9 million people are now displaced across Gaza." "Their homes life shattered, their lives upended. The war has not merely created the most profound of humanitarian crises. It has unleashed a maelstrom of human misery." Kaag said she was deeply concerned" by reports of Israel's new evacuation orders for Khan Yunis. Hundreds of people were fleeing Khan Younis in southern Gaza after the regime's military once again bombarded the largely ruined city and ordered a mass evacuation of residents on Monday.. The UN says 250,000 Palestinians in southern Gaza have been affected by the orders. People leaving the city say they don't know where to go as they keep being displaced from one place to another. The new bombardment and evacuation have sparked fear that the military could launch a new ground assault on Khan Younis. International aid agencies have repeatedly warned that there is no safe place to take refuge in Gaza any more. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli generals seek ceasefire in Gaza as war with Hezbollah looms: Report Iran Press TV Tuesday, 02 July 2024 4:30 PM A report says Israel's top generals are advocating a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, amid fears of a potential war with the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah. The New York Times, citing multiple Israeli officials, reported on Tuesday that the generals seek to begin a truce in Gaza even if it keeps the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas in power for the time being. The report said the generals think the regime's forces need time to recuperate in case a bigger war breaks out against Hezbollah, given that Israel is unequipped for further fighting after its months-long war in Gaza. A truce with Hamas could also facilitate a deal with Hezbollah, the Israeli officials said, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. The report said Israeli generals believe a truce is the best way to secure the release of roughly 120 Israeli prisoners still held in Gaza. According to the New York Times report, the generals' stance has reportedly created a rift between the military and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has firmly rejected any ceasefire proposal in Gaza. The Israeli military's full support for a ceasefire also "reflects a major shift in its thinking over the past months, as it became more clear that Netanyahu was refusing to articulate or commit to a postwar plan," the report said. Eyal Hulata, a former Israeli adviser who regularly speaks with senior military officials, also said the military is in full support of a prisoner swap and a ceasefire deal. Hulata said the military has "less munitions, less spare parts, less energy than they did before so they also think a pause in Gaza gives us more time to prepare in case a bigger war does break out with Hezbollah." "Therefore, the military fears a prolonged conflict where its resources are gradually depleted while prisoners remain in Gaza and Hamas leaders stay at large. In this scenario, keeping Hamas in power temporarily in exchange for prisoners releases seems like the least worst option for Israel." The Israeli regime and Hezbollah have been exchanging fire along Lebanon's southern border on an almost daily basis since October 7. The exchange of fire has intensified since Israel assassinated senior Hezbollah commander Sami Taleb Abdullah. The movement has retaliated by firing hundreds of rockets into the northern parts of the occupied territories. Back in June, the Israeli army said it had approved plans for an attack on Lebanon, raising concerns that the regime might try to realize its recurrent threats of turning Lebanon into another Gaza. Hezbollah Secretary-General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah has already warned that "no place" in the Israeli-occupied territories would be spared from the group's weapons in the event of a full-blown war. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 250K Palestinians hit by Israel's new evacuation order in southern Gaza: UN Iran Press TV Tuesday, 02 July 2024 4:26 PM The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) says a quarter of a million people have been impacted by Israel's latest evacuation order for parts of southern Gaza. UNRWA spokeswoman Louise Wateridge said on Tuesday the agency estimates "around 250,000 people had been impacted by these orders." "We expect these numbers to grow." "We've seen people moving, families moving, people starting to pack up their belongings and try to leave this area." On Monday, Israel issued a new evacuation order for parts of Khan Yunis and Rafah in southern Gaza. It followed mass displacement from large parts of Rafah that began with a similar order nearly two months ago. "This is another devastating blow to the humanitarian response here," Wateridge said. "It's another devastating blow for the people and the families on the ground. It seems that they are forcibly being displaced again, and again." She said following the start of the Rafah incursion in May, people had flooded back into the largely destroyed Khan Yunis area. "And now already, because of the orders last night, the same families are having to move again." "There is absolutely no safe place in the Gaza Strip." Witnesses saw Palestinians leave eastern Khan Yunis on foot, in cars and on horse or donkey carts, carrying their belongings with them. Some displaced people with nowhere to go were sleeping on the streets, witnesses said. Ahmad Najjar, a resident of the town of Bani Suhaila, said the Israeli evacuation order had caused a large displacement of residents and spurred fear and extreme anxiety. The Israeli military has warned residents and displaced Palestinians in Khan Younis to move to the western part of the city. Hundreds of Palestinian patients have also been forced to flee the European Hospital. Tent camps for the displaced in Khan Younis have been evacuated. Israeli forces carried out deadly strikes in southern Gaza on Tuesday. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address July 1: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Iran Press TV Tuesday, 02 July 2024 2:08 PM By Press TV Website Staff Amid Israel's genocidal war on Gaza, which has killed nearly 38,000 Palestinians so far, including around 17,000 children, resistance groups in Palestine and across the region continue their operations against the Tel Aviv regime and its Western backers. The major operations carried out by the Palestinian and regional resistance groups on Monday, July 1, are as follows: Al-Qassam Brigades' operations on July 1: Targeted an Israeli military Merkava tank with an Al-Yassin 105 shell on Al-Quds Street in the Tal Al-Sultan neighborhood, west of Rafah, southern Gaza Strip. Targeted an Israeli military Merkava 4 tank with two guerilla action devices south of Al-Tayaran Street in the Tal Al-Sultan neighborhood in the city of Rafah, southern Gaza Strip. Sniped an Israeli soldier inside a house in the Shuja'iyya neighborhood, east of Gaza City. Targeted two Israeli military Merkava 4 tanks with two Shuath explosive devices in Shuja'iyya neighborhood east of Gaza City. Al-Quds Brigades' operations on July 1: Targeted gatherings of Israeli forces in Shuja'iyya neighborhood east of Gaza City with standard mortar shells. Targeted the positions of Israeli soldiers and their military vehicles on the supply line in the "Netzarim" axis, south of Gaza City, with mortar shells. Targeted the command and control headquarters of the Israeli military at the "Amitai" military base with 107mm rockets. Targeted an Israeli military Merkava tank with an RPG shell and engaged in clashes with regime soldiers at the targeted site around the Western Cemetery, southwest of the city of Rafah, southern Gaza Strip. Targeted "Kissufim," the "Third Eye," "Nirim," "Sofa," "Holit" and the settlements of the Gaza envelope with a barrage of rockets. Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades' operations on July 1: Targeted gatherings of Israeli forces and their military vehicles at the "Re'im" military base and the "Meflasim" base with a concentrated rocket barrage. Engaged in fierce clashes with Israeli forces and their military vehicles using appropriate weapons in the Shuja'iyya neighborhood, east of Gaza City. Targeted an Israeli military force barricaded in a home in Shuja'iyya neighborhood east of Gaza City with a TBG shell. Targeted Israeli forces penetrating the airport grounds, east of the city of Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip, with mortar shells. Martyr Abu Ali Mustafa Brigades' operations on July 1: The artillery unit of the group bombed Israeli forces and their military vehicles penetrating the Shuja'iyya neighborhood, east of Gaza City, with mortar shells. Martyr Omar Al-Qasim Forces' operations on July 1: Targeted Israeli regime forces that had penetrated the "Kaf Al-Mashru'" area east of Rafah city in the southern Strip with mortar shells. Hezbollah's operations on July 1: Eastern sector: The Samaqa site in the occupied Kafr Shuba hills was targeted with artillery shells. A building used by Israeli soldiers in the "Ramot Naftali" settlement was targeted with appropriate weapons, The "Ma'ayan Baruch" site was targeted with artillery shells. A building used by Israeli soldiers in the Metula settlement was targeted with appropriate weapons. Buildings used by Israeli soldiers in the Kfar Giladi settlement were targeted with appropriate weapons, Western sector: A building used by Israeli soldiers in the "Doviv" settlement was targeted with appropriate weapons. Buildings used by Israeli soldiers in the "Granot HaGalil" settlement were targeted with appropriate weapons. Yemeni military's operations on July 1: Targeted the Israeli ship (MSC Unific) in the Arabian Sea with several cruise missiles, hit precisely. Targeted the American oil tanker (Delonix) in the Red Sea with several ballistic and cruise missiles. Targeted the British landing vessel (Anvil Point) in the Indian Ocean with several cruise missiles. Targeted the (Lucky Sailor) ship in the Mediterranean Sea with several cruise missiles. Islamic Resistance in Iraq's operations on July 1: Targeted a military site in Umm Al-Rashrash ("Eilat") in the occupied Palestinian territories with a barrage of drones. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah pummels Israeli outposts in response to aggression against southern Lebanon Iran Press TV Tuesday, 02 July 2024 6:16 AM Fighters from the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement have carried out a series of new attacks, targeting Israeli military positions along the Arab nation's border with the 1948 occupied territories. The resistance fighters targeted the al-Samaqa site in the occupied Lebanese Kfar Shuba hills with artillery shells, hitting it directly. Hezbollah said the operation was in retaliation for an Israeli drone strike against a two-story building in the southern Lebanese village of Houla on Saturday, which killed three of its members. A barrage of artillery shells was also launched at Ma'ayan Baruch kibbutz, causing a fierce fire. Moreover, Hezbollah members fired separate barrages of rockets at Israeli military barracks in Kfar Giladi, al-Metula and Doviv settlements, hitting the designated targets precisely. The resistance group also claimed responsibility for launching rockets from Lebanon at an Israeli military position in Kfar Giladi kibbutz of the Galilee Panhandle, achieving direct hits. Since early October last year, Hezbollah and Israel have been involved in a series of deadly clashes. The confrontations were initiated after the Tel Aviv regime launched a genocidal assault on the Gaza Strip following a surprise operation by the Palestinian Hamas resistance group. Hezbollah has vowed to maintain its retaliatory strikes as long as the Israeli regime continues its Gaza war, which has resulted in the deaths of at least 37,900 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, and left 87,060 others injured. Hezbollah officials have repeatedly said they do not want a war with Israel but if it happens they are ready. According to Lebanon's Grand Shia Mufti Sheikh Ahmad Qabalan, Hezbollah has a massive arsenal of missiles of different types, warning that the resistance movement would fire up to half a million missiles toward the Israeli-occupied territories in case of a new war on Lebanon. "In case of an open war between Lebanon and Israel, the latter should expect the launch of some 500,000 missiles [from southern Lebanon into the occupied lands]. The destructive power of these missiles can send the occupying regime back to 70 years ago," Qabalan said last month. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US targets firms over training of Chinese fighter pilots The companies are tied to a South African flying school where Western ex-military allegedly trained Chinese pilots. By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2024.07.02 -- The United States has placed trading restrictions on four foreign companies for their ties to a South African flying school where Western ex-military members allegedly trained Chinese fighter pilots. U.S. companies and nationals will need to apply for a special license - with a "presumption of denial" - before doing any business with China's Global Training Solutions and Smartech Future, South Africa's Grace Air and the United Kingdom's Livingston Aerospace. The firms were blacklisted "because of their links to the Test Flying Academy of South Africa (TFASA) and the training of China's military forces using Western sources," according to a U.S. Department of Commerce federal filing set to be published on Wednesday. TFASA itself was added to the Commerce Ministry's banned Entity List in June 2023 and is at the center of the former U.S. Marine and now Australian citizen Daniel Duggan's high-profile extradition case. The United States has accused Duggan, who renounced his U.S. citizenship in 2016 and now has a family in Australia, of knowingly training Chinese military pilots at the South African school in 2012 in technical skills that included landing on aircraft carriers. Duggan has denied the accusations and says he only thought he was training civilian Chinese pilots. His Australian family says the U.S. military is trying to make an example of him in order to warn other American ex-military members against training Chinese pilots. In a memo last month, the U.S. military warned Western ex-military against lucrative job offers to train Chinese pilots, with recruitment by firms with ties to China's People's Liberation Army "not always obvious, as companies may not initially promote the PLA's role." "Job locations may be in China, South Africa, or elsewhere, with lucrative contracts and the opportunity to fly exotic aircraft, with vague details on the ultimate customers," the June 5 memo said. 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 July not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Manila: Philippines, China agree to 'de-escalate' South China Sea tensions But both sides say "significant differences" remain on how to resolve their maritime dispute Jason Gutierrez for BenarNews 2024.07.02 -- Manila and Beijing agreed to "de-escalate tensions" in the South China Sea following a tense standoff last month at a disputed shoal, Philippine officials said Tuesday after both sides held bilateral talks on the waterway. Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro met with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong behind closed doors in Manila for the 9th Bilateral Consultation Mechanism on the South China Sea, the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. The two sides "had a frank and constructive discussion on the situation in the South China Sea," the statement said, adding that both "affirmed their commitment to de-escalate tensions without prejudice to their respective positions." Lazaro, however, told Chen that Manila would remain "relentless in protecting its interests and upholding its sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the West Philippine Sea," the statement said, using Manila's name for South China Sea waters within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. Both sides "affirmed their commitment to de-escalate tensions without prejudice to their respective positions," the statement also said. Lazaro and Chen, who headed their respective delegations at the talks in Makati, Manila's financial district, committed to implementing a "maritime communication mechanism" between their countries' coast guards and to form a joint committee to discuss such incidents, according to the statement. It gave no further details on this point, and the two senior diplomats did not hold a joint press conference after their meeting. Similar agreements in the past to set up a South China Sea "hotline" to quickly address bilateral problems as they arise have not been effective. "There was substantial progress on developing measures to manage the situation at sea, but significant differences remain," the statement said. The talks in Manila followed a dramatic standoff between Filipino servicemen and Chinese coast guard personnel at Second Thomas, or Ayungin, Shoal on June 17, during which a Philippine navy sailor lost a finger. Last week, Washington's ambassador to Manila, MaryKay Carlson, said that international support for the Philippines was growing in the wake of the incident at Ayungin. U.S. President Joe Biden has stressed that the South China Sea should be "free and open" where local fishermen can ply their trade free from "coercion" from other countries, Carlson told the East-West Media Conference in Manila on June 26. "With like-minded partners and all who support the rule of law, we urge [China] to cease harassment of Philippine vessels lawfully operating in the Philippine exclusive economic zones, to halt its disruption to states' sovereign rights to explore, utilize, conserve, and manage natural resources in their territories and EEZs," Carlson said. Meanwhile on Tuesday, China reiterated its position that Manila's resupply missions to a Philippine military outpost at the shoal violate its jurisdiction, despite the reef being located within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone. "The root cause of the current situation is that the Philippines infringed on China's rights and made deliberate provocations," Mao Ning, the Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman, said during a news conference. "The Philippines needs to stop those infringement activities and provocations at once, and return as soon as possible to the track of resolving differences through dialogue and consultation." BenarNews is an online news outlet affiliated with Radio Free Asia. 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 July not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Philippines 'ready' to discuss continental shelf with Vietnam Manila says it is willing to explore a mutually beneficial solution to South China Sea issues with Hanoi. By RFA Staff 2024.07.02 -- The Philippines says it is willing to hold talks with Vietnam after it called for consultations on a Philippine submission on an extended continental shelf claim in the South China Sea. "We are ready to engage Vietnam on possible ways forward that would help achieve a mutually beneficial solution to South China Sea issues in accordance with international law, particularly the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea [UNCLOS]," the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. The Philippines also welcomed Vietnam's recognition of the submission, filed on June 14 with the U.N. Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf, or CLCS, to register the Philippines' entitlement to an extended continental shelf in the West Palawan region of the South China Sea. On June 20, responding to Manila's submission, Hanoi did not protest outright but instead said that while coastal states had the right to determine their outer continental shelf boundaries under UNCLOS, when submitting their claims "they must respect the legal and legitimate rights and interests of other relevant coastal nations with opposite or adjacent coasts." A spokesperson for Vietnam said it stayed ready to hold talks with the Philippines to seek a solution that was mutually beneficial for both countries. Meanwhile, China has rejected the Philippine submission, saying it infringed upon China's sovereign rights and jurisdiction and violated international law. Beijing says it holds "historic rights" over most of the South China Sea but an arbitral tribunal under UNCLOS in 2016 rejected all of its claims. The Philippine submission, reinforcing the tribunal ruling, has not named China as a party for negotiations on the continental shelf. China and the Philippines have recently been involved in tense confrontations over some reefs that both claim but lie within Philippine waters in the South China Sea. Malaysia also "categorically rejects" the Philippines' submission on the basis that the Philippines' continental margin is projected from the baselines of the Malaysian state of Sabah. "This clearly disregards Malaysia's indisputable sovereignty over the state of Sabah," said a statement issued by the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to the U.N. Acceptable solution Nguyen Hong Thao, professor of international law at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, or DAV, noted Manila's willingness to discuss the delimitation of maritime boundaries with the relevant countries. "Vietnam and the Philippines have been maintaining solidarity and cooperation for the common good," he told RFA. It is unclear when the consultation is expected to begin. The CLCS said it would look at the Philippine submission in a session between January and March next year. The extended continental shelf is the stretch of seabed that extends to a maximum of 350 nautical miles (648 km) from the shore of a coastal state, which has exclusive rights to explore it or exploit its natural resources. However, the Philippine submission may overlap with previous submissions by Vietnam and Malaysia, as well as with a Vietnam-Malaysia joint submission in 2009, against which the Philippines protested. In a recent opinion piece, DAV's Thao argued that maritime limits, including the overlapping outer limits of the continental shelf in the South China Sea, need to be agreed upon by the countries involved. He warned of a new "battle of note verbales," or diplomatic notes sent to the U.N. secretary-general to express concern, from neighbors of the Philippines. The CLCS cannot make a determination if another party objects, and that is why in the immediate future, "the Philippines may consider withdrawing from its objection to the Vietnam-Malaysia joint submission and negotiating with these two countries to find an acceptable solution," the legal expert suggested. Edited by Mike Firn and Matt Reed. This story has been updated from statements made by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs and the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to the U.N. 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 July not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Wider Europe Briefing: Should Brussels Be Afraid Of Hungary's EU Presidency? By Rikard Jozwiak July 02, 2024 Briefing #1: Bracing For The Hungarian EU Presidency What You Need To Know: The European Union is bracing after Hungary took over the EU's rotating presidency on July 1. It could be an awkward six months for the EU leadership, given that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has been on a collision course with Brussels, watering down EU sanctions on Russia, preventing military and financial aid for Ukraine, and questioning Kyiv's EU aspirations. Hungary, a self-styled "illiberal democracy," has been penalized for what officials in Brussels see as backsliding on democracy, with the EU freezing 6 billion euros ($6.4 billion) of funds meant for the Central European country. Yet despite the thorny relationship, Hungary's stint as president in the second half of 2024 may not be as dramatic and problematic as some may fear. The rotating presidency of the Council of the European Union, one of the main decision-making bodies of the bloc, which comprises government ministers from the member states, is alternately held for a period of six months by each of the member states. Under this arrangement, each member state has the opportunity to shape the council's agenda. Deep Background: According to several sources in Brussels with knowledge of the issue, the Hungarian presidency isn't causing too many sleepless nights. This is largely due to two factors: the actual role of the presidency and the quirks of the political calendar. Let's start with the first. The presidencies of the Council of the European Union are not what they used to be. There was a time when the country whose turn it was really did control the agenda, holding proper summits in their capitals and with their diplomats running the show behind the scenes. This changed in 2004, when it was decided that all important summits should be held in the Belgian capital. The changes went deeper in 2009 with the advent of the EU's Lisbon Treaty, designed to improve the efficiency and democratic legitimacy of the EU, which created a number of new functions and essentially concentrated power in Brussels. The Lisbon Treaty created a permanent president of the European Council, which mainly consists of the heads of state or government of the member states. The post is currently held by Belgian politician Charles Michel, who serves a five-year term and chairs all summits. The council also has a much-expanded and powerful secretariat staffed by EU officials with expertise across all the policy fields. The Lisbon Treaty also created an EU foreign policy chief, currently held by Spanish politician Josep Borrell, and a diplomatic corps, the European External Action Service, to give the foreign policy position some heft. The main task of this person is to prepare and chair the monthly EU foreign affairs council where the bloc's foreign ministers meet to make decisions. Drilling Down How does this affect the Hungarian presidency? Well, it lessens the influence of the two most Brussels-bashing members of Hungary's national-conservative government, Orban and his foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto. Budapest can, of course, still influence the conversation, as seen with the unveiling of their Donald Trump-inspired Make Europe Great Again (MEGA) slogan for the presidency last week. Hungary's bold move was dismissed as "trolling" by many in Brussels, with the feeling there would be more of that type of thing to come. While the two men will still preside over informal ministerial meetings and even a summit in Budapest in November, their role will be fairly superficial. Notably, they will also have to face questions at press conferences and from foreign media, which they normally tend to shun. What is concretely left for Hungary to do? Their other ministers, such as those responsible for agriculture or justice, will still chair council meetings in their fields, and Hungarian diplomats will do the same in preparatory working groups. The whole idea of the rotating presidency is that the incumbents are expected to be honest brokers, seeking consensus among member states. Rather than causing trouble, Hungary might also decide to play nice. Speaking to officials from various member states, some have pointed out that while Hungary most certainly has an agenda -- and one that is often at odds with the consensus -- Hungarian officials have behaved professionally in the run-up to the presidency, underlining that everything will be done by the book. The second factor that could curtail Hungarian ambitions to impose its agenda is the political calendar. The reality is that in the next six months, little will happen in Brussels in terms of new legislation. That's because the EU capital will be busy with appointing a new European Commission, the bloc's executive and proposer of new laws, a process that includes time-consuming hearings in the European Parliament to approve new commissioners (one from each member state). That process is expected to take up almost the entire fall, and Hungary has no role to play in the decision-making. There has also been a frantic and largely successful attempt by the current Belgian presidency to clear the decks before Hungary assumed the role. That has meant signing off on a raft of new initiatives and policies. Another round of sanctions on Russia was passed on June 24; restrictive measures targeting Belarus are also expected to be agreed on June 26. A green light was also given to Ukraine and Moldova to start accession talks on June 25. The process of screening the two EU candidates' various policy accession chapters is expected to take well over six months, and it's likely Budapest won't have to deal with Kyiv's EU accession at all and that it will be the next president of the EU Council, Poland, that will deal with this in 2025. While Hungary has spoken out against Ukraine's readiness to join the EU, one of Budapest's priorities for the presidency is to advance the membership prospects of Albania and Serbia and possibly even those of Bosnia-Herzegovina and Georgia. (There probably won't be enough support from the member states to green-light the latter two.) Ahead of Hungary's presidency, the EU even managed to send 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) worth of military aid to support Ukraine in defending itself against Russia. This money comes from the profits from Russian assets frozen in the EU, and Brussels got around the Budapest veto on this measure by noting that Hungary abstained from the original decision to set aside this money, so legally it didn't have a say in how that money would be used. This is a good illustration of how the Hungarian presidency might well play out. During the discussions in Brussels on this issue last week, the Hungarian representative stayed silent the whole time, essentially waving through the measure, whereas Szijjarto posted an angry rant on Facebook about the legality of the move to freeze Hungary out. This could be Hungary's game plan: being constructive and compliant in Brussels while screaming bloody murder to its audience at home. Then there is the question of money and those frozen EU funds earmarked for Hungary. While the 1.4 billion euros for Ukraine was passed, a Hungarian veto is still hanging over seven other tranches of military aid, worth nearly 7 billion euros, for the war-torn country. Hungary is used to bargaining with Brussels and could attempt to link its support for further military aid to Ukraine to the 6 billion euros of EU funds it wants Brussels to release. If Budapest doesn't comply with the EU's rule-of-law requirements by the end of the year, Hungary will permanently lose 1 billion euros. That's one deal that the Hungarians will be keen on making. Briefing #2: The New Top Jobs In The EU And NATO What You Need To Know: Both NATO and the European Union last week finalized who will lead them in the coming years. First, the ambassadors of the transatlantic military alliance on June 26 confirmed what has already been known for a few weeks -- that outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte will replace Jens Stoltenberg on October 1. A day later, in another part of the Belgian capital, EU leaders gave Ursula von der Leyen another five-year-mandate as European Commission president. They also chose former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa to replace Charles Michel as the president of the European Council and Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas to replace Josep Borrell as the bloc's foreign policy chief. It's not all in the bag yet for von der Leyen and Kallas, as they also need to be confirmed in European Parliament votes. For the former, the vote would take place in mid-July, whereas Kallas will face grueling hearings later in the fall. So, if approved, what could we expect from these new leaders? First, a disclaimer: While personalities have an impact and their positions certainly carry weight, they are not deciding policy on their own. In the EU, as well as NATO, all important decisions are still made by member states via unanimity on issues such as sanctions and expanding membership. In many ways Rutte, Costa, and Kallas will be chairing and cajoling an unruly set of leaders (foreign ministers, in the case of Kallas). While they will be the outward face for their respective institutions, their main task will essentially be to forge consensus on important decisions. Deep Background: Of all of them, von der Leyen is politically the most powerful. The European Commission is the bloc's executive and proposer of new legislation. It can take its member states to court, negotiate trade deals, and police the EU's common market (as U.S. tech firms and Chinese companies have experienced after receiving large fines). The commission oversees a budget worth 2 trillion euros ($2.15 trillion) with considerable freedom of how to disperse and withhold that cash. There is every reason to believe that von der Leyen will continue to be an influential leader, especially given Europe is facing something of a power vacuum. French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to get a battering in the parliamentary elections in July and likely to be something of a lame duck until his term expires in 2027, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz will likely be booted out of office by voters next year. The unenviable task of being the bulwark against growing populist forces both inside and outside the bloc may well fall to von der Leyen. The political leadership in Ukraine will be happy that she is staying on. She has consistently championed Kyiv, helping to secure long-term funding even when "Ukraine fatigue" crept into other parts of the bloc. She was also instrumental in securing EU candidate status for the country, as well as Georgia and Moldova. This year, she also championed a 6 billion-euro plan for EU hopefuls in the Western Balkans. Drilling Down An issue for von der Leyen has been her supposedly fractious relationship with outgoing European Council President Michel, which was the source of endless Brussels gossip. The institutional dysfunction could be a thing of the past, as von der Leyen apparently gets on famously with the incoming Costa, and the Portuguese prime minister appears liked by most EU heads of state and government. Articulate in both English and French, a number of EU officials, speaking on background as they aren't authorized to speak on the record, have told me that the 62-year-old is unlikely to be as fiercely ambitious as his younger predecessor and might even regard this job as his final contribution to high-level politics. He also enjoys widespread respect in the Global South, and, with his father being half-Goan, half-Mozambican, Costa will be the first ever leader of an EU institution who is non-white. There are, however, some qualms, notably surrounding his resignation as prime minister last year in the wake of revelations that some of his aides were involved in questionable investment deals for green hydrogen projects. While no longer under investigation, it's seen as a blemish on his record. And that leads us to Kallas, a Russia hawk who has made it onto Moscow's wanted list. Her dislike of the Kremlin made her, at least in some Western capitals, unsuitable for the job of NATO secretary-general, a position she was also in the running for. Russia aside, she has been vocal about Georgia's democratic backsliding and, while she is an ardent enlargement supporter, it's thought she will be much tougher on Serbia than previous EU top diplomats. Many in Brussels wonder how her outspokenness to date will chime with the staffers of the EU's diplomatic corps. As a precautionary measure, Kallas has moderated her tone in recent months. Her dislike of the Kremlin made her, at least in some Western capitals, unsuitable for the job of NATO secretary-general, a position she was also in the running for. Russia aside, she has been vocal about Georgia's democratic backsliding and, while she is an ardent enlargement supporter, it's thought she will be much tougher on Serbia than previous EU top diplomats. Many in Brussels wonder how her outspokenness to date will chime with the staffers of the EU's diplomatic corps. As a precautionary measure, Kallas has moderated her tone in recent months. And what about NATO? In many ways, Rutte will be an extension of Stoltenberg, the longest serving secretary-general in the military organization's history. Like Stoltenberg, he is experienced (Dutch prime minister for 14 years) and well-liked by leaders from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States. He is also known for being able to strike political compromises after heading numerous unwieldy multiparty governments in The Hague. Like Stoltenberg, Rutte is also thought to get on well with Ukraine's leadership and is reported to have the respect of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Looking Ahead All eyes will be fixed on the second round of the French parliamentary elections on July 7. Most indicators point to a trouncing of Macron's centrist bloc and big gains for both an alliance of left-wing groups and Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN). A hung parliament, rather than an absolute majority for RN, appears to be the most likely outcome. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/hungary-eu-presidency- eu-nato-top-jobs/33017542.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN Secretary-General Hopes Kyrgyz-Tajik Border Issues Will Be Resolved Peacefully By RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service July 02, 2024 CHOLPON-ATA, Kyrgyzstan -- The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed hope that Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan will be able to resolve all border issues via peaceful means. During his talks with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov in the resort city of Cholpon-Ata on the shores of the Lake Issyk-Kul on July 2, Guterres called on Kyrgyzstan to be "a symbol of peace." "You make great peace-building efforts, be it border issues or others. I have been to the Ferghana Valley twice and know how difficult it is to settle border issues. It's like a puzzle there. It takes effort to understand and solve everything. We believe that the border issue with Tajikistan will be resolved diplomatically, peacefully, through negotiations, as it was with Uzbekistan," Guterres said. The delimitation and demarcation of the Kyrgyz-Tajik border has been an issue for decades, but it gained added urgency in recent years after several deadly clashes took place along disputed segments of the frontier. In spring 2021, an armed conflict along one segment of the border left 36 people dead, including two children, and 154 injured on the Kyrgyz side. Tajik authorities said that 19 Tajik citizens were killed and 87 were injured during the clashes. However, local residents told RFE/RL's Tajik Service at the time that the number of people killed during the clashes was much higher. The border between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan is 972 kilometers long, most of which have now been agreed upon. Many border areas in Central Asian former Soviet republics have been disputed since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. The situation is particularly complicated near the numerous exclaves in the volatile Ferghana Valley, where the borders of Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan meet. Tensions in those areas have led to clashes between local residents and border guards of the three countries. Guterres arrived in Kyrgyzstan from Uzbekistan on July 1. He is expected to continue his Central Asian tour by visiting Kazakhstan on July 3. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/un-secretary-general-wishes-kyrgyzstan-tajikistan- resolve-border-issues-peacefully/33018420.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address As fighting rages in Sudan, refugee aid efforts expand to two new countries UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees 2 July 2024 GENEVA -- As the impact of the conflict in Sudan continues to spread, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and partners are seeking additional resources to support millions of people forced to flee. Aid partners now require $1.5 billion, up from $1.4 billion in January, to assist and protect up to 3.3 million people forced to flee, as well as local communities in neighbouring countries, until the end of the year. Two new countries, Libya and Uganda, have been incorporated into the regional refugee response, in addition to the Central African Republic (CAR), Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia and South Sudan. In Libya, UNHCR has registered over 20,000 Sudanese refugees who have arrived in the country since April 2023, with estimates of many more having arrived in the East of the country. With more refugees continuing to arrive since the escalation of fighting in the Darfur region, local services available across the country are overstretched. Refugee families are being forced to sleep in the open as there is a lack of shelter. Medical facilities also cannot keep up with growing needs, putting children in particular at risk of malnutrition. Uganda - the largest refugee hosting country in Africa -has received more than 39,000 Sudanese refugees since the start of the war. Of these, nearly 27,000 have arrived this year alone, almost three times more than had been expected. Most of them are being hosted in the Kiryandongo refugee settlement, in the west of the country, where they are receiving humanitarian assistance including food, shelter and health care. As more people arrive, these services continue to be stretched, while resources to expand assistance are lacking. Fourteen months into the war, thousands are still leaving Sudan every day, fleeing brutal violence and abuse, death, disrupted services, limited access to humanitarian aid and looming famine. In Egypt, more than 402,000 Sudanese refugees have so far been registered, with over 38,000 new arrivals in May alone and more expected to arrive in the coming months. Arrivals in Chad have increased in the past weeks following the recent escalation of fighting in El Fasher, North Darfur, and atrocities reported in Al Jazirah State. Over 600,000 Sudanese refugees have arrived in Chad since the start of the conflict in April 2023. Numbers are expected to continue to increase as many civilians remain trapped or spend weeks hiding during their flight. At least 1,000 people a day still cross the border into South Sudan. Neighbouring countries have shown great solidarity in welcoming those fleeing the war, but services in host communities remain overstretched, making it extremely difficult for refugees to settle, make a living and rebuild their lives. So far, only 19 per cent of the required funds for the refugee response have been received, abysmally insufficient to cover the most basic needs for people forced to flee. The cost of inaction is having grave consequences for refugees. Food rations have been drastically cut, leading to severe food insecurity, and exacerbating harmful coping strategies. In the Central African Republic, 24,000 refugees remain without any form of humanitarian aid while 180,000 new arrivals in Chad are still waiting to be relocated away from border areas. In Egypt, nearly 75,000 refugee children are not enrolled in school. South Sudan urgently needs to expand refugee camps and settlements to avoid severe overcrowding in existing facilities. Expected heavy rains in some of the countries also risks complicating the delivery of humanitarian aid, particularly to border areas. As aid, essential services and opportunities remain insufficient, there is the risk of many refugees choosing to move further afield. Through the appeal, host governments will be supported to ensure access to territory and asylum for people seeking international protection. Funds will also strengthen government-led efforts to deliver critical assistance such as registration and identification of the most vulnerable, services for gender-based violence survivors, mental health, food, transport, logistics, health, and education services among others. Efforts to improve resilience through enhanced livelihood opportunities for people forced to flee and host communities in integrated settlements and in areas of return will be prioritized. UNHCR continues to urge for stronger donor support for the response. Since the conflict started, 10 million people have fled their homes in Sudan, with many displaced multiple times in search of safety. Of these, nearly 2 million people have arrived in neighbouring countries, with 7.7 million newly internally displaced and 220,000 refugees who have self-relocated within the country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address One child displaced every minute in Haiti as armed violence persists - UNICEF UNICEF Over 300,000 children now internally displaced in the country, a 60 per cent increase since March 02 July 2024 PORT-AU-PRINCE/NEW YORK, 2 JULY 2024 -- The number of internally displaced children in Haiti has increased by an estimated 60 per cent since March - the equivalent of one child every minute - a result of ongoing violence caused by armed groups. According to latest estimates, almost 600,000 people - over half of whom are children - are now internally displaced in Haiti and in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. "Children in Haiti continue to endure an onslaught of multiple dangers, including horrific violence and critical levels of displacement," said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. "The humanitarian catastrophe unfolding before our eyes is taking a devastating toll on children. Displaced children are in desperate need of a safe and protective environment, and increased support and funding from the international community." Displaced children and adolescents in Haiti are at increased risk of violence, including sexual assault, exploitation and abuse, and family separation. They often face disrupted access to services, such as safe spaces, health care, and clean water and sanitation. Poor hygiene conditions in camps and makeshift settlements put them at increased risk of disease, including cholera, while school closures and financial constraints caused by the ongoing violence have forced many to drop out of school. Meanwhile, years of political turmoil, alongside the devastating economic conditions, has fueled the growth of armed groups. In the absence of other means of survival or protection, children are increasingly forced to join these groups - a clear violation of their rights and a breach of international law. With ninety per cent of Haiti's population living in poverty and three million children in need of humanitarian assistance, this new wave of internally displaced people are also contending with what the National Emergency Operations Center announced as a "hyperactive" cyclone season. Last month, a tornado destroyed the homes of 650 children in Bassin Bleu, in the country's Northwest Department. The crippled healthcare system that was barely able to cope with demand before the latest escalation of violence will have to contend with a rainy season that is expected to continue to worsen the situation, threatening to spike water-borne disease in a country that reported over 84,000 suspected cholera cases. "The needs in Haiti continue to grow, alongside the dangers for children. Everyone has a role to play to change the trajectory, and ensure that children get back to school, that they are safe, and that they have access to basic services. Children should not be paying with their lives and their futures for a crisis created by adults," said Russell. ##### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 10 years of crises: The forgotten children of the Central African Republic UNICEF This is a summary of what was said by UNICEF Representative in the Central African Republic Meritxell Relano Aranato whom quoted text may be attributed at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva 02 July 2024 GENEVA, 2 July 2024 -- "Today, the three million girls and boys of the Central Africa Republic face the highest registered level of overlapping and interconnected crises and deprivation in the world. "The Central African Republic (CAR) now holds the tragic distinction of being ranked first among 191 countries as the most at-risk for humanitarian crises and disaster. This dire status underscores the severe and urgent challenges faced by its youngest citizens. "Ten years of protracted conflict and instability in CAR has left every single one of CAR's three million children at risk. "There is a host of distressing data that speaks to the lives of children in CAR; I will mention just four, though the briefing note James shares has more data: 1 in 2 children do not have access to health services. Around just one-third (37%) of children attend school regularly. Nearly two in three (61%) young women were married before the age of 18 Almost 40% of the children in the country suffer from chronic malnutrition. "Weakened institutions and the constant threat of violence compound the multiple risks to the rights of children. The fact that the crisis in CAR has been stretched out over so many years - and that, sadly, so many other global crises continue to unfold in parallel - means that the children of CAR have become painfully invisible. But their pain and loss are profoundly evident. "However, there is hope. Now is a critical moment; indeed, it is the moment for the international community to rally for a change of course for the children of CAR. "The government's new National Development Plan, alongside other major commitments to improve children's rights, mean UNICEF and its partners have a viable mechanism to push for a change of course: to chart a new future for the children and the country. "Amid this rare moment of opportunity, the greatest risk is that the champions these children rely oninternational donors, global media, and an informed publicmay turn their backs and look away in the face of simultaneous global crises. "In my most clear and candid language: this will mean many children will unnecessarily die; many more will see their futures destroyed. A child is a child, and, as such, it is imperative that the international community does not forget the children of CAR." ### NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Gaza: 250,000 set to be displaced by new Khan Younis escalation By Daniel Johnson 02 July 2024 - "Chaos and panic" are spreading in southern Gaza where an estimated 250,000 people are set to be impacted by new Israeli military evacuation orders from Khan Younis in Gaza, UN humanitarians warned on Tuesday. In an alert detailing another night of heavy bombardment across the enclave, the UN agency assisting Palestine refugees, UNRWA, said that Gazans fleeing the southern city have had to erect shelters at the water's edge because displacement camps are already packed at the coast. Only a few weeks ago, Khan Younis was deserted after intense Israeli bombardment damaged or destroyed homes and buildings, but families with few other options went there after Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) moved into Rafah at the beginning of May. "It's another devasting blow to the humanitarian response here, it's another devasting blow to the people, the families on the ground. It seems that they've been forcibly displaced again and again," said UNRWA Senior Communications Officer Louise Wateridge. 