Chinese, Guinea-Bissau presidents hold talks, elevate ties Xinhua) 08:06, July 11, 2024 Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with Umaro Sissoco Embalo, president of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing, capital of China, July 10, 2024. Xi held talks with Embalo at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday. They witnessed the signing of multiple bilateral cooperation documents after the talks. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao) BEIJING, July 10 (Xinhua) -- China and Guinea-Bissau on Wednesday elevated their relations to a strategic partnership. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Umaro Sissoco Embalo, president of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, announced this when holding talks in Beijing. Noting that in recent years, China and Guinea-Bissau have deepened bilateral relations, strengthened political mutual trust, expanded pragmatic cooperation and enhanced international coordination, Xi said China supports Guinea-Bissau in independently exploring a development path that suits its national conditions. Xi said China is willing to work with Guinea-Bissau to inherit the traditional friendship, consolidate political mutual trust, expand pragmatic cooperation, continuously enrich the connotation of the strategic partnership between the two countries, and help Guinea-Bissau achieve better national development. He stressed that China stands ready to strengthen friendly exchanges with Guinea-Bissau at all levels, enhance experience-sharing on governance, and expand cooperation in areas such as agriculture, mining, infrastructure construction and the blue economy under the guidance of the high-quality construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Xi said China welcomes high-quality agricultural products from Guinea-Bissau to enter the Chinese market, and encourages Chinese enterprises to invest and carry out cooperation in Guinea-Bissau and help Guinea-Bissau transform its resource potential into development momentum. China is willing to continue to provide support within its capacity for Guinea-Bissau's domestic construction, and will continue to send its rice experts and medical teams to assist Guinea-Bissau in ensuring food security and developing public health, he added. Xi called on the two sides to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in education, youth and other fields to bring the two peoples' hearts closer. China will continue to provide government scholarships and training opportunities to help Guinea-Bissau cultivate more talents for its national development, he said. Both China and Africa have splendid civilizations, both have suffered from the painful history of colonization and aggression, and both cherish and pursue national independence and liberation, Xi said, adding that mutual support and assistance between China and African countries are sincere and genuine. Xi said China and African countries are good brothers with sincerity, real results, amity and good faith, and offer an exemplary model for unity and cooperation between developing nations. Under the new circumstances, the two sides should join hands to usher in a new era, Xi added. Xi said the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is an important platform for the Chinese and African people to practice the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and promote common development. Noting that two weeks ago, the commemorative events marking the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence were held in Beijing, and this autumn, a new FOCAC Summit will be held in Beijing, Xi said China is willing to work with Guinea-Bissau and other African countries to champion the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, discuss major plans for China-Africa cooperation in the new era, safeguard the common interests of developing countries and international fairness and justice, and jointly build a high-level China-Africa community with a shared future. Embalo said Guinea-Bissau and China enjoy a solid and cordial relationship marked by unwavering mutual support, adding that whenever Guinea-Bissau faces difficulties, China has always provided invaluable assistance without hesitation, a gesture that the people of Guinea-Bissau will never forget. Embalo said Guinea-Bissau will continue to stand firmly with China, uphold the one-China principle and support China's position on its core interests such as the Taiwan question. Guinea-Bissau admires China's remarkable development achievements and regards China as its top priority in foreign relations and most important partner. Guinea-Bissau hopes to learn from China's development experience, and strengthen cooperation with China in areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure and mineral resources. Embalo said China has never engaged in colonialism, interfered in the internal affairs of other countries, or pointed fingers at other countries, and China has always treated small countries with equality and respect, consistently matching its words with actions. Noting that China has brought cooperation projects to Africa, including schools, hospitals and roads, delivering benefits to the African people, Embalo said Guinea-Bissau greatly appreciates China's important role and positive contributions in helping the development of the African continent, and actively supports China in hosting the new FOCAC Summit. Guinea-Bissau supports the BRI, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi, and is willing to closely communicate and cooperate with China on multilateral affairs, to jointly build a community with a shared future for humanity, Embalo added. After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of multiple bilateral cooperation documents regarding the Global Development Initiative, economic development, customs inspection and quarantine, geology, mining and other fields. The two sides also issued a joint statement on establishing the strategic partnership. Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Umaro Sissoco Embalo, president of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao) Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcome ceremony for Umaro Sissoco Embalo, president of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, who is on a state visit to China, at the square outside the east gate of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, July 10, 2024. Xi held talks with Embalo at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Lin) Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcome ceremony for Umaro Sissoco Embalo, president of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, who is on a state visit to China, at the square outside the east gate of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, July 10, 2024. Xi held talks with Embalo at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao) Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan pose for a group photo with Umaro Sissoco Embalo, president of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, and his wife Dinisia Reis Embalo prior to the talks between Xi and Embalo in Beijing, capital of China, July 10, 2024. Xi held talks with Embalo, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcome ceremony for Umaro Sissoco Embalo, president of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, who is on a state visit to China, at the square outside the east gate of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, July 10, 2024. Xi held talks with Embalo at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Qiqihar's barbecue industry heats up in NE China Heilongjiang People's Daily Online) 10:38, July 11, 2024 A livestreamer advertises products at the barbecue livestream hub of Qihan Yangjia, a company in Qiqihar city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Xu Chenglong) Qihan Yangjia, a company based in Qiqihar city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, sold 7.13 million yuan ($981,000) worth of local beef via livestreams in a single month, as the city aims to build a 100-billion-yuan barbecue industry. The company's revenue exceeded 200 million yuan in 2023, with online sales accounting for about 70 percent of the total, and a repurchase rate of 67 percent, according to Wang Hailong, general manager of the company's e-commerce department. Guangdong and Fujian provinces ranked as the top two sales regions. Qiqihar's efforts to build a thriving barbecue industry rely on quality beef, with prices 20 times higher than ordinary beef. Qiqihar Longjiang Yuansheng Wagyu Industry Co., Ltd. ensures quality traceability by using chips for each head of cattle. Photo shows Wagyu cattle of Qiqihar Longjiang Yuansheng Wagyu Industry Co., Ltd. in Qiqihar city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Xu Chenglong) The company imported nearly 2,000 purebred Wagyu from New Zealand and Australia in 2012 and 2013. "Qiqihar's excellent ecology and cold climate contribute to Wagyu beef's high levels of marbling and tender texture, resulting in high-quality beef products," said Cai Chengda from the company. Longjiang county in Qiqihar has implemented favorable policies to develop its high-end beef cattle industry. By the end of 2023, the county raised 496,000 beef cattle, a 7.3 percent increase year on year, and the output value of its livestock sector grew 13.5 percent to 6.85 billion yuan. The high-end beef cattle industry has become a pillar industry in the county. Authentic Qiqihar barbecue relies on beef sourced from the city. According to Qichacha, a leading platform offering company information inquiry services, there are 23,105 Qiqihar barbecue restaurants in China, accounting for approximately 12 percent of all barbecue restaurants nationwide. A worker checks a head of cattle at Qiqihar Longjiang Yuansheng Wagyu Industry Co., Ltd. in Qiqihar city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Xu Chenglong) Data from Qiqihar's commerce bureau shows that the city's barbecue industry has been gaining momentum since the launch of cold chain warehouses in June 2023, with online retail sales exceeding 2 billion yuan in 2023. As part of its promotional effort, Qiqihar launched the 2024 Longjiang Food Culture Festival and Qiqihar Barbecue Food Festival on June 24. "This year, to promote the deep integration of Qiqihar barbecue with creative design, we're inviting the public to contribute creativity to Qiqihar barbecue and utilize more creative design elements to boost the development of the Qiqihar barbecue industry," said Cong Qi, deputy director of the Service Trade Department at the Commerce Bureau of Qiqihar. People enjoy a barbecue in Qiqihar city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Xu Chenglong) Qiqihar barbecue, an outstanding representative of Heilongjiang's distinctive cuisine, boasts a history spanning over 300 years. In 2022, the World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry named Qiqihar the world's barbecue capital. This year, Qiqihar is advancing 13 key projects across the entire barbecue industry chain, with a total investment of 6.3 billion yuan. Photo shows barbecue dishes in Qiqihar city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Xu Chenglong) Photo shows the scene of the 2024 Longjiang Food Culture Festival and Qiqihar Barbecue Food Festival. (People's Daily Online/Xu Chenglong) Photo shows a creative barbecue-themed vehicle at the 2024 Longjiang Food Culture Festival and Qiqihar barbecue food festival. (People's Daily Online/Xu Chenglong) Photo shows barbecue-themed cultural and creative products at the 2024 Longjiang food culture festival and Qiqihar barbecue food festival. (People's Daily Online/Xu Chenglong) Photo shows a beer brand in Qiqihar city, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. (People's Daily Online/Xu Chenglong) (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) Silver Eagle Beverages has been acquired by Sunkey Beverage Holdings. Silver Eagle Beverages The San Antonio Spurs Coyote serves as Parade Marshall as Silver Eagle Beverages cruises the South Texas Medical Center streets in a show of appreciation for hospital staff in 2020. Silver Eagle has been acquired by Sunkey Beverage Holdings. Tom Reel/Staff photographer A Florida-based company has completed its acquisition of San Antonios Silver Eagle Beverages, which bills itself as one of the countrys largest beer and beverage wholesalers. Sunkey Beverage Holdings, a family-owned beer distributor with operations in Florida and Arkansas, did not disclose what it paid for Silver Eagle in its announcement Thursday that the previously announced transaction had closed. The company will continue to operate under the Silver Eagle name but with new leadership. Sunkey CEO Tim Mitchell will serve as CEO of Silver Eagle, replacing John Nau III. Greg Mitchell will serve as president. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We have great appreciation and respect for John Naus leadership in the beer industry for the past 40 years. He has positioned this company for growth and success and we look forward to building upon his legacy, Tim Mitchell said in a statement. We look forward to leading the outstanding group of employees that make up the Silver Eagle team to continue providing excellent service to San Antonio and the surrounding area. Silver Eagles territory encompasses Bexar and 12 other counties in southwest Texas. It distributes beverages from Anheuser-Busch, Constellation Brands and Mark Anthony Brands Inc., among others. The company employs more than 500 people and has operations in San Antonio, Del Rio and Carrizo Springs. Semiology, the study of signs and symbols, has long been a powerful form of communication in human societies. In Ghana, the Adinkra symbols hold a special place as a means of conveying deeper philosophical and symbolic meanings. Used by Ghanaians to communicate and celebrate important occasions, Adinkra symbols are rich in significance and serve as a unique form of expression. The Akans in Ghana have a tradition of using designs from wax prints to communicate and commemorate events. These designs carry symbolic meanings that are not taken lightly by the Akans, as they understand the significance and interpretation behind each symbol. The use of symbols in their clothing choices reflects their communication style, with each symbol conveying a specific message or representing a particular concept. During the recent introduction of Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh as the running mate of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the King of Asante, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, made a striking appearance in his traditional kente cloth adorned with two prominent Adinkra symbols: Eban (fence) and Mako (pepper). The Adinkra symbol Eban represents safety, security, and love. It carries a profound message about protection and the safety that love provides. By donning this symbol, the King may have been symbolically expressing his enduring affection for his 'grandson,' Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh, and his commitment to protecting him. These sentiments were echoed in the King's heartfelt speech highlighting the life and achievements of Dr. Mathew Opoku Prempeh. What makes the combination of 'Mako' and 'Eban' particularly intriguing is the juxtaposition of meanings. Mako, derived from the Akan proverb "Mako nyinaa mpatu mmere" (Not all peppers, perhaps on a single stem, ripen at the same time), serves as a reminder that not everyone progresses at the same pace, and that those who are more fortunate should assist those less fortunate. It conveys a message of humility and the cyclical nature of life, emphasizing the need for compassion and support for others. The proverb also encourages continuous personal growth and development, reminding individuals that circumstances can change and that one should strive for advancement rather than resigning to fate. The symbolism behind 'Mako' and 'Eban' prompts reflection on the wisdom encapsulated in these age-old symbols and inspires appreciation for the profound messages they convey. The King has imbued our Adinkra symbols with profound significance and usefulness, effectively communicating wisdom and illuminating knowledge. Kwame Adinkra The writer is a senior broadcast Journalist in 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 Former CPP General Secretary, James Kwabena Bomfeh has expressed delight over the Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh ticket into the December 7 polls. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Energy Minister, also called NAPO, was officially unveiled on Tuesday, July 9, as Running Mate to partner the NPP presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia into the elections. NAPO was presented to the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and later to the people of Kumasi in a colorful ceremony at the Jubilee Park. Touching on the matter during Peace FMs Kokrokoo panel discussion show, Kabilla said; I can tell you that Bawumia/NAPO ticket is a winnable ticket. Their ticket is an enigma in the politics of our country. However, he specifically advised Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh saying the 2024 elections, you have to look more than within the NPP. Many of the people who will help you to win the elections are not only NPP members. Think about them. Meanwhile, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is currently touring the Northern Regions in phase 2 of his nationwide campaign. His Running Mate is also expected to embark on a campaign tour to canvass the populace for their votes. Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Managing Editor of the New Crusading Guide newspaper, Abdul Malik Kweku Baako has expressed his disappointment over the running mate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh popularly known as NAPO's recent "gaffe". Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, during his unveiling in Kumasi said no President, including Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, has contributed to Ghanas development significantly as President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. Since independence from 1957 till today, weve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. I say from 1957 till today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah no president who has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, he asserted. He goofed James Kwabena Bomfeh, popularly known as Kabila speaking in reaction on Peace FM's morning show 'Kokrokoo' said Napo's comment was in bad taste. He goofed big time...He should not have made that statement, simply because he wouldnt have had time to explain to the audience what he meant by the statement that Akufo Addos achievements surpass that of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. I believe that what added salt to injury was his comment of your Kwame Nkrumah which sends a wrong signal to the persona and the great achievements of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. I want him to know and understand that, we dont undermine Kwame Nkrumah. Admittedly, Kwame Nkrumah wasnt a perfect human being, but he led Ghana to gain our Freedom, thereby making Ghana the first Country in sub-Sahara Africa to gain independence from colonial rulers. Beyond his great works, he has also penned down lots of articles and books more than any other President in the history of Ghana, intellectually contributing to the development of the minds of Ghanaians and the world at large, especially among the black race and the suffering people around the world" he stated. Unnecessary, Needless Kweku Baako was speaking on the same platform said the Nkrumah, Akufo-Addo comparison was irrelevant. "Let me be brutally frank, the comparison Napo made had no relevance. It was a needless distraction. It's so unnecessary, completely irrelevant and needless. what is at stake right now is an election...as the running mate being outdoored; you can exalt NPP projects; President Akufo Addo's projects, you're entitled to that but don't drag in another figure. Needless distraction; you don't provide armour for your opponents or neutrals; needless and it lacks relevance...I'm disappointed" he lamented Listen to him in the video Unnecessary, Needless Kweku Baako was speaking on the same platform said the Nkrumah, Akufo-Addo comparison was irrelevant. "Let me be brutally frank, the comparison Napo made had no relevance. It was a needless distraction. It's so unnecessary, completely irrelevant and needless. what is at stake right now is an election...as the running mate being outdoored; you can exalt NPP projects; President Akufo Addo's projects, you're entitled to that but don't drag in another figure. Needless distraction; you don't provide armour for your opponents or neutrals; needless and it lacks relevance...I'm disappointed" he lamented Listen to him in the video below Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The flagbearer of the NPP, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has dared flagbearer of the NDC, former President John Dramani Mahama to have a live presidential debate to explain their visions and policies to the people of Ghana. Addressing thousands of his supporters last night in Bunkpurugu, North East Region, Dr. Bawumia said he is eagerly waiting for a debate with Mahama. However, he is less optimistic this debate will come off because, to him, Mahama is "running away". "I am looking forward to a debate with John Mahama on the economy, on the country on the governance. "But I am afraid that he is running away from a debate. His people say he doesn't want to debate. I have never heard an opposition leader who doesn't want to debate. But he knows I will expose the emptiness of his policies, Dr. Bawumia said. Dr. Bawumia added that former President Mahama and his team are unable to explain their 24-hour economy to Ghanaians, hence avoiding the debate. "He says he has a 24-hour economy which he cannot explain. It is as empty as an empty barrel. He cannot explain it and none of his people can explain it. They say they will be exporting lions and elephants." "When we meet mano a mano, we can debate and the country will see where our policies lie and that is where we should go. We should give the country an opportunity to listen to us. If he chooses not to debate, I'll continue to sell my policies." In advanced democracies, presidential debates are firmly rooted as part of the electoral process. Many Ghanaians including civil society groups have called for a debate between the two leading candidates of the election and with Vice President Bawumia throwing the challenge to his opponent, the ball is now in the court of Mr. Mahama. Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Director of Communications of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has stated that the Akufo-Addo government has achieved significant milestones in the history of the fourth republic, hence, touting the achievements should not be seen as denigration of the legacies of the first President of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah of blessed memory. According to Richard Ahiagbah, the statement made by the running of the Presidential candidate of the NPP, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh is nothing but a political communication. Taking to his official X page, the NPPs Communication Director stated that, in the arena of politics, and especially in a political season as volatile as the ones Ghanaians have found themselves in, it is a normal thing for politicians to make such remarks and comparisons. This he said, in defense to Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempehs comparison of the achievements of President Akufo-Addo, where he rated Akufo-Addo higher than Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Mr. Ahiagbah wrote, what is political communication without comparisons? Political achievements are not measured, can not be measured, or should not be measured in a vacuum. Comparison is how it is done. This government has achieved significant milestones in the history of our four republics. Stating these unprecedented milestones should not be deemed a slight on the legacies of Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah or others. Its political communication. Outlining the numerous achievements of the Akufo-Addo administration, Richard Ahiagbah stated, Some of the unprecedented achievements of this government include: Implementation of a nationwide Free Senior High School (SHS) policy. Provision of one ambulance per constituency. 1D1F, the policy to establish at least one factory in each district. Agenda 111, which entails the construction of 101 district hospitals, 7 regional hospitals, and 3 psychiatric hospitals. Creation of 6 new regions simultaneously to bring development closer to the people. Introduction of mobile money payment interoperability and a comprehensive digitalization agenda to ensure Ghanas active participation in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Construction of 11,975.96 kilometers of roads, with additional roads currently under construction. Expansion of the School Feeding Program to accommodate 3 million pupils daily." He further maintained, President Akufo-Addos initiative to decentralize power by allowing the people to elect Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs). These accomplishments are genuinely unprecedented. According to available records from the four republics, no other president or head of state has achieved similar feats. I urge you to vote for the Bawumia-Napo ticket to drive more positive developments for Ghana. At the Jubilee Park in Kumasi on July 9, 2024, the NPP orgasnised a colourful unveiling for the newly endorsed running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh. Prior to the unveiling, the running mate was introduced to the Asanteman council, where the Asantehene, Otumfuor Osei-Tutu II, was present to give words of advice to Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh. Addressing an overwhelmingly enthusiastic and boisterous crowd, Dr. Matythew Opoku Prempeh said, I can boldly say that if the history of Ghana is told from 1957, we have never had a president that has helped Ghana more than Nana Akufo-Addo. I mean from 1957, even including your Kwame Nkrumah, none of them has protected Ghana and developed the country more than Nana Akufo-Addo, Dr. Opoku Prempeh emphasised that, President Akufo-Addo has developed this country to the admiration of all. Therefore, we will not allow what happened in 2008 to repeat itself. It will be most appropriate for Nana Akufo-Addo to hand over to his junior brother, Dr Bawumia. However, the statement of the running mate of the NPP did not sit well with supporters of the CPP and the Nkrumaists, who are therefore, calling for an unqualified apology and a retraction of what they describe a rather, an unfortunate comments. The CPP said, The Convention Peoples Party calls on the Honourable Minister, within 24 hours, to do the Honourable thing for the sake of the Countrys image, and immediately resign from all Governmental and political positions, and issue an immediate apology and retraction. Failing which the party calls on His Excellency President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, to withdraw the Hon. Minister from his position as Minister of Energy, and also calls on His Excellency Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to withdraw him as his Vice Presidential candidate, for the sake of the Countrys image, and its long term political and economic fortunes. Ghanaians and Nkrumaists worldwide, will have no choice but to hit the streets to register their displeasure if the above, or similar measures, are not immediately enforced within 24 hours. As the popular saying goes, one who puts on his armour should not boast like one who takes it off, there is an election to be fought, albeit at the ballot box, and it would serve the sitting Government well to heed the voice of the people, lest their imminent electoral defeat becomes even worse than it is predicted to be. 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 Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has made a compelling case as to why the people in the Northern region should give him the nod to be President of the Republic of Ghana over his main competitor, John Dramani Mahama. At a courtesy call on the paramount chief of Chereponi in the North East region, Dr. Bawumia underscored the fact that although he has not been president before, unlike Mr. John Mahama, he has assisted to bring more development to the northern part of the country. He cited areas in roads, healthcare delivery, education, energy and many others which have all been executed under the tenure of the current government and visible to skeptics. "As you know, per the constitution of Ghana, all the powers are vested in the president. I am Vice President. I have not been President before unlike John Mahama but I have assisted to bring more development to Chereponi and the north than Mahama. It is therefore in the interest of the region to elect me as the president and not Mahama," he argued. Vice President Bawumia pledged his commitment to the development of the people in the North, adding that he will do his best to deliver on the requests made to him. He particularly mentioned the fact that the programme for the extension of rural electrification projects has been approved with work to commence very soon, while modalities for the establishment of the nursing training school are expected to be completed by the end of the year. According to him, the development of the north and the country as a whole remains his topmost priority, and with the support of all Ghanaians, he is poised to deliver accelerated, holistic, transformational leadership. Dr Bawumia, who is in the North East Region on the second day of his nationwide constituency-focused campaign, will tour the Chereponi, Saboba and Mion Constituencies on Thursday. 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 Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah, a Governance lecturer at the Central University, has called on the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to guide their Running Mate in his public speeches. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh on Tuesday, July 9, was publicly unveiled in Kumasi as the Vice Presidential Candidate to Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Presidential Candidate of the NPP. During the outdooring ceremony, Dr. Opoku Prempeh, popularly called "NAPO", made some statements about Ghanas first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, which have infuriated lots of Ghanaians, particularly the Nkrumahists. NAPO asserted that no President in the history of Ghana has ever worked to develop Ghana like the President Akufo-Addo. Since independence from 1957 till today, weve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. I say from 1957 till today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah no president has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, he said. The event was largely attended by the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Ministers, Members of Parliament, members and supporters of the party. The Convention People's Party have petitioned the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to dismiss NAPO as Energy Minister and demands the NPP to drop him as their Running Mate. The Nkrumahist party also admonished Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh to retract his words and apologize. Failing which the party calls on His Excellency President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, to withdraw the Hon. Minister from his position as Minister of Energy, and also calls on His Excellency Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to withdraw him as his Vice Presidential candidate, for the sake of the countrys image, and its long term political and economic fortunes. Ghanaians and Nkrumaists worldwide, will have no choice but to hit the streets to register their displeasure if the above, or similar measures, are not immediately enforced within 24 hours." As the popular saying goes, 'one who puts on his armour should not boast like one who takes it off', there is an election to be fought, albeit at the ballot box, and it would serve the sitting Government well to heed the voice of the people, lest their imminent electoral defeat becomes even worse than it is predicted to be, a statement by the CPP read. Discussing the issue on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show, Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah strongly opined that the handlers of Dr. Opoku Prempeh have a difficult task ahead but implored them to work everything to manage their Running Mate. "They have to get good managers for him. He is a good person by all standards. I didn't know him but listening testimonies about him, he has indeed helped a lot of people; yes, it is good but...he should watch his tongue", he stated. Dr. Otchere-Ankrah stressed; "The party executives have got a lot of work to do." 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 Governance lecturer, Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah has debunked the claims by Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Vice Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party, regarding Ghana's first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh was on Tuesday, July 9, outdoored in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, in a colorful ceremony but his statements about Dr. Kwame Nkrumah have taken away the shine of the event. Delivering a speech at the event and comparing track records of the Akufo-Addo and previous administrations, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh alias NAPO asserted that no President in the history of Ghana can ever be compared to President Nana Addo so far as Ghana's development is concerned. Since independence from 1957 till today, weve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. I say from 1957 till today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah . . . no president has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, he said. Addressing the matter during "Kokrokoo" panel discussion on Peace FM, Dr. Otchere-Ankrah who lectures at the Central University wondered why Dr. Opoku Prempeh would make such comments about Ghana's hero, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. To him, NAPO's statements were distasteful and marred the beauty of his unveiling ceremony. Dr. Otchere-Ankrah listed some major developmental projects that Nkrumah did which remain unprecedented till date, citing the Akosombo Dam and Tema communities among others. He added that, to him, Ex-President John Kufour is far better than President Akufo-Addo in terms of the country's development. "I don't want to stir controversy but President Kufour did better than President Akufo-Addo and you know it," he told host Nana Yaw Kesseh. 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 NPP Member of Parliament for Kade constituency, Alexander Agyare has found Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh's Nkrumah comments unfortunate and hoped his Running Mate hadn't picked on Ghana's first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, in his public speech on Tuesday, July 9. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, affectionately called "NAPO", during his outdooring in Kumasi took a swipe at Dr. Kwame Nkrumah stating since independence from 1957 till today, weve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo". "I say from 1957 till today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah no president has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, he emphasized. Hon. Alexander Agyare, speaking on Peace FM's Thursday edition of "Kokrokoo" show on Peace FM, cautioned Dr. Opoku Prempeh and all political actors to desist from attacking the reputation and legacy of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. To him, "Kwame Nkrumah is our hero. If for nothing at all, he obtained independence for Ghana...and no one can change this," hence warned against denigrating him. 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 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 photo of a mammoth foot in a permafrost environment. Credit: Love Dalen An international research team has assembled the genome and 3D chromosomal structures of a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoththe first time such a feat has been achieved for any ancient DNA sample. The fossilized chromosomes, which are around a million times longer than most ancient DNA fragments, provide insight into how the mammoth's genome was organized within its living cells and which genes were active within the skin tissue from which the DNA was extracted. This unprecedented level of structural detail was retained because the mammoth underwent freeze-drying shortly after it died, which meant that its DNA was preserved in a glass-like state. The results are presented July 11 in the journal Cell. "This is a new type of fossil, and its scale dwarfs that of individual ancient DNA fragmentsa million times more sequence," says corresponding author Erez Lieberman Aiden, Director of the Center for Genome Architecture at Baylor College of Medicine. "It is also the first time a karyotype of any sort has been determined for an ancient sample." Knowing the three-dimensional architecture of a genome provides a lot of additional information beyond its sequence, but most ancient DNA specimens consist of very small, scrambled DNA fragments. Building off work mapping the 3D structure of the human genome, Aiden thought that if the right ancient DNA sample could be foundone with the 3D organization of the fragments still intactit would be possible to use the same strategies to assemble ancient genomes. The researchers tested dozens of samples over the course of five years before landing on an unusually well-preserved woolly mammoth that was excavated in northeastern Siberia in 2018. "We think it spontaneously freeze-dried shortly after its death," says corresponding author Olga Dudchenko of the Center for Genome Architecture at Baylor College of Medicine. "The nuclear architecture in a dehydrated sample can survive for an incredibly long period of time." To reconstruct the mammoth's genomic architecture, the researchers extracted DNA from a skin sample taken behind the mammoth's ear. They used a method called Hi-C that allows them to detect which sections of DNA are likely to be in close spatial proximity and interact with each other in their natural state in the nucleus. "Imagine you have a puzzle that has three billion pieces, but you don't have the picture of the final puzzle to work from," says corresponding author Marc A. Marti-Renom, an ICREA research professor and structural genomicist at the Center Nacional d'Analisi Genomica (CNAG) and the Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG) in Barcelona. "Hi-C allows you to have an approximation of that picture before you start putting the puzzle pieces together." Then, they combined the physical information from the Hi-C analysis with DNA sequencing to identify the interacting DNA sections and create an ordered map of the mammoth's genome, using the genomes of present-day elephants as a template. The analysis revealed that woolly mammoths had 28 chromosomesthe same number as present-day Asian and African elephants. Remarkably, the fossilized mammoth chromosomes also retained a huge amount of physical integrity and detail, including the nanoscale loops that bring transcription factors in contact with the genes they control. By examining the compartmentalization of genes within the nucleus, the researchers were able to identify genes that were active and inactive within the mammoth's skin cellsa proxy for epigenetics or transcriptomics. The mammoth skin cells had distinct gene activation patterns compared to the skin cells of its closest relative, the Asian elephant, including for genes potentially related to its woolly-ness and cold tolerance. "For the first time, we have a woolly mammoth tissue for which we know roughly which genes were switched on and which genes were off," says Marti-Renom. "This is an extraordinary new type of data, and it's the first measure of cell-specific gene activity of the genes in any ancient DNA sample." Although the method used in this study hinges on unusually well-preserved fossils, the researchers are optimistic that it could be used to study other ancient DNA specimensfrom mammoths to Egyptian mummiesas well as more recently preserved museum specimens. For mammoths, the next steps would include examining the epigenetic patterns of other tissues. "These results have obvious consequences for contemporary efforts aimed at woolly mammoth de-extinction," says corresponding author M. Thomas Gilbert, a paleo-genomicist at the University of Copenhagen and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. More information: Three-dimensional genome architecture persists in a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth skin sample, Cell (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.06.002. www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(24)00642-1 Journal information: Cell 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 has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Predictive algorithms commonly used by colleges and universities to determine whether students will be successful may be racially biased against Black and Hispanic students, according to new research published today in AERA Open. The studyconducted by Denisa Gandara (University of Texas at Austin), Hadis Anahideh (University of Illinois Chicago), Matthew Ison (Northern Illinois University), and Lorenzo Picchiarini (University of Illinois Chicago)found that predictive models also tend to overestimate the potential success of white and Asian students. "Our results show that predictive models yield less accurate results for Black and Hispanic students, systemically making more errors," said study co-author Denisa Gandara, an assistant professor in the College of Education at the University of Texas at Austin. These models incorrectly predict failure for Black and Hispanic students 19% and 21% of the time, respectively, compared to false negative rates for white and Asian groups of 12% and 6%. At the same time, the models incorrectly predict success for white and Asian students 65% and 73% of the time, respectively, compared to false negative rates for Black and Hispanic students of 33% and 28%. "Our findings reveal a troubling patternmodels that incorporate commonly used features to predict success for college students end up forecasting worse outcomes for racially minoritized groups and are often inaccurate," said co-author Hadis Anahideh, an assistant professor of industrial engineering at the University of Illinois Chicago. "This underscores the necessity of addressing inherent biases in predictive analytics in education settings." Credit: American Educational Research Association The study used nationally representative data spanning 10 years from the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics, including 15,244 students. Findings from the study also point to the potential value of using statistical techniques to mitigate bias, although there are still limitations. "While our research tested various bias-mitigation techniques, we found that no single approach fully eliminates disparities in prediction outcomes or accuracy across different fairness notions," said Anahideh. Higher education institutions are increasingly turning to machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms that predict student success to inform various decisions, including those related to admissions, budgeting, and student-success interventions. In recent years, there have been concerns raised that these predictive models may perpetuate social disparities. "As colleges and universities become more data-informed, it is imperative that predictive models are designed with attention to their biases and potential consequences," said Gandara. "It is critical for institutional users to be aware of the historical discrimination reflected in the data and to not penalize groups that have been subjected to racialized social disadvantages." The study's authors noted that the practical implications of the findings are significant but depend on how the predicted outcomes are used. If models are used to make college admissions decisions, admission may be denied to racially minoritized students if the models show that previous students of the same racial categories had lower success. Higher education observers have also warned that predictions could lead to educational tracking, encouraging Black and Hispanic students to pursue courses or majors that are perceived as less challenging. On the other hand, biased models may lead to greater support for disadvantaged students. By falsely predicting failure for racially minoritized students who succeed, the model may direct greater resources to those students. Even then, Gandara noted, practitioners must be careful not to produce deficit narratives about minoritized students, treating them as though they had a lower probability of success. "Our findings point to the importance of institutions training end users on the potential for algorithmic bias," said Gandara. "Awareness can help users contextualize predictions for individual students and make more informed decisions." She noted that policymakers might consider policies to monitor or evaluate the use of predictive analytics, including their design, bias in predicted outcomes, and applications. More information: Inside the Black Box: Detecting and Mitigating Algorithmic Bias Across Racialized Groups in College Student-Success Prediction, AERA Open (2024). DOI: 10.1177/23328584241258741 Provided by American Educational Research Association This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain The theme of this year's NAIDOC Week is "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud." The organizers are calling for "a society where the wisdom and contributions of Indigenous peoples are fully valued and respected." ,Australia's Indigenous peoples have gained intimate Knowledges of this continent through long-term observations and holistic thinking. They have connections to their traditional estate, known as Country, spanning thousands of generations. As climate change worsens, Indigenous peoples can offer valuable insights into sustainability and resilience. Governments and others increasingly recognize how Indigenous Knowledges can helps us better monitor and adapt to a warmer world. This can lead to better understanding and decision-making. When it comes to climate change in Australia, the fires of Knowledge are burning bright. It's time Indigenous Knowledges are heardand it's time for action. What are Indigenous Knowledges? Indigenous Knowledges refer to the "understandings, skills and philosophies developed by societies with long histories of interaction with their natural surroundings." These Knowledges emphasize the inextricable connections between mind, body and Country, as well as humans and non-humans. The Knowledges held by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are highly relevant to the process of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)the United Nations body whose reports inform government responses to the climate threat, including policies and funding. But only in the past two years have the vast Knowledges of Indigenous peoples around the world been meaningfully included in IPCC reportslargely because such data were not widely documented in peer-reviewed academic literature. 'Respectful inclusion' The authors of this article were on a team commissioned by the federal government to advise on ways to enhance Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' voices in the IPCC process. Our team included three Aboriginal and one Torres Strait Islander scholars and three non-Indigenous allies. Three were authors on the sixth IPCC assessment report. We delivered our advice to government in July last year, ahead of planning discussions for the seventh IPCC assessment report now being prepared. Our report made 29 recommendations, including: respectful inclusion in IPCC reports of Indigenous scientific data alongside Western scientific data information in IPCC reports from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities that considers well-being in a holistic way, that is connected to Country, involves historical truth-telling and is Indigenous-led set and engage a minimum number of Indigenous IPCC authors from Australia provide climate change information to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through appropriate channels. Our research involved a survey and an associated "extended yarning" method, which recognizes Indigenous peoples' preference for, and skills in, oral communication. The yarns involved conversations up to 90-minutes with Elders, Indigenous scholars and community leaders. The report yielded many insights into how Indigenous Knowledges can help Australia track and cope with climate change. In the spirit of this year's NAIDOC Week theme, we outline these below. Identifying climate changes We documented how Indigenous communities monitor climate changes. For example, a Melukerdee respondent from Lutruwita/Tasmania identified the effects on biodiversity: "I have seen changes in the patterns of seasons all around. Flowers bloom too early, crops are lost from summers that are too warm and too long, uncontrollable fires that are too hot ravage Country and leave animals homeless, the abundance of special cultural species reduces and diseases take out many key species of different ecological areas which have previously long stood resistant." In fact, the IPCC's sixth assessment report noted the value of engaging Indigenous knowledge holders in fauna field surveys and the benefits for conservation planning. Adapting to a warmer world The long-standing "relational thinking" of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is an important resource in the stewardship of Country. The term refers to a worldview that humans are in a relationship with everything else on Earth. This thinking enables an understanding of how ecosystems respond to, adapt to, and recover from human-driven climate change. One Aboriginal respondent told us: "There is limited recognition regarding First Nation peoples other than relegating us to 'vulnerable communities' in context of climate change. This disregards our over 65,000 years of sustainable practices and customary knowledge of the natural environment and thus our significant contribution to policy." The IPCC's sixth assessment report identified Indigenous Knowledges relevant to climate adaptation, including: Indigenous fire management to reduce greenhouse gas emissions Indigenous Ranger land management, including carbon abatement, weed management and recovery of threatened species "cultural flows" in waterways that define when and where water is to be delivered, particularly in a changing climate. Sharing climate information with all Our report has been shared in written, verbal and animated formats to research participants and government decision-makers. We engaged Wiradjuri artist Dr. Tom Munro-Harrison to create both the report's cover art, and an animation we are launching today. Munro-Harrison's art seeks to promote Indigenous voices and perspectives on key issues, including climate change. He says, "My graphic art practice acts as the site of this self-determining activity and process, where meaning-making and identity can be explored in ways that demonstrate the ongoing survivance, resurgence and modernity of my Wiradjuri culture." Indigenous self-representation was crucial to our work. Munro-Harrison reflects this in the animation by using direct quotes from Indigenous cultural practitioners who informed the report. This legitimizes primary sources of cultural practice in the form of Indigenous oral story. Planning for the seventh IPCC assessment report is underway. The federal government has already shared key aspects of our advice with the IPCC international secretariat. The IPCC has come far in recognizing Indigenous Knowledges. For example, it is now seeking authors with expertise in how to integrate "different forms of climate-related knowledge and data, including Indigenous Knowledge." There is more work to do, and the task is urgent. Accelerating climate change means the value of these Knowledges is more pertinent than ever. 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: The detection efficiency for a double-lined DWD where the two stars have a similar flux contribution. Credit: arXiv (2024). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2407.02594 An international team of astronomers reports the discovery of 34 rare double-lined double white dwarf binary systems using the Intermediate-dispersion Spectrograph and Imaging System (ISIS) on the William Herschel Telescope (WHT). The finding was detailed in a research paper published on the preprint server arXiv. Astronomers are interested in finding and studying double white dwarfs (DWDs), as their mergers are believed to produce new white dwarfs with higher masses. It is assumed that some high-mass white dwarfs in the solar neighborhood could be DWD merger products. So far, the majority of binaries, including DWDs, have been detected by Doppler shifts in their spectral lines; hence, these systems are called spectroscopic binaries. Observations show that in some spectroscopic binaries, spectral lines from both stars are visible, and these lines are alternately double and single. These systems are known as double-lined spectroscopic binaries (SB2). The number of known SB2 white dwarf systems with well-measured mass and orbital parameters is still relatively small. Finding new objects of this type could be crucial in order to advance our knowledge about double white dwarfs in general. A group of astronomers led by James Munday of the University of Warwick, UK, has inspected 117 DWD binary candidates with ISIS, hoping to confirm their SB2 DWD nature. "Our search of 117 candidates that were randomly selected from a magnitude limited sample of 399 yielded a 29 percent detection efficiency with 34 systems exhibiting a double-lined signature," the researchers wrote in the paper. The detected SB2 DWDs have masses ranging from 0.85 to 1.55 solar masses, and orbital periods between 0.4 and 13.5 days. All these systems are located within 580 light years from Earth with the nearest at a distance of only 83 light years. The observations found that the masses of the hotter component in the reported binaries range from 0.40.75 solar masses with a median mass of about 0.53 solar masses. The colder companions have a median mass of approximately 0.45 solar masses. The authors of the paper noted that the most massive of the detected double-lined DWDs, designated WDJ181058.67+311940.94, exceeds the so-called Chandrasekhar limitthe maximum mass of a stable white dwarf star, which is generally accepted to be about 1.4 solar masses. Therefore, it is expected that this system, located some 160 light years away, may experience in the near future a Type Ia supernova explosion or it may merge to form an ultra-massive white dwarf. However, further observations of this system are required in order to provide time estimates regarding its fate. More information: James Munday et al, The DBL Survey I: discovery of 34 double-lined double white dwarf binaries, arXiv (2024). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2407.02594 Journal information: arXiv 2024 Science X Network 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 bear taking the scenic route around Southern California may help researchers learn how wild animals cross freeways to get from one habitat to the nextand how they might be kept out of your backyard. Known to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife as Yellow 2291, the adult female black bear wandered into a trap near Claremont on May 31. There, researchers gave her a GPS-tracking collar and transported her north into the Angeles National Forest mountains. Last week, the bear was removed from a Chatsworth tree and taken back to the forest, only to be spotted over the weekend in a Sylmar neighborhood. "This female bear's just saying, 'Yeah, I'm just gonna take a little trip across Southern California,'" said Jessica West, a regional wildlife conflict specialist at the state Department of Fish and Wildlife who monitors Yellow 2291 and other tagged bears. After her initial trapping, Yellow 2291 took a long trek from the 210 Freeway corridor into the Malibu area. From the 210 corridor, she probably used an underpass or other unknown crossing at the Newhall Pass interchange of the 5 Freeway and Highway 14. She cut across the 118 Freeway into the Santa Monica Mountains and spent time near Pacific Coast Highway in the Malibu area. Then she walked back toward the Angeles National Forest, according to state wildlife officials. She climbed into a tree inside a business complex in Chatsworth, where she was tranquilized and moved back to the national forest last week. She wandered back down the mountain and was recognized in residential Sylmar over the weekend, before heading back into the forest foothills on Monday morning. West said it's uncharacteristic of female bears to wander so much. Male black bears have larger home ranges than females, she said, and tend toward this type of erratic movement. But for those researchers studying connectivity, or how animals move from one habitat to another across developed areas of Southern California, this bear's movement may be key. "If we can figure out where she was crossing, either under or over these freeways, that can really influence" where future wildlife crossings should go, West said. The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, which is being built over the 10-lane 101 Freeway near Agoura Hills, is one of several crossings under construction or in development in the state. Tracking Yellow 2291's movement is step one in connecting habitats fragmented by freeways and neighborhoods while keeping them out of residential areas, according to Beth Pratt, regional executive director of the National Wildlife Federation. "That is the good data and research needed for any crossing," said Pratt, leader of the #SaveLACougars campaign, which was a key advocate for the 101 Freeway crossing. "The animals are our guide," she said. "Their whole existence is spent, every day, trying to get enough caloriesand picture you're doing that in the middle of the most densely populated metropolitan area in the country," Pratt said. Rebuilding connectivity between suitable habitats means bears and other wild scavengers will be less likely to wander up to your trash cans looking for a quick snack, and more likely to stay in the wildlands. Yellow 2291's recent relocations may be a factor in her relentless wandering, according to Pratt: "If you were relocated, you're gonna try to come back to the same place as well." If she is not from the Angeles National Forest, where Fish and Wildlife officials believe she is from, she may be trying to find her original stomping ground. "They don't have options when there are 10-lane freeways in their way," Pratt said. "If there's a fire and you need to move, and a road's in your way, it cuts off your escape mechanism," she said. Two years ago, a study found mountain lions were crossing busy roadways to escape the 2018 Woolsey fire, resulting in a higher chance of them being hit by a vehicle or dying in territorial disputes with other mountain lions. This summer, an unprecedented heat wave has brought triple-digit temperatures and threatened to cause more and bigger wildfires. Over the last month, two mountain lions were found dead, one near the unfinished 101 Freeway crossing and another on the 405 Freeway. In May, a Placer County black bear was killed after being hit by a car, before having its paws cut off. For Yellow 2291, crossing the 5 Freeway to summer in Malibu might be a conscious choice. "Animals are individuals," Pratt said, "And, indeed, if she's picked this as her homewhich, rightly so, I mean, bears were on the landscape before we wereit's not that she necessarily shouldn't be there. It's just that she should be able to come and go without it being a death sentence. And her luck is probably going to run out at some point." 2024 Los Angeles Times. 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: Canada has partially reversed a nearly two-decade ban on hunting grizzly bears in Alberta. A decision to partially reverse a nearly two-decade ban on hunting grizzly bears in Canada's Alberta has angered environmentalists, with a group saying Wednesday they feared its impact on the species. Hunting of the mammals, listed as threatened in 2010 by the western Alberta province, had been prohibited for 18 yearsleading to growth in the population of grizzlies. But there has also been conflict between bears and humans, Alberta authorities say. The number of grizzlies has increased from 800 to more than 1,150 today, provincial authorities say, and that has caused them to move to more populated rural areas. "Hunting is not an acceptable management approach for a threatened species," said Devon Earl of the Alberta Wilderness Association. "Grizzly bears have a very slow reproductive rate, and trophy hunting could undo all the recovery of the last decade," she added. The province's government last month quietly moved to allow the hunting of individual bears deemed a "problem." Authorities say 104 attacks by black or grizzly bears were recorded from 2000 to 2021. However, Earl said that other "science-based approaches" can help reduce wildlife conflict. She cited an example in southern Alberta which worked by "securing attractants on agricultural lands and putting in electric fences... to prevent bears from being attracted to coming onto people's property in the first place." 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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Droughts evoke images of months to years of dry, dangerous conditions caused by minimal rain. While this captures traditional droughts, similar conditions can occur in a matter of weeks or even days. Texas A&M University's Dr. Ashok Mishra has collaborated with researchers from around the world to examine what factors play a role in creating flash drought conditions. While their study used South Asia as a model, the findings can be applied to Texas and other areas that experience flash droughts. The paper is published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment. Texas has experienced flash droughts in the past. Texas's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture and energy production, two sectors easily affected by flash droughts. Flash droughts cause a reduction in water availability and soil moisture, creating issues in fields such as agriculture, water resources and ecosystem services. "While both traditional and flash droughts impact society, they differ in onset speed, intensity, duration, and overall impacts," said Mishra, a professor in the Zachry Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. "Developing effective strategies to mitigate the distinct risks and impacts of each type is crucial for safeguarding society and the environment." Researchers were able to analyze several aspects of flash droughts, including onset speed, severity, and duration. They also examined the role atmospheric circulation and human-induced climate change play in drought variability, leading them to predict that flash droughts will worsen over time due to climate change. "Flash droughts will expand and worsen in the future in South Asian countries, impacting water, agriculture, and energy sectors. However, the critical concern is the need for appropriate tools for robust quantification and prediction of flash droughts, which will present a significant problem for stakeholders from multiple sectors," notes Mishra. To combat issues created by these conditions, policymakers need to be informed of the potential outcomes that may occur as climate change causes flash droughts to become more common and severe. Preventative infrastructure and collaboration across disciplines are a few potential methods for combating flash droughts. This collaborative research effort involves Texas A&M University, the United States Department of Agriculture, and multiple Asian countries including Korea, China, India, and Pakistan. More information: Irfan Ullah et al, Anthropogenic and atmospheric variability intensifies flash drought episodes in South Asia, Communications Earth & Environment (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s43247-024-01390-y Journal information: Communications Earth & Environment 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: Photo of the elastically scattered X-rays (bright yellow light) and the scattered ones from the plasmons (faint violet light). Credit: T. Gawne/CASUS Researchers at European XFEL have developed an innovative method to study warm dense matter with unprecedented accuracy. This kind of matter, that exists between condensed matter and plasma physics, can be found, for example, in astrophysical objects or is created during inertial confinement fusion. For the contributing scientists at the Center for Advanced Systems Understanding (CASUS), this advancement is a great aid to their mission of lifting the analysis of warm dense matter onto a solid foundation. The study is published in Physical Review B. Studying astrophysical objects is a major challenge. Extreme conditions prevail there: high temperatures and immense densities. Here on Earth, the same applies to the investigation of inertial confinement fusion capsules during the implosion phase. At the High Energy Density (HED) instrument of European XFEL, these conditions can be prepared there using the powerful drivers provided by the HiBEF consortium (Helmholtz International Beamline for Extreme Fields). Coupled with the brilliant X-ray flashes of the European XFEL, scientists can now study this exotic state of matter more closely than ever before. Warm dense matter: An exceptional phenomenon We normally think of matter here on Earth as existing in either a solid, liquid or gaseous state. Further afield in space, matter existing as a plasma can also be discovered, characterized as a hot and ionized gas. However, at high temperatures and immense densities, like that found in stars or when meteors crash onto planets, matter cannot be easily described as solid, or as a plasma and is instead named warm dense matter. Warm dense matter is too hot to be described by the physics of condensed matter and too dense for the physics of plasma. Typically, warm dense matter occurs at temperatures of 5,000 to several 100,000 Kelvin and pressures of several hundred thousand times greater than atmospheric pressure. Discovery thanks to ultra-high-resolution X-ray Thomson scattering A team led by Thomas Preston from the HED instrument at European XFEL has investigated the structure and properties of plasmons in ambient aluminum. Plasmons are collective oscillations of electrons and play a decisive role in the optical properties of metals, semiconductors, and in warm dense matter. An important method to investigate excitations in solids as well as warm dense matter is X-ray Thomson scattering. Here an X-ray photon is scattered in the material and loses energy and momentum in exciting a plasmon. With a spectrometer, scientists can identify these photons that have lost energy from the main beam of X-rays that are just scattered elastically. Differently to previous work, which could only measure these excitations with X-rays with poor resolution on the order of a few electronvolts, Preston's team and contributing scientists from Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) as well as the HZDR institute CASUS have now recorded ultra-high-resolution X-ray Thomson scattering spectra with an energy resolution improved more than tenfold meaning that they reached a resolution of less than one hundred millielectronvolt. As the team reports, the new setup enabled the investigation of the structure and properties of plasmons in aluminum in detail. "We realized that we could repurpose an existing setup that was designed to make even higher resolution measurements of vibrations in solids, which have energy losses much smaller than scattering from a plasmon, in fact only a few tens of millielectronvolts," explains Preston. "Through a clever choice of our X-ray energy, we can instead measure energy losses up to 40 electronvolts with similar resolution. The accuracy of our measurements made it possible to eliminate long-standing discrepancies between simulations and experimental observations," says Preston. In future work, the team intend to use this method to benchmark simulations for plasmons at higher temperatures and compressions. Future prospects "These exciting new capabilities at the European XFEL allow for unprecedented insights into the behavior of matter at extreme conditions," explains lead author Thomas Gawne from the Young Investigator Group "Frontiers of Computational Quantum Many-Body Theory" led by Tobias Dornheim. Dornheim plans to make X-ray Thomson scattering evaluation accessible beyond the small group many-body system simulation experts. If he succeeds, laser physicists at European XFEL and elsewhere could design their experiments in a more targeted manner than it is possible today. Thomas Preston highlights the possibilities of collaborations with theoretical groups, in particular with the CASUS scientists, saying, "The unique combination of cutting-edge theory at CASUS and HZDR as well as the state-of-the-art experiments at the HED instrument at European XFEL opens up completely new possibilities for science. The relationship between measurement and simulation is critical to be able to drive and inform exciting new experiments." For him, this joint effort is not only relevant for the investigation of warm dense matter conditions in astrophysical objects, but also for research into inertial confinement fusion, a promising avenue of power generation based on nuclear fusion reactions that could eventually become a climate-friendly and virtually inexhaustible source of energy. More information: Thomas Gawne et al, Ultrahigh resolution x-ray Thomson scattering measurements at the European X-ray Free Electron Laser, Physical Review B (2024). DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevB.109.L241112 Journal information: Physical Review B 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: Researchers explore the impact of children participating in urban planning process such as increasing walking safety around an elementary school in Busan, Korea. Credit: Professor Donghyun Kim from Pusan National University, Korea The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child defined child-friendly cities as those that prioritize children's access to safe environments, health care, education, green spaces, and the right to participate in decision-making processes about their surroundings. Despite the importance, children are often overlooked in urban planning, consulted mainly for ideas rather than being actively involved in implementation of the ideas. Involving children fosters community interaction and enhances their understanding of how physical environments impact well-being. However, despite these benefits, children often face exclusion from public spaces due to limited capacity for independent movement and physical activity. Recently, researchers from Pusan National University, led by Professor Donghyun Kim, Associate Professor at the Department of Urban Planning and Engineering, aimed to address this gap. Their study focused on conducting a participatory planning process with children and applying the findings to improving walking safety in a school zone in Busan. This study was published online on 17 June 2024 in the journal of Planning Theory & Practice. Dr. Kim explains, "Our study aims to construct a community participatory planning process involving children and apply this planning process to a case related to the road safety problem of the school zone." The study used a three-step participatory community planning process, which was designed based on interactions between the planner (comprised of six undergraduate and five graduate students from the Department of Urban Planning and Engineering at Pusan National University) and participants (89 children of grades 5 and 6). Initially, both planner and participant groups conducted separate field work and community mapping exercises. Despite initial challenges, the children effectively identified various walking safety risks, such as illegal parking zones, intersections, unsafe crosswalks near their school, which were mapped and discussed using online tools like KakaoTalk Open Chat. All the identified spaces were congested with heavy vehicle movement in unpredictable directions and speeds. In the second step, the planner group reviewed their findings and developed multiple solutions for the identified problems. Children rank preferences among the proposed solutions based on safety, impact, convenience, and cost, through an online survey. Sites for selected solutions including pedestrian-first streets, raised crosswalks, painted sidewalks, and bollards to prevent illegal parking, were then marked using Google Jamboard. The final step involved creating a comprehensive community walking safety plan. Combining the survey results, the planners proposed installing pedestrian-first streets, painting sidewalks, adding bollards, marking crosswalks, and installing parking entrance alarms in and around the school area. This plan was then presented to the local government and local council and proposed as a policy. The study highlighted how children successfully took part in participatory planning, despite challenges posed by restrictions due to COVID-19 and varying participant interest. Community maps, virtual tools, and shared understanding acted as effective tools in effectively utilizing children's participation. Dr. Kim points out, "Our study shows that children can be the main actors in planning for community issues. The communicative planning process proposed in our study can be applied to bridge the gap between planners and residents in solving problems of various themes such as pedestrian safety problems for children, community renewal, and community climate change adaptation." This urban planning approach empowers children, enabling their unique perspectives to contribute to the creation of safer and more inclusive environments. More information: Bo-Kyung Jung et al, Children as Key Actors in Participatory Planning: Co-Working Experience of Community Planning for Walking Safety Around Bongrae Elementary School in South Korea, Planning Theory & Practice (2024). DOI: 10.1080/14649357.2024.2363790 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: Severely burned forest landscape in Yellowstone National Park, WY, U.S. Credit: Ann Olsson Forests have been embraced as a natural climate solution, due to their ability to soak up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow, locking it up in their trunks, branches, leaves, and roots. But a new study confirms widespread doubts about the potential for most forests in the Western US to help curb climate change. Published in Earth's Future, the paper analyzed trends in carbon storage across the American West from 2005 to 2019. Led by Jazlynn Hall, a forest and landscape ecologist at Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, the team found that throughout most of the region, climate change and fires may be causing forests to store less carbon, not more. "There's a lot of momentum to use forests as natural climate solutions," said Hall. "Many climate mitigation pathways rely in part on additional forest carbon storage to keep warming below 1.5 degrees C this century. We wanted to provide a baseline for how much carbon is currently stored in Western forests, how it's changing, and how disturbances like fire and drought pose a threat to climate mitigation targets." The authors warn that many Western forests could see a rapid acceleration of carbon loss in the coming years or decades. "These challenges have the potential to compromise carbon storage capacity and undermine our ability to mitigate climate change," Hall cautions. By providing an unprecedented view of threats at landscape and regional levels, Hall and colleagues provide a framework that could help forest managers adapt site-specific strategies to strengthen forest resilience. They also identify the remaining areas with the lowest risk and highest potential to store carbon, such as the Pacific Northwest. A new way to track forest carbon storage Using survey data collected by the US Forest Service, Hall and colleagues estimated how much carbon was stored in living and dead trees in 19 ecoregions across the West. These ecoregions correspond to the diverse climatic and ecological areas ranging from the hot and dry Southwest to the wet and cool Pacific Northwest. Forest Service data enabled the team to derive trends in carbon storage between 2005 and 2019. Machine learning was used to understand which factorsincluding human activities, wildfire, topography, and climatewere most likely driving those trends. "Our study develops new methods to carefully estimate forest-carbon storage at a regional level, track it over time, and diagnose the causes of changes over time," said co-author Park Williams, a hydroclimatologist at UCLA. He expects the methods will be useful in monitoring carbon storage levels going forward, as well as assessing the carbon impacts of management efforts such as forest thinning and prescribed burning. Senior author Winslow Hansen, a forest ecologist at Cary Institute, said one of the study's strengths is that it covers a broad geographic area at high resolution, making it possible to guide forest stewardship and climate solution projects at both the local and regional levels. Variation in the effects of fire on carbon stocks in Yellowstone National Park, WY, U.S. Credit: Ann Olsson Climate solution, or carbon source? The study revealed that carbon stored in living trees declined across much of the Western US between 2005 and 2019. Dead carbonthe carbon stored in dead trees and woody debrisincreased. Standing dead trees and fallen logs do not provide long-term carbon storage, instead releasing it back into the atmosphere through decomposition or combustion in forest fires. After analyzing the data, a machine learning algorithm identified climate and fire as the major potential drivers of these disturbing carbon trends. Climate (here measured as precipitation, temperature, and air moisture) was the most important driver of live carbon trends for eight of 19 ecoregions, and the second most important driver for nearly all the other ecoregions. Fire was the first or second most important driver in two-thirds of the ecoregions surveyed. Also concerning is the fact that current carbon storage levels in many western forests are likely artificially high, due to the fire suppression practices of recent centuries. These practices have made fuels more dense in forests, contributing to recent record-breaking fires. "Dry forests in the Western US may be acutely vulnerable to carbon loss without strong and immediate investment in proactive forest management [such as thinning and prescribed burning]," the scientists write. The study also reveals different trends and drivers at the regional, ecoregional, and even local levels (see map below). Bucking the declining carbon trend, the Pacific Northwest contained some of the only ecoregions where carbon storage increased during the study period. "That was the outlier," Hall explained. "It offers a glimmer of hope that we can change things, especially in human-dominated areas. The Pacific Northwest has seen large-scale efforts to reduce harvesting in old-growth forests and expand protected lands. So, even if some of the regrowth may be on tree farms and destined to be harvested later, some of the regrowth may be permanent." A harbinger of the future When the researchers began the study, data was only available up until 2019. As a result, the analysis did not include the record-shattering wildfire years of 2020 and 2021. The team plans to re-run the analysis when newer data is made public. "It's likely that the decline in live carbon that we calculated has already become more pronounced," said Hall. Drivers of carbon storage in live trees varied at the regional, ecoregional, and even local levels. Human activity (yellow, representing harvest practices and land ownership) was the dominant determinant of forest carbon storage in the Pacific Northwest, whereas climate (blue) was a major driver in the Southwest. Fire (magenta) was the most important variable in the ecoregions within Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming, as well as parts of California and Oregon. However, the predominant drivers can vary greatly within and across ecoregions. Credit: Jazlynn Hall et al. Can western forests still serve as a viable climate solution? "I don't think we can rely on increasing carbon storage in Western US forests," said Hansen. With stored carbon already on the decline, followed by the devastating fire seasons of 2020 and 2021, he suspects these ecosystems may have reached a tipping point. However, he added, "I do think we can get to a place where we increase the stability of carbon in western dry forests with mechanical thinning and prescribed burning, but at a lower carbon carrying capacity." Toward a more strategic and targeted approach Hansen is leading a large research program called the Western Fire and Forest Resilience Collaborative, to inform new ways to live sustainably with fire. He says the Collaborative will use the baseline established in this study to track how forest carbon is changing now and over the next five to 10 years. "We will also compare our computer simulations of future trajectories to this baseline," he said, "to understand how increasing fire and drought may alter forest carbon decades into the future." The study's baseline will also help to track future progress toward climate-mitigation targets, and inform forest management strategies tailored to local conditions. "This information could serve as the foundation for forest management strategies to maximize carbon storage where we can," said Hansen, "and to avoid catastrophic emissions of carbon elsewhere." More information: Jazlynn Hall et al, Forest Carbon Storage in the Western United States: Distribution, Drivers, and Trends, Earth's Future (2024). DOI: 10.1029/2023EF004399 Journal information: Earth's 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: Credit: CC0 Public Domain Farmers around the world all need to deal with weeds. The most widely used chemical product they use to kill those unwanted plants is glyphosate, often sold under commercial names like Roundup. In 2015, the World Health Organization declared glyphosate a "probable human carcinogen." This link to cancer was reinforced in January 2024 when a jury in the United States concluded Roundup caused non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and ordered chemical company Bayerwhich purchased Roundup producer Monsanto in 2018to pay US$2.5 billion in damages. Bayer has announced it intends to appeal the verdict. Scientists have also raised concerns about the environmental harms of long-term glyphosate application. To name just a few, glyphosate threatens honey bee populations and has been found to kill birds, fish and soil microorganisms, all of which are crucial for ecosystem health. In the face of these concerns, some governments have restricted or even banned glyphosate application, though no such ban is in place in Canada. Banning glyphosate is an essential step in protecting the health of humans and our ecosystems. Until a full ban is achieved, however, the pioneering work of farmers in Mexico shows how agroecological techniques can replace these chemical interventions. Toxic exports In April 2024, Mexico was set to become the largest jurisdiction to enact a total ban on glyphosate. However, just before the ban came into effect the government announced a pause. Officials cited concerns about a lack of viable substitutes, but critics believe the waffling has more to do with intense lobbying by agro-industry, including heavy pressure from the U.S.the main exporter of glyphosate to Mexico. Monsanto, a major glyphosate exporter, has been shown to have influenced academic research to downplay the health risks of its valuable product. A report on Glyphosate and Monsanto produced by the CBC. In the northern region of Mexico's Veracruz State, we are working with small-scale citrus farmers to help them transition away from glyphosate (and other agrochemicals) by supporting adoption of agroecological farming methods. Our research shows that agroecological farming is a viable alternative and, with a little bit of support, large numbers of farmers are keen to make change. Scaling up agroecology The farmers we work with are abandoning glyphosate one hectare at a time. With funding from Mexico's National Research Council, we have built a team of 38 agroecology technicians and community leaders who are helping farmers develop the knowledge and skills they need to replace chemicals with other practices. Our team supports farmers to plant legume cover crops to crowd out weeds, and we have provided thousands of weed whackers to make manual weed control quicker and easier. We are also teaching farmers to make their own products from inexpensive local materials, like agua de vidrioa solution of ash and limethat provides nutrients to plants and helps control pests and diseases. Part of what makes this work successful is that we are leading by example, using the Gomez family citrus farm as a living classroom. That farm used to produce conventional oranges. Then, in 2004, the family transitioned one hectare to organic production as an experiment. By 2012, the entire 16-hectare farm had transitioned away from agrochemical use and was certified as organic. Since then, the Gomez's have implemented a wide range of agroecological practices on the farm. They also created an outdoor classroom space and an area dedicated to producing compost and other ecological inputs. In 2018 almost 1,000 people visited the farmdubbed Huerta Madre, or Mother Farm by localsto learn about agroecological methods. Thanks to government funding, in 2023 the number of visitors jumped to more than 2,500. The funding also enabled researchers and technicians to connect with more than 10,000 farmers across the region, sharing information about the potential dangers of glyphosate and the viability of agroecological alternatives. Of those 10,000 farmers, 3,600 are now actively working with our team to stop using glyphosate and implement agroecological alternatives. Reaching this number of farmers has been possible in part because the current Mexican government has made it clear that agroecology is a priority. While agroecological farming has long been championed by "peasant organizations" and social movements, political support of the kind happening in Mexico today has been harder to come by (although there are some notable exceptions). Presidential decree A cornerstone of Mexico's pro-agroecology policy was a 2020 decree by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador that the country would eliminate glyphosate use by January 2024. The decree was immediately criticized by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). It was also contestedincluding via legal challengesby Mexican agri-business interests, primarily in the country's north where large-scale conventional farming dominates the landscape. In February 2023, Obrador postponed the date of the ban to April 1, 2024. Then, just days before it was to come into effect, the government announced the ban would be paused. Advocates of the ban reacted with formal protest letters, media interviews and social media posts. They highlighted how research and practice has demonstrated the viability of an array of glyphosate alternatives, including the scaling up of agroecology among citrus farmers in Veracruz. To date, the ban remains on hold, and it is unclear what incoming President Claudia Sheinbaum will do about it. Will we ever see a glyphosate ban? Mexico is not the first country to waver on a glyphosate ban. Sri Lanka imposed a ban in 2015 but lifted it by 2022. In the European Union, several member states have been vocal in their desire for a ban, but glyphosate was re-authorized for a ten-year period in December 2023. While the reasons may be complex, it is clear that stemming the tide of glyphosate is challenging, even when there is significant political will. This is likely at least in part due to the significant lobbying power of companies like Bayer. Even if a formal ban remains out of reach, Obrador's decree created an important opening for agroecology in Mexico. While some initiatives have existed for decades, especially in the southern states of Oaxaca and Chiapas, government support has sparked development of many more. The presidential decree also enabled unusually high levels of investment into agroecological research and development. Coupled with other pro-agroecology policies, the decree has created momentum for scaling up agroecology across the country. The thousands of citrus farmers who are finding success without glyphosate in Veracruz can attest to that. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. Jacobo Sanchez, 26, and Andrea Mena, 26, were arrested after their 4-month-old child was found to have a brain bleed during a May 29 hospital visit. Dave Thompson - PA Images/PA Images via Getty Images The Bexar County Sheriffs Office has arrested the parents of a 4-month-old girl after she was found to have a brain bleed during a hospital visit in May. Sheriff Javier Salazar said Jacobo Sanchez, 26, and Andrea Mena, 26, were arrested Wednesday without incident at their home in the 10000 block of Rockport Street in Macdona. Sanchez was charged with injury to a child causing serious bodily injury, a first-degree felony, and Mena with endangering a child, a state jail felony. Salazar said the parents took the infant to the Childrens Hospital of San Antonio for persistent vomiting on May 21. Sanchez and Mena told doctors that they believed the baby had gotten an illness from her siblings. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The parents were given medicine and sent home, Salazar said. They returned eight days later on May 29 with the 4-month-old in worse condition. The sheriff said the infant had a bulging cranium, which was a result of a brain bleed. The baby girl was described as yellowish in tone and lethargic, and her eyes were bulging from her head. Salazar said family members stated that Sanchez was watching the infant before her first hospital visit on May 21. They said it was from that point that the babys behavior and appearance began to change. Shortly after the infants evaluation, Child Protection Services said a safety plan was needed. CPS discovered that the Sanchez and Mena household had a history of alleged domestic violence, Sanchez said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Childsafe investigators were interviewing the 4-month-olds siblings when one of them said he observed his father, Sanchez, throwing the infant onto the floor and that he saw blood come from her head, Salazar said. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Spatial distribution of CO 2 concentration (a), CO 2 flux (b), CH 4 concentration (c), CH 4 flux (d), N 2 O concentration (e) and N 2 O flux (f) in reservoirs of the Yellow River basin. Credit: Science China Press A study published in the journal Science China Earth Sciences integrates existing monitoring data to discuss the characteristics of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin. While CO 2 emission flux from reservoirs is lower than that from river channels, the emission fluxes of CH 4 and N 2 O are 1.9 times and 10 times those from rivers, respectively, indicating that the emission of CH 4 and N 2 O is significantly enhanced in reservoirs. Compared to the reservoirs in humid climate, reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin exhibit relatively lower emissions of CO 2 and CH 4 due to lower organic matter concentrations, but significantly higher N 2 O emissions due to higher nitrogen loads. As influenced by substrate concentrations, water bodies with higher concentrations of dissolved CO 2 and CH 4 are predominantly found in smaller reservoirs situated in the middle-to-lower reach area, where soil organic matter content is higher and exogenous organic carbon inputs to reservoir are higher compared to upstream areas. Those with higher concentrations of dissolved N 2 O are distributed in the middle-to-lower reaches of the main stem, where they are located in areas with dense population, intensive agriculture, and industrial activities, contributing to heightened nutrient levels in the water. Compared with the Yellow River channel, reservoirs are weaker sources of CO 2 emissions, and they even act as carbon sinks. However, the emission fluxes of CH 4 and N 2 O are 1.9 times and 10 times those from rivers. In contrast to flowing water bodies, the stagnant water in reservoirs provides a favorable environment for life activities of planktonic plants and microorganisms. Primary producers such as algae utilize DIC to synthesize organic matter, resulting in lower CO 2 and higher CH 4 emissions than rivers. Concurrently, the increase in surface dissolved O 2 level favors the generation and emission of N 2 O through nitrification reactions. Monte Carlo simulations for 237 reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin showed that the median CO 2 emission for the 237 reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin is 41.57 Gmol C yr-1, the median CH 4 emission is 0.52 Gmol C yr-1, the median N 2 O emission is 0.041 Gmol N yr-1. The emission of three GHGs accounts for 1.6%, 0.05%, and 1.9% of the global reservoir emission. Multiplying the flux by the 100-year global warming potential of each gas, the total GHG emission from reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin amount to 3.05 Tg CO 2 -eq yr-1, approximately 0.39% of the emission from global reservoirs. The land area of the Yellow River Basin accounts for approximately 0.53% of the global land area, indicating that the GHG emissions from reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin are slightly lower than the global average. The study was led by the team of Xinghui Xia and Shaoda Liu (School of Environment, Beijing Normal University). More information: Shurui Huang et al, Characteristics and influencing factors of greenhouse gas emissions from reservoirs in the Yellow River Basin: A Meta-analysis, Science China Earth Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s11430-023-1307-x Journal information: Science China Earth Sciences This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: The green oasis is nestled in the depths of the vast Mauritanian desert. For the residents of Maaden, a green oasis nestled in the depths of the vast Mauritanian desert, communal living, spirituality and sustainable agriculture are the keys to a harmonious existence. In 1975, Sufi spiritual guide Mohammed Lemine Sidina founded a village in this remote spot at the center of the West African state, naming it Maaden el Ervane, or "the deposit of knowledge" in the local Arabic dialect. On a patch of fertile land overlooked by a small outcrop, Sidina built a community based on equality, fraternity, tolerance and hard work. More than 20 years after the Sheikh's death, his legacy lives on. "Here, there is equality. No caste, no race," said Djibril Niang, 70, who arrived from Senegal 50 years ago and never left. "We are all brothers. If someone needs something, we all work together to help them." Niang ended up marrying his spiritual mentor's daughter - an interracial union "which was unthinkable" at the time, he said. On the site of the oldest building in the village, Imam Taha Sidina recalled his father's vision for Maaden. "Every evening, the community would get together to plan the next day's programdigging a well, creating a road, planting a palm tree," he said. The village grew house by house. Maaden thrives on the values of equality, fraternity, tolerance and hard work. Residents first built a small dam to retain precious water, then laid out fields, founded a school and set up a community clinic. Hospitality is a central tenet of Maaden's philosophy, with a visitors' center welcoming, housing and feeding all who pass through. While most surrounding villages are losing residents, Maaden is thriving. 'I'll never leave' The community's arable land expands a little day by day, helped by a wind which pushes the sand away from the fields. "This year's harvest is excellent," said Mohamed Ould Vaide, a 45-year-old farmer, who proudly displayed his crop of tomatoes, peppers, onions, carrots and watermelons which he had grown using a drip irrigation technique. "I'll never leave Maaden. There's no place like it," he said. Vaide makes a living from farming like most of his fellow villagers, who have transformed their agricultural practices thanks to techniques brought by Pierre Rabhi, a pioneer of organic farming in France. Hospitality is a central tenet of Maaden's philosophy. While most surrounding villages are losing residents, Maaden is thriving. Rabhi traveled to Mauritania in 2018, three years before his death, and fell under the spell of Maaden - passing on his environmental ethos to the local population. Compost replaced chemical fertilizers and solar panels took over from fuel-powered motor pumps, allowing the village to become virtually self-sufficient. Rabhi also organized the delivery of a henna grinding machine which meant women could process the local plant for cosmetics when not involved in crafts, agriculture or trade. "In Maaden, a woman can farm, put on boots, do manual work and wave to a man. It's different from other villages," said Zeinab Mintou Boubou, 57, president of the women's farming cooperative. The rest of Mauritania is governed by Islamic law, forbidding contact between men and women from different families and traditionally excluding women from certain activities. On the edge of Maaden, as the sun slipped behind the dunes, Mohamed Ould Ali Abdein lit a small fire and prepared tea, soon to be joined by a few friends. His camels prepared to spend the night nearby. For Abeid, his wife and seven children, Maaden is home and where their future lies. 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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Illinois has made transitioning to clean energy a major priority in recent years with the passage of the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) in 2016 and the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) in 2021. Both pieces of legislation prioritize an equitable transition, aiming to avoid and address historical wrongdoings associated with environmental injustice. However, a recent study, published in Political Geography by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, suggests the state, in attempting to redress historical wrongs, used an overly narrow lens to define equity in CEJA, which led to perceived injustices for rural, often white communities. The study suggests the state prioritized historically marginalized communities when allocating the benefits (low energy costs) of renewable power, but wasn't intentional enough in considering the burdens (infrastructure and land use change) that fell to rural communities. This has led to claims of injustice in these communities, especially around wind turbines. "There are a lot of ways you can define justice. People understand it very differently depending on their circumstances," said study author McKenzie Johnson, assistant professor in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at Illinois. The study, co-authored by Johnson's former master's student Shannon Anderson, mapped wind development patterns in Illinois, categorized by whether zoning protocols were regressivetrying to stop wind power; progressivetrying to attract it; or neutralallowing the market to drive zoning decisions around wind. "We found that after the first wind boom in 2007, a lot of downstate counties decided they really didn't want wind coming in with their massive turbines," Johnson said. "So you started seeing a lot of regressive zoning with sharp boundaries and restrictive regulations that basically made it impossible for developers to construct wind farms." Johnson and Anderson followed the response from the state, showing it scaled up its authority over time from offering zoning guidance to completely overriding county-level zoning in order to achieve the goals set out in CEJA. "Prioritizing communities that have experienced environmental harms can be a just outcome," Johnson said. "But when a state unilaterally takes away power to achieve its goals, even if it is the most desirable, equitable goal you can think of, that's not justice." CEJA doesn't actually define "energy justice" as part of the statute, but Johnson says the legislation relied on conventional environmental justice metricsespecially race - that recognize how downstream effects of polluting industries have disproportionately impacted Black, brown, low-income, immigrant, and urban communities. That differs from the indicators used in energy justice definitions, which include energy availability and access, affordability, and inter- and intra-generational equity. Energy justice also prioritizes representative and impartial energy decision-making. Johnson said if CEJA had included energy justice metrics that considered rural counties' perspectives, the wind power rollout might have gone very differently. Instead, feeling left out of the process, white rural communities largely rejected wind. That outcome has led to some unintended consequences. "We argue that the shifting scales of energy governance reinforced perceptions of energy as a partisan political issue," Anderson wrote in the article. "Rural, heavily Republican communities contend that Democrats unfairly used energy legislation to distribute benefits to urban voters without ensuring similar benefits for rural areas. This increased antipathy toward renewable projects already perceived as undesirable, and exacerbated perceived political divides between urban and rural Illinoisans." Johnson was surprised the state didn't anticipate the opposition. "I think it's because they thought the markets would have a stronger influence on where wind showed up in the state," she said. "But I think the huge lesson out of this research is that if you really want to be truly inclusive, there's going to be conflict. That's not necessarily bad. But you have to anticipate it and be able to address it when it arises." The backlash and ensuing lawsuits are slowing progress. That's another reason Johnson said it would have been better to engage rural communities at the outset of the legislative process. Although listening sessions might have taken time, lawsuits take longer and tie up more resources. "To be fair, making a just energy transition happen is really difficult. It's easy for a researcher to be critical about what's happening, but I do think it's really important to point out some of the paradoxes that emerge when you're trying to pursue a just transition," Johnson said. More information: Shannon R. Anderson et al, The spatial and scalar politics of a just energy transition in Illinois, Political Geography (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.polgeo.2024.103128 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: Mid-infrared laser pulses coherently drive atomic modes in YBa2Cu3O6.48 and stabilize superconducting fluctuations at high temperature. This quantum coherence leads to the ultrafast expulsion of a static magnetic field Credit: Sebastian Fava, Jorg M. Harms Superconductivity is a fascinating phenomenon, which allows a material to sustain an electrical current without any loss. This collective quantum behavior of matter only appears in certain conductors at temperatures far below ambient. A number of modern studies have investigated this behavior in so-called non-equilibrium states, that is in situations in which the material is pushed away from thermal equilibrium. In these conditions, it appears that at least some of the features of superconductivity can be recreated even at ambient temperatures. Such non-equilibrium high temperature superconductivity, shown to exist under irradiation with a laser pulse, may be useful for applications different from the ones envisaged for the stationary version of superconductivity, as for example in high-speed devices controlled by laser pulses. This phenomenon has been termed "light-induced superconductivity," signaling an analogy with its equilibrium counterpart. An important frontier in the past decade has been to characterize the properties of one such light-induced superconducting state and understand how far this phase reproduces the known properties of a conventional superconductor. Besides being capable of transporting electrical currents without loss, superconductors are also known to expel magnetic fields from their interior. This phenomenon, known in equilibrium conditions as the Meissner effect, is a direct consequence of the mutual coherence of the charge carriers and of their tendency to march in lockstep. However, measuring the expulsion of magnetic fields for light-induced superconductivity has been challenging, because the effect only persists for a few picoseconds (one trillionth of a second), making it impossible to measure magnetic field changes with precision. A team of researchers at the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter (MPSD) in Hamburg, Germany, led by Andrea Cavalleri, has developed a new experiment capable of monitoring the magnetic properties of superconductors at very fast speeds. They have worked on laser-irradiated YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6+x , a compound for which static superconductivity is only seen down to about 200 degrees Celsius. "We have discovered that photo-excited YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6.48 , in addition to featuring near zero resistance, also expels a static magnetic field from its interior," says Sebastian Fava, author of the article published in Nature. This experiment was made possible by placing a spectator crystal in close vicinity of the sample under investigation and using it to measure the local magnetic field strength. The crystal reflects changes in the magnetic field into changes in the polarization state of a femtosecond laser pulse. "Due to the short duration of the probe pulse, we can reconstruct the time evolution of the magnetic field surrounding the YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6.48 sample with sub-picosecond resolution and unprecedented sensitivity," says Giovanni de Vecchi, one of the co-authors. "The photo-induced magnetic field expulsion we observed is comparable in size to the one measured when YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6+x is made superconducting at equilibrium by cooling," adds fellow author Michele Buzzi. "This suggests that driving the material may even be an effective route to bring its superconducting properties closer to ambient conditions," continues co-author Gregor Jotzu, now a faculty member at EPFL and head of the Dynamic Quantum Materials Laboratory. As a consensus on the microscopic origin of light-induced superconductivity in YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6.48 is still missing, these results are an important benchmark for current theories. In YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6+x , the superconducting order does not completely disappear above the equilibrium superconducting transition temperature and some local fluctuating superconducting order remains, somewhat similar to a disordered state. These discoveries suggest that photo-excitation of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6+x with tailored light pulses can be used to synchronize this fluctuating state and restore the superconducting order at temperatures much higher than the ones at which the material becomes superconducting at equilibrium, all the way to room temperature. More information: S. Fava et al, Magnetic field expulsion in optically driven YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6.48 , Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07635-2 Journal information: Nature 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: Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07681-w Eligo Bioscience, a gene-editing company focused on addressing diseases driven by the expression of bacterial genes from the microbiome, has published a study in Nature that unlocks genome editing of bacteria in the gut. Since the advent of gene therapies in the 1970s, culminating in the recent approval of the first CRISPR-based drugs, researchers have made significant strides in delivering DNA to various cell types and organs to correct genetic defects. Until now, however, a large proportion of the genes carried by humans remained completely out of reach: the microbiome. The microbiome, composed of billions of commensal bacteria, is essential to our health and the proper functioning of our immune system. However, we are discovering a growing number of bacterial genes implicated in chronic and serious diseases: from bacterial peptides that can trigger autoimmune diseases to bacterial virulence factors that contribute to inflammatory diseases, tumor formation, and neurodegenerative diseases. As it becomes clearer that non-targeted therapeutics affecting microbiome composition can cause serious adverse events and side effects, it is critical to develop novel approaches to edit the microbiome in a targeted way. "What Eligo Bioscience has achieved shows that it's now possible to make specific changes to the DNA of bacteria in the gut, similar to how scientists have been editing human genes to investigate or treat genetic disorders," said David Bikard, co-founder of Eligo Bioscience and researcher at the Institut Pasteur in Paris. A precise and efficient method Achieving efficient in vivo gene editing of bacteria requires both an effective delivery method and a robust editing system. In a tour de force, Eligo demonstrated the ability to engineer, produce, and purify a bacteriophage-derived capsid containing a synthetic DNA payload encoding a base-editor system. After oral administration to mice, the capsid delivered the payload with extreme efficiency and precision to target bacterial populations residing among the hundreds of bacterial species in the mouse gut. Remarkably, the system could precisely inactivate antibiotic resistance genes or virulence factors by creating single-base pair mutations in the corresponding genes. When targeting E. coli strains colonizing the mouse gut, the technology modified the target gene in over 90% of the bacteria, reaching up to 99.7% in some cases. These modifications remained stable for at least 42 days. Jesus Fernandez, Eligo VP of Technology and a senior author of the study, highlights how "this achievement is the culmination of eight years of work by the team at Eligo Bioscience and represents a paradigm shift in microbiome research. This leap forward provides Eligo with a unique edge within the industry to develop novel genetic medicines, as well as to find novel targets. We finally now have a tool to interrogate the role of specific bacterial genes in health and disease." "This technology enhances Eligo's pioneering arsenal of in-vivo editing tools for the microbiome, and broadens the landscape of addressable therapeutic targets in the gene editing field," said Xavier Duportet, CEO and co-founder of Eligo. More information: Andreas K. Brodel et al, In situ targeted base editing of bacteria in the mouse gut, Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07681-w Journal information: Nature Provided by Eligo 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: Graphical representation of an ideal single stride of a racing Thoroughbred (A; risk factor = 1) and that of a horse at very high risk of suffering a future catastrophic musculoskeletal injury (B; risk factor = 5, case 2) based on the algorithmic interpretation of data collected by use of an inertial measurement unit sensor system worn while the horse was racing. Credit: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (2024). DOI: 10.2460/javma.24.02.0114 A small 3-ounce sensor capable of recording 2,400 data points of movement in just one second that is being tested and refined by researchers at Washington State University could be key in reducing the number of injuries to racehorses. Led by Dr. Warwick Bayly in WSU's College of Veterinary Medicine, researchers used the biometric sensors, developed by the company StrideSAFE, to track thoroughbreds as they raced and trained at some of the top racetracks in the country. Using collected data, the team was able to identify miniscule stride changes associated with increased risk of injury, allowing intervention before a catastrophic breakdown. The researchers highlighted three horses flagged in 2023 at Churchill Downs in a case studypublished in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. "These racehorses get extensive examinations before races, but catastrophic injuries still happen, and not because they stepped in a hole or took a bad step. A large percentage have a pre-existing pathology not readily apparent on clinical examination," said Dr. Denise Mc Sweeney, an equine surgery resident at WSU who was the first author on the study. "From our sensor data, we know most catastrophic injuries have a distinct stride pattern. Now we can see when there's something wrong with their strides and step in before a major injury occurs." The sensors measure changes in the rate and direction in which a horse moves its legs and body, and generate graphs of its stride pattern. The data is processed by an algorithm and compared against an "ideal stride" derived from high-performing, sound racehorses. Using data from more than 6,500 starts, the algorithm also identifies similarities with strides produced by horses that suffered catastrophic injuries. Based on how far a stride deviates from ideal and how similar it is to a stride associated with an injury, the horse is assigned an injury risk factor ranging from 1 to 5. Horses with a 5 are 950 times more likely to suffer a catastrophic injury than those with a 1, which is close to the ideal stride. Of the horses tracked, 70% have fallen into category 1, with 3.5% in category 5. "We know there are about 1.25 catastrophic injuries per 1,000 starts, but identifying those horses before such an event occurs is like finding a needle in a haystack, as they are often subjectively sound during a pre-race examination, and many don't show any decrease in performance," Mc Sweeney said. "But if you can narrow it down, like the 3.5% we had out of that group, it is a lot easier to intervene and hopefully prevent injuries." To test and refine the algorithm, a sensor was placed on horses starting at Churchill Downs and Ellis Park in Kentucky from April 29 to July 2, 2023. Mc Sweeney was responsible for collecting clinical data on the high-risk horses. In their case study, the team focused on a pair of 3-year-old colts and a 4-year-old stallion flagged as category 5. In each instance, the sensors alerted veterinarians and trainers to potential injury risks, prompting diagnostic imaging that confirmed an increased risk of catastrophic musculoskeletal injuries. Each horse avoided catastrophic injury after being given time to recover before returning to the track. "These are prime examples of how this technology can prevent horses from breaking," Mc Sweeney said. "With this information, the trainers and their vets were able to put the brakes on, and now these horses are going on to have longer careers and, hopefully, avoid a catastrophic injury." Mc Sweeney is hopeful the sensors will become standard for all thoroughbred racing and training. "I believe this is going to make a huge impact," she said. "The sensors can save the lives of horses and jockeysthey already have." WSU has been working with StrideSAFE since 2020 when the sensors were tested at the campus' Hitchcock Research Racetrack. WSU is the only university in the United States with a dedicated research racetrack. From there the sensors were deployed at Emerald Downs Racetrack in Seattle and have since been used at 10 major tracks across the U.S., including Saratoga, Belmont, Keeneland and Churchill Downs. More information: Denise Mc Sweeney et al, Using accelerometers to identify a high risk of catastrophic musculoskeletal injury in three racing Thoroughbreds, Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (2024). DOI: 10.2460/javma.24.02.0114 Journal information: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 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 Wildlife biologist Chuck Rizzo climbs into what looks like an enormous white bucket and slowly begins to rise. The metal arm of an aerial lift truck propels him higher and higher, above thick underbrush and then even some treetops, toward a striking sight in an otherwise ordinary Cook County, Illinois, forest preserve: a sturdy, stick-strewn platform built on top of a 50-foot telephone pole. "How is it?" the lift operator yells as he maneuvers the bucket carrying the wildlife biologist. "Want it over?" "Yeah, get it closer," Rizzo says. Then he reaches toward the sticks and lifts out two pudgy osprey chicks with bulging chocolate-brown eyes and bellies covered in fluff. The chicks, which will be examined by a vet and returned to their high-rise home, are a sign of success for a Forest Preserves of Cook County program that aims to increase the number of once-endangered ospreys in the Chicago area by constructing towering nesting platforms. The Forest Preserves program now bands up to 30 chicks a year, all raised by wild ospreyalso known as sea hawksthat choose to build their massive nests on human-built platforms standing 50 to 80 feet above the ground. That's up from a handful of chicks in the first year of banding in the 1990s, according to Forest Preserves wildlife biologist Chris Anchor, who started the osprey nesting program after spotting nesting platforms in northern Wisconsin. "What we've done is we've greatly increased the speed at which ospreys have populated Cook County," Anchor said. Studies of similar programs have found that the platforms attract ospreys and produce successful nests, and the platforms are widely used in many areas of the United States. Still a threatened species in Illinois, ospreysfish-eating raptors with 5-foot wing spanswere once endangered in the state, due to the widespread use of the pesticide DDT, which weakened the shells of their eggs. But with a ban on DDT in 1972, the white-bellied birds with dark wings and facial markings are on the rise in Illinois. "They've increased dramatically and they've also spread," said Field Museum senior conservation ecologist Doug Stotz. "They're most common in the northern part of the state, but there are multiple osprey nests downstate." The Illinois Natural History Survey's 2023 spring bird count reported a record number of osprey sightings (181) in a record number of counties (43). In 2022, the bird count reported 22 osprey sightings in Cook County in the course of one day. The Chicago area may seem like an odd place for ospreys, but the imposing birdsabout 1 times the size of a red-tailed hawkare relatively tolerant of people if they have a good nest site, Stotz said. He also noted the presence of the nesting platforms, and the abundance of lakes in the county, both natural and artificial. "Almost every (Cook County) forest preserve has a lake, and that's the main thing they're looking for," he said. Anchor used to climb the telephone poles that support the nesting platforms and retrieve the chicks himself, with just a harness and spiked shoes. But on a recent visit to Lake Avenue Woods forest preserve near Mount Prospect, he was accompanied by Rizzo, the wildlife biologist, as well as a veterinarian, a wildlife technician, two representatives from a county that's starting its own osprey platform breeding program, and eight other observers and helpers. Anchor, who is a few years from retirement, wants to give his staff hands-on experience, so today it would be Rizzo who would retrieve the osprey chicks. After an early morning visit to a nesting platform that rose above a restored prairie, the group, minus Anchor, headed 35 miles south to Sag Quarries nature preserve near Lemont. It was a good site for osprey, with dense forest and wide lakes formed from old limestone quarries, but humans driving on unpaved paths had to watch out for low branches, steep inclines and deep, skid-inducing ruts. By the time the nest appeared in sight, the sun was blazing and the team set up an umbrella above a makeshift examining table formed by the back panel of a forest preserve pickup truck. The big bucket truck that lifted Rizzo into a cloudless blue sky rumbled loudly, and the parents of the chicks circled above, screaming "Pew! Pew! Pew! Pew!" When Rizzo finally ascended to the nest platform, he found two chicks that were about three or four weeks old, and in the sweet spot for examination and banding. "If they're bigger sometimes they'll try to go to the other side (of the nest)," Rizzo said when he came down. But these chicks were "definitely chill," and stayed put, making his job easier. The chicks were already largeabout a foot longwith stern stares, handsome head feathers and well-formed black beaks. But below the neck, they were still awkward and unformed, with stubby feathers and soft baby fluff. Once a member of the team held a chick's legsdisabling its already formidable black talonsthe bird would sit quietly in his or her arms. On the ground, forest preserves wildlife field technician Melina Frezados weighed and measured the birds and gently affixed lightweight aluminum bands with unique numbers to their right legs, using a wrench and pliers. John Winter, a veterinarian and the zoological and wildlife health management resident at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, gave each bird a thorough exam, including their eyes, ears and feet. He also took mouth swabs and blood samples. The chicks protested occasionally, letting out an indignant "Chuh! Chuh!" but they mostly lay back on the examining table, their pale fuzz-covered chests rising and falling. Their parents were less accepting. One sat in a dead tree, glaring down at the proceedings, while the other returned repeatedly to scream at the interlopers. The team left quickly once Rizzo had placed the chicks back in their nest, so the parents could return to their young as soon as possible. Banding allows the birds to enter the 7 million-band database at the U.S. Geological Survey Bird Banding Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland. Banding tracks where birds eat, nest and migrate, and allows researchers to see population trends over time, according to Suzy Peurach, a biologist at the Bird Banding Laboratory. Ospreys migrate as far as Central and South America, and Peurach said that a Cook County osprey was recently spotted in Colombiamore than 2,000 miles from Chicago. Reports are made using the identifying numbers on the birds' leg bands. One of the secrets of the osprey program's success, Anchor said, is to put nests where ospreys are already spending time, not where you want them to be. "Every pair of osprey has their own behavior patterns: Some are very tolerant of people and some are completely ill-tolerant," he said. "We have pairs of ospreys where if you come within a half mile of the nest, they'll be up in the air screaming for the next 30 minutes or an hour. So they're not taking care of their babies. We've got other pairs that are in fishing areas, near lakes, and people are fishing literally, right underneath the nest, and the ospreys could care less," he said. When the birds fledge, they fly south, where the females will stay for two years, becoming sexually mature, before they return to the area where they were born, with their mates in tow, he said. Ospreys generally mate for life, and birds will often return year after year to the same nest site. This year the Forest Preserves program lost at least four nests to storms, but they still have 13 nests on 21 platforms, and about 25 to 30 chicks, Anchor said. "The fact that we have an apex predator now living among us, in the third-largest metropolitan area in North Americathat's significant," he said. "That's a real testament that things are headed in the right direction." 2024 Chicago Tribune. 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: Arthur Krijgsman from Pexels A Monash University study has shed light on how Australian teachers conceptualize their well-being at work, offering vital insights that could help shape future policies and interventions aimed at improving the educational environment for teachers nationwide. The study, which was published in Teaching and Teacher Education, aims to understand whether an ideal representation of teacher well-being at work exists and to identify which components of well-being are considered most important by teachers themselves. Conducted in three phases, the research included the participation of nearly 1,000 teachers across Australia. The study revealed what an ideal model of teacher well-being at work looks like, including what teachers identified as core components that are consistently viewed as essential to their well-being. These included feeling safe, supported, valued and trusted, as well as achieving a work/life balance. The research was led by Duyen Vo from the School of Educational Psychology and Counseling at Monash University's Faculty of Education. "Our research offers a detailed understanding of what teacher well-being looks like from the perspective of teachers themselves," said Ms. Vo. "By identifying the core components of well-being, we can better support teachers and create healthier, more productive work environments." The study's results indicate that fostering a supportive and trusting environment, ensuring teachers feel valued, and promoting a healthy work/life balance are critical to enhancing teacher well-being. These insights provide a valuable foundation for schools and policymakers to design targeted interventions and develop policies that promote a thriving educational environment. Tristan Lanarus, principal of Westall Secondary College in Melbourne's southeast, which typically attracts students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, said, "The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly highlighted the urgent need to support teachers. Understanding the specific aspects of teacher well-being helps focus our efforts at a school level to create a more supportive and effective educational environment for both teachers and students." Duyen Vo said this study shows teacher well-being is crucial not only for the individual health of teachers but also for the overall functioning of education systems. "It affects teacher recruitment, retention and the quality of education provided to students. High levels of teacher stress, anxiety and burnout, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlight the urgent need for focused systemic efforts to support teachers' well-being. Ms. Vo said the findings provide a clear framework for measuring teacher well-being and evaluating the success of interventions. "By adopting a bottom-up approach, the study captures the authentic experiences and perceptions of teachers. This ensures that any interventions or policies developed are grounded in the real needs and priorities of those they aim to support," she said. Associate Professor Kelly-Ann Allen from the School of Educational Psychology and Counseling at Monash University's Faculty of Education says this research emphasizes the significance of focusing on teacher well-being as a proactive approach that benefits educators in their workplaces and shows the depth of knowledge that exists within the teaching profession. "For decades, school leaders and teachers have focused on student well-being, now it is time to broaden this focus to consider all staff as well. Research has repeatedly demonstrated the link between the well-being and mental health of teachers and children's academic outcomes and their own mental health," Associate Professor Allen said. "At a time when media portrayals often overlook these positives, reinforcing teacher well-being is going to be a critical way forward for the future of education in Australia." More information: Duyen T. Vo et al, Australian teachers' conceptualisations of wellbeing at work: A prototype analysis, Teaching and Teacher Education (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.tate.2024.104653 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 monarch butterfly, Danaus plexippus, is renowned for its striking appearance and perhaps even more than that, its remarkable long-distance migration. The population present in North America heads south each year in the late-summer, early autumn, traveling thousands of miles to its wintering grounds. The prowess of these magnificent butterflies as natural aviators is beyond doubt. Unlike almost every other species of butterfly, monarchs do not have coupled forewings and hindwings. This gives them unique flight stability and maneuverability that allows them to generate great lift and navigate efficiently, even at low speeds and high angles of attack. Research published in Progress in Computational Fluid Dynamics has investigated the aerodynamics of the monarch butterfly. The work provides new insights into the species itself but also points to the potential for non-fixed wing micro-aerial vehicles (MAVs). Fadile Yudum Comez and Dilek Funda Kurtulus of the Middle East Technical University, and Nevsan Sengil of the University of Turkish Aeronautical Association in Ankara, Turkey, have used a model of the butterfly's wings to investigate the flow field around fully opened forewings at various angles of attack. With this study, the team hoped to understand the complex aerodynamic phenomena that allow these butterflies to fly so well. The researchers used computational fluid dynamics simulations, including unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes simulations, to analyze the airflow around the model of the monarch's rigid wings. An important finding from the study was the recognition of significant differences in the aerodynamic performance in smooth (laminar) or turbulent flow models, particularly at higher angles of attack. They showed that the maximum lift-to-drag ratio was achieved at an angle of 30 degrees, but the wings "stall" at 40 degrees. Such insights will be useful in designing and developing micro-aerial vehicles that might mimic monarchs. Such flying machines may well one day be magnificent, but the designs will have to be able to copy with unsteady aerodynamic effects. More information: Fadile Yudum Comez et al, Three-dimensional flow evaluation of monarch butterfly wing, Progress in Computational Fluid Dynamics, An International Journal (2024). DOI: 10.1504/PCFD.2024.139335 Journal information: Progress in Computational Fluid Dynamics Provided by Inderscience 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 University of Portsmouth's Dog Cognition Center has been on a quest to find the U.K.'s smartest pooch for several years now. As part of their ongoing research, they are beginning a new study exploring how dogs learn sound symbolism and begin associating words with objects. Dr. Juliane Kaminski, Director of the Center which sits within the University's Department of Psychology, said, "To participate in the study, a dog must recognize more than 20 objects by name, ideally toys. "While we're looking for a rare group of dogs, they can be any breed or age. They just need the specific talent of being able to differentiate an item by a name. "This project will help us with our investigation into what fuels this unique talent. But to have effective results we need a large sample of pets, so we need the public's help!" Dr. Kaminski's pioneering research into dog cognition began with one exceptionally gifted border collie, named Rico. Over 20 years ago, Dr. Kaminski devised a test which showed he could label 200 items and could recall words for weeks after being taught them. The study, published in Science in 2004, was the first of its kind. This ability is broadly comparable to language-trained apes, dolphins, sea lions, and parrots. Rico went on to inspire a citizen-science project, Finding Rico, which was launched in 2021 with the goal of locating and studying other intelligent dogs. The latest study will be led by Dr. Leanne Proops, Associate Professor in Animal Behavior and Welfare at the University of Portsmouth. She said, "We're really keen to hear from anyone in the U.K. who thinks their dog meets the criteria. These special dogs will be helping us with an exciting new project that will help us to understand how human language evolved." It has been almost a decade since Britain's first facility dedicated exclusively to studying dogs' ability to understand humans and the world around them officially opened at the University's Langstone campus. Since then, hundreds of dogs have taken part in games and been given tasks to solve to better understand how they interact with their environment, other dogs or people. The research carried out at the center is strictly observational, and there are no invasive methods of any kind. Dogs are also always rewarded with food or play for completing their tasks and games. In one study, the team discovered dogs have evolved new muscles around the eyes to better communicate with humans. Dr. Kaminski's research showed dogs moved their eyebrows significantly more when humans were looking at them. The hypothesis being that these "puppy dog eyes" trigger a nurturing response in humans. The team has also mapped the facial movements of dogs, naming the movement responsible for a raised inner eyebrow the Action Unit (AU) 101. "We are always on the lookout for dogs and their owners to join our dog register," added Dr. Kaminski. "All you have to do is answer a couple of questions with their name, age, gender, if they're toy-motivated, or food-motivated etc. While we mainly seek out people who are close-by and can travel to our center in Portsmouth, we're also open to owners further away as we have online surveys too." Anyone interested in taking part in the latest study can contact Dr. Kaminski via email on juliane.kaminski@port.ac.uk. Marc Whyte, San Antonio city council member representing District 10, speaks to reporters outside of a courtroom on May 14, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Christopher Lee/Christopher Lee/Staff photographer The Bexar County District Attorneys Office has charged Council Member Marc Whyte with driving while intoxicated more than six months after a San Antonio police officer pulled him over on the North Side. The DA office's decision to file the charge on Wednesday sets the stage for an eventual trial. Whyte, 44, was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving the night of Dec. 29. Advertisement Article continues below this ad San Antonio police officer D. McCroy said in an affidavit that he witnessed the first-term council member speeding and changing lanes without signaling on a Northeast Loop 410 frontage road, and pulled him over shortly after 11 p.m. SUSPENDED: Marc Whyte accused of DWI out of doghouse at City Hall The officer also alleged that Whyte smelled strongly of alcohol, his eyes were glassy and red, and he swayed back and forth after getting out of his car. Whyte told the officer he had one drink at El Mirasol restaurant on Northwest Military Highway, a second at Myrons Prime Steakhouse next door and a third at the nearby Thirsty Horse Saloon. Marc Whyte, San Antonio city council member representing District 10, speaks to reporters outside of a courtroom on May 14, 2024, in San Antonio, Texas. Christopher Lee/Christopher Lee/Staff photographer The San Antonio Police Department on Jan. 11 released body-camera video of the arrest. In the 20-minute recording, the Northeast Side council member appeared coherent and polite, and was adamant that he was sober. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Yet the Texas Department of Public Safety reported in late February that Whytes blood alcohol concentration was 0.089 grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood a few hours after his arrest. DWI is defined in the Texas Penal Code as driving with a BAC of 0.08 or higher. Its a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail. Whyte was slated to appear in Bexar County Court No. 11 on Wednesday morning, but the hearing was reset because the DAs office hadnt formally charged him which Assistant District Attorney Luis Echeverria did later that day, just after 1 p.m. A new court date hasnt been set. The lag between Whytes arrest and prosecutors bringing a charge against him was unusually long for a DWI case, said Joe Hoelscher, a San Antonio lawyer who handles a lot of drunken driving cases. He said the DAs office usually files charging documents in a DWI case within four months. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If District Attorney Joe Gonzales' office had taken much longer in Whyte's case, Hoelscher said, his attorney could have sought a dismissal of the case. He said case law states that DWI cases should go to trial within eight months for the defendant to have gotten what's considered a speedy trial, as required by the Sixth Amendment. However, local DWI attorney Louis D. Martinez said a lengthy period between a person's arrest and charges being filed against them isnt unheard of. He said he's seen charges filed up to a year after a suspect's arrest. Prosecutors have two years from the date of an incident to file charges. Staffing shortages in the DA's office are usually the reason for such a lag, Martinez said. But prosecutors also could take more time to file a charge if they're conducting a more thorough investigation than usual. The office could send a DWI suspect's blood to be re-tested or tested by an independent lab, Martinez said. Whyte and his attorney, David Christian, declined to comment. DA spokesman Pete Gallego said the office does not comment on pending cases. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In May, Echeverria said he was still gathering a couple of key pieces of evidence, and that he was seeking information from DPS forensic scientist Karen Ream, who tested Whytes blood. Whytes predecessor in Council District 10, Clayton Perry, was handed probation last year after he drunkenly crashed into a car at a North Side intersection and fled the scene on Nov. 6, 2022. The three-term council member accepted a plea deal just over six months after the crash. In March, DPS suspended Whyte's license for 180 days a routine step in DWI cases. He has been driving to work and to council-related events and meeting with an occupational license. City Council censured Whyte for his actions in January, but the formal reprimand carries no tangible consequences. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 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 A group of scientists have released a landmark report on glacial geoengineeringan emerging field studying whether technology could halt the melting of glaciers and ice sheets as climate change progresses. The white paper represents the first public efforts by glaciologists to assess possible technological interventions that could help address catastrophic sea-level rise scenarios. While it does not endorse any specific interventions, it calls for a "major initiative" in the next decades to research which, if any, interventions could and should be used. "Everyone who is a scientist hopes that we don't have to do this research," said Douglas MacAyeal, a professor of geophysical sciences with the University of Chicago who has studied glaciers for nearly 50 years and is a co-author on the white paper. "But we also know that if we don't think about it, we could be missing an opportunity to help the world in the future." The paper is the result of two recent conferences at the University of Chicago and Stanford University on geoengineeringcatalyzed and encouraged by the newly formed Climate Systems Engineering initiative at UChicago, which seeks to understand the benefits, risks, and governance of technologies that might reduce the impacts of accumulated greenhouse gases. Tipping points Scientists have documented major changes in every major glacier system worldwide. As climate change continues, these massive ice sheets will release more and more water, which will lead to rising global sea levelsthe oceans have already risen by 8 to 9 inches since the late 1800s. Most of the ice that would affect global sea levels is concentrated in a few areas in the Arctic and Antarctic. This has prompted speculation about whether it would be possible to slow or halt this melting, such as by installing walls around ice sheets to insulate them from warming ocean water. But any such intervention could have major consequences, ranging from costing large amounts of money for little effect to majorly disturbing Arctic ecosystems and livelihoodsand there are many questions to answer before any such effort could be undertaken. "It will take 15 to 30 years for us to understand enough to recommend or rule out any of these interventions," said co-author John Moore, a professor with the Arctic Center at the University of Lapland. "Our argument is that we should start funding this research now, so that we aren't making panicked decisions down the road when the water is already lapping at our ankles," said MacAyeal. The report is also clear that the first order of business is to stop emitting carbon into the atmosphere. "We can never say often enough that that is the first priority," said Moore. But it is also possible that ice sheets have a tipping point for collapsingand that we have already passed it. "Humans have already released so much carbon dioxide that we are seeing profound changes in every glacier system around the world," said MacAyeal. "Many of these are likely to have a tipping point where even if we were to stop emitting all carbon worldwide tomorrow, the system would still collapse. And we are not in a position now to say that we haven't already crossed those points." Types of interventions The two conferences, one held at the University of Chicago last October and the other at Stanford University in December, brought together dozens of glaciologists, engineers and related disciplines. The participants summarized our current knowledge of glacier science, and discussed two major categories of glacier interventions that have been proposed to date. The first category consists of some type of berms or fiber-based "curtains" moored on the seabed around the feet of ice shelves, which would prevent warm water from undermining them. (The biggest threat to ice sheets is actually warmer ocean water, rather than hotter air temperatures.) "From preliminary studies, the actual engineering required might be smaller than you might think," said MacAyeal. "For example, the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica might require as little as 50 miles of seabed nets and curtains to make a difference." The other major category of intervention is trying to slow the flow of streams that carry meltwater off the ice sheets. As an ice sheet melts, streams form and carry that melting water to the sea; the hypothesis is that reducing the amount of that water would cause the ice stream to freeze up and halt melting. One way to reduce the flow might be to drill holes down to the glacier bedto either drain water from below the ice before it affects the glacier, or to try to artificially freeze the glacier bed. But both benefits and drawbacks remain unclear for both sets of approaches, scientists said. It's possible that seawalls could simply deflect warm water to nearby ice shelves; the installation also would disrupt local sea life and the lives of people who live nearby. Meanwhile, the drilling approach might be less harmful to ecosystems, but it might also not be very effective, and would require a lot of engineering under harsh conditions. The report also emphasizes that any such interventions would need to be conducted with input from nations worldwide, not just the wealthiest. It calls for "robust participation of sociologists, humanists, ecologists, community leaders, scientific and engineering governing bodies, international treaty organizations, and other relevant stakeholders in guiding the research." In particular, testing these approaches is most likely to be done in the Arctic, which is orders of magnitude easier to access than the Antarctic. But thousands of people live in and depend on the Arctic, including many Indigenous peoples. "It is imperative that any of these interventions be done in concert with these voices," Moore said. 'Vigorous debate' The report identifies major areas of research for the future, including identifying what natural processes might limit ice sheet deterioration and human interventions that could enhance those processes; and what the window of opportunity for implementing interventions might be. The group called for a major initiative which would conduct "vigorous debate" of the ethical, social justice, and governance of glacial interventions, recommend areas of immediate research need, and engage local and international stakeholders. "We want to give future generations as much glaciological knowledge as possible in case they need it," said MacAyeal. More information: The full white paper is available online. 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: Mangrove nurseries in Maputo, Mozambique, managed by the local community with technical support from the U.S. Forest Service International Programs. Credit: Vilma Machava, U.S. Forest Service International Programs U.S. Forest Service ecologists and partners have published new findings, in the journal Science Advances, on how planted mangroves can store up to 70% of carbon stock to that found in intact stands after only 20 years. Researchers have long known that mangroves are superstars of carbon absorption and storage. But until now, limited information existed on how long it took for carbon stored in planted mangroves to reach levels found in intact mangroves. "About 10 years ago, Sahadev Sharma, then with the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, and I discovered that 20-year-old mangrove plantations in Cambodia had carbon stocks comparable to those of intact forests," Rich MacKenzie, also with the Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, stated. MacKenzie and Sharma assembled a team of mangrove researchers that came together from across the globe to lend their expertise. Led by Carine Bourgeois from the Forest Service's International Programs office, the team used logistic models compiled from 40 years of data and built from almost 700 planted mangrove stands worldwide to measure carbon stock. They discovered, after 20 years, the trees' carbon stock reached 7173% of that found in intact stands. These research findings could have a positive impact on efforts to restore mangroves worldwide. Along with historical losses, human-driven land use change, extreme weather events, and erosion have wiped out 35% of the global mangrove area over the past five decades. Intact mangroves in the Democratic Republic of Congo, in the mouth of the Congo River, where some of the highest carbon stocks in the world have been recorded. Credit: Dr. Carine Bourgeois "As our dataset grows and more data become available, we hope researchers and stakeholders will gain new insight into planning and techniques for restoring mangroves," Sharma stated. Part of that research work also involves monitoring mangroves to see how they're faring. "Periodic and regular monitoring of mangroves can provide useful data on survival and success of restoration efforts and can help devise adaptive management strategies as and when needed," Rupesh Bhomia, from the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF), stated. Globally, there's more recognition that conserving and restoring mangroves is vital. These trees are not only powerhouses of carbon storage, but coastal guardians that act as barriers during tsunamis and storm surges. Mangroves also provide habitat for diverse species and nurseries for many aquatic animals. Intact mangroves in the Democratic Republic of Congo, in the mouth of the Congo River, where some of the highest carbon stocks in the world have been recorded. Credit: Carine Bourgeois But MacKenzie warns that mangrove plantations are not always a solution for restoring the trees. "Properly planned and implemented mangrove plantations are more effective at restoring carbon stocks than are degraded stands. However, this does not mean that mangrove plantations are always the best restoration method," MacKenzie stated. Planting mangroves is not a replacement, nor does it compensate for conserving intact stands, the researchers emphasized. "Our models indicate that replanting in all highly restorable mangrove areas would absorb less than one percent of annual global emissions over 20 years. That's why conserving existing mangrove stands is paramount," Bourgeois emphasized. More information: Carine F. Bourgeois et al, Four decades of data indicate that planted mangroves stored up to 75% of the carbon stocks found in intact mature stands, Science Advances (2024). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk5430 Journal information: Science Advances 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 The only way to visit Ken Able's office is to traverse Great Bay Boulevard, a narrow, five-mile long road in Tuckerton, New Jersey, that crosses a network of brackish tidal marshes via a series of wood bridges. The boulevard, nominally protected from erosion by a border of reeds and groundsel shrubs, had flooded on a recent day. Undeterred, a woman in a truck plowed through, donned waders, and tossed a crab trap into a channel. Dozens of diamondback terrapins negotiating the road tucked their heads as an occasional vehicle approached. Able's office at the Rutgers University Marine Field Station lies at the end of the very tip of the boulevard, linked by a long boardwalk at the very edge of New Jersey. Flooding has become more common. "We're losing our marshes, and that's very obvious," said Able, 79, a Rutgers professor emeritus and marine scientist who retired as the station's director in 2019 but continues conducting research. "We've lost 140 feet at the edge of the marsh channel, and it's getting closer to the station all the time." Able has one of the most unique vantage points in the eastern United States to measure and experience climate change firsthand: The Atlantic Ocean is slowly swallowing the peninsula on which the station rests. Sea level rise New Jersey has experienced 8.2 inches of sea level rise over roughly the last 40 years. That's twice the global average because not only is the ocean rising, but the land is sinking from natural geological forces and groundwater withdrawal to feed sprawl. So each inch of rising ocean is met with a compounding effect of collapsing ground. The 87-year-old, three-story field station is on the precipice of it all. The station was built in 1937 for the U.S. Coast Guard. In 1972, Rutgers took over the building and uses it as a base for the department of Marine and Coastal Sciences. The rambling building's pilings are sunk 33 feet deep into the peat. On a busy day, dozens of scientists, students, researchers and volunteers pop in and out. Flooding of Great Bay Boulevard, known locally as Seven Bridges Road, is more frequent these days so staff exchange e-mails if the road passable. In recent years, so-called sunny day flooding, or nuisance flooding, has increased in the area. Sunny day flooding occurs when high tides push water into low-lying areas without a storma signal water levels are increasing. In the 1950s, Atlantic City experienced sunny day flooding about once a year. It averaged eight times a year between 2007 and 2016, according to data compiled by Rutgers and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. By 2050, there's a 50% chance it could flood 120 days a year. Able ran the Rutgers station for decades. He says the peninsula will be inundated at every high tide with another foot of sea level rise. "Is that going to be 2050, 2070, 2100? We don't know," Able said. "There are projections out there, but they are just that, projections." Small standing pools of water have formed in normally dry patches of marsh. Some have become permanently pond-sized, Able notes. By 2050, there is a 50% chance that sea-level rise will meet or exceed 1.4 feet from the base year of 2000. Those levels increase to 3.3 feet by the end of the century under a scenario of moderate greenhouse gas emissions, according to the state's Scientific Report on Climate Change. Concrete pads from a defunct meteorological tower sit just off the dock behind the field station, marking the current edge of the surrounding marsh system. A picture dated from 1998 that hangs in Able's office shows the marsh's edge 140 feet farther out than now. Able has written multiple books with the station as a backdrop, including Station 119: From Lifesaving to Marine Research, a history of the field station's building, and Beneath the Surface: Understanding Nature in the Mullica Valley Estuary, about the surrounding 365,000-acre ecosystem. "Literally watching our coasts change' The field station sits where the Mullica River-Great Bay estuary meets the ocean. Windows in the building's peak gives expansive views of the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. Long Beach Island in Ocean County is just to the north, and Brigantine in Atlantic County just to the South. Atlantic City's casinos loom in the distance. The station is so exposed that waves from Superstorm Sandy in 2012 slapped against its sides. As a result, the station is a near perfect site for studying marine life and sea level rise as it impacts the coast. The Great Bay is fed by the Mullica River as it emerges unpolluted from the massive Kirkwood-Cohansey aquifer that lies under the Pine Barrens. "The reason is that it's such a valuable place is, that it's on one of the most pristine watersheds in the entire Northeast United States," said the field station's current director, Oscar Schofield, who chairs Rutgers' Department of Marine and Coastal Sciences. Schofield said that as the ocean has warmed, the state is seeing some traditional fish species move north, and fish from traditionally warmer waters take their place. "We know that we're literally watching our coasts change, and they're changing really dramatically at the field station," Schofield said. "Heart of the storm' A tide gauge installed in Atlantic City in 1910 shows sea level has risen 18 inches since then. The Rutgers' marine station also has its own gauge, though much newer, as part of a national network of gauges. Schofield said other instruments are used to record wind and map changes to the land. "We've got this field station right in the heart of the storm," he said. "So we said let's use it as a research base in the field to document everything." At the field station, Rutgers studies varies species of fish and blue crabs, and habitats. Researchers use sonar, which uses sound for sensing, and lidar, which uses light from a pulsed laser, to map the ocean floor and measure distances. Lisa Auermuller, administrative director for Rutgers' Megalopolitan Coastal Transformation Hub, said scientists who work at the station open it to the public for a day each September so residents can see the work that's done there. At the annual open house, staff present data, set up microscopes, display larval fish collected nearby, and bring in students to speak about their research. One year, the open house drew 800 people in five hours so the station began issuing tickets for subsequent events. "There's a specialness to this place that you won't be able to replace anywhere else," Auermuller said, noting that a local band, The Moon Sisters, recently released an ode to Seven Bridges Road. Auermuller said the eventual loss of the station to the sea will be heartbreaking to staff and locals. "This is an icon," Auermuller said of the station. "People are interested in what happens out here." 2024 The Philadelphia Inquirer, LLC. 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: This release features four distinct composite images from NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and the James Webb Space Telescope, presented in a two-by-two grid. Credit: Chandra X-ray Center It's time to take a cosmic road trip using light as the highway and visit four stunning destinations across space. The vehicles for this space get-away are NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory and James Webb Space Telescope. In each of the images, which add Chandra data to previously released Webb images, the colors represent different wavelengths of X-ray, optical, or infrared light. Rho Ophiuchi. Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/MIT/C. Canizares; IR: NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI/K. Pontoppidan; Image Processing: NASA/ESA/STScI/Alyssa Pagan, NASA/CXC/SAO/L. Frattare and J. Major The first stop on this tour is the closest, Rho Ophiuchi, at a distance of about 390 light-years from Earth. Rho Ophiuchi is a cloud complex filled with gas and stars of different sizes and ages. Being one of the closest star-forming regions, Rho Ophiuchi is a great place for astronomers to study young stars. In this image, X-rays from Chandra are purple and reveal the hot, outer atmospheres of infant stars. Infrared data from Webb is red, yellow, cyan, light blue, and darker blue and provides views of the spectacular regions of gas and dust. Orion Nebula. Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/SAO/E. Feigelson; IR: NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI; Image Processing: NASA/CXC/SAO/L. Frattare and J. Major The next destination is the Orion Nebula, a giant cloud where stars are forming. Still located in the Milky Way galaxy, this region is a little bit farther from our home planet at about 1,500 light-years away. If you look just below the middle of the three stars that make up the "belt" in the constellation of Orion, you may be able to see this nebula through a small telescope. With Chandra and Webb, however, we get to see so much more. Chandra reveals young stars that glow brightly in X-rays, colored in red, green, and blue, while Webb shows the gas and dust in darker red that will help build the next generation of stars here. NGC 3627. Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/SAO; Optical: NASA/ESO/STScI, ESO/WFI; Infrared: NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI/JWST; Image Processing: NASA/CXC/SAO/J. Major It's time to leave our galaxy and visit another at a much greater distance of some 36 million light-years away. Like the Milky Way, NGC 3627 is a spiral galaxy that we see at a slight angle. NGC 3627 is known as a "barred" spiral galaxy because of the rectangular shape of its central region. From our vantage point, we can also see two distinct spiral arms that appear as arcs. X-rays from Chandra in purple show evidence for a supermassive black hole in its center as well as other dense objects like neutron stars and black holes pulling in matter. Meanwhile, Webb finds the dust, gas, and stars throughout the galaxy in red, green, and blue. This image also contains optical data from NASA's Hubble Space Telescope in red, green, and blue. MACS J0416. Credit: X-ray: NASA/CXC/SAO/G. Ogrean et al.; Optical/Infrared: (Hubble) NASA/ESA/STScI; IR: (JWST) NASA/ESA/CSA/STScI/Jose M. Diego (IFCA), Jordan C. J. D'Silva (UWA), Anton M. Koekemoer (STScI), Jake Summers (ASU), Rogier Windhorst (ASU), Haojing Yan (University of Missouri) Our final landing place on this trip is the biggest and the farthest at a distance of about 4.3 billion light-years from Earth. MACS J0416 is a galaxy cluster, which are the largest objects in the universe held together by gravity. Galaxy clusters like this can contain hundreds or even thousands of individual galaxies all immersed in massive amounts of superheated gas that Chandra can detect. In this view, Chandra's X-rays in purple show this reservoir of hot gas while Hubble and Webb pick up the individual galaxies in red, green, and blue. The long thin lines are caused by matter in the cluster distorting the light from galaxies behind MACS J0416 in a process known as gravitational lensing. 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: Journal of the American Chemical Society (2024). DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c00841 In 1887, chemist Sir Arthur Michael reported a nucleophilic addition reaction to the -position of ,- unsaturated carbonyl compounds. These reactions, named Michael addition reactions, have been extensively studied to date. In contrast, the anti-Michael addition reaction, referring to the nucleophilic addition reaction to the -position, has been difficult to achieve. This is due to the higher electrophilicity of the -position compared to the -position. Previous attempts to overcome these difficulties have involved two main methods. The first is restricting the addition position via intramolecular reactions, while the second method involves introducing a strong-electron withdrawing group at the -position. However, these methods are not ideal for synthesizing complex molecules via the anti-Michael reaction. In a new study, a global team of researchers, led by Professor Takanori Matsuda and including Ryota Moro, both from the Department of Applied Chemistry at Tokyo University of Science, Japan, as well as including Assistant Professor Hirotsugu Suzuki from the Tenure-Track Program for Innovative Research at the University of Fukui, Japan, successfully achieved palladium-catalyzed anti-Michael addition reaction of acrylamides. This represents the first example of an anti-Michael-type addition reaction. "We found that the presence of a catalytic amount of palladium(II) trifluoroacetate Pd(TFA) 2 is capable of facilitating the anti-Michael addition of indole to acrylamide with an aminoquinoline group as a directing group, producing the addition product in high-yield," explains Prof. Matsuda. The research is published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society. The team reasoned introducing a directing group into an ,-unsaturated carbonyl compound could facilitate an anti-Michael type addition reaction by stabilizing the reaction intermediate. To test this, the researchers first used an acrylamide having an aminoquinoline-directing group, and a nucleophile, 1-methylindole, as model substrates to investigate the anti-Michael type addition reaction in the presence of the palladium catalyst. This reaction produced the desired product with a 90% yield. At a reaction scale of 2 millimoles, there was no yield loss, signifying the practicality of the reaction. This reaction was also carried out with -substituted cinnamamide derivatives and crotonamide derivatives with an alkyl group. Moreover, the reaction proceeded smoothly with a wide range of nucleophiles, including many indoles, heterocyclic compounds such as pyrroles and thiophenes, and electron-rich aromatic compounds. Additionally, the aminoquinoline-directing group used in this reaction can be converted to carboxylic acids and other amides, signifying the usefulness of the reaction. The researchers also investigated the mechanism for this reaction through labeling experiments. They found that initially, the acrylamide coordinates to Pd(TFA) 2 to form a five-membered ring palladacyle intermediate. The reaction then proceeds with the nucleophilic attack by indole on the intermediate, producing alkylpalladium species. Finally, an acid removes palladium and regenerates Pd(TFA) 2 , producing the desired -substituted carbonyl compound. Highlighting the potential applications of this study, Dr. Suzuki says, "The anti-Michael type addition is expected to become an ideal one-step reaction with 100% atomic efficiency for the synthesis of -substituted carbonyl compounds, which are often used in pharmaceuticals. Our method will enable the widespread application of this reaction." Overall, this novel method can lead to efficient and sustainable synthesis of -substituted carbonyl compounds and consequently pharmaceuticals, among other organic compounds. 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: Katia Lamer, scientist and director of Brookhaven National Laboratory's Center for Multiscale Applied Sensing, shows the truck's route through midtown Tucson during a data-collection trip on Friday. Credit: Kyle Mittan/University Communications It was only in the low 90s, but a bona fide swelter had set in across Tucson by 9:45 a.m. on June 28, if the sights at Reid Park were any indication. Parking lots were strewn with cars that had picked off all the spaces under the shade of mesquite and palo verde trees. Outdoor workers who had little choice for reprieve from the heat donned long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed caps and kept handy their oversized jugs of water. Not-so-early-bird joggers slogged through 30% humidity, brought on by the monsoon, while their dogs panted profusely. And just inside a gated area at the park sat a pair of trucks that appeared to be plucked from the set of the 1996 movie "Twister." Nearby, a crew of researchers set up a slate of specialized climate-monitoring instruments. The crew, from the U.S. Department of Energy-sponsored Brookhaven National Laboratory, had just arrived in Tucson for six days of field research for the Southwest Urban Corridor Integrated Field Laboratory, known as the SW-IFL. The $25 million federal project, which the Department of Energy announced in 2022, aims to better understand how extreme heat affects communities across the Southwest. The project includes research teams from all three state universities in Arizona, as well as partnerships with the city of Tucson, Pima County, the National Weather Service and others. Ladd Keith, an associate professor in the School of Planning and Landscape Architecture, leads the University of Arizona's slice of the work. That will largely involve translating the climate data collected in neighborhoods around Tucson and Phoenix into actionable guidelines that local governments around the country can use to help their communities respond to the effects of extreme heat. Last year, heat-related deaths in Arizona reached 987, a record high. In Phoenix specifically, heat-related deaths in 2023 were up 52% over 2022. But the problem is global, Keith said, pointing to a May report by Climate Central that concluded human-caused climate change was a major factor in extreme heat around the world over the last year. Extreme-heat events are also more intense and longer-lasting, Keith added. A recent heat wave in Mexico likely killed more than the official count of 125 people and was made 35 times more likely to happen due to climate change, according to a report co-authored by Keith and published by World Weather Attribution, a global collective of climate scientists. But governments across the U.S. and around the world have only recently begun to seriously consider ways to prevent the harmful and deadly effects of heat. Heat governance, as it's called, is slowly being adopted and implemented by governments across the country. "The goal with this project is to do science that improves the resilience of communities in our state to increasing heat," Keith said. "The U of A's role in this partnership is critical because we have the expertise of working with community partners and translating that science into action that communities can use to make better decisions." Filling in the Southwest's 'data deserts' The Brookhaven team's arrival in Tucson with their trucks and balloonsafter a 2,500-mile trek from their home base on Long Island, New Yorkwas likely the first time that any group in Tucson has taken neighborhood-level climate measurements in such detail. "These are very specialized tools that allow us to further explore a localized area of the built environment," Keith said. "We've done localized climate data collection before with relatively affordable equipment, but not to the level of detail that this equipment allows us to look at." Katia Lamer, director of Brookhaven National Laboratory's Center for Multiscale Applied Sensing, manages research conducted with the mobile lab trucks. As Tucson soaked up a monsoon rain one recent evening, Lamer's team snaked their trucks through midtown neighborhoods. A lidar instrument used lasers to measure a variety of data, including ground and air temperature, pollution particles and more. The raindrops, it told researchers, were falling as fast as 8 meters (about 26 feet) per second. A Doppler instrument measured air particles' movements, providing windspeed. A fisheye lens pointed directly upward took images of the cloud cover. Other instruments tracked air and land temperature, humidity and more. The data flashed across a laptop screen mounted in the truck's back seat. The instruments allowed researchers to measure many aspects of the lower atmosphere at any given time or place. Weather stations installed at airports across the country simply can't collect data this localized and this specific to residential neighborhoods, Lamer said. "We're the only group that has these instruments running while we're driving, so we're collecting climate data as we go, with the goal of collecting data when and where it's needed," Lamer said. "We're filling in these data deserts." Partnerships help tell 'a complete story' about heat The team's routes had been pre-determined in partnership with the city, U of A researchers and other project partners. They took researchers to neighborhoods where the city plans to add rainwater infrastructure to get before-and-after data snapshots. The trucks also passed over streets where the city has used more reflective pavement to trap less of the sun's heat. The route also included neighborhoods where Mark Kear, an assistant professor in the School of Geography, Development and Environment and another researcher on the Southwest Urban Corridor Integrated Field Laboratory, has partnered with residents to monitor the climate data of 40 Tucson households over the summer. Kear's research focuses primarily on manufactured homes, whose owners and renters see a much higher rate of heat-related deaths than traditional single-family homes, he said. The quickest period of growth in manufactured housing across the U.S., Kear said, happened in the early 1970s, before federal regulations were put in place to ensure those homes were built safely. Many homes from that era are still standing and have inadequate insulation and other issues that make some residents more vulnerable to the heat. Many of their occupants, Kear said, are low-income families. As part of the Southwest Urban Corridor Integrated Field Laboratory, Kear's work as a social scientist complements the work of climate scientists like Lamer and her team, giving a fuller picture of how heat impacts certain people, especially those most vulnerable. "The idea is that we can bring these different data types together to tell a complete story so that I can understand more effectively what is making it so hard for these low-income families keep their homes cool," Kear said. The trucks aren't the team's only tools to gather data. Lamer's team also uses balloons to launch instruments that can collect much of the same data as the trucks, but as high as 16 miles into the sky. The balloons vary in size from as large as about 6 feet in diameter to the size of a party balloon, depending on what can safely be launched in a given area. That morning at Reid Park, the team launched one of its larger balloons, known as a windsonde, from a ballfield. It sailed up to its maximum height of 16 miles, where the balloon burst. The instrument fell to the ground, where a GPS signal would allow researchers to find it later. 'Translating science into action' It'll be at least a few months before any meaningful takeaways can be gleaned from the data Lamer's team collected during their six days in Tucson, she said. Peer-reviewed studies will come a couple years from now. One finding was clear from Day 1, though: The desert Southwest, particularly Phoenix and Tucson, has the most extreme weather the trucks have seen, Lamer said. They've been used to chase storms around Houston and measure densely urban conditions such as New York Citybut the Arizona heat is what took most of the trucks' instruments to their limits. "This is the hottestboth because the air temperature is hot, but also because the sun is beaming and there's almost never any relief from clouds," Lamer said. In the months and years to come, it will be up to Keith and his colleagues to learn how that findingand the many others that are sure to come from the datawill translate into better information the government and public can use to stay resilient to heat. Keith hopes a few ideas emerge from the data in time to implement them before next summer. "We know temperatures will continue to increase due to climate change," Keith said. "So, we will work with our city and county partners to interpret the results from this project so that we are better prepared for our hotter future." Vice President Kamala Harris speaks Wednesday at the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. annual convention during the 71st biennial Boule at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas. Harris has been a member of the sorority since she joined while a student at Howard University. LM Otero/Associated Press Vice President Kamala Harris speaks to members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority on Wednesday at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas. Harris spoke to about 20,000 members from her sorority in a continued effort to rally support ahead of the upcoming November presidential election. Brandon Bell/Getty Images Vice President Kamala Harris traveled to Dallas on Wednesday, touting the Biden administrations accomplishments as panic among national Democrats continued to set in over their presidential ticket coming apart at the seams. She delivered her speech to about 20,000 members of Alpha Kappa Alpha, a historically Black sorority of which she is an alumna, at their annual convention at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. Clad in the sororitys trademark pink, Harris sought to shore up the presidents support among Black Americans, a critical demographic in the upcoming elections. The vice president did not, however, address the elephant in the room: the breathless national debate about whether President Joe Biden should step aside as the partys nominee, opening the possibility for her to run in his place. She also did not answer media questions about whether Biden should step aside after the event. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Many Democrats, including U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin, are openly warning that Biden will lose the election and hurt Democrats in key down-ballot races, including the Senate election in Texas. Biden also is heading to Texas soon, speaking at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library in Austin on Monday to mark the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act. Harris, who was an AKA member as a college student at Howard University, kicked off her keynote speech in Dallas by acknowledging Hurricane Beryl, which pummeled Southeast Texas and has left millions without power in the summer heat. President Biden has approved a major disaster declaration, and we will continue to stand with the people of Texas as we rebuild and recover, Harris said. Both Biden and Harris have made recent visits to Texas during their tenure, though their campaign has not targeted Texas as a battleground state. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Harris was in Houston last fall, touting the administrations accomplishment for Latinos. Biden visited Brownsville earlier this year to urge Congress to pass an immigration deal. Black voters, and Black women in particular, are seen as an essential bloc of Democratic voters, but polls indicate that support could slip in November. Harris has made a number of stops to shore up support, including an appearance at Essence Fest in New Orleans over the weekend. Texas has nearly 3 million eligible Black voters, the most of any state, making up around 14% of all eligible voters. In her speech, Harris also announced new federal guidelines on postpartum care in hospitals, noting that Black women face particularly higher rates of maternal mortality. She hit on reproductive rights and recent abortion bans passed in states like Texas. In the South, where a majority of Black women call home, every state except for Virginia has a ban, many with no exception even for rape or incest, Harris said. One does not have to abandon their faith to agree, the government should not be telling her what to do with her body. NORTHFIELD Atlantic County commissioners voted Wednesday to accept up to $1 million in state funding to offset costs of its Central Municipal Court handling State Police summonses from nonparticipating municipalities for the past two years. The vote occurred at a special emergency meeting, needed because news of the funding came suddenly and the state required the vote by July 11, officials said. The next regularly scheduled meeting was July 16. We believe there was a flaw in the legislation thats been corrected, and now this money is going to be made available through a LEAP grant, said County Executive Dennis Levinson of the states Local Efficiency Achievement Program. Levinson said the grant funds will go back to participating towns to offset their costs. In January, Gov. Phil Murphy signed a bill sponsored by state Sen. Vince Polistina and Assembly members Don Guardian and Claire Swift, all R-Atlantic, that amended the original law that allowed counties to create pilot central courts, to put the onus on towns that keep independent municipal courts to handle their own State Police cases. For its first two years, the central court handled all 23 municipalities State Police cases. Atlantic County Superior Court Assignment Judge Michael Blee attended the virtual meeting and said the changes in the law start Aug. 1. Atlantic Countys consolidated municipal court is a model for New Jersey, by Julio Mendez Municipal court reform is not new in New Jersey. Beginning with Arthur Vanderbilt in the ear The county court will have to finalize all State Police cases pending before it, he said, which is likely to take some months. It is an incredible step in the right direction from an efficiency standpoint and a fairness standpoint, Blee said of the new law. Blee thanked Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Jacquelyn Suarez for her role in helping the court get the LEAP funding. Its a great day for the Central Municipal Court, Blee said. Fewer than half of the countys 23 municipalities are participating in the Atlantic County municipal court pilot program, which is designed to save taxpayers money through shared services. Levinson said he hopes more will join, now that they will have responsibility for their own State Police cases so their savings will increase. Atlantic Countys Central Municipal Court opened Jan. 1, 2022. Levinson said all participating towns but Northfield have saved money under the program. Northfield left the county court at the start of the year and joined a shared court with Hammonton. Atlantic County Central Municipal Court at crossroad following recent departures Northfield became the second municipality to exit the Atlantic County Central Municipal Court last week for the Joint Municipal Court of Hammonton, joining Hamilton Township, which left in May. Leaders from those municipalities have cited net revenue for the court falling short of the expectations that had been set when they joined the central court in 2021. The reason they werent saving money is they had a terrific deal with Linwood, Levinson said, calling it an aberration. Towns that joined the central court will now save even more money with the legislation change and LEAP grant kicking in, Levinson said. He could not provide an estimate of what percentage of cases the central court has handled that will now go back to towns. And the towns which were not getting those State Police cases (but now will get them), obviously their costs are going to go up, Levinson said. Whos going to pay for it? The taxpayers. SPRINGFIELD Former Republican State Sen. Sam McCann was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison for stealing nearly $700,000 in campaign funds and attempting to conceal his theft with false reports to state election authorities. In February, McCann pleaded guilty to seven counts of wire fraud and one count each of money laundering and tax evasion but only after prosecutors had spent nearly three days presenting evidence against him at trial. U.S. District Judge Colleen Lawless hearkened back to that moment as she was handing down her sentence Tuesday afternoon, saying McCanns refusal to accept responsibility until the last possible moment factored into her calculation for prison time. She also told McCann she was bothered that he continued to steal all while holding yourself out (to be) a God-fearing public servant. That may have been part of your stump speech and your public persona, Lawless said. But just because you said it over and over does not make it true. McCann appeared in Lawless courtroom clad in the gray-and-black striped uniform of the Macon County Jail, where hes been held since shortly before his trial began in February. The judge had ordered him detained when he disobeyed her directives after his sudden unexplained hospitalization on the eve of trial further delayed court proceedings, and she declined to release him on home confinement after his guilty plea to await sentencing. But in addressing Lawless on Tuesday, McCann said he was thankful for his time in jail because of the relationships he was developing with other detainees and correctional officers. He also said he was coming to understand how some of the votes he took during his eight years in the General Assembly translated to real-world policy that contributed to his fellow detainees involvement with the criminal justice system. Id trust these men more than some of my colleagues in Illinois government, McCann said of his fellow detainees. McCann was elected to the Illinois Senate in 2010, and then twice more in 2012 and 2016. During his eight years in office, McCann represented a rural district spanning from Springfield westward to the Missouri border, sometimes breaking from his own party to vote in the interest of organized labor a key constituency for Democrats. McCanns disagreements with GOP leadership ultimately led to him leaving the Republican Party and forming his own Conservative Party. In 2018, McCann ran on his new third-party ticket for governor, garnering $3 million from the International Union of Operating Engineers a funding move seen as a strategic way to draw votes away from then GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner, who was deeply unpopular with organized labor. Though prosecutors alleged McCanns illegal campaign spending dated back to 2015, it ramped up in 2018, coinciding with McCanns run for governor and accompanying infusion of cash. The governments evidence included checks and bank statements showing McCann used campaign money to pay two mortgages and delinquent loans in addition to helping finance multiple vehicles and vacations. McCann also fraudulently cut himself checks for work not performed and double-dipped on reimbursement for miles driven. During the summer of 2018, federal agents approached McCann about his campaign spending, but he denied any wrongdoing. In several hours of FBI recordings of the meetings played during trial, McCann stumbled over his explanations about why his campaign was paying to lease RVs and properties McCann personally owned, while the agents warned him that lying to them could land him in hot water. Even so, Assistant U.S. Attorney Tim Bass reminded Judge Lawless on Tuesday, McCann kept spending the campaign money all the way up through mid-2020, including buying another RV and cutting himself regular checks from the basically defunct Conservative Party of Illinois long after losing his bid for governor. Bass said the continuation of illegal campaign fund spending even after multiple interviews with federal agents was McCanns most brazen act of fraud. This wasnt a one-off. This wasnt an anomaly, Bass said. "He continued to use campaign funds for his personal expenses up to the point where there was nothing left. McCann was indicted in early 2021, two years after he left public office after his failed third-party run for governor. He spent the next three years after charges were filed against him maintaining his innocence, refusing multiple plea agreements and eventually electing to represent himself at trial after burning through multiple court-appointed attorneys. Ultimately, however, McCann accepted legal representation after his sudden hospitalization on the eve of his already-delayed trial in February. On Tuesday, attorney Jason Vincent asked Lawless for 12 months in prison way below the sentencing guidelines that suggested an imprisonment of between 37 and 46 months. Bass had asked Lawless to give McCann the maximum 46 months. Vincent argued that McCann had already been disgraced through his own actions and pointed to the number of pre-sentencing letters of support hed received from McCanns family, friends and even former constituents. While Lawless said the show of support from McCanns family was encouraging, the judge said she ultimately viewed his actions in the larger context of other public corruption cases. Greed coupled with the abuse of power has become expected of public servants, she said. In addition to his prison sentence, McCann was also ordered to pay $683,816.61 in restitution, which will be split between Local 150 and the Illinois Education Association, which gave to McCann for his campaigns prior to 2018. Two of Iowa's Democratic congressional candidates are calling on President Joe Biden to end his campaign for president. Iowas 1st District Democratic candidate Christina Bohannan became the first prominent, active Iowa Democrat to urge Biden to drop out. In an emailed statement Thursday afternoon she cited concerns she's heard from Iowans "that it seems he is not up to the task of a strong, vibrant campaign that will provide a compelling vision for our future." Shortly after, 2nd District Democratic candidate Sarah Corkery sent reporters a prepared statement calling on Biden to "pass the baton to Vice President (Kamala) Harris." After a halting debate performance against former President Donald Trump June 27, Democrats nationwide have expressed anxiety about continuing with 81-year-old Biden as the nominee, but few prominent Democrats have called on him to leave the race. Biden and his campaign have said he plans to stay on the ballot and tried to quell any concerns about his age and ability to do the job another four years by doing a blitz of campaign events, TV interviews, and phone calls with prominent Democrats. According to a running count by the New York Times, 12 U.S. representatives and one U.S. senator have called on Biden to leave the race. Former U.S. senator from Iowa, Tom Harkin, had scathing words for Biden after the debate in a private letter that was later published in which he called the debate a disaster. Other than Harkin, however, Iowa Democrats, including Corkery, had largely said it's up to Biden to decide whether to stay in the race. Corkery previously said she didn't think anyone was encouraged by Biden's debate performance, but "he alone needs to make that decision; not Sarah Corkery, but I hope he's getting good counsel. She seemed to reverse that position on Thursday. "I have the utmost respect for President Biden," she said. "He was the right person to lead the country over the last four years and his legacy will be remembered forever. And now it's time for him to pass the baton to Vice President Harris. She will continue the fight to keep out democracy alive." Corkery said she changed her position because constituents she's spoken with say they feel strongly that it's time for change. Bohannan, in her emailed statement wrote that country deserves a better choice for president than Biden versus Trump in a high-stakes election. "The easy thing to do at this moment would be to stay silent," Bohannan said. "After all, many Washington politicians, both Democrat and Republican, put allegiance to their party over the people they represent. It is time for a change. Over the past couple of weeks, people all across Iowa have shared with me their grave concerns about President Biden that it seems he is not up to the task of a strong, vibrant campaign that will provide a compelling vision for our future. I owe it to them to speak my mind. It is time for President Biden to withdraw from this campaign and pass the torch to a new generation of leadership. Ryan Melton, a Democrat running in the heavily Republican 4th Congressional District, referred to a social media post he made on July 2, in which he said questions of Biden's mental fitness are warranted but did not call for Biden to drop out of the presidential race. Melton said Harris, as the vice president, is "the only option" for an alternative to Biden if he does drop out of the race. Melton also said the questions being asked about Biden's mental competency should also be asked of Trump. I think its fair to question Bidens fitness to serve a second term, just as I think its fair to question Trumps. I think we deserve more transparency regarding medical records, cognitive tests, etc. from both," Melton said. "... I do think its very telling that the Republican Party thinks Bidens cognitive health is fair game while not questioning Trumps. His lies, threats, unrestrained racism, and inability to answer simple questions all suggest hes lost his grasp of reality." Tom Barton and Caleb McCullough contributed to this report. Presidential debate: Biden, Trump square off in Atlanta, in photos The ongoing legal battle concerning a massive sinkhole in the Hideaway Hills neighborhood in Black Hawk has taken a new step as those suing the state seek a summary judgment in the case. The development marks a step forward in the class action lawsuit, which began over four years ago when a sinkhole exposed an abandoned gypsum mine beneath the neighborhood. Seeking a summary judgment from a judge involves a decision being made based on statements and evidence without going to trial. In April 2020, a sinkhole emerged in the Hideaway Hills subdivision, revealing the presence of a former state-operated gypsum mine. The discovery led to concerns about the stability of hundreds of homes built on the site. Subsequent investigations and geotechnical testing have confirmed the risk, with 12 homes now in an evacuation zone and 158 more at risk of collapse. The residents, represented by the national law firm Fox Rothschild, have filed a class action lawsuit against the state of South Dakota. They allege that inadequate geological inspections were conducted before the development of Hideaway Hills. They are seeking inverse condemnation, a legal recourse aimed at recovering the value of their homes, which they claim have been rendered valueless due to the dangerous conditions. The residents cannot sell their homes, obtain mortgages, or secure insurance, said attorney Kathleen Barrow of Fox Rothschild, who, along with attorney David Grant Crooks, represents Hideaway Hills homeowners. They are left with properties that are not only financially worthless but also unsafe. The case, formally titled "Andrew Morse and John and Emily Clarke et al. v. State of South Dakota, No. 46CIV-20-000295 in the Meade County 4th Judicial District," is moving slowly. On Monday, the plaintiffs attorneys filed for a summary judgment, which, if granted, would move the case directly to a judge to determine the damages. Geotechnical testing conducted in the area revealed that the soils used by the state for mine reclamation contained high concentrations of water-soluble gypsum. The average gypsum content was about 50%, with some areas as high as 80%. It makes the ground prone to disintegration when exposed to moisture, contributing to the current instability. The issues in Hideaway Hills stem from historical mining activities. South Dakota operated gypsum mines in the area to support its cement company. When the state sold the land to a private developer in 1994, it retained rights to the subsurface minerals. However, the reclamation efforts left the land unstable, as evidenced by the recent sinkhole, according to the lawsuit. Earlier this year, the court overseeing the class action reopened the class, allowing an additional 100 homeowners to join the litigation. The class now includes 164 plaintiffs. The court will soon decide on the summary judgment motion. If granted, the case will proceed to a damages phase, likely to take place in April 2025. According to Barrow, the discovery phase has concluded, and the focus is now on determining the state's liability. The court will make a determination on whether there has been a taking of property due to the state's actions. If the residents win this phase, we will then move on to assessing the damages, Barrow said. The residents of Hideaway Hills are seeking resolution after more than four years of uncertainty. Despite the ongoing litigation, they say they are frustrated with the lack of action from the state to address their situation. The residents of Hideaway Hills want the state to take action to address their situation. They are disheartened because, in four years, the state has not conducted any soil or geological testing," Barrow said. "The states expert witness geologists did not visit or inspect the area. Residents feel the state should be helping them." The South Dakota Attorney Generals Office referred the Rapid City Journal to the Governors Office, as the Office of Risk Management is handling the case. However, the Governors Office did not respond to requests for comment by press time. Always wearing a hat and always ready to talk about roads, Adrian Epp, a 26-year-old Rapid City resident and graduate of the South Dakota School of Mines, attends nearly every Rapid City Council meeting. His consistent remarks to the council during public comment has turned him into a sort of staple during meetings and a mascot for the cause of road safety and walkability in the region. Oftentimes it feels like Im just talking to a brick wall. But if I can sow that seed of doubt that maybe the way weve constructed our cities isnt the best way, I feel like Ive done something good, Epp said. He has spoken out against various road projects and pushed back against city council approving exceptions that allow developers to forgo installing sidewalks. At a recent meeting, he expressed concerns about motorists speeding in residential areas, an issue he traces to wide and straight road designs that follow engineering safety standards but encourage speeding. You cannot treat the standards that (engineers) follow as if they were etched in stone and handed to Moses on Sinai. These standards were made by men and so they are faulty just like men, he said. We need to revise the way that we build our residential streets so that people do not feel comfortable driving more than 25 miles per hour. In fact, they shouldn't feel comfortable driving more than 20 miles per hour. It's that comfortability that causes speeding and accidents, Epp said. Epp has an undeniable passion for road safety, walkability, public transportation and a future that doesnt require the majority of residents to own a vehicle to get around the city. Although hes a visionary, he doesnt believe the city will change overnight. I dont hold much hope that it will change for me in my lifetime, but if I can make a city better for my children and for the next generation, thats what I hope to see. Change takes a lot because people tend to view the current state of being as, if not the best, acceptable enough that they don't have to change it, he said. There are just over 560 miles of road in Rapid City. By comparison, Sioux Falls has 900 miles of road. Thats less than twice Rapid Citys road system for a city with a population nearly three times its West River sister. Just shy of 28 miles of Rapid Citys roads are either interstate or interstate ramps. Arterial roads such as Omaha Street, Mount Rushmore Road and Jackson Boulevard make up about 121 miles. About 352 miles are public streets, and about 2.5 miles are private streets. South Dakota Department of Public Safety crash data from 2011 through 2021 shows 45 people died in crashes in Rapid City during that decade. That comes out to an annual rate of 5.7 deaths per 100,000 people. Sioux Falls rate is 3.8 deaths per capita. The national average has sat around 10-12 deaths per 100,000 people nationwide during that time frame. For Epp, however, his passion extends from safety and advocacy for roundabouts and sidewalks to concerns surrounding how car-dependency can affect those who cant afford a vehicle. Having a car-dependent city, it disadvantages the people who cant drive, like the old, the young, the disabled, the poor. All these people, they have trouble entering the society because of this high price we place on being able to get around, Epp said. For him, its about diversifying the transportation options in the city to allow residents to more easily access necessities. Walk Score, a website that scores the walkability of cities across the country, scored Rapid City 28 out of 100, noting that most errands require a vehicle. The city's bus transit system has seen increases in ridership. In April this year, there were 21,800 passenger trips on the buses, the highest ridership number for April in the past five years. Recent numbers also showed a four-year high for youth ridership during the 2023-2024 school year. Although he may focus on it more than others, Epp isnt completely alone in his desire for a more walkable Rapid City. City officials have recently placed a focus on more infill development and less outward development, which can make living without a car easier. Instead of building more miles and miles of streets and water pipes and sewer pipes that we have to maintain over the long run, then the more people you can have that can walk, bike, take transit. That puts less strain on some of our infrastructure, said Rapid City Long Range Planning manager Kip Harrington. Harrington said safety is number one when planning the city long-term. The city received a $160,000 Safe Streets and Roads for All grant in 2023 which will support a study to develop a safety action plan for the city. We hope to have that done in early 2025, so that will analyze safety throughout the community and identify areas of concern and then provide recommendations for infrastructure improvements that can address those, Harrington said. He noted once the plan is complete, other federal grants will become available to the city for infrastructure development. As planners, we have a ton of ideas. Wed love to do this here, do this there. And then, of course, the engineers say we dont have any money for them because they have to prioritize their finances, he said. ...They have a lot of responsibility and limited funding just like everything else. A 28-year-old Florida man working for a Yellowstone National Park concessionaire has been identified as the man killed in a fatal shootout with rangers on July 4 at Canyon Village. Samson Lucas Bariah Fussner, of Milton, Florida, was killed after apparently holding a female at gunpoint and threatening to shoot up a fireworks show in West Yellowstone or somewhere else in Montana, according to a recording of a Yellowstone Communications Center BOLO (be on the lookout) to surrounding law enforcement agencies and rebroadcast by the Park County Sheriff's Office Communications Center. A copy of the recording was posted to the NPS Ranger News Facebook page. Park County Wyoming coroner Cody Gortmaker identified Fussner. Gortmaker took custody of Fussners body the night of July 4, according to reporting by the Powell Tribune. An autopsy was conducted Friday, and Gortmaker said it concluded that Fussner died from injuries sustained by Yellowstone Park rangers, the newspaper reported. An unidentified park ranger was injured in the shootout. The ranger's condition and the extent of the injuries have not been released by the National Park Service. Rangers responded to a report of a man with a firearm who was making threats late on July 3 and continuing into the morning of Independence Day, according to a Park Service news release. The scanner recording said Fussner who was a seasonal worker was believed to have a pistol and possibly other larger weapons, as well as a knife. The Cowboy State Daily was the first to report the scanner recording. Looks like he held a female hostage at gunpoint and threatened suicide by cop, according to the recording. When rangers contacted Fussner there was an exchange of gunfire. Guests camping in Canyon Village told Cowboy State Daily on Friday that they heard numerous shots and watched park rangers rush to the area. One couple estimated 100 gunshots were fired, the news site reported The shooting prompted the closure of the Canyon Village Visitor Center and surrounding restaurants and gift shops for days. The FBI is leading the investigation with support from National Park Service special agents. Photos posted to the NPS Ranger News Facebook page showed armed tactical officers approaching employee housing in Canyon Village. The Cowboy State Daily also posted a photo of Fussners employee identification card showing his job was scheduled to last through Sept. 15. The shooting occurred at the height of Yellowstones busy summer visitation season. Last July, more than 969,000 people poured into the park from around the world. Typically, that means campsites and hotel rooms have been reserved months in advance and are fully booked. Xanterra Travel Collection oversees the Canyon Village concessions, as well as many other prominent vacation locations in Yellowstone. The company recruits seasonal employees from around the world. Yellowstone Park Lodges posted on its website that the Canyon Campground was set to reopen Monday, July 8, and there would be limited lodging open for the night of July 8th. There will be no food service available at this time. The Yellowstone Park Lodges website says the Canyon Campground has more than 270 individual sites and 15 public restrooms. Violent crime is rare in Yellowstone Park. In 1997, in the Frog Rock area six miles east of Mammoth, there was a murder-suicide involving a 69-year-old Idaho mother and the shooter, her 48-year-old son. The pair had been on the lam following a check fraud and auto theft scheme, according to the Cowboy State Daily. In 1985, near Old Faithful, a 22-year-old park employee was beaten to death by a co-worker. In 1978, in the Boiling River area north of Mammoth Hot Springs, a California 17-year-old was shot dead by a man he was traveling with. The July 4 Yellowstone shooting is the 120th officer-involved shooting in National Park Service history, according to NPS Ranger News. The first officer-involved shooting in Yellowstone came sometime between 1916 and 1920 when former Chief Scout Jim McBride was shot by a poacher, Ranger News reported. Rep. Bob Good, R-5th, has formally filed for a recount of the Republican primary race he lost to state Sen. John McGuire, R-Goochland. Good lost that election by 374 votes, or 49.7% of votes cast to McGuires 50.3%. He filed his petition for a recount with the Goochland County Circuit Court, and posted a $3,270 bond, online court records show. Virginia law says losing candidates can request a recount if they lost by 1 percentage point or less. If the difference is 0.5 percentage point or less, the state picks up the cost, but Goods 0.6 percentage point gap means the cost will fall on him. Former President Donald Trump played a significant role in the race when he endorsed McGuire and attacked Good, chair of the House Freedom Caucus, as insufficiently loyal. Good had endorsed Ron DeSantis in the Florida governors short-lived bid for the presidency before backing Trump. Trump said Good had stabbed him in the back and that the congressmans subsequent endorsement was not enough to offset that. The State Board of Elections confirmed McGuires 374-vote margin of victory on July 2, setting a 10-day clock ticking for a recount request Its review of the local Electoral Boards abstracts of results from across the sprawling district confirmed that McGuire has unseated Good, who has held the seat since 2021. Good had promised in a July 2 post on X, formerly Twitter, that he would seek a recount Now that the preliminary certification of the primary election has concluded, we will move into a recount, Good wrote. In a race with nearly 63,000 votes that is separated by a 0.6% margin, Republican voters across the 5th District deserve to know that all legal votes have been accurately counted. We will vigorously pursue that objective over the coming days and weeks, as permitted by Virginia law. In an email to supporters, Good wrote that he would need $100,000 for a recount, saying it is necessary to ensure the integrity of results. He also said he wanted to stop what he described as McGuires war against the conservative movement. In addition to Trumps endorsement of McGuire, the state senator had support from allies of former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy. Last October, Good was one of eight Republicans who voted to oust McCarthy. Good called for a full forensic audit and a recount by hand. Good has also said he planned unspecified legal actions to challenge certification of results in Lynchburg because of alleged irregularities there, but so far has not filed any case, online court records show. The next step with his petition in Goochland will be establishing a special recount court, comprising the Goochland courts chief judge Claude V. Worrell and two judges to be appointed by Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia S. Bernard Goodwyn. The recount court will preside over the whole recount process, including setting rules for testing the voting machines that will count ballots, transporting ballots, keeping them secure and the number of officials who will conduct the recount. The two sides can examine pollbooks and other election materials used in the election. Recount officials will program the voting machines that will tally the bulk of the ballots so that the machines will separate write-ins, overcounts ballots with two or more marks indicating a voters choice and undercounts or blank ballots. These are hand counted. If the recount team cant agree on the validity of any hand counted ballot, it will go to the recount court judges for a decision. In the end, it is up to the recount court to certify results of the recount. If the recount changes the result of the election, the winner gets a certificate of election. The results are posted on the Department of Elections website. Jessika Terrell, 31, was arrested in Pearsall Tuesday night after a standoff with law enforcement. Frio County Sheriff's Office Willie Terrell, 50, was arrested in Pearsall Tuesday night after a standoff with law enforcement. Frio County Sheriff's Office Two adults surrendered peacefully with their three children after a standoff at a Pearsall motel Tuesday night, according to news reports. Pearsall police on Tuesday received information from the Texas Department of Public Safety about a missing persons Silver Alert out of Indianapolis involving three children and their non-custodial parents, KSAT-TV reported. The three children all younger than 5 years were allegedly taken by their non-custodial parents after meeting with the childrens grandfather at a restaurant July 4, according to Indianapolis news station WRTV. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The grandfather went to the restroom and returned to find the children missing and their parents gone, according to reports. The non-custodial parents were identified as Willie Terrell, 50, and Jessika Terrell, 31. ALSO READ: Police identify man shot and killed by SAPD officers during a standoff at an East Side home A ping from a family members cell phone alerted DPS of a potential location of the children around 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, and DPS and the FBI began their search in Pearsall, the report states. Police located the familys vehicle at a motel and set up surveillance. The motel was evacuated as a precaution. Advertisement Article continues below this ad During the standoff, Willie Terrell attempted to leave the motel around 3 p.m. Pearsall Police Chief Daniel Flores told KSAT-TV that police tried to pull over Terrell but he ran. After a short pursuit, he returned to the motel room, Flores said. Around 10:15 p.m. the family surrendered to law enforcement officials on the scene. Flores said it was unclear if anyone was injured but that some children had known medical issues. The children were evaluated by medical personnel. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Following Gov. Glenn Youngkins executive order Tuesday calling for policies restricting K-12 students cellphone use in schools, Senate Democrats on Wednesday announced a task force to develop a consensus legislative solution for cellphone restrictions. Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax said in a news release that the governors intentions are appreciated, and student use of mobile phones in schools is a critical issue that must be addressed, but this issue requires a General Assembly input and a consensus solution. Two Republicans introduced legislation this year regarding students cellphone use in schools. Neither passed. Surovell asked three Senate Democrats to develop legislation addressing cellphone use in Virginias public schools: Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, D-Chesterfield, chair of the Senate Committee on Education and Health; Sen. Schuyler VanValkenburg, D-Henrico, a public school teacher in Henrico County; and Sen. Stella Pekarsky, D-Fairfax, a former teacher and who served on the Fairfax County School Board. Surovells news release said: We look forward to working with the Governor and his administration to craft consensus bipartisan mobile phone legislation. Sen. Bill Stanley, R-Franklin, introduced a bill earlier this year to explicitly empower local school boards to enact policies to restrict cellphones during school hours. His bill cleared the Senate on a 36-3 vote and then it passed out of the House Education Committee on a 19-1 vote. But before it could be taken up for a final vote by the full House, it was rereferred back to the Education Committee and was not taken up which is a gentle way to kill a bill. Sen. Mark Obenshain, R-Rockingham, said the issue should not have a partisan divide. Kids across Virginia lost so much academic ground during the COVID shutdown, still catching up, and we need to be doing everything we possibly can to work together to accelerate that catch up process, not politicize it and kick the can down the road for another year, Obsenshain said in an interview. I was very pleased with the governors action, and I would hope that this is something that Republicans, Democrats, executive and the legislative branch can work together on. For now, weve got an executive order. We can come back in January and pass some legislation. Del. Mark Earley Jr., R-Chesterfield, also introduced legislation about cellphone use in schools but his bill did not pass either. Todd Reid, a spokesman for the Virginia Department of Education, said the department looks forward to working with students, educators and community leaders across the state to establish a cellphone-free education for Virginia students. Childrens mental health and the growing consequences of their addiction to cellphones and social media is a bipartisan issue, Reid said. 5 emerging trends that will change how you use your phone in 2024 What to watch for Augmented reality integration AI technology Expanded biometric security technology 5G network integration Foldable phones Dominion Energy is taking a first definitive step to bring a new kind of nuclear technology to Virginia and says if it comes, it will come next to its workhorse North Anna nuclear power station in Louisa County. The utility is asking the roughly half-dozen firms that are developing small modular reactors power plants less than a third the size of North Anna to submit proposals for a small reactor at North Anna. Although its not a commitment to set up a small reactor at North Anna, its a critical first step, Robert M. Blue, Dominions chairman, president and CEO, said Wednesday at the ceremonial signing of legislation. It would allow the utility to ask regulators at the State Corporation Commission to approve a surcharge to cover the costs of developing a small modular reactor. Dominion expects to apply for the surcharge, Blue said. While the legislation allows for a charge of up to $1.40 a month for a typical 1,000-kilowatt-hour bill a bill that now totals $138 Blue said he expects any surcharge would be substantially less than that. Its request for proposals from developers will allow it to review the roughly half-dozen different options currently available for reactors capable of generating 250 to 400 megawatts of electricity enough to power between 62,500 to 100,000 homes. That evaluation will cover the status of design engineering, operational flexibility, construction timelines, availability of supply chain and the ability to obtain necessary licensing and permitting, company officials said. In addition, the proposals would involve a detailed look at the feasibility of the North Anna power station site, including water supplies and how the reactor would be plugged into Dominions grid. The company is hoping to have a small modular reactor up and running by 2033. Today we are celebrating a milestone leading to the first commercial deployment of a small nuclear reactor in the commonwealth of Virginia, Gov. Glenn Youngkin said, after Blues announcement. He said small modular reactors are an exciting option because they can be made in a more assembly-line fashion than multibillion-dollar plants like North Anna, which means lower costs. At the end of the day, Virginia needs more power we dont have enough wind and we dont have enough solar. In order to power Virginia, were going to need the Chesterfield gas plant, we need small modular reactors, he said, referring to Dominions proposal to build a 1,000-megawatt plant that would kick on when electricity demand peaks. He said developing hydrogen as a fuel for power-generating plants and technology to remove carbon dioxide from the air and from emissions are also key to what Virginia needs to do to address climate change. The Chesterfield gas plant proposal has drawn strong opposition from environmentalists, who say it flouts the Virginia Clean Economy Act and its goal that Dominion would stop burning fossil fuel to generate power by 2045. Some Chesterfield residents have also protested the companys plans to put the new plant on or next to the site of its gas- and oil-fired plant in the county, saying the new facility would be a public health hazard. Some environmentalists have termed Youngkins call for what he has described as a moonshot effort to bring the first U.S. commercial small modular reactor online a distraction from Virginias need to develop wind and solar generation. Theyve argued that the technology is too new and untested. Ontario Power Generation, owned by the province of Ontario, is building four small nuclear reactors at its Darlington, Ontario, power station. OPC expects its first small modular reactor to come online in 2029. Earlier this week, Dominion announced it is acquiring an offshore windfarm lease just to the south of its $9 billion offshore wind farm in the Atlantic, 27 miles off the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, in a move to further expand its renewable generation capacity. PHOTOS: Dominion's offshore wind turbines John McGuires victory in Virginias 5th Congressional District GOP primary over incumbent Bob Good was very close, but not so close that the state will pay for a recount. And while Good has said he will pay for a recount himself, he is running out of time to raise the substantial money required by Fridays deadline. I dont think he has the money to do it, one senior GOP aide, granted anonymity in order to speak candidly, told The Daily Progress. Ill be surprised if he pulls it off. Two weeks ago, Goods campaign said that it had already raised thousands of dollars in donations and that it would pursue a recount once the state certification was completed. State election officials completed that certification on July 2 as scheduled, confirming that McGuire had edged out Good by just 374 votes in a bitter contest that split Republicans across the sprawling, deep-red district. But with that certification date come and gone, and while his campaign insists it has the money, Good still has not filed for a recount. The Department of Elections has not received official word that a recount petition has been filed, Brian Tynes, a spokesman for the department, told The Daily Progress. The deadline to file a petition with the state is July 12. We have money for a recount, Goods campaign manager Diana Shores told The Daily Progress. We will petition the state in the timeline required by the law. But the fact that the campaign has not actually filed a petition raises questions about whether Goods team is still scrambling for funding. If he has the money, why hasnt he filed yet? said the senior GOP aide. If McGuires margin of victory was 0.5% or less, Virginia law would require the state to pay for a recount. But the margin was 0.6%, meaning Good will have to foot the bill himself. There are several variables that affect the cost of a recount, and while the Department of Elections does not provide cost estimates, its clear the price tag is high. Good began to fundraise days after the June 18 election, when in an email he told donors that the campaign needed to raise $100,000 immediately to succeed in our recount challenge. With less than a month between Election Day and the filing deadline, its a substantial amount of money to raise in a short amount of time. Good raised $1.15 million over his entire campaign cycle, taking in nearly $350,000 over the first nine months of 2023. Donations increased in the final quarter of the year, with bigger contributions rolling in as there were whispers that McGuire was planning to launch a challenge. Half of the total fundraising came in 2024 after McGuire had announced his candidacy. It was the most money Good ever raised in a Republican contest, but largely out of necessity; in his previous two nominations, Good won via convention, a contest where only a few thousand delegates are permitted to cast a ballot, meaning a campaign only has to appeal to a few thousand people. Good raised less than $200,000 in 2020 when he ousted incumbent Denver Riggleman. But this year the nomination was decided in a state-run primary, which allows every registered voter in the district to partake. As a result, campaigns must get their message out to more people. That messaging often in the form of television advertisements is expensive. The $1.15 million brought in by Goods team this cycle is easily the most hes raised in a GOP nomination contest. Still, McGuire edged him out slightly, raising $1.2 million, according to the Virginia Public Access Project. The need to bring in far more money than he had in previous contests posed a new challenge for Good. Now he finds himself having to raise even more. This is the first time hes actually had to raise money, said the senior GOP aide, referring to Good running in a primary as opposed to a convention. One longtime Good supporter, Carolyn Ley, expects that the incumbent will be able to scrounge up enough donations to cover the cost of a recount. I believe Bob is doing this out of respect for his volunteers and supporters. Essentially, he is making certain all of the Is are dotted and the Ts are crossed, Ley told The Daily Progress. He is walking it all the way to the finish line. Its a compelling situation and people will give. On the campaign trail, Good has boasted about his grassroots support, noting that much of the money raised by his campaign comes through small individual donors. But that poses a problem for him now as he is faces a hefty price tag and a fast-approaching deadline. The senior GOP aide doesnt believe there are any large donors Good can immediately turn to who could write big checks to cover most of the recount cost. He doesnt have a plethora of donors who can make that happen. He has a lot of small donors, but translating that into wire money out the door is a tall task, the aide said. If he had someone who was willing to finance [the recount], it wouldve happened. Instead, Good will have to collect many small donations from many different individuals. And he will have to convince them to donate to a cause that is unlikely to change the outcome of the race. Kyle Kondik of the University of Virginias Center for Politics told The Daily Progress that even though the race was close, the odds of a recount changing the result are slim. The prospects of success are not good. Theres a reason why the state pays if its within 0.5%, because thats within the range you might expect to find some error to change the process. Last week, Good wrote on social media that his team would move into a recount. In a race with nearly 63,000 votes that is separated by a 0.6% margin, Republican voters across the 5th District deserve to know that all legal votes have been accurately counted, Good wrote, a nod to other comments hes made in the days after the election making unsubstantiated claims that the vote was somehow rigged against him. We will vigorously pursue that objective over the coming days and weeks, as permitted by Virginia law. While the statement makes clear that he is pursuing a recount, it does not fully commit to a recount happening. I dont know if hes hedging or not, said Kondik. I dont know how open the donors are or arent to this. Its not nothing in terms of the money he needs to raise. The clock continues ticking as Good who heads the hard-right House Freedom Caucus looks to a possible recount as his last hope at clinging on to political power. McGuires team does not expect a recount to change the result and sent an email to supporters shortly after the election was certified calling his victory the honor of a lifetime. I thank Bob Good for his service. Now, it is time for citizens of the 5th to unite. Whether or not you voted for me in the primary, I humbly ask for your support in November, reads the email. McGuire will face Democrat Gloria Witt in the general election. He enters the race as a clear favorite in a district where Republicans often win with comfortable margins. The last Democrat to represent the 5th was Charlottesvilles Tom Perriello in 2011. Which states have the worst substance abuse problems? Which states have the worst substance abuse problems? Drug deaths are rising Fentanyl's damage has been widespread Which states have the worst substance abuse problems? Manhunt comes to an end: Cozumel police capture uncle in nephew stabbing death Cozumel, Q.R. An intense two day operation for the Cozumel man videoed stabbing his nephew to death has come to an end. On Wednesday, Municipal Police and Navy personnel located and captured the suspect from his jungle hideout. The Seguridad Ciudadana of Cozumel has identified the now-detained as Ramon A also known as his alias El Moncho. According to a news release, police were lead to his location due to an ongoing investigation that included citizen assistance. A search operation was implemented after clues as to his approximate whereabouts began to emerge. On Wednesday, that operation paid off. In their briefing, the Seguridad Ciudadana of Cozumel said Ramon A did not go quietly. His arrest was made after an officer shot him in the buttocks when he tried to attack them with a machete. At the time of his arrest, El Moncho tried to flee and attacked the officers with a machete. Faced with this situation, an agent used his service weapon to neutralize him, wounding him in one of his buttocks. The suspect was taken to Cozumel hospital for treatment. Photo: July 10, 2024. El Moncho was arrested and taken to a hospital to receive medical attention. A security guard was placed on site to ensure his surveillance, Cozumel police reported. Ramon A was captured on a private security camera Sunday night stabbing his nephew to death on a public street in Colonia CTM. After the attack he fled on a motorcycle. The Sunday night stabbing attack was captured on a private security camera. Image July 7, 2024. The 21-year-old stabbing victim, Jose Alberto N, was rushed to hospital where he died from more than a dozen stab wounds. The Municipal Police, together with the Secretary of the Navy and elements of the Secretariat of Citizen Security of Quintana Roo, managed to capture the alleged murderer of a person thanks to intelligence work and citizen collaboration. The authorities received clues about the whereabouts of the individual accused of the murder of his nephew. In response, a search operation was organized that ended successfully. The alleged culprit was located in the vicinity of the transversal highway at kilometer 13 near an annex. The suspect, the young mans uncle, was captured Wednesday. Photo: July 10, 2024. This positive result is due to the coordinated work between local authorities and the valuable citizen participation through reports and complaints, which allowed for a rapid response, the Seguridad Ciudadana of Cozumel said. Police have not provided a possible motive into the deadly attack nor have they announced official charges. Tulum taxi driver executed in targeted attack Tulum, Q.R. A Tulum taxi driver was executed Wednesday morning after being intercepted by armed men. Police were notified of the Juan Ek Avenue shooting around 10:00 a.m. Killed was Tiburcio O, a Tulum taxi driver originally from Yucatan. Area residents, hearing gun shots, called 9-1-1. According to available information, the driver was intercepted in a nearby subdivision by armed men traveling in a white pickup truck. In a targeted attack they began shooting. The injured driver drove to his home where he was found dead. Photo: July 10, 2024. The badly injured driver drove to his home where responding paramedics found him dead. Authorities have not provided a possible motive. In a significant boost for Ukraine, Poland, a key NATO ally, signed a bilateral security agreement with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday in Warsaw. The security agreement aims to bolster Ukraine's ties with one of its closest wartime allies. Poland has delivered 44 military aid packages to Ukraine, valued at 4 billion, and has committed to sending more packages this year and throughout the next decade, according to Politico. In a joint statement, President Zelenskyy and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk declared: "Only together can Ukraine and Poland be free and strong. This is the sole way we can defend ourselves against Russian terror and protect our freedom and independence." Poland has further pledged its commitment to training Ukrainian forces and to maintaining its role as Kyiv's logistics hub, enabling the delivery of Western weapons through its territory. Ukraine has promised to implement reforms, share battlefield intelligence and lessons with Warsaw, and contribute to modernizing the Polish military. "We treat every word in this agreement as mutual commitments - not empty promises," Tusk said, adding: "We know very well that this war, if it ended badly, would end badly not only for Ukraine but also for Poland, for all of Europe, and for the entire Western world." Ukraine has signed 20 bilateral security agreements with its allies to date. Poland's recent agreement brings the total to 21, encompassing provisions for long-term military and financial aid, training for Ukrainian troops, and weapons deliveries. These agreements do not require the signatories to go to war on behalf of Ukraine. Kyiv hopes these deals will serve as a form of NATO-lite until it can join the alliance-a topic that will be addressed at this week's NATO summit in Washington. However, since these deals are not treaties, future governments could easily renegotiate or withdraw from them completely. Meanwhile, the Polish agreement features several unique aspects compared to Ukraine's other agreements. Poland said it will encourage Ukrainian refugees, 1 million of whom live in Poland, to return to Ukraine and serve in its military. Zelenskyy and Tusk also discussed the possibility of intercepting Russian missiles and drones that pass through Polish airspace due to instances of such weapons crossing Polish airspace, as Warsaw does not typically intercept them. Additionally, Poland will consider supplying a squadron of MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine, provided it does not compromise its own security. Overall, Poland has already donated 10 Soviet-era jets to Ukraine. "I said very clearly: We will help, because your security is our security, but we will not do anything that will weaken our immediate security, that is, our capabilities. We are talking here about jet fighters and about armaments that are sometimes as necessary for Poland as for Ukraine," Tusk further expressed in a statement. A Roanoke woman who prosecutors say orchestrated a scheme to obtain more than $1.5 million in pandemic relief funds for fictitious businesses pleaded not guilty Thursday. Jaimeka Mechelle Austin, 31, is accused of defrauding the federal governments Paycheck Protection Program, which offered forgivable loans to businesses forced to shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic. Austin and two associates helped about 20 men and women submit loan applications on behalf of sham businesses they claimed to own, an indictment alleges. Appearing for an arraignment in Roanokes federal court, Austin pleaded not guilty to 91 charges that include wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering and making false statements. In short, this case involves a massive fraud against the Paycheck Protection Program, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Scheff wrote in a motion filed Wednesday, asking a judge to declare the prosecution a complex case. Such a designation would relieve time limits set by the Speedy Trial Act as prosecutors and defense attorneys sort through about 126 gigabytes of financial records and other documents accumulated during a three-year investigation. The investigation continues, Scheff wrote, and additional charges against more people are expected. At Thursdays hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Kailani Memmer allowed Austin to remain free on an unsecured $10,000 bond. She appointed Roanoke attorney John Fishwick to represent Austin. The 142-count indictment charges 24 people. Austin, Kiearra Desaray Gardner and an unindicted tax preparer identified in court papers as Co-Conspirator 1 are accused of creating false tax records and other information that was then used by the loan applicants, who make up the remaining defendants in the case. After paying Austin for her assistance, the purported owners of numerous sham businesses including a home cleaning service, a lawn care provider, a dog kennel, a moving service, a chimney sweep and a childcare center received PPP loans that totaled more than $1.5 million, the indictment alleges. Rather than spend the money on paychecks for furloughed employees or other business purposes, as required by the relief program, the defendants are charged with using it for personal expenses. Austin orchestrated the scheme, prosecutors say, after she discovered how to submit fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of her business, Mechelles Boutique. Most of the individuals Austin aided never had a business, court records state. And the few that did substantially misrepresented the nature and extent of their business. For many Jeffrey Joyner was one when a prison gate slams shut behind them, hope vanishes for a time. For Quadaire Patterson, as it happened, after the gate closed and he waited for the next step in the processing that turns Virginians into inmates, it was glancing at a waiting room television and seeing Barack Obamas election that spoke of hope. Hope was finally confirmed for both of them, and 868 other inmates released this month, because the General Assembly eliminated budget language that nullified 2020 legislation allowing some inmates a faster track to earn credit for reduced sentences. That budget legislation came from an amendment Gov. Glenn Youngkin proposed in 2022. It takes work to earn the credit: there are courses to take, steady employment in prison workshop to do and good behavior to maintain with none of the easy-to-get charges of violating prison rules. For Joyner, who served 23 years and 11 months for robbery, after that prison gate shut at Nottaway Correctional Center, a medium security prison, it was Moms and Pop who let me hope. Their calls and visits, and the dream of coming out kept him going. He worked in Nottaways wood shop, making the furniture that many state offices use, and followed a program of courses meant to help inmates rebuild lives when released. The last was a 16-week one about drugs, but really about how to think, he said. Youre out walking and a friend offers you a ride, but you need to think, maybe hes got a gun in the car, and Im a convicted felon, what if were stopped? And so you dont take that ride. Thinking that way all the time isnt the easiest or pleasant, but its what he has to do, he said. For Patterson, that sight of the nations first Black president brought a firm belief that inmates should have a chance to redeem themselves and earn a way home. Hed been talking about that idea pretty much since he went to prison 16 years ago, convicted of robbery. But until 2020, when the General Assembly enacted legislation enhancing the credit system for earning reductions in inmate sentences, Weve been met with discouragement. We actually believed that Virginia would never do that. The 2020 legislation changed that. People started talking about their families, reuniting with their kids making their kids graduations, you know, and that was all done through the hope that earned sentence credits and what its enhanced form has provided, he said. State Sen. Jennifer Boysko, D-Fairfax, sponsored the enhanced credit with then-Del., now Speaker Don Scott, D-Portsmouth, said the idea was to help people get back on their feet after doing their time. Scott has cited his own story of redemption as one of hope. He served nearly eight years in federal prison on a drug-related conviction. He has talked about how, when he was at a low point fresh out of prison, his wife Mellanda looked at me and didnt see anything that the world sees She looked at me and saw her aspiration for him. He became a successful attorney, his right to vote restored by then-Gov. Bob McDonnell, and won election to the House of Delegates and the speakership. In 2022, Youngkins budget amendment barred implementation of the enhanced credits. Youngkin said the program would allow dangerous criminals to get out a theme Attorney General Jason Miyares voiced again this week, saying eliminating the budget language means more than 7,000 violent offenders would be eligible for reduced sentences, some 25% of whom are considered high risks for violent crimes. Miyares said in a statement: I believe in redemption and am a strong proponent for helping our returning citizens re-enter society to live productive lives. However, aggressive retroactive sentence reductions for violent criminals with a high risk of recidivism undermines our justice system and disregards victims. Good intentions do not equal good results. Boysko said Miyares was misrepresenting the program and the people affected. Miyares said the credit would release people convicted of first-degree murder, abduction and rape, but the legislation says people convicted of those crimes and other first-degree felonies are not entitled to the enhanced credits. Over the budget biennium, the enhanced credits could clear the way for 2,000 inmates to earn reduced sentences, ultimately, it could affect as many as 8,000. There were 23,398 inmates in May, the latest period for which data are available. Its an election year, hes just trying to everyone whipped up into a frenzy, Boysko said, of Miyares comments. Joyner, said Youngkins budget language felt as if the ground had been cut out from under him. But he kept on. So did Patterson. Hope is what we need when incarcerated. Opportunity is nothing without a hope. Resources are nothing without hope, he said. Life is nothing without hope. CALmatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how California's state Capitol works and why it matters. Dan Walters has been a journalist for nearly 60 years, spending all but a few of those years working for California newspapers. Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. Deputy U.S. Marshals shot a suspected carjacker Friday while reportedly guarding Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor's Washington, D.C., residence. The Metropolitan Police Department said its Force Investigations Team, which investigates all law enforcement officer-involved shootings in the District, is investigating the shooting. According to police, two deputy U.S. Marshals were parked in separate vehicles on the 2100 block of 11th Street Northwest at around 1:15 a.m. on July 5 when the suspect exited a vehicle and approached one of the Marshals. The suspect, later identified as 18-year-old Kentrell Flowers, allegedly pointed a handgun at the Marshal in an attempt to carjack him. The Marshal fired several shots at the suspect with his service weapon, and the second Marshal also fired his service weapon. Flowers was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and no one else was injured in the incident. Police shared a photo of the firearm recovered at the scene. The Marshals Service told the New York Post that the deputies were parked outside Sotomayor's home when the shooting took place. Flowers was arrested and charged with armed carjacking, carrying a pistol without a license, and possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device. --with reporting by TMX Vacation Bible School Redeemer Lutheran Church, 3204 S. Lakeport St., will hold VBS July 7-12. Meal will be served from 5:30 to 6 p.m., and VBS will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Register online at https://vbspro.events/p/8cdeb6. Faith Lutheran Church, 3101 Hamilton Blvd, will hold VBS for children 3-12 years old on Prayer! Dates: Friday, July 12, 5 to 8 p.m., registration & supper at 5 p.m.; Saturday, July 13, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., pizza at noon; Sunday, July 14, 9:15 a.m. with Worship & Program, carnival with games & food to follow! For more information and to register go online at www.faithlutheranchurch.net or call 712-899-2927. Benefit Rummage & Bake Sale Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2915 Glenn Ave, will hold a Benefit Rummage & Bake Sale on Saturday, July 13th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. All proceeds from the sale will be directed to Presbyterian Disaster Relief to be used to assist those impacted by the recent Iowa / Nebraska tornadoes and now the area Flood Victims as well. The need is great and this is a great ministry of the Presbyterian church that will get the proceeds distributed to those needing help rapidly. Whether there are items you want to buy - or if you just would like to come make a donation, Come and help make a difference. Food Co-Op Booth Redeemer Lutheran Church will have a Food Co-Op Booth at the Woodbury County Fair in the Bleil Building from July 29 to Aug. 4. Breakfast items, burgers, hot dogs, nachos, pie, ice cream, beverages and more will be served. Proceeds from the food booth sales will be directed to support the work of the following organizations: Monday and Tuesday, Midwest Honor Flight; Wednesday, LWML Mites; Thursday, Sioux City District Youth; Friday, Bibi's Hope; Saturday, Boy Scouts; and Sunday, St. Paul's Lutheran School. LSI Donation Request LSI Sioux City urgently needs help! The biggest needs are: bottles of shampoo and conditioner, body wash, large (kitchen) trash cans, small (bathroom) trash cans. Donations can make a huge difference in the lives of those LSI serves. Drop off items at the office at 1308 S Cleveland Ave, Sioux City, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday. If unable to make it during office hours, reach out to Donations@LSIowa.org to arrange a drop-off outside of these hours or if you have any questions. GriefShare GriefShare Summer Session - Host Church, Calvary Lutheran, 4400 Central St. in Leeds will be held on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon, as well as Thursdays, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sessions (13 weeks) will run through the week of Aug. 19. Register at www.calvaryleeds.com. Call 712-389-5226 with any questions or concerns. If you are hurting due to the loss of a loved one this endeavor will most likely be very helpful to you. Food pantry St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 1200 Douglas St., will have its food pantry open from 10 a.m. to noon Mondays. SIOUX CITY -- A Sioux City man has been sentenced to more than 21 years in federal prison for selling methamphetamine. Johnnie Cannon, 38, formerly from Osceola, Arkansas, was found guilty in January in U.S. District Court of one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and three counts of distributing and aiding and abetting another in the distribution of methamphetamine. He was sentenced Tuesday to 262 months in prison. He received an additional 37 months after U.S. District Judge Leonard Strand revoked his supervised release for violating it, bringing Cannon's total sentence to 299 months, one month short of 25 years. Cannon was convicted of selling cocaine in 2010 and had been released from federal prison in 2019. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Cannon and others sold at least 19 pounds of meth from January 2021 through March 2023. During a March 14, 2023, traffic stop after a controlled drug buy with a law enforcement cooperator, Cannon was found in possession of $3,000 in cash provided by law enforcement in the drug purchase. Following the discovery of three murdered women in his England home, a manhunt for a crossbow-wielding suspect has begun. The three women have been identified as the wife and two daughters of a BBC journalist, according to CNN. The victims were identified as the wife, Carol Hunt, 61, and two daughters, ages 28 and 25, of BBC racing commentator John Hunt. A press statement released on Wednesday stated that Herfordshire Police are searching for 26-year-old Kyle Clifford in connection with the incident after being called to a property in Bushy shortly before 7:00 on July 9. Officers attended alongside colleagues from the East of England Ambulance Service and, on arrival, found the three women with serious injuries who later died from their wounds. Authorities do believe the murders were a "targeted incident," according to CNN. In a post shared on X, police revealed the suspect, Clifford, "may be in possession of a crossbow" and warned the public not to approach him. British Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has said she is being kept "fully updated" by police on the ongoing manhunt. "I am being kept fully updated. I urge people to support Hertfordshire Police with any information about this case," she added. Detective Superintendent Rob Hall from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit also expressed: "This is an incredibly difficult incident for the victims' family, and we would ask that their privacy be respected as they come to terms with what has happened." Hall added that they are still in the early stages of the investigation and are actively looking for Kyle Clifford, who is believed to be in the areas of Herfordshire or North London. "Our inquiries will continue over the coming days to ascertain the full circumstances of what happened," Hall continued, before asking anyone who was in the area prior to the occurrence if they had seen anything that could potentially help their case, according to PEOPLE. Ive been traveling a lot recently, and Im here to report that a worrying tendency has taken hold among my fellow Americans. We are turning our gaze away from the world, looking inward, not with introspection but for the pleasures of escapism, choosing to live in the dark as reality races by outside our window. I am speaking, of course, about the way people keep closing their window blinds when they fly. Its not a very big window; more of a porthole, really. But Ill be damned if generations of aerospace engineers pierced the jet fuselage with all these pressure-resistant acrylic panels so I could watch Chicago, instead of, you know, see Chicago. Preferably as it rises, wreathed in mist, from Lake Michigan. Advertisement And yet that is what more and more travelers are doing as airplane norms shift from open skies to closed blinds. This is especially prevalent behavior on longer flights, but has also become the custom for some travelers even during taxi, takeoff, and landing. To them, I say: Let there be light! You will see the ballet of the tarmac workers, parks and lakes you never knew existed, patterns of development and infrastructure, customs of land ownership, and finally, the lines of the earth itself. You will see what journalist and pilot James Fallows has called the logic of the American landscapewhy towns, factories, and cities are where they are. And if you ever have the opportunity to fly on the evening of July Fourth, you will see the whole dark country sparkle with fireworks like a vast chocolate birthday cake. If youre planning to spend the flight in quiet reflection, eschewing the lure of watching, listening, and even reading, the earth is the perfect companion. Advertisement But also, youre about to be propelled through the sky in a tin can at 600 miles per hour. Arent you a little curious? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Many airlines do ask for passengers to raise their shades during takeoff and landing. Its the best part of the flight, view-wise, but its also the riskiest part of the flight. It can be important for passengers to react quickly, Janet Northcote, communications head for the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, explains. This is easier if their eyes are already used to the light outside the aircraft. In addition, flight attendants want to have an unobstructed view of the outside during takeoff and landingfor example, to identify problems with the engines. In an emergency, they can then identify more quickly which side passengers can be evacuated from. Rescue workers can also assess the situation inside more quickly from the outside and see, for example, whether there is a fire in the aircraft. If you see something, like a gas leak on a Boeing preparing for takeoff, say something! Advertisement Still, in the U.S. and Europe, this is an operational procedure, not a regulation. And one that is less and less in force on U.S. airlines. (United, for example, officially dropped the policy in 2022.) After youre in the air, the likelihood of having an open window shade drops minute by minute. These days, some flight crews on longer trips request passengers close the shades so others may sleep. On newer planes, they can enforce a dark cabin through electronic window tints that can be darkened plane-wide. All of these developments come in concert with a new breed of seatback TVs, whose solid picture quality and terrific movie selection are as far from the one-movie model of the 90s as the A380 is from the Wright Flyer. Advertisement Those who breach this dim sanctum for an up-close view of the clouds will find themselves in disputes with the window DJs around them, as if looking outside was as disrespectful as putting your seat back (which, obviously, you are always entitled to do). Advertisement To be sure, directing young people to stop watching television and look out the window is such a hackneyed grown-up scold it would be overwrought coming from the dad in Calvin and Hobbes. But for once, it is not young people who are the problemkids, in this case, still recognize that flying is cool. Adults, on the other hand Former Slate editor-in-chief Julia Turner, who has previously broached this topic on the Culture Gabfest, marveled at the apparent nonchalance of the nations fliers. The default should be Holy shit, were in the sky, get a load of that, she observed. Icarus drowned, and you arent even looking at the waves. A splash quite unnoticed. The irony is that the same digital media revolution that has made it so attractive to fly with the blinds closed has also made it that much more interesting to fly with them open. Sophisticated in-flight maps can show you exactly what youre looking at. (N.B.: Those weird folded mountains are the Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians.) Plus, with a decent smartphone, you can take some pretty good airplane window photos. Its good to have something to remember the trip. At the risk of revealing Americans to be as shallow as the rest of the world thinks we are, recent history shows that in this country, a celebrity cameo is sometimes what it takes to make a news story feel, well, real. In early March 2020, for example, the COVID pandemic started to seem a whole lot less far away and notional for some of us after we learned that national treasure Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, were sick with the virus. So maybe its a good sign that as Democrats scramble and squabble over the question of whether Joe Biden should stay in the presidential race, George Clooney has entered the fray. On Wednesday, Clooney published a New York Times opinion piece urging Biden to step aside, under the headline I Love Joe Biden. But We Need a New Nominee. The gist is not especially different from other opinions that have been bandied about in recent dayswe all saw what we saw, we cant pretend otherwise, and Biden needs to do the right thingbut it does mean a little something extra under Clooneys byline (and the piece is well written to boot). Without any of the word-mincing that has characterized Democrats sound bites over the past few days, Clooney writes, in no uncertain terms, that Biden has got to go, in prose that at times sounds right out of a fragment-happy screenplay. After observing that it wasnt just Bidens performance at the debate but any opportunity that Biden might walk off Air Force One or walk back to a mic to answer an unscripted question that now has Democrats collectively holding their breath, he writes, Is it fair to point these things out? It has to be. It has to be. Eloquently put, Mr. Clooney! (Any chance Clooneys famously learned wife, Amal, pitched in to help ghostwrite? Probably notthe short sentences read way more Hollywood than human rights lawyer.) If this is the kind of straight-shooting, Im just gonna level with you here dialogue were used to seeing in movies, maybe that just means that Clooney has decided that this is that rare real-life moment that truly deserves film-style dramatics. Personally, as a normal-ish person who tries to follow these things but has no special knowledge of political machinations, circa Tuesday I was starting to feel as if the momentum for Biden to drop out was losing steam. If thats the outcome youre holding out for, theres hope to be found in the Clooney piece: Powerful people still want this! And havent given up on it! Its worth noting that Clooney hasnt been especially present in public life lately. For someone who was as big as he was 20 years ago, its almost Obama-like how little we hear of him and how much he has receded from pop culture in recent years. To me, that makes it all the more exciting that hes stepping in to say somethingwere so back, baby!but its unclear how much currency his star power has for the average person at least a decade out from the height of his fame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement And strangely, Clooneys perspective as a star may be less valuable than another perspective he brings to the piece: that of a party insider. He has held some of the top fundraisers for Democrats. Or, as he puts it in the op-ed: I have led some of the biggest fund-raisers in my partys history. Barack Obama in 2012. Hillary Clinton in 2016. Joe Biden in 2020. Last month I co-hosted the single largest fund-raiser supporting any Democratic candidate ever, for President Bidens re-election. When he says hes been part of these behind-closed-doors conversations that only the rich and powerful are privy to, we believe him. Clooney, who has interacted with Biden for years, tells us that he has seen for himself a clear difference in the presidents appearance and behavior, and not just at the debate but at fundraisers as well. Other people in the position to know such things havent gone on the record, but George Clooney, of all people, now has. Sure, he doesnt have as much to lose as most people if Trump wins, because he can just retreat to his home in Lake Como, but that doesnt mean it wasnt a little brave for him to speak out this way. (Bidens campaign, for its part, has responded by questioning George Clooneys stamina: Multiple news outlets late on Wednesday reported some form of this quote, from a source familiar with the event planning of the recent ClooneyBiden fundraiser: The president stayed for over three hours, while Clooney took a photo quickly and left.) Again, will Clooneys words and influence make a difference? Who knows. Maybe the rest of the Oceans Eleven cast will weigh in while we await further developments. Elliott Gould, start typing. Don Cheadle, where are you on this? And if it turns out that the only way to steal the Democratic nomination is with some kind of heist situation, well have just the crew for the job. Theres a surplus of despair in the American far left these days. Between Joe Bidens ongoing support for the mass slaughter in Gaza, the Supreme Courts abysmally craven decision to grant Donald Trump near-total legal immunity, and the chaotic fallout from the first presidential debate, those who once might have voted for Bernie Sanders are finding quite little to feel hopeful about. As a result, more than a few people on the left are thinking about not voting altogether. I see the grim, burn-it-all-down sentiments stream past my eyes on my social feeds all day, every day. First of all: I get it. Lets say Biden remains the Democratic candidate. If a leftist thinks of a vote as a moral endorsement of a politician, then the case for them abstaining is straightforward. They dont want to empower Biden, who has been tepid (at best) on core left priorities like restraining state violence, defending abortion, enshrining trans rights, andperhaps most importantlystopping the carnage in Palestine. This was all the case before he showed himself to be perhaps dangerously infirm. Leftists who dont like Biden dont want to see him in office again, so they dont want to vote for him, or they want to withhold their vote until he changes course. Seems simple enough. But thats not how politics works. The point of electoral politics, as it is lived, is not to vote for a friend; its to vote for your preferred enemy. You will never find a morally pure candidate, or one whose positions perfectly align with your own preferences. So you must find one whom you can effectively bully. Advertisement Its often said that desiring to be president is a psychosis that should disqualify anyone who actually wants the job. I happen to agree. Never, in the history of this country, has there been a president who hasnt engaged in what the left would regard as unforgivable crimes. This is the nature of presidents, and politicians in general. If you, like me, are on the far left, you should never fully trust or have faith in any elected official. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But when I look at the Biden administration, I see a group of people who can be bullied in a leftist direction on some policy priorities. They have, at times, responded to pressure from their left wing in Congress (the so-called Squad and others), as well as pressure from unions and advocacy campaigns. Theyve already made huge strides on climate, theyve brought forward anti-monopoly cases, and they pulled out of Afghanistan, among other actions. Advertisement Its far less than what is needed, to be surebut its far more than what were going to get if the left withholds its vote in significant numbers. Whenever I get into arguments about voting with my more hardcore friends, the conversation always turns sour when we get to this question: What happens when Biden loses in November? The answer, of course, is that Trump becomes president again. And Project 2025 flies into effect. And the country goes mask-off fascist. And trans people like me become illegal by our very existence. And Israel finishes the job in Gaza with vocal cheering from the White House. And Trump has his enemies imprisoned or worse with impunity. And the world teeters on the brink. And so on. Advertisement Advertisement Usually, when I get to this portion of my rant with these friends, they say they think all that stuff will happen whether or not they vote. Theres a tendency to say Biden is just as bad as Trump, or that Trump will be able to take power even if Biden gets more votes. Theyve completely lost faith in the system. Once again: Yes, this system is broken! Its always been broken! But are you really going to argue that elections dont have consequences? When I was 14 years old, I was a huge fan of Ralph Nader. As a teenage anti-sweatshop activist, I believed that he was the only candidate in the 2000 presidential election who was speaking the truth and advocating for my policy goals. I went to a Nader rally in my hometown of Chicago, where the great journalist Studs Terkel spoke. Ill never forget what he said in his nasal bark: Gore or Bush, whats your choice? Influenza or pneumonia, whats your choice? Advertisement Advertisement It all sounds like nonsense to me now. Can anyone today truly argue that the world wasnt drastically changed by Gores loss in 2000? Even if you dont accept the argument that Naders candidacy is what lost Gore the election, how can you argue that the world wouldnt have been at least a little better if all of those Nader votes had gone to Gore and put the Dems over the top? Advertisement Advertisement Its difficult to understand what the dont-vote leftists think they will accomplish as a result of Biden losing. Do they hope that the worsening conditions will bring about the Revolution? Be serious. Where is the radical left that could make such a thing happen? Where is the leftist infrastructure, unity, or discipline that would be necessary for a triumph at the national level from American communists, anarchists, or even socialists? Advertisement In Weimar Germany, where the German Communist Party was far more robust and ready to fight in the streets, the revolution-oriented strategyallowing a fascist victory to raise urgency and bring about a more lasting leftist onedidnt work. Infamously, in the fateful early years of the 1930s, the German Communists viciously opposed the governing center-left Social Democratic Party. Calling the centrists Social Fascists, they declared that there was no substantive difference between liberalism and Nazism. They refused to ally themselves with the center. Although the Communists did not originate the much-quoted phrase Nach Hitler, kommen wir (After Hitler, were coming), it was very much their policy. The belief was that Hitler might come to power, but that Nazi misrule would only rally support to the Communists, leading to a glorious revolution. Well, it didnt go that way, did it? Advertisement Instead of echoing the hardline leftists of 1931, the American left should look to their counterparts in France of 2024. The world has breathed a sigh of relief over the shocking upset against Marine Le Pens far-right party in the recent legislative elections there. The key to that victory was a last-minute alliance of the centrist liberals and the radical left. It worked. Advertisement With any luck, the French left will follow through by using their legislative plurality to bully their centrist president into being better. It wont be a revolution, but Ill certainly take it over Vichy 2.0. Let us follow their example. Theres still time to avoid the omnicatastrophe that would be a fascist takeover of the nuclear-armed United States. We dont have to play the organizing game on the highest difficulty level, which is what the left is looking at in the event of a Trump victory. The man all but wants to formally establish a Christian dictatorship, dismantle the very idea of federal regulations, outlaw contraception, and round up and deport millions of immigrants. And thats just a taste of the hellish chaos that looms. Advertisement The ballot box might not be enough, but we cannot abandon it out of depressive nihilism. We must build an alternative political structure and put pressure on politicians every day, not just once every four years. But we wont have the opportunity to do that if Trump is president and makes such organizing illegal. Leon Trotsky himself urged the German Communists to reconsider their foolish pride in 1931. Should fascism come to power, it will ride over your skulls and spines like a terrific tank, he declared, accurately. Your salvation lies in merciless struggle. And only a fighting unity with the Social Democratic workers can bring victory. Make haste, worker-Communists, you have very little time left! Once again, the hour grows late. This November, leftist apathy can only bring disaster. Workers of the world, unite with your liberal foes; if you do not, you have everything to lose. A searing political pamphlet in novel form, The Taste of Power has transcended its era, becoming required reading in Slovak schools and a mirror on politicians wielding authority today. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share The Taste of Power was not written to become a masterpiece. For its author, Ladislav Mnacko, the book was purely a political pamphlet wrapped in a novel, a biting criticism of the communist regime. Published in 1968, and banned soon after, the novel gained in importance after the fall of communism in 1989 in what was then Czechoslovakia, and later in independent Slovakia. The Taste of Power (Ako chuti moc) has become a timeless literary work, required reading in Slovak secondary schools, and a mirror held up to any politician who wields power. In his book, Mnacko, a renowned Slovak writer and journalist who endured Nazism and turned from being a fervent communist into a fervent critic of the totalitarian regime, examines the impact of power on an individual. The novel is set in communist Czechoslovakia in the 1950s, and takes place during a three-day state funeral for an unnamed communist official. Frank, a well-known photojournalist, describes the dead man and, in more detail, his coffin. He takes on the job of narrator, while the deceased man despite his death is the main character. A dead man was lying on a catafalque, wrapped in black cloth, his legs facing the entrance to the mourning room, reads the opening line of the story, piquing the readers interest from the start. Ladislav Mnacko, as portrayed in July 1968. (Source: TASR) Red street Born on the Moravian-Slovak border in 1919, three months after the birth of Czechoslovakia, Mnackos family decided to move to Turciansky Svaty Martin, now known just as Martin, a town in central Slovakia that was a cultural hub for Slovaks, soon after his birth. Here he grew up in the community of poor blue-collar workers on what was then Marx Street. This environment shaped Mnackos social-democratic view of the world, according to writer Jozef Leiker, who has authored two books about Mnackos life. He studied to become a pharmacist, a job that he never enjoyed. With the demise of democratic Czechoslovakia in 1938 and the corresponding rise of fascism, Mnacko decided to flee the wartime Slovak state, which was a collaborator of Nazi Germany, towards the Soviet Union. He was caught and taken to a forced labour camp in the Netherlands, from where he managed to escape. He later joined insurgents in Nazi-occupied Moravia and fought against the Nazis. After the war, the communists gathered strength in the re-established Czechoslovakia (finally taking power in a putsch in February 1948). In 1945, Mnacko joined the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia and started working as a journalist for Rude pravo (Red Justice), the official newspaper of the party, in Prague. But Mnackos political views evolved as the communist regime revealed its true self and unleashed unrestrained terror and lawlessness. He spent 11 years as an obedient communist, 11 years as a communist critical of the regime, and 36 years as a harsh anticommunist, said Leiker, who always considered the talented Slovak writer to be a social democrat deep in his heart rather than a communist. Fabricated political trials, among other injustices, turned the prominent journalist into a vocal critic of the inhumane regime. The Slovak author wrote about some of the horrors committed by the regime in Delayed Reports (Oneskorene reportaze) in 1963, which sold tens of thousands of copies. After being threatened with prison time by a top communist leader, Mnacko moved to Bratislava. There, he joined the Pravda (Truth) daily and wrote for other papers as well. Slovak writer Ladislav Mnacko died on February 24, 1994. The picture was taken in 1991. (Source: TASR) Emigration When Czechoslovakia, following the Soviet Unions example, sided with the Arab countries during the Israeli-Arab conflict and cut diplomatic ties with Israel in 1967, Mnacko protested by fleeing to Israel. During this time, he was stripped of his Czechoslovak citizenship and expelled from the Communist Party. He spent almost a year in Israel before deciding to return in 1968. I came back only to leave again, perhaps forever, he wrote in his book Seventh Night (Siedma noc). Following the invasion of Czechoslovakia by Warsaw Pact troops in August of the same year, he fled to Austria, fearing persecution by the Soviets for his past actions and opinions. Subsequently, the regime banned his books. Mnacko continued writing in Austria. By then, he had earned the nickname the red Hemingway in the West. He returned to Czechoslovakia after the fall of the regime in 1989, eventually settling in Prague after the breakup of Czechoslovakia in 1993, a development he did not support. Read also Read also Australian literary magazine will publish a story by Slovak writer Read more What The Taste of Power tells the world In The Taste of Power, which was published almost a decade after his famous war-inspired novel Death Is Called Engelchen (Smrt sa vola Engelchen), Mnacko establishes a second line of storytelling Franks memories of the deceased statesman and their long friendship seamlessly woven into the three-day funeral narrative. Franks thoughts and memories of the unnamed official increasingly overwhelm the real-time storyline of the funeral as the narrative progresses. Throughout the novel, the narrator examines the rise and fall of the deceased statesman. He recalls his dear friends bravery during partisan operations in the Second World War and his passion for the revolution, which slowly morphs into blind compliance with the regime in pursuit of power and benefits. The statesman is completely stripped of his personality, morality and values as the story progresses, serving as a case study in the way that power corrupts. Divorcing his loyal and kind wife, abandoning his guiding principles, and harming those whom the statesman once held dear, Mnacko delves into a topic that was relevant long before this story was published and remains so today. The life and death of the statesman serve as a powerful metaphor for a phenomenon still observed among political figures who rise to power today: candidates who initially seem honest and eager to improve their countries are often warped by their experience of power, forming alliances with those they once resented and abandoning their previous concern for the public. Men wage wars in the name of prestige at the expense of innocent civilian lives. While The Taste of Power lacks a traditional storyline, Mnackos philosophical approach, combined with the narrators assessments, scrutiny and praise, creates two contrasting perspectives: the statesmans life and actions, and Franks evaluation of his situation, underscored by resentment at the statesmans later, power-hungry behaviour. This seems to parallel their fictional relationship when the statesman was still alive. Frank became his trusted companion, unofficial advisor, his black-and-white conscience, Mnacko writes, describing their coexistence before the statesman abandons their friendship. After examining the anecdotes that Frank presents to the reader about the statesman, paralleling the descriptions of his overly organised and rehearsed funeral service, Mnacko concludes the novel with Franks final evaluation of the statesmans life. As he lies sleepless next to his wife, Frank ponders the purpose of his friends life, asking, For what was all that power that you gained? How did it taste? What did it help you to do, what did it solve, where did it lead you? Once you were healthy, powerful, full of enthusiasm. And happy. Did your happiness intensify? Mnacko, who died while writing his memoirs in 1994, reminds readers that power is neither good nor bad. Power can become good, power can become evil; it depends on who wields it. Storm weather warnings remain in place for most of Slovakia on Friday and Saturday. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share Two tourists died and at least four others were injured on Thursday, when a deadly avalanche created by heavy rains struck Monkova dolina, a valley near the village of Zdiar in the Belianske Tatry mountain range. The victims were two young girls, Slovak media writes. One was Czech, the Czech Foreign Ministry has confirmed. Out of nowhere, a terrible downpour came, even though it had been sunny all day, Zdiar Mayor Pavol Bekes (independent) told TV Markiza. The avalanche hit a simple wooden shelter around noon. A group of around 16 tourists had taken refuge under the shelter after the weather suddenly changed. They were trapped under the shelter, where the ground and stones slid down, Bekes explained to TV Joj. Despite the high temperatures in recent days, the meteorological office issued storm warnings for most districts of Slovakia on Thursday. It also rained in the Tatras, a popular tourist destination in northern Slovakia. An emergency situation had to be declared in Zdiar due to the rain. According to the mayor, the river level quickly rose right in front of peoples eyes. Local people were the first to go to the aid of the tourists, but the river and fallen trees made it difficult for them to reach the group at first. https://sk.frame.mapy.cz/s/lomagovole Mountain rescuers, who were gradually deployed to the site using a helicopter, participated in the rescue operation, and two ambulances and two helicopters arrived at the scene. Among the injured were also Czech tourists, the mayor said. During the rescue operation, the rescuers received another request for help from a Czech tourist with an injured ankle. He was located in the Siroke sedlo area. The injured tourist was airlifted to the mouth of the Monkova dolina, from where he continued on his own. According to the Tatra National Park Administration, the hiking trail in Monkova dolina, which is located in the area of Thursdays disaster and leads to Siroke sedlo saddle, is closed until further notice due to the landslide. The green-marked trail is closed until further notice, the national park said on social media. The hiking trail in Monkova dolina (red mark) leading from Hotel Magura to Kopske sedlo saddle, and in the Dolina bieleho potoka valley (green mark) from Strednica to the crossroads Monkova dolina pod Ptosovskymi turnami, is closed as well due to significant damage from the storm, mountain rescuers said. The storm warning remains in effect for Friday and Saturday. It applies to all regions except the Kosice Region. Surrounded by diverse cultures, which they say they lack in Slovakia, they have grown as individuals. Font size: A - | A + Comments disabled Share A passion for the English language has always been the driving force for Daniela Banacka, a 19-year-old student who has completed her secondary school education in Winchester, England, to explore opportunities beyond Slovakias borders. While I hold a deep affection for Slovakia, I longed to experience life elsewhere, she tells The Slovak Spectator. It is estimated that over 300,000 Slovaks, primarily young people, have left Slovakia in the past 15 years. Each had their own reasons: seeking better job opportunities, higher educational standards, improved quality of life, enhanced language skills, or simply a desire to explore new horizons. Filip Frano, a 31-year-old cybersecurity expert, followed his family to Switzerland after his secondary school studies in Slovakia. He says that he wanted to experience life there firsthand. Similarly, Matej Adam Balint, a 19-year-old studying at a college in Portugal, always envisioned leaving Slovakia one day. It was the most natural option for me, he says. While these three Slovaks left their homeland to explore the world, they do not provide a single answer as to whether they would want to return to live in Slovakia. More opportunities and helpful officers In England, Banacka discovered a stark contrast to Slovakia in terms of the abundance of opportunities, particularly when it came to her passion for acting and the arts, an area that is not always well-served by Slovak schools. Her journey at her English school opened doors to singing, guitar playing, and self-discovery. Theres no such thing as you cant sing: you just have to learn it, she remarks, highlighting her experience joining a school band and landing the lead role in a school musical. Frano and Balint highlight that people who work in banks and offices in Switzerland and Portugal are exceptionally pleasant, at least based on their encounters. In Portugal, my interactions with office workers have been overwhelmingly positive, a sharp contrast to the anxiety I used to feel back in Slovakia about inconveniencing workers, Balint contrasts. He also notes that Portuguese people are generally more helpful and kind to strangers than Slovaks. Even his grandmother, who visited recently, was struck by the friendly attitude towards strangers. I dont think we necessarily try to be as kind to each other, as strangers. Banacka shares Balints perspective, observing that people in England are super-eager to help, a trait she does not always find in Slovakia. Slovaks are reserved when you first meet them, she remarks. However, she values Slovak peoples straightforwardness, noting that her Slovak friends tend to express their feelings openly. In England, I have noticed that many of my friends keep their emotions to themselves and only bring them up later. Slovakia lacks diversity Thanks to her time in England and exposure to various cultures in her classes, Banacka has grown more open-minded. She notes that Slovakia is becoming more diverse, but in her view, it is still incomparable to England. The number of foreigners with permanent residence in Slovakia, a country of 5.4 million, has doubled in the past decade, rising to almost 60,000. However, many foreigners come from the neighbouring countries, or from southeastern Europe. Balint realised the extent of Slovakias lack of diversity while riding an underground train in Portugal. I looked around and thought, Im in the minority here as a white person, he recalls. He believes that Slovakia struggles to embrace and accept differences, often imposing rigid standards. I cherish diverse environments. They encourage personal growth, adds Balint, who identifies as gay. Coming home, or rather not Balint, concerned about safety, hesitates about returning to Slovakia. In 2022, two queer people were murdered in Bratislava. Politicians from all sides of the political spectrum have been attacking and exploiting the queer community for their own political gain, denying them the rights enjoyed by queer communities in other Western countries. A June 2024 survey shows that only 37 percent of people think that LGBT+ people should enjoy the same rights as heterosexual people. I dont feel as welcome or as safe in Slovak society compared to other places, he reflects, expressing little hope of imminent change. Despite this, as a young person, he remains eager to explore other cultures, further fuelling his desire to live outside Slovakia. Meanwhile, Frano, who is on the verge of completing his diploma in November, stands at a career crossroads. With aspirations to secure a new job, he remains open to staying in Switzerland or exploring other opportunities abroad. Reflecting on his experiences, he finds that adjusting to life abroad has often differed from his expectations. Slovakia his home might not be the place he would choose to relocate, although he holds positive feelings towards the country. I still consider Slovakia a good country to live in, he says. Banacka, contemplating her future, expresses openness to returning to Slovakia. While she plans to pursue higher education abroad, her attachment to Slovakia grows stronger over time. As time has passed, Ive started to miss Slovakia in small ways, she reflects. In the long run, I intend to return, at least for a while, as I truly feel its my home. WATCH: Lamine Yamal fever continues 60,000 crowd chant for Spain starlet during concert Spain and Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal has taken Euro 2024 by storm, winning the hearts of his home nation, as well as plenty more from around the rest of the world along the way. Even when hes not there, stadiums are singing his name. With Barcelona on their summer break, the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys at Montjuic is back to its usual summer duties of hosting concerts. Popular Spanish group Estopa were playing live on Wednesday night, and added a new hit to their collection Lamine Yamal, every day I love you more. The group led a 60,000 strong crowd in Barcelona in the chant, yet more evidence of his impact. Lamine Yamal fever is taking Spain. It's not the first time his name has been sung at Montjuic, but during an Estopa concert last night, they led a 'Lamine Yamal, every day I love you more' chant in front of 60,000 people.#Euro2024 #FCBarcelona #LaRojapic.twitter.com/ZTRtTVPkxe Football Espana (@footballespana_) July 11, 2024 Barcelona have worked hard to protect him, but the combination of his form and the Spanish national team opening the doors to interviews with the 16-year-old have snowballed into Lamine Yamal being one of the images of the summer in Spain. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/china-advises-nato-to-think-about-its-actions-not-blame-others-in-ukraine---mission-to-eu-1119334779.html China Advises NATO to Think About Its Actions, Not Blame Others in Ukraine - Mission to EU China Advises NATO to Think About Its Actions, Not Blame Others in Ukraine - Mission to EU Sputnik International Following the release of the NATO Washington Summit Declaration, which accused China of supporting Russia's military, China told NATO it should stop scapegoating other nations and think about its own actions. 2024-07-11T03:08+0000 2024-07-11T03:08+0000 2024-07-11T04:27+0000 world china russia washington nato sputnik european union (eu) nato summit https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/05/11/1118492925_0:171:3031:1876_1920x0_80_0_0_7f12cffafbfcd10b25cb92dfe0cff23b.jpg "We urge NATO to listen carefully to the international community and heed just voices. Instead of scapegoating others, NATO should reflect on itself, take real actions to defuse the situation and solve the problem," the mission said.Earlier, Chinese US Embassy spokesperson Liu Pengyu told Sputnik that, "Our normal trade with Russia is done aboveboard. Its consistent with WTO rules and market principles, which is beyond reproach and should not be criticized." https://sputnikglobe.com/20240710/chinas-trade-with-russia-beyond-reproach-should-not-be-criticized---embassy-1119331920.html china russia washington 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 nato summit slams china, does china support russia, https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/g7-nations-condemn-israeli-land-grab-in-west-bank---statement-1119343647.html G7 Nations Condemn Israeli Land Grab in West Bank - Statement G7 Nations Condemn Israeli Land Grab in West Bank - Statement Sputnik International The foreign ministers of every G7 nation, along with the EU, condemned the Israeli decision to approve new settlements and expand existing ones in the West Bank. 2024-07-11T19:30+0000 2024-07-11T19:30+0000 2024-07-11T19:30+0000 world bezalel smotrich middle east palestine israel west bank the united nations (un) european union (eu) g7 israeli settlements https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/02/05/1116604875_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_4d4306df24abf343a45d3ed2396d724d.jpg "We ... reject the decision by the Government of Israel to declare over 1,270 hectares of land in the West Bank as state lands- the largest such declaration of state land since the Oslo Accords," the minister said in a joint statement. The ministers also said they joined the UN in condemning Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's move to legalize five outposts in the West Bank and the decision to expand existing settlements by 5,295 new housing units and to establish three new settlements. Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, along with the European Union, reaffirmed their commitment to a lasting peace and a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and reiterated their opposition to the expansion of Jewish settlements. The G7 nations stressed the importance of maintaining economic stability in the West Bank to ensure regional security, urging Israel to release all withheld clearance revenues and ensure that correspondent banking services between Israeli and Palestinian banks remain in place. The UN General Assembly voted in 1947 to divide UK-governed Palestine into Arab and Jewish states, with Jerusalem placed under a special international regime. The partitioning was planned to take place in May 1948, when the UK mandate was due to end, but only the state of Israel was established. The Oslo Accords are the agreements made between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization in 1993. They launched a peace process aimed at achieving a peace treaty based on the UN Security Council resolutions and at fulfilling the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination, and established the Palestinian National Authority. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240516/canada-sanctions-4-israelis-over-extremist-violence-in-west-bank---foreign-ministry-1118484205.html palestine israel west bank 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 west bank settlements, israeli settlements, illegal settlements in the west bank https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/how-putins-whirl-of-diplomatic-engagement-left-western-elite-biting-the-dust-1119339723.html How Putins Whirl of Diplomatic Engagement Left Western Elite Biting the Dust How Putins Whirl of Diplomatic Engagement Left Western Elite Biting the Dust Sputnik International The Wests attempts to isolate Vladimir Putin have failed, with the Russian president's packed schedule of diplomatic engagements both at home and abroad proof of this. 2024-07-11T14:11+0000 2024-07-11T14:11+0000 2024-07-11T14:11+0000 world russia vladimir putin putin-kim jong un meeting https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/0b/1119339446_0:161:3071:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_4e2d81ca3d9dd3cbdd1eecea16f00089.jpg Since being reelected and inaugurated for his fifth presidential term earlier in the year, Russia's President Vladimir Putin has made six foreign visits, while holding dozens of meetings with leaders of Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Putins first foreign tour since his inauguration for a fresh term was a two-day state visit to the People's Republic of China on May 16 and 17. Chinese President Xi Jinping also paid his first visit to Russia after re-election in March 2023, which Putin dubbed "symbolic" and a sign of "the special nature of Russia-China relations." During his visit to China, Putin stressed that the Moscow-Beijing relationship is one of the main stabilizing factors in global politics."It is of fundamental importance that the Russia-China relationship is not opportunistic and not directed against anyone. Our cooperation in world affairs today is one of the main stabilizing factors in the international arena," the Russian president said.Here are some of the other trips abroad that Putin made:Back in Russia, Vladimir Putin hosted: https://sputnikglobe.com/20240705/pepe-escobar-why-the-sco-summit-in-kazakhstan-was-a-game-changer-1119251048.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240622/putins-visits-to-north-korea-vietnam-show-failure-of-us-policy---ambassador-1119056881.html 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 efforts to isolate putin have failed, putin's visit to north korea, putin visits vietnam, how many trips abroad has putin made this year, which foreign leaders has putin met with in 2024, which foreign leaders visited putin in 2024 Expats hail new mainland travel permits 10:38, July 11, 2024 By Wu Kunling and Stephy Zhang ( China Daily Hong Kong permanent residents who are not Chinese apply for five-year permits to go to the mainland for short-term purposes such as business, tourism, and exchanges at a service center in Hong Kong on Wednesday. (ANDY CHONG/CHINA DAILY) Non-Chinese permanent residents of the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions applying for a new card-style Chinese mainland travel permit have welcomed its potential to facilitate business and leisure travel while calling for clearer and more detailed guidance during the application process. When applications opened on Wednesday, a flood of non-Chinese permanent residents lined up at China Travel Service offices in the two regions to submit their documents. Some even arrived an hour before they opened. The permits cost HK$260 ($33) and enable multiple entries to the mainland for five years. Each stay is limited to 90 days, providing flexibility for travelers to engage in business, tourism, or other activities. Applicants need to go to designated CTS offices in person to submit documents. The CTS office in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, has set up two dedicated counters to process applications, with processing and issuance expected to take 20 working days. A bank employee from the United States said everything went smoothly for his application in a CTS office on Hong Kong Island, as he had thoroughly checked the required documents in advance. He said he's curious about the mainland and looks forward to traveling to Guilin, in the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, after he gets the permit. South Korean Tony Kim Taejung, 33, works as an airline customer adviser and has lived in Hong Kong for around 11 years. He goes to Shenzhen, Guangdong province, every week for dining or shopping, but said the clearance procedure was cumbersome as he had to fill out an arrival card every time. With the new permit, he will be able to use the e-channel to cross the border, without needing to present his passport. Australian content creator Aaron Busch, who applied in Mong Kok, said the process could be challenging for expats who don't speak Chinese, as there was limited English guidance available at the office. Two Indians failed to submit applications due to their inability to understand and read Chinese. Seeking the permit to engage in business on the mainland, they initially went to the immigration department, but were instructed to go to the CTS office first. However, upon reaching CTS, they were redirected back to the immigration department. They said they still lacked clarity on the complete process and the required documents due to the lack of English guidelines. At the CTS office in Mong Kok, many instructions and signs, including the CTS signboard, were exclusively in Chinese without any English translations, and it was challenging to find any information specifically related to the new permit. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said the measure has been well-received, with online reservations nearly booked out. Hong Kong is home to 270,000 non-Chinese permanent residents. According to the 2021 population census, 620,000 people in Hong Kong including approximately 300,000 foreign domestic workers are members of minority ethnic groups, accounting for roughly 8.4 percent of the population. According to Macao media reports, the Macao government estimates around 19,500 people 2.7 percent of the population are eligible to apply for the new travel permit. Most of them are Portuguese, US citizens, or Thai. Fang Xue and Atlas Shao contributed to this story. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun) As an Alabama killer's impending execution looms, he's made peace with his fate barring one final request: no autopsy after he's put to death. In a lawsuit filed last month citing 64-year-old Keith Edmund Gavin's Muslim faith, lawyers for the death row inmate argued his religion "teaches that the human body is a sacred temple, which must be kept whole. As a result, Mr. Gavin sincerely believes that an autopsy would desecrate his body and violate the sanctity of keeping his human body intact. Based on his faith, Mr. Gavin is fiercely opposed to an autopsy being performed on his body after his execution," according to AL.com. Gavin's lawyers filed the suit in Montgomery Circuit Court after they alleged they were unable "to reach a resolution regarding the handling of his remains" with state officials. He "does not anticipate any further appeals or requests for stays of his execution" and the lawsuit is not an attempt to spare his life, court documents state, the outlet reported. "After Mr. Gavin's execution, there will be no question as to who or what caused Mr. Gavin's death. The State will execute him by lethal injection." The Alabama Attorney General's Office said it's "working towards a resolution" for Gavin's request. Gavin is scheduled to die by lethal injection July 18 for the 1998 fatal shooting of William Clayton Jr., a delivery driver who stopped at an ATM to pull out money in Cherokee County, Alabama, while on his way home to his wife, the Associated Press and the Alabama Reflector reported. At the time of the killing, Gavin was granted parole a few months prior after serving 17 years for a separate murder charge in Illinois. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/hungarys-orban-to-meet-with-trump-in-florida-this-evening---source-1119343936.html Hungary's Orban to Meet With Trump in Florida This Evening - Source Hungary's Orban to Meet With Trump in Florida This Evening - Source Sputnik International A source confirmed to Sputnik that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban will visit former US President Donald Trump in Florida after the NATO summit meeting in Washington. 2024-07-11T20:36+0000 2024-07-11T20:36+0000 2024-07-11T20:36+0000 world viktor orban donald trump jake sullivan hungary florida washington us nato summit nato https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/03/09/1117216686_0:162:3076:1892_1920x0_80_0_0_1ae86906b5d9cec47b4b2cae153ffa09.jpg Orban only shared a quick handshake with US President Joe Biden while sharing the stage with him at the NATO summit in Washington.Orban will travel to Florida after attending the final day of the NATO Washington Summit. Orban recently met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping as part of his diplomatic effort to open up lines of communication to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters earlier that Orban's travels have not been aligned with US foreign policy. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240702/if-trump-elected-president-ceasefire-will-be-reached-in-ukraine-orban-says-1119214695.html hungary washington 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 orban meets trump, nato summit, donald trump to end war in ukraine https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/key-global-challenge-this-century-to-avert-new-wars-amid-great-competition---us-senator-1119334462.html Key Global Challenge This Century to Avert New Wars Amid Great Competition - US Senator Key Global Challenge This Century to Avert New Wars Amid Great Competition - US Senator Sputnik International Senator 2024-07-11T00:56+0000 2024-07-11T00:56+0000 2024-07-11T00:56+0000 world jim risch china washington ukraine nato chinese embassy sputnik nato summit https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/03/1d/1108938352_0:0:3072:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_d9ae8c3b1826a780e3377e5d54cad40b.jpg "I think the challenge for this century is going to be how we all occupy this planet without killing each other and compete with each other," Risch said on Wednesday. "We should be able to compete with each other without killing each other. We need to figure that out because this is not going to get better as we move forward." Risch said the Ukraine crisis has brought the relationship between China, Russia, North Korea, Iran and Venezuela closer together, and this bloc is expected to get stronger in the years ahead. The conflict in Ukraine is just a "warm up" in light of the challenges that lie ahead this century, which he points out may mostly come from China's growing influence, he said. The United States and Europe must join together to compete and push back against China, Risch said.Risch was one of 22 Republican senators who voted for the $90 billion aid package Washington approved for Ukraine earlier this year.The Chinese Embassy in Washington told Sputnik that the hyping up of the so-called "China threat" is completely futile, and China firmly opposes NATO's use of regional hotspot issues to smear China and incite a "new Cold War." NATO should immediately stop making groundless accusations and provocative remarks against China, the Chinese Embassy added. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240710/chinas-trade-with-russia-beyond-reproach-should-not-be-criticized---embassy-1119331920.html china washington 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 jim risch, china, washington, ukraine, nato, chinese embassy, sputnik, nato summit https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/moscow-not-to-take-part-in-new-summit-on-ukraine---russian-deputy-foreign-minister-1119334623.html Moscow Not to Take Part in New Summit on Ukraine - Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Moscow Not to Take Part in New Summit on Ukraine - Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sputnik International Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin said that Moscow will not participate in any new summits on Ukraine as Russia does not accept ultimatums. 2024-07-11T02:26+0000 2024-07-11T02:26+0000 2024-07-11T04:19+0000 world volodymyr zelensky russia ukraine moscow nato summit nato https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/08/06/1112419155_0:215:2879:1834_1920x0_80_0_0_f3526ea8072ad982ea96b084a145f608.jpg We know the intentions of the Kiev regime and its Western mentors to 'rehabilitate themselves' for the failed 'peace summit' in Burgenstock, Switzerland in mid-June this year and try to hold a similar event, he said, adding that they are even thinking of inviting Russia. He said Russia hears the rhetoric that it has already heard in the hope of pushing through the ultimatum 'Zelensky formula', and also sees a deliberate disregard for other initiatives to resolve the Ukrainian crisis. We do not accept such ultimatums and are not going to participate in such 'summits'," Galuzin said.The summit in Switzerland was nearly universally declared a failure after China refused to attend and several countries that did attend declined to sign the final document. The event was such an embarrassment that two countries, Iraq and Jordan, asked for their signatures to be removed from the document shortly after the conference. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240616/ukraine-summit-in-switzerland-a-waste-of-time-and-dollars-1118989731.html russia ukraine moscow 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 peace summit, peace talks in ukraine, will talks begin between ukraine and russia, will nato make peace with russia https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/russian-air-defenses-destroy-intercept-five-drones-above-four-regions---mod-1119335653.html Russian Air Defenses Destroy, Intercept Five Drones Above Four Regions - MoD Russian Air Defenses Destroy, Intercept Five Drones Above Four Regions - MoD Sputnik International Over the past night, Russian air defenses destroyed and intercepted five Ukrainian drones over four regions, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement. 2024-07-11T05:20+0000 2024-07-11T05:20+0000 2024-07-11T05:21+0000 russia russia russian defense ministry moscow kiev ukraine ukrainian drone attacks on russia drone drone strike https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/05/13/1118526610_0:42:1657:974_1920x0_80_0_0_9c8aa8f19196cec841599ec3323c8b4a.jpg The ministry said a number of attempts by the Kiev regime to carry out terrorist attacks using aircraft-type unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) on targets in Russia were stopped. Ukraine has been sending drones and missiles into Russia almost daily since it launched its counteroffensive in early June 2023. The United Nations said in August last year, following a botched drone strike on Moscow, that it did not want to see any targeting of civilian infrastructure. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240705/russian-air-defenses-down-50-ukrainian-drones-overnight---mod-1119250350.html russia moscow kiev 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 russian air defenses, ukrainian drones, russian defense ministry https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/ukraine-loses-up-to-700-soldiers-in-battles-with-russia-battlegroup-yug---moscow-1119337440.html Ukraine Loses Up to 700 Soldiers in Battles With Russia's Battlegroup Yug - Moscow Ukraine Loses Up to 700 Soldiers in Battles With Russia's Battlegroup Yug - Moscow Sputnik International The Ukrainian armed forces have lost up to 700 soldiers in battles with Russias Battlegroup Yug in the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday. 2024-07-11T11:20+0000 2024-07-11T11:20+0000 2024-07-11T11:44+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russia ukraine russian defense ministry russian armed forces https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/06/1119262474_0:320:3072:2048_1920x0_80_0_0_83a091195ba929ab1a6643a6e9ed19ab.jpg "The Ukrainian armed forces have lost up to 700 servicepeople, a tank, two Kozak armored combat vehicles, two cars, a UK-made 155-mm AS-90 self-propelled artillery unit, four 152-mm D-20 guns, two 122-mm D-30 howitzers, a US-made 105-mm M119 gun, two UK-made howitzers L-119," the ministry said. Russia's Battlegroup Tsentr have repelled five Ukrainian counterattacks and taken control of the Voskhod settlement in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR), the ministry said. Ukraine has lost up to 460 soldiers in battles with Russia's Battlegroup Zapad and another 335 in fighting with Russia's Sever (North) group of forces, the ministry said. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240614/ex-pentagon-analyst-ukraine-should-heed-russias-new-proposal-to-avoid-further-losses-1118962853.html russia 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 ukraine loses, russian defense ministry, russias battlegroup yug https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/ukraine-planning-to-draft-some-15000-convicts-into-armed-forces---reports-1119336036.html Ukraine Planning to Draft Some 15,000 Convicts Into Armed Forces - Reports Ukraine Planning to Draft Some 15,000 Convicts Into Armed Forces - Reports Sputnik International The Ukrainian government is planning to draft some 15,000 convicted felons into the country's armed forces under the recently signed new mobilization law, the Financial Times reported on Thursday, citing Ukrainian Justice Minister Denys Maliuska. 2024-07-11T07:12+0000 2024-07-11T07:12+0000 2024-07-11T07:12+0000 world ukraine volodymyr zelensky russia mobilization https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/04/0c/1117886393_0:0:3071:1728_1920x0_80_0_0_2e4cb0dccc09ce79440c9ef438dcbad7.jpg The law tightening Ukraine's mobilization rules went into effect on May 18. Aimed at replenishing Ukrainian forces depleted by more than two years of armed conflict with Russia, it mandates that all Ukrainians liable for military service report to conscription offices within 60 days of the law's enactment. The Ukrainian minister told the newspaper that the initial drive was expected to yield about 5,000 recruits, and that under the best conditions this number could triple. According to Maliuska, some 2,872 prisoners have already been released, while the overall number of applicants is at 5,196, with 368 rejected for health reasons. The first batch of released inmates is already undergoing military training and is expected to be deployed by the end of the summer. 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 extended repeatedly since then. Under martial law, men aged from 18 to 60 are prohibited from leaving Ukraine. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240516/ukrainians-mobilized-in-kherson-kept-in-big-cage-unable-to-contact-families---source-1118467992.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 ukrainian government, ukrainian justice minister denys maliuska, convicts into armed forces https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/us-push-to-put-tomahawks-in-germany-signals-death-rattle-of-hawks-who-failed-to-defeat-russia-1119341539.html US Plan to Put Long-Range Missiles in Germany Signals 'Death Rattle' of Anti-Russia Hawks US Plan to Put Long-Range Missiles in Germany Signals 'Death Rattle' of Anti-Russia Hawks Sputnik International Washington has announced plans to deploy Tomahawk, SM-6 and hypersonic missiles in Germany in 2026. NATO's escalatory rhetoric and behavior not only risk a hot war with Russia, but demonstrate conclusively that the Western bloc is an offensive alliance, former DoD senior security policy analyst Michael Maloof fears. 2024-07-11T17:33+0000 2024-07-11T17:33+0000 2024-07-11T17:37+0000 military & intelligence michael maloof germany washington us department of defense (dod) nato tomahawk standard missile 6 (sm-6) russia analysis https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/0c/0c/1105398317_0:75:1830:1104_1920x0_80_0_0_97039a3e737d8de34c65f77858d98c6d.jpg The White House confirmed in a press release Wednesday that the US Army's Multi-Domain Task Force in Germany is planning to deploy long-range offensive missiles in the Central European country as little as a year-and-a-half from now."Exercising these advanced capabilities will demonstrate the United States' commitment to NATO and its contributions to European integrated deterrence," the release stated.Moscow has already vowed to respond."The nature of our reaction will be determined in a calm, professional manner. The military have already begun working on the issue. We will, of course, analyze which specific systems will be discussed...We will determine a military response to this new threat," Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told reporters Thursday."I think it's an unfortunate development," Michael Maloof, a former senior security policy analyst at the Office of the Secretary of Defense, told Sputnik. "Number one, it's truly escalatory.""I would imagine the Europeans themselves would be extraordinarily uncomfortable with this because it puts them directly in the bullseye in response from Russia," Maloof explained.With this step, NATO has demonstrated conclusively that it's no longer the 'defensive alliance' it touts itself to be, according to the observer."NATO has clearly now become an offensive alliance. I think this is worrying more and more people, and it makes it a much more dangerous world," the observer added, recalling that the US decision in 2019 to walk out of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty with Russia, which made Wednesday's announcement on the missile deployments in Germany possible, "makes things even more dangerous," potentially turning a hot war with Moscow into a self-fulfilling inevitability.The former Pentagon analyst doesnt rule out that the Biden administrations escalatory behavior may constitute a death rattle of the West against the East, and a last-ditch effort to try and bolster and show strength at a time when theyre failing" amid the continuing process of the formation of a multipolar world order.Russia's Inevitable ResponseMaloof expects Russia to respond to NATO's latest provocation by moving its hypersonic missile systems closer to Europe, positioning them to "knock out" the "launch pads" of any offensive US systems in the event of an escalation. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/moscow-to-issue-military-response-to-deployment-of-us-long-range-missiles-in-germany-1119335918.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/pentagons-push-to-put-tomahawks-in-germany-reveals-long-standing-agenda-to-undermine-arms-control-1119340494.html germany washington russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rossiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ilya Tsukanov Ilya Tsukanov 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 Ilya Tsukanov will us missiles in europe lead to war with russia, are russia and nato at war, what can cause russia-nato war https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/us-sending-to-ukraine-older-patriot-battery-valued-at-100mln---pentagon-1119343805.html US Sending to Ukraine 'Older' Patriot Battery, Valued at $100Mln - Pentagon US Sending to Ukraine 'Older' Patriot Battery, Valued at $100Mln - Pentagon Sputnik International The United States is providing Ukraine with an older Patriot battery valued at $100 million in its latest security package. 2024-07-11T19:46+0000 2024-07-11T19:46+0000 2024-07-11T19:46+0000 military ukraine us defense department patriot pentagon https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/03/0d/1117296767_0:89:3326:1960_1920x0_80_0_0_e9bbb75504187ef1ba2ae3e59eef394e.jpg Earlier in the day, the United States announced it is providing Ukraine with a new $225 million aid package that includes one Patriot battery. The price tag on a new Patriot battery system is about $1 billion. The new aid package was authorized through the Presidential Drawdown Authority (PDA), which allows the Defense Department to donate to Ukraine from US military stockpiles. The package also provides Ukraine with NASAMS munitions, Stinger missiles, HIMARS ammunition, artillery rounds, TOW equipment, and missiles, Javelin and AT-4 systems, small arms ammunition, demolitions munitions, various spare parts and maintenance items, according to the Pentagon. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240707/watch-russian-troops-blow-up-two-patriot-missile-systems-in-odessa-region-1119268902.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 ukraine aid, patriot systems in ukraine https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/us-upset-with-putin-modi-meeting-amid-nato-summit-requested-rescheduling---reports-1119344088.html US Upset With Putin-Modi Meeting Amid NATO Summit, Requested Rescheduling - Reports US Upset With Putin-Modi Meeting Amid NATO Summit, Requested Rescheduling - Reports Sputnik International The administration of US President Joe Biden was upset with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his decision to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and asked that it be rescheduled. 2024-07-11T21:12+0000 2024-07-11T21:12+0000 2024-07-11T21:12+0000 world narendra modi joe biden vladimir putin india washington russia https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/09/1119308987_0:0:3379:1901_1920x0_80_0_0_4d1fca4f3f6ddc799e570db46657b8ca.jpg The Biden administration told India that the timing of Modis meeting with Putin would complicate "optics" amid the summit, the report said, citing several US officials familiar with the matter. US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell spoke with Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra last month in an effort to encourage India to reschedule the Modi-Putin meeting so as not to coincide with the NATO summit, the report said. Earlier this week, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that the United States made its concerns about Indias ties to Russia clear. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240709/putin-modi-set-goal-to-reach-100bln-trade-between-russia-india-by-2030-1119314790.html washington 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 putin meets modi, modi in russia, us upset with india https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/west-declares-open-season-on-hungarys-orban-for-his-trip-to-russia-1119338936.html West Declares Open Season on Hungarys Orban for His Trip to Russia West Declares Open Season on Hungarys Orban for His Trip to Russia Sputnik International Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is being pilloried for his freelance diplomacy effort after Budapest assumed the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU. 2024-07-11T13:48+0000 2024-07-11T13:48+0000 2024-07-11T13:48+0000 hungary viktor orban world vladimir putin charles michel russia european union (eu) nato kremlin https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/07/0b/1119338746_0:144:3128:1904_1920x0_80_0_0_890af95edd9a7e286fe25461a19decd9.jpg Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is being pilloried for his freelance diplomacy effort after Budapest assumed the rotating presidency of the Council of the EU. NATO elites with a vested interest in fueling the proxy conflict in Ukraine claim Orban did not represent them in his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Russia will continue to be ostracized, asserted US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was quick to say. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg dismissed Orbans trip as one that, "doesn't change the common decisions" the alliance has made to step up our support to Ukraine. Josep Borrell, the EUs top diplomat, noted that the Hungarian leader was traveling exclusively in the framework of bilateral relations. The same phrase was regurgitated by the European External Action Service (EEAS), the EU's diplomatic service. Orban has not received any mandate from the EU Council to visit Moscow, and is thus not representing the EU in any form, it said in an official statement.This was a political mistake to go to Moscow In 10 years, I have never seen such a severe reaction from 26 other countries to the actions of [one country] . . . a yellow card. This is a problem, fumed European Council president Charles Michel to the FT.Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda and Estonias Prime Minister Kaja Kallas accused Orban of undermining and exploiting the EU presidency position. Western media outlets were in synch, running headlines in the same vein.Orbans trip was described as a striking break with the European Unions collective foreign policy by The Washington Post. The Financial Times ran a story citing sources within the EU blocs legal service as claiming Orbans diplomatic mission contravened the EUs treaties. Reuters cited an unnamed diplomat as saying skepticism within the bloc about Hungary's presidency was "unfortunately justified. Numerous reports have speculated as to what sort of backlash Victor Orban might face from EU officials. Boycotting the traditional informal ministerial meetings during Hungarys presidency was reportedly suggested in some circles. Furthermore, informal talks are allegedly underway on how to use the EU treaty to restrict Orbans room for maneuver during the presidency.Stripping Hungary of the rotating presidency has also ostensibly been privately floated. Removing unanimous decision-making in the EU was one of the options voiced by Finlands Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen. However, Charles Michel appeared to be more cautious, telling the FT that, We dont want to punish ourselves in a collateral effect of trying to punish someone . . . Lets be smart.Hungarys six-month presidency of the EU Council, which started on July 1, will be dedicated to the country's peace mission, Gergely Gulyas, the Hungarian prime minister's chief of staff, said on Monday at a briefing.On the same day, the Kremlin stressed that Russian President Vladimir Putin did not send any message to US President Joe Biden or NATO countries through Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Moscow is Russian President Vladimir Putin did not send any message to US President Joe Biden or NATO countries through Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday. Putin is a staunch supporter of political and diplomatic efforts to find a solution to the Ukrainian crisis, underscored Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240710/orban-says-asked-erdogan-to-support-hungarys-efforts-on-ukraine-peace-initiative-1119324660.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240708/orban-reveals-three-reasons-why-russia-cannot-be-defeated-1119288527.html hungary 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 hungary, viktor orban, orban in china, orban visits china, peace mission, viktor orban, hungary, russia, ukraine, ukrainian crisis, ukrainian conflict, war in ukraine, hungarian prime minister viktor orban, orban talks with putin, russian president vladimir putin held with orban, orban trip to moscow, orban and putin, orban meets with putin, orban talks with putin, orban in moscow, orban about ukraine conflict, orban urges peace in ukraine conflict, orban on putin's remarks about arms supplies, putin comments the us decision to send long-range arms to ukraine The man accused of killing a BBC presenter's family in a deadly crossbow attack previously served in the British Army, reports say. Before Kyle Clifford, 26, was accused in the Tuesday triple slaying of network racing commentator John Hunt's wife, Carol Hunt, 61, and their two daughters, Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, he did a brief stint in the UK armed forces in 2022, according to The Independent. It's unclear what led to his discharge. Clifford was taken into custody Wednesday without incident in a cemetery in Enfield, England, following a massive manhunt, authorities confirmed. "This continues to be an incredibly difficult time for the victims' family and we would ask that their privacy is respected as they come to terms with what has happened," Hertfordshire police said, announcing Clifford's capture. It's believed the suspect knew the victims, however a specific relationship and motive remains under investigation. In a statement to staff, the BBC described the deaths of Hunt's wife and daughters as "utterly devastating." "Our thoughts are with John and his family at this incredibly difficult time and we will provide him with all the support we can," the network wrote in part, according to CNN. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240711/west-sees-zelensky-as-cash-cow-plans-to-keep-him-in-power-for-now--russian-intel-1119336186.html West Sees Zelensky As Cash Cow, Plans to Keep Him in Power 'For Now' Russian Intel West Sees Zelensky As Cash Cow, Plans to Keep Him in Power 'For Now' Russian Intel Sputnik International The Russian Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has released information obtained from Russian covert operatives, shedding light on the direct involvement of the collective West in the proxy conflict in Ukraine. 2024-07-11T08:38+0000 2024-07-11T08:38+0000 2024-07-11T08:38+0000 world russian foreign intelligence service ukraine kiev volodymyr zelensky petro poroshenko fbi russia https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/06/0a/1118896145_0:0:3000:1688_1920x0_80_0_0_307050d7aee61f4ca9acfa6a4c66c0f6.jpg According to the declassified information, the US State Department and the European External Action Service are worried about the increasing distrust among Ukrainians towards the state institutions of the Kiev regime, as well as towards Volodymyr Zelensky's rule, which they consider illegitimate. Despite this, Washington and Brussels would prefer Zelensky to remain in power, as lucrative war profiteering schemes are tied to him. Zelensky's opponents are advised to exercise restraint "for the time being." The declassified information also unveils the search for an alternative to Zelensky that is currently underway, with ongoing contacts being maintained with key figures including ex-president Petro Poroshenko (leader of the European Solidarity party), Kiev Mayor Vitali Klitschko, former Ukrainian commander-in-chief Gen. Valery Zaluzhny, and Ukrainian aide Andriy Yermak. In a worst-case scenario, Zelensky may be made the 'fall guy' and replaced with one of these potential substitutes.According to the declassified information, the French Defense Ministry is worried about the increasing number of casualties among its citizens in Ukraine. This concern was highlighted by the recent incident in Kharkov on January 16 where 'dozens' of French nationals were killed when a temporary deployment point of foreign mercenaries was destroyed by the Russian armed forces. Despite this, a French contingent of 2,000 men is being prepared for deployment to Ukraine. The FBI, US private military companies (PMCs), and the DEA have ramped up efforts to recruit imprisoned members of Mexican and Colombian drug cartels to fight in Ukraine in return for a full pardon. The first such group numbering several hundred people is to be dispatched to Ukraine in the summer. If the pilot project is successful, it may be extended to include other countries with a high crime rate, according to the declassified information.The declassified information indicates that the United States is attempting to steer the investigation into the May assassination attempt on Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in a specific direction. Their objective is to present the incident as a lone wolf attack with no connections to foreign entities. This is being done to prevent it from being exposed as an act of targeting individuals with dissenting viewpoints, such as Fico and Hungary's Prime Minister Victor Orban. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240701/zelenskys-new-plan-possible-first-step-to-negotiations---analyst-1119212527.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 russian foreign intelligence service, russian covert operatives, proxy conflict in ukraine Eastcoast Invader opened up in the stretch to win his third straight victory for trainer/driver Monica Sutherland in the Winners Over Pace at Inverness Raceway on Wednesday, July 10. As the car drew away, a pair of early leavers duelled for the front. As one went off stride, Shir Gain (Rodney Gillis) was left with the control of the timer, followed by Eastcoast Invader to the :30.2 quarter. En route to the opening split, Windemere Best Man (Redmond Doucet) tipped to the outside. Eastcoast Invader maintained pocket position and the field split in two as they approached the half in 1:00. The outer bid began to stall and Eastcoast Invader was granted enough room to hop off the pylons. Sutherland took her student to the top at the three-quarters in 1:29.2 before going on to win by open lengths in 1:58.3. Shir Gain finished second with Delightful Wine (Zachary Mullins) taking the show spot. Breeder Todd Sutherland co-owns the seven-year-old Rollwithitharry-Manhattan Delight gelding with his daughter, Monica Sutherland. The triumph moved Eastcoast Invader's seasonal tally to 3-1-1 in seven starts and career record to 21-21-31 from 103 career starts. He returned $6.40 to win. To view Wednesday's harness racing results, click the following link: Wednesday Results - Inverness Raceway. (Standardbred Canada) Two-year-old pacing fillies got their Indiana Sire Stakes season underway with three divisions of the first leg featured on the Thursday, July 10 card at Harrahs Hoosier Park. The driver/trainer combo of Ricky and Jamie Macomber secured victories in each of the first two divisions with Loveyoucookie and JKs Flirty Girl before Kaks The Boss and driver Kyle Wilfong stormed to victory in the final division for trainer Jeff Cullipher. Leaving from post three in the $68,384 first division, driver Ricky Macomber Jr. grabbed the pocket spot off of the gate while Kyle Wilfong sent Lastchanceforlove to the front at the quarter in :27.4. The order remained unchanged up front to the half in :57 before the lead duo began to separate slightly from the field at three-quarters in 1:26.3. Macomber popped the pocket turning for home, quickly grabbing command by two lengths with an eighth of a mile to go with 4-5 favourite Tarshish (Jay Cross) in pursuit. Powering home in :27, Loveyoucookie cruised to a 2-3/4-length victory over Tarshish in a lifetime best 1:53.4. Donut Lady (John De Long) navigated rivals in the lane to finish third. Loveyoucookie returned $10.40 for her backers at the betting windows. Now perfect through the first two starts of her career, Loveyoucookie is owned by Doug Overhiser. From the first crop of sire Capt Midnight, Loveyoucookie is out of the Rockin Image mare Bluebird Love and was bred by Daryl Miller. Team Macomber came right back in the very next race to take the $63,699 second division with JKs Flirty Girl. Starting from post six, Macomber got away fourth while 4-5 favourite Always A Card found the front from the rail to reach the quarter first in :28.3. Macomber pulled the right line on the backstretch to steamroll to the front just prior to reaching the half in :57.3 before taking the field to three-quarters unchallenged in 1:27. Turning for home, JKs Flirty Girl responded swiftly to a couple of Macomber whip taps, sprinting away by 2-1/2 lengths midway down the lane. JKs Flirty Girl stopped the timer in 1:54, crossing the wire three lengths clear of Always A Card. Infatuation (John De Long) rounded out the trifecta in third. JKs Flirty Girl returned $4.20 as the bettors' second-choice. Also undefeated through two starts in her young career, JKs Flirty Girl is co-owned by Jamie Macomber along with James Stonecipher, who bred the daughter of JK Endofanera-Mcflirty. In the $68,384 third division, Kaks The Boss broke through to earn her maiden-breaking victory in her second outing with driver Kyle Wilfong aboard. Tiffany Blue (Marvin Luna) crossed over quickly to the lead from the outside post eight before relinquishing control to Rocky Dude (Trace Tetrick) through a quarter in :28 as Kaks The Boss stalked from fourth. Rocky Dude had things her way to the half in :57.3 before Wilfong wheeled Kaks The Boss first-over and to the leaders wheel at three-quarters in 1:26.4. Swinging into the stretch, Kaks The Boss continued to wear down a stubborn Rocky Dude before taking command by a half-length at the eighth pole. Once in command, Kaks The Boss sprinted away by 2-3/4 lengths on the wire in 1:54 over Tiffany Blue and Wunderkindbluechip (Mike Oosting). Kaks The Boss paid $5.80 to win. The victory was the first for Kaks The Boss after finishing a narrow second to Loveyoucookie in her career debut. Bred by Victory Hill Farm, Kaks The Boss is a daughter of JK Endofanera out of the Captaintreacherous mare, Girl Boss. She is owned by Pollack Racing LLC along with trainer Jeff Cullipher. The 14-race Thursday, July 11 card at Hoosier Park will be highlighted by a trio of divisions for two-year-old trotting colts and geldings in their first leg of Indiana Sire Stakes. The Thursday card features a carryover of $11,631.93 in the Jackpot Pick 6 (Races 8-13), to go along with $10,000 guarantees in each the Late Pick 4 (Races 11-14) and Hoosier High 5 (Race 14). First post for Thursday is 6:15 p.m. (Hoosier Park) With a pair of Open Trot victories in the rearview mirror, Jessiejesorjessica will head to the gate as the morning line favourite in the Thursday evening feature at Red Shores Racetrack and Casino at the Charlottetown Driving Park. The 11-dash program starts at 6 p.m. Red Shores and industry officials will be monitoring the weather system approaching Prince Edward Island. Updates will be provided by 12 noon. Race 8 is the top assignment, the $3,300 Open Handicap Trot, with Jessiejesorjessica the 5-2 morning line favourite from the assigned post six for driver David Dowling, trainer Jennifer Doyle and owner Danny Birt. The eight-year-old Justice Hall mare won her last two outings at this level and now sits at 47 lifetime wins. Her stablemate, New Legacy, has rail control from the Doyle barn with Adam Merner in the bike. A 14-time winner in 2023, the Father Patrick gelding is looking for his first victory of 2024. Alcina, to be driven by Ken Murphy, has post two for Doyle after winning her 2024 debut last week. Veteran pacer Labero (Corey MacPherson) will start from post three for trainer Randy Van Meer in his second attempt at the Open level this month after stepping up in class from a career-best win on June 27. Mile Hill Willie (Gilles Barrieau) holds down post four for trainer Paul Morrison as he makes his first start since July of 2023. Irish Ray (Marc Campbell) has put together four straight second-place finishes this season on P.E.I. from the Landon Campbell outfit and has post five on Thursday. The Post Time Picks likes New Legacy on top: New Legacy has been sharp since arriving on the Island and really not that far away. Theres little doubt Adam will be guarding the cones and if thats the case, he could return to his winning ways. Woodmere Rollily is the top choice in the race 11 finale of conditioned-claiming mares going for a $3,050 purse. Merner will drive the Melissa Rennie trainee as she seeks her third straight win for owners Marsha Knox and Cory Livingston from post six. Her chief rivals are listed as Outrageous Style (Barrieau) from post eight and Elm Grove Redwine (Dowling) with post four. Play at the track or from home through hpibet.com. For the Race Day broadcast, race programs and more, go to the new Player Portal at redshores.ca. To view Thursday's harness racing entries, click the following link: Thursday Entries - Charlottetown Driving Park. (With files from Red Shores) Trainer Michael Hall celebrated a career milestone after sending out a perfect pair of two-year-old pacers in the Bucky Gray Jr. Memorial Series on Tuesday, July 9 at Ocean Downs. Six days after her 1:59.2 maiden-breaking debut in rein to Jonathan Roberts, Little Instigator (Heston Blue Chip-Last Time To Play) found the winner's circle again with a 1:57.1 score in her $10,274 first-round division of the Bucky Gray Jr. Memorial Series for owners William and Sarah MacMillan. Hall came back to win the third division of the series with Primo Maschio (Badlands Hanover-Primadonna), as Trae Porter guided the gelding to a front-pacing 1:58.2 score for Hall and co-owners Let It Ride Stables Inc., and Ctc Stable. The victory by Primo Maschio marked a career milestone for Hall, who celebrated 2,000 training wins. The 47-year-old Ocean City, Maryland horseman, who earned his first career win in 2000, has trained winners of more than $20 million lifetime since. He is coming off a career-best season in 2023 when his stable won 214 races and $2.3 million in purses. In the other Bucky Gray Jr. Memorial Series division on Tuesday, Porter kept Kevin Lare trainee Waitingonyou (Downbytheseaside-Michelles Song) three-quarters of a length in front of her stablemate Preclude to win in 2:02.2. Hall continued his winning ways on Wednesday, July 10 at Ocean Downs, sending out two more winners, including Got The Gold in the $16,438 Fillies & Mares Open Handicap Pace. Got The Gold, who dead-heated for a 1:53.3 win in last week's Open, was the sole champion this time as the even-money favourite. Ocean Downs' leading driver, Johnathan Ahle, sent the five-year-old Bettors Delight-Ideal Nuggets mare first over with a lap to go and downed Sharkine by a half length in 1:54.4 for Let It Ride Stables and Odds On Racing. Ahle completed a sweep of the mid-week card's Open events, winning the Open 1 Handicap Trot with trainer Eric Foster's homebred College Tuition in a 1:56.1 score. Prior to the pari-mutuel card, two $10,274 first-round divisions of the Tom Cooke Memorial Series for two-year-old trotters were contested. Watch Me Goo This (International Moni-Gooreatness) defeated Casino Magic by 28-3/4 lengths in 2:02.3 in the first division for Ahle and owner/trainer Richard Hans, and Archie Buford steered Prince Of Royals (Cantab Hall-New Royalty) to a neck victory over Chex Check in 2:06.2 for owner Audra Fetcher and trainer Oscar Johnson Jr. Both trotters won their first career starts. Live harness racing returns to Ocean Downs on Thursday, July 11. The 12-race card features four first-round divisions of the Diane "Mum" Stevenson Memorial for $7,500 USD claiming pacers. First post is 7:05 p.m. (Standardbred Canada & Ocean Downs) Former driver Ray Hugh McLean of Port Elgin, Ont. lost his years long battle with drug addiction on Sunday, July 7, 2024. He was 51. Beloved son of the late Ray Sr. and the late Dorothy (nee White). Survived by his sister Lynda Eustice. Private family arrangements at this time are entrusted to the T.A. Brown Funeral Home, Port Elgin. Memorial donations to the Saugeen Memorial Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Ray McLean Jr. A protester confronted noted Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro following congressional testimony on Wednesday, asking, "How does it feel to be the poison of the American public?" in a recorded video. The woman accused Shapiro of perpetuating racism, white supremacy, and what some of called a genocide that is being carried out on the Palestinian people. "How does it feel to stand for Hamas? Does that feel good to you?" adding, "Do you feel good standing in solidarity with a terrorist group that has murdered 1,200 Jews and keeps people in tunnels," the 40-year-old vocal supporter of Israel fired back. "I feel good standing with Palestinians who have been murdered by Israel with US-paid tax dollars and bonds while you continue to fuel hate," said one woman. "Your rhetoric is poisoning American society," the protester shouted back. "Hamas should not start a war on behalf of its citizens and then shoot its own citizens and you stand for it makes you a disgrace to human dignity and human rights", Shapiro responded. Shapiro turned to walk away once more accusing the group of supporting Hamas following the events of October 7 as the protester continued to speak about the blood-soaked hands that pervade members of Congress and everyone who watched Shapiro's 'propaganda'. Ben Shapiro gets put in his place. You are a poison to American society pic.twitter.com/ZMFluEs2q2 ADAM (@AdameMedia) July 10, 2024 Shapiro's congressional testimony had fireworks of its own when he squared up with the Democratic representative from California, Eric Swalwell. While Shapiro was there to testify about an alleged conspiracy waged by the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) to silence conservative media outlets, such as his own Daily Wire, Swalwell took Shapiro to task on the question of the oft-discussed Project 2025. "Mr. Shapiro, thank you for joining us today. I think it is important that you're here as one of the leading conservative voices in the country," Swalwell began. Shapiro replied, "I think like President Trump, I haven't looked all that deeply into Project 2025. But it seems that Democrats on this committee think that - sort of like Peter Pan and Tinkerbell - if they say Project 2025 enough, their presidential candidate becomes alive again." Vice President Kamala Harris took the stage at Dudley High School Thursday as the Biden campaign looks to gain support in North Carolina following a disastrous debate performance by the president. Harris' speech focused, as expected, on what Democrats say is at stake in this election for North Carolina, as well as internationally. She said that Biden's Democratic opponent, former President Donald Trump, has embraced Vladimir Putin and put the country in a position of weakness. "That is disqualifying," she said to an especially large roar of agreement from the crowd. About 700 people attended the event at Dudley. Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan was the first official to speak. N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper was among the other speakers to appear with Harris. Trump, Cooper said, "wants to make history by installing himself as a dictator." Cooper also told the crowd that Biden provided the extra incentive money that finally helped North Carolina Republicans agree to expand Medicaid. "Donald Trump wants to snatch those new health insurance cards right out of people's hands," Cooper said. Cooper commonly attends similar events, but there has also been speculation among national news media and pundits of late that if Harris were to become the Democratic nominee she might consider Cooper as her running mate. Cooper and Harris know each other from having previously served simultaneously as the attorney generals of North Carolina and California, respectively. The speech took place at Dudley, Greensboro's former all-Black high school during segregation. Dudley first opened in 1929 and continues to educate students today. It was Greensboros all-black high school during segregation and some of its students participated in the famous 1960 sit-ins that helped usher in a new era of the civil rights movement. The campaign event is timely as calls for Biden to end his candidacy have grown in the wake of his dismal face-off against former President Donald Trump. A number of Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives have publicly called for Biden to step aside as well as editorial boards representing major media outlets. Harris, the first female vice president, has largely been a background player in the Biden administration. However, the presidents abysmal showing during the late June debate has forced her into the position of defending Bidens candidacy and reaffirming hers should he step down. In previous trips to Greensboro, Harris visited Smith High School, the International Civil Rights Center, GTCCs Advanced Manufacturing campus, and N.C. A&T University. Authorities arrested New York Times bestselling author Brendan DuBois on child porn charges. DuBois, 61, stands accused of six counts of possession of child porn, said police in Exeter, New Hampshire, Seacoast Online reported. Detectives in New Hampshire and Massachusetts assisted in the investigation. The author turned himself in on an arrest warrant Wednesday. He is scheduled to appear in court Thursday. The Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce initiated the investigation into DuBois, and a search warrant resulted in his arrest, said police, according to the outlet. DuBois recently collaborated with popular fiction writer James Patterson on The First Lady and The Cornwalls Are Gone. 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: Rajakumari Chouta of Fremont got the news this past November that she would be laid off in January from her software developer job at Amazon in San Francisco, so she began applying for new positions internally. That's when, Chouta claims in her newly filed lawsuit against the e-commerce giant, she ran into a wall of sexism, saw jobs go to men and ended up out of the company. Chouta, who is married, approached a hiring manager about transferring to a systems-development engineering position, the lawsuit said. The manager told her women might not be able to perform well because the job involved frequent on-call duties, and was not for those needing to take care of children and a husband and perform household chores, the lawsuit in San Francisco County Superior Court claimed. She did not hear back for several weeks about the job, so she contacted the managerwho is not named as a defendant in her lawsuitand he told her the position had gone to a man, according to the lawsuit. But the manager said he had two similar positions open on his team and suggested Chouta could interview for those, the lawsuit said. After a mid-December interview for another systems-development job, the manager told her the feedback about her was largely positive, the lawsuit said. But, he added, the work involved tedious tasks that "might not be suitable for the female candidates," the lawsuit claimed. The manager also made the "remarkable request" that Chouta check with her family and husband and get permission, then let him know the next morning if she was "willing to contribute like male candidates and transfer to Seattle using her own expenses," the lawsuit alleged. Offended but still needing a job, Chouta sent the manager a message saying she had spoken with her family and wanted the position. The manager immediately responded, telling her the transfer might not finish before she was laid off, then later said the job was on hold because of a hiring freeze, the lawsuit said. About two weeks later, Chouta found out the position had been filled by a man, the lawsuit claimed. Chouta complained to the company about the manager's "sexist statements," according to the lawsuit, which does not mention whether the company responded to the purported complaint. Amazon said in a statement Wednesday that it does not tolerate harassment or discrimination in its workplaces. "Anytime an incident is reported, we investigate it thoroughly and take appropriate action against anyone who is found to have violated our policies," the company said. Amazon did not answer questions about Chouta's purported complaint and whether the manager was currently employed at the company. Amazon's most recent statement, in June, on the diversity of its office workforce said it was about 70% men and 30% women. Last year, the company said it was "committed to inspiring the next generation of women in tech" and that to support women inside and outside Amazon, it raises awareness "of the biases that women often face in the workplace and broader society." Chouta never received offers for other jobs she applied for, including in the Bay Area and Los Angeles, the lawsuit said. On January 8, she was out the door. Her lawsuit accuses Amazon of failing to prevent discrimination against her. She is seeking unspecified damages. 2024 MediaNews Group, Inc. 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: Solar panels in the Gobi desert in north China. China has twice as much wind and solar energy capacity under construction as the rest of the world combined. China is building almost twice as much wind and solar energy capacity as every other country combined, research published Thursday showed. The world's second-largest economy is the biggest emitter of the greenhouse gases that drive climate change. China has committed to bring carbon emissions to a peak by 2030 and to net zero by 2060. It has endured several waves of extreme weather in recent months that scientists say are rendered more severe by climate change. China currently has a total of 339 gigawatts (GW) of capacity under construction, including 159 GW of wind and 180 GW of solar. That is "nearly twice as much as the rest of the world combined", according to the study by Global Energy Monitor, a US-based NGO. The figure far exceeds the second-ranked nation, the United States, which is building a total of just 40 GW, the report said. It said China has broken ground on a third of new wind and solar capacity it has announced to date, compared to a global average of just seven percent. "The stark contrast in construction rates illustrates the active nature of China's commitment to building renewables projects," the study said. 'Turning point?' Beijing's vast renewable energy buildout does have some drawbacks. Pepper farmers work in field under solar panels in China's southwest Guizhou province. The national grid falls back on heavily polluting coal plants to deal with surges in power demand. And it struggles to transmit renewable energy generated in remote northwestern regions to economic and population centers in the east. However, China's combined wind and solar capacity is set to overtake coal this year, according to the report. It said the rapid renewables expansion raises hopes that Beijing's carbon emissions will peak even sooner than expected. In a separate report released on Thursday, the Center for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA) found China issued no new permits for coal-based steelmaking projects in the first half of 2024. CREA said that was the first time on a half-yearly basis that there have been no new permits since China announced its "dual carbon goals" in September 2020a development hailed as a possible "turning point" by the independent research organization. China's national grid still relies on heavily polluting coal plants to deal with surges in power demand. Wind turbines in Xinjiang. China struggles to transmit renewable energy generated in remote northwest regions to economic and population centers in the east. A 100-megawatt molten-salt solar thermal power plant in Dunhuang, northwest China. "As China's steel demand peaks and more scrap becomes available, there is great potential to shift away from coal-based production, representing a significant opportunity for emissions reduction in the next 10 years," CREA's report said. Scientists say global warming makes extreme weather more frequent and intense. China has seen a summer blighted by searing heat in the north and torrential rain in the south. Its weather agency last week forecast very high temperatures to persist in the coming weeks under the impact of climate change. Heavy rains in the east and south have also triggered a string of deadly floods and landslides in recent weeks. 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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots have frequently shown signs of an "empathy gap" that puts young users at risk of distress or harm, raising the urgent need for "child-safe AI," according to a study. The research, by a University of Cambridge academic, Dr. Nomisha Kurian, urges developers and policy actors to prioritize approaches to AI design that take greater account of children's needs. It provides evidence that children are particularly susceptible to treating chatbots as lifelike, quasi-human confidantes, and that their interactions with the technology can go awry when it fails to respond to their unique needs and vulnerabilities. The study links that gap in understanding to recent cases in which interactions with AI led to potentially dangerous situations for young users. They include an incident in 2021, when Amazon's AI voice assistant, Alexa, instructed a 10-year-old to touch a live electrical plug with a coin. Last year, Snapchat's My AI gave adult researchers posing as a 13-year-old girl tips on how to lose her virginity to a 31-year-old. Both companies responded by implementing safety measures, but the study says there is also a need to be proactive in the long-term to ensure that AI is child-safe. It offers a 28-item framework to help companies, teachers, school leaders, parents, developers and policy actors think systematically about how to keep younger users safe when they "talk" to AI chatbots. Dr. Kurian conducted the research while completing a Ph.D. on child well-being at the Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge. She is now based in the Department of Sociology at Cambridge. Writing in the journal Learning, Media and Technology, she argues that AI's huge potential means there is a need to "innovate responsibly." "Children are probably AI's most overlooked stakeholders," Dr. Kurian said. "Very few developers and companies currently have well-established policies on child-safe AI. That is understandable because people have only recently started using this technology on a large scale for free. But now that they are, rather than having companies self-correct after children have been put at risk, child safety should inform the entire design cycle to lower the risk of dangerous incidents occurring." Kurian's study examined cases where the interactions between AI and children, or adult researchers posing as children, exposed potential risks. It analyzed these cases using insights from computer science about how the large language models (LLMs) in conversational generative AI function, alongside evidence about children's cognitive, social and emotional development. LLMs have been described as "stochastic parrots": a reference to the fact that they use statistical probability to mimic language patterns without necessarily understanding them. A similar method underpins how they respond to emotions. This means that even though chatbots have remarkable language abilities, they may handle the abstract, emotional and unpredictable aspects of conversation poorly; a problem that Kurian characterizes as their "empathy gap." They may have particular trouble responding to children, who are still developing linguistically and often use unusual speech patterns or ambiguous phrases. Children are also often more inclined than adults to confide sensitive personal information. Despite this, children are much more likely than adults to treat chatbots as though they are human. Recent research found that children will disclose more about their own mental health to a friendly-looking robot than to an adult. Kurian's study suggests that many chatbots' friendly and lifelike designs similarly encourage children to trust them, even though AI may not understand their feelings or needs. "Making a chatbot sound human can help the user get more benefits out of it," Kurian said. "But for a child, it is very hard to draw a rigid, rational boundary between something that sounds human, and the reality that it may not be capable of forming a proper emotional bond." Her study suggests that these challenges are evidenced in reported cases such as the Alexa and MyAI incidents, where chatbots made persuasive but potentially harmful suggestions. In the same study in which MyAI advised a (supposed) teenager on how to lose her virginity, researchers were able to obtain tips on hiding alcohol and drugs, and concealing Snapchat conversations from their "parents." In a separate reported interaction with Microsoft's Bing chatbot, which was designed to be adolescent-friendly, the AI became aggressive and started gaslighting a user. Kurian's study argues that this is potentially confusing and distressing for children, who may actually trust a chatbot as they would a friend. Children's chatbot use is often informal and poorly monitored. Research by the nonprofit organization Common Sense Media has found that 50% of students aged 12-18 have used Chat GPT for school, but only 26% of parents are aware of them doing so. Kurian argues that clear principles for best practice that draw on the science of child development will encourage companies that are potentially more focused on a commercial arms race to dominate the AI market to keep children safe. Her study adds that the empathy gap does not negate the technology's potential. "AI can be an incredible ally for children when designed with their needs in mind. The question is not about banning AI, but how to make it safe," she said. The study proposes a framework of 28 questions to help educators, researchers, policy actors, families and developers evaluate and enhance the safety of new AI tools. For teachers and researchers, these address issues such as how well new chatbots understand and interpret children's speech patterns; whether they have content filters and built-in monitoring; and whether they encourage children to seek help from a responsible adult on sensitive issues. The framework urges developers to take a child-centered approach to design, by working closely with educators, child safety experts and young people themselves, throughout the design cycle. "Assessing these technologies in advance is crucial," Kurian said. "We cannot just rely on young children to tell us about negative experiences after the fact. A more proactive approach is necessary." More information: 'No, Alexa, no!': designing child-safe AI and protecting children from the risks of the 'empathy gap' in large language models, Learning, Media and Technology (2024). DOI: 10.1080/17439884.2024.2367052 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: Erik Mclean from Pexels For decades, states have relied on gas taxes to provide much of the money to maintain roads and bridges. But as cars become more fuel efficient, and some Americans switch to electric vehicles, state leaders say the gas tax won't pay the bills for much longer. At the same time, many cities have seen their streets crowded with delivery trucks from Amazon and other companies, as consumers increasingly opt to have products delivered to their homes. In a few states, lawmakers think fees on those deliveries could be part of their road-funding solution. "If you're going to be creating wear and tear on our roads, you should help pay to maintain them," said Colorado state Rep. Cathy Kipp, a Democrat who chairs the Energy and Environment Committee. In July 2022, Colorado became the first state with a retail delivery fee, a charge on all vehicle deliveries to consumers within the state. The fee, which currently stands at 29 cents per delivery, provides funding for highways, bridges, tunnels, electric vehicle charging stations and projects to reduce air pollution and to electrify vehicle fleets and transit systems. It has brought in more than $160 million. Colorado leaders have had to simplify the law to help businesses comply with it, but they say it's largely been a success story. Minnesota enacted its own retail delivery fee in 2023, and lawmakers in New York and Illinois have proposed similar measures. Meanwhile, legislators and transportation officials in several other states have commissioned studies to consider the concept. Some retailers and Republican lawmakers have argued that the fee hurts consumers, and many businesses in Colorado initially had trouble complying with the law. "The 27-cent delivery fee is not trivial, its effects are not imperceptible, and it greatly affects our citizensespecially those who are already struggling to pay the bills and provide for their families," Republican state Rep. Rose Pugliese, the House minority leader, wrote in a Colorado Springs Gazette guest column several months after the law was enacted. But backers of the fee say they see growing interest across the country, especially as delivery trucks become ubiquitous in many neighborhoods. 'Future-proofing' transportation funding State law in Colorado limits the ways in which lawmakers can expand taxes. With gas tax revenues dwindling, legislators didn't have an obvious solution to pay for roads. They eventually settled on the retail delivery fee, which is not characterized as a tax. Initially, the program was a struggle for many businesses, due to a requirement that they detail the fee separately on each receipt. "For our medium and small businesses, it was a real complicated thing and very burdensome for them to have to reprogram their software with a whole extra line item," Kipp said. Last year, Kipp joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers to amend the program. They rescinded the requirement that businesses itemize the fee on each receipt and allowed companies to cover the fee themselves rather than breaking it out on each order. They also exempted retailers with less than $500,000 in sales. Since the fix was adopted, Kipp said she has stopped hearing complaints about the program. Chris Howes, president of the Colorado Retail Council, said he too has not heard any recent gripes. "We've got it straightened out by now," he said. "People have accepted it and moved on." Amazon did not grant a Stateline interview request, and the National Retail Federation deferred questions to state chapters. Chamber of Progress, a tech industry advocacy group, did not arrange an interview by publication time. Last year, lawmakers in Minnesota enacted their own retail delivery fee, a 50-cent charge on purchases of more than $100. Lawmakers heard from local governments that they were struggling to maintain their roads and badly needed state aid to make up the gap. "This is trying to future-proof our transportation funding," said Democratic state Rep. Erin Koegel, who sponsored the bill. "We keep getting performance grades from civil engineers saying we're at a C- or D for our infrastructure. We needed to think about ways to get more revenue in the system." Koegel said the measure was a compromise. Her initial draft, which did not have a $100 threshold for purchases, was intended to be a deterrent, much like cigarette taxes. She said delivery trucks are increasing congestion in many cities and damaging streets that weren't built to support large vehicles. However, lawmakers ultimately decided to limit the fee to more expensive purchases in order to protect lower-income consumers. Minnesota's fee is projected to generate $59 million in its first fiscal year. The funding will be distributed to cities, counties and towns to help with their road-funding needs. Traffic throughout the day Cities and counties in Washington state also have asked for help, and some local leaders have asked state lawmakers to consider a retail delivery feeor to authorize cities to collect one. State lawmakers commissioned an analysis, published last month, looking at the potential for such a program. The report found that a fee could generate $45 million to $112 million in revenue in 2026, depending on which businesses and orders were covered. "We're now seeing that there's traffic on our system throughout the day, and the growth of these delivery services is a part of that," said Democratic state Sen. Marko Liias, who chairs the Transportation Committee. "We've had a history in transportation of user-based fees. This feels like a mechanism that could help in that regard." Liias emphasized that some version of the fee is likely to be a big topic of discussion in the next legislative session. He said he's already heard strong arguments on both sides of the issue. In some areas, the rise in retail deliveries has put the greatest burden on the infrastructure surrounding shipping facilities. Illinois' CenterPoint Intermodal Center, the nation's largest inland port, connects interstate trucking, railway lines and Mississippi River barges. "There really needs to be a shift in the tax structure, since many of these facilities are not generating the local sales tax you'd get at a brick and mortar," said Democratic state Sen. Rachel Ventura, whose district includes the CenterPoint facility. "We have a lot of traffic going in and out, and the environmental burden and road repairs and the tax burden fall locally." Ventura has drafted a bill that would allow communities to assess fees on intermodal facilitieslocations that transfer products from one type of transportation to another. Local governments that opted in would be able to spend the funds on roads within five miles of the facilities. The fee, which would be based on the weight of each shipment, is projected to generate $33 million to $68 million per year. The bill has not passed out of committee, and Ventura said lawmakers are still discussing the path forward amid opposition from the trucking industry. In New York, a Democratic bill to impose a 25-cent fee on deliveries within New York City has been introduced but remains in committee. Meanwhile, state agencies in Nevada and Ohio have commissioned studies examining the feasibility of retail delivery fees. Those reports have not yet led to legislative action. 2024 States Newsroom. 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: Germany is seeking to 'reduce security risks' by phasing out Huawei and ZTE from its 5G networks. Germany said Thursday it will phase out the use of components from Chinese telecom giants Huawei and ZTE in its 5G networks in the coming years due to national security concerns. It was the latest move by Berlin to reduce economic reliance on Beijing that some fear have left it vulnerable, and follows warnings from the EU that the firms pose a risk to the bloc. Parts from Huawei and ZTE will no longer be used in "core" 5G mobile networks by the end of 2026 at the latest, the interior ministry in Berlin said. In 5G access and transmission infrastructure, the systems of the telecom firms must be replaced by the end of 2029. "We are protecting the central nervous systems of Germany as a business locationand we are protecting the communication of citizens, companies and the state," said Interior Minister Nancy Faeser. "We must reduce security risks and, unlike in the past, avoid one-sided dependencies." The ministry said that 5G networks form part of Germany's "critical infrastructure" and are important for the functioning of sectors ranging from health to transport and energy. Telecoms networks must be protected from cyberattacks, which could be an "existential threat", it added. Officials have reached agreements with Germany's 5G network operators, Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone and Telefonica, on banning Huawei and ZTE. Government sources had already indicated in September last year that Berlin was considering such a move, although the dates announced are later than those originally envisaged to give companies time to adopt the new measures. Faeser would not be drawn on whether she feared retaliatory measures from China, although she said that Beijing had been informed about the bans. "For me, as interior minister, it is a matter of finding regulations for telecommunications networks, for critical infrastructure, and I have done that," she told a press conference. In response to the ban, Huawei insisted there was "no specific evidence" that the firm's "technology has cyber security risks". "Huawei has developed into a continuously innovative, secure, and reliable telecom equipment supplier in the German market," a spokesperson said. Huawei components will be phased out of German 5G networks. Beijing's embassy in Berlin also said the move was driven by "groundless accusations". "There is no evidence indicating that these Chinese companies are a danger to any country," the embassy said, according to state news agency Xinhua. "Whether Germany can handle this issue fairly and justly will be a touchstone for its own business environment," it added. Fraying economic ties Factors that authorities looked at when deciding on the ban included whether the manufacturer was directly or indirectly controlled by the government, or whether they had been involved in activities that had a detrimental impact on Germany or other EU states. China and Germany have long had close ties, with Germany's crucial manufacturersfrom auto companies to machine-tool makersexporting vast quantities of products to the world's number two economy. But Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent energy crisis triggered soul-searching in Europe's top economy about an over-reliance on authoritarian governments and led to Berlin seeking to "de-risk" by cutting its reliance on China. It unveiled a strategy for managing ties with Beijing last year, in which it sought to strike a balance between competing interests, with China described as a "partner, competitor and systemic rival". There have been growing signs of the government's new tougher approach. Last week, Berlin blocked the sale of a gas turbine unit belonging to a subsidiary of the Volkswagen group to a Chinese investor after media reports suggested it had close links to the Chinese armaments industry. EU countries are becoming increasingly wary of using tech from Huawei or other non-EU vendors that may not comply with EU data protection laws. The European Commission, the EU's executive arm, last year described Huawei and ZTE as a risk to the bloc and called on EU member states to exclude the companies' equipment from their mobile networks. After the UK in the summer of 2020, Sweden became the second country in Europe and the first in the EU to explicitly ban Huawei from almost all of the network infrastructure needed to run its 5G mobile network. There has also been growing pressure from the United States to take action against Huawei amid a technological rivalry between Beijing and Washington over US fears it could be used for Chinese espionage operations. 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: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Researchers are using AI and satellite technologies to make the continent's renewable energy infrastructure more reliable. Solar panels and wind turbines had to be shut down in Greece for a short period in May this year because the national electricity grid wasn't able to absorb the amount of energy being produced. For electronic engineer Effie Makri, this pointed to one of the main issues with the switch to renewable sources of energy. "As renewable energy sources are more widely adopted, renewable energy infrastructure shutting down is going to be more widespread," said Makri. Europe is working towards a massive scaling up in the use of renewable energies, with a target of 45% of energy coming from renewables by 2030 under the EU's REPowerEU Plan. One of the issues with renewable energies, however, is that they're intermittent. There are times when the sun doesn't shine or the wind doesn't blow. Or, as happened in Greece, there are also times when the energy produced is too much for the energy infrastructure to handleresulting in a system overload. Predicting energy production and demand Makri is leading a research project called RESPONDENT that has received funding from the EU to harness the combined power of AI, machine learning and earth observation (EO) data from European satellites to improve the forecasting and management of energy supply and demand. The project, which is managed by the EU Agency for the Space Program (EUSPA) on behalf of the European Commission, started in 2022 and will run until April 2025. Being able to predict how much energy will be produced and consumed ahead of time could prevent system shutdowns, like the Greek one, from happening in the future. Makri's team of researchers at Greek company Future Intelligence, in Athens, has partnered with energy and communications specialists in Greece, Ireland and Spain. They're exploring ways to harness cutting-edge technologies to address the challenge of providing Europe with an energy supply that is both secure and sustainable. The approach being developed by the RESPONDENT team draws on data from the Copernicus Program, the EO component of the EU's Space program and Galileo services. Makri says this could help make Europe more energy independent as the models would use European satellites. EO adding value The work being carried out is funded through EUSPA, which promotes the use of European space EO data in practical value-added services like the one being proposed by RESPONDENT. It is a rapidly expanding market that is expected to grow from 3.4 billion in 2023 to almost 6 billion in 2033. Combining this data with new AI and machine learning capabilities is allowing them to build a model that can take account of a wide range of factors impacting energy supply. These include the changing weather patterns and different user profiles based on three distinct kinds of user: residential, industrial and commercial. "Each of these types of users have their own consumption patterns," said Makri. This information can be used to better distribute electricity around the grid. For example, on a cold day, it might be better to move more electricity towards homes that have higher heating demands. What's important, however, is the relation of the distributed energy and the power producedefficient distribution might look different on a sunny or a cloudy day. Pilot demonstrations of the solutions proposed are due to take place at a solar park in Athens, Greece, and at a distribution system operator in Greater Barcelona, Spain, later this year and in 2025. Extreme weather forecast During their research, Makri and her team realized that extreme weather events can also impact the results of their calculations. Although it wasn't initially planned, they decided to incorporate this factor into their model. In this, they join the concerns of Francesco Parisio, a software engineer from Italy. He led a two-year EU-funded research project at Berlin-based start-up company LiveEO that specializes in harnessing EO data to provide actionable insights to businesses, policy makers and managers of vital infrastructure, including energy providers. "Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and more intense with medium- and long-term forecasts expecting this trend to get even worse," he said. "It puts a lot of stress on our critical infrastructure." In 2022, LiveEO was one of 74 companies awarded a European Innovation Council Accelerator grant to develop a real-time monitoring service for infrastructure networks using a combination of satellite data, AI and machine learning algorithms. Called EOinTime, their research project concluded successfully in March this year, resulting in an advanced monitoring service that is able to rapidly assess infrastructure damage after a storm, and even predict areas of potential future weakness. Seeing through the clouds The service uses a special type of satellite data called synthetic aperture radar (SAR) that is able to pick up detailed surface information such as structure and moisture. One of the main advantages of SAR imagery is that, unlike optical technology, it can "see" through the darkness, clouds and rain, detecting changes that may otherwise be difficult to spot. Typically, a human would have to manually assess the integrity of the energy infrastructure, either on foot or in the air using a helicopter or plane. Satellites can give better results, according to Parisio. "We were able to spot damage that a helicopter couldn't," he said. Beyond rapid analysis of storm damage, they can also look at how vegetation might impact infrastructure, such as detecting tree health issues that could endanger power lines in the future. To validate their models, they sent experts to assess trees identified as problematic by the system and found their predictions to be correct. The system can also cover an extensive range, with EOinTime already monitoring over 100 000 km of infrastructure for vegetation risks, across all European countries, for German multinational energy company E.ON. Having run pilots across most continents in countries like Germany, Australia, the U.S. and Indonesia, LiveEO was able to cut down the response time of detecting a problem and informing their clients from days to hours. The next steps are to reduce that even further, working alongside big industry partners like Deutsche Bahn and E.ON. "Any downtime is expensive, dangerous, and has a big impact on society," said Parisio. "In a blackout, every minute counts." Russia's attempt to assassinate a German weapons CEO for sending arms to Ukraine was thwarted by U.S. intelligence officials, according to reports. The failed plot to kill Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger was one of several efforts by Russia to murder European defense industry executives who are sending guns, ammo and military tanks in support of Ukraine, five U.S. and western officials with intel on the situation told CNN in a report published Thursday. When the U.S. learned of Russia's plans, they tipped off Germany, and German security forces were able to safeguard Papperger and derail the assassination attempt. Rheinmetall is the largest manufacturer of particular artillery shells Ukraine has used against Russia, and the company plans to open a military vehicle plant in Ukraine, making Papperger a clear target, officials said, according to CNN. Russia has reportedly spent the past six months conspiring against European nations that have aided Ukraine in its weapons defense. "We're seeing sabotage, we're seeing assassination plots, we're seeing arson. We're seeing things that have a cost in human lives," a senior NATO official said Tuesday, according to the network. "I believe very much that we're seeing a campaign of covert sabotage activities from Russia that have strategic consequences." National Security Council Spokesperson Adrienne Watson would not confirm the assassination attempt on Papperger, but told CNN, "Russia's intensifying campaign of subversion is something that we are taking extremely seriously and have been intently focused on over the past few months." "The United States has been discussing this issue with our NATO Allies, and we are actively working together to expose and disrupt these activities. We have also been clear that Russia's actions will not deter Allies from continuing to support Ukraine," said Watson. People charge their phones at Harris County Precinct 3 cooling center after Hurricane Beryl made landfall nearby Tuesday, July 9. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Beryls destructive and deadly roll over the Houston area, residents, businesses and responders got busy gearing up a long and painful recovery. But in the early hours, and even at this writing, efforts were further frustrated by the simple inability of people to talk to each other. As Monday dawned and it became apparent that Beryls visit would be much more than a glancing blow, power went out and people began calling for help via their cellular phones. And in many cases and for many of us, it felt like in most cases these devices we rely on so heavily were worthless. If you were like me, you could not get online to check news or storm conditions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad You couldnt talk to friends or reach them for help. Calls wouldnt go through, or if they did, theyd quickly drop, or one party could not hear the other. I had several conversations in which the other person sounded like they were some kind of weird robot. POWER OUTAGE INVESTIGATION: Texas Gov. Greg Abbott calls for investigation into Houston power outages after Hurricane Beryl Even texting, which cellular carriers say is the best way to reach out during a disaster, failed regularly. For example, I didnt hear from my daughter, a regular user of texting via Apples iMessage, for several hours, when suddenly I got a burst of a half dozen old texts that suddenly went through. An electrical worker with PAR Electrical Contractors repairs a power line after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Kingwood. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer The situation wasnt confined to just one carrier I saw dozens of complaints on social media from customers all the major telcos. On Facebook, I asked people to sound off about their current power, internet and cell status. At this writing, nearly a hundred folks have responded, and every carrier appears in the messages. (That said, based on the responses AT&T seems to have fared worse, followed by T-Mobile and then Verizon.) Advertisement Article continues below this ad On Wednesday I was still occasionally having issues getting through. I was a guest on Houston Public Medias Houston Matters radio show on Wednesday morning, and listeners were invited to call in. Often theyd get through, be put in the hold queue, and then drop away, disconnected. Towers, power down So why is this happening? The simple answer is that cell towers are subject to the same issues as homes and businesses: They rely on electricity from the power grid. When the powers out in your neighborhood, it may also be out for the tower that talks to your cellphone. But its not as simple as that. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Cell towers connect to both the power grid and data network grids, and a disruption to either of those links can result in diminished or totally unavailable service. Disruption can happen because of a lack of power, or a cut to the lines delivering electricity or data. Most modern cellular towers have some kind of backup for power either batteries or generators. Travis Profitt, AT&Ts director of network services, told me that in the case of his companys towers, there may be a mix of both at any given site. Battery backup lasts a few hours, then the fixed generator kicks in, Profitt said. That generator may use some kind of fuel, such as diesel, or run on natural gas, depending on whether the latter is available at the tower site. He said there are a handful of towers that dont have backup power, but those locations are in place only to plug holes in coverage. Other towers nearby can provide some service. A Texas Department of Transportation worker fixes a traffic signal at the intersection of the feeder roads of Beltway 8 and Texas 249 in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. (Jon Shapley/Houston Chronicle) Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Profitt said that, during a hurricane, slowdowns or lack of cellular availability are often caused by a glut of network traffic. Everyones trying to communicate at once, and in some instances, a tower may be offline. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Carriers design their wireless networks so a towers coverage overlaps with others nearby. If one tower has issues, another can take up the slack. But with high-traffic volumes, the network might still have trouble keeping up. In addition, if the tower closest to you goes down but another one nearby can talk to your device, it may make a connection but still be far enough away that the signal is weak. (That situation, by the way, can reduce your phones battery life.) Continued frustrations As Chronicle reporter Eric Dexheimer wrote at the time, cellular customers had similar frustrations back in May with the derecho that tore through the region. Carriers had no warning, calling it a no-notice event, but with Hurricane Beryl, they had ample time to prepare. For example, on the Friday before Beryl made landfall near Matagorda, T-Mobile said its crews were working to refuel fixed generators, ensure battery backups are charged, prepare local fueling stations and stage additional portable generators. Advertisement Article continues below this ad AT&T rolled up with its COWs: Cell on Wheels, a cell tower on a truck, as well as a Flying COW (Cell on Wings), which features a transmitter on a flying drone. The latter was deployed over Matagorda County once the storm had passed to provide that hard-hit area with service. T-Mobile and Verizon have similar, mobile-tower technology. Profitt said AT&T has brought in additional generators for use at towers that lack them, as have the other carriers. As a result, he said, most of the woes AT&Ts customers suffered have subsided. Verizon said Wednesday its network had been 100% restored, while T-Mobile put its recovery at 94%. Tree branches that fell during Hurricane Beryl took down power lines and a Jeep in Acres Homes, photographed on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer FEDERAL RECOVERY AID: Texas leaders were slower to request federal Beryl aid than in past hurricanes Its not just cell providers who are having issues. Many Comcast customers in the Houston area also found their Xfinity internet and cable TV services were out, even after power was restored. As with CenterPoint, the coaxial cable used by Comcast often runs on overhead lines, so downed trees and damaged utility poles can cause disruption, along with a lack of electricity from power outages. The line at the Sonic on Washington Avenue has consistently been flooded with cars after Hurricane Beryl. Sonia Garcia While most Houston residents stayed home Monday morning, Johnny Metcalf was at work. He and a full team of employees headed to Sonic Drive-In on Washington Avenue despite Hurricane Beryl charging full steam ahead. Winds rose to 75 mph, heavy rain flooded nearby roads, but his team kept burgers and fries cooking. They were equipped with a backup generator if the power went out, but the lights mostly stayed on without it. Cars park to order at Sonic days after Beryl, Thursday, July 11, 2024. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Advertisement Article continues below this ad By the afternoon, more than a million Houston residents had lost power and Sonic was bombarded with customers. The fast-food joint only has a few spots for that classic Sonic experience of parking and ordering through the menu sign speaker, so most resorted to the drive-thru line that stretched out onto the road. "Most of our staff are understanding that people are out here in need, and were trying to fill that need. When stuff happens to Houston, we tend to come together as a city," Metcalf said, sweating from running food to cars on Wednesday. Metcalf, who has been a manager at the Washington Avenue location for six months, said he's never seen it this busy, including after the May derecho, which also brought an influx of customers. He's been putting in about 15 hours per day, up from his usual eight. He's lucky to live nearby and have power. However, he has employees that don't have power and have still been making it to work every day. It's a similar situation for servers at restaurants. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "We all still need to make money. The world keeps going; people still have bills to pay. Even though the lights are off, the next bill is still going to come, rent is still going to come," Metcalf said. For Deja McDonald, working at a Houston-area Raising Cane's is her summer job before going back to college in the fall. She had only been working there for about a month before handling the post-storm swath of customers. She said Cane's has been running through supplies quickly. Since she has power at her apartment, she felt more at ease going to work the past two days. She was asked to work Wednesday when she wasn't originally on the schedule. Advertisement Article continues below this ad While she's encountered customers that have expressed their gratitude for her work, she's also had some frustrated customers. She said people get angry over a lack of hot sauce or the amount of people in line, but she understands people are dealing with a lot after the hurricane. An electrical worker inspects a power line after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Conroe. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Vehicles line up for a supply distribution at Woodforest Bank Stadium after Hurricane Beryl made its way through the Greater Houston area, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Shenandoah. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough hopes to update residents on Thursday on the progress of power restoration as it moves into day four after Hurricane Beryl hit the Houston area on Monday. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough was pushing for answers on the progress of Entergy and CenterPoint power restoration as around 147,000 customers started Thursday with no power after Hurricane Beryl hit the Houston area Monday. In a post on social media late Wednesday, Keough said officials with Entergy, Sam Houston Electric and Mid South Electric have been working to get power back but Centerpoint has been less prepared. LIVE UPDATES: CenterPoint to give updated timeline on Houston outages with over 1M still without power Advertisement Article continues below this ad Entergy has been quick to answer questions and give updates, Keough posted to Facebook. After some wrangling I finally made contact with CenterPoint. They seem to have not been as prepared to respond as others and are just finishing assessments of the damages. While they have made some progress on restoration, I have conveyed to them that this progress is neither fast enough nor satisfactory. Keough said at my insistence a CenterPoint representative will work in the countys Emergency Operations Center and to be on hand to provide real time updates starting Thursday. However, full restoration for all companies could still be days away. According to Entergys website, more than 72,000 customers are still without power. As of late Wednesday, CenterPoint was reporting more than 75,000 customers without power. Advertisement Article continues below this ad As I have driven around the county today, its obvious we took significant damage to the power lines in several places, some of which will require days of work to clear the trees and replace the power lines, Keough said. Entergy has made great progress on the easier fixes, but theyre now pushing into the harder-hit areas. Entergy brought in hundreds of linemen and have them working 16-hour days. Centerpoints damage is just as bad but Ive seen few linemen and teams working. Sam Houston Electric Co-op has also increased its linemen and is working in the harder-hit areas, Keough said. While progress is being made, they have substantial damage to repair, which will take a few days. Keough said Mid South has restored a large portion Wednesday and will move into the harder hit areas Thursday and Friday. Keough's concerns follow Mayor John Whitmire's criticism of CenterPoint's response to Hurricane Beryl at a Houston City Council meeting on Wednesday. Whitmire said the energy company "needs to do a better job" restoring power to millions of customers who lost it when the storm tore through Houston. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Cooling centers Several Montgomery County libraries have had power restored and will open as cooling centers from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. These centers are for cooling only and will not have food supplies on hand. Conroe Central Library: 104 I-45 North, Conroe, Texas 77301 West Branch Library: 202 Bessie Price Owen Montgomery, Texas 77356 Advertisement Article continues below this ad South County Branch 2101 Lake Robbins The Woodlands, Texas 77380 Chris Weiss helps repair a neighbors generator after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Kingwood. Power outages across Montgomery County have spiked in 911 calls regarding heat-related illnesses and carbon monoxide poisoning from portable generators. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Sherman Weaver, right, and his brother-in-law David Cavanaugh work to get two generators working after Hurricane Beryl made landfall on the Texas coast Monday, July 8, 2024, in Manvel. Power outages across Montgomery County have spiked in 911 calls regarding heat-related illnesses and carbon monoxide poisoning from portable generators. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Power outages across Montgomery County have spiked in 911 calls regarding heat-related illnesses and carbon monoxide poisoning from portable generators. More than 100,000 residents were still without electricity Thursday morning after Hurricane Beryl moved across the region Monday. According to information from the Montgomery County Hospital District, dispatchers have received 212 carbon monoxide alarm incidents from Monday through Wednesday morning. By comparison, during the same time period in 2023, dispatchers only received three such calls. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Misti Willingham, spokesperson for the hospital district, said rising temperatures also are a factor. Only 26 incidents dispatched as an environmental emergency (heat), however, the heat is a factor in almost every call, Willingham said. In total, emergency medical services and fire crews have logged 2,646 incidents, most of which occurred between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Of those, the hospital district responded to 955 incidents and transported 462 people to area hospitals. Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough along with Conroe Mayor Duke Coon have urged residents to use caution with portable generators. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Do not use your generator in your home, even if your doors and window are open, dont do it, Keough said Wednesday. It gives off carbon monoxide and that can be deadly. Its an invisible killer. Portable generators should be, if possible, 20 feet from a home, Keough said. Coon said residents should make sure to point the exhaust from a generator away from windows and doors. That is critically important, Coon said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad According to the Centers for Disease Control, carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that claims the lives of hundreds of people every year and makes thousands more ill. More than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning each year in the United States. In 2022, 1,244 people in the United States died from carbon monoxide poisoning, with 624 deaths being accidental and 579 being suicides. The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. carbon monoxide symptoms are often described as flu-like. People who are sleeping or drunk can die from carbon monoxide poisoning before they have symptoms. The building facade of one of the Memorial Hermann Medical Plaza locations along Fannin St. in the Texas Medical Center district Thursday, July. 23, 2020 in Houston, TX. Michael Wyke / Contributor An abnormally high number of patients have sought care for carbon monoxide poisoning this week in the Houston area, health officials and doctors said Thursday, as Hurricane Beryl knocked out power for millions and left many relying on portable generators. I think were on record pace here unfortunately, said Dr. Joseph Nevarez, a UTHealth Houston professor and director of hyperbaric medicine and wound care at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. Hurricane Beryl on Monday knocked out power for more than 2 million households, 1 million of whom still do not have power as of Thursday. Since the storm swept through Houston, four to eight patients per day have needed to use Memorial Hermanns hyperbaric chamber, which delivers pure, pressurized oxygen and is usually reserved for the most severe cases of carbon monoxide poisoning, Nevarez said. Other patients have needed lower levels of care in the hospitals emergency room. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The problem has further strained busy Houston emergency rooms and illustrated what health professionals say is a lack of education about an increasingly popular piece of machinery in the storm-stricken region. While the number of carbon monoxide poisoning complaints usually increase with power outages, the Houston Health Department said the current volume stands out. Surveillance from medical facilities in Harris, Montgomery and Fort Bend counties found 116 carbon monoxide-related visits from midnight Monday to 10:45 a.m. Thursday, according to data provided by the health department. The Houston Health Department has not seen it spike so high as it did the past couple of days, including the during the May derecho and Winter Storm Uri in 2021, said health department spokesman Porfirio Villarreal. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas, produced by portable generators and other household items like charcoal grills and gas- and oil-burning furnaces, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Breathing it in can be fatal or make a person pass out. People who are asleep or drunk can die before they experience symptoms. It may also lead to long-term brain damage. More commonly, it can cause a headache or nausea and progress to shortness of breath, chest pain, vomiting and an altered mental state. More than 400 Americans die from unintentional carbon monoxide poisoning each year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Its really preventable and really dangerous, said Dr. David Persse, Houstons chief medical officer, stressing the need for people to run the generators at least 10 feet from the exterior walls of homes. A common mistake, Persse said, is placing the generator in the garage and cracking the garage door. That doesnt provide enough ventilation, he said. People may also place the generator near an air vent, providing another way for the gas to make its way inside the home. Nevarez noted that carbon monoxide sensors are relatively inexpensive and could help save lives. For many of our patients, its only by luck that they feel ill in the middle of the night and stagger or fall down and call for help, or its the baby crying that wakes them, he said. Other medical concerns Carbon monoxide is one of several factors keeping Houston emergency rooms jam packed, Persse said. The city is experiencing a 300% increase in hospital visits for heat illnesses compared to a typical day in July, he said. The widespread outages disrupted dialysis care, which often depends on electricity, and forced patients to seek emergency care. Other patients need new prescriptions for medication that has to be stored at a certain temperature. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Over the last two days, Baylor St. Lukes experienced an 80% increase in ER volume compared to normal levels, hospital officials said. At Harris Health, both Lyndon B. Johnson and Ben Taub hospitals have been unusually full with patients, with dozens held in the emergency department because no inpatient beds were available, said health system CEO Dr. Esmaeil Porsa. Patients levels were also notably high throughout the Houston Methodist system earlier in the week, said Dr. Ben Saldana, medical director of Houston Methodist Emergency Care Centers. Saldana said the system on Monday recorded the second highest numbers in my 20-year tenure at the hospital, he said, adding that the increase is now more manageable. The University of Texas Medical Branch typically sees about 400 to 420 patients per day across the four emergency departments at its Galveston, League City, Clear Lake and Angleton Danbury hospitals. Those emergency departments have seen about 540 to 600 patients per day this week a 35 to 50% increase, UTMB spokesperson Christopher Smith said. Compounding the strain is the fact that hospitals have been hesitant to discharge patients to homes with no power. The overflow facility at NRG Arena, which was created to handle those patients, has been helpful, doctors say. There were 28 patients being housed at the facility as of Thursday afternoon, according to a spokesman for the Houston Office of Emergency Management. But not everyone qualifies; the spokesman said the facility is for patients who are ready to be discharged but cannot return home due to damage or power outages. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Dr. Bradley Lembcke, president of Baylor St. Lukes, said roughly 15 discharges were delayed on Wednesday because patients had nowhere to go. Support Our Schools Nebraska volunteers will be outside several public libraries across the state for the next six days in a final push to gather enough signatures to let Nebraskans decide the fate of using public funds to pay for private schools. Volunteers will be on hand with petitions from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursday through Monday, July 11-15, at the following Tri-City libraries: Grand Island Public Library, 1124 W. 2nd St.; Hastings Library, 314 N. Denver Ave.; and Kearney Library, 2020 First Ave. Many additional signing locations and times can also be found on the website www.supportourschoolsnebraska.org/sign-a-petition. Last year, more than 117,000 Nebraskans signed a successful referendum petition to put the repeal of a private school voucher program on the ballot. However, State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan pushed to passage a new taxpayer-funded voucher program to pay for private schools. Linehan admitted she introduced LB1402 to deny Nebraska voters their right to vote on the issue, calling her bill an end-run around the successful petition drive. So, the Support Our Schools Nebraska coalition is circulating a new petition this year to put the issue back on the November ballot. Even if you signed the petition last year, you must sign this years petition to put the LB1402 voucher scheme on the November ballot, said Jenni Benson, a Support Our Schools Nebraska sponsor. We cannot allow politicians to impose this costly private school voucher scheme on taxpayers while denying Nebraskans the right to vote on the issue. The petitions need to be turned in to the Secretary of State next Wednesday, July 17. Laos, Singapore sign deals on education, carbon credit By Vietnam News Agency Wed, July 10, 2024 | 8:55 pm GMT+7 Singapore and Laos inked a memorandum of understanding on education and another on carbon credit as part of Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandones official visit to the island state on Tuesday. Singaporean PM Lawrence Wong (right) and his Lao counterpart Sonexay Siphandone. Photo courtesy of Straitstimes. The two PMs agreed to continue realising cooperation agreements between the two governments, especially in politics, economy-trade, investment, health care, tourism, renewable energy, rare minerals, agriculture, clean energy, particularly the Laos-Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore power grid project. Singaporean PM Lawrence Wong pledged to continue assisting Laos in workforce training and the successful hosting of the ASEAN Summit and related meetings during its ASEAN Chairmanship Year 2024. In October 2023, Laos and Singapore embarked on a bilateral consultation mechanism to monitor and promote sectors of mutual interest. To date, two-way trade has reached over $182 million , with Laos exporting more than $96 million worth of goods to Singapore and spending over $86 million on imports. Singapore's investment in Laos now stands at $362 million across 83 projects. A 28-year-old woman was sentenced to jail in an Orangeburg burglary. Chelsea Victoria Lemon, of 1520 East Main Street, Dorchester pleaded guilty to non-violent second-degree burglary, although she was originally charged with first-degree burglary. Circuit Judge Maite Murphy sentenced Lemon to six years in prison, suspended to 90 days in jail and probation for two years. Lemon was given credit for already serving 24 days in jail. The judge allowed Lemon to serve her remaining jail time on weekends only. Lemon must undergo random drug/alcohol testing. Lemon was also charged with two counts of first-degree assault and battery, but those charges were dismissed. Her co-defendant, Brianna Morna Brown, 28, of 157 Harvard Lane, Santee, is charged with first-degree assault and battery and first-degree burglary. Her charges are pending. Their charges stem from a break-in that occurred on Jan. 17, 2023 at a Sawyer Street home. In other recent guilty pleas at the Orangeburg County Courthouse: Christel Marie Kilcoyne, 44, of 9503 Freedom Road, Branchville, pleaded guilty to two counts of breach of trust with fraudulent intent valued at $10,000 or more. Circuit Judge Heath P. Taylor sentenced her to 10 years in prison. Because Kilcoyne served one day in jail, her term was suspended to probation for five years. Shes ordered to pay restitution. Kwamaine Dion McDaniel, 35, of 370 Bayne Street, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to second-degree domestic violence and malicious injury to personal property valued at $2,000 or less. Taylor sentenced McDaniel to one year in prison, giving him credit for serving three days in jail. Charlie Denzell Mitchell, 37, of 322 Majority Road, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to unlawful carrying of a pistol, second-offense possession with intent to distribute a scheduled drug and first-offense failure to stop for blue lights. Taylor sentenced him to 10 years in prison. After Mitchell serves one year, his term will be suspended to probation for three years. Taylor gave Mitchell credit for serving 45 days in jail. Mitchell also faced the following charges, but they were dismissed: first-offense driving under suspension license not suspended for driving under the influence, possession of a firearm or ammunition by a person convicted of a violent felony and reckless driving. Robbie John Morgan, 33, of 147 Lido Drive, Springfield, pleaded guilty to domestic violence of a high and aggravated nature. Taylor sentenced him to prison for three years. Because Morgan served 21 days in jail, his term was suspended to probation for two years. Morgan must complete a domestic violence intervention program. Morgan faced the following charges, but they were dismissed: malicious injury to personal property valued $2,000 or less and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. Ramon Charles Otey, 37, of 1415 John C. Calhoun Drive, Orangeburg, pleaded guilty to first-offense third-degree burglary and second-degree violent burglary. Taylor sentenced him to 10 years in prison. Otey was given credit for serving 211 days in jail. Otey was charged with the following, but they were dismissed: trespassing and second-degree non-violent burglary. Christopher Lamichael Outen, 29, of 2329 Gadsen Street, Columbia, pleaded guilty to second-degree assault and battery, although he was originally charged with unlawful neglect of a child. Taylor sentenced Outen to 157 days in jail, giving him credit for time served. Outen was charged with the following offense, but it was dismissed: non-student interfering, disrupting or disturbing schools. William Clifton Wright, 34, of 156 McBow Drive, Rowesville, pleaded guilty to first-offense DUS license not suspended for DUI; first-offense possession with intent to distribute a scheduled drug and third or subsequent offense manufacturing methamphetamine. Taylor sentenced him to 90 days in jail. He was given credit for already serving 71 days. Grab your rod and reel, cane pole, or fly rod and a bag to pick up litter and go Plishing! The South Carolina Wildlife Federation invites the public to join our Plishing Challenge again this summer. Plishing is a combination of the Swedish phrase plocka upp, meaning litter pickup, and fishing. Plishing The South Carolina Wildlife Federation invites the public to join the Plishing Challenge again this summer. The Plishing Challenge is designed to keep the public engaged with fishing using best fishing practices to catch and release fish and to help keep our waterways clean by picking up litter. This conservation initiative is a great way to enjoy South Carolinas aquatic resources, practice conservation, and win prizes. The challenge is designed to be simple and fun for all ages. Register to be able to enter each fish caught and each bag of litter collected from our waterways. There is no weighing or measuring fish to participate, just snap a photo or video in the app and enjoy the outdoors. There is a different sponsor each month offering prizes including gift cards, apparel, and fishing gear. At the end of the summer, there will be an overall winner for fish, an overall winner for litter collection, and a randomly selected winner, who will each receive a $500 gift card to Palmetto State Armory. In addition to Palmetto State Armory, other sponsors for the Plishing Challenge include Palmetto Pride, AFTCO, Local Boy Outfitters, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, and Angling Women. The event runs through Aug. 31 and has dedicated Facebook and Instagram pages, SCWF Plishing Challenge. For more information, visit www.scwf.org/plishing. Indonesian students relish intangible cultural heritage in China Xinhua) 11:11, July 11, 2024 GUIYANG, July 10 (Xinhua) -- A group of nearly 40 teachers and students from Indonesia have immersed themselves in the rich folk culture and ethnic customs of southwest China during an ongoing trip to the mountainous province of Guizhou. The Indonesian visitors are in Guizhou to attend the 2024 "Chinese Bridge" summer camp. Since the event started on July 1, the group have visited various places including the cities of Guiyang and Bijie, and Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture to experience intangible cultural heritage skills such as paper cutting, Tai Chi, as well as the making of hot and sour fish soup and medicine sachets. They also engaged in lively discussions about topics such as natural heritage, intangible cultural heritage, ethnic costumes and food culture. Geraldine Patricia, a junior majoring in Chinese language at ABA International Bandung in Indonesia, is in Guizhou for the first time. The trip "not only broadens my horizon, but also gives me the opportunity to learn more about Chinese culture," said Patricia. Her schoolmate, Richard Halim, is in love with Chinese martial arts and has been practicing martial arts for seven years. In order to have a deeper understanding of Chinese culture, Halim decided to major in Chinese language in college. Halim said the summer camp has offered the Indonesian students a chance to understand the local culture of Guizhou, taste its specialty cuisine, and enjoy China's beautiful natural environment. "I hope I can work in a joint venture of China and Indonesia in the future and contribute to the economic and trade exchanges between the two countries," Halim said. Jonatan Edrik Tanoto, 17, will study data science and policy studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong in September this year. Tanoto has been impressed by the development of Chinese internet companies and the growing reputation of Chinese enterprises in the world. "In the past, it was 'made in China,' and now it is 'created in China.' I hope that my personal development can be integrated into China's industrial development in the future." Looking ahead, Tanoto hopes that cooperation between China and Indonesia will continue to deepen and provide more opportunities for the young people. "We aspire for the 'Chinese Bridge' summer camp to sow a seed of friendship in their hearts, which will flourish in the future," said Xia Jiangyi, an official at Guizhou Normal University, the host of the summer camp. "By fostering connections among the youth, we seek to strengthen cultural trust and promote economic and trade collaboration between the peoples of China and Indonesia," Xia added. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Brooke Yahney holds an opossum at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in 1093 native wildlife after Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer More than 1,000 orphaned and injured animals found refuge in the care of Houston SPCAs Wildlife Center rehabilitators this week after Hurricane Beryls violent winds destroyed the homes of wildlife around the region. Locals were steadily bringing hurt birds and animals, mostly tree dwellers, to the center in the days following the storm, spokesperson Julie Kuenstle said in a phone interview. These included possums, squirrels, blue jays, mourning doves, white winged doves, ducks, and Mississippi kites. Brooke Yahney holds an Mississippi Kite at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in 1093 native wildlife after Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Were grateful that so many people are so compassionate, Kuenstle said. Some of them came from Galveston island. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Thanks to its generator, the Houston SPCA maintained power without interruption. Our campus is built to withstand a Category 5 Hurricane so were well prepared for anything that comes our way, Kuenstle said. A new batch of egrets arrive at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in a total of 359 egrets that had been displaced by strong winds due to Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Audrey Dupuis examines a new batch of egrets at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in a total of 359 egrets that had been displaced by strong winds due to Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Audrey Dupuis examines a new batch of egrets at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston.The wildlife center took in a total of 359 egrets that had been displaced by strong winds due to Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Lindsey Tarby feeds an egret at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in a total of 359 egrets that had been displaced by strong winds due to Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Lindsey Tarby feeds an egret at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in a total of 359 egrets that had been displaced by strong winds due to Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Brooke Yahney holds a cattle egret at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in 1093 native wildlife after Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Lindsey Tarby and Morgan Patton help feed an egret at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in a total of 359 egrets that had been displaced by strong winds due to Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Brooke Yahney opens an incubator to check on a kite at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. . The wildlife center took in 1093 native wildlife after Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Advertisement Article continues below this ad The center received a call from a neighborhood in Cypress Monday about a colony of nesting egrets. The organization conducted a massive rescue effort, she said, saving more than 340 egrets. Their nests had been blown down and we were called by residents because hundreds of birds had died, Kuenstle said. Theyd fallen out of their nests and drowned in the water, many of the rescued birds were waterlogged. Many of the birds that perished were juveniles that had not yet learned to fly. The egrets that were rescued were brought into the center for rehabilitation and placed in incubators, she said. An egret stands in an incubator at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in a total of 359 egrets that had been displaced by strong winds due to Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Kuenstle reported that by Wednesday, the egret chicks were showing marked improvement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Theyre white and floofy now, instead of the poor, waterlogged little souls we'd found, she said. A new batch of egrets are examined at Houston SPCA's Wildlife Center of Texas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Houston. The wildlife center took in a total of 359 egrets that had been displaced by strong winds due to Beryl. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer FLIGHT DELAYS: Houston airports resume operations with limited flight schedule How can I help? The Houston SPCA has released a list of ways people can help injured animals. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Carefully place the orphaned or injured animal in a box with soft rags and a warm (not hot) water bottle, a rice sock, or a heating pad set low until you can get it to the Houston SPCAs Wildlife Center at 7007 Old Katy Rd. Dont try to feed or give water to the animal because it may have water in its lungs or other serious injuries. Keep it away from household noise and pets until you can get it to the center. The Houston SPCA relies on donations and would welcome contributions at this time, Kuenstle said. Additionally, people can provide gift cards for grocery stores like HEB or Kroger, which will be used to purchase nuts and seeds to feed the birds. (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). Automechanika Dubai, the leading event for the automotive aftermarket industry, has officially unveiled the leaders supporting the event's growth as part of the inaugural Advisory Board. The panel of industry innovators and experts will provide insights and knowledge to guide Automechanika Dubai's future success and drive forward the automotive aftermarket industry. The Advisory Board comprises professionals, including manufacturers, suppliers, service providers, researchers, academics, and thought leaders. The diverse backgrounds and perspectives will ensure the event remains at the forefront of industry developments while providing invaluable insights for the sector at large. Strategic insights Mahmut Gazi Bilikozen, Portfolio Director at Automechanika Dubai organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: It is a privilege to work with such an esteemed group of experts, and I look forward to developing their strategic insights and reinforce Automechanika Dubais position as the leading event for the automotive aftermarket in the wider Middle East region. This years event will offer a wealth of business opportunities for stakeholders, and trade visitors can look forward to comprehensive workshops and presentations on emerging technologies, discussions on industry challenges and market trends, and meaningful networking opportunities. With the support of our Advisory Board, we are committed to enhancing the overall experience for exhibitors, trade visitors and delegates. The group of 18 experts covers a diverse range of automotive verticals and companies, from both a regional and international perspective. They include, BMW AMGC, BP Castrol Lubricants, Emirates Center for Mobility, Frost & Sullivan, General Motors, HELLA Middle East, PwC, Volvo Group, among others. Their input will support the event's various features, including the Automechanika Dubai Academy, a knowledge-sharing platform for the automotive aftermarket and service industry, and Innovation4Mobility, a hub for groundbreaking technologies, futuristic concepts and visionary ideas shaping the future of transportation. Modern Workshop The Modern Workshop will showcase cutting-edge technologies, tools, and solutions revolutionising automotive repair and maintenance, while AfriConnections will highlight the diversity and opportunities in Africa's automotive industry. Automechanika Dubai 2024 will also host the fourth annual Automechanika Dubai Awards, celebrating excellence and innovation in the automotive aftermarket industry. Elsewhere on the show floor, a total of nine specialised product categories will be showcased, including Parts & Components, Electronics & Connectivity, Accessories & Customising, Tires & Batteries, Car Wash & Care, Oils & Lubricants, Diagnostics & Repair, Body & Paint, and Management & Digital Solutions. With over 86% of the exhibition space already sold, were well on track to hosting over 2,200 exhibitors and more than 56,000 attendees, where we deliver another groundbreaking edition of Automechanika Dubai, concluded Bilikozen. The inaugural Advisory Board The Automechanika Dubai Advisory Board comprises: Amjed Kallan, General Manager, Bilstein Group Andrew Marsh, Automotive Engineer Atef Tlili, General Manager - Product Development & Marketing, General Motors Dirk Fuchs, CEO & Founder, Electric Mobility Consulting LLC Dr Hamid Haqparwar, CEO, BMW AMGC Dr Hamad Al Jassmi, Director of Emirates Center for Mobility Research, United Arab Emirates University Hassanein Alwan, Managing Director, Mineral Circles Bearings Heiko Seitz, eMobility Leader, PwC Kivanc Karayol, Regional Director & Sustainability Leader, Volvo Group Dr Maya Ben Dror, Mobility Expert Mazen Shamseddin, General Manager, BP Castrol Lubricants Mohamed Kassem, Franchise Director, Al-Futtaim Electric Mobility Company Mohammed Aqel, General Manager, Central Trading Company Mesut Urgancilar, Managing Director, Groupauto Middle East & Africa FZCO Mark Phillips, Automotive Video Host & Editor Aftermarket Intel Dr Nima Mehrdadi, Vice President Aftermarket Middle East, Africa, India & Central Asia and Managing Director, HELLA Middle East Sheerhan Jeeaudeen, Managing Director, ZF Middle East LLC Subhash Joshi, Vice President and Practice Area Leader, Frost & Sullivan In the rapidly expanding megaprojects and developments in the Mena region, early adoption of GenAI is set to significantly boost productivity and efficiency. This is according to a new report from Project Management Institute (PMI), the world's leading authority for project professionals. The report explores how high adopters of GenAI (or trailblazers) are leading the charge in embracing GenAI. These trailblazers not only aid in unlocking performance enhancements and advancing GenAI adoption, but also believe in sharing their learnings to propel business transformation. UAEs Generative AI market The UAEs Generative AI market is a fast-emerging sector and a disruptor in world economies. Organisations that embrace GenAI are already realising the benefits in productivity, effectiveness, collaboration and creativity. The report, First Movers Advantage: The Immediate Benefits of Adopting Generative AI for Project Management, surveyed 500 project professionals from around the globe, all using GenAI in their project work. Organisations that encourage GenAI adoption see an increased use of GenAI among project professionals, setting the stage for transformative and positive outcomes, including: Trailblazers are more productive (93% of trailblazers versus 58% of low adopters or explorers), elevating their problem-solving (89% vs. 46%), and more effective (88% vs. 50%) by using GenAI. High adopters are strengthening their interpersonal skills which PMI calls power skills. With GenAI, they are boosting collaboration (83% of trailblazers versus 32% of explorers) and creativity (84% vs. 44%). Using GenAI, high adopters are seeing other project improvements, including project scope (87% trailblazers versus 34% explorers), scheduling (85% vs. 46%), cost (85% vs. 42%) and quality management (91% vs. 40%). Use of GenAI doubles A study by Microsoft and LinkedIn shows that the use of GenAI doubled in the last few months of 2023, with 75% of knowledge workers using it, a trend PMI has seen explode in its nearly one-million-member community of project professionals. Our research shows that GenAI trailblazers know how to maximise adoption to elevate their performance, navigate complex work, and usher in GenAI across their teams. Theyre standing out from their peers for their innovative leadership, said Pierre Le Manh, PMP, President & Chief Executive Officer of PMI. We want to ensure project professionals who havent yet added this technology to their toolbox can quickly get up to speed and benefit from GenAI given its exponential growth. Hanny Alshazly, Regional Managing Director for Middle East and North Africa (Mena), PMI, said: The growing significance of GenAI in project management reflects the far-reaching impact of this disruptive technology. The future belongs to the GenAI trailblazers who innovate and embrace its transformative power. At PMI, we've experienced firsthand the advantages of incorporating GenAI into our operations. Learning from High Adopters Bringing Explorers on Board Project professionals leading GenAI adoption are already building strategic advantages over those still in the initial stages: Trailblazers are already mastering the critical skill of prompt engineering, the key to unlocking the full potential of GenAI. Trailblazers stand out because they use GenAI for more complex tasks, such as data analysis, planning, and risk management. These high adopters are three times more likely to strengthen their skills with GenAI when compared with explorers (36% vs. 12%). High adopters also recognise the importance of actively advocating for organisational adoption. GenAI is transforming every industry, which will create more opportunities for project professionals because they will help organisations implement this disruptive technology, said Le Manh. A key insight from the report is that its much harder to accelerate adoption without organisational support. Trailblazers are ten times more likely to work for organisations that empower them to use GenAI. Its these forward-thinking organisations and their trailblazing project professionals that are seizing this moment and ready to lead the GenAI revolution. Early adoption UAEs early adoption of the emerging technology and the use of generative artificial intelligence has already positioned it as a leader on the global stage, as per PwC Middle East. GCC countries are expected to reap about $23.5 billion in economic benefits by 2030 as investments in generative AI continue to grow, according to PwC unit Strategy & Middle East report published last month, showcasing the sectors immense economic potential. In Saudi Arabia, the generative AI market is expected to surpass $1 trillion by 2030, growing at a compound annual rate of more than a quarter, from nearly $220 million in 2023, data from Statista shows. Saudi Arabias recent launch of Generative Artificial Intelligence for All Initiative underpins the countrys commitment to expediting digital transformation and backing Generative Artificial Intelligence for the global benefit of nations. Developing GenAI Resources with Project Professionals in Mind As the leading authority in project management, PMI has a unique view into a global community of knowledge workers nearly one million strong. This community has enthusiastically embraced both PMI InfinityTM, a GenAI tool developed by PMI, and trainings offered by PMI. Together, PMI and its members are elevating the skills of the profession. In this unique moment in time, those professionals who are actively experimenting with GenAI are sharing their results with their fellow project professionals in the PMI community. PMI is poised to launch a series of GenAI prompts, specific to a variety of industries and use cases, as an additional resource for project professionals. Research has shown that effective prompt engineering helps yield stronger quality answers and a better overall GenAI experience. Providing a starting point and bridging the gap between trailblazers and explorers, PMI is introducing a Prompt Library to PMI Infinity. Project professionals can use PMI Infinity TM as an on-the-job partner that delivers interactive and detailed responses designed for project work. The new curated repository of prompts, already vetted by the PMI community, will help users level up projects by providing an accessible entry point for developing precise prompts to support their day-to-day integration of AI into their workflow.--TradeArabia News Service Cortec offers two viable rust preventatives that allow users to go as high as 72% or 99% biobased content for metals protection in humid environments. EcoLine 3690 and EcoLine 3220 are two wet film rust preventatives from Cortec Corporation. Each includes a special package of corrosion inhibitors in a canola oil base for protection in high humidity conditions. EcoLine 3690 contains 72% USDA certified biobased content. EcoLine 3220 goes even higher; it contains 99% USDA certified biobased content. Both can be applied by spray, brush, or dip like traditional wet film rust preventatives, leaving behind a tenacious oily film that clings to metal surfaces and provides excellent contact corrosion protection. Where to Use EcoLine 3690 and 3220 These two temporary biobased coatings can be used in a variety of applications. Among the most common is rust prevention in various stages of the manufacturing process or during storage and shipment. EcoLine 3690 and EcoLine 3220 protects both ferrous and yellow metals and can be applied to wire, sheet metals, pipes, flanges, gears, and equipment. Furthermore, a low pour point of -0 F (-18 C) makes EcoLine 3220 good for application in cold conditions where other rust preventatives might freeze. Biobased rust prevention in action With almost three-quarters of its content coming from a renewable cooking oil, EcoLine 3690 has been used to replace products that were less friendly to workers and the environment. In one case, a tube manufacturer investigated the use of EcoLine 3690 as a rust preventative for the ends of pipes bundled and stored for 9-12 months outdoors. They were impressed with the results on the test bundle after eight months and expressed satisfaction with its level of worker safety as they decided to use it going forward. In another case, EcoLine 3690 was adopted for protection of automotive all-time-buys that needed be stored for up to 10 years after tooling retirement. The previous rust preventative had been used for decades but was hard to remove and raised worker and environmental concerns. EcoLine 3690 underwent necessary testing and met the automakers requirements for rust prevention, so it was written into the automakers specifications for aftermarket engineering processes. The third-party packager started using it in 2019 for crankshafts, camshafts, and cylinder heads going into long-term storage. Being able to reduce the amount of petroleum-based solvents in a product and replace them with gentler biobased material such as canola oil is a great option whenever an effective, affordable product results. With EcoLine 3690 and 3220, manufacturers have two viable options for upping their biobased content and protecting metals from corrosion.--TradeArabia News Service Hisense, the global home appliance and consumer electronics brand, has reinforced its dedication to the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region with focus on future growth. This commitment is evident through the strategic investments and expansion plans outlined by Hisense Group Chairman, Jia Shaoqian, during his recent visit to Dubai, UAE. To ensure efficient distribution and meet surging demand across North Africa and the Levant, Hisense plans to establish new production facilities in the region, starting with Egypt, with the launch scheduled for late 2024. Long-term commitment These facilities will not only streamline logistics and expedite deliveries, but also create local jobs and contribute to the economic growth of the region. This investment in local production highlights Hisense's long-term commitment to the regional market and its vision of enhancing lives through technology. Shaoqian conducted a roundtable meeting with the leadership of Hisenses key business partners in the MEA region, shared his future vision, and discussed the strategic growth plan for the region. Under the leadership of Jason Ou, President of Hisense MEA, the company is charting a clear course for initiatives and plans, ensuring strengthened market presence and the delivery of superior products and services to customers across the region. Significant market growth and expansion plans Hisense has experienced exceptional growth in the MEA region, with business revenue doubling since 2019 and brand equity increasing by over 120% during the same period. "Hisense is committed to bringing groundbreaking technology and high-tech innovation to households in the Middle East and Africa to uplift consumers' lives. Our growth in this region is a testament to our commitment, and we are excited to continue building on this success," said Shaoqian. He continued: "Hisense is at a critical growth phase in its lifecycle, and soon we will become a leading global force within the industry. To accelerate this, we are expanding our core business foundations such as investment in technology innovation, R&D centres, expansion of global production bases, global brand-building sponsorship initiatives, enhancing our service network, and amplifying efficiencies in supply chain and logistics." Strengthening partnerships and collaboration "With the diversity and dynamic environment in the widespread MEA region, working closely with our partners in the Middle East and Africa is key to our success. This collaboration allows us to develop local strategies that leverage their expertise and market knowledge. Our goal is to create outstanding experiences and strengthen our connection with both partners and consumers in this vibrant region," said Ou. Local R&D and production initiatives Further demonstrating its commitment to the region, Hisense leverages its existing state-of-the-art R&D centre strategically located in Dubai Media City. This centre plays a crucial role in product development tailored to the specific needs and preferences of MEA consumers. Enhancing consumer experience and market share Hisense's strategic initiatives in the Middle East and Africa are designed to strengthen the connection between the brand and its customers, creating meaningful and exceptional experiences. By investing in local R&D and production, enhancing partnerships, and leveraging advanced technology and innovations, Hisense is poised to increase its market share and solidify its position as a leader in the regions home appliance and consumer electronics market.--TradeArabia News Service Samsung Electronics Co today announced its all-new Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6, along with Galaxy Buds3 and Galaxy Buds3 Pro at Galaxy Unpacked in Paris. Earlier this year, Samsung ushered in the era of mobile AI through the power of Galaxy AI. With the introduction of the new Galaxy Z series, Samsung is opening the next chapter of Galaxy AI by leveraging its most versatile and flexible form factor perfectly designed to enable a range of unique mobile experiences. Whether using Galaxy Z Folds large screen, Galaxy Z Flips FlexWindow or making the most of the iconic FlexMode, Galaxy Z Fold6 and Flip6 will provide more opportunities to maximise AI capabilities. Built on the foundation of Samsungs history of form factor innovation, Galaxy AI uses powerful, intelligent, and durable foldable experience to accelerate a new era of communication, productivity, and creativity, the company said. Samsungs long history of innovation has allowed us to lead in the mobile space, creating the foldable form factor and ushering in the mobile AI era. Now, we are excited to bring these two complementary technologies together and unlock new possibilities for users around the world, said TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. Our foldables meet the unique needs of every user and now enhanced by the power of Galaxy AI, Samsung is delivering an experience like never before. Samsungs continued innovation for foldables has created the slimmest and lightest Galaxy Z series ever, optimised for portability. The perfectly symmetrical design with straight edge provides an aesthetically sleek finish while a new cover screen ratio on Galaxy Z Fold6 provides a more natural bar-type viewing experience. Along with design refinements, the new Galaxy Z series is engineered to provide even more durability, offering users greater peace of mind, it said. The dual rail hinge structure is further supported by a strengthened folding edge, better distributing the shock of external impacts. Plus, enhanced layers on the main screen help to improve the crease while maintaining strength. The latest Galaxy Z series is also equipped with enhanced Armor Aluminum and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, making this the most durable Galaxy Z series yet. In addition to being reliable, every element of the Galaxy Z series is also powerful. Both the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Flip6 are equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform for Galaxy, the most advanced Snapdragon mobile processor yet, combining best-in-class CPU, GPU, and NPU performance. The processor is optimized for AI processing and offers enhanced graphics along with improved overall performance. The upgraded cooling system maximizes performance with a larger vapor chamber on Galaxy Z Fold6 and, for the first time ever, a vapor chamber on Galaxy Z Flip. Galaxy Z Fold6: Large Screen Productivity Elevated by AI The Galaxy Z Fold6 offers a range of AI-powered features and tools that maximize the large screen and significantly enhance productivity. Note Assist on Samsung Notes offers translation, summaries, and auto formatting for simple and easy meeting notes. Plus, a newly embedded transcript feature enables transcription, translation and summarising of voice recordings directly in Notes. Texts in PDF files can be translated and overlaid perfectly through PDF overlay translation feature in Notes and it even supports text in images and graphs. A newly added Composer from Samsung Keyboard generates suggested text based on simple keywords for email and supported social media apps. For social media in particular, the Composer creates text that reflects your tone by analysing previous posts. Additionally, the S Pen experience is expanded further meeting with Galaxy AI on the Galaxy Z Fold6s screen. All-new Sketch to image allows you to create more sophisticated art pieces by generating image options when you simply sketch or draw on the photos in Gallery or Note screen. The Galaxy Z Fold6 enables you to evolve the way you work, play, and stay informed thanks to Samsungs longstanding partnership with Google. The latest Google Gemini app is fully integrated on the new Galaxy Z series, providing your own AI-powered assistant right on your phone. By simply swiping the corner of the screen or saying, Hey Google, you can bring up Geminis overlay and get help with writing, learning, or planning. Galaxy AI has also enhanced barrier-free communication on Galaxy Z Fold6. Maximizing its unique dual screen form factor, Interpreter comes with a new conversation mode that enables both parties to conveniently view translations on the main and cover screens for more natural interactions. It also offers one-way translation, so you can easily understand when listening during lectures or any other type of presentation. Live Translate, which translates phone calls directly on your device in real-time, is also now being extended beyond Samsungs own native calling app to a selection of popular third-party apps. From capturing to editing to viewing, AI-powered ProVisual Engine on the Galaxy Z Fold6 takes your creativity to the next level. The advanced editing experience with Photo Assist on the large screen helps to effortlessly create professional-grade content. Portrait Studio creates a variety of different portrait styles such as 3D cartoon or watercolor for more creative possibilities. And if you want to enjoy every second with a more detailed view, Instant Slow-mo allows you to instantly slow a video by generating additional frames while maintaining a smooth viewing experience. You also have the option of saving or directly sharing your videos with friends and family so they can enjoy them as well. Galaxy Z Fold6 offers an upgraded gaming experience, anchored by its powerful chipset and 1.6x larger vapor chamber for the ability to game for longer, while still maintaining performance. Vivid, life-like graphics are supported by Ray Tracing and are brought to life on a 7.6-inch screen that offers a brighter display of up to 2,600nit to deliver more immersive gaming. Galaxy Z Flip6: Creating Unique Experiences, Customized to You The Galaxy Z Flip6 is not just optimised for portability, but it offers a range of new customisation and creativity features so you can make the most of every moment. The 3.4-inch Super AMOLED FlexWindow has been enhanced yet again, enabling AI-assisted functions without even needing to open the device. And for those communications on-the-go, you can reply to texts with Suggested replies which analyses your latest messages to suggest a tailored response. With Galaxy AI, you can get the most out of your pocket-sized device, and many of these convenient features exist on FlexWindow. FlexWindow provides access to Samsung Health updates and notifications and also allows you to select the next track you want to listen to on your music widget. Plus, FlexWindow offers more Widgets than ever, and allows you to check information from multiple Widgets simultaneously. Creativity also goes beyond FlexWindow. FlexCam continues to offer the most versatile camera experience and unlocks new creative options. With the new Auto Zoom, FlexCam automatically finds the best framing for your shot by detecting the subject and zooming in and out before making any necessary adjustments. That way, you dont have to choose between your friends or an incredible backdrop being in the shot and its all hands-free. New 50MP Wide and 12MP Ultra-wide sensors provide an upgraded camera experience with clear and crisp details in pictures. The new 50MP sensor supports 2x optical zoom for noise-free photos, while offering AI zoom for an advanced shooting experience with up to 10x zoom. Nightography, enhanced with video HDR allows you to capture more brilliant videos even in dim lighting and goes further by partnering with popular social apps as well. The night capturing feature is now available in-app on Instagram, so you can take amazing photos at night and message or share them directly from within the app. Galaxy Buds3 Series: Expanding the Connected Experience With the power of Galaxy AI, the Galaxy Buds3 series brings a new communication experience. If youre attending a class in a foreign language, you can turn on Interpreter in Listening mode on Galaxy Z Fold6 or Flip6 with Galaxy Buds3 series plugged into your ears. This will allow you to hear the lecture translated directly through your Galaxy Buds, removing language barriers that may exist in your studies. Also, simply saying two words through Voice Command allows you to control functions like playing or stopping music without manually touching the earbuds or a connected smartphone. Sound can also be intelligently optimized, regardless of how you wear your Galaxy Buds. The microphones in the Buds3 series analyze both internal and external sound in real time to enhance sound and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) quality through Adaptive EQ and Adaptive ANC. And if you are listening to music, your Galaxy Buds3 Pro will constantly collect and identify surrounding sound and automatically adjust the optimal level of noise and sound without manual adjustment through Adaptive Noise Control, Siren Detect, and Voice Detect , all for your convenience. Availability Galaxy Z Fold6 is available in Silver Shadow, Pink and Navy, while Galaxy Z Flip6 is also available in Silver Shadow, Yellow, Blue and Mint colour options. At Samsung.com exclusive Galaxy Z series colours such as Crafted Black, White as well as a Peach option for Galaxy Z Flip6 are available. The Galaxy Buds3 series offers an ultra-sleek, modern and comfortable design available in two colours, Silver and White. TradeArabia News Service Leading global cyber-security firm Zendata has partnered with Qatari technology conglomerate Salam Technology in a $35 million, five-year deal aimed at providing state of the art services to companies in Qatar and across the Gulf. The deal empowers Salam Technology with the capabilities to service leading cyber companies with the most sophisticated cyber tools and skillsets, and is designed to both elevate the cyber maturity of the local ecosystem, and create new jobs for Qatari and Gulf nationals as the industry grows and expands. As part of the agreement, Salam Technology will have one of the most efficient Security Operations Centres (SOC) in the Gulf, powered by Zendata. This will give Qatari and Gulf companies access to an elite cyber Incident Response Team, international cyber consultants, Threat Intelligence and unique cyber Intellectual Property (IP), and all the institutional experience and advanced technology that Zendata has built up since it was founded in 2012. SOC as a business (Saab) model The deal also sees the launch of Zendatas ground-breaking new SOC as a business (Saab) model, designed to transform SOCs into revenue centres. With this new service, Zendata partners with companies to develop customised SOCs, utilising either shared or exclusive resources, that elevate security to top-tier levels and unlock new profit streams. In this scenario profits are shared between Zendata and its clients to boost financial outcomes, turning state of the art cyber security into a collectively profitable venture. In this way, Salam Technology and Zendata will work hand in hand as the first line of defence for private and public entities, companies and international organisations. Fawaz Hadid, General Manager of Salam Technology, said: Salam Technology is proud to partner with Zendata, a global leader in cybersecurity. With our 72-year legacy of serving Qatar and the region, this collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to providing exceptional IT and OT cyber security services. By combining Zendata's cutting-edge technology and expertise with Salam Technology's established presence and deep understanding of the local market, we will be ideally positioned to deliver the most advanced SOC MSSP services in the region. Beyond just technology This partnership goes beyond just technology. We share Zendata's vision of fostering a robust cybersecurity ecosystem in the Gulf. The innovative SOC as a Business model presents a unique opportunity to empower businesses with world-class security solutions while also contributing to the development of a skilled Qatari and Gulf national workforce. We are confident that this collaboration will be instrumental in safeguarding critical infrastructure and enabling businesses across the region to thrive in the digital age. Isabelle Meyer, Co-CEO of Zendata, said: We have partnered with Salam Technology with a single goal in mind, to help Qatar and the wider GCC protect and develop its growing services industry and its critical infrastructure from cyber-attack. As one of the leading firms in cyber-security, with a record of working alongside governments, MNCs and law enforcement agencies, we are particularly well placed to support Qatar and regional players on their transformation journeys, and help leading regional companies thrive in an ever more complex threat landscape. As we expand across the Gulf, we are particularly pleased to have Salam Technology as our partner and Qatar as the launch country for our unique SOC as a Business (SaaB) product. As well as SOC as a Business, Zendata provides a selection of managed services and products including the flagship ZEN360 Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP), a 360-degree infrastructure protection with a 24/7 Security Operations Centre, Quick Reaction Incident Response, ZENAudit as Audit Platform, the ZENRAD, a proprietary technology to dynamically adjust protection, and a range of other supporting services.--TradeArabia News Service Harris County Sheriffs and Houston Police close off the neighborhood around Italian Cypress Trail, where a Harris County Sheriff Deputy was shot a killed on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Harris County deputies on Thursday arrested a 44-year-old man wanted in connection with the fatal shooting of a 28-year-old deputy late Wednesday, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said. Law enforcement arrested Ronnie Palmer at a residence at the 12300 block of Ghita Ln., about 15 miles northeast of downtown Houston. Palmer was also wanted on an aggravated assault charge for an incident earlier Wednesday in the 15000 block of Wallisville Road, Gonzalez said. Gonzalez said Palmer is the lead suspect in the death of Fernando Esqueda, a five-year veteran with the sheriff's office. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "None of us are ever prepared for such an untimely death and our members need your prayers and support. Our thoughts are with his family as they come to terms with this horrible news," Gonzalez said across two posts on X. THURSDAY LIVE UPDATES: Over 1M customers still without power in Houston as storm chances could slow recovery Esqueda had been a member of the Violent Persons Task Force. Authorities were called at 10:10 p.m. Wednesday about an alleged aggravated assault at Little Caesars at 15634 Wallisville Road. A customer reportedly became upset because his order was wrong and attacked the pizzeria's clerk, according to the department. The customer first verbally assaulted the worker before pistol-whipping the person and fleeing, Chief Deputy Mike Lee said. The Little Caesars worker identified the car the attacker drove away in, authorities said, and officers used a Flock camera system to identify an area where the car's plates tended to turn up. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez talks to the media to update a fatal police shooting that followed an physical altercation at Little Ceasers Pizza on Wallisville Road on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Harris County Deputy Fernando Esqueda, 28, was shot and killed shot overnight in northeast Harris County, officials said. Deputy Esqueda was a five-year Harris County Sheriffs Office veteran Harris County Sheriff's Office Local media gathers in front of a Little Ceasers Pizza where an employee was pistol whipped over a wrong oder, leading to a police search for the suspect, who is now accused of ambushing a Harris County Sheriffs Deputy Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer A police tactical robot makes its way through a neighborhood where a Harris County Sheriffs Deputy was shot a killed on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Harris County Sheriffs and Houston Police close off the neighborhood around Italian Cypress Trail, where a Harris County Sheriff Deputy was shot a killed on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Harris County Sheriffs and Houston Police close off the neighborhood around Italian Cypress Trail, where a Harris County Sheriff Deputy was shot a killed on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Authorities said when they arrived at the pizzeria they didn't find the car, but Esqueda circled back and found the car had returned to the location. "We know he had a phone conversation with one of the other detectives, let him know that he did have the suspect vehicle in sight, didn't have the suspect in sight, and then during that phone conversation, our deputy, apparently, was ambushed," Lee said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Other officers returned to the location and found Esqueda in his car with multiple gunshot wounds. Lee said they brought him to Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital, where he died. A new report revealing the staggering scale of institutional investments in the fossil fuel industry shows that over 7,500 pension funds, insurance companies, asset managers and other institutions worldwide hold a combined $4.3 trillion in bonds and shares of coal, oil and gas companies. The 2024 edition of Investing in Climate Chaos from Urgewald and 17 NGO partners expressed concern that the massive capital allocation to the fossil fuel sector comes at a time when the world is grappling with the devastating impacts of climate change. The report noted that catastrophic floods, hurricanes, wildfires and heatwaves are causing widespread destruction, and scientists have made it clear that a rapid phaseout of fossil fuels is essential to avoid even worse climate tipping points. "If institutional investors continue backing companies that are still expanding their coal, oil and gas operations, it will be impossible to phase out fossil fuels in time," said Katrin Ganswindt, Head of Financial Research at Urgewald. "Investors need to draw a red line on fossil fuel expansion and they need to do it now." The report found that nearly $4 trillion of the $4.3 trillion in fossil fuel investments are in companies actively developing new oil, gas and coal projects. This directly undermines global climate goals agreed at COP28 in UAE to "transition away" from fossil fuels. The report also breaks down the investments by fuel type, revealing that over $1.2 trillion is invested in coal companies, even as the world has committed to phasing down unabated coal power. At the same time, a staggering $3.8 trillion is parked in oil and gas producers, many of whom are planning new exploration and development projects that are incompatible with climate stabilisation. These findings raise serious questions about the commitment of the financial sector to supporting the shift to a low-carbon economy. While some investors have started to divest from coal, engagement efforts with oil and gas majors have had negligible impact, with over 95 per cent of companies failing to set Paris-aligned climate targets. "7,245 institutional investors are locking us into a high-carbon future through their investments in an expanding oil and gas industry," Ganswindt warned. The report also highlights the outsized role of US investors, who account for 65 per cent of the total $4.3 trillion in fossil fuel holdings. Canada, Japan, the UK, India, China, Norway, Switzerland, France and Germany are the other countries with the largest shares of institutional investments in the sector. As the world grapples with the escalating climate crisis, 2024 could be a pivotal year for the financial system to align with sustainability goals. Around $3.2 trillion in outstanding debt of high-carbon companies is set to be refinanced in the coming years, presenting a crucial opportunity for investors to shift capital away from fossil fuels. "The question is whether institutional investors will continue investing in these companies, which rely on heating up the planet, or if they will realise the potential for more heat waves, floods, and climate disasters," the report states. "2024 should be a turning point for central banks and regulators to align financial flows with the Paris Agreement." With the stakes so high, the authors are calling on pension funds, insurers, asset managers and other institutional investors to immediately halt new investments in fossil fuel expansion and set clear timelines for phasing out existing holdings. Only by redirecting capital towards clean energy solutions can the financial sector play its part in averting catastrophic climate change. --OGN/TradeArabia News Service A new art and design fair is joining Dubais dynamic culture calendar, making its debut during Dubai Design Week. To be held from November 6 to 9 at Dubai Design District (d3), Editions, Dubai will run alongside Downtown Design and will be the Middle Easts first limited-edition art and design fair with an inaugural curation of works by over 50 galleries, design studios, and collectives. It will feature a diverse collection of prints, contemporary design, photography, ceramics, and works on paper for sale. Artworks will be available at a range of price points, inviting established and aspiring art collectors to explore a new segment of the art market yet to be widely showcased in the region. Editions, Dubai will bring together the audiences and programming of Downtown Design, the regions leading fair for high-quality and contemporary design, and Art Dubai, the leading international art fair, and further expand on the investment in this regions creatives. The fair will be a key fixture of Dubai Design Week, which, in strategic partnership with d3, celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. Alongside Downtown Designs dynamic programme, Editions, Dubai will expand cultural exchange and discovery to the broader public. Editions, Dubai is owned and managed by the Art Dubai Group that has been committed to driving new creative developments through its unique programming and has been a platform for cultural exchange and discovery since it was launched in 2007. TradeArabia News Service UAE residents are set to explore a diverse range of destinations this summer, from the bustling streets of London to the tranquil beaches of Fujairah, according to Expedia's UAE Summer Travel Outlook. This years data shows a significant increase in both domestic and international travel, with July being the most popular and affordable month for domestic trips and August the most expensive for international getaways. Whether seeking cultural experiences in Europe, adventures in Asia, or the warmth of the MENA region, UAE residents are making the most of their summer vacations this year. This summer, UAE travellers are setting their sights on a wide array of experiences, from exploring the vibrant cityscapes of London and New York to unwinding on the pristine beaches of Krabi and Fujairah, said Melanie Fish, head of Expedia Group Brands public relations. July is poised to be the peak travel month, with the busiest travel days being July 11 and 19, but if youre able to plan your holidays in advance, travelling on August 27 or 30 could bag you the best deal. Whether its a cultural escape to Europe, an adventure in Asia, or a serene staycation within the UAE, bundling flights, hotels, and car rentals on the Expedia app is the best way to maximise savings. From pinpointing optimal flight times to revealing the trendiest destinations, Expedias Summer Travel Outlook equips travellers with essential cost-saving tips for planning the perfect summer trip. Chasing the Big City Charm UAE residents continue to seek the allure of major cities this summer, with London, Istanbul, Paris, Bangkok, and New York topping the list of preferred destinations. London remains the top hotspot in 2024, experiencing a 35% increase in searches compared to last year. The culturally vibrant Athens is also gaining popularity, with searches up by 54%, followed by Rome at 16%. Trending Destinations in Asia and Coastal Islands UAE residents are propelled to discover the wonders of Asia this summer, with destinations like Baku and various cities in Thailand luring visitors. Baku emerges as a rising star with a 70% surge in interest, enticing travellers with its unique blend of Eastern European and Western Asian influences. Bangkok, leading the Thai destinations with a remarkable 67% increase compared to last year, offers a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and modern attractions. Additionally, Thailand's tropical paradises such as Krabi (215%), Pattaya (155%), and Patong (100%) are gaining evident popularity. For picturesque beaches and island escapes, destinations like Marbella, Maldives, Mykonos, Antalya, Bodrum, and the lush-green Bali are positioned as top choices for those seeking coastal, sun-soaked vacations. MENA Region Hotspots Searches show that residents who prefer shorter travel times or are visiting family are opting for Middle East and North Africa hotspots. Doha, in particular, is becoming a prime destination for hosting global sporting events with a remarkable 430% boost from last year. Saudi Arabia is also experiencing a travel boom, driven by key events and the rise of tourism gems like AlUla. Trending destinations in the Kingdom also include Medinah and Makkah, each with a 260% increase year-on-year, primarily due to Haj season. This year, the trendy Beirut summer nights are shifting to the Great Alexandria, with a surge in searches to the latter by 70% compared to last year. Adventure and relaxation seekers alike are headed to Hurghada, with its stunning coral reefs and vibrant marine life, seeing a 115% increase in interest. Domestic Destination Insights Expedia revealed that domestic tourism has nearly doubled across the UAE (grand total 112%), with residents and citizens choosing to explore their own backyard to unwind. Dubai stays are trending this summer with an 85% increase, while Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah are experiencing even higher growth at 110% and 120%, respectively. Fujairah leads the surge with an impressive 151% increase for its immaculate beaches. This trend highlights a growing interest in local tourism and the diverse offerings within the UAE. Best Times to Travel and Affordability Tips For this years Summer holidays, running from 1 June 1 September, Expedia has predicted that July is the most popular month for travel, both domestically and internationally. It is also the most affordable month for domestic travel, with average daily rates (ADR) being approximately AED59 per night cheaper than in June. Conversely, August is the most expensive month for international travel, with ADRs $28 (approximately AED103) per night higher than in September. For those travellers who are flexible on the departure date, Expedia revealed that the quietest days to fly internationally are August 27 and 30, while the busiest dates are July 11 and 19. Planning travel around these dates can help avoid crowds and ensure a smoother travel experience. Summer Travel Hacks Here are the most valuable travel tools from Expedia identifying the best time to book, saving on flight fares and streamlined planning. Set up flight alerts: Find the right time to book and get notified when flight prices drop with Price Tracking. Choose a morning flight: According to Expedias 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report, flights departing after 3 pm are 50% more susceptible to cancellations than their earlier counterparts, proving it pays to be a morning person. Reserve a hotel with flexible policies: Use search filters to look for properties offering free cancellation or reserve now, pay later, and opt for the refundable room. Bundling: With flights + hotels, Expedia offers customisable holiday packages in one place, allowing travellers to save hundreds of dirhams on average. Travellers then also have their itinerary all in one place, making it easier to keep track of their journey, the agency said. - TradeArabia News Service A Saudia aircraft from Riyadh caught fire on landing at Peshawars airport in Pakistan on Thursday. All 276 passengers and 21 crew were safely evacuated and fire services quickly extinguished the fire and prevented a major incident, said media reports. The fire broke out in the landing gear of the Saudi Airlines plane leaving around 10 passengers injured. However, all 276 passengers and 21 crew members were safely evacuated using the inflatable slide, reported Bloomberg citing Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) authorities. Upon landing at Peshawar's Bacha Khan International Airport, air traffic controllers witnessed fire and smoke on the left-hand side of the landing gear, said local media reports. Soon, the controller informed the pilot and rescue teams, after which fire vehicles extinguished the flames. According to Samaa TV, a few passengers with minor injuries were administered first aid. The Saudi carrier, in a statement, to ANI said: "Our flight SV792, bound from Riyadh to Peshawar experienced smoke emanating from one of the tyres during landing at Peshawar International Airport in Pakistan. The aircraft was immediately stopped, and the relevant authorities were notified. All guests and crew were safely evacuated through the evacuation slide. The aircraft, a seven-year-old Airbus A330-300, is now undergoing comprehensive inspections and subsequent tests to ensure its safety, Saudi officials added. ECONOMIST Marla Dukharan has called for an independent and objective assessment of all countries worldwide to determine which ones are truly tax havens. Dukharan stated that this approach would help combat the stigma often associated with the Caribbean region. The mother of the suspect in the double murder of Tara Geeta Ramsaroop and her infant daught AT THE CONTROLS: Public Utilities Minister Marvin Gonzales, seated, digitally operates one of the WASA pumps on the newly-minted digital grid as Planning and Development Minister Pennelope Beckles-Robinson, left, points out the movement on the screen, while Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh and WASA chairman Ravindra Nanga, right, look on during the launch yesterday of WASAs operational control centre (OCS) in St Joseph. Photo: CURTIS CHASE Large power line transformers are visible, left center, while personnel work on a broken power pole along Broadway near the causeway Thursday, July 11, 2024, as crews repair power lines downed as Hurricane Beryl made landfall Monday. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Cellular energy workers wait for flooding to recede after storms move across Houston days after Beryl, Thursday, July 11, 2024. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer Law enforcement officers from across Texas head towards downtown on I-45 to assist the Houston Police Department, a department that is strapped by resources, on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston, TX. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer After four days without electricity from Hurricane Beryl, Ashley and Jose Garza try to cool off while sitting on a hammock on their driveway on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. They have three children and have been keeping cool with an inflatable pool and taking drives around the neighborhood, although the A/C in the car doesnt work. The latest notification from Centerpoint was they would be back online July 14. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer A man walks in a crosswalk as rain fell from a brief thunderstorm downtown on Thursday, July 11, 2024, in Houston, days after Hurricane Beryl. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Utility power line trucks park along Broadway near the causeway Thursday, July 11, 2024, as crews repair power lines downed as Hurricane Beryl made landfall Monday. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Maria Rivera cleans tables in an empty dark and hot dining room Thursday, July 11, 2024 as Los Lazos restaurant has been without power since Sunday in Galveston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer The line of cars waiting for service stretches out of the parking lot and oown the street Thursday, July 11, 2024 at Jack in the Box in Galveston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer A vehicle splashes though high water as a sign warns of salt water on the road ahead Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Galveston Kirk Sides/Staff photographer People watch as Bellaire Blvd floods after storms move across Houston days after Beryl, Thursday, July 11, 2024. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer In town from Oklahoma for a dance competition Thursday, July 11, 2024, Kristi McDonald, center, and her daughters Kamdyn, inside left, and Kynleigh, right, take advantage of an empty beach to take a sand caste building lesson from Emerson Schreiner, left, owner of Sandy Feet Sand Castle Creations in Galveston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer A utility line worker is visible Thursday, July 11, 2024, using a chain saw to clear branches from a power line after a large Chinaberry tree fell from the yard of Wendy Morgan in Galveston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer People watch as Bellaire Blvd floods after storms move across Houston days after Beryl, Thursday, July 11, 2024. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer A man walks through downtown Houston amongst fallen trees caused by Hurricane Beryl making landfall a few days earlier on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, currently serving as Acting Governor, holds up a packet his office presented media detailing conversation timelines and statements by President Joe Biden and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo during a press conference to update recover efforts after Hurricane Beryl at Galleria Tower II, Thursday, July 11, 2024, in Houston. Patrick assumed the role while Greg Abbott is on a work trip in Asia. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Restoring power is the focus point for recovery efforts days after Hurricane Beryl blew through the city, Linemen are seen working on traffic lights in downtown Houston on Thursday, July 11, 2024. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer A toppled over Metro stop is seen in the Houston neighborhood of the East End days after Hurricane Beryl made landfall on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer A pair of skeletons along with a sign that reads waiting on Centerpoint is seen on the front yard of Rex Mackall Jr.s home as his family and neighborhood still remain without power four days after Hurricane Beryl made landfall, Thursday, July 11, 2024, in Spring. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Shepherd Park resident Michael Nagy gasses up his generator on Thursday, July 11, 2024, in Houston, days after Hurricane Beryl. Karen Warren/Staff photographer Cars park to order at Sonic days after Beryl, Thursday, July 11, 2024. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer More than 1 million customers are still without power in dangerous heat three days after Hurricane Beryl rolled through Houston, and frustrations with CenterPoint and public officials are mounting. A total of 1,096,938 customers were still without power as of Thursday at 12:40 p.m., the company's website showed. In an update Wednesday evening, CenterPoint said it expects to have power restored to an additional 400,000 customers by the end of the day on Friday and an additional 350,000 customers restored by the end of the day on Sunday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jason Wells home in Houston lost power for two days thanks to Hurricane Beryl, but the CenterPoint Energy CEO didnt notice it much. Hes been working a lot. Plus, he has a backup generator. Hurricane Beryl knocked 2.26 million CenterPoint customers offline, and with about half of those restored four days later, Wells is in the eye of a storm. Hot and sweaty residents of the Houston area are enraged, officials are asking more and more pointed questions and 12,000 utility crew members are fanned across the region installing new poles and power lines. I think we could do a better job of communicating expectations with our customers and I personally own that, Wells said. In his first media comments since the storm, Wells talked positively about the restoration efforts, acknowledged the company should and will do more to let the public know whats going on and said more investment is planned to harden Houstons defenses from its most common threats of wind and rain. Advertisement Article continues below this ad - Dug Begley Galveston County residents may go another 10 days without power as CenterPoint Energy and others work to restore the grid, the Galveston County Daily News reported. Widespread outages have been reported throughout the Houston area, leaving more than 2.2 million without power in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. The Daily News reported that around 72,000 customers in Galveston were left without power because of the storm. About 38,000 CenterPoint energy customers do not have power in the county. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Power utility crews work in the background Thursday, July 11, 2024 as eighty two year old Gilbert Garza sits on his front porch to stay cool because he has been without power since Monday at his residence of 60 years in Galveston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer About 27,000 customers covered by Texas-New Mexico Power and thousands more under Entergy are still without power, the Daily News reported. CenterPoint Energy was not immediately available for comment. Houston Public Works is monitoring a wastewater spill in the Lawndale neighborhood that resulted from Hurricane Beryl, officials said Thursday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad About 157,750 gallons of domestic wastewater had been spilled in the 6700 block of Lawndale near Brays Bayou as of 11:40 a.m. Thursday, officials said in a news release. Intense, sustained rainfall combined with power outages from Beryl resulted in the spill, they added. Residents who receive drinking water from the City of Houston do not need to boil, according to the news release. However, persons using private drinking water supply wells located within one-half mile of the spill site or within the potentially affected area should use only water that has been distilled or boiled, including for personal uses like drinking, cooking, bathing and tooth brushing. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and other officials have been notified, the city agency said. - Michela Garcia Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hurricane Beryl appears to have spared most Houston-area school districts and colleges from damage, although many have canceled summer school and camps for the entire week as they await power restoration. Multiple school districts and universities reported minimal damage to their campuses, although a few reported water intrusion, downed trees and damaged signage and awnings. Several school districts that have canceled classes, including Houston ISD, did not respond to requests for comment about damages to their schools, so the state of their facilities remains unclear. -Nusaiba Mizan, Megan Menchaca and Samantha Ketterer CenterPoint likened deadly Hurricane Beryl to the infamous windstorm Hurricane Ike during a Public Utilities Commission meeting Thursday, pointing commissioners attention to high winds brought to the populated area on the dirty side of the storm. The PUC, which regulates Texas utility companies, called on CenterPoint and other Houston-area utilities to provide information about their post-Beryl power restoration efforts Thursday during its regularly scheduled meeting. Commissioners appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott asked CenterPoint questions and urged it to talk to your customers. Chairman Thomas Gleeson also urged CenterPoint to work on rebuilding trust in the community. The meeting also covered prolonged outages and new strategies for stronger poles and wires. - Amanda Drane The nonprofit disaster response group CrowdSource Rescue came to the aid of residents without power living at a senior complex in Conroe, with volunteers bringing over ice, food and generators Wednesday night, according to the group's post on X, formerly known as Twitter. The Lancaster Senior Village in southeast Houston was also without power for days before regaining it Wednesday evening. Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd said at a news conference with Acting Governor Dan Patrick on Thursday that the state is not responsible for getting generators to vulnerable residents living in senior complexes without power. "That location is responsible for the health, safety and welfare of the patients and residents that are there," Kidd said. "It is that facility's responsibility." Kidd added that the state is not allowed to be reimbursed by the federal government for aiding private sector entities. Kidd said TDEM owns around 75 generators that have been deployed in the greater Houston-Galveston area to power infrastructure such as traffic intersection signals, hospitals and wastewater treatment plants. He said the agency also contracts out for more generators, which has helped meet the demand for about 135 generators that have been requested. - Jen Rice Sharpstowns Section 1 neighborhood didnt flood during Hurricane Beryl, but some streets filled with water as more rain poured down on the southwest Houston neighborhood Thursday afternoon. Cars stalled at a nearby intersection, and neighbors observed their debris-strewn yards as floodwaters began to slowly recede around 4:30 p.m. Neighbors said the street had flooded even higher than during Hurricane Harvey, Jess Cline, who hadn't moved to the area by then, said. Cline, who lost her oven and stove in a power surge after Beryl, said flooding was not an issue Monday, and her power was restored by Tuesday afternoon. But floodwaters slowly crept into her garage due to Thursday's storm, and she was forced to cancel appointments and tell several successive DoorDash drivers not to complete her order. It just came out of nowhere, Cline said. I think the ground was so saturated it couldnt absorb it. - Claire Partain U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia, D-Houston, said she cannot believe CenterPoint has not done more to bury powerlines over the decades since Hurricane Ike exposed all these same problems back in 2008. Were going through the same thing over and over again, said Garcia, whose Houston home was out of power for three days. Whether it was Ike or Harvey or Tropical Storm Allison, its always the same excuses. She said over the last 15 years they should have been doing more to make sure critical facilities like schools, clinics, hospitals and fire stations can keep the lights on and the air conditioning flowing when a hurricane hits. They need to have a plan instead of just excuse after excuse, Garcia said. Utility line trucks line up off Stewart Road Thursday, July 11, 2024, in western Galveston as crews work to restore power to residents that was lost as Hurricane Beryl made landfall Monday. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Its why Garcia said she sent a letter to CenterPoint leaders demanding answers for this weeks failures and is promising Congress will provide oversight of the Texas Public Utilities Commission as they investigate the issues themselves. She said she has not ruled out pushing the House to hold hearings on the issues to force CenterPoint to testify about the problems. Im mad as hell at CenterPoint, she said, noting that there are clinics on the East End that still didnt have power on Thursday, forcing people to go to emergency rooms for care and putting more strain on the health care system. She said if they can give their CEO millions in pay, they can surely find the money to create a plan to better protect the lines in one of the biggest cities in America. Its like they dont care, she said. - Jeremy Wallace The Emancipation Economic Development Office in the Third Ward will open Friday to provide WiFi, air conditioning and electricity to those who need it. Anyone looking to recharge can visit the office from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 4212 Emancipation Avenue Ste. 2. - Shakari Briggs On Friday, Mt. Hebron Missionary Baptist Church will welcome visitors looking to stay cool in the heat at the J.J. Roberson Family Life Center. The cooling center, located at 4810 Redbud Street, will remain open from July 12 to July 19 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Shakari Briggs The Rockets and Toyota Center, along with local partners, will hold a drive-thru food and water distribution 9 a.m. Friday outside the arena. Volunteers from the Rockets, Toyota Center and various partners will hand out boxed lunches, water, fruit, snacks and other hurricane relief items, including charging devices. The distribution is being done in partnership with Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, American Red Cross Texas Gulf Coast Region, Pepsi, Reliant Energy, Second Servings of Houston and Cotton Global Disaster Solutions. Supplies are limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. - Greg Rajan Utility line personnel install insulators as they prepare to raise a new power pole along Stewart Road in western Galveston Thursday, July 11, 2024 to restore power to residents that was lost as Hurricane Beryl made landfall Monday. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer As a result of the damage caused by the storm, the Texas A&M Forest Service has temporarily closed the W.G. Jones State Forest off FM 1488 near Interstate 45 to the public until more efforts can be dedicated to damage assessment and cleanup of the forest. Community trees were among the most heavily impacted by the storm. These trees experienced occasional whole-tree failure exacerbated by saturated soil, small branch shedding and major limb breakage. Texas A&M Forest Service Biologist Donna Work assessed the federally endangered red-cockaded woodpecker habitat on the state forest and has determined that it was not significantly impacted. Local red-cockaded woodpeckers still have plenty of foraging habitat available, and all active cavity trees surveyed are unharmed. - Catherine Dominguez On Thursday, 100 officers arrived in Houston from jurisdictions across the state. The officers will assist HPD and other area agencies with general law enforcement duties as the city continues to recover from Hurricane Beryl. In a news conference, Mayor John Whitmire, along with acting Police Chief Satterwhite and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, said the reinforcements were dispatched to head off any potential spike in crime that may occur as a result of Hurricane Beryl. The 100 officers hail from over a dozen jurisdictions, from Dallas to San Antonio, and will be using their departments vehicles. The out-of-city officers will, however, be accompanied by at least one other officer from HPD. We wouldnt be having this discussion if we had electricity, Whitmire said, citing the 2.3 million residents who lost power after the storm. - Matt deGrood, John Lomax "Witness, a controversial 18-foot-tall statue honoring women, was beheaded Monday morning at the University of Houston during Hurricane Beryl, according to The New York Times. Kevin Quinn, executive director of media relations for the university, told the Times that the school believed the damage to the statue was intentional, and campus police were investigating the incident. The golden sculpture by Pakistani-American artist Shahzia Sikander depicts a woman with root-like arms and legs, horn-like braids and a large hoop skirt frame with mosaic patterns. The cause of the vandalism is unclear, but some groups have previously criticized the statue for satanic ram-like horns and being inspired by abortion rights activists. As an artist, as a woman, I personally feel harmed, Sikander said in a statement to the Chronicle. It is an intentional, violent and misogynistic act that should be investigated as a crime, and I urge the University of Houston to release the footage of the perpetrator. - Megan Menchaca Hurricane Beryl left widespread health concerns in its wake, with patients flocking to Houston emergency rooms with carbon monoxide poisoning, heat-related illnesses and other issues. "The ERs are just jam packed," said Dr. David Persse, Houston's chief medical officer. The storm on Monday knocked out power for more than 2 million residents, 1 million of whom still do not have power as of Thursday. As many Houstonians resort to portable generators, carbon monoxide poisoning has emerged as one of the most pressing concerns. "Were certainly seeing tons of carbon monoxide poisoning (patients)," said Dr. Hilary Fairbrother, associate professor at UTHealth Houston and an emergency room physician at Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital. "Whole families. Kids. Pregnant women. Elderly people. All because of misuse of a generator." - Julian Gill, Evan MacDonald Flooding is seen surrounding a restaurant in the Houston neighborhood of the East End days after Hurricane Beryl made landfall on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Generators are top of mind for Houston city officials as they continue responding to the damage left by Hurricane Beryl and think ahead to future storms, with many of the citys critical facilities operating at the whims of the power grid, just like homes. Nine fire stations were out of commission Monday due to power loss, lacking generators to provide back-up. All but one of the citys multi-service centers, which act as cooling centers during power outages, also lack generators. And even the George R. Brown Convention Center, which often acts as the citys haven during a disaster response, does not have back-up power, Mayor John Whitmire said. The lack of electricity at those facilities meant valuable fire crews were unavailable for part of the storm and had to relocate, and it delayed the citys ability to open cooling centers to the public. Visitors in town for a convention were trapped in their rooms, Whitmire said. All but two fire stations were back online as of Wednesday, and the city has opened cooling and water distribution sites at several service centers after they regained power Tuesday and Wednesday. The lack of generation at fire stations, Houston Mayor John Whitmire said, came as a shock. I get really, really upset when I learn the city of Houston does not have generators at essential services like the fire stations, Whitmire said. Great cities should not operate like that. Its neglect. Its severe neglect. - Dylan McGuinness Houston rapper and restaurateur Bun B has teamed up with The Church at Bethel's Family to give away 500 Trill Burgers. The event began Thursday at 2 p.m. and will continue until they run out. It will take place at 12660 Sandpiper Drive. - Shakari Briggs The Astros Foundation and Cheniere Energy will give away free water, ice, food and hurricane relief items from 8 to 11 a.m. Friday at Minute Maid Park in front of Union Station. While supplies last, those who come to the event will get a 16-pound bag of ice, a case of water from Coca-Cola Southwest, Chick-Fil-A entrees, fruit from the Houston Food Bank and hurricane relief items from the American Red Cross. - Reid Laymance Pure Mutts Animal Sanctuary owner Priyanka Johri is typically the one helping others, so she feels lost now that she needs help. Johri has run the nonprofit Pure Mutts since 2007 on two acres in an unincorporated area of south Montgomery County near College Park. Following the worst of Hurricane Beryls winds Monday, she stepped out of her home on the property and was shocked to find many fallen trees and toppled fences where she runs Pure Mutts. I was not expecting this much damage, she said. Its two acres of disaster. Instead of paradise, it feels like two acres of war zone where mother nature won the war." She has started a GoFundMe page to help with the sanctuary's recovery. By Thursday mid-day $3,400 of her $25,000 goal had been raised. Johri has 32 dogs on the property, which has held up to 45 dogs. None of the dogs were injured in the storm, but they are currently contained to her house or a small enclosed area due to fallen fences on other parts of her property as she tries to figure out the next steps for the nonprofit's recovery. - Sondra Hernandez Restoring power is the focus point for recovery efforts days after Hurricane Beryl blew through the city, Linemen are seen working on traffic lights in downtown Houston on Thursday, July 11, 2024. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Xfinity said early Thursday afternoon nearly half of its service interruptions were restored. The company said it deployed 700 technicians across the Houston area. Power outages account for most internet service interruptions, but we know there is damage to telecommunication lines, which crews are actively fixing right now, according to a company statement. At its peak, approximately 975,000 residential and business customers experienced storm-related service loss. Most service interruptions were due to power outages, the company said Wednesday. - Nusaiba Mizan Some Houston-area churches and restaurants are continuing to provide free meals and supplies to residents struggling in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. For the fourth day in a row, Leighton's House of Lamb & Ramen in Third Ward will provide free meals to families without power. The event started at 2 p.m. Thursday until supplies last.The restaurant's owners say they're also taking donations for baby food, water and variety packs of chips. Visit 4405 Emancipation Ave. to drop off donations or grab a free meal. Killens BBQ, for the third day in a row, is distributing free brisket sandwiches at its locations in Pearland, the Woodlands, Cypress and the Heights. The distribution began at 2 p.m. and will go until supplies run out. In southwest Houston, Higher Dimension Church has also opened its doors to the public as a cooling center. Residents can use the facility to charge their devices from noon until 8 p.m. Thursday. Volunteers will begin distributing free meals at 7 p.m. "We know there are so many people still without power, so please share the invitation and tell your neighbors," church leaders wrote on Instagram. - Shakari Briggs Houston ISD and the Houston Food Bank will hold a food and supply distribution at the Brock Sunrise Center Friday at 9 a.m. The organizations will provide free food and cleaning supplies for 500 families to pick up at the center at 1417 Houston Ave., according to the district. - Megan Menchaca Most Texas-New Mexico Power customers can expect to have power by Sunday, said Sara Yingling, a spokesperson for the company. This comes after 40,000 customers woke up Thursday morning still without power. The company serves areas throughout Texas, including Gulf Coast cities such as Alvin, Angleton, Brazoria, Dickinson, Friendswood, La Marque, League City, Sweeny, Texas City and West Columbia. One of the setbacks the company has faced while trying to restore power is debris such as trees that have fallen onto equipment. By the end of the day, the company plans to have nearly 500 vegetation management individuals working to clear the trees and debris from our line so crews can get out there and fix whatever the issue is, Yingling said. Areas hit the hardest by Hurricane Beryl in counties such as Brazoria and Galveston may take a little longer to restore power, she said. Dickinson is one of the places that we think may not be on until potentially next week, Yingling said. - Michael Garcia Galveston resident and business owner Wendy Morgan gesters Thursday, July 11, 2024, as she describes how a large Chinaberry fell from her yard and knocked out power to her neighbors in Galveston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Thursday marked the fourth day some Texans remained without power due to outages caused by Hurricane Beryl, leading city and statewide leaders to express frustrations with CenterPoint Energy. By Wednesday evening, the utility company had met its goal of restoring power to 1 million customers, with over a million more to go. The executive leadership at CenterPoint has failed the Houston area customers they serve, City of Pearland Mayor Kevin Cole wrote on Facebook. Im calling on our state reps and state senators to push the governor to call a special session to hold Jason Wells, CEO, accountable for his disastrous decisions. - Shakari Briggs If CenterPoint meets targets it set Wednesday to have 750,000 customers back online by the end of Sunday, that could still leave up to 500,000 customers in the dark next week. The company expects 400,000 more customers to be restored by the end of Friday, followed by 350,000 by Sunday. Crews took until Wednesday to complete damage assessments of the electrical system, inspecting lines and verifying the damage to poles and wires. With those details in hand, the company can now give customers a much better idea of when their power could come back, said Darin Carroll, the utility's senior vice president of operations. Beryl, which barreled in the area with heavy rains and 90 mph wind gusts in some locations, caused mostly damage to CenterPoint's distribution system and not the core components of the power system. "This was a heavy vegetation-related storm," Carroll said, noting that many of the downed lines were snagged by falling limbs and trees. Outside CenterPoint's area, about 200,000 Texans remain without power from Beryl, as it marched north through east Texas after striking the Gulf Coast. - Dug Begley A drone buzzed over townhomes as roofer and contractor Ryan Fenwick assessed damage in the East Cottage Grove neighborhood near the Heights Wednesday evening. Drone inspections are becoming more common in the roofing business, especially for several-story townhomes and buildings, Fenwick said. Fenwick, who owns Rooftop Solutions in Spring, has been booked from Katy to Houston in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. Fenwick said roofing companies can offer advice on insurance before filing a claim. Some of them look like they need whole new roofs, but most of themjust have a few missing shingles, Fenwick said. You're going to raise your rates, just pay somebody a few hundred bucks to fix it. - Claire Partain Though the University of Houston will remain closed for the remainder of the week, the university's student center is open as a cooling center. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, giving people a chance to escape the heat. Visitors will have access to water bottle filling stations and bottled water, with limited food service for purchase at on-site restaurants including the Market, Starbucks and Chick-fil-A. - Shakari Briggs With each passing day since Hurricane Beryl, operations at George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport continue to normalize. Some traffic lights were still out around Hobby and Bush airports Thursday morning but fewer than there were Wednesday, according to the Houston Airports System. Additionally, the agency reported that more employees were returning to work at the airports, reducing traveler wait times at both Hobby and Bush. As of Thursday morning, TSA checkpoints at both airports were processing passengers in less than 30 minutes, and the airport system is now turning its attention to supporting its 1,200 employees. On-duty airport staff will have free meals available and use of both airports' kitchens and showers. - Sondra Hernandez Over 1 million CenterPoint Energy customers in Houston are still without power three days after Hurricane Beryl made landfall. The company has a spotty performance record when it comes to protecting its customers from prolonged outages but is promising big improvements with its $2 billion resiliency plan. - Eric Dexheimer Life is more important than possessions, longtime Dickinson resident Leticia Alvarado reminds herself before leaving town for each hurricane. But it doesn't make the financial burden any easier. Hurricane Beryl is expected to be the cause of at least $28 billion in damages and economic losses nationwide, according to a Tuesday estimate from private weather forecasting company AccuWeather. As Beryl's floodwaters drained into the Gulf Coast, so did residents' bank accounts as they rebuilt fences, patched roofs and headed back to work. Residents shouldered thousands in costs, from hotel rooms to tree removal and heightened insurance costs after the hurricane. Many newer residents, including Conroe move-in Heather Halbert, planned to buy more hurricane supplies while still in the dark. I didnt even know it was thousands of dollars extra just for a hurricane, Halbert said. Just thinking about this upcoming hurricane season is stressful financially. - Claire Partain In an effort to assist residents affected by Hurricane Beryl, Verizon announced it would waive postpaid domestic call, text and data usage from July 8 to July 17. "This will bring relief to the thousands of customers who are relying on their mobile devices more than ever, especially during this challenging time," officials said in a statement. The waiver applies to all postpaid consumer and small business customers in the following Texas counties: Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Polk, Trinity, Waller, and Walton. Customers do not have to take any action to take advantage of the offer. Additionally, any overages for those whose billing cycles have already closed will get automatically credited back. - Shakari Briggs In a Wednesday letter to CenterPoint, U.S. Rep Sylvia Garcia asked the company about its power restoration response, including preparations ahead of Beryl and the time and date crews were first dispatched. With scorching temperatures in the area, CenterPoints inability to restore power more quickly is creating a public health crisis forcing people to recover from a Hurricane while they survive extreme heat, Garcia, who represents much of the East End and Northside, wrote. She also called it ridiculous that Houstonians seeking information had to resort to Whataburgers service map to pinpoint which areas had power. Additionally, the outage map that was released in response to Hurricane Beryl on the afternoon of July 9th serves as no adequate substitute, as it displays information that has been proven to be wrong, Garcia said. Numerous constituents have expressed that even though the new outage map displayed a return of electricity to their area, their homes have no electricity. She inquired about the accuracy of CenterPoints outage map, its efforts to improve reliability, and preparation for the potential of a stronger hurricane. Garcias questions join other lawmakers calls for answers. Gov. Greg Abbott, currently on an economic development trip in Asia, directed the Public Utilities Commission to study why the region has not been able to access electricity on multiple occasions. - Nusaiba Mizan Several Houston-area school districts, including Houston ISD, will remain closed through Friday due to sustained power outages or damage caused by Hurricane Beryl. While Alief, Clear Creek, Hempstead and a few other local ISDs have re-opened, the majority of districts have not announced when theyll resume summer classes or normal operations. Most Houston colleges and universities, such as Rice University and Prairie View A&M University, have re-opened since the storm, although the University of Houston remains closed through Friday. - Megan Menchaca About 40,000 Texas-New Mexico Power customers remain without power after Hurricane Beryl touched down in the Houston area on Monday. This is a decrease to yesterdays report of nearly 65,000 who had power outages. Overall, the company has restored 75% of customers power, according to a social media post. One of the setbacks for the company is the amount of debris such as trees that have fallen on powerlines, leaving linemen having to wait until vegetation management crews are able to clear the area so they can work, said Sara Yingling, a spokesperson for the company. Dickenson, as an example, is one of the areas the company serves that was hit the hardest, Yingling said. Because of the amount of trees there, its really going to probably take a significant amount of time (for power) to be restored, she said. In addition to the 260 vegetation management crews we already had working, weve called 150 more crewsthats really the bring of the work. Its getting all the trees and debris off of our lines, so our linemen can do the work. An electrical worker inspects a power line after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Conroe. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer While the companys outage map was having some issues, Yingling said the company is looking to resolve those issues so that they can provide more accurate times for when power will be restored. Our contractors are working diligently, but they must report restorations manually due to limited access to our internal systems, the companys social media post states. Additionally, external carrier issues at our Alvin Distribution Operations Center are causing delays in the map updating. We are restoring power faster than we can update the map manually. As of 10 a.m., Yingling did not provide a specific time for when power would be restored to all customers. On Wednesday, Yingling said zero phone signal was also an issue for being able to restore power quickly, as many customers and workers were unable to communicate. She asked all customers to avoid approaching linemen and vegetation crews while they work to restore power. Its a very dangerous job, Yingling said. They need their full attention directed to that. And they do not need people approaching their truck or yelling from their car. They dont have answers. And they need their full attention directed at their job. - Michael Garcia On Tuesday morning, the day after Hurricane Beryl blew through Houston, I awoke to the horrid realization that I had about a teaspoonful of gas left in my car. My neighbor, cleaning up Beryl detritus in his yard, told me to go to the Valero on Canal Street. No lines, he said, and they have those great tacos. But once I pulled out of my driveway, I realized I had much less gas left than I thought. Id never make it to Canal. Still, the Circle K Valero I had seen open as I whizzed by on the Gulf Freeway the night before seemed doable. It had been the sole bright oasis amid a pitch-black landscape. It was only about a mile from my house. At exactly five minutes to noon, I pulled in at the end, about a thousand feet down the queue, at the corner of Broadmoor and the feeder. This isnt so bad, I told myself. Ill be patient. At least they have gas. My first clue that my optimism was misplaced came when I began timing how long it took the car in front of me to pull up a space. Four minutesno, fiveargh, seven, are you serious? At last, as 3 p.m. approached, I pulled close enough to see the gas-station driveway and cars turning into it. I saw the price posted: $3.69 per gallon or roughly a buck higher than it had been in this part of the east end a week ago. I didnt care. Go ahead and gouge me, I thought. Ill pay anything to get free of this line. - Alison Cook The next pair of shows are still a go at the Woodlands Pavilion, even as the city continues to deal with the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. The Cage the Elephant show scheduled for July 12 "is still planned to proceed as scheduled," according to a venue rep. The following night, June 13, New Kids on the Block bring their Magic Summer Tour to the outdoor stage. The lineup also includes Paula Abdul and DJ Jazz Jeff. - Joey Guerra Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough is pushing for answers Thursday on the progress of Entergy and CenterPoint power restoration as around 147,000 customers in the county start day four with no power after Hurricane Beryl hit the Houston area Monday. In a post on social media late Wednesday, Keough said officials with Entergy, Sam Houston Electrical Coop and Mid South have been working to get power back but Centerpoint has been less prepared. Entergy has been quick to answer questions and give updates, Keough posted to Facebook. After some wrangling I finally made contact with CenterPoint. They seem to have not been as prepared to respond as others and are just finishing assessments of the damages. While they have made some progress on restoration, I have conveyed to them that this progress is neither fast enough nor satisfactory. Keough said at my insistence a Centerpoint representative will work in the countys Emergency Operations Center and to be on hand to provide real time updates starting Thursday. However, full restoration for all companies could still be days away. According to Entergys website, over 72,000 customers are still without power. As of late Wednesday, CenterPoint was reporting over 75,000 customers without power. - Catherine Dominguez Disney's "The Lion King" musical's opening matinee performance at 1 p.m. July 11 has been rescheduled to a newly-added matinee at 1 p.m. July 25. If you purchased tickets through Broadway at The Hobby Center, you will automatically be moved to the new performance. You can also exchange the tickets for another performance or request a refund. - Joey Guerra CenterPoint Energy said Thursday morning it will have estimated restoration times for the more than 1 million customers still powerless by noon Thursday, posted on the company's website. Having substantially completed our damage assessment and restoration of customers impacted by circuit related outages, our crews are now focusing on repairing more localized damage, including in the hardest-hit areas," said Lynnae Wilson, a senior vice president with CenterPoint, in a statement."We know that our customers are counting on us." The company expects 400,000 more customers to be restored between now and the end of Thursday, followed by 350,000 by Sunday. If those targets are met, that still leaves about 500,000 of the 2.26 million knocked offline by Hurricane Beryl without power, one week after the storm passed. - Dug Begley Chris Weiss helps repair a neighbors generator after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Kingwood. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer The Texas Department of Insurance says some people may be able to get up to $500 in insurance for spoiled food during a power outage. The department says some homeowner and renters policies pay up to that amount under certain circumstances. However, not all policies have it. It is recommended that people take photos and make a list of items that go bad as well as reach out to your agent. - Peter Warren Public Works crews will resume their normal schedule Thursday for garbage, heavy tree waste and storm debris collection. - Shakari Briggs Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, currently serving as Acting Governor while Greg Abbott is on a work trip in Asia, and Texas Division of Emergency Managerment Chief Nim Kidd are holding a press conference Thursday at 11 a.m. It will be the third press conference for the politician in last 24 hours or so. Patrick also held two press conferences Wednesday in two different areas of the city. - Peter Warren Dozens of cooling centers will open again Thursday around the region, including Houston Public Libraries, Montgomery County Libraries, YMCAs and area churches. Houston libraries will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with Montgomery County libraries open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Times for other locations vary. For a complete list of cooling centers and water and food distribution centers, visit www.houstonoem.org/pages/response - Catherine Dominguez Conroe Connection Transit is waiving fares on all fixed route schedules until further notice. In the aftermath of the recent storm, transportation remains crucial for people needing to commute to work, shop for groceries, seek medical care, and check on loved ones. Fixed inner-city routes run Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Click the link to view all public routes and schedules or call 844-299-6242 if you have questions. - Catherine Dominguez Cypress-Fairbanks ISD summer school and student activities are canceled Thursday as campuses remain closed due to ongoing power outages, a district statement said. "We look forward to resuming all summer school and student programs on Monday," the statement said. "Additional changes will be communicated through the program sponsors. Thank you so much for your continued patience during this challenging time." - Caroline Wilburn Several Montgomery County libraries have had power restored and will open as cooling centers from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. These centers are for cooling only and will not have food supplies on hand. Conroe Central Library:104 I-45 North, Conroe, Texas 77301 West Branch Library: 202 Bessie Price Owen Dr., Montgomery, Texas 77356 South County Branch: 2101 Lake Robbins Dr., The Woodlands, Texas 77380 R.B Tullis Branch: 21569 US-59, New Caney, Texas 77357 - Catherine Dominguez Metropolitan Transit Authority service in Harris County will continue with modified services Thursday due to power outages and hurricane recovery work, transit officials said. METROLift, curb2curb and most local bus routes have resumed normal service hours. As METRORail lines continue to be down to power outages, bus shuttles will run along all three lines. The I-45 (North Freeway) and Hwy. 290 (Northwest Freeway) HOV/HOT lanes will be open during normal operating hours Thursday, but the following lanes will remain closed: I-45 (Gulf Freeway) I-69/U.S. Hwy. 59 North (Eastex Freeway) I-69/ U.S. Hwy. 59 South (Southwest Freeway) - Caroline Wilburn An electrical worker with PAR Electrical Contractors repairs a power line after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Kingwood. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer The Harris County District Clerk's Office said jury service will resume Thursday as several County Offices and Departments will reopen with restored power. The downtown Harris County Clerk's Office location will reopen Thursday, but the Humble, Cypresswood, Wallisville and South Belt Annexes will remain closed. Services have resumed at Harris County Pets and clinics and the Domestic Relations Office at 1310 Prairie St. will also reopen Thursday. - Caroline Wilburn As power is restored across the Houston area, Harris Health said it is opening several more facilities Thursday. Facilities opening at 10 a.m. Thursday: Acres Home Health Center Aldine Health Center El Franco Lee Health Center Sareen Same Day Clinic Strawberry Health Center Facilities operating at normal hours Thursday: Ambulatory Surgical Center at LBJ Hospital Ben Taub Tower Casa de Amigos Health Center Danny Jackson Health Center Dialysis Center at Quentin Mease Health Center Margo Hilliard-Alford Same Day Clinic Outpatient Center at LBJ Hospital Sunset Heights Same Day Clinic Facilities remaining closed: Baytown Health Center Cypress Health Center Endoscopy Center at Quentin Mease Health Center Gulfgate Health Center Harris Health Dental Center Martin Luther King Jr. Health Center Monroe Same Day Clinic Northwest Health Center Pediatric and Adolescent C.E. Odom Health Center Pediatric and Adolescent Pasadena Health Center Rehabilitation Services at Fournace Place Settegast Health Center Smith Clinic Squatty Lyons Health Center Thomas Street at Quentin Mease Health Center Vallbona Health Center - Caroline Wilburn With many across the Houston area still without power Thursday, three days after Hurricane Beryls arrival in Texas, recovery efforts will continue through the end of the week and likely into the weekend. Unfortunately, a stalled front may result in a slower recovery response as storm chances increase. If youre south of Houston, rain likely fell on you Wednesday, thanks to a combination of a nearby stalled boundary of a front and diurnal storms taking advantage of daytime heating. More of us may experience a cooling downpour into Thursday. Rain chances between 40% and 60% are expected through Friday. North of Houston, those chances may be a tad lower. South of Houston, because of the proximity of the sea breeze, daily rain chances may be a bit higher. Rainfall amounts should remain low, but any prolonged showers could slow down utility crews trying to restore power. Storms that do bubble up during daytime heating should move on after 30 minutes to an hour, which will keep delayed power crews from getting too far behind. Daytime temperatures through the weekend should stay close to average, though the National Weather Service will extend the heat advisories warning of the high risk of heat-related illnesses because so many people will still be without power. Daily highs of between 91 and 94 degrees are expected, with afternoon heat index values between 100 and 105. 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. PHOENIX Advocates of a constitutional right to abortion are asking a judge to override how Republican lawmakers are describing their ballot initiative to voters. A lawsuit filed Wednesday charges that the GOP-dominated Legislative Council is violating state law by using the phrase "unborn human being'' in its summary of the measure, which will be in Arizona's official election pamphlet sent to voters. It should instead use the word "fetus," the term that is medically correct, Arizona for Abortion Access is telling a Maricopa County Superior Court judge. The group's attorney, Andrew Gaona, said Republican lawmakers are deliberately using the other phrase because it is politically charged, designed by abortion foes to stir up opposition to the procedure as well as to the measure on the November ballot. It is not a medically accurate phrase, the group said. "They are putting their thumb on the electoral scale to help advocate against this measure,'' he said. But House Speaker Ben Toma told Capitol Media Services he doesn't think the legal challenge to the wording will succeed. "I am confident the court will agree that when we talk about abortion we are unmistakably talking about unborn children,'' said the Peoria Republican. He called the lawsuit "frivolous.'' The issue surrounds what voters will be told by the state about the initiative. The initiative seeks to put a provision in the state constitution guaranteeing the right to terminate a pregnancy for any reason prior to fetal viability, generally considered between 22 and 24 weeks. If approved in November, it also would permit abortions beyond that to protect a woman's life as well as physical or mental heath. Backers submitted more than 823,000 signatures to put the issue to voters, a figure that translates out to more than one out of every five registered voters. The petitions are now being reviewed by election officials to ensure that at least 383,923 are valid. A state law requires the Legislative Council, composed of state lawmakers, to write "an impartial analysis of the provision of each ballot proposal.'' That summary of each measure is then put into a pamphlet that is mailed to the homes of the more than 4 million registered voters. Arizona for Abortion Access and Gaona are asking a judge to rule that the phrase "unborn human being'' violates that law. Toma pointed out that language already exists in the current state law that allows abortions through 15 weeks of pregnancy. That is the statute initiative supporters hope to convince voters to override with the constitutional amendment. But Gaona said that doesn't undermine his claim that the wording violates what the law mandates for ballot explanations. "It does not matter what the statute actually says, the term it uses,'' he said of the current law. "Legislators can pick whatever language they want when they use terms like that'' in writing laws. That linguistic freedom does not, however, extend to lawmakers when they are fulfilling their legal duty to prepare "impartial'' explanations of all the measures on the ballot, both those they favor and put there, and those placed there by citizen groups they may oppose, Gaona said. He also pointed out there are other statutes that do use the word "fetus,'' showing there is a recognition of the validity of that term in Arizona law, he said. Similar statements were made Monday by attorneys for the initiative effort when the Legislative Council was adopting the ballot explanations. But those arguments were rejected by all GOP lawmakers who make up the majority of the panel. Toma, for example, suggested at the time that the use of the word "fetus'' would be political. "I think that you would grant that for many of us, we do in fact consider it an unborn human being,'' Toma said. He suggested that the fact the description uses both terms could be considered a compromise something he said could be considered "splitting the baby,'' at least in the concept of the wisdom of Solomon. "So its kind of using it both ways, because for us it's not just a fetus, for us" it is "at least a potential human being, if not an actual human being,'' Toma said. He said both terms could be considered "charged depending on what side you're on.'' "I'm not a doctor,'' he said. "I don't care what the medically accurate term is.'' There also was a comment by Senate Majority Leader Sonny Borrelli, R-Lake Havasu City, who during the discussion Monday asked Austin Yost, another attorney for initiative supporters, "An unborn horse, is that a fetus or is it an unborn horse?'' And House Majority Whip Theresa Martinez, R-Casa Grande, said the term "fetus'' is "an insult to an unborn baby.'' Gaona, in the lawsuit, said leaving the offending word in there would undermine the efforts of initiative supporters to get the measure approved in November. He said rules adopted by the Legislature have "already made it prohibitively expensive and exceedingly difficult to qualify a ballot initiative and ensure its passage.''' "Proponents like the (Arizona for Abortion Access) Committee should not also have to deal with the incalculable effects associated with the (Legislative) Council trying to influence the outcome through improper advocacy,'' Gaona wrote. No date has been set for a hearing. But Aaron Thacker, spokesman for the Secretary of State's Office, said the pamphlet has to go to the printer by Aug. 29. That means the case along with the anticipated appeals by whichever side loses in Superior Court needs to be resolved by then. PHOENIX Two groups with ties to Republican interests are charging that new election rules adopted by the Democratic secretary of state interfere with free speech and could disenfranchise many Arizona voters. The lawsuit filed in federal court here by American Encore and the America First Policy Institute claims what Adrian Fontes put into the Elections Procedures Manual about harassment of voters and election officials is so broad and nebulous that it could criminalize otherwise legal conduct. And that could lead to four months in jail and a $750 fine. Former Supreme Court Justice Andrew Gould, representing the two groups, said the manual allows election results to be certified even if one or more counties refuses to first do its own certification. This is more than an academic question. In 2022 Cochise County supervisors balked at doing the canvass, with the two Republicans on the three-member board saying they had questions. It took a court order to get the canvass done. But Gould said rather than requiring the secretary of state to force the issue as happened in 2022 the manual says he can simply finalize the results and declare winners. He said that means the votes of everyone in a county that didnt certify, for every office up and down the ballot, simply do not count. The groups want U.S. District Judge Michael Liburdi to block Fontes from enforcing it. A spokesman for Fontes said he has no comment. Insulting or offensive speech The Elections Procedures Manual is required by state law. It is designed to provide more specific instructions and guidance than the Elections Code, a set of statutes, adopted by the Legislature. It is crafted by the secretary of state but also must be approved by the governor and the attorney general. Gould is charging, at least in part, that what Fontes put into the manual goes beyond what is allowed under state law. He takes specific aim at a provision that prohibits any activity by a person with the intent or effect of threatening, harassing, intimidating or coercing voters. Gould acknowledges that the state Elections Code makes it a crime to use force or violence, threatening to inflict injury, intimidation or fraud against voters. But he said the rules Fontes adopted in the manual lack any requirement that these actions be related to voting. The lawsuit says the provision is a violation of First Amendment rights. For example, Gould says the manual lists various things that may be considered intimidating conduct inside or outside a polling place, including aggressive behavior such as raising ones voice or taunting a poll worker. Also potentially criminal would be using insulting or offensive language to a voter or poll workers. So, too, would be posting signs or communicating messages about penalties for voter fraud in a harassing or intimidating manner. Gould says any ban on insulting or offensive speech is an unlawful content and viewpoint-based restriction and violates First Amendment rights. Giving offense is a viewpoint, wrote Gould, who was an unsuccessful Republican 2022 candidate for attorney general. The provision is also illegal, he argues, because open-ended terms like insulting or offensive language do not provide sufficient guidance to inform members of the public what is permitted and what would result in criminal penalties. For example, would wearing a MAGA hat, an All Lives Matter button or an I Support the Second Amendment T-shirt constitute offensive speech or be considered harassing to a voter that sees them? Gould asked. Laws can be voided as illegally vague if they fail to tell a reasonable person what is and is not illegal. The lawsuit claims the restriction is nearly unrestrained in its application. There is no temporal limitation: It applies equally on Election Day and all other days of the year, Gould wrote. He said it also lacks any geographic limits. It applies both inside and outside the 75-foot limit of electioneering activity at voting locations, Gould said, saying that translates to every square inch of territory within Arizonas borders. Disenfranchisement The provision on election certification, Gould said, create a different and he says avoidable problem. It says that if the official county canvass has not been received by the deadline the secretary of state must proceed with the state canvass without including the votes of the missing county. That, said Gould, means the votes of the residents do not matter and will not be part of the computation of who wins and loses. It does so even where the voters in the county are entirely faultless and have complied with all requirements for exercising their constitutional right to vote, he said, such as voting before the polls close, presenting identification for in-person voting, or signing a mail-in ballot. This disenfranchisement extends to every single vote cast by the voters from presidential elections all the way down to whether to retain a justice of the peace, Gould wrote. It was only because a judge ordered the Cochise supervisors to comply and certify the 2022 vote that the situation was avoided at that time. But fallout remains, including the indictment of Republican Supervisors Tom Crosby and Peggy Judd on charges of conspiring to delay the election results and illegally interfering with an election official. A trial is set for next month but may be delayed. The state has an interest in orderly election procedures and producing timely results, Gould acknowledged. But he told Liburdi there are better and more narrowly tailored ways to deal with it. For example, he said the manual could simply require the secretary of state to go to court and ask a judge whether the missing uncertified results should be included in the statewide totals. Or, Gould said, it could direct the secretary to appoint an auditor to determine the correct results. No date has been set for a hearing. The groups backgrounds American Encore is an Arizona-based group run by Sean Noble that bills itself as promoting free enterprise policies. It also has funneled money into political campaigns in Arizona, including helping Republican Doug Ducey win his first gubernatorial race in 2014. It also was fined by the Federal Elections Commission for concealing the source of funds used in campaigns in other states. America First Policy Institute was formed in 2021 by allies of Donald Trump to support a free market and Trump policies. Jimmie Tramel Tulsa World Scene Writer Follow Jimmie Tramel 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 Tokyo, OK, an established pop culture convention formerly known as Tokyo in Tulsa, is trying something new and old in 2024. New: Location. The 16th annual convention will be in south Tulsa. Tokyo, OK will be staged Friday, July 12, through Sunday, July 14, at the Marriott Tulsa Hotel Southern Hills, 1902 E. 71st St. If you see legions of costumed characters in the vicinity, thats why. Old: Everythings in pretty much the same spot. Again. In years since uprooting from Cox Business Convention Center, the convention moved to Broken Arrow and back to downtown Tulsa. Shuttles were needed to transport guests to multiple venues hosting con-related activities in Broken Arrow and downtown Tulsa. The new home should prove more convenient. The Marriott Tulsa Southern Hills was a perfect fit for Tokyo, OK, said Heather Ball, head of public relations operations. The best part of the location would be having the hotel rooms in the same building as the event. The Ruffin Event Center entrance is a short walk from the hotel entrance. It beats having the multiple locations, buses and the Oklahoma summer heat. Our attendees have been asking for an all-in-one location for some time and we tried to make that work last year, but we still didnt feel like it was the right fit for our event. The Marriott Tulsa Southern Hills manages the Ruffin Event Center, located north of the hotel on 71st Street. Ball said Tokyo, OK hopes attendees enjoy the 60,000 square feet available for the shopping bazaar, guest alley and the cons art and Gunpla (model kits based on the Gundam franchise) contests. Cosplay contests are a staple of Tokyo, OK. The shopping bazaar is open all three days 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Guests include voice actors R Bruce Elliott, Cynthia Cranz, Brianna Roberts, Marcus M. Mauldin, Chuck Huber, Kiba Walker, Cole Feuchter and Oscar Seung. Cosplay guests include Tiffany Gordon, Divine Creations, Forged in Foam and Cheeky Cheetah. Amelie Belcher will be a guest artist. The Tulsa World is where your story lives An electrical worker with PAR Electrical Contractors repairs a power line after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Kingwood. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer An electrical worker inspects a power line after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Conroe. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Chris Weiss helps repair a neighbors generator after Hurricane Beryl, Wednesday, July 10, 2024, in Kingwood. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer In the wake of this weeks Hurricane Beryl, more than 2 million CenterPoint Energy customers 80% of the companys Houston-area business lost power at the height of the Texas summer. As of Thursday morning, a million remained without power with temperatures climbing to 90. Big storms cause big power disruptions. Yet Texas and CenterPoint both have compiled dubious records when it comes to protecting residents from the dangers and inconvenience of prolonged outages. Just over three years ago, hundreds of Texans died when a winter storm knocked out power for days. The deadly outcome was caused in part by companies failure to protect their equipment against extreme cold, despite years of warnings. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In 2020, H-E-B opposed a CenterPoint request to raise its rates. The San Antonio-based grocer pointed out that the power companys frequent outages had caused so much meat and produce to be lost that the company needed to install its own backup generators. Paying for that equipment, as well as higher rates was unfair, H-E-B contended. Following the February 2021 blackouts, Texas lawmakers committed billions of dollars and passed a slew of laws designed to shore up the states power grid. One invited power companies to apply for rate increases to pay for so-called resilience projects, upgrades designed to minimize the damage from severe weather and other threats. CenterPoint has asked to pass along more than $2 billion in costs for projects it says will protect its customers from the effects of future storms. Heres what you need to know. How often do power outages occur? Over the past five years, Texas has had more power outages than any other state. Part of the reason for the distinction is the states notoriously bad weather. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Even taking that into account, however, Texas ranks poorly when it comes to keeping the lights on. In a ranking of state power reliability, the Illinois-based Citizens Utility Board found that Texas ranked ninth worst in the number of outages excluding major weather events. Taking into account bad weather-caused outages, Texass reliability fell to sixth worst. But its also true that Texass staggering variety of wild weather produces serious power disruptions. The region hosts hurricanes, tornados, microbursts, floods, extreme heat, heavy rains, lightning, wildfires and freezes. New for 2024: We now get derechos. Weather damage can happen across the grid. Winter Storm Uri, in February 2021, caused widespread outages by freezing up the ability to generate power. Beryl caused outages by damaging the system of poles and wires that delivers that power a much more common occurrence. Advertisement Article continues below this ad When you examine only the so-called extreme weather events that caused widespread power loss for lengthy periods of time in the Houston area in the past five years, there have been 15: three each in 2019, 2020 and 2021; two in 2022; and five last year. There have been two this year. And hurricane season has just begun. Whos to blame? Mother Nature, for sure. No one has yet been able to hurricane-proof a power grid. But grid-crashing weather is a man-made problem, too. As the planet warms, weve experienced more extreme weather. Generally, power infrastructure hasnt kept up. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The U.S. experienced about two times more weather-related outages during the last 10 years (2014-2023) than during the first 10 years analyzed (2000-2009), Climate Central calculated. Theres also ample corporate blame to go around. Much of the grids downtime generally can be attributed to deferred maintenance things breaking that werent maintained at the level they should be, said Doug Lewin, a Texas energy analyst and publisher of the Texas Energy and Power Newsletter. Texas energy companies were warned for years about the systems vulnerability to freezes yet kept putting off weather-proofing. So when Winter Storm Uri hit in 2021, they were unprepared again and Texans suffered. In its recently filed plan to increase resiliency, CenterPoint has proposed replacing 5,000 deteriorated wooden power line distribution poles a year over the next three years with more weather-resistant ones. Experts agree thats a sound idea. And yet: Why does a company doing business in Hurricane Alley have so many beat-up wooden power poles? (CenterPoint did not make officials available for an interview.) Advertisement Article continues below this ad The company does not have a strong track record keeping the power on. In 2020, when CenterPoint asked state regulators for permission to raise rates, H-E-B testified that it started experiencing numerous disruptive outages as far back as 2015. From January 2017 to May 2019, it documented 521 that lasted for a total of 20,000 minutes, or about 333 hours, according to the companys testimony. CenterPoint said it fixed the issues, but the judges who heard evidence recommended the companys proposed profit be reduced to reflect the reliability problems. Lewin said the company has improved, though there was still plenty of work to be done: You dont solve these problems in a year. These are generational problems. A filing earlier this year at the Public Utility Commission of Texas from the Houston Coalition of Cities seemed to concur. CenterPoints reliability scores have continued to get worse even though (the company) has been spending more and more on projects that should improve the scores, it noted. On Wednesday, Gov. Greg Abbott also appeared to question the companys storm performance, asking the PUC to investigate why this is repeatedly happening in Houston. What is CenterPoints plan? CenterPoint filed its 900-page resiliency plan in April. The state has until October to act on it. Other utilities have also filed their plans in recent months. The Houston company is making big promises. The 3-year plan is expected to significantly improve customer outcomes from the most severe system events associated with extreme wind, flood, temperature changes and wildfires, CenterPoint CEO Jason Wells said in an April earnings call. Much of the focus is so-called system hardening. CenterPoint has proposed replacing old wooden transmission line poles and installing devices to prevent about 50 miles of particularly exposed segments from whipping around (galloping) during wind storms. (Think of transmission lines as highways delivering power to an area; distribution lines are the city streets delivering it to your home.) In addition to replacing or buttressing the 15,000 old deteriorating wooden distribution poles, the company also has proposed replacing a few dozen old metal lattice towers with L-shaped metal ones that better withstand big gusts, as well as other old circuit towers over several hundred miles identified as high risk. The attention to better poles and wires makes sense, said Joshua Rhodes, a University of Texas-Austin researcher who studies electrical grids. Theyre pretty much the most exposed part of our energy system, he said, adding that hed also be looking to see if the company used a data-driven approach to identifying which parts of its system to strengthen under the program. The company also wants to bury some at-risk lines and protect other equipment against flooding and fires. It has proposed adding a series of technical fixes that would make it easier to isolate outages and reduce their duration, as well as creating a new substation for the Texas Medical Center. How long does it usually take to restore power? The same study that calculated Texass No. 1 ranking in number of outages figured the average down time for those was less than three hours. But extreme weather events are just that extreme. They affect more people, and the blackouts last longer. Of the 15 major weather events that caused power outages since 2019 in CenterPoints service area (all or parts of Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria, Galveston, Montgomery, Colorado and Waller counties), the most consequential was Uri, which affected more than 8 million customers. It took 117 hours nearly five days to restore power. The other local extreme weather blackouts involved fewer people, though still plenty. The average number of customers affected by a blackout storm (excluding Uri) was 270,000. Power restoration took 47 hours on average two full days. The May derecho left a million Houston-area customers without power, some for more than four days, a CenterPoint spokesman said at a Tuesday news conference. What have elected lawmakers done? The Texas Legislature passed a flurry of laws in response to the Uri devastation. Some addressed how the state would pay for the storm, which cost customers billions of dollars from wildly inflated gas prices. Others focused on shoring up the Texas grid by providing companies with taxpayer-funded incentives to pay for improvements and build more power generation. One of the new laws allows a company to recover from its customers approved costs of enhancing the resiliency of its transmission and distribution system. The law lists 10 eligible categories, from hardening transmission and distribution facilities to better vegetation management and preventing damage from lightning strikes and flooding. It includes non-storm threats such as cybersecurity and wildfires. Once a plan is filed, the Public Utility Commission has 180 days to approve or deny it. One of the resilience categories is burying selected wires. In the wake of Beryl, many have wondered why CenterPoint and other companies operating in storm-prone areas dont simply bury all their power lines. Florida has had success moving parts of its system underground. But most analysts dismiss widespread wire burial as far too expensive up to $2.5 million a mile, or five to10 times more costly than putting it on a pole, an expense that would be passed onto consumers. CenterPoint has about 60,000 miles of distribution and transmission lines, about a third of which are already buried. Total cost for the package of storm-ready upgrades: $2.2 billion, which, if approved by the Public Utility Commission, would be recovered from customers over time. It also builds in a profit for the company. CenterPoint said the upgrades would be done over the next three years. A coal mine accident is responsible for one of southeastern Oklahomans' favorite beverages and one of the state's best-known restaurants. Italian immigrant Pete Prichard was 8 when he came to this country in 1903 with his mother to settle in the Pittsburg County community of Hartshorne, home of many Italian immigrants. Prichard's father had been working in a coal mine there since arriving in the United States two years earlier. Mining was about the only work available for the immigrants, and when Pete was 11, he followed his father into the hard, dangerous work. Miners scratched out the coal with hand tools and donkeys pulled the loads up the long shafts to the surface. Pete Prichard worked in mines at Hartshorne, Carbon and Henryetta until 1925, when his leg was crushed in some machinery. After weeks in a hospital, he knew his days in the mines were over. Mining was the only trade he knew, except for making a brew called Choctaw beer. That's when he started making the cloudy, unfiltered brew with a slightly fruity flavor and selling it from his home in Krebs. The Choctaw Indians had taught many Italian immigrants how to make the beer, and it was described as one that could be made by any housewife. Soon he also was selling bread, cheese and sausage. It was a natural progression to running a cafe that he called simply Pete's Place. That restaurant is still flourishing 82 years later in the same but enlarged house. Choctaw, or choc, beer is still on the menu with a difference. It's legal now. The recipe for brewing choc beer varied -- apparently depending on what was available -- but the most common used a mixture of barley, hops, tobacco, fishberries and a small amount of alcohol, according to an article by Steven Sewell in the Journal of Cultural Geography. Other recipes added oats, corn, malt, sugar and yeast. And some added snuff and flavorings. The Krebs Banner observed in a 1906 article that "a few swigs of the stuff will make an ordinary cotton tail rabbit spit in the face of a bulldog," Sewell's article said. The first choc beer brewed by Prichard was made in 20-gallon crocks, and each batch was different from the preceding one. The brewing is more uniform and scientific today, involving larger vessels controlled by a brewmaster. Prichard was arrested for violating Prohibition laws in 1932 and served a prison term, but the sale of choc continued at Pete's Place until 1981, when a newspaper article called attention to the restaurant's violation of the law by brewing beer on-site. Pete's grandson, Joe Prichard, returned choc to the menu in 1995, after obtaining a license to operate a brew-pub. Pete's choc beer is now available in some liquor stores. Although the sale of choc had always been illegal, politicians from throughout the state had been served, Pete Prichard told a World reporter in 1967. "We've served every U.S. senator and governor Oklahoma has ever had," he said. He said his guests have come from every state and include ambassadors, musicians, movie stars and powerful politicians, nearly all of whom drank his brew. Prichard also recalled that a 16-year-old boy tried to get into the restaurant in the late 1920s, but he refused to allow him in. "One of these days I'm coming in," the boy told Prichard. Thirty years later a tall, raw-boned man strode into the restaurant. "I'm Chill Wills," the cowboy movie star said. "You wouldn't serve me the last time I was here. I told you I'd be back." Like this column? Read all the columns in the Only in Oklahoma series from the Tulsa World Archive. The Southeast Asia Clean Energy Facility II (SEACEF II) has invested US$10 million in Nami Distributed Energy, which is headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, to promote innovative distributed energy solutions. Singapores fund manager Clime Capital, the manager of SEACEF II, announced the investment in Nami Distributed Energy on Tuesday. The investment aims to support Namis accelerated growth and create positive impacts on Vietnam businesses. The move was made after the Vietnamese government issued Decree 80 on direct power purchase agreements, opening up significant opportunities for enterprises to access cost-effective renewable energy through both direct line and grid-connected distributed electricity. With the new investment, Nami is well positioned to leverage its strong foundation of human resources, expertise, and a project portfolio to deliver effective rooftop solar and on-site energy solutions to commercial and industrial customers nationwide. Luu Hoang Ha, chairman of Nami, said this investment, along with Namis extensive and rapidly growing project pipeline, positions it perfectly for the next funding round and expansion. We stand ready to collaborate with Clime Capital and other stakeholders to create even more positive impacts for our customers and the environment, Ha added. This significant funding provides a double benefit of growing competitive renewable energy facilities while boosting Vietnams progress toward its 2050 decarbonization target, according to Mason Wallick, CEO of Clime Capital. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union chapter and the Military Command in Can Tho City, southern Vietnam on Thursday launched a military semester program for 100 students aged between 11 and 17. The program aims to ignite patriotism and national pride among the youth and educate them on the traditions of the Vietnam People's Army, contributing to improving the young generations responsibility to society. Tran Viet Tuan, deputy secretary of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union chapter in Can Tho, said this is the 14th year the program has been held to provide a space for young people to practice discipline, life skills, and learn the value of love and working, thereby nurturing their souls and creating a foundation for them to develop comprehensively. The 100 little soldiers would join the course for 10 days lasting until July 20. Many of them were excited, while some cried as their parents did not accompany them. They would attend classes on political education, team orders, etiquette, life skills, self-defense martial arts, and fire prevention and control, among others. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A CenterPoint energy truck drives through a neighborhood the day after Hurricane Beryl made landfall nearby Tuesday, July 9, 2024, in Houston. Ishika Samant/Staff photographer CenterPoint Energys emergency line on-hold phone messages in the wake of Hurricane Beryl included an advertisement encouraging customers to purchase generators from partners, drawing criticism from some Houstonians who say it was "poor taste." CenterPoint has since removed the message and issued an apology. LIVE UPDATES: CenterPoint to give updated timeline on Houston outages with more than 1M still without power Advertisement Article continues below this ad The recording recommends that customers get a natural gas standby generator through the companys program as a way to prepare in case they lose power. "Dont be left in the dark. Make preparation your best protection with a qualifying standby generator from participating dealers," the recording said. WHO IS THE CEO?: Here's what to know about CenterPoint's top executive Jason Wells The recording continues, "With a natural gas standby generator your home can be up and running within seconds of an electrical outage including your air conditioning, so act now. Visit centerpointenergy.com/generators for details on current program offers." A screenshot of the CenterPoint website after typing in the website, centerpointenergy.com/generators, which was provided by the on-hold message. The page doesn't show any information about the company's natural gas standby generator program. A spokesperson said "the message was outdated and removed from the phone line" Wednesday afternoon. File Photo/Houston Chronicle Some commenters took to Reddit saying that its in "poor taste" that CenterPoint played the advertisement for generators while customers were on hold to report an emergency power outage. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "'Our service is so bad, you should just generate your own power is certainly a KIND of message," one commenter said. Another believed the advertisement reflected some peoples attitude within Texas. "Power grid suck(s), should we fix it? 'No, buy a generator and be prepared.' Schools are bad, should we fix them? 'No, just move your kids to a private school,'" the commenter said. 'NEED TO DO A BETTER JOB': Houston Mayor John Whitmire criticizes CenterPoint's performance following Hurricane Beryl CenterPoint's spokesperson Logan Anderson said in an email that the message was outdated and removed from the phone line. The company issued an apology for any inconvenience the recording may have caused customers, she added. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "We take our responsibility of serving our customers and working as safely and as quickly as possible to restore service very seriously," Anderson wrote. When visiting the hyperlink given in the phone message, the website's page doesn't show any information about the generators but a blank page. The Generator 101 page on CenterPoint's website has a quote in connection with the program at the bottom of the page that doesn't lead to additional information or a list of dealers. Instead, it shows a page that's under "maintenance." A screenshot of the CenterPoint website after clicking the "get a free quote and on-site visit" hyperlink on the Generator 101 page. The page doesn't show any information about the company's natural gas standby generator program or the list of dealers. A spokesperson said "the message was outdated and removed from the phone line" Wednesday afternoon. File Photo/Houston Chronicle It is unclear why the message was still in the rotation on the phone line and how the process of the generator program works. On the Generator 101 page, the company highlighted key factors for people who purchase with one of the dealers from CenterPoint Energy including 24/7 automatic standby power protection, power for core business functions or dedicated circuits, worry-free and turnkey installation, free site visit and quote and networking with trained participating dealers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Another recording pointed customers to the company's outage tracker while describing the mechanisms for the Outage Tracker map which crashed from a combination of high demand from customers and widespread outages during the derecho storms in May. The recording said the company's "online tracker gives you around the clock information on power outages in the Houston area" including the locations of power outages and estimated restoration time. The company's statement didn't answer whether additional on-hold messages were outdated. CenterPoint released a restoration tracker Tuesday to provide a "general direction on our restoration activity," according to a disclaimer. However, another company spokesperson Joshua Solis said in an email Wednesday the restoration map is not a replacement for the outage tracker. CenterPoint representatives have not said when the outage map will make a return on the website. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Customers this week claimed the new tracker and text message alert system had incorrectly indicated power had been restored in areas without power. Several people on social media said they receive notifications from CenterPoint that power has returned when they are still in the dark. The company wrote in a disclaimer that the map data is updated periodically and may be delayed. The drive towards a digital economy comes at an environmental cost, the United Nations warned Wednesday, with big data centres consuming vast amounts of water and energy. While digitalisation fuels global economic growth, its environmental repercussions are becoming "increasingly severe", the UN trade and development agency UNCTAD said in a report. The agency called for sustainable strategies to counter the growing environmental toll, particularly in developing countries. "Digitalisation continues to move at warp speed, transforming lives and livelihoods. At the same time, unregulated digitalisation risks leaving people behind and exacerbating environmental and climate challenges," UN chief Antonio Guterres said in the report. He cautioned that increased reliance on digital tools was directly impacting the environment, from depleting raw materials, consuming water and energy, spewing air pollution, and generating waste. "These are accentuated by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence," he said. Data remains sketchy on how rapidly-evolving AI is affecting the environment. UNCTAD chief Rebeca Grynspan called on the world's biggest tech companies to lead the way by producing standardised data. Google recently reported a 48-percent-increase in its greenhouse gas emissions over the five years to 2023, attributed to powering data centres that support AI operations. Similarly, Microsoft's latest sustainability report showed a 29-percent-increase in greenhouse gas emissions last year compared to 2020. Google and Microsoft have each pledged to become carbon neutral by the end of this decade. US investment bank Goldman Sachs last month said the promise of generative AI technology was leading tech giants to spend an estimated $1 trillion on capital expenditure in the coming years, including investments in data centres, chips and other infrastructure. "But this spending has little to show for it so far," it said, with questions over "whether this large spend will ever pay off in terms of AI benefits and returns". Shamika Sirimanne, UNCTAD's director of technology and logistics, said the question of what AI should be used for -- whether for public good or for search engines, marketing or selling t-shirts -- "hasn't happened yet". "But before it is too late, we need to embark on this conversation". In its Digital Economy Report 2024, UNCTAD gave a few examples of digital economy impacts on the environment. The report said the information and communications technology sector emitted between 0.69 and 1.6 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide in 2020. That represents 1.5 to 3.2 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions -- about the same as air transport or shipping. Producing a two-kilogramme computer requires approximately 800 kilos of raw materials, it said. Demand for critical minerals like graphite, lithium, and cobalt could surge by 500 percent by 2050, said UNCTAD. Data centres consumed 460 terawatt hours of electricity in 2022, with consumption expected to double by 2026. The report said that in Ireland, data centre electricity use more than quadrupled between 2015 and 2022, and now accounts for 18 percent of the entire country's electricity consumption -- a figure that could rise to 28 percent by 2031. The global energy consumption of "mining" bitcoin, the most prominent cryptocurrency, rose about 34 times between 2015 and 2023 to reach an estimated 121 TWh. That puts bitcoin mining ahead of entire countries like Belgium and Finland, Grynspan told reporters. This, she said, is "not something that we can consider marginal". "Digitalisation is a welcome and necessary driver of global economic growth. But we need to do it in an inclusive and sustainable way," she concluded. "As rapid digitalisation escalates environmental concerns, it's now more urgent than ever to have the right policies in place so we can manage properly the impact on the environment." Vietnams State President To Lam and his entourage arrived in Vientiane on Thursday morning for a two-day state visit at the invitation of General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith. This is the state presidents first overseas trip, with Laos being the first leg followed by Cambodia, since he was elected to the post by the National Assembly last month. The leader is accompanied by President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee Do Van Chien, Minister of National Defense Phan Van Giang, President of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics Nguyen Xuan Thang, Vice Chairwoman of the National Assembly Nguyen Thi Thanh, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son, Minister of Public Security Luong Tam Quang, and many other officials. Vietnams State President To Lam and General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith are seen at the reception ceremony in Vientiane, Laos on July 11, 2024. Photo: Vietnam News Agency Welcoming President Lam and the high-ranking Vietnamese delegation at Wattay Airport were Chairwoman of the Presidential Office of Laos Khemmani Pholsena, Governor of Vientiane Atsaphangthong Siphandone, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Laos Bounleua Phandanouvong, and Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Khamphao Ernthavanh. Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Ba Hung and other officials of the Vietnamese Embassy in Laos were also present at the reception. After the official welcome ceremony for President Lam hosted by General Secretary of the LPRP and President of Laos Thongloun, the two leaders, along with many officials of both sides, had a talk focusing on promoting bilateral all-round cooperation. During the two-day visit, President Lam will have meetings with many other senior leaders of Laos to review the high-level agreements, speed up important areas of cooperation, and set out directions for future cooperation, said Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Do Hung Viet. Vietnams State President To Lam (L) shakes hands with General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith in Vientiane, Laos on July 11, 2024. Photo: Vietnam News Agency Many significant cooperative deals are expected to be signed during the visit. The economic, trade, and investment relations between Vietnam and Laos have been expanded over the past years, with two-way trade reaching over US$1.46 billion in 2023 and standing at over $620 million in the first four months of this year, up 10.6 percent year on year, according to the Vietnam News Agency. Vietnamese investors have been investing in 241 projects worth about $5.5 billion in Laos, ranking third among the countries and territories channeling capital into the country, with which Vietnam set up diplomatic ties in 1962. The meeting with the Vietnamese delegation led by State President To Lam and its Laotian counterpart headed by General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith in Vientiane, Laos on July 11, 2024. Photo: Vietnam News Agency President Lam is scheduled to leave Vientiane for Cambodia on Friday for a state visit lasting through Saturday, at the invitation of Cambodian King Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni. Talking to the press on Wednesday, Deputy Minister Viet said that President Lams first foreign business trip to Laos and Cambodia has great significance, demonstrating an important message of the Party and state of Vietnam as well as the president himself. That means the Party and state of Vietnam always attach great importance and give the highest priority to the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos, as well as to the friendly neighborly relations and sustainable and all-round cooperation between Vietnam and Cambodia. Vietnams State President To Lam receives flowers presented by a Laotian little girl at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, Laos on July 11, 2024. Photo: Vietnam News Agency The trip is also a message affirming the solidarity and close bond between the three countries which have the geographical proximity and historical and cultural connections, Viet said, underscoring that the ruling parties of the three nations have a common origin: the Indochinese Communist Party. The visits to Laos and Cambodia will mark a new development stage in the relations between Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, creating new momentum for Vietnam to deepen its comprehensive cooperative relations with its two neighbors, Deputy Minister Viet commented. 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 -- State President To Lam and a high-ranking delegation of Vietnam left Hanoi on Thursday morning for three-day state visits to Laos and Cambodia. The visits come at the invitations of General Secretary of the Lao Peoples Revolutionary Party Central Committee and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith, and Cambodian King Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, reported the Vietnam News Agency. Society -- A 52-year-old Vietnamese woman died after being hit by a train in Sydney, Australia on Wednesday afternoon, according to the Australian press. The accident happened when the tourist, identified as Tuyet Nguyen, climbed down onto the tracks to retrieve her shoe. -- Authorities in Quang Binh Province, north-central Vietnam on Wednesday destroyed two smuggled luxury cars. The Lamborghini and Mercedes-AMG G63 autos were second-hand vehicles. -- A fire erupted at a house down an alley in Tan Chanh Hiep Ward, District 12, Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday evening, killing one woman. -- An Indonesian doctor visited the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City in February for colorectal cancer treatment. He underwent a treatment period of over four months and an over-four-hour operation, said the medical center. Business -- Vietnam is experiencing a remarkable period of prosperity, with the countrys millionaire population growing by an impressive 98 percent over the past decade. The country is home to 19,400 millionaires, 58 centi-millionaires, and six billionaires, according to British investment migration consultancy Henley & Partners. Lifestyle -- The Hai Van Gate relic site, located atop Hai Van Pass, which connects Da Nang City and Thua Thien-Hue Province in central Vietnam, will be reopened to tourists for free in August after a nearly-three-year makeover. -- International tourists demand for travel to Vietnam during the first half of 2024 surged by 1.7-fold year on year, according to a report by Klook, Asias leading travel and experience platform. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! An Indonesian surgeon visited the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City in February for rectal cancer treatment, undergoing a treatment period of over four months, including an over-four-hour operation, according to the medical center. The patient, 64-year-old Andi, is a surgeon in Makassar, Indonesia, a representative of the medical center said on Wednesday. He was diagnosed with rectal cancer in early 2024. Before he decided to pin his hopes on Vietnamese doctors and the Vietnamese medical center, he had been advised by his Indonesian co-workers to get treatment there. His co-workers had previously attended training courses on endoscopic surgery at the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City, which is under the auspices of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City. Andi and two of his sons, who are doctors in Indonesia as well, traveled to Vietnam in February for him to be hospitalized at the medical center for cancer treatment. After multidisciplinary consultation, he was consulted to experience radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery treatment, which was set to last for over four months. Thanks to a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, his tumor reduced in size, while his health situation developed positively. Therefore, Vietnamese surgeons proceeded with a total mesorectal excision for him. He recovered well after the surgery and was discharged from the hospital five days after the operation. Associate Prof. Nguyen Huu Thinh, who was in charge of performing the surgery for Andi, said that was a tough case, explaining that the patient had previously undergone another medical operation to remove his anus and was using an artificial one. Dr. Thinh said that colorectal cancer is common in Vietnam and in the world in general. The disease is curable if treated early. Over 800 patients with colorectal cancer are treated at the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City every year, with a stage-three cancer survival rate reaching up to 70 percent. He stated that the medical center also acts as a training center for local and international doctors. Over the past 15 years, as many as 763 doctors from Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand have joined training courses on endoscopic surgery at the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Authorities in Quang Binh Province, north-central Vietnam on Wednesday destroyed two smuggled luxury cars, including a Lamborghini and a Mercedes-AMG G63. They were second-hand vehicles. The Lamborghini was a green, two-seater vehicle with a cylinder capacity of 6,500 cubic centimeters. The car's paint was peeled in many spots, revealing the original black underneath. Its front windshield was broken, while the logo on the front bumper and four wheels were missing. The Mercedes-AMG G63 auto was yellow and had four seats and a cylinder capacity of 5,461 cubic centimeters. In August 2020, police in Quang Binh seized the two luxury cars as they suspected that the two vehicles were contraband. Relevant people later failed to prove the origin of the cars. Vietnams auto registration agencies also had no records of their license plates, chassis numbers, or engine numbers. As a result, the vehicles were abandoned in a parking lot in Dong Hoi City, Quang Binh Province. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A 52-year-old Vietnamese woman died on Wednesday after being hit by a train in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, according to the Australian press. The accident happened when the tourist, identified as Tuyet Nguyen, climbed down onto the tracks at Punchbowl Station in the citys southwest at about 3:30 pm on Tuesday (Australia time) to retrieve a slipper, The Daily Telegraph reported. She was visiting her sister, nephew Toan Huynh told the newspaper. She has been visiting her sister in Australia a lot. Toan Huynh also confirmed that Tuyet Nguyen had jumped off the platform to pick up the slipper. New South Wales Police said the victim had been unable to get back onto the platform before being struck by the train as commuters watched the incident in horror. The local fire and rescue crews worked to free her from beneath the train, and she was treated by intensive care, critical care, and rescue paramedics. She was moved to an ambulance where crews worked to stabilize her before she was taken to St George Hospital at about 4:45 pm. Police confirmed her death on Wednesday morning. The train driver returned a negative breath test and police spoke with witnesses and viewed CCTV footage as part of their inquiries. Sydney Trains, which operates New South Wales train system, extended their condolences to Tuyet Nguyens family. The tragic incident led to widespread delays on the rail network on Tuesday evening, with buses called in to replace services between Bankstown and Campsie, according to The Sydney Morning Herald. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Center for Disease Control (CDC) of Bac Giang Province in northern Vietnam confirmed on Wednesday evening that it had detected one more diphtheria case. The case, named B.H.G., is a 29-year-old native of Hoa Binh Province in northern Vietnam and works at an Internet cafe in Bac Giang's Hiep Hoa District. G. is under medical treatment at the Hanoi-based National Hospital for Tropical Diseases, according to the Vietnam News Agency. As this case is among 16 people who had been quarantined after having close contact with a diphtheria patient named M.T.B., there is little to no risk of transmission in the community, a CDC Bac Giang official told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Wednesday. M.T.B., aged 18, is a native of Nghe An Province in north-central Vietnam and a temporary resident in Hiep Hoa. A CDC Bac Giang delegation will team up with the health authority of Hiep Hoa to monitor the health status of the quarantined cases as well as continue their contact tracing efforts on Thursday to prevent the disease from spreading further. Previously, M.T.B. and her peer M.T.S. had required medical attention following the death of their roommate who contracted diphtheria. M.T.B. and M.T.S. returned to their hometown in Nghe Ans Ky Son District to take part in the national high school graduation exam from June 25 to 28 and shared a room in a dorm with the patient. The girls left Ky Son for Hiep Hoa on July 1 to work at a karaoke parlor. After learning that their roommate died of diphtheria on July 5, the duo bought over-the-counter medicines to soothe their sore throat. Two days later, M.T.B. was taken to the National Hospital for Tropical Diseases for medical treatment as she tested positive for diphtheria, while M.T.S. was put under quarantine. Thanks to the timely treatment, M.T.B.s health is now stable and she was sent back to her hometown for further treatment and quarantine. The CDC Bac Giang official said that the close contacts with negative testing results still must stay under quarantine and have their health monitored for 14 days following their exposure to the diphtheria patient. In related news, a 56-year-old resident with suspected diphtheria in Ha Tinh Province, north-central Vietnam tested negative for the disease on Thursday morning, Nguyen Chi Thanh, director of CDC Ha Tinh, confirmed to Tuoi Tre the same day. Diphtheria is an acute bacterial infection that affects the throat and the upper respiratory tract including the nose, nasopharynx, nasal cavity, and pharynx. This contagious disease can lead to outbreaks and can be fatal. Diphtheria patients without proper treatment can die in 6-10 days. To avoid catching the disease, people are advised to keep personal hygiene, wash hands regularly with soap, cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing, refrain from having contact with those with probable or confirmed diphtheria, and keep their homes and the surroundings clean and airy. People with suspected diphtheria should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Diphtheria is not only treatable but also preventable with vaccines. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Highly toxic chemical compounds, including cyanide, are widely advertised for sale on social media, websites, and even e-commerce platforms in Vietnam. A search for 'low-cost cyanide' yields dozens of website results. A company offers 50-kilogram barrels of potassium cyanide, claiming the compound was imported from the U.S.. Its website says potassium cyanide is used to extract gold and other precious metals from ore. The harmful compound is also offered on well-known e-commerce platforms. Mclean 95 percent of sodium cyanoborohydride is sold on an e-commerce platform in jars of five, 25, and 100 grams. The product has no brand and its packaging features foreign words. Reporters from Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper reached out to a cyanide trader using a phone number found online. The trader claimed that his product was high quality, low cost, and available in limited quantities. Besides cyanide, some e-commerce platforms also offer colorless and odorless rat poison which can immediately kill rats. An e-commerce platform is selling 'extremely toxic rat poison' of unknown foreign origin for VND10,000 (US$0.40) per ampule. The product is a red liquid with labels in a foreign language but lacks information about its ingredients. A doctor in Dong Nai Province, a neighbor of Ho Chi Minh City, voiced concerns over the management of poisonous compounds. Chemist Tran Hong Con told Tuoi Tre that cyanide is classified as a top poison which can kill people even with small amounts. Cyanide poisoning is incurable. A 50-kilogram person will die if they are exposed to an amount as little as a green pea. Potassium cyanide and sodium cyanide which are put up for sale in the local market are extremely dangerous if people eat or inhale them. Con proposed enhancing the management of such poisonous substances, in addition to arsenic, pesticide, and herbicide. Doctor Nguyen Thi Thuy Ngan, deputy head of the ward of tropical diseases at Cho Ray Hospital, said the hospital had admitted some cyanide poisoning patients in critical condition. Most of them had absorbed cyanide bought through websites. Cyanide can come in the form of a colorless gas, liquid, or crystals, so victims find it hard to see it if it is mixed in food or water, Dr. Ngan added. The risk is greater now as cyanide is sold online. As a result, it is required to control unorthodox sources of chemical compounds on social media, e-commerce platforms, and websites. When a poisoning case is reported, designated agencies need to trace the origin of the poison and heavily punish traders, Ngan suggested. Lawyer Truong Hong Dien from the Ho Chi Minh City Bar Association said cyanide is not on the list of banned products but on the list of industrial chemicals subject to conditional production and trading. However, there are no prevailing regulations on the requirements for individuals and organizations to buy and use cyanide and those forcing sellers to check if buyers meet certain conditions to be allowed to buy cyanide. These have led to the widespread trade of cyanide in the local market. Dien proposed detailed regulations on the trade of cyanide. For example, buyers must meet certain requirements to buy and use the chemical. Relevant agencies should regularly inspect and keep a close watch on the production and trade of cyanide and promptly handle those breaking safety rules, Dien added. Many murder cases linked to cyanide In December 2022, the Peoples Court in Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province, a neighbor of Ho Chi Minh City, sentenced a 21-year-old woman to life in prison for murdering her father with cyanide. She was charged with murder, illegal trade of toxic substances, and property destruction. She killed her father over a conflict by mixing cyanide into three bottles of fresh water. She later staged a fire to cover up her crime. In July 2020, the Peoples Court in Thai Binh Province, northern Vietnam handed down the death penalty on a woman for sending poisoned bubble tea to a love rival and killing the targets co-worker instead. She wanted to take her older cousin's life as she had been having an affair with the latter's husband. She poisoned four cups of bubble tea with cyanide before sending them to the target's workplace but the co-worker drank one of the cups and collapsed. Most recently, a woman named Nguyen Thi Hong Bich in Dong Nai Province was found to have attempted to kill four family members with cyanide, with three of them passing away. Her acts were not uncovered until her 18-year-old nephew was hospitalized for poisoning. She declared that she poisoned the boy because of a conflict with his mother, who is also her sister-in-law. The boy has been discharged from hospital after half a month of treatment. Bich admitted to police that she killed three other family members, including her husband, a seven-year-old child of her younger sister, and a 12-year-old child of her older brother, using cyanide, from October 2023 to June 2024. A cyanide poisoning patient is under treatment. Photo: Supplied Strict regulations needed According to lawmaking National Assembly (NA) deputy Pham Van Hoa from southern Dong Thap Province, the oversight of chemical trade remains lax despite numerous tragic incidents. The market is flooded with highly poisonous chemicals, requiring effective management solutions. It is crucial for Vietnam to revise and enhance regulations concerning highly toxic substances. In other countries, regulations limit the purchase of chemicals to laboratories and authorized companies. Residents are required to obtain chemicals through eligible organizations and must provide detailed declarations even for small quantities. Reinforcing inspections is crucial to reduce chemical smuggling, and penalties should be imposed on individuals and organizations that deliberately overlook violations, Hoa said. NA deputy Pham Khanh Thu from Thai Binh Province said that cyanide trade is regulated by laws. Despite this, she noted that current controls over cyanide trade activities are insufficient. She proposed that the Ministry of Industry and Trade, particularly the Vietnam Chemicals Agency, along with other relevant agencies, strengthen their management practices in this regard. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Many people and tourists visited the beach of Nhon Hai Commune in Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province, south-central Vietnam to see sea turtles hatching and making their way to the sea earlier this week. During Tuesday nights viewing, 12 baby sea turtles hatched, a local official told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Wednesday. This is the second batch of sea turtle hatchlings to have hatched at the beach in Nhon Hai Commune. These eggs were laid by the mother sea turtles around the end of May and early June. Since early Tuesday evening, many adults, children, and tourists have gathered at the beach in Nhon Hai Commune, eagerly waiting to witness the moment when the tiny baby turtles hatch and make their way through the sand to the sea. Children witness sea turtles hatching at the beach of Nhon Hai Commune in Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province, south-central Vietnam, July 9, 2024. Photo: Dung Nhan / Tuoi Tre When the first turtle hatchlings emerged from the sand on Tuesday night, there was an outpouring of excitement and cheers from the crowd. Children, in particular, were captivated, applauding joyously at this sight. I was truly impressed and filled with joy seeing the turtle eggs hatch, Nguyen Duy Khoa from Quy Nhon City shared his first experience of enjoying this special event. Anyone who sights this moment will surely learn to cherish and protect nature. A tiny sea turtle hatchling is held in a persons hands at the beach of Nhon Hai Commune in Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province, south-central Vietnam, July 9, 2024. Photo: Dung Nhan / Tuoi Tre Nguyen Ton Xuan Sang, head of the community group for protecting aquatic resources in Nhon Hai Commune, explained that turtle eggs typically hatch at night and make their way to the waters edge to begin their journey to the sea. After news spread of the turtle hatching, people and tourists flocked here in large numbers, Sang said. Everyone stayed up all night to be part of this special event. There were curiosity, excitement, and tears of emotion as we assisted these beautiful sea turtle hatchlings in their crawl to the sea. A tiny sea turtle hatchling makes its way to the sea at the beach of Nhon Hai Commune in Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province, south-central Vietnam, July 9, 2024. Photo: Dung Nhan / Tuoi Tre Sang also noted a significant shift in the communitys awareness as people in Nhon Hai Commune are now more conscious of not littering the sea. I believe this experience will continue to raise awareness about preserving a green, clean, and beautiful environment so that turtles have a safe place to nest, ensuring that future generations can also witness these incredible moments, Sang added. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A beach flower walk in Da Nang City, central Vietnam is attracting large numbers of visitors who come to take photos and admire the beauty of the flower-adorned route after it opened to the public last week. The two-kilometer-long flower walk, the first of its kind in the central city, was set up on the stunning coastal road Vo Nguyen Giap in Son Tra District, with more than VND4 billion (US$155,900) in investment backed by the citys budget. The walk was adorned with a vast array of brilliant flowering tropical plants like rose, daisy, and bougainvillea as well as plenty of spectacular art installations and lighting effects. The Da Nang beach flower walk in Da Nang City, central Vietnam features many artworks. Photo: Thanh Nguyen Ngo Dao, residing in Da Nangs Hai Chau District, said that she was impressed by the vibrant flower route when she and her family visited the iconic My Khe Beach, which is located next to Vo Nguyen Giap Street. Its amazing to stroll along the beach and take photos with blooming flowers on the beach walk," Dao said. Im glad that our city has such a splendid beach flower walk." Flowers made from bamboo are one of the highlights of the newly-launched beach flower walk in Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Thanh Nguyen The city also decorated a nearby beach area with stainless steel flowers which spin in the wind. Nguyen Duc Vu, head of the management authority for the Son Tra Peninsula and beaches in the city, elaborated that the newly-opened beach flower walk adds a beautiful touch to the beach landscape, providing a picturesque setting that meets visitors' growing desire for relaxation and photo opportunities. Stainless steel flowers, which spin in the wind, are seen along the newly-launched beach flower walk in Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Thanh Nguyen Visitors pose for a photo along the newly-opened beach flower walk in Da Nang City, central Vietnam. Photo: Thanh Nguyen Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A Texas Department of Transportation work convoy cleans a road the day after Hurricane Beryl made landfall nearby Tuesday near Surfside Beach. Galveston County authorities are investigating after a woman was found dead Monday morning at a home near Crystal Beach. Jon Shapley/Staff photographer Galveston County authorities are investigating after a woman was found dead Monday morning at a home near Crystal Beach after Hurricane Beryl came through. A friend went to check on the 71-year-old woman after the storm and found her dead in a home in the 1200 block of Texas 87, Sheriff Henry Trochesset said. The woman had been using oxygen. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Deputies soon arrived but because of the storm and ferry service going down, a forensic examiner couldnt arrive immediately, Trochesset said. The medical examiners office as of Wednesday was working to determine a cause of death. Tonight Seven News Sydney bulletin is expected to feature its first satirical segment, The 6.57pm News, from Mark Humphries. The addition of the former ABC and SBS comedian marks part of changes under news boss Anthony De Ceglie. Ahead of the launch Humphries spoke with The Nightly, owned by Seven West Media, and addressed some concerns following his move to commercial news. Im in two minds of trying to keep everyone thats concerned about this segment, having them feel relaxed, but at the same time, feeling like I do want it to be something a bit different, Humphries said. I do want you to occasionally go, Oh, that was surprising and Oh, that was quite sharp. I do like to think that occasionally that stuff I do has a bit of teeth. Not every week but sometimes, especially on certain stories where things need to be taken down a peg or two, a journalist in their role cant really play that role. And I have that liberty that you have with satire of being able to say what the audience is thinking a lot of the time. Hopefully, there is the occasional thing that rocks the boat. It isnt clear if the segment will screen nationwide (Update: national is confirmed from tonight) but for those knockers, Humphries is unapologetic about taking the gig when the surprise call came through. Its kind of funny to have a couple of people say, sell-out, but when I got the phone call, I was unemployed. I was like Is it selling out to take a job to work? But I understand the perception, and they want you to be like perfect, weird outsider that can just do whatever they want. But Channel 7 was the only one that came and said, Wed like to do satire. The ABC had their chance, they had me for five years and they decided to stop doing it. You can read more here. Versie 4.0.6 van xd-AntiSpy is uitgekomen. Dit programma is de spirituele opvolger van XP-AntiSpy, waarmee diverse opties voor het verzenden van informatie naar Microsoft kunnen worden uitgeschakeld, waaronder automatische update- en legitimatiefuncties. Xd-AntiSpy wordt primair voor Windows 11 ontwikkeld, maar is grotendeels ook bruikbaar onder Windows 10. De releasenotes voor deze uitgave kunnen hieronder worden gevonden. xd-AntiSpy 4.0.6 The last stable version of XP-Antispy was 3.98-2. I am now continuing with version 4.0 (even though this is the very first public release of the app) Alright, I've now activated the multilingual interface ahead of schedule. This version includes a German language option (machine-translated due to my laziness). If you're interested, you can check it out here. I'll also explain in the post how you can adjust the translation if you find the machine translation unsatisfactory. This applies to all other languages as well. Plugins and the debloater DB have not been translated by me and won't be. If the community is interested, you're welcome to contribute. After a few more final test runs, I'll soon push the entire code into the repo. How do I integrate the language file? Simply download the language (german-de) asset and copy it into the directory where the xd-AntiSpy.exe is located. More changes: Plugins can now be added to specific categories during creation Core optimization and new UI control buttons added to the "toolsDebloater" (search for crappy apps) plugin, like selecting/deselecting all apps Updated symbol reference/help Many other small improvements By John Irish WASHINGTON (Reuters) -French President Emmanuel Macron once shook up NATO by declaring it was suffering "brain death". But his days of such boldness on the international stage may be slipping away after his gamble on a snap election produced political paralysis at home. At NATO's Washington summit, allies have been left wondering how much of a role Paris can play in the transatlantic alliance in the years ahead, adding to uncertainty stemming from U.S. President Joe Biden's faltering reelection bid and a possible return of NATO skeptic Donald Trump to the White House. "We all know that wherever in the world, foreign policy begins at home and if at home you have troubles, they will of course affect or impact one way or another your foreign policy abroad," said a European Union diplomat on the summit sidelines. Macron has kept a low media profile at the summit, but at a news conference said he had reassured allies, who he said were more relieved than worried by the election result. Behind the scenes, he was keen to tell them that the result of Sunday's parliamentary election in France was not as bad as had been feared, as either the far-right nor far-left won an overall majority. Either outcome would have posed the most severe challenges for Macron's foreign policy with both blocs deemed more pro-Russian and less NATO-friendly. But the election has left France in limbo - with three blocs short of a majority and no new government in sight. "I confirmed to all my partners, allies that France would have continuity in its international commitments be it in Europe, the alliance and the support for Ukraine because the political forces that constitute a majority in the parliament support that," he said, referring to lawmakers in his party as well as the centre left and centre right. Once a government is in place, it is likely Macron will have a prime minister more in tune with his thinking internationally even if he will not have a free hand on foreign policy like in the past. Three European officials said Macron had taken the time in the North Atlantic Council - the main political decision-making body within NATO - to underscore his message and reaffirm France's support for Ukraine. That was in stark contrast to five years ago in the run-up to NATO's 70th anniversary, when he stole the headlines after calling the alliance "brain dead" and urging it to wake up after becoming too focused on budget issues instead of evolving geopolitics. Publicly, other NATO leaders played down France's political troubles. "It is up to the politicians to find solutions and to make something out if it," German Chancellor Olaf Scholz told reporters. "I'm quite confident." Officials said Scholz had joked with Macron about the idiosyncrasies of creating and working within a coalition - a persistent headache for the German leader and something that Macron will need to learn in the coming months. Keen to show Paris is still active internationally, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu signed an agreement on the summit sidelines with his German, Italian and Polish counterparts to develop long-range cruise missile capabilities. "It is an alliance that brings together democracies. So, by definition, in a democracy, faces can change," Lecornu said of NATO when asked whether Macron and France had been weakened. ELECTION AFTERMATH But the after-effects of Sunday's election were evident at the summit. Macron was the last leader to arrive, missing a NATO 75th anniversary dinner. He had already scaled back his trip to just 36 hours, having dropped plans to add a visit to Canada. His foreign minister, Stephane Sejourne, did not accompany him, focusing on his role as the head of Macron's political party back in Paris. Sejourne was not obliged to attend the summit but many other foreign ministers were present. Several French diplomats said they had lacked instructions in the run-up to the NATO summit and were feeling directionless. Unlike many other leaders at the NATO gathering and in a marked contrast to his appearance at the G7 summit in Bari a few weeks ago, Macron kept his public words to a minimum. "Allies. United and in solidarity against Russia's brutal war of aggression in Ukraine. A crucial moment for Europe's security and peace," he posted on X. A Ukrainian diplomat said "a worst-case scenario" for Macron and Kyiv had been avoided in the French election. "Yes, he will have his wings clipped and he may not be able to govern, but we have our fingers crossed," the diplomat said. But European officials said that he could not be written off yet and would still be in charge of defence and foreign policy. With neither the far-right nor far-left winning a majority, in the immediate term the existing government remains in place while negotiations to create some form of coalition to govern take place. The most likely scenario is a prime minister from the centre-left or centre-right that would not oppose his Ukraine policy or NATO. That could enable him to move forward on some initiatives such as sending Mirage fighter jets to Ukraine or creating a coalition of countries to send military trainers there. But there is now at least a question mark over those ideas. (Reporting by John Irish; editing by Andrew Gray and Deepa Babington) FILE PHOTO: Demonstration against antisemitism at the Place de la Bastille in Paris (Reuters) - The war in Gaza has contributed to a sharp rise in antisemitic incidents in Europe, the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) said in a report released on Thursday. An FRA survey conducted between January and June 2023 showed antisemitism was already high in Europe before the war began in October, and information collected from 12 Jewish community organisations since then showed a further rise, the report said. "Jewish people have experienced more antisemitic incidents since October 2023, with some organisations reporting an increase of more than 400%," it said. Three out of four Jewish respondents said they felt people hold them responsible for the Israeli government's actions and 80% felt antisemitism had grown in the European country where they live in the five years before the survey, it showed. In the year before the survey was conducted, 90% of respondents had encountered antisemitism on the internet, with more than half experiencing it offline from people they know or in the media. More than one-third were harassed during the same period because of their origin, most of them multiple times. "Antisemitic harassment and violence mostly take place in streets, parks, or shops," the FRA said. The survey said more than three-quarters of respondents hide their Jewish identity at least occasionally, and more than one-third avoid Jewish events or sites because of safety concerns. The survey was carried out in 13 member states accounting for 96% of the EU's estimated Jewish population, which the FPA put at a little over 1 million. About 1,200 people were killed and over 250 hostages seized in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Islamist militants, according to Israeli tallies. Israel's retaliatory offensive in Gaza has killed over 38,000, medical authorities in the enclave say. A watchdog said last month that antisemitism had risen more than 80% in Germany last year. A network of NGOs monitoring Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred said in June that anti-Muslim incidents registered in Germany had also risen. (Reporting by Michal Aleksandrowicz in Gdansk; editing by Milla Nissi and Timothy Heritage) A pair of skeletons along with a sign that reads waiting on Centerpoint is seen on the front yard of Rex Mackall Jr.s home as his family and neighborhood still remain without power four days after Hurricane Beryl made landfall, Thursday, July 11, 2024, in Spring. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer A convoy of electric trucks from several different states gather to support power outage efforts the day after Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Houston causing mass power outages on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer CenterPoint Energy said Thursday morning it will have estimated restoration times for the more than 1 million customers still powerless by noon today, posted on the company's website. Much like restoration of service, however, that is going to be rolling process. "We don't want to set the expectation that every customer will see their information at noon," said Darin Carroll, the utility's senior vice president of operations. "We are going to start putting that information out there, as soon as we can." Advertisement Article continues below this ad The company expects 400,000 more customers to be restored by the end of Friday, followed by 350,000 by Sunday. If those targets are met, that still leaves up to 500,000 of the 2.26 million knocked offline by Hurricane Beryl without power, one week after the storm passed. LIVE UPDATES: Over 1M customers without power in Houston 3 days after Beryl Crews took until Wednesday to complete damage assessments of the electrical system, inspecting lines and verifying the damage to poles and wires. With those details in hand, Carroll said the company can now give customers a much better idea of when their power could come back. Beryl, which barreled in the area with heavy rains and 90 mph wind gusts in some locations, caused mostly damage to CenterPoint's distribution system and not the core components of the power system. A group of linemen that form part of a convoy of electric trucks from several different states gather to support power outage efforts the day after Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Houston causing mass power outages on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer "This was a heavy vegetation-related storm," Carroll said, noting that many of the downed lines were snagged by falling limbs and trees. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Outside CenterPoint's area, about 200,000 Texans remain without power from Beryl, as it marched north through east Texas after striking the Gulf Coast. Damage varied across the region, as winds and rain moved in from the coast and charged upward. Electrical poles along the coast snapped, then as the winds whipped north, trees and branches crashed down on homes, cars and electrical wires, as rains pounded the area and flooded streets and bayous. The widespread and neighborhood-specific nature of the damage can make recovery more cumbersome, Carroll said. Crews must clear trees and branches, then inspect poles for damage and then re-string electrical lines. The repairs, however, can go faster. "Picking that cable up is a lot easier than replacing a pole," Carroll said. For residents sweltering in typical Houston high temperatures and humidity, the wait can be excruciating, and exhausting. Many are left to either bake in place without air conditioning, or seek out refuge at numerous cooling centers set up around the city by public officials and others. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Atlantis Hubbard, a 25-year-old Houston native and mother of two, was enjoying a reprieve from the heat at Gallery Furniture. Hubbard said Beryl was different for her because it is the first storm shes been through as a mother, and that made recovery more difficult. I think when youre younger its almost exciting its something new, Hubbard said. But as a mother I have my babies to look after. You know theyre kids, so they want to be out playing in the nasty water and stuff and I have to constantly be watching them to make sure theyre ok. Hubbard said she lost power early Monday morning and has not heard anything from CenterPoint since. Thats not entirely surprising to her, as she said her apartment complex often loses power during heavy wind events. Every time the wind blows we lose power, so I was counting on that, Hubbard said. Its still frustrating though, especially with the lack of communication. I havent heard anything from CenterPoint and its going on something like three days now. Youd think theyd at least have a timeline. WAITING FOR RELIEF: Texas was slower to request federal Beryl aid than in past storms Advertisement Article continues below this ad Despite some criticisms that the systems were not working properly, CenterPoint officials continued to encourage customers to sign up for alerts and monitor their website. Un graffiti que dice 'Centerpointle$$', pintado debajo de la autopista interestatal I-10, fotografiado el miercoles 10 de julio de 2024 en Houston. La empresa energetica aun no habia restaurado el sevicio electrico a millones de personas tras el paso del huracan Beryl. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer The lack of a clear restoration process detailed to customers has led public officials to start asking questions or raise concerns about the process thus far. Houston Mayor John Whitmire, who has appointed CenterPoint executives to key positions, said Wednesday the company "needs to do a better job." Gov. Greg Abbott also called for inquiries into the frequency and length of recent CenterPoint outages, while the Public Utility Commission of Texas added Beryl restoration to its meeting Thursday morning. Federally. Rep. Sylvia Garcia, a Houston Democrat who represents the city's eastern side, called CenterPoint's performance "unacceptable" in a social media post. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "Texans deserve reliable power, especially after natural disasters," Garcia wrote, also releasing a letter she sent to the company's CEO. "This isn't just poor service; it's a risk to our lives." The damage also left many, officials included, wondering whether recent investments by CenterPoint adequately prepared the region for powerful storms, which are becoming a way of life in the area like rodeo season, high temperatures and traffic on Interstate 45. Though assessments and repairs are the focus, Carroll said it appears where some of those investments have taken place, such as installing utility poles made of composite material as opposed to wood along the coast, the new poles and wires they carry survived better. "Because those poles were there, we didn't have the problem maybe we had in another location," he said. He said the company also saw its technological improvements react better to the storm, allowing the grid to adapt and respond to where power was out and respond and report problems. Smart meters, meanwhile, immediately allowed CenterPoint to know if a customer was offline. "But it doesn't tell us why they are out of power," Carroll said, reiterating the need for initial assessments on the ground. Carroll, however, said in many cases the improvements and focus on resiliency can minimize damage but not entirely eliminate it. Some EU states won't send ministers to presidency meetings in protest at Orban's Russia trip Swedish EU Minister Jessika Roswall is proposed as Sweden's nomination for new EU Commissioner, during a press coference in Stockholm STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Sweden and several other European Union countries will not send ministers to government meetings linked to Hungary's EU presidency this month in a protest at Victor Orban's talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Swedish government said. Orban, Hungary's prime Minister, held talks on a potential Ukraine peace deal with Putin last week, angering some EU leaders who warned against appeasing Moscow and said Orban did not speak for the 27-nation bloc. Informed sources told Reuters that Orban, a nationalist who has frequently locked horns with fellow EU leaders, would also meet Donald Trump on Thursday at the Republican presidential candidate's Florida home. "The Hungarian actions during the (EU) presidency are harmful and must have consequences. Sweden will therefore not participate on a political level during the informal government meetings in July," Jessika Roswall, Sweden's Minister for EU Affairs, said in a written statement to Reuters on Thursday. Roswall said Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland would be represented only by civil servants and that additional EU member countries were discussing similar actions. Hungary will hold the rotating EU presidency for six months until Dec. 31. (Reporting by Johan Ahlander; editing by Mark Heinrich) By Andrew Osborn MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russia will act to counter the planned U.S. deployment of long-range missiles in Germany, the Kremlin said on Thursday, as it regarded the NATO military alliance's actions as a serious threat to Russia's national security. The United States and Germany announced at a NATO summit in Washington on Wednesday that they would begin deploying long-range fire capabilities in Germany in 2026 to demonstrate their commitment to NATO and European defence at a time when Russia is waging war in Ukraine. They said the "episodic deployments" were in preparation for longer-term stationing that would include SM-6, Tomahawk cruise missiles and hypersonic weapons with a longer range than current capabilities in Europe. NATO also said on Wednesday that a new U.S. air defence base in northern Poland, designed to detect and intercept ballistic missile attacks as part of a broader NATO missile shield, was mission-ready. Asked at a briefing with Russian news agencies about the outcome of the NATO summit, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "The North Atlantic alliance has once again very clearly confirmed its essence. It is an alliance created in an era of confrontation with the aim of maintaining confrontation. "Tensions on the European continent are escalating" as a result, he added, saying the Kremlin was watching as NATO's military infrastructure crept closer. "We see the decisions taken in NATO to create separate logistics hubs in Black Sea cities, the opening of additional facilities in Europe, and we see that in fact NATO's military infrastructure is constantly and incrementally moving towards our borders," said Peskov. "This obliges us to analyse very deeply the decisions taken in the discussion that took place. This is a very serious threat to the national security of our country. All of this will require us to take thoughtful, coordinated, effective responses to deter NATO, to counteract NATO." Since President Vladimir Putin sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine in February 2022, Peskov has described what Moscow calls its "special military operation" there as a move aimed at securing Russia's own security against the West and a hostile, pro-Western Ukrainian political leadership. Kyiv and the West dismiss Russia's characterisation of the conflict, saying Moscow is waging an aggressive colonial-style war of conquest in Ukraine, which won independence when the Russian-dominated Soviet Union broke up in 1991. RUSSIA PLANS 'MILITARY RESPONSE' Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Moscow had anticipated the U.S.