'Impossible decisions' Those forced to move now had a series of "impossible" decisions to make, she added. "How do parents decide where to go; where is there to go? Already by this morning, just to the middle Gaza area, along the coastal road, you can see the makeshift shelters right up to the shoreline, right up to the water coming in. It is absolutely packed with families who have already had to move." The UNRWA officer noted that heavy bombardment has continued "in the north, middle and south areas of the Gaza Stripno place is safe. Already on the ground, we are seeing families move away from this area. There is more chaos and panic spreading on the ground." Despite a lack of fuel and safety, Ms. Wateridge insisted that the UN agency has continued to deliver water, food parcels, flour, nappies, mattresses, tarpaulins and healthcare. "But it is becoming almost impossible for the UN to provide any kind of response due to the Israeli imposed siegeand now further displacement orders that once again impact our access to the Kerem Shalom border crossing to receive aid". Echoing deep concerns about the lack of aid reaching Gaza, the UN World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted how the lack of fuel deliveries has "significantly compromised" care in the enclave. Fuel in short supply Gaza's healthcare sector alone requires 80,000 litres of fuel every day to function but only 195,000 to 200,000 litres last arrived at the end of June; "since then, no fuel has entered Gaza" via Kerem Shalom, said Dr Hanan Balkhy, regional director for the Eastern Mediterranean. Speaking from Jerusalem via video link, the WHO official explained that the shipment had to be shared by all sectors including water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) requiring 70,000 litres a day. "As a result, hospitals are once again short on fuel, risking disruption to critical services are injured people are dying because ambulance services are facing delays due to shortage of fuel," Dr Balkhy said, adding that a lack of gasoline and diesel were also affecting essential water and sanitation services such as water, delivery, sewage pumping and waste collection. Disease concerns From 15 to 23 June the water and sanitation cluster received less than five per cent of the fuel required daily to keep services running and as a result, water service providers "are forced to ration operations of municipal groundwater wells and the two working water desalination plants, reducing water production even more". This is "significantly contributing to the spread of diseases", the WHO official continued, highlighting concerning spikes in the number of adults and children suffering from waterborne diseases such as hepatitis A, diarrhoea, skin conditions and others. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Amid Deteriorating Situation in Gaza, Senior Humanitarian Coordinator, Briefing Security Council, Stresses Need for Ceasefire, Unimpeded Delivery of Aid Meetings Coverage Security Council 9678th Meetings (AM) SC/15757 2 July 2024 Delegate Says Resolution 2720 (2023) Has Proven Ineffective, Condemns Israel's 'Deliberate Policy of Using Starvation as a Means of War' Even as Gaza reels under violence and food insecurity, the international community must not lose sight of its recovery and reconstruction, the Security Council heard today as it met to consider the Palestinian question and the implementation of a recently adopted resolution. "I would like to live in a home, like other children", an eight-year-old child from a camp in Gaza told Sigrid Kaag, Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, she recalled as she detailed her recent visit there. "Talking about recovery, reconstruction and financing can be abstract", but viewed through a human lens, it means dignified shelter, basic functioning health, sanitation and water systems and the rehabilitation of educational institutions, she said. Underscoring the importance of not delaying such efforts, she said that while humanitarian aid delivery is the priority at the moment, Palestinians should not be expected to depend on it forever. Highlighting the need to create a modern local economy in Gaza, she said the international community needs to consider traditional development financing, the establishment of new trust funds and innovative financing instruments. "Ambitious reconstruction planning requires ambitious and generous financing", she said. Turning to the implementation of Council resolution 2720 (2023), she noted that it "has been fraught with challenges". Calling for increased political will, she stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire, release of all hostages and unimpeded delivery of aid. The mechanism for monitoring and verification of humanitarian assistance, mandated by the resolution, has begun capturing humanitarian aid shipments, and UN monitors, pending visa approvals, are getting ready to deploy to Gaza, she said. When the floor opened, many Council members expressed alarm about the deteriorating situation in the Gaza Strip and called on Israel to enable humanitarian aid delivery, in line with Council resolution 2720 (2023). That text demanded the parties to the conflict to allow the immediate, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale directly to Palestinian civilians throughout that territory and established the aforementioned mechanism for speeding up the provision of humanitarian relief consignments to Gaza. "Council resolution 2720 (2023) has proven ineffective", Algeria's delegate underscored, noting that tree leaves have become a commodity in Gaza "not for livestock, but for people". While the mechanism was presented as a solution to obstacles imposed by the Israeli occupying administration, UN statistics clearly show an extremely low volume of aid delivery. Recalling images of more than 1,200 trucks waiting on the Egyptian side of the border, he pointed to the complex administrative processes required and condemned "the Israeli occupier's deliberate policy of using starvation as a means of war". "We have no right to be surprised", said the representative of Slovenia, noting that the situation is not getting better in spite of four resolutions, the International Court of Justice order, the UN mechanism and various "assurances that we have received". "We have heard from Israel that there is no limit to aid reaching Gaza. We find it hard to believe", he said, asking why 50,000 children require treatment for acute malnutrition if there is no limit to the aid reaching Gaza. Ecuador's delegate also expressed concern about the problems faced in the operationalization of the mechanism, adding that this is "due to a lack of political will", while Sierra Leone's delegate urged the Council to "refuse to normalize this human tragedy of epic proportions". Along similar lines, Guyana's delegate asked Council members to never "get accustomed or immune to the reports of pain and suffering of the Palestinian people". She also expressed concern that humanitarian workers appear to be targeted systematically "presumably as part of a larger strategy" to annihilate as many Palestinians as possible through deprivation, she added. The representative of the Russian Federation, President of the Security Council for July, speaking in his national capacity, noted that 274 humanitarian workers have been killed by Israel's military operation. Of these, 197 were UN personnel and 193 of them from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). "No matter how carefully Ms. Kaag chooses her words", he said, the reality is that humanitarian access is not being ensured. He also pointed out that the United States-built temporary pier has been destroyed several times due to inclement weather instead of building the pier, the United States should demand that Israel lift the blockade, he said. The United State, that country's delegate said, continues to press Israel to improve humanitarian access; however, "the best way to address the crisis is for Hamas to accept the ceasefire proposal". Citing her Government's announcement of an additional $404 million in life-saving humanitarian aid to support Palestinian civilians in the region, she said for humanitarian organizations to safely carry out their work, the Israel Defense Forces must improve the overall security environment inside Gaza. THE SITUATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST, INCLUDING THE PALESTINIAN QUESTION Briefing SIGRID KAAG, Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza pursuant to Security Council resolution 2720 (2023), noted that nearly nine months since the Hamas attack, the hostages' plight continues to torment the Israeli people, while Palestinian civilians in Gaza have been plunged into an abyss of suffering. Following the Israeli offensive against Rafah since 6 May, over 1 million people have been displaced once again. Recalling her visits to Gaza, she said she is asked repeatedly: "will our suffering ever end?". Stressing the need for a full and complete ceasefire in Gaza, she also demanded the release of all hostages and the delivery of aid at scale. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) must be allowed to deliver on its mandated role. Noting her meetings with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and key Cabinet members, she said the implementation of Security Council resolution 2720 (2023), which establishes a framework to accelerate the delivery of humanitarian assistance throughout Gaza, "has been fraught with challenges". Stressing the importance of political will, she said the mechanism for monitoring and verification of humanitarian assistance, mandated by the resolution, is now capturing humanitarian aid shipments from Jordan, Cyprus, Israel and the West Bank into Gaza. The activation of the mechanism for supplies from Egypt is expected by mid-July. Subject to visa approvals, UN monitors are getting ready to deploy to the mechanism's newly established offices in Gaza, she said, adding that more contributions are urgently needed to address the $2.5 billion flash appeal. Highlighting the commitments made by the Israeli War Cabinet, related to resolution 2720 (2023), she said her mission has been monitoring their implementation, including the direct entry of humanitarian aid to Gaza from the north via the Zikim and Erez crossings, the use of the port of Ashdod and approval for the resumption of the electricity line to the desalination facility in Khan Younis. Highlighting last week's evacuation of 21 Palestinian children with serious illnesses and their accompanying adults from Gaza to Egypt via Kerem Shalom crossing, she said discussions are ongoing to establish a more regular and predictable system of medical evacuations. Describing this as a priority, she called for the Council's urgent attention to this. "Many of you will be familiar with the images of supplies accumulated at Kerem Shalom crossing," she said, adding that the UN has asked Israel to find solutions to enable the safe delivery of aid. "We cannot ask Palestinian civilians to put their future on hold," she said, adding that while politics and conditions on the ground may dictate the pace and nature of recovery and reconstruction efforts, preparations should not wait. The Palestinian Authority has a critical role to play in Gaza, she said, calling on the international community to support its financial and governance capacities. The creation of a modern local economy in Gaza should be a priority, because Palestinians should not be expected to depend on humanitarian assistance, she underscored. "Ambitious reconstruction planning requires ambitious and generous financing," she said, adding that the international community needs to consider a range of financing options and instruments, from traditional development financing to the establishment of new trust funds to tried-and-tested innovative financing instruments. "Talking about recovery, reconstruction and financing can be abstract, but if we view it through a human lens, it means dignified shelter while more permanent housing is being built or refurbished, the restoration of basic functioning health, sanitation and water systems and the rehabilitation of schools," among others, she said. Recalling meetings with many of the strong women of Gaza, she said their leadership should be integrated into the recovery and reconstruction process. The estimated 17,000 children orphaned by the war will need support as will the large numbers of people with disabilities, including the vast number of amputees who will require prostheses. While resolution 2720 (2023) has achieved significant progress, there is no substitute for political will, full respect for international humanitarian law, she said, relaying the words of an eight-year-old girl from Gaza: "I live in a camp, I would like to live in a home, like other children." Statements The representative of Japan , while noting that Israel's military operation continues, said that she was "relieved to hear of the significant progress in the coordination and management of humanitarian assistance to Gaza". Given the vast scale and scope of need, the work of the United Nations including UNRWA, the backbone of the humanitarian response is crucial and, therefore, requires further support. For its part, Japan has provided humanitarian aid worth more than $120 million since October 2023 in sectors such as food, water, sanitation, hygiene and medical care. Tokyo has also made extensive in-kind contributions of blankets, jerry-cans, plastic sheets and sleeping mats to UNRWA and other aid organizations. While emphasizing that her country will continue to provide necessary assistance and encouraging others to do so as well she stressed: "Ultimately, however, what is needed more than ever is the implementation of Security Council resolution 2735 (2024)." The representative of China voiced concern over the unprecedented deterioration of the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, where due to extreme shortages of supplies and dire health conditions millions of people are struggling with hunger, disease and despair. Gaza "an open-air prison" has been under blockade for nine months, with the supply of water, electricity and fuel cut out. Further, the entry of humanitarian supplies into Gaza has been obstructed, and people have been denied access to the most basic necessities. The facilities of humanitarian agencies have become repeated targets, he said, adding that an unprecedented number of humanitarian workers were killed. Urging Israel to fulfil its obligations under international humanitarian law, he stated: "Hunger cannot be weaponized, humanitarian issues cannot be politicized and human-made exacerbation of the humanitarian disaster is unacceptable." The representative of France , calling for the complete implementation of Council resolutions 2712 (2023), 2720 (2023), 2728 (2024) and 2735 (2024), expressed alarm that the number of civilian victims continues to increase, while famine is taking hold and 80 per cent of civilian infrastructure has been destroyed. "An entire generation of children have been traumatized and deprived of education", he said, calling on Israel to open the Rafah crossing and enable the delivery of aid throughout Gaza. Stressing the role of UNRWA, he said the goods delivered to Gaza must be distributed in a safe way, corresponding to the reality of the needs. Also stressing that the protection of humanitarian workers must be guaranteed, he said: "France demands an immediate ceasefire and release of all hostages." His country is against the offensive on Rafah in line with the International Court of Justice order, he said, adding that it is urgent to work towards the creation of a Palestinian State that includes Gaza. The representative of Guyana expressed concern that humanitarian workers appear to be targeted systematically "presumably as part of a larger strategy to annihilate as many Palestinians as possible through deprivation and other means". Detailing the dire situation in the Gaza Strip, she stressed that Israel must facilitate increased humanitarian access while recalling the relevant orders issued by the International Court of Justice on 26 January, 28 March and 24 May. "There is no substitute for land crossings", she added. Further, she called on the parties to ensure the safety of humanitarian personnel and demanded an end to the war, which must stop so that Palestinians can rebuild their lives. The international community must also facilitate the rebuilding of Gaza, which is critical for advancing the two-State solution. Urging Council members never to "get accustomed or immune to the reports of pain and suffering of the Palestinian people", she stressed: "Our hunger to act must never diminish." The representative of Switzerland , sounding alarm over the appalling humanitarian situation in Gaza, condemned that the hostilities continue to claim many civilian victims, particularly among children and the 1.7 million displaced persons in the Strip. Around 95 per cent of the population there is facing high levels of acute food insecurity; within this, 15 per cent are at the catastrophic level. "The high risk of famine will persist as long as the conflict continues and humanitarian access is hampered," she stressed. In its orders, the International Court of Justice has confirmed the urgency of delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. Yet the level of aid remains clearly and vastly insufficient in the face of the immensity of the needs. Against this backdrop, she called for an immediate ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. The representative of Sierra Leone said the situation of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip from the massive death toll to food insecurity and famine cannot be normalized. "We must refuse to normalize this human tragedy of epic proportions", he underscored, adding that the continuous escalation in conflict has impacted the ability of humanitarian agencies to provide life-saving assistance to civilians. Over 193 UN personnel have been killed during the conflict, as well as other humanitarian workers, he noted, expressing support for the office of the Senior Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator. Ongoing discussions with the Government of Israel should prioritize the issue of unimpeded provision of and access to humanitarian aid and essential services, he said, welcoming the operationalization of the mechanism provided for in resolution 2720 (2023) and improved access in the north. Noting the constraints UNRWA and other partners encounter on the ground to store, transport and distribute aid to south and central Gaza, he stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire. The representative of Ecuador pointed out that, despite the Senior Coordinator's efforts, it has not been possible to deliver humanitarian aid sufficient to ensure the population's access to "services essential for its survival". Military operations in Rafah have affected the entry of aid "which already was inadequate", he observed and distribution remains a complex, dangerous task. While welcoming efforts to operationalize the mechanism provided for in resolution 2720 (2023), he said that the problems such efforts face are "due to a lack of political will". Without that, it will be impossible to increase the quality and quantity of aid; to adopt measures that allow for its safe, unimpeded distribution; or prepare for early recovery and reconstruction. Calling on all parties to the conflict to remember that resolution 2720 (2023) demands they cooperate with the Senior Coordinator, he urged them to "demonstrate their political will in this and all other aspects of the conflict". The representative of Mozambique said "currently, we are witnessing deaths on a daily basis and a large scale in Gaza". Hostages have not yet been released and humanitarian assistance has not reached the millions of Gazans in need. "There are no plausible reasons for the current unjustified and unbearable suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza," he observed, stressing that the humanitarian catastrophe must end. Noting that humanitarian efforts in Gaza require a solid ceasefire, he reminded Council members of their duty to address the situation there as an urgent matter. In parallel, efforts must be made for the release of hostages, humanitarian access and assistance, dialogue for peace, the reconstruction of Gaza and the implementation of a two-State solution. The representative of Malta , noting that more than 37,000 people have been killed as a result of the Israeli military operation, expressed concern about reports detailing the use of starvation as a method of warfare. Stressing the importance of unimpeded and safe delivery of humanitarian aid into and throughout Gaza, he said that land routes remain the most feasible and effective way to ensure that unprecedented levels of aid now enter the Strip. "Last week's killing of an MSF [Doctors without Borders] staffer is another tragic demonstration" of the high price humanitarian workers continue to pay, with impunity", he said, stressing that UNRWA is an irreplaceable actor. Urging both Hamas and Israel to accept the terms of the proposal outlined in resolution 2735 (2024), he said this is the only way to allow for the significant flooding of aid into and across Gaza. It would also allow the space for the massive recovery and reconstruction efforts necessary, he pointed out. The representative of Algeria recalled that the mechanism contemplated by resolution 2720 (2023) was presented as a solution to obstacles imposed by the Israeli occupying administration. However, he stressed: "A quick look at the latest UN statistics shows an undisputed conclusion resolution 2720 (2023) has proven ineffective." In June, the access rate did not exceed 73 trucks per day, and he said that "this small number is the result of the Israeli occupier's deliberate policy of using starvation as a means of war". Images of more than 1,200 trucks waiting on the Egyptian side of the border demonstrate the deterrent, complex administrative processes. Further, the increased entry rate in April proved that the smooth entry of aid "is linked only to international pressure and, unfortunately, to the occupier's willingness", he stated. Citing reports that tree leaves have become a commodity in Gaza "not for livestock, but for people" he said: "Without urgent action, the world will witness a humanitarian tragedy." The representative of the United States , noting that the UN's response capabilities are essential, said that 96 per cent of the Gaza population over 2 million people will likely experience a catastrophic level of food insecurity between now and September. Underlining the need to provide sustained and unhindered humanitarian assistance, she stressed that opening all existing land crossings into Gaza is a vital step. Relatedly, she supported efforts to distribute aid within Gaza so it would reach the most vulnerable, including women and children. For humanitarian organizations to safely carry out their work, the Israel Defense Forces must improve the overall security environment inside Gaza, she asserted, adding that the United States continues to press Israel to improve humanitarian access. However, "the best way to address the crisis is for Hamas to accept the ceasefire proposal", she stated, noting that it would create the conditions to support a massive surge of relief for Palestinians and allow for increased commercial activities in Gaza. For its part, the United States announced in June an additional $404 million in life-saving humanitarian aid to support Palestinian civilians in Gaza, the West Bank and the region. The representative of Slovenia , noting that the situation is not getting better in spite of four resolutions, the International Court of Justice order, the UN mechanism and various "assurances that we have received", added: "We have no right to be surprised." Famine in Gaza is human-made a choice made by Hamas who is sacrificing its people and Israel not fulfilling its duty as the occupying Power, he said. Using starvation as a method of warfare is prohibited under international law and can amount to a war crime, he pointed out, adding: "We have heard from Israel that there is no limit to aid reaching Gaza. We find it hard to believe." If there is no limit to the aid reaching Gaza, why do 50,000 children require treatment for acute malnutrition? he asked. Welcoming the start of the work of the UN mechanism, he said: "We are missing the main ingredient for the mechanism's success a ceasefire." The end of bombing in itself will not magically solve problems for civilians in Gaza; it is time for the Council to start reflecting on Gaza beyond a ceasefire, he stressed. The representative of the Republic of Korea stressed that international law obliges Israel not the UN or non-governmental organizations to restore and ensure public order and safety in the Strip. "When aid cannot be delivered to civilians, the number of trucks crossing the border into Gaza is meaningless beyond mere statistics," he observed. Further, while humanitarian assistance alone cannot meet needs, permissions for commercial goods should not lead to a decrease in the humanitarian cargo entering Gaza. He also stated that Israel should do more to protect humanitarian workers and that all land crossings must be opened which will not only increase the volume of aid, but also shorten the distance between entry and distribution points. To achieve all of this, however, an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages are needed. "People all around the world are eagerly watching to see the agreement detailed in resolution 2735 (2024) be finalized," he said. The representative of the United Kingdom expressed concern over the devastating and deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza where "too many people have died". A negotiated pause in the fighting that leads to a sustainable ceasefire is the best way to both secure the release of the hostages and enable the major and essential scaling up of humanitarian aid. "There is now a deal on the table endorsed by this Council to achieve those goals", she said, calling on Hamas to accept it. She also urged Israel to fulfil its commitments to increase the amount of aid getting into Gaza and to meet its obligations to facilitate unhindered humanitarian access. Relatedly, the Rafah crossing must be immediately reopened and aid scaled up through all other crossing points. The representative of the Russian Federation , President of the Security Council for July, speaking in his national capacity, noting that sustainable and adequate provision of aid in Gaza is impossible, said that Gazans are on the brink of famine. The ongoing military operation has resulted in over 38,000 deaths and displaced people are being asked to flee yet again. The system of deconfliction is not working, he noted, adding that 274 humanitarian workers have been killed by Israel's military operation. Of these, 197 were United Nations personnel and 193 of them from UNRWA. "No matter how carefully Ms. Kaag chooses her words", he said, the reality is that humanitarian access is not being ensured and the channels of delivery are limited. When they open, it is for a short time, he said, and citing Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner-General of UNRWA, added that even after the Israel Defense Forces announce pauses of hostilities to enable aid delivery, nothing changes. Humanitarian organizations need to soberly assess the situation on the ground, he said, noting that the United States-built temporary pier has been destroyed several times due to inclement weather. Noting its high construction and operating costs, he said instead of building the pier, the United States should demand that Israel lift the blockade. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US, ROKAF conduct training to enhance tactical airlift capabilities Published July 2, 2024 By Senior Airman Natalie Doan 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFNS) -- A formation of five C-130J Super Hercules from the U.S. Air Force and Republic of Korea Air Force executed a mass airdrop resupply mission as part of a training to strengthen tactical airlift capabilities in the Korean Peninsula June 25. The event marked the first time the U.S. Air Force and ROKAF conducted a combined five-ship formation on the peninsula, underscoring efforts by both the ROKAF, 7th Air Force and 374th Airlift Wing to further develop their relationship and enhance interoperability. We are here to support an airdrop sortie for a C-130 out of Yokota [Air Base], as well as a ROKAF unit out of Gimhae to do an airdrop of container delivery system bundles," said Capt. George Foggin, 607th Air Support Operations Group air mobility liaison officer, whose unit provided the ground control and coordination for the designated drop zone. Airmen assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron flew four C-130Js from Yokota Air Base, Japan, to Gimhae Air Base, Republic of Korea, where container delivery system bundles were loaded onto each aircraft by Air Force and ROKAF personnel. During this time, Air Force and ROKAF pilots also came together for a briefing to discuss the details of the mission. "The 36th AS conducted this training to build interoperability with the Republic of Korea Air Force and facilitate tactical airdrop training," said Capt. Timothy Kim, 36th AS chief of theater engagement. "Practicing airdrops and tactical flying especially in new airspaces and new drop zones is always valuable training for the 36th AS. It was a great opportunity to interfly with our ROK allies." The 36th AS and ROKAF last worked together during Operation Christmas Drop 2023 to deliver humanitarian assistance to 58 remote Micronesian islands. Prior to that, the two forces collaborated during Exercise Herk Guardians 23, where they conducted tactical formation training through low altitude flying and combined formation flights. Capt. Heejoong Kim, 36th AS C-130J Super Hercules instructor pilot, served as the deputy mission commander for HG 23 and the mission commander for this most recent airdrop training. To him, the experience and relationships built during HG 23 paved the way for both forces to successfully coordinate mission plans in dispersed locations and execute a mass airdrop resupply. "These trainings prove that we can work together and support each other in times of crisis," Heejong said. "The more we train together, the more comfortable we will be working together. "There are challenges to overcome, from organizational culture to language barriers," he concluded. "These barriers can only be solved by working together and understanding each other better, enabling us to operate and execute missions effectively and efficiently as combined forces through partnership." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS MASON RETURNS TO MAYPORT FROM COMBAT DEPLOYMENT US Navy 02 July 2024 From ENS Emily Moore NAVAL STATION MAYPORT, Fla. -- Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Mason (DDG 87) returned to Naval Station Mayport, July 2, 2024, after being deployed for more than eight months in the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command area of operations. Mason was deployed for 263 days in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Mediterranean Sea, supporting freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce. While deployed, Mason faced unprecedented attacks from the Houthi terrorist group based out of Yemen. "I am extremely proud of this battle tested and battle proven crew who achieved unparalleled accomplishments while deployed," said Cmdr. Justin B. Smith, Mason's commanding officer. "No matter the threat or challenge, they demonstrated an innate ability to sustain a high level of readiness for eight months by thinking on their feet and quickly reacting. As result of their abilities, they protected Mason's crew and exceeded all mission tasking throughout deployment." While deployed, Mason intercepted multiple unmanned aerial vessels and anti-ship ballistic missiles targeting merchant vessels and coalition warships. In support of the freedom of navigation and worldwide commerce, Mason escorted and saved 26 merchant vessels as they transited through the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait. On Nov. 26, 2023, Mason responded to a distress call in the Gulf of Aden where five suspected pirates overtook M/V Central Park. Once Mason arrived, the suspected pirates fled, and Mason's Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure team took custody of the suspected pirates and freed the crew stuck in the ship's citadel. Continuing the global support of the free flow of commerce, the crew displayed proficient interoperability between coalition partners through Liaison Naval Officers, helicopter cross deck operations, ship maneuvering exercises, and coordinated engagements. Mason was deployed as part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower (IKE) Carrier Strike Group (CSG). IKECSG operated in the U.S. 5th and 6th Fleet areas of operations to deepen strategic relationships with allies and partners, and to support maritime security and stability. The strike group is commanded by CSG-2 and comprised of flagship Dwight D. Eisenhower, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 3 with its nine squadrons, USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 22 with its guided missile destroyers. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address USS Springfield Returns Home to Naval Station Guam Following Indo-Pacific Deployment US Navy 02 July 2024 From Courtesy Story NAVAL BASE GUAM -- The Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Springfield (SSN 761) returned to its homeport June 29, after completing a routine deployment in the Indo-Pacific, reaffirming its vital role in maintaining security and stability in the region. "Springfield exemplifies the excellence of our submarine force, serving as a cornerstone in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific," said Capt. Neil Steinhagen, commander, Submarine Squadron 15. "The crew has contributed uniquely to our mission, and their dedication reflects our steadfast commitment to our allies across the region and truly embodies their motto, United for Freedom." During their deployment, Springfield conducted vital missions crucial to national security, enhancing operational capabilities and reinforcing deterrence efforts within the Indo-Pacific. The crew also had the opportunity to visit Japan for a routine port visit to Yokosuka, where they hosted Mr. Arima Yutaka, Assistant Minister (Ambassador) / Director-General of North American Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. "The true strength of our vessel lies in our Sailors, who consistently impress with their professionalism, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to enhancing the operational environment," said Cmdr. Andrew Domina, commanding officer, USS Springfield. "Outside of normal operations, our crew had the distinct honor of hosting our foreign allies and partners, allowing them to get a firsthand look at our submarines. This was a great opportunity for bilateral engagement and allowed our partners to gain a better understanding of who we are and what we do in support of our Pacific mission." Springfield is the fourth ship of the United States Navy to bear the name. The boat was named in honor of both the cities of Springfield, Illinois and Springfield, Massachusetts. It was launched on Jan. 4, 1992 and commissioned on Jan. 9, 1993. Assigned to Commander, Submarine Squadron 15 at Polaris Point, Naval Base Guam, Springfield is one of four Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarines forward-deployed in the Pacific. Renowned for their unparalleled speed, endurance, stealth, and mobility, the Los Angeles-class submarines are the backbone of the Navy's submarine force, ensuring readiness and agility in safeguarding maritime interests worldwide. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UN: Israel's evacuation order for Khan Younis covers tens of thousands By VOA News July 02, 2024 The United Nations expressed deep concern Tuesday over an Israeli evacuation order for a large swath of the southern Gaza Strip, which it said affects tens of thousands of civilians. "Yesterday's order for evacuation of 117 square kilometers in Khan Younis and Rafah governorates applies to about a third of the Gaza Strip - making it the largest such order since October, when residents were ordered to evacuate northern Gaza," Stephane Dujarric, spokesperson for U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, told reporters. The U.N. agency that assists Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, estimates that nearly 250,000 people may have resided in the areas under the order at the time it was issued. Dujarric said people in those areas are left with the "impossible choice" of having to relocate again, to areas that have barely any spaces or services, or staying where they know fighting will take place. He said the new evacuation order covers an area with more than 90 schools, most of which are housing the displaced, as well as four medical points. Israeli forces carried out attacks in the southern Gaza Strip on Tuesday, with Palestinian health officials saying at least eight people were killed. The attacks included bombardments of Khan Younis, a day after Israel issued its latest evacuation order to Palestinians in the city. Israel's military said it carried out airstrikes overnight in an area of Khan Younis where militants had fired 20 rockets toward Israeli settlements. More Israeli airstrikes targeted the southern city of Rafah, while Israeli ground troops conducted operations against Hamas in central Gaza, the military said. Israel has repeatedly told Palestinians to leave certain parts of Gaza, usually ahead of military offensives, in a move Israel says is meant to protect civilians from the war. The evacuations, along with the fighting, have meant people have had to flee multiple times in search of safety. A resident who lives in the targeted evacuation zone, Ahmad Najjar, told Agence France-Presse, "Fear and extreme anxiety have gripped people after the evacuation order." He observed that there has been "a large displacement of residents." Aid flows In New York, Sigrid Kaag, the U.N. senior humanitarian and reconstruction coordinator for Gaza, told a meeting of the U.N. Security Council that since Israel began its military operation in Rafah in early May, the volume of aid entering and being distributed across Gaza "has dropped significantly." "Military activity and the lack of safe routes inside Gaza continue to severely impact humanitarian operations," she said. "A near-total breakdown of civil order has further led to an environment of lawlessness and criminality." Kaag said the United Nations has asked Israel to find solutions to allow for the safe delivery of aid. Israel disputes that it is not fulfilling its commitments and says it is allowing aid to flow into Gaza from several crossing points. "Although intentions and commitments may be convincing, the only credible measure of change and progress are the improvements in the lives and well-being of Palestinian civilians in Gaza," she said. Kaag has also been tasked by the Security Council with establishing a mechanism to monitor and verify the humanitarian nature of all aid entering Gaza to facilitate its speedy distribution. She said it is now operational. "The mechanism is now capturing humanitarian aid shipments from Jordan, Cyprus, Israel, and the West Bank into Gaza, ensuring greater volume at certain times, transparency and prioritization," she said, adding the mechanism would be active for relief supplies coming from Egypt by mid-July. Kaag said options are also being discussed on the feasibility and longer-term planning of the Cyprus Maritime Corridor. Relief supplies have been inspected in Cyprus and sent by ship to Gaza since mid-May, but the U.S.-constructed pier that receives them has been plagued with problems and is currently not functional. Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza erupted when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people and seizing more than 250 hostages, mostly civilians, according to Israeli authorities. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed nearly 38,000 people, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, and left the densely built-up coastal enclave in ruins. VOA U.N. Correspondent Margaret Besheer contributed to this report. Some information for this story came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Philippines, China agree to ease tensions in South China Sea By VOA News July 02, 2024 The Philippines and China have agreed to "reduce tensions" in the South China Sea, said officials in Manila Tuesday following a recent clash in disputed waters. Officials from the two sides held talks in Manila Tuesday. Last month, the Philippines said Chinese Coast Guard personnel armed with knives, sticks and an axe, surrounded and took control of three Philippine Navy vessels near a disputed location, marking the most recent and severe incident in a series of dangerous confrontations. During the June 17 altercation, a Filipino soldier lost a finger and Manila accused the Chinese Coast Guard of pilfering firearms and causing damage to three boats and navigational and communication equipment. China's foreign ministry had disputed the Philippine account of the incident, claiming that the necessary measures taken were lawful, professional, and beyond reproach. In previous incidents, Chinese forces have employed water cannons, military-grade lasers and clashed with Filipino resupply vessels and their escort ships. "Noting recent incidents in the South China Sea, both sides recognized that there is a need to restore trust, rebuild confidence, and create conditions conducive to productive dialogue and interaction," the Philippine foreign ministry said Tuesday. The Philippines and China have also agreed to consider cooperation between the coast guards and a framework for scientific collaboration, according to Manila. Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican's foreign minister, urged a peaceful conflict resolution, highlighting areas like the South China Sea. China asserts control over nearly all of the South China Sea, disregarding rival claims from Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines. The Permanent Court of Arbitration said in 2016 that China's extensive claims in the South China Sea lack legal validity. China rejected the ruling. "There was substantial progress on developing measures to manage the situation at sea, but significant differences remain," the Philippines Department of Foreign affairs (DFA) said in a statement. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Refugee flight from Sudan surging as war rages, funds dry up By Lisa Schlein July 02, 2024 The U.N. refugee agency is expanding a humanitarian appeal for Sudan, as increasing numbers of people flee the country's war and widespread hunger in search of safety in neighboring countries. The UNHCR reports more money is needed to aid and protect the swelling population of Sudanese refugees, and it is revising its appeal to $1.5 billion, up from $1.4 billion it requested in January. The appeal will help 3.3 million refugees and the local communities hosting them in neighboring countries through the end of the year. Ewan Watson, UNHCR head of global communications, has just returned from visits to Sudan's White Nile State and a to the Renk and JamJin refugee camp in South Sudan's Unity State. He described the situation there as "incredibly difficult, confusing, dangerous, and an appalling tragedy for civilians both still in Sudan and those who have had to leave the country due to the violence." Briefing journalists Tuesday in Geneva, Watson said "It is one of the most neglected crises globally and for us, it is the most pressing displacement crisis in the world right now." Since the conflict began in mid-April 2023, he noted that 10 million people have fled their homes in Sudan, "with many displaced multiple times." Of these, the UNHCR reports nearly 8 million are displaced inside Sudan, while nearly 2 million people have gone to neighboring countries. Money from the January appeal has been used to assist Sudanese refugees who fled to the Central African Republic, Chad, Egypt, Ethiopia, and South Sudan. The UNHCR's revised appeal has been expanded to include two new countries, Libya and Uganda. Since last year's power struggle between rival generals from the Sudanese Armed Forces and paramilitary Rapid Response Forces triggered this catastrophic conflict, the UNHCR has registered 20,000 new arrivals in Libya from Sudan, mainly fleeing Darfur. "We understand that thousands more have arrived in Libya that are not registered and are in the East of the country. With more refugees continuing to arrive since the escalation of fighting in the Darfur region, local services available across the country are really overstretched," Watson said. "Refugee families are being forced to sleep in the open as there is a lack of shelter," he said. "Medical facilities also cannot keep up with growing needs and this is putting children, in particular, at risk of malnutrition." He observed that Uganda, which already was the largest refugee hosting country in Africa, is fast becoming home to a burgeoning Sudanese refugee population. Since the outbreak of the war, he said more than 39,000 Sudanese refugees have fled to Sudan, "with 70 percent fleeing just this year. This is three times more than was initially expected or predicted." "Most of them are arriving from Khartoum and have university level education and are looking to rebuild their lives," he said, noting that most are being hosted and receiving humanitarian aid, including food, shelter, and health care in the Kiryandongo refugee settlement in the west of the country. "As more people arrive, these services continue to be stretched, while resources to expand assistance are lacking," he said, adding that only 19 percent of the money required to run its humanitarian operations has been received. "This is abysmally insufficient to cover the most basic needs for people forced to flee. The cost of inaction is having grave consequences for refugees." The UNHCR official said heavy rains expected in some of the hosting countries risk complicating the delivery of humanitarian aid, particularly in border areas. He appealed to international donors to provide the funds needed to help strengthen government-led efforts to deliver critical assistance to millions of vulnerable people. Otherwise, he warned more and more refugees will be forced to seek help "further afield in countries such as Libya, which are extremely difficult for refugees." Last week, the United Nations published alarming new data showing that the rapid deterioration in food security in Sudan has left 755,000 people "in catastrophic conditions with a risk of famine in 14 areas." Reacting to this latest food assessment by the Integrated Phase Classification, IPC, heads of three leading U.N. agencies warned that "Sudan is facing a devastating hunger catastrophe on a scale not seen since the Darfur crisis in the early 2000s." In its latest update of fighting between the SAF and RSF in the southern town of Sinja the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, OCHA, reports that more than 60,000 people have fled Sinja for safety, most moving east toward the state of Gedaref. "The fighting continues, and people are on the move as we speak so the situation is very volatile and these numbers could increase in the coming days," Vanessa Huguenin, OCHA spokesperson told journalists in Geneva on Tuesday. "We and our humanitarian partners are present in Gedaref and are preparing for the arrival of people that have been displaced by the clashes, with food and nutrition supplies We have a window of opportunity to act but time is running out and we need more funding and access," she said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chad, Cameroon say Boko Haram in villages after strikes kill 70 terrorists By Moki Edwin Kindzeka July 02, 2024 The Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad basin says several hundred fighters from jihadist groups Boko Karam and Islamic State West Africa Province have fled to Chad and Cameroon after the task force attacked camps and killed more than 70 terrorists Sunday. The ongoing operation, dubbed Lake Sanity 2, aims to obliterate all terrorist camps around Lake Chad, the task force said. In a video circulated on social media and broadcast on Chadian state TV, scores of villagers shouted that at least two dozen relatives died in attacks in villages along Cameroon's border with Nigeria, and that 12 more people were injured. The four-nation task force, created to fight terrorism in Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon and Niger, said the deceased seen in the video are some of the more than 70 Boko Haram and Islamic State terrorists "neutralized" in Sunday's attacks. The joint task force also said many jihadists surrendered in the air and ground operations but did not give a precise number. The troops said they captured many fighters and recovered large consignments of weapons. None of its ground troops suffered injuries, the task force said. The task force's operations are targeting terrorist hideouts in border villages, including Mokolo and Waza in Cameroon. Moubi, Menchika and Madagali in Nigeria are also part of the operation. A release from task force spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Abubakar Abdullahi said the goal is to wipe out terrorist camps in villages on the borders of Chad, Cameroon and Nigeria, as well as the portion of the Lake Chad basin shared by the three neighbors. Midjiyawa Bakari, the governor of Cameroon's Far North region, asked civilians to watch for fleeing terrorists because, he said, they are infiltrating neighboring towns and villages. He asked local militias to help in the effort and for people in border towns and villages to report to government troops any strangers or groups of people entering the country. Bakari, who spoke on Cameroonian state TV on Tuesday, said the porous nature of Cameroon's border with Chad and Nigeria makes it difficult for troops to single handedly stop jihadists without the assistance of civilians. Chad's government said it also has deployed what it says are enough troops to stop terrorists from hiding in its territory. Chad said that within the past two days, its troops had killed or arrested many militants but provided no details. Boko Haram began launching attacks in Nigeria in 2009. In 2013, Cameroon, Niger and Chad reported that the terror group had launched attacks in their territories. The task force, which was created in 2014 to fight the militants, says it has about 11,000 troops and rescue workers. The United Nations says the conflict has killed more than 40,000 people, mainly in Nigeria, and forced 3 million to flee their homes. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 02 July 2024 - Day 860 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 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 while speaking at the St Petersburg International Legal Forum, on 27 June 2024, the head of the Russian Investigative Committee Aleksandr Bastrykin claimed that Russian authorities had identified 30,000 migrants who had recently become Russian citizens who were not registered for military service. Bastrykin further boasted that 10,000 of these had already been sent to the operational zone in Ukraine. Bastrykin claimed these migrants would 'dig trenches' and conduct other duties in rear areas. Russian independent media has previously reported that Russian law enforcement have been conducting a campaign of legal harassment against, particularly Central Asian, migrants in an attempt to induce them to enlist in the Russian Armed Forces in return for citizenship or to avoid arrest on invented charges. This is likely yet another inventive means of bolstering military recruitment while attempting to limit the impact on those parts of the Russian population that have greater political agency. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that since the beginning of the day, there have been 136 combat clashes. The Russian aggressor is trying to take advantage of live force and support from the air. During the day, a missile hit on the territory of Ukraine with one rocket. In addition, Russian forces committed 41 air strikes - in particular, dropped 58 cabiv. In addition, Russian forces deployed 457 kamikaze drones and carried out almost 3,000 shells on the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements using different types of weapons. In the Kharkiv direction, Russian forces six times, supported by aviation, stormed the positions of Ukrainian units in the areas of Vovchansk and Glbokoye. In Vovchansk, the fight is still ongoing. The situation is under control. According to the information available at this time, within the day, Russian forces lost 144 persons killed and wounded and 77 units of armaments and military equipment. In particular, a tank, two artsystems, 10 cars, four control points and a warehouse of fuel and lubricant materials were destroyed. In addition, three cannons, one rszv, tank, two cars and two units of special equipment were damaged. The count down is on Ten times Russian forces attacked Ukrainian positions in the Kupyan direction. Near synkivka concentrates efforts - five attacks hit, another - continues. Also, two Russian attempts to move forward deter Ukrainian warriors near Stelmahivka. In the Lyman direction, Russian troops attacked Ukrainian defenders 16 times in the areas of four different settlements a day. Six clashes continue at this time. Russia is concentrating his efforts near Grekivka and Terniv. In addition, attacked Ukrainian positions in the areas of nevs kogo and makiivka. The situation is under control. In the Siversky direction, Russian forces tried five times to push Ukrainian defenders out of positions in the areas of Ivano-Daryivka, Spirny and Viimka. Never been successful. In the Kramators komu direction, eight attempts of zagarbnikiv to advance near the time yar and klis iivka. Currently, the fights are being sharpened in three more locations in the districts of Kalinivka, Ivanivsky and Chasovoye Yar. The situation is tense in the Toretsky direction. The invaders 24 times attacked near Deliivka, Toretsk, Southern, New York and Northern. 15 clashes have been completed. The fighting continues in nine more locations. Intensely Russian attacks of Ukrainian defenders in the Pokrovsky direction. Here, during the day, the Russian aggressor increased effort - in total, he carried out 43 assault and offensive actions. The greatest activity of the Russian occupiers is kept from the Ocheretynogo district, from where Russian forces in various directions tried to infiltrate Ukrainian combat orders. 31 attacks of Ukrainian defenders have already repelled, 12 more fighting continue, in particular, near Evgenivka and Novooleksandrivka. Russian forces are losing a lot of life force - for today, Ukrainian warriors have eliminated and wounded more than 350 Russian troops. At least 11 cannons and mortars were also destroyed and damaged. Russian losses are being specific. In the Kurakhiv direction at this time of the day, there are 11 combat clashes. The Russian occupiers tried to advance unsuccessfully in the areas of the settlements of Georgiyivka and Paraskoviyvka. Near Krasnogorivka, where Russia is concentrating efforts, five attacks have already been repelled, the combat is ongoing. In the Pridniprovsk direction, four Russian assault actions on the left bank of the Dnieper were unsuccessful. A loss of positions is not allowed. In other directions, there have been no significant changes in the environment. Today, the soldiers of the 110th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after the Guardian General Mark Bezruchko should be noted for their effective combat work, who caused Russian forces tangible casualties in live force. 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, 115th mechanised brigades, and 113th Territorial Defence Brigade near Chumakovo, Yunakovka (Sumy region), Sotnitsky Kazachok, and Liptsy (Kharkov region). Two counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU Vostok Special Operations Centre and 36th Marines Brigade were repelled. The AFU losses amounted to up to 70 Ukrainian troops, one armoured fighting vehicle, three motor vehicles, one German-made 155-mm Panzerhaubitze-2000 self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, 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 14th, 115th mechanised brigades, and 3rd Assault Brigade near Pershotravnevoye (Kharkov region), Nadiya, and Stelmakhovka (Lugansk People's Republic). The AFU losses amounted to more than 475 Ukrainian troops, one tank, one infantry fighting vehicle, five motor vehicles, one 152-mm 2A65 Msta-B howitzer, and one 122-mm Grad MLRS combat vehicle. Moreover, three AFU artillery ammunition depots were destroyed. 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 56th Motorised Infantry Brigade near Kalinin (Donetsk People's Republic). One counter-attack launched by assault detachments of the AFU 214th Opfor Separate Battalion was repelled. The AFU losses amounted to more than 635 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, and 16 motor vehicles. In the course of counter-battery warfare, one UK-made 155-mm FH-70 howitzer, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, one UK-made 105-mm L-199 howitzer, and two U.S.-made AN/TPQ-50 counter-battery warfare stations. Six AFU field ammunition depots were destroyed. Units of the Tsentr Group of Forces improved the tactical situation and inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 47th Mechanised Brigade and 109th Territorial Defence Brigade near Rozovka, Novgorodskoye, and Novosyolka Pervaya (Donetsk People's Republic). Six counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 23rd, 31st, 41st, 110th mechanised brigades, and 95th Air Assault Brigade were repelled. The AFU losses amounted to up to 440 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, and one 122-mm D-30 howitzer. Units of the Vostok Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 58th Motorised Infantry Brigade near Urozhaynoye (Donetsk People's Republic). One counter-attack launched by assault detachments of the AFU 123rd Territorial Defence Brigade was repelled. The AFU losses amounted to up to 110 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, two 122-mm 2S1 Gvozdika self-propelled artillery systems, and one 100-mm MT-12 Rapira anti-tank gun. Units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 65th Mechanised Brigade, 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, and 35th Marines Brigade near Malaya Tokmachka and Zherebyanka (Zaporozhye region). The AFU losses amounted to up to 70 Ukrainian troops and two motor vehicles. One electronic warfare station was destroyed. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces engaged AFU manpower and hardware clusters in 115 areas during the day. Air defence units shot down six UK-made Storm Shadow cruise missiles, one French-made Hammer guided aerial bomb, one U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectile, 81 unmanned aerial vehicles, including one Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicle. Nine aircraft of the Ukrainian Air Force were neutralised. As a result of a group strike by precision weaponry at the airfield, five Su-27 aircraft were destroyed and two Su-27 aircraft were damaged. One MiG-29 and one Su-27 Ukrainian aircraft were shot down by Russian air defence units. In total, 625 airplanes and 276 helicopters, 27,121 unmanned aerial vehicles, 535 air defence missile systems, 16,478 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,362 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 11,215 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 23,238 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chinese private rocket company apologizes for test failure causing trouble, vows to compensate affected residents Global Times By Global Times Published: Jul 02, 2024 10:00 PM Chinese private rocket company Space Pioneer, also known as Beijing Tianbing Technology Co, apologized on Tuesday afternoon for the failure of its reusable rocket model's static fire test that caused trouble and inconvenience to the affected residents near the launch site. The company has vowed to compensate their economic losses. On Sunday, the first stage of the company's domestically designed and manufactured large liquid-propellent reusable rocket model Tianlong-3, also known as the Chinese "Falcon 9 equivalent," accidentally detached from its launch pad during its static fire test due to structural failure, resulting in an unintended launch and landed in a hilly area of Gongyi city, Central China's Henan Province, and caused fire. eeishttps://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202406/1315137.shtml The company extended its sincerest apologies to the public who have been supporting and following the company, expressing its regret for failing to meet their expectations. According to the company, the launch site for this captive-fired testing was far from the urban area of Gongyi. Before the test, the company had cooperated with the local government to implement safety measures and organize the evacuation of nearby personnel in advance. The rocket debris fell within a securely controlled area deep in the mountains. Although there were no casualties, it still led to unnecessary disruption and left negative impact on the nearby residents' life, the company said in the apology letter. "We feel immensely regretful and extend our sincere apology to the people of Gongyi," the company said. After the incident, the company's initial statement released on Sunday stirred an online uproar for the company's attitudes toward the accident. Many netizens criticized the poor management of the company which could have led to mass casualties, questioned why the company did not make an official apology for the accident but just excused themselves with no casualties caused without mentioning the impact on the company's on-site employees, and boasted its rocket's advancement in the technology. According to the statement released by the company on Sunday, the test of the rocket with nine-engine parallel configuration is the most powerful propulsion system of China's current carrier rocket, two times the previous maximum thrust test in China's aerospace. During the test, the first stage of the rocket ignited normally and the nine Tianhuo-12 variable thrust engines forming the rocket's first stage reached a most powerful propulsion of 820 tons, it said. According to an industry insider, surnamed Liu, such a failure might be a low-level error resulted from insufficient experience. When testing a rocket engine, the thrust it generates and the restraining force of the test apparatus on the rocket need to be calculated in advance. The occurrence of such an error may be due to inadequate preliminary calculations or the on-site staff's lack of experience, Red Star News reported on Tuesday. Other netizens hoped for a thorough investigation and rectification of this incident no matter from the technical or from the managerial perspective, which is not just for the sake of the company but for the interest of the entire Chinese private commercial aerospace sector, which is faced with fierce international competitions. Other netizens also gave proposals on the selection of locations of future self-constructed launch sites by domestic private rocket companies. They suggested launch sites should be constructed in the desert. After the incident, some observers have also called on the society to continue supporting China's commercial aerospace industry and not let this incident cast doubt on existing policies and the achievements that have been made in domestic reusable rocket researches. In the apology letter, the company said that itis working with the local government to investigate, assess and compensate for the damaged houses in the surrounding area. The company promised to ensure that every resident who suffered from property losses due to the test failure receives timely, efficient and fair compensation. The company also stressed its persistent endeavor in making innovations and breakthroughs. "We fully understand that every challenge to reach new heights comes with great risks and uncertainties. We will learn from this setback and implement 'safety first' in all future production work, prioritizing the safety of people's lives and property, comprehensively strengthening all aspects of safety management to ensure that subsequent tests are conducted safely and meticulously, leaving no room for error," the company wrote. The company also welcomed the public's supervision and suggestions, noting that the setback it encountered this time will provide valuable experience for the steady progress of China's commercial aerospace industry, and called for the industry peers to unite and work together, contributing to the advancement of China's commercial aerospace endeavors. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Belarus Air Defense Forces, Including Polonez, Iskander on High Alert Amid Ukrainian Border Tensions Sputnik News 20240702 The Belarusian Defense Ministry deployed additional air defense units last week to safeguard military and critical civilian infrastructure near the Ukrainian border, responding to heightened drone reconnaissance activity and the buildup of Ukrainian troops. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has ordered the country's forces to high alert after Ukraine massed troops at the border. Lukashenko stated that due to the increased activity of Ukrainian military forces near the Belarusian border, the Belarusian and Russian Air Force and Air Defense Forces have been put on high combat readiness. Polonez and Iskander long-range missile systems have also been deployed to their positions. "The Air Force and Air Defense Forces are in high combat readiness. Both ours and Russia's. There is complete cooperation here," Lukashenko said on Tuesday during a ceremonial meeting in Minsk in honor of Belarus Independence Day. "The Polonez and Iskander missile systems are deployed in position. You also know what kind of ammunition they have." "Border guards have been switched to enhanced state border protection," Lukashenko said. "Special operations forces have been deployed." "Not only border guards but also our military today have blocked the potential enemy's movement directions," the president noted. He stressed that Belarusian security forces have previously conducted similar exercises, and now this experience was in demand. Lukashenko stressed that there are no "red lines" a in the event of aggression, there would be "strikes with all types of weapons on designated targets." "We have thought about everything... we have blocked both the southern border [with Ukraine] and the western border [with the EU countries], so that God forbid they are no mistakes, as it has already happened in our history," the Belarusian president said. Lukashenko highlighted that Belarus will not allow any clashes on its border with Ukraine, and Kiev does not need them either. "I guarantee that we will not allow any clashes on the border with Ukraine. There will be none, we do not need them," he said. "But Ukraine does not need them even more due to the events that are happening on their battlefield a it is getting worse and worse for Ukraine there." At the same time, Lukashenko said that he would not instruct border guards to protect the border with Poland from illegal migrants. "We're not going to catch them [migrants] here. Our business is to ensure the security of our people. I do not intend to order border guards, military and civilians to protect the European Union on the border between Belarus and Poland," Lukashenko said in his speech. The president noted that the European Union has imposed sanctions on Belarus and is now trying to force Minsk to protect them from immigrants. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Xi's Kazakhstan visit to draw new blueprint for ties, SCO Global Times By GT staff reporters in Kazakhstan and Tajikistan Published: Jul 02, 2024 10:44 PM Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Kazakhstan on Tuesday for the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and a state visit to Kazakhstan, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Observers said that the visit to Kazakhstan - the country where Xi made his first foreign visit in 2022 since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and proposed the Silk Road Economic Belt, an essential component of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2013 - underscores the rock-solid bilateral relationship and the high level of political trust built between the two countries and led by head-of-state diplomacy, and that the Central Asian region is of significant importance to China's foreign policy. As this year marks the 32nd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Kazakhstan, the visit will draw a blueprint for future bilateral and regional comprehensive cooperation modes, analysts said, pointing to a wide range of areas for further collaboration, such as jointly safeguarding regional security and boosting connectivity, as well as facilitating people-to-people exchanges under the SCO and BRI frameworks. The flourishing ties between China and Kazakhstan, as well as the Central Asian region, set a model for building a new type of international relations championed by SCO cooperation, that is respect for diversity of civilizations and pursuit of common development, discarding geopolitical thinking, observers said. It serves as a sharp contrast to certain Western countries' geopolitical zero-sum mind-set under which they, in disregard of the genuine demands of Central Asian economies, ramp up pressure only to shape their influence on the continent and exclude other participants. Xi said on Tuesday that China and Kazakhstan have established a unique permanent comprehensive strategic partnership. Xi made the remarks in a written statement upon his arrival in capital Astana. Xi also hailed achievements of China-Kazakhstan cooperation in a signed article published in Kazakh media on Tuesday. Xi said that he looks forward to meeting with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to plan the way forward for closer China-Kazakhstan cooperation and draw a new blueprint for further growth of bilateral relations and the SCO. Expectations running high The Global Times noticed that hundreds of local residents were waving the national flags of China and Kazakhstan near the landmark building Beijing Tower in Astana on Tuesday morning to extend a warm welcome to Xi's arrival. "Warm welcome!" The crowds made up of local residents, lined along both sides of the roads where the motorcade will pass, and cheered excitedly in Chinese. Local residents and scholars hold high expectations for the visit, with some in particular highlighting the increased connectivity between China and Kazakhstan under the BRI. "The Silk Road was one of the most important logistical means for transporting goods from Asia to Europe. I believe this is a sign of great cooperation between our countries and our neighbors, and that is going to lead to the future economic growth of both of our countries," a Kazakh college student named Konstantin told the Global Times. "China is one of the largest countries in the world. Many Kazakhs travel to China and bring back a lot of useful information and technology. I think cooperation with China is having a very positive impact on our country," another Kazakh resident surnamed Salima told the Global Times. Observers said the visit underscores that strategic guidance by the heads of state is a political advantage and a distinctive feature of China-Kazakhstan relations. Those close interactions at the highest level will "inject certainty and new impetus" into the development of the Central Asia and the world, against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions. "For both China and Kazakhstan, it is important not only to maintain but also to consistently enhance the positive dynamic of our interaction, deepen the friendship between our peoples, and contribute to regional peace and stability. We are confident that the visit will lead to an even more productive and mutually beneficial [relationship]," Aliya Mussabekova, chief expert at the Asian Studies Department at Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, told the Global Times on Tuesday. In 2013, Xi visited Kazakhstan and proposed the idea of building an "economic belt along the Silk Road", which, combined with the proposal of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, eventually became the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He visited the Central Asian country in 2017 and 2022 to boost bilateral ties, according to a Xinhua News Agency report. The two countries further advanced their relationship to a permanent comprehensive strategic partnership in 2019 during Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's state visit to China, reaching its historical high. "Currently, China has established strategic partnerships or comprehensive strategic partnerships with many countries worldwide. However, defining the China-Kazakhstan relationship as a permanent comprehensive strategic partnership is uniquea The definition is objective, accurate, and reflects both sides' affirmation and positive expectations toward our friendship," Zhang Xiao, Chinese Ambassador to Kazakhstan, told the Global Times in an exclusive interview. China and Kazakhstan have been firm supporters of each other on issues concerning their core interests, despite an ever-changing international environment, which lays a solid foundation for bilateral ties to continue developing to even greater heights, according to analysts. Kazakhstan has endorsed multiple China-proposed initiatives: the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative. The two neighbours have also vowed to build a community of a shared future for mankind. Relations between China and Kazakhstan are based on deep-rooted shared visions, as both countries have a vision of necessity to avoid further toxification of international relations, as well as an urgency to return to normalcy in international ties on the basis of mutual accommodation of legitimate interests of every member of the international community, Bolat Nurgaliyev, former SCO secretary-general, told the Global Times. A model for cooperation Kazakhstan is hosting the SCO summit in Astana and has pledged to make every effort to enhance the potential of the SCO, the Astana Times reported. After the Astana summit, China will assume the rotating presidency of the SCO for 2024-2025. "One of the top items on the agenda at the SCO summit is to maintain regional stability. China and Kazakhstan could strengthen security cooperation, resolutely fight against the 'three evil forces' and guard against 'color revolutions' instigated by external forces," Cui Heng, a scholar from the Shanghai-based China National Institute for SCO International Exchange and Judicial Cooperation, told the Global Times on Tuesday. Another area for cooperation is the economy, and China, as the largest economy in the SCO with overarching trade ties with every member state, could play a constructive role in collaboration with Kazakhstan. According to Cui, on the economic front, China and Kazakhstan could jointly promote the implementation of more regional infrastructure connectivity projects, such as the launch of the highway section of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), also known as the Middle Corridor, which could offer the most cost-effective passage in Eurasia amid rising geopolitical tensions. Bilateral cooperation under the BRI between China and Kazakhstan has been "setting trends" in Eurasia, scholars said. In 2023, trade between China and Kazakhstan hit a record of $41 billion, Xinhua reported, accounting for nearly half China's trade with Central Asia. Capacity and investment cooperation have generated a project list with a total value exceeding $21.2 billion. Through industrial collaboration and a synergy between the China-proposed BRI and Kazakhstan's "Bright Road" economic policy, Kazakhstan has built itself into a key regional transportation center and a crucial transit hub for China-Europe freight trains, with 80 percent of the cargo shipped by the flagship BRI project passing through the country. Across Central Asia, China's collaborations with the other four regional countries have also been gaining momentum. China's bilateral trade with Tajikistan last year expanded 53.5 percent year-on-year to $3.93 billion, recording a new high, customs data showed. Chinese leader, at the invitation of President Emomali Rahmon of the Republic of Tajikistan, will also pay a state visit to Tajikistan, China's Foreign Ministry announced on Sunday. "China is willing to use the SCO summit as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation and coordination with all five Central Asian countries, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and advocate for a fair multipolar world and inclusive globalization," Zhang said, stressing that the cooperation will continuously inject new energy into building a closer China-Central Asia community with a shared future. Li Ziguo, a senior research fellow with the China Institute of International Studies, told the Global Times on Tuesday that more than 30 years of China-Central Asia cooperation has proven that China is a constructive player in the region. Whether through BRI projects or bilateral cooperation, China has been dedicated to the development of these countries without any geopolitical requirements attached, Li added. While certain Western major powers are investing in the region for geopolitical competition, China has the industrial capacity that Central Asian countries truly need for their modernization, providing them with technologies and cost-effective products that are highly competitive, analysts said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on July 2, 2024 Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China 2024-07-02 19:45 Premier Li Qiang of the State Council will attend the opening ceremony of the 2024 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance and deliver a speech on July 4 in Shanghai. Dragon TV: You announced that Premier Li Qiang will attend the 2024 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai. Can you share more details? Mao Ning: The rapid development of AI technology in recent years brings a multitude of risks and challenges as well as enormous socioeconomic benefits. Global AI governance has become a major task for all countries. China advocates the principles of wide participation and consensus-based decision-making in global AI governance, and promotes broad international consensus based on full respect for differences in policies and practices of all countries. The World AI Conference has been held annually six times. The Conference this year, with the theme of Governing AI for Good and for All, aims to establish international cooperation and exchange platforms featuring openness, inclusiveness, and equal participation, advance global AI governance and develop an open, fair and effective governance mechanism. The Conference brings together government officials, and representatives of international organizations, industries, universities and research institutes, among others. We look forward to full exchange of insights in Shanghai in the spirit of extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit, to build consensus and promote the healthy, safe and orderly development of AI. Beijing Daily: NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that NATO views China's behaviors as challenging the alliance's values, interests and security. Russia is producing missiles and drones with the support of advanced technology imported from China, which makes Beijing accountable for instigating the largest conflict on the European soils since World War II. What's your comment? Mao Ning: I'm not sure what exactly he meant by NATO's values. But if the values are to draw lines based on ideology and to create conflicts, stoke confrontation and escalate tensions along those lines, then China indeed cannot agree with it. The reality is, it is NATO that has been challenging China, interfering in China's domestic affairs, misrepresenting and vilifying our domestic and foreign policies and seriously challenging China's interests and security. Speaking of the Ukraine crisis, China has been committed to promoting talks for peace and finding a political solution to the crisis. NATO needs to see the root cause of the crisis and take a hard look at what kind of role it has played for the peace of Europe and the world, rather than divert the attention and blame it all on others. CCTV: We've learned that the resolution entitled "Enhancing international cooperation on capacity-building of artificial intelligence" submitted by China was reviewed and adopted by the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. Can you give us more details? Mao Ning: The 78th session of the UNGA yesterday adopted by consensus the resolution "Enhancing international cooperation on capacity-building of artificial intelligence" proposed by China and co-sponsored by over 140 countries. The resolution reflects the extensive consensus among countries on enhancing AI capacity-building and speaks volumes about the political will of countries on enhancing capacity-building and bridging the AI divide through solidarity and cooperation. The resolution, in line with the human-centric principle and the principle of artificial intelligence for good for all, is focused on AI capacity-building, stresses the importance of increasing the representation and say of developing countries in global AI governance, advocates a fair and nondiscriminatory business environment, supports the United Nations in playing a central role, encourages effective capacity-building assistance for developing countries through international cooperation and concrete actions, so as to realize the healthy and sustainable development of AI. As the country that introduced the resolution, China followed the principles of transparency, openness, and inclusiveness during the discussions of the Resolution, widely accommodated legitimate opinions and suggestions, and strived to bridge the differences among all parties. China's efforts were spoken highly of by all the member states. The adoption of the resolution reflects that the international community and particularly developing countries are paying great attention to capacity-building, and have the strong will of actively participating in global AI governance. China highly commends all the member states for their tremendous support for the resolution, and for their important contribution to its adoption. China will take this adopted resolution as an opportunity to step up communication and cooperation with the international community, follow up on the implementation of the resolution, assist relevant countries in faster development of related capacities under the UN framework, so as to help achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 and jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind. Reuters: Yesterday, the Chinese Embassy and the Vanuatu government held a ceremony to hand over the government buildings that China had built. And the new Solomon Islands' Prime Minister is visiting China recently. Could you please speak to the strategic importance of these connections with the Pacific Islands region for China? Mao Ning: China is committed to growing friendship and cooperation with Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and other Pacific Island countries and contributing to their endeavor to promote economic and social development, improve people's life and realize development and prosperity. China News Service: To follow up on the resolution on "Enhancing International Cooperation on Capacity-building of Artificial Intelligence" proposed by China to the UN General Assembly (UNGA), we learned that the US is one of its co-sponsors. How would you assess China's dialogue and cooperation with the US on AI? Mao Ning: China commends the US and other UN Member States for actively participating in the consultation on the UNGA draft resolution for enhancing international cooperation on AI capacity-building. We appreciate their support for the resolution's adoption by consensus. China stands ready to work with the US to act on the common understandings reached by the two presidents in San Francisco, step up bilateral and multilateral dialogue and cooperation on AI, and make sure all humanity can share the benefits of AI. Reuters: China's Embassy in the Philippines announced that a Chinese national had been kidnapped and killed. Could you please provide more information on what happened? Mao Ning: According to verified information, a Chinese national was kidnapped and killed. After the kidnap took place, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines stayed in close touch with the Philippine side and urged it to make every possible effort to work on the case and take effective measures to protect the safety of Chinese nationals in the Philippines. Our Embassy also provided support and facilitation to the family of the victim. The Foreign Ministry will work with relevant departments to provide instructions to our Embassy in Manila to closely follow up on the case and make sure everything is properly handled. Reuters: The Philippines has called the Chinese Coast Guard's actions on June 17 "escalatory" and "the most aggressive in recent history." Do you have any comment on this? Mao Ning: We have said clearly several timesawhat recently happened between China and the Philippines near Ren'ai Jiaoaand what our position is. Ren'ai Jiao is China's territory. The root cause of the current situation is that the Philippines infringed on China's rights and made deliberate provocations. The Philippines needs to stop those infringement activities and provocations at once, and return as soon as possible to the track of resolving differences through dialogue and consultation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Xi heads to Central Asia amid waning Russian influence Once part of the Soviet Union, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan now look east. By RFA Mandarin and Uyghar and Alim Seytoff for RFA Uyghur 2024.07.02 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Kazakhstan on Tuesday morning for the 24th annual meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, a group created by Beijing and Moscow to manage their shared - and competing - geopolitical interests in Central Asia. Xi touched down in the Kazakh capital of Astana ahead of four days of meetings with leaders of the five primary Central Asian nations - Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan - as well as periphery members Russia, Iran, India and Pakistan. Russian President Vladimir Putin will also attend this week's meetings, with plans to meet with Xi privately for talks. He will also meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who will be in attendance as a "dialogue partner" of the regional grouping. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said Xi's trip comes as China assumes the rotating presidency of the regional group this year, and that Xi will also pay official state visits to Kazakhstan and Tajikistan during the trip. "China believes that this summit will consolidate more consensus among all parties, chart a new chapter of cooperation, and make positive contributions to promoting security, stability, development, revitalization," Hua said at a press briefing on Monday. Established in 2001 by China and Russia, this year's summit is expected to focus on the economy, trade and energy, but Russia's invasion of Ukraine and its ramifications will also be on the table. Who's backyard? Central Asia has long been put forward by international relations strategists as a reason that Moscow and Beijing may never be able to forge long-term geopolitical bonds, with any friendship between the two nations said to be not able to withstand a rivalry over the region. However, with Russia's growing economic and diplomatic reliance on its eastern neighbor amid its invasion of Ukraine, Moscow appears to have put its interests in Central Asia on the backburner for now. Rushan Abbas, executive director of the U.S.-based Campaign for Uyghurs, said that this year's meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization comes as China cuts massive diplomatic in-roads into what was once indisputably Russia's sphere of influence. "Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, China has been aggressively marching into Central Asia, once a Russian backyard, and strengthening its political and economic relations with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan," Abbas told Radio Free Asia. "These countries, fearing a similar fate like Ukraine, are also increasingly taking a pro-China position," she said. China has long aimed to expand its influence in Central Asia but had been tied back by the region's lasting cultural and political ties to Moscow given its former life in the Soviet Union, said Anders Corr, the principal of the New York-based political risk firm Corr Analytics. The region has "gas, many minerals, and inexpensive labor," he said. But it's not only that: "China sees it as semi-strategic," Corr explained, because it could allow rail links and oil-and-gas pipelines to Europe. For the Central Asian nations, meanwhile, the biggest draw of closer relations with China would be access to its vast market as Russia's war economy creates future trade opportunities with their former patron. But Corr said there may be another element at play, with the former Soviet republics looking wearily at Moscow's plans for Ukraine. "They may also be trying to use China as a counterweight against Russia in order to solidify their independence - there may be an element of that," he said. "They may be thinking that somehow getting closer to China will give them a way to keep Russia at bay." All roads lead to Europe Putin will be playing defense while in Astana, as he is probably displeased by Beijing's growing influence. "Putin very badly wants to maintain and strengthen his links to those five countries," said William Duiker, a former U.S. diplomat and now professor emeritus of East Asian studies at Pennsylvania State University. "There is absolutely no doubt that there is an element of geopolitical competition and rivalry going on between Moscow and Beijing in this region," he said. "Anything that happens in that area related to either of these countries is primarily related to the geopolitical situation." But while Putin's main attentions are focussed on Ukraine, he added, Beijing will be focussed on securing the construction of a key railroad through Central Asia that would link China to the edges of Europe and allow trade to flow there without permission of the Russians. "If completed, this would bypass Russia and go through the Central Asian states, the Caucasus, Turkey, and to the Aegean Sea," he said, referring to an eastern Mediterranean bay. "Chinese leaders see this as an important alternative route for goods going to Europe, especially if their current route through Siberia becomes problematic." For Abbas of the Campaign for Uyghurs, though, the growing ties between China and the Turkic nations of Central Asia are a concern for Uyghurs facing genocide in China, many of whom in the past have looked west to escape Beijing's grip and religious persecution. The warming ties were leading to China "exporting its repressive policies and tightening its grip on the Uyghur population living in these nations," she said, including those who have escaped China. "It is crucial for the U.S.-led free world to pay close attention to Central Asia," Abbas said, "and not allow China to corrupt and coerce these countries to support its authoritarian form of governance." Edited by Alex Willemyns and Malcolm Foster. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content July not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address July 2, 2024: In Ukraine, Russia took the lead in developing electronic jamming technology and Ukraine, the United States and its NATO allies are hustling to catch up. This wartime game of dueling improvements between electronic warfare (EW) and electronic countermeasures (ECM) to electronic warfare has been going on since at least 1940. At the level of small unmanned aerial vehicles, Ukrainian responses to new Russian UAV jamming techniques are currently only ten days behind new Russian advances. Current Russian local and wide area jamming are making Ukrainian military radios inoperable and reducing the accuracy of GPS guided weapons supplied by NATO. The U.S. has come up with a partial solution to this, a missile that homes in sources of jamming. This capability wont be available until 2025, and that puts pressure on the Ukrainians to improvise. This is not a new problem. Two years ago the U.S. sent some AGM-88 HARMs (High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile) to Ukraine. Soon a photo appeared on the Internet showing the debris of a HARM missile used in Ukraine to destroy a Russian air defense radar. The U.S. admitted that some HARMS were being used by Ukrainian warplanes. This is possible via a HARM feature that uses the missiles own radar detection and homing capability. This is a short-range option, good for detecting and locating a radar up to 50 kilometers distant. The Ukrainian have demonstrated a skill at adapting military and equipment for new uses. Rigging a MiG-29 fighter or SU-25 ground attack aircraft to carry and use a HARM missile in HARM as Sensor mode is feasible. This enabled Ukrainian warplanes to use HARM to shut down the many Russian SAM (Surface to Air Missile) batteries that make it difficult for Ukrainian aircraft to operate freely. The HARM-carrying aircraft come in low and under the radar and fire the HARM when close enough for the detection sensors in the missile to become aware of the SAM radar. At that point the pilot launches the HARM and turns away. Until receiving HARM the only anti-radar missile Ukraine had was a Russian design that lacked many of the HARM capabilities. The U.S. has lots of HARM missiles and they are continuously improved. The latest upgrade is a major one. Since 2012 the U.S. has been upgrading older ABM-88B HARMs to the AGM-88E/F AARGMs (Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles) standard. Upgrading older HARMs costs about half as much as buying a new AGM-88E. In most cases AARGMS are created by using the case, rocket motor and warhead of an AGM-88 HARM missile with new components, mainly guidance and control items. New 88Es cost $1.26 million each. Originally the plan was to produce 1,879 AARGMs but increased demand from U.S. forces and sixteen export customers, including Ukraine led to the current goal, set in 2016, for 2,435 AARGMs. The increased demand was prompted by the improved air defense systems of potential adversaries that rendered the 88B model less effective. Most customers believed potential enemy defenses were still vulnerable to the AARGM upgrade. In 2023 the new HARM model became available. For over half a century most guided missiles were built with these upgrades and refurbishments in mind. The older missiles not only have more advanced components installed, but the entire missile is examined and any component needing replacement gets that done. Older spare parts for the 88B are also replaced, as needed, with those that work in the 88E. Most AGM-88s are being used on the U.S.-made EA-18G electronic warfare (EW) aircraft, which now takes care of certain EW missions, like SEAD (suppression of enemy air defenses) for the air force and marines as well. To do that they need the latest model HARM. But the U.S. Air Force and Marine Corps aviation also use some HARMs and AAARGMs. The AGM-88 comes in various models, giving users lots of options. Some users only need the older 88B but most want the latest model. The AGM-88B HARM entered service in 1983 and used a passive radar seeker which homed on enemy fire-control radars emissions in order to destroy the radar and thus render surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems useless by destroying radars needed for target tracking. In 1999 (the Kosovo War against Serbia) the 88B HARM was found to be vulnerable. The Serbian forces limited their radar usage to a minimum and used quick radar shutdown techniques and pack and leave tactics for their SAM units. Because of these tactics, HARM had problems acquiring targets. Thats because the missile has precision guidance only when enemy radar is working all the time. Otherwise, the 88B reverts to offline mode that uses the less accurate INS (Inertial Guidance System) only. NATO forces failed to silence most Serbian SAMs during the campaign. There were calls for upgrades to the 88B and some software upgrades seemed to deal with the problems encountered against Serbia. But the potential threats kept appearing and AGM-88 upgrades continued and resulted in some major changes and a new model HARM. Not only is the E model an improved version of the 88B, but it also includes major modifications that enable it to hit moving ships. This makes the AGM-88E an effective anti-ship weapon as well. Meanwhile, another upgrade of the AGM-88 entered service. The AGM-88F is very similar to the 88E but comes from a different manufacturer and is aimed at export sales. The 88F completed testing in 2014 and entered production. This version also has the anti-ship capability. All these upgrades seen in the 88E and 88F contributed to the missile getting a new name. Its now an AARGM (Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile) instead of a HARM. AARGM weighs 361 kg (794 pounds) and can detect and attack targets more than 150 kilometers away while traveling at a speed of 2,450 kilometers per hour. The AGM-88E can transmit a picture of the target, just before it is hit, so the user can be certain of what was taken out. The AARGM was developed jointly by U.S. and Italian firms. The AGM-88F has GPS guidance added with less accurate but jam-proof INS as a backup. The older AGM-88D also used GPS so that the missile, which normally homes in on radar transmissions, could be used to attack targets by location alone. The F model expands on basic GPS capabilities and also includes other features that assist in defeating enemy electronic defenses. What the GPS/INS provides is a way for HARM to act on previous intelligence about where an enemy radar is while also using its radar signal homing capability and new anti-decoy features. Many countries now use a decoy emitter that sends out a fake radar signal to lure the HARM away from the real radar. The 88F model uses GPS and more sensors and new software to get around all known deceptions (and some that havent been invented yet). There is also a longer-range AGM-88G. The AARGM-ER model has a different shape so that it will fit inside the internal bomb bay of the F-35A and C models. The G model also has improved performance including longer range, about 280 kilometers. This is twice the range of other AGM-88s. By carrying these missiles internally, the stealth of the F-35 is maximized. This is essential for the first aircraft encountering enemy air defenses. These aircraft will take out key radars so subsequent SEAD aircraft, like the non-stealthy EA-18G, can do their job with less risk of loss. The AARGM-ER will enter production after 2023 but it is not yet clear if it will replace or just supplement the existing AARGM. The development of the AARGM-ER began in 2016 and has remained on schedule with production starting in 2023. The AGM-88 moves at high speed, as in 2,200 kilometers an hour or 36 kilometers a minute. The original 1960s anti-radiation missile (ARM) quickly evolved into the HARM. There were initial orders for over a thousand AGM-88E/Fs from the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, Italy, Australia and Germany. Over 25,000 AGM-88s, of all types, have been produced since the 1980s. Most are never used in combat or for training and are built for a long shelf, or storage, life of about 15 years. Manufacturers have found ways to extend the shelf life of these expensive devices to a decade or more, but often before that limit is reached new models of the missile appear with new features that are often essential to get the job done against enemies that have better countermeasures. For that reason, the trend is for guided missiles to be built to make it easier and cheaper to upgrade key components, like the guidance system, which is quite elaborate for a HARM missile. As time goes by successful missile designs result in more of the older models available for refurbishment and upgrades and this has become a major source of income for manufacturers. Uyghur group wins appeal to probe alleged Uyghur slave labor The court ordered UK authorities to reconsider investigating cotton imports from Xinjiang. By Jilil Kashgary for RFA Uyghur 2024.07.02 -- Reversing a previous ruling, an appeals court in the United Kingdom ordered that the country's National Crime Agency reconsider whether to investigate whether cotton imports from the far-western Chinese region of Xinjiang allegedly use Uyghur slave labor. Global Legal Action Network, or GLAN, and the World Uyghur Congress, or WUC, won the case in the U.K. Court of Appeal on June 27. The groups took legal action after a High Court ruling in January 2023 accepted British authorities' position that it refused to exercise its powers to investigate whether the imports used slave labor and were therefore illegal. It is unclear what conclusion the National Crime Agency, or NCA, will reach. But the two groups hope it will lead to commitment from the agency to stop goods made with forced labor from entering British markets. The ruling is an example of how countries are cracking down on trade with China amid concerns about Uyghur forced labor, part of a series of human rights abuses that have taken place in the region in recent years. It is also significant because it serves as a warning to companies with products made with forced labor in their supply chains that they risk being prosecuted for money laundering or having their criminal products confiscated, according to the two groups. The High Court's ruling created "an untenable situation" based on "adequate consideration" whereby importers were permitted to knowingly acquire forced labor goods, and would not be prosecuted provided they had paid market price, WUC and GLAN, a nonprofit group that pursues legal action involving human rights violations, said in a statement. "It makes it very clear that these companies must clean up their supply chains or risk prosecution or having their goods confiscated as the proceeds of crime," GLAN lawyer Leanna Burnard told Radio Free Asia. Most Chinese cotton sold by retailers in the United Kingdom is implicated in forced labor, according to GLAN and WUC. "This is the very first successful step towards accountability for Uyghurs," WUC president Dolkun Isa said in a statement. "We hope that moving forward, U.K.-based companies will take adequate caution not trading or importing Uyghur forced labor goods, and that the government will also conduct investigations diligently," he said. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content July not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China's Xi Arrives In Kazakhstan For State Visit, SCO Summit By RFE/RL July 02, 2024 Chinese President Xi Jinping has arrived in Kazakhstan for a state visit and a chance to promote ties between China and the Central Asian county as he embarks on a trip that includes meetings with the other leaders of the nine-member alliance known as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Kazakh President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev met his Chinese counterpart at the Astana international airport on July 2. TASS reported shortly after Xi's arrival that Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet with Xi on July 3 in Astana as part of the SCO summit. Putin last met Xi in May when he visited China on his first foreign trip after being inaugurated for a fifth term as president. Putin also will meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Astana, TASS reported. Turkey, though not a member of the SCO, often takes part in its meetings as a "dialogue partner." In addition to Kazakhstan, Russia, and China, SCO members include India, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Kazakh state media outlets on July 2 carried an article signed by Xi in which the Chinse leader praised bilateral ties between the two nations, stressing it was "in Kazakhstan 11 years ago that I first proposed the initiative of the Silk Road Economic Belt," which marked "a magnificent chapter in Belt and Road cooperation between our two countries." Xi wrote that China "will support Kazakhstan in upholding its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity in continuing on the development path suited to its national conditions, in implementing domestic and foreign policies in the interest of its development and prosperity, and in opposing interference in its internal affairs by any external forces." Since Moscow launched its ongoing invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, many in Kazakhstan and elsewhere have considered statements from Chinese leaders regarding Kazakhstan and other Central Asian nations to be a message to Russia, where in recent months, many pro-Kremlin politicians and political observers have hinted that Kazakhstan is a takeover target for Moscow. Toqaev, in an interview with China's Xinhua agency published on July 2, said his country "has ambitious plans to further deepen multifaceted ties with China." After ceremonies for the official state visit to Astana, Xi is expected to join talks with other SCO leaders. He will later travel to Tajikistan. Beijing has ramped up diplomatic efforts in the region, largely through its flagship Belt and Road development. With reporting by Xinhua, Kazinform, Kazakhstanskaya pravda, Tengrinews, TASS, Interfax, RIA Novosti, and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/china-xi-visit-kazakhstan-tajikistan- shanghai-coooperation-sco-summit/33018280.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address China Warns NATO Not to Harm Asia-Pacific Region Sputnik News 20240702 BEIJING (Sputnik) - NATO has already made a mess in Europe, so the alliance should not harm the Asia-Pacific region either, the Chinese Foreign Ministry told Sputnik on Tuesday. "NATO has already made a mess in Europe, it should not harm the Asia-Pacific region either," the ministry said. Stoltenberg openly stated that the alliance's promotion in the Asia-Pacific is designed to put pressure on China, to which Beijing protests, the ministry said. "NATO Secretary General openly stated that NATO's eastward advance into the Asia-Pacific region is designed to put pressure on China, this reflects the consistent Cold War mentality [of the alliance], the intention to create tension, provoke confrontation, undermine regional peace and stability," the ministry said. Earlier in the day, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told told Japanese newspaper Yomiuri that China is responsible for the incitement to the largest military conflict in Europe since World War II. Russia is producing missiles and drones with the support of advanced technology imported from China, which makes Beijing accountable for instigating the conflict, Stoltenberg said. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea hails successful test of missile carrying super-large warhead South Korean military casts doubt on the North's claim of success saying it could be a 'deception' By RFA Staff 2024.07.01 -- North Korea has successfully tested a "new-type" of tactical ballistic missile that can fire a 4.5 ton "super-large" warhead up to 500 km (311 miles), the North's state-run media reported on Tuesday but South Korea's military doubted that the announcement was true, its media reported. The missile, the Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5, was test fired on Monday, and the result of the test was "of great significance," said the North's Korean Central News Agency. "The test-fire was conducted with a missile tipped with a simulated heavy warhead to verify flight stability and hit accuracy at the maximum range of 500 km [311 miles] and the minimum range of 90 km [55 miles]," the news agency reported. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff, or JCS, said on Monday North Korea fired two ballistic missiles over the sea off its east coast early that day but the second one appeared to have flown abnormally and fallen to the ground. Col. Lee Sung-jun, spokesperson for the JCS, told a regular briefing that South Korea was analyzing the North's launches but it suspected the North Korean announcement was not true, South Korea's Yonhap news agency reported. "[We] are conducting an analysis, while putting weight on the possibility that North Korea's public report is a [form of] deception," said Lee. "It is extremely rare to conduct a test-launch inland and there is a high possibility that its claim of a success is a lie." Lee said the South Korean military has assessed that the North's Hwasong-11 rocket could carry a warhead of up to 2.5 tons, but noted that a 4.5-ton warhead was theoretically possible. The North Korean test came shortly after South Korea, the United States and Japan concluded joint military exercises. The North, which regards such exercises as preparations by the U.S. and its allies to invade the country, condemned the exercise on Sunday and vowed to take "offensive and overwhelming countermeasures" to protect its sovereignty. The North Korean news agency said Monday's test was "part of the regular activities of the administration and its affiliated defense science institutes." North Korea would test the Hwasongpho-11 Da-4.5 this month to verify its flight characteristics, accuracy "and explosion power of super-large warhead at the medium range of 250 km [155 miles]," the news agency said. Edited by Taejun Kang and Mike Firn. Updated with South Korean reaction. Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content July not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Deepening Russia-North Korea ties test US-South Korea deterrence strategy By Young Gyo Kim July 01, 2024 The United States' commitment to providing extended deterrence to South Korea is being put to the test, with some South Korean politicians publicly questioning the effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear umbrella after Russia and North Korea reached a new defense pact. Debate over the U.S. extended deterrence was sparked by Representative Na Kyung Won, a five-term lawmaker of South Korea's ruling People Power Party, who is running for the party leadership. "The deterrence under the solid South Korea-U.S. alliance is currently working, but it does not guarantee the capacity to respond to the future changes in the security environment," Na said in a social media post last week. "The international situation, such as cooperation between North Korea and Russia, is adding uncertainty to the security of South Korea," she added, referring to the stronger military ties between Russia and North Korea, bolstered by the comprehensive strategic partnership treaty signed by Russia's President Vladmir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang last month. The new treaty mandates Russia and North Korea to immediately assist each other militarily if either of them is attacked by a third country. The prospect of quasi-automatic Russian involvement in any future war between the two Koreas is now causing alarm in Seoul. The credibility of extended deterrence is a frequent topic of conversation in today's South Korea, where citizens must contend with seemingly endless threats and provocations from the North. Seoul is doing its best to allay citizens' fears by invoking the April 2023 Washington Declaration, which reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to defend South Korea through its extended nuclear umbrella as well as robust missile defense and conventional forces. The Washington Declaration outlined a series of measures, including the establishment of the bilateral Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG), to deter North Korea's use of nuclear weapons. In the joint declaration, the U.S. additionally vowed to enhance the visibility of its strategic assets, such as a nuclear-armed submarine, around the Korean Peninsula. The Washington Declaration's measures are collectively sufficient to deter aggression from Pyongyang, according to some experts in the U.S. The joint declaration was "unprecedented in its strength and clarity," Evans Revere, a former State Department official who negotiated with North Korea, told VOA's Korean Service on Sunday. "And the NCG process is designed to be flexible, creative, and allow for adaptation to a broad range of future contingencies." Troop presence David Maxwell, a former U.S. Special Forces colonel who served on the Combined Forces Command of the U.S and South Korea, told VOA's Korean Service on Sunday that a large troop presence on the Korean Peninsula demonstrates Washington's firm commitment to the defense of its key ally. "How many Russian troops are committed to North Korea? There is no comparison as to the commitment," said Maxwell, who now serves as vice president of the Center for Asia Pacific Strategy. Currently, the U.S. has about 28,500 service members deployed in South Korea. In contrast, Elbridge Colby, who served as the deputy assistant secretary of defense for strategy and force development in the Trump administration, suggested the U.S. might have to go beyond the Washington Declaration to ensure the security of South Korea. "I think we need to take very seriously how dire the threat from North Korea is, and that the Washington Declaration is not a solution," Colby told VOA's Korean Service on the phone last week. "It's been a failure that both North Korea and China are a nuclear breakout. They're increasing the size and the sophistication of the nuclear forces. So it's very unsurprising that serious people in South Korea are coming to this conclusion." Bruce Bennett, senior defense analyst at the RAND Corporation, believes some South Koreans may lack confidence in the Washington Declaration because the NCG's work is not made public. "Because the NCG that it established has carried out most of its work in secrecy and provided little substance to reassure the South Korean people, many of the South Koreans with whom I have spoken are concerned that it is an inadequate means for rebuilding South Korean trust," Bennett told VOA's Korean Service on Sunday. Responding to an inquiry from VOA's Korean Service, a State Department spokesperson said Thursday that "the U.S. and the ROK are enhancing and strengthening extended deterrence through the Nuclear Consultative Group, established as part of the Washington Declaration." The spokesperson also stressed that the Washington Declaration is "a landmark U.S. extended deterrence commitment to the Republic of Korea." The Republic of Korea is South Korea's official name. Earlier last week, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell maintained that the series of mechanisms put in place between the United States and South Korea through the Washington Declaration "has given us what we need to work with" regarding the alliance's deterrence posture. North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles Monday, one of which is presumed to have failed and fallen inland near Pyongyang. The latest missile test came just five days after North Korea conducted a ballistic missile test in which it claimed to have successfully tested its multiple-warhead missile technology. South Korean authorities have dismissed such a claim. Eunjung Cho contributed to this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DPRK: Statement by the Spokesperson on the recent launch of ballistic missiles European External Action Service (EEAS) 02.07.2024 EEAS Press Team The European Union strongly condemns the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's (DPRK) launch of ballistic missiles on 1 July, which constitutes another violation of UN Security Council resolutions. The EU reiterates its call on the DPRK to cease all illegal actions that threaten regional and international peace and security. We urge the DPRK to accept the offers of dialogue by relevant parties and to comply with its obligations under UN Security Council resolutions to abandon its nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles in a complete, verifiable, and irreversible manner. We are also gravely concerned by deepening DPRK-Russia cooperation in flagrant violation of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions. We reiterate our strong call on the DPRK and Russia to cease illegal arms transfers. The EU is ready to work with all partners in promoting a meaningful diplomatic process aimed at the complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address DPRK Missile Administration Conducts Test-fire of New-type Tactical Ballistic Missile Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, July 2 (KCNA) -- The DPRK Missile Administration successfully conducted a test-fire of new-type tactical ballistic missile Hwasongpho-11Da-4.5 on July 1. The new-type missile is a tactical ballistic missile capable of carrying 4.5 ton-class super-large warhead. The test-fire was conducted with a missile tipped with a simulated heavy warhead to verify flight stability and hit accuracy at the maximum range of 500 km and the minimum range of 90 km. The Central Military Commission of the Workers' Party of Korea reported to the plenary meeting of the WPK Central Committee on the result of the Missile Administration's test which is of great significance. The test of the new-type weapon system is part of the regular activities of the administration and its affiliated defence science institutes. The Missile Administration said that it will test-fire new-type tactical ballistic missile Hwasongpho-11Da-4.5 to verify flight characteristics, hit accuracy and explosion power of super-large warhead at the medium range of 250km in July. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Statement on DPRK's Ballistic Missile Launch Republic of the Philippines - Department of Foreign Affairs MANILA 02 July 2024 -- The Philippines condemns the DPRK's latest ballistic missile launch, which provokes tensions and undermines economic progress, peace, and stability in the Korean Peninsula and the lndo-Pacific region. The Philippines has repeatedly called on the DPRK to also comply with its international obligations and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and to commit to constructive and peaceful dialogue with the Republic of Korea. The Philippines has consistently supported the call for a complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization of the DPRK. END NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address North Korea says successfully tests ballistic missile capable of carrying super-large warhead Iran Press TV Tuesday, 02 July 2024 8:20 AM North Korea says it has successfully tested a new tactical ballistic missile capable of carrying a "super-large warhead" following a recent joint military exercise by South Korea, Japan and the United States. The Hwasongpho-11Da-4.5 missile is said to be capable of carrying a 4.5 ton-class super-large warhead. "The test-fire was conducted with a missile tipped with a simulated heavy warhead to verify flight stability and hit accuracy at the maximum range of 500 kilometers (310 miles) and the minimum range of 90 kilometers," the state-owned Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Tuesday. Pyongyang will test fire the missile again this month "to verify flight characteristics, hit accuracy and explosion power of super-large warhead at the medium range of 250 kilometers", according to KCNA. Meanwhile, South Korea questioned North's reports of a successful test, saying they were likely a "lie" and that one of the missiles appeared to have failed in the early stages of flight. The South's military claimed that missile's trajectory suggested a possible mid-air explosion over North Korea. "It is extremely rare for test launches to be conducted inland, and the claim that they succeeded in such a launch is likely to be false," Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson Lee Sung-jun told reporters Tuesday. The Monday test launches took place as North Korea criticized the joint military exercises held by Seoul, Tokyo and Washington last month. North Korea's foreign ministry said in a statement that such drills show the relationship among the trio has developed into "the Asian version of NATO", warning of "fatal consequences." It also vowed that the country will protect regional peace with a overwhelming response. Pyongyang, which has been under harsh sanctions by the United States and the United Nations Security Council for years over its nuclear and ballistic-missile programs, says such military maneuvers amount to a rehearsal for invasion. North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un has repeatedly said his government is building up its military arsenal in preparation for war by the West that could "break out at any time" on the peninsula. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Is France's Far-Right Victory A Turning Point For Europe? By Luke Allnutt July 01, 2024 France's far-right National Rally (RN) party, led by Marine Le Pen, has secured a clear victory in the first round of parliamentary elections. If the party wins an absolute majority in the July 7 runoff, France would have a far-right government for the first time since World War II. This result marks another big setback for beleaguered French President Emmanuel Macron, who dissolved parliament and called for snap elections in an attempt to halt the far-right's progress after RN's record gains in the June 6-9 European Parliament elections. So, What Happens Now? Even if the second round doesn't lead to a National Rally government, this is perhaps the biggest political turmoil to engulf France in decades. The key question is whether the RN can secure an absolute majority in the second round in the 577-seat National Assembly, France's lower house of parliament. Efforts are already under way to form "Republican fronts" -- anti-Le Pen alliances aimed at preventing the RN from gaining a majority. Macron has urged voters who supported his centrist Ensemble alliance, which trailed in third place with about 20 percent, to back "clearly republican and democratic" candidates in constituencies where his party finished third. Similarly, Jean-Luc Melenchon, leader of the left-wing France Unbowed, part of the second-placed New Popular Front coalition, announced that his alliance would withdraw candidates who finished third in the first round to consolidate the anti-Le Pen vote. Eric Maurice, a policy analyst at the European Policy Center, said "all will depend on whether the left and center agree to remove candidates who came third and qualified for the second round. The more this happens, the less RN will be able to obtain an absolute majority." What Are The Possible Outcomes? Perhaps the most likely outcome, especially given the strong anti-Le Pen campaign, would be RN winning but unable to achieve an absolute majority, resulting in a hung parliament and political gridlock. This scenario would pit the far-right against the left in parliament, making it difficult to pass legislation. If RN did win an absolute majority, it would have the opportunity to impose its nationalist, nativist, and conservative agenda and, according to Maurice, "could jeopardize rule of law in France." Another scenario could be a government led by Ensemble, the coalition centered around Macron's party. However, RFE/RL's Europe Editor Rikard Jozwiak says he is not sure Macron can "muster some sort of government of unity with a technocratic prime minister, as some are hoping for. And if he does, it will be an unstable one that can be voted down quite easily." What Would An RN Victory Mean For France? The RN's strong election performance shows the effectiveness of Marine Le Pen's drive to detoxify the party of her father, Jean-Marie Le Pen, making it more appealing to the average voter in multicultural France. After taking over the leadership in 2011, Marine Le Pen has changed the party's name from the National Front and tried to purge it of its neo-Nazi and anti-Semitic elements. She even expelled her own father, who has a history of inflammatory language against immigrants, and who once said the Nazi concentration camps were a "detail of history." However, even if the RN did win the second round, there would still be constraints on the party. France has a semi-presidential system, in which the president and the prime minister share power. The prime minister and cabinet are responsible for managing daily government operations and domestic policy, whereas the president dominates national security and foreign policy and represents the country on the world stage. Jordan Bardella, the RN's untested co-leader, would become prime minister, awkwardly -- and likely ineffectively -- sharing power with Macron. And What Would It Mean For The European Union? For the far right, it could be an opportune moment to influence the European Union. Hungary, led by Viktor Orban's national-conservative Fidesz party for more than a decade, has just begun its six-month stint as holder of the bloc's rotating presidency. Additionally, far-right parties made significant gains in the June 6-9 European Parliament elections, a sign of the growing nationalist and populist sentiments across the 27 countries of the EU. The RN's influence could test aspects of the EU's Green Deal, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, eliminate pollution, and support sustainable industry. The RN has campaigned against EU environmental regulations, arguing that they harm jobs and French industry. Immigration remains the RN's primary focus. The party advocates for stricter controls and aims to implement policies that prioritize French nationals for social benefits, housing, and jobs -- measures that are currently illegal under EU law. It is here, according to Philippe Marliere, a professor of French and European politics at University College London, where RN distinguishes itself from other rightist parties in the EU, for example Orban's Fidesz party. "Political scientists in France call it far right because it really is far right. If you study its program, it's the unreconstructed far right," he says. "Obsessively nativist, anti-immigration, and also obsessively discussing what is it to be French." RFE/RL Europe Editor Jozwiak says that the EU is already heading in Le Pen's direction on immigration. "Walls and barbed wire are commonplace along the EU's border, and deals are being struck with third countries to send back asylum seekers and to hold them back from coming in the first place," he says. Significantly, the RN victory in the first round could induce a tactical shift among right-wing parties in the EU. Le Pen's party has moderated its stance on the EU in recent years. Rather than advocating for "Frexit," it now aims to reform the EU from within, aligning the bloc more closely with its right-wing views. Given the RN's success, other right-wing parties across the EU may follow suit. How Could It Affect The War In Ukraine? Le Pen is a professed admirer of Russian President Vladimir Putin, praising him as a defender of traditional European values against globalization and U.S. influence. In 2014, Le Pen supported Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea. And, if it wins power, the RN has promised to halt French deliveries of long-range missiles to Ukraine. However, Le Pen's position has softened in recent years, condemning Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and proclaiming her support for the Ukrainian people -- all while taking care not to escalate the situation with Russia. Mark Galeotti, a political analyst and honorary professor at University College London's School of Slavonic and East European Studies, told RFE/RL that it's unlikely that a France dominated by Le Pen "is going to suddenly break with the mainstream and say, 'We're not going to be supporting Ukraine anymore.'" However, he adds, that "anything that clips Emmanuel Macron's wings is good news for the Kremlin" in its war against Ukraine, "because Macron has at the moment been trying to present himself as the hawkiest of hawks in Europe, talking about sending ground troops." And, in Brussels, foot-dragging can sometimes be as effective as outright opposition. UCL professor Marliere says that a French far-right government wouldn't actually need to come out against Ukraine outright to have an affect on EU policy. The drive for Ukraine entering the bloc would essentially be on on ice. "You just drag your feet. You make it difficult. You waste time," he says. "And, of course, time is of the essence for Ukraine. They need weapons now and they need support now, so expect something much more messy, much more difficult for Europe." With contributions from Dragan Stavljanin and Tony Wesolowsky Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/french-far-right- win-national-rally-marine-le-pen/33017406.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address July 2, 2024: In northeast Borno States female Boko Haram suicide bombers, set off their explosives at a wedding and then a funeral, leaving 32 dead and 42 wounded. Boko Haram became active in Borno during 2009 and since then have killed over 40,000 while two million were driven from their homes. Another consistent security problem is the lack of an effective national police force. Since the 19 th Century there have been sporadic efforts to create a modern, reliable, honest and effective Nigerian national police force. All those efforts have failed and the current national police are still known for their corruption, brutality and ineffectiveness rather than effective policing. This has led to numerous local vigilante groups appearing when needed because of a local crisis. In many other cases the army is sent to restore order but does not stay because Nigerian law does not allow the military to replace the police on a permanent basis. Moreover, soldiers are trained for combat, not full time policing of neighborhoods in towns and cities as well as rural villages. The military is active in fighting large outbreaks of banditry and terrorism. For example, in northwestern Katsina State, the air force responded to reports of a major Islamic terrorist raid on a group of rural villages as well as a local army base. Dozens of structures were being looted and set on fire. Local police and army forces were alerted but the air force arrived first and saw the fires and detected the Islamic terrorists fleeing on motorcycles and in vehicles. The air force confirmed the presence of the fleeing terrorists and attacked, killing at least 8o Islamic terrorists and attacking some of the rural camps they were living in. The air force and ground forces dont always have this much success when responding to reports of attacks. But in this instance the timing and location of the attacks resulted in heavy losses for the Islamic terrorists. In most of Nigeria there has been less Islamic terrorist violence since 2020 as these terrorist groups faded away while tribal violence became responsible for most casualties. The Islamic terror groups main activity was staying alive, and they did so via banditry. In some parts of Nigeria, like Katsina State, the Islamic terrorist activity quietly grew. But when there was a major attack, the military was able to respond forcefully and decisively. Back in 2004, Islamic terrorist violence in the northeast appeared and created some lasting problems. There are still millions of refugees plus substantial economic damage in the northeast (Borno State), where it all began. There seems to be no end in sight because of the local corruption, but more competent leadership in the security forces reduced the violence. All this was caused by a local group of Taliban wannabes calling themselves Boko Haram. Their activity in the capital of Borno State grew for a decade until in 2014 it seemed unstoppable. It took over a year for the government to finally muster sufficient military strength to cripple but not destroy Boko Haram. This did not get much media attention outside Africa, even though in 2014 Boko Haram killed more people than ISIL did in Syria and Iraq. The main reason for Boko Haram gains in 2014 and 2015 was corruption in the army, which severely crippled effective counterterror efforts. By itself Boko Haram was too small to have much impact on a national scale but the inability to deal with this problem put a spotlight on the corruption that has hobbled all progress in Nigeria for decades. A new president was elected in 2023 and made considerable progress in changing the corruption. This included problems with tribal feuds and growing unrest throughout the country. This has been especially bad down south in the Niger River Delta region which was where most of the petroleum extraction took place. Violence against oil facilities continues, in part because local politicians and business leaders were part of the oil theft business. Northern Moslems want more control over the federal government and the oil money. In northern and central Nigeria, you have increasing violence as nomadic Moslem herders move south and clash with largely Christian farmers over land use and water supplies. For the last few years these tribal feuds have killed more people than Boko Haram. The situation is still capable of sliding into regional civil wars, over money and political power. Corruption and ethnic/tribal/religious rivalries threaten to trigger, at worse, another civil war and, at least, more street violence and public anger. MoD inks MoU to set up testing facilities in Unmanned Aerial System, Electronic Warfare & Electro Optics domains in Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Posted On: 02 JUL 2024 6:50PM by PIB Delhi Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed an MoU to establish three state-of-the-art testing facilities in Chennai under the Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor - one each in Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), Electronic Warfare (EW) and Electro Optics (EO) domains. The MoU, under the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS), was exchanged between senior officials of MoD and Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane in New Delhi on July 02, 2024. With an outlay of Rs 400 crore, the DTIS was launched by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh in May 2020 to set up state-of-the-art testing facilities in collaboration with private industry and Central/State Government, promoting indigenous defence production, reducing military equipment imports and enhancing self-reliance. To provide impetus to the defence and aerospace sectors within the Defence Industrial Corridors, seven testing facilities were approved - four in Tamil Nadu and three in Uttar Pradesh. The MoU for three facilities in Tamil Nadu has been signed today. The DTIS provides up to 75% government funding as 'Grant-in-Aid', with the remaining 25% funded by the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPVs), comprising Indian private entities and State/Central Governments. For the UAS testing facility, Keltron, a government of Kerala undertaking, is the lead SPV member, with some private sector companies being the consortium members. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and India Optel Limited (IOL) are the lead SPV members in the EW and EO testing facilities respectively. Upon the completion of the project, they will provide advanced testing equipment and services to both government and private industry, thus giving a boost to 'Aatmanirbharta' in defence. ABB/Savvy/KB (Release ID: 2030282) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address WEAPON SYSTEMS SCHOOL INAUGURATED BY THE CHIEF OF THE AIR STAFF AT BEGUMPET, HYDERABAD India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Posted On: 02 JUL 2024 2:11PM by PIB Delhi A new chapter has been introduced in the history of the Indian Air Force (IAF) with the inauguration of the Weapon Systems School (WSS) by Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), at Air Force Station Begumpet, Hyderabad on 01 July 24. This follows the approval of a new branch of officers in the IAF, the Weapon System (WS) branch in 2022. Aimed at recalibrating and transforming the Indian Air Force as a future-oriented force, the formation of this new training establishment is a gigantic leap for the Armed Forces in general, and Indian Air Force in particular. The CAS was welcomed by Air Vice Marshal Premkumar Krishnaswamy. Commandant, Weapon Systems School. The inauguration ceremony was also graced by the presence of Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, and other senior officers of the IAF including Commandant, Air Force Academy, Commandant, College of Air Warfare, Air Office Commanding, Air Force Station Hakimpet, and Station Commander, Air Force Station Begumpet. The WSS will impart effect based training that is contemporary in nature and prepare officers of the newly formed branch in line with the requirements of the IAF. With inauguration of the WSS, Flight Cadets of WS Branch will undergo their second semester of training at this institute. The new branch will have four streams; Flying stream to operate the weapons and systems in airborne platforms like the Sukhoi-30 MKI and C-130J; Remote stream to operate Remotely Piloted Aircraft; Mission Commanders and operators for Surface to Air and Surface-to-Surface weapon systems, and Intelligence stream for handling space-based intelligence and imagery. During the interaction, the CAS highlighted that with the creation of WS Branch, operators of ground based and specialist weapon systems will come under one umbrella, enhancing war fighting capabilities of the IAF significantly. He exhorted the instructors that being pioneers in a newly formed branch, they were the pillars on which the entire edifice of the envisioned training regime would stand firmly and deliver decisive air power. While complimenting the founding members of the School, the CAS urged all personnel to establish the School as a nodal centre for weapon systems training in the country. The creation of the WS branch was announced by the CAS during the Air Force Day Parade celebrations on 08 October 2022. *** ABB/AM/IS (Release ID: 2030202) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address INDIAN ARMY CONTINGENT DEPARTS FOR INDIA- THAILAND JOINT MILITARY EXERCISE MAITREE India - Press Information Bureau Ministry of Defence Posted On: 02 JUL 2024 10:32AM by PIB Delhi The Indian Army contingent departed yesterday for the 13th edition of India- Thailand joint military Exercise MAITREE. The exercise is scheduled to be conducted from 1st to 15th July 2024 at Fort Vachiraprakan in Tak Province of Thailand. Last edition of the same exercise was conducted at Umroi, Meghalaya in September 2019. The Indian Army contingent comprising 76 personnel is being represented mainly by a Battalion of the LADAKH SCOUTS along with personnel from other arms and services. The Royal Thailand Army contingent also comprises 76 personnel mainly from 1st Battalion, 14 Infantry Regiment of 4 Division. Aim of Exercise MAITREE is to foster Military Cooperation between India and Thailand. The Exercise will enhance combined capabilities in executing Joint Counter Insurgency/ Terrorist Operations in Jungle and Urban Environment under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. The Exercise will focus on high degree of physical fitness, joint planning and joint tactical drills. Tactical Drills to be practiced during the exercise will include Creation of a Joint Operation Centre, establishing an Intelligence & Surveillance Centre, employment of Drones and Counter Drone Systems, Securing of a Landing Site, Small Team Insertion & Extraction, Special Heliborne Operations, Cordon and Search Operations, Room Intervention Drills and Demolition of Illegal Structures. Exercise MAITREE will enable the two sides to share their best practices in Tactics, Techniques and Procedures for conduct of joint operations. The Exercise will facilitate developing inter-operability, bonhomie and camaraderie between soldiers of both the countries. ******* SC (Release ID: 2030153) NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Senior diplomat: Iran to use 'all means' to back Hezbollah if Lebanon attacked Iran Press TV Tuesday, 02 July 2024 4:18 PM A senior Iranian diplomat has warned Israel against launching a war on Lebanon, saying the Islamic Republic and all resistance groups in West Asia will support the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah in case of such military aggression. Kamal Kharrazi, the head of Iran's Strategic Council on Foreign Relations, told British daily newspaper the Financial Times in an interview that Israel's offensive against Lebanon will trigger a regional war in which Tehran and all forces of the Axis of Resistance will throw their weight behind Hezbollah by "all means". Iran is "not interested" in a regional war, he said, urging the US to put pressure on Israel to prevent further escalation. When asked if Iran would support Hezbollah in the event of a full-blown conflict, Kharrazi said, "All Lebanese people, Arab countries and members of the Axis of Resistance will support Lebanon against Israel." "There would be a chance of expansion of the war to the whole region, in which all countries including Iran would become engaged," he said in the interview. "In that situation, we would have no choice, but to support Hezbollah by all means." "The expansion of war is not in the interest of anyone a not Iran or the US." Since early October last year, Hezbollah and Israel have been involved in a series of deadly clashes. These confrontations were initiated after the Tel Aviv regime launched a genocidal assault on the Gaza Strip following a surprise operation by the Palestinian Hamas resistance group. Hezbollah has vowed to maintain its retaliatory strikes as long as the Israeli regime continues its Gaza war, which has resulted in the deaths of at least 37,900 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, and left 87,060 others injured. Hezbollah officials have repeatedly said they do not want a war with Israel, but if it happens they are ready. Iran's presidential election, nuclear program Commenting on the Iranian presidential race and the country's foreign policy, Kharrazi said while there are "some differences" between the approaches of the candidates, "the overall foreign policy strategy" is determined by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei and would remain the same. "If they (Western countries) decide to cooperate, we are ready for cooperation", Kharrazi said. The Islamic Republic would be willing to hold indirect negotiations with Washington about Tehran's nuclear program under a new administration, if it would lead to the US rejoining the 2015 Iran deal signed with world powers, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), he said. "We are not for building nuclear weapons," Kharrazi said, citing a fatwa (Islamic decree) issued by Ayatollah Khamenei in 2003 banning the development of such munitions. He said that if the West triggered "snapback" provisions to re-impose UN sanctions lifted when Tehran signed the JCPOA, in response to Iran's continued expansion of its program, "there would be a severe reaction from Iran in terms of changing its nuclear strategy". "Up to now, we have not decided to go further than 60-percent enrichment," he said. "But we have been trying to expand our experience by using different machines and different set-ups." Ukraine conflict Elsewhere in his remarks, Kharrazi pointed to the Ukraine war and said Tehran is neutral in the conflict. He said Iran sold drones to Russia prior to the war. He roundly dismissed Western allegations that Tehran could sell missiles to Moscow. "There have been such accusations, but it is not true." However, he said, there was "no obstacle between Iran and Russia for arms deals." Tehran was in negotiations to buy Russian fighter jets, Kharrazi said. "We are due to sign a comprehensive strategic agreement with them in the near future." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Myanmar shuns ethnic party from planned elections Junta banned more than 80 groups from political activities, including elections, the election committee announced. By RFA Burmese 2024.07.02 -- Myanmar junta election officials have barred an ethnic minority political party from running in the military regime's proposed 2025 elections under a law that excludes groups with suspected links to "terrorists", the Election Commission announced. The Arakan National Party, which represents the interests of the ethnic Rakhine people in western Myanmar's Rakhine state, had its application to run as a party rejected, the Union Election Commission announced. The election organizer said the rejection was based on a section of the political party law that excludes parties if they are declared or associated with terrorist organizations, use resources owned by the state or from foreign governments or misuse "religion for political purposes." Arakan National Party secretary general Khaing Pyi Soe told RFA that denying parties the chance to run in the election showed a lack of commitment to solving the country's problems. "Political parties are formed to solve political problems through political solutions. Now, the Union Election Commission has rejected the political party's official application," he said. "So, I think that the regime and the commission itself have no intention to solve the current political problem through political means." Even though the party is not allowed to register it would continue to exist whether the junta recognized it or not, he added. The Union Election Commission did not respond to RFA's requests for comment. Myanmar's military overthrew a civilian government in a February 2021 coup on the pretext of fraud in a November 2020 general election swept by the National League for Democracy party, led by Nobel laureate Aung Sang Suu Kyi. The coup sparked a civil war as ordinary citizens took up arms to fight the junta, forming guerrilla bands of People's Defense Forces, which have linked up with ethnic minority insurgent forces fighting for years for self-determination. The junta has faced setbacks since late last year in several parts of the country. The Arakan Army insurgent group, which draws its support from the Rakhine population, has made significant gains in the western state, seizing more than half of its townships since a ceasefire with the junta ended in November. The Arakan National Party initially sided with the military junta after the 2021 coup but it resigned from the military's ruling council three months later. Suspected links A political analyst in Rakhine state said the junta may have rejected the party's application because of links some of its old members had in administering areas occupied by the Arakan Army. "Former politicians of the Arakan National Party are now working in the ULA," said the analyst, who declined to be identified for security reasons, referring to a political organization the Arakan Army fights under. The political party had withdrawn from the ULA, or the United League of Arakan, but it was not clear if the junta recognized that, the analyst said. "I think they are unaware that they are no longer members of the party, so maybe that's why the junta canceled their application." Democracy activists say the junta's promised election will be a sham given that the country's most popular political leader, Suu Kyi, has been jailed for 27 years on charges she denies, and the election commission has banned more than 80 parties. The junta's Union Solidarity and Development Party is one of 47 parties that have registered since March. Junta leader Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing said in March in an interview with the ITAR-TASS news agency, that the first elections since the military seized power would be held if peace and stability can be restored to the country. No date has been set for a vote. Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Kiana Duncan and Mike Firn. Copyright 1998-2024, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content July not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Vice President of Kansas Company Pleads Guilty to Crimes Related to Scheme to Illegally Export U.S. Avionics Equipment to Russia and Russian End Users Tuesday, July 2, 2024 For Immediate Release Office of Public Affairs Defendant Pleads Guilty to Numerous Export Control and Money Laundering Violations Douglas Edward Robertson, 56, of Olathe, Kansas, the former vice president of KanRus Trading Company Inc., pleaded guilty today for his role in a years-long conspiracy to circumvent U.S. export laws by filing false export forms with the U.S. government and, after Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, continuing to sell and export sophisticated and controlled avionics equipment to customers in Russia without the required licenses from the U.S. Department of Commerce. "Robertson, by his own admission, conspired to sell advanced U.S. avionics equipment to Russian customers in violation of U.S. law," said Assistant Attorney General for National Security Matthew G. Olsen. "The Justice Department will not tolerate those who seek to undermine the effectiveness of export controls that protect critical U.S. technology and deter Russia's aggression in Ukraine." "Robertson's guilty plea is reflective of the strong evidence gathered against him by federal investigators and the solid case presented by federal prosecutors,"A said U.S. Attorney Kate E. Brubacher for the District of Kansas. "Our nation is both proud and grateful to these men and women at the Department of Justice who seek to protect the United States and our national security interests from adversaries both foreign and domestic." "Those who seek to profit by illegally selling sophisticated U.S. technology to our adversaries are putting the national security of our country at risk and that cannot be tolerated," said Robert Wells, FBI Executive Assistant Director of the National Security Branch. "It is appalling that the defendant schemed to smuggle avionics equipment to customers overseas including Russia, a nation engaged in a long-running military conflict with Ukraine. The FBI will work with our partners to stop the illegal flow of sensitive U.S. equipment and technology to foreign adversaries." "You might think that smuggling sensitive U.S.-origin technology to Russia, including to their Federal Security Service (FSB), means we're not in Kansas anymore. Unfortunately, in this case, we were," said Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew A. Axelrod. "We will continue to hold individuals everywhere, including those at the highest rungs of the corporate ladder, accountable when they violate our laws by lying on forms and transshipping items through third countries." According to court documents, as part of his guilty plea, Robertson admitted that between 2020 and when he was arrested in March 2023, he conspired with others - including co-defendants Cyril Gregory Buyanovsky of Lawrence, Kansas and Oleg Chistyakov, aka Olegs Aitsjakovs, of Riga, Latvia - to smuggle U.S.-origin avionics equipment to end users in Russia, as well as Russian end users in other foreign countries, by, among other actions, knowingly filing false export forms and failing to file required export forms with the U.S. government. In these forms, Robertson and his conspirators lied about the exports' value, end users, and end destinations. Robertson further admitted that on at least one occasion in 2021, he, Buyanovsky, and Chistyakov smuggled a repaired Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) to the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation (FSB) by removing the FSB sticker from the device before sending the device to a U.S. company to be repaired and then exporting the TCAS back to the FSB in Russia. At the time, the FSB was sanctioned by the U.S. Department of Treasury, Office of Foreign Assets Control, for its interference in the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election.A A Robertson further admitted that after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022 and the U.S. government tightened export controls concerning Russia, he, co-defendants Buyanovsky and Chistyakov, and other conspirators continued to purchase and export U.S.-origin avionics equipment to customers in Russia and took numerous steps to hide their illegal activity from law enforcement, including by lying to U.S. suppliers about the intended end users; shipping goods through intermediary companies in Armenia, Laos, the United Arab Emirates, and Cyprus; continuing to file false export forms with the U.S. government; and using foreign bank accounts in countries other than Russia, such as Armenia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Cyprus, the United Arab Emirates, and the Czech Republic, to promote their illegal export activity. On Dec. 6, 2023, the U.S. Department of CommerceA CommerceA Commerce added many of the entities and individuals involved in KanRus and Robertson's illegal export scheme to the Commerce Department's Entity List A as part of the U.S. government's interagency efforts to dismantle Russian procurement networks designed to circumvent U.S. export controls and sanctions imposed in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Entity List imposes specific license requirements on all listed individuals and entities. In December 2023, Buyanovsky, the former President and owner of KanRus, pleaded guilty to conspiracy and money laundering and consented to the forfeiture of over $450,000 worth of avionics equipment and accessories, and a $50,000 personal forfeiture judgment. On March 19, Chistyakov, a former KanRus broker, was arrested in Riga, Latvia for his role in the illegal smuggling scheme. Chistyakov remains detained in Latvia pending extradition proceedings. As a result of today's guilty plea, Robertson faces a statutory maximum penalty of five years in prison for the conspiracy count, 20 years in prison for each of the two Export Control Reform Act counts, and 20 years in prison for the money laundering count. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Oct. 3. The FBI and the Department of Commerce's Office of Export Enforcement are investigating the case. The Latvian authorities are assisting the investigation. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection provided substantial assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Rask and Ryan Huschka of the District of Kansas and Trial Attorney Adam Barry of the National Security Division's Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department's Office of International Affairs is providing valuable assistance. The investigation was coordinated through the Justice Department's Task Force KleptoCapture, an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export controls and economic countermeasures that the United States, along with its foreign allies and partners, has imposed in response to Russia's unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. Announced by the Attorney General on March 2, 2022 and under the leadership of the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, the task force will continue to leverage all of the department's tools and authorities to combat efforts to evade or undermine the collective actions taken by the U.S. government in response to Russian military aggression. Topics: Export Control National Security Components: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) National Security Division (NSD) Office of the Deputy Attorney General USAO - Kansas Press Release Number: 24-841 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Meeting with Gazprom Neft CEO Alexander Dyukov Alexander Dyukov briefed the President about Gazprom Neft's performance: the company is increasing the volume of petroleum products production and supply to the domestic market, developing large fields in the Arctic and Eastern Siberia and creating technologies for the extraction of hard-to-recover reserves. The Omsk Oil Refinery has been modernised, and the Moscow Oil Refinery is being upgraded. July 2, 2024 13:40 The Kremlin, Moscow President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Dyukov, Gazprom Neft has shown remarkable performance. Last year, the company achieved its highest ever sales revenue of 3.5 trillion rubles, and EBITDA of 1.3 trillion. The company's capital investments are looking good - they have reached an impressive 570 billion rubles. The level of raw material processing is also at a record high, thanks to the utilisation of advanced technologies, including digital solutions. What do you envision for the company's future prospects? How can we support you? Gazprom Neft CEO Alexander Dyukov: Mr President, You are absolutely correct. Last year was a successful one for our company. The first quarter of this year has also been promising, with strong performance. Gazprom Neft continues to operate steadily, meeting the demand for oil and petroleum products in both domestic and foreign markets. However, serving the needs of the domestic market remains our priority. The Russian economy is growing at a rapid pace. There is an increasing demand for motor fuels and other oil products, lubricants, bitumen materials, and petrochemicals. Both the industry as a whole and Gazprom Neft are responding to this demand by increasing production volumes and supplies to the domestic market. By doing so, we are able to enhance our financial performance and contribute more to the national budget. In the first quarter alone, our tax contributions increased by 57 percent compared to the same period in 2023. I said that the company's operations are stable, but our goal is not only to remain stable but also to actively develop. This is the purpose of the investment programme in production. Last April, we launched the third unit of the Urengoyskoye field into industrial operation. We are developing several major fields in the Arctic and Eastern Siberia. Developing technology and working with hard-to-recover reserves are crucial parts of our operations. Hard-to-recover reserves currently account for 65 percent, almost 70 percent, of the company's production portfolio. It is a very important segment. It goes without saying that refining is also crucially important. We are completing comprehensive modernisation. Last year, we upgraded the Omsk Refinery, the largest in Russia, which has the capacity of 21 million tonnes. Now, it is essentially a new oil processing facility with a refinery yield of 99 percent. Ninety percent of the processing units are new. Next year, we will complete comprehensive modernisation of the Moscow Refinery, also aiming to achieve the refinery yield of 99 percent. Thanks to modernisation, we are not only boosting refinery yield but also expanding our line of oil products. The Omsk Refinery, for example, now produces more than 1,000 oil products, from motor fuel to lubricants, bitumen, needle coke for metal production, as well as catalysts and petrochemical products. Overall, the industry has made significant progress in the past 25 years. Production has grown by 65 percent, putting Russia back among the leaders in oil production, and playing an important role in ensuring the stability of the global market. This growth has been driven by technological development, which prompted the development of new oil and gas regions in the Arctic and Eastern Siberia. As I said, another segment worth mentioning is operations with hard-to-recover reserves. These operations require special materials, equipment and technology. A great deal has been achieved over the years. We have the necessary technology to operate in the new regions (there are certain specifics and nuances) and to work with hard-to-access reserves. These are operations that rely on new technology, equipment and digital development. We have everything we need. Vladimir Putin: I know that your company pays much attention, as I have already mentioned, to the use of latest technologies and cutting-edge solutions, including digital ones. Which technologies, out all those that you use, have given you the greatest returns and the most satisfaction? What would you like to focus on as the most promising areas? Alexander Dyukov: Mr President, the oil sector is a knowledge-intensive sector. To discover, produce and process oil we need thousands of technologies and thousands of different types of equipment, specifically 1,400 types of basic equipment that are necessary for this purpose. In fact, each type of equipment is important. I want to emphasise that when it comes to machine building and Russian oil companies, we have made a lot of progress during this time to achieve independence from imports and to ensure technological independence. If we look at equipment shortage, currently it is only 200 items. The work that has been done over the recent years accounts for 1,200 items. We can be proud of each technology and type of equipment that we have learned to produce. We have set ourselves the task of eliminating this equipment shortfall by 2027. In terms of technology, we are independent from imports, fully independent technologically. There is a slight dependence on equipment, but it will be eliminated by 2027. This will not only allow us to achieve technological independence, but it will also provide additional orders for our machine builders. According to our estimates, the value of these additional orders amounts to one trillion rubles. Of course, digital technologies are very important and enable us to increase work productivity, both in dealing with hard-to-extract reserves and with traditional reserves. We apply them across the entire value chain, from prospecting to production, processing and marketing. Vladimir Putin: Good. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Prosecutors ask France's highest court to resolve Assad warrant By VOA News July 02, 2024 French prosecutors on Tuesday asked the Court of Cassation, the highest court in France, to weigh in on the validity of an international arrest warrant against Syrian President Bashar Assad. Assad is accused of being complicit in war crimes committed during the civil war in Syria, although prosecutors are asserting that Assad, as a head of state, should have complete immunity. Appeals court judges last week ruled that the arrest warrant is valid and that it remains in force. Lawyers of victims say the ruling by the appeals court was a "giant step forward in the fight against impunity." The Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression, along with a lawyers' group known as the Open Society Justice Initiative and the Syrian Archive, were involved in the initial complaint against the president. According to the prosecutors' appeal, it is "necessary from a legal point of view" to consider personal immunity as head of state in relation to war crimes and crimes against humanity. The prosecutors have said that immunity for foreign heads of state should only be superseded by international prosecution, including the International Criminal Court. "The challenge at France's supreme court by the Public Prosecutor's Office threatens once more the victims' relentless efforts to see Bashar Assad finally tried before an independent court," said Jeanne Sulzer and Clemence Witt in a statement. Sulzer and Witt are lawyers at the Paris Bar. While Assad will likely not see trial in France, an arrest warrant for a world leader is rare. France is thought to be the first country to issue an arrest warrant for a sitting foreign head of state. The French judiciary also has arrest warrants out for Maher Assad, his brother, and several others. The war crimes in question include a 2013 chemical attack on Damascus suburbs then held by the opposition. More than 1,000 people were killed, while thousands more were injured. After the attack, Washington and Moscow made a deal for Syria to forfeit its chemical weapons. Watchdog groups allege that Syria has continued staging chemical attacks. The civil war in Syria killed upwards of a million people and displaced millions of others since it began in 2011. The Court of Cassation's decision will be the final ruling. The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse provided information for this report. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 19 PLA aircraft, ships detected near Taiwan: MND ROC Central News Agency 07/02/2024 01:09 PM Taipei, July 2 (CNA) Nineteen People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and vessels were detected in the airspace and waters around Taiwan in the 24-hour period starting at 6 a.m. on Monday, including a number of aircraft flying as close as 47 nautical miles from Keelung, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND). Thirteen Chinese military aircraft were detected in Taiwan's vicinity, of which 10 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait or its extension, entering the country's air defense identification zone (ADIZ), flight information released by the MND on Tuesday showed. Of the 10 aircraft, some flew as close as 47 nautical miles (87 kilometers) from Taiwan's northern port city Keelung, according to the ministry. An ADIZ is an area in which a country claims the right to identify, locate, and control approaching foreign aircraft, but it is not part of the country's territorial airspace as defined in international law. Meanwhile, six PLA vessels were detected in waters off Taiwan during the same 24-hour period, according to the MND. Taiwan's defense ministry said it was closely monitoring the situation and had deployed combat air patrol aircraft, coastal missile systems, and Navy vessels in response. The MND started publishing daily numbers of PLA aircraft and ships detected around Taiwan in September 2020, when the frequency of Chinese military aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait saw a marked increase. Such incursions now happen on a near-daily basis. At a meeting with members of the United States Congress' U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission last week, President Lai Ching-te (ea) said that China had continued to "step up its military operations in and around the Taiwan Strait and in the South China Sea." "Taiwan will continue to manage cross-strait relations responsibly and will endeavor to maintain the status quo across the Taiwan Strait and in the Indo-Pacific region", said Lai. (By Sean Lin) Enditem/JT NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC Ministry of National Defense 2024/07/02 PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan 1. Dateis 6 to 6 a.m. (UTC+8) Monday to Tuesday, Jul. 1-2 2. PLA activitiesis 13 PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 10 of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's northern, central, 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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address July 3, 2024: Ukraine has developed its own version of the French Caesar truck-mounted 155mm howitzer. The Ukrainian version is called the 2S22 Bogdana. This is a 28 ton, six-wheel truck armed with a NATO standard 155mm howitzer and operated by a crew of five. Development of the 2S22 began in 2015 and the first prototype was available in 2018 for test firings and other tests. Mass production began in January 2023 and by the end of 2023 production was ten 2S22s a month. Currently 2S22a are replacing the many similar artillery systems sent to Ukraine after the 2022 Russian invasion. The first of these were eight Swedish Archer truck mounted 155mm artillery systems. Ukrainian artillerymen used the Archers for counterbattery, as in destroying enemy artillery. Ukrainians used UAVs to find targets for Archer and sent target locations to the nearest Archer system. Archer then fired a few 155mm shells at the target and moved, all in less than two minutes. Archer has 21 155mm shells onboard in a magazine that automatically loads these shells into the gun. This contributes to the speed of operation capability that makes Archer so effective. The Russians are also looking for counterbattery opportunities but have nothing like Archer, which can move, halt, fire and then resume moving faster than any Russian artillery. Archer can fire 20 shells at the rate of one every 7-8 seconds. Archer counterbattery tactics have destroyed a growing number of Russian artillery and the Russians have not developed any defensive measures, except to shut down artillery operations and seek a hiding place from Archer. The Russians eventually developed the ability to use UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) to find and destroy these truck-mounted artillery systems. In the 19902 a French firm developed the truck-mounted 155mm Caesar, which entered service in 2003. In 2009 France sent eight Caesar howitzers to Afghanistan. The roads in Afghanistan are pretty bad, and wheeled combat vehicles have a hard time of it, but Caesar was built to handle cross country operations. Afghanistan was the first time Caesar had served in combat and was successful. The French Army ordered about a hundred and another hundred have been exported. Caesar is the lightest of the truck-mounted 155mm howitzers, weighing 18 tons. Other nations have built heavier 20-30 ton systems, usually on a 6x6 heavy truck chassis. None of these systems can be considered an exotic piece of technology. For example, Archer is an FH77 155mm/L52 howitzer mounted on a modified Volvo 6x6 dump truck. The vehicle, with the howitzer on board, weighs 30 tons. L52 means the barrel is 8 meters long, or 52 times the caliber. When the vehicle halts, the four-man crew can extend the metal braces in the rear, raise the barrel, and be firing within minutes. After firing, the vehicle can be moving in less than a minute. Archer can use the Excalibur GPS guided round, which means Archer and an ammo vehicle can supply lots of effective firepower without the need for constant resupply. Each Archer vehicle costs about $5 million. This French experience with Caesar in Afghanistan encouraged Sweden about the ability of its Archer system to operate in the vast rural areas of Scandinavia. Some parts of rural Sweden are similar to Afghanistan, but worse, with more swamps. Sweden had had some Archer systems in service 2013 and 24 by 2017 and eventually 48. More were ordered because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The original Caesar system has been produced in larger quantities, with about 870 delivered or on order so far. Every time Caesar or similar systems like Archer have been used in combat, they have been successful. Their mobility has reduced losses and only four have been lost in combat so far. Three of those losses were in Ukraine, where these systems quickly experienced the most intense combat operations they were ever exposed to. Because of the demand by Ukrainian forces, production of Caesar systems has increased and Ukraine is supposed to receive over a hundred Caesar systems. Ukraine has already received 49 and lost about ten of them, usually to Russian UAVs. Ukraine is receiving lots of replacement systems in the form of the French Caesar, the Swedish Archer and the Ukrainian 2S22. Q&A: Taiwan envoy to US discusses China 'lawfare,' intimidation acts By Elizabeth Lee July 02, 2024 It has been more than a month since Lai Ching-te took office as Taiwan's newly elected president. Since the people of the self-governing island elected Lai in January, China has been increasing its pressure on Taiwan. Beijing considers Taiwan a part of its territory and views Lai as a "separatist." China's ambassador to the U.S, Xie Feng, did not respond to VOA's request for an interview last year when he arrived in Washington. VOA sat down with Taiwan's top envoy to the U.S., Alexander Tah-Ray Yui, to talk about Lai's foreign policy vision, China's policies in the South China sea and new Chinese guidelines advocating for the punishment of those strongly supporting Taiwan independence. Also discussed was artificial intelligence and Taiwan's influence in the Caribbean, where five countries have diplomatic ties with the island. This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. VOA: As a representative of Taiwan in the U.S., what is the single most important thing you hope to accomplish here? Alexander Tah-Ray Yui, Taiwan's top envoy to the U.S.: Be it security, defense, be it technology, culture, education, etc. a and it's been steadily growing a obviously, my wish to accomplish here is to reach out, not only to the government, to Congress, but also to the American people to show that Taiwan-U.S. relations are relevant and are important for both of us. It's reciprocal, beneficial for both peoples, and we'll continue to promote that. VOA: There's been mounting pressure from China, especially since the new [Taiwan] president started his office. What are some of the most challenging aspects of your diplomatic work here in the U.S., especially during an election year? And do you feel that pressure from China? Yui: After President Lai Ching-te's assumption on May 20th, things have gotten even more aggressive a [China] conducted military maneuvers around the island, and the presence of military airplanes and ships, near and around our territorial waters is constant. At the same time, PRC [People's Republic of China] has been conducting what we call "lawfare" a law warfare a lately. [On] June 15th, they [China] implemented the Coast Guard Law number three, which in that law, again, I'm just loosely interpreting, [the] Chinese Coast Guard, using that law, can arrest and detain all within their territorial waters, which includes the whole South China Sea, East China Sea, etc., detain foreigners, seamen, if they deem that they're in unlawful activities. They can detain them [for] up to 60 days without due process. [On June 21] they [China] announced the 22 suggestions on penalizing Taiwan independence. Any Taiwanese a or actually any person, even foreigners a who are aiding, abetting, promoting Taiwan independence could be under these penal sanctions. They can be arrested, put under judicial process a if even in absentia a and the most it could be, [is] under death penalty sanctions if [they are] deemed extreme pro-independence movement supporters. Again, they're using [the] law to justify that everything they claim is theirs. My government announced that we are elevating the travel warnings to orange, which is second highest level of warning to our citizens to not make unnecessary travel to mainland China, Hong [Kong] and Macao because of this. You mentioned it is election season for the United States. Obviously, we all watch it with a lot of interest, a lot of attentiona But we're certain that no matter what the outcome of the elections, the relationship between Taiwan and the United States will continue to grow. VOA: On to technology, Taiwan has been a world leader in semiconductors. China has been trying to be the global leader in artificial intelligence. How does Taiwan plan to compete with China? Yui: Taiwan has a lot of relevance in terms of the AI revolution. China has been trying to, doing a lot of work, to advance AI a on microchips, semiconductors. They've devoted a lot of resources, a lot of money, a lot of manpower to try to replicate a I'm not saying overcome a just to replicate what Taiwan is doing. And so far, they have not been able to do so. So, it's important for us to maintain this superiority over mainland China. Because technology has to be used for good. It has to be used for exploring, expanding human imagination and benefits instead of being used to control its own people. VOA: China has been active in the Caribbean with its infrastructure and investments. Some analysts even call it a key battleground for China to isolate Taiwan in the Caribbean. What is Taiwan's position? Yui: PRC has been utilizing the Road and Belt Initiative to try to bring Chinese state-owned companies to build this large and often unnecessary infrastructure, through Chinese financing at high costs. What we are doing and what other countries a the United States and Europe a is that we offer a different alternative to these kind(s) of developments, which is more humanistic. We've always been allies offering through our technical commission the necessary cooperation that they need in terms of medical assistance, education, technology, agriculture, etc. [This] is what they really need and not all these humongous, unnecessary projects that cost a lot of money. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address July 2, 2024 Transcript Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Hosts Bilateral in Honor of His Excellency Rustem Umerov, Minister of Defense for Ukraine, at the Pentagon SECRETARY OF DEFENSE LLOYD J. AUSTIN III: Well, good morning, Minister Umerov, and welcome back to the Pentagon. Rustem, it was great to see you in Brussels three weeks ago for the 23rd meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. And thanks for your close and continuing partnership. Now, Ukraine is in a tough fight and has been ever since the start of Putin's reckless war of choice. The Kremlin continues to intensify its bombardment of your cities and civilians. But I continue to be impressed by the skill of your forces, and your troops continue to fend off Russia's attacks with grit, ingenuity, and courage. So, make no mistake. Ukraine is not alone, and the United States will never waver in our support. Alongside some 50 allies and partners, we'll continue to provide the critical capabilities that Ukraine needs to push back Russian aggression today and to deter Russian aggression tomorrow. And I am proud that the United States will soon announce more than $2.3 billion in new security assistance for Ukraine. This package under presidential drawdown authority will provide more air defense inceptors, anti-tank weapons, and other critical munitions from US inventories. It will also enable the United States to procure more Patriot and NASAMS air defense interceptors, which will be provided on an accelerated timeline by the re-sequencing of deliveries for some foreign military sales. Now, as we look ahead to the NATO summit next week, Rustem, we'll take steps to build a bridge to NATO membership for Ukraine. Just weeks ago, President Zelenskyy and President Biden signed a crucial 10-year bilateral security agreement. That reflects our strong and enduring support for Ukraine. So, I look forward to discussing more ways to meet Ukraine's immediate security needs and to build a future force to ward off more Russian aggression. And Rustem, it's great to see you. Thanks for making the trip. Andriy, welcome as well. Good to see you. I'm grateful for your partnership and friendship, and I look forward to a good discussion. Over to you now. UKRAINE MINISTER OF DEFENSE RUSTEM UMEROV: Dear Secretary, thank you very much for hosting us. Thank you very much for personally leading the UDCG and our partners. We appreciate it. We appreciate the comprehensive assistance and all the support you have been giving us. With that support, we have stopped Russia, stopped the aggression towards people, towards our values, national interests. And we look forward to discussing with you how we could continue our partnership and be, in the future, a member of NATO. Hopefully soon, Ukraine will receive its invitation. And a but at the moment, we will discuss the issues, how to increase our capabilities and plans. Thank you. SECRETARY OF DEFENSE LLOYD J. AUSTIN III: Thanks, Mr. Minister. I look forward to a great discussion. Thanks, everybody. https://www.defense.gov/News/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/3824954/ NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pentagon: Fresh weapons package worth over $2.3bn for Ukraine almost ready Iran Press TV Tuesday, 02 July 2024 5:45 PM The Pentagon has announced the near delivery of an over $2.3-billion weapons package for Ukraine. "I am proud that the United States will soon announce more than $2.3 billion in new security assistance for Ukraine," US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said at a meeting with Rustem Umerov, his visiting Ukrainian counterpart, at the Pentagon headquarters in Arlington County, Virginia, on Tuesday. "This package, under presidential drawdown authority, will provide more air defense interceptors, anti-tank weapons and other critical munitions from the US inventories," Austin said. In the meeting, Austin also gave his approval to Umerov to agree with Kiev's request to join NATO. At next week's NATO summit in the United States, Austin said, "We will take steps to build a bridge to NATO membership for Ukraine." Kiev had said previously it expected to make progress on its NATO membership bid at the summit, scheduled to be held from July 9 to 11 in Washington, DC. The United States has provided more than $51.2 billion worth of weaponry for Ukraine since the conflict with Russia started in 2022, according to the Pentagon. Meantime, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed the weapons and ammunition provided by the US military help give Kiev forces "a chance at victory" against the advancing Russian troops. On Monday, Russia's Defense Ministry said two more east Ukrainian villages were liberated as its troops' victories continue against the Kiev forces. The Russian troops liberated the village of Novopokrovske in the eastern Donetsk region and the village of Stepova Novoselivka in the northeast Kharkiv region, as they continue to pile pressure on Kiev forces in several directions for weeks. The victories came after Russian troops freed two other villages over the weekend. Russia troops have been steadily advancing westwards since it took the industrial hub of Avdiivka in February with Moscow announcing the liberation of a fresh village in Ukraine's east almost every week this summer. Moscow has repeatedly warned against flooding Ukraine with weapons and ammunition, adding that it would take retaliatory measures against the West if the weaponry is used on targets inside Russia. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia: More than 1,900 Ukrainian troops killed in 24 hours Iran Press TV Tuesday, 02 July 2024 9:30 AM Russia's Defense Ministry has announced that 1,940 Ukrainian military personnel were killed in 24 hours as Russian troops continued to gain ground. In a statement issued on Monday, the ministry said 475 Ukrainian troops lost their lives in clashes with the western group of the Russian armed forces. Ukraine's army also lost 405 troops in clashes with the central group, while 120 Ukrainian forces were killed in fighting with the eastern group. According to the statement, 620 Ukrainian troops were also killed in clashes with the southern group of the Russian armed forces. Meanwhile, the northern group defeated Ukrainian troops in areas in Kharkiv region and thwarted two Ukrainian attacks, leaving 320 troops killed. That came as Russia launched a major operation against the Kharkiv region, which sits across the border from Belgorod, in May. President Vladimir Putin said the operation was conducted in order to create a buffer zone to protect Russian frontier villages from Ukraine's fatal attacks. According to the ministry's statement, the Russian armed forces took control of the settlement of Stepova Novoselivka in Kharkiv region on Monday. The statement said that the settlement of Novopokrovka in Donetsk was also liberated. In February 2022, Russia launched what it called a special military operation in Ukraine partly to prevent NATO's eastward expansion after warning that the US-led military alliance was following an "aggressive line" against Moscow. The Western countries have been fueling the flames of the war with their unchecked delivery of weapons to Ukraine. Moscow has repeatedly warned that such a flow of weapons to Kiev will only prolong the conflict. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address U.S. To Provide $2.3 Billion In New Security Aid For Ukraine By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service July 02, 2024 The United States will soon announce more than $2.3 billion in new security assistance for Ukraine, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on July 2 during a meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart at the Pentagon. Ukrainian officials have been urging their allies for months to supply more air-defense systems to defend against frequent missile and drone attacks from Russian forces following Moscow's 2022 invasion. Austin said the latest weapons package for Ukraine would include arms like anti-tank weapons and air-defense interceptors and will allow accelerated procurement of NASAMS and Patriot air defense interceptors. Russian strikes killed at least four people and wounded more than two dozen others around Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region, while more than a dozen people were killed in Russian attacks in the southern city of Kherson, officials said. Russia's Defense Ministry, meanwhile, claimed it destroyed up to five Ukrainian fighter jets in a ballistic missile strike on an air base in central Ukraine. A former Ukrainian military official confirmed the attack on the Myrhorod air base, but said the Russian claim was exaggerated. In a post on Telegram, Vadym Filashkin, the head of the Ukrainian military administration for Donetsk, said that four people were killed in three separate villages on July 1. Another 27 people were wounded in the strikes, he said. In Kherson, a southern city recaptured by Ukrainian forces in late 2022, Russian shelling wounded at least five people, the head of the local military administration, Oleksandr Prokudin, said. After withdrawing to the eastern, opposite bank of the Dnieper River in late 2022, Russian forces have continued to bombard Kherson and outlying districts, terrorizing the populace and leaving the city in limbo. After Ukraine's counteroffensive sputtered out earlier this year, Russia has been waging its own, more localized offensive effort in several locations across the 1,200-kilometer front line, including near the towns of Chasiv Yar and Pokrovsk. In early May, Russian forces launched a new effort north of the city of Kharkiv. That has slowed in recent weeks, as Ukrainian troops redeployed and pushed back the advances, though Russian forces have been digging trenches and making more permanent defenses. Still, Russia's air superiority has allowed its planes to use heavy munitions like glide bombs to devastate Ukrainian positions. On July 2, the Russian Defense Ministry said it fired Iskander-M missiles at the Myrhorod air base, around 150 kilometers from the Russian border, a day earlier. "As a result of the Russian military strike, five operational Su-27 multirole fighters were destroyed, and two that were under repair were damaged," the ministry said in a statement on Telegram. The ministry also published video of what it said was the strike and its aftermath. The video showed gray smoke billowing at the airfield, where some parked planes were visible. The claim about the planes being damaged could not be immediately verified, though both Russian and Ukrainian war bloggers reported extensively on the strike. Ukraine's military made no statement on the claim. Yuriy Ihnat, who served as a spokesman for the air force until March, confirmed that the air base was hit but downplayed the damage. "There was an attack. There are some losses, but not the ones the enemy claims," Ihnat said in a post to Facebook. Ukraine's top air force commander, meanwhile, claimed military jets had hit a Russian ammunition depot on the occupied Crimean Peninsula on July 1. In a post to Telegram, General Mykola Oleshchuk did not specify the exact location but posted a video from a local Telegram channel that purportedly showed the strike on Balaklava, a location near the major naval port of Sevastopol. In recent months, Ukraine has stepped up aerial and maritime attacks on facilities and equipment in Crimea and its surrounding waters. Maritime drones have damaged or sunk more than two dozen Black Sea Fleet warships, and Ukraine has used Western-supplied cruise missiles and kamikaze to hit naval repair facilities and even the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea Fleet. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russia- strikes-airfield-jets/33018542.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hungary's Orban Presents Zelenskiy With Cease-Fire Proposal On First Visit To Kyiv By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service July 02, 2024 KYIV -- Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said he presented Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy with a cease-fire proposal aimed at pausing fighting with Russia more than two years into Moscow's all-out invasion. Speaking to reporters after meeting with Zelenskiy in Kyiv, Orban gave no details about the contents of the proposal but said he asked Zelenskiy "whether it was possible to take a break, to stop the firing, and then continue the negotiations," adding that a cease-fire "could ensure speeding up the pace of these negotiations." "I am very grateful to the president for his frank opinion on this issue," he added. The talks, which came one day after Hungary took over the rotating presidency of the European Union, were notable because of Orban's vocal, persistent criticism of Western military aid for Kyiv. Orban is also one of the few Western leaders to have met Russian President Vladimir Putin since the invasion. Zelenskiy did not express his opinion on the proposal during the briefing with reporters, but a spokesman for Zelenskiy said later on July 2 that Zelenskiy gave Orban an opportunity to air his thoughts. Ihor Zhovkva, Zelenskiy's deputy chief of staff, also said Hungary is not the first country to come forth with a potential peace plan. Zhovkva said Zelenskiy listened to Orban's proposal but stated Ukraine's "quite clear, understandable, and known" position in response. Ukraine says its "territorial integrity" must be the foundation of any peace agreement -- a notion underscored by 80 countries that participated in the Ukrainian-initiated Global Peace Summit in Switzerland last month. Zhovkva described the summit as a "tool" to achieve Kyiv's goals and said that Ukraine is preparing for a second summit. He said Zelenskiy spoke with Orban about these preparations during their meeting. Since Russia launched its all-out invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Orban has stood out among leaders from the European Union and NATO for his reluctance to sign onto the massive Western weapons and aid packages for Ukraine. Last December, he left a room during a meeting of European Union leaders in order to avoid voting against opening EU accession talks with Ukraine. The EU has since taken a step toward formalizing those talks to put Ukraine on the path to membership. Russia and Ukraine have not held formal peace talks since the first months after Moscow's all-out invasion in February 2022. In recent weeks, Western news outlets have reported on the details of a potential deal that would have met many of Russia's demands while also putting off several major issues for a later date. Last month, Putin said Russia would end its war -- which has killed and wounded at least 500,000 soldiers on both sides -- only if Kyiv met certain conditions. Those included renouncing its NATO ambitions and ceding four partially occupied regions that Russia claims in their entirety, in addition to Crimea. Ukraine dismissed the conditions as absurd and said they amounted to capitulation. Freezing the front lines for a cease-fire now would leave Russia in control of some 20 percent of Ukrainian territory, and analysts warn that a pause could potentially allow Russia to chance to rearm and redeploy troops for a new offensive. The Guardian, which reported on Orban's visit to Kyiv earlier along with the Financial Times, said the trip came together after lengthy negotiations on the issue of rights for Ukraine's Hungarian-speaking minority, who live mainly in western Ukraine close to the two countries' border. During their July 2 appearance before reporters, the two leaders said they had agreed on the establishment of a Ukrainian school in Hungary for refugees from Ukraine, and they said they planned to sign a new agreement on bilateral relations at some point in the future. "The contents of our dialogue on all today's issues can become the basis for a future bilateral document between our nations," Zelenskiy said. The agreement "will allow our people to enjoy all the benefits of unity in Europe." Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-orban-kyiv- visit-zelenskiy-eu-presidency/33018155.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. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Forces Knock Out Nine Ukrainian Jets, Including Seven Su-27s Sputnik News 20240702 Russian air defense systems struck nine Ukrainian Air Force aircraft, including seven Su-27s, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported on Tuesday. "Two more Ukrainian aircraft, a MiG-29 and an Su-27, were shot down by Russian air defense systems," the ministry's statement said. The ministry also noted that a surgical strike on an airfield wiped out five Su-27 fighters and damaged two others. Additionally, Russian air defense shot down six Storm Shadow cruise missiles, a Hammer guided bomb, a HIMARS rocket, and 81 drones, including a Bayraktar TB2, over the past 24 hours. Russian aviation, artillery, and drone units attacked concentrations of enemy troops and military equipment in 115 areas, the Russian Ministry of Defense added. Moreover, within the last 24 hours, the Ukrainian armed forces have suffered significant casualties in clashes with Russia's Battlegroup Yug. More than 635 soldiers have been killed, in addition to the destruction of two armored fighting vehicles and 16 motor vehicles. Battlegroup Tsentr successfully repelled six Ukrainian counterattacks, leading to the loss of up to 440 Ukrainian troops. Additionally, Ukraine lost over 475 service members in clashes with Russia's Battlegroup Zapad, which also destroyed one tank, an infantry fighting vehicle, five motor vehicles, a 152-mm 2A65 Msta-B howitzer, and a 122-mm Grad MLRS combat vehicle. Likewise, Battlegroup Sever repelled two counterattacks, causing the loss of 70 Ukrainian soldiers. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Iskander Missile Strikes Location of Ukraine Aircraft, 5 Planes Destroyed - MoD Sputnik News 20240702 The Russian armed forces carried out a group strike against a parking location of Ukrainian military aircraft in Myrhorod in the Poltava Region, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday. "The Russian armed forces carried out a group missile strike using the Iskander-M missile defense system on the parking lot of the Ukrainian military aircraft at the Myrhorod airfield. Objective control has confirmed the destruction of military aviation equipment," the statement read. As a result of the Russian strike five active Su-27 mufti-purpose fighters were destroyed and two aircraft undergoing repair were damaged, the ministry clarified. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukrainian delegation began its visit to the United States and met with Antony Blinken President of Ukraine 2 July 2024 - 21:20 The Head of the Office of the President, together with Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna, Minister of Defense Rustem Umerov and Minister of Energy German Galushchenko, began his visit to the United States with a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Andriy Yermak thanked the United States for its continued support of Ukraine and assistance to our people. "Your help with weapons and ammunition will strengthen our warriors on the battlefield and help our country fight against Russian aggression," Andriy Yermak said. During the meeting, the parties discussed in detail the results of the inaugural Peace Summit, concrete steps to implement the points of the Peace Formula in the coming weeks and months, and joint work to establish a just peace in Ukraine. Special attention was paid to the preparations for the NATO Summit, which will be held next week in Washington, D.C., with a focus on the documents to be concluded. Olha Stefanishyna highlighted Ukraine's expectations from the NATO Summit. During the meeting, the participants discussed Ukraine's progress towards Euro-Atlantic integration and assured financial support for strengthening our country's defense capabilities at the Alliance level. Rustem Umerov gave detailed information on the need to provide our Defense Forces with additional air defense systems to protect Ukrainian cities, communities, and critical infrastructure facilities. German Galushchenko described the consequences of Russian attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The participants discussed the state of our energy system and the joint decisions to be made with partner states that will help secure energy facilities before the beginning of the heating season. The Head of the Presidential Office particularly stressed the importance of introducing sectoral sanctions against banking and financial institutions of the aggressor country. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address We Are Doing Our Best to Increase Electricity Imports, and This Should Be a European Decision a the Address by the President of Ukraine President of Ukraine 2 July 2024 - 18:18 I wish you good health, dear Ukrainians! Today is an eventful day. The visit of the Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor OrbAn, to Ukraine - for the first time in many years and the entire period of war. And what's more, it comes right after the beginning of Hungary's EU Presidency. This is a clear signal of how important it is for all of us in Europe to stay united and take joint steps. We have talked a lot about the path to peace, specifically to a just peace, a lasting, and honest one. I thanked him for participating in the Peace Summit and for supporting the CommuniquA. I described what we have already accomplished in our work with partners between the Summits, in preparations for the second Peace Summit. We have some good achievements, and more will follow. I have invited Hungary and Prime Minister OrbAn to join the respective efforts. We also have good bilateral results. In general, we see that this is a completely different relationship between Ukraine and Hungary: concrete, and we take into account mutual interests. We agreed on various details - economic and political - to be addressed by our teams. And a very important thing is that we will outline our relations, our achievements in a new document - an agreement that will define good neighborliness for Ukraine and Hungary. The second thing for today. I spoke with Mark Rutte, and today there was a change of Government in the Netherlands. Mark will continue to work in the North Atlantic Alliance. I thanked him for his support over these years: the Netherlands, without exaggeration, helped save thousands and thousands of lives of our people. Ukraine will always be grateful for that. I also wish the new Government of the Netherlands, the new Prime Minister, success and truly effective leadership. There were also several important reports today. Just now, the Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service delivered a report. A clear range of issues - about the threats we face and the opportunities we can seize. There are some good prospects. In addition, there was a long, very detailed report by the Prime Minister of Ukraine. Now, our Government officials have begun to work extensively in the regions, including the Donetsk region. This is something we discussed after my visit to the region. There are many problems there, including social and purely infrastructural: water, reconstruction, and providing for people. Now, we already have draft decisions from the Government in various areas - on what is needed and what will be solved. In the same way, the Government officials will continue to work on other regions, all those that have particular issues because of the war. The Prime Minister reported on defensive measures for energy facilities: active defense, electronic warfare and everything else. He also reported on reconstruction and our work with European partners to expand electricity imports to Ukraine. We are now consuming the full volume of imports agreed with the EU, and I am grateful to all our neighbors for this assistance. We are doing our best to increase imports, and this should be a European decision. Our Government officials are working on the respective approval. I have instructed Deputy Prime Minister Fedorov to present me with an analysis of telecom operators at the next meeting of the Staff, showing what is being done to ensure communication during power outages and which telecom operators are not complying with the relevant decisions. I have also instructed the Minister of Energy to inform people literally on a daily basis about the progress of work in the energy sector, about the existing deficits, and about the country's efforts to fill them. The Government must also work much more actively to ensure that our people and our businesses have more opportunities to buy, produce and install all the equipment they need to get through this difficult period. I have also instructed the Minister of Defense of Ukraine, who is currently visiting the United States, to seek specific dates: when the additional Patriot systems, the ones we have agreed with our partners, will be delivered. I thank everyone who really works hard for Ukraine and Ukrainians! I thank everyone who believes in Ukraine, who brings the results Ukraine needs closer! Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine and the Czech Republic Held Another Round of Talks on Bilateral Security Agreement President of Ukraine 2 July 2024 - 16:37 On the instructions of the President of Ukraine and the Head of the Presidential Office and in pursuance of the G7 Joint Declaration, Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Ihor Zhovkva held another round of talks with the Czech side on signing a bilateral security agreement. The Czech delegation was headed by David KoneckA, Director General for Security and Multilateral Issues of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic. The parties noted significant progress in the preparation of the draft future agreement and agreed on further steps to finalize it so that the state leaders could sign the document in the near future. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hungary's EU Presidency, Security Issues, and the Bilateral Relations Agreement: Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Viktor OrbAn in Kyiv President of Ukraine 2 July 2024 - 15:03 President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor OrbAn in Kyiv. His visit took place immediately after the start of Hungary's EU presidency. "This is clear evidence of our common European priorities and the importance of returning a just peace to Ukraine and the whole of Europe, resolving the existing difficulties and providing new foundations for the strengthening of Europe, economic and social growth," the President emphasized. Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked Hungary for supporting Ukrainians and providing humanitarian aid to our country. He also noted the country's participation in the first Peace Summit and support for the final communiquA. "We have discussed in detail how Hungary can demonstrate its leadership in the preparation of the second Peace Summit. We see the possibility of organizing the second Peace Summit already this year, and we would very much like this to happen. We can complete all the preparatory work for this in the coming months," emphasized the Head of State. The parties also discussed cooperation at the EU level and expectations from the Hungarian presidency. Special attention was paid to the most fundamental topics of neighborly relations: trade, cross-border cooperation, infrastructure and energy issues. In particular, they agreed to open the first Ukrainian school in Hungary. "Hungary will take on the funding of this school. As many Ukrainian schools will be opened as needed. It is important for us that Ukrainians feel at home in Hungary," emphasized Viktor OrbAn. He also expressed hope for resolving issues concerning the Hungarian national minority and commended all the initiatives of the President of Ukraine aimed at achieving peace. The Prime Minister thanked Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his candid stance and assured him of Hungary's support. "I wish all the best to Ukraine, and during the Hungarian presidency we will help you in any way we can," he said. Viktor OrbAn said the purpose of his visit was to resolve issues of bilateral relations. He emphasized Hungary's willingness to improve them and sign a bilateral agreement in the future. "The substance of our dialogue can become the basis for a new bilateral document between our countries that will regulate all our relations, based on a reciprocal approach to bilateral relations. Our teams will continue to work on the details of our common decisions," the President of Ukraine summed up. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Austin hosts Ukraine's defense chief ahead of NATO summit By VOA News July 02, 2024 U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is set to host talks Tuesday with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov in a session the Pentagon says will show U.S. support for Ukraine's security. The talks come a week before the United States hosts a NATO summit where military support for Ukraine to help it defend against a Russian invasion is set to top the agenda. "Secretary Austin and Minister Umerov will discuss the bilateral defense cooperation, regional security issues and ways to strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Ukraine," Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters Monday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also is hosting talks Tuesday with Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The United States has been by far the biggest supporter of Ukraine in the more than two years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion. U.S. military aid is again flowing to Ukrainian forces after stalling for several months amid political gridlock in the U.S. Congress. Zelenskyy said in a video address late Monday that he expects this month to "bring even more strength to Ukraine, particularly in protecting our sky and achieving real security for our country." "Long-range weapons, fighter jets for Ukraineaof sufficient quality and quantity, and more air defense systemsaare crucial factors affecting the entire course of this war," Zelenskyy said. Russia's daily aerial attacks with missiles and drones against Ukrainian cities have pushed Zelenskyy to seek more missile defense systems and to try to speed the delivery of fighter jets for Ukrainian forces to use. Ukraine has also sought to bolster its domestic production of attack drones, and has been carrying out its own aerial attacks, especially targeting areas along the Ukraine-Russia border. Russia's defense ministry said Tuesday it shot down four Ukrainian aerial drones over the Bryansk region, four drones over the Belgorod region and three more drones over Russia-occupied Crimea. Vyacheslav Gladkov, the governor of Belgorod, said the attacks injured two people and damaged a shopping center. A Russian official in Crimea reported damage to several houses and cars, but no injuries. Some information for this story was provided by Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hungary's Orban visits Ukraine for first time since Russia's 2022 invasion By VOA News July 02, 2024 Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has leaned toward Moscow during Russia's two-year invasion of Ukraine, visited Kyiv on Tuesday, and declared the war "the most important issue for Europe." Orban met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, but in a sign of their still tense relations, the Kyiv leader did not publicly acknowledge the visit until hours after Orban's arrival. Zelenskyy said on the X social media platform that they had discussed trade, cross-border cooperation, infrastructure and energy. The Ukrainian president's office did, however, release a video showing Zelenskyy thanking Orban for his visit and welcoming him to the country after shaking hands and then sitting across from each other at a round table with Hungarian, Ukrainian and European Union flags in the background. The two countries have had a tense relationship since the war started, with Orban portraying himself as a champion for peace and calling for an immediate cease-fire and peace talks without expanding on what that would mean for Ukraine's territorial integrity. Orban has frequently been at odds with other EU countries and their continuing military and financial support for Ukraine. This visit came the day after Hungary took over the six-month rotating presidency of the EU, a position that has little real power but can be used to set the tone of the bloc's agenda. Hungarian officials have signaled that they will act as "honest brokers" in the role, although some EU lawmakers are skeptical of Hungary's democratic track record. Orban's press chief, Bertalan Havasi, told Hungarian news agency MTI early Tuesday the Orban-Zelenskyy meeting would be an opportunity to build peace as Ukraine fights off Russia's invasion. During his visit, the Hungarian prime minister stated the obvious to Zelenskyy: "This is war and peace, war between Russia and Ukraine, the invasion of Russia against Ukraine." He added, "My target is to be here to understand how we could be helpful to Ukraine in the forthcoming six months." But Orban has also long accused Kyiv of mistreating an ethnic Hungarian minority in Ukraine's western region of Zakarpattia, a community he has used to justify his refusal to provide weapons to Ukraine or allow their transfer across the two countries' shared border. After their meeting, Zelenskyy told Orban, "We appreciate that your visit takes place right after the start of the Hungarian presidency of the European Union. This is a clear indication of our common European priorities, of how important it is to bring a just peace to Ukraine." Ukrainian officials in Washington Meanwhile, in Washington, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov that the United States will soon announce more than $2.3 billion in new security assistance for Ukraine. Austin said the weapons package would include such arms as anti-tank weapons and air defense interceptors and will allow accelerated procurement of National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems and Patriot air defense interceptors. The Austin-Umerov talks came a week before the United States hosts a NATO summit where military support for Ukraine to help it defend against Russia's invasion is set to top the agenda. "Secretary Austin and Minister Umerov will discuss the bilateral defense cooperation, regional security issues and ways to strengthen the defense partnership between the United States and Ukraine," Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh told reporters Monday. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also is hosting talks Tuesday with Andriy Yermak, the chief of staff to Zelenskyy. The United States has been by far the biggest supporter of Ukraine in the more than two years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion. U.S. military aid is again flowing to Ukrainian forces after stalling for several months amid political gridlock in the U.S. Congress. Zelenskyy said in a video address late Monday that he expects this month to "bring even more strength to Ukraine, particularly in protecting our sky and achieving real security for our country." "Long-range weapons, fighter jets for Ukraineaof sufficient quality and quantity, and more air defense systemsaare crucial factors affecting the entire course of this war," Zelenskyy said. Russia's daily aerial attacks with missiles and drones against Ukrainian cities have pushed Zelenskyy to seek more missile defense systems and to try to speed the delivery of fighter jets for Ukrainian forces to use. Ukraine has also sought to bolster its domestic production of attack drones, and has been carrying out its own aerial attacks, especially targeting areas along the Ukraine-Russia border. Russia's defense ministry said Tuesday it shot down four Ukrainian aerial drones over the Bryansk region, four drones over the Belgorod region and three more drones over Russia-occupied Crimea. Vyacheslav Gladkov, the governor of Belgorod, said the attacks injured two people and damaged a shopping center. A Russian official in Crimea reported damage to several houses and cars, but no injuries. Some information for this story came from Reuters, Agence France-Presse and The Associated Press. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Chicago, July 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Global Construction Glass Market is projected to reach USD 144.3 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 5.2% from USD 112.0 billion in 2024, as per the recent study by MarketsandMarkets. The key segments in the construction industry include residential, commercial, and others. Others include construction of educational institutes, stadiums, airports, bridges, and others. The growth in the residential segment is high due to increase in population, urbanization, increase in the number of nuclear families, and the economic condition. The growth in the commercial segment can be attributed to factors such as growth in economy, increased need for IT industries, demand for retail, and increase in foreign trade resulting in the demand for warehousing, and others. This is fuelling the demand for construction glass from various applications of construction industry. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=107176999 Browse In-Depth TOC On "Construction Glass Market 360 - Market Data Tables 67 - Figures 291 - Pages List of Key Players in Construction Glass Market: AGC Inc. (Japan) NSG Group (Japan) Saint-Gobain (France) Guardian Industries (US) Sisecam (Turkey) SCHOTT AG (Germany) Central Glass Co., Ltd. (Japan) Vitro (Mexico) China Glass Holdings Limited (China) Corning Incorporated (US) Xinyi Glass Holdings Limited (China) Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities in Construction Glass Market: Drivers: Growing demand for energy-efficient buildings Restraints: Complex installation requirements. Opportunity: Renovation and retrofit projects. Challenge: Energy intensive manufacturing process Get Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=107176999 Key Findings of the Study: The special glass type segment accounted for the largest market share in 2023, in terms of value. Soda-lime chemical composition segment to remain the largest chemical composition type in terms of volume during the forecast period. Commercial application segment to remain the largest end-use application in terms of volume during the forecast period. Asia Pacific region accounted for the largest share in 2023, in terms of volume Global construction glass market has been segmented based on the manufacturing processes. In 2023, float glass process dominated the market in terms of volume and value by contributing to the highest market share. The float glass process manufactures 100% flat glass. The flat glass produced is further processed as per the requirement. This glass is produced globally and is used mostly in the construction industry. The demand for flat glass varies as per the economic conditions of the construction sector. In 2023, soda-lime chemical composition segment accounted for the largest market share of global construction glass market, in terms of volume. Soda-lime silicate is the flat glass used in the construction industry, obtained by melting the mixture at high temperature. The soda lime glass is the most widely used glass. The benefits of using soda-lime glass are that it is inexpensive, easy to melt & shape, and recyclable. It has certain limitations such as poor durability, low chemical resistance, and poor thermal shock resistance. Get 10% Customization on this Report: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestCustomizationNew.asp?id=107176999 Based on type, the construction glass market is segmented into special glass, and low-E glass. In terms of value, and volume, special glass type dominated the global construction glass market. Special glass is further segmented into double glazing glass, laminated glass, and others. Double glazing glass accounts for high share of the construction glass and is widely used in windows and facades. Double glazing glass offers benefits such as energy cost savings, sound insulation, safety, reduce damage to furnishings, and provides limited condensation. Based on the applications, the global construction glass market has been segmented into residential, commercial, and other applications (stadiums, educational institutes, and hospitals). The residential segment accounted for high market share in terms of volume in 2023 due to increase in urbanization and to make the buildings efficient. The rise in urban planning and population is driving the market for residential buildings. The main uses of glass in residential buildings are mainly for doors, facades, and windows. The building codes are driving the use of construction glass in residential buildings. Browse Adjacent Markets Ceramics and Glass Market Research Reports & Consulting Related Reports: DLC, July 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- From June 10 to 14, 2024, Ms. Zhu Weiqing, Founder and Chairwoman of Shanghai Treasure Carbon New Energy Environmental Protection Technology Ltd. STC led a delegation on a four-day visit to Timor-Leste, engaging in a series of significant meetings with the local government. Timor-Leste President J. Ramos-Horta welcomed the STC delegation at the Presidential Palace and held a press conference. During the visit, the STC delegation met with several high-ranking officials from the Timor-Leste government, including President J.Ramos-Horta, Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, Timor-Leste Ambassador to China Loro Horta, Minister of State Administration Tomas Cabral, Minister of Trade and Industry Filipus Nino Pereira, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry Marcos Da Cruz, and Minister of Planning and Strategic Investment Gastao Francisco de Sousa. The cooperation and investment plans for the next decade were highlighted and discussed as a focal point. This visit aimed to promote deep cooperation between the two parties in the areas of carbon credit projects and sustainable development, enhance international collaboration, advance sustainable development, and assist Timor-Leste in achieving its climate change goals. Discussions with several ministers centered around key issues of sustainable development in Timor-Leste. Focusing on sustainable development and carbon credit projects, the STC delegation held talks with the Prime Minister of Timor-Leste and several ministers. The discussions included promoting industrial growth through carbon credit projects, improving rural living conditions, supporting sustainable agriculture and forestry, and strengthening administrative capacity building and green technology investments. This visit marks a significant step forward in the collaboration between Timor-Leste and Shanghai Treasure Carbon in addressing climate change and promoting economic development. STC looks forward to working hand in hand with the government and people of Timor-Leste to build a greener and more sustainable future. Company: Shanghai Treasure Carbon New Energy Environmental Protection Technology Ltd. Contact Person: Zhang Yuanfang Email: cheryl.zhang@treasurecarbon.com Website: https://www.treasurecarbon.com/ Telephone:18521419059 City: Shanghai, China A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/92cf43d1-7c4c-4176-9526-468f37efe03d SINGAPORE, July 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- OKX, a leading Web3 technology company, has issued updates for July 3, 2024. OKX Wallet Now Integrated with LiNEAR Protocol, an Omni-Chain Liquid Restaking Solution Built on NEAR OKX Wallet is now integrated with LiNEAR Protocol, an omni-chain liquid restaking solution built on the NEAR blockchain. With this integration, the OKX Web3 community can now seamlessly access the LiNEAR Protocol and its solutions via the OKX Wallet web extension. LiNEAR Protocol enables users to simultaneously earn staking rewards through NEAR and engage with various DeFi protocols, allowing them to earn additional yield from staked assets. NEAR is a user-friendly and carbon-neutral community-operated cloud infrastructure for hosting dApps. Its primary objective is to redefine system design and app development, potentially reshaping the very fabric of the web. For more information, please visit the OKX Support Center. For further information, please contact: Media@okx.com About OKX A leading global technology company driving the future of Web3, OKX provides a comprehensive suite of products to meet the needs of beginners and experts alike, including: OKX Wallet: The world's most powerful, secure and versatile crypto wallet which gives users access to over 85 blockchains while allowing them to take custody of their own funds. The wallet includes MPC technology which allows users to easily recover access to their wallet independently, removing the need for traditional, 'written down' seed phrases. In addition, OKX Wallets account abstraction-powered Smart Account enables users to pay for transactions on multiple blockchains using USDC or USDT, and interact with multiple contracts via a single transaction. DEX: A multi-chain, cross-chain decentralized exchange aggregator of 400+ other DEXs and approximately 20 bridges, with 200,000+ coins and more than 20 blockchains supported. NFT Marketplace: A multi-chain, zero-fee NFT marketplace that gives users access to NFT listings across seven top-tier marketplaces including OpenSea, MagicEden, LooksRare and Blur. Web3 DeFi: A powerful DeFi platform that supports earning and staking on about 70 protocols across more than 10 chains. OKX partners with a number of the world's top brands and athletes, including English Premier League champions Manchester City F.C., McLaren Formula 1, The Tribeca Festival and Olympian Scotty James. OKX also regularly publishes articles, accessible via OKX Learn. These articles provide readers with in-depth analyses of all cryptocurrencies, including factors influencing Bitcoin prices and Ethereum prices. To learn more about OKX, download our app or visit: okx.com Disclaimer Apparel Group hosted a lifestyle shoot in partnership with Anantara The Palm Resort, showcasing their summer collections that are available in store and on 6thstreet.com. Celebrating Summer Time with Apparel Group Brands Aldo, Aldo Accessories, Ardene, Asics, Athletes Co., Beverly Hills Polo Club, Birkenstock, Calvin Klein, Charles & Keith, Cold Stone Creamery, Crocs, Dune London, F5 Global, Forest Essentials, Forever New, Havaianas, Herschel, Inglot, Jamies Italian, La Vie En Rose, LC Waikiki, LCW Home, New Yorker, Nine West, Not Ordinary, Nysaa, R&B Kids, Rituals, Skechers, Steve Madden, The Childrens Place, Tim Hortons and Tommy Hilfiger DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Apparel Group, a leading retail and lifestyle conglomerate, is excited to announce the release of their newest Summer Time campaign showcasing summer collections from more than 36 Apparel Group brands. In collaboration with Anantara The Palm Resort, this lifestyle shoot combines the fashion-forward expertise of Apparel Group with the luxurious ambiance and pristine settings, promising a summer collection that redefines style and elegance. Mrs. Sima Ganwani Ved, Founder and Chairwoman of Apparel Group, expressed her enthusiasm for the launch, stating, "We are so excited to share Apparel Groups summer look-book for 2024, with over 36 of Apparel Group international and home grown brands, each bringing their unique flair to this exciting season. This summer campaign is not just about showcasing our summer collection but creating a lifestyle experience that resonates with our customers. The summer campaign features a stellar lineup of Apparel Groups celebrated international and home grown brands, including Aldo, Aldo Accessories, Ardene, Asics, Athletes Co., Beverly Hills Polo Club, Birkenstock, Calvin Klein, Charles & Keith, Cold Stone Creamery, Crocs, Dune London, F5 Global, Forest Essentials, Forever New, Havaianas, Herschel, Inglot, Jamies Italian, La Vie En Rose, LC Waikiki, LCW Home, New Yorker, Nine West, Not Ordinary, Nysaa, R&B Kids, Rituals, Skechers, Steve Madden, The Childrens Place, Tim Hortons and Tommy Hilfiger. Each brand will bring its unique style and flair, offering everything from casual chic to summer glamour. The collection promises to cater to a wide range of style preferences, ensuring there is something special for everyone. Customers eager to embrace the summer vibes can look forward to shopping the collection on Apparel Group store outlets and e-commerce platform, 6thStreet.com, where the full range of products will be available. Blending retail innovation with luxury hospitality, this campaign highlights the synergy between Apparel Group and Anantara The Palm Resort catering to residents and tourists positioning the region as the ultimate summer destination. Stay tuned for a summer of style, sophistication, and scenic beauty, exclusively brought to you by Apparel Group and Anantara The Palm Resort. ABOUT APPAREL GROUP LLC Apparel Group is a global fashion and lifestyle retail conglomerate residing at the crossroads of the modern economy Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Today, Apparel Group caters to thousands of eager shoppers through its 2200+ retail stores and 85+ brands on all platforms while employing over 22,000+ multicultural staff. Apparel Group has carved its strong presence in the GCC and expanded thriving gateways to market in India, South Africa, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Egypt. Additionally, clear strategies are in place to enter emerging markets such as Hungary and Philippines. Apparel Group has created an omni-channel experience, operating brands originating from the USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, and Asia. The brands include leading names in fashion, footwear, and lifestyles such as Tommy Hilfiger, Charles & Keith, Skechers, Aldo, Nine West, Aeropostale, Jamies Italian, Tim Hortons, Cold Stone Creamery, Inglot, and Rituals. Apparel Group owes its amazing growth to the vision and guidance of its dynamic Founder and Chairwoman, Mrs. Sima Ganwani Ved, who has taken the company from strength to strength since its inception in the last two decades. https://apparelglobal.com/en/ PR@apparelglobal.com About Anantara The Palm Resort Anantara is a luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the worlds most exciting destinations. The collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences. From cosmopolitan cities to desert sands to lush islands, Anantara connects travellers to the indigenous, grounds them in authentic luxury, and hosts them with passionate expertise. The portfolio currently boasts over 40 stunning hotels and resorts located in Thailand, Maldives, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles, Mozambique, Zambia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Tunisia, Portugal, Spain, Hungary, The Netherlands, Italy, Ireland and France, with a pipeline of future properties across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and South America. For more information on Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas, please visit www.anantara.com Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/anantara; Twitter and Instagram: @anantara_hotels Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3c050648-49b9-4720-bd36-03eee8be5739 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/30b0f74f-7194-40d2-9530-8abe169e79c0 NACON THIS PRESS RELEASE MUST NOT BE PUBLISHED OR DISTRIBUTED DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, AUSTRALIA, CANADA OR JAPAN. THIS PRESS RELEASE IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR AN INVITATION TO BUY SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION. Press release Lesquin, 3 July 2024, 8.00 am NACON LAUNCHES RIGHTS ISSUE WITH PRE-EMPTIVE RIGHTS OF APPROXIMATELY 16.50 MILLION, WHICH MAY BE INCREASED TO 19 MILLION IF THE EXTENSION OPTION IS EXERCISED IN FULL Main terms Issue with pre-emptive rights for shareholders Subscription price: 1.10 per share, representing a discount of 7.3% to the closing price on 1 July 2024 Subscription ratio: 47 pre-emptive rights give the right to subscribe to 8 new shares Subscription agreements: 80.79% of the issue is already secured by subscription agreements from existing shareholders Detachment period and listing of DPS: from 4 July to 18 July 2024 inclusive Subscription period: from 8 July to 22 July 2024 inclusive Investment eligible for Article 150-0 B of the French General Tax Code (deferred taxation of capital gains) and the PEA PME-ETI tax regime Nacon (Euronext Paris - ISIN FR0013482791 NACON.PA) today announces the launch of a rights issue with pre-emptive rights for shareholders of approximately 16.50 million, which may be increased to 19 million if the extension option is exercised in full. More than 80% of the issue is already secured by subscription agreements from existing shareholders. 1. Background and purpose of the issue and use of proceeds Net proceeds from the Rights Issue are estimated at around 18.5 million. Net proceeds from the issuing of the New Shares will add to the Companys current financial resources and help to support its growth, while also strengthening its equity (in respect of both subscriptions for New Shares paid up in cash as well as the subscription to be paid up by Bigben Interactive by means of the offsetting of liabilities). Net proceeds from the issue will also enable the Group to continue to develop new video games, which on account of their development cycle it will be able to release in the next three to four years. The strengthening of the Companys equity should also enable it to obtain more favourable financing terms and conditions from its usual financial partners. Alain Falc, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Nacon, comments: Since our initial public offering in February 2020, Nacon has successfully carried out most of its plans despite a delay in the development of some games and under complex circumstances. The Publishing division has since been reinforced with the acquisition of around 10 studios, allowing us to release between 10 and 15 games a year, with around 50 games continuously under development. This strategy has also enabled us to build up a solid back catalogue of games to be released over the next few years, centred around four target ranges: Racing, Sport, Simulation and Adventure. The back catalogue accounted for over 40% of games revenue in 2023/24. Development of the Accessories range has continued, driven by our ability to innovate and forge numerous technological partnerships in order to offer gamers premium products at an affordable price. This technological expertise will enable us to converge our two business lines with the creation of a single 360 business combining editorial content and gaming accessories in the sim racing market. Finally, we recently announced our 2023/24 results, with strong revenue growth to 167.7 million and a 20.5% increase in operating income to 20.9 million. Thanks to a line-up including 15 games to be released over the course of the year and the launch of innovative premium accessories, we are confident that we will be able to achieve further growth in 2024/25 coupled with improvement in operating income. The proceeds from this rights issue will enable us to continue with our development plan, giving us additional means to finance our editorial programme and consolidate our position as a worldwide name in video games and premium accessories. We would like to thank our shareholders in advance for continuing to put their trust in us, as well as our longstanding shareholders, whose subscription agreements already represent more than 80% of the total amount of the rights issue. 2. Main characteristics of the rights issue The Rights Issue will be carried out with pre-emptive rights for shareholders, in accordance with the 14th and 16th resolutions of this combined general meeting of 21 July 2023, and will result in the issuing of a 14.992.440 new ordinary shares which may be increased to a maximum of 17,241,306 new ordinary shares (the New Shares) if the extension option is exercised in full, at a price of 1.10 per share, to be paid up in full at the time of subscription, representing gross proceeds, including additional paid-in capital, of 18,965,436.60. Each shareholder will receive one pre-emptive right per share registered in their securities account at close of trading on 5 July 2024, according to the indicative timetable. 47 pre-emptive rights will give the right to subscribe to 8 New Shares with a par value of 1, at a price of 1.10 per share. Shareholders will also be able to subscribe to additional New Shares on a pro rata basis. Any New Shares not absorbed by subscriptions as of right will be redistributed and allocated to shareholders who have subscribed to additional shares on a pro rata basis, the amount of which may be reduced. In addition to the possibility of subscribing to shares as of right and to additional shares on a pro rata basis in accordance with the specified terms and conditions, any natural or legal person will be free to subscribe to the Rights Issue whether or not they hold pre-emptive rights. Anyone wanting to subscribe on this basis will need to send their request to their accredited financial intermediary at any time during the subscription period and pay the corresponding subscription price. In accordance with Article L. 225-134 of the French Commercial Code, subscriptions on a free basis will only be taken into account if subscriptions as of right and on a pro rata basis do not use up the entire Rights Issue. On the basis of Nacons closing share price on 1 July 2024 of 1.1860, the subscription price for the New Shares presents a face value discount of 7.3%, the theoretical value of a pre-emptive right is 0.0125 and the theoretical ex-rights price is 1.1735 per share. These values are without prejudice to the value of pre-emptive rights during the subscription period, the ex-rights value per share and discounts, as observed on the market. The subscription period will be from 8 July to 22 July 2024 inclusive. Pre-emptive rights will be detached and available for trading from 4 July 2024 to 18 July 2024 inclusive on Euronext Paris, under ISIN code FR001400RBQ7, subject to the same terms as the existing shares. Pre-emptive rights not exercised at the end of the subscription period, i.e. 22 July 2024, shall become null and void. The Rights Issue will only be open to the public in France. Settlement and delivery is due to take place on 29 July 2024 and the New Shares will be admitted to trading on Euronext Paris on the same day. The New Shares will be immediately assimilated into existing shares. They will be traded under the same code as the existing shares on Euronext Paris (ISIN: FR0013482791). 3. Extension option Pursuant to the authorisation granted by the combined general meeting of 21 July 2023, at its meeting of 17 June 2024, the Board of Directors sub-delegated to the Company's Chief Executive Officer the power, depending on demand, to decide to increase the number of New Shares initially offered by a maximum of 15%, representing a maximum of 2,248,866 additional New Shares (the Extension Option). The Extension Option can only be used to fulfil subscription orders on a pro rata basis from shareholders and/or those transferring pre-emptive rights that could not be fulfilled. The decision to exercise the Extension Option will be made by the Company no later than the date of the results of the Rights Issue are published, planned for 25 July 2024 (according to the indicative timetable) and will be mentioned in the press release issued by the Company and made available on the Companys website and in the notice issued by Euronext Paris announcing the results of the Rights Issue. 4. Indicative timetable for the rights issue Indicative timetable 17 June 2024 Meeting of the Board of Directors deciding in principle on the Rights Issue with pre-emptive rights for shareholders, and sub-delegation to the Chief Executive Officer of the power to carry out the Rights Issue 2 July 2024 Decision by the Chief Executive Officer to launch the Rights Issue Approval of the Prospectus by the AMF 3 July 2024 Distribution of the Company press release announcing approval of the Prospectus by the AMF and describing the main characteristics of the Rights Issue and the means by which the Prospectus will be made available Prospectus made available on the website Publication by Euronext Paris of the notice relating to the Rights Issue announcing the listing of pre-emptive rights Deadline for buying Existing Shares on the market giving the buyer the right to the associated pre-emptive rights 4 July 2024 Detachment of pre-emptive rights and start of trading of pre-emptive rights on Euronext Paris 5 July 2024 Publication of a BALO notice for beneficiaries of free shares in the process of being bought issued by the Company Deadline for registration in an account of existing shares entitling the holder to pre-emptive rights 8 July 2024 Start of the subscription period for the Rights Issue 18 July 2024 End of the trading period for pre-emptive rights 22 July 2024 End of the subscription period for the Rights Issue Last day of settlement and delivery of pre-emptive rights 24 July 2024 Results sent to the Company of the centralisation of subscriptions relating to the exercise of pre-emptive rights 25 July 2024 Decision by the Chief Executive Officer setting out the definitive characteristics of the Rights Issue and, if applicable, deciding to award shares not subscribed as of right or exercise the Extension Option in part or in full Distribution of a press release by the Company announcing the result of subscriptions Publication by Euronext of the results of the issue and notice of admission to trading of the New Shares, stating the final amount of the Rights Issue and the ratio for subscriptions for excess shares on a pro rata basis 29 July 2024 Issuing and admission to trading on Euronext Paris of the New Shares Settlement and delivery of the New Shares 5. Subscription agreements and other commitments by Nacons main shareholders As of the date of the Prospectus, the Company has the following Subscription Agreements from some of its main shareholders and Board members: Bigben Interactive, which owns 56.04% of the Companys share capital before the Rights Issue, has agreed to subscribe as of right and on a pro rata basis to an amount corresponding to 9,007,180 New Shares for a total of 9,907,898, it being understood that the subscription amount will be paid up in full by means of offsetting against some liabilities; Nord Sumatra 1, which owns 2.85% of the Companys share capital before the Rights Issue, has agreed to subscribe as of right and on a pro rata basis to an amount corresponding to 909,090 New Shares for a total of 999,999; Bpifrance Investissements, which owns 2.06% of the Companys share capital before the Rights Issue, has agreed to subscribe as of right and on a pro rata basis to an amount corresponding to 1,818,181 New Shares for a total of 1,999,999; and AF Invest, which owns 1.86% of the Companys share capital before the Rights Issue, has agreed to subscribe as of right and on a pro rata basis to an amount corresponding to 378,131 New Shares for a total of 415,944. Total Subscription Agreements amount to 13,323,840 and represent 80.79% of the Rights Issue (excluding exercise of the Extension Option). 6. Abstention commitment The Company has agreed, as of the date of the Prospectus and for a period ending 90 calendar days after the date of the Rights Issue, not to issue, offer, sell, pledge, announce its intention to or otherwise agree to issue or sell, sell options or other purchase commitments, buy options or other purchase commitments, grant options, rights or warrants with a view to buying or otherwise transferring or assigning, directly or indirectly, any shares of the Company or any other financial security substantially similar to said shares, or any financial security giving the right by means of conversion, exchange or redemption to, or which represents the right to receive shares or financial securities that are substantially similar to said shares, not to enter into any transactions involving derivatives or other transactions with a substantially equivalent economic effect concerning the Companys shares or other securities that are substantially similar to the Company's shares, without the prior agreement in writing of the Global Coordinator and the Bookrunner. This commitment is given subject to certain exceptions, in particular: the awarding of pre-emptive rights and the issuing of New Shares; any free share plans, any profit-sharing schemes and any rights issues reserved for members of the company savings plan and/or rights issues reserved for Group employees implemented before this date or in future pursuant to the resolutions passed at the general meeting or resolutions with the same purpose that may be approved at the next annual general meeting of the Companys shareholders; any share buyback programmes (including under a liquidity agreement); and the issuing, sale, transfer or offering of the Companys shares to pay for the acquisition by the Company of shares or assets held by third parties, insofar as the subsequent rights issue does not exceed, to date, 10% of the Company's share capital, provided that this abstention commitment is taken over by the buyer of the new shares or securities giving access to the share capital. 7. Lock-up agreement for Bigben Interactive Bigben Interactive has agreed, until the end of a period of 90 calendar days after the settlement and delivery date of the Rights Issue, without the prior agreement in writing of the Global Coordinator and the Bookrunner, and subject to any shares that may be delivered upon the exercising of bonds, not to (i) issue, offer, sell, pledge as security, sell any option or agreement to buy, buy any option or agreement to sell, grant any option, right or warrant or otherwise transfer or assign, directly or indirectly, the Companys ordinary shares or other securities that are substantially similar to the Companys ordinary shares, or securities that can be converted or redeemed, or exchanged for, or that represent the right to receive ordinary shares in the Company or substantially similar securities, (ii) make a short sale, enter into a derivatives contract, hedging contract or any other transaction with a substantially similar economic effect on the Companys ordinary shares or on these securities, (iii) enter into any other agreement or transaction that transfers, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, ownership of any ordinary shares of the Company or (iv) announce its intention to carry out one or more of these transactions. This agreement is subject to the usual exceptions for intragroup transactions, mergers, spin-offs or public offers, as well as the exception allowing Bigben Interactive to transfer pre-emptive rights by any means (see paragraph 5.2.2 of the issue notice) and the right for it to provide security for a portion of the Nacon shares it holds. The above commitment by Bigben Interactive shall end if the settlement and delivery of the Rights Issue does not take place. 8. Guarantee The issuing of the New Shares is not subject to a completion guarantee within the meaning of Article L. 225-145 of the French Commercial Code or an underwriting agreement. However, it should be noted that this Issue is subject to irrevocable Subscription Agreements, as of right and on a pro rata basis, representing 80.79% of the amount of the Issue (excluding the Extension Option), subject to the conditions described in Section 5.2.2 of the Issue Notice. 9. Dilution As an indication, on a diluted basis, a shareholder holding 1% of share capital before the Rights Issue and who does not participate in the Rights Issue, will hold 0.84% after the New Shares are issued and if all the New Shares are subscribed. 10. Availability of the Prospectus The prospectus (the Prospectus) comprising (i) Nacons universal registration document as filed with the AMF on 24 June 2024 under number D.24-0543 (the Universal Registration Document), (ii) an issue notice (including the summary of the Prospectus) approved by the AMF under number 24-258 on 2 July 2024 (the Issue Notice) and (iii) the summary of the Prospectus included in the Issue Notice, can be found on the AMF website (www.amf-france.org) and the Companys website (https://corporate.nacongaming.com/). Copies of the Prospectus are available free of charge from the Companys head office (396-466, Rue de la Voyette, CRT2, 59273 Fretin, France). 11. Financial intermediary Funds paid in respect of subscriptions will be held centrally by Uptevia (90-110 Esplanade du General de Gaulle, 92931 Paris La Defense Cedex, France), which will be responsible for preparing the certificate of deposit of funds recording the completion of the Rights Issue. Securities services and financial services for the Company's shares are provided by Uptevia (90-110 Esplanade du General de Gaulle, 92931 Paris La Defense Cedex, France). 12. Risk factors Investors are also invited to take account of the risk factors described in Section 3 Risk factors of the Universal Registration Document and Section 2 Risk factors of the Issue Notice before making their investment decision. If some or all of these risks were to occur, this could have an adverse impact on the Companys activities, reputation, financial position, financial results or achievement of its targets. In addition, other risks not yet identified or not considered material by the Company as of the date of the Prospectus could also have an adverse impact. 13. Partners ABOUT NACON 2023/2024 IFRS SALES: 167.7 million WORKFORCE More than 1,000 people INTERNATIONAL PRESENCE 23 subsidiaries and a distribution network in 100 countries https://corporate.nacongaming.com/ NACON is part of the Bigben group and was formed in 2019 to optimise its areas of expertise and generate synergies between them in the video game market. Combining its 16 development studios, AA video game publishing and the design and distribution of premium gaming peripherals, NACON has 30 years of expertise in serving gamers. This new unified business gives NACON a stronger position in its market and enables it to innovate by creating new and unique competitive advantages. Listed on Euronext Paris, compartment B Index: CAC Mid&Small ISIN: FR0013482791; Reuters: NACON.PA; Bloomberg: NACON:FP). CONTACT: Cap Value Gilles Broquelet gbroquelet@capvalue.fr - +33 1 80 81 50 01 Disclaimer This press release does not constitute and should not be regarded as constituting an offer to the public, an offer to subscribe or a solicitation of public interest in connection with any offer to the public of Nacon securities. A prospectus approved by the AMF under number 24-258 on 2 July 2024 is available on the AMF website (www.amf-france.org) and the Companys website (https://corporate.nacongaming.com/). Copies of the prospectus are available free of charge from the Companys head office (396-466, Rue de la Voyette, CRT2, 59273 Fretin, France). The publics attention is drawn to the Risk factors sections of the prospectus. This press release constitutes a promotional communication and does not constitute a prospectus within the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament of 14 June 2017 (the Prospectus Regulation). Potential investors are invited to read the prospectus before making an investment decision in order to fully understand the potential risks and advantages associated with the decision to invest in marketable securities. The AMFs approval of the prospectus should not be regarded as a favourable opinion of the marketable securities offered or admitted to trading on a regulated market. As regards Member States of the European Economic Area other than France and the United Kingdom (the Member States Concerned), no action has been taken or shall be taken to allow for an offer to the public of Nacon securities requiring the publication of a prospectus in any of the Member States Concerned. As a result, the Nacon shares may be offered in the Member States Concerned only: (a) to legal persons who are qualified investors as defined in the Prospectus Directive; or (b) in other cases not requiring the Company to publish a prospectus in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation. In the United Kingdom, this document is sent to and intended only for persons who are considered to be (i) investment professionals (with professional investment experience) within the meaning of Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the Order), (ii) persons who fall within the scope of Article 49(2)(a) to (d) (high net worth companies, unincorporated associations, etc.) of the Order, or (iii) persons who may lawfully be invited or given an incentive to participate in an investment activity (within the meaning of Article 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000) within the framework of the issuing or sale of financial securities (together referred to as the Persons Concerned). In the United Kingdom, this document is intended only for the Persons Concerned and should not be used by anyone other than a Person Concerned. This document does not constitute an offer to sell Nacon shares in the United States. Nacon shares cannot be sold in the United States without registration or exemption from registration under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Nacon does not intend to register an offer in the United States or make any offer of shares to the public in the United States. Distribution of this press release in some countries may constitute a breach of applicable legal requirements. The information contained in this press release does not constitute an offer of securities in the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan or any other country. This press release must not be published, released or distributed, directly or indirectly, in the United States, Canada, Australia or Japan. Finally, this press release may be written in French and English. If there are any differences between the two texts, the French version shall take precedence. Attachment VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bedford Metals Corp. (TSX-V: BFM, FWB: O8D, ISIN: CA0762301012) (the Company or Bedford) announces that it has accelerated its due diligence on the Sheppard Lake Uranium Project in light of recent activities in the area. The recent takeover offer by Paladin Energy Ltd. for Fission Uranium Corp. has underscored the increasing mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in the Athabasca Basin, reinforcing Bedford s belief that the uranium industry in Canada is poised for significant expansion as nuclear energy is likely to play a pivotal role in the clean energy transformation. The proposed acquisition by Paladin Energy, as reported by CarbonCredits.com on June 26, 2024, highlights the growing strategic importance of uranium in the global energy landscape. The article, titled "Paladin Energy Offers C$1.14 B to Canadas Fission Uranium. What does it mean for Uranium Mining?" by Saptakee S, notes: Australian uranium mining giant Paladin Energy Ltd. has announced a C$1.14 billion ($833 million) all-stock offer to acquire Canadian mining firm Fission Uranium Corp. Using uranium in nuclear power significantly contributes to achieving climate goals by providing reliable energy that reduces the global carbon footprint. Thus, this deal can bring a paradigm shift in uranium mining. Peter Born, President of Bedford , commented, The increased M&A activity in the Athabasca Basin, exemplified by Paladins offer for Fission Uranium, is a strong signal of the markets recognition of uraniums critical role in the transition to green energy. This reinforces our belief that the Sheppard Lake project and our Ubiquity Lake and Close Lake projects are strategically valuable and warrant accelerated due diligence and exploration efforts. The Sheppard Lake Uranium Project, located just south of the Athabasca Basin, is of particular interest to Bedford . The projects strategic location and the promising results from recent surveys at the neighbouring Ubiquity Lake have strengthened the companys confidence in its potential. Identifying key uranium markers, such as anomalous helium and methane emissions at Ubiquity Lake, provides a robust foundation for targeted exploration. Bedford remains committed to conducting all exploration activities to the highest environmental standards. The Company is dedicated to minimizing its environmental footprint and ensuring that all operations are sustainable and responsible. Additionally, Bedford values its relationships with local communities and indigenous groups and is committed to working collaboratively to ensure that its activities bring positive benefits to these stakeholders. As the demand for clean energy solutions continues to grow, Bedford is poised to play a significant role in the global transition towards sustainable resource development. The Company will continue to leverage innovative techniques and ramp up its exploration efforts to maximize the value of its uranium projects and contribute to the worlds green energy future. Dr. Peter Born, P.Geo., is the designated qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and the president of the Company and is responsible for and has approved the technical information contained in this release. About Bedford Metals Corp. Bedford Metals Corp. (TSX-V: BFM, FWB: O8D, ISIN: CA0762301012) is a mineral exploration company. We create value for our shareholders by identifying and developing highly prospective mineral exploration opportunities. Our strategy is to advance our projects from discovery to production. The Ubiquity Lake Uranium Project, covering 1382 hectares, lies just south of the bottom lip of the Athabasca Basin, adjacent to ALX Uraniums Carpenter Lake Project to the east. Situated near the Cable Bay Shear Zone, parallel to the Virgin River Shear Zone, which hosts Camecos Centennial uranium deposit, the project holds immense potential. Furthermore, it is located 100 km west of Camecos past-producing Key Lake uranium mine, underscoring the strategic significance of its location. The Close Lake Uranium Project lies on the eastern side of the Athabasca Basin, adjoining claims held by Cameco Corporation, the largest uranium producer in the world. The project is approximately 245 hectares and lies within the primary exploration corridor, which hosts the Keys Lake Mine, the Cigar Lake Mine and the McArthur River Mine. Access to the property is done through a network of roads and trails. For further information, please contact the Company at info@bedfordmetals.com or 604-622-1199 or visit the Companys website at www.bedfordmetals.com . On behalf of the Board, Bedford Metals Corp. Peter Born President 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 may include forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. All statements within, other than statements of historical fact, are to be considered forward looking. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. There can be no assurances that such statements will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required under the applicable laws. CONTACT: MRKT360 INC https://mrkt360.com Alex Zertuche alexz@mrkt360.com For E.S.T Office Hours, Call 1 416-477-0587 Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0d7531a8-ddf0-4ac0-9548-dacd7dc3d160 https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/290fe4a9-1cee-4944-beb2-6e067557333f WURZBURG, Germany and BERLIN, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pentixapharm AG, a clinical-stage biotech company discovering and developing novel targeted radiopharmaceuticals against a range of malignancies, has announced the execution of an agreement, effective July 1st, to acquire the target discovery business of Berlin-based Glycotope GmbH. The deal encompasses a portfolio of preclinical antibodies against multiple oncology targets that can be developed into radiopharmaceuticals. It also includes Glycotopes laboratories, cell banks, tumor target data base, and the equipment needed to exploit the discovery platform, along with a range of patents, licenses, and other tangible assets. In total, Pentixapharm will be able to add an integrated team of 40 seasoned executives, R&D specialists, and administrators to its staff. The acquisition will broaden Pentixapharms Intellectual Property portfolio beyond the one built around the CXCR4 receptor. This will immediately double the development pipeline and significantly expand the associated business and clinical development opportunities, explained Hakim Bouterfa, CEO of Pentixapharm AG. Glycotopes pipeline comprises several candidates that can be used immediately for proof-of-concept studies as next generation radiopharmaceuticals. We look forward to maximizing the synergy of Pentixapharms know-how and Glycotopes target discovery for the benefit of patients in both diagnostics and therapeutic applications. The transaction provides Pentixapharm not just with a chance to build a clinical pipeline beyond the companys current CXCR4-ligand based programs, but also substantially strengthens its administrative and managerial capacities, noted Andreas Eckert, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of both Pentixapharm and mother company Eckert & Ziegler SE (EZAG). It adds a critical number of talents to the planned secession of Pentixapharm to Frankfurt Stock Exchange, thereby facilitating a seamless separation from EZAG. The offices and laboratories included in the deal are large enough to allow a consolidation of all Berlin-based activities into one location. The transaction will also affect the composition of the Pentixapharm Management Board once the company becomes listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Hakim Bouterfa, current CEO of Pentixapharm, is designated to move to the Companys Supervisory Board. He will be succeeded by Dirk Pleimes, currently Pentixapharms Chief Medical Officer. Patrik Kehler, former Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) of Glycotope, will assume the CSO position at Pentixapharm, while Glycotopes former CEO, Henner Kollenberg, will take over the responsibility for administrative and business development issues as Chief Business Officer. Patrik Kehler, newly appointed Chief Scientific Officer of Pentixapharm, explained: The target discovery units development activities focus on tumor-associated carbohydrate structures, so-called GlycoTargets. Their major advantage is the reduced normal tissue binding compared to conventional antibodies. Based on their superior tumor-specificity, they are suitable for development in an array of different modes of action. In the radiopharmaceuticals field, they have the potential to close the treatment gap that exists for the majority of solid tumors. About the Glycotope Target Discovery Unit The target discovery unit utilizes a proprietary technology platform to develop uniquely tumor-specific monoclonal antibodies or fragments thereof. They target specific tumor-associated carbohydrate structures or protein/carbohydrate combined glycoepitopes (GlycoTargets). The unit has to date discovered in excess of 200 GlycoTargets (www.glycotope.com). Many of these have been outlicensed to major pharmaceutical companies around the world, where they are currently in pre-clinical and clinical development. About Pentixapharm AG Pentixapharm is a radiopharmaceutical development company founded in 2019 with its headquarters in Wurzburg, Germany. It is currently wholly owned by the Eckert & Ziegler Group but bound to be spun-off to the Frankfort Stock Exchange soon. Pentixapharm is committed to developing CXCR4 ligand-based first-in-class radiopharmaceutical approaches with a clear commercial pathway for diagnostic and therapeutic programs in a number of hematological and solid cancers, as well as cardiovascular, endocrine and inflammatory diseases. Pentixapharms clinical pipeline encompasses PENTIXATHER, am Yttrium-90 based therapeutic against CNS lymphoma, and PENTIXAFOR, a Gallium-68 based companion diagnostic. Clinical studies for both compounds have already commenced in Europe, with a dose-finding study for PENTIXATHER and a Phase III registration study for PENTIXAFOR. Additionally, PENTIXAFOR is being developed as a diagnostic tool for primary aldosteronism (PA), a significant cause of hypertension. Pentixapharm is currently preparing a US centric Phase III registration study in PA that will start in 2025. For more information, please contact: Eckert & Ziegler SE Karolin Riehle, Investor Relations Robert-Rossle-Str. 10, 13125 Berlin, Germany Tel.: +49 30 / 94 10 84-138 karolin.riehle@ezag.de, www.ezag.com Pentixapharm AG Phillip Eckert, Investor Relations phillip.eckert@pentixapharm.com Tel. +49 30 94 10 84 227 www.pentixapharm.com Media Contact: MC Services AG Anne Hennecke Tel. +49 211 529252 22 anne.hennecke@mc-services.eu PUTIAN, China, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- From June 29 to 30, 2024, the notable Southern Shaolin Intangible Cultural Heritage Martial Arts Exchange Conference (the Conference) was successfully held at the Southern Shaolin Temple on Jiulian Mountain in Licheng District, Putian City, Fujian Province, China. This two-day event brought together 300 martial arts masters, inheritors, and enthusiasts from 70 martial arts associations and groups from Zhejiang, Fujian, Guangdong, as well as Europe, the Americas, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania to witness the charm and splendor of Chinese martial arts. By means of keynote speeches, the release of martial arts preservation initiatives, exchanges & discussions, and cultural relic exhibitions, participants engaged in intensive discussions on topics such as the history, characteristics, inheritance, and development of Southern Shaolin martial arts during the Conference. Additionally, the Conference accommodated the release of the achievements made by Putian Southern Shaolin Temple in protecting endangered martial arts styles, the launch of the Initiative for the Protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage Martial Arts, and the signing of the Southern Shaolin Martial Arts Protection Convention. During the Conference, well-known martial arts groups from home and abroad performed more than 80 types of martial arts styles, presenting the audience with a series of spectacular visual feasts. This Conference showcased the profound and unique charm of the martial arts at Southern Shaolin Temple as an intangible cultural heritage, and promoted exchanges and interactions among martial arts enthusiasts both domestically and internationally. Source: Southern Shaolin Temple A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3c99a345-e73b-489b-998f-6a3446298205 MILAN, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The three-year communication and information campaign dedicated to the Syracuse Lemon PGI, promoted by the Consortium for the Protection of the Syracuse Lemon PGI, co-financed by the European Union and coordinated by CSO Italy, has officially started. Quality, tradition and zero waste, the concepts behind the LemON project - Lemon of Syracuse PGI: capturing the essence of Sicily! - are aimed at Italy, Poland and Romania in a three-year period full of activities and appointments. In particular, the integrated communication plan includes digital activities (social and influencer marketing), PR and Press Office, B2B and B2C, a TV campaign in Italy and Out of Home in major stations in Milan and Rome, Lemon Tour on the Peninsula. Plus workshops and B2B meetings aimed at large-scale retail and horeca buyers and for the first time also a TV campaign in Poland and Romania. By the end of the project (March 2027), the Syracuse Lemon PGI will have "spoken" to more than 22million Purchase Managers in Italy and 11million young consumers and trades in Poland and Romania, for a total of nearly 34million people, and generated an increase in consumption equal to additional sales of more than 5million euros. Considered one of the products of excellence in Europe's agri-food heritage, the Syracuse Lemon PGI represents, with the Consortium's social base, 100 percent of the certified product and is located in an area from which 32 percent of Italy's lemon production comes, which ranks second in Europe in terms of quantity, after Spain. The quality guaranteed by the production specification and the attention to detail handed down through years of experience translate into a product that can enhance the quality policies of the European Union by combining the communication of Made in Europe production excellence with fundamental values such as environmental sustainability and concrete strategies to combat food waste. Of the Syracuse Lemon PGI, in fact, thanks to the production methods contained in the specification, you can eat everything, even the peel. The different uses during processing make it a symbolic "No-waste" product. In this sense, the decision to also target the Polish and Romanian markets is motivated precisely by the growing awareness and sensitivity to the issue of food waste that local policies are promoting. For information: SECNewgate Italy Renato Pagani +39 335 6839561 - renato.pagani@secnewgate.it Giorgia Rizzi +39 340 0010762 - giorgia.rizzi@secnewgate.it News about the Consortium for the Protection of Syracuse Lemon PGI. The Consorzio di Tutela del Limone di Siracusa IGP is one of the most important citrus growing communities in Europe. Formed on July 13, 2000, it includes 163 consortium members: 130 producers, 60 packers, 36 users and 62 ambassadors, for a vocated area of 1,450.91 hectares, representing 32% of Italian production. At the production level, the Consortium represents 100% of the production of Limone di Siracusa PGI, and at the national level 3 lemons out of 100 come from the Syracuse area. The Consortium's tasks include identifying the production areas and varieties to be subject to protection, supervising activities in the area of origin and in the markets on the correct use of the name "Limone di Siracusa IGP," and carrying out promotional initiatives in Italy and abroad aimed at spreading knowledge, the image of the product and the IGP trademark. Funded by the European Union. However, the views expressed belong to the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union or the European Research Executive Agency (REA). Neither the European Union nor the granting administration can be held responsible for them. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cf509523-bad6-46ad-a0ed-b503e66669fe TORONTO, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lithium Ionic Corp. (TSXV: LTH; OTCQX: LTHCF; FSE: H3N) (Lithium Ionic or the Company) is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Neolit Minerals Participacoes Ltda (Neolit), has entered into an option agreement (the Agreement) with K2 Mineracao e Exportacao EIRELI, Super Classico Comercio, Importacao e Exportacao Ltda. and Minerales Empreendimentos, Mineracao e Participacoes Ltda. to acquire up to a 90% interest in select properties located in Itinga, within the Curralinho Pegmatite Field of the Aracuai Pegmatite District, Minas Gerais, Brazil (the Transaction). Transaction Details: The Agreement grants Neolit the option to acquire up to a 90% interest in each of three newly formed special purpose vehicles domiciled in Brazil (the SPVs), which collectively hold five mineral claims encompassing a total area of 2,983.22 hectares. Neolit shall initially hold a minority stake in each that can increase up to 90% upon fulfilling the terms of the Agreement. Key Terms of the Agreement: Neolit, at its option, has the right to conduct an exploration program and deliver a feasibility study for each SPV to acquire up to a 90% interest in the applicable SPV. To achieve a 90% interest in each SPV, Neolit will be required to invest a minimum of R$21.3 million (~C$5.5 million) by Q1 2030. The properties are strategically located within the lithium-rich Aracuai Pegmatite District, known for its significant spodumene deposits. Blake Hylands, P.Geo., Chief Executive Officer of Lithium Ionic, commented, This transaction marks a significant milestone in our growth strategy, allowing us to expand our presence in Brazils premier lithium district. We are excited about the potential these properties hold and are committed to advancing them responsibly to create value for our shareholders and stakeholders. The Transaction aligns with the Companys strategy to expand its footprint in one of the most promising lithium districts globally. The properties under option have demonstrated potential for significant lithium mineralization, which the Company aims to further explore and develop. Next Steps: Neolit will commence an extensive exploration program, including geological mapping, geochemical surveys, and drilling, to delineate potential resources within these properties. The Company will also engage with local communities and stakeholders to ensure the sustainable development of these projects. Figure 1. Lithium Ionic Properties in the Lithium Valley and the Agreement Properties On behalf of the Board of Directors of Lithium Ionic Corp. Blake Hylands Chief Executive Officer, Director About Lithium Ionic Corp. Lithium Ionic is a Canadian mining company exploring and developing its lithium properties in Brazil. Its flagship Itinga and Salinas projects cover ~17,000 hectares in the northeastern part of Minas Gerais state, a mining-friendly jurisdiction that is quickly emerging as a world-class hard-rock lithium district. The Itinga Project is situated in the same region as CBLs Cachoeira lithium mine, which has produced lithium for +30 years, as well as Sigma Lithium Corp.s Grota do Cirilo project, which hosts the largest hard-rock lithium deposit in the Americas. Qualified Persons The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Carlos Costa, Vice President Exploration of Lithium Ionic and Blake Hylands, CEO and director of Lithium Ionic, and both are qualified persons as defined in NI 43-101. Investor and Media Inquiries: +1 647.316.2500 info@lithiumionic.