-German missile move which he portrayed as being designed to intimidate Russia and which further destabilised regional security and strategic relations. "The necessary work on the preparation of balancing countermeasures by the relevant Russian state agencies was started well in advance and is being carried out on a systematic basis," Ryabkov said in a statement on his ministry's website. "Without nerves, without emotions, we will develop a military response, first of all, to this new game," Interfax news agency quoted him as saying. Last month, Putin said Russia should resume production of intermediate and shorter-range nuclear-capable missiles and then consider where to deploy them, after the U.S. brought similar missiles to Europe and Asia. He had previously spoken of agreeing not to deploy such missiles in Russia's Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad, but said the U.S. had resumed their production, brought them to Denmark for exercises and also taken them to the Philippines. Ground-based missiles with a range exceeding 500 km (310 miles) were banned until 2019 under the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty signed in 1987 by the Soviet Union's Mikhail Gorbachev and then-U.S. President Ronald Reagan. But the United States withdrew from the INF Treaty in 2019, saying that Moscow was violating the accord, something the Kremlin denied. (Reporting by Andrew Osborn with additional reporting by Mark Trevelyan Editing by Mark Heinrich) FILE PHOTO: Hideout of Matteo Messina Denaro, Italy's most wanted mafia boss, after he was arrested in Campobello di Mazara PALERMO, Italy (Reuters) - The eldest sister of late Sicilian Mafia boss Matteo Messina Denaro has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for aggravated mafia association and receiving stolen goods, a judicial source said on Thursday. Messina Denaro was Italy's most wanted man until his arrest in January last year. He had spent three decades on the run, during which he was judged guilty of multiple murders, and died of cancer last September. His sister Rosalia was arrested in March 2023, and put on trial as prosecutors accused her of covering up for her fugitive brother, managing his finances and helping him liaise with the outside world. The 69-year-old woman was convicted in a first instance ruling in Palermo, the capital of Sicily. According to Italian law the verdict can be appealed twice before becoming final. While on the run, Messina Denaro followed mafia tradition in communicating with relatives and affiliates via "pizzini", small pieces of paper with orders and instructions, sometimes written in code. Police found some of them in his sister's home. The mobster went into hiding in 1993 as a growing number of turncoats started providing details of his involvement in mafia crimes, including helping plan the 1992 murders of anti-mafia prosecutors Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino. Nicknamed "U Siccu" (The Skinny One), Messina Denaro was the son of a mafioso and a close ally of the Corleonesi led by Salvatore "the Beast" Riina, who became the undisputed "boss of bosses" of "Cosa Nostra", the Sicilian mob. (Reporting by Wladimiro Pantaleone; writing by Angelo Amante, editing by Alvise Armellini and Keith Weir) UK aims to top G7 per-capita economic growth for two years running, source says By Andy Bruce (Reuters) - The new British government's aim to post the fastest sustained economic growth among G7 nations hinges on ranking first for increases in per-capita output for two years running by the time of the next election, a government source told Reuters. Achieving this target would represent a marked turnaround from Britain's recent status as one of the G7's laggards for per-capita GDP growth, having been middle of the pack for much of the 2010s. It would also likely signify a return to improving living standards, with real per-capita household disposable incomes lower in early 2024 than they were in late 2019. The government source's comment is the first confirmation of the specific growth target for Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Labour government, elected last week in a landslide victory. Starmer and his finance minister Rachel Reeves have promised to improve Britain's long-running anaemic growth rates, hurt by weak productivity and low investment. On Monday, Reeves announced sweeping reforms to the planning system. According to OECD data dating back to the 1970s, Britain has never topped the G7 ranking for GDP growth per person for two consecutive years. It came close in the early 2000s, however, coming top in 2001, second in 2002, and then top again in 2003. Economists say per capita GDP, which divides economic output by the population, represents a better gauge of living standards than overall GDP, which can be skewed higher by immigration. British economic growth per person grew for the first time in two years during the first quarter, bucking a declining trend that has left the level of per-capita GDP no better than it was six years ago. Starmer says he wants to raise overall economic growth to around 2.5% a year, similar to Britain's pre-financial crisis average. Britain's economy looks set to grow by around 1% this year, although data on Thursday showed stronger-than-expected growth in May, posing an upside risk to existing forecasts. The specific per-capita growth target matches a pre-election commitment published by Labour in September. (Reporting by Andy Bruce; Editing by Hugh Lawson) (Reuters) - A Ukrainian drone strike on a courtyard outside a multi-storey apartment block on a border town in southern Russia's Belgorod region injured five children, two of them seriously, the regional governor said. "In the town of Shebekino, an explosive device was dropped deliberately from a drone in the courtyard of a multi-storey apartment building," Vyacheslav Gladkov wrote on Telegram. "Five children who were in the playground received various injuries. Two of them in serious condition were taken to the regional children's hospital." Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, also writing on Telegram, described the incident as a "deliberate terrorist attack on children" and called for international condemnation. The incident occurred three days after a Russian bomb caused considerable destruction at a children's hospital in Kyiv, prompting the evacuation of many of its patients. At least two people were killed. Gladkov also said three civilians were injured in another Ukrainian attack on Shebekino. (Reporting by Ron Popeski; Editing by Sandra Maler) How "legal" is Bulldozer action against "illegal" homes? We are still searching for a suitable way to engage with those who celebrate the bulldozing of houses belonging to poor Muslims and Dalits. The state appears to appease them through the weaponization of legality Thursday July 11, 2024 11:33 PM , Dr. Ajazuddin Shaikh Few days ago, Mitesh (name changed) called us seeking help. He wanted to build low-budget houses in a newly developing Muslim ghetto in Ahmedabad, mentioning that many people were making good money by buying cheaper plots over there and constructing small houses with two rooms, a kitchen, and a bathroom. When we asked what kind of help he needed from us, he said he wanted us to be his partner because he needed someone influential to negotiate with the local land mafias there. We warned him that this activity was illegal and could get him into trouble. He responded: We have to take risks if we want to make money. We then firmly told him not to expect any kind of help from us for any illegal plans. We explained how the existing mafias, in a felonious collaboration with the local administration and politicians, were putting poor Muslims at risk of losing their homes to demolitions. Hearing our strict response, he apologized for putting forward such a sudden proposal and ended the call by saying that he would like to meet us in person to discuss further. We are not sure if he will not go ahead with his plan. He may find another influential person to partner with. But this brief conversation prompted us to reflect deeper on the situation. Mitesh is a community worker, whom we first met around 12 years ago at a community meeting focused on public education issues. He had strong opinions about how privatization was harming public education, causing many students to drop out at the higher secondary and higher education levels. Being born to poor Dalit parents, Mitesh himself had to leave school after 10th grade to learn electrical work to make a living. Despite his limited earnings, he attended public protests, rallies, and meetings regularly hoping to uplift the community. He also supported NGOs in their grassroots research and intervention efforts. His wife and in-laws often taunted him for his voluntary social work, which he sometimes used to share with us with a smile. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mitesh couldnt find any work and faced severe financial hardships, leading to serious family disputes. He felt ignored and betrayed by friends, family, and NGOs who couldnt offer him support during and after the pandemic. His financial struggles made him feel like a failure, which drastically changed his mindset. His situation pushed him to focus on making more money for survival, his familys future needs, and his own dignity. Whenever we meet now, he asks for new business ideas or shares his weird business plans. Mitesh is not alone. We encounter many young people from marginalized communities who frequently discuss risky or illegal business ventures. Many unemployed and struggling Muslim and Dalit youth, like Mitesh, are attracted to the informal but lucrative construction business involving multi-layered and complex socio-political problems. Understanding the illegal housing business We are still searching for a suitable way to engage with those who celebrate the bulldozing of houses belonging to poor Muslims and Dalits. The state appears to appease them through the weaponization of legality. What is shocking, however, is to see even neutral individuals justifying bulldozer justice by pointing to the illegality of these housing settlements. Therefore, we believe it is crucial to engage in more open conversations with them to understand the context of this illegal housing before judging such state actions. Fatima (name changed) lived in a rented house with her husband and 5-year-old son. One day, her husband suffered a severe heart attack and passed away, leaving no savings for her except for a gold chain (Mangalsutra). Now, she had to look after her young child alone. Fatima used to be a skilled bidi worker but had to discontinue as they moved to a newly developing area with cheaper rent of 3000 rupees per month. She now desperately needed to find a new job or work to survive. Initially, her step son (living far away) helped with the rent, but he couldnt continue. She started doing various labor jobs available in the area but struggled to save much. When her son would get sick, she had to borrow money from relatives. One day, a local person informed her about a new affordable housing scheme in their locality where anyone could own a small house (two rooms, a kitchen, a bathroom) with easy installment payments. The offer required a booking amount of 50,000 rupees, with the remaining 5 lakhs payable in 100 installments of 5000 rupees each. The prospect of owning a house through installments seemed like a significant relief to her after completing the payments. She asked her step son if he could contribute 2000 rupees monthly to help her pay the installments without delay. Before making the final decision, they made an inquiry about the developers. They discovered that the project was being developed by a team of local youth, some of whom had a strong reputation for community service. This background check positively influenced their investment decision. Lacking the education to fully understand the legal aspects of housing regulations, they sought advice from trusted individuals about the developers and decided to proceed with the purchase. She sold her Mangalsutra, her only valuable possession, to pay the booking amount and soon moved into her new home. We witnessed her struggling to pay those installments during the pandemic when she had to borrow money from almost everyone she knew. After nearly ten years of hardship, we now see a sense of satisfaction on her face from owning her own house. Her son is now a teenager and is seeking employment to support his mother financially. We know hundreds of such vulnerable households who prefer to purchase these cheaper houses over government housing. One of the major fears of poor Muslims is the safety and acceptance of people living around them. This fear is real, as evidenced by a recent incident in Gujarat, where a Muslim woman faced backlash after being allotted a house in government housing. Such blatant discrimination also affects many poor Dalits in cities on a daily basis. Additionally, finding suitable employment near government housing adds to the survival challenges. The relatively higher costs of government housing compared to local illegal schemes also deter many poor individuals who need to borrow money even for the booking amounts. These complex and systemic issues drive poor Muslims and Dalits to invest in local neighborhoods or ghettos, often unaware of the risk of their houses being bulldozed as a form of collective punishment. Most of the legal lands in cities are owned by upper and dominant caste groups. Even when Muslims and Dalits have the money, they are often denied housing and forced to live in segregated areas. Upper and middle-class Muslims and Dalits can often secure clean land or houses in these segregated locations, but poorer households struggle to find their legal shelter. To cater to this need, local land mafias, in collaboration with local authorities and some politicians, take over government land, divide it into plots, and sell it to local community youth groups at much lower rates. These youth groups are in desperate need of work and money like Mitesh. This arrangement benefits the land mafias in several ways: they dont have to find buyers themselves, which can be difficult due to their bad reputation; the youth groups become indebted to them and thus come under their control; by creating a sense of helping the community, the mafias gain influence over the groups and residents, allowing them to negotiate with local politicians (mostly from the ruling party). Other stakeholders also encash the vulnerabilities of these poor people. The administration receives its cut and additional support from the mafias and youth groups for any informal or challenging tasks. To buy such land and start a housing scheme, young people often borrow money from local contacts. These contacts also help promote the scheme so that the young people can repay the money, sometimes with interest. Local lawyers prepare papers (power of attorney for the land) that give poor buyers the illusion of ownership. As a result, various interest groups give a sense of legitimacy to the completely illegal scheme, leaving no doubt in the buyers minds. However, when their houses are bulldozed, none of these interest groups are held accountable. Instead, the current governments proudly justify the demolitions, blaming the victims, maybe to appease their vote bank. Consequently, the poor citizens lose trust in the government and the systems, feeling helpless and betrayed. Who is to blame? People like Fatima and Mitesh are victims of our legal system of injustice. The real question isnt Who is to blame? but rather What is to blame? Shouldnt the corrupt and unresponsive system of administration and governance be held accountable? Shouldnt the pervasive culture of otherization that restricts the mobility of poor Muslims and Dalits be blamed? Shouldnt the system that fails to provide jobs or work to young people be held responsible? Shouldnt the structural issue of informal employment be addressed? Shouldnt the patriarchal system that bars women from working and instead demands men to provide sufficient income in any situation be scrutinized? Shouldnt the civil society culture that fails to recognize and support the voluntary efforts of public-spirited individuals in times of need be questioned? It may be easy to declare the bulldozing of a house purchased by poor and vulnerable people a legal measure. However, after witnessing the hardships these citizens face to buy these houses, it can be difficult for any reasonable person to consider this legal measure as just. Bulldozing homes as a retaliatory collective punishment is entirely unjust. The approach to dealing with illegal construction is unlikely to yield positive results. Instead, addressing systemic and structural issues by directly engaging with marginalized and poor citizens offers a greater possibility of resolving long-standing problems without state violence. We now leave the question of legality of injustice to those who justify the bulldozing of the homes of poor citizens by labeling them illegal. [The writer, Dr. Ajazuddin Shaikh, is a Research Associate at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) and a civil society activist. He works with marginalized communities on the issues associated with substance use. He wishes to thank Chandni Guha Roy for her help with proof reading and editing. The featured image used here for representation purpose is generated by AI.] Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home England, Spain to clash in Euro Cup 2024 Final Sunday In a thrilling semi-final match Wednesday, England defeated Netherlands to reach Euro Cup 2024 Final where it will clash with Spain Sunday. Thursday July 11, 2024 7:23 PM , ummid.com with inputs from Agencies Euro 2024: In a thrilling semi-final match Wednesday, England defeated Netherlands to reach Euro Cup 2024 Final where it will clash with Spain Sunday. Spain vs England Euro Cup 2024 Final match will be played in Berlin. Spain reached the Euro 2024 Final after defeating France, courtesy Lamine Yamals history making goal Tuesday. In the second semi-final Wednesday, England defeated the Netherlands 2-1 and reached the Euro 2024 Final. England vs Netherlands Euro 2024 Semi Final was heading for Extra Time when substitute Ollie Watkins snatched the Three Lions a late 2-1 win. Earlier, Xavi Simons slammed the Dutch ahead after 7 minutes but England captain Harry Kane soon levelled the semi-final from the spot after going down under a Denzel Dumfries challenge. It was all for Extra Time, but Watkins struck in the 91st minute with a fine turn and low finish after being played in by Cole Palmer. 'Clash of Teens' Euro Cup 2024 Final between England and Spain Sunday is seen as a clash between two teens - Kobbie Mainoo of England and Lamine Yamal of Spain. Playing against France in the Euro 2024 Semi Final, Yamal, who will turn 17 a day before Sunday's final match in Berlin, became the youngest player of the tournament to score a goal. When included in the Spain quad for the Euro 2024, Yamal was the youngest Spanish player to play in the tournament for La Roja. Teenage sensation in the England team, Kobbie Mainoo (19), has had a tremendous campaign at the base of midfield, carrying on from his terrific season with Manchester United. Although Mainoo doesn't fill the statsheet in the obvious ways, his impact on the team has arguably been as much as Yamal's. The 19-year-old has completed more than 95% of his passes with a staggering dribble percentage of 98%. Incredibly composed on the ball, playing line-breaking passes and dribbling out of trouble, Mainoo has provided the England midfield a brand new dimension. In the Euro Cup 2024 Semi Final against the Netherlands Wednesday, Mainoo played more of a reserved role at the base of the midfield, winning 100% of his duels and tackles. Mainoo's skillset has enabled Declan Rice to be more expansive with his game, bombing forward at every opportunity possible. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Promises and Perils of AI in Media Discourse More than 400 journalists and media professionals from 30 countries gathered at the Philippine International Convention Center to attend the conference focused on The Future of Facts." Thursday July 11, 2024 8:52 AM , Syed Ali Mujtaba More than 400 journalists and media professionals from 30 countries gathered at the Philippine International Convention Center to attend the conference focused on The Future of Facts." They deliberated on the theme of how responsibly AI can be integrated into the newsrooms. "As the AI landscape evolves rapidly hence it needs to be deployed carefully, as human judgment is crucial to ensure journalistic integrity", the experts concluded. "AI is a useful tool in data analysis. News outlets are already finding advantages of using AI for digital searches and dissecting data. At the same time, tech companies' play a mischievous role in perpetuating disinformation due to the profit-driven nature of the fake news", experts deliberated at the media conference in Manila Philippines. The panelists voiced concerns about the phenomena of disinformation and discussed whether or not governments have a role in regulating such a phenomenon. The experts feared that online influencers can sway public opinion during the elections more effectively than traditional journalism which can dampen peoples trust in the institution of media. Experts dwelled on the upside of the AI saying: "It offers powerful tools for digital searches, data analysis, and content repurposing, which can be game-changing for the newsrooms. On the downside, there are numerous challenges in trying to regulate online content as there is little accountability by the tech companies in disseminating the disinformation." Panelists acknowledged that the future of journalism hinges on AI but feared that while fitting in the roles of traditional journalists it may cut down their jobs which may bode ill for the scribes. Syed Nazakat the CEO of DataLEADS, a New Delhi-based organization highlighted the dual role of AI both as a tool for disinformation and as a means to combat it. He spoke at the panel on The Promise and Perils of Artificial Intelligence in the Media. Information warfare is happening at an unprecedented scale where everyone is trying to manipulate each other's thinking. AI is having enormous potential but at the same time posing a monstrous threat to democracy due to its power to fuel disinformation and propaganda, the founder of DataLEADS said. Nazakat gave an example of the use of AI in the recent Lok Sabha election in India, saying: Approximately 300 editors, journalists, and fact-checkers worked together for four months to form a fact-checking collective called Project Shakti to fight the menace of disinformation. This was the biggest collaboration so far in India between fact-checkers and publishers to fight the menace of misinformation." We used an early warning system code to flag content that could go viral and this collaboration made a difference as millions of voters were protected from misinformation during the general election held in seven phases from April 19 to June 4, 2024, in India, he said. The East-West West Centers biennial International Media Conference, in Manila explored topics such as; Data and deep-fakes, Influencers and elections, Hopes and fears, etc. [The writer, Syed Ali Mujtaba, is a Jefferson Fellow and part of the EWC family. He was invited to the conference but missed this opportunity. Based in Chennai India, he prepared this report sent to him from Manila. He can be contacted at syedalimujtaba2007@gmail.com.] Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Rahul Gandhis Hinduism Vs BJP-RSSs Hindutva While leaders like Mahatma Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi have expanded and enhanced the humane aspect of Hinduism, the Savarkar-RSS have treaded the path of hate and consequent violence. Thursday July 11, 2024 9:42 AM , Ram Puniyani After the mandate of recent Lok sabha elections (2024) , the parliament has become a real ground where the voice of opposition also has a space. In the debate following the Presidents Address, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of opposition responded by outlining the various problems facing the country. One part of his speech , which probably has been expunged from the proceedings related to the nature of Hinduism. As per Rahul, Hinduism is based on truth and non violence. India is a country of non-violence, and not of fear. All our great men have spoken about non-violence and overcoming fear. Gesturing towards the benches of BJP MPs, Rahul Gandhi added: Those who call themselves Hindus speak all day about violence, hate and untruth. Since then, many protests by Sadhus have taken place against Rahuls statement. In Ahmedabad, the Congress office was attacked. The RSS Combine is spreading that Rahul has called all Hindus violent etc. On the other side, Rahul has elaborated that what he means by Hinduism is based on truth, non violence and love. RSS ideologues are taking a sweep that Nehru to Rahul Gandhis ideology is out of touch with reality. As per them they have restricted only to minority questions to preserve their vote bank. The RSS ideologues also criticize Nehru for starting his work of Sampradayikata Virodhi Abhiyan (Campaign against communalism) as being directed against RSS! They also take Nehru on for opposing President Rajendra Prasads inaugurating the Somanth temple. They claim that RSS hindutva derives from Dayanand Sarswati, Swami Vivekanand, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee and Shyama Prasad Mukerjee. As such RSS ideology does not have much to do with ideologies of Dayanand Sarswati and Swami Vivekanand, except using their names to cover their ideology. On the other hand, many from the INDIA block, along with Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati , have stood with Rahuls elaboration of the humanistic view of Hinduism. There is some overlap between the use of the word Hinduism and Hindutva currently. As Uddhav Thackeray said that his views on Hindutva are the same as Rahul elaborated (about Hinduism). As Hinduism is not a prophet based religion many interpretations of the same have been used. The very word Hindu is missing in the Holy Hindu scriptures, Vedas, Upnishad, Gita or Manu smriti. The word was coined by those coming from West of Sindhu, for whom the word S was used in a restricted manner and for S they used to pronounce H. Sindhu became Hindu and the word initially denoted the area spread from Sindhu river to sea. The earlier religious tendencies prevalent here were Vedic religion (which also can be labeled as Brahmanism), Ajivikas, Tantra, Nath, Shaiva, Buddhism and Jainism in the main. Later the word Hindu became a conglomerate of different tendencies (barring Buddhism and Jainism) prevailing here. Except Brahmanism the other tendencies were called Shramans. The main difference between Brahmanism and Shramanism was the presence of caste and gender hierarchy in Brahmanism. The construction of the term Hinduism has been well explained by historian D. N. Jha in his Presidential address of Indian History Congress 2006. He points out: Of Course the Word (Hindu, added) was in use in pre colonial India, but it was not before late eighteen or early 19th Century that it was appropriated by British scholars. Since then it has found wider use. From here on the term was used for all in the subcontinent except for those who were Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Muslims and Christians. As there were no rigid boundaries, the Brahmanical stream projected Vedas and Manusmriti as sacred scriptures. The major understandings of Hinduism also varied. For Ambedkar, Hinduism is dominated by Brahmanism, caste system. Thats what led him to burn Manusmiriti. Mahatma Gandhi had on other hand called himself a Sanatani Hindu and wrote in Young India on 6th October 1921: Hinduism tells everyone to worship God according to his own faith or Dharma, and so it lives at peace with all the religions. A unique concept for interfaith relations and pluralism! Now Rahul Gandhi while talking about Hinduism harps on truth, love and non violence as being the core of Hinduism. The word Hinduta was coined by Chandranath Basu in 1892 and linked it with the idealism of attaining spiritual heights. At the political level, use of the word Hindutva was introduced and defined by Savarkar in his book Essentials of Hindutva (1923). His Hindutva is based on Aryan race, this Holy land (from Sindhu to Seas) and Culture (Brahmanical). Savarkar was very critical of Buddhisms non violence and attributed Indias weakness to non violence propagated by Buddhism. This is a totally warped up understanding of our History. There was no country in the modern sense, and even if we grant Kingdoms equal to country we need to remember Emperor Asoka adopted Buddhism and his empire was the largest in Ancient India. He defined Hindu as one who regarded this land as his fatherland and Holy land. RSS takes off from Savarkar and regards Islam and Christianity as foreign religions and upholds the ancient Holy Scriptures (Manu Smriti e.g.). RSS has made violence as part of its creed and its head office has an exhibition of various armaments, which are worshipped on the Dussera day. RSS shakhas have spread Hate by demonizing Muslim kings like Khilji , Babar, Aurangzeb and glorified Hindu Kings like Rana Pratap, Shivaji and Prithviraj Chauhan. The organisation had also been critical of the national movement as people of all religions participated in it. It claims to represent the Hindus, as it takes up the emotive issues like temple destructions, cow beef, and forcible conversions. The Hate spread by RSS was pointed out by none other than Sardar Vallabh bhai Patel after banning RSS in 1948: All their speeches were full of communal poison, as a final result of the poison, the country had to suffer the sacrifice of the invaluable life of Gandhiji. While leaders like Mahatma Gandhi to Rahul Gandhi have expanded and enhanced the humane aspect of Hinduism, the Savarkar-RSS have treaded the path of hate and consequent violence. While Ambedkar stands to oppose the Brahmanical domination of Hindu practice, Mahatma Gandhi to Rahul are giving an inclusive and non violent meaning to Hinduism. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. A Houston firefighter looks at downed power lines on Kings River Drive in Kingwood after severe weather conditions from Hurricane Beryl on July 8, 2024 caused trees to fall throughout Harris County. Sharon Steinmann HOUSTON, TX - JULY 11: A CenterPoint foreign assistance crew worker wipes sweat from his brow as he works with others to restore power lines on July 11, 2024 in Houston, Texas. Nearly one million people still remain without electricity in the wake of Hurricane Beryl, which was a category one hurricane that made a direct hit on Houston and surrounding areas on July 8, leaving more than two million people without power. (Photo by Danielle Villasana/Getty Images) Danielle Villasana/Getty Images HOUSTON, TX - JULY 11: CenterPoint foreign assistance crews work to restore power lines on July 11, 2024 in Houston, Texas. Nearly one million people still remain without electricity in the wake of Hurricane Beryl, which was a category one hurricane that made a direct hit on Houston and surrounding areas on July 8, leaving more than two million people without power. (Photo by Danielle Villasana/Getty Images) Danielle Villasana/Getty Images Two days after Hurricane Beryl knocked out power for a record 2.26 million CenterPoint customers in the Houston area, Gov. Greg Abbott said he is directing the Public Utility Commission to study why the region has not been able to access electricity on multiple occasions. Abbott, who is currently on an economic development trip in Asia, said in two TV interviews on Wednesday that he wants to find out why this is repeatedly happening in Houston. He did not specifically mention any other natural disasters, but more than 1 million Houston-area customers also lost power in May after a massive wind storm also known as a derecho swept through the city. Advertisement Article continues below this ad SEE FOR YOURSELF: Satellite images show widespread Houston power loss after Hurricane Beryls landfall Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has been acting as governor in Abbotts absence. They should not be losing power, Abbott said in an interview with Bloomberg TV. I want to find out: Was there a structural flaw with regard to the electrical delivery system? Or was this a personnel issue of not having enough power personnel in all the right locations to get power back and going again? All I can tell you is this: I want the PUC to provide information to both me and the Texas Legislature so that we will be able to act on it next year to make sure events like this never happen again, Abbott said. Thomas Gleeson, the chair of the PUC, said at a Monday news conference that the agency would work with local utility companies after the storm to conduct a post-event analysis of the states response to review what we've done and try to get better. Abbotts directive seems to focus just on the Houston area. Advertisement Article continues below this ad CenterPoint has not provided a concrete timeline on when all customers will have their electricity restored. About 1 million customers were back online by Wednesday. In a separate interview with Fox 7 Austin, Abbott said he doesnt regret staying in Asia while other state leaders handle storm recovery efforts. He said hes been able to be fully engaged in the states response and has kept in regular contact with Patrick, Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd and other local officials. HA NOI Shares were mixed on Wednesday as a profit-taking after recent rallies weighed on the market, while the foreign bloc continued strong net selling. The VN-Index on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE) finished the day at 1,285.94 points, down 7.77 points, or 0.6 per cent. The reversal ended a nine-day rising streak. On the southern bourse, the breadth was negative as 201 stocks ticked down while 125 increased. Liquidity remained nearly unchanged from the previous trading session, at VN21.8 trillion (US$850.2 million). The VN30-Index, tracking the 30 biggest stocks on HoSE by market capitalisation, also dropped 10.87 points, or 0.82 per cent, to 1,310.91 points. The number of decliners surpassed gainers in the VN30 basket by 23 to 6. One stock ended flat. According to the Saigon-Hanoi Securities JSC (SHS), the market is experiencing rising selling pressure as the VN-Index approaches a significant resistance level, leading to continued fluctuations and uncertainty. Large-cap stocks in the manufacturing sectors led the market's downturn with FPT Corporation (FPT) posting the biggest fall in the market capitalisation, shares of the software manufacturer down 2.55 per cent, contributing to a decline of over 1.2 points in the VN-Index. It was followed by the Vietnam Rubber Group - Joint Stock Company (GVR), which fell 2.63 per cent, Mobile World Investment Corporation (MWG), down 2.4 per cent and Vinhomes JSC (VHM), which dipped 0.13 per cent. Banking stocks also saw poor performance on Wednesday, such as Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BID) down 1.26 per cent, Vietnam Prosperity Joint Stock Commercial Bank (VPB) falling 1.03 per cent, Lien Viet Post Joint Stock Commercial Bank (LPB) tumbling 2.35 per cent and HCM City Development Joint Stock Commercial Bank (HDB) dipping 1.19 per cent. However, losses were capped by gains in some pillar stocks, led by the Bank for Foreign Trade of Vietnam (VCB), which was up nearly 0.6 per cent, Refrigeration Electrical Engineering Corporation (REE) up by 2.45 per cent and Viet Nam National Petroleum Group (PLX) rising 1.2 per cent. On the Ha Noi Stock Exchange (HNX), the HNX-Index also finished lower at 244.54 points. More than 64 million shares were traded on the northern bourse, worth more than VN1.5 trillion. Foreign investors continued to be net sellers on the market, particularly on the southern exchange. They sold over VN1 trillion on the HoSE. VNS HA NOI With positive results seen in the first half of this year, Viet Nam hopes foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow in 2024 to hit US$40 billion in the whole year, contributing to boosting the countrys growth, according to experts. FDI was an important factor pushing Viet Nams GDP growth rate in the first half of 2024 to 6.2 per cent, laying the foundation for the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) to adjust the countrys growth target for this year to 7 per cent. According to the General Statistics Office, as of June 20, Viet Nam had drawn nearly $15.19 billion in FDI, up 13.1 per cent over the same period last year. Notably, the FDI disbursement in the January-June period hit about $10.84 billion, a rise of 8.2 per cent year on year and a record for the first half of a year in the past five years. Vu Tu Anh, Director of the Centre for Economic Information, Analysis and Forecasting under the Central Economic Commission, cited employment data in FDI firms in the first half of this year, which revealed a rise of 4.8 per cent year-on-year. He held that the FDI and cash flow from China and Western countries will create a huge boost and bring abundant opportunities for the Vietnamese economy from now and in the next 10 years. MPI Deputy Minister Tran Quoc Phuong said that in the rest of the year, Viet Nam will still be an FDI magnet. An MPI survey showed that foreign investors are still confident in the Vietnamese market and interested in continuing to invest in Viet Nam, he said, holding that the FDI can reach $39-40 billion this year, higher than the 2023 figure. Nguyen Trung Hieu, General Director of NTP Asset Management JSC, attributed the good FDI attraction results so far this year to the countrys stable macro-economic situation and good conditions in infrastructure system, human resources, tax, fee and land reserve access. Hieu asserted that other factors ensuring the competitiveness of Viet Nam include low construction cost, low wage level and suitable power prices. He predicted that FDI will continue to be a bright spot in the macro-economic picture of Viet Nam. VNS HA NOI The trade value between Viet Nam and China is expected to reach US$200 billion this year, driven by strong trade improvement in the first half of the year. The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) reported that bilateral trade witnessed strong recovery in the first two quarters, hitting nearly $95 billion. The orders from big markets has increased sharply during the period, leading to higher demand for machinery and material imports to serve production for export. As a result, Vietnamese businesses spent $67 billion on imports from China and raked in $27.8 billion from exports to this market, respectively rising nearly 35 per cent and 5.3 per cent year-on-year. China remains the biggest supplier of materials for Viet Nam, accounting for nearly 37.6 per cent of the country's total import value in the last six months, according to the MoIT. Thanks to such strong improvement during the first half, bilateral trade is forecast to approximate $200 billion this year. The figure can reach $190 billion if the growth as in the first half of this year is sustained during the remaining months, and even top $200 billion if better recovery is recorded. Last year, the Viet Nam-China trade value reached $171.9 billion. Of the figure, Viet Nams exports stood at $61.2 billion (up 5.6 per cent), and imports $110.6 billion (down 6.6 per cent), respectively making up 17.3 per cent and 33.9 per cent of the countrys total exports and imports. Businesses have quickly capitalised on advantages generated by the free trade agreements (FTA) with China such as the ASEAN - China Free Trade Area (ACFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to benefit from preferential tariffs. Insiders said they believes that room remains ample for Viet Nam and China to expand trade ties in the time to come. As scheduled, the 2024 China International Fair for Trade In Services (CIFTIS) will take place in Beijing this September, focusing on such service sectors as energy, posts and telecommunications, finance, education, culture and tourism, and supply chain. It is hoped to further strengthen partnerships between Vietnamese and Chinese businesses. VNS HA NOI It is necessary to connect supply and demand for science and technology products and to find opportunities for cooperation between scientists and businesses operating in Viet Nam's agriculture sector, a conference in Ha Noi heard on Wednesday. Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan said in recent times, scientists have focused on researching and developing many useful scientific and technological products in the field of agriculture, but businesses and cooperatives that need these products have failed to access them due to a lack of information. Cooperation between scientists and businesses is needed, Hoan said, adding that it will allow relevant parties to add ideas and content to scientific research, ensuring the feasibility and market accessibility of products. Closer coordination will also ensure that scientific research is suitable for practical conditions at reasonable costs, he said. Minister Hoan also urged for a stronger order-driven mechanism between research and production, and between businesses and scientists in Viet Nam's agriculture sector. At the same time, he emphasised that for businesses to place orders, scientists need to have samples to showcase their products. Nguyen Cong Tiep, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National University of Agriculture (VNUA) said his university strives to conduct scientific research that meets practical needs. VNUA is currently cooperating with about 200 domestic and foreign enterprises. He called on businesses and cooperatives to place orders so that his university could speed up research, transfer, and application to improve the value of agricultural products. Meanwhile, Nguyen Hong Son, Director of the Vietnam Academy of Agricultural Sciences (VAAS) said that the market is the facilitator of scientists in the agriculture sector. Currently, the demand for production development and value increase from businesses is very high. Therefore, orders from businesses are the motivation for scientists to get started right from the research stage, Son said. He added that a large number of businesses are very interested in investing in science-technology research and application in production. Many of them have allocated their funds to research and development or received the transfer of scientific and technical advances so that they can improve plant variety. Tran Kim Lien, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of the Vietnam National Seed Corp (Vinaseed) said since 2006, the company has cooperated with public research institutes to commercialise agricultural research results, accounting for nearly 50 per cent of the corporations revenue structure. The important point is understanding the markets demands and investing correspondingly to create plant varieties that can meet consumers needs. Lien said she believed that for a successful connection between researchers and businesses, it is necessary to forecast changes in consumer trends and direct scientific research accordingly. At the same time, the State needs to have policies to promote a more effective mechanism of public-private partnership in scientific research with longer-term programmes so that businesses can participate and attract investment capital. For instance, the MARD should introduce regulations on intellectual property protection so that businesses can feel secure in investing in research or receiving technology transfer in the agriculture field. Lien also suggested the MARD select ideas from institutes and schools. Based on science and technology, the ministry could determine specific investment portfolios. Thereby creating conditions for small and medium enterprises to participate in the value chain. For his part, Tran Trung uc, Chairman of the Viba banana cooperative in Hoa Binh Province said bringing a product to market is a long process and requires constant back-and-forth communication with scientists. When consumers change their requirements, businesses must respond and scientists can be companions, according to uc. The conference also saw eight agreements for the transfer of scientific products inked among research institutes and businesses. VNS SEOUL South Korea's Ministry of Small-and-Medium-sized Enterprises and Start-ups (MSS) has signed a tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Lotte Mart and Lotte Global Logistics to support South Korean companies exporting into Viet Nam. Qualified products of South Korean SMEs will be helped with promotions and sold at Lotte Mart Vietnam, while Lotte Global Logistics will transport the products at the company's lowest international shipping rates. Under the MoU, signed on July 10, the three agreed to establish a cooperation system and support for the export of South Korean SMEs' high-quality products. SMEs will receive advice from logistics experts to establish strategies that are cost-effective and suited to the products characteristics. If needed, logistics services such as storage, management and delivery of products will be provided through overseas warehouses owned by Lotte Global Logistics. The MSS plans a special promotion, 'Companion Festival' in September, to boost the consumption of premium Korean products in Viet Nam, supported by Lotte Mart and Lotte Global Logistics. This first promotional event will be developed into an annual festival. Minister of the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises and Start-ups, Oh Young-joo said the festival in Viet Nam will support South Korean businesses expanding markets abroad. Lotte Mart CEO Kang Seong-hyun was quoted by Vietnam News Agency correspondent as saying that: Viet Nam is a very important market and Lotte Mart is delighted to support the product development of small and medium-sized enterprises according to a distinctive strategy." Meanwhile, Lotte Global Logistics CEO Kang Byeong-gu said that with this agreement, the company can act as a bridge for Korean SMEs to penetrate foreign markets. VNS HA NOI In a joint effort to propel Viet Nam's AI field forward, Google and the Viet Nam National Innovation Centre (NIC) on Thursday launched the 'Build for the AI Future' initiative. This comprehensive programme aims to accelerate Viet Nam's progress in AI through two primary pillars, Build for Talent and Build for Start-ups. These are designed to empower Viet Nams workforce, nurture the start-up ecosystem and strengthen the foundations for widespread AI adoption. Southeast Asia's digital economy has experienced rapid growth, expanding eightfold in eight years, to reach US$100 billion. The region's AI readiness, coupled with this digital transformation, positions Southeast Asia, including Viet Nam, to achieve up to $835 billion in economic benefits from AI by 2030. Amid the AI technology boom, Viet Nam has made strong strides in research, application and work force skill development. In 2021, the Prime Minister issued the National Strategy on AI development until 2030. After three years, Viet Nam ranked 55th in AI readiness in 2022, up seven places from 2021, according to Oxford Insights. The Build for the AI Future initiative, a collaboration between Google and NIC under the Ministry of Planning and Investment, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to fostering Viet Nam's AI ecosystem. This initiative equips the local workforce with essential skills for the AI era and supports the development of AI-driven innovations among Vietnamese start-ups, said Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Planning and Investment Tran Duy ong. At the event, Marc Woo, Managing Director, Viet Nam, Google Asia Pacific, estimated that Viet Nam's digital economy will grow elevenfold by 2030, reaching $220 billion - almost half of the country's current GDP. AI is one of the key drivers to realising that forecast," said Mark Woo. "Together with NIC, we believe Build for the AI Future will be a strong launchpad for Viet Nams local talents, start-ups and businesses that is well-leveraged on the best of Google AI's products and solutions. With a dynamic startup scene, a young, tech-savvy population (20 per cent of the total population) and supportive government policies, Viet Nam is well-poised to seize AI opportunities. However, the nation faces a significant challenge - a shortage of AI specialists. This scarcity, along with limited access to high-quality AI training programmes, creates a gap between market demand and available talent. Vietnamese AI start-ups also struggle with limited access to top AI experts and mentors, as well as a lack of infrastructure and tools needed for rapid AI product development, commercialisation and scaling up. Regarding the programme, the Build for Talent offers 40,000 scholarships to the Google Career Certificates programme, including the newest AI Essentials course, targeting Vietnamese officials, lecturers, and students across 80 universities and colleges. The Build for Start-ups focuses on empowering local green shoot businesses, recognising their critical role in innovation and solution development. o Tien Thinh, Deputy Director of the NIC, said its collaboration with Google meant growth through support programmes and acceleration initiatives. They have provided numerous scholarships for digital skills development, particularly in AI, aiming to enhance the start-up ecosystem, train IT professionals and advance AI applications in Viet Nam. He emphasised that beyond scholarships, Google's programmes promote a global standard of learning and offers flexibility, allowing participants to complete courses online in three to six months or at their own pace. VNS A crew works to remove a tree from a home near Northwood Manor July 10, 2024. John Lomax/Staff writer For some Houston residents, Hurricane Beryl was just another bleak chapter in a never-ending cycle of damage and repair. On Houstons north side, where advocates have long called on city leaders to improve drainage infrastructure, residents are once again beginning to pick up the pieces. Its a familiar scene for them tattered powerlines overhang properties, waterlines inside homes demark flood damage and neighbors gather on porches to discuss the way forward. At this point were just busy trying to survive, said Dana Jones, a 63-year-old resident who lives on the north side between Aldine and Northline. For years weve been talking to our leaders, talking to public works, talking to FEMA its exhausting. It feels like weve been fighting for so long and the city just doesnt want to do anything. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jones has lived in the area for more than 20 years, but she said Beryl may be the final nail in the coffin for her and many others in the neighborhood. Already, previous storms have forced her to completely gut and rebuild her home. Now, in the aftermath of Beryl, Jones and other residents are wondering if they can afford to continue living there. Many of Jones personal items such as clothes, photos and other valuables sit atop tables and cabinets a temporary measure that became permanent after she realized the problems in her community were not going to be fixed any time soon. Tucked away in a corner are several bags of ammonia, something Jones always has on hand to treat the stench brought by floodwater tainted with sewage. Dana Jones in her home July 10, 2024. She said she has to keep her valuables elevated after repeated floods. John Lomax/Staff writer Look, my neighbor has a manhole in her backyard, she said, pointing through a fence that was recently destroyed by the hurricane. Every time it floods, the sewer gets backed up and leaves human feces in our yards. When the sun comes out afterward and starts to cook it the smell is just unbelievable. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Jones neighborhood is one of many on Houstons north end where the drainage infrastructure relies mainly on a system of open ditches. These ditches, which a 2023 Chronicle article found are disproportionately used in Black and brown communities, often get blocked up an issue compounded by irregular trash pickup and illegal dumping in the area, Jones said. Until recently, ditch maintenance was the responsibility of homeowners. Former Mayor Sylvester Turner changed that in 2023 with an ordinance which placed upkeep back in the hands of the city. He also launched the Roadside Ditch Re-establishment Program, a plan that provided funding for ditch widening and other upgrades. But, for Jones and other residents, improvements have yet to materialize. Dana Jones points to a ditch on July 10, 2024. She said the city was scheduled to improve drainage in the area the week beryl hit. John Lomax/Staff writer For a while the county and the city were arguing over whose responsibility it was, Jones said. The city finally said theyd come out to deepen the ditches outside my house, but that was the week of the hurricane. I havent heard anything since. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Worst wind damage A similar scene played out in the northeast, where residents said they were spared the worst of the flooding, but wind damage more than made up for it. In Northwood Manor, toppled trees left gaping holes in homes throughout the neighborhood. Fences lay splintered and broken, and roads remain blocked by lamp posts and traffic lights scattered by the near-80 mph winds that rocked the area. PIECE OF THE PIE: Northeast Houston residents gather to demand funding for their 'slice' of the drainage operation Like Jones community, Northwood Manor is an area that has struggled with flooding for more 20 years. Although much of the damage here was from wind, residents said the ground made soft and muddy by repeated floods is partially to blame. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This is the first time since Ike that I can remember so many trees blown down, said Linda Park, a 68-year-old resident of Northwood. I think it was because of how saturated the ground is around here, were seeing healthy trees ripped up from the roots. Park, who spoke with the Chronicle Wednesday after a community meeting with Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, said the area is home to many elderly residents who have been left vulnerable by a lack of power and other damage in the wake of Hurricane Beryl. Her 37-year-old daughter, Lisa Parker, also attended the meeting. She said elected officials arent doing enough to make sure communities like hers are taken care of. A lot of elderly folks around here dont have access to transportation to get them to and from cooling and water distribution centers, Parker said. Right now it feels like whats being offered to us as a community is just lip service and wordplay. (Cooling) centers mean nothing when your most vulnerable citizens cant even get there. But, she said, recent efforts on behalf of the Northwood Manor Civic Club to advocate for the area have made considerable progress. Hidalgos visit was the first by any local official, and while she remained skeptical that it would lead to any significant improvements, Parker said it felt like a step in the right direction. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Hidalgo arrived Wednesday afternoon to hear from residents impacted by Beryl and held a short meeting with community leaders before departing on a tour of the damage with Northwood Manor Civic Club President Fred Woods. VIENTIANE President To Lam on Thursday visited Star Telecom (Unitel), a joint venture between Viet Nam's Viettel Global JSC and Lao Asia Telecom, as part of his ongoing state visit to Laos. The Vietnamese State leader hailed efforts and business results of Star Telecom, saying its services have covered even the most remote areas of Laos, significantly contributing to local socio-economic development over the past 15 years. The company is also taking the lead in providing information technology and digital financial solutions for the Lao government and people, helping facilitate national digital transformation and e-Government building, while making it easier for Lao residents to carry out financial and payment activities, he said. Star Telecom should play a pioneering role in digital transformation in Laos and provide products in service of digital transformation at the Lao legislature, Government, ministries and agencies, he said. The leader urged the company to continue its social welfare programmes in Laos, respecting laws in the host country, and pursuing healthy competition, saying he hopes that the joint venture will continue to be a symbol and a model of economic cooperation between the two countries. Star Telecom General Director Tran Trung Hung informed the President about the operation of the company that accounts for 57 per cent of the market share in Laos, contributes over US$60 million to the Lao State budget each year, and generates jobs for over 27,000 workers. The same day during his trip to Laos, President Lam met with former Party General Secretaries and Presidents of Laos Choummaly Sayasone and Bounnhang Vorachith as well as former Lao Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong. Expressing his appreciation for the invaluable support and affection that the former senior leaders of Laos have extended to Viet Nam, President Lam acknowledged their significant contributions to nurturing and strengthening the steadfast, special solidarity between the two nations. Lam expressed confidence that under the wise leadership of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, the nation will continue to develop independently and prosperously, bringing well-being and happiness for its people. He also congratulated Laos on its achievements in recent years, attributing these successes to the significant contributions of the former leaders. The former Lao leaders said that they have been closely following the excellent development of the Viet Nam-Laos great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation. Expressing gratitude for the valuable support provided by the Vietnamese Party, State, and people to Laos, they emphasised the need for both sides to continue nurturing the unique friendship, enhancing the effectiveness of cooperation, and implementing agreements and treaties between the two countries. They also stressed the importance of educating and raising awareness among the people of both nations, especially the younger generations, about the unparalleled, loyal, and pure relationship. VNS KUALA LUMPUR The Malaysian Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) on July 11 announced that the country has secured potential exports worth 3.3 billion RM (about US$717 million) to Viet Nam. The announcement was made following a visit to Viet Nam from July 8 to 10 by MITI Minister Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul. MITI said 14 Vietnamese companies have committed to sourcing Malaysian products, including electrical and electronics, palm oil, chemicals and petrochemicals, iron and steel, food and beverages, as well as fast-moving consumer goods. The commitments were made at roundtables between Vietnamese corporations and the Malaysian minister in HCM City and Ha Noi. Minister Zafrul said that Malaysia is pleased with the 3.3 billion RM potential exports from its brief mission to Viet Nam, adding MITI will follow up on the realisation of these commitments to support the gross domestic product growth and create job opportunities for people. He emphasised that the visits results reflect the growing momentum in economic ties between the two countries, highlighting mutually beneficial opportunities for their business communities. According to a statement that MITI released on July 11, during his Viet Nam visit, Tengku Zafrul had meetings with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung, and Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien. Tengku Zafrul and Dien also co-chaired the fourth meeting of the Malaysia-Viet Nam Joint Trade Committee in Ha Noi on July 9. Last year, Viet Nam was Malaysias 11th largest trading partner while Malaysia was Viet Nams 10th largest globally, with a total trade volume of $17.38 billion. Viet Nam is also an important investment destination for Malaysia, especially in real estate, utilities, financial services and manufacturing. As of 2023, Malaysia registered 717 projects in Viet Nam with total investment of $13.1 billion. VNS CA MAU Ngoc Hien District in the southernmost province of Ca Mau has already suffered from 20 riverbank erosion this rainy season though it has only just begun, and the resultant losses are estimated at over VN1.3 billion (US$50,700) besides the adverse effect they have had on the lives of local people. On the night of July 8 an erosion in Rach Goc Town destroyed four houses and damaged five others, causing an estimated loss of VN1 billion (US$39,100). Thankfully, no casualties were reported. Vo Khanh Linh said he and his family felt their house shaking and the walls starting to crack. They managed to flee before a part of the house collapsed into the river but lost everything they possessed, he said. Other houses in the area experienced similar occurrences a few minutes later. Rescuers were able to evacuate everyone and move a lot of household items out by next morning, local authorities said. An assessment of the area found cracks on the floors of two other houses, which make them susceptible to a collapse. Families in the area said they know living in riverside houses is dangerous, especially in the rainy season when high tides and landslides regularly occur, but they could not afford to move elsewhere. District authorities said they have been raising awareness among local people to help prevent landslides and promptly react to them and other disasters during the rainy season. They have also evacuated houses in landslide-prone areas and asked locals to regularly look for and report unusual cracks in their properties. Ca Mau has 425km in area of riverine lands that have suffered from or are prone to landslips. Around 28km of roads and hundreds of houses have already been destroyed. VNS HCM CITY Critically acclaimed pianist Nguyen Bich Tra, who is visiting from the UK, will perform in a concert A Night of Beethoven and Rachmaninoff at the HCM City Opera House on July 13. Tra will open the concert with an overture from Ruslan and Lyudmila, an opera in five acts composed by Russian Mikhail Glinka between 1837 and 1842. The opera premiered in Saint Peterburg in 1842, and became one of Russias classic operas. The overture, which was its best-known music, consists of two main themes based on Russian, Finnish, Tartar and Persian music. The pianist will continue with Piano Concerto No. 2 in C major by Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninoff. The three-movement concerto was written between 1900 and 1901, and was first performed by Rachmaninoff and Russian pianist and composer Alexander Ilyich Siloti in late 1901. Tra started her musical education at the Ha Noi Conservatory of Music before continuing her studies at the Moscow Tchaikovsky Conservatory in Russia and the Royal Academy of Music in the UK. She made her debut appearance with the Ha Noi Conservatory Orchestra. She has performed at prestigious concert halls worldwide, such as Queen Elizabeth Hall and Wigmore Hall in the UK, and Tokyo Opera City in Japan. Tras discography includes many world premiere recordings of neglected pieces. Her series of recordings of German-Swiss composer Joachim Raffs piano music, released on Grand Piano, has garnered wide critical acclaim, and was named Album of the Week by The Independent. The HCM City Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera (HBSO)'s Symphony Orchestra will end the concert with Beethoven's Symphony No. 4 in B flat major. The four-movement symphony was composed in the summer of 1806 and premiered in 1807 in Vienna, Austria. Meritorious Artist Tran Vuong Thach, former director of HBSO, will conduct the concert. Thach studied at leading music schools and conservatories in Belgium and the Netherlands. He has performed in many countries, such as Germany, Italy, Scotland, Spain, France, Japan, and South Korea. In 2020, he was granted the title "Knight of Arts and Letters" (Chevaliers des Lettres et des Arts) from the French government for his efforts to promote arts exchange between Viet Nam and France. The concert will begin at 8pm at 7 Lam Son Square in District 1. Tickets are available at the venue. VNS LANG SON Experts of the UNESCO Global Geopark Network have suggested the northern province of Lang Son to pay special attention to educating local community about the values of the Lang Son Geopark and enhancing local communitys responsibility in preserving the geopark. At a meeting with provincial leaders on July 10, the two UNESCO experts - Kristin Rangnes and Tuncer Demir - said that the province needs to protect and promote values of the geopark in combination with its socio-economic development strategy. In particular, they underlined the need for the province to exploit the unique local features to develop a geopark model that is different from other geoparks. Lang Son geopark and its counterparts in the northern region of Viet Nam should support and complement each other to develop together instead of competing with each other, the experts said, citing UNESCO's requirements for potential geoparks to have outstanding geological values and natural landscape that are distinctive from others. They also asked local authorities to take measures to ensure absolute safety for people and tourists at tourist attractions. A guidebook introducing the outstanding values of each area, relic site, and scenic spot in the geopark is also necessary to help visitors gain understanding about the relic. Appreciating the experts recommendations, Vice Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee Duong Xuan Huyen said that the province will continue investing and completing the geoparks infrastructure so that it can meet criteria of an UNESCO global geopark. Previously, the UNESCO experts made a field trip from July 6 - 9 for on-site assessment of the dossier to seek UNESCO's recognition of Lang Son Geopark as a global one. They visited 26 out of 38 attractions across four tourism routes of the Lang Son Geopark in the districts of Bac Son, Binh Gia, Van Quan, Huu Lung, Chi Lang, Cao Loc, Loc Binh and Lang Son City. Covering 4,842 sq.km, Lang Son Geopark, established in 2021, is one of the largest of its kind in Viet Nam and boasts a number of unique values. In terms of geology, geomorphology and landscape, it is home to a rich diversity of palaeobiological fossils dating back as far as 500 million years, many of which indicate this province used to be under the sea in the past. Moreover, this park is endowed with many renowned landscapes such as the low mountain ranges surrounding valleys and villages in Yen Thinh Commune of Huu Lung District, or the caves like Tham Khuyen in Binh Gia District that accommodated prehistoric humans. Regarding cultural values, it houses a number of temples dedicated to the gods in the worship of Mother Goddesses an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, especially Bac Le Temple, as well as villages of Tay and Nung ethnic groups with distinctive cultures. VNA/VNS HOI AN The ancient city of Hoi An has been named as number one in the Top Best-Value Destination in the World in 2024 by the Post Office, UK. The Post Office shares the destinations set to offer holidaymakers best value in the year ahead and of the top 15 best-value hotspots, according to its Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer. The long-haul destinations top this years list are Viet Nam, South Africa and Kenya, which offer the lowest prices. "Topping the chart for the first time is Viet Nam, where a 14.4 per cent price fall in Hoi An has been achieved through a combination of lower charges in restaurants and bars and a sizeable drop in the value of the Vietnamese ong," it reported. "At 51.18 pound (US65.81) for the barometer basket, Hoi An has leapfrogged last years leaders to rise from sixth to first place in the worldwide barometer and has done so because it is one of only eight destinations to combine a reduction in local prices with falling currency values." It reports that counting the average local price of eight popular tourist items, Hoi An leads the way on three of these, beer (about $1.47), Coca-Cola (about $0.91) and sunscreen (about $4.70). Located on the Central Coastal province of Quang Nam, Hoi An is one of Viet Nams most charming and atmospheric cities. The commercial hustle and bustle of the larger, more metropolitan cities in the country is almost entirely absent here. It was once a busy international trading port and has architectural heritage dating back hundreds of years - recognised by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage site. Travellers can spend mornings on the pristine beaches, afternoons touring fascinating historical sites and evenings seeking out the tastiest corners of the night market. This is a picturesque destination where lantern-lit streets lead to quaint shops and street eateries. It's also conveniently close to beautiful white sand beaches - some of the most beautiful in Asia, according to a writer for Forbes. Best of all, its one of the best places in the world to catch up on quality shut-eye, according to the Skyscanner 2024 UK Travel Trends Report, which checked out cities with hotels with the best sleep quality scores. Cape Town, last years leader, is now in second place after its prices increased by nearly five per cent. Costs in third-placed Mombasa, Kenya have fallen by almost seven per cent, moving it up one place since last year. Others on the list include Tokyo (Japan), Algarve (Portugal), Sharm el-Sheikh (Egypt), Sunny Beach (Bulgaria), Bali's Kuta (Indonesia), Marmaris (Turkey) and Paphos (Cyprus). VNS At the invitation of the King of Cambodia, Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, To Lam, is on a State visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia. Vietnamese Ambassador to Cambodia, Nguyen Huy Tang, talks to Voice of Vietnam (VOV) about the visit. Could you elaborate on the significance of President To Lam's official visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia for Viet Nam-Cambodia relations? President To Lam's State visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia takes place as the two countries celebrate the 57th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations (24 June 1967 - 24 June 2024), marked by a series of activities that highlight the deep friendship between our neighbouring nations. Additionally, President To Lam's visit comes shortly after he assumed office. This reaffirms the consistent policy and stance of the Party and the State of Viet Nam, which always places great importance on strengthening, consolidating and developing relations with neighbouring countries, including the Kingdom of Cambodia. In recent times, direct meetings and exchanges between the leaders of the two countries have resulted in numerous strategic agreements, guiding the overall relations between the two nations, thereby continuously developing the bilateral relationship. In this spirit, I believe that President To Lam's visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia is extremely significant and profound. This will be a milestone to further strengthen, nurture, and deepen the relationship between Viet Nam and Cambodia, following the motto of good neighbourliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation, sustainable and long-term development, ensuring the maintenance and strengthening of solidarity and friendship between Viet Nam and Cambodia for eternity. Could you outline the main points on the agenda of President To Lam's visit to Cambodia? During the two-day visit, President To Lam will engage in several key activities, including meetings with King Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, Queen Mother Norodom Monineath Sihanouk, Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, National Assembly President Samdech Khuon Sodary, and Prime Minister Samdech Hun Manet. Through these meetings, the leaders of the two countries will deeply discuss bilateral relations, evaluate the friendship over time, and devise measures to further deepen the relationship between the two countries in the future. In addition, President To Lam will participate in notable activities such as meeting with Cambodian alums who studied in Viet Nam and engaging with students at the Royal University of Phnom Penh. These activities will contribute to spreading friendship and strengthening the relations between the peoples of both countries. How do you assess the current and future state of the friendly and comprehensive cooperation between Viet Nam and Cambodia? The Viet Nam-Cambodia relationship has achieved significant milestones in various fields in recent years, closely tied to the important events of both nations. Alongside maintaining and promoting good political relations as the foundation and core to guide the overall relations between the two countries. In the field of defence and security, our cooperation has deepened and become a crucial pillar in our bilateral relations. Both sides have effectively implemented agreements and cooperation plans between Viet Nam's Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Public Security with Cambodia's Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Interior. Through this cooperation, both sides regularly exchange information and share experiences to coordinate efforts to prevent and neutralise hostile forces' schemes against both countries and our bilateral relations. Our foreign relations cooperation has also been strengthened, with close coordination in regional and international forums. The cooperation in defence and foreign relations has significantly contributed to maintaining a peaceful and stable environment for the development of both countries. In the economic field, recent times have seen positive changes in our economic cooperation. Viet Nam has 208 ongoing projects in Cambodia, with an investment capital of nearly US$3 billion. Additionally, Cambodia has 35 projects in Viet Nam with a total registered capital of US$75.76 million. In recent years, bilateral trade turnover has made remarkable progress. In 2020, our bilateral trade reached US$5.32 billion, in 2021 it reached $9.53 billion and in 2022, it saw a breakthrough, reaching $10.5 billion. Despite the global economic downturn, our trade turnover in 2023 remained high at $8.57 billion and in the first five months of 2024, it reached $4.6 billion. We are hopeful that in 2024, our bilateral trade turnover will return to the US$10 billion mark or higher, contributing to the goal recently agreed upon by the two Prime Ministers during Prime Minister Hun Manet's visit to Viet Nam, aiming to increase bilateral trade turnover to US$20 billion in the near future. In education, training, culture, science and technology and health, our cooperation has seen substantial progress. Both sides place great importance on education and training, considering it a strategic factor in maintaining and strengthening the friendship between our peoples. Cooperation between ministries, sectors, National Assemblies, mass organisations and peoples organisations of both countries has deepened. Border provinces have closely cooperated, especially in economics, infrastructure development, healthcare services for border residents and joint efforts to combat cross-border crimes, ensuring security and safety for our coastal areas. Looking ahead, I believe there are ample opportunities to further develop the relationship between our countries, particularly in economics. Besides traditional areas of cooperation, the Cambodian government has introduced new policies to create a conducive environment for economic development, presenting great opportunities for foreign businesses, including Vietnamese enterprises, to invest into the Cambodian market. In addition to traditional fields, we can enhance cooperation in new areas such as green technology, export-oriented processing industries and high technology. These are areas of great interest to Cambodia and areas in which Viet Nam is keen to develop to keep pace with regional and global trends. Furthermore, both sides should continue to leverage their roles in multilateral mechanisms that Viet Nam and Cambodia participate in, to explore cooperative opportunities with partners to boost economic development. Additionally, we should explore and identify other potential fields where both sides have strengths, to complement each other, making economic cooperation more profound and effective, becoming a new driving force for our bilateral relations. I believe that with the dynamism and creativity of our businesses and investors, our economic cooperation will expand and become increasingly effective, achieving the common goals set by both countries: becoming high-middle-income countries by 2030, and high-income countries by 2045 for Viet Nam and by 2050 for Cambodia. VNS HA NOI President To Lam and a high-ranking delegation of Viet Nam left Ha Noi on Thursday morning for three-day state visits to Laos and Cambodia. The visits come at the invitations of General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith, and Cambodian King Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni. President Lam is accompanied by President of the Viet Nam Fatherland Front Central Committee o Van Chien, Minister of National Defence Phan Van Giang, President of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics Nguyen Xuan Thang, Vice Chairwoman of the National Assembly Nguyen Thi Thanh, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son, Minister of Public Security Luong Tam Quang, Chairman of the Presidential Office Le Khanh Hai, Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung, Minister of Finance Ho uc Phoc, Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Ba Hung, and Vietnamese Ambassador to Cambodia Nguyen Huy Tang, among others. As Lam's first overseas trips since he was elected as the President of Viet Nam by the National Assembly in May, the visits reflect the Vietnamese Party and States crucial message of attaching the utmost importance to the Viet Nam - Laos great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation, as well as the Viet Nam - Cambodia good neighborliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation and long-term sustainability. With a determination to realise high-level agreements, especially the outcomes of high-level meetings between the Communist Party of Viet Nam and the LPRP as well as the Cambodian People's Party (CPP), the visits will mark a new stage of development in the Viet Nam - Laos and Viet Nam - Cambodia relations based on equality, mutual benefits, effective cooperation and respect for each other's interests, contributing to consolidating strategic trust, deepening relations with both countries, and enhancing solidarity among Viet Nam, Laos, Cambodia, and within the ASEAN bloc. VNS VIENTIANE President To Lam arrived in Vientiane on July 11 morning, beginning a two-day state visit to Laos at the invitation of General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Central Committee and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith. The State leader was welcomed by Chairwoman of the Presidential Office of Laos Khemmani Pholsena, Governor of Vientiane Atsaphangthong Siphandone, Lao Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Bounleua Phandanouvong, and Lao Ambassador to Viet Nam Khamphao Ernthavanh, and Vietnamese Ambassador to Laos Nguyen Ba Hung. As his first overseas trip since he took office, President Lam's visit demonstrates Viet Nam's consistent policy of always giving the highest priority to strengthening and nurturing the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation with Laos. The trip is not only a major diplomatic event but also a vivid manifestation of the special friendship and comprehensive cooperation between the two nations. It aims to reaffirm Viet Nam's strong support for Laos's efforts in renewal and national defence and construction, and encourage and assist Laos in successfully implementing the 11th Party Congresss Resolution and the 12th five-year socio-economic development plan. During his stay, the Vietnamese leader will attend an official welcoming ceremony, hold talks with Sisoulith, as well as witness the signing of cooperation documents between the two countries. He will also have meetings with the Prime Minister and the Chairman of the Lao National Assembly, receive the Chairman of the Central Lao Front for National Construction and the President of the Central Committee of the Lao Front for National Construction (LFNC) and the Chairman of the Central Laos-Viet Nam Friendship Association, visit former high-ranking leaders of Laos, and meet representatives of the Vietnamese Embassy and community in the country. - VNA/VNS VIENTIANE General Secretary of the Lao Peoples Revolutionary Party (LPRP) and President of Laos Thongloun Sisoulith hosted a red-carpet welcome ceremony in Vientiane on Thursday for Vietnamese President To Lam and the Vietnamese high-ranking delegation who are paying a state visit to the neighbouring country. Following the ceremony, the Vietnamese and Lao leaders started their talks to seek measures to make the comprehensive cooperation between the two countries deeper and more effective. President Lam's visit is taking place at a time when the Viet Nam-Laos great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation are thriving with strong political trust. Bilateral economic, trade and investment partnership is expanding, with two-way trade reaching over US$1.46 billion in 2023 and over $620 million in the first four months of this year, a year-on-year rise of 10.6 per cent. Viet Nam is investing in 241 projects in Laos with a total capital of about $5.5 billion, ranking third among the countries and territories investing there. That Laos is the first foreign country Lam visits as the state leader of Viet Nam shows the special attention and priority Viet Nam attaches to it. The sound traditional relations, close bond, and faithful friendship between the two peoples, initiated by President Ho Chi Minh, President Kaysone Phomvihane and President Souphanouvong, have been nurtured and reinforced by generations of leaders and people of the two countries, becoming a shared priceless asset of the two nations and the common rule of development of the two countries. The two sides elevated their ties from traditional to "great traditional in February 2019, marking a significant historical milestone and creating a new breakthrough in the relations between the two countries. Prior to the welcome ceremony, the two leaders and the Vietnamese delegation laid flowers at the monument dedicated to Lao unknown martyrs in Vientiane. VNS Mayor John Whitmire leads a press conference at the Emergency Operations Center about the citys response on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, after Hurricane Beryl hit the Houston area on Monday Karen Warren/Staff photographer Mayor John Whitmire criticized CenterPoint's response to Hurricane Beryl at a Houston City Council meeting Wednesday, saying the energy company "needs to do a better job" restoring power to millions of customers who lost it when the storm tore through Houston. That is the consensus of Houstonians, thats mine, Whitmire told reporters after the meeting. Whitmire, however, declined to give a grade on CenterPoints performance. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Im not in the business to grade, Whitmire told the Houston Chronicle. Im in the business of saying, Lets get it done. Lets fix it. Brad Tutunjian, CenterPoints vice president of electric distribution operations and power delivery, defended the companys performance to council members Wednesday and said it was committed to getting the lights on as quickly and safely as possible. But he did not offer a concrete timeline. A group of Linemen that form part of a convoy of electric trucks from several different states gather to support power outage efforts the day after Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Houston causing mass power outages on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer The company faced a barrage of questions during the first City Council meeting since Beryl swept into the city early Monday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad During the discussion, Tutunjian said the outage which affected 2.26 million customers at its peak was the largest in the companys history. As of Thursday morning, more than 1.09 million customers were still without power. CenterPoint has been providing electricity to this community for over 100 years, Tutunjian said. We have never seen an incident of this magnitude. CenterPoint had committed to get 50% of customers lights on within 48 hours and is on track to get the job done, Tutunjian said. He made a note that 750,000 customers were back online in 24 hours. We could not do that if we were not prepared, Tutunjian said. He said CenterPoint was proactive in assessing its needs and asking for outside resources ahead of the storm. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Council Member Edward Pollard, who represents the southwestern part of the city, told Tutunjian that he was getting calls from senior citizens and families with kids who didnt understand why their power wasnt being turned on, and he asked if CenterPoint would be changing its model. There has to be something that can be done or a learning lesson from how frequently and hard the storms are getting for us to be able to react and respond quicker, Pollard said. Graffiti reading Centerpointle$$ is seen on the I-10 West freeway on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Tutunjian conceded that the company had to make changes. Vegetation management could be an option, he said, and more efforts to bury lines and make the system more resilient through modernizing the grid. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Tutunjian said CenterPoint as able to get around 175,000 customers back online quicker simply because they had more updated equipment. Council Member Abbie Kamin asked about the cost of both the hurricane and the derecho in May. Tutunjian said the derecho cost the company many millions and that could not give a number on how much damage the hurricane caused. Residents have raised concerns about CenterPoint's outage map crashing after the derecho. Tutunjian said before Hurricane Beryl hit that CenterPoint had been working to get a cloud-based system up and running for its outage tracker and hopes to have it working by the end of the month. A flood of other response concerns Hurricane response also opened up a flood of other complaints from Whitmire, who took time to hammer Houston for its lack of resources and gaps in hurricane response during Wednesdays meeting. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Employees of Premier Home Improvement remove a tree off of the roof of a home in the Homestead neighborhood of Houston on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer I inherited a city that needed fixing, Whitmire told reporters after the meeting. SEEN FROM SPACE: Satellite images show widespread Houston power loss after Hurricane Beryls landfall During a mayors report, Whitmire thanked first responders, city employees and public officials for their collaboration and said that while Houston was a great city, it was also one with challenges and that many of those challenges are exposed when a crisis happens. But during the response, Whitmire said, he sees a need to fill 500 open positions at the Houston Police Department. He called out the citys lack of generators for city facilities and cooling centers. At one point Tuesday, Whitmire said, only 4% of the citys ambulances were available to use and patients at Memorial Hermann were having a hard time getting a hospital room. He also pointed out how students couldnt attend a Future Farmers of America convention at the George R. Brown Convention Center because of the facilitys power loss. In recent years, Whitmire said, there had been little transparency about the lack of city resources and preparation in emergencies. Construction falls on a power line as Hurricane Beryl makes landfall on Monday, July 8, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer George Brown doesn't have energy, yesterday we got 1,500 students in the Marriott and Hilton, but we got a ballgame going on down the street two blocks, Whitmire said. We got to get our priorities right, folks. As the council chamber took a moment of silence for those who lost their lives in the storm, Whitmire took time to make a special mention of Russell Richardson, an HPD information security officer who died after getting caught in rising water on Houston Avenue. His body was recovered from his vehicle at 2 p.m. Monday, Whitmire said. Watching HPD officers retrieve the body of someone that they consider a close friend and colleague, the faces of those probably will be on my mind forever, Whitmire said. Whitmire thanked Houstonians for staying off the roads, and he cautioned everyone to continue to do so in the dark. There are still 1,400 street lights that need repairs, he said. I've heard a couple of public officials and service agencies saying, Just be patient, Whitmire said. I'm not gonna use those words. I know it's hard to be patient when you've got household needs and loved ones that do not have energy and cannot go to work and have a normal life. Whitmire said the city was working on getting water and ice distribution set up and to open its cooling centers. I want everyone to know that can hear my voice, we're very committed to equality in this city, Whitmire said. Every community is going to get the same service that the other community gets. Every Houstonian is important. No one will be left out. A convoy of electric trucks from several different states gather to support power outage efforts the day after Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Houston causing mass power outages on Tuesday, July 9, 2024 in Houston. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer Tom Munoz, the acting director of the city's Office of Emergency Management, emerged from that office for the first time since Sunday to provide an update to the council. Though Munoz said Houston wasnt expecting the storm, officials were preparing for the possibility. Munoz said the storm damaged 121 counties across the state and affected 29 hospitals, including 19 in Houston. Only five or six hospitals were affected during Mays derecho. As of Wednesday morning, 32 cooling centers were online, and as of Tuesday, 935 residents had taken advantage of them. VIENTIANE Vietnamese President To Lam and General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP) Thongloun Sisoulith had official talks in Vientiane in Laos on Thursday. Congratulating To Lam on his new position, the Lao leader remarked that Laos being the first country to visit since becoming President, demonstrates the importance that the Party, the State of Viet Nam and himself personally place on the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Viet Nam and Laos. The Lao leader affirmed his readiness to work with the Vietnamese counterpart to further develop the unique and increasingly sustainable and effective relationship between the two countries. He sincerely thanked Viet Nam for its support during Laos' struggle for national independence and its ongoing support in its current building and development efforts. The Lao leader conveyed his warmest regards and best wishes to the Vietnamese top leaders and congratulated Viet Nam on its significant socio-economic and diplomatic achievements, which have affirmed Viet Nam's strong international reputation and position. President To Lam expressed his pleasure at making his first State visit to Laos in his new position. He conveyed the warmest regards and best wishes of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man to General Secretary and President Thongloun Sisoulith, the senior leaders and all officials, party members and people of Laos. President To Lam said he highly appreciated the significant and comprehensive achievements that the Party, Government and people of Laos have attained in their renewal and nation-building efforts, expressing confidence that Laos will soon overcome its difficulties and challenges to successfully achieve the goals set by the 11th National Party Congress and successfully organise the 12th congress. The Vietnamese leader thanked Laos for its sincere, pure friendship and valuable support for Viet Nam's cause of national building and defence. After updating each other on the socio-economic situation in each country, the two leaders expressed their pleasure at the positive development of their great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation. Both sides agreed to maintain regular high-level exchanges and contacts, effectively using important bilateral cooperation mechanisms and continuing to maintain and promote the highest level of close political trust. Defence and security cooperation is increasingly close and effective, playing a crucial role in the relationship between the two countries. Economic cooperation is being actively promoted, with trade and investment continuing to be bright spots. Viet Nam remains one of Laos' top trade and investment partners. At the same time, both sides have been striving to resolve key difficulties and obstacles in several major projects. Cooperation in the fields of culture, society, education, sports, people-to-people exchanges and cooperation between localities, especially between border provinces, continues to be strengthened, bringing tangible benefits to the people of both countries. The two leaders exchanged candid views on the directions and measures to promote cooperation in various fields, and stressed that in the context of the current complex global and regional situation, the two countries need to increase consultations, exchange experiences, coordinate and support each other to overcome challenges and difficulties and to jointly build an independent, self-reliant economy with deep international integration. The Vietnamese, Lao leaders reaffirmed the consistent policy of both countries to always prioritise and give the highest importance to consolidating and nurturing the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Viet Nam and Laos; continue to focus on effectively implementing high-level agreements between the two countries and between ministries, central and local agencies. The two sides agreed to strengthen consultations on strategic issues, promote exchanges of high-level visits and contacts at all levels and review and enhance the effectiveness of cooperation mechanisms. The two also touched on the need to intensify education on the historical tradition of the special Viet Nam-Laos relationship for the people of both countries, especially the younger generation. To incorporate the contents of the 'History of the Special Viet Nam-Laos Relationship' into the education system of each country, coordinate the construction of historical works and monuments about the Viet Nam-Laos relationship, including the Laos-Viet Nam Friendship Park in Vientiane. Both sides also agreed to strengthen the pillar of security-defence cooperation to jointly address new challenges, continue to coordinate and support each other in ensuring political stability, security, order and social safety in each country, effectively implement the agreements between the defence and public security ministries of both countries. Viet Nam and Laos will closely coordinate in managing and protecting the border, especially in preventing and combating transnational crimes, drug crimes, illegal exploitation of natural resources, and illegal immigration. They will continue to effectively coordinate in the search, exhumation and repatriation of the remains of Vietnamese volunteer soldiers and experts who lost their lives in Laos and the restoration of Viet Nam-Laos combat alliance monuments. Both sides agreed to elevate economic cooperation to match the stature of the political relationship; increase exchanges of macroeconomic management and anti-corruption experiences, upgrade international border gates and transportation connections between the two countries, continuously improve the effectiveness of cooperation in education and training, tourism, energy, clean agriculture, science, technology, health, culture, people-to-people exchanges and between localities. The two leaders also exchanged views on international and regional issues of mutual concern. They concurred that in the current rapidly and complexly changing global and regional situation, both sides need to strengthen information sharing, coordination, and cooperation in regional and international forums and to ensure solidarity and promote the central role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and ASEAN-led mechanisms. President To Lam said that, in the spirit of fraternal comradeship, Viet Nam will wholeheartedly support Laos in successfully undertaking important international responsibilities in 2024, including the roles of ASEAN Chair and AIPA President. President To Lam reaffirmed the invitation for General Secretary, President Thongloun Sisoulith, to visit Viet Nam at a convenient time, and the Lao leader has gladly accepted the invitation. After the talks, the leaders witnessed the signing of several cooperation documents. These included a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam and the Ministry of Public Security of Laos on building and implementing a residency and citizen identification management system in Laos. Additionally, there was an Extradition Agreement between the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam and the Supreme People's Procuracy of Laos, the 2024 Cooperation Plan between the Ministry of Justice of Vietnam and the Ministry of Justice of Laos, an Agreement to enhance air transport connectivity between Vietnam and Laos signed by the Lao Ministry of Public Works and Transport and Vietjet, along with several agreements between enterprises of the two countries. The two leaders also attended the ceremony to launch the project 'Implementing the Residency and Citizen Identification Management System in the Lao PDR', which is of special importance in Laos' progress towards building a digital government and a digital nation. This project demonstrates the special Viet Nam-Laos friendship. President To Lam also presented a gift of 20 VinFast VF9 electric cars from the Party, State and people of Viet Nam to the Party, State, and people of Laos, to support the country in successfully organising important activities during its ASEAN Chairmanship year in 2024. VNS VIENTIANE President To Lam had a meeting with Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone on Thursday morning in Vientiane, as part of his ongoing state visit to the country. The Lao leader stressed that the great and comprehensive achievements attained by the Vietnamese Party, State and people continue to be a significant source of encouragement for Laos in its endeavours in national defence, construction and development. The Vietnamese state leader expressed his delight at the significant achievements that the Lao Party, State and people have recorded in recent times, showing his belief that Laos will overcome current challenges and successfully implement the Resolution of the 11th Party Congress and the 9th socio-economic development plan for the 2021-25 period. The two sides expressed joy and welcomed achievements in the bilateral cooperation across all fields and agreed to focus on implementing high-level cooperation agreements between the two countries, especially the Viet Nam-Laos Bilateral Trade Agreement, and the Viet Nam-Laos cooperation strategy agreement for the 2021-30 period. The two countries will continue to hold visits and meetings at all levels, positively seek solutions to difficulties and challenges, enhance the effectiveness of bilateral cooperation mechanisms, and closely coordinate on strategic issues related to each country's security and development. Host and guest agreed to continue effectively implementing protocols and defence and security cooperation plans signed, to work closely to identify breakthrough measures to mobilise resources for economic cooperation between the two countries, towards realising the target of 10-15 per cent growth in two-way trade in 2024. They highly valued the completion of several exemplary cooperation projects and agreed to exert efforts to accelerate the development of other key projects in energy, mining, and infrastructure connectivity. The leaders also underlined the need to create favourable and transparent environment for investment cooperation. And to promote collaboration in education training, science and digital transformation and cooperation between localities of the two countries, especially border ones. Siphandone affirmed his commitment to vigorously implementing high-level agreements between the two countries, particularly in economic cooperation, to bring more tangible benefits to the two nations. The leaders also exchanged views on regional and international issues, agreeing that with a rapidly changing and complex global situation, it is necessary to enhance coordination and mutual support at multilateral forums, especially the United Nations, ASEAN and Mekong sub-regional cooperation mechanisms. President Lam emphasised Viet Nam's readiness to continue supporting Laos in successfully assuming the role of the ASEAN Chair and the President of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) in 2024, thus contributing to improving Laos's role and position in the region and the world at large. VNS VIENTIANE Vietnamese President To Lam and Chairman of the Lao National Assembly Saysomphone Phomvihane on Thursday reaffirmed the importance and the highest priority they give to consolidating and enhancing the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries. At their meeting in Vientiane as part of Lams ongoing state visit, the leaders affirmed that the relationship is an invaluable asset, and a vital factor for each country's revolutionary cause. Phomvihane said Lams visit demonstrates the friendship and fraternity of the Vietnamese Party, State and people towards Laos, and asked the President to convey his invitation to NA Chairman Tran Thanh Man to soon pay an official visit to Laos. For his part, Lam appreciated the good and valuable sentiments of the Lao Party, State and people towards Viet Nam, and congratulated them on achievements they have recorded in national construction and development. The President expressed his belief that Laos will overcome the current difficulties to successfully implement the resolution adopted at the 11th National Congress of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, and the 9th five-year socio-economic development plan, and smoothly organise all-level Party congresses as well as the 12th National Party Congress. Phomvihane also asked Lam to convey his regards to Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and other high-ranking Vietnamese leaders, and highlighted the valuable support from the Vietnamese Party, State and people to their Lao counterparts during the latters past struggle for national independence and their present cause of national construction and development. He highly valued the outcomes of the working trip to Laos by NA Vice Chairman Nguyen Khac inh on July 3-5. The two sides noted with pleasure the thriving relations between the two countries and their legislatures, and stressed the importance of maintaining regular delegation exchanges and contacts; actively implementing cooperation agreements reached by the two NAs, covering the organisation of meetings and workshops to intensify experience sharing; and continuing their close coordination and mutual support at regional and international inter-parliamentary forums. Lam spoke highly of Laos hosting the first Cambodia-Laos-Viet Nam Parliamentary Summit in Vientiane in December 2023, and affirmed that Viet Nam stands ready to help the country in external activities in the time ahead, including its 2024 ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Chairmanship. VNS VINH PHUC Previously suffering the devastating consequences of floods, Van Truc Commune in Vinh Phuc Province is now seeing remarkable progress thanks to the safety brought by reinforced dams and reservoirs. With their livelihoods largely dependent on agriculture, farming and water management have always been a priority for local residents, especially after the heavy floods in 1971. Recalling the incident, Pham Van Hung said: It had been raining heavily that year, the reservoirs water level rose quickly. Even with the main spillway opened, the dam was still at risk of overflowing, so they had to open an auxiliary one. The water was led directly to the rice fields because there are mountains on both sides of the stream. Everything was swept away, there was nothing left, he told Nong nghiep (Agriculture) newspaper. While the floods did not cause any casualties, more than 20 hectares of crops, which were already near harvest season, were lost. The damage was also long-term as all the rich, nutrient topsoil had been washed away, leaving behind heavy clay soil. Local farmer Nguyen Thi uong said: After dam water was released, I went to my rice fields and did not even know where to begin. There was nothing left, everything was swept away that it was even difficult to locate your own paddy fields, as even the banks between them had broken down. We had to reshape our fields and make green manures from leaves to improve soil fertility. Fully aware of the devastation that a dam water release can cause, locals agreed with the authorities that the consequences of a broken dam could be even more severe. In this scenario, the amount of water in the reservoir at that time could submerge not only Van Truc but also the neighbouring areas, according to Vu inh Tho, the chairman of the communes Peoples Committee. While the flood was a sombre memory for local people, it also served as a reminder for them to ensure dam and reservoir safety. Now, Van Truc Lake is the source of irrigation water for not only the commune but also other areas in the district. Water for irrigation is managed periodically based on crop growth stages for optimal water management, said Tho. Apart from its 120 hectares of rice fields, Van Truc Commune also has approximately 300 hectares of fruit trees and vegetables. Taking advantage of the irrigation water system, red dragon fruits have become a leading crop in local agricultural production. Not only playing a crucial role in rice cultivation, Van Truc Lake also brings aquaculture benefits. Local estimates show that around three tonnes of fish are harvested daily. In the future, the lake is also planned as a space for tourism activities, which are expected to bring significant economic benefits to the commune, said Tho. To maintain and develop the local economy, water management and particularly reservoir safety is identified as a top priority through structure reinforcement projects. As the rainy season nears each year, local authorities increase their inspection and patrols. Every year, they devise plans, response scenarios as well as resource and human allocation in response to thunderstorms and floods, according to the communes Peoples Committees chairman. When water must be released from the dam, officers will set up warning signs and barriers to ensure the safety of local people. VNS HA NOI Looking back on 30 years since Viet Nam adopted the action programme at the International Conference on Population and Development the country has achieved significant accomplishments in population work. However, Viet Nam needs innovations to address existing challenges to sustain economic and social development. This was delivered by health experts on the World Population Day 2024 (July 11) under the theme 'Investing in Population Work is Investing in Sustainable Development'. In 1994 in Cairo, Viet Nam, along with 178 countries worldwide, signed the far-reaching action programme that placed people at the centre of development at the ICPD. This programme emphasised the close relationship between population and sustainable development, promoting an integrated approach in economic, social and population policies. Viet Nam's progress Over the past 30 years, Viet Nam has implemented many innovative methods to address inequality and narrow the socio-economic development gap between regions and population groups. Resolution 21-NQ/TW on Population Work in the new situation clearly outlined the 12th Party Central Committee's guiding principle, which considers population work and development both an urgent and long-term strategic task. Viet Nam's achievements in the field of population and development have been recognised over the years. Since 2006, the population growth rate has been successfully controlled, maintaining replacement fertility levels. The population structure has shifted positively, with the labour force of the working age increasing significantly. According to the Ministry of Health, in 2023, Viet Nam's population surpassed 100 million, making it the 15th country in the world with a population of over 100 million people. The number and proportion of the population of working age account for nearly 70 per cent, during the golden population structure period. The quality of the population has comprehensively improved, with the average life expectancy rising rapidly, surpassing many countries with similar average income levels. According to the results of Viet Nam's population censuses since 1989, the average life expectancy of Vietnamese people has continuously increased, from 65.2 to 73.7 at the end of 2023. In terms of life expectancy, the country ranks fourth in Southeast Asia (with 66 being the lowest in the region) and exceeds the global average of 73.4 years. The stature and physical fitness of Vietnamese people have also significantly improved. According to the results of the National Nutrition Survey 2017-2020, the average height of 18-year-old male in 2020 reached 168.1 cm, an increase of 3.7 cm compared to 2010, and for females, it reached 156.2 cm in 2020 compared to 154.8 cm in 2010. Viet Nam has surpassed global trends in reducing maternal mortality rates and achieving high rates of modern contraceptive use. According to the Ministry of Health, the under-five mortality rate in Viet Nam in 2023 was 18.9 per thousand, with an average annual decrease of 0.22 per thousand over the past five years. The poverty reduction policies and programmes of the Party and State have been well-implemented, gradually improving and enhancing the living conditions of poor households. The central budget allocated for implementing poverty reduction policies in 2023 exceeded VN20 trillion. Proper policies Pham Vu Hoang, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Healths General Office of Population and Family Planning, stated that the Party and State have always adjusted policies to suit the reality in Viet Nam, in light of international and domestic population demands. On October 25, 2017, the 12th Central Party Committees six plenary session issued Resolution No 21-NQ/TW on population work. Its aim - by 2030, 90 per cent of young men and women will receive pre-marital counselling and health check-ups. The number of child marriages will be reduced by 50 per cent and consanguineous marriages by 60 per cent. 70 per cent of pregnant women will be screened for at least four of the most common congenital diseases. 90 per cent of newborns will be screened for at least five of the most common congenital diseases. The average life expectancy of Vietnamese people will reach 75 years. All elderly people will have health insurance, manage their health, receive medical examinations and treatment. By 2030, the height of 18-year-old males will reach 168.5 cm and females 157.5 cm. The Human Development Index (HDI) will be among the top four in Southeast Asia. To implement the resolution, on September 2, 2018, the Prime Minister approved the Viet Nam Health Programme to improve the well-being, stature, lifespan and life quality of Vietnamese people. From 2018 to 2030, the programme focuses on 11 areas divided into three groups, including health promotion, health protection and disease prevention, primary health care and disease control. To enhance maternal and child health care and reduce under-five mortality rates, on June 26, the Ministry of Health issued Directive 05/CT, calling for increasing budget allocations for interventions to reduce child mortality, improving emergency and neonatal resuscitation capabilities and essential care for mothers and newborns. In July, the Government issued Decree 76/2024/N-CP, raising the social allowance for the elderly, with the highest level reaching VN1.5 million. The Party and State have implemented many specific policies to improve the living standards of ethnic minority communities. The Committee for Ethnic Minority Affairs reported that there are currently 188 policies in place for ethnic minorities and mountainous regions. In 2023, the percentage of poor households among ethnic minorities decreased to approximately 17.82 per cent, a reduction of 3.2 per cent compared to 2022. Continuing challenges However, Viet Nam still faces several significant challenges, such as disparities in birth rates across regions, rapid population aging and gender imbalance at birth. The considerable differences in fertility rates between regions and groups, along with the risk of not achieving the goal of maintaining replacement fertility nationwide, pose significant challenges. The rapid aging of the population and the prospect of becoming an aging society early present major difficulties for economic development and social welfare. The sex ratio at birth remains high while early marriage and consanguineous marriages are slow to be addressed. The quality of the population, especially in remote, isolated and disadvantaged areas, remains limited. In anticipation of World Population Day on July 11 this year, the Ministry of Health has urged local health authorities to focus on activities aimed at raising awareness and promoting reproductive health. Awareness campaigns emphasise the benefits of having two children, gender equality and reproductive autonomy. Additionally, premarital health check-ups and counselling for young people should be conducted regularly to ensure healthy pregnancies and prevent genetic diseases. Legal compliance against early marriage and consanguineous marriages should be focused on protecting genetic diversity. Nationwide public communication also seeks to enhance the role and status of women and girls within families, communities and society, it said. According to the ministry, moving forward, Viet Nam must continue to improve population quality, reduce regional disparities and ensure balanced and sustainable development for future generations. VNS THUA THIEN-HUE The criminal police departments under the Vietnamese and Chinese Ministries of Public Security organised a conference in the central province of Thua Thien-Hue on Thursday to launch a campaign to crackdown on human trafficking crimes. Co-chairing the function were deputy directors of the two departments Colonel Vu Van au of Viet Nam and Colonel Chen Shiqu of China. It was reported at the conference that recently, along the Viet Nam-China border, human trafficking criminals committed their illegal activities by exploiting the two countries traditional socio-politico-economic and cultural ties as well as their policies promoting economic openness and international integration. Between December 2020 and early 2024, Viet Nam detected over 100 cases of human trafficking to China, which involved more than 200 suspects and nearly 200 victims. Exploiting advancements in information technology, traffickers often use fake names, ages, addresses, and photos to befriend the victims, promising them lucrative overseas jobs and wealth, among others, to lure them to go to China. In the first six months alone, the Vietnamese criminal police prosecuted 20 suspects in nine new cases. It is forecasted that human trafficking from Viet Nam to China will remain complex and potentially increase in the near future. To effectively prevent this crime, Vietnamese and Chinese criminal police agreed to continue to closely cooperate and take coordinated and drastic measures to combat the crime throughout each country's territory. VNS According to Gartner Research, AI software spending is set to reach $297.9 billion by 2027, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate of 19.1 per cent. The market growth is expected to accelerate from 17.8 per cent in the next five years, peaking at 20.4 per cent by 2027. Hoang Quang Huy, country manager for Vietnam Palo Alto Networks Notably, investment in generative AI software is projected to surge from 8 per cent of total AI software spending in 2023 to a substantial 35 per cent by 2027. Companies are actively expanding their open-web infrastructure, automating various tasks in the process. Looking ahead to 2024, the industrys focus is anticipated to shift towards fortifying and safeguarding these crucial components. An increasing number of organisations are experiencing heightened risks due to rapidly growing cyber threats. Essential services, such as healthcare and finance, are facing the brunt of various AI-enabled phishing and ransomware attacks. In Vietnam, for example, there has been a resurgence of deep fakes and photos enhanced with AI, which are being shared on social media. The surge in AI adoption introduces new risks, as hackers exploit the technology for data breaches or to compromise entire network systems. They employ AI-supported strategies to steal social media profiles, deceive users, and cause significant harm to individuals and brands. Despite these risks, the utilisation of AI applications offers numerous benefits across various domains. In cybersecurity, experts now have access to AI-powered tools that enable them to tackle large volumes of incidents with minimal human interference. However, AI tools are increasingly available at low prices, especially on the dark web, lowering the barriers for threat actors. This allows them to scale their attacks and execute them with greater speed. With AI, breaches become more complex and targeted, making them harder to detect. Generative AI tools support the creation of deep fakes, easy image editing, and the hacking of existing AI models through methods such as data poisoning. AI model manipulations have become significant concerns, demonstrating how AI can perpetuate fraud or malicious activities beyond the traditional cyber ecosystem. Deep fake content has been used by scammers to create fake identities that replicate a victims face, voice, and writing style based on information collected from their social media accounts. The increasing adoption of generative AI is enabling more deep fake content, leading to more identity theft, which significantly impacts various industries. For example, according to the Ministry of Information and Communication, in the first half of 2023, more than 95 per cent of phishing attacks in Vietnam affected the banking and finance sector. A recent study by Unit 42 of Palo Alto Networks noted up to 118 daily detections of ChatGPT-related malicious URLs. There has been a rush to register domains related to OpenAI and ChatGPT, many of which contain malware or aim to steal personal information. In the digital era, no industry is immune from cyber-attacks. Cybersecurity must be viewed as a business investment, not merely a cost, regardless of sector or company size. It is essential for any organisation to be proactive rather than reactive, with a well-defined strategy and processes in place. AI-powered cybersecurity solutions are crucial in countering the escalating threats in the digital realm. Beyond reactive defence, AI introduces a transformative and proactive approach, delivering numerous benefits to businesses. By harnessing best-in-class AI and machine learning (ML) capabilities, organisations gain the agility to dynamically respond to emerging challenges. Efficient data analysis is a key advantage, with AI and ML swiftly processing vast datasets to identify subtle patterns indicative of potential threats. This proactive stance is vital for staying ahead of zero-day threats, providing real-time insights into evolving attack vectors. AI-driven automation enhances response capabilities, reducing human error and enabling precise, rapid countermeasures against sophisticated cyber threats. Precision AI by Palo Alto Networks, built on traditional AI/ML approaches but customised for security, is expected to be a game-changer that will create a new paradigm in security, where the defender is ahead of the adversary. This proprietary innovation combines ML and GenAI to deliver real-time protection, helping enterprises stay ahead of adversaries and secure their networks and infrastructure more effectively. Moreover, in an increasingly interconnected world, a zero -trust approach is highly recommended to address the security challenges that critical infrastructure environments face. It creates the level of cyber resilience that modern organisations need and provides a consistent experience for users. The approach eliminates implied trust: every user is authenticated, every access request validated, and all activities continuously monitored, regardless of location. Authorisation is required for every network access, even if previously granted. Beyond that, businesses must prioritise continuous training, knowledge enhancement, and fostering individual self-awareness among their employees to ensure preparedness against potential threats. Today, more leaders are treating cybersecurity as a strategic business enabler crucial to long-term success. As businesses continue to shift to the cloud and hybrid work becomes a mainstay, cybersecurity needs to be integrated with business strategy as an investment to ensure leaders have the security infrastructure to overcome any cyber challenges. Malaysia, China strengthen cooperation in AI Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke on May 31 said that his country wants to strengthen cooperation with China in artificial intelligence (AI) with focus placed on education and training. First Al movie on domestic violence prevention, control to debut Director Pham Vinh Khuong said he is making a short film using artificial intelligence (AI) on the topic of domestic violence, aiming to contribute to educating the community, especially young people, and calling for their efforts to prevent and combat this problem. Firms should focus on Gen Z for AI boost As AI and its applications expand across various industries, Gen Z, being the first generation to be reared on social media and handheld electronic devices, is seen as the key to enhancing the competitiveness of businesses in the new economy. Apple faces pressure to deliver on AI at developer conference Apple is expected to make the case next week that it is not being left behind as tech world rivals blaze ahead with artificial intelligence. In mid-June, US-based Australis Aquaculture revealed that it was ready to inject a further $800 million into Vietnams sustainable aquaculture over the coming years. The company has already invested $200 million in barramundi farming in the country. The government is encouraging domestic aquaculture producers to mobilise funds from foreign donors, Photo: Le Toan Josh Goldman, co-founder and CEO of Australis Aquaculture, told VIR that the additional money would be allocated for farming and processing infrastructure, biomass creation, research and development, and the renewal of biomass over time. Beyond our current base of operations in the south-central province of Khanh Hoa, we are working to establish Vietnams first farms in the open ocean, as well as a second regional hub in Kien Giang province, Goldman said. To develop its sustainable aquaculture model, Australis Aquaculture has spent a decade adapting the technology of the global salmon farming industry to tropical conditions for barramundi in Vietnam. Suitable salmon farming ocean sites are almost fully utilised globally. Climate change is contacting the available areas, and there is a 500,000-tonne supply shortfall projected over the coming decade, Goldman said. Our approach is to leverage salmon industry knowledge and build the supply and demand for barramundi in key markets globally with the aim of establishing barramundi as a tropical salmon. Like salmon, this is a very high-quality product enjoyed by consumers across markets, which can play a role in stabilising seafood supply as wild catches decline. This requires a long-term focus to overcome many challenges in establishing a new production sector and educating consumers in our target markets. Meanwhile, Tepbac, Vietnams aquaculture startup, has so far wrapped up investments worth $2.4 million. The startup also has a plan to raise $10 million in the next funding round to scale up its business and build an ecosystem to support shrimp farmers. Tran Duy Phong, founder and CEO of Tepbac, said that sustainable development has already gained increased attention in the export markets, and this has required Vietnamese shrimp farmers to change models to meet the export requirements. Nevertheless, most farmers are now struggling to generate profits from shrimp farming, so they have not yet taken sustainability into consideration. Shrimp farmers are the most important link in the aquaculture value chain towards sustainable development. However, they have an average higher risk of up to 60 per cent of shrimp crop failures, which results in wasteful resources. Farmers are betting on shrimp farming, rather than relying on statistics or tried-and-tested methods, Phong said. Tepbac develops automation technologies to address basic issues such as feeding, saving electricity, and mitigating pollution, like automatic environmental measuring devices, automatic feeders, and automatic control cabinets. The company aims to build an ecosystem and value chain to reduce the rate of crop failures to 25 per cent. The startup also perfected a concentrated farming model that helps manage environmental impacts and is completely antibiotic-free. Skretting Vietnam, a Norwegian aquafeed company, has been focused on energy reduction to empower sustainable aquaculture. In 2023, the company completely replaced its old Long An production site with a state-of-the-art facility, switching from coal to biofuel at the same time. The company achieved its lowest energy per tonne performance in the last half of 2023, and the record lows are expected to continue in 2024. US agribusiness giant Cargill and the Asia Society for Social Improvement and Sustainable Transformation, a foreign non-governmental organisation, began implementing the Aqua Xanh project in Ca Mau province in the Mekong Delta from May. The project, set for at least the next two years, aims to build climate resilience in the aquaculture industry through sustainable aquaculture practices that apply environmentally friendly sci-tech. Likewise, shrimp processor and exporter Minh Phu Seafood Corporation is creating a closed-loop value chain that includes breeding, feeding, farming, processing, distribution, and consumption. Despite possessing large-scale farming areas spanning over 1,200 hectares, Minh Phu maintains its 50 per cent autonomy in raw materials. The group collaborates with farmers to establish concentrated shrimp farming areas. Consequently, it not only produces low-cost input breeding supplies, but also aids farmers in sustainable wealth accumulation. The National Programme on Aquaculture Development towards 2030 was issued in mid-2022, outlining a development plan for the fisheries sector and aquaculture, including targets for two five-year periods. The total production of aquatic animals is expected to reach 202 million tonnes in 2030, of which aquaculture should contribute 106 million tonnes. To achieve these goals, the government is encouraging domestic firms to mobilise funds from foreign donors and international organisations. Foreign direct investment in building and upgrading aquaculture infrastructure should be prioritised. This strategy is believed to help the sector meet the requirements of environmental protection, sustainable production, and food safety. Commenting on the trend of companies switching to sustainable aquaculture, Goldman from Australis Aquaculture said that Vietnamese producers are very entrepreneurial. Many have already engaged in certification programmes such Best Aquaculture Practices and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council to shrink their footprint and align with global standards, he said. The demand for sustainable products will increase in the United States and European markets in time, so I would expect to see an increasing focus on the importance of sustainability and innovation-driven approaches. Vietnam issues national plan on aquaculture development for 2021-2030 Deputy Prime Minister Le Van Thanh has signed a decision to promulgate a national plan on aquaculture development in the 2021 2030 period. The Vietnamese government last week issued Decree No.80/2024/ND-CP permitting rooftop solar, waste-to-energy, and biomass projects to engage in direct power purchase agreements (DPPAs) without routing through Vietnam Electricity (EVN). It establishes clear mechanisms for direct energy purchases between power harnessing units and large electricity consumers. This serves multiple goals, including meeting the growing market demand for clean energy, stimulating investment in renewable resources, and creating a competitive electricity retail market in Vietnam Through the decree, effective immediately, the government allows direct power sales through two methods: private power lines and the national grid. For private line transactions, renewable energy generators include solar, wind, small hydropower, biomass, geothermal, wave, tidal, ocean current, and rooftop solar power. These projects are not limited in capacity, but must be licensed to operate electricity or exempted from licensing following legal regulations. For national grid transactions, only wind and solar power is covered. All cases are applied for 22 KV voltage or higher, with an average consumption of 200,000kWh per month. Previously, customers only bought electricity through EVN and would not be privy to the electricity resources from thermal power, hydropower, or renewable energy projects. However, through the DPPA, they can make sure of using clean power, deemed significant for the manufacturing industry because Vietnams export goods are facing increasingly high green requirements. Renewables expert Nguyen Phuong Mai said many countries in Europe or North America have high requirements for goods exported to their market that use electricity from renewable energy sources. This decree will create strong conditions for manufacturers to prove to buyers and export markets that their products are made from renewable energy sources, along with certification, Mai said. Through the DPPA, businesses not only enjoy green certification, demonstrating their prestige in global commitments to renewable energy and sustainable development, but they also ensure long-term energy supply and mitigate risks of price fluctuations, Mai added. However, operational issues need specific guidance. Pham Van Viet, chairman of Viet Thang Jean Co., Ltd., said that the company installed rooftop solar power several years ago with an average of 35 per cent surplus power capacity per month, equivalent to 600-700KWh. We have tools to count the amount of surplus electricity, so we want to sell this part to customers through the grid or a private transmission line. I am still looking forward to specific instructions and procedures to carry this out, Viet said. Ngo Duc Lam, former director of the Industrial Safety Techniques and Environment Agency under the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), said that the DPPA generates benefits to the state for not investing in new power sources. However, solar power is unstable, so there needs to be a suitable connection plan to not put pressure on the national grid, Lam said. A possible solution is to use a power storage device to transmit to the grid during times of no sunlight. But power storage equipment is not cheap, so businesses need additional support policies from the state. Tran Viet Ngai, chairman of the Vietnam Energy Association, said that rooftop solar power investors should carefully calculate before deciding to sell electricity through a private line or through the national grid. If the selling price is high enough to offset the cost of branch lines to transmit electricity, investors will choose this option. If the selling price is not good enough, selling electricity through the national grid will be more profitable. This means that the cost of private lines may be higher than purchasing through EVN, buyers will not participate if they see no benefit, Ngai explained. He added that a branch line must connect to the national power system, which is complicated and risky for system safety. Large customers want to buy cheap electricity during peak hours by DPPA, but they have to prepare a plan B when the weather is not guaranteed for power generation. If they return to buying electricity from the state when the DPPA market is congested, the national grid will always have to stand by to supply in time. It not only causes difficulties for the distribution stage but also raises the problem of waiting costs of the national power system, Ngai emphasised. Three wind power plants in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai have not been able to come into operation, but Decree 80 opens up some opportunities for them to overcome difficulties in electricity distribution. Tran Minh Tien, CEO of Eastern Power Group, commented, We would prefer to carry out national grid transactions. However, we need more specific regulations on service prices of electricity infrastructure because the power plant is based in another locality from customers. We should connect to the national grid, and the state also has to collect service fees. There is some more work to do before putting it into operation. A survey by the MoIT revealed that about 20 large enterprises are keen on direct purchases, with a combined demand of nearly 1,000MW. Concurrently, 24 renewable energy projects with a capacity of 1,773MW are looking to sell electricity via DPPAs, while 17 projects with a capacity of 2,836MW are considering participation. According to Decree No.80/2024/ND-CP, for private power lines bypassing EVN, renewable energy projects are not restricted by capacity but must possess or be exempt from an electricity operation licence. Renewable energy producers and large consumers will sign purchase agreements with mutually agreed terms and prices. Excess electricity can be sold back to EVN under specific contracts detailing capacity, output, and pricing. Consumers can purchase electricity directly from renewable producers, National Power Transmission Corporation, or other retail electricity entities apart from EVN. Vietnam has over 100,000 rooftop solar projects with a total installed capacity exceeding 9,500MW. According to the countrys Power Development Plan VIII, this figure is set to increase by an additional 2,600MW by 2030 or cover half of government and residential buildings. For national grid transactions, the decree clarifies the sale of electricity through the spot market and via the National Power Transmission Corporation. Spot market prices are determined by the total market price of electricity during each transaction cycle, combining energy and capacity market prices in the wholesale market. In both scenarios, consumers must be entities or individuals using electricity for production at a voltage level of 22kV or higher, with an average monthly consumption of at least 200,000kWh. This threshold is lower than the previous drafts 500,000kWh requirement. According to surveys by power corporations, 30 per cent of large customers use more than 500,000kWh, while over 7,700 customers, or 36.5 per cent of total electricity consumption, use 200,000kWh or more. Rooftop solar proposal deemed precautionary step A proposal to prevent self-producing and self-consuming rooftop solar power from being connected to the national electricity grid could discourage investors. Vietnam explores bypassing EVN on direct rooftop solar sales Rooftop solar, waste-to-energy, and biomass power projects may soon bypass state utility EVN for direct sales, according to Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha. ESG considerations light the path for SABECOs success Saigon Beer-Alcohol-Beverage Corporation is promoting more green growth initiatives, demonstrating its steadfastness in the goal that business investment must go hand-in-hand with the nations sustainable development. Okinawa assembly protests alleged sexual assaults by U.S. troops Xinhua) 11:15, July 11, 2024 TOKYO, July 10 (Xinhua) -- The assembly of Japan's southernmost prefecture Okinawa on Wednesday unanimously passed a resolution and a statement protesting a series of recent sexual crime cases involving U.S. troops stationed in the prefecture. In the resolution, addressed to the United States, including U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel, the assembly condemned the cases as "extremely malicious crimes that trample on human dignity" and expressed "anger from all our bodies." The prefectural assembly said that behind the cases were "problems with the organizational awareness of human rights," and called on the U.S. side to present residents of Okinawa with concrete and effective measures to prevent a recurrence, such as a tightening of discipline. The assembly also adopted a written statement, directed at the Japanese government, including Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, urging the central government to quickly share information about such crimes with the Okinawa prefectural government. Both the resolution and statement call for fundamental revisions to the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement, noting that it affords special treatment to U.S. military personnel in Japan. A delegation of assembly members will go to Tokyo to visit the U.S. embassy, the Foreign Ministry and elsewhere to directly pass on the documents as early as this month. The move by the prefectural parliament of Okinawa follows the recent revelation that a U.S. Marine member has been indicted on charges of nonconsensual sexual intercourse resulting in injury and a U.S. Air Force member for allegedly kidnapping a girl under the age of 16 and committing nonconsensual sexual intercourse. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Dr. Austin Dennard of Dallas holds her son as they walk out of the Texas Supreme Courtroom, part of a court case challenging the state's vague medical exemption language that they argue endangered women. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News What would Jesus do? Regarding Since the fall of Roe v. Wade, our patients are afraid. And so are we. | Opinion, (July 8): The doctors who wrote this essay have only scratched the surface of the suffering going on privately due to Texass abortion bans. As someone who counseled patients in a well-woman clinic before Roe was overturned, I have an idea how current legal restrictions would have made complicated and tragic situations even worse. As a Christian, I know that the Bible cannot be used as a basis for these laws (for example, life begins at breath per Gen. 2; Ezekiel 37, and not conception or heartbeat, and Exodus 21:22-25 demonstrates that Thou shalt not kill does not apply). Jesus said nothing about abortion, but He did condemn those who do not care for the sick. We Texans have to ask ourselves, do we let politicians override doctors and their patients, or leave the care to those who are qualified? Advertisement Article continues below this ad Kim Batchelor, Dallas Thank you for including this poignantly written opinion by two Texas OB-GYNs on the painful issues facing doctors and their patients during a pregnancy. Its heartbreaking to read their stories of patients who would choose sterilization over risking not being able to be treated by their trusted physicians. I agree totally with their call to codify Roe v. Wade at the federal level, a possibility only determined by this years election results. Please think, citizens, before you cast your ballot. Texas legislators could also modify or eliminate the current poorly thought-out abortion laws. These laws trample on womens bodies and health as well as their religious rights. Many people of faith simply do not adhere to the belief that life begins at conception. There are simply too many factors impacting individual maternal health to subscribe to such a blanket statement. Texas women are being treated like second-class citizens whose health and religious rights are placed far behind those of the fetus being carried. While we await federal action, we should collectively challenge our state legislators to correct the damage being done to women. Texas citizens, especially women, deserve better leadership. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Dianne Reece, Houston Medical Board guidance falls short Regarding Texas Medical Board approves limited guidance on when emergency abortions are allowed, (June 21): The recent attempts by the Texas Medical Board to clarify abortion laws have failed, not only because its language further obfuscates the law, but because the board cannot fix a law that wrongly criminalizes a standard accepted medical practice. All of us, not just pregnant women, are going to suffer from Texass abortion ban. Around half of current medical students and resident physicians are women, many of whom are of child-bearing age. Many are choosing not to practice in a state that has an abortion ban. This includes all specialists and general medicine practitioners. As more older physicians retire, it will be difficult to replace them with younger physicians who do not want to practice in a state that has an abortion ban. In particular, a lack of experienced ob-gyn doctors will likely mean that many more women are likely to die from complications of pregnancy and other gender-specific diseases. Advertisement Article continues below this ad By the power of our vote we must remove from office those who support Texas extremist abortion laws, which place everyones health and lives at unnecessary risk. Ralph C. Frates, Jr. MD, MPH, Houston Houston needs budget candor Regarding Houston controller warns city could incur big potential expense in appealing drainage case, (July 2): The City of Houstons choice to again run a structural deficit has been compounded by its recent and entirely predictable loss in court for its failure to spend the amounts required by law for drainage and street projects. This will mean, at the very least, hundreds of millions of dollars. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Also unaccounted for is the immense ultimate cost of the citys total surrender to the firefighters demands (with no discernible compromise from the firefighters along the lines of the police officers hard-won deal with the city). The new ostrich-like budget has no garbage fee, let alone other proposals to increase revenue. Apparently the current administration thinks that each department should find a way to cut 5% from its previous budget when labor costs are the bulk of expenditures. Everything for the firefighters, and cuts and layoffs for all other employees? Blaming this on the previous administration is the cowards way out. We deserve candor. Lee L. Kaplan, Houston The plan states that Hanoi aims to have half of its bus fleet electric and the other half running on liquefied natural gas or compressed natural gas (CNG) by 2026-2030, with an estimated budget of VND51 trillion ($2.1 billion). By 2035, the goal is for all buses in Hanoi to be electric. Hanois current proportion of green energy buses is only about 13.6 per cent. Of the 2,034 subsidised buses, only 277 use clean energy, including 139 CNG buses and 138 electric buses. VinBus is the only company using large-capacity electric buses that it manufactures itself. Speaking to local media, Dr Ha Thanh Tung from the University of Transport and Communications spoke about the three major challenges to implementing the green bus transition plan. "The first challenge is investment capital. The price of an electric bus is about 34 times that of a diesel bus with the same capacity. Similarly, the price of a CNG bus is about twice that of a diesel bus. The battery of an electric bus accounts for about 40-50 per cent of the vehicles value and will degrade after 45 years of use. The investment in charging stations, transformer systems, power supply, and control systems is also costly," said Tung. Tung continued, "Secondly, infrastructure for electric buses, especially the charging station network, is limited. Meeting the set timeline requires 35 years to upgrade the electrical system and charging stations." "Thirdly, authorities still lack mechanisms to guide businesses and investors in socialising investments for green energy infrastructure to support the transition to green buses," he added. Speaking to VOV, the Vietnamese national radio broadcaster, associate professor Dam Hoang Phuc, director of the Automotive Engineering Training Programme at Hanoi University of Science and Technology, stated, "Hanoi needs to assess the feasibility and total investment of green energy sources for buses. A report from the US Environmental Protection Agency showed that CNG vehicles still emit pollutants, producing only about 20 per cent less emissions than petrol vehicles. Moreover, a study by the California Air Resources Board found that CNG reduces emissions by only 12-17 per cent compared to diesel." Hanois green bus conversion plan is an effort to implement the commitment that by 2025, 100 per cent of replacement/new buses in Vietnam will use electricity or green energy, as stated in Decision No.876/QD-TTg in 2022 on the action programme for green energy transition and reduction of carbon and methane emissions in the transport sector. Speaking to VOV, Dr Tran Dinh Thien, former director of the Vietnam Institute of Economics, said, Vietnam has made strong green transition commitments to the world, with the net-zero target by 2050 being one of them. Therefore, Hanois choice of vehicles for green transition should aim towards clean, environmentally friendly options. Vietnam needs and must accelerate green transition to achieve its goals. If the transformation isnt strong enough, Vietnam will struggle to fulfil its commitments, falling behind and being sidelined in the development race. Hanoi takes moves to develop green transportation Following global trends on green transportation, the capital city of Hanoi has been striving to develop a green transport system. Hanoi aims to green up bus system ahead of schedule Hanoi is taking steps to complete the greening up of local bus services 15 years ahead of the roadmap designed by the Government, which aims to convert buses from using petrol to green energy (electric or CNG) in Hanoi by 2050, according to Vice Chairman of the Hanoi municipal Peoples Committee Nguyen Manh Quyen. Hanoi plans to introduce new city bus route connecting Bat Trang Hanois Peoples Committee has revealed plans to introduce a new city tour bus route linking downtown Hanoi with Bat Trang Ceramics Museum this year. After receiving approval for operation of Phung Hiep Industrial Park (IP) in Thuong Tin district, Hoa Phu Invest JSC is completing procedures to prepare for construction. The project, which covers almost 175 hectares, has an investment of $122 million. Hanoi unveils digital app to connect citizens and businesses with all levels of government The project is valid for 50 years and construction must be completed within 36 months from the date of land allocation or lease by the state. Developing IPs and clusters is a major policy of Hanoi, according to Nguyen Manh Quyen, Vice Chairman of Hanoi Peoples Committee, spoke at a press conference in late June. Hanoi intends to build more IPs to attract foreign investment. The city will prioritise site clearance and accelerate the development of a comprehensive and modern infrastructure system, he said. Moreover, relevant agencies will be instructed to improve the quality of investment promotion activities. Hanoi will conduct thorough audits to ensure that investors fully comply with the commitments made in their investment licences, Quyen said. Hanoi leaders have asked the Ministry of Planning and Investment to strengthen information sharing and continue to provide support, working closely with the capital to improve the effectiveness of attracting foreign investment. At the same time, the city will organise implementation of 2022 regulations regulating the management of IPs and economic zones and a March 2024 decree on management and development of clusters, to help accelerate the progress of establishing new complexes in the area. The city has plans to add nine IPs using over 2,900ha in the planning of the period from 2025-2030. Besides that, in the period, the city has plans to establish an additional 174 clusters. Adding IPs and clusters in planning is necessary in the context that the current available land is filled, in collaboration with an increase in capital. According to Hanoi Peoples Committee, the capital has 10 IPs across a total of 1,300ha, of which nine are fully occupied. The remainder are in the process of perfecting technical infrastructure. In the first six months of 2024, foreign direct investment (FDI) flowing into Hanoi increased by 52 per cent over the same period last year, at $1.16 billion. There are 120 newly registered projects with worth just over $1 billion, 78 projects with a total additional registered capital of $55.21 million, and more than 100 capital contributions and share purchases with a value of $73.6 million. By the end of the second quarter, Hanoi had just over 15,500 newly established enterprises worth $6.2 billion, a decrease of 3 per cent in the number of enterprises and the same ratio in registered capital compared to last year. Hanoi aims to cultivate partnerships with key FDI markets, including South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, the United States, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. In line with the Vietnamese governments overarching strategy to boost investment promotion, Hanoi has undertaken comprehensive reforms aimed at attracting FDI across various sectors. The governments focus is on high-added-value industries, such as manufacturing, logistics, tourism, education, healthcare, and clean energy. To achieve this, Hanoi has set ambitious economic plans for key industries, with a particular emphasis on technology, construction projects, tourism, and urban development. To drive growth and achieve its investment targets, Hanoi seeks to attract up to $40 billion in FDI between 2021 and 2025, focusing on urban planning, clean water accessibility, and smart city initiatives, Quyen said. Part of its strategy to achieve this will include tackling issues that hinder foreign investment, such as the slow development of IPs and clusters, high land rentals, and small-scale support industry. The city is also committed to addressing environmental challenges, such as air pollution, which could impact its attractiveness to investors if left unmitigated, he added. Hanoi to spend over $55 billion on urban railways Hanoi Department of Transport last week announced its master plan for investment for the capitals urban railway system. The plan aims to develop a synchronous, modern urban railway system and restructure the capitals transport modes sustainably, promoting the rate of public passenger transport to reach 50-55 per cent by 2035 and 65-70 per cent after 2035. Hanoi aims to complete around 97km of metro between now and 2030, with total expected capital needs during the period reaching more than $14.6 billion. In 2031-2035, the capital plans to complete 300km of metro. The total expected capital needs for that phase is nearly $22.6 billion. With this roadmap, Hanoi expects that after 2030, urban railways will handle 35-40 per cent of public passenger traffic, transporting 9.7-11.8 million trips around the clock. In phase three during 2036-2045, the city plans to complete investment in the construction of 200km of metro at a cost of $18.2 billion. Thus, Hanoi will need more than $55 billion to complete 600km of metro by 2045. Hanoi Peoples Committee has set out the principles for building capital structure for each stage and each line. In particular, the routes being implemented based on official development assistance (ODA) will continue to be completed with the budget from this capital source, and the remaining routes will focus on prioritising investment with state budget capital. According to Hanoi Department of Transport, as a result of reviewing public investment capital sources including budget capital, bond loans, ODA, and other mobilised capital sources, Hanoi expects by 2035, about $28.56 billion will be prepared and more than $8.6 billion will be required from the state budget. Revised Capital Law being implemented The revised Capital Law from May, which includes specific policies to promote Hanois breakthrough development towards green and smart directions, is one of the key objectives the capital will focus on implementing in the second half of 2024. According to Ha Minh Hai, Vice Chairman of Hanoi Peoples Committee, the revised Capital Law focuses on solutions and timelines for implementing the 2021-2030 period planning, with a vision towards 2050, and adjusts the overall capital planning until 2045, with a vision towards 2065. This includes issuing standards and norms as a basis for implementing priority lists of construction projects, attracting domestic and foreign investors. It enhances policies for exploiting land resources, regulations on land allocation, leasing, land use conversion, compensation regulations, support, resettlement, and land collection. It also improves the mechanism for determining land prices, finance policy mechanisms, real estate market-related legal regulations, agricultural land management and use, and resolves longstanding issues related to land management and use. Additionally, Hanoi will prioritise the development of urban technical infrastructure, improve state management efficiency in planning, land, urban areas, and environmental protection, and accelerate the progress of key transportation infrastructure projects. The revised Capital Law also emphasises the development of culture and cultural industries, including building policies to attract experts, artists, and others, both domestically and internationally. Investment capital in Hanoi up by 9.5 per cent In the first six months of 2024, construction activities in Hanoi have been notable with a 9.5 per cent increase in investment capital development compared to the same period last year, attracting nearly $1.2 billion in foreign investment, according to Hanoi Statistics Office. Out of an investment of $8.7 million in Hanoi, foreign direct investment (FDI) increased by 5.3 per cent (reaching $60 million), state investment increased by 13.7 per cent (reaching $3.1 billion), and non-state investment increased by 7.5 per cent (reaching $4.9 million). Hanoi has attracted $1.16 billion in FDI. Among these, there were 120 newly registered projects with a capital of $1 billion, 78 additional projects with increased investment capital of $55 million, and just over 100 instances of foreign investors contributing capital or buying shares totalling $74 million. Hanoi has over 220 basic public projects under concentrated construction, including 155 transitional projects and 70 new projects started this year. In the transport sector alone, there are 58 projects, accounting for almost one-fifth of the capitals plan. Hanoi Statistics Office also reported that the total import-export turnover of the capital in the first half of this year reached $28.6 billion, a 13.7 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Export turnover reached $8.9 billion, and import turnover reached $19.7 billion. Domestic economic areas witnessed a 14.8 per cent increase, and areas with foreign investment recorded a 6.1 per cent increase. Major export sectors showing increased turnover included computers, electronics and components, vehicles and spare parts, machinery, equipment and spare parts, agricultural products, petroleum, wood and wooden products. Three out of 12 export groups saw decreased turnover compared to the same period, including textiles, footwear and leather products, phones, and components. Similarly, the import turnover of goods reached $19.7 billion. Domestic economic areas accounted for $16.4 billion, and areas with foreign investment reached $3.3 billion. Major imported items in the first six months of this year included machinery, equipment and spare parts, petroleum, computers, electronics and components, vehicles and spare parts, iron and steel, and other metals. Vietnam continues to see growth in FDI Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Tran Quoc Phuong stated that numerous international financial organisations remain optimistic about Vietnams ability to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) in the second half of the year. Free trade zone becomes lever for FDI attraction in Danang The central city of Danang will have opportunities to draw in more investment following approval to establish a free trade zone, with pilot preferential mechanisms to woo high-tech projects. The existing hotel will be converted into JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon and the rebranded property is slated to open in September 2024 This marks the brands third location in Vietnam, following Hanoi and Phu Quoc. Mapletree will be upgrading the hotel as part of its enhancement plan for its prime asset, mPlaza, in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. This follows from the completion of the enhancements to the office lobby at mPlaza. Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant metropolis and a centre of commerce and culture in Vietnam, is the perfect location to introduce our iconic JW Marriott brand. We are delighted to bring our renowned hospitality to this key market, said Shawn Hill, Marriott Internationals Chief Development Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China. We look forward to working with Mapletree to introduce the brands legacy of extraordinary hospitality, thoughtful design, and enriching experiences to this gateway city, Hill added. JW Marriott Hotel and Suites Saigon is expected to feature a 21-storey hotel tower and a 31-storey serviced apartment tower consisting of one- to three-bedroom apartments, all of which offer panoramic views of the skyline and Saigon River. This central location and diverse accommodation make it the perfect choice for business and leisure travellers, on short or extended stays in Ho Chi Minh City. Following the rebranding the property is expected to feature a range of amenities, including a conference space of more than 1,200 square metres and five restaurants and bars. When guests are not busy working or exploring the city, they can unwind in outdoor pools and fitness centres, with each tower offering separate facilities. Meanwhile, the planned Spa by JW will be a haven of wellness with seven treatment rooms, whirlpools, steam rooms and saunas. Located on the junction of Hai Ba Trung street and Le Duan boulevard, JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon is surrounded by major local attractions including Ben Thanh Market, Dong Khoi street, and Notre Dame Cathedral, and is just 6km away from Ho Chi Minh Citys Tan Son Nhat International Airport. JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon will become Marriott Internationals 24th property in Vietnam and the companys fifth hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, complementing the existing Sheraton, Le Meridien, Renaissance, and Autograph Collection branded properties in the city. JW Marriott is part of Marriott Internationals luxury portfolio of brands and consists of more than 120 JW Marriott hotels in 40 countries and territories worldwide. Headquartered in Singapore, Mapletree is a global real estate development, investment, capital and property management company manages three Singapore-listed real estate investment trusts (REITs) and nine private equity real estate funds, which hold a diverse portfolio of assets in Asia Pacific, Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States. As of March 31, Mapletree owns and manages S$77.5 billion of office, retail, logistics, industrial, data centre, residential and student accommodation properties. The groups assets are located across 13 markets globally, namely Singapore, Australia, Canada, China, Europe, Hong Kong SAR, India, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vietnam. To date, Mapletrees investments in Vietnam has exceeded Singapore $1.6 billion as at March 31 with assets across Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Bac Ninh, Bac Giang, and Hung Yen. The group provides around 557,000sq.m of warehouse, 407,800sq.m of commercial and serviced residences as well as 142,200sq.m of residential in Vietnam. Recent developments in Ho Chi Minh City include Saigon South Place (District 7), One Verandah (District 2) and mPlaza Saigon (District 1). Marriott International sees exceptional growth In 2023, Marriott International celebrated a milestone year in the Asia Pacific, securing over 80 deals to add around 18,000 rooms, excluding Mainland China, highlighting its expansion and deepened presence in pivotal markets like Japan, India, and Vietnam. IFF Holdings, Marriott International open luxury hotel, residences In a significant expansion of its luxury hospitality offerings in Southeast Asia, IFF Holdings has announced a signed agreement with Marriott International to open Arbora, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Quangnam, Danang and The Residences at Arbora, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Quangnam, Danang. Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology (DST) is currently finalising this model with expert input before seeking approval, as discussed at last weeks workshop on startup community development in the city. Metropolis strives to instil confidence in new startups, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com Phan Thi Quy Truc, deputy head of the Intellectual Property Management and Innovation Department under the DST, explained that he proposed capital exchange targets investment for seed-stage startups. Inspired by various international sources, the model will have a transparent legal framework, including operational regulations, capital raising procedures, participant rights and responsibilities, and dispute resolution mechanisms. This transparency is crucial to instil confidence in both startups and investors, Truc said at the workshop, while highlighting the importance of advanced and secure technology infrastructure to protect data and handle large transaction volumes accurately and efficiently. Effective risk management is another cornerstone of the model. Qualified personnel will assess the capabilities and development stages of startups, identify risks, and work to minimise investor losses while eliminating fraudulent activities, Truc noted. She also emphasised the necessity of a comprehensive and up-to-date information system about startups and funding projects. This system will provide investors with detailed information, helping them evaluate potential projects and assess investment risks, she added. Moreover, the platform will offer diverse services and support, such as legal, financial, and marketing advice, to connect startups with investors and create a collaborative environment. Nguyen Huong Quynh, CEO of Bambu UP, cautioned against excessive regulation, which could stifle the platforms openness. While the government should establish rules and conditions based on legal regulations, too many regulations could make the platform less accessible. The government should certify operational principles while allowing private entities to manage the platform under a market model with voluntary participation from stakeholders, she said. Bui Thi Thuy Tien, director of the Vietnam Startup Incubator, highlighted that risk management is the platforms most critical aspect, as it directly impacts investor interests. The exchange should evaluate startup projects potential, product value, enterprise valuation, and execution capabilities to build investor confidence and outline future benefits and reimbursement plans. This makes investors more confident in funding a project, Tien stated. Nguyen Viet Dung, director of Ho Chi Minh City DST, acknowledged the challenge of attracting social capital to the innovation startup sector, attributing it to a cultural hesitation towards risk and venture capital investments. The abundance of social capital is evident, but the challenge lies in attracting it to the innovation startup sector. Startups need to build more trust with investors, he said. The capital exchange for startups requires input from all ecosystem stakeholders. This input forms the foundation for developing a comprehensive proposal while ensuring the model complies with existing legal frameworks. The operational model must adhere to current legal regulations. The development of a vibrant startup ecosystem is crucial for fostering innovation, which is a key driver of economic growth. This sentiment was echoed by Trang Tran, project manager at Vingroup Innovation Fund, who highlighted significant policy and legal barriers in commercialising products from academic research. Researchers in academic institutions face considerable challenges in commercialising their products, she said. Efforts to remove these barriers are ongoing, but it remains difficult for researchers to establish enterprises and startups to commercialise their products. This situation limits the culture of innovation and entrepreneurship within universities. Addressing legal barriers to product commercialisation, Pham Tuan Hiep, director of BK Holdings Incubator, said many researchers are public university employees, which legally prevents them from holding positions such as directors in companies they help to establish. This is a significant obstacle that needs to be addressed to foster a more innovative environment. Another challenge is the mixed ownership of research outcomes, including ownership by public institutions or universities where the researchers are employed. The process of evaluating, valuing, and transferring these mixed ownership assets into a startup is very complex, Hiep explained. On the other hand, Moon Min, managing director of Next Challenge Foundation, a South Korean startup accelerator which aims to expand to Vietnams market, highlighted certain regulatory and legal barriers. While the Vietnamese government is eager to attract more tech companies and green enterprises, existing regulations and decrees can pose challenges for businesses in terms of understanding and compliance. This creates a significant barrier for companies looking to operate in Vietnam, she said. Vietnam is becoming increasingly attractive to investors due to its expanding innovation ecosystem. Min noted that in South Korea, the government consistently supports universities and educates students about innovation and entrepreneurship, helping them understand business practices and create positive societal impacts. Despite numerous innovations, South Korea still faces complex social issues. Even with strong development and good preparation with tech and ideas, the Korean market remains fiercely competitive, Min said. Climate tech startups a catalyst for Vietnams net-zero future I remember landing in Hanoi for the first time in early 2010, impressed by endless streams of motorbikes. As a practitioner pursuing sustainable development, I thought about the emissions fuming out of the many vehicles. Over a decade passed, and when I landed again in Hanoi a few months ago, I still found myself surrounded by swarms of motorbikes. But things are about to change. Innovation startups eager for further supporting policies While innovation startups and businesses seek supporting policies to further develop, more moves are nevertheless being planned. Pham Hong Quat, director general of the National Agency for Technology Entrepreneurship and Commercialisation Development under the Ministry of Science and Technology, discussed with VIRs Bich Thuy what these moves entail. Sources in Ha Nam, Thai Binh, and Nam Dinh provinces last week told VIR they are courting a supplier of Tesla, which specialises in manufacturing car chassis. When choosing a suitable destination, the investor is expecting to build a project worth more than $300 million. Localities are being surveyed for new production complexes The group has already surveyed many localities, the provinces said, and is close to considering one of the three provinces. A representative of the park developer told VIR, The investor, from Taiwan, prefers these three localities due to the advantage of available land. In addition, they are also impressed with the methodical investment promotion method of the provincial authorities and the industrial park developers in collaboration with the attractive preferential policies. Over the last two weeks, leaders of Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Parks (VSIP) arrived in Thai Binh and Nam Dinh to discuss the plans to develop two more VSIP facilities there. At a meeting with leaders of Thai Binh Peoples Committee, Lee Ark Boon, CEO of Singapores SembCorp Development, one of the joint venture partners, said, We expect the provincial authorities to facilitate the implementation of the project. The joint venture plans to begin the construction as soon as site clearance is completed. In Thai Binh, VSIP will develop an IP with an investment capital of $211.87 million, which covers an area of 344.67 hectares in Thai Thuy district. Ngo Dong Hai, a member of the Central Party Committee and Secretary of Thai Binh Party Committee, said, The province would support VSIP with administrative procedures and site clearance towards allowing work to start in October. At present, Thai Binh Economic Zone has a total area of 30,000ha, over 8,000ha of which is to develop IPs. The provincial leaders believe that the land is an outstanding factor in creating breakthroughs in pulling in foreign-invested capital. Some notable names have also announced intentions to expand and build new facilities in the north. US beverage giant Suntory PepsiCo in March announced a plan to pump some $390 million into build two factories in Ha Nam and the southern province of Long An, both powered by renewable energy. The information was revealed by a company representative during a meeting in March between Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and a business delegation organised by the US-ASEAN Business Council and led by its president and CEO Ted Osius. Suntory PepsiCos factory in Ha Nam will cost $90 million and its Long An beverage factory has a price tag of $300 million. Pham Gia Tuc, Secretary of Nam Dinh Party Committee, said, The province has a large room to attract foreign investors thanks to the advantage of the industrial land. Nam Dinh currently has six IPs with an occupancy rate of 55 per cent. We also have 10 IPs being added in the planning with a total capital of 2,546ha. These localities are collaborating with investors to complete industrial infrastructure. Nam Dinh is calling for funding in the infrastructure of some IPs to meet the land plots, including 1,100-ha Hai Long, 200-ha Nam Hong, 114-ha Hong Tien and 200-ha Trung Thanh IP. Along with the advantage of the industrial land, northern localities also have consistency in the strategy, which focuses on initiatives with advanced technology. Nguyen Manh Linh, deputy director of Dai Phong Infrastructure Construction the developer of My Thuan IP in Nam Dinh, said, My Thuan IP is directed to engage high-quality and environmentally friendly projects. The occupancy rate is now 42 per cent with those in terms of electronic products, machinery and high-tech products, which are mostly exported to the EU and the United States. Although we expect to fill the IP soon, we no longer need to draw in foreign direct investment (FDI) at all costs. We still keep some large plots to welcome big groups because these ventures will be the basis to lure high-quality capital inflow in the province in general and My Thuan IP in particular, Linh added. The provincial authorities efforts help these localities to acquire much success in FDI attraction. Thai Binh has emerged as the spotlight in gaining FDI, with $3 billion in 2023. Nam Dinh, meanwhile, was renowned as the major textile and garment hub in Vietnam. However, the province currently is the destination of many high-tech projects, such as a $120 million computer manufacturing scheme funded by Quanta Group, an Apple supplier. Foreign backers also highly appreciate the support and company of local authorities. Lawyer Nguyen Hong Chung, chairman of DVL Ventures, which has experience in connecting investors with these localities, said several parties reflected that they are pleased with the investment environment there. Procedures are handled at a focal agency, which saves time compared to general regulations. Investors also do not have to pay any service fees except for prescribed fees, Chung said. At large-scale projects, provincial leaders accompany them to discuss preferential mechanisms. Rental prices of industrial land set new record Thanks to an improved manufacturing industry and border reopening, the flock of foreign investors has led rental prices of industrial land to set a new record. Industrial propertys notable feats The growth of Vietnams industrial real estate, including industrial land, ready-built factories, and warehouses, has been remarkable over the past five years. Trang Le, head of Research & Consulting and JLL Vietnam, looks into how this happened and what can be expected in the future. The leadership of Long Chau pharmacy under the private-run FPT Retails management is worried that new business conditions will cause difficulties for its future business activities, as they require additional administrative procedures. Central warehouses perform the function of distributing drugs to pharmacies in the chains, photo Le Toan Nguyen Do Quyen, COO of FPT Retail, told VIR, We believe that the draft amendments provide inappropriate business conditions applicable to pharmacy chains, specifically the standards of central warehouse systems. We will continue to provide comments on this content with the hope that the revised Law on Pharmacy (LoP) will create stronger conditions for the development of pharmacy chains. Quyen explained that central warehouses perform the function of distributing drugs to pharmacies in the chains, so in terms of function, central warehouses are no different to current wholesale establishments. Compared to current legal regulations, if central warehouses are considered wholesale facilities, they must meet goods distribution practices (GDPs) for drugs and medicinal ingredients. However, the draft stipulates that central warehouses must simultaneously meet two standards: good drug storage and distribution practices (GSPs) applied to warehouses and other areas; and GDPs applicable to drug delivery activities. We believe that the GSP requirement is not necessary. Only the regulation to meet GDPs should be enough because the GDP standard itself has the content including principles of GSPs applied in all circumstances where drugs are stored and during the distribution process, Quyen said. Long Chau issued its concerns after new rules as part of changes proposed to the LoP 2016 by the Ministry of Health (MoH) topped the National Assemblys (NA) agenda in late June. Regarding organisational structure, chains consist of operators and pharmacies. The pharmacy chain operates under a unified management mechanism and all activities of pharmacies in the chain are regulated by the operator, with specific conditions for the operator and the conditions of those pharmacies. The chain operator manages all activities related to the supply, circulation, storage, and preservation of drugs and data of pharmacies in the chain, while handling full responsibility for the operations of pharmacies in the chain. The draft also stipulates the rights of chain operators with direct benefits such as rotating drugs between central warehouses and pharmacies, and among pharmacies with similar business scope in the chain. In addition to direct benefits, businesses organising and operating the pharmacy chain may have derivative benefits, such as negotiating to buy drugs to supply to all pharmacies in the chain at reasonable prices, and building brand reputation. A representative of the MoH said, With such a wide network, pharmacies in the chain are currently still operating individually and independently, leading to increased costs for administrative and business management, without creating better conditions and without open legal foundation to encourage their development. Therefore, in the draft amendments, terminology and related contents on conditions for the drug store chain business model have been added. Long Chau and other pharmacy chains such as Pharmacity and An Khang will all be affected if the new business conditions are adopted at the upcoming NA session, scheduled to take place in October and November. Senior health expert Ngo Hoa said, The new business conditions will make the local drug retail market more competitive, prompting pharmacy chains to innovate and improve service quality. This means they have to make more investment and have more strategic plans to stay strong. An Khang, under private-run Mobile World Group, is believed to be making moves to adapt to the possible new changes. The chain aims to achieve the two-digit revenue growth rate and increase its market share by end-2024. A representative of the group said, We will invest in-depth investment to develop An Khang into a leading pharmacy chain with specific activities by diversifying portfolio of products, ensuing the drug supply, improving the quality of the pharmacist team, and applying technologies to bring the best healthcare solutions to customers. Similarly, Long Chau continues to develop its store chain, increasing its network to more than 1,700 pharmacies across all provinces and cities. It also focuses on investing strongly in developing Long Chau vaccination centres, with the current number reaching more than 80 centres. At FPT Retails AGM in April, the company announced its strategy of expanding the comprehensive healthcare ecosystem the Long Chau Healthcare Platform. To invest in this strategy, FPT Long Chau plans to mobilise funding through a share offering for investors with a maximum value of 10 per cent. Meanwhile, foreign-invested Pharmacity under new CEO Deepanshu Madan is re-shaping its business around a wide range of medicine and healthcare offerings. It has updated its range of medications for cardiovascular, hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, liver, and several other categories that affect the general population of Vietnam. We know that these chronic diseases impact many people in Vietnam, rich and poor alike. That is why we have reassessed the treatment options we stock and restructured our pricing. Now, for example, our diabetes treatment options start from only VND1,000 (3.9 US cents) per day so that all patients can find the help they need at Pharmacity, Madan said. Pharmacity, once the largest chain with over 1,100 stores, has faced structural changes following the departure of its founder in 2022. As of February 2023, Long Chau has emerged as the market leader. According to the latest report by MB Securities, the drug retail market, involving nearly 60,000 pharmacies, is worth nearly $2 billion. Pharmacity and Long Chau are at the forefront of a fierce competition, with An Khang third with over 520 pharmacies. Long Chau has demonstrated remarkable growth in recent years. Specifically, the chain expanded rapidly with an average revenue increase of 174.7 per cent from 2020 to 2022. By the end of 2023, the chain had solidified its market presence with a quarterly growth rate of 23.4 per cent since 2020. Potential FIE impacts through Law on Pharmacy adjustments The newest amendment draft of the Law on Pharmacy (LoP), proposing changes to 44 out of 116 articles from the current law, has been published for feedback and is expected to be adopted soon. At a presentation in Paris on Wednesday, company executives declined to discuss the failed negotiations that saw workers extend a three-day strike indefinitely. In January, Samsung unveiled the integration of AI applications baptised Galaxy AI into its flagship S24 smartphone. Vice President Geminin User Experience and Google Jenny Blackburn speaks during the Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event to unveil the next generation of Artificial Intelligent (AI) powered Galaxy phones at the Carrousel du Louvre shopping mall in Paris on July 10, 2024. EMMANUEL DUNAND / AFP On Wednesday, Samsung announced plans to roll out AI applications to all of its consumer products, from wireless headphones to smartwatches to connected rings. The head of Samsung's mobile unit, TM Roh, said their initial objective had been to bring Galaxy AI to 100 million devices by the end of this year. "The progress has been accelerated, so at this point we can say that within this year Galaxy AI will be available on 200 million devices," he said. From generative AI capabilities to writing texts from brief instructions to simultaneous translation of phone conversations, tech industry titans are in a frantic race to deploy AI technology into smartphones and other consumer products. Roh said Samsung's mobile unit has invested more than one billion dollars on AI, and overall the company has spent much more. "While Samsung prepared the ground well with its 'Galaxy AI' marketing, AI services are still limited and it isn't yet an essential element in choosing a smartphone but simply a means to demonstrate the capacity to innovate," said Thomas Husson, an analyst at tech research and consulting firm Forrester. He noted that Samsung's smartphone rival Apple, which last month unveiled its AI initiative called Apple Intelligence, doesn't have the means to fully realise its ambitions and must still rely on its partnership with Chat-GPT maker OpenAI, with its actions constrained by EU regulations. After being dethroned as the top smartphone maker by Apple in 2023, Samsung reclaimed the crown in the first quarter of this year with more than 60 million devices sold and a nearly 21 percent market share, according to tech research firm IDC. While that was a 0.7 percent drop in unit sales from the same period in 2023, Apple suffered a 9.6 percent drop to more than 50 million iPhones sold, leaving it with a 17.3 percent market share. Samsung's smartphone strategy is to focus on AI and the premium end of the market, and Wednesday it unveiled the sixth generation of its folding phones. It also plans to diversify into health-related products and it announced Wednesday that it would begin selling its Galaxy Ring July 24 in a limited number of markets including Britain, China, France, Germany, South Korea and the United States. Unveiled in January, the sensors on the ring allow wearers to collect precise information about their heart rate and sleep quality, and monitor the data from their Samsung phones. Samsung union says will strike after talks breakdown A union representing tens of thousands of workers at South Korean tech giant Samsung Electronics told AFP on Tuesday it would hold a three-day strike later this month after negotiations failed. During a seminar with South Korean experts and scientists in AI last week in South Korea, Vietnams Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh expressed his desire for them to share their knowledge and experiences to help Vietnams AI sector develop rapidly and sustainably. Developing science, technology, and innovation is an objective requirement and a global trend. Along with promoting the development of the green economy, digital economy, circular economy, and sharing economy, Vietnam is determined to focus on developing high-value sectors, especially emerging fields at the moment, like AI, PM Chinh stated. In its 2024 report evaluating the AI Readiness Index of 125 countries, the International Monetary Fund places Vietnam among the emerging countries that have not yet been immediately impacted by AI as developed nations have, with high exposure high complementary and high exposure low complementary rates about 40 per cent. While Vietnamese businesses have envisioned the application of AI since the mid-2000s, Vietnam currently has a significant advantage in AI development, according to Nguyen Quang Huy, director of data engineering at Techcombank. This advantage is bolstered by the return of a highly-skilled workforce, including experts and students trained and practised in AI abroad, due to the pandemic and political instability overseas. When global economic and political trends are volatile, the stable development environment in Vietnam becomes highly attractive to high-tech talent, not only among Vietnamese professionals but also international experts, Huy said. The Vietnam Software and IT Services Association said at PM Chinhs conference in April on promoting economic diplomacy that Vietnam currently has one million IT engineers, nearly half of whom are ready to transition to the fields of AI and semiconductors. The association added that Vietnam is holding a distinct advantage with a ready pool of high-quality software engineers who can be further trained in AI to develop AI applications. These applications can be used to automate processes in businesses and manufacturing, thereby increasing productivity and efficiency. Recognising AIs potential to drive economic growth, the government has implemented supportive policies like the national strategy on research and development (R&D) and application of AI, enhancing the application of AI in daily life. Companies like Viettel Cybersecurity, FPT.AI, VinAI Research, and Neurond AI are at the forefront of developing innovative AI solutions across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and logistics. In May, FPT.AI was named Outstanding Virtual Assistant 2023 by Software Reviews, an Info-Tech Research Group member, recognising FPT.AIs efforts over the past year in partnering with enterprises to create value in AI. Meanwhile, it is crucial to prepare for the rapid and significant impacts AI will bring, said Pham Thanh Hai, CEO of JobsGO. The time for AI to explode in Vietnam has arrived. However, some challenges persist in fully developing Vietnams AI talents. A major issue is the shortage of skilled professionals, compounded by a lack of comprehensive educational programmes tailored to the AI industrys evolving needs. The qualifications of many graduates do not align with industry requirements, creating a talent gap that could impede the countrys AI ambitions, said Hai. In terms of the AI engineering workforce, Vietnam lacks a competitive edge in deep research to build and train core models due to both talent shortages and financial constraints, training new models currently costs several hundreds of millions of US dollars each time. However, Vietnam stands to benefit in building AI products and applying AI within enterprises, automating processes, leveraging its pool of nearly 500,000 high-quality programmers, and a strong digital transformation movement. Vietnam may well pioneer a new trend of enterprise AI adoption, added Hai. To effectively nurture its AI talent to drive future innovations, there are suggestions for Vietnam to focus on enhancing its educational programmes. The solution is now to provide continuous learning to the AI workforce, which means it does not stop at school, but also takes place in workplaces, said Huy of Techcombank. Furthermore, there is a need to ensure that our engineers are equipped with not only the good theory foundation, but also the practical skills necessary to apply AI to solving real-world problems. Organising AI competitions and hackathons can stimulate creativity and problem-solving among students and professionals. The countrys IT workforce, including over 400,000 professionals, is increasingly involved in AI-related fields such as data science and software development. This robust foundation has garnered significant investor interest, with projections indicating that Vietnams digital economy could reach $43 billion by 2025, largely fuelled by advancements in AI technology, said Dr. Andy Le, AI expert at the Nanyang Technological University Alumni. Strengthening industry-academia collaboration is crucial. By fostering partnerships between tech companies and universities, Vietnam can ensure that academic training aligns with industry needs. Joint R&D projects and internships can facilitate knowledge transfer and innovation, giving students practical experience and exposure to real-world AI challenges, said Le. Addressing talent gaps and promoting inclusivity in AI education are crucial, he added. Focusing on skill development for high-demand areas such as AI engineering and data science will help bridge the talent gap. Ensuring that AI education and training programmes are accessible to a diverse range of students, including those from underrepresented groups, will create a more inclusive and robust AI talent pool, he said. Tran Hai Linh, founder, Sendo Vietnam boasts a significant young IT professional workforce, marked by enthusiasm and aptitude for learning new technologies. This demographic is a vital asset, as they are well-positioned to absorb and implement cutting-edge advancements in AI and other technological fields. The country is witnessing rapid growth in its technology industry, with numerous startups emerging to capture and shape new trends. This vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem is crucial for fostering innovation and driving the development of AI solutions that meet both local and global needs. AI represents a relatively nascent field that offers a level playing field for nations worldwide. For Vietnam, this is an excellent opportunity to establish itself as a competitive player by focusing on AI applications and engineering. Leveraging the technical skills and innovative spirit of its workforce can significantly propel the country forward in this industry. The Vietnamese government has made commendable strides in supporting the technology sector, particularly AI. Initiatives to encourage this burgeoning industry are essential, yet there is room for further enhancement. Increased investment in R&D will be pivotal in fostering groundbreaking AI technologies. Additionally, creating an attractive environment for world-leading companies to invest in Vietnam can provide invaluable resources, expertise, and global market access. These two pivots would help nurture a robust AI workforce for the country. Nguyen Van Quy, technical director of Data & AI KiotViet The current high-quality labour force in Vietnam in 2022-2024 shows a robust and growing labour market. Labour in industrial and key economic regions remained stable in 2023, recovering from the massive lay-offs at the end of 2022. The workforce is relatively young, intelligent, and belongs largely to Gen-Z and Millennials who want to engage fully in the business process and make a significant contribution to their value, company and society. In the field of AI, many talented people have been attracted in recent years. Many foreign companies have opened offices in Vietnam to make use of this potential at a high level of compensation. This is closely related to the practice of implementing AI in Vietnam. It includes several strategic actions in line with the increasing focus on technological innovation. Many initiatives reflect Vietnams commitment to using AI as a catalyst for innovation and growth in various industries. For example, AI-powered robotics and automation systems are transforming the manufacturing sector, and many fintech companies are using AI for fraud detection and risk assessment. Integration of AI algorithms and models from design to testing in software development to improve efficiency and accuracy. To effectively train and develop AI talent, developing a comprehensive university-level AI training initiative to overcome the skills gap is required. In addition, companies and universities should cooperate more widely to achieve more effective cooperation. There should be more practical spaces and real-world problems to help bring AI projects from the lab to the industry/business environment, which allows AI personnel in Vietnam to practice and delve deeper, thereby fostering sustainable development. Partnering with AI professionals or academic institutions to gain technical expertise is also needed. The training can be integrated with top regional universities to provide opportunities for international exchange and training for Vietnamese personnel and students. Firms should focus on Gen Z for AI boost As AI and its applications expand across various industries, Gen Z, being the first generation to be reared on social media and handheld electronic devices, is seen as the key to enhancing the competitiveness of businesses in the new economy. New AI offerings pose more questions The AI explosion is continuing at pace with new offerings from the biggest tech groups in the world, but ethical concerns and investing considerations are taking up more focus as industries like the media and manufacturing adjust their priorities. Redefining the journalism landscape in the age of AI With the recent rise of AI, some journalists and media agencies are fearing an invasion where their journalistic work is used (sometimes without permission) as sources to generate personalised content, or to support social media users in their own quest to become opinion leaders. According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the FIATA World Congress 2025 will be jointly organised by FIATA and the Vietnam Logistics Business Association (VLA) in Hanoi in October 2025. Stephane Graber, director general of FIATA, compared the event to the "Olympics of logistics", emphasising its importance for Vietnam's logistics sector and the global logistics community, including investors, port operators, shipping lines, logistics service providers, importers, exporters, and other stakeholders. FIATA has been working with the World Bank to assess the logistics performance index of various countries, including Vietnam. Currently, FIATA is supporting Vietnam, specifically the VLA, in promoting digital transformation, and aims to contribute to improving Vietnam's logistics capabilities. "With our expertise, FIATA wishes to provide more support to Vietnam, not only in attracting investment and leveraging Vietnam's geographical advantages for logistics development but also in areas such as human resources training, standardisation of logistics documents, and bills of lading," stated the FIATA director general. According to VGP, during a visit to Vietnam to prepare for the FIATA World Congress 2025, FIATA president Turgut Erkeskin met with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the government headquarters on July 9. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh received Turgut Erkeskin, president of FIATA - Photo: VGP Welcoming the FIATA president, PM Chinh appreciated FIATA's support for VLA in hosting the 2025 FIATA World Congress. Erkeskin emphasised the crucial role of logistics in today's world and the challenges it faces. He expressed confidence in the Vietnamese government's support for the successful organisation of the upcoming FIATA World Congress in Hanoi. The FIATA president praised the Vietnam's Logistics Service Development Strategy for 2025-2035, with a vision to 2045, particularly in digital and green transformation and Vietnam's commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050. He suggested that Vietnam should mobilise all social resources to develop the sector. PM Chinh requested FIATA to share information, advice, and support on digital and green transformation, focusing on solutions for agricultural and industrial logistics, developing Vietnam's maritime fleet, economic-trade-transport corridors, and providing technical assistance to help Vietnam finalise its national logistics service development strategy in 2024. The PM also asked FIATA to support human resource development for Vietnam's logistics industry and expand training programmes to enhance the capacity of Vietnamese businesses. PM Chinh emphasised that Vietnam is focusing on developing strategic infrastructure, including logistics infrastructure and high-quality human resources. He affirmed that the Vietnamese government would cooperate with domestic and international partners to support and facilitate economic, investment, trade, and service cooperation activities, with a particular focus on logistics service development to bring greater benefits to all parties involved. Logistics firms take alternative steps While logistics businesses in Vietnam are taking action to respond to Red Sea tensions, the situation may drag on for some time. Efficiencies building with enhancements in e-logistics Further enhancements and upgrades in e-logistics are being geared up throughout the country. A worker inspects a power line after Hurricane Beryl caused widespread outages. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Greed and deregulation Regarding After Hurricane Beryl, why does Whataburger have a better power outage map than CenterPoint? | Editorial, (July 10): CenterPoint cant take all of the credit for the power fiasco that we have been experiencing. We are accomplices. Look at every industry that was previously regulated. The airlines, telecommunications and electricity. We voted for people who thought that hyper-capitalism would create competition, capacity and cooperation. We are living with just the opposite. As long as we believe in this myth that capitalism cures all ills, we will remain in the dark. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Patricia Garris, Spring Dear CenterPoint: You estimated power would be restored for 1 million customers by the end of the day on Wednesday?!?! You knew a storm was coming and you knew it would impact us, yet you seemingly did nothing to prepare. We all dutifully gathered our hurricane supplies and followed the directions of local officials. We are the ones who suffer for your unpreparedness. I suppose the crews had all been told to show up at the CenterPoint offices or the homes of the executives to make sure they had their power restored immediately. Once again, you have failed Houstonians. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Molly Sullivan, Houston CenterPoint Energy officials and the politicians in Austin are pretending that the reason 2.2 million Houston residents lost power was because of Hurricane Beryls unexpected strength and course. But as the Houston Chronicle editorial board pointed out, anyone with a weather app on their smartphone had known for days that the Houston region was directly in the storms path. The real reason, of course, is the same as in the 2021 freeze: The bootlickers and brown-nosers in Austin had cut Texas out of the national electrical grid so that the energy companies could jack up their profits one, by eliminating all the investment necessary to allow the Texas grid to withstand wind and temperature changes; and two, by charging Texans $28 billion more in their electric bills than those in the rest of the country paid. As a direct result, as many as 700 people died, according to some estimates even though the state health department cited only 246 deaths, in 2021 and now 2.2 million were left without power in the middle of the Texas summer. Gov. Greg Abbott did his job in 2021, covering for his corporate backers by lying to the people, screeching that the grid collapsed because of windmills and green energy! (The man has no shame.) This time he was apparently too busy campaigning for vice president and banqueting with more potential corporate backers to even notice what was going on. But this setup guarantees that the energy companies profits will remain high, their bribes er, I mean, campaign donations will continue to pour in to the brown-nosers and bootlickers in the state house and governors mansion, and nothing will change. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Robert Dees, Houston Being from Southwest Louisiana, we have had many experiences with power outages. Just as we should say thank you for your service to our military men, the same is true of the thousands of linemen that show up and work countless hours in dangerous conditions to restore our power as quickly as possible. They should be greatly appreciated for their hard work to restore the damage Mother Nature has done to our utilities, not criticized. R.E.Dyer, Conroe Play nice, Biden Regarding Exclusive: President Biden says he had to push for Beryl aid request with Abbott overseas, (July 9): Its fun to see the shoe on the other foot sometimes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad My man, President Joe Biden, castigating our Great State Leader for not being at the ready when Hurricane Beryl hit, seems so ironic. But unlike Cancun Ted Cruz, the governors trip to Asia for trade discussions was a long-planned activity, so it really isnt the same thing, of course. And it would be gentlemanly if our liberal-sided leaders would practice a bit of non-partisan restraint that seems missing on the part of conservative-sided leaders oftentimes. Healing partisan divides requires a bit of humility and graciousness by our elected leaders one to the other at times, which we rarely see anymore. Walt Lind, Nassau Bay Seven weeks after live-fire training exercise in Lacy Lakeview melted siding on a couples home and filled it with smoke, no insurance adjustor from the citys insurance company has yet inspected the damaged house, a daughter of the homeowners said. On May 19 the Lacy Lakeview Volunteer Fire Department set fire to a house at 218 Birch St. for a training exercise. Heat from the flames melted the siding on the home next door, where John and Susan May have lived for 46 years. City Manager Calvin Hodde said Tuesday that the city called in its insurance company the day after the fire. Yes, we called the insurance in the following Monday, Hodde said. As of Wednesday, no one from the citys insurance company has visited the Mays home to inspect and determine the extent of damage and what repairs need to be made, said Brandy Zinz, the Mays daughter who speaks for her parents. Officials said at the time of the fire that the city would do the right thing and repairs would be made. Zinz said a city official told her parents after the fire that Hodde would personally pay for repairs to the exterior of their home. There was a lot of smoke all through the house that day, and we need more than just the exterior repaired, Zinz said. The heat broke a mirror in the back room. It could have caused electrical (wiring) damage. The heat from the fire also melted interior blinds in the Mays home. Zinz said her mother has filed a claim with her own homeowners insurance, and that insurance adjustor has inspected and repairs are being planned. We had an air cleaner run inside the house for 24 hours to remove the smoke, Zinz said. An investigation by the Texas State Fire Marshals Office is still on going, and no report has been released. A companion investigation by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality found that city officials did not complete required authorization or receive an exemption from state law that generally prohibits the type of burn the city conducted. The TCEQ also found Hodde, who owned the vacant home at 218 Birch and provided it for the training exercise, did not remove assorted metals, paint cans, carpet, vehicle rims and household appliances, which would be required for an authorized burn. A community bake and barbecue sale, along with a raffle and silent auction, will be held July 20 in Lacy Lakeview to support the May family. The opinion desk welcomes and encourage letters from readers in response to articles published in the Houston Chronicle. Please include the headline, the page and the day it was printed. Include name, address, and day and evening phone numbers for verification purposes only. Letters have a maximum word count of 250 words, though are generally closer to 100 words, and may be edited. The best way to submit letters is by sending it to viewpoints@chron.com. Iowas 90-year-old Republican U.S. senator says he will not join in calls for Democratic President Joe Biden, 81, to end his bid for reelection. U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley was asked Wednesday about increasing calls, including within the Democratic Party, for Biden to bow out amid concerns over his viability as the partys nominee following last months dismal debate performance. Questions have arisen over Bidens ability to run and serve out a second term after stumbling through his first televised debate of the election cycle against Donald Trump, the 78-year-old former president and presumptive 2024 Republican presidential nominee. I dont want to dump on Biden as either a presidential candidate or any accusations about his health, Grassley said, responding to a question during a weekly conference call with Iowa reporters. And thats a family matter within the Biden family. Thats a family matter within the Democrat family. Grassley said he is focusing on Bidens policies and leadership, arguing that they have led to a significant increase in the cost of living and lack of enforcement at the Southern border. So bottom line is we need a Republican president, and Im going to concentrate on those two things and several other bad policies, Grassley said. Biden has emphatically refused to step aside as many Democrats worry they could lose the White House and Congress and watch the rise of a second term Trump and conservative agenda with plans to weaken the federal government. Tom Harkin, an Iowa Democrat who served 30 years in the U.S. Senate, was among those suggesting Biden should release his delegates and step aside ahead of the Democratic National Convention in August. But so far, other Iowa Democratic leaders have stopped short of calling on Biden to end his candidacy. Biden and his campaign have tried to quell concerns, pointing to the lies Trump told during the debate and shifting attention to Bidens record rather than his age and debate performance. JUSTICES URGED TO HEAR TRUMP CHALLENGE: Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird co-led a court brief asking the U.S. Supreme Court to consider a lawsuit filed by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey challenging former President Donald Trumps hush-money prosecution in New York. The brief argues the Supreme Court is obligated to take up the challenge because it is a conflict between two states. Bailey sued the state of New York last week, arguing Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg was politically motivated in bringing business fraud charges against Trump. His lawsuit alleges the prosecution was intended to boost President Joe Bidens campaign, calling it lawfare. Trump was convicted by a jury on 34 counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. In the wake of a Supreme Court decision granting wider criminal immunity to the president for official acts, Trumps lawyers are seeking to overturn the conviction. He also faces prosecution at the federal level and in Georgia for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election and for retaining classified documents after leaving office. As a prosecutor, I know that politics has no place in criminal prosecutions, Bird said in a statement. I am calling on the U.S. Supreme Court to hear the case against New Yorks political prosecution, gag order, and sentencing of President Trump that interfere with the presidential election. We must protect free and fair elections and the rule of law. Bird has been an ardent defender of Trump as hes faced multiple criminal prosecutions. She visited his New York trial in May, calling the charges a scam and a sham. The amicus brief is led by Bird and Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody, and joined by attorneys general in Alaska and Montana. BOHANNAN RAISES $1.2M IN 2ND QUARTER: Democratic U.S. House candidate Christina Bohannans campaign announced Wednesday she raised $1.2 million during April, May and June and will report having $2.4 million in cash on hand. Bohannan, a law professor from Iowa City, is challenging Republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, a retired ophthalmologist from Ottumwa, to represent Southeast Iowas 1st Congressional District. The Bohannan campaign has outraised Miller-Meeks in the past three quarters, according to Federal Election Commission filings, and has caught up to Miller-Meeks availability of cash on hand. Candidates had to file pre-primary financial reports with the FEC covering April 1 to May 15. That report says Miller-Meeks raised about $265,000 during those 45 days and had about $1.86 million on hand on May 15. Bohannan outraised Miller-Meeks during that 45-day time period, reporting to the FEC about $442,000 in contributions and a similar amount of cash-on-hand to Miller-Meeks on May 15, at about $1.82 million. Heres data from the past three fundraising quarters of the campaign, according to FEC filings: Bohannan Jan. 1-March 31: Net contributions: $820,000. Cash on hand at end of period: $1.63 million Oct. 1, 2023-Dec. 31, 2023: Net contributions: $650,000. Cash on hand at end of period: $1.12 million July 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2023: Net contributions: $660,000. Cash on hand at end of period: $630,000 Mariannette Miller-Meeks Jan. 1-March 31: Net contributions: $320,000. Cash on hand at end of period: $1.77 million Oct. 1, 2023-Dec. 31, 2023: Net contributions: $430,000. Cash on hand at end of reporting period: $1.58 million July 1, 2023-Sept. 30, 2023: Net contributions: $368,000. Cash on hand at end of reporting period: $1.38 million The Dawn Manor house may be moving but its owner is maintaining its historic flair, both in its reconstruction and future purpose. Steve Uphoff, owner of Uphoff Resorts, purchased the house in 2017 from the Raab family, who had owned it for more than 70 years. Uphoff had all of the masonry, woodwork and stained glass from the mid-1800s home removed and stored and is having the house rebuilt on the south side of Lake Delton on Burritt Avenue, just north of its intersection with Alcan Drive. The reconstructed house will be an 1800s-themed, 12,000-square-foot diner featuring an overlook facing the Mirror Lake Dam. It is being built with its original parts and a new frame, and is scheduled to open next spring. Uphoff Resorts is partnering with Morrissey Hospitality to manage The Original 1855 Dawn Manor Restaurant. The restaurant will also feature a bar, a replica of a Prohibition-era speakeasy, an establishment which then-illegal alcohol sales took place, and a gift shop. Every detail of restoration has been carefully considered to present a historically accurate experience while being a part of antique art, furniture and furnishings of the period and once part of the original 1855 Dawn Manor home, Uphoff said. Ninety-four pallets containing original Potsdam Sandstone, stained-glass windows, and parts for an oak grand staircase original to the house, among numerous other components, were stored while Uphoff decided on a location for the rebuilt historic house. We saved Dawn Manor, Uphoff said. We preserved this historical monument, the very last remnant of the lost city of Newport. Newport was a city located in northeast Sauk County during the 1800s and early 1900s, and the area it once occupied is currently part of Lake Delton. The reconstructed three-story house will have a 249-person seating capacity and feature seven historically themed dining rooms. Antique furniture and artwork by former owner George Raab will be in the rooms. George Raab III, the great-grandson of former owner Helen Raab, owned the house when Uphoff purchased it. The dining rooms will be named after the Raab Family, former President Abraham Lincoln, famed Wisconsin architect Frank Lloyd Wright and the late television actress Agnes Moorehead. Lincoln, Wright and Moorehead reportedly spent time at the Dawn Manor house, Uphoff said, adding that the former president was friends with Abraham Vanderpoel, who built the house. Another dining room will be called the Haunted Dining Room, which Uphoff said was inspired by reports from past owners that the house was haunted. Two Wisconsin Dells area chefs, Justin Draper and Jayson Pettit, are putting together the menu for the upcoming restaurant. The speakeasy is inspired by an Uphoff family-owned Wisconsin Dells-area bar in the 1930s and will be on the lower level of the Dawn Manor restaurant. The rebuilt house will also feature a 2,000-square-foot wraparound outdoor eating deck overlooking Mirror Lake and its dam, Uphoff said. Uphoff worked with Amish contractor Jacob Mast, whose family spent more than two months removing the stonework from the building by hand in 2022. Uphoff purchased the house and its land plot in 2017. In 2021, he sold the land to Kalahari Resorts and Conventions owner Todd Nelson but maintained ownership of the structure. Despite owning various business assets and restaurants across the country, this project is deeply personal to me, said Uphoff. Our family has been in the Dells since 1873, for six generations, and I grew up across the street from Dawn Manor. I have fond memories of this historic, one-of-a-kind house and Im thrilled to have the opportunity to share this very special place with the public. Kalahari is building a resort expansion on the land where the historic house formerly stood, which will feature 21 treehouses resort houses modeled after the nostalgic childhood structures along with 31 additional lodging cabins. Wisconsin Democratic lawmakers havent joined the ranks of those calling for President Joe Biden to exit the presidential race, as his dismal debate performance has renewed concerns that his age may cost Biden the race. Only a handful of Democratic congressional members have called for Biden, who turns 82 in November, to drop out. None of them are from Wisconsin, and only one hails from a true battleground state, Arizona, Politico reported this week. Many of those calls come from stalwart blue states such as Illinois, Minnesota and New Jersey, where historically voters are more likely to support the Democratic nominee, regardless of who it is, in the general election. But Wednesday was a rough day for Bidens campaign: It began with House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, rather than urging Biden to stay in the race, saying Its up to the president to decide. Then celebrity donor George Clooney, who has fundraised for Biden, said he should drop out. And then, late in the evening, Vermont Sen. Peter Welch became the first Senate Democrat to call for Biden to step aside. Biden has insisted hes staying in. But if he hopes to best Trump again and win a second term, he will need to stave off calls for his departure in battleground states such as Wisconsin. None of Wisconsins three Democratic members in the Senate and House have called for Bidens exit. U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Madison, on Sunday told reporters shell be fighting for the entire Democratic ticket but also, its his decision. I have heard a lot of input from voters, things theyve been expressing, and I pass those things off to the White House, she added. U.S. Rep. Gwen Moore, D-Milwaukee, said she supports Biden, whom she called an amazing president, for a second term this year. The stakes couldnt be higher: Donald Trump is promising dictatorship, revenge and an agenda that only serves the wealthy and corporations, she said. This election is about preserving freedom, progress, equality and democracy, and I will do everything in my power to ensure voters know whats at stake. She also praised his work leading the nation through the COVID-19 pandemic as well as an economic downtown, and his work to reduce climate change while creating more jobs and reducing health care costs. Going to be up to us U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan, D-Black Earth, in a speech at Madisons Sherman Middle School on Friday during Bidens visit, didnt directly address calls for Biden to step aside, but offered support for the former Delaware senator. Look, Joe Biden gets it done, he said. Donald Trump gets felonies. Pocan also stressed Wisconsins importance this election, adding Dont think for a second that this is going to be easy. The congressman, in the recent past, has been a strong critic of Bidens handling of the Israel-Hamas war, often arguing against the U.S. sending military aid to Israel for anything but defensive weapons. But speaking to the crowd at the Biden rally, he said, Are you ready to do all you can to make sure that this country survives a great attack from a corrupt demagogue and a right wing that wants to fundamentally change our nation? Its really going to be up to us, Pocan said. Gov. Tony Evers also spoke at the Biden event in Madison, saying, The choice is clear. Theres only one candidate who has consistently delivered for Wisconsin, and his name is Joe Biden, he said. Democratic delegate Rep. Christine Sinicki, D-Milwaukee, Sunday on WISNs UpFront also said she has no concerns whatsoever about Bidens viability as a candidate. Theres a lot of talk, but we cant turn our back on him after what hes done the last three-and-a-half years for one bad night, Sinicki said. He sounded good today. He sounded good in North Carolina. I think hes back. Most other state lawmakers have not publicly commented on whether or not Biden should remain in the race. Wisconsin Elections Commission Chair Ann Jacobs, another Democratic delegate, said about the debate, He had a bad night, but hes been leading the country for three-and-a-half years, and what he has done speaks volumes. Congressional reporters on Wednesday noted that Democratic U.S. Senate members who are concerned about Bidens candidacy will meet Thursday with several top Biden advisers during a Democratic Senate Campaign Committee lunch caucus. Bidens campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon is also expected to attend the meeting. The Associated Press contributed to this article. OpenAI has been doing well despite everything that it has gone through, from copyright lawsuits to executive ousting, but there's only so much tech giants can take before they step back. It appears that the last straw for both Apple and Microsoft is the latest EU antitrust probe. Microsoft, Apple Leaves the OpenAI Board Microsoft has been a prominent power within OpenAI's operations. It had an initial $1 billion investment in 2019, and that amount has since ballooned to $13 billion. Since then, the company has been tuning in to every decision the AI startup makes. The board of directors had a seat just for Microsoft, although the company was more of an observer as it had a non-voting role. Due to the continuing scrutiny from the European Commission, Microsoft decided to withdraw its position on the board. At first, the EU Commission investigated just how significant Microsoft's control was in OpenAI, but eventually concluded that it didn't break any merger rules, as per Engadget. However, the probe does not end there. The Commission's Executive VP for Competition Policy, Margrethe Vestager said that authorities asked Microsoft to provide additional information about its agreement with the AI company "to understand whether certain exclusivity clauses could have a negative effect on competitors." It is already shaping up to be a larger antitrust investigation, which is likely the biggest factor behind the move. It could also be why Apple already backed out before it could even take the observer board seat. Microsoft expressed that it left as it already trusted what OpenAI's plans were, so the board seat was no longer necessary. Instead, OpenAI would conduct regular meetings with key partners, including Apple and Microsoft. An OpenAI spokesperson shared a response from the company: "We're grateful to Microsoft for voicing confidence in the board and the direction of the company, and we look forward to continuing our successful partnership." Read Also : OpenAI Fixes Major ChatGPT Vulnerability on its Mac App OpenAI is Busy with Other Problems As if the scrutiny wasn't enough of a headache, the AI company has also been facing other problems in the last two weeks. It already fixed a major ChatGPT vulnerability on its Mac app, but bad actors already managed to deal some damage unrelated to it. Just a few days ago, it was reported that OpenAI's internal AI details were stolen in the 2023 breach. The data held the design of the company's artificial intelligence technologies, as per Reuters, which the hacker accessed through the company's internal messaging systems. Fortunately, the bad actor didn't access the systems where OpenAI kept and built its AI. The company kept it under wraps believing that the breach was the work of a private individual and not a national security threat. In fact, the company is doing well when it comes to disrupting covert operations that use its AI models for "deceptive activity." It has taken down five operations so far, although it's likely that there are far more threats that the company has yet to discover and shut down. Update, July 11, 2024: A judge sentenced a 41-year-old man Thursday, July 11 to 35-years to life in prison for four counts of Sexual Assault Against a Child under 14-years of age. William Guerra will serve all four counts concurrently. Original Story, March 22, 2024: After jumping bail and fleeing to Mexico, where he stayed for three years, a man has been arrested and convicted on four counts of sexual assault against a child under 14 in Washoe County. A jury convicted 40-year-old William Guerra after a 15-year-old girl told a social worker that she had been sexually molested by him multiple times when she was between nine and 13 years old. After being arrested by Reno Police, Guerra admitted to assaulting the victim and said the assaults stopped when she pulled a knife on him, according to a release from the Washoe County District Attorney's Office. After his arrest Guerra posted bail and fled to Mexico, the D.A.'s office said. The victim's family followed, living down the street from him for three years before he tried to re-enter the United States illegally, resulting in his arrest. Following Guerra's re-arrest investigators with the Washoe County District Attorneys Office found and contacted the victim, now an adult, in Mexico. The victim was brought back to Reno to be present for the trial of Guerra. Update, 4:13 p.m., Washoe Sheriffs have found a woman reported missing and endangered on Thursday. 72-year old Allyn McGillicuddy was found safe according to an online post. She has been reunited with her family. Original Story, 3:25 p.m., Washoe County Sheriff's needs your help finding a missing endangered woman. Allyn McGillicuddy who suffers from dementia has been missing since 10:45 a.m., Thursday, July 11. McGillicuddy was last seen in the Tempe Creek area of Arrowcreek, in South Reno where she was walking with a friend. She is 72-years of age, 5'3" and weighs approximately 155 pounds, she was last seen wearing a white hat, florescent yellow or white shirt and bluish-grey shorts. If you have any information that can help, please contact the Washoe County Sheriff's Office at (775) 785-WCSO (9276). Gwyneth Paltrows iconic brand returns to the Bay Area with permanent storefront in Larkspur. Plus, Cuyana is holding a sample sale, Ministry of Scent opens a second location in Pacific Heights, and startup Salon Tonight makes it quick and easy to find a last-minute hair appointment. Goop moved into the retail hotspot known as the Marin Country Mart. (Courtesy of Yoshihiro Makino) Shopping all goodies Goop, locally, is now a thing. Gwyneth Paltrows famous brand just flung open the doors to its richly decorated sixth permanent brick-and-mortar in Larkspurs Marin Country Mart. Along with the full range of Goop beauty products and a curated selection of G. Label by Goop clothing, a collection of pretty little things (jewelry, homewares, wellness) beckon from luxurious oak shelving and displays. The refined and inviting 1,300-square-foot boutique is the first location to feature an active facial room, which means you can book an appointment for any number of glow-y treatments with Goop-approved licensed aestheticians. And in case you didnt catch it, this is not Goops first Bay Area rodeo. Over the years, there have been several SF pop-ups and a short-lived Fillmore Street store. Makes sense since the Bay is one of the brands top markets. Our selection of the Marin Country Mart is intentional, reflecting our desire to place our stores in locations that resonate with our ethos, says Matthew Blythe, senior director of retail operations and development. The Marts dynamic character and community spirit offer the perfect backdrop for Goops newest location, aligning with our dedication to quality, community, and well-being. Goop ya later. // 2215 Larkspur Landing Circle Unit 25A (Larkspur), goop.com Ministry of Scent opens its second location on Fillmore Streetand shes intoxicating. (Courtesy of Ministry of Scent) It may be jewel-box sized but Ministry of Scents new Pacific Heights shop wafts with European-like grandeur. Known for its selection of not-found-everywhere niche fragrance brands, the retailers new boutique (and younger sibling to the beloved Valencia Street location) is truly stunning and chockablock with seductive scents and museum-worthy bottles. Among them: Fillmore-exclusive labels including fragrances from Mizensir, Matiere Premiere, Akro, Mancera, Montale, Marc Antoine Barrois, Megamere and more. Designed by Mill Valley architect Richard Felix Ashman, the light-filled, 600-foot space features ornate, high ceilings and rich, floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. Luxe library is how store co-founder Antonia Kohl describes the overall aesthetic. And its spot-on. Indeed, its time to check (and sniff) out some exceptional new scents. While this may be overwhelming, fear notMinistry of Scents knowledgeable salespeople will help steer your nose in the right direction. For her part, Kohl is thrilled with the new baby: Fillmore Street offers a unique combination of opportunities for usit's a different demographic of shoppers than our wonderful clientele in the Mission District. Plus, its home to multiple excellent perfume brands, with stores by Diptyque, Byredo, Le Labo and Aesop. With the arrival of Ministry of Scent, we like to think of Fillmore Street as San Francisco's "Fragrance Row. The Pacific Heights customers have been welcoming and lovely to work with thus far, she says. // 2408 Fillmore St. (Pacific Heights), ministryofscent.com Cuyana sample sale, anyone? Clear your Saturday, grab your girls, and get to Geary. (Courtesy of Cuyana) Fewer better things. This has long been Cuyanas MO. On Saturday, July 13th from 8am to 4pm, those covetable things will be up to 80 percent off. The sample sale will take place at Cuyana HQ in Union Square. Youll find loads of past seasons bags, small leather goods and clothing. Our sage advice: Dont sleep on this one but arrive early. Last years event sold out within a few hours. Can you handle it? // 291 Geary St. 4thFloor (Union Square), cuyana.com (Photo : Unsplash/Grant Beirute) Costco, which is known for offering hourly wages that exceed those offered by many other retailers, will once again prove its competitiveness in the industry by giving workers a raise scheduled for next month. CEO Ron Vanchris' Announcement: Hourly Wage Increase CEO Ron Vachris announced that starting pay rates for service assistants, service clerks, and meat cutters in the US, Puerto Rico, and Canada will increase by $1 per hour. At the same time, employees who are not at the starting rate or the top-of-scale rate will also see an increase of $0.50 per hour in their wages, according to a memo to employees obtained by Business Insider. According to the memo, the increase raises the lowest wage for hourly workers to $19.50 per hour, an increase of 5.4% for the lowest earners. Vachris emphasized the company's ongoing initiative to maintain competitive hourly wages in the industry. By July 22, the new rates will apply to all hourly workers regardless of their position on the company's pay scale. READ MORE: Costco Reaches Terms with The City Council, Slated to Open in California as The World's Largest Costco's Wage Competitiveness in The Industry The median employee earned $50,202 in annual pay and benefits, an increase from $45,450 in 2022, surpassing earnings at Walmart, where employees made $27,136, and Target, where employees made $25,993, as per Business Insider. The popular warehouse chain raised hourly wages by $0.50 in March, marking this month's second significant yearly wage increase. According to ZipRecruiter, the current average hourly pay for a Costco employee in the United Statesstands at $22.20. According to Yahoo News, Costco increased its minimum wage to $16 in February 2021, up from $15 since 2019, with former CEO Craig Jelinek describing higher wages as "good business" that helps the company decrease turnover. Costco, Being a Premier Retail Employer Costco's not perfect, but they are dedicated to caring for their employees, who play a pivotal role in the company's success, Jelinek said. Costco is widely recognized as one of the premier retail employers, consistently ranking among companies with the highest employee satisfaction, where employees enjoy benefits such as paid vacation and healthcare eligibility, according to a Business Insider survey. As of February, half of Costco employees earn more than $25 an hour, with an average tenure of nine years. In an earnings call in May, Vanchris said that he had worked hand in hand with Jelinek, including serving alongside him as president for the past two years, making the CEO transition seamless. Since January, Vanchris has dedicated his efforts to collaborating closely with global teams to uphold the delivery of top-quality merchandise at competitive values for members. He expresses deep pride in Costco's employees, attributing the consistent results to their strong dedication to both members and each other. In the memo, Vanchris thanked Costco workers and advised them to contact their corresponding General Manager or Payroll Clerk for further inquiries. RELATED ARTICLE: Costco Gives The Most Freebies - Best Cash Back Rates On Gas, Restaurant And Travel 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. 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Holland-Thielen and her co-plaintiffs launched a civil rights lawsuit against SpaceX in June, alleging employees at Elon Musk's rocket firm were using their work email to organize "nug and chug," a drinking game where they had to consume as many chicken nuggets as they can. According to her, these employees also joked about consuming alcohol heavily before returning to the office to oversee a rocket launch. Business Insider tried to reach out but has received no response. According to the lawsuit, male employees at the company allegedly subjected women to crude jokes reminiscent of Musk's tweets, openly stared at their chests, persistently asked them out, and asserted that they were biologically unfit to be engineers. The fired employees contend that Musk and other executives penalized those who advocated for change instead of addressing these behaviors. READ ALSO: SpaceX Wrongfully Terminating Eight Workers, Faces Criticism on Labor Laws and Working Conditions Musk Legally Challenged NLRB Back Holland-Thielen and her co-plaintiffs said they were terminated two years ago for specifically contributing to an open letter to management questioning whether the company's "no asshole" policy applied both to Elon Musk and ordinary employees. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) issued a complaint accusing SpaceX of unlawfully firing the eight engineers in January. However, Musk had the federal agency withdrawing its complaint by Memorial Day, indefinitely postponing their case while SpaceX pursues a separate lawsuit against the NLRB itself, as Reuters reported. The labor board's general counsel, Jennifer Abruzzo, told Bloomberg that Musk only wanted to buy time and escape trouble through financial means or assertive tactics. SpaceX did not respond to inquiries for this story, and neither did its attorneys. In legal filings, SpaceX has accused the fired workers of violating company policies, causing distractions among their colleagues, and using subpoena requests to harass Elon Musk. NASA and the US Space Force refused to comment due to SpaceX's pending litigation. However, NASA stated in a release that it is dedicated to ensuring a safe work environment for its contractors and upholds a strong commitment to compliance. Business Insider previously reported that SpaceX had also settled for $250,000 with a flight attendant who alleged that Musk exposed himself to her, rubbed her leg, and proposed exchanging a horse for an erotic massage. Musk responded flippantly to the incident, treating it as a joke in a tweet where he replied to someone mentioning the story by saying, "Fine, if you touch my wiener, you can have a horse." Hi Chad, long time no see! Fine, if you touch my wiener, you can have a horse. Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 20, 2022 Holland-Thielen and her colleagues emphasized their responsibilities as SpaceX employees to challenge established processes, innovate quickly as a team to solve complex problems and embrace failures as learning opportunities. However, despite these technical achievements, SpaceX does not give equal priority to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the company, as conveyed in a letter they sent to SpaceX executives and shared internally in June 2022. RELATED ARTICLE: Factory Workers' Firing Amid Union Campaign Denied By Tesla 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. (Photo : Unsplash/Fikri Rasyid ) Drivers for ride-hailing companies in Massachusetts are pushing to secure what they describe as a first-of-its-kind ballot question that would grant them union rights after winning a minimum pay standard of $32.50 per hour from Uber and Lyft's lawsuit settlement. Giving Ride-Hailing Drivers The Right Unionize According to ABC News, supporters of the measure successfully delivered the final batch of signatures required to secure a place on the November ballot. Attorney General Andrea Campbell, who negotiated the Massachusetts settlement, also supports the ballot question, saying, "It's a strong foundation that can and should be built upon." If approved, the ballot question would classify "active drivers" as those who have completed more than the median number of rides in the last six months. Once a union signs up 5% of active drivers within a bargaining unit, it would receive a roster of all eligible workers and have the authority to prevent any other union from gaining recognition without undergoing an election. A union will become the certified bargaining representative if it signs up 25% of eligible voters in a bargaining unit. However, this certification can be challenged if another union or a "no-union" group presents signed cards from at least 25% of eligible voters within the next seven days, necessitating an election to determine the bargaining representative. Uber, Lyft's Settlement with Massachusetts Last Month The settlement last month resolves a lawsuit initially filed in 2020 during Governor Maura Healey's tenure as attorney general, which alleged Uber and Lyft of intentionally disregarding the state's stringent criteria for determining independent contractor status, depriving roughly 90,000 drivers of essential benefits and protections. READ ALSO: Uber, Lyft Riders Win $32.50 Hourly Minimum Wage as Massachusetts AG Demands $175M Violation Settlement The court also approved a ballot measure that would permit app-based drivers to unionize and engage in collective bargaining under specified guidelines, the Commonwealth Beacon reported. April Verrett, president of the Service Employees International Union, said that current labor laws do not adequately address gig workers, a gap the ballot question aims to address in Massachusetts. If approved and voters form a union, all workers, regardless of their employment type, will have the opportunity to join together with their colleagues to influence their working conditions. Under the settlement, Uber and Lyft drivers received $32.50 per hour for time spent traveling to pick up and transport passengers, earned one hour of sick day pay for every 30 hours worked, qualified for a health insurance stipend, and granted easy access to in-app support in cases of deactivation. Uber was also mandated to pay Massachusetts $148 million, and Lyft to pay the state $27 million, with a significant portion earmarked for restitution to current and former drivers, WBUR reported. Following the settlement, Lyft said the agreement resolved a recently litigated lawsuit, avoiding the need for a ballot initiative campaign in November. Uber also described the agreement in a separate statement as an illustration of how independent, flexible work with dignity should be defined in the 21st century. RELATED ARTICLE: Uber's Challenge to California's AB5 Law Fails, Worker Status Upheld in Court Ruling 2017 Jobs & Hire All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Grip- Indias largest high-yield investment platform, today announced a significant expansion of its business into fund management and portfolio management distribution services. Grips existing suite of investment products, corporate bonds and securitised debt instruments (SDIs) will now also be available for investors seeking to invest via a managed structure. With this, Grip will now have 3 lines of business - its online investment platform, Grip Invest, and its newly launched SEBI-regulated Alternative Investment Funds (AIF) and Portfolio Management Services (PMS) verticals. As a part of strategic expansion, Vaibhav Laddha, formerly the Chief Business Officer at Grip Invest, has been elevated to CEO at Grip Invest. In the last 2 years at Grip Invest, Vaibhav has played a pivotal role in anchoring significant growth initiatives, driving strategic business partnerships, and building newer distribution channels. He also oversaw and delivered an impeccable investor experience, making Grip Invest the most preferred OBPP platform among retail investors. Nikhil Aggarwal, Founder of Grip, will step into the role of Group CEO at Grip, working closely with Vaibhav as well as overseeing this expansion in business lines. Nikhil will also continue to co-lead Electrifi Mobility, a full-lifecycle management platform for EVs co-promoted by Grip. Commenting on the strategic structuring and new leadership, Nikhil Aggarwal, Founder and Group CEO, Grip, said, The fund management business is a horizontal expansion which leverages the incredible suite of investment options, especially SDIs, that we have been able to bring to market. Vaibhav has been associated with Grip since before we launched and intricately knows the business. I am fortunate to have a partner in him who not only has a deep strategic acumen, but also has a complete alignment to our vision, and shares the same compass on taking the decisions that matter. On his new role, Vaibhav Laddha, CEO, Grip Invest, said, I am excited to lead Grip Invest into its next phase of exponential growth. Our investment products, especially the SDIs, coupled with our continuous innovation to bring an incredibly hassle-free investment experience for retail investors have made us a truly differentiated high-yield investment platform. We have witnessed a 15% month-on-month growth over the last 6 months with growing market share and we are on track to double our business by the end of this financial year. As a SEBI OBPP licensed online platform, Grip Invest has empowered 26,000 investors to make over 1,000 crore in investments through high-yield fixed-income products like corporate bonds and SDIs. For the month of May24, Grip Invest facilitated 12% of pan-India retail investments in this category and 80% of all investments in SDIs. Now, investors will benefit from the additional flexibility of subscribing to Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) or Portfolio Management Services (PMS). This development allows Grip Invest to tend to a larger pool of investors, while giving investors the autonomy to choose between an active direct investment approach or a passive fund management strategy. Grips strategic expansion into fund management and portfolio management distribution services and Vaibhav Laddha stepping into the role of CEO of the investment platform, marks a new chapter in Grips growth story. As a group, Grip remains committed to diversify its offerings and better serve its growing investor community, with innovative, high-yield investment solutions and democratised investment opportunities in India. Started 70 years ago in Amritsar, LT Foods has now emerged as a leading Indian-origin global FMCG company in the consumer food space. The companys sustained focus on building a vibrant portfolio has led to the success of several prominent brands such as Daawat, Royal, Ecolife, and Devaaya. LT Foods recently launched an innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enabled personalized campaign to celebrate the third edition of Daawat World Biryani Day. This campaign is groundbreaking in the essential foods category, harnessing the power of AI to offer a personalized experience for Biryani enthusiasts. This unique initiative not only showcases the beloved dish of Biryani, but also allows consumers to create and share their own unique cooking experiences. With well-known Chef Sanjeev Kapoor featuring in the campaign, participants got the opportunity to appear alongside him, creating lasting memories and enhancing their culinary adventures. In conversation with Adgully, K Ganapathy Subramaniam, Head of Marketing, LT Foods, who will delve into the strategies and innovations behind the AI-enabled personalized campaign, exploring how LT Foods continues to push the boundaries in the essential foods category. What inspired LT Foods to initiate the Daawat World Biryani Day initiative, and how has the event evolved over the past three years? Biryani, a globally cherished delicacy, holds a revered status in the culinary world. It can connect people from all walks of life and captivate their taste buds. We believe that its universal adoration deserves its own special day. As the brand Daawat is integral to the finest Biryani, we conceptualised Daawat World Biryani Day in the year 2022. Since then, we have remained committed to making every biryani day more special globally. Last year, Daawat World Biryani Day was celebrated by creating a first-of-its-kind Guinness Record of World's Largest Biryani Tasting Session. Building on the remarkable success of the past two years, this years celebration promises to be even more spectacular and AI-enabled. How does Daawat World Biryani Day align with the brands overall mission and values? By celebrating a universally loved dish like Biryani, our flagship brand Daawat reinforces our commitment to delivering the finest quality and experiences, connecting people across the world through shared culinary love. What was the primary motivation behind launching this innovative AI-enabled personalized campaign for the third edition of Daawat World Biryani Day? Could you describe the main goals and objectives of this latest campaign? The innovative AI-enabled campaign for the third edition of Daawat World Biryani Day offers a personalised experience to Biryani lovers. At the same time, this campaign also enables us to manage greater scale, yet making it special for every individual, who shares a love for Biryani. This is the first campaign in the essential foods category, and it's designed to celebrate Biryani in a way thats never been done before. Imagine the thrill of cooking alongside the celebrated Chef Sanjeev Kapoor. Our campaign offers Biryani enthusiasts a unique opportunity, to appear alongside Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, and make lasting memories. To ensure we reach as many people as possible, we have launched this campaign globally in 6 key Indian languages. Could you elaborate on how AI technology is being used to personalize the campaign for Daawat World Biryani Day? AI technology is being used to enable personalisation in both the audio and visual format in our campaign. The individual can click on the link along with the creative to input their details such as name, contact details, language preference and geography on the campaigns microsite. A One Time Password (OTP) is generated and sent over on WhatsApp for verification. Post which, the consent is sought from the consumer to share the final creative with them on their WhatsApp number. Our AI tech in the background processes receives the consumers information and generates a personalised ad with Chef Sanjeev Kapoor, where he addresses the consumer with her name and replacing the protagonist with her face. The entire process takes 20-25 minutes post-submission of the individuals details. What are some specific examples of personalized experiences or interactions that consumers can expect from this campaign? The consumer can have the following personalised experiences: Personalised Audio: Chef Sanjeev Kapoor addresses the consumer with their name in the campaign. Chef Sanjeev Kapoor addresses the consumer with their name in the campaign. Customized Cooking Video: Featuring themselves cooking Biryani alongside renowned Chef Sanjeev Kapoor. Featuring themselves cooking Biryani alongside renowned Chef Sanjeev Kapoor. Sharing Capabilities: The consumer can share their personalized cooking experiences with friends and family through social media and other platforms. How do you see AI and personalization shaping the future of marketing for LT Foods and the food industry in general? The integration of AI and personalization in marketing is set to revolutionize the FMCG industry and more specifically, the consumer food space. LT Foods is at the forefront of this transformation. Personalisation for the consumer has always been a key priority for any marketer. Today, AI has enabled us to realise this much sought-after goal in communication. Hence, tech-enabled, especially Generative AI-enabled personalisation has serious potential to sharpen our brand differentiators. In addition, Generative AI can be leveraged to identify emerging trends and design solutions for better consumer delight would help brands stay ahead of the competition and meet the evolving needs of our customers. To sum up, we can say that AI and personalization are not just enhancing the marketing landscape for LT Foods, but are also setting new standards in the consumer food industry. These technologies enable us to connect with our consumers in effective and personalised ways, optimize our operations, and respond better to emerging market trends. Also Read: K. Ganapathy Subramaniam joins LT Foods as Head of Marketing Acclaimed Bollywood star Kriti Sanon makes her first investment with The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL) by acquiring 2000 sq feet of land in their premium Alibaug project, Sol de Alibaug. Her investment reinforces HoABLs position as the go-to destination for elite land investments, as it continues to redefine luxury living and exclusive land ownership in India. Located just 20 minutes away from the Mandwa Jetty and a mere 60-minute journey from South Mumbai by sea, the project is nestled in the picturesque town of Alibaug. The recently inaugurated MTHL connectivity further enhances convenience, making this project an even more attractive choice for those seeking a sophisticated retreat in Alibaugs real estate landscape. Speaking on her first investment with HoABL, Kriti Sanon said, "I am now a proud and happy landowner at The House of Abhinandan Lodhas, beautiful development, Sol De Alibaug. Buying land on my own has been quite an empowering journey and I have had my eyes on Alibaug, for a while. I was pretty clear about what I was looking for - peace, privacy and a great investment addition to my portfolio! Even my father was impressed with this investment. It is a prime location, less than 20 minutes away from Mandwa jetty, right in the heart of Alibaug, so this opportunity checked all the boxes. What I appreciated the most was how easy HoABL made the process of buying land for me. There is no better time to invest in Alibaug than now! Kriti Sanons investment in Sol de Alibaug marks a significant milestone for the House of Abhinandan Lodha, reinforcing our status as elite land investments. Her choice underscores the allure of our meticulously crafted retreat. At HoABL, were dedicated to redefining exclusive living, and with Sol de Alibaug, we offer not just land, but an unparalleled lifestyle, said Samujjwal Ghosh CEO, The House of Abhinandan Lodha. Recently, Amitabh Bachchan acquired a 10,000 sq feet plot in the same project in Alibaug as well. This was after his first investment with HoABL at The Sarayu in Ayodhya earlier this year where he had bought a 10,000 sq ft plot. With Kriti Sanon joining the esteemed ranks of investors, The House of Abhinandan Lodha solidifies its reputation as the premier choice for luxurious and exclusive land ownership in India. HoABL, Indias largest branded land developer, continues to set new benchmarks with Sol De Alibaug, which is a true embodiment of exquisite design, lush green surroundings, and top-notch amenities. Strategically located in the celebrity capital of the MMR, it offers a meticulously planned enclave that seamlessly blends modern infrastructure with natural beauty. Alibaug, with its scenic beauty and proximity to Mumbai, has become a premier destination for land and property investments. Government initiatives to enhance connectivity between Mumbai and Alibaug are driving real estate development, attracting developers, homebuyers, and investors. Improved infrastructure, including expanded roads, upgraded transportation facilities, and a new airport, has significantly increased accessibility. This has led to a surge in demand for luxury second homes. Major projects like the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) are further boosting interest. With rising property values and enhanced convenience, Alibaug is poised to transform into a prime residential area within the next decade. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) will be meeting various stakeholders of the broadcasting industry on July 19, 2024 to discuss the recommendations of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) for formulation of the National Broadcasting Policy 2024, as per industry sources. In its inputs released on June 20, 2024, TRAI recommended the Vision, Mission and Goals for the National Broadcasting Policy - 2024. Vision To foster a competitive, affordable and ubiquitous ecosystem for sustained growth of the broadcasting sector, catering to the diverse needs of consumers that facilitates quality content creation, promotes democratic values and cultural diversity, enables inclusivity and literacy, attracts investments, safeguards intellectual property, develops resilient indigenous infrastructure, adopts emerging technologies, generates employment and drives socio-economic development through innovation and collaboration for strengthening Indias soft image and positioning Brand India globally. Mission In pursuit of establishing India a global leader in the broadcasting sector, this policy intends to target broad roadmap for 10 years with special focus on the next 5 years. The National Broadcasting Policy-2024, envisages to achieve the following: Propelling Growth Establishing a robust broadcasting ecosystem by enabling growth[1]oriented policies and regulations through data-driven governance. Supporting creation of a resilient, adaptive and tech-agile infrastructure fostering R&D, technology innovation and indigenous manufacturing. Facilitating level-playing field and healthy competition; promoting ease of doing business and stimulating economic growth by enabling the reach of broadcasting services to all, positioning India as an Uplinking Hub for television channels, attracting investments, generating employment opportunities and promoting skill development. Promoting Content Supporting quality content production and distribution for television, radio and OTT broadcasting services, encouraging proliferation of Indian content, both locally and globally, by harnessing the power of emerging broadcasting technologies and making India a Global Content Hub. Establishing India as a preferred destination for content creation. Enabling quality content production in public service broadcasting to inform, educate and entertain the masses. Promoting and facilitating the growth of Indian content through films, animation, visual effects, gaming, music and state-of-the-art post-production infrastructure. Protecting Interests Combating piracy and safeguarding the rights of content creators and intellectual property holders through copyright protection. Fulfilling social responsibilities by ensuring awareness and enabling provisions for disseminating information to all strata of society. Environmental responsibilities through green broadcasting practices and disaster preparedness. Goals Propelling Growth: Establishing a robust broadcasting ecosystem Establishing a robust broadcasting ecosystem Promoting Content: Encouraging Indian content outreach at global stage Encouraging Indian content outreach at global stage Protecting Interests: Safeguarding rights of content creator and leveraging broadcasting services for protecting socio[1]environmental interests of the society MIB, vide its letter dated July 13, 2023 had asked TRAI to provide its considered inputs under Section 11 of the TRAI Act, 1997 for formulation of the National Broadcasting Policy. As a first step, TRAI issued a Pre-Consultation Paper on September 21, 2023 to elicit the issues which were required to be considered for the formulation of National Broadcasting Policy. Based on the comments received from and discussion held with stakeholders, TRAI released the Consultation Paper on Inputs for formulation of National Broadcasting Policy-2024 on April 2, 2024. The Consultation Paper identified the focus areas and raised 20 questions seeking comments of the stakeholders. TRAI received comments from 42 stakeholders, including service providers, organizations, industry associations, consumer advocacy groups and few individuals. The Open House Discussion (OHD) was held on May 15, 2024. Certain additional comments were also received post OHD. The comments, OHD submissions and the additional comments have been analysed and duly considered while framing the recommendations to the Government. In a release issued on June 20, 2024, TRAI had stated, The objective of the policy is to facilitate the growth of the sector with quick adoption of the emerging technologies for providing an immersive and enriching experience to the consumers in a cost-effective manner, while safeguarding the interest of the stakeholders involved in the broadcasting sphere. Achieving these goals necessitates collaboration among the key stakeholders, viz. the central and state governments, local governments and agencies, television and radio broadcasters, OTT service providers, content creators, distributors, equipment manufacturers, academia, research institutes, industry, including start-ups and small and medium enterprises. Authored by Dr. Somdutta Singh, First-generation Serial Entrepreneur, Founder and CEO Assiduus, Investor and Ex-Member Niti Aayog In today's crowded marketplace, differentiation is key. Simply having a great product or service isn't enough. To truly stand out, brands need to cultivate an emotional connection with their audience. This is where the art of creating memorable brand experiences comes in. Statistics show its power: According to PwC, 73% of consumers say customer experience (CX) influences their buying decisions, while a study by Accenture found that positive experiences can increase customer loyalty by up to 10%. So, how do you craft those unforgettable moments that keep customers coming back for more? Here's a roadmap: Know yourself, know your audience: The foundation of a memorable experience is a brand identity that resonates with your target audience. Define your core values, mission, and personality. Who are you? What do you stand for? Understanding your audience is equally crucial. Research their demographics, preferences, and pain points. For instance, Patagonia, the outdoor apparel brand, isn't just selling clothes; they're selling a lifestyle that aligns with environmental consciousness. Their messaging, product design, and activism resonate deeply with their eco-conscious customer base. Craft a compelling story: Humans are hardwired for stories. Weave a narrative that connects your brand to your audience's aspirations and values. Dove's "Real Beauty" campaign is a prime example. It challenged traditional beauty standards and celebrated diversity, resonating with millions of women around the world. Orchestrate seamless interactions across all touchpoints: Today's customer journeys are omnichannel they flow across various platforms like websites, social media, physical stores, and even customer service interactions. Ensure a consistent brand experience across all these touchpoints. This means maintaining a unified visual identity, messaging, and tone of voice. Think of it like a well-rehearsed play every character (touchpoint) needs to deliver their lines flawlessly to create a cohesive experience. Surprise and Delight: Go beyond just meeting expectations, strive to exceed them. Small gestures of surprise and delight can leave a lasting impression. For example, the online shoe retailer Zappos is renowned for its exceptional customer service. Stories abound of them sending birthday surprises and handwritten notes, turning a simple shoe purchase into a memorable experience. Leverage the Power of Emotion: People make decisions based on emotions, not just logic. Tap into positive emotions like joy, excitement, or nostalgia to forge stronger connections. Think of M&M's colorful characters and playful advertising. They evoke feelings of fun and lightheartedness, perfectly aligning with the brand's image. Lets take a look at some amazing real-world examples: Disney is a master of creating immersive brand experiences. From their theme parks to their movies and merchandise, they weave stories and characters that resonate with people of all ages, fostering a sense of wonder and belonging. Airbnb goes beyond just offering accommodation; they connect travelers with local communities. This focus on authentic experiences fosters a sense of connection and has helped them build a loyal user base. The Body Shop champions ethical sourcing and social activism. Their stores often host workshops and events that align with their values, creating a space for customer interaction beyond just shopping. Take note: Creating memorable brand experiences is an ongoing process. Continuously gather customer feedback, measure results, and adapt your approach. Embrace innovation and stay true to your brand identity. By following these steps and learning from successful brands around the world, you can transform interactions with your audience into lasting memories that drive loyalty and growth. DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and Adgully.com does not necessarily subscribe to it. Defence Ministers bolster Drone Coalition Defence Secretary John Healey joined allies and partners yesterday in signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a framework for the international capability Drone Coalition to supply drones for Ukraine. Image by Willy Barton / copyright Shutterstock The Drone Coalition - originally put forward by Latvia, coordinated with the UK and formally established on 14th February 2024 - includes Australia, Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Latvia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Sweden and the UK. The nations of the Drone Coalition have recognised the importance of support for Ukraine in its fight against Russias aggression, facilitating Ukraines military success by establishing the Coalition to meet its high demand for a wide spectrum and capacity of drones. Advertisement The Drone Coalition is focused on providing Ukraine with drones and components produced by the industry of Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) countries, as well as finding ways to support Ukrainian manufacturers to ensure that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are equipped with the most efficient capabilities. Members of the Drone Coalition have already provided significant support to Ukraine by delivering drones. Latvia is providing a drone testing training range for industry and military to continuously improve drone technology. The UK has launched an industry competition on behalf of Drone Coalition to develop and procure First Person View (FPV) drones, of which 265 bids were received. These bids are currently being evaluated and the first contracts are expected to be signed in August. Advertisement Yesterday, the members of the Drone Coalition signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which provides a framework outlining the Coalitions core activities, management structure procurement mechanisms. The MoU establishes the UK-led Drone Coalition Common Fund, enabling joint procurement for rapid and efficient drone deliveries. So far, the Netherlands, the UK, Latvia, New Zealand and Sweden have pledged in total over 45 million to the Common Fund, with additional contributions anticipated. The Drone Coalition is planning to deliver one million FPV drones to Ukraine. At the same time, coalition members are working to provide other types of drones like reconnaissance, strike drones, AI upgraded drones, as well as counter-drone capabilities. Through the Drone Coalition, member nations will be seeking joint procurement initiatives to utilise and expand national industrial capacities, whilst encouraging additional funding to be made available to achieve the coalitions aims. The Drone Coalition remains open for other Allies and partners to join. Maharashtra Polls: Seat-Sharing Talks Heat Up in Maha Vikas Aghadi Alliance 2 As the Maharashtra assembly elections approach, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance is actively deliberating seat-sharing arrangements. This coalition, comprising Congress, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)-SP, and Shiv Sena (UBT), is strategizing to field candidates for the 288-member Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Key leaders from Congress, the NCP-SP, and the Shiv Sena (UBT) convened for a crucial meeting on Tuesday to finalise the seat-sharing formula. Sources indicate Congress may contest 120130 seats, Shiv Sena (UBT) 90100 seats, and NCP-SP approximately 7580 seats in the upcoming elections. The Maharashtra Congress Unit is set to conduct a two-day meeting starting today to fine-tune its seat-sharing strategy. Concurrently, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has declared its intent to contest the elections in alliance with its Mahayuti partners, mapping out a detailed electoral strategy during a core committee meeting on June 29. BJP state president Ashish Shelar confirmed that no structural changes would be made within the partys state unit, emphasising the approval of Maharashtras recent budget, which benefits various social segments, including farmers, youth, and women. The recent Lok Sabha polls provided a morale boost to the MVA, with Shiv Sena (UBT) securing seven seats, Congress 13, and NCP-SP one, totaling 17 seats for the alliance, while the BJPs tally dipped to nine seats from its previous 23 in 2019. Their vote share is recorded at 26.18 percent. Recalling the 2019 assembly elections, the BJP and the then unified Shiv Sena contested together, winning 105 and 56 seats, respectively. The undivided NCP and Congress had secured 54 and 44 seats, respectively. Maratha Quota and Kunbi Recognition: Activist Manoj Jarange Plans Rally in Maharashtra 2 Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange will hold a rally in Maharashtras Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Saturday, wherein he might announce the next course of his agitation, organisers said on Thursday. To send his message loud and clear, 250 loudspeakers will be installed in all four directions in a 500-metre radius of the venue, they said. Jarange had on June 13 suspended his indefinite fast over the Maratha quota and set a deadline of one month before the state government would accept the communitys demands. The activists rally will commence at 11 am on Saturday (July 13) from the CIDCO bus stand and culminate 4 km away at Kranti Chowk, where he will address a gathering, said the organisers. Jarange might spell out his next step at the public meeting, they said. Vehicular movement at the Kranti Chowk, which is the city centre, near the busy Jalna Road will be stopped during the rally. People from the Maratha community from all neighbouring districts are expected to attend Jaranges programme and eight huge grounds have been reserved to park the vehicles bringing them, the organisers said. We are giving a months time to the government to fulfil the demands of the Maratha community. But we will also go ahead with our preparations for the upcoming assembly elections. If the government doesnt provide a reservation to us, we will go and take it, Jarange said on June 13 after suspending his fast. Jarange has been demanding the implementation of the draft notification that recognises Kunbis as sage soyare (blood relatives) of Maratha community members and also seeking a law to identify Kunbis as Marathas. Kunbi, an agrarian group, falls under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category, and Jarange has been demanding that Kunbi certificates be issued to all Marathas, thus making them eligible for quota benefits. Mumbai Police Summons BJP MLA Nitesh Rane in Disha Salian Death Probe 2 Mumbai Police have issued a notice to Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Nitesh Rane, compelling his appearance on Friday concerning the Disha Salian death case. Salian, once the manager of the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput, died in 2020. Rane has consistently claimed that Salian was murdered. Authorities are requiring him to appear at Malvani Police Station, where he will be questioned about his accusations and any evidence he can submit. I have just received the summons and have maintained from the start that this is a murder case. I am ready to cooperate with Mumbai Police. The MVA government tried to cover up and protect Aditya Thackeray and his associates. Any information I have will be shared with the police, Rane stated. He reiterated his willingness to cooperate with the investigation. Salian was found dead on June 8, 2020, shortly before Sushant Singh Rajput was also found dead in his Bandra, Mumbai flat. Last year, Mumbai Police formed a three-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate Salians death. Initially, the Mumbai Police had classified the case as an accidental death. DEAR ABBY: My son, who is in his senior year of high school, is dating a beautiful, sweet girl Ill call Amanda. Im very fond of her. This is an exciting year for them both because soon she will be shopping for her graduation gown. Amanda told me her mom has said she will have to wear her older sisters dress. (Her sister graduated seven years ago.) Finances are tight for their family. I asked Amanda how she feels about it, and she isnt happy. I would love to buy her a gown. I remember being in high school and how exciting it was to be able to buy a new gown. My daughter is two years older and says that soon the girls in school will be talking about shopping for their new gowns. I really want this experience for Amanda. The problem is, I dont want to offend her or her mother with my offer. Should I stay out of this? Should I approach her mother? I have met her mom only a couple of times, and I dont want to step on any toes. Even if my son and Amanda are not together by the time graduation happens, I would still want her to have a dress of her choosing and all the experiences that come with it. -- OFFERING ASSISTANCE IN CANADA DEAR OFFERING: You are a caring, thoughtful, generous woman. However, the subject of Amandas familys finances is sure to be a delicate one. Do not discuss this with Amanda yet. Consider reaching out mother-to-mother and explaining that Amanda mentioned she might be wearing her sisters dress for graduation. Explain to Mom that you care about Amanda, and suggest that IF SHE WOULD ALLOW IT, you would love to take them both to lunch and to shop for a dress she might like. Tell her you would like that to be your graduation gift to Amanda or, if this is something shed prefer to be just between the two of you adults, you would reimburse her for the expense. Then cross your fingers. You are a sweetheart. Read more Dear Abby and other advice columns. Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069. UPDATE: Orange Beach restaurant to replace a Gulf Shores landmark Hazels Nook, an iconic Gulf Shores breakfast and lunch spot that has fed generations of Alabama Gulf Coast vacationers since 1957, is closing next week after 67 years in business, owner Richard Schwartz confirmed to AL.com this morning. Monday (July 15) is our last day there, and it is an emotional thing with me, Schwartz said in a phone call. I have been very fortunate to be surrounded by some of the greatest people I have ever known, and those are the employees, the cooks, the servers and managers. Along with his sons, Schwartz also owns and continues to operate Docs Seafood Shack & Oyster Bar and Docs Seafood & Steaks in Orange Beach. Both will remain open, he said. Neither Docs Seafood Shack nor Docs Seafood & Steakhouse are on the market, Schwartz said. My family, my children, are running those stores now, and they will continue to operate. Im selling Hazels Nook because Im 82 years old, and the opportunity showed itself. Schwartz, who has owned Hazels Nook since 1980, said he was planning to close the breakfast and lunch spot at the end of the summer and reopen it as a Gulf Shores location of Docs Seafood Shack. He changed his mind, though, when another Baldwin County restaurateur approached him about buying the property. I had decided I was going to do something different with the Hazels Nook building, Schwartz said. I even went so far as to get a business license and call it Docs Seafood Shack Gulf Shores and do lunch and seafood in the evening. I had designed the changes in the building, and I decided to hold off on making those changes until the end of this summer, he added. And, lo and behold, somebody came along and wanted to buy the building. I looked at myself in the mirror and thought, its time to do something. This is the 45th summer that I would have been there, and I think it is time to do something. The new owner -- who has a track record in the restaurant business, Schwartz said -- plans to continue to operate a breakfast and lunch restaurant in the Hazels space but will rebrand it with a new name, he said. I think hes very capable, and hes very fired up, Schwartz said. Hes got a great plan, and he knows what he wants to do. Schwartz declined to say who the new owner will be until the sale is finalized next week. RELATED: 5 venerable Gulf Shores restaurants we go back to every summer Schwartz bought Hazels Nook in 1980 from original owner Hazel Scruggs. She was the Hazel from Hazels, Schwartz said. Thats how the name got there. She opened in 1957 in a restaurant next door that weve got a drawing of in the current Hazels Nook. The doctor told her to quit work, so she wanted something to do, and she built Hazels Nook right next door. . . . In 1980, I came along. Scruggs worked with Schwartz to help him finance the purchase of Hazels, he added. She told me what she wanted, and I didnt have the money, he said. I went looking for money, and I couldnt find it. I told her I can give you money, but I cant give you all you wanted, Schwartz added. So, she financed the difference, and she told me, Ive decided to give it to you on your terms. She was the bank, he said. I never missed one payment, and she and I got along great. A post captioned Memories: 1957-2024 on the Hazels Nook Facebook page Wednesday afternoon hinted that the beloved breakfast spot would be closing. Hazels has been a Gulf Shores landmark where guests could share stories, enjoy a great meal, and make memories since 1957, the post said. We are grateful for our loyal customers, employees, and community members who have contributed to the fabric of our family restaurant over the years. Thank you for 67 great years! We look forward to seeing everyone around town. Schwartz told AL.com that his customers have been faithful over the years, and some of them are struggling with the news that Hazels is closing. The customers are terrific, and they are very loyal, he said. And some of them are having what seems like a rough time, but theyll get over it. This guy (new owner) knows what hes doing, and they will take care of him. A throwback diner that has been around since Gulf Shores was a sleepy little beach town, Hazels has survived multiple hurricanes, recessions and a global pandemic. In 2023, AL.com included Hazels on our list of 5 venerable Gulf Shores restaurants we go back to every summer, as well as the list of the Top 10 breakfast spots in Alabama. Going back to Hazels Nook brings back memories of family vacations to Gulf Shores, when we would pile into our dads hulking Ford LTD and head to Hazels for pancakes and patty sausage, country ham and scrambled eggs, bottomless cups of coffee (for the grown-ups) and those tiny glasses of orange juice (for us kids), we wrote. These days, were more inclined to skip the breakfast buffet and instead order the create-your-own cheese omelet or the BLT sandwich, but its that trip back in time that were really going for. UPDATED at 12:22 p.m. Central time on July 11, 2024, to add comments from Hazels Nook owner Richard Schwartz. A man and a teen girl were wounded in an overnight shooting at an eastern Jefferson County home. Deputies were dispatched at 11:40 p.m. Wednesday to the 2300 block of Grayson Valley Drive on a report of two people shot, said sheriffs spokesman Henry Irby. They arrived to find a 49-year-old man and a 15-year-old girl injured. Center Point Fire and Rescue transported the man to UAB Hospital. The teen girl was taken to Childrens of Alabama. Their conditions have not been released. Irby said the preliminary investigation indicates the case is domestic-related. No arrests have been made or charges filed. Anyone with information is asked to call the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office at 205-325-1450, option 2, or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777. Cornelia Rose Lathan had so much to look forward to, so many plans for what was sure to be a bright future. The 15-year-old was a rising sophomore at a charter school in Bessemer; she wanted to be a nurse, and a pilot, and maybe serve in the military. All of those hopes and dreams ended two weeks ago when police say her mothers ex-boyfriend opened fire on the familys Birmingham apartment, leaving Cornelia dead and her 5-year-old brother, Roman, injured. Its tough, said Cornelias grieving mother, Rebekah Lathan. She was a very rare child. Otis Lee Montgomery, 27, is charged with capital murder in Cornelias death, first-degree assault in the wounding of Roman, and shooting into an occupied dwelling. The deadly shooting happened midday Wednesday, June 19, at Park Place apartments. A 15-year-old girl was killed and a 5-year-old boy injured when police say a man fired into a Park Place apartment in Birmingham during a domestic incident.(Carol Robinson) Cornelia and Roman were home that day because the summer program at Memorial Park - where Cornelia was a counselor and Roman a camper was closed for the Juneteenth holiday. Lathan, a Minor High School graduate who earned her political science degree from UAB, works remotely at home as a case manager for a personal injury law firm out of Boston. Lathan had her home office set up in her bedroom to give her children free reign in the rest of the home. She also has a 12-year-old son, Daniel, who was visiting his father in Georgia at the time of the shooting. She said she and Montgomery, with whom she is expecting a daughter, had argued the night before and again in the hours before the shooting. He had come by one time that morning making threats, she said. Montgomery left before police arrived. I was at my desk working and he calls me, and we were arguing and the next thing you know I heard glass shatter. Cornelia Rose Lathan, 15, was shot to death in June 19 domestic incident at her family's Birmingham apartment. Her 5-year-old brother, Roman, was wounded.(Special to AL.com) She left her room and went into the den area, as did Cornelia and Roman. Montgomery was in the parking lot outside of the apartment and soon fired multiple shots, police said. Cornelia was pronounced dead on the scene at 12:25 p.m. Roman was taken to Childrens of Alabama with a gunshot wound to his femur. He cannot walk for at least the next six months and is using a wheelchair. We were all standing there together, she said. I cant believe I wasnt hit. She cant believe any of it really happened. I know he gets, she said, but I never would have thought it would escalate to this. You hear about it happening, she said, but to be in it is a completely different rodeo. Cornelia, Lathans first-born, has just finished the nineth grade at Alabama Aerospace and Aviation High Schook, a charter school in Bessemer, where she was an Honor Roll student. She was a really sweet spirit, Lathan said, an all-around sweet girl. Cornelia was volunteering as a counselor at Memorial Park. Even the people at Memorial Park were shocked. They were like, This girl was an angel. Nobody volunteers to come and work with other kids,' Lathan said. She was serving her community, Lathan said. The teen was also a deep-thinker and had a strong faith. At the time of her death, she was reading Understanding Your Place in Gods Kingdom by Myles Munroe and she and her brother had chosen to be baptized together less than a year ago at New Bethlehem Baptist Church in Bessemer. She literally gave her life to Christ, Lathan said. Just before her untimely death, she was doing a 21-day fast to focus on her goals in life. Cornelia Rose Lathan, 15, was shot to death in June 19 domestic incident at her family's Birmingham apartment. Her 5-year-old brother, Roman, was wounded.(Special to AL.com) We were working toward putting things in place how to structure mini goals to meet the big goal, Lathan said. One of her biggest goals was for her to become self-sufficient by the age of 22. I told her it was very much doable. Cornelia was extremely to close to both her brothers. They were inseparable, she said. She was also looking forward to birth of her baby sister, who is due any day. She even got to choose the name. The day before we had gone shopping for the baby because she was expectant of having a little sister, Lathan said. She wasnt going to be the only girl anymore. Lathan said its been a painful couple of weeks. That was my baby, she said. We were inseparable. Roman, she said, has struggled in the aftermath. He and I will both need some trauma counseling, she said. He was standing right there. He saw the whole thing. Hes a very intelligent 5-year-old, she said. Lathan has not been back to her apartment since the shooting. She said shes been blessed with overwhelming support by her family, her church family and her friends. It breaks my heart, she said, that all of this has taken place. Lathan said she wants her daughter to be remembered for all that she was, and all that she would have been. At her service, people from her school were getting up and talking about how loving and caring she was, she said. She was beautiful, she was intelligent, and she served her community and her family. The Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts says the City of Mobile followed all relevant state laws in executing a $92,000 contract last year with a firm to review an in-house evaluation of ShotSpotter technology and Operation Echo Stop (OES), according to a letter released Wednesday by Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall. The one-page letter from Marshall to City Attorney Richardo Woods said that barring any new information presented to this office, his agency was not going to conduct any further investigation. Marshall said that after a cursory review of the case, the Attorney Generals Office forwarded all the information they had about a contract with 321z Insights LLC to the Department of Examiners of Public Accounts the states independent auditing agency for closer examination. This is the third independent review of all materials, which came to the same conclusion as the others, Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson said in a statement. The AG is the top law enforcement official in the state and with the conclusion of his investigation, I am satisfied that nothing illegal or improper has occurred in the execution of the 321z contract. Prines reaction Former Mobile Police Chief Paul PrineJohn Sharp/jsharp@al.com The concerns were first raised by former Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine, alleging improprieties in the execution of the contract and that 321z Insights were first formed last October and had connections with the Stimpson administration. He also alleged the purpose of the companys hiring was to undermine his performance and abilities as police chief overseeing the Operation Echo Stop crime-fighting initiative. Prine also alleged the address provided for 321z in the contract is the same as the Gulf Coast Technology Center (GCTC), which is headed up by Kevin Levy and whom Prine had repeated disputes over the handling of intelligence policing. Prine, in a statement, questioned what information was provided to the Attorney Generals Office for a review. It should be noted that I have only stated there was an appearance of financial impropriety with this contract due to some of the following reasons, he said in a statement. While I hope that is not the case, the inquiry does not address the discrepancies that I have pointed out such as vendor address listed as the Mobile Police Department tech-center, not complying with contractual agreement of itemizing scope of work that was billed, the nonexistence of the company four weeks prior to receiving the contract, or paying $92,000.00 for a peer review only to learn that the company did not write the review. He added, I am confident that the state Attorney General has conducted a cursory review based only on the information that the city forwarded. The report appears to be a singular issue of the contract and its compliance with state law. Maybe we should ask the city what information was provided to the attorney general? I appreciate the Attorney General taking the time to review the contract. Prine, was placed on administrative leave in early April and fired as police chief on April 30, raised his concerns about the contract during a late March meeting with Woods and Stimpson over the terms of his separation from employment with the City of Mobile. The same concerns -- and more -- are currently being examined by a Special Counsel the Mobile City Council hired in late May. Bill Athanas with Bradley, Arant, Boult, Cummings LLP, is overseeing a 45-day probe into the concerns raised by Prine before he was fired on April 30, and the investigations report is due later this month. Previous inquiries Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson speaks to reporters outside his Government Plaza office after the Mobile City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, to fire Police Chief Paul Prine.John Sharp Prines concerns over the 321z Insights contract were investigated twice by the Office of Professional Responsibility and by the law firm, Burr & Forman, which employs Woods. Stimpson noted that neither of those investigations along with the Attorney Generals review -- revealed any wrongdoing. However, knowing that many in the community may not be satisfied with who conducted these investigations and in the interest of transparency and public confidence, we turned all the investigative materials and reports from both inquiries over to the Alabama Attorney Generals Office, Stimpson said. The 27-page Burr & Forman report, released on April 30, is the most extensive review of the allegations that also suggested the address 321z Insights was formed as a joint venture by Mark and Jonni Baker. Mark Baker is a former intelligence officer and a partner with the GCTC since 2018; Jonnie Baker is a technical writer who works within the intelligence community. The company was formed in October 2023 to perform consulting work with the city and other clients. Levy, according to the Burr & Foreman review, saw no problem contracting with 321z Insights as a new entity. The company is headquartered at the couples home in Florida. In early 2024, Levy and Mark Baker discussed additional work to be performed under the 321z contract. According to the Burr & Forman report, tensions began to emerge in the leadership ranks and Levy was asked to make a report concerning (OES). Although the 321z contract, when originally submitted, was not intended to include a peer review of OES, Levy asked Baker to conduct a peer review of Levys written report evaluating its overall effectiveness. According to Levy, Bakers review of OES was intended to be an unbiased second set of eyes amid a breakdown in communication between Prine and Rob Lasky, the executive director of public safety. The review consisted of Levys report he drafted based on his own analysis of OES, the original OES operations plan and certain ShotSpotter data. Then 321z provided some edits and minor insight but none of their review significantly altered or changed the contest of the report (Levy) prepared, according to the report. The report justifies the costs for OES, and future investments will only lead to increased ROI if Department Leadership supports the program. Although the report does not name him, Prine interpreted its recommendations that Department Leadership provide more support for OES as part of a conspiracy to force (him) out of office, according to the Burr Foreman analysis. Burr & Forman, in its report, said the process by which the 321z contract was approved was proper, and there has been no evidence of anything improper about it. The City Council voted unanimously to support the contract during a meeting in November 2023. The Burr & Forman analysis also said Prines claims that OES was a failure, and placed the blame on him as police chief, were illogical, adding that the report cannot blame Prine for the failure of OES because the report did not find that OES had failed. The report deemed OES a success but noted certain areas of improvement. A 1-year-old boy survived the onslaught of Hurricane Beryl for days before he was spotted crawling along a Louisiana roadside, not far from where the body of his 4-year-old brother was found. Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Gary Stitch Guillory called the surviving boy a miracle baby, telling reporters on Tuesday that, aside from a few bug bites, he appeared otherwise unharmed. A trucker earlier in the day saw the baby moving through a ditch on I-10 eastbound near the 10-mile marker, he added. Hurricane Beryl made landfall in Texas this week, with bands of heavy rain and severe winds battering massive swaths of the South. The extreme weather stretched as far as Louisiana, where it caused major damage, sweeping power outages and at least one death. This kid spent two days out in the weather on the side of the highway, Guillory said, dubbing his survival unbelievable. The discovery came a day after his brothers body was pulled from a lake behind an Interstate 10 welcome center near the Texas state line. The remains were recovered some 6 miles away from where his younger sibling was found fighting for survival, according authorities. There were no obvious signs of foul play and an autopsy is pending. We dont know if he drowned, or we dont know if he was dead before he went in the water, Guillroy said. Both boys were last seen on Saturday with their mother, Aaliyah Jack. Jacks mother Conswella Jack, told the Advocate they were together for a funeral in Lafayette when her daughter suddenly fled with the boys. On Sunday, Conswella said she received a troubling text, prompting a search for both Jack and her kids. She finally reaches out to me, but its a text, Conswella Jack said. She sent me a picture of a car in some bushes that kind of looked like it was wrecked. I was confused, so I called, called and called, and could not reach her. Jack was located hundreds of miles away in Mississippi and arrested on charges of failure to report a missing child. Her bond is set at $300,000. With New Wire Services 2024 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A Birmingham homebuilder who defrauded more than a dozen people out of more than $1.2 million combined has been sentenced to prison. US. District Judge Annemarie Carney Axon sentenced 58-year-old Cecil Wayne Sanford to nearly five years in prison. He was also ordered to pay $1.27 million in restitution, according to a statement released Wednesday by Northern District of Alabama U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona and FBI Special Agent in Charge Carlton Peeples. Sanford pleaded guilty in April to wire fraud. He was represented by Birmingham attorney Jason Wollitz. Sanford was a residential builder in Alabama who operated through his business, Stone Pointe Builders, LLC. Between 2020 and early 2022, more than a dozen victims in the Birmingham area contracted with Sanford to build their homes and paid Sanford substantial sums of money tens of thousands of dollars or more. The work was never done, despite Sanfords representations, draws on their construction loans, and invoices for construction-related expenses, authorities said. Sanford made statements to victims about how their funds would be used and then spent the money in other ways, including to pay his own living expenses. In February 2022, days after closing with a family on a construction contract and collecting more than $27,000 from the family as a down payment, Sanford moved $10,000 into his personal bank account, withdrew it, abruptly closed the business, and left town. The FBI investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney J.B. Ward is prosecuting. The Alabama Home Builders Licensure Board assisted in the investigation. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin says he fully supports President Joe Biden after a conference call the chief executive had with more than 200 democratic mayors. The call, on Tuesday, was part of the Biden White Houses continuing bid to strengthen his position within the Democratic Party following his showing in a debate with former President Donald Trump last month. Earlier this week Biden, in a letter to congressional Democrats and other statements, refused calls to drop his candidacy and called for party unity following his debate performance, which got low marks from supporters. In a statement, Woodfin stated his support for Biden and his vision for our nation. I participated in the presidents call this week with mayors, Woodfin said. He was steadfast in his commitment to lead our nation for the next four years. The people selected President Biden as our nominee, not politicos and mega donors. It is time to stand by him and support his agenda to grow our middle class, make healthcare more accessible and affordable, and revitalize our cities. According to The Hill, during the 40-minute call, Biden discussed how he would focus on reducing costs for working families if elected to a second term. He also talked about making prescription drug prices more affordable, community college free and implementing universal background checks for gun purchases, in addition to an assault rifle ban. The Biden-Harris administration is making transformative investments in cities like Birmingham through grants like CHOICE Neighborhoods and Reconnecting Communities. I support him to finish the job in a second term, Woodfin said. The author of a book that would have been showcased during a book launch and Drag Queen Story Hour reading at two different locations in Mobile is blaming deep-seated bigotry and MAGA extremists for the fallout. Josh Coleman, the LGBTQ liaison with the City of Birmingham, said Thursday in a Facebook announcement that continued and escalating threats led to the event Friday at Books-A-Million (BAM!) to be postponed. Coleman said that BAM! opted to cancel the event. A company spokesperson was not immediately available for comment. The cancellation comes one day after Oyster City Brewing, amid threats to its employees, backed out from hosting Colemans book launch and the Drag Queen Story reading. That event was supposed to feature guest and Alabama TikTok star Mama Tot, but she opted to back out as well. The attacks have gone too far, Coleman said in a Facebook post, while promoting his childrens book, Finding My Rainbow which highlights his story about coming out and coming to terms on who I am, growing up and moving to Birmingham and what I do now focusing on Pride and living your authentic self. Coleman continued, The relentless hate and harassment weve faced highlight the deep-seated bigotry that still plagues our society. This extremist has organized a campaign to silence us, but they have only strengthened our resolve. While this event in Mobile will not happen this Friday, rest assured that we are already planning to reschedule, Coleman wrote. We will return to Mobile with the same format, including a Drag Queen Story Time, to celebrate our community and share our stories. Coleman, on Wednesday, said a protest to the Oyster City Brewing event was set up by someone who participated in the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. Darren Sweeney, who organized the protest, said he was interested in speaking to Coleman to explain to him that I am in no way an extremist. He said his group has no quarrel with an individuals lifestyle, acknowledging that Drag Queen shows and brunches are held all the time in Mobile and that many businesses are in support of the LGBTQ community. We have never even considered protesting at any of those events because they are adult events and we respect that, Sweeney said. But he said his group draws a line when children are involved, claiming that such events allow people to target and publicly groom other parents prepubescent children. We, as parents, should feel compelled to protect a childs innocence for as long as possible, Sweeney said. He said he would prefer for Coleman and others to host events involving children at their homes and not in public. The comments come amid a growing backlash in conservative states against establishments that host drag queen events in front of children. Legislation has been introduced in recent years to to ban all public drag shows in front of minors. And in advance to the 2025 session, Rep. Arnold Mooney, R-Indian Springs, has introduced HB4 that would likely prohibit drag performances in libraries or schools. The fallout in Mobile comes nearly six years since the citys library system hosted one of the Souths earliest Drag Queen Story Hour events at the Ben May Main branch library -- approximately one block away from Oyster City Brewing. That event, which took place in September 2018, featured a large crowd of LGBTQ activists and supporters and only a few protesters. At the time, there was nowhere near the amount of conservative backlash to drag shows. In this Sept. 8, 2018, file photo, a drag performer by the name of Champagne Monroe reads the children's book "Rainbow Fish" to a group of kids and parents at the Mobile Public Library for Drag Queen Story Hour in Mobile, Alabama.Associated Press Coleman said he believes its important to recognize that the events are designed to promote literacy, acceptance and the celebration of diversity in a safe and inclusive environment. They are not about grooming or targeting children but about fostering a love for reading and teaching the values of inclusion and respect for all, Coleman said. Public events like Drag Queen Story Hour are a reflection of our diverse society and the values we uphold -- acceptance, education, and community engagement. They provide a space for all families to share experiences and learn from one another. Private events would exclude those who might benefit most from these lessons of acceptance and diversity. Josh Coleman has hosted several book launch events in Birmingham, Cullman, Auburn and Montgomery since his childrens book, Finding My Rainbow was released last month. But backlash from what he said are MAGA extremists, forced one event scheduled as a fundraiser for AIDS Alabama South on Friday in Mobile, to be upended. No longer is the event being held at Oyster City Brewing, and featured guest and Alabama TikTok star Mama Tot, had to back out as well. The event is still taking place -- sans Mama Tot -- but it has been relocated to Books-A-Million on Airport Boulevard. Coleman is to sign his book along with a Drag Queen Story Time. She said there is a trial for her sons murderer coming up and the messages are not stopping, and she could not emotionally do it, said Coleman, the LGBTQ liaison for the City of Birmingham and president of Central Alabama Pride. Its terrible. I couldnt imagine. He said, I think my phone is busy, but I cant imagine (what its like) with that many people following you and having access. Ophelia Nichols of Mobile, Alabama, better known to her millions of followers as Mama Tot, sits on her front porch on a sunny summer morning. (Photo by Michelle Matthews/mmatthews@al.com) Mama Tot, whose real name is Ophelia Nichols and is a Mobile County resident, was scheduled to appear during the event. She has been at several LGBTQ-friendly events in the past, once serving as the grand marshal of the Birmingham Pride Parade, Coleman said. Related: TikTok star Ophelia Nichols of Mobile is Mama Tot to millions Nichols, under the handle shoelover99, has 12.7 million followers on TikTok and almost 1 million on Instagram. She announced last month a non-profit in her late sons honor, Randons Way Foundation. Her son, Randon Lee, was shot and killed on the day before his 19th birthday at a gas station in Prichard during a marijuana deal. His alleged killer, 20-year-old Rueben Gulley, was arrested in August 2022, and has since been indicted by a Mobile County grand jury on a charge of murder. He made an appearance in court Thursday, and a jury trial into his case was set for Jan. 27, 2025. Its a tough week for our family, Nichols said in a recent TikTok post. Brewery fallout Coleman said the brewery backed out on Wednesday amid an onslaught of negative messaging on social media, spurred on by an appearance of Columbia Taylor during a Drag Queen Story Hour event that included a reading of Colemans book. Coleman said his book is his story about coming out and coming to terms on who I am, growing up and moving to Birmingham and what I do now focusing on Pride and living your authentic self. The events fallout comes nearly six years since Mobile hosted one of the Souths earliest Drag Queen Story Hour events at a venue about one block away from the brewery. A woman walks several children past protesters and counter protester outside the Mobile Public Library before Drag Queen Story Hour in Mobile, Ala. on Sept. 8, 2018. The event, sponsored by LGBT group Rainbow Mobile, involves local drag queen performers reading to children. (AP Photo/Dan Anderson)AP That event, which took place in September 2018, was held at the Ben May Main Branch library in downtown Mobile and featured a large crowd of LGBTQ activists and supporters and few protesters. But that same event also occurred a few years before drag queens and story hours got pulled into culture war and backlash among conservatives. This afternoon, they emailed me and said, since yesterday, (the negative comments) ramped up and we had an onslaught of calls and people calling employees and threatening them and we know there is a protest planned, Coleman said, adding that Oyster City backed out of safety concerns for employees. Alternative site and plans Books-A-Million will now host the event at 6 p.m. on Friday, after Coleman said the booksellers corporate offices approved it. He said the Drag Queen Story Hour reading will go on, but with private security and Mobile police on site. Im sure there will be protesters, he said. The thing is I dont profit from this book. I want to raise money for the organizations. Its the point of being visible and doing it for the community. Now for me, I feel like we owe it to the community to be visible. Coleman added, I didnt want to cancel the event. I dont like to back down to bullies. He said in a Facebook post that the protest was set up by someone who participated in the insurrection at the Capitol on January 6th, and underscored the type of opposition we face, but it also reinforces the importance of standing strong and proud. Coleman said the event had been scheduled for weeks, with no protests planned. But he said the social media outrage surfaced after Momma Tot posted information about it earlier this week. It was unclear what social media post drew the most backlash. A quick glance of Mama Tots TikTok did not include any videos of her discussing the event on Friday. It couldve been good publicity, but it just raised it to a different level of different visibility and people latched onto it, Coleman said. People were (urging) people to protest. Coleman said at similar events, protesters have shown up. But he said the protests are typically peaceful a small handful of people praying or holding a Bible. Its nothing terrible, he said. They just stand there and pray. A national Muslim civil rights group on Thursday urged Alabama officials to abide by Alabama Death Row inmate Keith Edmund Gavins wish that an autopsy not be performed on his body after next weeks lethal-injection execution of him for the 1998 murder of a courier driver. Gavin, 64, who describes himself as a devout Muslim, does not plan any further appeals in his case before the July 18 execution at the William C. Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore. But in June he filed a lawsuit asking the state to forego the usual post-execution autopsy due to his religious beliefs. The lawsuit was filed after his attorneys said they couldnt reach a resolution with the state. An official with the Alabama Attorney Generals Office said earlier this week that they were working on a resolution. Efforts to reach Gavins attorneys have been unsuccessful. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), which describes itself as the nations largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, on Thursday issued a statement urging Alabama officials to accept Gavins request to not conduct an autopsy. The religious freedom guaranteed to every American in our founding documents does not cease to apply behind bars. We urge Alabama state officials to accept Mr. Gavins request that his body not be autopsied after execution, said CAIR Research and Advocacy Director Corey Saylor. In Islamic beliefs, autopsies are generally viewed as impermissible mutilation of the deceased but are permissible in cases of necessity and only to the extent required, according to the statement. There appears to be no reason an autopsy is necessary in this case,said Saylor. Gavin was sentenced to death for the March 1998 murder of William Clayton Jr. in Cherokee County. He was on parole for murder from Illinois when he was arrested in the shooting death of Clayton, a courier service driver who had parked his van to use an ATM machine in downtown Centre. Clayton was finished with deliveries for the day and was stopping at Regions Bank to get money to take his wife to dinner. Records stated that Gavin shot Clayton during an attempted robbery, pushed him into the passengers seat, and drove off in the courier van. With an investigator from the district attorneys office in close pursuit, Gavin stopped the van, got out, shot at the investigator, and fled. Gavin was soon apprehended, and Clayton was pronounced dead at a hospital. Two eyewitnesses positively identified Gavin as the shooter, including his cousin, who was an employee of the Illinois Department of Corrections. The cousin testified about trips he and Gavin had made to Centre and on that day saw Gavin fire shots at the driver of the van. Gavin also fired shots at an investigator as he fled, according to testimony. Authorities are asking for information after a teenager died after being shot Sunday at a Dallas County lounge. Jeremy Chop Deuntae Bryant, 19, was shot around 2:40 a.m. Sunday at the Shop Boyz Lounge in Orrville, according to Central Alabama CrimeStoppers. Bryant was taken to Vaughn Regional Medical Center in Selma, where he died of his injuries. A man was also shot at the lounge. He suffered non-life-threatening wounds. Investigators with the Dallas County Sheriffs Office asked anyone with information about the fatal shooting to come forward. Those who wish to remain anonymous can call CrimeStoppers, which is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to the identification and arrest of the shooter. Anyone with information was asked to call police or CrimeStoppers using at 334-215-STOP (7867) or 1-833-AL1-STOP (251-7867) or download CrimeStoppers P3-tips app. Two Alabama hospitals have announced plans to end inpatient services and convert to Rural Emergency Hospitals, which will close one of the last birthing units in rural south Alabama. In a Facebook post, Grove Hill Memorial Hospital in Clarke County announced Wednesday that labor and delivery services would end on Aug. 16 -- a little more than a month from today. The closure comes nine months after Monroe County Hospital in the neighboring county closed its labor and delivery department. The closure will leave a large swath of south Alabama without access to labor and delivery services. Women will have to travel to Selma, Montgomery, Mobile or Bay Minette. On May 23, 2024 the governing board of Grove Hill Memorial Hospital elected to convert its status to Rural Emergency... Posted by Grove Hill Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 East Alabama Medical Center-Lanier in Chambers County also announced plans to become a Rural Emergency Hospital, according to news reports. That facility does not offer birthing services, but will discontinue other inpatient services if the application is approved. In an article published on the Valley Times website on Wednesday, executive vice president Greg Nichols said the hospital has an average of six inpatients a day. Nichols told the newspaper he expects the final switch to be made within six months. Both hospitals will keep their emergency departments and outpatient services open. The Rural Emergency Hospital program was created to combat rural hospital closures across the country. It comes with additional financial support from federal agencies. Rural Emergency Hospitals receive $267,408.68 a month, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The program is available to rural hospitals with fewer than 50 beds. To qualify, hospitals must close inpatient services but keep open emergency departments. Average inpatient stays at Rural Emergency Hospitals cant exceed 24 hours and patients who need inpatient treatment must be transferred to other hospitals. Earlier this year, Bullock County Hospital in Union Springs announced plans to become the states first Rural Emergency Hospital. Rural labor and delivery units have been closing across the county as hospitals struggle with declining populations and increased costs to operate obstetrical departments. Grove Hill Memorial Hospital is the fourth Alabama hospital in less than a year to close services for labor and delivery. A report last year by the Alabama Hospital Association found that the pandemic caused major financial problems for many of the states medical centers. About half of the states hospitals were losing money, the report found. Alabama is one of 10 states that have not expanded Medicaid for people with low incomes. Officials with the Alabama Hospital Association have said that expanding Medicaid could boost the finances of rural hospitals and those that serve people with low incomes. About 300,000 people in Alabama fall into the coverage gap, earning too much for Medicaid in Alabama, but not enough to qualify for grants to help pay for private insurance on the federal exchange, according to Alabama Arise. Jefferson County Circuit Judge Tracie Todd (AL.com) A former Jefferson County judge is suing Chicago, arguing that city rescinded a job offer after she left her seat on the bench to work there. Tracie Todd, who served as a circuit criminal judge in the Birmingham division of Jefferson County for over a decade, left her position for a job as a city attorney in Chicago. Her departure came after years of battles with Alabamas higher courts, some over a ruling she issued calling Alabamas capital murder sentencing scheme unconstitutional. Todd, who now lives in Cook County, Illinois, first took the bench after being elected as a Democrat in 2012. She was reelected in 2018, and if she had stayed in the Magic City, her term would have expired in 2025. She resigned last year. She moved to Chicago in 2021, and the following year an Alabama commission said she had been in the Windy City for two months when she was supposed to be working in Birmingham. She was accused of not following the Court of the Judiciarys order to return to work on Dec. 6 of that year to begin a period of 90 days without pay, a sanction imposed for ethical violations. Her tenure was marred by controversy. In 2016, Todd ruled that Alabamas capital murder sentencing scheme was unconstitutional and barred the death penalty for four men who had been charged in three murders. She said the practice of allowing judges to override jury recommendations of life without parole and instead impose the death penalty was unconstitutional. That practice has since been outlawed in the state, making Alabama the last state to ban judicial override. In the same ruling, she made several other observations about the states death penalty, including that judges imposed it more often during or near election years; that there wasnt a standard system for assigning capital cases to judges; that Alabama executes more people than other, larger states; and Alabama doesnt fund enough staff for its judges. Her lawsuit, filed last month in Cook County, called that decision a landmark ruling. Following her courageous and powerful ruling, conservatives in Alabama did everything possible to besmirch and hurt Tracies standing as a Judge, including by filing complaints with the Alabama Judicial Inquiry Commission, which resulted in a 90-day suspension of Todds judicial duties, said the suit. The political efforts to hurt Todd as a result of her now legendary stand against racism in Alabamas administration of the death penalty are recounted in a plethora of articles online, and cited an AL.com article among several others. After the inquiries into her decisions, the lawsuit said, Todd became stressed and exhausted by the political environment in Alabama. Todd then moved to Chicago. Last year, she applied for a job as the assistant corporation counsel for the city of Chicago. She went through the job application process, and was offered the job in the citys law department and labor division. The lawsuit includes a copy of Todds job offer, which was set to pay her $117,804 plus benefits. Her start date was in December 2023 and her specific duties included advising the city on labor relations, union matters, unfair labor practices and more. After accepting the job, Todd resigned from the bench in Birmingham in November 2023. The suit says, While the environment was stressful for her in Alabama, Tracie never would have resigned her judgeship there, unless she found alternative employment. Todd claims the offer from Chicago was unconditional. But then, 10 days before she was set to start the new job, the city rescinded its job offer. The rescinding notice was also included in the lawsuit filing, and no explanation was cited. Todd argues she wouldnt have left her judgeship if she hadnt gotten the Chicago job, and would have continued being paid her judges salary and benefits. Shes asked for a jury trial for damages. Todds history with Alabamas justice system following that 2016 ruling spanned years. In 2018, a state appeals court asked the Judicial Inquiry Commission to investigate to determine if she violated ethical rules. In 2021, she was temporarily removed from the bench after a scathing report from the states Judicial Inquiry Commission. Later that year, the Alabama Court of the Judiciary found Todd guilty of violating the canons of judicial ethics and suspended her for 90 days without pay. In 2022, Todd was once again charged by the JIC for several complaints stemming from her behavior following the earlier sanctions. Those charges were refusal and/or appearance of refusal to follow the Court of the Judiciarys orders; making a false and/or misleading statements including to fellow judges and to the Court of the Judiciary; failing to make provisions for cases during purported illness; and disrespecting and refusing to cooperate with fellow judges in the performance of their administrative duties. She was found guilty in October 2022 on one count of violating judicial ethics and was suspended, again, without pay for 120 days. Todds attorney in the Chicago case, Cass Casper, told AL.com by email, Chicago is in desperate need of brilliant legal talent like Tracies... At the very last minute, without even the courtesy of a why or from who, the City pulled the rug out from under her. We filed this case to remind Mayor Johnson and Chicago that as surely every Alabaman knows -- the definition of good business is honoring yours deals and commitments. A Trussville man was sentenced to more than four years in federal prison for his role in a multi-million-dollar health care fraud and kickback conspiracy case, prosecutors announced Wednesday. Along with a 56-month prison sentence, John Alan Robson, 41, was ordered to forfeit $1.1 million and pay $5.3 million in restitution. This was a crime of greed and indifference to the consequences of the actions to the overall health system, said U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona in a statement. The crime cost insurers millions of dollars, and it exploited vulnerable patients trying to get appropriate medical care, not run up the tab on insurance. We will continue to fight hard to keep our community safe from serious crimes like this one. U.S. District Court Judge L. Scott Coogler sentenced Robson earlier this week. He was indicted in February and pleaded guilty to health care fraud conspiracy. According to Robsons plea agreement, he knew insurers would not pay for items or services that had been ordered based on kickbacks or that were medically unnecessary for a patient. Yet hereceived kickbacks from specialty pharmacies, a nerve conduction testing company, and brace suppliers to generate medically unnecessary orders and prescriptions from doctors offices that would be billed to insurance and reimbursed at high rates, prosecutors said. Robson marketed nerve conduction testing to medical providers for a Huntsville-based company called QBR or Diagnostic Referral Community. QBR paid those providers a flat fee for each test they ordered that insurance paid for. QBR paid Robson a flat fee for each of those tests as well. QBR paid one of Robsons medical practices more than $100,000 in per-test kickbacks, prosecutors said. Robson also marketed high-reimbursing topical creamssuch as pain creams and scar creamsto providers on behalf of specialty pharmacies like Global Compounding Pharmacy and Watson Rx Solutions. Robson was paid lucrative commissions on the cream prescriptions that he and his team generated and insurance paid for. Robson got prescriptions for himself and family members regardless of whether those topical creams were medically necessary for the patients. Robson and other sales reps got blank, pre-signed prescriptions from medical providers, filled out the prescriptions to make sure insurance would pay for them, and even selected the drugs or drug formulations to make sure insurance would pay for them, prosecutors said. As part of his plea deal, Robson admitted that federal insurance programs paid millions of dollars for medically unnecessary prescriptions for which Robson, Ray, and Bowman received commissions. Health care fraud is not a victimless crime. It costs U.S. taxpayers millions of dollars every year. It can raise health insurance premiums, expose patients to unnecessary medical procedures, and increase taxes, said James DeLoatch, acting special agent in charge of the FBIs Birmingham Division, in a statement. The FBI is committed to coordinating with our partners and aggressively pursuing those who take advantage of others for their personal gain. This sentencing should serve as a warning to others who might engage in these types of schemes. Kickback arrangements can compromise medical decisions and threaten the integrity of federally funded health care programs, added Tamala E. Miles, special agent in charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. Todays sentence exemplifies our commitment to protecting taxpayer-funded health care programs and the patients they serve. Robsons case is related to a series of cases involving health care fraud and kickbacks through pain clinics, specialty pharmacies, and a nerve conduction company in north Alabama. Engineers at NASAs Marshall Space Flight Center are working on one of a pair of problems that have kept two astronauts aboard the International Space Station for weeks longer than anticipated. Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams launched June 5 in the first crewed test flight of Boeings CST-100 Starliner spacecraft on a mission to the station that was expected to last about eight days. Starliner is a partly reusable craft with a capsule that can hold up to seven astronauts, designed to deliver crew to the station or other low-Earth orbit destinations. The craft is one of two NASA intends to use in its Commercial Crew Program, which contracts with private operators to transport astronauts. SpaceXs Crew Dragon craft began flying in 2020, while a successful crewed flight was the next step in Boeings certification process. Abortion bans have shaken up the U.S. healthcare system, influencing how pregnant people receive maternity care, how providers are allowed to practice in the emergency room and how professionals are allowed to practice medicine. A report published today by the office of Sen. Maria Cantwell, Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and 14 women Democratic senators sought to expand the scope of Cantwells report of the impact of Dobbs on Washington state. Taking a national approach, researchers and interviewers dug deeper into the nationwide impact of abortion bans in the two years after the Dobbs decision, finding that abortion restrictions have hindered medical care, the future of health providers, and the U.S. reproductive health care system, even in states where abortion is legal. Since Roe was overturned, abortion had remained a topic of debate at the local and national level. According to KFF, there are currently five states confirmed to have abortion measures on the ballot in November, with many voters expected to be mobilized by the issue as they cast their vote in the 2024 election. In a bid for reelection, the Biden-Harris administration is running heavily on a promise to restore the protections lost when Roe was overturned, but has been critiqued by abortion advocates of a lackluster campaign missing important elements, such as refraining from using the word abortion. Nonetheless, Democrats are banking on abortion to win against Trump who says he will not support a federal abortion ban, and will continue to leave the issue up to individual states if he is elected. It is now clear that this decision has strained our healthcare system and forced women to travel across state lines to get essential care, putting them in heart-breaking and devastating situations, Leader Schumer said in a press release. Senate Republicans have shown that they are beholden to the extremists in their party even as the American people continue to voice support for reproductive freedoms. Senate Democrats will fight as long as it takes to restore this most vital of protections. According to the report, some pregnant women are opting to travel to protective states even when they dont need care, to ensure they can receive the full range of medical options in the event that they do. There are families with highly desired pregnancies and who have resources and say hey, at 20 weeks of pregnancy, because I cant get the care I need in my own state if I face an emergency, Im going to go and live somewhere else for a few months so that I may stay safe, Dr. Sara Kennedy at Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette told Sen. Cantwells staff. The reality is that most Americans could not afford this option if they wanted to. According to a 2024 report by financial services company Empower, 37% of Americans cant afford an unexpected expense over $400 and a similar poll by Bankrate found that 44% would not be able to afford an unexpected $1,000 expense. Most families and people who need abortions are left to navigate the U.S. abortion landscape and face the impacts of abortion restrictions head on, including traveling and finding care where there are limited resources available. Abortion travel causing long wait times The report sheds light on the reality of navigating abortion travel. Abortion seekers fleeing to neighboring states where abortion is legal has become a norm, with Guttmacher estimating that 171,000 individuals traveled out-of-state for abortion last year. This has driven the wait time to receive care in protective states up. Illinois, which has become a hub in the Midwest for out-of-state abortion seekers, experienced a 49% spike in out-of-state patients, 17,000 people, the year Roe fell, reported the Chicago Tribune. Prior to Dobbs, you could get an abortion appointment within 24 hours. And that is still the case in some regions. But now in places like Kansas and Illinois, those clinics are booking three weeks out, and that can really play havoc with peoples lives, Alison Dreith, director of strategic partnerships at the Midwest Access Fund. Because of longer wait times due to an influx of patients from the South, people who live in protective states now have to travel too, Alisha Dingus, DC Abortion Funds director of development told researchers. Now our people in DC are having to go up for their appointments. Were having to send people to other clinics in Maryland, sometimes all the way to Pennsylvania, said Dingus. According to the report, traveling to the nearest state isnt always the best option for abortion patients. Appointments are booked weeks in advance but some patients, specifically those who find out they are pregnant later in term or who are facing urgent medical situations do not have the ability to wait, causing more and more patients to fly further rather than drive to a nearby state. Two Years Post-Dobbs: The Nationwide Impacts of Abortion BansCourtesy of the Two Years Post-Dobbs: The Nationwide Impacts of Abortion Bans report This causes cities with more flight options to fill up more quickly. In Ohio, Jubilee Fund reported that because Cincinnati and Cleveland are easiest to reach by air, appointments in those cities are in higher demand, especially after Floridas six week ban went into effect in May. In Nevada, Las Vegas has received a large number of Texas abortion seekers even though it is an 11-hour drive away. This is placing an additional burden on low-income patients who cannot afford flight costs and causing confusion or those who have never flown before. Part of this impact thats not talked about enough is the individuals who dont have the resources to make a call, buy a plane ticket, get to a safe state, and potentially pay out-of-pocket for care. We dont talk enough about the ones who are left behind; those desperate individuals who dont have gas money, resources, and the ability to pay in another state to get the services that they need, said Nicole Barnett at Planned Parenthood Northern California. Restrictive states are losing healthcare workers Doctors and providers, including emergency room personnel, anesthesiologists and medical students are fleeing states with abortion bans for fear of the repercussions of performing abortions, even when its a life-saving procedure. Idaho was one of the first states to ban abortion when a 2020 trigger law was enacted once Roe fell. A report by the Idaho Coalition for Safe Healthcare found that the state lost 22% of its practicing obstetricians in the 15 months following the decision. I know how to manage the stress of managing a high-stakes medical emergency. I dont know how to manage the stress of legal ambiguity that has massive implications in terms of my medical license, felony charges, the potential for every family member to sue me for a minimum of $20,000, said Dr. Amelia Huntsberger, an Idaho OB-GYN who left the state in 2023 to practice in Oregon, abortion is not restricted by gestational limit and shield laws protect practitioners from investigations by other states. The loss of staff has also caused the loss of maternity wards due to an inability to recruit. Four have closed in Idaho, including Steele Memorial Medical Center, which paused labor and delivery services after their longtime doctor retired, forcing many expectant mothers to travel 168 miles away to Idaho Falls to give birth, the Idaho Capital Sun reported in April. You cant have your baby there, you cant get a hysterectomy, you cant get hormone replacement therapy for hot flashes, you cant get surgery for incontinence, you cant get treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding or fibroids nobodys there to provide those services anymore, Hunstberger said. Doctors in Oklahoma, where abortion is illegal, shared a similar sentiment. A poll by Oklahomas American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists local chapter found that 76% of practitioners thought about leaving the state to practice elsewhere or wanted to leave but couldnt, and 75% felt that fear of the consequences of following best-practice protocol prevented them from doing so. Practitioners face further repercussions in states like Texas which require them to provide patient data and report conditions their patients have that could be linked to a past abortion, even if the past abortion is not relevant to the treatment or condition the patient is currently facing. If you violate Texas reporting requirements more than a few times, you can get your medical license taken away. And that is - if it gets taken away in one state, you have to report that to other states and that could be the end of your career, said Dr. Alison Haddock,American College of Emergency Physicians president-elect. Medical institutions are also finding it extremely difficult to recruit new OB-GYNS and fill positions of those whove left restrictive states. As medical providers flee, aspiring doctors and medical students are opting to study and establish residency elsewhere. A 2023 survey of OB-GYN residents found that over 17% changed their mind about where they wanted to practice due to the Dobbs decision. A March 2023 Texas Observer report illustrated the difficulty in studying in Texas, where residents must travel out of state to learn abortion procedures because of the ban. Many med students are choosing instead to pursue opportunities in states which allow them to practice their full scope of medicine. Washington State University College of Medicine graduate Carmen Abbe told Sen. Cantwells staff that she seriously considered completing her residency in Idaho but decided otherwise due to the educational barriers she would face. They told me: We want you to learn abortion care because we think its medically important. But you cant do that in our state, she said. To reach different audiences, Vice President Kamala Harris agreed to an interview with Robin Itzler, editor of Patriot Neighbors and frequent American Thinker contributor. (Satire) Me: Thank you for meeting with me today. It must be overwhelming being thrust into the position of possibly being your partys presidential nominee. Harris: A new position? As Willie Brown would tell you, Im quite comfortable with new positions. Me: There are some Americans who think you were selected as vice president solely because you check two boxes, both as a woman and a person of color. Harris: Three boxes if you include my Jewish husband. Image: Kamala Harris (edited). YouTube screen grab. Me: Is your husband Douglas Emhoff an observant Jew? Harris: Yes, he observes everything going on around him. Me: I meant, is he a practicing Jew? Harris: Of course, he practices! For example, in December, he practices so he doesnt confuse the Hanukkah menorah with the Kwanzaa kinara. Me: Your mother is from India, and your father is Jamaican. Do you consider yourself black or biracial? Harris: It depends on the group I am speaking to. Me: President Biden must also be a woman of color since he recently said during a radio interview that he is the first black woman to serve with a black president. Harris: Oh, that Joe! (cackling) I am the blacker of us two. (More cackling) In fact, Joe seems a tad orange lately. Me: Now that President Bidens mental acuity issues are being discussed publicly, many wonder why you never told the American people about them because, as vice president, you frequently see him. Harris: (cackling) Most days, President Biden works from 10 AM to 4 PM. I am a night person, so we always miss each other in the employee lounge. Did I mention I am black and a woman? Me: Yes, you did. There are rumors that you and First Lady Jill Biden do not get along. Harris: Thats ridiculous! That bi I mean First Lady Biden and I have a wonderful working relationship. Just last week, she Fed Exd me a note suggesting that we partner on having land mines removed at the Ukraine-Russia border. Per her note, I would have the honor of walking first. Me: Speaking of Ukraine, arent you concerned about the billions of dollars the United States has given the country? Harris: Billions with a B? Me: Yes, Madam Vice President. More than $175 billion since the start of the invasion. Harris: We have? (cackles) Let me get back to you on that. Did I mention I am black and a woman? Me: In March 2021, President Biden put you in charge of the southern border, but youve never gone there to see for yourself what is happening. Harris: When the president told me to go to the border, I thought he meant Borders Books. My bad. I mistakenly spent many hours in bookstores. Me: The American people will not accept that as an excuse. Harris: The half that supports Joe Bidens re-election will accept it. Did I mention I am black and a woman? Me: It appears many traditional Democrat constituencies now support President Trump. This is especially true for black men, although you still have the support of black women. If you became the presidential nominee, would you be able to bring black men back to the Democrat ticket? Harris: Yes (cackling), of course, I can lure black men to my side. Just ask Willie Brown! (clears throat) In 2010, when I became Californias attorney general, 29 percent of male inmates were black. When I left after two terms that number had decreased to 28.5 percent. This is according to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Me: Thats a decrease of just one-half of one percent! As attorney general, you put many black men behind bars for misdemeanors. Harris: I need to get to a meeting. Did I mention I am black and a woman? Me: If President Biden were to announce hes not running for re-election and Democrats support you, what would you tell the American people to instill confidence? Harris: (cackling cackling cackling) I would stand in front of a statue that Black Lives Matters destroyed and tell the American people that they can trust me in the White House. The White House is white. Ive seen the White House, and I know its white. Everyone loves a house that is white. People really love a big house that is white. The White House that is white, has been white for a long time. I would probably be there for a short time. Me: Thank you, Madam Vice President. Any final thoughts? Harris: Yes, I am black and a woman. On a more serious note, the Daily Wire is running a three-part series (total running time: 90 minutes) about Kamala Harris. The series is not behind a paywall, and its well worth seeing to understand the woman who is a heartbeat away from the Oval Office. Robin M. Itzler is a regular contributor to American Thinker. She can be reached at PatriotNeighbors@yahoo.com NATOs war against Russia is progressing through three distinct phases: euphoria, apprehension, and despair. Phase I. Euphoria The Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, caused a sense of euphoria in Washington and at NATO headquarters. The tactic of escalating Moscows anxiety about Ukraines impending NATO membership had proven successful. As NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg told a European Parliament joint committee meeting: So he (Putin) went to war to prevent NATO, more NATO, close to his borders. Stoltenberg inadvertently unveiled the truth. The conflict did not begin because Putin sought to resurrect the Soviet Union or out of fear of Ukrainian democracy. Stoltenberg and the leadership of NATO were fully aware that Russia would eventually be compelled to act according to its security imperatives and invade Ukraine to alleviate the NATO threat at its borders. The cunning aspect of this plan was a deception. NATO never had any intention of granting membership to Ukraine. Therefore, even the most fervent supporters of NATO cannot deny that it was NATOs deliberate provocation that ignited the war. Image: Volodymyr Zelensky at a NATO summit. YouTube screen grab. The next steps appeared pretty straightforward. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mark Milley, informed lawmakers during closed-door briefings before the invasion on February 2 and 3, 2022, that an anticipated full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine might lead to Kyivs capture in just 72 hours. The strategy entailed deliberately allowing Ukraine to collapse, which would prompt the West to impose devastating economic sanctions. The objectives were the destruction of the Russian economy, the resignation of Putin, and, ultimately, the elimination of Russia as a European power After Russias unsuccessful attempt to capture Kiev, there was a surge of wild optimism within NATO circles. There was a prevailing notion that Russias military strength was not as formidable as previously believed. Thus, NATO saw an opportunity not only to destroy the Russian economy but also to defeat Russia militarily. The US and its NATO allies decided to set aside any pretenses and fully engage in the conflict, providing Ukraine with modern weaponry, intelligence, training, financing, and all necessary resources to bolster NATOs chances of prevailing, all while upholding a facade of plausible deniability. Ukraine was supposed to bear the brunt of battle and pay the cost in blood and destruction. The plan held considerable plausibility, and the data supported it. In 2022, NATOs defense budget exceeded Russias by 13-fold (NATOs one trillion dollars versus Russias $75 billion). The combined GDP of all 31 members amounted to a staggering $46 trillion. In comparison, Russias GDP was a mere two trillion dollars. The population of NATO countries was 1.2 billion, while Russia had 145 million. Judging by the numbers, Russia appeared to be an easy target. Phase II. Apprehension Despite the numbers, the multibillion-dollar investment, the massive supply of modern weaponry, the hundreds of thousands dead and wounded, and the massive destruction of Ukraines infrastructure, none of the NATO objectives have been achieved two and a half years later. Putins grip on power remains unshaken, and the sanctions have failed to significantly affect the Russian economy. Moreover, Russia is successfully building a formidable military-industrial complex, engineering and producing weapons that often surpass Western designs in capability and innovation. This sobering reality forced NATO to reshape the conflict and develop a new strategy. The new approach revolved around a protracted war of attrition aimed at debilitating Russia both economically and militarily. It is becoming exceedingly evident that America and its Western allies became a hostage of sanctions and found themselves trapped between the continuation of war and economic and military realities. From this untenable situation, they could see no exit and continued doing the same things, expecting different results. The European Union has now enforced its 14th set of sanctions, prompting one to question what this latest round can achieve that the previous 13 could not. Meanwhile, NATO is in the process of organizing the provision of F-16s and other advanced weaponry to Ukraine. Phase III. Despair The conflict has now escalated to its most critical stage when desperate people do desperate things. As the tables turned in favor of Russia, NATO is running out of options. The situation led to a series of reckless and incendiary remarks from Western officials and NATO leaders advocating for a significant escalation of the conflict beyond Ukraines borders by launching attacks on Russia territory using long-range missiles supplied by NATO countries. The US and its NATO partners are delusional and fail to realize that they are facing an unwinnable situation. It is the immutable fact that a nuclear-armed state cannot be defeated. If Ukraine loses, it will be perceived as NATOs defeat. Conversely, if Russia falters, it will inevitably result in a nuclear war. Two and half years ago, NATO leaders provoked the Russian invasion, leading to a tragic outcome. Now, as to validate their lack of sanity, they are frantically escalating the conflict, which may lead to a catastrophe. Clearly, regardless of how we analyze the situation, it is becoming increasingly dire for the US and its allies militarily and geopolitically. During the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe on December 5, 1994, Russias president, Boris Yeltsin, vehemently accused Clinton of trying to split [the] continent again through NATOs eastward expansion. President Biden has taken it a step further; he is, by inciting conflict with Russia, on a mission to split the world. The conflict has facilitated the creation of a formidable anti-Western coalition currently consisting of Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. Other countries will likely join it in the future as the war continues. And it will, as NATO has been better at starting wars than at knowing how to finish them. If the coalition evolves into an alliance, it will surpass NATO in terms of human and natural resources, economic power, and military capabilities. Ultimately, it might be Americas most critical geopolitical blunder ever, as this rival may weaken Americas dominance and diminish its influence. In his essay Perpetual Peace, philosopher Immanuel Kant argued three centuries ago that humanitys path to universal peace would be through human insight or catastrophic conflict. Regretfully, as long as we are led by untutored people who lack moral and strategic foresight and fail to grasp the perilous nature of the policies they promote, and as long as we have a military alliance that, after fulfilling its original purpose, seeks out new adversaries to justify its existence, peace by way of human insight appears increasingly remote. Alexander G. Markovsky is a senior fellow at the London Center for Policy Research, a conservative think tank that examines national security, energy, risk analysis, and other public policy issues. He is the author of Anatomy of a Bolshevik and Liberal Bolshevism: America Did Not Defeat Communism, She Adopted It. Mr. Markovsky is the owner and CEO of Litwin Management Services, LLC. He can be reached at alex.g.markovsky@gmail.com In 2017, Nancy Pelosi helpfully explained the wrap-up smear. You demonize we call it the wrap-up smear. If you want to talk politics. We call it the wrap-up smear. You smear somebody with falsehoods and all the rest and then you merchandise it and then you [members of the press] write it and theyll say, see, it's reported in the press that this, this, this and this, so they have that validation that the press reported the smear and then it's called a wrap-up smear. Now I am going to merchandise the press' report on the smear that we made. It's a tactic. On Wednesday, Mrs. Pelosi was asked a couple of Biden-related questions by a black, female (youll see why thats relevant in a moment) CNN reporter, Rachel Scott. Scotts tweet about their encounter read, in part: She (Pelosi) says she wont make comments in the hallway about the fate of our nation When I asked if Biden should run she said Am I speaking English to you? Im not going to be making any statements about any of that right now in the hallway.. Asking a black, female reporter whether or not she understands English is not a good look for a Democrat. Really, for anyone, but most especially a Democrat. We can all imagine what the reaction would be had Speaker Johnson or any Republican reacted the same way to such an obvious question. And thats all it was: an obvious, simple question. A thorny one, to be sure, but its the only question worth asking on Capitol Hill these days, and an old hand like Madam Pelosi bristling at it is indicative of two things: 1. She is unaccustomed to being asked anything even resembling a tough question, and 2. The stakes. They could not be higher. Ms. Pelosi has been on television encouraging the president to make a decision, as if his two-page Monday-morning letter to all the 535 senators and representatives stating unequivocally that he wasnt stepping aside wasnt enough. And to be fair to Ms. Pelosi, it really wasnt. When the question on the line is whether or not you are able to function...live...a pre-written letter, no matter its contents, is hardly an answer. Nor is another pre-taped interview, which the president will do on Monday on NBC News, which was just announced. And Monday, well...Monday may be too late. Pelosi put a clock on the thing. Times running out, she said. The conventional wisdom is that the presidents fate must be wholly and holistically decided by close of business Friday. Thats reportedly what the Hill buzz is. So far, the representatives have been the most vocal, with a half-dozen or so coming out so far and saying outright that POTUS should step aside. Finally, the upper chambers Democrats met yesterday, and their line appears to be Pelosis: they trust that Joe Biden will do the right thing and do it in a timely manner. The panic is palpable. CNNs Dana Bash tweeted: .@davidaxelrod tells me on @InsidePolitics that George Clooney's assessment of Joe Biden was devastating and it's what people fear. @jonfavs, who was at Clooney's fundraiser, adds every single person I talked to at the fundraiser thought the same thing. Ruh-roh. When youve lost Hollywood...especially this guy, who just raised thirty-million dollars for him not three weeks ago. And whom was he on stage with? His good friend, Barack Obama. There is zero, dare I say, less than zero chance that George Clooney called for Biden to stand down without The Ones blessing. And everyone knows it. Heavy hitters from Obama world are now out and loud that Joes gotta go. So whats Nancy waiting for? Why be so equivocal? Why be equivocal at all? Well, theres some speculation that the Hill is waiting for NATO to clear out of town, because theres so much kickback cash at stake. Theres also the big boy press conference POTUS will give today. But one wonders if its one more piece of news shes waiting for. Now, this wrap-up smear would very likely have the added benefit of being true, but who knows? Maybe it will come out that POTUS really did poop his pants at the Vatican, or at the G7, and thats why Jill suddenly led him off stage way before he was supposed to exit. Who knows? But theres a palpable sense of suspense in Ms. Pelosis message. Shes waiting. Waiting for something...to wrap this thing up. We shall see. Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0. Back in 2010, Sonia Sotomayor, Barack Obamas wise Latina woman, a person so obviously superior to a sheltered white male who doesnt have any valuable life experience because hes faced no adversity concurred with a dissenting Supreme Court opinion, written by Stephen Breyer which argued this, reported via an article at Fox News: In sum, the Framers did not write the Second Amendment in order to protect a private right of armed self-defense, Breyer wrote. In fact thats exactly why they wrote it, as well as a safeguard against government tyranny (Ive gone over this in detail using other writings from early America; see here and here.) Furthermore: In 2004, she [Sotomayor] joined an opinion that cited as precedent the right to possess a gun is clearly not a fundamental right. In 2009, she also joined an opinion with the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that Second Amendment rights do not apply to the states. Now thankfully Sotomayor didnt get her way and see the Constitution gutted and the God-given rights it explicitly protects eliminated; instead, the white male attitude of armed self-defense came out on top. And, its a good thing, because two armed agents, on-duty protecting Sotomayor, are alive and safe today, and so is she, after a scary incident last week, because of these agents right to carry a firearm. Heres the story, per the same Fox item: Two armed U.S. Marshals on the protection detail for Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor shot a would-be carjacker in self-defense last week. Kentrell Flowers, 18, was shot Friday after he approached an unmarked Marshals vehicle near Sotomayors home. Flowers pointed a handgun at one of the two Marshals on duty through the driver-side window in an apparent attempt to carjack him, according to a police report. Flowers was arrested at the hospital and faces charges of armed carjacking, carrying a pistol without a license and possession of a large capacity ammunition feeding device. Here were some of the responses on X: This is an only in DC sort of story. Justice Sotomayors protection detail shoot an attempted hijacker, while on duty protecting the Justice. So, she benefited from a right she would deny civilian, ordinary, citizens. I wonder if shell ponder that?https://t.co/0slFIWpyDx pipermcq (@pipermcq) July 10, 2024 And: Sotomayor is protected by the same guns she has repeatedly written that civilians do not need and should not own. https://t.co/KYriBW9LLA Parker Thayer (@ParkerThayer) July 9, 2024 And one more: Sotomayor is protected by the same guns she has repeatedly written that civilians do not need and should not own. https://t.co/KYriBW9LLA Parker Thayer (@ParkerThayer) July 9, 2024 Some would argue that the Marshals are law enforcement, and theyre exactly who should be allowed to carry! But, aside from the false premise, the obvious reality is that we dont all have an armed security detail parked outside our homes and around our blocks. The Second Amendment is a protection for normal people too, not just government officials. But, do you think that matters to Sotomayor? Absolutely not. Do you think this incident will wisen her up any to the imporance of armed self-defense for the rest of us? Again, not a chance. Image: Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr, unaltered. Summer rerun season has begun, so we shouldn't be surprised to see the deep-state intelligence officials back, attempting to scare us out of voting for President Trump, because 'the Russians are coming, the Russians are coming.' For them, Trump is coming. It's a tack so old it's petrified hardtack. Never mind that Russia's President Putin told Tucker Carlson that he preferred Joe Biden as the more predictable candidate. Never mind that Trump has vowed to end Russia's Ukraine war swiftly and said he would force Putin to release his U.S. hostage, young Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, imprisoned on phony espionage charges immediately. Never mind that they've tried this twice in the last two elections, seemingly convinced that American voters cannot make up their minds about whom to vote for unless they've got a Russian bot in front of them, tugging at their emotions on social media, which is where the interference claims come from. For some authentic foreign interference on elections, Mexico would be a good place to start, having run naked ads and questionable voting registrations to urge Mexicans to vote for Democrats, but Deep State doesn't pay attention to Mexico. So here we are. Russia, Russia, Russia, just like the last two elections. The claims that Russia is using AI this time and can imitate Southern accents instead of their usual Boris and Natasha ones is laughable. I've heard many Russian diplomats speak with no accent at all, so that argument is so old it's covered with barnacles. Start with NBC News: The Wall Street Journal: Reuters: Fox News: Fox, to its credit, ran a skeptical account, despite its headline, along with bonus video commentary from Laura Ingraham at the top of the piece, debunking the whole thrashing effort as setting the stage for delegitimizing President Trump's likely victory come November. But for the really useful and entertaining account, go to RT News, the Russian propaganda outlet, which debunks the whole scheme with supported links debunking the nonsense, with the contempt it deserves. They ran a passage from President Putin's interview with Tucker Carlson, describing the chess-playing Russian warlord's inner thinking, pointing out that he'd much rather have Biden than Trump as president: Putin has dismissed the idea that he backs a certain faction in US politics. It is not about the personality of the leader, he told American journalist Tucker Carlson in February. It is about the elites mindset. Several days later, however, Putin said that he would prefer to continue dealing with Biden, calling the incumbent US leader a more experienced and predictable person, and a politician of the old sort. Back in 2022, we saw that phenomenon up close, that Putin was afraid of Trump and preferred Biden as president, when President Trump's former Russia advisor and impeachment accuser, Fiona Hill, told a think tank crowd that Trump drove Putin bonkers by demanding that Putin explain every little detail in his dealings with Russia. In a 2022 piece that was featured on RealClearPolitics, I wrote this: According to Hill's ace expert geostrategic analysis, Trump was this moron who so unnerved Putin that he refused to invade Ukraine as a result of it. Biden, by contrast, was a svelte and nimble political power player who was essentially Metternich, so Putin decided to invade and bomb the hell out of Ukraine while Biden was in office, because he was "the right person to engage." ...and... Trump forcing Putin to explain every detail to him is bound to have made Putin think that Trump was unpredictable -- and hold off on doing anything crazy, for fear of the reaction. When you've got a wily operator like Putin afraid of what Trump will do if he does X, Y, or Z, then the smart course for Putin would be to do nothing, not wanting to disturb the beast. Memo to Deep State operatives who've tried this twice before: Putin doesn't like uncertainty. If Trump is a wild card to him, that keeps him holed up. He doesn't like surprises. Advantage: America. It's as if they're out of ideas, so they're wheeling out this miserable lie yet again. They tried this before and got their heads handed to them, their credibility shot, their reputation for political chicanery elevated, their biases naked. These are the same charmers as the ones who signed the "51 intelligence officials" letter claiming Hunter Biden's laptop had "all the earmarks" of a Russian disinformation operation. Now they expect us to believe them this time? Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice ... Image: Pixabay / Pixabay License It was no revelation to me how badly Joe Biden looked in his debate, nor I suspect, to most AT readers; and that in the wake of this disaster, he wont withdraw. Now lots of Democrats are urging he stay -- John Fetterman, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and the Squad, Maxine Waters. They may figure if the party is going to start imposing minimum mental health requirements, the jig is up. The people who actually run the show -- Obama, Schumer, Pelosi, etc. -- badly want Joe to quit. And they have the votes, if needed, at the convention to simply change the rules and free his delegates. But, as Pelosis twin sister likes to say, these things must be done delicately. They dont want a big scene or a huge mess in Chicago. Jill and the rest of the Team Biden grifters wont go without a fight, or an enormous payoff. I assume George Soros and Reid Hoffman have already been told they may be buying some Hunter Biden masterpiece paintings. Enough money might do the trick. The DNC has an important rules meeting coming up July 19. Thats probably the drop-dead date for Joe to leave the race without a fuss. But if not, will Pelosi and the other big shots have the temerity to go public in a fight to push out Biden? They are certainly ruthless enough. In the past, Democrats like LBJ would not hesitate to torpedo somebody who was in their way, then brag for years about doing the deed. However, todays Dems for some reason just dont like to be seen getting their hands dirty. Joe Biden is not quite a dictator, but he has been around long enough to have an enormous sense of entitlement. Like a Fidel Castro, he expects to die of old age before he ever retires. So maybe he does stick around till November. Certainly, the polls are not yet hopeless. There are plenty of swing states left for optimistic Biden people to pin their hopes on. We may not see the big collapse until after Labor Day, when everything goes south as Joe continues to deteriorate. What I wonder about is the 25th Amendment. It makes sense for the Democrats to wait as long as possible and then pull the ultimate October Surprise. What could happen is, after a particularly bad public outing, Kamala and the cabinet would simply meet one evening in the White House (Obama would need to set this up ahead of time), call Joe downstairs after his bedtime for an interview, and sadly inform the raving maniac he is no longer President. They would want to get Bidens hysterics on tape, to make sure Jill and the few cabinet officer holdouts, like Blinken, understand this will be released if they dont go along. The relief and celebration from the news media and liberal America once the news hit would be amazing. Madame President Harris would be proclaimed a hero greater than Washington, Lincoln, and FDR all rolled into one. Trump and the GOP would be left spluttering about Willie Brown's girlfriend , that she was as much to blame as Jill Biden for covering up Bidens infirmities all along and creating this mess. But that would not matter to Trump haters across the globe, all of whom would be in ecstasy. A couple weeks of adulatory press coverage would overwhelm the October news cycles. President Harris, the brave savior of the Republic, might eke out a razor thin victory with enough ballot harvesting. Sure, such a scenario is unlikely to happen, but its no less farfetched than what already occurs every day in our nations politics. Frank Friday is an attorney in Louisville, KY. Image: Gage Skidmore Yesterday, Samsung introduced its latest foldable smartphones, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6, at its Unpacked 2024 event. While the Z Fold 6 gets a slightly bigger outer display, the Z Flip 6 retains the same 3.4-inch cover screen found on its predecessor. Besides some new widgets and Galaxy AI features, Samsung didnt make any major upgrades to Z Flip 6s outer screen this year. However, the South Korean tech giant will soon be adding support for two popular email applications. During a press briefing before the Unpacked event (via 9to5Google), Samsung revealed that the Z Flip 6s cover display will support the Gmail app. Samsung is adding support for the Gmail app on the Galaxy Z Flip 6s cover display According to the source, Samsung representatives revealed that the Galaxy Z Flip 6s cover display will soon support the Gmail app. Apart from Gmail, the phones Flex Window will also support Microsofts Outlook app. Unfortunately, the representatives didnt reveal when exactly the updated versions of these apps with support for the cover screen will arrive. The 3.4-inch cover screen of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 doesnt provide much estate to work with. However, the official Gmail and Outlook support will certainly provide quick access to your inboxes, without having to flip open the phone. We can be hopeful that the updated email apps will also have support for the Flex Window of the Z Flip 5. Currently, users can run any third-party app like Gmail directly on the Galaxy Z Flip 5s cover display using Good Lock. However, these apps offer a sub-par experience due to UI scaling and other issues. It wont be the case with the Gmail and Outlook apps once they get support from Google and Microsoft later this year. Galaxy Z Flip 6 is available to pre-order, pricing starts at $1,099 Samsung has started taking pre-orders for the Galaxy Z Flip 6. The phone is up for grabs for $1,099 for the 256GB storage variant. The 512GB model, on the other hand, will set you back by $1,219. The handset is offered in four color variants Silver Shadow, Yellow, Blue and Mint. The company is also offering three more color models including Crafted Black, Peach and White, exclusively on its website. Samsung will start shipping the Galaxy Z Flip 6 on July 24. Despite reports suggesting otherwise, Samsung says its 3nm chip process has no yield or performance issues. The company claims its second-gen 3nm process development is proceeding as planned. Its Exynos 2500 chipset for the Galaxy S25 series is expected to use the advanced process node. Samsung claims its 3nm process has no yield or performance issues Samsung started 3nm mass production in mid-2022, a few months before TSMC. However, the latter has had more success with its advanced process node. It stuck with the tried and tested FinFET transistor architecture and has achieved better yield than Samsung, which upgraded to the more advanced GAA architecture. TSMC has already made 3nm mobile chips for Apple and is rumored to have bagged major 3nm manufacturing contracts from Google, MediaTek, Nvidia, Qualcomm, and other chipmakers. Samsung, on the other hand, didnt produce mobile chips on its first-gen 3nm process node. Its first 3nm chip is the Exynos W1000 powering the Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra launched earlier today. Multiple sources recently said that the Korean firm is struggling with its 3nm yield, the percentage of usable chips produced out of the total manufactured. The yield rate of the Exynos 2500 was reportedly in single digits in the first quarter of 2024. It improved to around 20% in the second quarter, but that is still substantially less than TSMC. The yield rate must be at least 60% for mass production. This led to rumors that Samsung might not use its Exynos flagship in the Galaxy S25 series. However, the company refutes the reports. At the Korean edition of its annual Samsung Foundry Forum (SFF), the firm said its 3nm development is on track. The production of chips using its second-gen 3nm process is proceeding as planned based on stable performance and yield, Samsung said in a press release. Hopefully, this is true. According to reports, the Exynos 2500 yield must reach 60% by October for a timely mass production for the Galaxy S25 series, which will arrive in early 2025. Samsung still has a few months of buffer. It might be enough for the trench titan to turn the tide. The Korean firm may still use Qualcomms 3nm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 in its next-gen flagships in some markets. Samsung plans to launch 2nm chips in 2025 At the US edition of SFF 2024 last month, Samsung announced plans to launch AI-focused 2nm chips in 2025. The company has now revealed that it has won a 2nm production contract from Japanese AI startup and IoT Preferred Networks (PFN). TSMC also aims to begin 2nm mass production next year. The Taiwanese firm certainly won the 3nm battle. It remains to be seen if Samsung can fight back in the 2nm era. Last month, Microsoft quietly removed the official instructions for switching to a local account on Windows 11 devices. The company is pushing hard to get its users to sign into its Windows machines with a Microsoft account. However, Microsoft has now reinstated Windows 11s official guide to switch to a local account. Besides, the company has also added a new set of instructions for creating a password reset disk for local accounts. Microsoft has reinstated local accounts on Windows 11 According to Toms Hardware, Microsoft silently removed the guide to opt for a local account sign-in for Windows 11 on June 17. Before that date, these instructions were earlier listed below the guide to Change from a local account to a Microsoft account. Now, the tab for Change from a Microsoft account to a local account is back in the same place. If you want to switch to a local account from a Microsoft account on Windows 11, first go to the Settings app. Then, head to the Accounts tab in the left navigation pane and click on the Your info section on the right. Here, select the Sign in with a local account instead option to proceed further. Then, type your username, password, and the password hint. Finally, click on Next and select Sign out and finish. Microsoft already removed the bypass that allowed setting up a Windows 11 PC locally This is not the first time Microsoft has made it difficult for users to switch to a local account. Last month, Microsoft removed a simple bypass, which allowed users to set up Windows 11 by typing a blocked email address. When a user typed a bad email address during the installation process, Windows 11 offered the local account option, instead. Earlier, you could simply bypass this sign-in requirement by selecting Offline Account or Sign in with a local account instead options. However, the Redmond-based tech giant already removed these options in recent years. That said, its good that Microsoft has at least brought back the official guide to switch to a local account via the Settings app. Tibetan opera well inherited, generates wealth for residents in SW China's Xizang People's Daily Online) 13:24, July 11, 2024 A Tibetan opera performance is staged. (People's Daily Online/Tsering Norbu) With yellow masks on their faces, five Tibetan opera performers took the audience on a journey back in time in Tashi Choden community, Naidong district, Shannan city, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. Yarlung Tashi Sholpa, a form of Tibetan opera, was created by Thangtong Gyalpo, founder of Tibetan opera, during the 15th century. "Yarlung Tashi Sholpa is the oldest branch of Tibetan opera, and serves as the most prominent opening act in major events held in Xizang. It was included on the first list of national-level intangible cultural heritage in China," said 52-year-old Nyima Tsering, a national-level inheritor of the Yarlung Tashi Sholpa Tibetan opera. Nyima Tsering, who began his artistic journey at the age of 16, has expanded his Tibetan opera troupe from a small group to an ensemble made up of dozens of performers. He has also established a training center over 400 square meters in size. During peak tourist seasons, the troupe stages six to seven shows in a single night. As director of the Tashi Choden community, Nyima Tsering shoulders the responsibility of leading local residents towards prosperity. Photo shows the interior of a B&B hotel in Tashi Choden community, Naidong district, Shannan city, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Tsering Norbu) In recent years, the Tashi Choden community has been exploring Tibetan opera resources. It has integrated elements of intangible cultural heritage into the construction of the living environment, creating a plethora of brands related to Tibetan culture and folk tourism. Photo shows Tashi Choden community in Naidong district, Shannan city, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region. (People's Daily Online/Tsering Norbu) Since June 2020, the community has welcomed over 70,000 tourist arrivals, generating more than 5.6 million yuan (about $770,336) in tourism revenue. Folk tourism has not only increased the incomes of the local residents but also enhanced the community's visibility. "In the past, our primary source of income was farming and engaging in labor-intensive work at construction sites, which earned us just over 100 yuan a day. What we do now is provide hospitality to tourists and maintain cleanliness, which allows us to generate a steady income," said a resident who runs a B&B hotel in Tashi Choden community, revealing that the annual net income from running such a business can exceed 25,000 yuan. (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) Campaigners have reacted with fury to proposed water bill increases for households amid the sewage pollution scandal and cost-of-living crisis. Regulator Ofwat has issued draft proposals to put up bills by 19 a year on average, or 94 over five years, a third less than the 144 average requested by water companies. Ofwat said its proposals approved a tripling of investment to make sustained improvement to customer services and the environment, including a 44% reduction in sewage spills from storm overflows, compared with levels in 2021, and plans for nine reservoirs to reduce water taken from rivers. But while Water UK, which represents water companies, complained that Ofwat has failed to be realistic about the levels of investment needed, and urged the regulator to let them get on with an unprecedented overhaul of the countrys water infrastructure, campaigners had a very different take. Sewage spills from water infrastructure have contributed to a situation in which no single river in England is considered to be in good overall health, and beauty spots including Windermere in the Lake District have been polluted. Storm overflows which release untreated wastewater into rivers and seas when there is heavy rain to prevent sewers becoming overwhelmed dumped sewage into the environment 464,056 times and for more than 3.6 million hours in 2023. Water utilities have also been hit by multimillion-pound fines for repeated and damaging illegal pollution in the last five years, and there is concern about the levels of leaks from water infrastructure especially in times of drought when hosepipe bans are imposed. And worse is to come as climate change and worsening weather extremes, from downpours to drought, pile more pressure on supplies. Our 2024 price review challenges water companies across England and Wales to produce ambitious, high-quality plans to ensure they deliver more for customers and the environment.See key targets from our draft decisions: https://t.co/bPwStEWXHe pic.twitter.com/5Vy9JCt6wn Ofwat (@Ofwat) July 11, 2024 Meanwhile, some of the privatised water companies are creaking under high levels of debt or face criticism over dividends to shareholders and executive bonuses. Reacting to the announcement by Ofwat, Giles Bristow, chief executive of Surfers Against Sewage, said: The General Election campaign made clear that the public is fed up with those in power turning a blind eye to the sewage scandal. Unfortunately todays announcement, in which Ofwat accepts that we will all have to swim and surf in sewage way beyond 2030, does nothing to change that. Signing off on the continuation of at least 200,000 sewage discharges a year is simply unacceptable and a sign that the regulator still doesnt comprehend the scale of public fury on this issue. (PA Graphics) He called for the new Labour Government to launch a public inquiry as the only way to help us understand how we got here and how we can dig our way out. Paul de Zylva, from Friends of the Earth, said the decision on bills and investment yet again proves that our current form of water privatisation is not fit for purpose. It sees water companies pile pressure on Ofwat to allow them to hike customers bills to subsidise long-overdue investment in our crumbling sewage infrastructure which might cut or prevent some, but by no means all, pollution. While he said Ofwats draft determination shows it is not pandering to everything water companies want, many will still see the increase in bills as unfair. He called for the Government to provide greater funding for the Environment Agency, which is tasked with regulating the environmental actions of water companies, and put a green duty on Ofwat alongside its environmental focus, as well as impose tougher sanctions on irresponsible water firms. New Environment Secretary Steve Reed is meeting bosses from all 16 water companies covering England and Wales on Thursday, amid the furore over bills and sewage. Labour has set out the first steps it plans to take to tackle the issue, including ring-fencing funding for infrastructure, and more power and focus on customers. Tim Farron, environment spokesman for the Liberal Democrats who campaigned heavily on the sewage scandal in the election, warned that any insulting price hikes by water companies must be blocked. It is a national scandal that these disgraced firms are demanding more money from families and pensioners in a cost-of-living crisis, all whilst dumping raw sewage into our rivers, he said. Communities spoke loudly at the election, demanding an end to the sewage scandal and water firms stuffing their pockets with bonuses and dividends. The Government and regulator must listen to the country. The Green Party has called for water companies to be taken into public ownership. Green MP Sian Berry said: Once this is done, Government can invest affordably in the creaking infrastructure without all the harm falling on to our bills, and into our rivers and oceans that are currently being treated as open sewers. Households punished for failure of greedy water companies to upgrade crumbling infrastructure, filling rivers with human sewage. #SewageScandal READ MORE https://t.co/N1u6wIxFMb pic.twitter.com/gVW8SqqDlC RiverActionUK (@RiverActionUK) July 11, 2024 And chief executive of campaign group River Action James Wallace said: These bill hikes punish households struggling with the cost-of-living crisis for the abject failure of greedy water companies to invest in their crumbling infrastructure and reduce record sewage spills. For decades the industry has put profit before the environment, rewarding its shareholders with billions in dividends, and in the process filling our rivers with human sewage. We must fix this national embarrassment of systemic sewage pollution which has caused environmental carnage to our rivers. Mr Wallace called for failing water companies to be put into special administration, and for Ofwat and the EA to be properly resourced and reformed to prioritise people and the environment. Colleagues of the daughter of a BBC racing commentator have paid tribute to the fantastic therapist, after she was murdered with a crossbow alongside her mother and sister. Suspect Kyle Clifford, 26, is in hospital after being found injured during Wednesdays manhunt for the alleged killer. Hannah Hunt, 28, the daughter of BBC 5 Live racing commentator John Hunt, was killed alongside her mother Carol Hunt, 61, and sister Louise, 25 during an incident in the quiet cul-de-sac of Ashlyn Close, in Bushey, Hertfordshire, just after 7pm on Tuesday. On Thursday, further searches took place at a house linked to Cliffords brother, Bradley Clifford, who was jailed for life with a minimum term of 23 years for the murder of moped passenger Soban Khan in 2018. Floral tributes near the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire (Jonathan Brady/PA) According to the Metropolitan Police, at the time of the murder, Bradley Clifford had targeted the moped before crashing into it, and continued to assault Mr Khan after the collision. Officers were seen at the address in Rendlesham Road, Enfield, north London, in relation to the deaths. Police staff wearing gloves and face masks were seen outside the property, which was first searched on Wednesday. In a post on Facebook, Hannah Hunts colleagues at The Anti-Ageing Clinic in Radlett, Hertfordshire, said it was with deep regret and sadness that they learned of the horrific murder on Tuesday night of our skin therapist Hannah. The post continued: She was a fantastic therapist and clients loved her. We send our condolences and prayers to her Dad, sister and family. She was very much a part of our team. Please bear with us at this terrible time. A message attached to a floral tribute left near the scene in Ashlyn Close (Jonathan Brady/PA) Flowers were left at the scene in Ashlyn Close on Thursday, with notes attached to some bouquets with messages such as rest in peace. Clifford was found injured in Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield, north London, on Wednesday and was taken to a major trauma centre for treatment. Police said no shots had been fired by officers and no arrest had yet been made. Footage from Sky News appeared to show Clifford being stretchered out of the cemetery by paramedics. Armed police had earlier been in the area, with an air ambulance nearby. Neighbours recalled hearing screaming on Tuesday, as the traumatic incident unfolded. In a press conference before Clifford was found, Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson, from Hertfordshire Police, told reporters the killings were believed to have been targeted. Police vehicles at the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey (Jonathan Brady/PA) During the hunt for Clifford, who is understood to have left the Army in 2022 after a short stint, the force said they believed he may have been armed with a crossbow and warned people not to approach him. He was believed to have been known to the victims. Radio 5 Live presenter Mark Chapman paid an emotional tribute at the start of the Euro 2024 pre-match show. Speaking through tears, he said: This has been a heart-breaking day. John Hunt is our colleague and our friend, not just to the current 5 Live sport team but to all of those who have worked here with him over the past 20 years and also to all of you who have enjoyed his superb commentaries. On behalf of everybody connected to 5 Live sport, our love and thoughts and support are with John and his family. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is urgently considering whether tougher crossbow laws are needed in the wake of the killings. She will look at the findings of a Home Office review carried out earlier this year. A Home Office spokeswoman said: We keep legislation under constant review and a call for evidence was launched earlier this year to look at whether further controls on crossbows should be introduced. The Home Secretary will swiftly consider the findings to see if laws need to be tightened further. Consumers in England and Wales are set to learn how much their water bills are likely to rise by over the next five years, and what firms will have to do to improve their services in return. Regulator Ofwat will release its draft determinations on Thursday, when it signs off on firms requests for bill rises based on their spending plans, ahead of a final decision at the end of the year. Southern Water has requested the highest increase in bills among the utility companies of 73% to 727 a year, while Wessex Water has requested a 36% increase to 690 a year. Thames Water, which has 16 million customers in London and the Thames Valley region, put forward plans in April that would see spending rise to 19.8 billion to update its infrastructure and reduce sewage spills. However, that would also involve increasing customer bills by 44% to 627, a figure which has prompted backlash from consumer groups. The proposed bill increases come amid public fury around firms rampant polluting of waterways with sewage spills as they continue to hand dividends to shareholders, and bonuses to executives something which Labour has pledged to clamp down on. Sewage spills into Englands rivers and seas more than doubled in 2023. According to the Environment Agency, there were 3.6 million hours of spills last year equal to about 400 years compared with 1.75 million hours in 2022. Not a single river in England is considered to be in good overall health, and beauty spots including Windermere in the Lake District have been hit by sewage spills. Thames Water put forward plans that would see spending rise to 19.8 billion to update its infrastructure, prompting backlash as bills would rise by 44% (Dominic Lipinski/PA) The situation has enraged campaigners, who say the privatised water companies have paid out billions of pounds to shareholders and bosses bonuses while failing to invest sufficiently in the countrys water infrastructure, though the utilities point to the large sums in investments they have made. The large amount of water lost to leaks in the system also raises widespread concerns, particularly in dry periods when consumers face hosepipe bans. Recent research by the University of Greenwich suggests that investors have taken 85.2bn from 10 water and sewage firms in England and Wales since the industry was privatised more than 30 years ago. More recently, Englands three biggest listed water companies Severn Trent, South West Water and United Utilities all paid out more in dividends this year than last time around. New rules were introduced last year to ensure that water companies do not pay dividends unless they are judged to have delivered for customers and the environment. Consumer Council for Water chief executive Mike Keil said in May that customers would not tolerate future bill rises unless they see and feel a step change in the service they receive from their water company whether thats having the confidence to swim at their local beach or experiencing a more reliable water supply. If customers are going to be asked to pay considerably more, they have a right to expect far more in return. Double child killer Colin Pitchforks next parole hearing will no longer be held in public due to unforeseeable developments including fresh allegations. The Parole Board said on Thursday that the allegations were in respect of relatively recent conduct and apologised for the increased stress on the families of the victims. The full ruling from the panel chair on the parole hearing is not expected to be published until next week at the earliest, and it is unclear so far what the allegations refer to. Pitchfork, 64, was jailed for life in 1988 after raping and strangling 15-year-old girls Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth in Leicestershire in 1983 and 1986. Then aged 27, he became the first man to be convicted in the UK using DNA profiling and was handed a minimum jail term of 30 years, later reduced to 28 years. Pitchfork was initially released from prison in September 2021 but was back behind bars two months later after breaching his licence conditions when he approached a lone woman while litter-picking. A spokesperson for the Parole Board said: A panel of the Parole Board held a directions hearing for Colin Pitchfork on Wednesday 10 July. At that directions hearing the panel and both parties discussed how best to receive evidence in respect of fresh allegations in the case. This included the submission of new material to the panel which relates to risk. We regret that as a result of material changes in circumstances there has had to be a change of decision in relation to the nature of the hearing, which will no longer be held in public. It has been caused by unforeseeable developments including fresh allegations in respect of relatively recent conduct. A copy of the public hearing decision, made by the panel chair using their delegated authority, will be published on the Parole Board website, when available. We would like to apologise again for the increased stress that both the adjournment and the subsequent public hearing decision may have on the victims. Victim involvement is a valued part of the parole process and the victims have been invited to observe some of the private proceedings. The private oral hearing will be relisted in due course. Parole Board decisions are solely focused on what risk a prisoner could represent to the public if released and whether that risk is manageable in the community. The panel will carefully examine a whole range of evidence, including details of the original crime, and any evidence of behaviour change, as well as understand the harm done and impact the crime has had on the victims. Parole reviews are undertaken thoroughly and with extreme care. Protecting the public is our number one priority. In June last year, the Parole Board found the decision to recall Pitchfork to prison was flawed and said his detention was no longer necessary for public safety. But this ruling was blocked by then-justice secretary Alex Chalk as he called for the decision to release Pitchfork to be reviewed. Although Pitchfork lost his latest bid for freedom in December, earlier this year he successfully challenged the ruling to keep him behind bars. It meant the now 64-year-old will face a fresh parole hearing, which could see him released from jail. The hearings are typically conducted behind closed doors but can now in certain circumstances take place in public if requested, after changes in the law in a bid to remove the secrecy behind the process. Former veterans minister Johnny Mercer is potentially facing a prison sentence after his application to withhold the names of those who told him about alleged special forces murders was rejected by the Afghanistan Inquirys chairman. Sir Charles Haddon-Caves ruling on Thursday quoted from the British Armys values and standards by saying: Integrity requires moral courage to do what is right, even when it may not be popular. Mr Mercer repeatedly refused to hand over names of multiple officers who told him about allegations of murder and a cover-up during his time as a backbench MP while giving evidence to the probe in February and has reiterated that he intends to keep my word to those who confided in him. Former minister for veterans affairs Johnny Mercer attending the UKs national commemorative event for the 80th anniversary of D-Day (Andrew Matthews/PA) Mr Mercer claimed the ruling contained multiple inaccuracies and assertions and said he found it extraordinary that Mr Haddon-Cave considers it appropriate to repeatedly question my moral courage and integrity in public. Giving his reason for not disclosing the names during his evidence in February, Mr Mercer told counsel to the inquiry Oliver Glasgow KC: The one thing you can hold on to is your integrity and I will be doing that with these individuals. In a previous order compelling the ex-Conservative MP for Plymouth to hand over the names, the inquiry chairman said the consequences of failing to comply without reasonable excuse would be a criminal offence punishable with imprisonment and/or a fine. Mr Mercer then submitted an application to the probe on April 3, in which he argued he was either unable to comply with the order, or it was not reasonable for him to comply with it. In his statement on Thursday following the ruling, which he posted on X, the former MP said: I note the statement from the inquiry chair, containing as it does multiple factual inaccuracies and assertions. I find it extraordinary, given my unprecedented support to assist the Inquiry, including some names of those who have given me consent, that Mr Haddon-Cave considers it appropriate to repeatedly question my moral courage and integrity in public. These unjustified and unprovoked attempts by a High Court judge to assassinate my character, without any foundation whatsoever, crosses a line. From Northern Ireland to Iraq to Afghanistan, the courts have consistently mis-judged their handling of these issues, with appalling consequences for serving personnel and veterans, usually of junior rank. I could comment on the naivete of the inquiry team; or how despite my repeated requests for them to have the basic courtesy to inform me privately before they release details of my fate to the press, I again found out my fate today from a journalist. But I would consider that improper. I have given my statement to the inquiry. Mr Haddon-Cave must now stop fixating on attempting to bully me, I have done nothing wrong. I gave my word to junior personnel who approached me. I intend to keep it. In his ruling on Thursday, Sir Charles said: The Applicant submits that he is a protector of whistleblowers. He chose publicly, however, to disclose that friends told him about allegations of unlawful killings by (special forces) in Afghanistan. He has since refused to disclose the names to assist the Inquiry, even though: the Inquiry was set up for the very purpose of looking into these allegations; he says that his friends were merely witnesses; he could pass on their names to the inquiry privately and in strict confidence; he accepts that the inquiry protects the identities of confidential contacts; and they have protection from risk of prosecution for breach of the Official Secrets Act or failure to report misconduct. An inquiry spokeswoman said: Mr Mercer is refusing to disclose information which may be important to a public inquiry which is seeking to establish the truth about grave allegations of multiple murder involving UK Special Forces. Mr Mercer accepts the inquiry has secure measures in place to protect the names and identities of his sources and that witnesses coming forward to the inquiry have protection from risk of prosecution for breaches of the Official Secrets Act or for failure to report misconduct. The chair has given Mr Mercer a further two weeks to comply with the Section 21 notice. The chairs concluding observations were that Integrity requires moral courage to do what is right, even when it may not be popular. Mr Mercer now has until July 25 to hand over the names to the inquiry. The Government has told the High Court that the approval of a new coal mine in Cumbria should be quashed and has withdrawn its defence of a legal challenge against the decision, environmental campaign groups have said. Friends of the Earth (FoE) and South Lakes Action on Climate Change (SLACC) had brought a High Court claim against the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government over its decision to grant planning permission for the site near Whitehaven, which was set to be the first new coal mine in the UK in 30 years. The groups were set to argue that the decision was unlawful at a three-day hearing in London next week, but they said on Thursday that the Government had withdrawn its defence and told the High Court that the decision to grant planning permission should be quashed. But they said a hearing would still be held as the sites developer, West Cumbria Mining, is expected to oppose the legal claim. The decision comes after a Supreme Court ruling last month where justices at the UKs highest court said that emissions created by burning fossil fuels should be considered when granting planning permission for sites where they are extracted. FoE climate co-ordinator, Jamie Peters, said: Were delighted the Government agrees that planning permission for this destructive, polluting and unnecessary coal mine was unlawfully granted and that it should be quashed. We hope the court agrees, and that the mine is then rejected when the Secretary of State reconsiders the application. Friends of the Earth will continue to stand alongside SLACC and the other community groups in Cumbria who have fought so bravely to halt this mine. The new Government must now ensure that areas like West Cumbria get the jobs and investment they urgently need so that people living there can reap the benefits of building a clean, green and affordable future. Maggie Mason, of SLACC, said: We argued throughout the inquiry and this legal claim that the emissions from using the coal were not properly assessed and it is great to see this acknowledged. Our small charity has opposed the mine because of its harmful impacts on the local and global climate, and the appalling precedent created by West Cumbria Minings claim that a new coal mine doesnt increase the global use of coal. Building the mine on an old chemical site close to homes and the Irish Sea was also risky. West Cumbrians deserve jobs that dont cost the earth. The groups said that if West Cumbria Mining also drops its opposition to the legal claim, the court could approve an order to quash the decision to grant planning permission next week, with the decision then sent back to the housing, communities and local government minister for reconsideration. The decision follows the quashing of the approval for an oilfield in the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), earlier on Thursday. Campaign group SOS Biscathorpe had brought a High Court claim against the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities over the decision to permit exploratory oil drilling and production at the site in Biscathorpe. At a hearing in June, the groups barrister, Estelle Dehon KC said that major development in AONBs is permitted only in exceptional circumstances and that the approval decision was unlawful. Law firm Leigh Day, which represents the campaigners, said on Thursday that the government department prior to the General Election had agreed to concede the case and quashed the approval, following the Supreme Court ruling. Leigh Day solicitor Julia Eriksen, who represents the campaigners, said: We are hugely pleased that this case has resulted in a positive outcome and are proud to represent a local community group in their continuing fight against fossil fuel development. She continued: This case illustrates the significant implications of the Supreme Courts landmark judgment on fossil fuel production in June, which ruled that planning inspectors must take into account the downstream emissions from burning fuel when considering fossil fuel applications. We hope this success in Lincolnshire is a positive sign for similar cases still before the courts. Amanda Suddaby from SOS Biscathorpe said: We are delighted that 10 years of hard work and campaigning have finally paid off, and it was also encouraging to see that these very senior judges seemed to recognise and value the importance of public participation in addressing the enormous issue of climate crisis. Our hope now is that this paves the way to a full and proper understanding of the great harm that each and every new fossil fuel development represents. Irelands deputy premier has said he is positive and optimistic about future relations with the UK. Micheal Martin also suggested there could be a friendly settlement to the interstate case which Ireland took against the UK over the controversial Legacy Act aimed at addressing Northern Irelands troubled past. The Tanaiste was speaking to the media as he met new Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn at Hillsborough Castle following Labours victory in last weeks General Election. Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn (left) and Tanaiste Micheal Martin ahead of a meeting at Hillsborough Castle in Belfast (Brian Lawless/PA) He said he expected a wide-ranging discussion, including the stability of the Stormont Assembly and the opportunity to reset British/Irish relations. Speaking after the meeting, Mr Benn said they discussed the UK Governments commitment to economic growth, peace and stability in Northern Ireland, and to foster renewed, close relations with our nearest neighbour. Our relationship with Ireland is of great importance and I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Irish Government to reset and strengthen the relationship between our two countries, he said. Earlier Mr Martin said they had had a very good phone call last week following the UK General Election. We know each other. We have a good understanding of each others perspective, British/Irish relations and how to advance reconciliation in Northern Ireland, he said. There has been tension between the UK and Irish administrations in recent years following Brexit as well as the Conservative governments controversial legacy Bill on dealing with Northern Irelands troubled past. Asked for his view on the British/Irish relationship going forward, Mr Martin said he is positive and optimistic about the future relationship between the British and Irish governments. But also I realise the challenges and Im realistic in terms of how we meet those challenges, but what I am particularly focused on is to re-establish both governments working hand in hand as anchors of the Good Friday Agreement into the future. I think progress was made under Prime Minister Sunak and former secretary of state Chris Heaton-Harris in many areas, particularly in terms of the Windsor Framework, but I do believe we have an opportunity to advance the situation on a wide range of issues, to deal with the legacy issue on an amicable basis, to work through that. I am positive and I believe there are opportunities here the British and Irish governments can exploit, and I am confident that if we work together we can advance reconciliation, which is my key agenda in the time ahead. Asked whether the Irish government intends to continue an interstate case against the UK over the Legacy Act, Mr Martin said he and Mr Benn will explore the issue. There are mechanisms within the framework of the case which allow for, if you like, a friendly settlement but that will obviously depend on how the British Government is going to deal with that Legacy Act and the core issues, he said. Above all, we believe the pressing issue on legacy is to restore trust in the legacy framework for the victims and families of those who lost their lives in atrocities. It is about the families, the survivors and victims. We have to restore trust. An Irish soldier who assaulted a woman in a random attack is to be discharged from the Defence Forces on Thursday. Cathal Crotty, with an address at Parkroe Heights, Ardnacrusha, Co Clare, pleaded guilty to assaulting Natasha OBrien in Limerick in 2022. Ms OBrien said his dismissal was the bare minimum she expected and said it was too little too late. Crotty, 22, walked free from court after being given a three-year suspended sentence for the attack in a case that prompted protests across Ireland and put pressure on the Irish Government to tackle violence against women. The Irish military confirmed in a statement that Crotty was being discharged on Thursday. The Defence Forces unequivocally condemns any actions by serving personnel that are contrary to military regulations or that do not reflect our values, it said in a statement. Speaking to the PA news agency, Ms OBrien said Crottys dismissal was the bare minimum of what she expected. Realistically its too little too late, she said. Im extremely dissatisfied and disappointed that it has taken this enormous level of media focus and national uproar for the bare minimum to be done. Had I not spoken up, I dont believe this would have happened and I cannot help but feel for all the victims that are in the same position that I am, that are watching their attackers continue in the Forces and this is not just exclusive for the Defence Forces, this goes across all important positions and positions of power. Ms OBrien said after being put through the wars, she has had to put her entire life and soul into speaking up about the attack for the bare minimum to be done. She added: To the Defence Forces: what are you doing to ensure this doesnt happen again? Irelands director of public prosecutions has lodged an appeal against the sentence given to Crotty on the basis of undue leniency. Double Olympic taekwondo champion Jade Jones has escaped sanction after being found to have committed a no-fault doping violation following her failure to provide a urine sample in December last year. The UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD) confirmed that on the basis of very exceptional circumstances relating to confidential medical records, Jones bears no fault or negligence for her refusal or failure to submit to her sample collection. The ruling means the 31-year-old is able to pursue her quest for a third Olympic medal as part of a four-strong Great Britain taekwondo team in Paris later this month. Jade Jones won her second Olympic gold medal in Rio (Owen Humphreys/PA) Jones failed to provide a sample to an official who arrived at her hotel in Manchester early on December 1, signing a document to say she was unable to do so due to undergoing dehydration training prior to a weigh-in. Later that same day, she provided a sample to a separate tester, which proved negative. Jones said in a statement: I understand and accept UKADs decision. At the moment this started, I didnt grasp the situation I was in and what could happen. I gave a negative sample later that day, but its clear I made a mistake that morning. Jade Jones shot to fame by winning taekwondo gold in London (Julien Behal/PA) What I understand now is not just the mistake I made but the reasons it happened and that there could have been different consequences. I want to thank UKAD for listening and seeing the circumstances and GB Taekwondo for their support. Im grateful that my actions have been properly understood and that I can continue to compete. Jones, who said she had been stressed and panicked on the morning of the missed test due to her impending competition, was informed by UKAD on December 14 she was subject to a provisional suspension. UKAD subsequently imposed its no-fault ruling on the basis of a report by a consultant psychiatrist who confirmed that Joness decision to refuse or failure to provide a sample occurred as a direct result of her cognitive impairment. Jones won her first Olympic gold medal at London 2012 at the age of just 19 and followed it up by successfully defending her title in Rio four years later. Despite adding her first world title in Manchester in 2019, Jones could not make it three Olympic titles in a row as she lost in the last 16 to Kimia Alizadeh of the Refugee Team in Tokyo. GB Taekwondo chief executive Paul Buxton said: GB Taekwondo commends UKADs thorough process, respects the outcome and reaffirms that we have every confidence in Jade. Shes been clear about what happened on that day, candid when sharing the conditions which affected her decision-making and provided a negative sample later that afternoon. Jade accepts UKADs decision and is fully committed to clean sport. Barlaston Hall, once condemned, is now on sale for 3.5m and has a thriving events business A Grade I-listed stately home that was bought for just 1 after it was left in a state of decay could be an inspiration for other historic buildings close to ruin, a campaign group claimed. The 18th-century Barlaston House, near Stoke-on-Trent, was close to ruin when the campaign group Save Britains Heritage stepped in to rescue the site in the 1980s. Now it is on the market for 3.5m after years of renovation and being sold on to its present owners Cameron and Claire Gilchrist-Dick for 2m during lockdown. The couple, who have built a successful events business on the estate, have now put the fully restored stately home and estate onto the market. Save Britains Heritage said the fact that the almost hopeless case of Barlaston Hall could be saved should serve as an inspiration for conserving other historic buildings. In 1981, the Wedgwood pottery company applied to have the derelict country manor demolished Save Britain's Heritage stepped in but were in a race against time because of subsidence caused by mining in the area Marcus Binney, an architect who has overseen the restoration, said: If Barlaston can be saved, no other major country house need be forsaken. The 19,065-sq ft (1,772 sq metres) mansion, which stands on a hill in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside, was designed by Sir Robert Taylor and built in 1756. It was bought for 1 in the 1980s by the campaign group before it was sold on in 1992 by the Hall family, who continued the refurbishment. They continued to restore the house to its 18th century glory before selling it to the Gilchrist-Dick family. Wedding venue The couple, who bought the 10-bedroom residence in Staffordshire in 2020, made the place profitable as a wedding venue by making use of St Johns, a deconsecrated medieval church on the ground. While the property is being sold intact with a lavish set of suites, the hall had come close to total ruin in the 1980s. Heritage experts who surveyed the site found that it had been left to rot for 20 years, and water had begun to pour through the roof. Floorboards and plasterwork had collapsed into the basement as a result. The house also sat on a coalfield, which left the manor house designed for 18th century Staffordshire gentleman Thomas Mills at risk of subsidence. By 1981, the owners of the site, the Wedgwood pottery company, had applied to demolish the hall. The campaign group Save Britains Heritage strapped in with plans to preserve the hall and protect it from the ill-effects of mining, and agreed an unlikely deal to buy the property for a mere 1. Claire Gilchrist-Dick, along with husband Cameron, have finished the renovation of Grade I-listed building Under the leadership of architect Marcus Binney, restoration work began against the clock, as the building could still be earmarked for demolition if works were not completed within five years. The restoration ultimately succeeded after the National Coal Board agreed to pay towards fixing the damage caused by subsidence, following an intervention by Michael Heseltine, then environment secretary. It was initially sold for a rumoured 300,000. In 2020, the home was bought by the Gilchrist-Dick family, who worked to complete repairs and add their own touches to the buildings interior. Speaking on the BBC, Mrs Gilchrist-Dick said: Were a custodian [sic] of this house. A part of me will always be in this house. I love every nook and cranny of it. The Gilchrist-Dick family said they were sad to be leaving the home, but they had become victims of their own success now want to live in a more peaceful family home. Joe Biden speaks during a bilateral meeting with Keir Starmer at the White House on Wednesday. Photograph: Abaca/Rex/Shutterstock Joe Bidens position appeared shaky on Thursday, amid reports that his aides and advisers were discussing how to persuade him to leave the presidential race while his own campaign was secretly testing Kamala Harriss popularity, suggesting it was preparing for that very scenario. Then just before the US president was scheduled to face journalists at a potentially pivotal news conference marking the end of Natos 75th anniversary summit, he spoke to reporters there and mistakenly referred to Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, as President Putin. Biden quickly realised he had mixed up one of his international allies, who was there, with the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, and corrected himself, but the gaffe could not have come at a worse time. Earlier, two separate New York Times reports suggested his efforts to keep his candidacy for re-election afloat were close to foundering. The Times reported on its website that his campaigns analytics team was quietly testing the strength of Harris, the vice-president, among voters in a match-up against Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee. Related: Biden to speak at Nato summit in high-stakes press conference live updates Biden has consistently argued that he has the best chance of beating Trump, citing polling evidence. A separate report suggested that unnamed longtime aides and advisers to the president had become convinced in recent days that his campaign to beat Trump in the election was doomed and were trying to find ways of persuading him of their argument. The story was met by denial by the White House and the Biden campaign, which respectively called it unequivocally not true and patently false. But the picture of diminishing support for the president even within his own camp was further strengthened by an NBC report suggesting that three people involved in his re-election campaign had written off his chances. He needs to drop out, the networks website quoted one Biden campaign official as saying. He will never recover from this. The glut of damaging stories followed a number of Democratic party members calling on him to step down and as senators from the party prepared to meet key members of Bidens staff at the White House to air their concerns about his electability following last months disastrous debate performance with Trump. On Thursday afternoon, three more House Democrats called for Biden to withdraw, Greg Stanton of Arizona, Ed Case of Hawaii and Brad Schneider of Illinois. Schneider said in a statement: I fear if he fails to make the right choice, our democracy will hang in the balance, while Stanton posted a statement on Twitter/X effusively praising Bidens record and his character but saying he should step aside as the nominee amid the need to save US democracy from the existential threat of Donald Trump. The Nato-related press conference set for Thursday evening was seen as crucial as a test to compare Bidens performance with the dire one he displayed in the debate, followed by a less than convincing performance in a TV interview with ABC the following week. The event is the kind of unscripted set piece that Bidens staff stand accused of shielding him from, and any repeat of the calamitous debate display could turn the steady trickle of public calls for Biden to stand aside into a flood. Related: The Democrats who have called on Joe Biden to step down Some of Bidens most loyal acolytes at the top of the Democratic party have issued less than full-throated statements of support in recent days. Chuck Schumer, the Senate majority leader, who has repeated the mantra Im for Joe throughout the crisis, was reported to have signalled openness to having the president replaced at the top of the presidential ticket. Axios reported that Schumer had been taking close account of the feelings of party donors and fellow senators in the 12 days since Bidens meltdown in the 27 June debate, when he plunged the viability of his candidacy into doubt by abjectly failing to defend his own policies or counter Trumps lies. As I have made clear repeatedly publicly and privately, I support President Biden and remain committed to ensuring Donald Trump is defeated in November, Schumer said, in comments that fell short of a ringing endorsement. On Wednesday, Peter Welch of Vermont became the first Democratic senator to publicly tell Biden to step aside. Nine members of the House of Representatives have already done so. He saved us from Donald Trump once and wants to do it again. But he needs to reassess whether he is the best candidate to do so. In my view, he is not, Welch wrote in a Washington Post opinion piece. The president ostensibly retains the support of Democratic governors, senators in the vital swing states of Michigan and Pennsylvania, the Black congressional caucus, key progressive House members including Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez, and many others. But a meeting between senators and Biden staff on Thursday apparently did not go particularly well, with reports that things got heated as the lawmakers complained Biden was not taking control of the situation and that they were in a very difficult situation. It took place against the backdrop of backstage manoeuvring. The former House speaker, Nancy Pelosi, placed added pressure on Biden on Wednesday by telling MSNBC that it was up to the president to decide, and we are encouraging him to make that decision. Behind the scenes, Pelosi has reportedly told Democratic Congress members that Biden cannot win the election and should step aside, according to Politico. She has also reportedly encouraged Democrats in swing districts threatened with losing their seats in November to do whatever is necessary to defend themselves, including calling on Biden to stand aside. Crucially, she is also said to have advised members to wait until the end of the Nato gathering before going public. A fresh Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll showed 56% of Democratic voters agreeing that Biden should end his campaign, against 42% who said he should stay put a finding that undermined the presidents assertion that the effort to oust him was led by elites in the party. Biden has held fewer news conferences with journalists in his three and a half years in office than any president since Ronald Reagan. A previous press conference at the White House in February to counter criticisms by Robert Hur, a special prosecutor who criticised the presidents poor memory, backfired somewhat when Biden referred to the Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, as the president of Mexico. Keir Starmer and Joe Biden meet in Washington DC - Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street Joe Biden told Sir Keir Starmer he wanted to see him bring Britain closer to Europe. Meeting in the Oval Office in the White House, the US president urged the new Prime Minister to help strengthen Nato by getting closer to the European Union. His comments come after Sir Keir said he wanted to use the Nato summit to start strengthening relations with the EU within days. On Wednesday he met Olaf Scholz, the German Chancellor, to discuss deepening Britains defence and security relationship with Europe. Speaking before the meeting with Mr Scholz on Wednesday morning, Mr Biden said: I kind of see you guys as the knot tying the transatlantic alliance together, the closer you are with Europe, we know where you are, you know where we are. A government spokesman said: The president welcomed the Prime Ministers recent comments on establishing closer relationships with our European counterparts, as well as the UKs commitment to Aukus. They reflected that at a time when we face growing challenges across the world, we are at our strongest when we unite and work together. Sir Keir earlier told reporters he wanted to use the trip to improve relations with the EU in days, not months. He said that was why he had brought along Nick Thomas-Symonds, his Europe minister. Sir Keir described the timing of the summit as a really important window of opportunity for me and my team, adding: Because weve got the Nato summit within a week of the electionwe get the opportunity to strengthen our relations with various Nato leaders and others obviously that are there, including EU leaders, he said. Keir Starmer speaks with Olaf Scholz in Washington DC - Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street A Downing Street spokesman said: The Chancellor welcomed the Prime Ministers commitment to re-setting the UKs European partnerships, noting how important our friendships with like-minded countries will be in a challenging international environment. They discussed the importance of having the widest possible cooperation across all aspects of the relationship. The two leaders moved on to discuss the need for enhanced defence cooperation in Europe to act as a deterrent for aggression by hostile actors. They agreed that the Nato summit was an opportunity to strengthen our support for Ukraine. The two leaders agreed a firm commitment to deepen in particular UK-Germany defence ties, working at pace to deliver those objectives. Carbon ratings agency Renoster found that the Sealaska project in south-eastern Alaska manipulated its boundaries in order to receive more credits. The darker green areas in the image show the remaining trees that had not been logged. Photograph: Renoster from Google Earth This story is co-published with SourceMaterial and Floodlight Some forest carbon offsets sold by the biggest offsetting company in the US offer little or no benefit to the climate, a satellite analysis has found. Finite Carbon, created in 2009 and bought by British multinational oil and gas giant BP in 2020, is responsible for more than a quarter of the USs total carbon credits, which it says it generates from protecting more than 60 high credibility, high integrity projects across 1.6m hectares (4m acres). However, experts at the offsets ratings agency Renoster and the non-profit CarbonPlan analyzed three projects accounting for almost half of Finite Carbons total credits, with an estimated market value of $334m, according to analysis by market intelligence company AlliedOffsets. Renoster found issues, including trees in a project in the Alaska Panhandle that were probably never in danger of being cut down in an already extensively logged area. Of the credits Renoster looked at, they found that about 79% should not have been issued. Renoster, a company mostly used by prospective buyers of carbon credits to help them avoid those without real climate benefits, was commissioned by the non-profit newsroom SourceMaterial to examine Finites projects. CarbonPlan provided additional analysis. We dont think that the project should have been allowed to proceed and earn credits, said Elias Ayrey, Renosters head scientist, commenting on the Alaskan project. The analysis comes amid mounting concern about the global offsetting industry, predicted by Barclays bank to be worth $1.5tn by 2050. The US treasury secretary, Janet Yellen, in May unveiled new principles to help strengthen the carbon market in an effort to address significant existing challenges, saying she had seen too many examples of offsets which didnt represent real emissions reductions. Critics say the industry has fundamental failings, and some companies have been shifting away from offsets. Last year the Guardian, SourceMaterial and the German newspaper Die Zeit revealed that as many as 90% of the most commonly traded offsets may be practically useless in mitigating global warming. Finite runs some of the largest offsetting projects in North America. Under Californias cap-and-trade system, it earns credits from across the US which it sells to polluters to offset their emissions. In theory, developers like Finite encourage landowners to protect trees that would otherwise be cut down so that they continue to absorb carbon from the atmosphere. Finite says its projects have nullified more than 70m tonnes of harmful emissions, the equivalent of 18 coal plants running for a year and more than double the total emissions BP reported last year. Critics, though, say Californias flawed offsetting system is handing companies a license to pollute with impunity. The potential for mischief, for gaming is just overwhelming, said Mark Trexler, an independent climate scientist who created the first offsetting project in 1989. Asked about Renosters analysis, Finite Carbon did not respond to specific questions but defended its offsets. All Finite Carbons compliance market projects have been independently verified, developed in accordance with the applicable standards and protocols under the California cap-and-trade program, and the projects have all been approved by the California air resources board, said Brendan Terry, a Finite Carbon spokesperson. BP directed requests to comment to Finite Carbon. The multinational oil and gas company praised Finite Carbon during its acquisition. Potential for gaming the system The way the offsets work is that to justify claims that forests are being saved, each project is based on a baseline, which is a calculation of how many trees would be lost if the program did not exist. Finites Sealaska project in the Alaskan Panhandle says it is protecting 67,000 hectares of forest. The project is owned by the Sealaska corporation, a for-profit company created in 1972 and owned by Alaska Natives. The credits this project has generated are valued at over $100m, according to analysis by Allied Offsets. Using satellite imagery, Renoster found that trees there face little to no risk of ever being cut down. Thats because the corporation has already logged the vast majority of the land around the project. The only trees still standing are in deep ravines, along roadsides, rivers and coastlines. Instead of including the deforested land, Finite drew circles around thousands of tiny areas where trees were still standing, creating a hugely complicated map. In one of the projects areas, Finite had circled fewer than 50 trees on a tiny island off the coast. Renosters satellite analysis concluded: They are not at risk of deforestation and thus should not be receiving credits. While this approach may be within the rules in California, where the credits are sold, it undermines the spirit of the regulations, Renoster concluded. Renoster gave the project a score of zero, meaning it thinks it should not be issued any credits. Although some conservation may be going on, the gerrymandering made it impossible to assess, Ayrey said. We have a zero tolerance policy on this behavior, he said. The report concluded: We consider this type of manipulation to be cheating The drawing of these boundaries is an intentional act designed to avoid protocol rules. Asked about the findings, Sealasaka representatives said the trees left behind did hold economic value and were legal to cut down, but they opted not to because of Finites program. The former Sealaska executive vice-president Rick Harris said at one point prices for chartering helicopters dropped to such low levels that the company could afford to hire them to cut down low-value pulp logs. Brian Kleinhenz, who helped develop the credits while working at Sealaska and is now president of the carbon offsetting developer Terra Verde, said there was always value in the trees, even if they are hard to get at. Theres going to be a market for all this material, in one way or another, he said. Dave Clegern, public information officer for the California Air Resources Board (Carb), said: If trees on steep terrain are valuable enough to warrant the cost of getting there and moving logs down the mountaintop, then they may be included in a baseline calculation. These rules would apply with Sealaska, he said. Ayrey, however, argued the evidence did not support this. The strongest piece of evidence is the obvious, he said. Theyve clearcut vast tracts around these trees and left them in place. Most of these clearcuts date to [more than] 20 years ago and if it were profitable to access these sites, they would have done it then. Alleged over-crediting Another Finite project analyzed by Renoster for SourceMaterial in West Virginia scored above zero, meaning it should be awarded some credits. But it was over-credited, the findings showed. The 39,000-hectare project is owned by Lyme Timber Company, which promised to preserve some trees in exchange for carbon credits. Renoster found that many of these trees were inaccessible due to steep slopes, meaning Lyme couldnt actually cut them down. David P Hoffer, president of Lyme Timber, said the project had already been developed when his company purchased the land. With respect to harvesting activity, contrary to the Renoster report, Lyme has harvested substantially less than biological growth since we purchased the property in 2017, he said. Carbs Clegern said concerns had been raised about Lymes program but were ultimately cleared by the state of West Virginia and a registered forester. The verifiers are reasonably assured that despite the highly variable terrain and steep slopes found on the project area, they would allow for traditional harvesting techniques, he said. Clegern added: To the best of our knowledge, the project is in conformance with all regulatory and protocol requirements. Another project is a 200,000-hectare (494,000-acre) forest in Washington state owned by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation. Finites offsetting calculations imagined a risk of far more logging than the tribes had planned or had ever done before according to Grayson Badgley, a scientist at CarbonPlan. One of the last things you want to do with offsets is pay someone not to do something they were never planning to do anyway, Badgley said. A significant number of credits may have been awarded for forgoing harvests that were unlikely to ever happen. Representatives for Colville did not respond to requests for comment. Clergen said Carb had not received any complaints about Colvilles carbon project. California dreaming Experts question whether Californias cap-and-trade system, through which Finite sells most of its credits, is a solution to climate change or part of the problem. Sellers have an interest in maximizing the volume of credits, while buyers have no incentive to question their effectiveness, said Trexler, the climate scientist. Everyone involved in designing these projects and protocols has an interest in generating credits, he said. Mother Nature is not at the table when these rules are designed. Californias forest project methodology was designed with assistance from the carbon offsets industry. Finites co-founder, Sean Carney, took part in meetings to draft the Carb standards in 2008, just months before he set up the company, minutes show. Yet despite the criticism, Carb, which since 2013 has required companies exceeding emissions limits to buy offsets, said it was not planning any changes to address the risk of over-crediting, according to Danny Cullenward, vice-chair of Californias Independent Emissions Market Advisory, the official oversight committee for the cap-and-trade system. Carb is hostile to everybody whos critical, and theyre friendly with all the lobbyists, Cullenward said. Thats the way things are done. Responded Clegern: Carbs offset program has been successfully litigated in court and found to deliver real, quantifiable and additional benefits. Too good to be true The expansion of Finites projects has had setbacks. In 2012, a representative from the company approached the Hoopa Valley tribe, owners of a 36,180-hectare forest in northern California. The company had an incredible proposition: if the tribe simply continued to manage its ancestral lands as it had always done, Finite would generate carbon credits worth millions. The tribe would be rich. They were saying: You guys manage your forest so well that what youre doing now would earn you carbon credits, and you wouldnt have to do anything new, said Julia Hostler, a member of the tribe. It sounded too good to be true. Finite Carbon said it was company policy not to comment on projects that are not finalized, including on the Hoopa Reservation. Tribal leaders ultimately did not pursue the companys proposal. They became uneasy after suggestions that they rewrite and resubmit the forest management plan to allow theoretically greater harvest, in order to show we have discretion to harvest, or choose not to harvest, and thus get carbon credits, according to emails provided by a tribal member. The tribe now has a strong wall against carbon brokers, said Thomas Joseph, a tribe member and environmental educator. For the Hoopa its personal, he explains. Recent years have seen tribal lands ravaged by wildfires made more extreme by climate change, and there is a realization that carbon markets have played a role in allowing companies to pollute. For us to be able to protect our lands, we need a reduction of emissions, he said. Not only would we be putting our community here in danger, and sacrificing our lands to corporate greed, wed also be allowing the industry to not reduce its emissions. Additional reporting by Nathaniel Herz in Alaska and Albie Matthews Jair Bolsonaro campaigning for his former spy chief Alexandre Ramagems candidacy for mayor of Rio de Janeiro. Photograph: Pablo Porciuncula/AFP/Getty Images Brazils intelligence agency was illegally weaponised during Jair Bolsonaros far-right administration to monitor and harass some of the countrys most important politicians, journalists, judges and environmental officials, federal police have alleged. Five people were arrested on Thursday as part of a long-running investigation into suspicions that during Bolsonaros 2019-22 government the Agencia Brasileira de Inteligencia (Abin) was used to spy on the presidents political foes. According to a 187-page police document, the targets included some of Brazils best-known public figures and politicians from across the political spectrum. Those targeted allegedly include: the head of Brazils lower house, Arthur Lira, and his predecessor, Rodrigo Maia; prominent allies of the current leftwing president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, including the senator, Randolfe Rodrigues; conservative figures including the former governor of Sao Paulo state, Joao Doria; four supreme court judges; two prominent political journalists, Vera Magalhaes and Monica Bergamo; and two senior officials from the environmental protection agency, Ibama, Hugo Loss and Roberto Cabral. Federal police claimed that under the watch of Bolsonaros spy chief, Alexandre Ramagem, a criminal organisation of high offensive capability was set up within Abin. That parallel intelligence agency allegedly used a series of clandestine techniques to gather information about people or groups considered adversaries or irritants. The fruits of that illegal work were allegedly transformed into online disinformation designed to hurt the reputations of the organisations targets and Brazils democratic institutions. Members of the covert unit are also accused of targeting Internal Revenue Service officials who were investigating suspicions of corruption involving president Bolsonaros senator son, Flavio Bolsonaro. A screenshot of a 2020 WhatsApp message sent by one arrested suspect shows the alleged head of the secret group telling a colleague: We need to find dirt [on a target]. Another message, from 2022, shows a police officer sending an alleged member of the group information about three environmental protection officials deemed to be causing trouble for the administration. In a third, even more shocking exchange, the suspect and a military official rage against supreme court judge Alexandre de Moraes, who was credited with helping stave off a rightwing campaign to overthrow Brazils democratic system that culminated in the January 2023 attacks in Brasilia. This is getting fucked up. This baldy is asking for a little extra, one of them writes. Just 7.62, the other replies an apparent reference to the 7.62mm rifle used by Brazils armed forces. The first person replies in English: Head shot. Those named by police as targets reacted with anger and shock. Rodrigo Maia condemned what he called the behaviour of a totalitarian and criminal government, typical of the worst of dictatorships. Randolfe Rodrigues, who was the vice-president of a congressional inquiry into the Bolsonaro administrations highly controversial handling of a Covid outbreak which claimed more than 700,000 lives, called the revelations tragic. While Brazilians were dying, the previous government instead of using its time to buy vaccines used its time to persecute and monitor the regimes political adversaries, he told reporters. Another target, senator Renan Calheiros, lamented the intelligence agencys criminal capture and the use of Gestapo methods. Flavio Bolsonaro denied any knowledge of the alleged scheme. Quite simply I had no relationship with Abin, he tweeted, claiming the accusations were an attempt to scupper former spy chief Ramagems Bolsonaro-backed campaign to become Rios next mayor. Ramagem has yet to comment on Thursdays police claims but has previously denied being responsible for an illegal spying scheme during his time at Abin. Falklands War 1982 vs 2024 Like any good soldier, General Sir Patrick Sanders, the recently departed head of the Army, kept one bullet in reserve as he fired through the last magazine on his way out the door of the MoD. During his tenure as Chief of the General Staff, the puckish 58-year-old had long let it be known he thought the Armed Forces had suffered too big a bite when peace dividend savings at the end of the Cold War were viewed with hungry eyes by successive governments Treasury departments. His regular, albeit nuanced, criticism in this regard is thought to have been the main reason his tenure as Army chief was not extended. It should have come as no surprise then, that the theme of defence cuts featured strongly in his final interview something the new Labour government say will be addressed in a strategic defence review set to report by next summer. (Keir Starmer has said defence spending will rise to 2.5 per cent of GDP but has yet to set out a timetable for this.) Perhaps most notably, Sir Patrick was unequivocal when it came to one of the hardy conversational perennials in military circles: could Britain win the Falklands War if it were fought today? Could you scramble together the two brigades that took the Falklands? Yes, of course we could. But could we get them there? Could we have the task force that made it possible and sustain it? No. But is he right? How was the 1982 campaign prosecuted? After Argentina invaded the British overseas territories of South Georgia and the Falkland Islands in April 1982, the government of Margaret Thatcher deployed a naval task force to the South Atlantic, including anti-submarine frigates, air-defence destroyers and aircraft carriers from which the all important Sea Harriers and helicopters deployed. A 200-nautical-mile Total Exclusion Zone was declared around the islands, in which the British said any Argentine vessel would be liable to attack. The sinking of the cruiser General Belgrano on May 2 led to the entire Argentine naval force, less one submarine, returning to port. This decision then allowed British forces (principally Royal Navy submarines) to get close enough to the Argentine coast such that they were able to provide early warning of enemy air activity that might threaten the British fleet and any attempt to land troops on the islands. The ensuing amphibious landing on East Falkland was largely unmolested and the Argentine air force, despite a few successes against British ships, was never able to establish dominance in the sky. There then followed 21 days of hard fighting much of it at very close quarters across cold, boggy and mountainous terrain before the Argentinian force surrendered on June 14. One of the hardest parts of the British campaign was the deployment and sustainment of the fighting force necessary to retake the islands more than 8,000 miles from home. Luckily, Argentina had no way of threatening the task force as it sailed south until it got very close to the Falklands, and even then finding and attacking the fleet was a tall order. A successful deception campaign and an inability by Argentina to monitor British troop movements, for example by satellites, helped secure the landings and the battles that followed. Once facing each other, the Argentine troops, many of whom were conscripts, were no match for the British forces. Hasnt our army shrunk since then? The Army of 2024 looks very different from that of 1982, most obviously in size. Encompassing just over 75,000 regular forces, todays Army in personnel numbers at least is a fraction of the 163,000-strong headcount from which the task force was drawn. In 1982, knowing the fight in the middle of a Falkland Islands winter would be as bitter as it was exhausting, Army chiefs in London decided to mobilise as the core of the fighting force the nations toughest troops: the Parachute Regiment, Royal Marines and the feared Gurkhas. Although the Army as a whole may have shrunk in the decades since, those units are largely intact. And if troops in those units are still available, with the same ethos, training standards and razor-sharp fighting spirit as their forebears, the loss of other parts of the big green machine would not necessarily be terminal for a small military operation. But of course, wars today, while recognisable to soldiers of yesteryear, differ in many ways especially when it comes to military technology. The ships, tanks and planes of today are the same as their 1982 counterparts in terms of their purpose, but are light years ahead in technical capabilities. And while military chiefs may have shrunk the Army, they would likely counter that developments in other areas, such as offensive cyber capabilities, drones and space-based systems, have more than made up for the cuts. Prior to his time as head of the Army, Sir Patrick was in charge of Strategic Command. This military organisation runs many of the specialist and niche capabilities that dont look like a tank, plane or ship. Think: satellites, special forces and military cyber hackers. Consequently, having seen both sides, Sir Patrick has always steered a middle way in the cyber or bayonet debate. He has championed cyber capabilities while also cautioning, you cant cyber your way across a river, and even more directly: Dont get caught out bringing a computer to a knife fight. Even so, Britains cyber capabilities today are formidable and shouldnt be underestimated in any future war. Well in advance of any future invasion of the Falkland Islands GCHQ and military colleagues would be active in the cyber domain: looking for indicators and warnings of potential hostile action; denying enemy capability; and good old-fashioned spying. If enemy troops were landed on the Falkland Islands, and well ahead of any task force arriving, a GCHQ cyber strike would likely turn off all the power in the aggressor states capital. After two days of total chaos, London would likely send the message, Have you had enough? Adding to the complications for any would-be hostile power is the fact that after the 1982 war the MoD developed bases on the islands. Mount Pleasant airfield is now home to four Typhoon fighter jets and an infantry company group of around 120 soldiers. They would see any potential invasion force coming from afar and have the means to do something about it. So, no guarantee the islands could be invaded again and, if even they were, British victory is assured? Not exactly. Note Sir Patricks words: the biggest problem would be getting to the fight. Even the task force in 1982 had to rely on civilian cruise liners transitioning into troop carriers. On May 12 of that year, RMS Queen Elizabeth 2, a cruise liner which had been requisitioned, left Southampton loaded with soldiers from 5th Infantry Brigade. Many more such vessels would be needed today. Soldiers on the QE2, which had become an unconventional military transport - JDHC Archive/Getty In a Nato exercise some years ago a Polish commander stepped up to the planning board, after a series of British, French, US and German officers had explained, with arms sweeping across a map of Europe, how a fictional eastern enemy would be repulsed. You guys have forgotten, the Polish officer said with a smile, what it takes to move an army. The point was reinforced by Sir Patrick, who emphasised how our military capability to project forces over thousands of miles has been allowed to wither by the MoD since 1982. It took months to build up the forces necessary for the campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan. Sustaining them thousands of miles from home and other friendly bases was an immense logistical headache. And that effort went over friendly seas and compliant allies. Sir Patrick was suggesting the requirement to project and sustain forces over vast distances, especially where enemy submarines and anti-ship missile-launching aircraft may be lurking in the sea, and fighter jets firing engaging targets Beyond-Visual-Range in the air, is beyond the MoD right now. An effort even on the modest scale of the 1982 Falklands campaign would be very expensive and would likely strain the limits of allied friendships as London sought favours and called in past debts. There would be calls to abandon the whole endeavour, before any British boot arrived on the islands. Sounds dicey, but doable..? Well, scenarios of future wars thousands of miles from home, with little to no allied support, look very different to the 1982 Falklands campaign. First, intelligence capabilities today would likely give much more warning of a conventional build-up by enemy forces, as demonstrated by the West ahead of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Second, the pace of technical innovation on the battlefield means smaller forces are much more connected, capable and lethal than ever before. Third, the ranges and accuracy of modern weapons dwarf anything available to the task force in 1982. The war may be won or lost without any fighting taking place on land, a lesson China will be studying as it looks across the Taiwan Strait. A Royal Navy source told The Telegraph a major lesson from the Falklands War was the need to extend the range of airborne early-warning and air-combat capabilities. The capability of the British fleet was found wanting in this regard in 1982, with remedial investment made in the years following the conflict. Today, the sensors and systems on an F-35 stealth jet easily overmatch all but the most modern aircraft. There is literally no comparison in terms of the air-to-air battle, the source said. A couple of F-35s would have the situation sewn up long before a 3rd or even 4th-generation fighter knew they were there. The F-35s ability to hoover up information is mind-blowing. It can create a picture of the battlespace that is light years ahead of what they had in 1982. During the Falklands War, the British Harrier jets were broadly similar in capabilities to the Argentine Pucara and Super Etendards. Now, with the F-35, it would be like putting a schoolboy in the ring with Mike Tyson. But perhaps above all, theres the issue of resolve. The overriding factor is that wars are fought on the battlefield but won, or lost, in the mind. Just getting British forces to any future fight would be problematic, costly and would take valuable and vulnerable time. Would British political leaders accept the loss of one of the Royal Navys two new aircraft carriers? At 3 billion each, plus the cost of the F-35 stealth jets on board, any loss could sink the MoD. Without the means to secure the entire route of sea and air sustainment, where would the MoD accept gaps? Ultimately, as lethal as the army is when in the face of the enemy, there are more questions than answers when considering whether Britains Armed Forces are big enough and configured correctly for any kind of prolonged action outside Europe imagined reruns of the Falklands campaign included. Ben Crump speaks in Buffalo, New York, on 16 May 2022. Photograph: Brendan McDermid/Reuters After the killing of a Wisconsin man who was held down outside a hotel by multiple security officers during a mental health emergency, leading civil rights attorney Ben Crump joined the family of the slain man in calling on authorities to deliver justice. Dvontaye Mitchell, 43, was killed on 30 June during an encounter with security personnel at the Hyatt Regency hotel in downtown Milwaukee, NBC News reported. No one had been immediately charged in connection with the case. Police at first indicated that they were not even conducting a criminal investigation, though they later said they were investigating the case as a homicide after all, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The hotel is one of the three main venues for the Republican national convention, which is taking place in Milwaukee from 15 to 18 July. I know the national media is going to be coming and covering a lot of stuff related to the convention, Crump said during Mondays press conference about Mitchells killing. A major part of the narrative needs to be justice and justice in Milwaukee for DVontaye Mitchell. Video of Mitchells final moments showed four hotel security guards holding him down. Mitchell was experiencing a mental health crisis, according to Crump, and one of the guards appears to be kneeling on his body. Related: Biden dismisses age concerns and tells Wisconsin rally I am running In the video, Mitchell is heard grunting and screaming for help. He was later pronounced dead by first responders who were summoned to the hotel. The Milwaukee county medical examiners office has since determined that Mitchells preliminary manner of death was a homicide, the Journal Sentinel reported. The Milwaukee police department told the Journal Sentinel that they are not conducting a criminal investigation at this time. In a statement, representatives of Hyatt said the hotel had suspended the employees involved in Mitchells killing while it conducted an internal investigation. The hotel later said it had fired the employees, according to multiple reports. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Dvontaye Mitchells family, all those who knew and loved him, and the Milwaukee community in light of this tragedy, the statement said. Hotels franchised under Hyatts brands are required to comply with Hyatts mandatory safety and security standards and ensure that the hotel is a safe and secure environment for guests, colleagues and the public. As the investigation continues, Hyatt is fully committed to supporting efforts to help ensure accountability for the circumstances that led to the death of Dvontaye Mitchell. Lawyers representing Mitchells family said his death was reminiscent of the killing of George Floyd, a Black man who was murdered by a Minneapolis police officer who kneeled on his neck for nine and a half minutes in 2020. Floyds murder captured on video ignited street protests worldwide. On Monday, Crump and Mitchells family held a press conference outside the hotel, demanding that the killing not be swept under the rug with the convention set to bring thousands to Milwaukee, the Journal Sentinel reported. Everybody in America after George Floyd should have trained their employees and security personnel to not put knees on peoples backs and necks, Crump said to demonstrators outside the hotel. And when people are having problems breathing, dont keep them in a prone position. Mitchells mother, Brenda Giles, said that she wants justice for her son and is asking hotel authorities to release video of the incident, the Journal Sentinel reported. I just want justice for my son, and I want it now, Giles said. Right now, not later. Give us those videos. Yall know what went on inside the hotel. Yall saw it, but we cant see it. Make that make sense. St Marys is regarded as a fine example of a tin tabernacle, a prefabricated corrugated-iron building developed in the mid-19th century. Photograph: John James/Alamy A tiny church speedily built from corrugated iron more than a century ago and synonymous with one of the UKs most famous sea rescues has been given protected status. Historic England has declared that St Marys in the Cornish fishing village of Cadgwith is important both for its architectural worth and its link to the rescue of 456 passengers and crew from the Suevic in 1907, after the ocean liner ran aground on rocks off nearby Lizard Point. Built at the end of the 19th century, the church is regarded as a fine example of a tin tabernacle, a prefabricated corrugated-iron building developed a few decades earlier as a low-cost way to establish a place of worship. Many were built during the rise of non-conformism, which was strong in Cornwall. Few of these buildings survive, having been designed for temporary use until permanent structures could be built. The church, which is set into the hillside to the north of Cadgwith cove, is also synonymous with sea rescues. Its first vicar, the Rev Henry Vyvyan, was awarded a silver medal by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) for the part he played in the Suevic rescue as a crew member of the Cadgwith lifeboat, Minnie Moon. The rescue holds the record for the largest number of people saved in a single RNLI operation. Historic England, which has given the grade-II listing, described the church as modest, but added that it was one of the few tin tabernacles that remained in use. In 2022, when the two-person crew of a Cadgwith fishing boat, Crig-A-Tana, were saved by an RNLI lifeboat after the trawler capsized and sank, a service of thanksgiving was held at the church. Another piece of maritime history has been given grade-II listing, the grave monument to James Gall, a crew member of the SS Forfarshire, a steamer that drifted on to the rocks of Farne Islands, off the north-east coast of England in 1838. Grace Darling, 22, and her father, William, a lighthouse keeper, rowed out and rescued the stranded survivors of the wreck, including Gall. Grace became a national hero and remains one of the RNLIs most beloved figures. Gall, who was a fireman on the ship, died in 1888. An evening of song was held at Barrow town hall in Cumbria to raise funds for the erection of a memorial to him to evoke the memory of Darling. The listing says: It is an unusual example of a bespoke grave monument in the form of a 10ft (3-metre) tall lighthouse. Historic England has also produced an new interactive map of landmarks such as boathouses, collection boxes, monuments, and memorials connected with the RNLI to mark its anniversary. The two organisations are asking the public to add their photos, memories and information of the RNLI through its Historic England Missing Pieces Project. This article was amended on 11 July 2024. Owing to an editing error, an article referred to James Gall as a firefighter. In fact, he was a fireman or stoker responsible for tending to the SS Forfarshires steam engines. The heap is shaped and piled by the digger into its mountainous form, to encourage effective rotting. Photograph: Kate Blincoe Like a magnificent volcano threatening to erupt, plumes of steam rise from the mountain in the farmyard. Every day, about a tonne of horse muck and bedding from the 20 or so stabled horses is added to the muck heap a small cars weight in manure. The heap is shaped and piled by the digger into its mountainous form, to encourage effective rotting. Its a hub for birdlife, rich in beetles, worms and insects. House sparrows flit over its surface, looking for tasty grains from horse feed, or soft arthropods such as larvae for their nestlings. Jackdaws forage on the craggy ravines, lending an air of drama. Pied wagtails hop about at base camp. Swallows skim its heights, feasting on the clouds of tiny cluster flies. I still remember proudly the day my primary school visited the farm in the 1980s. In a moment when the teachers back was turned, I persuaded everyone how much fun it is to play in the muck heap. A feral bunch of us climbed to the top, ignoring the cries of despair from school staff, our hands sinking into the burning hot muck, and then jumped, free and glorious, from the summit into dark pools of effluent. The temperature inside the heap can reach well over 50C as it decomposes. This level of heat kills eggs and larvae from parasites, showing the importance of this effective rotting over six months or so. Twice a year the heap is spread on the fields, replacing artificial fertiliser. Recently I visited a nearby large-scale arable farm and discovered the Japanese practice of bokashi. This involves adding live microbes to cattle manure collected from local farms. The bacteria stimulate fermentation and increase nutrient availability, aiding crop growth. Bokashi also reduces emissions such as ammonia and carbon dioxide. It was noticeable standing next to the inoculated manure that there was no obvious smell. This innovative approach, unusual in the UK, brings significant benefits to both environment and productivity. You might think the hay barn, gradually filling with this years sweet-scented bales of goodness, is the heart of the farm. Yet as I visit each day, pilgrim-like with my barrow of offerings for the great steaming god, I happen to think it is the muck heap. Country diary is on Twitter at @gdncountrydiary Under the Changing Skies: The Best of the Guardians Country Diary, 2018-2024 (Guardian Faber) is published on 26 September; pre-order now at the guardianbookshop.com and get a 20% discount Louise Hunt, 25, hinted she had been in an toxic relationship in a social media post - pixel8000 One of the three women killed in the Bushey crossbow attack was in a controlling relationship with the suspected killer, a close friend of two of the victims has said. Louise Hunt, 25, was found with her mother Carol, 61, and sister Hannah, 28, after neighbours reported hearing screams. They had suffered serious injuries and were pronounced dead by paramedics a short time later. John Hunt, the racing commentator, who had been working for the BBC at Lingfield Park racecourse in Surrey on Tuesday, returned home to discover the tragedy. Kyle Clifford, the 26-year-old suspected killer, was detained on Wednesday night close to his home in Enfield, north London, following a huge manhunt. Abdul Morsli, 28, from Harrow, a close friend of both sisters, said he believed Louise had been in a controlling relationship with Clifford last Christmas. He said: She was in love with him. Theyd been together for just under a year, I think. Hannah was convinced that theyd get married one day, but there were issues with his controlling behaviour. I think Louise tried to keep it under wraps, but I know he didnt like her staying out too late even though they didnt live together and he really didnt like her having male friends. Fighting back tears, he said Carol and John Hunt had taken him in five years ago when he needed somewhere to stay. He said: I lived with them for about three or four months when I was going through a few things and needed help. They invited me into their home without hesitation. Carol treated me like her own son. She used to make me a meal every night, and John invited me to Royal Ascot two years ago. Ive known Hannah since I was 13 and we were at school together. She was so lovely, genuinely an amazing person. She was from a beautiful family. They were so generous and welcoming. I cant describe how wonderful they are. Police have yet to speak to Clifford, who is still under sedation in hospital, but have said they are not hunting anyone else in connection with the triple murder. Mourners lay flowers outside the Hunt family home in Bushey, Hertfordshire - Belinda Jiao In one of her last social media posts before the murders, Louise Hunt shared a message praising women who had the courage to leave abusive relationships. The message, on X, formerly Twitter, last week, came just a few days before she split with Clifford. It said: I admire women who leave. idgaf (I dont give a f---) if you left after the 1st time or the 12th time I admire that s---! idgaf if ppl was calling you dumb for 11 years but in the 12th year you decided you was done. It takes A LOT of strength to break a tie. It takes A LOT of self love to choose yo self. She shared the message a few days before she ended her relationship with the suspected killer. A neighbour told The Telegraph that the circumstances of the break-up had left her so upset that she had crashed her car into a telegraph pole outside the family home. Louises mother had reportedly told friends at the gym she attended at Bushey Grove Leisure Centre that her daughter was involved in a messy break-up. A friend told Mail Online: Carol did not go into too much detail, but you could see she was concerned. Louise Hunt, 25, Carol Hunt, 61 and Hannah Hunt, 28, were killed at their Hertfordshire home on Tuesday Clifford, a former Queens Dragoon Guard, left the Army in 2022 and had taken work as a security guard. A former employer said they had had no communication with him since he left the company last July. Amthal, a fire and security installation company based in St Albans, Herts, said in a statement: Kyle Clifford was employed from Feb 22 2023 to July 20 2023. Since he departed from Amthal in July 2023, we have had no further communication with Mr Clifford. Mourners grieving Carol, Hannah and Louise Hunt continued to lay flowers at a police cordon throughout the day. One message, signed love Mia, read: The three strongest women to ever exist. Youll always be remembered. I wish I could continue doing life with you Louise, my beautiful girlie. One of the streets oldest residents, Betty, 91, described the Hunts as a lovely, lovely family who had helped buy food for her during the Covid pandemic. She said: Everybody here is shattered at whats happened. Shattered. Experts have said the mine would be likely to cause the UK to break its legally binding climate commitments. Photograph: Owen Humphreys/PA The government has admitted that a proposed coalmine in Cumbria was approved unlawfully, as the carbon emissions of coal from the mine should have been taken into account in the planning decision. This follows a precedent set by a supreme court judgment last month, when Surrey county councils decision to extend planning permission for an oil drilling well at Horse Hill, on the Weald, was quashed. Campaigners argued it should have accounted for greenhouse gas emissions from using the oil when assessing the environmental impacts of the project, not only the drilling site itself. These are known as scope 3 or downstream emissions. On Thursday, another oil drilling project this time in the Lincolnshire Wolds area of outstanding natural beauty was quashed after a concession from Angela Rayner, secretary of state for housing, communities and local government. Hours later, lawyers acting for Rayners department said there was an error in law in the decision to grant planning permission for the Cumbrian mine in December 2022. The government will now not be defending two legal challenges by Friends of the Earth and South Lakes Action on Climate Change (Slacc) next week, and has instead informed the court that the decision to grant planning permission should be quashed. The case is still expected to go ahead on Tuesday unless West Cumbria Mining also concedes. Experts have said the mine would be likely to cause the UK to break its legally binding climate commitments as it would release about 17,500 tonnes of methane every year, according to estimates. The mine, which would have produced coking coal for steelmaking, was claimed to be carbon neutral by the previous government, though this only applies to the mining operations and does not take account of the scope 3 emissions. The new government has a range of difficult decisions to make on energy, including whether to approve the oil and gas licences that are already in progress with the North Sea Transition Authority, and whether to grant the biofuel company Drax more government subsidies for burning wood. Jamie Peters, a climate coordinator with Friends of the Earth, said: Were delighted the government agrees that planning permission for this destructive, polluting and unnecessary coalmine was unlawfully granted and that it should be quashed. We hope the court agrees, and that the mine is then rejected when the secretary of state reconsiders the application. Friends of the Earth will continue to stand alongside Slacc and the other community groups in Cumbria who have fought so bravely to halt this mine. The new government must now ensure that areas like west Cumbria get the jobs and investment they urgently need so that people living there can reap the benefits of building a clean, green and affordable future. West Cumbria Mining has been contacted for comment. Sen Dog and B-Real of Cypress Hill perform with the London Symphony Orchestra - Lorne Thomson It was a match first dreamt up in an episode of the cartoon series, The Simpsons, 28 years ago. Back then, Cypress Hill were the emerging stars of West Coast gangsta rap, thanks to a chart-topping album in the US, Black Sunday, which ultimately sold 3.4 million copies in that territory alone, its edgy, bass-heavy sound overlaid with rhymes about compulsive marijuana smoking and shooting people. The joke in The Simpsons centred on the chaotic Mexican-Cuban LA hip hop crew having hired the London Symphony Orchestra for a gig at Homerpalooza, only to get so stoned that they forgot all about it. Just as that brilliantly scripted cartoon famously predicted Donald Trumps presidency, so the preposterous performative classical/rap alliance actually came to pass after rapper Louis Freese, aka B-Real, now 54 and ever with a giggly sense of humour behind tales of street violence, approached the LSO and after months of logistical back-and-forth succeeded in making the concept a reality. B-Real of Cypress Hill performs with the London Symphony Orchestra at Royal Albert Hall on July 10, 2024 in London, As Freese led out CHs six-man contemporary incarnation to join the 70-strong orchestra onstage in the illustrious Royal Albert Hall, it was hard to know what to expect. After all, the groups original music featured only the occasional screeching violin sample. When he kicked off a complete run-through of Black Sunday by yowling the title of its unequivocal opener, I Wanna Get High, it was obviously possible, on many counts, that this collision of cultures might turn out a terrible car-crash. Freese and co, however, fully rose to the occasion, quickly lifting the excitable sell-out crowd from their seats with the loping groove of I Aint Going Out Like That. The various wind and string players simply added long sustained notes to beef up the ruckus. Sen Dog and B-Real of Cypress Hill perform with the London Symphony Orchestra at Royal Albert Hall Yall feeling crazy? Freese wondered as flagship hit Insane In The Brain launched off on stabs of brass, and prompted delirium right up into the gods. Alongside co-rapper Sen Dog, their live combo (upright bassist, drummer, percussionist and turntablist) had the bands trademark head-nodding funk consummately down. Theyve used a brass section before (see last years NPR Tiny Desk concert), and this was like a supersized version, each track topped and tailed with a flourish, and accented throughout by an army of sawing bows and parping horns. On Cock The Hammer, the orchestration only amped up the musics inherent cinematic qualities, often summoning the sophisticated oomph of a Quincy Jones score; thereafter, a butler brought the two rappers a tequila shot each, to toast a job well done. Cypress Hill rehearsing with the LSO - Eitan Miskevich There was limitless good-natured fun here: announcing Hits From The Bong, Freese shared a conspiratorial grin with conductor Troy Miller, and after completing Black Sundays tracklist, bade the house to give it the f*** up for Troy thats a baaad man right there! On it went, with a further selection of classics, including the traffickers anthem Dr Greenthumb, and breakout hit How I Could Just Kill A Man, rendered with a cacophonous blast. Destiny fulfilled, beamed the shades-wearing B-Real at the last. In extraordinary circumstances, to be sure. Emmanuel Macron continues to have problems at home while at the Nato summit in Washington DC - LUDOVIC MARIN/AFP via Getty Images The European Union has warned France it must make savings of more than 15 billion (12.6 billion) a year or face punishment from Brussels for breaking the blocs fiscal rules. Cuts to balance public finances will make it even more difficult for Emmanuel Macron to piece together a coalition government after he called snap parliamentary elections. That vote was won by the Leftist New Popular Front and ended in a hung parliament, which is deeply divided over budget policy in a country with a debt equivalent to 110 per cent of GDP and rising. All of Mr Macrons possible coalition partners want to reverse his pension reforms, including raising the retirement age to 64, and boost public spending, which would put France on a collision course with the EU. Reforms to Frances unemployment benefit system would have brought savings but they were ditched by Mr Macron after the first round of the elections. The European Commission sent the 12.6 billion yearly demand to Paris last month, Bloomberg reported. It is meant to guide France as it prepares a medium-term fiscal plan for Brussels scrutiny by Sept 20. The cut is equivalent to about 0.55 per cent of annual GDP over seven years and is seen as the opening gambit in tough negotiations over Frances debt. France was one of several EU countries rebuked by Brussels in June for breaching EU fiscal rules and is now subject to a monitoring regime, which could lead to punishments such as fines. Under the blocs Excessive Deficit Procedure, member states must keep their deficit below 3 per cent of GDP. Stick to the rules Bruno Le Maire, Mr Macrons outgoing finance minister, set out 10 billion in savings on Thursday and said Paris had to stick to the EU rules to ensure its international credibility. It has a plan for adjustments of 0.8 per cent of GDP this year, 1.2 per cent in 2025 and 0.5 per cent and 0.7 per cent in the following two years. France wants more time from the EU to get its deficit under control, seven years rather than four, but still plans to hit the 3 per cent mark by 2027. Without the extension, it will have to make deeper cuts. Either we continue with savings and repairing public finances, or we massively increase taxes on French people, Mr Le Maire, who is expected in Brussels next week, said. Its the only alternative, failing which we would expose ourselves to a very strong market reaction. A France Unbowed deputy from Essonne, Antoine Leaument, mocked the finance minister in response, saying: Were going to raise wages and repeal your illegitimate pension reform as soon as youve given up your seat. Hurry up and leave. Taylor Casey has gone missing in the Bahamas. Photograph: @findtaylorcasey via Instagram The family of Taylor Casey, a 42-year-old transgender woman who went missing in the Bahamas, said they initially shielded the media from her gender identity because they feared it would undermine efforts to find her. Casey, who lives in Chicago, went missing on 19 June while on a month-long yoga retreat on Paradise Island in the Bahamas. Her family has since worked to involve city, state and federal officials in the search for her and said Bahamian officials left them with more questions than answers. The investigation would have been done properly if Casey had been white and cisgender, Caseys mother, Colette Seymore, told NBC News Chicago. There would have been way more efforts to find her, she said. People would have been interviewed. Casey was reported missing on 20 June by staff at the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, after she failed to come to the days workshops. Family and friends called Casey a fixture of Chicagos transgender community and a beloved youth advocate in a statement. They said they are begging for support to help bring her home. Taylors Blackness, Taylors transness and gender expansiveness, Taylors womanhood, all of these things are places where people experience disproportionate violence and being ignored, Jacqueline Boyd, Caseys close friend, told NBC News Chicago. According to Transgender Europes Trans Murder Monitoring project, 321 transgender and gender diverse people were murdered between 2022 and 2023. Three-quarters (74%) were in Latin America or the Caribbean. Seymore, Caseys mother, traveled to the Bahamas about two weeks ago for answers. She said she was underwhelmed by officials response. Since then, she has worked to set up a GoFundMe page to help fund the costs of continuing the search. She has also enlisted help from the Chicago mayors office, and is seeking support from federal authorities. I share in his heartbreak for Taylors disappearance, said Kennedy Bartley, a spokesperson for Chicagos mayor, Brandon Johnson, at a press conference on Thursday, Caseys birthday. We have the support of the mayors office and we will be calling on our federal delegation to do everything in our power to bring Taylor home, she said. Taylors family should be here today celebrating her birthday. The scene of the fatal blaze at Lalor Park in Sydney. A father has been charged with murder and attempted murder offences. Photograph: Thomas Parish/AAP Police allege a father, who has been charged with three counts of murder, locked the doors of the family home to prevent anyone from escaping before three of his children died and four more were injured alongside their mother in Sydneys west. The 28-year-old man was charged with three counts of domestic violence-related murder, five counts of attempted domestic violence murder and destroying or damaging property with intent to endanger life relating to domestic violence. The man, who was seriously injured during the Lalor Park blaze at the weekend, remained in hospital under police guard. He was suffering burns and smoke inhalation but was expected to make a full recovery after waking from an induced coma on Wednesday night. Speaking after the accused faced court on Thursday morning, New South Wales Det Supt Danny Doherty said police would allege the man was the sole perpetrator. He said police would allege the couple had a domestic dispute which then led to the alleged acts. What we will allege is that he prevented policemen and the neighbour getting into the premises, was holding on to the children, at least one child being the 11-year-old, had to be wrestled from that child, had to be wrestled away from the fire, Doherty said. I commend the neighbour and also the police that responded. [They] did an outstanding job and a courageous job. Police alleged the man lit fires in multiple rooms of the house after locking the doors to prevent his family from escaping. Detectives allege an accelerant likely petrol was used. Police alleged the offender may have had sharp implements like scissors on him at the time of the alleged murders. Doherty said the mother was devastated and heartbroken but had been able to help police with their investigations returning to the property for a walk-through with investigators on Wednesday after being discharged from hospital. Her remaining children were expected to make a full recovery from smoke inhalation injuries and be discharged from hospital back into her care this week. The case was mentioned briefly in Parramatta local court on Thursday morning. The man did not appear via video link from hospital. The court heard the accused did not have a criminal history and had not been to court previously other than for a tax-related matter. Magistrate Joy Boulos approved an apprehended violence order against the man. The 28-year-old was not to go within 500 metres of his former partner and children, their schools, childcare centres or places of work, the court heard. He must not have any contact with his family outside lawyers. He was forbidden from accessing firearms although the court heard he was not believed to possess any. The man remained under police guard in hospital with the matter due back in court on 6 September. Related: Deaths of three children in Lalor Park house fire leaves NSW with deep wound, premier says Police were called to the family home at about 1am on Sunday. Two boys, aged six and two, were taken to hospital where they later died. A five-month-old baby girl was found dead inside the home. The childrens 29-year-old mother was taken to hospital and had since been discharged. Three other boys aged four, seven and 11 and a nine-year-old girl were also taken to hospital after the fire. They remained in a stable condition. According to police, there was no AVO in place at the time. Fiji has more than 12 significant agreements with countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Illustration: James Hancock/The Guardian Leading military, police and political figures in Fiji have raised concerns about striking deals with other countries such as China to boost security and policing, saying it could pose a risk to sovereignty. Analysis by the Guardian found that Fiji has at least 12 significant agreements with countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Most of the pacts and initiatives are with Australia, followed by New Zealand, the US and China. Fiji has struck or renewed policing and defence deals with Australia, New Zealand and the US in the past five years. Earlier this year, it opted to stick with a controversial China policing deal after a review. Some argue the deals could threaten Fijis independence, while acknowledging the need for support to combat crime as threats in the Pacific region grow. Fiji, one of the largest Pacific island countries with a population of nearly 1 million, faces rising external threats including transnational crime, maritime security and cyber warfare. Domestically, crime rates are increasing and police resources are stretched. There is a growing need for more security and policing cooperation in the Pacific to address the evolving security challenges facing the region, Fiji military forces commander Maj Gen Jone Kalouniwai, said. Kalouniwai said information sharing, joint training exercises, capacity building and coordinated responses to security threats are needed to combat rising threats. But the major general cautioned that accepting any aid must be weighed against the impact on Fijis sovereignty. Related: Not conducive to our survival: Pacific islands on the climate frontline respond to Cop28 deal Balancing the need for external assistance with maintaining independence and ensuring the protection of local interests is crucial for sustainable security cooperation in the Pacific, Kalouniwai said. Permanent secretary for home affairs and immigration, Mason Smith, said the question of whether Fiji would need to choose its partners strategically was based on the false premise that Fiji must choose between China or its so-called traditional partners. Why is this? As a sovereign nation, Fiji will engage with partners based on its own national interest, he said. Chinas role in the country has stirred tension over a policing agreement first signed in 2011 that in the past, allowed Fijian officers to be trained in China, and Chinese police to be embedded in the Fijian force. In March, Fijis home affairs minister told the Guardian the country would uphold the agreement with Beijing despite earlier concerns within the Pacific nation over the deal - but Chinese officers would no longer be embedded in the local force. Former police strike back commanding officer Tevita Ralulu questioned whether Fiji should use international partners, such as China, to carry out policing work. Ralulu also said that ties with Fijis traditional partners, Australia and New Zealand, should be maintained. Government needs to be precise with where they are going, given Chinas present influence in the region, Ralulu said, adding that the previous Fiji government, under prime minister Frank Bainimarama, was more inclined to Beijing. Given their location, Pacific countries hold strategic importance for security and defence. The US has long maintained influence and a military presence in the region, and pushed strengthen its role to counter competition from China. Over the last decade, Beijing has built stronger ties with Pacific nations through increased aid, development, diplomacy and security cooperation. Ralulu said Beijing had stamped its growing interest in the region through its aid such as in Solomon Islands, where China bankrolled the construction of sporting facilities ahead of it hosting the Pacific Games last year. Ralulu said Fiji should be cautious about Chinas presence in Fiji and the region, saying the rise of China had coincided with an increase in drugs and criminal activities in Fiji. What is most important is how these policies and international partnerships is implemented to help grassroots people, Ralulu said, stressing the need to evaluate and ensure any agreement aligned with Fijis national interest. Former member of parliament Niko Nawaikula agreed longstanding ties with Australia and New Zealand must be maintained to support security. He said the growing militarisation in the region, including the rise of China, was not a concern so long as we are aligned with our traditional partners. Australia, New Zealand and the United States, we need to stick to that, he said, also saying that Fiji needed assistance from international donors to train and adequately resource its police and defence forces. Risks of security alliances University of the South Pacific head of the school of law and social sciences, Sandra Tarte, said Fiji needed policing partnerships to combat transnational and domestic crime while adding that there are potential dangers involved with partnerships. The risks are being drawn into security alliances, security strategies that are going to undermine our independence and autonomy and make us a target, Dr Tarte said. We must be mindful that in the geopolitics contest, we dont want to be seen as someones target. Fiji needs to make it clearer that it does not want to see any more militarisation happening through defence programmes, Tarte said. Dr Tarte said Fijis military had some of autonomy and they could decide who they wanted to partner with and they can go to China and procure what assistance they need. It gives Fiji more leverage in its dealing with other countries being in partnership with China it is very important that Fiji is acting with its own interest in mind. Kalouniwai stressed the need for Fiji and the Pacific to be cautious and vigilant about the rising militarisation in the region and must continue to advocate for peaceful solutions. Inside Fiji, Nawaikula said the nation was looking to others to solve problems that existed within the Fiji police force. Theres a lot of incompetence in policing. It is really entrenched and so they are going everywhere including China, United States, Australia, and New Zealand to look for solution, he said. Nawaikula said, in addition to international support, local systems must be improved. We need to look at ourselves first. There can never be an improvement unless and until you clean up the system, he said. Police officers watch as a small boat filled with migrants departs from a beach in Gravelines in Normandy - Steve Finn French police have been photographed standing by as a small boat carrying migrants set off across the Channel. Around a dozen officers, some with riot shields and batons, were seen at the waters edge at Gravelines, Normandy. The beach is a popular launching point for migrants, who often hide in sand dunes before attempting the crossing. Migrants had previously told The Telegraph they would travel to the UK as soon as possible following Labours election victory. Figures showed that 484 migrants have reached the UK since Sir Keir Starmer was elected with a landslide 172-seat majority and scrapped Rishi Sunaks Rwanda deportation scheme on day one of his Government. Home Office figures showed 419 people made the journey in six boats on Tuesday, suggesting an average of around 70 per boat and taking the provisional total for the year to date to 14,058. This is 10 per cent higher than the number recorded this time last year 12,772 and up six per cent on the same period in 2022, when the figure stood at 13,318, according to government data. Officers look on as the migrants begin their Channel crossing on Thursday - Steve Finn The boat leaves Gravelines - Steve Finn Reacting to the figures, Robert Jenrick, the former immigration minister, said scrapping the Rwanda policy without a plan was sheer stupidity. He added: Smash the gangs? Sir Keir has surrendered to the people smugglers. It comes as Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, announced the establishment of a new border security command. Work to recruit its leader is under way, with the Government preparing a Bill to create counter-terror powers aimed at tackling organised immigration crime. The Home Office says the command leader expected to be appointed within weeks would draw together the work of intelligence agencies, police, Immigration Enforcement and Border Force. Ms Cooper said Labour would tackle the root of the problem by targeting the criminal smuggling gangs making millions out of small boat crossings, undermining our border security and putting lives at risk. Speaking in Washington, where he is attending the Nato summit, Sir Keir said: This a command that will lead on smashing the gangs. I do not accept these are the only gangs that cant be brought down. The AfD was kicked out of a previous far-right group that included National Rally as it was judged to be too extreme. Photograph: dts News Agency Germany/Rex/Shutterstock Germanys Alternative fur Deutschland has joined forces with extremist parties from France and central and eastern Europe to create a second far-right group in the European parliament. The Europe of Sovereign Nations group will be the smallest in the European parliament, with only 25 MEPs from eight countries, just above the threshold to form a group. It could prove more extreme than Patriots for Europe, the larger far-right group formed on Monday that unites Viktor Orbans Fidesz MEPs and Marine Le Pens National Rally. The new group is dominated by the AfD with 14 MEPs, with members from Polands Confederation party, Bulgarias pro-Kremlin Revival party and the Czech Freedom and Direct Democracy party , which once urged voters to walk pigs near mosques and not eat kebabs. It includes Frances Reconquete, the party founded by the TV pundit Eric Zemmour, who has convictions for inciting racial hatred. Before last months European parliament elections, the AfD was kicked out of a previous far-right group that included National Rally, as it was judged too extreme by Le Pen, who has spent years trying to normalise the image of her party while retaining its core anti-immigration message. She said it was urgent to establish a cordon sanitaire, after the AfD lead candidate, Maximilian Krah, said members of the SS, the Nazis main paramilitary force, were not all criminals. Despite the furore, the AfD won 15 seats in the European elections, pushing the governing Social Democrat party into third place. But it risked being politically homeless in the new parliament and losing out on funds unless it was able to form a political group. That appeared to have been resolved on Wednesday when the AfDs European parliament chair, Rene Aust, announced the party had managed to find a new parliamentary group. After just a few weeks in the EU Parliament, we have managed to find new partners. We are looking forward to the next five years of working together! he wrote on X. Tomio Okamura, the Freedom and Direct Democracy party leader, who co-founded the group, set out its aims on X: We will fight against the Green Deal, migration, the Islamisation of Europe and we want the return of powers from Brussels back to the national European states. It was crucial that the group included the AfD, Okamura added, since it is Germany that governs the entire European Union, voicing a familiar Eurosceptic trope. While European parliament groups could fluctuate before the official opening of the assembly in Strasbourg next week, the rightward shift is clear. The centre-right European Peoples party remains the largest force, with three alliances further to its right the far-right groups and the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) led by the Italian prime minister, Giorgia Meloni. The far-right groups will vote against the appointment of Ursula von der Leyen as European Commission president next Thursday, but the ECR is split. Within the ECR, Polands Law and Justice party will vote against her, but the Czech governing Civic Democratic party supports a second term for the incumbent commission president. Meloni abstained on von der Leyens appointment at an EU leaders meeting, leaving a question mark over how her Brothers of Italy MEPs will vote. Viktor Orban during the Nato summit in Washington DC on Thursday. Photograph: Chris Kleponis/EPA Hungarys prime minister, Viktor Orban, will fly to Mar-a-Lago on Thursday to meet with Donald Trump, according to two sources with knowledge of the meeting. Orban has enraged his Nato allies by meeting with Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping en route to the alliances summit in Washington DC. He has also met with Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Kyiv, and is said to be quietly negotiating his own ceasefire plan without consulting either the Biden administration or other EU countries. The two men will meet at Mar-a-Lago at 7pm, a source close to Trump said. Orbans 606 Dassault Falcon jet was one of the several international planes that flew into Joint Base Andrews on Tuesday to attend the 2024 Nato summit. As of 10.30am eastern time on Thursday, the Hungarian military plane was still parked in Maryland. Orban did not discuss details of his negotiations with Putin or Xi with the Biden administration. Three sources briefed on the summit preparations said that he did not ask for a bilateral meeting with Joe Biden. I havent heard directly from anybody about this meeting, Ive heard indirectly about it as many of you have, said Jake Sullivan, the US national security adviser, when asked about the meeting. It certainly isnt coordinated with the Ukrainians. Theyve indicated that they have great misgivings about any effort to negotiate some kind of fake peace with Russia without the Ukrainians being a part of that effort. The Biden administrations position is nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine. So whatever adventurism is being undertaken without Ukraines consent or support is not something thats consistent with our policy. EU countries have complained that Orban is negotiating without their consent as Hungary currently holds the presidency of the Council of the EU. Related: A peace mission and a likely Trump meeting: how Hungarys PM became the spoiler of the Nato summit Orban and his campaign advisers have fully backed Trump for re-election in November. His foreign minister, Peter Szijjarto, told Reuters: We see a chance for peace if President Trump is winning. We see a chance for good Hungary-US relationships if President Trump is winning. Orban wants to be the Trump guy in Europe if Trump wins the election so that then he can be the one who can open the White House door for Europe, a European Union diplomat told the Guardian. Hungary will continue to hold the presidency of the Council of the EU through the end of the year, coinciding with a period when Trump could be president-elect. So for the last month before the swearing in he can be the European person in Washington making deals for everyone, the diplomat said. Members of the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs will hold a closed-door meeting today at noon ET with the conservative Heritage Foundation thinktank in Washington according to an email seen by the Guardian. The event is titled on the sidelines of the Nato summit and is focused around US and European security. Heritage regularly holds meetings with the Hungarian government foreign policy institution. There is a longstanding pattern of Orban working with enemies of the western alliance system, said Dalibor Rohac, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute thinktank in Washington. It certainly does not serve the Hungarian interest or Nato interest. He might find a receptive audience in Mar-a-Lago but they are far from a consensus on the Republican side [when it comes to Orban]. Yesterday [Senate minority leader Mitch] McConnell delivered a very powerful speech in the Senate where he dismissed the Hungarian PM for his meeting with Putin. European countries have directly criticised Orban for travelling to Moscow to speak with Putin, making him just the second EU or Nato leader to go there since the start of the war. Sweden and several other EU countries responded by announcing they would not send ministers to government meetings linked to Hungarys EU presidency in an act of protest against Orbans talks with Putin, the Swedish government said on Thursday. The Hungarian actions during the [EU] presidency are harmful and must have consequences. Sweden will therefore not participate on a political level during the informal government meetings in July, Jessika Roswall, Swedens minister for EU affairs, said in a statement on Thursday. Coverage of the stunt was posted on an Instagram account with more than 227,000 followers. Photograph: Fanpage.it A teenager has been reported to police after allegedly sneaking around Florences Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore overnight and climbing up to its Cupola del Brunelleschi to take a selfie. Wearing a black hoodie, jeans and trainers, a person filmed himself walking up an inside stairwell of the world heritage site before reaching the dome level, stepping on to a small platform outside and taking a picture of himself. Coverage of the stunt was posted on @dedelate, an Instagram account with more than 227,000 followers. It is believed the person had hidden in the cathedral before it closed. An accomplice filmed the alleged exploit from outside the cathedral, apparently capturing the protagonist fleeing the building. The teenager has not been officially identified but reports in the Italian press said he was a 17-year-old from Lombardy who was known for taking on similar selfie-driven challenges, including one at Milan Cathedral in May, for which he was reportedly charged. Luca Bagnoli, the president of the Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore, said a complaint had been made to police. We have learned about the unauthorised access to Brunelleschis dome, he told La Nazione newspaper. The cathedral of Florence is a sacred and monumental place, a world heritage site. But unfortunately for some it is also a playground, and this is saddening. The relevant authorities will take care of the rest. The suspect has previously allegedly recorded stunts on the roof of Milans San Siro stadium and the Ariston theatre in Sanremo, where the annual song festival is held. Fabiola Minoletti, a vice-president of a Milan residents committee, told Il Giorno newspaper: Dede continues his exploits. Why cant we contain these people, with such arrogant attitudes? He not only risks his life each time, but [the stunts] could generate dangerous emulations. One of the suspects followers has now challenged him to climb to the top of St Peters Basilica at the Vatican. Keir Starmer meets Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington during his visit to Nato summit - X Britain has been forced to clarify it has not given permission for Ukraine to use Storm Shadows to strike inside Russia in an awkward diplomatic moment for Sir Keir Starmer. Downing Street said on Thursday, government policy had not changed regarding the deployment of the long-range missiles, despite comments from the Prime Minister that suggested he was loosening restrictions on how the missiles are used. The British Government has allowed Kyiv to fire the missiles against targets in Crimea and mainland Ukraine since they were delivered last year, but has banned the country from using them to hit targets inside Russia. Officials are concerned such a move would escalate the war, and could draw the UK into a conflict with Russia. Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president who has been meeting world leaders at Natos 75th anniversary in Washington announced on Wednesday evening that he had been granted permission to use strategic cruise missiles in Russia. Posting on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Zelensky shared a photograph of himself and Sir Keir, with the caption: This morning, I learnt about the permission to use Storm Shadow missiles against military targets in Russian territory. Today, we had the opportunity to discuss the practical implementation of this decision. Sources confirmed the missile has not been used this year and stressed that Mr Zelensky would have to seek assurances elsewhere before Ukraine could fire the cruise missiles into Russian territory. They added that these assurances were not a done deal. A senior defence source said the situation was more nuanced than Ukraines president had suggested. They added that permission to launch the strategic missile into Russia would require a sign off from three countries, one of which is the United Kingdom. France manufactures the Storm Shadow alongside the UK. Its not going to happen, the source added when asked if Ukraine will fire Storm Shadow into Russia. On Thursday night Sir Keir told the Nato summit that he had reaffirmed our unshakeable support for Ukraines ultimate victory. He said the alternative was unthinkable as he described Russia using some of the deadliest weapons in its arsenal on innocent children, when it struck a childrens cancer hospital in Kyiv earlier this week. Sir Keir said Britain would provide 3 billion per year to Ukraine and speed up the delivery of military aid. As the generational threat from Russia demands a generational response, he confirmed plans to boost British defence spending to 2. 5 per cent of gross per cent of their GDP on defence, he said. But in light of the grave threats to our security, we must go further. Earlier this year Lord Cameron, the former foreign secretary, met president Zelensky in Kyiv, where he made comments about Ukraines right to defend itself which were interpreted by Russia as a dangerous threat to use British-gifted missiles on Russian territory. Adml Sir Tony Radakin, the Chief of the Defence Staff, later clarified that the cruise missile could only be used inside Crimea and the mainland of Ukraine. Jamie Shea, a former Nato official, on Wednesday responded to Sir Keirs statements on the Storm Shadow as giving Mr Zelensky a shot in the arm. The Ukrainians have to be able to strike back against those significant military targets, he said. But on Thursday, Mr Zelensky appeared to recognise that full permission for cross-border strikes had not been granted. We have got very good messages from the UK leader, he told a Nato press conference, but said no decision had been made yet. Meanwhile, Britains strategic defence review will be launched next week, setting out how Sir Keir intends to meet his spending target. Closer defence ties Announcing the review, John Healey, the Defence Secretary, insisted that seeking closer defence ties with Brussels would not bind the UK into a European defence force. The Defence Secretary said, however, that Britain would seek to join more EU military programmes. He suggested that Britain could seek to join more areas of the EUs permanent structured co-operation (Pesco) programme. The UK is already part of one Pesco scheme on moving military equipment across the EU. Mr Healey said: So weve proved we can do it. There are one or two other programmes which may well be programmes in which we have a unique contribution to make and we can get a great deal out of being part of a programme like that. That does not require any new formal agreement, it does not require a EU-UK security pact in order to do that. Mr Healey acknowledged that talks on the formal security pact with the EU sought by the Government were unlikely to start this year. In a way the declaration in week one from the new Government is seen as significant by the European Union and its members, he said. Youll know that the European Union, European Commission takes a good few months to get itself sorted out and so it wont be until the end of the year that its really in a position to start doing any sort of detailed discussion with us. However, Ben Wallace, the former defence secretary, told The Telegraph: It is not a new assertion that the UK supports international law of a state defending itself from an aggressor. Part of that law has been the ability for the defender to use weapons to target military facilities engaged in aggression in another state, in this case Russia. Its just a restatement of the Governments permission. Dan Jarvis, the new Labour security minister, said on Thursday morning that Britain must be incredibly careful to avoid retaliation from the Kremlin. He said that weve got to guard against the risk of reaction from Moscow, but suggested the deployment of weapons ultimately will be a matter for Kyiv as long as international law is upheld. Storm Shadows are precision-guided cruise missiles with a firing range in excess of 155 miles. Ukraine has said it needs to strike military targets inside Russia to defend itself and repel Russian attacks, and it is one of the main issues that will be discussed at the Nato summit. Ruben Brekelmans, the Dutch defence minister, said the discussions were focused on extending the distance weapons can be used and whether Kyiv has permission to use them to strike Russian aircraft before they mount attacks on Ukrainian territory. Volodymyr Zelensky urged his Western allies to put an end to 'all limitations' placed on donated weapon systems - Simon Dawson/No 10 Downing Street Mr Zelensky urged his Western allies to put an end to all limitations placed on donated weapon systems in a speech on the fringes of the Nato summit in Washington. A host of Western governments recently dropped restrictions on their munitions to allow Kyiv to use them in counter-strikes inside Russia to halt its offensive into the Kharkiv border region. But this has not stopped Moscows air force from freely dropping glide bombs on Ukrainian cities from the relative safety of distances around 50 miles behind the frontier. Imagine how much we can achieve when all limitations are lifted, Mr Zelensky said. Similarly, we can protect our cities from Russian glide bombs if American leadership makes a step forward and allows us to destroy Russian military aircraft on their bases. This will yield an instant result, and we are waiting for this step. There are hopes that the introduction of US-made F-16 fighter jets, armed with Amraam missiles, will be able to play a major role in limiting Russias aerial dominance, if granted permission to engage with Russian aircraft near the border. The American missiles are said to have a range of about 75 miles, depending on the conditions during which they are fired. The F-16s will be flying in the skies of Ukraine this summer, Antony Blinken, the US secretary of state, said on Wednesday. The jets are on their way, the transfers happen as we speak, he added. Dick Schoof, the Dutch prime minister, told Mr Zelensky he would not put any limitations on use of F-16s donated by his government, in a meeting at the summit. His defence minister later told The Telegraph that there were discussions between members of the F-16 coalition to ensure the aircraft can be used to its full potential. The discussions now are about the range that those munitions can be used in Russia, said Mr Brekelmans. I think that we should also have a discussion about... maybe we should, you know, not extend the range and that we should say Russian fighter jets when they are operational from a longer distance that its legitimate for Ukraine to target those aircraft. While Britain pledged any F-16s to Ukraine, its air-launched Storm Shadow missile will feature as part of the talks. The King says the Senedd has become more than a symbol, but 'essential to the life of Wales' - Ben Birchall/via REUTERS The King said his respect and affection for the people of Wales had deepened with every passing year as he marked the 25th anniversary of Welsh devolution. The monarch, 75, told politicians gathered at the Senedd that it had been a lifetime privilege to witness the great changes that had taken place since he officially opened it with his late mother in 1999. He also spoke of his great pleasure to see his elder son, the Prince of Wales, develop his own relationship with this special land, highlighting Williams return to Anglesey a place which I know means so much to him just this week. The King used his speech, spoken partly in Welsh, to highlight his concern for the environment. We now look forward to the tasks that we face in the next quarter-century, not least the challenge we all share as inhabitants of this threatened planet a challenge which I know you are seeking to meet with energy and determination, he said. Their Majesties arrived earlier to loud cheers from the crowd gathered outside the Welsh Parliament in a sunny Cardiff Bay after a rousing rendition of the Welsh national anthem. The King waves as he arrives at the Senedd in Wales with the Queen - Chris Jackson The Queen was wearing a pink coat dress by Anna Valentine and straw hat by Lock and Co as well as a Leek broach while the King wore a navy morning suit. As they made their way up the steps greeting dignitaries, excited schoolchildren waiting outside the entrance to the Senedd yelped in delight with one shouting: Its the King and the Queen, the King and the Queen, I told you theyd come in a car! The couple last visited the Senedd in September 2022, following the death of Elizabeth II. In a speech also delivered partly in Welsh, the King expressed his immense gratitude for his time serving as Prince of Wales, promising that Prince William also held a deep love for the country. The King walks with Elin Jones, the Llywydd, while the Queen walks with Vaughan Gething, the Welsh First Minister - Chris Jackson/via REUTERS Since ascending the throne, the King has maintained his passion for Wales and has pledged to continue his long association with the country. He told those gathered at the Senedd that both he and his wife were delighted to be there to mark such a significant milestone in our history its 25th anniversary. It is a milestone on a journey which it has been my privilege, all my life, to share with you, he said. During times which have seen great change, profound sorrow, and tremendous achievement. Through it all, my respect and affection for the people of this ancient land have deepened with every passing year. It is a privilege to share your love for this special land. The King addresses the Senedd, speaking partlyin Welsh - Ben Birchall/via REUTERS The King acknowledged that in 1999, when the National Assembly for Wales was established, it was impossible to know what lay ahead but that trust was placed in the common desire for the welfare of the people of Wales. Looking back at the distance travelled since then, I hope you can feel a real sense of pride in the respect that has been earned; and in the contribution that has been made to the lives of so many, he added. Welsh minds have indeed been directed to Welsh matters, and the distinct voice of Wales is heard with clarity and purpose. The King hailed the differences of opinion regularly voiced within parliament, hailing its inclusivity and noting its recognition that there are many different ways to love and serve ones country. The Senedd, he said, had become more than a symbol, but essential to the life of Wales. Earlier, the King and Queen were welcomed to Cardiff by the Royal Welsh, who formed a Guard of Honour, marking the first time the King has seen them since he was appointed their Colonel-in-Chief on St Davids Day. The Royal Welsh, who formed a Guard of Honour, welcome the King and Queen - Chris Jackson/via REUTERS They met people from the community who have contributed to its workings over the last quarter of a century including Claire OShea, a cancer campaigner, from Cardiff. Diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer which is now at stage 4, Ms OShea is undergoing palliative treatment to extend her life. She was repeatedly misdiagnosed with IBS which motivated her to engage with the Senedd, giving evidence to the health and social care committee to improve care for women in Wales with gynaecological cancer. She shared her story to demand better cancer treatments and results in Wales. On meeting the King, she said: I was pleased because I have been campaigning on cancer in Wales and knowing what he has been going through personally and what Princess Catherine has been going through as well I felt I could connect with them on an issue and I think thats really helpful. It was very quick but really nice actually because he passed his sympathies to me and was interested in how successful the campaign was and is going and how it was going to continue. It was a good experience. I never imagined Id meet the Royal family and I did not think I would ever necessarily want to do it. It is not something you really think about but I am really pleased I have done it, it was really good. Larry the cat has four more years fighting Westminster's mouse problem if he is to become the longest-serving mouser - ANDY RAIN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Larry the cat has become Downing Streets first Chief Mouser to serve under six prime ministers after Sir Keir Starmers general election victory. The tabby and white cat arrived from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in February 2011 and has been one of the few constants at No 10 ever since. Sir Keirs landslide win last week means Larry has now served more occupants of Downing Street than any of his predecessors. The 17-year-old moggie has also been in his role during the premierships of Lord Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak. But he has four more years fighting Westminsters mouse problem ahead if he is to become the longest-serving mouser. That accolade is held by Peter III, who held the post between 1947 and 1964 but only served under five prime ministers Attlee, Churchill, Eden, Macmillan and Douglas-Home. The original Peter was the second cat to serve in the formal role, succeeding Treasury Bill, and was in post for 17 years. Between the two cats came Peter II, who took the job as a two-month-old kitten but was struck by a car in Whitehall after just six months and was put to sleep shortly afterwards. Larry, whose full honorary title is Chief Mouser to the Cabinet Office, is held in higher regard than either Sir Keir or his predecessor Mr Sunak, an Ipsos poll found last week. The survey showed 44 per cent of people have a favourable opinion of Larry, while just four per cent take an unfavourable view. This makes him significantly more popular than the new Prime Minister, who is seen favourably by 34 per cent and unfavourably by 41 per cent. Sitting on the windowsill of No 10, Larry watches Theresa May and Donald Trump pose for pictures with their spouses - JULIAN SIMMONDS Just 22 per cent of voters had a favourable view of Mr Sunak at the end of his time in Downing Street, with 58 per cent having an unfavourable opinion. Larry has provided no shortage of memorable moments during his time at Downing Street. He faced his first calls to resign within months of starting the job in 2011 after he was spotted sleeping on the job for hours as a Downing Street press conference took place. But these were rejected by the then prime ministers spokesman, who insisted he brings a lot of pleasure to a lot of people. Larry was introduced to Barack Obama, the then American president, by Lord Cameron within months of taking the job. Larry fights outside Downing Street with Palmerston, the Foreign Office's chief mouser - Paul Grover for The Telegraph He has occasionally come to blows with Palmerston, the mouser at the Foreign Office, and Downing Street paid for him to see a vet after he was wounded in one of their fights. On July 26, 2016 the backdoor to No 10 was left open, and Palmerston, sneaked in. In the ensuing fight, Larry lost his collar and Palmerstons ear was damaged. Palmerston was later evicted by resident police with Larry regaining his No 10 territory back In 2016, the then outgoing prime minister Lord Cameron posted a snap showing Larry snuggled on his lap amid rumours the pair didnt get on. Lord Cameron posted a picture with Larry on his lap In 2022, Larry was memorably captured on camera chasing a fox from outside the Prime Ministers residence, marching it backwards, over a railing and into a bush late at night. It has been reported Sir Keir is planning to bring a dog to Downing Street to help ease his son and daughter into life in No 10. Asked before the election whether he would take after Boris Johnson, who brought in Dilyn, Sir Keir said his children have been on a campaign to get a dog for a number of years now. [A] German shepherd is the current favourite, although theres a range of possibilities, so we shall see, he told Times Radio. But as I say Im getting into dangerous territory now because if my boy and girl get hold of this footage, Ill be confronted with it when I get back to them. Larry may not have liked Boris Johnson for bringing his dog to No 10 - Jamie Lorriman The Starmers already have a cat of their own, Jojo, a rescue cat who is likely to view the move to Downing Street with some apprehension. Ms Truss, Mr Johnsons successor, said she started her short tenure itching because the place was infested with fleas, saying there were claims but no evidence Dilyn was at fault. Crossbow Shocking news demands a response. Lets ban crossbows. That is an entirely understandable reaction to the horrendous news that three women were killed in a suspected crossbow attack in Hertfordshire. Labours new Minister of State for Security Dan Jarvis has stated that the government will examine at pace whether new laws are needed to regulate the ownership of crossbows. The response is understandable, but it is also wrong. The UK has a long history of passing knee-jerk legislation in response to the latest outrage. But such hasty lawmaking all too often comes to be regretted. The classic example of this is the Dangerous Dogs Act, passed by John Majors government in 1991, prohibiting four specified breeds of dog. It was enacted in response to a series of fatal dog attacks. The cry went up, something must be done, and done now. Politicians heard the outrage, and something was done. But it is nearly universally agreed that it has been ineffective. There have been endless wrangles about whether this or that individual dog is one of the specified breeds or not. And, to the bafflement of no one, lethal dog attacks have continued regardless. The political response to the ineffectiveness of the Act has not been to question its worth, but to call for more breeds of dog to be banned, such as the XL Bully added to the prohibited list last year. And then surprise, surprise the new ban is riddled with loopholes. A more exact parallel to the current panic over crossbows was the response to the 1996 Dunblane massacre. 16 pupils and one teacher were murdered in the small Scottish town in what remains the worst mass shooting in British history. The response of the then Tory government was to introduce a ban on virtually all modern handguns, excepting only the smallest calibre exemplars. Labour, not to be outdone, said these should also be prohibited and legislation was swiftly passed to close this loophole after Tony Blairs landslide 1997 victory. Those who opposed the handgun ban were stigmatised not just as wrong in their argument, but as morally reprehensible. After all, who could possibly oppose a clampdown when children were being murdered? Those who argued that such legislation would simply mean that the only people who would own handguns in future would be exactly those who should not own them criminals were shouted down. Britain now has amongst the strictest gun laws of any democratic state. Yet gun crime is still with us. Does anyone imagine if crossbows are banned that those intent on inflicting harm will not find other tools? Britain is a much governed, some would say over governed, nation. Do we really need further bans which are likely to be ineffective in stopping future crimes? Susan Nelles' case was later thrown out before it reached trial and the nurse awarded an out-of-court settlement of $190,000 after bringing a case of malicious prosecution - Ron Bull The Lucy Letby case bears striking similarities to a Canadian nurse wrongly accused of poisoning babies, an eminent neonatologist has said. Dr Desmond Bohn, who spent 35 years as a paediatric intensive care specialist, was working at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto when nurse Susan Nelles was blamed for the deaths of four infants in her care. Between June 1980 and March 1981, there was an alarming increase in cardiac deaths on two neonatal wards at the hospital. Post mortems showed that the babies had unusually high levels of digoxin in their blood, a drug commonly used to slow heart rate and increase circulation. Dr Bohn, who retired as Chief of the Department of Critical Care Medicine in 2011, said: The Lucy Letby case has echoes of a similar series of unexplained deaths we had in our hospital while I was there involving infants with congenital heart disease. As in Letbys case, shift patterns linked Nelles to the deaths which stopped immediately after she was arrested. However the timing coincided with the hospital placing new restrictions on access to digoxin and bringing in updated care protocols. The case was later thrown out before it reached trial and the nurse awarded an out-of-court settlement of $190,000 after bringing a case of malicious prosecution. As in Letby's case, shift patterns linked Susan Nelles to the deaths which stopped immediately after she was arrested - Colin McConnell Dr Bohn added: (There was a) similar poorly conducted investigation and a rush to find a guilty party. The case was thrown out at a preliminary hearing. Rightly so. All the patients were receiving the cardiac drug digoxin but it is rarely used nowadays. The problem was that the window between efficacy and toxicity is very narrow. They measured post mortem digoxin levels which were elevated and concluded that there had been deliberate poisoning. This was a flawed approach because what constituted therapeutic levels had never been established in forensic medicine. Nevertheless, murder was suspected and a nurse named was identified as the culprit using the same flawed statistical methodology as in the Letby case. In 1993, more than a decade after Nelles was accused of murder, a report blamed the chemical MBT, used to toughen syringes and medical tubing, for the deaths of these babies. It also concluded that tests used to measure digoxin in the early 1980s gave falsely high readings which could not be relied upon. Nelles continued to work as a nurse in Kingston Ontario and in 1999, was awarded an honorary doctorate in law from Queens University for work promoting integrity in nursing. Highly likely that there has been a grave miscarriage of justice Speaking about Letbys trial, Dr Bohn added: They need a statistical expert to give evidence at trials like these. It would seem that Chester Hospital was poorly run and short of staff. Premature babies like these are very fragile. I think it is highly likely that there has been a grave miscarriage of justice here. The legal system has painted itself into a corner and I dont see a way out. Lucy Letby has been refused the right to appeal, but the option remains to bring the matter for review - Chester Standard Letby has been refused the right to appeal, but the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) said that she, or her representatives, could bring the matter to them for review. A CCRC spokesman told The Telegraph: We have not received an application for Lucy Letby. Applications to the CCRC can be made by anyone who believes they have been wrongly convicted or sentenced, or by their representatives. Joe Biden and other world leaders attend a session of the Nato summit in Washington. Photograph: Matt Rourke/AP On the face of it, it was a busy Nato summit, not short of outcomes: badly needed air defence systems and fighter jets for Ukraine and a commitment that Kyiv was on an irreversible path to membership plus a cross-alliance warning to China for its discreet help to Russia as it continues its assault on Ukraine. Yet, behind the activity lurks the cliff-edge of the US election. In the Washington heat, the worry is not so much about Joe Bidens health, but the Democrats ability to defeat Donald Trump in the November election. The reality is that Nato will struggle if the US is sceptical, fitful or unengaged. During the last Trump presidency, Nato survived by hunkering down, making minimal commitments during a period of less geopolitical uncertainty. This time, with a major war continuing on the edge of Europe, a dysfunctional Nato is not obviously an attractive option, but it nevertheless lingers. Karin von Hippel, the director general of the Royal United Services Institute thinktank, said: Everybody is worried about Trump, everybody is worried about US commitments to Nato. Last time around Trump couldnt do much damage because he didnt understand how the bureaucracy works. But now he does. The plan had been for Biden to promote Nato, to Americans and to the world, at a summit in the US capital to mark the 75th year of the alliance. Speaking in the Mellon auditorium, the very room Natos founding treaty was signed in 1949, Biden emphasised the alliances durability could not be taken for granted a point aimed at Trump. Lets remember: the fact that Nato remains the bulwark of global security did not happen by accident. It wasnt inevitable. Again and again, at critical moments, we chose unity over disunion, progress over retreat, freedom over tyranny, and hope over fear, the president said on Tuesday night. Yet at the same time, US media was dominated by concerns about Bidens health and fitness for the presidency, and while his speech was delivered forcefully enough, a lengthy struggle to tie a sash bearing the presidential medal of freedom on to the outgoing Nato secretary general, Jens Stoltenberg, was a graphic reminder of the problem. In the same speech, Biden announced that Ukraine would receive four new Patriot missile defence systems. However, the reality is that Ukraine has been asking publicly for extra air defence since April a need tragically underlined on Monday when 44 were killed in attacks by Moscow, including the strike on a childrens hospital in Kyiv. A day later, Denmark, the Netherlands and the US declared that the first of about 85 F-16 fighters were in the process of being transferred to Ukraine more than 18 months after the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, began pressing for them. Few believe F-16s, as they arrive, can be a gamechanger in isolation and though the hope is they can suppress attacks from air-launched glide bombs, they may at first be used to pick off Russian drones as they fly over Ukrainian airspace, a necessary but relatively basic task. Ukraine has received weapon systems from the west that nobody would have thought possible immediately after Russia first launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, but the political fanfare that greets each new arrival has so far been followed by relative disappointment on the battlefield. That risks reinforcing the idea that no amount of military aid can help Kyiv recover its lost territories and somehow win the war, though it misses the more important argument that without US military aid, Ukraine risks starting to lose. When fresh US aid was withheld by Trump allies in Congress for months in the spring, Ukraine first lost Avdiivka in February, then border territory near Kharkiv in May, before sufficient supplies started coming through. Nato allies in Washington did agree some positive diplomatic language on Ukraines eventual membership, describing the country as on an irreversible path to joining in the summit communique. Artful though this was, however, in practical terms Kyiv is no nearer joining, and the reality is that Russias invasion is now preventing Ukraine becoming a member, because Nato does not want to join in the war. A key tactic of the Biden White House has been to link concerns about China, one of the few bipartisan issues in the US, with Nato, traditionally focused on the Euro-Atlantic. That all 32 allies could agree on describing Chinas discreet supply of military components and chemicals to Russia as a decisive enabler of the war in Ukraine was a success from the point of alliance unity, Von Hippel said. Such statements are unlikely to persuade Beijing to change its mind This is a hard nut to crack, Von Hippel said but anything that puts off China from supplying weapons to Russia can be defined as a success for the west. Depending on the results of the US election, come the next summit in The Hague, a year from now, such moments of diplomatic unity may prove harder to coordinate. Cooking oil products at a supermarket in Beijing. Photograph: Ng Han Guan/AP A food safety scandal has caused mounting public outrage in China days before a high-level Chinese Communist party meeting at which leaders will try to boost confidence in the economy. Last week the state-run newspaper Beijing News published an in-depth expose on the open secret of fuel tankers being used to transport cooking oil, without the tankers being washed or disinfected in between. In the report, an undercover reporter interviewed a trucker who had driven a tanker of coal-derived fuel from Ningxia, a region in the west of China, to the east coast city of Qinhuangdao in Hebei, a journey of more than 800 miles (1,290km). The trucker told the journalist he was not allowed to return with an empty vehicle, and subsequently drove to a facility in another part of Hebei to load up with nearly 32 tons of soya bean oil, without cleaning the tanker. Several other tankers featured in the article made similar journeys. The scandal has implicated several major Chinese companies including the state-owned oil and grain company Sinograin and Hopefull Grain and Oil Group, a private conglomerate. Both companies said they were investigating the claims. This week the office of the food safety commission under Chinas State Council said it was investigating the claims and that individuals found violating the law through improper use of tanker trucks will face severe punishment. Chinese regulations state that different tankers should be used for transporting cooking oil and fuel, which is derived from coal and is potentially poisonous. The Beijing News report revealed that inspections were often absent or cursory. In one case, on a tanker waiting to collect a load of edible oil, a piece of white paper was taped over the writing that indicated it should be used for fuel. It is not clear where the cooking oil in the fuel-contaminated tankers ultimately ended up. Follow-up reports tracking the truckers identified in the Beijing News article suggested that the tankers delivered oil to packaging facilities run by household brand names in China, intensifying concerns that people could be consuming toxic oil. The article also quoted an industry insider as saying that some of the oil may ultimately be packaged into small bottles for foreign sales. The news has caused widespread outrage in China, where there are deeply rooted fears about food safety after a series of scandals and perceived lack of accountability for rule-breakers. In 2008, six babies died and 300,000 were sickened by contaminated baby formula. In 2013, more than 16,000 dead pigs were found in the Huangpu River, which supplies Shanghai with drinking water. Last year, images of a school canteen in Jiangxi went viral after a student found a rats head in his meal, which the school initially claimed was duck meat. The hashtag #edibleoil had more than 16m views on Weibo on Thursday. Many commenters praised the role of journalists in exposing the scandal. Its been a long time since Ive seen investigative journalism like this, kudos to the media, one commenter wrote on Weibo. Some analysts questioned why Beijing News, a Chinese Communist party-backed outlet, had been allowed to publish such a damning report shortly before CCP leaders meet for the third plenum, one of Chinas most important political gatherings, next week. Investigations into consumer and public health issues used to be relatively common in Chinas media, but in the past decade the space for independent reporting has been dramatically squeezed and the CCP maintains a tight grip on what kind of information can be published. Other hashtags relating to the incident, particularly those that named specific companies, appear to have been censored on Weibo. One sensitive topic appears to be posts relating to Jinlongyu, a household brand of cooking oil that has been implicated in the scandal. Shares in Jinlongyus parent company fell by more than 8% on Wednesday amid concerns that its oil could be tainted. The company said its trucks met national requirements. Additional research by Chi Hui Lin A Sudanese girl at a transit centre for refugees in Renk, South Sudan, earlier this year. Photograph: Luis Tato/AFP/Getty Images Hajer Sulaiman, a 32-year-old communications specialist, was living in the Sudanese capital, Khartoum, when a power struggle that had been simmering for months between the regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) burst into the open on 15 April last year. My mother was telling me she wanted to head to the market that morning, Sulaiman said. We could hear loud explosions, but we thought it was to do with protesters, not that the entire country had slipped into a civil war. It was just too overwhelming to process. She didnt expect the fighting to last a long time, believing the countrys generals would be hauled around the table to thrash out a deal. But the sound of mortars, fighter jets and gunfire did not cease, and a few days later the family decided they had to leave. Sulaiman, who now lives in Port Sudan, a small city on the Red Sea coast, is among millions of displaced Sudanese people whose lives have been upended by a brutal and seemingly intractable conflict that has killed at least 14,000 civilians, according to a conservative estimate by the nonprofit war monitor ACLED. I only took my laptop and phone because I thought wed be back in a few weeks, Sulaiman said. Thats what hurts the most, she added, not being able to say goodbye and now it has been over a year. According to the UN refugee agency, UNHCR, there are about 10 million internally displaced people in Sudan, making it the country with the largest internally displaced population ever reported. More than 7 million have been internally displaced since the war began, of whom about 4 million are children, according to Unicef. Child displacement goes along with multiple other crises as a result of the war, said Mandeep OBrien, Unicefs country representative for Sudan. Children face disease, malnutrition and hunger and close to 8.9 million are acutely food insecure. A further 2 million people have fled to neighbouring countries. Chad and South Sudan have received the largest numbers of refugees, followed by Egypt and Ethiopia. Sulaiman lives in a small apartment that she shares with six other women because Port Sudans swelling population has caused rents to surge. People used to pay $200 or $300 a month here, but in some places rents have gone as high as $1,500, Sulaiman said on a video call. She considers herself fortunate many others who have arrived in the city stay in schools, tents or out on the street without access to food, electricity or other amenities. El Fasher, the last major government-held city in the vast western Darfur region, is home to tens of thousands of refugees who have fled brutal RSF offensives. In recent months, people living in the city have endured a tightening RSF siege and daily indiscriminate fire. On 10 June, the medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres said it had closed its last hospital in the city due to RSF attacks. In Ethiopias north-western Amhara region, which shares a border with Sudan and is struggling with its own conflict between insurgents and government forces, an estimated 8,000 refugees were forced to leave UN camps after repeated attacks, gunfire and kidnappings. The mass displacement has made Sudans humanitarian emergency even more acute. Aid organisations have been sounding the alarm, reporting shortages of medicine, food and shelter as populations in refugee camps and makeshift settlements across the country continue to increase. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, a UN-backed tool for tracking global hunger, said 14 areas with high concentrations of internally displaced people were at risk of famine. Tom Perriello, the USs special envoy to Sudan, said last month that parts of Sudan were in famine, and that even in safer environments such as the refugee camps in eastern Chad where people fleeing Darfur have primarily settled the international community had done a pitiful job of getting aid through. For Sulaimans aunt, who had diabetes and could not get access to insulin in a village in al Jazira, an east-central Sudanese state, the bottlenecks for life-saving medicine ultimately cost her life. Your mind keeps running back over the situation, asking: What if she could have come to us? Something so simple cost her her life, she said. She was talking to us every day; she was my mothers best friend. Her cousin also died early on in the conflict, amid an RSF assault on Jebel Aulia, a village south of Khartoum, after doctors short on supplies were unable to stop bleeding from a wound in his leg. We found his body among a pile of other corpses in a hospital, Sulaiman said. Atiyat Zaidan, 24, was a student at the University of Khartoum living in Omdurman, a neighbouring city, when the fighting started. She and her family have since left for New Halfa in the eastern state of Kassala. Zaidan said her younger sister had not recovered from the early days of the war. She remains fearful, imagines things and looks at people with surprise as if she doesnt know them. The worst part is that she cannot sleep; she dozes off for a few minutes and then wakes up frightened. I miss my home very much, and my university, and the roads that I used to frequent, and all the places in Khartoum, Zaidan added. Sometimes I dream about them and sometimes I imagine how I used to walk in peace, and it was a great blessing from God, and we didnt know. Ozempic Ozempic could cut the risk of dementia by half, a University of Oxford study has suggested. Scientists set out to establish the impact of the weight-loss jab on the brain in the first study of its kind, and found it reduced the risk of multiple neurological conditions, including dementia and Parkinsons disease. The experts compared the weight-loss drug to three other common diabetes medications and found they slashed rates of dementia by up to 48 per cent. The researchers said their study provides the first robust evidence that the drug could boost brain health and protect against addictions. They also revealed the drugs huge potential benefits in reducing the risk of developing encephalitis a life-threatening inflammation of the brain as well as cutting rates of substance misuse, including nicotine and alcohol, opening the possibility of its use to treat addiction. Dr Riccardo De Giorgi, an expert in adult psychiatry at the University of Oxford and the lead author of the study, said the results suggest the use of the injections could extend beyond managing diabetes, potentially offering unexpected benefits in the treatment and prevention of cognitive decline and substance misuse. Public health implications He said the findings would not only help reassure the millions of patients relying on semaglutide for diabetes management but could also have significant implications for public health in terms of reducing cognitive deficit and smoking rates among patients with diabetes. In the study, published in the Lancets eClinicalMedicine journal, the researchers analysed 130,000 diabetes patients in the US for one year, including about 20,000 taking semaglutide, known by the brand name Ozempic for diabetes, or Wegovy for weight-loss. They compared the injections with three other common anti-diabetic drugs and the impact on 22 different neurological and psychiatric conditions. The risk of developing dementia was 48 per cent lower in those taking Ozempic than those on sitagliptin, 37 per cent lower than those on glipizide, and nine per cent lower than those on empagliflozin. General cognitive decline, such as memory loss or confusion, was also less common in those taking Ozempic, with 28 per cent fewer patients experiencing it than those on sitagliptin and glipizide. The biggest reduction in risk was seen in encephalitis. Ozempic users were 74 per cent, 65 per cent, and 38 per cent less likely to develop it than those on glipizide, sitagliptin and empagliflozin, respectively. It comes after the miracle jabs were found to cut the risk of heart attacks and strokes by a fifth in a recent trial, leading to calls for them to be prescribed like statins. Semaglutide, manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a Danish firm, was the first in a new generation of weight-loss drugs called GLP-1 agonists. The findings also backed up previous research suggesting the weight-loss injections could help people kick addictions, with it lowering the risk of nicotine misuse by up to 28 per cent, while there were similar results for alcohol and drug misuse. The study is observational and so it cannot prove cause and effect, but it is the most comprehensive yet into the link between semaglutide and brain health. The researchers only looked at diabetes patients and so the results cannot be related to those taking the drug to lose weight. Dr Max Taquet said: Our study is observational and these results should therefore be replicated in a randomised controlled trial to confirm and extend our findings. Nevertheless, they are good news for patients with psychiatric disorders, who are at an increased risk of diabetes. Semaglutide is available on the NHS for patients with Type 2 diabetes and obesity, but soaring global demand has left the drug in short supply. Last year, the NHS was forced to issue a national alert warning stating that a shortage of Ozempic was putting diabetes patients at risk. Scammers have tried to exploit Nigel Farage's popularity with an online con - Instagram/Nigel Farage Reform UK has warned members not to send donations to a fake Nigel Farage after supporters were defrauded by an online scam. The party issued an emergency email on Thursday evening after a fraudulent Telegram account bearing Mr Farages name told members to donate money to it to become a VIP member of the party. Fraudsters appear to be attempting to take advantage of Reforms soaring membership, which has risen by nearly two-thirds in two months. Reform has reported the profile on the online messaging platform to the police and urged any party members who were contacted by it to do the same. Beware of scam This is a scam and if you or anyone you know have been contacted then please report this to the party who are in contact with the police, it told members. The account, which bears the username Am_Official_Nigel_Farage, claims to be Mr Farages private profile. Reform said the profile had been in contact with at least one member before being identified and reported. We have been made aware of attempts to defraud members of the public including party members on the messaging platform Telegram, the email sent to members read. If you use this app please beware of attempts under the guise of our leader Nigel Farage MP to contact you and ask you to make a donation in order to become a VIP member. Four million votes It added: At present we are only aware that this scammer is working on Telegram, however we are acutely aware that they could be operating on various other social media and messaging platforms. Reform reached a total of 65,000 members on July 7, just days after it won four million votes and five seats in the Commons at the election. The party has vowed to professionalise and establish branches nationwide in a bid to capitalise on its breakthrough into Parliament. Nigel Farage ousted his two deputy leaders, Ben Habib and Dr David Bull, on Thursday, merging their roles and appointing former leader Richard Tice in their place. Reform UK's five MPs turn up to Parliament for the first time - Maja Smiejkowska/PA Zia Yusuf, an entrepreneur who was the partys biggest donor during the election campaign, has become party chairman, while Lee Anderson is now chief whip. Gawain Towler, Reforms spokesman, said that the criminal fraudulent endeavour demanded members pay 200 to become VIPs. We have informed the entire supporters base of Reform UK that somebody pretending to be a private Telegram account of Nigel Farage is trying to scam people out of 200 in order to become members of what they claim is a VIP membership organisation, Mr Towler said. This is a criminal fraudulent endeavour and we are getting in touch with Telegram and the police to have it shut down. We have not heard of anybody falling for the scam, but it does well to be vigilant. Russell Findlay is seen within the Scottish Tory party as the favoured choice of the current hierarchy to become the next leader - KEN JACK/GETTY IMAGES The Scottish Tories have failed to set out a positive vision for Scotland for years, a front runner to become the partys next leader has said. Russell Findlay, the partys justice spokesman, said the Conservatives had a chance for a fresh start in Scotland and they needed to do a better job of setting out their values to voters. While he is yet to confirm he is running, Mr Findlay is widely expected to be a candidate in the race to succeed Douglas Ross. Murdo Fraser, the veteran MSP who has previously proposed replacing the Scottish Tories with a new centre-Right party, is seen as the other front runner should he declare his candidacy. In an article for the Scottish Daily Mail, seen as an initial leadership pitch, Mr Findlay said activists had confided in him during the general election campaign that they had rightly been concerned about a lack of positive vision stretching back years. Fundamental lesson He added: So thats another fundamental lesson which needs to be taken on board and acted upon, and urgently. The simple truth is that over recent years the Scottish Conservatives have focused too much on what we are opposed to, and spent not nearly enough time setting out the positive case for a modern, popular conservatism. That must change. Mr Findlay, a former journalist, is seen within the party as the favoured choice of the current hierarchy to become the next leader. He said that the party had previously been defined by opposition to independence, but must now set out an aspirational vision centred around principles of personal responsibility and hard work. To most people, that sounds reasonable, Mr Findlay said. But it is anathema to many politicians in the Scottish parliament. They know how to spend vast sums of taxpayers money, but hardly give a passing thought to where it comes from or the hard graft of those who generate it. He cited a parliamentary debate on pardoning witches and another session on the Scottish-Arctic relationship as examples of Holyrood being detached from the publics priorities. While he stopped short of confirming that he would run to become leader, he said he was setting out his Conservative vision for Scotland adding that it was the kind of change Im committed to working for. The Scottish Conservative management board met on Wednesday and held initial discussions about the leadership race. It will set rules on levels of support necessary to make the ballot of members and a timetable for the contest, with at least five MSPs seriously considering running. A party spokesman said: Further discussions will take place and more details will be outlined in due course. Polish border guards on the Poland-Belarus border east of Bialystok The attack came shortly before dawn. Dozens of illegal migrants on the Belarusian side of the border with Poland hurled a volley of makeshift spears at Polish border guards through the five-metre-high steel fence. Some fell short of their targets and as the security forces picked them up they saw what appeared to be a tree branch with a steel blade taped to the top. Several were injured in the bombardment and one - Sgt Mateusz Sitek, a 21-year-old from the village of Nowy Lubiel - lost his life. They may be incredibly crude, but the weapons show a new level of organisation and intent from the waves of migrants arriving at the gates of the EU through Belarus. The improvised weapons used by the attackers They are moving with the quiet helping hand of Russia, Polish officials believe, the latest axis in Vladimir Putins asymmetric hybrid war with the West. Russia has long waged hybrid warfare on Europes doorstep with a combination of cyber attacks and disinformation. It began weaponising migration three years ago, working with travel agents in the Middle East to encourage migrants to visit with the promise of a gateway to the EU. As The Telegraph reported earlier this year, these migrants are increasingly controlled by private Wagner-like Russian militias. An ambulance arrives at the scene of the attack The death of Sgt Sitek is emblematic of how things have dramatically escalated. He was a very, very good boy, one person told The Telegraph at his funeral in a small church where friends, family and the Polish president gathered to pay their respects. The sounds of prayers mingled with footsteps as soldiers walked across St Marys wooden floor. Amid the kind words and reflections, though, one message cut through: this was a needless death. You know, I cant stop thinking, would all this have happened if two years ago these people hadnt started all this hate campaign against our soldiers on the border? one mourner at Siteks funeral said. As well as training and controlling increasingly violent migration flows into Poland, Russia has also upped its destabilising techniques elsewhere along its border with Europe. On the Finnish-Russian border, Russia has been handing out bicycles and foot-scooters to migrants to help them cross over. The Kremlins influence over a number of the main routes into the continent stirred fears earlier this year that Russia would be intensifying its efforts. Intelligence documents detailed plans for Russian agents to set up a 15,000-man strong border police force comprising former militias in Libya to control the flow of migrants. In Poland, arguments between migrants and border guards have now turned into full-blown skirmishes, culminating in the latest fatal attack We took an oath to defend our country with the sacrifice of our lives, said Colonel Katarzyna Zdanowicz, spokesman for the Border Patrol. But no one expected it to be like this. After the death of this young soldier, we understood how realistic our oath was. Pawel Zabrocki, chief of police in the nearby town of Hajnowka, said that, since April this year, his team of 370 police officers have stopped at least 537 people trying to cross the border illegally. Sgt Mateusz Sitek, 21, died after being injured in an attack by illegal immigrants The tensions at the border are also bleeding deeper into nearby communities. Czerlonka is a tiny village of about a dozen houses buried deep in the forest of Bialowieza, five miles from the border. Surrounded by treacherous swamps, it is the first point from the border where forest meets tarmac and where a bus service runs. This obscure little spot became the subject of media attention after residents complained they would see migrants hanging around the bus stop, having trekked through the forest. Zbigniew Czerewko, 70, is a retired forestry worker who has lived in Czerlonka for more than 40 years. One day he was visited by a young man who came to his house and asked for food and water. We gave him scrambled eggs because he didnt want sausages, and we charged his mobile phone. My son-in-law spoke to him in English. The man said he was 23 years old and had come from Egypt. He was hiding in the forest from the border patrol. The man was pleasant enough, said Mr Czerewko, as are many of the other migrants he has met. But the fact that people dont know exactly who they are or where they have come from has led to fears and all sorts of rumours. One of those is that members of the Russian mercenary group, Wagner, are also at the border. The local people are afraid. They are afraid because they do not know what to expect from those who come here. It was a message underscored by resident Anna Berent at a recent regional government meeting in Bialowieza. Our village has become a stopping point between the border and the refugee centre. These people, hungry and tired, occupy our houses and spread fear among us, she said. We are not afraid of migrants because they have a different skin colour or a different faith. We fear unknown people who have entered our country illegally, taking our peace and our property. Polish soldiers patrol the border with Belarus along the border fence in the Bialowieza forest - Attila Husejnow/via Getty Images A Syrian migrant on the Belarusian side of the border wall with Poland - Attila Husejnow/via Getty Images On Wednesday Poland said it would do whatever it took to resolve the migrant crisis on its border with Belarus. Radoslaw Sikorski, the foreign minister, had previously said that his country did not rule out a complete closure of the border, while Andrzej Duda, the president, raised the border crisis in talks with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping, a growing ally of Russia. We are ready for any solution in this area because we will not allow this migration crisis caused by Belarus to last indefinitely, said Cezary Tomczyk, the deputy defence minister. The warning on migration came as Polands armed forces chief also said on Wednesday that the country needed to prepare its soldiers. Today, we need to prepare our forces for full-scale conflict, not an asymmetric-type conflict, General Wieslaw Kukula told a press conference. This forces us to find a good balance between the border mission and maintaining the intensity of training in the army, he said. Speaking at the same event, Pawel Bejda, the deputy defence minister, said that as of August, the number of troops guarding Polands eastern border would be increased to 8,000 from the current 6,000, with an additional rearguard of 9,000 able to step up within 48 hours notice. Clive Lewis was re-elected as the MP for Norwich South last week A Labour MP staged a protest against the monarchy as he reluctantly swore allegiance to the King on his return to Parliament. Clive Lewis, who was re-elected as the MP for Norwich South at the general election, said he took the oath under protest and in the hope that one day his fellow citizens would decide to live in a republic. All MPs are required by law to declare their allegiance to the Crown before taking their seats in the Commons. They have the option of either swearing on a sacred text or giving a non-religious, solemn affirmation. Until they do so, they cannot speak in debates, vote or receive a salary. They could also be fined 500 and have their seat declared vacant as if they were dead. A small number of MPs choose to protest against the obligation when they are sworn in. On Wednesday, Mr Lewis, an ardent republican, said: I take this oath under protest, and in the hope that one day my fellow citizens will democratically decide to live in a republic. Until that time, I do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles, according to law. Seamus Logan, the new SNP MP, also made a reluctant affirmation prefaced by the statement: Im a polite nationalist, and I will say these words to the people of Aberdeenshire North and Moray East, wholl know where my loyalties lie. Colum Eastwood, the leader of Northern Irelands Social Democratic and Labour Party, which is in favour of a united Ireland, made a similar statement as he took his seat. He said: Ill read out this empty formula in order to represent my constituents, but its under protest. My true allegiance is to the people of Derry and to the people of Ireland. Mr Lewis has previously argued that the fundamental truth about the monarchy was its role as a distraction. In an article for The Guardian shortly after the late Queens death, he claimed the transition to a new monarch was as much about coercion as consent, criticising the arrest of anti-monarchy protesters and what he described as gratuitous wall-to-wall media coverage of the funeral. The MP added: Why, I asked, would so many people, often with so little, show such deference to an institution that is the very embodiment of the inequalities of wealth and power that permeate our country? Because until republicans can fully understand this sentiment, we will struggle to win the argument for transition from constitutional monarchy to constitutional democracy. Wes Streeting says the probe will be aimed at 'diagnosing the problem' so that the Government can 'write the prescription' - Heathcliff O'Malley The Health Secretary has announced a warts and all independent investigation into the performance of the NHS. Wes Streeting unveiled a review that will be led by Lord Darzi, an independent peer and former Labour minister, with the aim of telling hard truths about the health service. Mr Streeting declared the NHS is broken just an hour after his appointment to Sir Keir Starmers Cabinet last week and his analysis is now the Department for Healths policy. In an article for The Sun newspaper, he explained the probe would be aimed at diagnosing the problem so that the Government can write the prescription. Its clear to anyone who works in or uses the NHS that it is broken, Mr Streeting said. Unlike the last government, we are not looking for excuses. I am certainly not going to blame NHS staff, who bust a gut for their patients. This Government is going to be honest about the challenges facing us, and serious about solving them. Lord Darzi was ennobled by Gordon Brown in 2007 to start work on a number of studies aimed at improving the NHS. Lord Darzi (right) worked in Gordon Brown's government to improve the NHS - Max Nash/PA A review he produced the following year recommended giving private healthcare firms more scope to supply primary care services, as well as a polyclinic plan that proved short-lived. Mr Streeting added: Ive asked Lord Darzi to tell the hard truths. The NHS and my department have been instructed to hand him whatever information he needs. Honesty is the best policy, and this report will provide patients, staff and myself with a full and frank assessment of the state of the NHS, warts and all. Operations must happen seven days a week Lord Darzi, who is respected for his work on surgical robotics and minimally invasive surgery, stepped back from Mr Browns government in 2009 to return to full-time practice. Earlier this year, the peer argued that the NHS must perform operations seven days a week, saying that British Airways does not leave its planes on the tarmac over the weekend. Half of NHS hospitals currently shut their operating theatres at weekends, with elective operations falling by four-fifths on Saturdays and Sundays. At a conference earlier this week, Mr Streeting insisted it was time for the health service to stop asking for money and start driving growth by helping get people back to work. Speaking at the Tony Blair Institutes Future of Britain event, he criticised a begging bowl culture and said delivering the mission for growth had to be a priority. Mr Streeting also declared his number one focus was cutting the NHS waiting list, which spiralled out of control during the pandemic and lockdowns and now stands at 7.6 million. On Tuesday, he met the British Medical Association (BMA) for the first time in positive first talks aimed at ending the ongoing junior doctor strikes. But the BMA refused to rule out the possibility of further strikes, while negotiations on a settlement will not formally commence until next week. Movie star and lifelong Democrat George Clooney is adding his voice to calls for Joe Biden to leave the presidential race. - Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP As Joe Biden walked on to stage at a star-studded fundraiser in Los Angeles last month, he might well have thought the event would mark a high point in his re-election bid. The celebrity gala raised $30 million (23 million) for his campaign, with the help of Barack Obama and co-hosts including George Clooney and Jimmy Kimmel. But as it drew to an end, the cameras picked up on Mr Obama subtly attempting to lead Mr Biden off stage by the elbow, triggering an instant online discussion about the presidents health. On Wednesday, Clooney came forward to reveal that the Joe Biden he had seen at the fundraiser was just as shaky as the man who repeatedly lost his train of thought while debating Donald Trump last month. Were not going to win in November with this president, he said in an opinion piece for the New York Times. Mr Bidens team are now speculating that the man behind Clooneys article is the same one who ushered the president off the stage in Los Angeles: Barack Obama. Is Joes old boss trying to force him out of the race? One thing that we do have to underline here is the Biden campaign and many Democratic officials do believe that Barack Obama is quietly working behind the scenes to orchestrate this, MSNBC host Joe Scarborough said on Thursday. That view has only intensified with the revelation that Clooney contacted Mr Obama to forewarn him of his plans to dramatically intervene in the 2024 White House race. When the Biden campaign learned of the article it is said to have attempted to intervene to block its publication. George Clooney has been friends with Barack Obama for several years - Pete Souza/White House Not so Mr Obama, a close friend of Clooney, who, according to US media, discussed the piece with the actor but did not object or attempt to dissuade him from publicly denouncing Mr Biden. That decision has raised speculation about Mr Obamas true feelings about his former vice presidents re-election bid, despite coming out in support of him following the disastrous debate last month. Bad debate nights happen. Trust me, I know, he wrote in a social media post. But this election is still a choice between someone who has fought for ordinary folks his entire life and someone who only cares about himself. It was one of relatively few public showcases of support for the Biden campaign that Mr Obama has made, amid ongoing reports the 44th president is unhappy about his old friends bid to secure a second term. Numerous anonymous briefings to US media outlets have detailed Mr Obamas frustration with the Biden 2024 campaign, and his concerns about its ability to beat Trump. Over the last few months the former president is said to have made multiple calls to Jeff Zients, the White House chief of staff, and to Biden campaign leaders to offer advice, and warn them against complacency over a potential Trump victory. Mr Obamas representatives routinely decline to comment on, rather than deny, those reports. In contrast to Mr Obamas reticence on the subject, his former aides have emerged as some of Mr Biden and the White Houses fiercest Democratic critics. David Plouffe, who managed the 2008 Obama campaign, called Mr Bidens debate performance a Defcon 1 moment. David Axelrod, a top Obama ally, has repeatedly sounded the alarm over Mr Bidens candidacy, saying this week that the president really needs to consider what the right thing to do here is. Tommy Vietor, a former adviser to Mr Obama, has called the current presidents recent public appearances bad, and, at times, very hard to watch. Mr Bidens inability to deliver cogent, or for that matter complete, sentences was not surprising to those present at the LA fundraiser hosted by Clooney, according to Jon Favreau, another former Obama staffer. I was there. Clooney was exactly right, and every single person I talked to at the fundraiser thought the same thing, except for the people working for Joe Biden, or at least they didnt say that, he told CNN. Leaked details Leaked details from the celebrity fundraiser also suggest Mr Biden struggled to keep up with questions posed by co-host Jimmy Kimmel, and relied on Mr Obama to step in to cover awkward moments. Vietor and Favreau have expounded on why they believe Mr Biden should quit the 2024 race on their podcast, Pod Save America. The Biden team issued a barbed response to what it called self-important Podcasters and party elites. Mr Biden is reported to have privately responded to the criticism with expletives. There is a longer history to the acrimony. Mr Obamas efforts to persuade Mr Biden against running for president in 2016 created lasting resentment between the two mens teams, insiders say. Mr Bidens aides, a close-knit group who have worked with the president for years, also viewed Mr Obama and his team of mostly young, Ivy League-educated advisers, as frequently sidelining their boss as vice president, despite his considerable experience in Washington. Mr Obama also withheld his endorsement of Mr Bidens 2020 bid until after the Democratic Primary, a decision some of the presidents team have still not forgotten. Obama aides say their concerns about Mr Biden are political, not personal. The notion that theres some vast conspiracy amongst the Obama world to try and push Biden out is just preposterous. We worked with him for the better part of eight years, said Brett Bruen, an Obama-era diplomat. The fact of the matter is a lot of the Obama folks are no longer in the administration and are freer to share their thoughts. Mr Bruen suggested his former bosss silence on the current Democratic chaos had more to do with his view of his post-presidential role, than any personal concerns. Obama generally stays silent, including when Trump was in office, he said. He is very selective, frustratingly so at times, as to where and when he will engage. John Healey arrives for a dinner for defence ministers attending the Nato summit hosted by Lloyd Austin, the US defence secretary, at Fort McNair - Kevin Wolf/AP The world is facing a decade or more of Russian aggression, the new Defence Secretary has said. John Healey, who is attending the Nato summit in Washington DC, said European leaders will meet next week to discuss ways to improve the continents security. He said he wanted to reset relations with the European Union and that the Government would look at the scope for a UK-EU security pact. Mr Healey said supporting Ukraine was the Governments first priority. What is really clear is that were facing a decade or more of growing Russian aggression, he said. Supporting Ukraine and its ability to win is our first priority. Thats why on my second day in the job, I flew to Odesa and I spent the afternoon with Zelensky and his team. And when were facing growing threats across the board, then youre quite right, the strategic defence review is our chance as a new government to get to grips with the threats that we face, the capabilities that weve got, the true state of the armed forces and, of course, the finances that may be available. Thats the way, by conducting a strategic defence review and setting out alongside that pathway the commitment to 2.5 per cent, on defence, thats the way that we balance the requirements of stronger national security with the responsibilities of sound public finances. It needs to be done at pace, it will be done properly. Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, with Mr Healey, at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington DC during their US visit to attend the Nato 75th anniversary summit - Stefan Rousseau/PA Leaders from the European Political Community, set up in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, will meet next week at Blenheim Palace. The Governments strategic defence review will be launched next week, setting out how Sir Keir intends to meet his spending target of 2.5 per cent of GDP. Mr Healey insisted that seeking closer defence ties with Brussels would not bind the UK into a European defence force. The Defence Secretary said, however, that Britain would seek to join more EU military programmes. He suggested the UK could seek to join more areas of the EUs permanent structured co-operation (Pesco) programme. The UK is already part of one Pesco scheme for moving military equipment across the EU. EU-UK security pact Mr Healey said: So weve proved we can do it. There are one or two other programmes which may well be programmes in which we have a unique contribution to make and we can get a great deal out of being part of a programme like that. That does not require any new formal agreement, it does not require an EU-UK security pact in order to do that. Mr Healey acknowledged that talks on the formal UK-EU security pact sought by the Government were unlikely to start this year. In a way the declaration in week one from the new government is seen as significant by the European Union and its members, he said. Youll know that the European Union, European Commission takes a good few months to get itself sorted out and so it wont be until the end of the year that its really in a position to start doing any sort of detailed discussion with us. So thats why for me on defence, we can move faster than that, we must move faster than that. He added: On defence, we dont need an EU-UK pact in order to look at where there may be areas that we can contribute on defence to a stronger European security and actually, its in our British interests to do a bit more together. Nigel Farage is set to return to GB News next week after being elected as an MP on his eighth attempt, the channel has confirmed. The Reform UK leader, 60, formally took his seat in the House of Commons as the representative for the Essex seaside constituency of Clacton after he was sworn in on Thursday. He cancelled his GB News show, which he hosted Monday to Thursday each week, in May to free up time to help with the General Election campaigning for Reform UK. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage was sworn in to the House of Commons as the representative for Clacton (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA) Mr Farage is planning to broadcast from the channels studios in Westminster three times a week, according to the Financial Times. Ofcom has repeatedly found that GB News has breached broadcasting rules on impartiality, which allow politicians to present current affairs programmes but not act as newsreaders. The media watchdog has investigated programmes presented by former Tory MP Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, as well as former Conservative minister without portfolio Esther McVey and former backbencher Philip Davies. Married couple Ms McVey and Mr Davies are no longer part of the channels line-up. In May, GB News said it was beginning a challenge against Ofcom after the broadcasting regulator warned the channel that it is considering enforcement methods that could include a fine or revoking its licence. Their backlash came after the regulator ruled that GB News broke broadcasting due impartiality rules following the airing of the programme, Peoples Forum: The Prime Minister, where Rishi Sunak was questioned by the public. Ofcom has repeatedly found that GB News has breached broadcasting rules on impartiality (Yui Mok/PA) Ofcom said it did not feature an appropriately wide range of significant viewpoints and called compliance by the channel wholly insufficient. After initially saying he would not run as a candidate, Mr Farage changed his mind and announced he would stand in Clacton in early June. He also took over as leader of Reform UK, representing the party within the major multi-party broadcasting debates held on BBC and ITV. He first contested a parliamentary election 30 years ago the 1994 by-election in Eastleigh, Hampshire, where his UK Independence Party (Ukip) came fourth. He later contested seats throughout southern England as the Ukip candidate before his Clacton win for Reform UK, with 21,225 votes, ahead of the Tories Giles Watling on 12,820. Regulators have said they will impose a turnaround oversight regime on Thames Water and opposed the utility firms planned 44% rise in consumer bills over the next five years. In a draft verdict on England and Wales water company business plans to 2030, Ofwat instead proposed Thames increase average yearly bills by 23% to 535 over the period. The heavily indebted Thames, which has 16 million customers across London and the Thames Valley, will have to fully re-evaluate its current turnaround strategy under Ofwats measures. It will be made to publish a separate financial resilience plan, while Ofwat is also considering appointing a so-called independent monitor to report on the companys progress. Thames Water will have to provide a delivery action plan'(Andrew Matthews/PA) The independent monitor would have full access to the companys financial information, Ofwat said. Thames will also have to provide a delivery action plan, outlining how it intends to improve its performance on sewage spills and leakage, which has been among the worst in the industry in recent years. The watchdog also reduced Thames planned investment in its services, including upgrading its ageing infrastructure, to 16.9 billion, down from the 21.4 billion the company had proposed. A spokesperson for Thames Water said: Ofwats draft determination understandably challenges us on efficiency and delivery. Today, we've published our draft decisions on water companies' plans for 2025-2030.We're proposing an 88bn spending package to reduce pollution, improve customer service, enhance water quality, and deliver greater resilience to climate change.Read more: https://t.co/lJiIL6py6f pic.twitter.com/JGB0xaUYY1 Ofwat (@Ofwat) July 11, 2024 They have been thoughtful in considering the funding we need for our day-to-day running costs and the improvements our customers and communities want to see. The spokesperson added: We are, in any case, taking stock of our turnaround plan under our new leadership and reflecting on our progress to date. We will consider all of Ofwats proposals as we go through this process. Thames is in the grips of a funding crisis and has more than 15 billion of debt. It said this week that it only has enough money to continue trading until the end of May 2025. Bosses are scrambling to secure a major cash injection to keep it afloat, and have held talks with both existing shareholders and outside investors. But chief executive Chris Weston said on Tuesday that the investment is dependent on (Thames) securing a final regulatory determination that is investable. If Thames does not succeed in getting the funding, it faces the prospect of being temporarily nationalised by the Government and being placed in a form of special administration, meaning the taxpayer would take on the costs of the heavily loss-making water giant. Ofwats ruling on Thursday is a draft decision and kicks off a lengthy period of negotiation until its final verdict in December. However, the regulator has rarely made major deviations between its draft and final rulings in previous years, meaning Thursdays statement gives companies an indication of how lenient it is likely to be later on. It comes as household water bills in England and Wales are to rise by an average 19 a year over the next five years a third less than the increase requested by companies, under the draft proposals. Environment Secretary Steve Reed will be meeting representatives from all 16 water companies from across England and Wales on Thursday following the Ofwat publication. On Thursday morning, Mr Reed said he has written to Ofwat to ask them to make sure funding for vital infrastructure investment is ringfenced and can only be spent on upgrades benefiting customers and the environment. He also announced that consumers will gain new powers to hold water company bosses to account through so-called customer panels. He said: This unacceptable destruction of our waterways should never have been allowed, but change has now begun so it can never happen again. Ofwat chief executive David Black said: Customers want to see radical change in the way water companies care for the environment. Our draft decisions on company plans approve a tripling of investment to make sustained improvement to customer service and the environment at a fair price for customers. These proposals aim to deliver a 44% reduction in spills from storm overflows compared to levels in 2021. We expect all companies to embrace innovation and go further and faster to reduce spills wherever possible. Todays announcement also increases the resilience of our water supplies to the impact of climate change and will reduce how much water is taken from rivers by enabling a range of long-term water supply projects, which includes plans for 9 reservoirs. Let me be very clear to water companies we will be closely scrutinising the delivery of their plans and will hold them to account to deliver real improvements to the environment and for customers and on their investment programmes. Rory McIlroy has revealed he has dismissed a suggestion that he could be a playing captain in the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor. Keegan Bradley said he hopes to play and captain the United States at Bethpage next year after being surprisingly handed the captaincy when Tiger Woods turned it down. Bradley will be 39 years old at the time of next years event and will be the youngest Ryder Cup captain since 34-year-old Arnold Palmer was a playing captain in 1963. Views from Captain Keegan Bradley's day at Bethpage! pic.twitter.com/9o9PqHQ3Xs Ryder Cup USA (@RyderCupUSA) July 11, 2024 Asked if it was possible to play and captain in the modern era, McIlroy who would be 38 by the time of the 2027 Ryder Cup said: No, absolutely not. Ive contemplated it for Adare and no, theres too much work that goes into it. Ive seen what Luke [Donald] went through preparing for Rome theres no way you can be as good a captain as you need to be and be a playing captain as well. McIlroy did not say who had broached the subject with him but added: Its been mentioned and Ive just said no way because it depends what do you want? If you want to be the best captain you can be you cant play, and if you want to be the best player you can be you cant captain. Its one or the other, especially with how big the Ryder Cup has become and how many things you have to do in the lead up to the event, the week of the event. Keegan Bradley wants to be a playing captain in the 2025 Ryder Cup (David Davies/PA) Keegan is the 19th ranked player in the world so hes got a great chance of making the team and then, if he does, I think hes just going to have to give that captaincy role to one of his vice-captains. Bradley has no captaincy experience and his appointment, which came out of the blue and without any interview process, is a significant departure from the US succession planning which had been put in place by a Task Force formed in the wake of the defeat at Gleneagles in 2014. It seems quite reactionary in terms of what happened in Rome but I dont know, said McIlroy, who was told of Bradleys appointment by European captain Donald on Sunday evening. Its an unbelievable opportunity for Keegan and, speaking from a European point of view, its really nice to have the continuity weve had over the years with vice-captains becoming captains and even [2014 captain] Paul McGinley being a strategic adviser for Bethpage as well. Just to have those familiar faces in the room has always been a good thing for us. Its certainly a departure from what the US have done over the last few years and time will tell if thats a good thing or not. Two-time major winner Justin Thomas, who carded an opening 62 to lead the Genesis Scottish Open, insisted Bradley could be a playing captain next year. Thats kind of the thought with [former caddie] John Wood being our manager, I think he has the opportunity to really take a lot of the work off Keegan, Thomas said. I just think its opening up a whole new opportunity and I think no captain is going to know the players and their games better than somebody who is playing with us at highest level every single week. I obviously love the pick and I think its a change of direction for the best. England boss Steve Borthwick has stepped up his efforts to unsettle New Zealand ahead of Saturdays second Test by insisting they will be burdened by expectation at their Eden Park fortress. Borthwick has made just one change following the narrow 16-15 defeat in Dunedin by naming Fin Baxter at loosehead prop in place of Joe Marler, who has been ruled out by a foot injury. And the head coachs confidence in his team is reflected in his willingness to resume the mind games he started after England fell agonisingly shot in the first of two Tests against the All Blacks. New Zealand have not lost at Eden Park since France triumphed 23-20 in 1994, a 30-year period that spans 48 matches. It is one of the games great unbeaten runs, but Borthwick believes that success comes with baggage. Second Test Head coach Steve Borthwick has named his 23-player squad to face the @AllBlacks in Auckland on Saturday #WearTheRose | @O2 England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) July 11, 2024 Eden Park is a stadium packed with history and with memories of great rugby encounters, Borthwick said. We are delighted to be playing there this Saturday in what I anticipate will be another excellent Test encounter. New Zealand has a formidable record at this venue, but with that comes the pressure of expectation. It will be interesting to see how New Zealand manages that expectation in front of a full house. England head coach Steve Borthwick says the pressure is on New Zealand in Auckland (Mike Egerton/PA) In a show of faith in the players who let a 15-10 lead slip from their fingertips in the first-half at Forsyth Barr Stadium, England have made just one enforced change following Marlers early exit. Baxter replaced his Harlequins team-mate to win his international debut and the 22-year-old rookie made telling contributions, although he was part of an England scrum that was put under pressure by the All Blacks. He has now been awarded his full Test debut with Bevan Rodd named amongst the replacements as loosehead cover. Rodds selection having started the tour opener against Japan and then been omitted from the 23 altogether in Dunedin is the only adjustment to the bench, the Sale Shark providing loosehead cover. Marcus Smith continues at fly-half for England (Mike Egerton/PA) Borthwick has opted against naming Dan Cole in the front row as a counter to Baxters inexperience, but the Leicester tighthead is still poised to become Englands second most capped player. The 37-year-old is set to win his 115th cap, surpassing Jason Leonards 114 appearances but trailing Ben Youngs 127. Id like to pay special tribute to Dan Cole. He has shown nothing but dedication and determination throughout his career and reaching this milestone is a remarkable feat, Borthwick said. Hes a superb rugby player and a wonderful role model. We all look forward to sharing a memorable day with him on Saturday. Marcus Smith continues at fly-half with the aim of answering the concerns raised in the first Test over his ability to pull the strings for England. Smith was a threat to New Zealand in attack and his running skills and vision were instrumental in Immanuel Feyi-Wabosos try that registered a 15-10 lead, but he also missed eight points off the kicking tee, including two routine penalties. England: G Furbank (Northampton Saints); I Feyi-Waboso (Exeter Chiefs), H Slade (Exeter Chiefs), O Lawrence (Bath Rugby), T Freeman (Northampton Saints); M Smith (Harlequins), A Mitchell (Northampton Saints); F Baxter (Harlequins), J George (Saracens, capt), W Stuart (Bath Rugby), M Itoje (Saracens), G Martin (Leicester Tigers), C Cunningham-South (Harlequins), S Underhill (Bath Rugby), B Earl (Saracens). Replacements: T Dan (Saracens), B Rodd (Sale Sharks), D Cole (Leicester Tigers), A Coles (Northampton Saints), T Curry (Sale Sharks), B Spencer (Bath Rugby), F Smith (Northampton Saints), O Sleightholme (Northampton Saints). Triple murder suspect Kyle Clifford is yet to speak with officers and is in a serious condition in hospital following the crossbow deaths of three family members of a BBC racing commentator. The 26-year-old was found with injuries in the Hilly Fields area of Enfield, north London, on Wednesday following a manhunt which lasted for a number of hours. Carol Hunt, 61, the wife of BBC 5 Live commentator John Hunt, and two of their daughters, Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, were found fatally injured at a house in the quiet cul-de-sac of Ashlyn Close in Bushey, Hertfordshire, just after 7pm on Tuesday. Pictures left on floral tributes at Ashlyn Close (Jonathan Brady/PA) Hertfordshire Police said a crossbow has since been recovered as part of the investigation. Police confirmed they had received no earlier reports after exploring whether there had been previous contact with Clifford or the victims as it emerged Louise was the ex-partner of the suspect. During his trip to the Nato summit in Washington DC, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer told the BBC: First let me just say how awful this incident was, and our condolences and thoughts are obviously with all of the family members and family affected. In relation to crossbows, the Home Secretary has announced that she will look at the legislation, and she will. Colleagues and friends of the three victims have paid tribute to the lovely family since their deaths. Lea Holloway, 60, a childhood friend of Carol Hunt, described her as a beautiful person. Speaking outside St James Church on Thursday after a vigil for Mrs Hunt and her daughters, she said: We grew up together and were pregnant at the same time. This is the stuff nightmares are made of. I was there the night she met John (Hunt). It was in a nightclub in Hemel Hempstead. We went out together, went to birthdays and events. Its very difficult. She was the nicest, kindest, sweetest person you could ever meet. A beautiful person. Ms Holloway continued: They were a lovely family and (the daughters) were lovely girls. They were making their way through life and their lives have been taken too soon. Its the thing of nightmares. I feel for their eldest daughter and John (Hunt). I cant imagine what it would be like. After being joined by two other close friends, Dionne Smith, 58, and Abigail Phillips, 58, the trio told reporters: We were a four, and now theres only three. It doesnt seem real. We are together in grief. Forensic officers at the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire (James Manning/PA) In a post on Facebook, Hannah Hunts colleagues at The Anti-Ageing Clinic in Radlett, Hertfordshire, said it was with deep regret and sadness that they learned of the horrific murder on Tuesday night of our skin therapist Hannah. The post continued: She was a fantastic therapist and clients loved her. We send our condolences and prayers to her Dad, sister and family. She was very much a part of our team. Please bear with us at this terrible time. Providing an update on the investigation, Detective Superintendent Rob Hall, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: This was an unprecedented attack and we are determined to understand the full circumstances of what happened that evening and the events leading up to it. This investigation, as Im sure people can imagine, will take time. Police officers at the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire (Jonathan Brady/PA) We are still appealing for anyone with information in relation to the incident on Tuesday evening in Bushey and activity in Enfield yesterday that could assist us to please contact police directly. On Thursday, further searches took place at a house linked to Cliffords brother, Bradley Clifford, who was jailed for life with a minimum term of 23 years for the murder of moped passenger Soban Khan in 2018. According to the Metropolitan Police, at the time of the murder Bradley Clifford had targeted the moped before crashing into it, and continued to assault Mr Khan after the collision. Officers were seen at the address in Rendlesham Road, Enfield, north London, in relation to the deaths. Police staff wearing gloves and face masks were seen outside the property, which was first searched on Wednesday. Search officers appeared to retrieve two computer hard drives and two document bags from the address. Flowers were left at the scene in Ashlyn Close on Thursday, with notes attached to some bouquets with messages such as rest in peace. People deliver floral tributes near to the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire (Jonathan Brady/PA) Clifford was found injured in Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield, north London, on Wednesday and was taken to a major trauma centre for treatment. Police said no shots had been fired by officers and no arrest had yet been made. Armed police had earlier been in the area, with an air ambulance nearby. Footage from Sky News appeared to show Clifford being stretchered out of the cemetery by paramedics and a further clip seemed to show the suspect been wheeled into the Royal London hospital. The Independent Office for Police Conduct said it received a mandatory referral from the Metropolitan Police after Clifford was found by officers with serious injuries in Enfield, but was satisfied no investigation was needed. A spokesperson said: Based on the evidence provided, there does not appear to have been any physical contact with Mr Clifford at the time he was seriously injured. Therefore, we were satisfied the matter does not require investigation and it has been returned to the force to deal with. In a press conference before Clifford was found, Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson, from Hertfordshire Police, told reporters the killings were believed to have been targeted. During the hunt for Clifford, who is understood to have left the Army in 2022 after a short stint, the force said they believed he may have been armed with a crossbow and warned people not to approach him. He was believed to have been known to the victims. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is urgently considering whether tougher crossbow laws are needed in the wake of the killings. She will look at the findings of a Home Office review carried out earlier this year. The UK could recognise Palestine as an independent state even if the United States or Israel does not, Sir Keir Starmer has said. Speaking at a press conference following the end of this weeks Nato summit in Washington, the Prime Minister reiterated his position that recognising Palestine needed to be part of the process of securing peace in the region. Asked whether he would be willing to act on recognising Palestine before the United States or Israel, he said: So far as our policy is concerned, Ill determine our policy, not follow anyone else. He also repeated his call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, saying he had discussed the issue with other leaders at the summit in Washington. He said: Now we are in office it is our solemn duty to play our full part in resolving the conflict, which has to end. There must be a ceasefire. The conflict in Gaza has proved a thorn in the Prime Ministers side since it began in October, with several senior Labour figures facing challenges at the General Election from Independent candidates over discontent with the partys position on the war. Former MP Jonathan Ashworth was one of several Labour candidates defeated by Independents who made Gaza a major part of their campaign, while others such as Health Secretary Wes Streeting saw their majorities slashed. Former shadow cabinet member Thangam Debbonaire, who lost her seat to the Green Party, told Channel 4 News on Wednesday Labours lack of a strong narrative on Gaza had consequences. In his press conference on Thursday night, Sir Keir paid tribute to Ms Debbonaire, saying she had done a fantastic job in the shadow cabinet and was an incredible politician. He said: I pay tribute to her, shes got a lot to offer and she will offer a lot more. Britain must be incredibly careful to avoid retaliation from the Kremlin, the security minister warned after the Government signalled UK missiles could be used by Ukraine for strikes into Russia. Dan Jarvis said weve got to guard against the risk of reaction from Moscow but suggested the deployment of weapons ultimately will be a matter for Kyiv as long as international law is upheld. It comes as Sir Keir Starmer promises Britain will support Ukraine for as long as it takes while confirming a 3 billion-a-year funding package for the country will continue at the Nato summit in Washington. Appearing on Thursdays morning broadcast round, Mr Jarvis said that while President Volodymyr Zelenskys government must use weapons systems in compliance with international humanitarian law, the UK and Nato allies will continue to provide the material support it needs to defend the country. Asked how concerned Britain should be about the risk of Russian retaliation, the minister told Sky News: Well of course, weve got to guard against that. And of course, weve got to be incredibly careful. But whats most important is that in concert with our Nato allies, we work together to make sure that President Zelensky and Ukraine have got the material support they need to defend themselves against Russia. It is an illegal invasion, the consequences of which are massive for the whole world. Mr Jarvis told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: The deployment of those weapons systems ultimately will be a matter for the Ukrainian government but our strong guiding principle with all of these things is that it is incredibly important that the legal framework that governs conflict is followed. Speaking to ITVs Good Morning Britain, he said: We should be under no illusion that our own national security is at stake here. I held my first meeting with the new UK Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer. I thanked Prime Minister Starmer for all the UKs military and financial assistance provided to our country. This morning, I learned about the permission to use Storm Shadow missiles against military targets pic.twitter.com/zEHHpLh105 Volodymyr Zelenskyy / (@ZelenskyyUa) July 10, 2024 Prime Minister Sir Keir, who met Mr Zelensky at the margins of the Nato summit on Wednesday, is expected to tell members of the alliance that they need to send a clear message to Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Britain has also confirmed it will contribute 40 million to Natos comprehensive assistance package for Ukraine and the UK-administered international fund for Kyiv will place a new order, worth 300 million, for 120,000 rounds of 152mm Soviet-era ammunition. Following his meeting with Sir Keir, Mr Zelensky said in a post on X, formerly Twitter: This morning, I learned about the permission to use Storm Shadow missiles against military targets in Russian territory. Today, we had the opportunity to discuss the practical implementation of this decision. Im grateful to the UK for its unwavering support for Ukraine and our people. The summit is expected to cement Ukraines progress towards Nato membership. But because of Natos Article V, which commits to mutual defence, the allies will not allow Ukraine to join while it is still at war as that would trigger an immediate conflict with Russia. Nato allies are stepping up commitments on Ukraine while they await the results of Novembers US presidential election, where Donald Trump has threatened to reduce American support. A wireless device that could help diagnose respiratory and sleep conditions in babies and young children is being trialled for the first time with hospital patients. The Paediatric Advanced Respiratory Service (Pars) combines wearable, wireless biosensors with mobile, app-based software to give real-time analysis of infants breathing when they are asleep. Experts said the technology has the potential to improve remote monitoring and diagnostic accuracy in conditions such as sleep disordered breathing and paediatric respiratory disease. The technology is attached using an adhesive pad and tailored specifically for children, as many existing devices used in hospitals are invasive and therefore poorly tolerated by babies and toddlers. Currently available for research use only, the technology is now being used in an early stage study with 150 patients from the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow 75 from the Sleep Clinic Unit and 75 from the Neonatal Unit. Dr Ross Langley, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde paediatric respiratory consultant, who has led the Pars project, said: Detecting and monitoring respiratory problems in children and newborns can be challenging and we know that existing in-hospital devices are invasive and poorly tolerated by children. We are pleased that Pars has now entered an early stage study with patients as we explore new ways to diagnose sleep and respiratory conditions in young children. This has been developed with industry partner PneumoWave and is tailored specifically for children. The device is attached using an adhesive pad (West of Scotland Innovation Hub/PA) The device has worldwide potential to improve remote monitoring and diagnostic accuracy in paediatric patients. Pars has been developed by the West of Scotland Innovation Hub, which is hosted by NHS GGC, in partnership with digital therapeutics company PneumoWave. It is hoped that the device will improve outcomes for patients and improve their experience, while also adding capacity to clinical services. The study, which will run until October 2025, will allow medics to explore how tolerable the device is and its feasibility going forward. Dr Bruce Henderson, chief executive of PneumoWave, said: Our goal as a company is to stop early deaths from preventable causes, and there is nothing more important than achieving this in children. We are privileged to have the support of patients at the Royal Hospital for Children, and of the dedicated staff led by Dr Langley, and grateful to Innovate UK for funding the project. It comes as a project designed to develop at-home testing of jaundice in newborns also moves a step closer. The West of Scotland Innovation Hub is working with the North of Scotland Innovation Hub to explore solutions to provide jaundice testing, as part of a Chief Scientist Office funded Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI). The test being developed would use a tiny amount of blood from a heel-prick carried out at home, rather than babies having to be brought to hospital. The first phase of the SBRI will see clinicians from NHS GGC and NHS Highland collaborate with William Oak Diagnostics, who will adapt their micronutrient deficiency Point Of Care Testing technology to detect and measure bilirubin levels in the blood for rapid diagnosis of jaundice. While the official list of speakers for next weeks Republican National Convention remains fuzzy, a handful of politicians and celebrities are confirming theyre slated to take the stage at the four-day event in Milwaukee. So far, they include Florida Gov. and former Republican candidate Ron DeSantis, former reality TV star and Kanyes ex Amber Rose, Indiana Congressman Jim Banks and Iowa's Republican Attorney General Brenna Bird. They are joined by Donald Trump, Jr., who is to give his address right before his father's vice presidential nominee. Iowas Republican Party Chair Jeff Kaufmann will deliver the RNCs speech formally nominating Donald Trump for president, the Des Moines Register reported Thursday. Banks, a Republican running for Indiana's open U.S. Senate seat, will give his speech at 7 p.m. Eastern time on Tuesday, according to campaign staff. Preparations are underway for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on July 11, 2024. The names of the RNC speakers will become public in the coming days, and Lara Trump, co-chair of the Republican National Committee and wife of Donald Trumps son, Eric, hinted at the presence of unlikely attendees at this years convention. I think youll be very excited, and I think very surprised actually to see a lot of the people that were going to have speaking at the convention this year, she said Monday, according to ABC affiliate station WISN-TV. As the co-chair of the RNC, Trump is expected to speak at the event, as well. The convention is scheduled for July 15-18 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where the GOP will officially nominate Trump as the Republican candidate for the 2024 presidential election. The event is anticipated to attract tens of thousands of visitors to Wisconsin, including delegates from all 50 states and six U.S. territories. USA TODAY's David Jackson and Jeremy Yurrow contributed to this report, along with Des Moines Registers chief politics reporter Brianne Pfannenstiel. Kathryn Palmer is an elections fellow for USA TODAY. Reach her at kapalmer@gannett.com and follow her on X @KathrynPlmr. This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: RNC 2024 speakers list: Ron DeSantis, Amber Rose among confirmed A California man has been arrested on murder charges in the fatal shooting of his wife, his 6-year-old son and his in-laws. Shane Parrish Killian, 54, was arrested Wednesday night in the domestic shooting at his home in Alameda in the San Francisco Bay Area, police said. Killian's 1-year-old son also was shot and was in critical condition at a local hospital. Jail records show that Killian is being held without bail on charges of first-degree murder, assault with a firearm and child abuse. His arraignment is set for Friday. No attorney is listed for him in court records. Police found multiple firearms at home Police found multiple firearms at Killian's home when they arrived at the scene, agency spokesperson Sarah Henry told USA TODAY Thursday. Henry said the department hasn't yet determined a motive or what events led to the shooting. "This is a tragic and sad incident, and I'll say this, these are the actions of a coward," Alameda Police Chief Nishant Joshi said at a news conference Thursday. Joshi got emotional during the news conference. "Our officers are hurt, they're professionals but they're also human beings," Joshi said. "They are doing the best they can but they're going to stay focused on making sure this family sees the justice they deserve." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: California man arrested in killings of wife, 6-year-old son, in-laws Benji Gregory (top left) is seen with "Alf" co-stars Max Wright, Andrea Elson and Anne Sheeden and the furry brown alien Alf in May 1986 still. Benji Gregory, a child star who played Brian Tanner in the 1980s sitcom "Alf," has died. He was 46. According to online records from the Maricopa County Medical Examiner's office in Arizona reviewed by USA TODAY Wednesday, Gregory whose full name was Benjamin Gregory Hertzberg died June 13. A cause of death is pending. His sister, Rebecca Hertzberg-Pfaffinger, told TMZ which first broke the news and the New York Times that she believes Gregory and his service dog, Hans, were found deceased in his car. He was parked in a bank parking lot in Peoria, a city northwest of Phoenix. She believes he'd fallen asleep and died of heatstroke, per a Facebook post she shared Wednesday. "Ben was a great Son, Brother and Uncle. He was fun to be around and made us laugh quite often," Hertzberg-Pfaffinger wrote. "Still, going through his things, I find myself laughing at little videos or notes of his, in between crying." Gregory portrayed Brian on all four seasons of the classic sitcom. Before this breakthrough role, he appeared on episodes of shows such as "The A-Team," "Punky Brewster" and "The Twilight Zone." The NBC show, which aired from 1986 to 1990, starred Max Wright, Anne Schedeen, Andrea Elson and Fusco as the voice of Alf. Remembering the beloved sitcom 'Alf' Last year, Ryan Reynolds helped bring the extraterrestrial back to life in a series of sponsored content shorts on his newly launched Maximum Effort Channel, which had acquired the rights to the show and streams on platforms including Tubi, Fubo and Amazon Freevee. "Besides my irrational love of Alf growing up, one of the reasons we licensed this show was precisely because ('Alf' co-creator) Paul (Fusco), Shout! Studios and our intrepid brand partners wanted to plot with us to bring Alf back to life," the "Deadpool" star said in a statement. Michu Meszaros, the actor who wore an Alf costume in full-body shots of the furry brown puppet, died in 2016 at age 76. Contributing: Edward Segarra This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Benji Gregory death: 'Alf' child star dead at 46 The Biden administration will designate a dangerous Venezuelan gang infiltrating the United States as a significant transnational criminal organization on Thursday, according to a senior administration official, who described the gang as an emerging threat. Tren de Aragua, a transnational criminal gang that originated in a Venezuela prison and has slowly made its way south and north in recent years, is raising alarm among US officials. Tren de Aragua adopted its name between 2013 and 2015 but began operations years before, according to a report by Transparency Venezuela. For several years, the criminal group has terrorized South American countries, including Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia, Chile and Peru, and has gradually made its way into the US. The Tren de Aragua is in the United States. We already have evidence that they crossed the border and we were able to confirm that through interviews with gang members after the crossing. They are crossing and there is a presence, FBI deputy special agent in charge of El Paso, Britton Boyd, told CNN earlier this year. In March, a group of lawmakers called on the administration to designate Tren de Aragua as a transnational criminal organization to deploy resources and sanctions to crack down on the group. The administration took that step Thursday. The transnational criminal organization designation, which takes effect immediately, will allow the Treasury Department to essentially cut off members from the US financial system. As were seeing the movement of TDA members north, in particular, we think its critical that we take action to address this, the senior administration official said, adding that law enforcement agencies also continue to investigate and prosecute individuals associated with the gang. This is an emerging threat that we have been focused on for some timeand are trying to make sure that we stay on top of and get ahead of, the official added. The State Department, in coordination with the Justice Department, is also offering rewards totaling up to $12 million for information leading to the arrests and/or convictions of three leaders of the Tren de Aragua. CNNs Rafael Romo, Belisa Morillo and Laura Weffer contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com President Biden on Thursday announced a new $225 million aid package for Ukraine that includes a Patriot air defense system to defend its skies further against continued Russian airstrikes, a decision revealed as he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky, who met with Biden at the NATO Summit in Washington, D.C., praised the announcement as strong news. But he also continued to press for Washington to give Ukraine further permission to fire U.S.