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains statements that constitute forward-statements. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Companys actual results, performance or achievements, or developments to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes, in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. When used in this press release, the words estimate, project, belief, anticipate, intend, expect, plan, predict, may or should and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include information relating to the prospectivity and development of the Companys mineral properties, the timing and results of the Agreement, the Transaction, the Companys ability to complete the Transaction, the Companys ability to obtain adequate financing and the Companys future plans. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. Risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that managements beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Information and links in this press release relating to other mineral resource companies are from their sources believed to be reliable, but that have not been independently verified by the Company. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/02b3df41-dc69-44db-861a-1ab826fa0505 Dublin, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Global Grow Lights Market by Offering (Hardware, Software & Services), Wattage (<300, >=300), Spectrum (Full Spectrum, Limited Spectrum), Cultivated Plant, Installation Type, Lighting Type, Sales Channel, Application and Region - Forecast to 2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global grow lights market is expected to reach USD 6.4 billion by 2029 from USD 2 billion in 2024, at a CAGR of 26.5% during the 2024-2029 period. The report will help the market leaders/new entrants in this market with information on the closest approximate revenues for the overall grow lights market and related segments. This report will help stakeholders understand the competitive landscape and gain more insights to strengthen their position in the market and plan suitable go-to-market strategies. The report also helps stakeholders understand the pulse of the market and provides them with information on key market drivers, restraints, opportunities, and challenges. LED grow lights have surpassed conventional lighting technologies in energy efficiency, lifespan, versatility, and color quality. With their increasing cost competitiveness, they're widely adopted in applications like vertical farms, indoor farms, and greenhouses, catering to various plant needs with different types, shapes, sizes, prices, and colors. LED grow lights outshine traditional high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps in energy efficiency and lifespan, offering a longer operating life of nearly 50,000 hours and consuming 50% to 85% less electricity. Their ability to emit specific spectrums tailored to plant requirements maximizes growth potential and nutritional value while reducing energy costs. Additionally, LEDs are lighter, easier to install, and less heat-emitting, ensuring plants remain unharmed even when placed in proximity. Their resistance to vibrations, thermal shocks, water, and moisture makes them ideal for greenhouse environments. These attributes, coupled with advancements in spectral tailoring and light distribution control, position LED grow lights as the preferred choice for year-round crop production, mitigating weather-dependent limitations of traditional farming methods. LED grow lights play a pivotal role in enabling farmers to produce high-quality crops throughout the year, irrespective of weather conditions. Their ability to provide photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) for photosynthesis enhances plant quality and productivity, particularly in regions with limited sunlight. By optimizing light spectra for specific crops and offering greater lighting control, LED grow lights maximize yields and nutritional values while minimizing energy costs. Controlled environment agriculture (CEA), facilitated by LED lighting, allows for multiple harvests per year, with one indoor acre equivalent to several outdoor acres. The controlled environment minimizes pest infestation, post-harvest spoilage, and the impact of adverse weather conditions, ensuring high-quality, consistent yields. As climate change poses challenges to traditional farming, the adoption of CEA practices, powered by LED grow lights, is expected to surge, driving further demand for efficient indoor horticulture solutions. Legalization of medicinal plants in different countries to increase the demand of grow lights The legalization of medicinal plants, such as marijuana, has sparked a surge in the demand for grow lights, especially in areas where these plants are sanctioned. According to the report by National Conference of State Legislatures in April 2024, 24 states along with two territories and the District of Columbia, have legalized small amounts of cannabis (marijuana) for adult recreational use. Recently, legislation in Delaware, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Rhode Island has been passed, permitting individuals aged 21 or older to possess specific quantities of cannabis. These new laws, except in Delaware, also allow individuals to cultivate marijuana at home, although the permitted number of plants varies by state. It's noteworthy that in all six of these areas, cannabis for medical purposes was legalized before recreational adult use. In June 2022, Thailand marked a significant milestone by becoming the inaugural Asian nation to legalize cannabis. With this legislative change, cultivating and trading marijuana and hemp products, as well as utilizing plant parts for medicinal purposes, ceased to be criminal offenses. Consequently, methods such as grow tents, greenhouses, and vertical farms have become prevalent for indoor cannabis cultivation. However, all these methods necessitate the incorporation of artificial grow lights, thereby paving the way for promising market expansion opportunities. With marijuana legalization, there's a noticeable trend among cannabis companies diversifying their product offerings. The increased legalization of cannabis cultivation has driven a higher demand for vertical farms and greenhouses, consequently boosting the need for LED-based grow lights. Cannabis grown without sunlight requires careful consideration of various factors. For instance, the heat emitted from HPS lights can damage the product, while LEDs, operating at lower temperatures, offer a solution to excessive heat emissions. The advantages of LED lighting for cannabis growth are widely recognized: increased yields, shortened crop cycles, and consistent quality. Utilizing the appropriate blend of white, red, and blue LEDs promotes shorter, more compact cannabis plants with enhanced branching and improved THC/CBD potency. Fruits & Vegetables segment of the grow lights market projected to record the highest market share during the forecast period Grow lights ensure optimal plant growth and survival by providing tailored light spectra tailored to the specific requirements of different plants. The appropriate combination of light spectrum, intensity, and duration collectively stimulates plant growth, flowering, and reproduction. Fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, mint, basil, and strawberries are predominantly cultivated in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) facilities. Outdoor cultivation of these fruits and vegetables necessitates suitable soil, favorable climatic conditions, sunlight, adequate water supply, and high-quality seeds or plant materials, typically yielding only two harvests per season. Failure to meet these conditions can result in poor-quality or inedible produce. However, in vertical farms and greenhouses, these fruits and vegetables thrive in a controlled environment with optimized water and light conditions, often without soil. Harvests in these environments are unaffected by seasonal changes, climatic fluctuations, excessive water usage, or soil variations. During the vegetative stage, young plants require blue light for growth, while plants in the flowering stage benefit from red spectrum wavelengths, which accelerate stem growth, promote flowering, and enhance fruit and chlorophyll production. Plants respond to light shortly after germination, even before the appearance of the first leaf. Insufficient light exposure during this critical stage can lead to elongated stems and weak plant growth. Adequate spacing between plants is essential to ensure each receives sufficient light for proper growth. Red and blue wavelengths are the most utilized by plants for photosynthesis. Strawberries are one of the most cultivated fruits in vertical farms, with the trend of vertical farming for strawberries on the rise. A single square foot of a strawberry tower foundation can accommodate around 100 strawberry plants, a significant increase compared to traditional land cultivation, with potential for further growth by increasing the height of the vertical tower. In May 2024, Heliospectra launched 1500W MITRA X LED light featuring an increased output of 5700mol, wide beam optics, and 3.7 efficacy. With only 2 LED lights needed to cover a standard 8m trellis, the new MITRA X reduces investment costs for vegetable growers while ensuring high output and uniformity to optimize taste and yield. The expanded MITRA X platform emphasizes modularity and versatility, catering to various environments and crops to address the diverse requirements of contemporary growers. New installations expected to have the largest market share of grow lights during the forecast period The demand for fresh horticultural produce is increasing due to the rapidly growing global population. This is expected to encourage growers to set up new greenhouses and expand their existing production facilities to cultivate higher yields each year. The emergence of vertical farms, particularly in urban settings, contributes to the overall increase in horticultural output. Plants grown in vertical farms depend entirely on artificial lighting for photosynthesis; this factor drives the market for new installations. LED grow lights are preferred over traditional ones in vertical farms for increased productivity and reduced power consumption. These lights have a lower weight and are easier to configure. They emit less heat than high-intensity discharge (HID) bulbs, so the risk of plants getting burned even if LEDs are placed close to them is relatively low. Additionally, LEDs have a long operating life of nearly 50,000 hours, enabling them to be used for more than five years with 14-18 hours of daily operations. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 231 Forecast Period 2024 - 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $2 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $6.4 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 26.5% Regions Covered Global Premium Insights Rising Demand for Grow Lights in Indoor Settings to Fuel Market Growth New Installations Segment to Hold Larger Market Share Between 2024 and 2029 Fruits & Vegetables Segment to Lead Market During Forecast Period Southeast Asia Grow Lights Market to Register Highest CAGR During Forecast Period Case Study Analysis Signify Holding Helps Topline Gerbera Nursery Transition to Full Led Lighting Maximizing Berry Production at Nourse Farms with California Lightworks Megadrive Lighting System Nipomo AG Harnesses California Lightworks Megadrive Led System to Thrive in Competitive Cannabis Market Market Overview Drivers Surging Demand for Fresh Food Amid Declining Arable Land Robust Government Support for Implementation of Solid-State Lighting Technology and Controlled-Environment Agriculture Methodologies Rising Investments in Establishment of Vertical Farms, Greenhouses, and Advanced Technologies Maximizing Horticulture Efficiency and Unlocking Year-Round Crop Production Restraints High Investments in Establishment and Installation Optimizing Plant Growth Through Varied Light Spectrums Risk to Human Health due to Led Grow Lights Constraints in Optimal Grow Light Placement for Plant Growth Opportunities Legalization of Cannabis for Medicinal Purposes Technological Advancements in Led Grow Lights and Automation in Lighting Systems Prospective Markets for Vertical Farming in Asia and Middle East Integrated Hardware, Software, and Data Analytics Platforms for Horticultural Yield Estimation and Energy Conservation Challenges Complexities in Implementing Controlled Environment Agriculture Technology and Lack of Technical Expertise Lack of Standardized Testing Protocols for Evaluating Horticulture Lighting Product Quality Supply Chain Analysis Research & Development Engineers Component Providers/Input Suppliers Original Equipment Manufacturers System Integrators/Technology & Service Providers Distributors & Sales Partners Applications Technology Analysis Key Technologies Led Grow Lights UV and Far-Red Light Integration Smart Lighting Complementary Technologies Climate Control Systems Hydroponic and Aeroponic Systems Adjacent Technology Spectrum Control Technology Company Profiles Key Players Signify Holding Gavita International B.V. Heliospectra Ams-Osram AG California Lightworks Ledvance GmbH Hortilux Schreder Valoya Iluminar Lighting LLC. Savant Technologies LLC Other Players Econolux Industries Ltd. Lemnis Oreon B.V. Hyperion Grow Lights Sananbio Dongguan Ledestar Opto-Electronics Tech. Co. Ltd. Viparspectra Kind Led Grow Lights Black Dog Horticulture Technologies & Consulting Agrolux B.V. Sollum Technologies Mars Hydro Biological Innovation and Optimization Systems, LLC Everlight Electronics Co. Ltd. Nichia Corporation Thrive Agritech For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/xxjjxc About ResearchAndMarkets.com ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment MONTREAL, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TFI International Inc. (NYSE and TSX: TFII), a North American leader in the transportation and logistics industry, today announced that it will release its financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024 via news release on Thursday, July 25, 2024 after market close. The company will host a webcast with Alain Bedard, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer, on Friday, July 26, 2024 at 8:30 AM Eastern Time, to discuss results. Webcast Details: Date: Friday, July 26, 2024 Time: 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time Live webcast & replay: Presentations & Reports within the Investors section of the Company website ABOUT TFI INTERNATIONAL TFI International Inc. is a North American leader in the transportation and logistics industry, operating across the United States, Canada and Mexico through its subsidiaries. TFI International creates value for shareholders by identifying strategic acquisitions and managing a growing network of wholly-owned operating subsidiaries. Under the TFI International umbrella, companies benefit from financial and operational resources to build their businesses and increase their efficiency. TFI International companies service the following segments: Package and Courier; Less-Than-Truckload; Truckload; Logistics. TFI International Inc. is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange and the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol TFII. For more information, visit www.tfiintl.com. For further information: Alain Bedard Chairman, President and CEO TFI International Inc. 647-729-4079 abedard@tfiintl.com Vancouver, British Columbia, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Terra Balcanica Resources Corp. (Terra or the Company) (CSE:TERA; FRA:UB1), a multi-jurisdictional, polymetallic exploration company focused on supporting the global transition to clean energy, is pleased to announce the signing of the definitive option agreement dated July 2, 2024 (Agreement) between the Company, Fulcrum Metals Plc. (Fulcrum, AIM:FMET) and Fulcrum Metals (Canada) Ltd. (Fulcrum Canada), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fulcrum, pursuant to which the Company will obtain a four-year option (the Option) to acquire a 100% interest in Fulcrums uranium portfolio of exploration licences (the Licences) located in northern Saskatchewan, Canada and collectively encompassing 596.71 km2 of highly prospective ground for a uranium discovery. Pursuant to the Agreement, on closing (the Option Closing Date), Fulcrum and Fulcrum Canada will grant Terra the Option to acquire a 100% interest in the Licences, comprising Fulcrums Charlot-Neely Lake, Fontaine Lake, Snowbird, and South Pendleton licence clusters located along northern and southeastern margins of the renowned Athabasca Basin, the supplier of ca. 20% of worlds uranium and home to significant uranium deposits. In consideration for the Option, Terra has paid C$25,000 in cash to Fulcrum to date. Additionally, Terra may exercise the Option by paying Fulcrum cash according to the schedule below: C$50,000 on the first anniversary of the Option Closing Date; C$75,000 on the second anniversary of the Option Closing Date; C$75,000 on the third anniversary of the Option Closing Date; C$75,000 on the fourth anniversary of the Option Closing Date; and issue Fulcrum Canada common shares of Terra at the 10-day volume weighted average trading price of Terras shares ending three trading days prior to the date of issuance, subject to the minimum pricing requirements of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the CSE), as per the following schedule: C$250,000 of Terra shares on the Option Closing Date; C$350,000 of Terra shares on the anniversary of the Option Closing Date; C$560,000 of Terra shares on the second anniversary of the Option Closing Date; C$650,000 of Terra shares on the third anniversary of the Option Closing Date; C$1,250,000 of Terra shares on the fourth anniversary of the Option Closing Date; and Terra will also complete minimum work expenditures totalling C$3,250,000 prior to the fourth anniversary of the Option Agreement. Upon the exercise of the Option, Terra will grant Fulcrum a 1.0% net smelter returns royalty (NSR) on all claims with a buy-down option for half of the NSR, being a 0.5% NSR, for the cash payment of C$1,000,000. Global Energy Metals Corp. (Global Energy) acted as a finder for this transaction by introducing the parties and facilitating the negotiation of the Agreement. As compensation for Global Energys services, the Company, Fulcrum Canada and Global Energy entered into a finders agreement (the Finders Fee Agreement), in which Global Energy will be compensated with 1,198,291 shares of Terra on the Option Closing Date subject to the minimum pricing requirements of the CSE and, upon the exercise of the Option, the Company will grant Global Energy a 0.5% NSR on all of the Licences, subject to a buy-down option of the entire NSR for the cash payment C$500,000. The Agreement replaces the Letter of Intent between the Company and Fulcrum signed on April 2nd, 2024 (see news release of the Company dated April 3rd, 2024). The transaction contemplated under the Agreement and the Finders Fee Agreement are subject to the approval of the CSE. The common shares of Terra issued under the terms of the Agreement and the Finders Fee Agreement will be subject to a hold period of four months from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable securities laws in Canada. Highlights 596.71 km 2 of land tenure along northern and southeastern edges of the Athabasca Basin , a premium mining district and the leading global source of high-grade uranium with over 70 million lbs of U 3 O 8 produced; , a premium mining district and the leading global source of high-grade uranium with over 70 million lbs of U O produced; Surface uranium samples of up to 6.22 % U 3 O 8 at Charlot-Neely and up to 1.44 % U 3 O 8 at Fontaine-Lake licences with anomalous surface radiometric readings of >7,000 cps as well as rare earth element assays; with anomalous surface radiometric readings of >7,000 cps as well as rare earth element assays; A historic (non-43-101 compliant) diamond drill hole intercept of 3.91 g/t Au over 45.8 m from surface at the Charlot-Neely licence; at the Charlot-Neely licence; The recent drill hole intercept of 1,309 cps over 8.7 m by Aero Energy and Fortune Bay on the Murmac project (see news release dated June 25 th , 2024) is located only 20 km SW of Terras Charlot-Neely Lake licence and marks the first Beaverlodge District uranium discovery in more than half a century by Aero Energy and Fortune Bay on the Murmac project (see news release dated June 25 , 2024) is located and marks the first Beaverlodge District uranium discovery in more than half a century Historical work has demonstrated multiple occurrences of uranium mineralization along NE-SW structural corridors such as Black Bay fault, Black Lake shear, and the Snowbird tectonic zone and the many associated fault splays and graphitic conductors; Terra Balcanica CEO, Dr. Aleksandar Miskovic, commented: The agreement signed with Fulcrum marks an exciting new chapter in Terras corporate history as a high-quality target generator and explorer of critically needed commodities. The Company is now exposed to a world-class uranium district that is experiencing a mining renaissance as evidenced by the recent discovery made just 20 km from of our flagship Charlot-Neely licence. With close to 600 km2 of land tenure, we are supremely positioned to take early-mover advantage of opportunities along the entire northern and eastern margins of Athabasca Basin. The optioned portfolio comprises geologically promising ground that has not seen modern surveying nor recent drilling. We are excited to approach it by applying the same level of technical rigor as we did in the Balkans to define drill targets with a high probability of success. In addition to multiple uranium occurrences, the licences feature gold, copper, nickel and cobalt showings. We are fortunate to have inherited a wealth of legacy data from Fulcrum along with the expertise of Mr. Gary Dunn, a veteran of uranium exploration in Saskatchewan. It will be an eventful autumn of prospecting, sampling, and structural mapping together with airborne geophysics to rapidly define drill targets. Portfolio Overview The optioned terrain in norther Saskatchewan is divided into 4 licence clusters targeting the NE-SW structures and associated electromagnetic conductors along strike from historic mines and projects that have attracted significant investment as zones most likely to host basement- and intrusive hosted uranium mineralizations (Figure 1). Figure 1. Saskatchewans Athabasca Basin with the optioned licence portfolio (click here to view image). Southeastern margins of the Athabasca Basin are known locations of world-class discoveries such as the Arrow deposit discovered by NexGen Energy Ltd. (4.3 Mt at 0.83% U 3 O 8 ), and the Triple R deposit (2.7 Mt at 1.94% U 3 O 8 ) being developed by Fission Uranium Corp. Such sizable accumulations of uranium ore have proved the concept of exploring along fluid bearing structures outside the Basin that have been genetically interpreted to form either the basement or the so-called Beaverlodge styles of mineralization (Figure 2). Figure 2. Three styles of uranium mineralization in northern Saskatchewan on an idealized cross-section of the Athabasca Basin. Terra Balcanicas portfolio focuses on the margins of the Basin where the basement-hosted and so-called Beaverlodge-style mineralizations are found as surface expressions of deep-seated feeder dykes and crustal faults (click here to view image). Terra will focus on this exploration paradigm however, the Company will aim to target major NE-SE trending faults and associated secondary structural corridors along northern margins of the Basin where close to 32,000 tons of U 3 O 8 have been produced in the Beaverlodge District alone. Charlot Neely Lake The flagship Charlot-Nely Lake property (Figure 3) covers 163.72 km2 and is located at the heart of the historic Beaverlodge District, 13 km NE of Uranium City. It is found within 10 km radius of the 14 historic mines and uranium ore producers. The licence covers more than 20 km strike length of the major Black Bay Fault with 16 km of previously identified, fault-parallel graphitic conductors. It also hosts significant REE potential given the adjacent Alces REE discovery by Appia with historical samples of over 31% U 3 O 8 and over 16% REE. Figure 3. Tenure map of the Beaverlodge District along northwestern margin of the Athabasca Basin with Terras flagship 168 km2 Charlot-Neely Lake property north of centre and 20 km NE along a major structural feature (Black Bay fault) from the recent drill intercept by Aero Energy Ltd.-Fortune Bay Corp. at the Murmac project (click here to view image). The licence benefits from work completed in 2023 which confirmed uranium mineralization on surface of up to 0.55 % U and assays of 0.8% U 3 O 8 confirmed at Peacock showing in 2023, and extensive zones of up to 7,000 cps (counts per second) radioactivity. Historic occurrences are noted of up to 6.22 % U 3 O 8 . The first order controls for basement hosted mineralisation are present with large scale structural features, linear conductors that possibly contain graphitic horizons as important reductants and surface uranium anomalism. There is also note of gold drilling intercept of 3.91 g/t Au over 45.8 m from surface (DDH17) which adds additional exploration appeal to the licence (Figure 4). The Company will focus on high-grade sources of the surficial uranium showings along most radioactive segments of the graphitic conductors as previously untested drill targets. Figure 4. Charlot-Neely Lake licence cluster encompasses 168 km2 and captures 20 km of the along-strike extent of the Black Bay Fault system with its splays and associated electromagnetic conductors. These graphitic seams serve as favourable redox traps for oxidizing uranium-bearing fluids channelled by deeps seated faults and shears. Multiple anomalously radioactive locations are scattered throughout the tenure (click here to view image). Fontaine Lake and Snowbird These licences stretch over 388 km2 and straddle the Grease River Shear Zone, its sub-faults as well as the Snowbird Tectonic Zone (Figure 5). The Black Lake Shear Zone which also transects the Snowbird licence cluster can be traced for 200 km across the Athabasca Basin and is associated with Camecos Centennial project. Additionally, the Cora and Legs Lake Shear Zones contain multiple airborne radioactivity anomalies that were not followed up on trend. Haymac Mines has recently restarted mining at Nisto Mine which is known for having shipped 500 tons of high-grade ore to Uranium City in the 1950s with one shipment being 106 tons grading 1.6% U 3 O 8 . A minimal field program was completed at Fontaine Lake in 2008 with surficial showings of 1% uranium while further work was recommended by CanAlaska Uranium that leaves plenty of discovery potential. South Pendleton The South Pendleton property sits upon the Needle Falls Shear Zone and covers 44.76 km2 of terrain along southeastern edge of the Athabasca Basin. It is proximal to Skyharbour Resources South Falcon project. It features the same basement lithologies as those hosting the prolific Key Lake and Rabbit Lake mines however, several surficial radioactive anomalies and occurrences of uranium mineralization have not been explored yet. Figure 5. Fontaine Lake and Snowbird licence clusters jointly encompass 388 km2 of terrain along northern and northeastern margins of the Athabasca Basin strategically covering both the Black Lake shear zone and the coupled Grease River and Snowbird Tectonic Zones with their NNE-SSW faults and splays (click here to view image). Exploration Plan The Company intends to review cumulative legacy data set by including company assessment reports, historic governmental maps and surveys, extracting findings from research papers, compiling locations of key showings and combining it all into an internally consistent GIS database. Subsequently, Terra will commission a combined, >3,000 line-kilometer, airborne geophysical survey comprising V-TEM Plus electromagnetic and radiometric measurements along a tight, 150-spaced flight grid over all four licence clusters. Data obtained from the geophysics will be combined with the existing GIS database to identify high-priority target zones to follow up by a month and a half of detailed field work including ground radiometrics and lithological sampling in autumn of 2024. Our goal is to immediately generate and rank a dozen drill targets along key structural corridors to be tested in early spring of 2025. Work with the local First Nations to obtain social license to operate and work collaboratively will begin in earnest this summer. Qualified Person Dr. Aleksandar Miskovic, P.Geo, is the Companys designated Qualified Person (QP) for this news release within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) and has reviewed and validated that the information contained in this news release as accurate. The QP has not directly verified the data disclosed, including sampling, analytical, and test data underlying the information contained in the press release except to perform a desktop overview of the legacy date provide by Fulcrum. About the Company Terra Balcanica is a polymetallic and energy metals exploration company targeting large-scale mineral systems in the Balkans of southeastern Europe and northern Saskatchewan, Canada. The Company has 90% interest in the Viogor-Zanik Project in eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina and owns 100% of the Ceovishte mineral exploration licence in southern Serbia. The Canadian assets comprise a 100% optioned portfolio of uranium-prospective licences at the outskirts of the world-renowned Athabasca basin: Charlot-Neely Lake, Fontaine Lake, Snowbird, and South Pendleton. The Company emphasizes responsible engagement with local communities and stakeholders. It is committed to proactively implementing Good International Industry Practice (GIIP) and sustainable health, safety, and environmental management. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Terra Balcanica Resources Corp. Aleksandar Miskovic Aleksandar Miskovic President and CEO For the complete information on this news release, please contact Aleksandar Miskovic at amiskovic@terrabresources.com, +1 (514) 796-7577, or visit www.terrabresources.com/en/news. Cautionary Statement This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively forward-looking statements). The use of any of the words will, intends and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. 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. Such forward-looking statements should not be unduly relied upon. Actual results achieved may vary from the information provided herein as a result of numerous known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors. The Company believes the expectations reflected in those forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. The Company does not undertake to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Customers can now earn cash for sharing their experiences at the popular mac and cheese restaurant through the Thumzup app Los Angeles, CA, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Thumzup Media Corporation ("Thumzup" or the "Company") (OTCQB: TZUP), an innovator in social media branding and marketing solutions, is excited to welcome I Heart Mac & Cheese Los Angeles to its roster of advertising partners on its cutting-edge social media AdTech platform. I Heart Mac & Cheese is a rapidly expanding fast-casual concept specializing in customizable, made-to-order macaroni and cheese bowls with a variety of health-conscious bases including quinoa, broccoli, cauliflower, gluten-free pasta, grilled cheese sandwiches. Fans of the restaurant now have a unique opportunity to earn money by sharing their delicious experiences via the Thumzup app. This collaboration comes as I Heart Mac & Cheese and More continues to expand its footprint, bringing its beloved menu of cheesy delights to more communities. The restaurant offers a diverse selection of mac and cheese creations, from classic combinations to unique flavors, all made with high-quality ingredients and available in vegan and gluten-free options. We are delighted to welcome I Heart Mac & Cheese and More to the Thumzup network, said Robert Steele, CEO and Founder of Thumzup. Their innovative approach to a classic favorite makes them an ideal partner for our platform. By teaming up with I Heart Mac & Cheese and More, we aim to help them engage with their loyal customers and attract new fans eager to share their culinary adventures. The Thumzup app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play . About Thumzup Thumzup Media Corporation (Thumzup) is democratizing the multi-billion dollar social media branding and marketing industry. Its flagship product, the Thumzup platform, utilizes a robust programmatic advertiser dashboard coupled with a consumer-facing App to enable individuals to get paid cash for posting about participating advertisers on major social media outlets through the Thumzup App. The easy-to-use dashboard allows advertisers to programmatically customize their campaigns. Cash payments are made to App users/creators through PayPal and other digital payment systems. Thumzup was featured on CBS News Los Angeles and is a publicly traded company (OTCQB stock ticker: TZUP). For more information, please visit https://www.thumzupmedia.com . Legal Disclaimer This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These include, without limitation, statements about its potential growth, impacts on the advertising industry, plans for potential uplisting, and planned expansion. These statements are identified by the use of the words "could," "believe," "anticipate," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "may," "continue," "predict," "potential," "project" and similar expressions that are intended to identify forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Although we believe that our plans, objectives, expectations and intentions reflected in or suggested by the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these plans, objectives, expectations or intentions will be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties (some of which are beyond our control) and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical experience and present expectations or projections. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements and the trading price for our common stock may fluctuate significantly. Forward-looking statements also are affected by the risk factors described in our filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Contact Info investors@thumzupmedia.com 800-403-6150 Attachment Sheridan, Wyoming, USA, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rafarma Pharmaceuticals (OTC: RAFA) - Rafarma Pharmaceuticals is pleased to announce the signing of a preliminary agreement to establish a joint industrial venture in Busan Technology Park (South Korea) as the Dongnam Industrial Park of Radiological & Medical Sciences. The partners in the venture are Rafarma and the Korean pharmaceutical company Woods Medical Care. Woods Medical Care, Inc. was established to grow into a global pharmaceutical company producing radiopharmaceuticals by collaborating with Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute. One of the priorities of the scientific and medical company Rafarma is the promotion of nuclear medicine as a high-tech method of cancer treatment. Nuclear medicine includes brachytherapy with embolization of inoperable metastases of prostate cancer and hepatocellular liver cancer and liver metastases as common complications of cancer. We previously announced the creation of a similar facility in Hong Kong, but after much consideration, Korea was identified as a more attractive market for investment in the field of radiopharmacology and nuclear medicine. The main goal of the joint venture is to organize and run a business for the production and sale of medical products based on the isotope Yttrium-90 (Y90), as well as boron and lithium capture therapy units. International cooperation between companies includes: 1) Release of packaging of microsphere-based products for the East Asian markets and their promotion for the treatment of cancer; 2) Bench assembly of medical accelerators for lithium-capture therapy for cancer treatment; 3) Promotion of lithium capture technology in East Asia as a service to hospitals to promote this therapy for cancer treatment; 4) Organization of production and construction in the Busan Technopark of a plant for the production of microsources for brachytherapy based on iodine isotopes for treatment. The potential revenue of the created enterprise can reach $50 million in the first 5 years, and the potential profit exceed $20 million in 4 years. The parties estimate the required investment in the project to be about $30 million. ABOUT RAFARMA PHARMACEUTICALS Rafarma Pharmaceuticals is a diversified pharmaceutical company dedicated to the new treatments and solutions development for patients in various fields. Regularly cooperating with leading research institutes and pharmaceutical companies around the world, the business has earned a reputation as a reliable manufacturer and distributor. Rafarma Pharmaceuticals has more than 25 programs in molecular biology, nuclear medicine, immunology, sustainable packaging, and many other fields at the moment. For more information, please visit https://www.noyarp.com CONTACTS: RAFARMA PHARMACEUTICALS babenko_press@rafapharm.com +1 (307) 218-0292 Sheridan, Wyoming, 82801, USA Source: Rafarma Pharmaceuticals, Inc. SINGAPORE, July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Together with Resorts World Sentosa, and EZ Buzz Pte. Ltd, WeRide launched its Robobus shuttle service at Sentosa in Singapore. This marks the official opening of Singapore's first publicly accessible, L4-level autonomous Robobus route for passenger operations. The shuttle route spans 1.2 kilometers with four stops along the way, taking approximately 12 minutes to complete. Hotel guests and tourists can board the Robobus at the nearest stop. Since obtaining Singapores M1 and T1 public road licenses for autonomous vehicles in December 2023, WeRide has rapidly deployed the Robobus, setting a new industry benchmark for implementation speed. On June 20, Mr. Alvin Tan, Minister of State for Trade & Industry, Culture, Community & Youth of Singapore, visited Sentosa with his delegation to inspect and experience the autonomous driving shuttle robobus. He later shared on social media: "Two months ago, I visited WeRide's autonomous technologies at their Headquarters in Guangzhou. Yesterday, I witnessed their AV application here at Resorts World Sentosa!" He also noted that by integrating autonomous vehicle technology, we allow for a more productive use of our limited manpower resources and ensure a more sustainable and scalable transport solution. As Asia's premier lifestyle destination, Resorts World Sentosa combines Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Dolphin Island, Adventure Cove Waterpark, a cluster of five-star luxury hotels, an integrated resort, multiple theme parks, and numerous celebrity chef restaurants. For ten consecutive years, it has been recognized as the "Best Integrated Resort" by the TGG Travel Awards. WeRide Robobus is the world's first purpose-built Level 4 autonomous driving minibus, specializing in micro-transit. It has been deployed and operated in nearly 30 cities worldwide, widely used in key cities, major passenger airports, luxury resorts, and popular tourist attractions. Wherever it runs, it becomes a popular spot for visitors to check in and experience. WeRide's development in Singapore has been remarkably swift and successful. The consecutive commercial deployments of the Robosweeper and Robobus in Singapore once again highlight WeRide's leading position in the global autonomous driving technology field and the replicability of its business model. In the future, WeRide will continue to collaborate with local partners to bring more validated products and business models to the Singapore and Southeast Asian markets. This will provide efficient and high-quality autonomous driving services to local citizens and tourists, contributing to the development of smart transportation systems in the region. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4c728e49-014e-4dc9-ab0d-48fd34929ff6 PR@WeRide.ai Wilmington, Delaware, United States, Transparency Market Research Inc. - , July 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The anticipated global machine-to-machine connection market size will reach USD 4 billion by 2034, with the projected advancement occurring at a moderate CAGR of 5.8% through the forecasted period. The last recorded size of the sector was USD 2.2 billion in 2023. The use of machine-to-machine connections has significantly enhanced the ability of machines to communicate and transfer data. This has led to collective work and individual processing, thereby uplifting operational efficiency. Notably, this communication has played a crucial role in helping organizations optimize their supply chains. With the growing emphasis on increasing the efficiency of supply chains, firms seek instruments that can reduce errors and help businesses gain control of key areas of supply chains. Such areas increase the importance of M2M connections as such connections can enhance the connectivity between machines. Inventory tracking, warehouse management, etc., can be enhanced, which are key operations of supply chains of firms. The demand for machine-to-machine connections, thus, will increase, creating prospects for key players. With the growing importance of IoT, cloud computing, big data, and other major technological advancements in business operations, the connectivity between two remote machines must be bolstered. This elevates the demand for M2M connections. Request for sample PDF copy of report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=27167 The increasing importance of 5G networks and the rising infrastructure for the same has created several prospects for the machine-to-machine connection market. With the enhanced connection speed of 5G technology, the reach of such connections can be spread wide, which fuels the demand for the industry. With the spurring urbanization, the installation of 5G towers has caught great speed. Due to this, the 5G network will likely be used regularly, creating growth prospects for the industry under consideration. Key Findings from the Market Report The global machine-to-machine connection market can be segmented based on different categories. Based on offerings, the sector is classified into hardware and software. The software segment is highly exploited due to the growing technological infrastructure. IoT, 5G network, and other key developments fuel the demand for the segment. Based on the connection type, WiFi-connected devices are gaining traction due to the ability to connect remote machines. The use of the Internet has been increasing, which is a cost-effective option, surging the demand for the segment. Based on the application, the industrys inventory management segment is expected to gain maximum attention. Due to the focus on bolstering the supply chain, organizations will use M2M connections for inventory management. The end-user industry segment distributes the use of M2M connections uniformly, as several sectors use such connections to enhance the speed of operations. Unlock Growth Potential in Your Industry! Download PDF Brochure: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=27167 Regional Profile The rising urbanization rate in the Asia-Pacific region will generate more demand for M2M connections in the region, helping the area to contribute to the market. Technological advancements in North America will help the region gain the largest space in the market. The industrial revolution will likely elevate the demand for machine-to-machine connections in Europe. In April 2024, Cisco Systems, Inc. acquired Isovalent. This strategic move will help the business gain more space in the landscape, helping the firm to consolidate brand value in the industry. In April 2024, Intel Corporation invested about USD 20 billion in two new chip factories in Licking County, Ohio. This will help the business diversify its presence in the United States of America. Competitive Landscape Various marketers have active participation in the competitive landscape of the machine-to-machine connection market. Cisco Systems, Inc. is a key business that offers various end-to-end security features, agile networks, and many other services. Commsolid GmbH is another key player offering ultra-low power solutions for the cellular IoT sector. The firm also offers Cat NB1 technology to users. Intel Corporation is a key competitor that offers different processors specially designed for laptops and other digital display devices. The business also offers different software, including performance solutions, open source projects, and many more. AT&T Intellectual Property Cisco Systems Inc. Commsolid GmbH Deutsche Telekom AG Intel Corporation Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd. NXP Semiconductors PHYSEC GmbH SEMTECH Telit Cinterion Texas Instruments Incorporated Thales TMobile USA Inc. u-blox Virscient Market Segmentation Offering Hardware Software Wired Ethernet Modbus Profinet Foundation Fieldbus Wireless Wi-fi Bluetooth Cellular Network Sigfox LoRa Others (RFID, NB-IoT, etc.) Smart Meters Smart Security Devices Fleet Management Industrial Automation Smart Homes Wearable Devices Inventory Management Others (Telemedicine Equipment, etc.) Automotive & Transportation Consumer Electronics Industrial Retail Energy & Utilities Others (Healthcare, etc.) Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East & Africa South America Buy this Premium Research Report: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=27167