-provided, long-range missiles at targets further across Russian borders, The Associated Press reported. This is the second Patriot air defense system the United States has pledged to Ukraine, and will be provided under presidential drawdown authority, meaning the U.S. military will pull the system directly from its inventory to quickly send to Ukraine. The air defense system also is among several others Biden announced this week at the summit. Kicking off the event Tuesday, Biden teased the historic donation of air defense equipment for Ukraine, with the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, Romania and Italy to provide Kyiv with the equipment for five additional strategic air defense systems. Later on Tuesday, a joint statement from the U.S., Germany and Romania said they would give Ukraine Patriot batteries, the Netherlands will provide components to make up another Patriot battery and Italy will provide a SAMP-T air defense system. Biden added that in the coming months, the U.S. and its partners will provide Kyiv with dozens of additional tactical air defense systems. NATO countries this week promised a wave of weapons for Ukraine to help it continue to deflect Kremlin attacks, including one that hit a childrens hospital in Kyiv on Monday, killing at least 42 people. The strike was part of a barrage of more than 40 missiles targeting five Ukrainian cities. The $225 million package also includes munitions for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAM), Stinger antiaircraft missiles, ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems), Javelin and AT-4 antiarmor systems and more 155 mm and 105 mm artillery rounds, among other munitions, according to a Pentagon list of the aid. The new announcement comes after the U.S. last week pledged an additional $150 million in lethal aid via presidential drawdown, as well as $2.2 billion in Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative funds to buy Patriot missiles, NASAM air defense systems and other weapons from manufacturers. Biden also is set to conduct a highly anticipated press conference Thursday at the end of the summit. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. 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. Democrats are trying to get ahead of conservatives eager to measure the drapes in the Oval Office ahead of the election as polls show former President Donald Trump leading President Joe Biden. Project 2025 is a sweeping, 900-page plan drummed up by a conservative think tank targeting the executive branch and laying out right-wing priorities for everything from America's education system to the border and abortion restrictions. While the proposal is broad, Democratic lawmakers and allies are zeroing in on the conservative blueprint as they face off against Republicans from coast to coast this year, hoping it will corral voters to their side. More: Biden faces crucial day to answer critics amid growing Democratic dissent: Live updates "Project 2025 will destroy America," Biden said in a video released on social media Wednesday morning, paired with a webpage created by the Biden campaign dedicated to breaking down the detailed proposal. "Project 2025 is the plan by Donald Trumps MAGA Republican allies to give Trump more power over your daily life, gut democratic checks and balances, and consolidate power in the Oval Office if he wins," the website reads. US President Joe Biden walks to the White House in Washington, DC, on July 7, 2024, after attending campaign events in Pennsylvania. (Photo by CHRIS KLEPONIS/AFP via Getty Images) But what would Project 2025 specifically do? The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank in Washington created the plan, also known as the "2025 Presidential Transition Project" for the country's next conservative president to follow. Published in April 2023, it includes a domestic and foreign policy agenda, a list of personnel, training and a 180-day playbook. Within the initiative are ideas to gut federal agencies, including the FBI; eliminate the Department of Education; ban abortion drugs; and overhaul progressive policies such as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, sometimes referred to as Obamacare. The project's website lays out a goal: "pave the way for an effective conservative administration" by putting forth an agenda and getting "the right people in place." What is Project 2025? The Presidential Transition Project explained. Out on the campaign trail, Biden isn't the only Democrat railing against Project 2025 as Democrats try to win over pivotal voters. "It's not just radical policy changes. It's not just regime change that we might never recover from," Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said Tuesday during an event hosted by the Center for American Progress, a liberal think tank. "It also is a kind of civilizational death wish," he continued. U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) Fellow Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, called Project 2025 a "playbook for authoritarianism" during a congressional hearing in May. Progressives aren't just working to spread awareness of the plan. They also want to tie it back to the former president and presumptive GOP nominee. It's a strategy that started even before Trump gained on Biden in recent polls following the president's rocky debate performance and public doubts about the future of his reelection campaign. The Center for American Progress and the left-leaning advocacy group Accountable.US released polling this week that they say shows public opinion is against the conservative plan. Proposals to stop overtime pay and a national abortion ban were among the project's most unpopular ideas, the poll found. And in a briefing Tuesday, the organizations say they are strategizing how to inform more voters ahead of Nov. 5. "For a few months now, we were really alarmed not only by the breadth and scope of what this agenda is, but also by coordination among the entire conservative ecosystem," said Tony Carrk, executive director of Accountable.US, a left-leaning advocacy group. Still, many conservatives haven't publicly embraced Project 2025. The Lincoln Project, a political action committee formed by Republicans who have long opposed Trump, released a video Monday depicting what they call a "terrible future" under a second Trump administration and the Project 2025 blueprint. DORAL, FLORIDA - JULY 09: Former U.S. President Donald Trump pretends to swing a golf club as he speaks about U.S. President Joe Biden at a campaign rally at the Trump National Doral Golf Club on July 09, 2024 in Doral, Florida. Trump continues to campaign across the country. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Trump himself has sought distance from Project 2025, writing in a Truth Social post Friday he knows "nothing" about the proposed plan. I disagree with some of the things theyre saying and some of the things theyre saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal," Trump said. "Anything they do, I wish them luck, but I have nothing to do with them. But Democrats are pushing back, pointing out that multiple authors of the initiative worked in the former Trump administration, including Roger Severino, the previous director of the Office of Civil Rights at the Department of Health and Human Services. Despite Trump's criticism of Project 2025, Democrats are still leaning into alarms around the proposal as they campaign against the former president and his allies. "The plan is to institute Trumpism," Carrk said. "I can't think of what Trumpism is in black and white on paper than this plan. So, they're saying that they're going to do it, and I think we need to believe them." Contributing: Rachel Barber, USA TODAY This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden, Dems take aim at Project 2025, the sweeping conservative plan WASHINGTON As President Joe Biden faces vast concerns about his age and reelection campaign, he didn't immediately settle questions among his fellow Democrats during his first press conference since a disastrous debate against former President Donald Trump two weeks ago. The president addressed his capacity to seek a second term and told reporters and Americans across the country: "If I slow down and can't get the job done, that's a sign I shouldn't be doing it, but there's no indication of that yet, none." He also said he's staying in the 2024 race but acknowledged that it's important he try to "allay fears" among voters. Still, the president made several flubs Thursday evening, including referring to "Vice President Trump" when he was talking about Vice President Kamala Harris. The press conference took place on the closing day of a NATO summit Biden is hosting in Washington, and the president additionally fielded questions about America's role on the world stage. More: Beards? OK. Another Florida man? More challenging. Trump dishes on imminent VP pick Earlier in the week, Biden seemed to coalesce the vast majority of Democratic members of Congress around his embattled reelection bid since he struggled to finish sentences and complete thoughts during the June 27 debate. But new Biden detractors sensing that time is running out if the party wants a change at the top of the ticket continue to emerge. More than a dozen House Democrats have called on Biden the leave the race. And scrutiny over the president's gaffes didn't stop on Thursday. Biden mistakenly referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as "President Putin," the leader of Russia, at the end of the NATO summit before correcting himself. Catch up with the USA TODAY Network's live coverage. Another Democrat in tough reelection race urges Biden to get out Rep. Eric Sorensen, D-Ill., a vulnerable House Democrat facing a tough reelection race, joined the growing choir of Democratic lawmakers calling on Biden to step down after his press conference. In 2020, Joe Biden ran for President with the purpose of putting country over party. Today, I am asking him to do that again, Sorensen said in a statement. And today, I am hopeful President Biden will step aside in his campaign for President. Ken Tran Rep. Scott Peters calls for Biden to leave the race Rep. Scott Peters, D-Calif., is the second lawmaker to call for Biden to leave the presidential race shortly after his high-stakes press NATO press conference concluded. Democrats were on track to lose even going into the debate last month, the lawmaker wrote in a statement announcing the decision, and the showdown between Trump and Biden "raised real concern" among voters. "This was not a blip," he said. "Today I ask President Biden to withdraw from the presidential campaign. The stakes are high, and we are on a losing course," he said. "My conscience requires me to speak up and put loyalty to the country and to democracy ahead of my great affection for, and loyalty to, the President and those around him." He also called for a "fair and transparent process" to find a new nominee that can win in swing states. The San Diego-area member of Congress is the 16th lawmaker to publicly urge Biden to step aside to date, including 14 other House members and one senator. Riley Beggin Top Democrat on House Intelligence Committee calls on Biden to exit race The top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., came out with a statement calling on Biden to withdraw immediately after his press conference ended. President Joe Biden is a remarkable leader of unparalleled public service, undeniable achievement and unconditional patriotism, Himes said in a statement. It is because of those traits, and in consideration of that legacy, that I hope President Biden will step away from the presidential campaign. Himes was one of several Democratic committee leaders who participated in a call with House Democratic leadership on Sunday. On the call, Himes along with a handful of other lawmakers expressed concerns about Bidens reelection campaign but did not go as far to say he should step aside. Ken Tran A bridge candidate to a younger generation? Asked why after referring to himself as being a bridge candidate for a younger, fresher generation of Democratic leaders what had changed, Biden said it was the gravity of the situation.He talked about what he inherited in terms of the economy, our foreign policy and domestic division. Biden pointed to presidential historians crediting him for having accomplished more than most any president since Lyndon B. Johnson. What I realized was my long time in the Senate had equipped me to have the wisdom on how to deal with the Congress to get things done," he said. "We got more major legislation passed that no one thought would happen. And I want to get that finished. Swapna Venugopal Biden sees no good reason to talk to Putin Biden said he is prepared to deal with any world leader who wants to talk, including Chinas Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I'm ready to deal with them now and three years from now, he said. But, I have no good reason to talk to Putin right now, he said. Biden said hes not ready to talk to the Russian leader unless Putin is ready to change his behavior. Right now, he said, Putin doesnt seem prepared to change his behavior. Michael Collins Biden addresses issues ranging from Project 2025 to abortion rights and gun violence The president didn't only talk about his debate performance and the NATO alliance during his press conference He also referenced many of the issues Democrats across the country are campaigning on this year, including protecting abortion rights; addressing gun violence and informing voters about Project 2025, a wide-reaching conservative plan created by a Washington think tank. Marina Pitofsky Reporters ask about Russia, China, other foes Biden was asked whether he would be able to negotiate with Putin or Xi in three years if he's reelected to another term: "I'm ready to deal with them now and three years from now." "There isn't any world leader I'm not prepared to deal with," he later added. Rebecca Morin Biden mistakenly refers to Vice President Trump Biden mistakenly referred to former President Donald Trump when asked about Vice President Kamala Harris. Asked what concerns he would have about Harris ability to beat Trump if she were to lead the Democratic ticket, Biden misspoke. Look, I wouldn't have picked Vice President Trump to be vice resident if she was not qualified to be president, he said. Michael Collins Biden says Harris is qualified to be president Asked about Vice President Kamala Harris, Biden touted her work on abortion rights in current role and also called her "a hell of a prosecutor." "I wouldn't have picked her unless I thought she was qualified to be president," Biden said. Marina Pitofsky Biden responds to questions about his schedule Biden responded to questions about his day-to-day schedule, including reports he goes to bed or works at a certain time. "Thats not true," he said, adding, "Look, what I said was, instead of my every day starting at 7 and going to bed at midnight, itd be smarter for me to pace myself a little more." He added, "I love my staff, but to add things all the time, Im catching hell from my wife." Marina Pitofsky Biden responds to mistaking Zelenskyy's name Biden was asked about flubbing Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskyy's name during the NATO summit on Thursday. He tried to brush off the moment and called the conference a success. Marina Pitofsky Biden hits Trump over NATO, tariffs Biden opened his news conference summing up the three-day NATO summit in Washington and taking a swipe at Trump, who has been critical of the alliance. Biden said Trump has made it clear that he has no commitment to NATOs Article V, which says that an attack on one member is an attack on all. He has already told Putin, and I quote, Do whatever the hell you want, Biden said. He also slammed Trumps proposed 10% tariff on imported goods and for killing a bipartisan plan to secure the southern border with Mexico. Michael Collins Biden kicks off press conference by backing Ukraine Biden on Wednesday kicked off his press conference by honoring Ukraine's fight against Russia after years of bloody invasion. "Today, Kyiv still stands. And NATO stands stronger than it has ever been," Biden said. He added that Americans also need their relationships around the world as he commemorated NATO and other international agreements. Marina Pitofsky Biden mistakenly introduces Ukraine's Zelenskyy as 'President Putin' at end of NATO summit Biden mistakenly referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as "President Putin," the leader of Russia, at the end of this week's NATO summit, a stumble that's certain to invite further criticism amid concerns about the president's age. "Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin," Biden said as he introduced Zelenskyy at the summit in Washington that marked the 75th anniversary of the alliance of European and North American countries. Biden started to walk away from the lectern at a Thursday evening event but quickly corrected himself. "President Putin we're going to beat President Putin. President Zelenskyy. I'm so focused on beating Putin, we gotta worry about it. Anyway." Joey Garrison What time is Joe Biden's press conference? President Joe Biden is scheduled to participate in a press conference Thursday at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center as part of this year's NATO Summit. It is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. EST and will be livestreamed by USA TODAY. Gabe Hauari President Joe Biden speaks as he meets with national union leaders at the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) headquarters in Washington, DC, on July 10, 2024. Trump-district Democrat suggests Biden should resign from presidency As more Democrats start to come out against Bidens reelection bid, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Wash. one of the few Democrats representing districts Trump won in 2020 went as far as to suggest Biden should resign the presidency over concerns about his fitness to serve. Like most people I represent in Southwest Washington, I doubt the Presidents judgement about his health, his fitness to do the job, and whether he is the one making important decisions about our country, rather than unelected advisors, Gluesenkamp Perez said in a statement to KGW News. The crisis of confidence in the Presidents leadership needs to come to an end. The President should do what he knows is right for the country and put the national interest first. Ken Tran More: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Biden cognitive test: 'I don't think it would hurt.' Hawaii Rep. Ed Case calls on Joe Biden to exit race Rep. Ed Case, D-Hawaii is urging Biden to drop out of the presidential race in favor of another Democratic nominee, bringing the total number of House Democrats calling on Biden to withdraw to 13. I do not believe President Biden should continue his candidacy for reelection as president, Case said in a statement. Ken Tran Make that 12: Another House Democrat calls on Biden to drop out Ahead of Bidens highly anticipated solo press conference at the NATO summit in Washington, Rep. Greg Stanton, D-Ariz., called for the president to leave the 2024 race the 12th House Democrat to publicly do so. The Democratic Party must have a nominee who can effectively make the case against Trump, and have the confidence of the American people to handle the rigors of the hardest job on the planet for the next four years," Stanton said in a statement. "For the sake of American democracy, and to continue to make progress on our shared priorities, I believe it is time for the President to step aside as our nominee. Ken Tran More: Biden campaign says no indication any other Democrat could do better against Trump Radio station agreed to cut embarrassing passages from Biden interview President Joe Biden speaks during a NATO 75th anniversary celebratory event at the Andrew Mellon Auditorium on July 9, 2024 in Washington, DC. Civic Media, a Wisconsin-based progressive talk-radio network, said Thursday it had agreed to make two edits to an interview with President Joe Biden at the request of his campaign before the broadcast aired, a decision the station said fell short of "journalistic interview standards." The passages cut including a statement where Biden claimed "I have more Blacks in my administration than any other president, all other presidents combined, and in major positions, cabinet positions. In a second portion excised from the interview, Biden garbled a description of Donald Trump's calls for the execution of five Black and Hispanic teens convicted in and later exonerated for an infamous 1990s gang rape. The station said it would air the full July 3 interview. More: Milwaukee radio station says it agreed to edit interview with Joe Biden Biden campaign says no indication any other Democrat could do better against Trump Pushing back at Democratic detractors, President Joe Bidens reelection campaign said Thursday there is no indication any other potential Democratic nominee would perform better than Biden in the election against former President Donald Trump. In a memo titled The Path Ahead, Biden campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon and campaign manager Julie Rodriguez Chavez sought to reassure Democrats increasingly concerned Biden cant beat Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee. In addition to what we believe is a clear pathway ahead for us, there is also no indication that anyone else would outperform the president vs. Trump, OMalley Dillon and Rodriguez Chavez wrote. More: Trump's team gearing up in case Joe Biden bails on 2024 and Kamala Harris takes over An ABC News/Washington Post poll released Thursday found Vice President Kamala Harris beating Trump 49%-47% nationally among registered voters in a hypothetical matchup outperforming Biden, who the poll found tied with Trump at 46% apiece. But OMalley Dillon and Rodriguez Chavez disputed the reliability of such hypothetical polling. Hypothetical polling of alternative nominees will always be unreliable, and surveys do not take into account the negative media environment that any Democratic nominee will encounter, they wrote. The only Democratic candidate for whom this is already baked in is President Biden. Joey Garrison More: Biden campaign says no indication any other Democrat could do better against Trump 11th House Democrat goes public against Biden Rep. Brad Schneider, D-Ill., called for Biden to step aside as the Democratic presidential nominee on Thursday, the 11th House Democrat to publicly come out against the president. I love President Biden. I am forever grateful for his leadership and service to our nation. The time has come, however, for President Biden to heroically pass the torch to a new generation of leadership to guide us to the future he has enabled and empowered us to pursue," he said in a statement. Schneider is a vice chair of the New Democrat Coalition, an influential group of roughly 100 centrist House Democrats. Leaders from the group met with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., on Wednesday to discuss Bidens campaign. Ken Tran For Biden donors, Theres a lot of worry and concern Campaign donors will be watching President Joe Biden's press conference this evening closely, said Betty Cotton of New York, who has donated more than $30,000 to his reelection campaign. Everybody wants to beat Trump, Cotton told USA TODAY. A lot of donors are concerned that Biden can't do it. People are very worried about his vigor, strength, capacity everything." "They're worried. More: New poll finds that most Democratic voters want Biden to drop out of the race Biden's disastrous debate performance and his subsequent interview with George Stephanopoulos left her and other donors "even more concerned," she said. Cotton homed in on a moment when the ABC host asked Biden if hed watched a recording of the debate and he replied, "I don't think I did. No." How would you not know if you watched the debate or not? she said. The bottom line is that everybody is interested in hearing how this press conference goes. Its a chance for people to hear him without a teleprompter. Swapna Venugopal More: 'It's up to the president to decide': Pelosi says of calls for Biden to abandon reelection Michigan Rep. Hillary Scholten becomes the 10th House member to call for Biden to step aside Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Mich., is the 10th House member to publicly call for President Joe Biden to leave the presidential race, adding to the drip of lawmakers pushing for change. She is the first member to do so that is considered a "frontliner" -- a member who represents such a politically mixed district that she faces a tough re-election campaign of her own this fall. Biden had "an incredible legacy" of public service, she said in a statement. But "For the good of our democracy, I believe it is time for him to step aside from the presidential race and allow a new leader to step up." Riley Beggin More: Sailor caught after trying to breach President Biden's medical records: Navy Rep. Adam Smith frustrated with Democrats Two days after Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., called for President Joe Biden to step aside in the 2024 race, he expressed frustration with Democrats who are backing Biden publicly but questioning his candidacy in private. Too many people in our party right now are saying We are deeply concerned but what are you going to do about it? Smith said in an appearance on MSNBC. You're either all in or you're deeply concerned. You can't be both. He disputed the presidents campaign messaging that he is the best candidate to beat former President Donald Trump, adding that he was not picked in 2020 because he was the only person that could win against Trump. He was picked because he was the only person that could beat Bernie Sanders," Smith said. Rachel Barber Gretchen Whitmer weighs in on Biden cognitive test Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a co-chair of Biden's reelection campaign, did not express concern about the suggestion that the president take a cognitive test. "I don't think it would hurt," Whitmer told CNN Wednesday. Whitmer continued to defend Biden amid growing public doubt by fellow Democrats that he should continue as the party nominee. Savannah Kuchar More: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Biden cognitive test: 'I don't think it would hurt.' New York Times editorial board says Trump is unfit for a second term The New York Times editorial board in a new piece called on voters to reject a Donald Trump presidency, saying that the former president is unfit for a second term. Mr. Trump has shown a character unworthy of the responsibilities of the presidency. He has demonstrated an utter lack of respect for the Constitution, the rule of law and the American people, the Times editorial board, made up of opinion journalists, wrote in a piece published Thursday. Instead of a cogent vision for the countrys future, Mr. Trump is animated by a thirst for political power: to use the levers of government to advance his interests, satisfy his impulses and exact retribution against those who he thinks have wronged him, they added. They wrote that they urge voters to see the dangers of a second Trump term clearly and to reject it. --Sudiksha Kochi Democratic lawmakers to closely watch Bidens press conference Democratic lawmakers will be closely watching Bidens press conference this afternoon as several of them privately harbor concerns about his reelection bid but have so far declined to publicly weigh in. A number of House Democrats are sitting on public statements calling on the president to withdraw or to cast doubt on his chances of winning in anticipation of the press conference, according to one House Democrat who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss their conversations with colleagues. Ken Tran Trump goes after Clooney: Get out of politics Former President Donald Trump slammed George Clooney on Wednesday after the Oscar-winning actor called on President Joe Biden to step aside from the 2024 presidential race. So now fake movie actor George Clooney, who never came close to making a great movie, is getting into the act. Hes turned on Crooked Joe like the rats they both are, Trump wrote on Truth Social. Clooney should get out of politics and go back to television. Clooney, a self-described lifelong Democrat and public supporter of Biden, in an op-ed on Wednesday called on Democrats to choose a new nominee, writing We are not going to win in November with this president. On top of that, we wont win the House, and were going to lose the Senate. -- Rebecca Morin New poll finds that most Dems want Biden to drop out and Harris would beat Trump in head to head matchup A new Washington Post/ABC News/Ipsos poll, conducted between July 5 and July 9, found that 56% of Democratic U.S. adults surveyed want Biden to drop out of the 2024 race, while 42% think he should continue his campaign for president and 2% were skipped. The poll also found that Harris would beat Trump in a head to head matchup. Forty-nine percent of registered voters surveyed said if the election were held today, theyd choose Harris, while 47% said theyd choose Trump. Biden and Trump remain tied 46% in a head to head matchup. The poll, conducted among 2,431 adults with 2,041 being registered voters, has a sampling error of plus or minus two percentage points. --Sudiksha Kochi Michael Douglas says Clooney makes a 'valid point' about Joe Biden American actor Michael Douglas has joined the growing list of celebrities who have called for President Joe Biden to step down or questioned his ability to serve. Douglas said on ABCs The View that actor George Clooneys op-ed calling for Biden to step out of the race makes a valid point. I mean, Im deeply, deeply concerned. I mean, especially, its difficult because the Democrats have a big bench. I mean, theyve got a lot of heavy-hitters a lot of talent, he said. --Sudiksha Kochi Who could replace Biden? Several names have been floated as replacements for the Democratic incumbent. Vice President Kamala Harris would most likely be the top choice, according to Reuters, but cites Harris difficult start to the job and poor polling numbers as potential hurdles. Other names that have been mentioned include California Governor Gavin Newsom, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, who are also seen as viable contenders. These possible replacements are currently Biden supporters working to re-elect the president. Despite the mounting calls, Biden remains defiant. Im getting so frustrated by the elites ... any of these guys that dont think I should run, run against me. Announce for president, challenge me at the convention, he told MSNBC earlier this week. Ryan Ross and Jeremy Yurow Which lawmakers have called for Biden to bow out? For nearly two weeks, President Joe Biden has been trying to downplay concerns by Democratic lawmakers worried he might lose to his Republican rival, Donald Trump, following his shaky debate performance last month. But a wave of dissent on Capitol Hill has revealed that ten Democratic lawmakers are now publicly calling for President Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race. Nine House Democrats, including Lloyd Doggett of Texas, Raul Grijalva of Arizona, Seth Moulton of Massachusetts, Mike Quigley of Illinois, Angie Craig of Minnesota, Adam Smith of Washington, Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey, Pat Ryan of New York and Earl Blumenauer of Oregon are urging Biden to step aside for a new generation of leaders.And on Wednesday evening, Sen. Peter Welch of Vermont became the first Democratic senator to publicly call on Biden to drop his bid for the White House.In an opinion piece in the Washington Post, Welch wrote, For the good of the country, Im calling on President Biden to withdraw from the race. Despite these calls, prominent members of the Congressional Black Caucus, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (N.Y.), and Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (N.Y.) continue to support him. --Jeremy Yurow Pelosi, Clooney raise doubts about Biden as Democratic nominee Just when it looked like Biden had united most congressional Democrats around his candidacy, the dam has started to crack. Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., said in a Tuesday night interview on CNN that he fears Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, will defeat Biden in a "landslide," and Democrats will lose the Senate and House. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., was noncommittal Wednesday on whether Biden should be the party's nominee. Rep. Pat Ryan, D-N.Y, who represents a swing congressional district, became the 8th House Democrat to call for Biden to withdraw from the race. Adding to Biden's woes, Hollywood actor and Democratic donor George Clooney, who hosted a Biden fundraiser just last month, called for Democrats to choose a different nominee. As did actor and director Rob Reiner, another major fundraiser. Joey Garrison Biden aides to make case to Democratic senators Aiming to shore up support, Biden's campaign is making another effort Thursday by sending three senior campaign advisors to meet with Senate Democrats. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., has been holding several meetings with Democratic lawmakers throughout the week to discuss Biden's candidacy and fitness to serve. Jeffries has told his members in those private discussions he will bring their concerns back to Biden, according to a House Democrat familiar with the meetings. Joey Garrison and Ken Tran This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Joe Biden says he won't step aside amid calls to bow out: Replay You would think running 50 mountainous miles would be enough of a challenge. But just before finishing his run Sunday night in Yosemite National Park, Jon-Kyle Mohr had a collision with a large black bear. With less than a mile remaining in his run on a day when temperatures in the park hit 107 degrees, Mohr saw a large dark shape coming at him, then felt "some sharpness," in his shoulder, he told the Los Angeles Times Monday. Next came a shove that sent the ultrarunner careening in the dark. When he collected himself, Mohr turned to see headlamps and hear people shouting, "Bear!" the Times reported. Mohr told the Times that his watch indicated he had begun his run from his home in June Lake in California's eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, 15 hours and 59 minutes before the encounter. He was less than a mile from his planned finish in Yosemite Valley. It was just a really strange, random collision, he told the Times. If I had rested my feet for 20 seconds longer at any point over the 16 hours, it wouldnt have happened. A black bear is pictured roaming around in White Plains, New York. California man responds when he saw bear 'coming back at me' Bears have become "very active" in Yosemite Valley, often searching for ripening berries to munch, the National Park Service says in an online notice. So far in 2024, Yosemite National Park lists 10 bear incidents after recording 38 in 2023. Yosemite National Park biologists had tagged and placed a GPS radio collar on a bear Sunday morning after it found food at the Cathedral Beach picnic area in the park, Yosemite National Park spokesman Scott Gediman told USA TODAY in a statement. Then, at about 9 p.m., the bear found a bag of trash in the Upper Pines Campground and ran with it onto Happy Isles Road when he collided with a trail runner, Gediman said, adding that "biologists do not consider this encounter to be a predatory attack." With bear activity being high this time of year, campers must properly store food and trash and give wildlife space to keep people and bears safe, Gediman said. "Black bears are constantly looking for food and generally try to avoid people," he said. If you encounter a bear, the National Park Services recommends gathering whoever is with you into a group and making noise, yelling "as loudly and aggressively as possible at the bear until it leaves." Don't approach or chase the bear or throw anything at it. "If visitors encounter a bear in a developed area, act immediately and scare it away by yelling aggressively and loudly until it leaves," Gediman said. That type of response helped Mohr. His collision with the bear knocked a bag of garbage from its mouth and the bear "was coming back at me," he told the Times. Mohr, 33, started yelling and hitting his running poles on the pavement, he said. People in a nearby campground also began shouting and created a clamor by banging pots and pans, he said. Their collective efforts drove off the bear. When he checked his body, Mohr said he had two substantial and bloody scratches; the bear had torn through his hoodie and shirt, also ripping some holes in his running vest. Mist from the base of Bridalveil Fall on Thursday, May 25, 2023 gathers behind trees in Yosemite National Park. Medics arrived in an ambulance and bandaged him up, but Mohr didn't go to a hospital. Park rangers told Mohr the bear had been tranquilized Sunday morning and fitted with a tracking collar. It sounds like the bear and I had equally crazy days, Mohr told the Times. Less than 24 hours after the attack, Mohr told the Times he felt lucky, saying the bear if it seriously wanted to inflict any kind of actual harm, it totally could have. Follow Mike Snider on X and Threads: @mikesnider & mikegsnider. What's everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Man collides with bear while running in Yosemite National Park Delta Air Lines (DAL) on Thursday reported record revenue during its June quarter, but discounted airfares pressured earnings, which fell below analyst expectations. Here's how Delta performed in the second quarter versus consensus estimates compiled by Bloomberg: Adjusted net income: $1.528 billion vs. $1.531 billion expected Adjusted earnings per share: $2.36 vs. $2.38 expected Revenue: $15.41 billion vs. $15.44 billion expected Delta CEO Ed Bastian told Yahoo Finance that summer travel demand remained "very, very healthy," contributing to the company's second-highest earnings performance behind Q2 2023. However, he acknowledged that some consumers are becoming more price-sensitive. "Our second quarter was really strong," Bastian said. "As we look into the third quarter we see another strong quarter. The domestic marketplace is where a little bit of the price sensitivity is starting to take hold, and its in the lower fare buckets." The company reiterated its full-year earnings guidance of $6 to $7. For the third quarter, Delta expects earnings to be in a range of $1.70 to $2.00, below the $2.03 figure reported in the same quarter last year. Meanwhile, air travel demand continues to hit new highs. According to TSA passenger throughput data, the number of people traveling by air in 2024 is outpacing 2023 by 6% an average of 145,860 more customers per day. "Our consumers are driving the experience economy," Bastian said, "whether it's traveling to Europe to see a Taylor Swift concert or going to see friends in another part of the country that's driving a tremendous amount of our stability." Delta stock was almost 8% lower in premarket trading on Thursday. Year to date, shares of the airline operator are up more than 16%. Airfare and international expansion Despite the higher pace of travel, ticket prices are down, which could lead to a deceleration in margin growth for the airline industry. Heading into the peak summer travel season, US airfare prices declined by 5.9% in May compared to a year prior. One factor contributing to lower fares has been added capacity. Another is the destinations that passengers are opting to travel to. Analysis from Bloomberg Intelligence forecast that travel to Latin and South America is expected to hit post-pandemic highs in Q2 and Q3, with 30%-40% more travel to these endpoints compared to 2019. "That's likely to pressure fares and profit," Bloomberg Intelligence senior industry analyst George Ferguson wrote in a May report. Delta has expanded the number of routes to and from the Latin American, Caribbean, and South American markets. Its Latin American segment was a core driver of the 4% revenue growth in international travel during the quarter as the airline operator looked to fill in gaps on its map. "While that region has been ... a bit slow to recover from COVID over the last couple of years, it's been recovering quite well," Bastian said. "We're happy with that because we realize that those are markets [where] our market share opportunities are pretty important to us, and we want to capitalize on them." "But it also drives pricing down as, again, all the capacity comes back and ... [has] what is certainly a price-sensitive consumer in that range," Bastian added. Holiday travelers pass through Salt Lake City International Airport on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) Days before reporting earnings, Delta announced another international partnership with Riyadh Air in its latest strategic expansion. The operators will be each others exclusive partners for customers traveling between North America, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and connecting destinations. "The first flights will be starting next summer," Bastian said. "I had the opportunity to spend several days in Riyadh a couple of months ago just to learn for myself and see what's happening on the ground. And it was quite amazing the amount of transformation in all aspects of that market ... from a people standpoint ... to a massive $800 billion investment in tourism across the the Saudi Arabian Arabian peninsula that's being driven out of Riyadh. Click here for the latest stock market news and in-depth analysis, including events that move stocks Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance Although President Joe Biden has made it clear he's staying in the presidential race despite his shaky performance at last month's presidential debate, several Democrats on Capitol Hill have publicly called on him to step aside. The list has grown following the debate and after Biden's interview with ABC News' George Stephanopoulos last week. MORE: 2024 election live updates Here is the current list of Democrats who have publicly asked Biden to step aside. Rep. Mike Levin The California congressman said in a statement on July 12 that he heard from "several hundred" of his constituents and they shared his concern about Biden's viability in November. PHOTO: Rep. Mike Levin, a Democrat who represents California's 49th Congressional District, speaks at a supporter's 'house party,' June 1, 2024, in Encinitas, Calif. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) "Once again, our national mettle must be forged in the crucible of history. It is time to move forward. With a new leader. Together," Levin said. Rep. Brittany Pettersen The freshman representative from Colorado posted a lengthy statement on X on July 12 urging Biden to "pass the torch" to "one of our many capable Democratic leaders so we have the best chance to defeat Donald Trump." PHOTO: Rep. Brittany Pettersen, D-Colo., speaks during a news conference outside the U.S. Capitol, March 8, 2023, in Washington. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images, FILE) "Joe Biden saved our country once, and Im joining the growing number of people in my district and across the country to ask him to do it again," Pettersen said. Rep. Eric Sorensen Adding to the growing list of Democratic representatives calling for Biden to exit the presidential race, Rep. Eric Sorensen of Illinois released a statement following the NATO press conference on July 11. "In 2020, Joe Biden ran for President with the purpose of putting country over party. Today, I am asking him to do that again," Sorensen said. PHOTO: Rep. Eric Sorensen, D-Ill., speaks during a news conference outside the U.S. Capitol, March 8, 2023, in Washington. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images, FILE) "I am hopeful President Biden will step aside in his campaign for President," he said. Rep. Scott Peters House Democratic Rep. Scott Peters of California called on President Biden to step aside from the presidential race following Biden's NATO press conference on July 11. PHOTO: Rep. Scott Peters, D-Calif., questions Office of Management Director Shalanda Young, during the House Budget Committee hearing titled 'The President's Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Request,' in Cannon building on March 21, 2024. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, FILE) "Today I ask President Biden to withdraw from the presidential campaign," Peters said, adding, "The stakes are high, and we are on a losing course. My conscience requires me to speak up and put loyalty to the country and to democracy ahead of my great affection for, and loyalty to, the President and those around him." "We must find a candidate from our deep bench of talent who can defeat Donald Trump," Peters said. Rep. Jim Himes Following President Bidens NATO press conference, Connecticut Congressman Jim Himes released a statement, calling on Biden to "step away from the presidential campaign." Himes serves as a ranking Democratic member in the House Intelligence Committee. "The 2024 election will define the future of American democracy, and we must put forth the strongest candidate possible to confront the threat posed by Trump's MAGA authoritarianism," Himes said. PHOTO: Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT) questions US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell as they testify during a House Financial Services Committee hearing in the US Capitol in Washington,DC on Sept. 22, 2020. (Joshua Roberts/POOL/AFP via Getty Images, FILE) "I no longer believe that is Joe Biden, and I hope that, as he has throughout a lifetime of public service, he will continue to put our nation first, and, as he promised, make way for a new generation of leaders," he said. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez The Washington congresswoman, who flipped her district in 2022, not only called for the president to end his re-election bid but vocally questioned his fitness for the rest of the term in a statement released on July 11. PHOTO: In this March 6, 2024, file photo, Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez participates in the Bipartisan Defending Borders, Defending Democracies Act news conference in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, FILE) "Like most people, I represent in Southwest Washington, I doubt the Presidents judgment about his health, his fitness to do the job, and whether he is the one making important decisions about our country, rather than unelected advisors," she said. "Americans deserve to feel their president is fit enough to do the job." Rep. Greg Stanton The Arizona congressman touted Biden's accomplishments in a statement on July 11, but said the president's "most defining legacy, though, is as a fierce defender of American democracy." PHOTO: In this March 20, 2024, file photo, Rep. Greg Stanton speaks prior to President Joe Biden's remarks at Intel Ocotillo Campus, in Chandler, Arizona. (Rebecca Noble/Getty Images, FILE) "The Democratic Party must have a nominee who can effectively make the case against Trump, and have the confidence of the American people to handle the rigors of the hardest job on the planet for the next four years," Stanton said. Rep. Ed Case The Hawaii House member issued a statement on July 11 asking Biden to step aside, claiming, "Difficult times and realities require difficult decisions." PHOTO: Rep. Ed Case arrives for the start of the House Appropriations Committee markup of several appropriations bills, in the Rayburn House Office Building, on July 10, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images) "This has nothing to do with his character and record. If it did, there would be no decision to make," Case said. "This is solely about the future, about the Presidents ability to continue in the most difficult job in the world for another four-year term." Rep. Brad Schneider The Illinois congressman released a statement on July 11 calling on Biden to "heroically pass the torch to a new generation of leadership." PHOTO: Rep. Brad Schneider speaks during a US House Committee on Ways and Means hearing, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., on June 13, 2024. (Anadolu via Getty Images, FILE) "We are faced with a stark choice: be resigned to slog through this election praying we can successfully defend our democracy, or enthusiastically embrace a vibrant vision for our future, building on the extraordinary foundation President Biden has created for our nation over the past four years," Schneider, the vice chair of the New Democrat Coalition said. "I choose the latter." Rep. Hillary Scholten The Grand Rapids, Michigan, House member said in a July 11 statement on X that Biden needed to end his presidential run, contending that it "is essential that we have the strongest possible candidate leading the top of the ticket -- not just to win, but to govern." PHOTO: In this July 25, 2023, file photo, Rep. Hillary Scholten speaks in her office in the Longworth House Office Building in Washington, D.C. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, FILE) "The people of Michigan's 3rd Congressional District elected me to represent them with integrity. They elected a Congresswoman they trust to speak the truth, even when it's hard. They voted for someone who would put America's future first and stand up for what is right. That's what I am doing now," she said. Sen. Peter Welch Welch, who represents Vermont, became the first Democratic senator to officially call on Biden to step aside in a Washington Post op-ed published July 10. PHOTO: Sen. Peter Welch speaks to reporters amid calls for President Biden to end his campaign, on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., July 11, 2024. (Kevin Mohatt/Reuters) Welch wrote that "regular Vermonters are worried that he can't win this time, and they're terrified of another Trump presidency." Rep. Earl Blumenauer The Oregon representative, who is a senior member of the House Ways and Means and Budget committees, said in a statement on July 10 that "we will all be better served if the president steps aside as the Democratic nominee and manages a transition under his terms." PHOTO: In this April 26, 2023, file photo, Rep. Earl Blumenauer is shown in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, FILE) "He should devote his energy and undivided attention to issues of war and peace, the climate crisis, and rebuilding and renewing America. I stand willing to assist in any way possible on these critical efforts," Blumenauer added. MORE: Video Some Democratic lawmakers publicly show support for Biden Rep. Pat Ryan Ryan, a moderate Democrat who is up for reelection in a crucial district in upstate New York, said in an op-ed published in the Poughkeepsie Journal on July 10 that Biden needed to step aside due to what he said was the threat posed by a second Trump term. PHOTO: In this June 22, 2023, file photo, Rep. Pat Ryan speaks at a Members Day hearing of the House Veterans Affairs Committee at the U.S. Capitol, in Washington, D.C. (Sopa Images Limited via Alamy Live News via AP, FILE) "If the two of them are on the ballot this fall, I'll be voting for Biden," he wrote. "But I'd be doing a grave disservice to the hundreds of thousands of people I have the honor to represent if I said Biden was the best candidate to face Trump this fall." Rep. Mikie Sherrill The New Jersey congresswoman, who flipped her seat in the 2020 election, released a statement on July 9 calling for Biden to drop out of the presidential race and to "help lead us through a process toward a new nominee." PHOTO: In this Nov. 7, 2023, file photo, Rep. Mikie Sherrill participates in the House Democrats' news conference following their caucus meeting in the US Capitol, in Washington, D.C. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, FILE) Sherrill told ABC News her decision to call on Biden to step aside came after speaking and listening to her constituents, colleagues and family. The congresswoman said she felt she needed to "advocate as strongly as possible for new leadership so we could really prosecute the case against Donald Trump." MORE: Biden and Trump tied despite debate, as 67% call for president to drop out: POLL Rep. Adam Smith The Washington state House member released a statement on July 8 calling on Biden to bow out of the race and release his delegates before the Democratic National Convention in August. PHOTO: House Armed Services Committee ranking member Rep. Adam Smith testifies during a House Rules Committee meeting, in the U.S. Capitol, on June 11, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, FILE) "He is not yet the nominee. So I think we have a chance to pick a better candidate who can effectively deliver the message, get off of all of these distractions, focus on the Democratic message and on the dangers of Donald Trump," Smith told ABC News. "And I think we need to take that opportunity." Rep. Angie Craig The Minnesota congresswoman said in a statement on July 6 that Biden needed to step down from the race, citing his poor debate performance and "the lack of a forceful response from the president himself following that debate." PHOTO: In this Nov. 9, 2023, file photo, Rep. Angie Craig is shown at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, FILE) "This is not a decision I've come to lightly, but there is simply too much at stake to risk a second Donald Trump presidency," she said. Rep. Mike Quigley The Illinois congressman was vocal about his disapproval of Biden following the debate and called on him to step aside during an MSNBC interview on July 5, shortly after the president spoke with ABC News. PHOTO: Rep. Mike Quigley speaks with reporters while getting on a bicycle as he departs a House Democratic Caucus meeting at Democratic National Committee headquarters, on Capitol Hill, on July 9, 2024. (Francis Chung/Politico via AP) "Mr. President, your legacy is set," he said. "We owe you the greatest debt of gratitude. The only thing that you can do now to cement that for all time and prevent utter catastrophe is to step down and let someone else do this." Rep. Seth Moulton The Massachusetts House member told Boston public radio station WBUR on July 4 that he believes Biden should withdraw from the race. PHOTO: Congressman Seth Moulton speaks during a Capitol Hill news conference in Washington, D.C., on June 4, 2024. (Anadolu via Getty Images, FILE) "President Biden has done enormous service to our country, but now is the time for him to follow in one of our founding fathers, George Washington's footsteps and step aside to let new leaders rise up and run against Donald Trump," he said. Rep. Raul Grijalva The Arizona congressman told The New York Times on July 3 that Biden needed to reconsider his candidacy. PHOTO: In this March 28, 2022, file photo, House Natural Resources Chairman Raul Grijalva conducts a news conference in Washington, D.C. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images, FILE) "If he's the candidate, I'm going to support him, but I think that this is an opportunity to look elsewhere," he told the newspaper. MORE: Democratic Senate candidates see fundraising boom even as Biden campaign loses donors Rep. Lloyd Doggett On July 2, five days after the debate, the Austin, Texas, congressman became the first House member to call on the president to step aside. PHOTO: Rep. Lloyd Doggett walks through the U.S. Capitol, on July 11, 2024, in Washington, D.C. (Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images) Doggett cited Biden's dwindling poll numbers in key districts and his debate performance as the factors behind his decision. "I represent the heart of a congressional district once represented by Lyndon Johnson. Under very different circumstances, he made the painful decision to withdraw. President Biden should do the same," Doggett said in a statement. ABC News' Ben Siegel, Rachel Scott, John Parkinson, Isabella Murray, Allison Pecorin, Lauren Peller, Oren Oppenheim and Jacob Steinberg contributed to this report. These are the Democrats who have called for Joe Biden to step aside originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Detroit woman, 65, takes on MGM Grand after being denied $127K blackjack win due to ban she knew nothing about When seasoned gambler Denise Ezell, 65, won a $127,000 jackpot playing progressive blackjack at Detroit's MGM Grand last October, she was ecstatic. It was exuberating, she told Detroit Free Press, adding that everyone around her, including the dealer, was celebrating. We were high-fiving No one had ever seen anyone win that jackpot. Don't miss These 5 magic money moves will boost you up America's net worth ladder in 2024 and you can complete each step within minutes. Here's how 'You didn't want to risk it': 80-year-old woman from South Carolina is looking for the safest place for her family's $250,000 savings. Here's Dave Ramsey's response Car insurance premiums in America are through the roof and only getting worse. But 5 minutes could have you paying as little as $29/month But her joy was short-lived. After checking her ID, staff at the MGM Grand informed Ezell she would not receive a dime of her six-figure pot. They then accused her of trespassing and claimed she had been banned from the casino since an alleged panhandling incident in 2015. Ezell claims she knew nothing about the ban and has gambled regularly (and with no issues) at MGM for the past eight years. She has accused the casino giant of coming up with a bull- excuse to not pay out her winnings after years of accepting her hard-earned money at the tables. She filed a civil suit against MGM in a U.S. District Court in late June and told the local press: I just want my damn money. Heres what happened. Casino always wins As chance would have it, Ezell scored the $127,000 motherlode from her final bet of the night on October 30, 2023. She was playing progressive blackjack, a game where players can place a side bet in the hope that their two cards will combine with the dealers in a way that triggers a jackpot. In her hand, she held the jack and king of spades. The dealer showed the ace and queen of spades, landing Ezell a rare four-card straight flush, which won her the mega payout. I just thought when you won, they would pay you, Ezell said, reflecting on the drama since her win. When you lose, they take your damn money. Her attorney Ivan Land shared a similar sentiment when explaining why the 65-year-old had to sue the casino company. He said they spent three months seeking alternative options for resolution including going to the state gaming board and reaching out to the casinos legal team but to no avail. Land said Ezell had not been alerted about her ban by email, phone call, letter or text message. The pair also dispute the panhandling allegation at the heart of this saga, with Ezell claiming she was arguing with her cousin about some cash and not soliciting a stranger for money. Land described MGMs treatment of Ezell as just not fair. They allowed her to gamble there and spend her hard-earned money for eight years, and then, when she hits the jackpot, they run this crap: 'Hey, you shouldn't be here in the first place?' Land said. We know the casinos always win. Read more: 'It's not taxed at all': Warren Buffett shares the 'best investment' you can make when battling rising costs take advantage today What to do with a windfall Ezell, who earns a living wage working for the state of Michigan doing administrative work, had big plans for her windfall. She wanted to become debt free and help her daughter, who is finishing up medical school, to pay off her six-figure student loans. If you dont have an immediate need for your windfall, like paying down your debts or using it as a downpayment for a house, you may want to consider putting that money to work by investing. There are many ways to invest from buying shares in broad-based index funds like the S&P 500 (which has enjoyed an annual average return of roughly 11% over the last 10 years) to individual stocks and bonds, as well as alternative assets like real estate. It is also worth maxing out your retirement saving contributions in a 401(k), if you have access to one via work, or an individual retirement account (IRA). Remember, when you win money from gambling, your winnings will generally be taxed at both the federal level (at a rate of 24% if your winnings minus wager are more than $5,000) and the state level (if you live in one of the 43 states that levy individual income taxes). If youre not sure how to handle your winnings from a tax standpoint, consider working with a tax professional to get personalized advice based on your specific situation. What to read next Thanks to Jeff Bezos, you can now use $100 to cash in on prime real estate without the headache of being a landlord. Here's how Beating the market is no myth: These expert stock-pickers' recent success could help you build generational wealth Jeff Bezos and Oprah Winfrey invest in this asset to keep their wealth safe you may want to do the same in 2024 This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind. Evergreen Cemetery is pictured on Aug. 11, 2020 in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. A Pennsylvania man has been charged in connection with what federal prosecutors say was a scam to deceive grieving families out of headstones for their loved ones. Gregory Stefan Jr. of Upper Merion is charged with seven counts of wire fraud through his allegedly "fraudulent business practices," U.S. Attorney Jacqueline Romero announced Tuesday. Between January 2018 and September 2023, customers paid Stefan for services he knew would not be fulfilled by the time he promised, if at all, according to the indictment obtained by USA TODAY on Wednesday. Through his two companies named 1843 and Colonial Memorials Stefan demanded large up-front payments from customers despite not delivering the headstones by the expected 24- to 28-week timeframe, or ever, according to the indictment. He allegedly failed to offer refunds to nearly 500 victims in Pennsylvania and New Jersey who collectively paid over $1.5 million. "When customers reached out to request updates on the status of their overdue orders, Stefan either ignored them or employed lulling tactics and assured them that their orders would be delivered shortly without taking any steps to follow through on those assurances," the Attorney's Office said in a news release. USA TODAY has reached out to a public defender listed as Stefan's representative and did not immediately receive a response. Stefan, family members previously accused of deceiving customers Stefan, 54, was the co-owner of the 1843 headstone company with his brother and also operated Colonial Memorials with his wife, who served as president until she died in 2022, court records show. 1843 did not manufacture its own headstones and hired third-party suppliers to produce the gravestones. Colonial Memorials would conduct its sales through 1843 as part of a service agreement in effect since 2021, according to the indictment. In 2015, the Pennsylvania Attorney General filed a civil lawsuit against Stefan's father, who worked in the headstone sales business since the 1970s. The lawsuit accused him of allegedly deceiving customers by failing to deliver headstones on time since 2010, according to the indictment. By 2021, another civil lawsuit accused Stefan, his father and his brother of doing the same since 2016. Stefan allegedly used customer funds for personal expenses The indictment accuses Stefan and his brother of using the profits for their own living expenses instead of fulfilling customer orders. Stefan met with customers at their homes where he allegedly urged customers to pay upfront at four times the cost to produce headstones. Customers who refused to pay the full price had to place a 50% deposit, according to court records. He allegedly ignored most refund requests but responded to those who consistently vocalized their complaints or threatened legal action, the indictment states. Stefan faces up to 140 years in prison if convicted, prosecutors said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Headstone salesman charged with scamming grieving customers in 2 states Huma Abedin, former aide to former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, is engaged to Alex Soros, son of billionaire liberal donor George Soros. The duo revealed the news Wednesday on Instagram, writing: This happenedwe couldnt be happier, more grateful, or more in love. Soros proposed to Abedin in late May after less than a year of dating, according to Vogue. Abedin, 47, and Soros, 38, are both familiar names to anyone who follows politics and business. Abedin has worked with Hillary Clinton at the White House, Senate, State Department and in her private life for several years. She was previously married to Anthony Weiner, the former Democratic congressman who went to prison for sexting with a minor in 2017, the same year Abedin filed for divorce. Meanwhile, Soros leads the Open Society Foundations and political action committee, a charitable organization that donates to liberal causes. His father, George, is worth an estimated $6.7 billion, according to Forbes and has given more than $30 billion to his foundation. The pair met last fall at a mutual friends birthday party, where they quickly discovered their mutual interests in politics and public service, Vogue reported. Theyve made several public appearances, including this years Met Gala and at a White House state dinner. Vogue notes that Soros will be stepfather to Abedins son from her marriage to Weiner. A wedding date wasnt announced. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com PETERSBURG, Va. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin on Thursday called discussion of him as a potential vice-presidential nominee an out-of-body moment but still will not acknowledge interest in joining the ticket with Donald Trump. Theres an enormous amount of talent in the Republican party, Youngkin said following a morning appearance in Petersburg celebrating the citys growing pharmaceutical industry. Whoever the Republican party chooses, the president chooses to be his running mate will be better than our current vice president. Asked directly about his chances of joining the ticket, Youngkin demurred. I love my job. I love what were doing in Virginia, he said. I wake up every morning with a spring in my step, and I go to work knowing Virginia is absolutely on a roll and its exciting to see it happen. Youngkin, a northern Virginia businessperson whose first foray into politics was winning the governorship in 2021, is among a group of names bantered about as a running mate for Trump as he seeks to win back the White House in November. After first being touted as a possible more moderate alternative to Trump and his MAGA following, Youngkin has since fallen in line with other GOP leaders endorsing the former president. He joined Trump for a recent rally in Chesapeake, Va., and has spoken ebulliently about the GOP platform and its presumptive nominee at several opportunities. He is expected to have a featured role at next weeks Republican convention in Milwaukee that will likely boost his national profile. Presumptive 2024 Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and Virginia Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin met on Thursday, June 13, 2024, at Trump National Golf Club in Potomac Falls, Virginia. Red to blue to ... purple? After 40 years of supporting Republican presidential tickets, Virginia about-faced in 2008 to support Democrat Barack Obama, driven mostly on the political muscle of northern Virginia. Since then, the commonwealth has been true blue Biden won by 10 percentage points over Trump in 2020. Youngkins somewhat-surprising victory in 2021 over former Democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe led a GOP sweep of the states top three elected offices. That fueled Republican hopes that Virginia could go back to red in 2024. The commonwealth is one of several battleground states where both parties are expected to unleash major pushes. In addition to northern Virginia, urban areas such as Richmond, Petersburg and Norfolk are among Democrats strongest bases. Eighty-eight percent of Virginia is rural, according to statistics from the Virginia Department of Health. However, only 26% of its population is considered rural-dwelling. Gov. Glenn Youngkin, right, speaks during an appearance Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Phlow Corp., a pharmaceutical manufacturer in Petersburg, Va. Beside him is Petersburg Mayor Samuel Parham. Youngkin says he is 'humbled' to be mentioned as a possible GOP running mate but 'I love my job' as governor. Getting love from key Republicans While most pundits think Trump will go for a more familiar face as a running mate like Florida Sen. Marco Rubio or Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, some within the party are not yet willing to count Youngkin out. During an appearance last weekend on CBS Face The Nation, South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham a staunch Trump ally both in the White House and on the political trail name-dropped Youngkin when asked about possible ticket mates. There's somebody not being talked about that should be, in my view, [and that] is Youngkin from Virginia, Graham said. If we win Virginia, we win. It is over. Youngkin smiled when asked about Grahams comment. When someone describes me in that way, I sit there and think about it as an out-of-body moment, he said. Because the reality of course is, I am focused on Virginia, and Ive been in politics for three years, and I believe weve made a huge, huge step forward in the commonwealth, and therefore, Im just humbled by it. CHESAPEAKE, VIRGINIA - JUNE 28: Republican presidential candidate, former U.S. President Donald Trump shakes hands with Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin during a rally at Greenbrier Farms on June 28, 2024 in Chesapeake, Virginia. Last night Trump and U.S. President Joe Biden took part in the first presidential debate of the 2024 campaign. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) Every state a border state At the appearance in Petersburg, Youngkin pivoted from talking about a place on the ticket to putting Virginia in play come November. This election will be a real statement about a choice for strength over weakness, he said. President Biden and [Vice President] Kamala Harris have exhibited weakness weakness from a foreign policy standpoint, a weak economy, weakness at the border. And I believe Virginias in play because Virginians are ready to vote for strength, and thats exactly what President Trump stands for, a strong economy, a strong national security footprint and strength at the border to stop the chaos. We have seen every state turn into a border state, Youngkin added. It must stop. Thats why I think strength will matter. Bill Atkinson (he/him/his) is an award-winning journalist who covers breaking news, government and politics. Reach him at batkinson@progress-index.com or on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @BAtkinson_PI. This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Virginia governor downplays chances as Trump's VP pick Sen. Bob Menendezs defense attorney wrapped up his closing arguments Wednesday, saying the case against the New Jersey Democrat was shaky and rotten to its core. This case dies here today because they have failed to prove, they have failed to prove to that very high standard that Bobs actions were anything other than exactly what we want our elected officials to do. He was doing his job, and he was doing it well, the senators attorney Adam Fee said in Manhattan criminal court. Resist the temptation to pick a salacious story about a corrupt politician because its not, its not there, Fee said. You must acquit because there is not proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Bob took anything in exchange for a particular official action. Menendez and his co-defendants, New Jersey businessmen Wael Hana and Fred Daibes, are accused of participating in a yearslong bribery scheme. Federal prosecutors say the senator tried to use his power to advance Egyptian military interests, interfere in criminal prosecutions, and secure investment from Qatari officials, among other things. Menendez and his wife allegedly received gold bars, hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash, a Mercedes Benz convertible and other bribes in exchange for his influence. The senators wife, Nadine Menendez, was also charged in the case, but will be tried separately later this year after she was granted a delay by the judge so she can focus on her treatment for breast cancer. She has pleaded not guilty. Bob Menendezs team called a total of five witnesses to testify in his defense during the trial, though not the senator himself. In all, 37 witnesses were called over the nine-week trial. Fee began his fiery closing arguments Tuesday afternoon and concluded Wednesday morning after spending roughly five hours addressing jurors. Fee said Tuesday that federal prosecutors had presented a cherry-picked case that asks the jury to convict the senator based solely on non-credible inferences and not on evidence. Assumption, speculation, fantasy, conjecture. They will call it inference, its not, he told jurors. You are being asked to imagine, in the gaps of evidence, the criminal stuff. In reference to the cash and gold found in the Menendez home, Fee reiterated that Bob Menendez customarily stored cash due to familial trauma from fleeing Cuba and that Nadine Menendez already owned gold, gifted to her by her family. They want you to conclude that every dollar, every piece of gold, every item of value that you have heard a reference to in this case, mustve been a bribe, he said. Fee said the senator didnt even know about the gold that the FBI seized from the Menendez home during the raid on June 16, 2022. He said that the cash found inside the senators home office was money he had withdrawn and that the cash found in the basement, stuffed inside shoes and jacket pockets, could not reasonably be pointed back to his client. The FBI seized a total of $486,461 of cash, 11 one-ounce gold bars, and two one-kilogram gold bars from the home, according to trial testimony. Corruption on a massive scale Federal prosecutors on Tuesday concluded their closing arguments, which also lasted approximately five hours over two days. This is a big case, but it all boils down to a classic case of corruption on a massive scale, Assistant US Attorney Paul Monteleoni told the jury. Its about a politician who put his power up for sale and the people who were willing to buy it from him. In his closing arguments, Monteleoni challenged the defenses suggestion that Nadine Menendez kept her husband in the dark about key parts of the alleged quid pro quo scheme. The pattern was the same: Menendez was in charge, the prosecutor said Monday. His wife, Nadine, was his go-between, demanding payment, receiving payment, passing messages but always, always keeping him informed. You dont get to be the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee by being clueless, Monteleoni said of the senator. On Tuesday, Monteleoni focused on the part of the alleged scheme involving Jose Uribe, the New Jersey businessman who allegedly bribed the senator in exchange for legal favors and pleaded guilty before the trial began. Uribe testified in June that he gave Nadine Menendez a Mercedes-Benz convertible in exchange for the senators promise to intervene in criminal investigations into his associates. Monteleoni said messages between the senator and his wife show that he was in the weeds on the whole car purchase. Uribe previously testified that during a 2020 dinner, the senator told him in Spanish, I saved your a** twice. Not once, but twice. That is the boast of a corrupt politician about wielding power for the private benefit of the person paying him bribes, Monteleoni said Tuesday. Menendezs attorneys consistently tried to undermine Uribes credibility during the trial. On Wednesday, Fee argued that Uribe was good liar who embellished his testimony to invent corroboration with other evidence of text messages, phone calls and restaurant meetings that were presented at trial. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Leaders of some of the closest U.S. allies are in Washington this week for the NATO summit. The meeting is a crucial test for Ukraine as it fights to hold off Russia's invasion. Ukraine is opening up its own office in Washington to promote its needs to the U.S. government and defense companies. This comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with House Speaker Mike Johnson on Capitol Hill Wednesday, and is set to meet with President Biden as well. In an address at the Reagan Center on Tuesday, Zelenskyy urged faster action from the United States, asking lawmakers not to delay until November's elections and warning without mentioning him by name that the election of Donald Trump presented a risk to his country. "I want to be candid and frank. Now everyone is waiting for November. Americans are waiting for November. In Europe, the Middle East and the Pacific the whole world is looking to November. And truly speaking, Putin awaits November, too," Zelenskyy said. Ukraine is set to receive F-16 fighter jets from Denmark and the Netherlands, which are expected to help the country meet Russian aggression in the air. Ukraine's pilots have been training on simulators, learning English and brushing up on the logistics required to maintain the advanced aircraft. Zelenskyy on Wednesday thanked allies for the new aircraft, but warned that the delivery may not immediately swing things in the defenders' favor. Ukraine may need 100 such fighters to begin to match Russia's air presence. NATO, meanwhile, is expected to use its meeting to help launch a new support program for Ukraine, which will streamline military aid and prepare Ukraine to eventually join the alliance. NATO's plan, which will be presented for leaders' approval on Thursday, will provision a U.S. Army garrison in Germany, where hundreds of staff will work to improve logistics and deliveries for Ukraine. NATO also plans to send more than $40 billion to Ukraine over the next year, "to provide sustainable levels of security assistance for Ukraine to prevail." RELATED STORY | Biden praises NATO's continued strength, saying it's more necessary than ever At least one person has died in Vermont after remnants of Hurricane Beryl slammed the Northeastern United States, bringing heavy rainfall, flash flooding and tornadoes. The deluge dumped more than 6 inches of rainfall in some parts of Vermont, leading to life-threatening flash flooding that washed away cars and a small apartment building. Officials confirmed the death was reported in the community of Peacham just east of the state's capital Montpelier. Video shared out of Barre, Vermont, showed streams of water gushing through the streets as residents scramble to evacuate the area. As of Thursday morning, nearly 2,500 residents across the state remained without power, according to vtoutages.org. RELATED STORY | High, sustained US heat has authorities issuing advisories amid reports of illnesses and deaths Elsewhere, the National Weather Service confirmed at least two tornadoes popped up Wednesday in western New York, destroying several buildings and damaging homes. There have been no reports so far of any serious injuries stemming from those incidents. Beryl made landfall Monday in Texas as a Category 1 hurricane before sweeping across much of the Central and Northeastern U.S. Days later, more than 1 million people in Texas remain without power as sweltering extreme heat continues to blanket the state. Cooling centers and other emergency measures could be needed for weeks if power to run air conditioning isn't restored. RELATED STORY | Grid outages in Texas complicate recovery from Beryl The storm system has been blamed for multiple other deaths from Texas to Louisiana. At least 11 others died when Beryl stormed through the Caribbean as a Category 5 storm. A Connecticut man who was killed on a bombing mission in Burma during World War II has been accounted for, U.S. officials said Wednesday. Army Air Forces Staff Sgt. Frank Tedone was 23 years old when he served as a gunner onboard a B-24J Liberator bomber as part of the 436th Bombardment Squadron, 7th Bombardment Group, according to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. On Dec. 1, 1943, Tedone and nine other crew members flew on a bombing mission from Panagarh, India to a railroad yard near Rangoon, Burma. Their plane was reportedly "hit by anti-aircraft fire, causing the left wing to burst into flames," according to the DPAA, and the aircraft "entered a steep dive" before disappearing. Three enemy aircraft were also seen following the plane, the DPAA said. No further contact was made with the crew of the plane. Tedone and other crew members with an aircraft. / Credit: Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency No remains were recovered or identified, and the crew members, including Tedone, were declared missing in action. It wasn't until 1947 that the American Grave Registration Service recovered the remains of eight individuals lost in a B-24 Liberator crash in Burma. The remains had been buried in two large graves under orders from Japanese forces occupying the area at the time of the crash. The remains were transferred from those large graves and interred as unknown soldiers at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii. In early 2019, the DPAA received a request from a family to disinter the one of the eight sets of remains. All of the remains were exhumed, and they were sent to the agency's laboratories for analysis. The experts studying the remains use scientific processes like dental records, isotope analysis, mitochondrial and chromosomal analysis, and more to attempt to make an identification. Historians and other DPAA employees also use circumstantial and material evidence to help identify remains. Frank Tedone. / Credit: Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency Tedone's remains were identified on February 20, 2024. A rosette has been placed beside his name on the Walls of the Missing at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in the Phillippines, indicating that he has been accounted for. He will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery, the DPAA said. All fallen soldiers identified by the DPAA are entitled to a military funeral. Sneak peek: Unmasking the Zombie Hunter Remnants of Beryl swamping parts of Northeast Family of American woman missing nearly a month in Bahamas speaks out Will clinicians soon have a tool to predict different cognitive decline stages in Alzheimers disease? Image credit: TEK IMAGE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images. This article originally appeared on Medical News Today Alzheimers disease, the most common form of dementia, affects almost 7 million people in the United States alone. Following a diagnosis, it is difficult to predict how the disease will progress in each person. Now, a research team in Amsterdam has designed a model that can predict cognitive decline in people with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimers disease. The scientists aim to use the model to develop an app that clinicians can use to help them personalize treatments and forecasts for patients. A diagnosis of Alzheimers disease is becoming increasingly common. The Alzheimers Association reports that one in three seniors in the United States will die with Alzheimers or another dementia. Some memory decline is a normal part of aging, but problems with memory and thinking that start to impact daily functioning are often a sign of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). In some people, MCI can develop into dementia, such as Alzheimers disease, but it is hard to predict whether a person with MCI will go on to develop dementia. Katherine Gray, Head of Research at Alzheimers Society, told Medical News Today that: Among the almost a million people living with dementia in the [United Kingdom], we know that no two people have the same journey. Symptoms often progress at different rates and the availability and standard of dementia care across the UK can vary extensively. Now, a team from Amsterdam University Medical Center has developed a model that can predict cognitive decline in people with MCI or mild dementia due to Alzheimers disease. The study appears in the journal Neurology. Wiesje van der Flier, PhD, full professor, scientific director of Amsterdam UMCs Alzheimer Centre, and senior author on the study, told MNT that the model might one day be used to tailor Alzheimers care for individual patients. I think in the future it can. When patients get a diagnosis, their next question is: what can I expect? Or what is my prognosis? This model provides a first attempt to an answer. It provides a prognosis for cognitive decline on an individual basis, she told us. Gray also commented that: This is encouraging research as it suggests that researchers can produce a model which is able to predict how the symptoms experienced by people with mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimers disease might change. Predicting how these symptoms may change cognition over time is vitally important for those living with dementia and their carers to prepare for the future, ultimately leading to better care. How researchers developed the model The researchers recruited participants from the Amsterdam Dementia Cohort for their longitudinal study. In total, 961 people were included, of whom 310 had MCI and 651 had mild dementia due to Alzheimers disease. Their mean age was 65 years, and 49% of them were women. All were amyloid-positive, meaning that the researchers detected amyloid biomarkers in their cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), or on PET scans. The researchers used the Mini-Mental State Examination a short screening tool that provides an overall measure of cognitive impairment to assess the participants at the start and several times during the study. In this 5-minute test, a person can achieve a maximum score of 30. Clinicians roughly interpret scores as follows: 2530: no impairment 2024: mild dementia 1520: moderate dementia 14 and below: severe dementia. Over the course of the study, MMSE scores for all participants decreased, indicating a decline in cognitive abilities. For those with MCI, MMSE scores declined from a mean of 26.4 at baseline, to 21 after 5 years. People with mild dementia showed a greater decline, from a starting mean of 22.4, the mean score reduced to 7.8 after 5 years. For both groups, cognitive decline accelerated over time. Using these scores, together with MRI scan results and biomarkers, the researchers modelled MMSE scores over time for both MCI and mild dementia. This is a really interesting study and provides the foundation for tools which could be highly beneficial to patients with Alzheimers disease and their families, Scott Kaiser, MD, a board-certified geriatrician at Providence Saint Johns Health Center in Santa Monica, CA, told MNT. The study subjects were selected from a large cohort, the Amsterdam Dementia Cohort, with a wide range of robust clinical data available and the quality of methodology engaged in the predictive modeling appears to be a real strength of this work, he added. Starting point for communication between clinician and patient [Our model] shows how difficult such a prognosis is, and that there remains uncertainty. From research, we know that patients and their families value this information, even if there is uncertainty. This model helps to facilitate doctor-patient communication about this uncertainty, said van der Flier. The researchers constructed models predicting MMSE, which they then used to estimate time to reach an MMSE of 20 (mild dementia) for those with MCI, and 15 (moderate dementia) for those with mild dementia, using different baseline CSF amyloid and MMSE measurements. They also predicted how long it would take to reach these threshold MMSE scores, if a treatment intervention reduced decline by 30%. Van der Flier explained why they did this, saying that: The predictions can also be used by a clinician to discuss with a patient the potential effect of a treatment. Recently emerging treatments have been shown to reduce the rate of decline by around 30%. Applying this to the model provides a starting point for communication between clinician and patient on the potential benefit. However, Karen Miller, PhD, a neuropsychologist and geropsychologist, and senior director of the Brain Wellness and Lifestyle Programs at Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, CA, who was not involved in this research, emphasized the uncertainty in the model. While the study is rigorous from a research perspective and comprehensive in terms of variable included (cognitive measures, genetics, brain imaging), the variability for any given patient still leaves the provider with a range of years in terms of any given trajectory for the unique patient, she told MNT. When will there be a prototype app for clinicians? Were excited to see how research like this will progress in the future and deliver lasting change to people living with dementia, said Gray. Together with developing the predictive model, the researchers have also designed a prototype app for clinicians, as van der Flier explained. In the tool (adappt.health) we are currently developing, there is also a communication sheet which is intended for clinicians to share with patients and carers, to explain what the prediction entails. Also, there is patient-facing information about the disease, diagnosis and prognosis, she told us. Although this is an early model for predicting cognitive decline in Alzheimers, Kaiser welcomed the research as a step forward in giving Alzheimers patients and their carers more information about what to expect following diagnosis: This research lays the foundation for the types of prognostic tools that can not only give us a sense of what might be expected along the road ahead, but also, how we might alter that course by addressing a variety of modifiable risk factors to change the disease trajectory and improve our chances of maintaining higher levels of cognitive health and function over a longer horizon. View the original article on Medical News Today The exterior of a recently completed grocery distribution center in Lancaster, Texas. Walmart Walmart is America's grocery king, selling more food than the next two largest companies combined. The retailer is leaning heavily into AI to get perishable foods to store shelves even faster. Take a look inside one of Walmart's state-of-the-art distribution centers for perishable goods. Walmart is the biggest grocery store in the US, with more shoppers getting their groceries there than from any other retailer. To keep the shelves of its 4,600 US stores well-stocked, the retailer relies on a vast network of 42 regional distribution centers that receive and sort pallets of merchandise. On Wednesday, Walmart pulled back the curtain on one of its state-of-the-art AI-powered refrigerated warehouses designed to handle perishable goods like meat, dairy, and produce. The company says it has completed two all-new builds, with three more on the way, while five existing perishable distribution centers are being upgraded with the tech. Take a look to see how it works: Trucks arrive with pallets that have of one type of merchandise Walmart Arriving goods are inspected by human workers. Forklift operators put arriving pallets into a machine that separates the boxes Walmart Walmart says automation is allowing workers to transition into higher-skilled roles. The machine raises the pallet and scans the contents... Walmart "We know what we own, in what quantity and where it is, all in near real time," Dave Guggina, executive vice president of Walmart's supply chain, told CNBC. "And we know that at a level of proficiency that is significantly improved than what we've been able to achieve with manual processes or legacy software." ... and send cases down a conveyer belt to be stored Walmart The automation and tracking allow Walmart to better anticipate customer demand and keep the right amount of inventory on hand, the company says. What makes this facility special is that everything must be refrigerated like this cream cheese Walmart Walmart previously revealed its automation technology at what are called "ambient" distribution centers. The shelves reach as high as 80 feet and are accessed entirely by robots Walmart Walmart says the additional vertical space is allowing the company to expand its fulfillment services for third-party sellers not unlike Amazon. Warehouse employees keep an eye on the flow of merchandise Walmart This automated warehouse still requires about 500 workers, with starting pay at $20 to $34 per hour. As stores report inventory requirements, an AI algorithm determines the most effective way to pack the mix of products they need onto a new pallet Walmart The system also puts more fragile items, like eggs and fruit, toward the top of the stack. Walmart says the model tries to ensure that pallets are loaded in a way that simplifies the restocking process for store employees Walmart The system knows exactly which aisle in a particular store that a group of cases is headed to. Robots then pull the items from throughout the warehouse Walmart "You take a distribution center today, one of our associates is walking up to 10 miles a day, lifting thousands of pounds, moving pallets and things like that," Walmart CFO John David Rainey said of the traditional, non-automated system. Selected merchandise flows to a loading area... Walmart New construction is slated for Wellford, South Carolina; Belvidere, Illinois; and Pilesgrove, New Jersey. ... and is loaded onto a pallet according to the plan, before it is wrapped for shipping Walmart Guggina told CNBC some pallets can be stacked exclusively with items for fulfilling e-commerce orders, rather than being put on shelves. It's a complex system that still requires human oversight Walmart Of Walmart's 42 distribution centers, CFO John David Rainey said the company has 15 with "some level of automation." Finished pallets are then loaded onto a truck and sent to a store Walmart The 15 automated distribution centers serve about 1,700 stores. At the store, workers unload the trucks and restock the shelves Walmart If everything goes according to plan, restocking the shelves moves more quickly. Walmart says its automated warehouses can process twice as much merchandise as traditional ones Walmart "When we automate one of these DCs, we see roughly twice the throughput with half the head count," CFO John David Rainey said. "And so the math on this is very, very compelling." Read the original article on Business Insider We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we believe in. Pricing and availability are subject to change. The tiny house trend: Should you downsize to a tiny home or ADU in retirement? If you are heading toward retirement or already enjoying the retired life you may be thinking about downsizing your home. But besides the emotional component of cutting back on your belongings and living space, the real estate market and elevated home prices may be intimidating. Its true that interest rates remain high for mortgages at the same time that the inventory of affordable homes around the country is low, and yet in parts of the country where you might want to retire, investors are turning small family homes into rentals. Because of this and other real estate market challenges, in an everything old is new again trend, the tiny house movement which rose in popularity in the late 1990s and aughts is becoming one way to combat housing market challenges. If you are curious about tiny houses, youre not alone. A recent study found that 73% of Americans say theyd consider living in a tiny home. And its not a trend thats just for millennials: Nearly 40% of tiny home owners are ages 50 and older, says simple-living blog The Tiny Life. Even if you arent ready to commit to a smaller footprint, the right tiny home could still be a smart investment for your future self or your retirement budget. Heres what you need to know about tiny homes and the more permanent accessory dwelling unit and how to finance one. What is the tiny house movement? The tiny house movement in mainstream America in part comes out of a backlash against the rise of McMansion-type housing and the need for economic freedom after the 2008 housing crisis and the recession that followed. For some tiny house enthusiasts, the draw is economical and environmental, backed by a desire to live with less consumption. Theres no universal size that defines a tiny house. Some folks consider anything from 150 to 400 square feet a tiny home, while others call their 800- or 1,000-square-foot home my tiny house. One thing fans may agree on is that tiny houses are much smaller than the median size of a new single-family home sold in 2023 2,286 square feet, according to the U.S. Census. While tiny homes take many forms, from prefab construction to RV life, accessory dwelling units usually small second homes built on land with a primary residence are also popular. Three of the most popular states for downsizing into tiny homes include Vermont, Wyoming and Alaska, but tiny home communities for adults ages 50+ are growing nationwide and can be found in Colorado, Florida and Texas. Accessory dwelling units and how they differ from tiny homes Rising alongside tiny homes in popularity are accessory dwelling units commonly called ADUs. ADUs are secondary, usually smaller residences on a piece of property with a primary home. They typically need separate entrances and amenities from the primary home to qualify as an ADU. These permanent structures are fixed, not mobile, but in some cases they can resemble (or even be) tiny homes, which means they offer some of the same affordability factors as tiny houses. In a recent AARP survey, 60% of adults ages 50 and older said theyd consider living in an accessory dwelling unit, and 62% said they would consider building an ADU on their property for a loved one who needed care or a family member or friend who needed a home. These tiny homes are often affordable for downsizers who want to age in place, be near family and spend less on housing. The benefits for seniors moving to an ADU are overwhelming, to be honest, says real estate agent Erin Hybart, an affordable housing advocate and self-professed ADU and tiny house enthusiast. I love ADUs because they offer seniors a brilliant blend of affordability and independence. ADUs are typically more cost effective than traditional homes so that they can reduce housing expenses and maintenance costs, Hybart says, adding that as the cost of elder care and nursing homes are rising, life in an ADU near family can help save money. Hybarts parents are embracing smaller living by moving into an 800-square-foot home (less than half the size of the family home) on her sisters property. The reasons include saving money and being near family as they grow older. Selling their big house and moving into a smaller place will free up some of their income, shares Hybart, who has a YouTube channel focused on tiny homes and ADUs. [My parents] have lived all their lives waiting on the next paycheck and juggling credit cards to make ends meet. Having some of that stress finally off their plate gives them a sense of relief. She says proximity to family was a factor too, which would become especially important if one parent were to die before the other. Dig deeper: I'm a financial expert: What to consider when downsizing for retirement (and why it might not make sense) LOUISE BEAUMONT via Getty Images Why a tiny house might be good for retirees Among the top reasons a tiny house can be a solid option for retirement is the low cost of construction and maintenance, among other benefits to consider. You can design a tiny home to age in place Tiny homes and ADUs can be constructed or renovated with designs that allow for aging in place. Grab bars, lower cabinets, accessible storage and one-level living can make a tiny home easier to manage over time. Adding wider doorways for wheelchairs or creating small outdoor greenspaces rather than a large lawn that requires maintenance are all ways to help people age in place. By building a tiny home or ADU, you can create a beautiful living space without the challenges and expenses of owning a primary residence or moving to a senior care facility, shares Zander Diamont, cofounder of Minimal Living Concepts, an Arizona builder specializing in ADUs. They are typically one level, eliminating the need to navigate stairs. When built right, they are extremely functional, providing all the necessary space for a comfortable life without the extra maintenance of a larger property a true lock-and-leave lifestyle. You can save (and possibly make) money A tiny house could run anywhere from $30,000 to $70,000 or more, according to data from Home Guides, depending on the type of home, amenities and square footage. Considering the high costs of housing, a tiny home community or ADU on family property can be more affordable than retirement homes and independent living communities, which are out of reach for many older adults. And you can typically slash your utility bills with less space for cooling and heating. For seniors, purchasing a tiny home or ADU offers several financial benefits. First, these units often cost less than traditional homes, leading to lower upfront expenses and potential savings on utilities due to their smaller size, says Sean Caldwell, founder of Forever American Mortgage. In addition, if you build an ADU on your primary property, it will likely improve your home and property value when it is time for you or your heirs to sell it maybe even up to 30%. Trading down to a smaller home that costs less could also mean more money in your pocket after you sell it, if youve accrued significant equity over the years. The more equity in a home, the more cash you recoup at the time of the sale. You can use that cash, in turn, to buy a tiny house and pocket whatever you have left. A tiny house or ADU can also become a moneymaker in retirement because some retirees, says Hybart, opt to rent out their larger primary homes while relocating to a smaller one to supplement their retirement income. You can stay close to family members In addition to the financial benefits, there are other other reasons to downsize to a smaller home. Living in a tiny home or ADU on family property can help older adults retain autonomy while still having access to the warmth and care of family. This can be particularly helpful as you age in place or eventually need more care or supervision. Hybart says there is a trend of older parents building and moving into an ADU or tiny home on their property while their adult children take over the main house. This arrangement keeps loved ones close, allowing grandparents to be more involved in their grandchildren's lives and fostering family support. This proximity offers emotional security and practical assistance without sacrificing privacy, says Hybart. Diamont agrees, saying the majority of his clients building ADUs are doing so for aging parents: The cost is a fraction of many senior living alternatives. Seniors appreciate being on the same property as their children and grandchildren but with their own private space and no shared walls. Why a tiny house isnt for everybody Like any type of housing, tiny living isnt for everyone. Depending on your budget, needs and lifestyle, upfront and relocating costs could outweigh the savings. Youll need to find alternative financing While some tiny homes are affordable, the more amenities and special construction you want, the higher the price tag. And you cant pay for a tiny home with a traditional mortgage, nor do tiny homes appreciate over time like a traditional home. You can finance a small ADU with more traditional financing, but you may have to negotiate with family members on its purchase because the mortgage on an ADU usually must be in the name of the person who owns the primary home. Youll need to find a spot for your tiny home If you dont already own property, you might need to budget for buying or renting a spot on which you plan to set up your tiny house. Due to zoning regulations and the need for utility hookups, you may be limited as to where you can live. If you want a tiny home on wheels and you dont own property, youll need to make sure your car or truck can move it safely to a property you can rent or find places to set up camp. Your needs may not be compatible with tiny living When considering a tiny home, think about your mobility within it. What works for you at age 60 say, a ladder and a sleeping loft, which are common in traditional tiny homes may not work as well at 75. If your tiny home is on wheels and driving becomes difficult, you may not be able to easily move to other locations when you need to. Also, if you plan on having guests, like grandchildren and other family members, you may not have the space to host them. Last, tiny living can mean serious downsizing of cherished items; if you arent ready to get rid of your belongings, you may have to pay for a storage unit. onurdongel via Getty Images Questions to ask yourself if youre building a tiny home When you downsize from your family home or look to age in place with a tiny home, you may find yourself moving away from your community, including familiar healthcare facilities, social groups and recreational environments. If youre building a tiny home in a new state or an ADU on a family property, you should plan as you would with any move. Ask yourself the following questions to ensure your decision matches your long-term plans. Will I have access to medical care? Make sure your new home is near the medical services you currently need or will need as you age. Learn where the local hospitals and medical centers are located and know how to get to them. Will I live close to family or friends? If you choose to live in a small ADU, you could be sharing a property with a family member. Discussing ahead of time with your loved ones how much or how little time you plan to spend together can help manage expectations. Will I be able to age in place? A tiny home built for aging in place may look different from a tiny home built for a younger person. Space-saving designs and features like Murphy beds and easy-to-reach storage should be simple to operate and safe to use. Youll want to be able to move around your tiny home, which may mean adding a little more floor space or square footage. Should you retire and downsize to a tiny home or ADU? If youre interested in downsizing, going tiny can make financial sense. Downsizing to an ADU or tiny house can significantly reduce living expenses, says Kenneth Yim, managing partner at prefab real estate company Owncondo. These smaller homes typically cost less to build, maintain and heat/cool than traditional houses, which can free up money for other retirement living and potential healthcare needs. Yim believes that ADUs and tiny homes are affordable options for aging in place. While a tiny home or ADU is a significant investment, it's often less than the cost of assisted living facilities or nursing homes in the long run, he says. Many cities are changing zoning laws to make it easier to build ADUs, recognizing their potential to address housing shortages and support aging in place. Always check local regulations before proceeding with such a project. How to finance a tiny house Unfortunately, financing a tiny house isnt as easy as applying for a mortgage, but you have several options when paying for the construction of your tiny home. Personal loan. You will need very good to excellent credit to finance your tiny home. Some digital lenders offer personal loans specifically designed to purchase a tiny home. For example, LightStream advertises a tiny home loan for up to $100,000 with a seven-year repayment plan. RV loan. If your tiny home can be certified by the RV Industry Association, a bank, credit union or online lender might be willing to offer financing through an RV loan. HELOC or home equity loan . If youve built up enough equity in your primary home, you can tap into your equity to build a tiny house. You can also use equity to pay for an ADU. Builder financing. If your home is designed and constructed by a tiny home builder, ask about financing available through their company or recommended lenders. For example, Mustard Seed Tiny Homes offers financing for its prefab homes. Grants and tax subsidies. Depending on where you live, you may be eligible for financial assistance if you meet eligibility requirements. For instance, Californias CalHFA provides funding to low-income homeowners interested in building an ADU. Call your states housing agency to learn about available programs. Financing an accessory dwelling unit When it comes to an ADU, even one that resembles a tiny home, Caldwell says that most are financed with a second mortgage, like a home equity loan or HELOC. This setup gives property owners the flexibility to use the ADU in different ways, like renting it out for extra income, housing family members or hosting guests. Dig deeper: Personal loan vs. home equity loan: Which is the best fit for your financing? How to find a tiny home There are three main ways to buy or build a tiny home: Buy plans online or from a tiny home architect and hire a contractor to build it. Purchase one built specific to your needs or buy a DIY kit for delivery from a site like Amazon. Create, convert or add to an existing structure like a garage, carriage house or other building on your property into a liveable tiny home. Because they arent fixed to a property, platforms are popping up designed to connect aspiring tiny home dwellers to used structures to buy or rent such as Tiny House Listings and Tiny Home Marketplace, offering a wide array of information about tiny home communities. Is it cheaper to build a tiny home or buy one premade? It can be cheaper to build a tiny home from scratch or from plans than to buy a prebuilt home, but youll want to make sure you have the skills or a trusted team to rely on. The cost of a tiny house depends on its design, size and construction anywhere from $30,000 to $70,000 on average, according to HomeGuide, with customizations bound to increase total costs. Its possible to buy a premade tiny home for under $10,000 from a retailer like Amazon or Costco, though its likely to also need customization including utilities and hookups for everyday living. The cost of an accessory dwelling unit can range from $150 to $300 per square foot and all the way up to $600 per square foot, says Yim. The average-sized ADU is between 600 and 1,200 square feet, but your building's size may vary depending on personal preferences. Sources About the writer Maya Dollarhide is a journalist who has spent the last decade covering personal finance, from household budgets to homebuying. She's a regular contributor to Time Stamped, Investopedia and Bankrate. Her expertise has also been featured on CNN, New York Daily News, Yahoo Finance, MarketWatch, Lending Tree and Student Loan Hero. By Moira Warburton WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives have asked all federal agencies to begin reviews of regulations that could be affected by a recent Supreme Court ruling overturning a legal precedent known as "Chevron deference," in letters released on Wednesday. Three House committees - Agriculture, Oversight, and Education and Workforce - targeted agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency, the Securities and Exchange Commission and Department of Labor in what the chamber's No. 2 Republican, Steve Scalise, called a "fight to free the American people from the power-hungry administrative state." The letters follow a Supreme Court ruling in June that struck down the so-called Chevron deference. The latter refers to a 1984 precedent involving oil company Chevron that gave government experts the final say in how laws passed by Congress should be interpreted. Conservatives have insisted for decades that the ruling gave too much power to government bureaucrats over elected lawmakers. The letters from the three committees' chairs requested lists of existing regulations that were challenged in court and upheld based on the Chevron deference, as well as pending rules that could have been defended using the Chevron deference. The chairs also asked for a list of rules that could have an annual effect on the economy of $100 million or more, a "major increase in costs or prices for consumers," or "significant adverse effects" on competition and employment, among other factors. The requests could provide a road map for conservative activists to sue agencies over specific regulations. Michael Regan, the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, told the House Oversight Committee on Wednesday that the court's decision "hits the EPA extremely hard." (Reporting by Moira Warburton in Washington; Editing by Scott Malone and Matthew Lewis) We're right in the middle of mosquito season, when humid conditions increase the risk of mosquito-borne diseases being spread to humans through the bugs' itchy bites. This week in Maine, officials warned residents in the town of Orono that mosquitoes in the area are carrying the Jamestown Canyon virus, which was transmitted from a mosquito to a human for the first time in Maine in 2017, according to the state's Department of Health and Human Services. This is the earliest in the year tests for the virus in mosquitoes have ever come back positive, the Maine Center for Disease Control told USA TODAY. "This is perking our ears up and making us definitely look forward to perhaps a more active mosquito season this year," said Megan Porter, a public health educator with the Maine CDC. The virus, which scientists consider an emerging public health threat to humans, is very rarely transmitted to people, but when it is, it can lead to severe neurological diseases like meningitis and even cause death, according to Maine health officials. "Severe symptoms can progress very rapidly, and people can get very sick," Porter said. West Nile virus and dengue virus are far more widespread, and the mosquitoes that carry them are more likely to transmit them to humans, experts say. Doctors and scientists are also keeping an eye out this summer for St. Louis encephalitis, a mosquito-borne disease that can cause brain inflammation in severe cases. More people will come down with these illnesses as we see more hot and humid days the rest of this summer across much of the country, said Shannan Rossi, a biology and immunology professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. As the summer continues, youre going to see more and more of these local cases, and thats expected. We see this every single year," Rossi said. Here's what to know about the mosquito outlook for the next couple of months, according to experts. Macro Photo of Yellow Fever, Malaria or Zika Virus Infected Mosquito Insect Bite on Green Background Jamestown Canyon virus in Maine mosquitoes Health officials in Maine said mosquito tests recently taken near the town of Orono in Penobscot County were the state's first positive test results of the year for the virus. There have been no cases of the virus in humans this year, Porter said, and the last human case was in 2021. The virus is occurs naturally in mosquitoes in the northern U.S. states and Canada's southern provinces, Rossi said. In Maine, mosquitoes referred to as "snowmelt mosquitoes" named for the first to gather around melted snow each spring contribute the most to the virus, Porter said. Overall, several species of mosquitoes carry the virus, but the number of humans infected from their bites is "incredibly low," Rossi said. In New York State, researchers found infection rates of Jamestown Canyon virus in mosquitoes were "significantly greater" in 2012 to 2022 compared with 2001 to 2011. Cases of the virus in humans "is not something we hear about a lot," Rossi said. "Jamestown Canyon virus is nebulous in that we continually see it being picked up in mosquito testing if you're looking for it." People infected with the virus may not show symptoms. Those who do may experience vomiting, neck stiffness, loss of coordination and, in severe cases, brain swelling and meningitis, according to Maine Department of Health and Human Services. In 2018, a 56-year-old man experiencing chronic encephalitis caused by the virus died, according to the Maine CDC. Testing after the man's death "revealed extensive neuropathologic abnormalities" in his spinal cord fluid, Harvard University researchers said in a report published in 2021. In 2023, there were no cases of transmission of Jamestown Canyon virus from mosquitoes to humans after three batches of mosquito testing in the state came back positive for the virus, the Maine health and human services department said in a news release. "Even though you can continue to see it in mosquitoes, that doesn't necessarily mean it poses a huge risk to people," Rossi said. "But it's still alarming, because you see something that's transmissible by mosquitoes and it could be in your backyard." Nationally, there are also no reported cases of St. Louis encephalitis in humans this year, according to the CDC. West Nile Virus is widespread, Dengue could spread more After first spreading to the U.S. in 1999, West Nile Virus is now found in mosquitoes in all 48 contiguous states, according to Rossi. So far in 2024, there have been 15 cases of mosquitoes transmitting the virus to humans across 11 states, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The 15 cases are evenly spread across Texas, Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, North Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Arizona, Michigan and Maryland, the CDC says. Because this summer is forecast to be hotter and more humid than average, Rossi said, that could lead to more cases of West Nile virus. "What Im concerned about is that were having hotter and longer summers than we have traditionally, and what that means is the mosquito season also lasts longer than it did," said Rossi, 43. Cases of dengue fever have spiked to 1,700 in Puerto Rico this year, triggering officials on the island to declare a health emergency. The rise comes as the CDC warned countries in the Americas saw twice as many cases during the first half of 2024 compared with all cases from last year: 9.7 million cases versus 4.6 million. South Florida has historically been a hot spot for dengue fever in the United States, with nine cases locally acquired in 2024, according to the CDC's tracker. No other cases of locally acquired dengue fever have been reported in the U.S. outside Florida, while the U.S. Virgin Islands have reported 15 cases, the CDC says. Cases of dengue fever in other U.S. states were caught abroad, according to the CDC, including a spate of dozens of reported cases in New York, Massachusetts, California and Illinois. However, Rossi said, doctors are keeping an eye out for locally acquired cases of the dengue virus spreading farther north of Florida. As the conditions get warmer and hotter, it makes it easier for the mosquitoes to move into areas where they havent been before, and now we have to worry about places becoming potentially transmissible for dengue," she said, referring to Georgia and the Carolinas, where 40 travel-related cases of confirmed dengue fever have already been reported, according to the CDC. How can I prevent West Nile, dengue, Jamestown Canyon virus? The mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus bite around dawn and dusk, Rossi said, so staying indoors during those times is key to avoiding transmission. Mosquitoes that carry dengue are more likely to gather near standing water closer to people's homes, like in a wet backyard, Rossi said. Keeping windows closed if possible is a good protective measure to avoid contact with mosquitoes, she said. Other than that, insect repellant and proper clothing can go a long way toward saving you from bites, including possibly virus-transmitting ones, including the Jamestown Canyon virus. Its hard to say this in 95-degree weather," Rossi said, "but wear longer sleeves." This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is Jamestown Canyon virus? Mosquito-borne disease in Maine 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. Microsofts generative AI assistant is integrated within a host of the companys workplace apps. Heres what enterprises need to know about the renamed Copilot for Microsoft 365. Initially called Microsoft 365 Copilot when it launched in November 2023, the renamed Copilot for Microsoft 365 brings a range of generative AI (genAI) features to office productivity apps such as Word, Outlook, Teams and Excel. In a blog post announcing the tool, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella described it as the next major step in the evolution of how we interact with computing. With our new copilot for work, were giving people more agency and making technology more accessible through the most universal interface natural language. At launch, Microsoft explained that the Copilot system consists of three elements: Microsoft 365 apps such as Word, Excel, and Teams, where users interact with the AI assistant; Microsoft Graph, which includes files, documents, and data across the Microsoft 365 environment; and the OpenAI models that process user prompts, such as the ChatGPT-4 large language model and DALL-E 3 model for image generation. With the tool, Microsoft aims to create a more usable, functional assistant for work, J.P. Gownder, vice president and principal analyst at Forresters Future of Work team, told Computerworld in fall 2023. The concept is that youre the pilot, but the Copilot is there to take on tasks that can make life a lot easier. The Copilot for M365 is part of a larger movement of generative AI that will clearly change the way that we do computing, he said, noting how the technology has already been applied to a variety of job functions from writing content to creating code since ChatGPT-3.5 launched in late 2022. A Forrester report last year predicted that 6.9 million US knowledge workers around 8% of the total would be using Copilot for M365 by the end of 2024. Nadella talked up the effectiveness of the M365 Copilot during a 2023 earnings call, claiming customers had seen productivity gains in line with that of the GitHub Copilot, the AI assistant aimed at developers that launched two years ago. (For reference, GitHub has previously claimed developers were able to complete a single task 55% quicker thanks to the GitHub Copilot, while acknowledging the challenges in measuring productivity.) Even priced at US$30 per user per month, theres potential to deliver considerable value to businesses, assuming the Copilot delivers on its promise over time. Said Gownder: The key issue is, Does it actually save that time? because its hard to measure and we dont really know for sure. But even conservative time savings estimates are pretty generous. The Copilot for M365 is billed as providing employees with access to genAI without the security concerns of consumer genAI tools; Microsoft says its models arent trained on customer data, for instance. But deploying the tool represents significant challenges, said Avivah Litan, distinguished vice president analyst at Gartner. There are two primary business risks, she said: the potential for the Copilot to hallucinate and provide inaccurate information to users, and the ability for the Copilots language models to access huge swathes of corporate data thats not locked down properly. Information oversharing is one of the biggest issues people are going to face in the next few months, or six months to a year, said Litan. Thats where the rubber is going to hit the road on the risk its not so much giving the data to Microsoft or OpenAI or Google, its all the exposure internally. Copilot for Microsoft 365 features: How do you use it? Copilot interactions within apps can take a variety of forms, depending on the application. In many cases, users will interact with it via the chat interface available in a sidebar; Copilot functionality is also built more directly into some apps, such as a pop-up in a Word document or Outlook email, for instance. Heres how the Copilot works in some M365 apps. In a Word doc, it can suggest improvements to existing text or let users create a first draft from scratch. To generate a draft, a user can ask Copilot in natural language to create text based on a prompt, and can upload additional files and sources of information to guide the AI assistant. Once created, the user can edit th document, adjust the style, or ask the Copilot to redo the whole thing. A Copilot sidebar provides space for more interactions with the bot, which also suggests prompts to improve the draft, such as adding images or an FAQ section, or summarize the text. During a Teams video call, the Copilot provides a recap of whats been discussed so far, with a brief overview of conversation points in real time. Its also possible to ask the AI assistant for feedback on peoples views during a call, or what questions remain unresolved. Those unable to attend a particular meeting can send the AI assistant in their place to provide a summary of what they missed and action items they need to follow up on. In PowerPoint, Copilot can automatically turn a Word document into draft slides that can then be adapted via natural language in the Copilot sidebar. It can also generate suggested speaker notes to go with the slides and add more images. These are just some examples. Other apps that feature Copilot integration include Excel, Outlook, OneNote, Loop, and Whiteboard. The other way to interact with Copilot is via a separate chat interface thats accessible via Teams. Here, the Copilot works as a search tool that surfaces information from a range of sources, including documents, calendars, emails, and chats. For instance, an employee could ask for an update on a project, and get a summary of relevant team communications and documents already created, with links to sources. Microsoft will extend Copilots reach into other apps workers use via plugins essentially third-party app integrations. These will allow the assistant to tap into data held in apps from other software vendors including Atlassian, ServiceNow, and Mural. Fifty such plugins are available, with thousands more expected eventually, Microsoft said. How much does Copilot cost is it worth US$30 per user, per month? The main Microsoft 365 Copilot is available for enterprise customers on E3, E5, F1 and F3 plans, as well as Office E1, E3, E5, and Apps for Enterprise. Its also available for smaller business customers on the following plans: Businesses Basic, Business Standard, Business Premium, and Apps for Business. In each case, the Copilot for Microsoft 365 costs an additional US$$30 per user each month. Its a significant extra expense given that M365 subscriptions start at US$$6 per user each month for Busines Basic and go up to $55 per user each month for E5. Part of this due to the cost of the high computing costs of the Copilot incurred by Microsoft, said Raul Castanon, senior research analyst at 451 Research, a part of S&P Global Market Intelligence. Microsoft is likely looking to avoid the challenges faced with GitHub Copilot, which was made generally available in mid-2022 for $10/month and, despite surpassing more than 1.5 million users, reportedly remains unprofitable, said Castanon. In addition to the core Copilot for M365, job role-specific Copilots are available as paid add-ons. Sales and service Copilots each cost an additional US$$20 per user each month, while a finance Copilot is currently in preview. The pricing strategy reflects Microsofts confidence in the impact that genAI will have on workforce productivity. Per Forresters calculations in the Build Your Business Case For Microsoft 365 Copilot report, an employee earning $120,000 annually roughly US$$57 per hour might save four hours a month on various productivity tasks; those four hours would be worth around $230 a month. In that scenario, it would make sense to invest in Copilot for an employee earning even half that amount, and thats leaving aside less tangible benefits around employee experience when automating mundane tasks. There are, as the Forrester points out, other costs to consider beyond licensing employee training, for instance, as employees learn the new technology. Gartner also predicts that enterprise security spending will increase in the region of 10% to 15% in the next couple of years as a result of efforts to secure genAI tools (not just M365 Copilot). Businesses are likely to take a cautious approach to deploying the Microsoft tool, at least at first. Microsoft expects revenue related to M365 Copilot to grow gradually over time, Microsoft CFO Amy Hood said during the companys Q1 2024 earnings call. On the same call, Nadella noted that Copilot will be subject to the usual enterprise cycle times in terms of adoption and ramp. Even if the pace of adoption is gradual, there appears to be plenty of interest in deploying it. Forrester expects around a third of M365 customers in the US to invest in Copilot in the first year. Companies that do so will provide licenses to around 40% of employees during this period, the firm estimated. (Note: while not actually branded as Copilot, Microsoft also makes some genAI features available in Teams Premium. This includes AI-generated notes, AI-generated tasks and live translations in video calls, all of which are powered by ChatGPT AI models. For businesses that are mostly interested in AI assistant features for meetings, this offers a cheaper option than a full Copilot for M365 subscription.) What are Microsofts other Copilots? Microsofts Copilot is embedded in a wide array of products. Beyond the M365 suite, there are Copilots for Dynamics, Power BI, GitHub, and Microsofts security suite. And then there are Copilots aimed primarily at consumer, rather than business, users. Microsoft launched Copilot Pro in January 2024, a US$$20 a month subscription that provides individuals with similar functionality to the Copilot for M365. Copilot Pro customers gain access to Copilot chatbot and genAI image creation, as well as AI assistant features in free web versions of apps such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook (though not Teams). Those with Microsoft 365 Personal and family subscriptions can also access the Copilot in desktop apps. Theres also a free version of the Copilot with access to chatbot functionality only. The Copilot chat interface is accessible in several ways by both paid and free users. Theres a dedicated web page, a mobile app, and a chatbot built into the Windows operating system, Edge browser, and Bing search engine. How are early customers using Copilot? There are two basic ways users will interact with Copilot. It can be accessed directly within a particular app to create PowerPoint slides, for example, or an email draft or via a natural language chatbot accessible in Teams, known as Microsoft 365 Chat. Interactions within apps can take a variety of forms, depending on the application. When Copilot is invoked in a Word document, for example, it can suggest improvements to existing text, or even create a first draft. To generate a draft, a user can ask Copilot in natural language to create text based on a particular source of information or from a combination of sources. One example: creating a draft proposal based on meeting notes from OneNote and a product road map from another Word doc. Once a draft is created, the user can edit it, adjust the style, or ask the AI tool to redo the whole document. A Copilot sidebar provides space for more interactions with the bot, which also suggests prompts to improve the draft, such as adding images or an FAQ section. During a Teams video call, a participant can request a recap of whats been discussed so far, with Copilot providing a brief overview of conversation points in real time via the Copilot sidebar. Its also possible to ask the AI assistant for feedback on peoples views during the call, or what questions remain unresolved. Those unable to attend a particular meeting can send the AI assistant in their place to provide a summary of what they missed and action items they need to follow up on. In PowerPoint, Copilot can automatically turn a Word document into draft slides that can then be adapted via natural language in the Copilot sidebar. Copilot can also generate suggested speaker notes to go with the slides and add more images. The other way to interact with Copilot is via Microsoft 365 Chat, which is accessible as a chatbot with Teams. Here, Microsoft 365 Chat works as a search tool that surfaces information from a range of sources, including documents, calendars, emails, and chats. For instance, an employee could ask for an update on a project, and get a summary of relevant team communications and documents already created, with links to sources. Microsoft will extend Copilots reach into other apps workers use via plugins essentially third-party app integrations. These will allow the assistant to tap into data held in apps from other software vendors including Atlassian, ServiceNow, and Mural. Fifty such plugins are available, with thousands more expected eventually, Microsoft said. How are early customers using Copilot? Prior to launch, many businesses accessed the Copilot for M365 as part of a paid early access program (EAP); it began with a small number of participants before growing to several hundred customers, including Chevron, Goodyear, and General Motors. One of those involved in the EAP was marketing firm Dentsu, which began deploying 300 licenses to tech staff and then employees across its business lines globally. The most popular use case so far is summarization of information generated in M365 apps a Teams call being one example. Summarization is definitely the most common use case we see right out of the box, because its an easy prompt: you dont really have to do any prompt engineering, its suggested by Copilot, Kate Slade, director of emerging technology enablement at Dentsu, said. Staffers would also access M365 Chat functions to prepare for meetings, for instance, with the ability to quickly pull information from different sources. This could mean finding information from a project several years ago without having to hunt through a folder maze, said Slade. The feedback from workers at Dentsu has been overwhelmingly positive, said Slade, with a waiting list now in place for those who want to use the AI tool. Its reducing the time that they spend on [tasks] and giving them back time to be more creative, more strategic, or just be a human and connect peer to peer in Teams meetings, she said. Thats been one of the biggest impacts that weve seen, just helping make time for the higher-level cognitive tasks that people have to do. Use cases have varied between different roles. Denstus graphic designers would get less value from using Copilot in PowerPoint, for example: Theyre going to create really visually stunning pieces themselves and not really be satisfied with that out-of-the-box capability, said Slade. But those same creatives might get a lot of benefits from Copilot in Excel and being able to use natural language to say, Hey, I need to do some analysis on this table, or What are key trends from this data? or I want to add a column that does this or that. Most vendors in the productivity and collaboration software market have added genAI to their offerings at this point. Google, Microsofts main competitor in the productivity software arena, launched DuetAI for Workspace in 2023, and rebranded to Gemini Enterprise ($30 per user each month) and Gemini Business (US$20 user each month). Googles AI assistant can summarize Gmail conversations, draft texts, and generate images in Workspace apps such as Docs, Sheets,and Slides. Slack, the collaboration software firm owned by Salesforce and a rival to Microsoft Teams, launched its Slack AI feature in February. Other firms that compete with elements of the Microsoft 365 portfolio, such as Zoom, Box, Coda, and Cisco, have also touted genAI plans. Meanwhile, Apple announced that it will build generative AI features into its range of productivity tools. Then there are the AI specific tools, such as OpenAIs ChatGPT, as well as Claude, Perplexity AI, Jasper AI and others, that provide also provide text generation and document summarization features. Copilot has some advantages over rivals. One is Microsofts dominant position in the productivity and collaboration software market, said Castanon. The key advantage the Microsoft 365 Copilot will have is that like other previous initiatives such as Teams it has a ready-made opportunity with Microsofts collaboration and productivity portfolio and its extensive global footprint, he said. Microsofts close partnership with OpenAI (Microsoft has invested billions of dollars in the company on several occasions since 2019 and has a large non-controlling share of the business), likely helped it build generative AI across its applications at faster rate than rivals. Its investment in OpenAI has already had an impact, allowing it to accelerate the use of generative AI/LLMs in its products, jumping ahead of Google Cloud and other competitors, said Castanon. What are the genAI risks for businesses? Hallucinations and data protection Along with the potential benefits of genAI tools like the Copilot for M365, businesses should consider risks. These include the hallucinations large language models (LLMs) are prone to, where incorrect information is provided to employees. Copilot is generative AI it definitely can hallucinate, said Slade, citing the example of one employee who asked the Copilot to provide a summary of pro bono work completed that month to add to their timecard and send to their manager. A detailed two-page summary document was created without issue; however, the address of all meetings was given as 123 Main Street, City, USA an error thats easily noticed, but an indication of the care required by users when relying on Copilot. The occurrence of hallucinations can be reduced by improving prompts, but Dentsu staff have been advised to treat outputs from the genAI assistant with caution. The more context you can give it generally, the closer youre going to get to a final output, said Slade. But its never going to replace the need for human review and fact check. As much as you can, level-set expectations and communicate to your first users that this is still an evolving technology. Its a first draft, its not a final draft its going to hallucinate and mess up sometimes. Tools that filter Copilot outputs are emerging that could help here, said Litan, but this is likely to remain a key challenge for businesses for the forseeable future. Another risk relates to one of the major strengths of the Copilot: its ability to sift through files and data across a companys M365 environment using natural language inputs. While Copilot is only able to access files according to permissions granted to individual employees, the reality is that businesses often fail to adequately label sensitive documents. This means individual employees might suddenly realize they are able to ask Copilot to provide details on payroll or customer information if it hasnt been locked down with the right permissions. A 2022 report by data security firm Varonis claimed that one in 10 files hosted in SaaS environments is accessible by all staff; an earlier 2019 report put that figure including cloud and on-prem files and folders at 22%. In many cases, this can mean organization-wide permissions are granted to thousands of sensitive files, Varonis said. In many cases, the most important data, around payroll, for instance, will have strict permissions in place. A greater challenge lies in securing unstructured data, with sensitive information finding its way into a wide range of documents created by individual employees a store manager planning payroll in an Excel spreadsheet before updating a central system, for example. This is similar to a situation that the CTO of an unnamed US restaurant chain encountered during the EAP, said Litan. Theres a lot of personal data thats kept on spreadsheets belonging to individual managers, said Litan. Theres also a lot of intellectual property thats kept on Word documents in SharePoint or Teams or OneDrive. You dont realize how much you have access to in the average company, said Matt Radolec, vice president for incident response and cloud operations at Varonis. An assumption you could have is that people generally lock this stuff down: they do not. Things are generally open. Another consideration is that employees often end up storing files relating to their personal lives on work laptops. Employees use their desktops for personal work, too most of them dont have separate laptops, said Litan. So youre going to have to give employees time to get rid of all their personal data. And sometimes you cant, they cant just take it off the system that easily because theyre locked down you cant put USB drives in [to corporate devices, in some cases]. So its just a lot of processes companies have to go through. Im on calls with clients every day on the risk. This one really hits them. Getting data governance in order is a process that could take businesses more than a year to get sorted, said Litan. There are no shortcuts. Youve got to go through the entire organization and set up the permissions properly, she said. In Radolecs view, very few M365 customers have yet adequately addressed the risks around data access within their organization. I think a lot of them are just planning to do the blocking and tackling after they get started, he said. Well see to what degree of effectiveness that is [after launch]. Were right around the corner from seeing how well people will fare with it. The Copilot for M365 pros and cons Pros: Boost to productivity. GenAI features can save time for users by automating certain tasks. Breadth of features. Copilot for M365 is built into the productivity apps that many workers use on a daily basis, including Word, Excel, Outlook and Teams. Responses generated by the Copilot for M365 are anchored in the emails, files, calendars, meetings, contacts, and other information contained in Microsoft 365. This means the Copilot for M365 can arguably offer greater insights into work data than any other generative AI tool. Enterprise-grade privacy and security controls. Unlike consumer AI assistants, Microsoft promises that customer data wont be used to train Copilot models. It also offers tools to help manage access to data in M365 apps. Cons: Price. GenAI isnt cheap and M365 customers are required to pay a significant additional fee each month for access to Copilot features. An individual employee might not need access to Copilot in more than a couple ofM365 apps. Need for employee training. Getting the most out of genAI tools will require guidance around effective prompts, particularly for employees that are unfamiliar with the technology an additional cost businesses must factor in. Accuracy and hallucinations. LLMs are notoriously unreliable, confidently offering answers that are incorrect. This is a particular concern when it comes to business data, and users must be on the lookout for errors in Copilot outputs. Data protection risks. The ability for Copilot for M365 to access a wide range of corporate data means businesses must be careful to ensure that sensitive documents are not exposed. The Copilot functionality in Excel is limited at this stage. More on Copilot for Microsoft 365: The basis of forming an extensive AI-ready ecosystem is steady within Lenovos pocket-to-cloud strategy including devices, infrastructure, solutions and services. This covers our AI-powered notebook and desktop devices but also AI-powered services that can streamline and simplify processes for end-users, Lenovo Australia country general manager Silke Barlow said. This is an incredibly exciting time for our industry, with so much potential still to be unlocked through using the power of AI to drive intelligent transformation across different sectors. We believe this can only be achieved with the support of our partners and their vast expertise in simplifying delivery and adoption processes to customers. Our goal is to continue to empower them to do that. A prime example of these AI services is the Lenovo Sustainability AI Engine (L.I.S.S.A), which uses generative AI to help businesses track sustainability goals. Barlow said Lenovos portfolio of end-to-end services and solutions, along with a series of channel resources are available to partners as needed, whether they want to transact on devices, build solutions, or deliver managed services. We are strongly committed to staying ahead of the curve in powering our services and solutions offerings with AI-innovation, she said. This, combined with our unique pocket-to-cloud offerings, places us at the forefront of the market and positions us well to enable our partners to support end-users on their journeys as they adopt AI to grow, innovate and add real value to their organisations. By choosing Lenovo with Dicker Data, partners gain access to cutting-edge technology and ongoing support across sales, solutions, and stock, ensuring they are well-equipped with end-to-end solutions to help end-users achieve business outcomes. Barlow added Dicker Data was one of its most valuable distributors in Australia and a long-standing partner with TechX presenting an important opportunity for its team to engage and showcase its pocket-to-cloud capability. Its range of solutions are designed to help partners navigate market trends, expand revenue streams, and meet end customers needs. Our role as a Diamond sponsor underscores our commitment to strengthening Lenovos channel ecosystem locally and our channel-first approach, she said. Lenovos key focus in 2024 was to continue developing its pocket-to-cloud strategy with a solution and service-led approach that supports end-users in achieving business outcomes, regardless of where they are in the digital transformation journey, Barlow said. As a channel-centric organisation, this approach naturally considers our partners and the crucial role they play in our go to market strategy, she said. Weve made significant changes internally to build a unified mindset and a holistic approach to our portfolio, ensuring that this comes through when we go to market and speak to partners. We want to take them with us on this journey, enabling them to adopt the same end-to-end approach with their own clients. We understand that every partner has different capabilities and offerings, and our focus is augmenting and complementing these. Lenovos priorities in 2024 were split into two key pillars with its pocket-to-cloud approach and how we can work with our partners to take this solution-based mindset to market, she said. We are currently the only IT vendor that can offer this holistic approach to customers, from PCs and mobile devices to data centre capabilities, and we want to ensure our partners are well-prepared to leverage that, she said. The second key area is a service-led transformation, Barlow said and how it can collaborate with partners to support end-users in achieving business outcomes. This goes beyond hardware, encompassing offerings across SaaS, DaaS and IaaS. For the year ahead, Barlow said one of the main evolving trends becoming critical to the ecosystem was the next phase of AI evolution. Weve seen significant changes in chips this year, driven by providers like Intel, Qualcomm, and AMD, which are set to profoundly impact IT infrastructure productivity and machine computing capabilities, she said. This shift will democratise AI further, making it mainstream for consumers and businesses alike. From a business perspective, it will be critical to adapt AI strategies to capitalise on these advancements and integrate AI more deeply into operations. At the same time, Barlow said as AI becomes more integrated into business operations, companies must ensure they have robust infrastructure and stringent security protocols in place to support AI-driven processes effectively and protect sensitive data. Partners will play a pivotal role in guiding and supporting end-users through this transformation, helping them navigate these shifts and make informed decisions to achieve their business goals, she said. This is an incredibly exciting time for our industry, and it is crucial for partners to select vendors that will strategically position them for the future of AI and enhance their capabilities through key partnerships. Lenovo is uniquely positioned to harness the exponential growth of AI, thanks to our pocket-to-cloud portfolio, strong ecosystem, and strategic alliances with industry leaders such as NVIDIA, AMD, Intel, Microsoft, and Qualcomm. Additionally, Barlow said in a time of innovation and evolution, partners need to rely on vendors that show leadership, which Lenovo is consistently delivering. Dicker Data is one of Lenovos biggest distributors in this region and we take pride in the value and benefits we bring to our partners through this relationship, she said. Leveraging Dicker Datas deep market understanding and close relationship with Lenovo, partners receive the necessary guidance and resources to capitalise on new opportunities, expand revenue streams, and navigate the rapidly evolving AI landscape. This collaboration enables partners to deliver superior AI-powered solutions with confidence and efficiency. Register for Dicker Data TechX today! The heart of Indias Parliament is, ironically, the Lower House, or the Lok Sabha, where 543 members, directly elected by voters represent the will of the people. It is elected during quinquennial, rumbustious national elections. Since China, another populous country, does not follow classic democratic principles, like universal franchise and representation rights, Indias elections have always been the largest democratic spectacle globally, with 970 million eligible voters in 2024 and a voter turnout of 65.8 per cent, marginally lower than the 67.4 per cent turnout in the previous general election in 2019. The Upper House of our bicameral Parliament, the Rajya Sabha, is smaller but permanent. Each member has a six-year term with one-third retiring every two years. The President of India nominates 12 members to represent non-political perspectives -- one such is Sudha Murthy, Rishi Sunaks mother-in-law, for her philanthropic work. Members of state Assemblies indirectly elect 238 members. They represent the political preferences of the state legislatures which elected them a useful device for widespread early buy-in for Central legislation, particularly if the Constitution is to be amended, for which the Rajya Sabhas approval is compulsory. Its semi-permanent status brings partial stability to voting patterns in Parliament, unlike the Lok Sabha, which can be swept by the winds of change, radically altering the structure of political power, every five years. On four occasions, over the past three decades, dramatic transformations swept the Lok Sabha. In 1999 the BJP alliance under Atal Behari Vajpayee swept the polls for the first time. In 2004, the Indian National Congress-led alliance regained power under Manmohan Singh. In 2014, Prime Ministers Narendra Modis BJP triumphed. Ten years later, in 2024, it waned, managing only a minority of seats, albeit more than any other party, forcing it to cement alliances to form the government. It remains unclear what might have convinced the President of India in her speech to a joint sitting of Parliament on June 27 to assert that for the first time in six decades a stable government with a clear majority was elected consecutively for the third term. Curiously, this view disregards Indias stellar record of nearly a quarter century of stable governments (albeit led by different parties) completing their scheduled terms, since 1999. But it illustrates the recent deeply adversarial trend in national politics, where precision in expression is often held prisoner to convenient rhetoric. The 18th Lok Sabha reflects significant churn: 52 per cent of MPs have no prior parliamentary experience, including 43 per cent of BJP MPs and 60 per cent of Congress MPs (the two biggest parties). Another 21 per cent are into their second term as MPs with the 17th Lok Sabha (2019 to 2024) as their only on-the-job experience. Add to that another 14 per cent in their third term, like Prime Minister Modi. This means that for 87 per cent of Lok Sabha members, extreme political acrimony between the major party blocs is the norm they have experienced. Members who enjoyed the pre-Modi era -- when political rivalry existed within collegial limits -- constitute just 13 per cent of the House -- with many in marginal roles. Consider also, that for three-fourths of the Lok Sabha members, the unprecedented enshrining in the new Parliament building of a Sengol, a golden staff presented by a Hindu sect as a blessing, has become the norm. This adornment now ritually precedes the President of India as a symbol of religious legitimacy, an innovation contrary to the earlier all-party consensus, that Parliament has no need for religious symbols of approval, since its sole guiding light is the Constitution. There is a context to the adoption of secular principles in electoral and representative practices. The Constituent Assembly (1947-1950) had considered the adoption of communal electorates -- where people vote for a leader from their own community, defined on the basis of religion of caste. That this option was rejected shows the expansive worldview then adopted. Opting for universal franchise and mixed constituencies, aligned with the hope that all voters and candidates seeking votes, would subsume their individual social identities (religion or caste) under their national identity as an Indian. In return, the State would treat all Indians the same, irrespective of religion or caste, other than targeted measures for positive discrimination benefiting marginalised communities. This forward-looking principle is what has, plausibly, been the glue to our democracy, in sharp contrast to our neighbourhood, where religion as a basis for citizenship, failed to nurture democracy or well-being. At 75, India can credibly claim to have a tested model of democratic representation with customised features to progressively reduce inequality -- both social and economic. However, it is unclear whether it is sufficiently resilient to withstand the recent model of triumphant majoritarianism. Admittedly, some of this is a politically savvy reaction to the mindless rhetoric of secularism, which earlier masked the continuation of minority pocket boroughs. Ironically, while these helped the leaders, they failed to fast forward the welfare of minorities. Muslims in India today have a larger overlap with the poor and the lower middle class than at Independence in 1947. Muslim women have fallen behind Indian women of other denominations, constrained by recently imported Middle Eastern, Islamic cultural norms, which have replaced home-grown liberal, cultural practices. Jammu and Kashmir has been efficiently subdued but not won over yet. Aggressive Khalistan supporters undermine the amicable, societal bond between Hindus and Sikhs. Christianity is the least at odds with resurgent Hinduism, that demands Indianisation of foreign religions. Church prayers are in local languages. Indias coziness with the Western alliance drives a tolerant approach to the practice of Christianity -- a bit like the US plays to its Semitic lobby whilst tolerating Israels transgressions. But mere tolerance is far from respectful acceptance. Lower castes -- mindful of Babasaheb Ambedkars conviction, that traditional Hinduism has no equitable space for Dalits, are unlikely to revel in a revival of ritual-heavy prescriptive Hinduism. This totals to at least one-third of Indians, destabilised by domestic identity politics. This was not what the Constituent Assembly hoped to achieve, through the secular, moral path of liberal democracy, in sharp contrast to the rest of British India, which became the Islamic Republic of Pakistan but split in 1971 due to irreconcilable regional and cultural differences with Bangladesh. India can become great once again, if it chooses to become the global lodestar of social amity and common purpose in a world divided by hate and self-interest. We owe no less to our children. by Mathias Hariyadi Holding weddings by the sea, amid the grandeur of nature and cultural artefacts, has been gaining ground for some time now. Bishop Silvester San cites an exhortation issued by the countrys bishops in 2015, saying that the ritual of marriage must be celebrated in a place of worship. The wedding industry has flourished around organising celebrations. Jakarta (AsiaNews) A Catholic marriage is valid only if it is celebrated in a consecrated place of worship, this according to Bishop Silvester Tung Kiem San of Denpasar, Bali (Indonesia). To reiterate this point, the prelate issued a pastoral letter, reacting to a trend that began decades ago of staging weddings on a beach, not only for foreign visitors, but also Indonesian Catholics. This kind of practice stems from Balis great natural beauty and cultural riches, not to mention the hospitality of its people, but which clashes with the Churchs rule in the administration of the sacrament. The Diocese of Denpasar covers an extensive territory that includes three prominent tourist destinations: Bali, Lombok, and Sumbawa. The prelate's letter, which upholds the validity of the wedding ritual only if celebrated in church, takes up an exhortation issued by the bishops in April 2015 and confirms an already known fact. Still, it has sparked some hostility, especially among those who work in the tourism industry who have found a substantial source of income in weddings celebrated on the white sands of the island, in a wide range of activities related to the hospitality industry, including travel agencies, airliners, restaurants, and lodging. In his letter, Bishop San stressed the sacredness of the ritual, noting that "more than a year" had gone by since the directive was adopted. The prelate released his letter on the sidelines of the national conference of the Catholic Guidance General Directorate, a body that is part of the Ministry for Religious Affairs (Bimas Katolik Kemenag RI). For the directorates chief, Suparman, education plays a "fundamental" role in starting a "good family life" in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic faith. Other fundamental issues were discussed at the meeting, including marriage annulment and "divorce", topics on which the Catholic Church has no intention to negotiate. Speaking to AsiaNews, Eleine Magdalena of the Widya Sasana School of Theological Philosophy in Malang, East Java province, said that the indissolubility of marriage is a sensitive and controversial issue today in many unions, even in Catholic families. As in the case of eight women, subject of her studies, the "sanctity" of Catholic marriage and its indissolubility must be maintained while dealing with the problems related to the suffering and crises that develop within couples. Asceticism within marriage is seen as a means to achieve deeper self-giving to ones spouse and God. Detachment, a core element of asceticism, purifies ones being, fostering spiritual growth, she said. by Silvia Torriti After the first forced repatriation by plane, the issue also entered the TV debate between Trump and Biden. The post-Covid economic crisis the main reason. Routes also to Italy via Serbia, with worrying contours of modern slavery. Milan (AsiaNews) - The phenomenon of illegal immigration of citizens of Chinese origin is taking on ever greater dimensions in various areas of the world. Just a few days ago the US Department of Homeland Security, through the words of its secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, announced the deportation of 116 illegal immigrants of Chinese nationality in the first major forced repatriation operation in five years. Accordingto data released by the US government, as many as 56,000 Chinese migrants would have crossed the south-western border with Mexico or the northern border with Canada between autumn 2023 and spring 2024, about 3,000 more than the previous year. The issue has become so important that it has even entered the ongoing debate for the upcoming presidential elections, with Republican candidate Donald Trump repeatedly accusing his Democratic opponent, incumbent President Joe Biden, of being incapable of stemming the growing flow of illegal immigrants. The Tycoon has even claimed that behind the massive presence of illegal Chinese citizens there would be the intention to form an army and attack the United States. A thesis that at the moment does not seem to find any confirmation and that has aroused the indignation of associations committed to the fight against anti-Asian racism. Cynthia Choi, co-founder of Stop AAPI Hate and co-executive director of Chinese for Affirmative Action told theAssociated Press: 'Trump's dehumanising rhetoric and blatant attacks on immigrant communities will only fuel hatred against not only Chinese immigrants, but all US citizens of Asian descent. Gregg Orton national director of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans, says he fears a second wave of xenophobia, following that which occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although Beijing has been cooperating with the US government to stem irregular migration for some months now, the problem continues to be a source of great tension between the two countries. 'China is firmly opposed to the US using the issue of illegal immigration as a pretext to defame China,' a spokesman for the Chinese embassy in Washington said a few weeks ago. Behind the painful decision to clandestinely reach the United States, according to a journalistic investigation conducted among the newcomers is the desire to escape poverty and the financial losses caused by the zero-Covid policy, as well as the threat of being prosecuted in a repressive society like China's, which places many limits on personal freedoms. The hope for a better life therefore prevails over the fear of having to face a long and arduous journey, which for many turns out to be even fatal, and over the awareness of having to draw huge financial resources to support it, since ,000 per person is sometimes not enough to cover the cost of airfare, accommodation, payments to local guides and bribes to police officers they meet along the way. For Victor Shih, an expert in Chinese economic policy at the University of California-San Diego, this choice, which demonstrates the high level of desperation of migrants, would be attributable to Beijing's public policies: 'China has a social safety net, but it is extremely small. If a health or employment catastrophe occurs, the government has very few resources to help'. Also according to Shih, outbound migration would be 'a kind of safety belt' for Beijing. And possible 'secondary repercussions', such as some migrants becoming 'politically active' abroad against the Beijing government, is also a negligible problem, as it does not pose an internal threat. Every migrant family has a difficult story behind it, like that of Wang Zhongwei, a 32-year-old from Wenzhou, as told by the online newspaper Nikkei Asia. Wang led a comfortable life together with his wife and two small children. He owned a small company with thirty to forty employees that exported women's shirts to Europe, earning USD 30,000 to 60,000 per year. The economic crisis caused by the pandemic forced him to close the factory in 2021, and to support his family he started working as a driver for the Didi Chuxing rider platform, like many other former entrepreneurs in the same condition as him. Although he had savings, he could not cope with the numerous debts: 'I had suicidal thoughts every day,' he confessed, 'I felt like my whole world was a cage and there was no hope'. Hence the decision to sell everything and leave to ensure a better future for his children on the other side of the ocean. Wang then gathered information on the route to take by watching online videos of those who had already completed the journey, now largely censored by the Chinese government. After walking for days through the infamous Darien Gap, a region dense with forests and fords between Colombia and Panama, he finally reached the border between Mexico and the United States, ushering in his new life. The phenomenon of illegal immigration of Chinese citizens, however, does not only concern the United States, but also Europe. A few days ago, the results of the Chinese Shuttle operation were released, which led to the arrest of a group of criminals, all of Chinese origin, involved in a real traffic of human beings from China to Italy. The investigation, conducted by the Trieste border police, started after some routine checks last April along the Italian-Slovenian border. From what emerged, the migrants left China in small groups to fly to countries close to Italy that do not require an entry visa, such as Serbia. Once they entered Italy via the Balkan route, they were taken to a sort of sorting centre in Cazzago di Pianiga, a town in the province of Venice, where they were detained for a few days. In order to deceive the border police, the migrants were transported in luxury cars, wore elegant clothes and had only a small luggage with them, just like unsuspected businessmen. From Cazzago they would then reach their final destinations, including Venice, Milan, Prato and, abroad, France and Spain. At this point, the passports of those who remained in Italy were withdrawn and sent to China, and the migrants thus became 'ghosts' destined to be exploited until the debts contracted for the journey were paid off, segregated inside workshops or tailor's shops. Another gruesome detail concerns the discovery of hundreds of photographs of Chinese women, immortalised naked with passports in their hands, other likely victims of what can be considered one of the routes of modern Chinese slavery in Europe. "RED LANTERNS" IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO CHINA . WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY THURSDAY ON YOUR EMAIL? SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER AT THIS LINK Today's news: Bangladesh suspends government job applications aafollowing student protests; Rights groups ask Thailand not to extradite degar activist to Vietnam, torture feared; Scandal in China over edible oil in tanks used to transport toxic substances; In 2024 Israel took more land in the West Bank than in the last 20 years. PAKISTAN Pakistan will extend the expired registration cards given to nearly 1.5 million Afghans for one year , the prime minister said Wednesday, after the UN refugee commissioner called for a pause in the country's refugee repatriation plan. It is unclear whether the extension of the Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, which expired in June, will exempt holders from any future repatriation. BANGLADESH On 10 July, the Bangladesh Supreme Court temporarily suspended quotas for coveted government jobs, after thousands of students nationwide protested against what they called a discriminatory system. The quota system in fact reserves places for specific groups, including the children of liberation heroes. The students are demanding a merit-based system. THAILAND - VIETNAM Two rights groups called on Thailand to abandon its intention to extradite a Montagnard activist to Vietnam. Amnesty International stated that Y Quynh Bdap, an indigenous Ede, risks being tortured on his return. The extradition hearing is scheduled for next week. The Vietnamese authorities have a long history of violent and racist persecution of indigenous peoples. CHINA The Chinese government said it will investigate allegations that tankers were used to transport cooking oil and syrup after carrying toxic chemicals without being properly cleaned between loads. This would be a widespread practice in the industry. It is yet another case that demonstrates the Chinese government's inability to enforce food safety standards. ISRAEL In 2024, Israel officially acquired 23.7 square kilometres of new Palestinian land in the occupied West Bank as it continues its offensive on Gaza. This is more land than has been taken in the last 20 years combined. It was the latest in a series of land confiscations announced this year by far-right Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who oversees settlement planning. ARMENIA A protest action was organised in front of the UN representation in Yerevan by Artsakh refugees, who demand "guarantees for the return to their homes" in Nagorno Karabakh occupied by Azerbaijan "after three terrible wars in the 21st century, which carried out violent genocide with all kinds of heavy weapons". RUSSIA - IRAN Patriarch Kirill of Moscow (Gundjaev) sent his congratulations to the new Iranian President Masud Pezeshkyan, noting that "the peoples of Iran and Russia are united by the desire to preserve historical religious and cultural traditions, and to remain faithful to moral principles", in the ongoing dialogue between the Orthodox Church and the Islamic community. China-UAE joint air force training exercise opens in Xinjiang Xinhua) 14:02, July 11, 2024 URUMQI, July 11 (Xinhua) -- The opening ceremony for the "Falcon Shield-2024" joint air force training exercise between China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) took place Wednesday in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The event was attended by participating officers and soldiers from both countries, including the UAE's deputy military attache in China. During the ceremony, troops from China and the UAE stood in formation as commanders from both sides pinned insignia on pilots of the other side. The top Chinese officer present declared the start of the joint training. Following the ceremony, the participating troops proceeded with the training as scheduled. The joint training is set to continue until late July. This marks the second "Falcon Shield" joint air force training exercise between China and the UAE. It aims to enhance mutual understanding and trust, deepen exchanges and cooperation between the two air forces, and elevate the strategic coordination level between the two militaries. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) by Shafique Khokhar The country's Churches have been pushing for this measure to counter the problem of early marriages, often linked to abductions. We hope the government will take further steps to criminalise forced religious conversions," the Bishops' Conference said. Islamabad (AsiaNews) Pakistan finally passed a law that raises the minimum marriage age for Christian boys and girls to 18. The new legislation amends the Christian Marriage Act of 1872. Lawmaker Naveed Amir Jeeva introduced the bill in the National Assembly of Pakistan, where it was unanimously approved, a step the Pakistani Senate took a few months ago. Under the old law, girls could get married as early as 13 while boys could marry at 16, a legacy of the past that made it harder to protect minors, in particular girls, from sexual abuse and child marriage. The Catholic Bishops' Conference of Pakistan (CBCP), through its human rights body, the National Commission for Justice and Peace (NCJP), has warmly welcomed the passage of the Christian Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Bishop Samson Shukardin, who chairs the CBCP, together with NCJP national director Fr Bernard Emmanuel, and NCJP executive director Naeem Yousaf expressed their gratitude in a joint statement. All three stressed that this amendment fulfils a request they had made for some time. "We extend our sincere appreciation to the entire parliament for passing this bill unanimously, their statement reads. This legislation will play a crucial role in protecting our young and minor girls from forced conversions and child marriages. We hope the government will take further steps to criminalise forced religious conversions," it goes on to say. The beauty of the act is that it was presented after the consensus of all main Churches of Pakistan, Naeem Yousaf Gill told AsiaNews. We are hopeful, he added, that this legislation will protect our girls and secure their fundamental rights, particularly their right to education, health, and other ancillary rights. What is more, This Act demands that marriage to be solemnised and registered only when the age of both contracting parties are 18-year-old. The legislation further states that in case of a dispute regarding the age of any contracting party, the court will determine the age based on a CNIC,[*] birth certificate, educational certificates, or any other pertinent documents. In the absence of such documents, the age may be determined based on a medical examination report. Photo: WikiCommons/Gull1122 [*] Computerised National Identity Card. 11 July 2024 08:30 (UTC+04:00) Ulviyya Shahin Read more In a pivotal moment leading up to COP29, the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) is poised to play a proactive role in shaping the global climate agenda. With a commitment to fostering collaboration among national and international oil companies, SOCAR plans to host influential events and panels aimed at advancing climate mitigation efforts. Afgan Isayev, Vice President of SOCAR, emphasized the companys strategic partnerships and ambitious projects designed to secure a sustainable future for generations to come. These initiatives include substantial investments in renewable energy, such as solar and wind projects, alongside pioneering ventures in offshore wind energy for green hydrogen production. Looking ahead to 2035, SOCAR envisions a transformative journey from a traditional oil and gas entity to a diversified energy leader, aligning its emissions profile with global industry standards to underscore its dedication to decarbonization. As SOCAR prepares to showcase its forward-thinking initiatives at COP29, its commitment signals a pivotal moment in the global energy landscape. Azernews correspondent discussed with economist Natig Jafarli to delve more into SOCAR's goals and prospects. Q. Dear Natig, SOCAR emphasizes cooperation with national and international oil companies through strategic partnerships. How can these partnerships contribute to SOCAR's sustainability goals and future energy leadership in the region? What are the economic benefits of such collaborations? A. If we examine SOCAR's involvement in regional projects, it primarily makes significant investments in Georgia and Turkiye. It also plays a decisive role in various aspects. For instance, SOCAR owns the gas distribution company in Georgia, which grants it certain advantages such as the ability to set pricing policies, and enhances its strategic importance by controlling distribution networks for population and business structures. In Turkiye, SOCAR holds substantial stakes and investments in the Star Refinery and Petkim plants, bolstering its influence in selling petrochemical products across the nearby region. These examples demonstrate SOCAR's successful outcomes in its relationships with Georgia and Turkiye. To further expand its regional influence, prioritizing additional projects is crucial. Ongoing negotiations with Central Asian Republics, including talks between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, illustrate SOCAR's efforts to secure a significant stake in these regions. Additionally, Pakistan has extended a substantial offer to build an oil separation plant with SOCAR's involvement, a current topic under discussion. Strategically, SOCAR's ownership in regional countries and participation in large-scale projects give it significant advantages. However, sustaining these advantages requires substantial investments. SOCAR may encounter challenges in this regard, particularly due to the gradual decrease in Azerbaijan's oil production and output, potentially impacting SOCAR's current income. Nevertheless, it is foreseeable that SOCAR will secure additional funds for future large-scale investments. Q. SOCAR aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the future energy landscape of the region. What are the economic implications of this ambition for Azerbaijan and its neighboring countries? How might SOCAR's strategic position influence regional economic development and energy security? A. SOCAR Georgia, a subsidiary of SOCAR, is the largest taxpayer in Georgia among companies. Considering the region, SOCAR's participation in the Georgian economy has yielded successful outcomes for the country. SOCAR owns one of the largest networks of gas stations and a gas distribution company in Georgia. As previously mentioned, "SOCAR Georgia" being the largest taxpayer is a significant matter for the Georgian budget, and SOCAR is also a leading entity in Georgia in terms of job creation. Therefore, at least in the case of Georgia, SOCAR plays a substantial role in both the economic development and energy security of the region. Q. Given SOCAR's sustainability and decarbonization initiatives, how might these efforts impact Azerbaijan's economy in the long term? What economic opportunities can be created by leading in sustainable energy practices, both domestically and internationally? A. SOCAR is a traditional oil and gas company with roots dating back to the Soviet era. The global trend towards decarbonization and transitioning to alternative energy sources poses new challenges and opportunities for SOCAR. While aligning with this trend is crucial, it also presents certain hurdles and potential benefits. The primary challenge lies in the substantial investments required for the transition to renewable energy. For instance, bp recently announced a strategic roadmap aiming to become a renewable energy company by 2050, necessitating approximately $100 billion in additional investments. If SOCAR intends to adopt a strategy focused on renewable and alternative energy production, similar additional funds and investments will be essential. However, Azerbaijan possesses significant potential in solar and wind energy, thanks to its climatic conditions, geographical location, and the wind resources of the Caspian Sea. Exploiting this potential will require substantial investments and financial resources. In summary, while SOCAR faces financial challenges in transitioning towards renewable energy, Azerbaijan's natural advantages in solar and wind energy offer promising opportunities for development with the necessary investments. Q. With global shifts towards renewable energy and decarbonization, how can SOCAR manage potential economic disruptions and opportunities in the energy market? What strategic economic measures should SOCAR consider to maintain competitiveness and leadership in the evolving global energy landscape? A. There are both realities and myths surrounding energy transitions. For instance, back in 2010, predictions suggested that by 2020, the world would shift to large-scale renewable energy, significantly reducing demand for internal combustion engines and gasoline. However, this hasn't materialized. In 2010, global daily oil consumption stood at 92-93 million barrels, but today it has risen to 102 million barrels. Such forecasts don't always align with reality, indicating that the importance of oil and gas remains significant. A decade or more ago, there was a theory that oil and gas prices would gradually decline, yet global energy demand continues to rise. According to reports from the International Energy Agency, oil consumption worldwide is expected to surpass current levels by 2035-2040, potentially reaching 110-112 million barrels per day. This underscores the ongoing necessity for SOCAR's expertise and operations in the oil and gas sector, which could yield even more successful outcomes in the future. Nonetheless, it's crucial not to ignore global trends. Many global oil companies are already exploring avenues to transition to renewable or green energy, making strategic investments. SOCAR also has such opportunities. For example, Azerbaijan, in partnership with Georgia, is involved in a major project with the European Union to transmit electricity generated from alternative sources to Europe via the Black Sea seabed. SOCAR holds a significant stake in this project, indicating its increasing role in Azerbaijan's aspirations to transition towards renewable green energy as its investments in this sector grow. While it may be premature to completely shift away from traditional energy fields, given the projected growth in global oil and gas demand over the next 20-25 years, adapting to evolving global energy dynamics remains imperative. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 13:05 (UTC+04:00) By Zara Araz The recent report from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) highlighting Azerbaijan's crude oil production figures for June has sparked interest and scrutiny in the global energy market. Azerbaijan, a significant oil-producing nation in the Caspian region, has shown consistent production levels over recent months, indicating stability amidst dynamic global oil market conditions. According to OPEC's latest monthly report, Azerbaijan's average daily crude oil production reached 479 thousand barrels in June 2024. This marks a slight increase from the 466,000 barrels produced in May and mirrors the production level of April, indicating a stable output trend over the past quarter. The quarterly data provided by OPEC underscores Azerbaijan's steady oil production performance. In the first quarter of the year, the country averaged 477,000 barrels per day, with a marginal dip to 475,000 barrels per day in the second quarter. This consistent production level suggests operational efficiency and adherence to national production targets amid global market fluctuations. Azerbaijan's oil production figures are crucial within the broader context of global oil dynamics. The stability in production levels is noteworthy amidst global uncertainties such as geopolitical tensions, fluctuating demand due to economic recovery post-pandemic, and adjustments in OPEC+ production quotas. Azerbaijan's ability to maintain stable production contributes to market equilibrium and influences global oil prices. For Azerbaijan, maintaining stable oil production is not only about meeting global demand but also about optimizing revenue streams and supporting economic growth. The country's strategic location and infrastructure investments in the energy sector position it as a key player in regional energy security and global oil supply chains. Looking forward, Azerbaijan faces both challenges and opportunities in its oil production sector. Challenges include navigating geopolitical tensions that could impact production stability and responding to global energy transition trends toward cleaner fuels. However, opportunities lie in leveraging technological advancements in oil extraction and exploring new markets for its crude oil exports. In conclusion, Azerbaijan's consistent oil production levels as reported by OPEC underscore its resilience and strategic importance in the global energy landscape. As the country continues to navigate through evolving market dynamics, maintaining stable production remains crucial for ensuring economic stability and contributing to global energy security. Policymakers in Azerbaijan should continue to focus on enhancing operational efficiency, investing in sustainable energy practices, and diversifying the economy away from oil dependency. These efforts will not only strengthen Azerbaijan's position in the global energy market but also ensure long-term economic resilience and prosperity. By closely monitoring production trends and adapting to global energy shifts, Azerbaijan can effectively navigate the complexities of the modern oil market while maximizing the benefits of its valuable natural resources. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 16:36 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more As is well known, Azerbaijan and Pakistan share a rich tapestry of multifaceted relations that have evolved over time. Both nations are bound by a profound friendship, which has since been elevated to the level of a strategic partnership. This deep-rooted relationship is characterised by mutual support on both bilateral and multilateral platforms. The recent visit of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to Pakistan on July 11 exemplifies the expansion of these relations across various fields. During President Ilham Aliyevs visit, the escort of his aircraft by fighter jets from the Pakistan Air Force was a clear demonstration of the exceptional honour and respect accorded to him. In recent years, the interactions between the leaders of Azerbaijan and Pakistan have intensified. For instance, President Ilham Aliyev and Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif have met regularly at international events hosted or attended by Azerbaijan. Notably, President Aliyev engaged with Prime Minister Sharif at the last two summits of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Additionally, Prime Minister Sharif visited Azerbaijan in June of the previous year. Historically, Pakistan was among the first countries to recognise Azerbaijans state independence. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were established on June 9, 1992, and have since evolved into a robust strategic partnership. In March 1993, Pakistan established its embassy in Baku, and Azerbaijan followed by opening its embassy in Islamabad in August 1997. It is also noteworthy that Pakistan has consistently supported Azerbaijans territorial integrity on the international stage and has refrained from establishing diplomatic relations with Armenia due to its military aggression against Azerbaijani territories. A significant milestone in this support was on April 30, 1993, when Pakistan presided over the UN Security Council meeting that adopted Resolution 822 concerning Azerbaijan. A key aspect of the bilateral relationship is the ongoing development of new and more robust formats for cooperation. In this context, the trilateral meeting held on July 3 in Astana, featuring President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif of Pakistan, and President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkiye, was highly significant. The "SCO Plus" format of this meeting underscored a cooperative mechanism that aligns with the mutual interests of Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and Turkiye. The discussions at the meeting highlighted the importance of continued joint military exercises under the "Three Brothers" initiative and proposed regular joint training sessions for the armed forces of the three nations. Additionally, the creation of joint production ventures in the defence sector was discussed, indicating a potential deepening of military-political relations. Economic relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan began to take shape in October 1995 with the signing of the "Protocol on the Establishment of a Joint Commission at the Government Level between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan" in Baku. Five years later, the first meeting of this Joint Commission was held. In February 2017, an export mission from Azerbaijan visited Pakistan for a business trip, followed by the inaugural meeting of the Joint Working Group on Trade Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Pakistan in July of the same year in Baku. During this meeting, a "Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation and Pakistans Trade Development Authority" was signed. In April 2019, Baku hosted a trilateral exhibition featuring ten Pakistani companies at the Pakistan Pavilion. Subsequent to this, a significant business forum was held in September 2019, which focused on sectors such as agriculture, energy, pharmaceuticals, trade, and construction, with over 150 business professionals participating. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Pakistan Border Trade and Industry Chamber. Additionally, a Pakistani goods exhibition was organised in Baku in October 2019, followed by a pharmaceuticals exhibition in December. Since then, numerous ministerial and business-level visits have been conducted. In July 2023, a "Framework Agreement on the Purchase and Sale of LNG Cargoes between SOCAR Trading and Pakistan LNG Limited" was signed in Lahore with Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. Despite these developments, the level of economic and trade activity between Azerbaijan and Pakistan does not yet reflect the full potential of their bilateral relations. Nevertheless, there is substantial potential for further growth in this area. In 2023, the trade turnover between the two countries reached $27 million, with Pakistan expressing strong interest in Azerbaijani investments. Currently, over 3,600 Pakistani companies are registered in Azerbaijan, engaging actively in various sectors including industry, agriculture, construction, trade, transportation, and services. Pakistani firms have also sought opportunities to participate in the reconstruction and restoration of liberated territories. Azerbaijan views the expansion of economic and trade relations with Pakistan as a priority. Following President Ilham Aliyevs directive, the import duty on rice products from Pakistan has been unilaterally reduced from 15% to 0% until December 31, 2027. Another important area of cooperation is transportation. Azerbaijan and Pakistan have opportunities for collaboration along the Middle Corridor, the North-South Corridor, and the East-West Corridor. In September 2022, AZAL commenced direct flights from Baku to Lahore, and in November, it began flights to Islamabad and the reverse route. In the previous year, the volume of transit cargo transported by road between the two countries reached 33,000 tons, reflecting a 53% increase from the previous period. Given the ongoing strong cooperation, it is evident that Azerbaijan supports Pakistans stance on various international issues. Both countries coordinate their activities and provide unconditional support for each other across multiple international platforms. Their partnership spans numerous fields, including defence, energy, infrastructure projects, information technology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and the establishment of joint ventures. Additionally, the humanitarian and charitable initiatives led by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in Pakistan further strengthen the bilateral relationship and contribute to the development of ties between the two nations. The economic and trade relations between Azerbaijan and Pakistan represent a promising frontier for further development. While significant strides have been made through trade agreements, business forums, and joint ventures, there remains substantial potential for growth in this area. Both countries are well-positioned to build on their existing economic ties, explore new opportunities, and strengthen their partnership to achieve greater mutual prosperity in the coming years. As Azerbaijan and Pakistan look to the future, their partnership is poised for continued growth and evolution. The foundation laid by past achievements, combined with ongoing and upcoming initiatives, sets a positive trajectory for deeper cooperation across a wide range of sectors. By embracing new opportunities and building on their shared interests, both countries are well-equipped to navigate future challenges and foster a mutually beneficial relationship for years to come. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 14:09 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more From November 7 to 9, 2024, Istanbul will host the inaugural Trade and Investment Cooperation Forum and Exhibition of Turkic-speaking states, also known as the Turkish Trade Fair, Azernews reports. This landmark event, organized by ROK International Consulting under the auspices of the Turkish Ministry of Trade, will be led by Aygun Aliyeva, an Azerbaijani lawyer and the head of ROK International Consulting. To mark the upcoming exhibition, a special event titled "Economic Strength of Turkish States and the Opportunities Offered by the Turkish Trade Fair" was held. The event brought together key figures from the Turkish-speaking world, including Omer Kocaman, Deputy Secretary General of the Organization of Turkish States (OTS) Adem Kula, Secretary General of the Union of Turkish Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Javid Abdullayev, Chief Advisor of the Azerbaijan Trade Mission in Turkiye, Sherzad Abdunazarov, Consul General of Uzbekistan in Istanbul, various trade mission leaders and company representatives from Turkic-speaking countries. Omer Kocaman addressed the audience by highlighting the OTSs strategic vision for the future. He shared that the member states are working towards the "View of the Turkish World 2040" strategy and a common roadmap for 2026. Kocaman emphasized that the combined purchasing power of the Turkic world exceeds $4 trillion, with a total population of about 170 million. He also noted that intra-OTS trade has reached $50 billion, with efforts underway to increase this figure to $100 billion. He acknowledged that real, project-based initiatives are driving this growth, rather than mere statements. Sherzad Abdunazarov, the Consul General of Uzbekistan, underscored the significance of the Turkish Trade Fair in showcasing the unity and strength of the Turkic world. Javid Abdullayev, Chief Advisor of the Azerbaijan Trade Mission in Turkiye, discussed Azerbaijans foreign trade volume, which approached $45 billion last year. He highlighted the favorable conditions for entrepreneurs and investors in Azerbaijan, focusing on opportunities in the newly liberated territories of Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur. Abdullayev presented details on the "Smart City" and "Smart Village" projects, the development of a "Green Energy Zone," and the creation of the Aghdam and Araz Valley Economic Zones with various industrial park incentives. A video prepared by the Trade Representation showcased these investment opportunities and developments. Aygun Aliyeva, head of ROK International Consulting, spoke about the upcoming Turkish Trade Fair, emphasizing its role in creating strong trade connections among Turkic states. She pointed out that these states, positioned at the crossroads of East and West, possess substantial economic potential, with a combined economy worth $1.9 trillion and rich natural resources. The fair aims to foster growth in trade, industry, investment, technology, and services across the OTS countries, and is supported by state institutions. The event concluded with discussions on how the Turkish Trade Fair will build robust trade bridges between Turkic states and drive future cooperation. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 15:25 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more A meeting was recently held with Sabina Ymeri, an international development consultant at the Human Rights Commissioner (Ombudsman) Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports citing the Ombudsman Office. The meeting, which focused on discussing the cooperation between the Ombudsman institution and the UN, as well as its specialized agencies in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), was attended by Deputy Head of the Office Rashid Rumzadeh and Sevinj Sener, Senior Advisor in the Department of Cooperation with International Organizations and Civil Society Institutions. During the meeting, Rashid Rumzadeh provided an overview of the Ombudsmans mandate and highlighted ongoing efforts to protect human rights and freedoms. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation, noting the strong working relationships with the UN and its specialized agencies. Rumzadeh also mentioned several significant projects currently underway and the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan. The discussion included detailed information on the Ombudsmans work in areas such as domestic violence prevention, gender equality, the right to health, and environmental rights, all within the framework of the SDGs. Rashid Rumzadeh also presented updates on recent reforms aimed at improving human rights protections in Azerbaijan. This included information on the Ombudsmans cooperation with civil society organizations, recent changes to the Constitutional Law on the Ombudsman, and the establishment of new structural divisions within the institution. The meeting also touched on Azerbaijans role as the host for the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29). It was noted that the Azerbaijani Ombudsman is a member of the COP29 Organizing Committee and that efforts aligned with the SDGs are ongoing. Additionally, it was highlighted that the Baku Forum for the Ombudsman and national human rights institutions will be held as part of COP29. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 16:59 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more Anar Rzayev, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Land Transport Agency (AYNA), informed journalists that Baku will welcome 160 new electric buses before the COP29 event, Azernews reports. He noted that 200 new buses were introduced to the citys transportation system at the beginning of this year, with plans to deploy another 200 buses in the near future. It should be noted that Baku will host COP29 from 11 to 22 November 2024. The conference will bring together global leaders to discuss climate action and sustainable development. This prestigious event marks a significant opportunity for Azerbaijan to showcase its commitment to environmental protection and international cooperation on climate issues. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 17:36 (UTC+04:00) Nazrin Abdul Read more A meeting was recently held at "Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping" CJSC (ASCO) with representatives from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), one of the worlds leading classification societies, Azernews reports. The meeting was led by Rauf Valiyev, Chairman of ASCO's Board of Directors, and featured key participants including Richard Pride, Vice President of Business Development at ABS Wavesight; Saqib Kasim, Director of Professional Services at ABS; Guy Laureys, Head of the ABS Azerbaijan Representative Office; and Alistair McConnachie, General Manager of Business Development at ABS Wavesight. During the meeting, they discussed the current state and future prospects of their bilateral cooperation, focusing on the integration of digital solutions provided by ABS Wavesight for ASCOs fleet. Representatives from ABS Wavesight delivered an in-depth presentation on their innovative fleet management software, including products such as "My Digital Fleet," "Nautical Systems," and "eLogs." These tools are currently in use on up to 5,000 ships worldwide. A highlight of the presentation was the introduction of the "NSE" software from "Nautical Systems," which is successfully applied on 10 ASCO vessels. This centralized, cloud-based business management solution automates key processes and provides real-time visibility into operational metrics, helping organizations to operate more efficiently. The presentation concluded with a Q&A session where ASCO employees had the opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussions about the softwares features and benefits. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 13:22 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more The Culture Ministry has organized an open information session for non-governmental organizations regarding the announced grant competition for the promotion of cultural and creative industries, Azernews reports. NGOs members interested in the competition participated in the event held at Center for Cultural and Creative Industries. Head of the Department of Creative Industries and Digital Development Rashad Azizov spoke about the conditions of participation, priority directions and sub-topics. He noted the requirements for the project proposal. In his speech, Rashad Azizov stressed that the project aims to develop creative industries. "The development strategy of cultural and creative industries is designed for 2022-2026. It is important to create new business entities and have a 5 percent growth in this direction every year. In my opinion, the export sector should be developed and the number of creative industry products should be increased. It is possible to combine different topics in the project. It is completely dependent on creativity. Among the priority directions of the grant competition, there are projects related to the development of culture and creative industries, digital solutions in the field of culture, support of local animation, and institutionalization of the film industry," said Rashad Azizov. "Non-governmental organizations that previously received a grant from the Culture Ministry, but did not fulfill their obligations under the contract despite the conclusion of the grant agreement, cannot participate in the competition. You can apply for the grant competition for the promotion of cultural and creative industries for non-governmental organizations until August 2. Acceptance of documents is carried out in electronic form through the internet resource grants.culture.az," he added. The event continued in a question-and-answer format. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 11:13 (UTC+04:00) Representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO) to the European Union (EU), Oxana Domenti, expressed gratitude to the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Belgium and Luxembourg, the representation of Azerbaijan in the European Union, and the representation of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in the EU, Domenti wrote it on X, Azernews reports. "Many thanks to Azerbaijani Ambassador Vagif Sadigov and the UN Intellectual Property Office in the EU for organizing this important event in Brussels and for the opportunity to share climate and health perspective," she noted. Many thanks to @AZMissionEU, HE @VaqifS & @UNDPEU for organising this important event in Brussels and for the opportunity to share the climate &health perspective. https://t.co/DgXVcrogJ3 Oxana Domenti (@OxanaDomenti) July 10, 2024 On July 10, the Azerbaijan Representation to the EU and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) Representation to the EU jointly organized a conference on the theme Strengthening climate action through ambition, implementation and inclusion. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 13:43 (UTC+04:00) Fatima Latifova Read more An article about the unofficial Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) held in Shusha on July 6 was published on the website of Kyrgyzstan's "Vecherniy Bishkek" newspaper, Azernews reports. The author of the article, Mederbek Korganbayev, writes that the Summit indicates the expansion of interests and strengthening of relations among Turkic peoples under the auspices of the OTS. "Based on the results of the Summit and the signing of the Garabagh Declaration, it can be concluded that the Turkic world is beginning to address issues such as the creation of larger economies, trade, transport routes, and military-political consolidation. Kyrgyzstan, for its part, is interested in implementing projects for the development of transport infrastructure, green energy, and is ready to assist in issues related to climate change," the author notes. In his opinion, the unity of the Turkic states is increasingly expanding, and this is the result of the tremendous work carried out by Azerbaijan: "It is no secret that Baku makes a significant contribution to strengthening the Organization of Turkic States and elevating its status. Azerbaijan can rightly be called the guide and helmsman of the Turkic ship. In the future, it can be predicted that the OTS will gradually turn into a kind of economic and military bloc, similar to the example of the European Union. This bloc is likely to cover the South Caucasus, Eurasia, and Central Asia." The author further notes: "The formation of a new military-economic union like Turan on the world map will lead to the emergence of a geopolitical power capable of creating stability and allowing the Turks to jointly resist threats from global actors. It is possible that 10-15 years after the formation of the union and the development of the economic potential of the Turkic countries, a Turan currency may be introduced, similar to the euro. The circulation of the Turan currency will allow the Turkic-speaking states to reduce the influence of global currencies and strengthen economic and trade relations. Baku will become the emission center for banknotes, and the military-political and economic capital of Turan." --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 19:51 (UTC+04:00) Fatima Latifova Read more Armenia's recent move to align with Western countries and the US instead of its long-time ally Russia has significantly affected Russia-Armenia relations. According to experts' views, this shift could notably alter the geopolitical balance in the South Caucasus and the foreign policies of both countries in the near future. It should be recalled that, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Yerevan had close ties with Moscow. It was one of Armenia's most important military and economic allies. Relying on this cooperation, Armenia occupied Azerbaijani territories and displaced nearly 1 million Azerbaijanis over 30 years, devastating historical and cultural monuments and fertile lands in Azerbaijan's Garabagh region. However, in 2020, Azerbaijan's counteroffensive against Armenian provocations signalled the potential collapse of Armenia's fortification along the grey zone. The liberation of Garabagh from Armenian occupation in 44 days proved that official Yerevan was powerless against Azerbaijan without a protector. Subsequently, Russia's attempt to balance its relations with Azerbaijan caused Armenia's concern and to change its political vectors. Official Yerevan, under the pretext of strengthening its economic ties with the West, began seeking supporters other than Russia. The importance the West places on democratic values and human rights became more appealing to some groups in Armenia. The Armenian lobby in Europe took advantage of this opportunity and reinforced Yerevan's policy of rapprochement with the West. Armenia's closer ties with the West led to a decrease in the military support it received from Russia, raising concerns about Armenia's security. The strained relations between Armenia and Russia in the South Caucasus suited the interests of the US, which aims to reduce Russia's influence in the region. The intensified military activities and training between Armenia and the US are indicative of this. Armenia's desire to end its strategic alliance with Russia and seek new allies and strategic partners could result in the US flag flying in the South Caucasus, the worst enemy of Russia. It should be noted that from July 15-24, "Eagle Partner" military exercises were held in Armenia with the participation of US and Armenian soldiers. This exercise, which began in September 2023, is in its second season this year. It is clear that this US-Armenia political unity aims to showcase Washington's physical presence in the region. Through these exercises, the US demonstrates its presence in the South Caucasus to Russia and Iran. Despite Russia maintaining its composure for a while, it began voicing objections to Armenia's significant shift towards the West. This led to tensions between pro-Russian and pro-Western groups within Armenia's internal politics. The unrest within Armenia a few months ago, labelled as a religious uprising to seize power, was a direct protest against Russia's diminishing influence over Armenia. However, Armenia's strengthened relations with the West undeniably positively impact Yerevan's relations with Turkiye. Especially considering Turkiye's NATO membership, Pashinyan's administration is motivated to normalise and continue developing relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. This is evidenced by Armenia informing Turkiye before Iran about recognising Palestine as a state. Russia understandably sees Armenia's pivot to the West as a threat to its sphere of influence. Therefore, it strongly condemns Armenia's participation in events involving Europe and the US and was troubled by Yerevan's presence at the recent NATO summit. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin expressed regret over Yerevan's participation in the NATO summit in Washington. He even stated that by deepening cooperation with NATO, Yerevan risks seriously destabilising the South Caucasus and harming its security. How accurate is this? The South Caucasus is already a complex and attention-grabbing region due to its geopolitical position. Countries like Russia and Iran have long pursued policies of expansion in the neighbouring territories, including those of Azerbaijan. Up until five years ago, Armenia's provocations exacerbated the situation in the region. Azerbaijan's liberation of its territories, protests in Iran a few years ago, and the Russia-Ukraine war have brought some calm to the region. However, NATO's special cooperation with a regional state will likely result in NATO strengthening its presence in the South Caucasus. Given Azerbaijan's balanced policy towards NATO, it is clear that Baku will not disrupt regional stability in terms of its relations with the West and Russia. But can Armenia, in search of a new ally, replicate this balanced policy? Currently, Armenia's alignment with both the EU and the US significantly impacts its relations with Russia. Armenia will need to exercise careful diplomacy to maintain balance and protect its national interests during this process. It is a stark contrast to the country's political past today; Armenia, which once joined the CSTO and was able to withstand despite its poor economy in the South Caucasus with the Kremlin's support, today ignores the fate of neighbouring Georgia in the background of its extreme integration with the West. The failure of geopolitics to conform to geostrategic realities and Armenia's aggressive Westernisation strategy not only worries Moscow but also puts the future of the South Caucasus and even Yerevan at risk. The political imbalance makes Yerevan not an ally of the West, but rather a tool in the hands of the Western powers. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 12:55 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh on the occasion of the country's national holiday, Azernews reports. The letter reads: "Dear Mr. President, On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I extend to you and all your people my sincerest congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of the national holiday of Mongolia. I believe that we will further continue our joint efforts in developing relations between Azerbaijan and Mongolia and expanding our cooperation both bilaterally and multilaterally. On this momentous day, I wish you robust health, success in your endeavors, and the friendly people of Mongolia continuous well-being and prosperity. Sincerely Ilham Aliyev President of the Republic of Azerbaijan" --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 13:50 (UTC+04:00) President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev embarked on a state visit to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on July 11, Azernews reports. As a special gesture of honor, the aircraft of the head of state was met upon arrival in Pakistan's airspace by the fighter jets of the Pakistani Air Force and escorted all the way to the destination. A guard of honor was lined up for the head of state at Pakistan Air Force Base, Nur Khan decorated with the national flags of the two countries. A salute of artillery fire was conducted in honor of the President of Azerbaijan. President Ilham Aliyev was welcomed by Pakistan's Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. The welcome ceremony was followed by the meeting between President of Azerbaijan and Prime Minister of Pakistan. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 17:54 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more Today Azerbaijan commemorates the life and work of People's Artist Rasim Ojagov, a prominent figure in the national cinema, Azernews reports. Known for his innovative approach and contributions to the development of national cinema, Rasim Ojagov has left a lasting impact on the industry. His films, spanning different periods of Azerbaijan's cinematic history, have been recognized both locally and internationally for their artistic excellence. Despite his parents' disapproval, Rasim Ojagov attended the Film Institute in Moscow. In 19511956, he studied at the Camera Operator Faculty of VGIK. He continued his education at the Azerbaijan Theatrical Institute. Having started his career in 1956 as a director of photography at the AzerbaijanFilm film studio, Rasim Ojagov worked here in various positions. Rasim Ojagov made his debut as a film director with the film "Her great heart". He was considered a professional at describing psychological scenes. This film is about the lives of Sumgayit metallurgists. The mental sufferings of the workers are described in this film. Throughout his life, the outstanding film director produced around 11 multi-reel films, including "Her great heart," "Tahmina," "Why are you silent?" "In one southern city," "The first day of life," "Behind the closed door," "Temple of Air," and other cinematic works. Rasim Ojagov's creative legacy continues to be celebrated, with his significant achievements in cinematography and directing earning him numerous accolades and awards. His dedication to advancing the art of filmmaking in Azerbaijan has been acknowledged by the state, with honors such as the Order of Glory bestowed upon him. ---- Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 17:19 (UTC+04:00) Fatima Latifova Read more An event dedicated to the 105th anniversary of the diplomatic service bodies of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the professional holiday of diplomatic service employees on July 9 was held at the Azerbaijani embassy in London, Azernews reports. The event was attended by Lord David Evans, a member of the House of Lords of the British Parliament, local government representatives, members of the diplomatic corps accredited in London, and public figures. In his opening speech, Azerbaijans Ambassador to the UK, Elin Suleymanov, noted that this year marks the 105th anniversary of the Azerbaijani Diplomatic Service, which was founded in 1919. He provided information on the achievements of Azerbaijan since restoring state independence in 1991 and emphasised that Azerbaijan has a high reputation as a reliable partner in the modern international relations system. It was highlighted that 2024 is a significant year for Azerbaijan, as the country will host the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in November. It was emphasised that due to the strategy implemented by President Ilham Aliyev, a new stage has begun in the South Caucasus, where global issues such as climate change and transport corridors have become the main topics of discussion instead of conflict. It was noted that representing Azerbaijan in the international arena has been a great honour for Azerbaijani diplomats over the past three decades since regaining state independence. The ambassador congratulated all employees of the Azerbaijani diplomatic service bodies on their professional holiday, with a particular acknowledgment of the embassy staff in London. The event continued with a concert program by Sevda Mammadli, an associate professor at the Baku Music Academy named after Uzeyir Hajibeyli, a Ph.D. in art history, an international competition laureate, and a renowned pianist and composer. She performed works by prominent Azerbaijani composers, folk songs, samples of world music, and her own compositions. During the concert, Sevda Mammadli also performed pieces together with her daughter, pianist Vusala Babayeva, a graduate of the Royal College of Music, and honored artist, violinist Ceyla Seyidova. The concert program was received with great enthusiasm by the event participants. Finally, speaking on behalf of the audience, Lord Evans expressed his gratitude to the performers and said he was impressed by Azerbaijani music. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 17:30 (UTC+04:00) An official welcome ceremony was held in Islamabad for Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, who is on a state visit to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Azernews reports. A guard of honor was arranged for the Azerbaijani President in the square decorated with the national flags of the two countries. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev was welcomed by Pakistan's Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. First, the President of Azerbaijan and the Pakistani Prime Minister posed for official photos. The national anthems of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan were played. The chief of the guard of honor reported to the Azerbaijani President. The President of Azerbaijan reviewed the guard of honor. The Pakistani delegation was introduced to President Ilham Aliyev, while members of the Azerbaijani delegation were introduced to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 10:00 (UTC+04:00) Fatima Latifova Read more The price of one barrel of Azerbaijani oil branded "Azeri Light" in the world market has increased by $0.95, or 1.07%, to $89.84, Azernews reports. According to auction results, the price of September futures for Brent oil amounted to $85.74. In this year's state budget of Azerbaijan, the average price of one barrel of oil is calculated at $75. It should be noted that the lowest price of "Azeri Light" oil was recorded on April 21, 2020, at $15.81, and the maximum price was recorded in July 2008, at $149.66. In Azerbaijan, oil is mainly produced under the agreement for the development of the "Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli" (ACG) fields block. The State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) holds a 25% share in this agreement. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 18:43 (UTC+04:00) By News Centre Minister of Trade Omer Bolat spoke at the Business World Roundtable Meeting within the scope of the Turkiye-EU High Level Trade Dialogue. Bolat stated that the Customs Union between Turkiye and the European Union (EU) should be updated and developed in the face of the changing structure of international trade. Minister of Trade Omer Bolat spoke at the opening of the Business World Roundtable Meeting within the scope of the first Turkiye-EU High Level Trade Dialogue held at the EU Commission building in Brussels. "This platform represents the cornerstone of our collective efforts to create a forward-looking vision for our economic partnership," said Bolat, adding that they are determined to overcome current challenges, seize new opportunities and ensure a prosperous future for both the EU and Turkiye. "We have been working diligently to create a new and positive agenda between Turkiye and the EU since the second half of 2023," Bolat said. Bolat stated that through determined and collaborative efforts, they have successfully developed a comprehensive roadmap designed to further deepen the comprehensive integration between Turkiye and the EU, and that EU Commission Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis has played a vital role in shaping and guiding this transformative process. The Customs Union played an important role Minister Bolat spoke about bilateral economic relations and the Customs Union as follows: "The EU and Turkiye have always been important economic and commercial partners. With the establishment of the Customs Union between Turkiye and the EU in 1995, we have managed to establish this partnership on a strong contractual basis. Since then, the Customs Union has played an important role in the continuous development of trade relations through the progressive liberalization of trade and Turkiye's compliance with the EU acquis and trade policies. We have successfully built on our previous successes and increased our bilateral trade every year. As a result, in 2023, our bilateral trade reached an all-time high of $210 billion. By promoting uninterrupted trade and investment flows, the Customs Union has created significant value for the business communities in both regions, increasing their competitiveness in the global market." "The Customs Union structure should be developed" Minister Bolat made the following assessment: "Considering the changing landscape of international trade in the last 30 years, there are important areas where we can improve the structure of the Customs Union . " Bolat, who drew attention to the importance of expanding the Customs Union to new areas such as services and digital trade during the update process, explained that cooperation in green and digital transformation should be deepened. Structural flaws in the Customs Union "It is a fact that the current structure of the Customs Union, which was initially designed as a temporary arrangement until Turkiye's full membership in the EU, has permanent structural flaws," Bolat said. Bolat emphasized that the flaws in the Customs Union are the increasing inequalities between the parties' Free Trade Agreement networks, land quotas and cumbersome visa procedures that hinder the ability of business representatives to fully benefit from the Customs Union. "The implementation of transit quotas today leads to longer and more costly deliveries of Turkish products that should circulate freely in our Customs Union," he said. Visa problem Minister Bolat reminded that not only Turkish products were affected by this situation, but also products produced by EU companies in Turkiye faced the same obstacles, and said , "The bottlenecks in visa procedures not only disrupted the activities of the Turkish business world, but also caused serious uncertainties in the multinational business models of Europe, which has close commercial ties with the EU." "Current problems limit the benefits obtained from the Customs Union," said Bolat, adding that the potential of trade and economic relations would increase with the deepening of the Customs Union. Bolat pointed out that the world and international economy have reached a turning point recently, saying, "Many developments in the international arena have left economies around the world facing unprecedented risks and threats . " Bolat stated that mutual tariff wars, fierce competition between the world's leading economic centers and military conflicts affecting many regions threaten the years-long economic globalization and liberalization process, and pointed out that in the current geopolitical context, countries around the world are taking protectionist measures and turning to trade barriers. "Under these circumstances, we see the Customs Union as a compass that helps us chart the right course in our commercial and economic interactions, while also ensuring the continuation of the positive course of EU-Turkiye relations," said Bolat, adding that Turkey's strong economic structure and strategic location will play a key role in diversifying supply chains and increasing economic security. Bolat stated that when the EU and Turkiye continue their close cooperation, they will better protect their economies from external shocks and be more robust against emerging economic threats. "My expectation is that the High Level Trade Dialogue between Turkey and the EU, as a new format to coordinate our efforts, will lead to the formation of such a forward-looking vision. I have no doubt that this close cooperation will also lead to the updating of our Customs Union and the deepening of Turkey-EU relations," he said. "Producers and value chains are connected by the Customs Union" "The Customs Union has beautifully connected producers and the value chain," said EU Commission Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis. Emphasizing that bilateral trade relations between Turkiye and the EU are very strong, Dombrovskis said, "A new record was broken in bilateral trade in 2023 with 206 billion euros. Turkiye became the 5th largest trade partner of the EU." Dombrovskis stated that the mutual trade in goods between Turkiye and the EU is balanced and the value chains are strongly interconnected. Underlining that removing trade barriers and enriching trade relations will increase resilience, Dombrovskis said that today's dialogue is an important platform where various issues, such as removing trade barriers and determining different areas of cooperation will be discussed. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 11 July 2024 22:20 (UTC+04:00) By Alimat Aliyeva The management of the Georgian Railway (GZHD), representatives of the Bulgarian Railway (BDZ) and the Bulgarian maritime company P.N.A LTD signed an agreement in Tbilisi on the restoration of ferry service on the Black Sea, Azernews reports. Preparatory work on the restoration of the message, which was discontinued two years ago, has been carried out since the beginning of the year. The press service notes that the parties have agreed on all conditions for the resumption of ferry service. Ferry and railway connections between Bulgaria and Georgia play an important role in the logistics of goods transported across the Black Sea. The restoration of communication, on the one hand, will ensure the flow of additional cargo, and on the other, is vital from the point of view of improving the efficiency of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Corridor ("Middle Corridor"), the GZhD added. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 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. The SAVE Act which provides states with tooks to stop illegal aliens and other non-citizens from illegally voting in American elections as well as requirements for election officials to guard against such illegal voting has passed the House of Representatives by vote of 218 to 198. All Republicans and five sensible Democrats voted for it, while most of the Democrats, 198 of them voted against it. There is only one reason a politician would vote against such a common sense measure, and that is because their party wants to cheat by voting illegal aliens in the 2024 election. Elon Musk warned about that in one of his tweets, that Democrats "want to cheat" with illegal alien votes, and now the Democrats in Congress have proved Musk correct. https://thefederalist.com/2024/07/10/theres-only-one-reason-democrats-oppose-requiring-proof-of-citizenship-to-vote/ https://amac.us/newsline/society/house-passes-save-act-bill-to-stop-illegal-aliens-from-voting-and-safeguard-elections/ Meanshile, in response the governor of Idaho has issued an executive order against illegal aliens voting. https://www.zerohedge.com/political/idaho-issues-executive-order-blocking-noncitizens-voting Ray Stevens music satire on illegal immigration: "Come to the USA" When free speech champion Elon Musk bought Twitter (X), opened it to free speech, and outted the political censorship of the previous management, he was hit with an orchestrated campaign to destroy Twitter's advertising revenue. Now Musk in fighting back and says he intends to sue the "perpetrators and collaborators" behind the boycott. Hopefully he will put those leftwing thugs and enemies of free speech out of business for good. Using its subpoena power, a commitee of the US House uncovered the trail of censorship involved in this attack on Twitter. Musk will exploit that information to sue those responsible and hold them financially responsible for their censorship campaign against free speech. It was discovered among other things, that the instigator of the campaign against Twitter was European green energy grifter Ormsted. Musk also indicated he would work with state attorney generals to criminally prosecute those behind the boycot. https://www.zerohedge.com/political/musk-announces-x-sue-perpetrators-and-collaborators-behind-advertising-censorship-cartel Musk is also fighting censorship from the globalist totalitarians running the EU. He has outted them for trying to do a secret deal to censor X/Twitter at EU bureaucrat direction without letting anyone know the censorship was being done. Musk refused and revealed that other social media companies had knuckled under. He told the EU that he was ready to fight them in court if they tried to fine X/Twitter over censorship demands. The EU has been on a path to make it either the EUSSR or the Fourth Reich. https://www.breitbart.com/europe/2024/07/12/illegal-secret-deal-musk-claims-european-union-tried-to-blackmail-x-into-censorship/ Go get 'em, Elon. The Iowa Board of Medicine has agreed to reinstate a pain physicians' license who was charged with sexually abusing a patient, the Iowa Capital Dispatch reported July 10. In December 2018, Bettendorf, Iowa-based Venkateswara Karuparthy, MD, was criminally charged with sexual abuse in Illinois for allegedly fondling a colleague while providing medical care. He agreed to refrain from practicing medicine in Iowa following the charges. The victim then sued Karuparthy and Integrative Pain Centers, where he was working at the time, alleging he injected her with a drug that impaired her ability and then assaulted her. He denied the allegations, and in June 2021, pleaded guilty to one count of reckless conduct and one count of assault. He was ordered to pay $2,500 and complete a mental health evaluation and treatment. The Iowa Board of Medicine ruled his license to be free and clear of any restriction, in July 2022, according to the report, purportedly unaware that Dr. Karuparthys license had expired. In January 2023, Karuparthy applied for reinstatement. In June 2024, the board charged Dr. Karuparthy with violating the law in the practice of medicine, but the board records do not specify what led to that charge. The board also entered into an agreement to settle the matter his license will be on probation for one year and subject to board monitoring. Dr. Karuparthy has also agreed that while his license is on probation he will have a licensed medical professional present for all patient examinations, treatments and consultations. Minneapolis-based University of Minnesota plans to shutter a nurse practitioner-led clinic at the end of October, according to a July 10 report from the Star Tribune. In 2023, the university shuttered another nurse practitioner-led clinic at its clinics and surgery center building. Since the Minneapolis clinic opened in 2015, the university has provided more than $3 million in operational subsidies. Nurse practitioners at the Minneapolis clinic cared for an average of 800 patients per year, according to the report. The university medical school continues to support five other community clinics that do not receive state or local funding. University of Minnesota Physicians is working to find other jobs for clinic staff within the health system, and patients are being notified and offered help in finding a new clinic location. "Despite its positive health outcomes and exceptionally high patient satisfaction scores, the nurse practitioner clinic has not been financially viable," Connie Delaney, PhD, dean of the university's school of nursing, told the Star Tribune. "The U.S. continues to face a significant shortage of primary care providers ... but the financial model to sustain these [nurse-practitioner led] primary care practices has not evolved." The system also cited decreasing reimbursement rates as a key problem leading to the clinic's closure. Akron (Ohio) Children's Hospital's new pediatric ASC will open its doors July 23. Akron Children's Outpatient Surgery Center in Beachwood, Ohio, will initially offer pediatric gastroenterology, orthopedic and ENT surgeries, according to a July 3 news release from the hospital. It plans to add other pediatric surgical specialties by early 2025. "We are replicating the care we provide in our outpatient surgery centers in Akron and Boardman with the same surgeons, anesthesiologists and surgical services staff caring for patients in Beachwood," Daniel Goldstein, MD, medical director of the new surgery center, said in the release. The hospital is also opening a pediatric urgent care center on the same campus as well as a specialty care office with pediatric cardiologists, neurologists and other specialists, according to the release. Joplin, Mo.-based Freeman Health System's new Kansas hospital officially has a name and location. The 50-bed Freeman Southeast Kansas Hospital will be built in Frontenac, according to a July 10 news release shared with Becker's. The $168 million hospital is expected to create 500 to 1,000 jobs. The 170,000-square-foot facility will include an emergency department, intensive care unit, outpatient and inpatient surgery, medical and radiation oncology, maternity and pediatrics, the release said. Online trackers are prevalent on the websites of the largest healthcare companies in the U.S., often without the awareness of the patients they serve, Bloomberg reported July 11. A Bloomberg analysis found that trackers from Meta Platforms' Facebook were able to access sensitive information such as dates of birth and phone numbers on Cigna Group's pharmacy unit website. Additionally, partial Social Security numbers entered on UnitedHealth Group's pharmacy benefit division website could be sent to Adobe's marketing service. Websites affiliated with CVS Health allowed Social Security numbers, passwords and dates of birth to be read by analytics company Quantum Metric. A Meta representative told the news outlet that advertisers are not supposed to transmit sensitive personal information via the company's tools, and that Meta's system is engineered to filter out such data when it is detected. CVS Health told Bloomberg that they have measures in place to restrict or encrypt identifiable information before sharing it with third-party vendors. Representatives from Cigna, UnitedHealth, Adobe and Quantum Metric declined to comment or did not respond to Bloomberg's requests for a statement. Additionally, the investigation revealed that websites run by nine of the 10 largest publicly traded health insurance, hospital and lab companies had advertising and analytics trackers installed on user registration or login pages, where personal information could be accessed by third-party companies. This data was gathered using a browser tool from Toronto-based Feroot Security, which specializes in identifying and removing web trackers. According to the report, privacy advocates have warned that trackers on health websites and apps might expose intimate details of patients' lives, such as prescriptions, pregnancy status and mental health treatment, to advertisers and data brokers without consent. A Feroot study from 2023 found that 86% of healthcare and telehealth websites collected data without users' consent, sending it to big tech companies. Another analysis published in JAMA in 2024 found that 96% of 100 hospital websites transmitted information to third-party companies, often without disclosing this in their privacy policies. Federal regulators have long sought to curb the collection of personal data on health websites. The Federal Trade Commission has fined telehealth companies for sharing user data, and HHS issued guidance that online trackers could violate federal health privacy rules. However, a recent court ruling in Texas limited HHS' ability to penalize healthcare companies for using trackers, complicating enforcement efforts. Trackers, also known as pixel trackers, collect personal data by recording user behavior on websites. This data fuels a $250 billion market for personal information sold to advertisers, according to the report. For example, Bloomberg found that CVS's Aetna unit's privacy policy indicates that it collects a wide range of personal data, including Social Security numbers and browsing behavior, which could be used by trackers to gather sensitive information. Legal actions are on the rise. A lawsuit against Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente alleges that trackers collected and transmitted patients' names, internet addresses and search terms to tech companies such as Google, X (formerly Twitter) and Microsoft's Bing. Kaiser Permanente has removed the trackers and is seeking to dismiss the case. Another lawsuit against the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association claims that a website for the federal employees health plan sent data to TikTok and other tech companies. In response to growing pressure, some healthcare companies have started removing trackers from their websites. However, the full extent of the data collected and its eventual use remains unclear, according to Bloomberg. Becker's Hospital Review has reported on a number of CEO transitions this year, including several at prominent health systems. From Dr. Rod Hochman's retirement from Providence to Dr. Peter Slavin taking a job at Cedars-Sinai Health System, the following moves are among those that captured the most attention of readers. Note: This list includes transitions that have been among the most popular with readers in terms of page views and is not exhaustive. 1. Michael Zimmerman was dismissed as CEO of John C. Fremont Healthcare District in Mariposa, Calif., on April 24 less than five months on the job. It also voted to appoint Pat Ryan of consulting firm Force 10 Partners, who most recently served as CEO of Sutter Health's Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley, Calif., as interim CEO. 2. Brett Esrock, executive vice president, CFO and COO of Health First, is leaving the Rockledge, Fla.-based organization following the hiring of an external candidate for the CEO role. Gaithersburg, Md.-based Adventist HealthCare announced in April that its president and CEO, Terry Forde, will leave the helm on Aug. 2 to become president and CEO of Health First. 3. Anthony Boutin, MD, was dismissed as president and CEO at Nassau University Medical Center in East Meadow, N.Y. Nassau Health Care Corp. board members voted unanimously Jan. 12 to begin searching for a new leader, Newsday reported. Megan Ryan, the corporation's general counsel, was selected as interim president and CEO. 4. Craig Lambrecht, MD, resigned in March as CEO of the combined Billings Clinic-Logan Health system. Clint Seger, MD, chief physician executive of the health system and CEO of Billings (Mont.) Clinic, and Kevin Abel, president of Logan Health Whitefish and Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell, were named co-CEOs of the system. 5. Terrell Neal, BSN, resigned as CEO of Monroe County Hospital in Forsyth, Ga., after less than four months. Kerry Trapnell, chief administrative officer of Aletheia Health Partners, the hospital's management company, will serve as interim CEO. 6. Rod Hochman, MD, president and CEO of Renton, Wash.-based Providence, will retire at the end of the year, capping a 45-year career in healthcare, including nearly two decades with the Providence family of organizations. His successor has not been named. 7. Peter Slavin, MD, was appointed president and CEO for Los Angeles-based Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Health System. Dr. Slavin will succeed Thomas Priselac, who is retiring. 8. Peter Fine, CEO of Phoenix-based Banner Health, retired June 30. Amy Perry, who joined Banner as president and COO in November 2021, was selected as the new president and CEO following Mr. Fine's retirement. Kaiser Permanente's medical school in Pasadena, Calif., is extending its tuition waiver policy for one year, allowing a sixth cohort to attend tuition-free. The school's website said it will waive all tuition and fees (including disability insurance) for the next incoming class entering and over their four years at the school. The waiver has been available as well to the previous five cohorts. "The offering of free tuition for all four years of school has made an incredible impact for the first classes of students at the new medical school, and the school is thrilled to extend this offer to the entering class of 2025," a spokesperson told Becker's. The Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, named in honor of Oakland, Calif.-based Kaiser Permanente's late chair and CEO, opened in July 2020. The school's first commencement ceremony took place May 13. In June, the school announced full accreditation, and it appointed physician, educator, and women's health expert John Dalrymple, MD, to serve as the dean and CEO. Dr. Dalrymple began his new role on July 1. As a leader of one of the nation's largest home hospitals, I urge Congress to pass, and the president to sign, a five-year extension of the Acute Hospital Care at Home waiver before it expires at the end of this year. Failure to do so could create a major disruption for the thousands of patients receiving this care and for the hundreds of home hospitals nationwide. Patients in home hospital receive hospital-level care in the comfort of their own homes. The waiver was issued during the pandemic because CMS recognized that traditional brick-and-mortar hospitals had limited bed capacity and patients were either too scared to come to the hospital to get treatment or eager to leave after being admitted in order to avoid COVID-19. So, in response, health systems worked with CMS to implement a temporary regulation that allowed physicians, paramedics, nurses, and advanced practice providers to begin delivering hospital care in patients' homes, where they felt safe and secure. Today, more than 300 hospitals in 37 states are providing home hospital care to patients. Since 2022 alone, our home hospital care model has served over 3,000 patients a diverse patient population that spans age, gender, ethnicity, income and insurance status. The benefit of home hospital is enormous. Researchers have found through numerous studies that patients and family caregivers prefer home hospital, which delivers excellent clinical outcomes, including substantial reductions in adverse events (e.g., mortality), better patient and family experience, lower caregiver stress, better functional outcomes, high provider satisfaction and shorter lengths of stay. Home hospital also is popular with our clinical staff, who report high job satisfaction when involved in these services. Importantly, home hospital also helps address the capacity challenges many hospitals face, freeing up inpatient beds for those who need around-the-clock care. Being inside a patient's home also provides unexpected benefits. It gives our medical team an opportunity to identify other factors that could be impacting a patient's health issues we would not uncover if the patient was in the hospital. For example, our teams are trained to routinely check the refrigerator and the pantry to understand food availability. They can see if there is hot water and determine if the heat or air conditioning works. Are there any signs of pests or environmental hazards in the home? All of these can create risks to the well-being of the patient. If our team identifies these types of issues, they connect the patient to services that will address them. If Congress fails to act, patients may lose access to this beneficial and innovative care delivery model. Only the most sophisticated home hospital programs will be able to continue providing care through alternative regulatory pathways for only partial reimbursement. This will only further exacerbate inequities in care an outcome no one wants. Home hospital served patients on many levels during the pandemic, and it is serving our patients well today. That is why physicians, physician assistants, nurses, paramedics, pharmacists, physical and occupational therapists, patient advocacy organizations, hospitals, health systems and many others co-signed a letter recently sent to congressional leaders urging them to extend the waiver for at least another five years. We need to pass this extension now. It's a win-win for everyone. In a decision that came down to the wire, New York City-based Mount Sinai's Beth Israel hospital will not close July 12 as initially planned. Along with legal challenges, the health system is waiting on the New York State Department of Health's approval for its revised closure plan. The hospital's closure date now depends on state and legal decisions, but "the urgency and need to close has never been greater," a spokesperson for Mount Sinai said in a July 10 statement shared with Becker's. Mount Sinai submitted an initial closure plan to the health department in October, with a planned closure date of July 12. The health system then submitted a revised July 12 closure plan after the health department shared that the original plan was incomplete. The revised plan included additional information regarding the hospital's engagement with local leaders and other partner hospitals, the hospital's patient volume and clinical services, and its finances. "We chose that specific day because it was the furthest date we believed we could reliably keep the hospital open safely," Brendan Carr, MD, CEO of Mount Sinai, and Elizabeth Sellman, president and COO of Mount Sinai Beth Israel, said in a July 10 internal memo shared with Becker's. "We will, of course, not commence the closure process without approval by the state and until the legal hurdles are cleared, but there is urgency as there are risks associated with keeping the hospital open beyond the proposed date." Dr. Carr and Ms. Sellman detailed their staffing challenges at the hospital since Mount Sinai shared plans to close, with around 450 employees leaving at their own accord. While the health system has worked to recruit and hire additional staff, the efforts have fallen short. The memo also addressed a lawsuit that was filed against both the health department and Mount Sinai to keep the hospital open. "We continue to work collaboratively with the DOH on our safe closure plan," the memo said. "Similarly, the DOH and Mount Sinai have each filed motions to dismiss the legal case. We hope the litigation will be resolved soon and the closure plan approved. But until then we will continue to do our best to maintain and restore services at the hospital." In a statement shared with Becker's, New York City Council member Carlina Rivera called the postponed closure a "relief" but shared concerns over the future of long-term care for patients in the area. "I remain firm in my position that the closure of Beth Israel would have devastating consequences and that mitigations proposed by Mount Sinai remain wholly insufficient to support residents in maintaining their health and well-being," Ms. Rivera said. "It will take years for existing alternative healthcare providers to scale up their infrastructure to meet the demand that will be placed on them, and the state must intervene to halt Mount Sinais hasty efforts to close the hospital down." The health department declined to provide Becker's with a comment, saying the closure plan is still under review. Financially troubled Dallas-based Steward Health Care is under criminal investigation by federal prosecutors at the U.S. Attorney's office in Boston, CBS News reported July 11. "Steward Health Care can confirm it is aware of and cooperating with an investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice," a spokesperson for Steward said in a July 12 statement shared with Becker's. "As a matter of policy, Steward will have no further comment on this investigation as it remains ongoing." Federal prosecutors are investigating allegations including fraud and violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, two sources told the publication. The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 was "enacted for the purpose of making it unlawful for certain classes of persons and entities to make payments to foreign government officials to assist in obtaining or retaining business," according to the Justice Department's website. A deal with the European country of Malta wherein Steward was tapped to operate three state-owned hospitals has gone sour, with the deal now part of a criminal corruption probe. Steward and its executives have not been charged with connection to the Malta situation, CBS reported. Back in the U.S., Steward, which filed for bankruptcy May 6, is looking to offload its 31 hospitals and physician group, Stewardship Health, in an auction. In the latest hit to the health system, UnitedHealth Group's Optum recently backed out of plans to acquire Stewardship Health. The auction dates for some of Steward's hospitals have also been pushed back. The Justice Department declined to provide Becker's with a comment. Becker's has also reached out to Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey's office and will update this story if more information becomes available. Editor's note: This story has been updated as of July 12 at 8:45 a.m. CT. The Federal Trade Commission is preparing to sue UnitedHealth Group, CVS Health and the Cigna Group over their pharmaceutical benefit managers' business practices, The Wall Street Journal reported July 10. The FTC published a report on July 9 alleging PBMs favor their own pharmacies and "wield enormous power" over the types of drugs patients can access and the prices they pay. UnitedHealth Group's OptumRx, Cigna's Express Scripts and CVS' Caremark handle 79% of prescriptions in the U.S., according to the FTC report. Sources familiar with the lawsuit told the Journal the FTC is preparing to file a challenge related to rebates PBMs negotiate with drug manufacturers. The commission is also investigating drug manufacturers' role in the negotiations, one source told the Journal. Spokespeople for CVS Caremark and Express Scripts said PBMs have reduced costs for employers and patients. "CVS Caremark is proud of the work we have done to make insulin more affordable for all Americans with diabetes, and we stand by our record of protecting American businesses, unions and patients from rising prescription-drug prices," a spokesperson told the Journal. "We work to combat the pharmaceutical industrys high prices and lower the cost of thousands of medicines for patients and their health plans, and the data shows that we succeed," an Express Scripts spokesperson said. OptumRx declined to comment to the Journal, but called the FTC's report "incomplete" and "flawed" in a previous statement. FTC Chair Lina Khan said the report shows PBMs are hiking the costs of drugs for patients and can squeeze smaller pharmacies out of business. "The FTC will continue to use all our tools and authorities to scrutinize dominant players across healthcare markets and ensure that Americans can access affordable healthcare," Ms. Khan said July 9. One FTC commissioner, Melissa Holyoak, dissented against the report findings, criticizing the report for process irregularities and a lack of substance. Edison, N.J.-based Hackensack Meridian Health took immediate advantage of the Supreme Court's ruling to overturn Chevron deference. On the same day of the court's ruling, Hackensack filed a lawsuit against HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra challenging the formula for disproportionate share hospital payments. "In this new paradigm, more than ever, the secretarys actions at issue here must fall," Hackensack wrote in the June 28 lawsuit filed in Washington, D.C. federal court. Audrey Murphy, the system's vice president and chief legal officer, told Becker's that HMH has long been concerned about CMS' administration of Medicare statutes. "CMS has interpreted alleged statutory ambiguities in ways that deprive HMH of vital payments, and courts often deferred to those interpretations," Ms. Murphy said. "As the pandemic has proven, ensuring proper payment by Medicare is essential for nonprofit health systems like HMH to continue delivering lifesaving frontline care in a financially stable manner." She said the health system had been following the case closely and by overturning the doctrine, the Supreme Court has "determined that the construction of statutory provisions, even those subject to ambiguity, should lie with the judiciary." "This creates a meaningful opportunity for health systems like HMH to ensure rigorous adherence to the payment policies Congress established," Ms. Murphy said. "As a leader in healthcare, HMH chose to lead this challenge to CMS' administration of its reimbursements." Ms. Murphy said the system's lawsuit "not only fight[s] for past due Medicare reimbursements, but, more importantly, clarity from Medicare on data that determines [supplemental security income] reimbursements, which would allow the health system to ensure future accurate payments." As for future lawsuits, Ms. Murphy said Hackensack is always evaluating its position "with respect to Medicare repayment rules and policies, and it will bring any actions that it believes will best help it achieve its mission of providing lifesaving frontline care." Male nurses make on average around $6,000 more per year compared to their female counterparts despite accounting for only around 10% of registered nurses, according to a recent report from Nurse.com. It is a challenge for chief nursing officers to align with the rest of the C-suite and the challenge is not the same at every institution. "The gendered pay gap in nursing continues to be a significant issue and one that continues to cause major issues in many facets of healthcare," Jennifer Mensik Kennedy, PhD, RN, president of the American Nurses Association, told Becker's. "There has been work to narrow this divide in nursing, but societally it continues to be an issue in every industry, including the female-dominated field of nursing." More men have been applying to the field, Dr. Mensik Kennedy said, but they are often entering specialty or administrative roles that typically come with high pay from the start. "We have seen that it's often easier for men to get promotions and make their way into the higher-earning specialties than it is for women," Dr. Mensik Kennedy said. "This creates imbalanced overrepresentation in the highest-paid specialties, compared to their overall numbers in the nursing population." Additionally, she pointed out that in general, women are less likely to negotiate their salary in any position, but using online resources, data and research can help female nurses make their case. What individual nurses do, however, is only part of the equation. The other half involves hospitals and health systems working to change. Change from within Ryan Smith, MSN, RN, chief clinical officer and interim chief nursing officer at Tallahassee (Fla.) Memorial HealthCare, said that as a male nurse leader, this issue is particularly important to him. At Tallahassee Memorial, Mr. Smith and his team used an approach that barred names and gender of staff to more equitably assess pay of each nurse in the system to bring compensation in line with their years of experience, education and the market. Part of this process also involved transparently explaining why the health system used the methodology it did to calculate salary increases and how it determined what "fair" meant for their market. "You don't see a lot of male chief nursing officers at all," Mr. Smith said. "I was one of two or three graduates in my class. So when I'm now recruiting and having relationships with nursing staff, I really try to make sure that we're getting a full screen of the individual and their skills. I'm very up front about being a humble leader. I spent two years in the bedside. I'm not a clinical expert. My goal is to help facilitate, to help support, to help be that voice, and just to let them do what they need to. There are nurses on the floor that have more experience than I have. My job is just to partner with them, to understand and be transparent. I think people appreciate that." At Lewes, Del.-based Beebe Health, however, Chief Nursing Executive Kathy Tregear, MSN, RN, told Becker's she has not seen much of a gap at her institution regarding pay for bedside nurses. "We make offers based on experience and based on their practice," she said. "So when it comes to our front-line nurses, I honestly I can't say that I've seen a gap. I'm not privy to what happens with pay for advanced practice clinicians. So, is there a difference there? I honestly don't know, but I have not seen it, and I've certainly not seen it here." Closing the gap For both hospital and health system C-suite executives who may be challenged with bringing nursing wages to a more balanced level, Dr. Mensik Kennedy recommends beginning with focused discussion and making sure any pay gap is an ongoing topic. Additionally, she recommends C-suite leaders stay on top of statistics, reports and salary trends across the field while also "conducting regular audits to identify and address disparities, promoting career growth opportunities for female nurses to combat gender-based promotional biases, and utilizing professional organizations and stakeholders to develop effective strategies." Findings from a recent study challenge a push to reclassify low grade prostate cancer, Biopsy Gleason Grade Group 1, as "benign." Anthony D'Amico, MD, PhD, chief of genitourinary radiation oncology at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, led researchers in analyzing data from a 31-year study out of University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf in Germany. The study, published July 2 in European Urology Oncology, reviewed findings from 10,228 GGG 1 prostate cancer patients who underwent a radical prostatectomy. Of the GGG 1 patients, 9,248 were diagnosed by a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) biopsy while 980 were diagnosed by a combination of TRUS and MRI. Adverse pathology was found in 10.33% of patients diagnosed by TRUS and in 7.86% of patients diagnosed by TRUS and MRI. The findings indicate that 1 in 12 of the patients studied had a more aggressive form of prostate cancer than originally diagnosed, the researchers said. Meanwhile, some physicians have called to reclassify lowest-risk prostate cancer to encourage less invasive treatment options. While evidence demonstrates active surveillance is an effective way to manage low-grade prostate cancer, around 40% of men with a lower-grade diagnosis choose more aggressive treatment options, Becker's reported earlier this year. Physicians have proposed referring to it as a premalignant lesion instead. The study identified two risk factors for physicians to use to inform treatment plans: Patients with a high prostate-specific antigen level or patients whose cancer is found in 50% or more of their biopsy samples have a higher risk of disease and death. "For patients with GGG1 who are at heightened risk, we should continue to call their diagnosis cancer," Dr. D'Amico said in a July 9 news release from Somerville-Mass.-based Mass General Brigham. Spine surgeons lauded the FTC's vote to ban noncompetes in April, but a new preliminary injunction has stalled the move from going into effect. Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. Becker's invites all spine surgeon and specialist responses. Next question: What are your strategies to streamline billing at your practice? Please send responses to Carly Behm at cbehm@beckershealthcare.com by 5 p.m. CST Wednesday, July 17. Editor's note: Responses were lightly edited for clarity and length. Question: How are you thinking about the latest developments with the FTC's noncompete ban? Rachel Bratescu, MD. Weill Cornell (New York City): There are numerous lawsuits challenging the FTC's noncompete ban. If the ban ultimately survives it will be interesting to see how it will be enforced for non-profits, given that over half of hospitals claim tax-exempt status. It appears the FTC may employ a two-prong test to determine which non-profits would have to comply with the rule and which would not. As a hospital-employed spine surgeon, it would be favorable for the FTC rule to be allowed and broadly applied. Noncompete clauses decrease patient access to physicians and force physicians to remain in below-market contracts due to ties to a specific geographic area. It is important, however, to also recognize the business realities in terms of the amount of investment that some employers put into building their physician workforce. One potential compromise that warrants more attention would be for a narrow and limited noncompete for the initial years in practice, and as you spend increasing time and develop a patient base in a specific geographic region, for the noncompete area to also expand. Jeffrey Carlson, MD. Orthopaedic & Spine Center (Newport News, Va.): The FTC proposal had given hope to physicians who have a noncompete clause in their contracts. The clauses generally prevent physicians from joining a competing practice and force them to look outside of their current area for a new position if they are dissatisfied. This can be a big hurdle to overcome when making the decision to leave a current practice and move their family, buy and sell homes and create new referral patterns for their practice. That hope of relief has been dashed with the hold and possibly permanent block on this FTC action. I think the noncompete clause is more relevant to employed practitioners. In private practice, the physician owners have little need to look for a new job. The physician owners are the ones making the decisions about how the practice is run and managed. If they aren't happy they can make decisions that will improve the situation. For this reason, the proposed ban and then blocking of the ban, has highlighted the stark differences between employed practice and private practice. Brian Gantwerker, MD. The Craniospinal Center of Los Angeles: I still believe the ban on noncompetes benefits physicians greatly. Now with over 70% of physicians employed, it will, if upheld, reinforce the negotiating power physicians will have in their vocations. In my mind, a ban on noncompetes puts the onus on the employers to create a productive growth environment and to maintain employee satisfaction. Anything that empowers physicians to maintain agency in their job is a good thing. Alex Vaccaro, MD, PhD. Rothman Orthopaedic Institute (Philadelphia): The FTC rule bans noncompetes with very limited exceptions for existing senior executives and bans entering into or enforcing new noncompetes with senior executives. A "senior executive" is defined as a worker (physician or non-physician) who: (1) was in a policy-making position; and (2) received from a person for the employment: (i) total annual compensation of at least $151,164 in the preceding year; or (ii) total compensation of at least $151,164 when annualized if the worker was employed during only part of the preceding year; or (iii) total compensation of at least $151,164 when annualized in the preceding year prior to the workers departure if the worker departed from employment prior to the preceding year and the worker is subject to a noncompete clause. The U.S. Supreme Court further empowered federal judges to interpret ambiguous language in laws by striking the "Chevron deference" (Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo). Federal judges now have the authority to decide what a law means rather than defer to federal agencies interpretation and application of the law. Federal judges will now be able to conduct judicial policymaking without accountability to voters (federal judges are given lifetime appointments, not elected). On July 3, 2024, a federal judge in Texas (Ryan v. FTC) enjoined the FTC noncompete ban on the plaintiff but the court is not globally keeping the FTC from enforcing the ban on all other employers, for now. As applied in the healthcare sector, the FTC rule at this time may not cover employment with not-for-profit hospitals but this is unclear and related more to the tax-exempt nature of the institution and the methods of how profit dollars are distributed. Outside of this gray area, the FTC ruling can cut both ways for physicians and health care costs in general. If the noncompete ban remains in place it can bring down barriers limiting where physicians can practice and create a greater ability for physicians to move between health systems/group practices. The other side of that scenario is such freedom of movement can drive up costs by creating a bidding war for physicians and the wealthiest health systems will outcompete those health systems/areas in greater need of medical professionals/support. Those health systems in need of support will inevitably seek support from federal and state agencies, thus overall driving up the cost of healthcare. Vijay Yanamadala, MD. Hartford (Conn.) HealthCare: While physician noncompete clauses have been touted to limit physician mobility, in general, they are confined to short periods of time (generally about 1 year) and also in limited geographic scope (15-mile radius from the primary site). As the new rule is being implemented, one of the biggest questions remains whether it will apply to most physicians, spine surgeons included. Specifically, the final rule states that senior executives will be excluded from the new rule. The final rule defines senior executives as workers earning more than $151,164 annually and who are in policy-making positions. Most physicians will be earning more than this cap and are going to be in policy-making positions to the extent that they will contribute to defining clinical policy. Should the rule apply to physicians, it will certainly free physicians to become more mobile than they are currently. However, I do not believe that noncompete clauses are the major source of physicians remaining employed in a particular position or with a particular employer. Physicians in general are inherently much more mobile than most other vocations. Christian Zimmerman, MD. St. Alphonsus Medical Group and SAHS Neuroscience Institute (Boise, Idaho): It appears and has been notably reported that this ruling may be somewhat arbitrary because the FTC lacked sufficient evidence as to why they chose to impose/uphold a potentially sweeping forbiddance on all noncompete contractual agreement. This will certainly prohibit entering or even enforcing virtually all noncompete contracts, instead of targeting specific or overly restrictive noncompetes, which in healthcare, mandate relocation and pursuance of employment within a geographic boundary. This capricious ruling also seems to obviate the question, by the commission, to consider adequate alternatives for right-to-work states and demonstrated community needs. In so doing, the court issued a preliminary injunction while further legal challenges are currently being levied against the ruling. Ryan Reynolds has said wrapping on Deadpool & Wolverine was the most depressed he has ever been walking off a film set as he feels more free playing the character than almost anything else in the world. The Hollywood actor, 47, returned to his career-defining role as the foul-mouthed, anti-hero Deadpool for the upcoming collaboration film, which sees Hugh Jackman reprise his role as the almost indestructible Wolverine. It is the third film centred on the Marvel character Deadpool, following the success of the 2016 original and the sequel in 2018. Hugh Jackman, Emma Corin, Ryan Reynolds and Shawn Levy attending Deadpool and Wolverine UK sneak peek at Eventim Apollo in London (Ian West/PA) Speaking to the PA news agency about Deadpools fourth-wall breaking comedic style at film sneak peak event in London, he said: Deadpool is one of those characters whos very unpredictable. I dont know if I could speak specifically to that style, other than to say that I feel more free when I play the character than almost anything else in the world. I recognise how rare that air is to breathe. And on our last day of shooting, I dont think Ive ever been more sad or depressed to be walking off of a film set every day. Jackman admitted it was incredible to watch Reynolds work as he feels his portrayal is so funny. The Australian actor, who has had an on-going faux feud with Reynolds for years, jokingly added: And in life, Ryans really dull, really dull, so its its amazing to watch his transformation. Jackman has played Wolverine since the 2000 film X-Men through to 2016s X-Men: Apocalypse, where he has a brief uncredited scene, and in three spin-off films including 2017s Logan. There was also a glimpse of Wolverine in 2018s Deadpool 2 but he will be star alongside Reynolds in the sequel, which is being directed by Stranger Things director and producer Shawn Levy. Jackman promised the upcoming film will solve some unanswered aspects of his characters story, saying: For me, having played this character for 24 years, theres whole sides of Wolverine youve never seen before in this movie. These guys wrote it so beautifully and carefully. And I can tell you, fans are going to dig it. Theres some stuff Ive been scratching around for a long time to try and solve, and we solve it here. Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman star as Deadpool and Wolverine in the upcoming superhero film (Ian West/PA) After last fully portraying the character in the third Wolverine film, Logan, Jackman said he did not realise how hard it would be physically to return to the role, but that it was absolutely worth it. He said: I really thought I was done. And then when I saw Deadpool one, I was like Hmm hang on a sec. And then five or six years later, I was driving and I just knew in my bones I wanted to do that. I knew for fans it would be the thing theyve waited for. I knew itd be a dynamic that wed never seen before. I had no idea how hard it would be, physically, at age 55 to do it but its absolutely worth it. I loved it every second. Reynolds added that the film, which is being released on July 25, will be an ode to joy and filled with surprises. At its best, movies like this, you want to feel that wish fulfilment, he said. You want to walk out of the theatre just feeling utterly filled with joy. Then also its filled with surprises. Im kind of amazed weve been able to get away with this many surprises for this long. The movie will be out in two weeks so we wont have to hide anymore. Itll feel good to not be hiding anymore. The new crossover film will also feature The Crown actor Emma Corrin, while Morena Baccarin will reprise her character Vanessa Carlysle, Leslie Uggams as Blind Al and Karan Soni as Dopinder. The cast will also star Catastrophe actor Rob Delaney and Successions Matthew Macfadyen. Deadpool & Wolverine will be available in cinemas from July 25. I'm not taking liberties with the pain, grief and the suffering that happened during the Troubles Ahead of his latest book launch in Carrickfergus, Bryan J Mason discusses his inspiration behind the first release in his new crime series with Matthew Wilson Author Bryan J Mason Matthew Wilson Thu 11 Jul 2024 at 07:03 Bryan Mason isnt from Northern Ireland, first visiting here in the 1990s when the Troubles were still raging. Senior judges have rejected an appeal by the Northern Ireland Secretary of State that the High Court went too far by declaring the UK Governments response to demands for a public inquiry into the murder of solicitor Pat Finucane unlawful. : Pro-Vice Chancellor for Global Engagement, Professor Margaret Topping (centre) with Rodney Ford, Minister Counselor for Public Affairs at the US Mission to the United Kingdom in London (l) and Embassy Spokesperson Cindy Harvey The first recipients of a Queens University scholarship created by former US president Bill Clinton and his wife, former secretary of state Hillary Clinton are set to head to the US. Launched in April 2023, the Clinton Scholarship fund was created as part of the Good Friday Agreement anniversary conference held at the university last year. It is designed to remove financial barriers for local students to undertake study opportunities in the USA during their degree at Queens to broaden horizons and deliver wider opportunities. The first group of students in receipt of the funding will travel to universities in various parts of the US, including North Carolina and New York this week. Queens Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, said the funds created by Mr and Mrs Clinton, the latter of whom is currently vice-chancellor of Queen's University, will allow students to experience new opportunities. We aim to develop our students as global citizens, equipping them with the skills to work internationally, and the opportunities to build a career locally, meeting the needs of key sectors and supporting growth of the economy in Northern Ireland, he said. We believe it is important that local students who may not typically have access to international study, due to circumstance rather than ability, are given the same opportunity to participate. This principle is at the very core of the Clinton Scholarship Fund: providing opportunities, making real connections, and working together to build something bigger. Pro-Vice Chancellor for Global Engagement, Professor Margaret Topping, added: The Clinton Scholarship Fund was established with the generous support of our donors without them, this life-changing opportunity simply wouldnt be possible. The Scholarship Fund gives students the opportunity to spend anything from one week to one year in the United States. They might go and have career development opportunities, or they may study in one of our partner institutions in the US. But whatever they are doing, those experiences are life-changing, theyre horizon expanding, and they open up a whole new world of possibility for our students which they wouldnt otherwise have. Three of the recipients have also spoken about receiving the funding including Kyle Jones who studies International Relations and Conflict Studies and is heading to the University of North Carolina for a semester. He said without the funding from the Clintons, studying in the US wouldnt have been possible. Receiving the scholarship has allowed me to go somewhere I would never have been able to go. Im the first person in my family to go to university never mind travel to the US, so without the scholarship funding, it wouldnt be possible. People like me, with my background, dont get these opportunities often, he said. Fellow Clinton fund honoree criminology student Aoife Press added: I come from a low-income background so without this scholarship, I wouldnt have been able to afford it. Being able to have this opportunity is such a blessing. Id love to thank the donors I would not be able to have this opportunity to broaden my horizons without them. While Student Peter Coran also said: The Clinton Scholarship will have a huge impact on my future career prospects. Its a fantastic opportunity to visit the States and meet with former Queens alumni and other professionals and see how theyve got there, what their story is and how theyve developed over time. I will not shirk tough decisions on reform, new Health Minister Mike Nesbitt promises Expert Professor Bengoa behind 2016 report has already been invited back to assist Stormont Health Minister, Mike Nesbitt said: 'I'm not afraid to take difficult decisions' Liam Tunney Wed 10 Jul 2024 at 22:38 Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has said he is not afraid to take tough decisions including a potential return of Professor Rafael Bengoa. The bonfire at the Highfield estate in west Belfast where a poster of Michelle ONeill has been erected on July 11th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) The Loyalist Village bonfire with threats on July 11th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) A sectarian sign has appeared on a bonfire in South Belfast identifying all Catholics as targets. A message hung from the pyre directed insults at the Belfast Telegraph and Irish News, adding well decide It comes as SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has also been directly threatened in a message that appeared on a bonfire in Newtownabbey, alongside a effigy hanging from a piece of wood. Police confirmed the threat to Mr Eastwood is being treated as a hate crime. The sectarian sign appeared on the pyre in the Village area of south Belfast on Thursday. The bonfire has been built off the Donegall Road, close to the Westlink. It also includes the threat ATAT, which is understood to mean All Taigs are Targets, alongside a set of crosshairs. South Belfast MLA Matthew OToole described it as deeply dispiriting and unrepresentative of the decent people of the Village who want to enjoy the 12th. He added: There would be so much more goodwill around this holiday if there was enough leadership to celebrate without lurid expressions of hate. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content Alliance Party MLA Kate Nicholl condemned the sectarian threats. She told the Irish News: Any displays of culture should be safe and respectful. Showing such blatant sectarianism and issuing threats is not acceptable and should be condemned by all. The Assembly member said she intends to highlight her concerns. The bonfire at the Highfield estate in west Belfast where a poster of Michelle ONeill has been erected on July 11th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) I will be raising this matter with the authorities - we cannot go through this every year where people are deliberately offensive and threatening to others, she said. This is a small minority of people and while not representative of the wider area, we cannot allow this sort of behaviour to be normalised. A threat directed at SDLP leader Colum Eastwood also appeared on a bonfire in Newtownabbey and an effigy was seen hanging. The message is an apparent reference to his oath at Westminster during the week when he swore allegiance to the King under protest and added that his true allegiance was to the people of Derry and Ireland. A threat to SDLP leader Colum Eastwood. In response, Mr Eastwood said: Nobody should be subjected to threats simply for seeking to represent their community. "I won't be intimidated by anyone from speaking up for the people of Derry and Northern Ireland. "Everyone has the right to celebrate their cultural heritage but these displays of hate have to stop. "I would urge political and community representatives to show leadership and use their influence to end scenes like this every year." Police said they are investigating material placed on a bonfire in Rathcoole area of Newtownabbey, which is being treating as a hate crime. The PSNI added: We will continue to engage with partners and those who have influence in the local community in order to prevent the commission of offences and keep people safe. Its understood that following engagement between neighbourhood policing teams and the local community, the board has been removed from the bonfire before it was lit. Meanwhile, a poster of First Minister Michelle ONeill has appeared atop a bonfire in the Highfield estate, along with Irish tricolours. News Catch Up: Thursday 11 July 2024 Orangemen from around the world have arrived in Northern Ireland to take part in Twelfth of July celebrations, with the largest ever delegation from Australia participating in festivities this year. Kids as young as eight behind racist attacks that forced family to flee home Yobs congregating around loyalist bonfire in east Belfast blamed for latest hate outrage Watch: Family forced to move from east Belfast home after racist attacks by kids as young as eight Allison Morris Thu 11 Jul 2024 at 07:06 Children as young as eight were involved in racist attacks that forced a family to flee their home in east Belfast. A 'police car' on top of the Moygashel Bonfire A former senior PSNI officer has criticised the placement of a car on top of a bonfire in a Co Tyrone village as despicable and disgraceful. Images of the silver Vauxhall Vectra, which was modified to look like a PSNI car, on top of the pyre in Moygashel emerged on Tuesday. It was destroyed last night as the bonfire was lit, attended by around 400 people. Read more Watch: Mock police car set ablaze as two bonfires lit to begin Twelfth celebrations in Northern Ireland The bonfire has attracted criticism in recent years because of its controversial toppers. Watch: Mock police car set alight on Tyrone bonfire to mark traditional Twelfth commemorations Retired PSNI officer Jon Burrows referenced attacks on police in the past, including in Derry on Tuesday and the attempted murder of DCI John Caldwell in Omagh. I think its disgraceful, particularly given the history of attacks on police officers and police vehicles, said Mr Burrows, who had called for the removal of the vehicle. As recently as last night, police were attacked, and last year a PSNI officer was almost murdered in Co Tyrone. This is just despicable. Its not too late for whoever is responsible to show leadership and have this car taken down from the bonfire. You also have to remember theres a large police community in Northern Ireland, including retired officers, and seeing something like this could be very traumatic. Ulster Unionist Party leader Doug said placing the car on the bonfire was truly pathetic. This is absolutely disgraceful. Those responsible undermine their own cries for cultural respect, he wrote on social media. A police car on top of the Moygashel bonfire DUP MLA Trevor Clarke, a member of the Policing Board, also criticised the stunt. Eleventh of July bonfires are a tradition which marks those fires lit to welcome the arrival of King William, he said. They are part of a positive celebration and should be celebrated as such, rather than used to attack or demonise anyone else. Placing a police car on top of a bonfire isnt part of a positive celebration. Sadly, it was first being reported on around the same time as officers were coming under attack in the Creggan area of Londonderry. The vast majority of bonfires will take place without controversy or attempts to deliberately cause offence. Police officers will be on duty in many of those areas to help keep people safe. Those officers deserve our support, rather than facing either physical attack or displays such as this. Alliance councillor Eddie Roofe also hit out at the display. He said: [It is] shameful to continuously see such acts of intimidation and offence during bonfire celebrations. This bonfire in previous years has been called out for its offensive and sectarian displays, and it appears that this year is no different. Loyalist activist Jamie Bryson, who addressed a crowd in Moygashel last year, defended the placing of the car. I think this is a bit of edgy artistic expression, a bit like, for example, Kneecap, he said. If that type of expression is welcome from the nationalist community, then I see no reason why similar unionist efforts would not draw similar applause, unless of course there are double standards. An Irish tricolour and a poster of Leo Varadkar were placed on top of the bonfire last year. Also placed on the same pyre were a boat and a banner reading: Good Friday Agreement? That ship has sailed. Belfast's main Twelfth of July parade route will continue along its usual 10-mile walk this year. This years march will leave Belfast Orange Hall, at Carlisle Circus, from 10am. A wreath laying ceremony will take place at the Cenotaph in the grounds of the City Hall shortly before 10.30am and the parade will then proceed via Donegall Square West, Bedford Street, Dublin Road, Shaftsbury Square, Bradbury Place, Lisburn Road, Balmoral Avenue and Malone Road to the field at Barnetts Demesne. The return parade is due to leave the field and proceed towards the city centre at 3.30pm. Killylea, Co Armagh Billed as the largest Orange gathering in the world on the day, there is expected to be around 40,000 spectators at the Co Armagh demonstration in Killylea. Eleven District Lodges, 150 private lodges and almost 5,000 brethren will be on parade. Almost 70 bands will accompany the lodges. The main parade will commence at approximately 10.15am. Ballymena, Co Antrim Ballymena is the only town in Northern Ireland that has a Twelfth demonstration every year. Twenty-seven lodges and 15 bands will take part in the celebrations. The parade will proceed from the field at 12.30pm it will proceed to the demonstration field and is expected to finish around 2.30pm. The return parade will leave the field at 4.30pm. Carrickfergus, Co Antrim The parade in Carrickfergus will include 60 lodges and around 40 bands with numerous Lambeg drummers, who will accompany up to 2,000 GOLI members. Ahead of the main parade, the host district and bands will leave the King William III Memorial Orange Hall at 10am to the assembly point before the march begins at 11am. The main parade will be led by Whitehead Temperance LOL 968. The parade will leave the field at 4pm. Police car on top of Northern Ireland bonfire Cloughmills, Co Antrim Forty-three lodges will be on parade in Cloughmills, accompanied by 29 bands. The main parade will get underway at 1pm taking a route from the assembly field at Drumadoon Road, along Main Street to the demonstration field on Ballycreagh Road. The parade will be led by Duneaney LOL 1025, accompanied by Duneaney Accordion Band. The return parade will get underway at 4pm. Ahoghill, Co Antrim Sixteen lodges will take part in Ahoghill parade, along with nine bands. The main parade will move off at 12.30pm from Killane Road to the demonstration field at the Ahoghill Community Centre. The Lambeg Drumming Tattoo will follow the platform and involve all the lambeg drums and fifes that were on parade. The return parade will get underway at 3.50pm. Broughshane, Co Antrim The Braid Twelfth of July will be held in Broughshane for the second year in a row and are being hosted by Buckna LOL 489. The parade, which will feature two sets of lambeg drums and nine bands, will start at 12pm. Speakers on the day will include Bro Tom Elliott UUP MLA. The parade will make its return at 4pm. Gilford, Co Down The village of Gilford will host one of the larger gatherings on the Twelfth of July. It is anticipated that there will be around 10,000 attendees on the day to watch over 60 lodges and bands from south west Down. Leading the parade will be Gilford District LOL No 13, accompanied by Blackskull Orange and Blue Flute band. The parade will begin at 12pm and will return at 4pm. Watch: The Loyalist Corcrain bonfire in Portadown is lit as the Twelfth celebrations begin Newtownards, Co Down More than 40 lodges and 30 bands will be on parade in Newtownards, with a selection of flute, accordion and pipe bands taking part. The main parade will commence at 1pm and will consist of over 30 bands and 1,000 Orangemen and women. The return parade will commence at 4.30pm. Ballynahinch, Co Down It is anticipated more than 1,000 brethren from 60 lodges will take part in the Ballynahinch Twelfth parade, accompanied by around 40 bands. The main parade will leave from the Belfast Road at 12pm and will pause briefly at the arch to cover the road with water from the Boyne River. The return parade will leave the demonstration field at 4pm. Annalong, Co Down The Co Down seaside village of Annalong will host the Twelfth demonstration for the first time since 2017. As is tradition, Kilkeel lodges will walk the five-mile route to Annalong. They will meet their fellow brethren at the Grove Road, before the district parades through Annalong to the demonstration field. The district will start their homeward parade at 3.30pm. The Kilkeel and country lodges will return to the town where they will parade before finishing at the Orange hall. Irvinestown, Co Fermanagh As well as local lodges in the district, Irvinestown will also host visiting lodges from the Republic of Ireland, representing Donegal, Leitrim, Cavan and Monaghan and their bands. Tempo District LOL No 16, accompanied by Tempo Silver Band, will lead the parade as it begins at 12pm. The return parade will get underway at 3pm, finishing at approximately 4.30pm. Londonderry The City of Londonderry Grand Orange Lodge will welcome eight districts made up of 57 private lodges and 36 bands. The main parade will depart from Glendermott Road at 11.30am. Representatives from the Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland, the Ladies Association of Scotland, the Grand Orange Lodge of Canada and the Grand Orange Lodge of Australia will all take part. The return parade will depart from Wilton Park at 3.45pm. Moneymore, Co Londonderry Almost 50 bands and lodges are due to take part in the Moneymore parade. All District Lodges will assemble on the Desertmartin Road from 10.30am in a field opposite the junction with the Tulnagee Road and will move to the demonstration field on the Moneyhaw Road. Benburb, Co Tyrone Seven districts from the Mid Ulster/south Tyrone area will parade with 65 lodges and approximately 45 bands. The main parade will get underway at 12.30pm, leaving the assembly field at Drumgoose Road. The return parade will begin at approximately 3.35pm. Newtownstewart, Co Tyrone A total of 58 lodges and around 40 accompanying bands will participate in the Newtownstewart parade. The main parade will start at 12.30pm and the return leg will commence at 4pm. LOL 850 from Omagh District will be celebrating its 200th anniversary years old, while both the Omagh District Junior Boys Lodge and the Castlederg Sisters of Elizabeth Junior Girls Lodge will be out on parade for their very first Twelfth. Ballygawley, Co Tyrone The Clogher Valley demonstration will be hosted this year by Annahoe District LOL No 6. Twenty-two lodges and bands from Fivemiletown and Annahoe Districts will begin the parade at 12.30pm. There will be a representation of Brethren from Co Monaghan, particularly from Truagh District, with a number of ladies from the WLOL will be on parade. Derriaghy, Co Antrim The South Antrim Combine Twelfth celebrations will be hosted by Derriaghy District LOL No 11 in Derriaghy and Dunmurry. Upwards of 2,000 Orangemen and women, accompanied by around 20 bands will take part. The main parade will get underway at 11.30am with the return parade beginning at 4pm. The leader of the DUP has said the Twelfth of July is a day for expressing our faith, our culture and our heritage in a statement ahead of tomorrows festivities. The Loyalist Corcrain bonfire in Portadown is lit as the Twelfth celebrations get underway in Northern Ireland on July 11th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 11th July 2024 General view of the Corcrain Redmanville bonfire in Portadown., County Armagh. Most bonfires are lit in some unionist areas on 11th July to kick off the Twelfth celebrations. They mark the Battle of the Boyne in 1690 when the Protestant King William III - also known as King Billy and William of Orange - defeated Catholic King James II. Photo by Kelvin Boyes /Press Eye The Loyalist Corcrain bonfire in Portadown is lit as the Twelfth celebrations get underway in Northern Ireland on July 11th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) The Loyalist Corcrain bonfire in Portadown is lit as the Twelfth celebrations get underway in Northern Ireland on July 11th 2024 (Photo by Kevin Scott) Hundreds have gathered to watch the lighting of two loyalist bonfires as Twelfth celebrations get underway in Northern Ireland. The Corcrain bonfire in Portadown was set alight at 11:30pm almost 24 hours ahead of the traditional ignition. The unique bonfire featuring a fireworks display was attended by around 800 people despite heavy rain and a childrens fun day being cancelled. Firefighters doused nearby houses and a block of flats as a precaution shortly after the pyre collapsed. Just over 15 miles away in Moygashel, a controversial bonfire was attended by a further 400 spectators. A replica police car, described as edgy artistic expression by loyalist blogger Jamie Bryson was burnt as part of the celebrations. The pyre came under scrutiny on Tuesday night when the Belfast Telegraph revealed that a replica police vehicle was placed on top of the bonfire. Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party, Doug Beattie described the placing of the 1.3 tonne Vauxhall Vectra as absolutely disgraceful. Watch: Mock police car set alight on Tyrone bonfire to mark traditional Twelfth commemorations Later on Thursday a record breaking pyre is due to be set alight in Larnes Craigyhill Estate. The 205ft pyre topped with an aircraft beacon has drummed up mixed opinions both on social media and internationally. On Monday night professional base jumper Stephen Maginnis went viral after he parachuted off the bonfire. Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph, Stephen also known as Sexy Drummer Bai said he had been planning a jump like that for around five years. Ive been base jumping for 11 years, and 13 years skydiving, so Ive a lot of experience of being around the world; in the Alps a lot, up in the mountains a lot, he said. Every jump you take differently and I like to do stuff thats never been done before. Watch: The Loyalist Corcrain bonfire in Portadown is lit as the Twelfth celebrations begin Farages Reform UK to miss out on millions in funding whether TUVs Jim Allister takes whip or not TUV leader has not said if he will join Nigel Farages party but sat next to him in House of Commons earlier this week Jim Allister (Photo: Niall Carson/PA Wire) Andrew Madden Wed 10 Jul 2024 at 22:32 Reform UK would not be able to claim millions of pounds in extra public funding if TUV leader Jim Allister took the whip of Nigel Farages party, according to Commons rules. Hilary Benn and Micheal Martin to discuss Legacy Act in relations reset summit NI Secretary of State and Tanaiste in talks at Hillsborough Castle Newly appointed NI Secretary of State Hilary Benn. Pic: Lucy North/PA Wire Liam Tunney Thu 11 Jul 2024 at 07:12 Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn will meet Tanaiste Micheal Martin at Hillsborough Castle today as both governments work towards restoring better relations between the UK and Ireland. Public transport routes are acting as corridors of crime in Dublin, a Fianna Fail representative has said. Cormac Devlin TD made the remark as several Dublin members of the Fianna Fail parliamentary party announced a series of proposals on anti-social behaviour in Irelands capital. It follows a survey of 1,500 constituents carried out by the Fianna Fail politicians, which they say found that 90% of respondents supported a call for a 24/7 criminal District Court in Dublin. While acknowledging respondents were self-selecting, they said more than 70% of those questioned said they had witnessed drug dealing and drug use in public. In response, the Fianna Fail parliamentary party passed a motion advocating for a range of measures including dedicated gardai deployed to public transport, zero tolerance of anti-social behaviour in public spaces, and a minimum of 60 minutes of foot or pedal patrol by gardai on every shift. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Mr Devlin said that while increased visibility of gardai has improved a sense of safety in the city, there was a need for further improvements on public transport. There was a real concern for a lot of people who are using public transport, that theres an element that sometimes can board, buses, trains, Luases, whatever the case may be, and that can change the whole dynamic of the service. It can cause intimidation, it can cause fear. Mr Devlin added: But what we cant have is the Luases, Darts and the busses effectively not policed, and becoming corridors of crime where people can go about causing destruction and vandalism. Asked if he believed that these routes were already corridors of crime, he replied: They can be. Fianna Fail justice spokesman Jim OCallaghan said he hoped the party would include a proposal for a separate statutory body for public transport policing in its election manifesto, after resistance from the gardai. He added: At times, in certain places, Dublin isnt a safe place. At night time in certain parts of the city, it isnt safe. At certain times of the day, you can see open drug dealing in Dublin. Pressed on what areas he considered to be unsafe, Mr OCallaghan cited Aston Quay as an example of a location where drug dealing takes place. The parliamentarians repeatedly emphasised the amount of respondents who had said they had witnessed drug use in the city centre. Mr OCallaghan said: We need to have a response to it and the response has to be a policing response. Asked if their policy proposals should have also contained measures around addiction services or safe-injection sites, Dublin TD Paul McAuliffe said: So much of the efforts and resources in policing are going into the areas of addiction and yet its not having a demonstrable impact on people who are suffering from addiction. And I think a more health-led approach is something that a lot of people in the Oireachtas across all parties want to address. And yes, they are part of the solutions, but were here talking today about the impact of antisocial behaviour on people. It is a much broader societal response and I accept that. Tanaiste Micheal Martin speaking to the media ahead of a meeting with Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn at Hillsborough Castle in Belfast (Brian Lawless/PA) Irelands deputy premier has said he is positive and optimistic about future relations with the UK. Micheal Martin also suggested there could be a friendly settlement to the interstate case which Ireland took against the UK over the controversial Legacy Act aimed at addressing Northern Irelands troubled past. The Tanaiste was speaking to the media as he met new Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn at Hillsborough Castle following Labours victory in last weeks General Election. Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn (left) and Tanaiste Micheal Martin ahead of a meeting at Hillsborough Castle in Belfast (Brian Lawless/PA) He said he expected a wide-ranging discussion, including the stability of the Stormont Assembly and the opportunity to reset British/Irish relations. Speaking after the meeting, Mr Benn said they discussed the UK Governments commitment to economic growth, peace and stability in Northern Ireland, and to foster renewed, close relations with our nearest neighbour. Our relationship with Ireland is of great importance and I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Irish Government to reset and strengthen the relationship between our two countries, he said. Earlier Mr Martin said they had had a very good phone call last week following the UK General Election. We know each other. We have a good understanding of each others perspective, British/Irish relations and how to advance reconciliation in Northern Ireland, he said. There has been tension between the UK and Irish administrations in recent years following Brexit as well as the Conservative governments controversial legacy Bill on dealing with Northern Irelands troubled past. Asked for his view on the British/Irish relationship going forward, Mr Martin said he is positive and optimistic about the future relationship between the British and Irish governments. But also I realise the challenges and Im realistic in terms of how we meet those challenges, but what I am particularly focused on is to re-establish both governments working hand in hand as anchors of the Good Friday Agreement into the future. I think progress was made under Prime Minister Sunak and former secretary of state Chris Heaton-Harris in many areas, particularly in terms of the Windsor Framework, but I do believe we have an opportunity to advance the situation on a wide range of issues, to deal with the legacy issue on an amicable basis, to work through that. I am positive and I believe there are opportunities here the British and Irish governments can exploit, and I am confident that if we work together we can advance reconciliation, which is my key agenda in the time ahead. Asked whether the Irish government intends to continue an interstate case against the UK over the Legacy Act, Mr Martin said he and Mr Benn will explore the issue. There are mechanisms within the framework of the case which allow for, if you like, a friendly settlement but that will obviously depend on how the British Government is going to deal with that Legacy Act and the core issues, he said. Above all, we believe the pressing issue on legacy is to restore trust in the legacy framework for the victims and families of those who lost their lives in atrocities. It is about the families, the survivors and victims. We have to restore trust. The soldier who assaulted a woman is to be discharged from the Defence Forces (Damien Storan/PA) An Irish soldier who assaulted a woman in a random attack is to be discharged from the Defence Forces on Thursday. Cathal Crotty, with an address at Parkroe Heights, Ardnacrusha, Co Clare, pleaded guilty to assaulting Natasha OBrien in Limerick in 2022. Ms OBrien said his dismissal was the bare minimum she expected and said it was too little too late. Crotty, 22, walked free from court after being given a three-year suspended sentence for the attack in a case that prompted protests across Ireland and put pressure on the Irish Government to tackle violence against women. The Irish military confirmed in a statement that Crotty was being discharged on Thursday. The Defence Forces unequivocally condemns any actions by serving personnel that are contrary to military regulations or that do not reflect our values, it said in a statement. Speaking to the PA news agency, Ms OBrien said Crottys dismissal was the bare minimum of what she expected. Realistically its too little too late, she said. Im extremely dissatisfied and disappointed that it has taken this enormous level of media focus and national uproar for the bare minimum to be done. Had I not spoken up, I dont believe this would have happened and I cannot help but feel for all the victims that are in the same position that I am, that are watching their attackers continue in the Forces and this is not just exclusive for the Defence Forces, this goes across all important positions and positions of power. Ms OBrien said after being put through the wars, she has had to put her entire life and soul into speaking up about the attack for the bare minimum to be done. She added: To the Defence Forces: what are you doing to ensure this doesnt happen again? Irelands director of public prosecutions has lodged an appeal against the sentence given to Crotty on the basis of undue leniency. The flight attendant was facing charges of attempted suicide and alcohol abuse after an alleged attack in her homeMs Towey (28) was informed this morning that the travel ban had been liftedThe Taoiseach said the embassy will take Ms Towey to the airport as soon as she is ready to goLocal TD Claire Kerrane said she could be home today or tomorrow Tori Towey, the Roscommon woman detained in Dubai, is over the moon at news that she can return home. The 28-year-old was informed this morning that a travel ban preventing her from returning to Ireland had been lifted, She is thrilled and relieved, said Detained in Dubai CEO Radha Stirling, who has been assisting the air stewardess. She said she is over the moon and looking forward to getting home to Ireland and seeing the rest of her family. She is a little nervous too because there is that worry that something could happen before she gets on a plane but the overriding feeling is one of joy. Sinn Fein TD for Roscommon and Galway, Claire Kerrane, who knows Ms Toweys family, said she is now free to leave Dubai and could be home tonight or tomorrow. The flight attendant, from Boyle, was reportedly facing charges of attempted suicide and alcohol abuse after waking up in a police station in Dubai after an alleged attack in her home, the Dail heard. Dubai authorities had also banned her from leaving the state, the Dail chamber was told. Taoiseach Simon Harris interrupted questions to update the House today on her case, saying: "I've just been informed that the travel ban has been lifted, that the embassy will take Tori to the airport as soon as she is ready to go and that the embassy of course will continue to follow up on the case, which is still active as of now." He thanked the Irish embassy in the United Arab Emirates for their work on the case. "The embassy of course will continue to follow up on the case, which is still active as of now. But I just wanted to inform the House of that news, he said. Ms Towey suffered severe bruising and other injuries that required hospital treatment after she was allegedly attacked in her home, according to human rights group Detained in Dubai. She moved to Dubai in April 2023 for a job with Emirates and is due to appear in court next week. Mr Harris this morning described the situation facing Ms Towey in Dubai as unimaginable and said it is his priority to get her back to her home in Ireland. Speaking to media at Leinster House, Mr Harris said he spoke with Ms Towey and her mother Caroline this morning. I dont want to say too much because there is a lot of diplomatic activity going on in the background. Tori has been through in my view the most horrific situation and it is utterly, utterly unacceptable how an Irish citizen is being treated, that is my language in terms of how I feel," the Taoiseach said. Tori has been a victim of male violence and she needs to be supported. She needs to be brought back home to her home here in Ireland, Mr Harris added. The Taoiseach said earlier he had also spoken to the Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin on the situation as well as the Irish Ambassador, who the Taoiseach said has been working on Ms Toweys case for a period of time. I had a conversation with the Tanaiste who is also working on this matter as our Minister for Foreign Affairs. I have spoken to our ambassador in the region as well who have been in constant contact with her on this matter since yesterday. I want to acknowledge our ambassador and embassy team have been working on this case for a period of time and let me just say there is a lot of work going on in the background here, the Taoiseach said. Mr Harris described Ms Toweys situation as unimaginable and said he will support Ms Towey in getting home. What Tori has been through is, I think, unimaginable for so many people. A woman who has been the victim of a brutal attack, to find herself waking up not in a hospital but in a police station, the Taoiseach said. It is my absolute priority as the Taoiseach of this country to get Tori, an Irish citizen, back home to Roscommon and I will be staying in regular contact with her and her mum and supporting them, he added. Photo: Tori Towey Speaking to RTE Radio Ones Morning Ireland, the aunt of Tori Towey said Tori and her mother Caroline are very nervous about the situation and the family in Roscommon are hoping they will get word they are on a plane on the way home. I dont know will this court case go ahead and if it goes, what will happen?, Toris aunt, Ann Flynn, said. You know, we're just very hopeful. And it's really terrible that this has happened to a young woman that was full of life and full of adventure. And she loved travelling. And, you know, she's a beautiful young woman. Ann said she has been in touch with the two women every day, several times a day. She added that the pair are trying to keep positive and the family are all hoping that the charges against Tori will not go to court. Tori Towey It's on your mind constantly, and I'm sure it's on their minds because all the family is getting in touch with them, you know? And, it's so far away. But hopefully with Radha Stirling, the Taoiseach and all the ministers that is helping now, hopefully, we'll hear good news. We're hoping that, just something will happen that it won't go to court. It's hard to believe that this young woman has been charged with trying to commit suicide. It is very, very hard to believe, Ann added. Radha Stirling, CEO of advocacy group Detained in Dubai, described the case and the travel ban against Ms Towey as outrageous. Toris experience is nothing short of tragic and quite frankly, she is lucky to be alive, added Stirling, who has helped in numerous domestic violence cases including that of Dubais Princess Latifa. Tori Towey CEO of advocacy group Detained in Dubai Ms Stirling confirmed this morning that Ms Towey is currently living in an Airbnb. "Right now, she's just happy to be with her mother in safety, because this is all very recent, but she is able to leave the apartment and move freely within the country, she said. She continued; "It's terrible PR for the country. You're going to have people worried to go there in the future. And of course, this is on the back of historically charging rape victims with sex outside marriage so they dont have the best reputation to start with. They've been trying to improve it. "So I think there'll be agreeable with the Irish government if there's enough diplomatic pressure put on them, letting them know that we absolutely want Tori home and there's just going to be no negotiation on that, she added. "In a best-case scenario, they will simply say: We're not going to proceed beyond this hearing- and we're going to let you go. "When it comes to a case like this, it's all about diplomacy. Without the support of the Irish government, she would be likely to face prison and charges and deportation. "With the support of the Irish Government and diplomacy and there has been a lot various members of the Irish government have contacted UAE ambassador to Ireland, and of course, Ireland's ambassador in the UAE, and they're trying to get those diplomatic talks happening. "If that happens, that is the best and fastest way to get her home, Ms Stirling added. The UAE has gone to great public relations efforts to promote alcohol as legal in the country. In reality, people are still regularly charged with alcohol consumption and possession, added Stirling. A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is aware of Ms Toweys situation. "The Department of Foreign Affairs is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance. "As with all consular cases, the department does not comment on the details of individual cases." Tori Towey speaking to media after arriving home to Dublin Airport with her aunt, Ann Flynn (left) and her mother Caroline (David Young/PA) An Irish woman is relieved to be back in Ireland after being subjected to a travel ban in Dubai. Tori Toweys case was raised this week when the Irish Parliament was told the flight attendant from Co Roscommon had been a victim of domestic abuse and was charged with attempted suicide. Dubai authorities had also banned her from leaving the state, the Dail chamber heard. On Wednesday, efforts in her case were ramped up by the Irish Government and the Irish Embassy in the United Arab Emirates. The Irish Parliament was told later on Wednesday that the travel ban had been lifted, and the Detained in Dubai group said the charges against Ms Towey had also been dropped. On Thursday morning, Radha Stirling, of Detained in Dubai, who has been speaking on Ms Toweys behalf, posted on social media on Thursday morning: Shes home. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content Speaking to the media on her return to Dublin, Ms Towey said: Im just so relieved. I cant believe it. I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone; the embassy, the ambassador, the Taoiseach, the Tanaiste, Mary Lou (McDonald), Claire Kerrane, obviously the media without you guys I wouldnt be here right now. Without the support of the Irish people, this is such an amazing country and I feel bad for people that dont have the support that we have were such a tight country and have each others backs. I cant believe how fast things got going and Im so emotional. And a huge thanks (to) Radha Stirling, shes the first one that we got on to and she kicked off everything. The minute we spoke to her, thats when everything kind of came to fruition and Im just so thankful and so grateful to be back. Tori Towey returned to Ireland on Thursday (Detained in Dubai) Her mother Caroline said: It is great to have her home. It has been a bit of a nightmare. It felt like a hostage (situation) but once it kicked off and the media started to help and we were bombarded with lots of messages of support, and we were tuning in to the Oireachtas and watching everything going on. So a huge thanks to the country, to our politicians, to the people. The Tanaiste said it is a great relief that Ms Towey has returned to Ireland. Asked about the speed by which diplomatic efforts returned Ms Towey to Ireland, Mr Martin told reporters: It wasnt that quick actually, this case has been ongoing for quite some time and theres been different twists and turns in relation to the case. But I want to pay tribute to the ambassador Alison Milton in the United Arab Emirates who worked constructively and diligently with the United Arab Emirates authorities and Government. Our embassy officials would have picked up contacts over a long period of time, and managed to facilitate Toris release with the authorities. Welcoming Ms Toweys return, he added: Its very important with the presence of the the embassy there that we have built up relationships with all sectors of the UAE authorities, and building up those kind of relationships helped us to iron out issues and get issues resolved. An emotional Tori Towey touched down at Dublin Airport this afternoon, thanking the Irish public for supporting her campaign to return home. Ms Towey said she was stunned by the support she had received from Irish people and the reaction to her case. Ms Towey travelled home with her mother Caroline, who had flown out to Dubai to support her daughter, with her aunt, Ann Flynn, greeting them at the airport. Im just so relieved. I cant believe it. I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone - the embassy, the ambassador, the Taoiseach, the Tanaiste, Mary Lou (McDonald) Claire Kerrane (Sinn Fein), and obviously the media, Ms Towey told the Irish Independent. "Without you guys I wouldnt be here right now. Without the support of the Irish people, I mean, this is such an amazing country. I feel bad for the people that dont have the support that we have. We have each others backs. I cant believe how fast things got going and Im so emotional. The flight attendant, from Boyle, Co Roscommon, was facing charges of attempted suicide and alcohol abuse in Dubai after an alleged attack in her home. She was told yesterday morning that a travel ban preventing her from returning to Ireland had been lifted. She said today: I didnt know what was going to happen. Its only between yesterday and today that I kind of got clarity, because I wasnt getting any answers. But Im just glad to be back. Im obviously so thankful as well to my amazing family and friends. Theyve been going through everything with me and keeping me strong. Asked how difficult the last few weeks have been, Tori said today: Its just been so tiring mentally, and being stuck in the country. Obviously when my mother came out to me, it was a massive help. But it was just the unknown, just not knowing anything, not knowing what was going to happen. But Im back now and Im excited to get home with my family. Toris mother Caroline said it is great to have her home. It was a bit of a nightmare; felt like a hostage but once it kicked-off and the media started to help and we started to get bombarded with lots of messages of support, and we were tuning into the Oireachtas and watching everything. "So, its just a huge thanks to the country, our politicians, to our people, to our ambassador and all her staff and the amazing work that they have done for us. Were so thankful. Its a nightmare (to have your daughter in that situation), its a real nightmare, but its over now. We just have to try and go home and get our heads together, and move on. Tori Towey worked as a flight attendant (Detained in Dubai) Speaking on Shannonside FM earlier, Radha Stirling, of Detained in Dubai, who has been acting on Ms Towey's behalf, said the embassy had escorted Tori on to the plane earlier this morning. The embassy took her right to the plane door. They said, Please be quiet as we do not want to raise any attention right now, just in case the police or the Dubai diplomats do something else or it does not go as smoothly as they hoped. She was very quiet right until the point she was safely in the air. They did not want anything to go wrong at the airport or her to be arrested in again because of some glitch in the system or if they had not been informed properly at the airport. They did everything that you would hope an embassy would do, said Ms Stirling. Last night, her aunt, Ann Flynn, said her niece was relieved to be able to travel home but anxious to get on a plane. It will be the end of a horrendous nightmare when she is home, she said. No person deserved what Tori has been through and right now we are just so thankful that she can finally leave Dubai. She is anxious and keen to get on a plane as soon as possible. There is that nervousness there still because everything has been such an ordeal up until now. Hopefully this is the end of the nightmare. They [Tori and her mother Caroline] just want to come home. Authorities in Dubai confirmed charges against Tori Towey had been dropped and she was free to return home Ms Flynn said the family had been anxiously waiting for news over the last few days and the situation changed for the better only after an exchange in the Dail on Tuesday. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald told the Dail that Ms Towey had been the victim of domestic violence and was now facing criminal charges. In response, Taoiseach Simon Harris said he was ready to intervene in the case. Everything changed after that, Ms Flynn said. We did not expect this result so quickly, but we are delighted. Once we see how Tori is and give them a couple of days to rest, we will have a family get-together to welcome her home. Her life can start again then. Ms Flynn said both government and opposition TDs had been amazing in the support they had given to their family. Ms Stirling confirmed that Toris mother Caroline had previously reached out to the Irish Embassy in Dubai. She was told there wasnt much they could do and things were becoming desperate. Tori was facing a judge next week who could have stripped her of her freedom on the spot, she said. [Toris story] was extremely disturbing and reminded me of cases where attempted suicide survivors were actually jailed for more than a year and where rape victims jailed for sex outside marriage. "Dubais history of the police mishandling of abuse cases is extreme. Abusers often make wrongful police complaints against their spouses to protect themselves from their victims complaints. "The police tend to believe the person who gets to the police station first and will lean towards believing men. Its a cultural issue that wont be resolved any time soon. The Irish people, the Government and the Irish people collectively supported Tori Towey. Dubai promptly dropped the unfair charges against her and lifted the travel ban, Ms Stirling added. Last night, authorities in Dubai confirmed that charges against Ms Towey have been dropped. Dubai Public Prosecution has closed the case involving Irish national Tori Towey after she and her husband, a South African national, were involved in a case featuring mutual charges of assault, dating back to May 2024, the media office of the government of Dubai said in a statement. The couple reached a reconciliation and withdrew the complaints filed against each other. Dubai Public Prosecution has also dropped the charges of attempted suicide against her considering the circumstances of the case and to enable her to return to normal life. The Taoiseach interrupted leaders questions to update the Dail yesterday on her case, saying: Ive just been informed that the travel ban has been lifted, that the embassy will take Tori to the airport as soon as she is ready to go and that the embassy, of course, will continue to follow up on the case, which is still active as of now. He thanked the Irish embassy in the United Arab Emirates for its work on the case. The embassy of course will continue to follow up on the case, which is still active as of now. But I just wanted to inform the House of that news, he said. Ms Towey suffered severe bruising and other injuries that required hospital treatment after she was allegedly attacked in her home, according to human rights group Detained in Dubai. She moved to Dubai in April 2023 for a job with Emirates and was due to appear in court next week. Former Reform UK deputy leader Ben Habib has expressed his long held concern on the leadership of the party as he loses his position (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Former Reform UK deputy leader Ben Habib has expressed his long held concern on the leadership of the party, which is causing him to consider his position. Reform announced the parliamentary roles their MPs will be taking on as leader Nigel Farage aims to professionalise the party. MP Richard Tice moves from the role of chairman to become deputy leader replacing Mr Habib, while Lee Anderson MP will become the chief whip. Brexit campaigner Ben Habib of Reform UK, speaking during the TUV party conference at the Royal Hotel in Cookstown, Co Tyrone (Oliver McVeigh/PA) Mr Habib has been a major player in Reform, serving as a Member for the European Parliament for the then-Brexit Party. Reform returned five MPs in last weeks election but Mr Habib was one of the hundreds of unsuccessful candidates, finishing third in the Wellingborough and Rushden seat. Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Habib said: I have just been informed by Nigel Farage that Richard Tice is taking over as deputy leader of the party. Consequently I no longer hold that position. I am considering my position more generally in light of this change. I have long held concerns about the control of the party and the decision making processes. I will reflect on all of this. Nigel Farage and Ben Habib (Joe Giddens/PA) The key for me is that Reform UK stays true to the promises made to the British people. The movement we have created does not belong to us, it belongs to the people. We are obliged and indebted to the British people. Mr Farage said the new appointments are the first step to ensure that Reform UK is fit and ready to take forward its positive message. He added: I have no doubt that we will professionalise the party and change politics for good. Businessman Zia Yusuf, who donated thousands to Reform over their General Election campaign, has been appointed chairman. Mr Yusuf, who earned an estimated 31 million from selling his luxury concierge app Velocity Black last year, was a vocal supporter of Reforms immigration policy as well as being a party donor. Mr Yusuf said: It is an honour to be appointed Chairman of Reform UK. Against all odds, under Nigel Farages leadership, our peoples movement won four million votes, elected five MPs with 98 second places. (left to right) Lee Anderson MP, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, Rupert Lowe MP, Reform UK chairman Richard Tice and James McMurdock MP (Maja Smiejkowska/PA) This is just the beginning. The important work of professionalising the party, building national infrastructure and continuing to grow membership has already begun. I will bring all my expertise, energy and passion to the role to ensure we achieve our mission of returning Great Britain to greatness. New deputy leader Mr Tice said he is delighted at Mr Yusufs appointment. He said: We plan to expand our operation and infrastructure at pace from here, and having someone of Zias experience and highly successful track record is fantastic news. Reform faced criticism over their election campaign due to racist comments made by their candidates, several of whom were dropped before polling day. Mr Anderson, the MP for Ashfield, is the partys only returning MP after defecting to Reform from the Conservatives earlier this year. He said: Using my experience of the twists and turns of Parliamentary life and procedure to ensure that our team is focussed and delivers for our constituency and the more than four million voters will be a great honour and pleasure. The fox is in the henhouse. The US President held his first face-to-face meeting with Sir Keir Starmer at the White House (PA) Joe Biden appeared to back Sir Keir Starmers push for the UK to forge closer defence ties with Europe as he called the UK the transatlantic knot binding the two continents together. The US President held his first face-to-face meeting with Sir Keir Starmer at the White House as Nato agreed further support for Ukraine. The Prime Minister said the visit was an opportunity to recommit to Nato, to recommit to the special relationship. The President said: I kind of see you guys as the knot tying the transatlantic alliance together, the closer you are with Europe. We know where you are, you know where we are. Sir Keir wants an ambitious new UK-EU security pact to strengthen co-operation and seeks closer work on defence with key allies such as France and Germany. The trip to the White House came less than a week from Sir Keirs election victory and during his debut on the international leaders summit circuit. Sir Keir told the president: The special relationship is so important. Its forged in difficult circumstances, endured for so long, and stronger now than ever. Im very pleased to be able to come so early in government to recommit to Nato, to recommit to the special relationship and to discuss these affairs with you. A UK Government spokesman said Mr Biden and Sir Keir agreed we must continue to do whatever it takes to support Ukraine and ensure aggressors like Putin do not win. The spokesman added: The President welcomed the Prime Ministers recent comments on establishing closer relationships with our European counterparts, as well as the UKs commitment to Aukus. The meeting came as Sir Keir prepared to urge Nato allies to support Ukraine for as long as it takes as he confirmed the UKs own 3 billion a year military aid for Kyiv will continue. The Prime Minister, who met Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky in the margins of the Nato summit in Washington on Wednesday, will tell members of the alliance on Thursday that they need to send a clear message to Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The UKs military support for Ukraine will continue until at least 2030/31 and for as long as it is needed. Sir Keir previously confirmed that decisions on the use of UK-supplied long-range Storm Shadow missiles were for the Ukrainian armed forces to make, indicating they would be permitted to strike targets in Russia. Asked about the risk of Russian retaliation against the UK, security minister Dan Jarvis told Sky News: Of course, weve got to be incredibly careful. But whats most important is that in concert with our Nato allies, we work together to make sure that President Zelensky and Ukraine have got the material support they need to defend themselves against Russia. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is greeted by US President Joe Biden and Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at the Nato summit (Stefan Rousseau/PA) It is an illegal invasion, the consequences of which are massive for the whole world. At a special session on Ukraine at the Nato summit on Thursday, Sir Keir will warn that the frontline defence of the Euro-Atlantic region is the Ukrainian trenches. He will say: Nato was founded by the generation who defeated fascism. They understood not just the value of our strength, but the strength of our values. Those values are under attack once again. Putin needs to hear a clear message ringing out from this summit a message of unity and determination, that we will support Ukraine with whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to uphold our shared values and our shared security. The Washington summit cemented Ukraines irreversible progress towards Nato membership, with a joint statement by the allies. But because of Natos Article V, which commits to mutual defence, the allies will not allow Ukraine to join while it is still at war as that would trigger an immediate conflict with Russia. Nato allies are stepping up commitments on Ukraine while they await the results of Novembers US presidential election, where Donald Trump has threatened to reduce American support. Concerns about Mr Bidens plan to run for re-election were evident during his Oval Office meeting with Sir Keir. The president did not directly respond to questions about George Clooneys criticism, after the actor and prominent Democrat supporter suggested he should leave the race. Floral tributes near to the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire (Jonathan Brady/PA) Colleagues and friends of the wife and daughters of a BBC racing commentator who were killed with a crossbow have paid tribute to the lovely family. Suspect Kyle Clifford, 26, is in hospital after being found injured during Wednesdays manhunt for the alleged killer. Carol Hunt, 61, the wife of BBC 5 Live racing commentator John Hunt, was killed alongside her two daughters Hannah, 28 and Louise, 25, during an incident in the quiet cul-de-sac of Ashlyn Close in Bushey, Hertfordshire, just after 7pm on Tuesday. Father Stevenson at a morning service and vigil at St Jamess Church in Bushey, Hertfordshire (Jonathan Brady/PA) On Thursday, further searches took place at a house linked to Cliffords brother, Bradley Clifford, who was jailed for life with a minimum term of 23 years for the murder of moped passenger Soban Khan in 2018. According to the Metropolitan Police, at the time of the murder, Bradley Clifford had targeted the moped before crashing into it, and continued to assault Mr Khan after the collision. Officers were seen at the address in Rendlesham Road, Enfield, north London, in relation to the deaths. Police staff wearing gloves and face masks were seen outside the property, which was first searched on Wednesday. Lea Holloway, 60, a childhood friend of Carol Hunt, described her as a beautiful person. Speaking outside St James Church on Thursday after a vigil for Mrs Hunt and her daughters, she said: We grew up together and were pregnant at the same time. This is the stuff nightmares are made of. I was there the night she met John (Hunt). It was in a nightclub in Hemel Hempstead. We went out together, went to birthdays and events. Lea Holloway described the three victims as a lovely family (Jonathan Brady/PA) Its very difficult. She was the nicest, kindest, sweetest person you could ever meet. A beautiful person. Ms Holloway continued: They were a lovely family and (the daughters) were lovely girls. They were making their way through life and their lives have been taken too soon. Its the thing of nightmares. I feel for their eldest daughter and John (Hunt). I cant imagine what it would be like. After being joined by two other close friends, Dionne Smith, 58, and Abigail Phillips, 58, the trio told reporters: We were a four, and now theres only three. It doesnt seem real. We are together in grief. In a post on Facebook, Hannah Hunts colleagues at The Anti-Ageing Clinic in Radlett, Hertfordshire, said it was with deep regret and sadness that they learned of the horrific murder on Tuesday night of our skin therapist Hannah. The post continued: She was a fantastic therapist and clients loved her. A message attached to a floral tribute left near the scene in Ashlyn Close (Jonathan Brady/PA) We send our condolences and prayers to her Dad, sister and family. She was very much a part of our team. Please bear with us at this terrible time. Flowers were left at the scene in Ashlyn Close on Thursday, with notes attached to some bouquets with messages such as rest in peace. Clifford was found injured in Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield, north London, on Wednesday and was taken to a major trauma centre for treatment. Police said no shots had been fired by officers and no arrest had yet been made. Footage from Sky News appeared to show Clifford being stretchered out of the cemetery by paramedics. Armed police had earlier been in the area, with an air ambulance nearby. Neighbours recalled hearing screaming on Tuesday, as the traumatic incident unfolded. In a press conference before Clifford was found, Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson, from Hertfordshire Police, told reporters the killings were believed to have been targeted. Police vehicles at the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey (Jonathan Brady/PA) During the hunt for Clifford, who is understood to have left the Army in 2022 after a short stint, the force said they believed he may have been armed with a crossbow and warned people not to approach him. He was believed to have been known to the victims. Radio 5 Live presenter Mark Chapman paid an emotional tribute at the start of the Euro 2024 pre-match show on Wednesday evening. Speaking through tears, he said: This has been a heartbreaking day. John Hunt is our colleague and our friend, not just to the current 5 Live sport team but to all of those who have worked here with him over the past 20 years and also to all of you who have enjoyed his superb commentaries. On behalf of everybody connected to 5 Live sport, our love and thoughts and support are with John and his family. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is urgently considering whether tougher crossbow laws are needed in the wake of the killings. She will look at the findings of a Home Office review carried out earlier this year. A Home Office spokeswoman said: We keep legislation under constant review and a call for evidence was launched earlier this year to look at whether further controls on crossbows should be introduced. The Home Secretary will swiftly consider the findings to see if laws need to be tightened further. Sir Keir Starmer has said his parents would have loved to have seen him walking through the door of 10 Downing Street as Prime Minister (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Sir Keir Starmer has said his parents would have loved to have seen him walking through the door of 10 Downing Street. The Prime Minister has previously revealed that his parents proudest day was when he was knighted in a ceremony at Buckingham Palace in 2014, which they attended. His mother, Josephine, was a nurse, and his father, Rodney, was a toolmaker. Sir Keir Starmer was knighted by Charles, then the prince of Wales, during an investiture ceremony at Buckingham Palace in 2014 (Yui Mok/PA) Asked what they would have made of him walking through the famous black door of No 10, Sir Keir told Sky News: They would have loved that. There is a real part of me that just wishes that they could have been (there) because that would be very special for them. Obviously, theyre not with us anymore. They wouldnt have that moment. But I cant pretend to you that I havent thought about that. Speaking to Sky from Washington DC where he is attending the Nato summit, Sir Keir said it was not bittersweet, but added: I would have loved them to have been there, and they werent there. Vic (his wife Victoria) obviously lost her mum during the Labour leadership contest, so both of us had a thought and discussion about that. We would have loved our parents to have been there. They werent, but we smile because we know what they would have thought had they been there. Russian authorities have put the widow of dead Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny on a list of terrorists and extremists, continuing a sweeping Kremlin crackdown on the opposition. Earlier this week, a Moscow court ordered the arrest of Yulia Navalnaya, who lives abroad, on charges of alleged involvement in an extremist group. The ruling means that Ms Navalnaya would face arrest if and when she returns to Russia. On Thursday, Russias Federal Service for Financial Monitoring followed up by adding Ms Navalnaya to its list of terrorists and extremists, a designation that implies restrictions on bank transactions that has been widely used against opposition members. Mr Navalny, the fiercest political foe of Russian President Vladimir Putin, died in February in an Arctic penal colony while serving a 19-year sentence on extremism charges that he had condemned as politically motivated. Authorities said he became ill after a walk but have otherwise given no details on Mr Navalnys death. An image of Alexei Navalny alongside floral tributes placed close to the Russian Embassy in London (James Manning/PA) Mr Navalny was imprisoned after returning to Moscow in January 2021 from Germany, where he had been recuperating from the 2020 nerve agent poisoning that he blamed on the Kremlin. Ms Navalnaya has accused Mr Putin of her husbands death and vowed to continue his activities. Russian officials have vehemently denied involvement in Mr Navalnys poisoning and death. Ms Navalnayas spokesperson Kira Yarmysh commented on the authorities latest move against her on social platform X, saying that if they are so fussy it means that Yulia does everything right. Russian authorities have not specified the charges against Ms Navalnaya. They appear to relate to authorities designating Mr Navalnys Foundation for Fighting Corruption and its regional offices as extremist. A 2021 court ruling that outlawed Mr Navalnys foundation and its regional offices has forced many of his close associates and team members to leave Russia while those who stayed have faced prosecution. Several lawyers who defended Mr Navalny and journalists who covered his activities also have been jailed on similar charges. The Kremlins crackdown on opposition activists, independent journalists and government critics has intensified since Russia sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022. Hundreds have faced criminal charges over protests and remarks condemning the war in Ukraine, and thousands have been fined or briefly jailed. With just 15 days before the start of the Olympic Games in Paris, a leader of a major French union has called for mass strikes to pressure President Emmanuel Macron into respecting the results of recent legislative elections and allow a leftist coalition to form a new government. France has been at the brink of a governing paralysis since Sundays vote for the National Assembly, the influential lower house of parliament, resulted in a legislature split between three political groupings: the New Popular Front leftist coalition, Mr Macrons centrist allies and the far-right National Rally of Marine Le Pen. The New Popular Front alliance won the most seats in the legislature, but fell short of an outright majority to govern on its own. The alliances three main parties, the hard-left France Unbowed, the Socialists and the Greens, have urged the president to turn to them to form the new government. CGT union secretary general Sophie Binet (Thibault Camus/AP) Sophie Binet, the general secretary of the CGT union, said in an interview with broadcaster France Inter that if Mr Macron did not respect the results of the election, he risks once again plunging the country into chaos. Ms Binet said the president should allow the New Popular Front to form the new government, although the leftists alliance has not yet proposed a candidate for prime minister because of internal divisions. She called on union members to take to the streets and join rallies to put the National Assembly under surveillance. There must be popular, citizens pressure so that the elections results are respected, Ms Binet said. Mr Macron has asked his prime minister, Gabriel Attal, to continue handling day-to-day affairs, despite Mr Attals offer of resignation. On Wednesday, Mr Macron said he will wait for the countrys political parties to build a Republican majority at the National Assembly before he can decide on a new prime minister, infuriating the leftist coalition and the unions. The new legislatures inaugural session is scheduled for July 18. Adobe Stock Some people say that Christ shouldnt be referred to as Jesus. Instead, we should use the name Yeshua. Some go as far as to say that calling Him Jesus is offensive, while others go into detail about the name Jesus being unbiblical because the letter J is a modern innovation, and theres no letter J in Hebrew or Greek. What was Jesus real name? Yeshua is the Hebrew name, and in English, its spelled Joshua. Iesous is the Greek rendering of the Hebrew name, and its English spelling is Jesus. Therefore, the names Jesus and Joshua are essentially the same, as both are English pronunciations of the Greek and Hebrew names for Christ. For an example of how the two names are interchangeable, see Hebrews 4:8 and Acts 7:45. Changing the language of a word doesnt affect its meaning. In English, we call a covered and bound set of pages a book. In German, its a buch, and in Spanish, its a libro. The language changes, but the object itself doesnt. In the same way, we call Jesus Jesus, Yeshua, or YehSou without changing His nature. In any language, His name translates to The Lord is Salvation. Regarding the controversy over the letter J, its much ado about nothing. The languages in which the Bible was written indeed didnt have the letter J. However, that doesnt mean the Bible never refers to Jerusalem or Judah. It also doesnt mean we cant use the spelling Jesus. If someone reads and speaks English, its acceptable for them to spell things in English. Spellings can change even within a language. For example, the British write Saviour while Americans write Savior. The addition or subtraction of a u has nothing to do with whom were talking about. Jesus is the Savior and the Saviour. Jesus, Iesus, and Yeshuah are all referring to the same Person. The Bible doesnt command us only to write or say His name in Greek or Hebrew. It never even hints at the idea. Instead, when the message of the Gospel was being shared on the Day of Pentecost, the apostles spoke in the languages of the Medes, Parthians, and Elamites, as detailed in Acts 2:9-10. In the Holy Spirits power, Jesus was made known to every language in a way they could readily understand, so spelling didnt matter. We call Him Jesus because, as English speakers, we know of Him through English translations of the Greek New Testament. The Bible doesnt value one language over another, and it doesnt indicate that we should resort to Hebrew when addressing Jesus. The command is to call on His name with the promise that well be saved, as detailed in Acts 2:21. Whether we call on Him in Korean, English, Korean, or Hebrew, the result is the same: He is salvation. What does the name Jesus mean? If a name is ever packed with significance, its the name Jesus. The Bible says Jesus was given the name above all names, so in the name of Jesus, every knee will bow in heaven, on earth, and under the earth, as detailed in Philippians 2:9-10, so why is His name so powerful? What does the name Jesus mean? The name Jesus, announced to Mary and Joseph through the angels, as detailed in Matthew 1:21 and Luke 1:3, means Yahweh is salvation or Yahweh saves. Transcribed from Aramaic and Hebrew, the name is Yeshua. Its a combination of Ya, an abbreviation for Yahweh, the name of Israels God, as detailed in Exodus 3:14, and the verb yasha, which means save, deliver, or rescue. The English spelling of Yeshua is Joshua, but when translated from Hebrew to Koine Greek, the initial language of the New Testament, the name Yeshua becomes Iesous. In English, Iesous translates to Jesus. Therefore, Yeshua and, correspondingly, Joshua and Jesus mean the Lord is salvation or Yahweh saves. The name Jesus was popular in first-century Judea. For this reason, Jesus is often called Jesus of Nazareth, separating Him by His childhood home, the town of Nazareth in Galilee, as detailed in Matthew 21:11 and Luke 18:37. Despite its commonness, the name Jesus is extremely significant. God sent Him for a specific purpose, and His name bears witness to that mission. Just as Joshua/Yeshua in the Old Testament led his people to triumph over the Canaanites, Jesus/Yeshua in the New Testament led His people to victory over their spiritual enemies and sin. Galatians 4:4-5 says when the time was right, God sent His Son to redeem those under the law so that we might receive adoption to sonship. John 3:17 also reminds us that God sent Jesus to save us. The meaning of Jesus name, Yahweh save, shares His mission to deliver and save and His identity as the Savior of the world. Simultaneously, the commonness of Jesus name highlights His humility and humanity. The Son of God emptied Himself of His glory to become a humble man. The Lexham Survey of Theology articulately captures the dual significance of the name Jesus. The name of Jesus is essential because of its meaning and whom it represents. Theres authority and power in the person of Christ, and, of course, the person is designated by the name. More so than with other names, we link the name Jesus with His quality, distinctive character, and work, as seen in several biblical truths. Salvation is in Jesus name alone, as detailed in Acts 4:11-12. Believers were baptized in Jesus name, and miracles and healing were performed in Jesus name. He also taught believers to pray in His name. Jesus lives up to His name in every way. His name reminds us of the presence, power, and purpose in the risen Christ, assuring us that God intends to save us. Jesus brought God to humanity and brought humans to God through the salvation He bought. In the Bible, when people acted or spoke in Jesus name, they did so as the Lords representatives with His authority. The life of a believer is to be lived in Jesus name, as detailed in Colossians 3:17 and bring glory to God by doing so. Syahrul Yasin Limpo is the sixth cabinet member in President Joko Widodos two terms to be linked to graft. Former Indonesian Agriculture Minister Syahrul Yasin Limpo hugs a supporter in a Jakarta courtroom after being sentenced to 10 years in prison for extortion and misuse of public funds, July 11, 2024. A Jakarta anti-graft court on Thursday sentenced a former agriculture minister to 10 years in prison for extortion and misuse of public funds, raising questions again about outgoing President Joko Jokowi Widodos commitment to fight corruption. Syahrul Yasin Limpo, 69, became the sixth cabinet minister in Jokowis two presidential terms to be embroiled in corruption allegations. Presiding Judge Rianto Adam Pontoh said Syahrul had extorted more than 44 billion rupiah (U.S. $2.75 million) between 2020 and 2023, using the money to buy cars and jewelry, to pay for beauty treatments and family parties or to provide gifts to others. The defendant Syahrul Yasin Limpo has been proven legally and convincingly, according to the law, guilty of committing the crime of corruption jointly and continuously, Rianto ruled. Court documents said the ex-minister threatened to dismiss his subordinates if they refused to comply with his demand for 20% of the ministrys budgeted funds, which he used for personal, family and colleagues interests. The judge said the ex-minister had extorted the money through two of his subordinates, Kasdi Subagyono, his secretary general; and Muhammad Hatta, director of the Agricultural Equipment and Machinery directorate. The judge sentenced them to four years each, as well. While prosecutors had requested a 12-year prison term, the judge issued a more lenient sentence, noting that Syahrul returned some of the money. He also noted the former minister had made a positive contribution in handling the national food crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Former cabinet minister Syahrul Yasin Limpo (left) looks at supporters during his sentencing in a Jakarta courtroom, July 11, 2024. [Eko Siswono Toyudho/BenarNews] Syahruls lawyer Djamaludidin Koedoeboen said his client had not decided if he would appeal the ruling. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) had named Syahrul as an extortion suspect on Oct. 11, 2023. After the sentencing, Syahrul apologized to his family, the community and his colleagues in the NasDem Party. At the start of Syahruls trial in February, prosecutor Taufiq Ibnugroho said the former minister appointed trusted people to collect money from his subordinates. When presenting his case on July 5, Syahrul tearfully claimed to not be very wealthy. I am one of the poorest ministers, he said. Syahruls assets total about 20 billion rupiah (U.S. $1.24 million), according to the governments state officials wealth report (LHKPN). Indonesia Corruption Watch researcher Kurnia Ramadhana said he hoped the KPK would continue to develop the case against Syahrul by summoning his family. The KPK needs to conduct further investigations. The witnesss statement in the trial that said Syahruls family also enjoyed the proceeds of corruption must be taken seriously, Kurnia told BenarNews. The case took a bizarre turn in November 2023 when the then-KPK chief, Firli Bahuri, was suspended and then fired a month later after being suspected of demanding bribes from Syahrul in exchange for leniency in the graft case against him. Firli, a former police general, has also been named a suspect in an extortion case by the Jakarta police. Bennington, VT (05201) Today Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High 53F. Winds NW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. Low around 35F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. PITTSFIELD Its a long way to Accra, the capital of Ghana, from Pittsfield. And Shirley Edgerton and her scholars were feeling every mile of it. On Sunday, Edgerton and a group of 17 girls from Pittsfield set out for Ghana as part of Rites of Passage and Empowerment's annual service learning trip. The scholars, aged 10 to 18 years old, shuffled onto a bus that took them to John F. Kennedy International Airport at 9 a.m. that morning. The travel itinerary was grueling, to put it lightly. The group was slated to fly 7 hours and 30 minutes from New York City to Amsterdam, where theyd be confronted with another six-hour layover, then another 6 hours and 30 minutes in the air from Amsterdam to Accra. But by the time the group was pulling into the terminal at JFK, Edgerton learned their flight was delayed. What should have been a 4:30 p.m. departure turned into a 7:15 p.m. takeoff, making a long day even longer. Needless to say, the body and mind were a bit weary, Edgerton said with a chuckle. But then something happened: While idling away the hours before the flight, Roberta McCulloch-Dews, a mentor with the R.O.P.E. program, spied a face in the crowd that looked awfully familiar. I happened to look up, and I was like, Thats Ja Rule, McCulloch-Dews said. He didnt have a big entourage around him. It was his wife, maybe one or two individuals, but it was very lowkey. McCulloch-Dews shared her observation with the scholars, and before she knew it, Edgerton had made a beeline to go talk to the rapper, actor and all-around performer from Queens, N.Y. I immediately introduced myself and told him: Theres a group of girls behind me that would very much love to say hello to you, Edgerton said. He started laughing after that. The rest of the group soon followed. It was like a swarm of paparazzi, said Roos Bajnath, a 17-year-old scholar with the program. Seriously, it was like a whole bunch of girls just running at a man. I was flabbergasted, I couldnt believe it. One of the first things that the rapper noticed, Edgerton said, was her shirt the members of the group had matching shirts that read Ghana-Bound 2024 They had something in common: Ja Rule broke ground in April to build a six-unit classroom block for the Nuaso Anglican Primary School in eastern Ghana as part of a partnership with an organization called Pencils of Promise. For the R.O.P.E. scholars, now majorly rejuvenated, meeting Ja Rule didnt seem like such a chance encounter. It felt like it was destined to happen, Bajnath said. By all accounts, Ja Rule, born Jeffrey Atkins Sr., was very accommodating and inviting the rapper told the girls about his efforts in Ghana, and they got to tell him about the itinerary for their trip. As 10-year-old Elise Henderson said, the words flowed naturally. It wasnt like, oh I met a celebrity, I met a celebrity it felt really special, Henderson said. It didnt feel weird it was like this natural, calm feeling. By the time the rapper and the scholars went their separate ways, the overseas flight didnt seem so formidable. My mood went from like a two to a 10 immediately, said 13-year-old Mary Asare. It was a very exciting moment, and I feel like it happened for a reason, because it gave us time to reflect on how grateful we are to even be going to Ghana in the first place. Edgerton and the R.O.P.E. scholars will remain in Ghana until July 20, spending part of that time at the Good Shepherd School where they will meet young girls from Africa and compare their lived experiences, including what it means to be a woman. The girls will also share school supplies, clothes and other necessary items with the students in Ghana. Edgerton said the impact of the trip for the young scholars is often tremendous. Its almost like an epiphany of who they are, Edgerton said. They recognize the privileges that they have. They also become more in tune to inequities in the world; they become more globally aware. They develop more compassion and understand about sharing and caring. Its really an incredible and rewarding experience for our young women. As for the supposed random act of meeting Ja Rule, as Edgerton puts it, the significance is not lost on any of the scholars or the organizers. I totally agree with our scholars that there was something very intentional about that meeting, Edgerton said. And that there was some social, spiritual value that each of us was supposed to receive from that experience. Advocates for ideas and draws conclusions based on the interpretation of facts and data. When we suffer at the hands of another person, our natural inclination may be to seek revenge. But causing more harm likely isnt the answer or our best way to respond. There are countless stories of revenge throughout the history of humankind and they also appear in the Bible. The definition of revenge is the action of inflicting hurt or harm on someone for an injury or a wrong suffered at their hands. Revenge is a matter of the heart that we as Christians can come to better understand by looking to Gods Scripture for clarity and direction. When weve been aggrieved, we may wonder what the righteous and just course of action is and if revenge is permitted according to the Bible. Where Is Revenge Mentioned in the Bible? Revenge is mentioned in the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. God warned His people to avoid seeking revenge and to let Him avenge them and bring about perfect justice how He saw fit. When we want to retaliate, we should keep in mind that causing another person harm will never undo the harm we have already endured. When we have been victimized, it is tempting to believe that revenge will make us feel better, but that isnt the case. When we take the scope of Scripture into view, what we learn is that God knows the pain and hardship of injustice, and He promises that He will make things right for those who have been mistreated. It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near and their doom rushes upon them (Deuteronomy 32:35). Do not say, Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me; I will render to the man according to his work (Proverbs 24:29). Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord (Romans 12:19). We have comfort in God that when we have been hurt or betrayed by another person, we can trust that rather than taking on the burden to seek revenge, we can surrender to God and let Him handle the situation. Instead of remaining victims filled with anger or fear, unsure of what to do, we can trust that God knows the big picture of what happened and He will allow for the best course of justice. Followers of Christ are encouraged to wait on the Lord and trust Him when they have been hurt by another person. What Does It Mean That "Revenge Belongs to the Lord?" Revenge belongs to the Lord means that it is not our place as humans to retaliate and repay a wrongdoing with another wrongdoing. It is Gods place to make the situation right and it is Him who will bring justice to a hurtful circumstance. The Lord is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth. Rise up, Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve (Psalm 94:1-2). God is the righteous judge. God decides the avenged outcome of every injustice. God, all-knowing and sovereign, is the only one who could bring about restoration and just vengeance when someone has been wronged. There is a consistent message throughout Scripture to not seek revenge, rather to wait for the Lord avenge the wrongdoing that one has suffered. He is the judge who is perfect and loving. God loves His children and will take care of them in every way. Therefore, believers are instructed to submit to God when weve been harmed because He has the task of avenging injustices endured by His children. Does the Verse "an Eye for an Eye" Contradict This? "But if there is any further injury, then you shall appoint as a penalty life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise (Exodus 21:23-25). The passage in Exodus is part of the Mosaic Law that God established through Moses for the Israelites. This particular law addressed the judgment rendered when someone viciously hurt another human being. The law was put in place to guarantee that the punishment was not too lenient, nor too extreme, for the crime. By the time Jesus entered the world, this Mosaic law had been twisted and distorted by some Jewish people trying to justify seeking revenge. During His earthly ministry, and in His famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus quoted the passage found in the book of Exodus about revenge and preached a radical message that His followers should abandon that type of vengeful pseudo-justice. You have heard that it was said, Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth. But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also (Matthew 5:38-39). With these two passages next to each other, there may appear to be a contradiction. But when the context of both passages is taken into consideration, it becomes clear that Jesus got to the heart of the issue by instructing His followers to not seek revenge on those who harm them. Jesus fulfilled the Mosaic Law (see Romans 10:4) and taught the redemptive ways of forgiveness and love. Jesus doesnt want Christians to get caught up in repaying evil with evil. Therefore, he preached and lived the message to love your enemies. Is There Ever a Time When It's Right to Take Revenge? Theres never a fitting time to seek revenge because God will always bring about justice for His people. We can trust that when we are wronged or hurt by others, God will avenge the situation. He knows all the details and will avenge us if we trust Him to do that instead of taking matters into our own hands, which will result in making matters worse. Jesus, and the apostles who preached the Gospel message after Jesus resurrection, all taught and lived the same wisdom that instructed Christians to love their enemies and that vengeance was the Lords. Even Jesus, as He was being nailed to the cross, forgave His perpetrators (See Luke 23:34). Though Jesus could have taken revenge, He chose the way of forgiveness and love. We can follow Jesus example when we have been mistreated. Is It Wrong for Us to Pray for Revenge? If youve read through the Book of Psalms, youll notice in some chapters, there are pleas for revenge and for the wicked to suffer. When he is judged, let him be found guilty, and let his prayer become sin. Let his days be few, and let another take his office (Psalm 109:7-8). Most of us can relate to having similar thoughts and feelings that are found in the Psalms when we have been wronged. We want to see our perpetrator suffer just as we have. It would almost seem as though the Psalmists are praying for revenge. The Psalms shows us the natural inclination to seek revenge, but they go on to remind us of Gods truth and how to respond. If you take a closer look, youll notice the Psalmists prayed for Gods vengeance. They were asking God to bring about justice because truly, their circumstances were out of their hands. The same is true for Christians today. Rather than praying specifically for revenge, we can pray and ask God to bring about justice according to His good and perfect will. When a situation is out of our hands, praying about it and asking God to intervene can be our first response to navigating difficult circumstances, so that we dont fall into the temptation of repaying evil with evil. 5 Things to Do Instead of Seeking Revenge The Bible provides insightful teaching on what to do when we are wronged by someone instead of taking revenge. 1. Love Your Neighbor Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord (Leviticus 18:19). When Christians have been harmed, the answer isnt revenge, it is to love. Jesus echoes this same teaching in His sermon on the mount (Matthew 5:44). When we want to hold a grudge against the one who have betrayed us, Jesus invites us to let go of the hurt and instead to love our enemy. When you find yourself consumed with revenge, take steps to see the one who hurt you through Gods loving eyes and allow Jesus to empower you to love them. 2. Wait for God Do not say, Ill pay you back for this wrong! Wait for the Lord, and He will avenge you (Proverbs 20:22). When we are wanting to seek revenge, we want it now, we want it quickly, and we want the other to suffer and hurt just as much as we do. But Gods word tells us to wait. Instead of seeking revenge, we can wait. Wait for God to make things right. Wait for God to show us a more righteous way to respond to someone who has hurt us. When youve been hurt, wait and pray to the Lord for guidance and trust that He will avenge you. 3. Forgive Them And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins (Mark 11:25). While it is common to remain angry and bitter toward those who have hurt us, Jesus taught us to forgive. When youve been hurt, embarking on the journey of forgiveness will be part of the solution to letting go of the pain and finding peace. There is no limit to how often we should forgive our offenders. Forgiveness is incredibly significant because when we forgive others, God forgives us. When we forgive, revenge no longer seems important. 4. Pray for Them Pray for those who mistreat you (Luke 6:28). This may seem difficult, but praying for your enemies is an incredible step of faith. If you desire to be more righteous and to live more like Jesus, praying for those who have hurt you is a powerful way to move away from revenge and closer to forgiveness. Praying for those who have wronged you will help you heal, let go and move on rather than staying angry and resentful. 5. Be Good to Your Enemies On the contrary: If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good (Romans 12:20-21). The solution to overcoming evil is to do good. Ultimately, when we have been mistreated, God instructs us to do good to our enemies. This may seem impossible, but with Jesus help, anything is possible. God will empower you to live up to this instruction to overcome evil with good. You will feel much better about yourself and the situation if you respond to someones wrongdoing with love and goodness rather than revenge. The Bible gives us wise guidance when it comes to being wronged and suffering because of malicious intent by another human being. Gods word equips us with a list of righteous ways to respond to such hurt. A consequence of this broken, fallen world is that humans hurt each other and do hideous things to one another. God doesnt want His beloved children to be overcome with evil, or a revengeful heart, as a result of being hurt by someone else. The Bible is consistently clear that vengeance is the Lords task, not ours. We are human, but He is a God who is perfectly just in all things. We can trust God to make things right when weve been wronged. What we are responsible for is keeping pure and holy hearts by loving our enemies and praying for those who hurt us. Getty Images/SIphotography Pamela Palmer is a writer, speaker, and the founder of upheldlife.com, the platform on which she produces devotionals and faith resources to inspire keeping faith at the center of life. She is in pastoral ministry and gets to share in the emotional and spiritual lives of others. She lives and thrives on Jesus, coffee, and music. She is the author of Living a Deeper Faith: Nurture Your Relationship with God and Live a Faith-Fueled Life. Pamela married the perfect man for her and they have two beautiful kiddos. She has been published on herviewfromhome.com, and you can follow her at upheldlife.com or on Facebook.com/upheldlife. BillOReilly.com is not available in this country. We apologize for any inconvenience. Promoting long-term health awareness and preventive care for a healthier youth generation Chennai-based Fischer Medical Ventures has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bengaluru-based Tech Avant-Garde (TAG), an innovative educational solutions provider, to implement comprehensive health programmes in educational institutions across India. This strategic partnership aims to drive holistic healthcare of students and their connected communities to enable a healthier and more conducive learning environment. Fischer MV, as the first company to indigenously manufacture high-quality Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems in India and owning a diverse portfolio of breakthrough diagnostic solutions, is expanding into children healthcare with TAG fits their mission to support Indias education system by promoting long-term health awareness and preventive care for a healthier youth generation. Fischer MV-TAG collaboration in India will start with screening students through Fischer MVs Flynn Health Kiosk, a health screening machine that conducts a comprehensive diagnostic of over 60 clinical vital signs parameters within minutes. Eye health, audiology, oral health, mental health, lung & respiratory health checks which are important aspects for students will also be implemented in phases. In parallel, adolescent girls and womens health will be added to provide a holistic view of each students health status every quarterly. As of 2022, India has around 1.4 million schools, one of the largest in the world. Student enrolment in 2021-22 was reported to be over 265 million. However, a significant number of students suffer from some health conditions that could hinder their education path. Brings together leaders & representatives of 52 medical specialty organisations/associations from across the nation The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has taken a significant step forward in the battle against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) by forming the National Alliance of Medical Professionals on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAMP-AMR). This pioneering initiative brings together leaders and representatives of 52 medical specialty organisations/associations from across the nation, uniting on a common platform to strategize against this important health crisis. The formation of National Alliance of Medical Professionals on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAMP-AMR) by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) marks the beginning of a concerted national effort to tackle the silent pandemic of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) that poses a significant threat to the health of our nation. In 2019 alone, Antimicrobial Resistance was responsible for 297,000 deaths and associated with 1,042,500 deaths in our country. Led by Indian Medical Association (IMA), National Alliance of Medical Professionals on Antimicrobial Resistance aims to address this crisis head-on. The government, represented by Dr VK Paul from NITI Aayog, has affirmed its commitment to addressing Antimicrobial Resistance. Dr. Paul expressed concern over the potential impact of AMR on Viksit Bharat, including prosperity, GDP, and various health aspects. Enhanced medical education and training are crucial in improving the quality of medical practice. Dr Atul Goel, Director General of Health Services, highlighted the critical need to understand when and how to use antibiotics effectively. By starting from the basics and strengthening medical education, healthcare professionals can contribute to better healthcare practices and combat AMR. Liaoning scraps its rusty past to shine as hub of innovation 14:31, July 11, 2024 By Zhang Xiaomin, Wu Yong and Xu Ziming ( China Daily Robots manufacture a passenger vehicle at a factory of Siasun Robot and Automation Co in Shenyang, Liaoning province, last month. (LI XULUN/XINHUA) In a smart factory of major steelmaker Ansteel in Anshan, Liaoning province, not a single worker can be seen on the entire production line. Staff are predominantly engaged in data monitoring, enabling the workshop to function seamlessly, even in the dark. "Effectively promoting the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries is a challenging task that must be tackled to drive the comprehensive revitalization of Liaoning in the new era," said Hao Peng, Party secretary of Liaoning. Vigorous efforts being made to propel traditional industries toward high-end development will establish a solid foundation for the construction of a modern industrial system characterized by integrity, advancement, and safety, he said. Liaoning, one of China's first major industrial bases, boasts a wide range of industries and sectors such as equipment manufacturing, petrochemicals, and mining, and played a significant national role in the country's development. However, many traditional manufacturing enterprises in Liaoning now urgently need to revitalize their core operations due to a lack of competitiveness and limited industrial structures. "Focusing on intelligent initiatives, we support enterprises in digital empowerment and acceleration of the innovative development of the industrial internet," said Hao, adding that transforming and upgrading enterprises will help traditional industries grow stronger and larger, and achieve high-quality growth. Liaoning is developing new productive forces tailored to local conditions and focusing on building a modern industrial system featuring the province's distinct advantages, Hao said. With government support and assistance, Ansteel, or the Anshan Iron and Steel Group Co, has successfully undertaken its transformation. The steelmaker has completed intelligent upgrades on 55 production lines, with CNC (computer numerical control) application to key processes exceeding 80 percent. Notably, projects such as intelligent mining, dark or fully automated factories, and 5G plus smart steelmaking have become benchmarks for the intelligent transformation and upgrading of numerous traditional industries in Liaoning. Liaoning Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology data indicates that the pace of digitalization in traditional industries in Liaoning is accelerating. Nearly 90 provincial-level industrial internet platforms have been established in the province, with 222 digitalized workshops and 115 intelligent factories established. Emerging industries Liaoning boasts unique geographical advantages, a solid industrial foundation, and abundant innovation resources, providing great potential for the northeastern province to develop new quality productive forces, said Lu Yangxu, an analyst at the Beijing-based Chinese Academy of Science and Technology for Development. "The cultivation of new productive forces should be tailored to local conditions and leverage comparative advantages effectively," he said. Lu suggested the province expand and strengthen emerging industries, enhance the leading role of enterprises in innovation, and stimulate innovation across various enterprises. Liaoning is currently focusing on the development of 10 strategic emerging industry clusters. Among them are robotics and artificial intelligence, software and information technology services, integrated circuit equipment, biopharmaceuticals and advanced medical equipment, and new energy, according to Provincial Development and Reform Commission sources. Shenyang's robotics and intelligent manufacturing industry is one of 45 state-level advanced manufacturing clusters. Siasun Robot and Automation Co, a leader in robotics, is exploring "robot plus AI" applications. Established in 2000, the Shenyang-based company focuses on robot technology and intelligent manufacturing solutions. It exports products to over 40 countries, and provides services to over 4,000 international companies. At the company's exhibition hall, a diverse collection of cutting-edge intelligent products is on show. Among them is an AI robot that can engage in real-time conversations with people and attempt to read their emotions. Zhang Jin, president of Siasun, said the company is gradually developing robots as core support for intelligent manufacturing. Advanced productive forces will also be developed to upgrade traditional industries, foster and strengthen emerging fields, and lay out future industries. In the first quarter of this year, Liaoning saw rapid growth in the production of high-tech products. Production of industrial robots increased by 8.5 percent year-on-year, integrated circuit equipment by 31 percent, and new energy vehicles by 46.5 percent, according to Provincial Development and Reform Commission sources. At Yingkou Jinchen Machinery Co, over 60 CNC machines process a variety of components in a factory workshop spanning 10,000 square meters. The company is a global leader in producing facilities that make highly efficient photovoltaic cells and parts, and has over 210 customers in more than 20 countries and regions. Jinchen's executive vice president, Qi Haishen, said the company had taken a path "empowering it toward new productivity". Since its establishment, Jinchen has focused on new fields and industries, and transformed and developed products through its own innovation. Also located in Yingkou, Kanghui New Materials Technology Co is breathing new life into the polyester materials industry. Using cutting-edge polyester synthesis technology, the company is building an industry-leading production base for film materials, lithium battery separators, high-performance engineering resins, and biodegradable new materials. A smelter of the Ansteel Group operating in Anshan, Liaoning. (PAN YULONG/XINHUA) Driven by innovation Two new ethylenediamine production lines with independent core technologies recently commenced operations at an industrial park on Changxing Island, Dalian. The lines produce essential fine chemical products, high-quality compounds that are made in relatively small quantities using complex chemical processes. The production lines were jointly developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP) and local enterprises. "Through technological innovation, we have rapidly industrialized scientific achievements, reduced production costs, and enhanced the competitiveness of downstream fine chemical industry chains," Chen Jianhua, chairman and president of Hengli Group Co, told China Central Television. Dalian's well-structured technological innovation platform is helping new products and technologies swiftly transit from the laboratory to the broader market. The northeastern port city has established 115 national-level scientific innovation platforms, and nearly 900 provincial and municipal-level key laboratories, technology innovation centers, and innovation platforms. "High-quality development must adhere to innovation as the driving force, focusing on laying out an innovation chain around the industrial chain and vice versa, swiftly transforming technological innovation achievements into tangible productivity," said Cheng Nan, director of the technology and standard institute at the China Center for Information Industry Development, a think tank in Beijing. Staff members have a discussion at the Ansteel Group's Ironmaking Central Control Center in Anshan on June 15. (ZHU XINGXIN/CHINA DAILY) Jinpu New Area In Dalian's Jinpu New Area, China's 10th State-level new area, the outdoor exhibition area of Mixwell Technology (Dalian) Co showcases various vehicles such as hydrogen fuel cell refrigerated trucks and passenger vehicles. Adjacent to them is a boat featuring the company's power system. "This hydrogen fuel cell boat is equipped with our complete power system, jointly developed by Dalian Maritime University, Mixwell, and the DICP," said Ji Guancheng, general manager of the company. Since its establishment in 2016, the national-level high-tech enterprise has focused on research and development of its hydrogen fuel cell power system. The company has experienced rapid growth and its hydrogen fuel cell system is widely used in various vehicles, including buses, passenger cars, and heavy-duty commercial vehicles. The Jinpu New Area is leveraging its industrial, resource, and technological innovation advantages to help develop the hydrogen energy industry, and collaborating with research institutes such as the DICP to promote scientific research. It is also boosting exchanges and cooperation with the hydrogen energy industry at home and internationally, and attracting high-quality projects and talent to accelerate the development of the hydrogen energy industry. In the Dalian High-tech Zone, Dalian Rongke Power Co, a service provider for vanadium redox flow batteries, is playing a pioneering role in the global energy storage industry. VRFBs are an emerging technology being developed for the effective storage of renewable energy. The company said it has built the world's largest intelligent manufacturing base for such equipment. "Our products are widely utilized in areas such as grid peak shaving, renewable energy grid connection, and industrial and commercial microgrids," said Wang Xiaoli, Rongke's general manager. Hydrogen energy and energy storage are important sectors in the development of emerging industries in Dalian. By 2023, the scale of strategic emerging industries in Dalian had reached 386.68 billion yuan ($53.21 billion), a year-on-year increase of 13.2 percent, according to the Economic Daily. The value-added amount of strategic emerging industries reached 116.54 billion yuan. Chemicals used to produce high-tech batteries to more effectively store renewable energy are displayed at Dalian Rongke Power Co. in Dalian, Liaoning. (ZHANG LEI/XINHUA) Pharma flourishes In Shenyang, capital of Liaoning, Sunshine Pharmaceutical Co, a leader in the biopharmaceutical industry, has a slew of products already on the market and undergoing research. "Currently, we have 28 products in the pipeline, with nearly half of them first-class new drugs," said Yuan Jie, assistant general manager of the company. The company places great emphasis on independent research and development, focusing on the development of new drugs to treat kidney disease, tumors, autoimmune diseases, and for metabolic therapies, Yuan said. Neusoft Medical Systems Co, a leading manufacturer of medical equipment and services, is also taking great strides in innovation. Thanks to its latest high-end CT equipment, a patient can complete CT scans, image analysis, and surgery in 15 minutes in some cases. "This device enables a one-stop diagnosis and treatment process," said Han Donglong, senior vice-president of the company. "Previously, patients needed to be moved between medical devices, whereas now the medical devices revolve around the patient, seizing the optimal treatment time," he explained. Through collaboration with top-tier hospitals and the use of AI technology, the company has developed multiple intelligent diagnostic tools to enhance the quality and efficiency of medical imaging diagnosis. The rapid development of Sunshine Pharmaceutical and Neusoft Medical is a microcosm of Shenyang's efforts to build a biopharmaceutical industry cluster and accelerate the cultivation of emerging industries. In 2023, the biopharmaceutical and medical equipment industry in Shenyang achieved an industrial output value of 28.16 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 5.4 percent, data showed. The city also nurtured three national-level enterprise technology centers. Liaoning is also forming a strategic emerging industry system with multiple areas including new materials and new energy. Visitors watch a robot writing Chinese calligraphy at Siasun's base in Shenyang. (ZHU XINGXIN/CHINA DAILY) Province-wide growth Benefits from Dalian and Shenyang, described as the "twin engines" driving the development of strategic emerging industries in Liaoning, are radiating across the province. Other cities in Liaoning have accelerated the push toward new quality productive forces by nurturing technology-based enterprises. In Panjin, Liaoning Zhonglan Electronic Technology Co, an optical electronics manufacturer that produces focus motors and optical lenses, is building a small industrial park centered around its research and production base. The company hopes to attract upstream suppliers to the park for collaborative development, and the formation of an optical electronics industry cluster. In Dandong, Dongfang Measurement and Control Technology Co has developed major technological breakthroughs for the mining and construction industries. The company has achieved intelligent mining with unmanned driving, smart dispatching, intelligent monitoring, and safe operational procedures that can improve efficiency by up to 15 percent. Optimized intelligent ore dressing, done without the need for workers, has reduced the cost of this process by 5 to 10 percent. It has also achieved significant energy savings and emission reductions compared with traditional ore dressing, which involves the mechanical separation of ore from other minerals. "The key to high-quality development in Liaoning lies in innovation-driven growth," said Yang Hui, deputy director of the Liaoning Department of Science and Technology, adding that the province's innovation ecosystem is continuously improving and increasing in momentum. "The greatest variable of technological innovation is being transformed into the greatest factor driving high-quality development in Liaoning," he added. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun) ARCHIVE - In Italy, cell phones are generally prohibited in classrooms from the new school year onwards. Photo: Jens Kalaene/dpa-Zentralbild/dpa Keystone In Italy, cell phones are generally prohibited in classrooms from the new school year onwards. This is the result of a decree issued by the right-wing government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Cell phones and smartphones may also no longer be used for teaching purposes in future. The use of tablets and computers remains permitted - but only if the teachers agree. SDA The new decree was published by Education Minister Giuseppe Valditara, who belongs to the right-wing nationalist Lega party. The ban on cell phones is intended to make lessons quieter again. In addition, pupils are to be encouraged to write by hand again. To this end, Valditara ordered the reintroduction of a "school calendar" in which tasks must be written down in pen. "We need to get our children used to pen and paper again," said the minister. In this way, parents should also be able to keep better track of what is happening at school. In principle, there has been a ban on cell phones in Italian schools for years, but this has been relaxed in the meantime and not always enforced. Italy's Ministry of Education has officially been called the "Ministry of Education and Merit" since the right-wing three-party coalition took office in October 2022. This is intended to emphasize the idea of achievement more strongly. SDA 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. The Central Bank of Ireland needs to improve the transparency and fairness of its vetting regime for key financial services industry roles, a review conducted by a former top supervisor at the European Central Bank found on Thursday. The Republic is a major centre for the fund management industry, a regional hub for a number of international banks and has a domestic financial sector, all of which are regulated by the Central Bank. Advertisement The Central Bank launched the review in February after an independent tribunal that hears appeals from aggrieved parties against the bank's decisions found its decision-making process in a recent case was "flawed" and that it had denied fair procedures at each stage of the process. The review led by Andrea Enria, whose term as chair of the ECB's Single Supervisory Mechanism ended last year, found the Central Bank process broadly aligned with peer jurisdictions and had succeeded in raising the bar for entry into the industry. But it said the recent independent tribunal's decision and confidential feedback "highlighted a number of areas in which the operation of the fitness and probity process is not always up to the requisite standards of fairness and transparency." The fitness and probity process is a central part of reforms introduced in the aftermath of the 2008-09 banking crash that assesses the suitability of applicants for any of the 21,000 key positions in Ireland's diverse financial sector. Advertisement The 100-page report made 12 recommendations, including on the provision of greater clarity on the vetting regime's rules, the bank's own governance of the process and the tone, lack of timely notice, lack of senior staff involvement and lack of clarity on topics to be discussed in key interviews with those being assessed. It also said the Central Bank must not engage in off-record discussions with regulated entities during the process after stakeholder feedback suggested the regulator may have informally raised issues regarding applications with the entity involved. "There are clearly improvements we can make in the way we manage applications and come to a judgement on them," Central Bank Governor Gabriel Makhlouf said in a statement, accepting all the recommendations. The Central Bank said the recommendations will be implemented over the coming months and should be in place by the end of the year. A decision by the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman to order the reinstatement of payments under an income protection insurance policy for an Irish Rail locomotive driver has been overturned by the High Court. Mr Justice Barry O'Donnell said the decision requiring Utmost Paneurope DAC to reinstate the benefits was flawed "by serious and significant errors". He said it should be set aside and sent back to the ombudsman for fresh consideration. Advertisement Utmost claimed the cost of paying up under the insurance policy could run to around 730,000 up until the driver's retirement date in 2041. The driver, who is not named, was a member of a group income protection policy provided by Utmost to Irish Rail. He made a claim under the scheme in November 2014 after he encountered mental health difficulties following a back injury. The claim was accepted and he was paid from December 2014. The policy provided that after 24 months of payments, the definition of a disability changes and Utmost would only continue to pay the benefit if the illness or injury also prevented the person from performing "the duties of any rail operative occupation" within Irish Rail. Advertisement Just before the 24 months ran out, Utmost initiated a review and asked the Irish Rail chief medical officer doctor if the driver was able to perform the duties "of any rail operative occupation". The doctor replied he was unfit to carry out locomotive driving duties and this was likely to be a permanent situation. The doctor also noted he was unfit for "any role within a railway setting, due to the nature and severity of his symptoms and the psychotropic medicine required to treat same". Utmost got its own doctor to examine him. That doctor noted he had attended a psychotherapist, had been admitted to hospital for psychiatric treatment, and was attending an outpatient clinic. Advertisement He was also prescribed anti-psychotic and anti-depressant medication. The doctor diagnosed him as suffering from personality disorder with paranoid narcissistic traits. He expressed the view that there was no reason, from a work mental health perspective, "that he would not be able to engage in other work as a railway operative". He also noted that because of the driver's propensity to anger there was a reasonable likelihood that he would have difficulties with management, but that this behaviour should be managed similar to every other employee. Utmost informed the driver his payments would cease at the end of February 2017. The driver then lodged a complaint with the ombudsman. Advertisement In October 2019, the ombudsman issued a preliminary decision in which he found the ceasing of payments was wrongful. This, the ombudsman found, was largely because of the absence of a more comprehensive assessment of the driver's ongoing symptoms and a detailed consideration of the duties of any alternative rail operative occupations which he might be in a position to perform. As well as recommending reinstatement of payments, the ombudsman required Utmost to make up for any loss to the driver for the time he was not being paid the benefits and taking account of any taxation changes which might affect that. The ombudsman also said once his decision was implemented, Utmost was still entitled to conduct a fresh review of his medical condition in order to confirm whether he continued to satisfy the definition of disability within the policy. Advertisement Utmost disagreed with the decision and made submissions including that without moving the focus from ability to perform safety-critical roles to non-safety critical roles, the provision of insurance of this type would become unfeasible for most employers. In January 2020, the ombudsman made a final decision upholding his preliminary finding. Utmost appealed the decision to the High Court. The ombudsman opposed the appeal. In his ruling, Mr Justice O'Donnell said that in the ombudsmans decision there was no reference to or reliance on any code of conduct, best practice or other reliable objective measure for the finding that the conduct was unreasonable, particularly where the ombudsman did not appear to make a finding on the contractual obligations. While recognising the ombudsman's expertise in the conduct of financial service providers, where a finding of unreasonableness is made without reference to any objective criteria, it potentially transforms the analysis from an objective assessment into a because I say so assessment. He did not accept that this is what the jurisprudence to date on the ombudsman authorises. He was also satisfied that the remedies directed by the ombudsman were disproportionate and illogical. Businessman Denis O'Brien is seeking High Court orders requiring Internet giant Meta to provide him with information about those behind allegedly "false and malicious" advertisements containing his name and image that have been posted on its platforms. Mr O'Brien claims that since last August his name and image have been used in a series of fake adverts, which are being used in "a clear campaign to promote dubious financial schemes including cryptocurrency investments" to users of the social media platform's services via Meta Ads. Advertisement The businessman says he has nothing to do with these schemes advertised on Facebook and Instagram, and does not know who is behind the large number of adverts that have been posted. The well-known businessman claims the adverts are defamatory of him, and that "the scale of the problem is large". Some of the ads in question show footage of manipulated and merged interviews of Mr O'Brien, and include statements that he never made about various products and services with which he has no association. Some of the adverts, which he claims are quite sophisticated, have dubbed over the original soundtrack and contain audio that is not Mr O'Brien's voice. Advertisement In addition, the timing of the voice to mouth in the adverts is almost perfect, it is claimed. He claims the advertisements breach his rights to privacy, and his good name, his rights under GDPR and his property rights. As a result, he seeks damages for defamation, malicious falsehood, unlawful appropriate of his property, passing off, and for various alleged breaches of the Data Protection Laws and his constitutional rights. He intends to bring his proceedings against the parties behind the adverts as well as Dublin-based Meta Platforms Ireland Limited, which is the social media giant's European HQ. Advertisement The fake ads, he claims, breach EU law on fraud and deception, spam, and in relation to the integrity and authentic identity of account holders. He also seeks injunctions restraining the further publication of statements about him through the Meta Ad tool, and orders preventing his name and image being linked or connected to any endorsement of any financial product or service or cryptocurrency trading product without prior notification to the businessman. Norwich Pharmacal order As part of his claim, Mr O'Brien seeks an order, known as a Norwich Pharmacal order. This order requires Meta's Irish subsidiary to provide the plaintiff with all the information it has in its possession that will assist him in identifying those who have placed and paid for the adverts on Meta platforms. The information sought includes the full names of those who have paid for and have placed the adverts, their email addresses, phone numbers, physical addresses, the date time and IP addresses of all the login and logouts for each of the relevant accounts, and details of the payment methods linked to the relevant accounts. Advertisement Represented by Paul O'Higgins SC, appearing with Anna Shanley Bl instructed by Meaghers Solicitors said that there has been some correspondence with Meta and his client over the matter. Meta had agreed to provide his client with certain limited basic identifying information, provided that the court granted the order sought. Counsel said it is part of Mr O'Brien's claim that Meta is not properly complying with a regulation contained in an EU Directive, which came into being last February, which requires it to clearly identify the natural and legal persons on whose behalf the adverts were placed. The directive, it is claimed, obliges Meta to maintain a repository of all adverts published on their online interfaces containing specific information for the time they are displayed and for a year after the adverts were removed. Advertisement The repository must also include information about the service or product on offer in the advert, the person on whose behalf the advert is presented, and who paid for the advert. There is further an obligation that viewers of adverts on large platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to identify in a clear concise and unambiguous manner who has placed the advert, and who paid for the advert. Compliance Counsel said that following an examination of Meta's ad library, his client has been unable to obtain any meaningful information about the identities of those behind the advert. Mr O'Brien claims that the aim of the EU Directive is to ensure that anyone who views adverts on Meta's platforms can immediately identify the legal and natural person with whom they are dealing. It is claimed that if Meta was properly complying with its obligations under the regulations, the application to the court for disclosure orders may not have been necessary. It is further claimed that Meta Ireland appears to have taken no steps to ensure that the name provided by the advertiser is either a real name or legal entity. The matter came before Mr Justice Mark Sanfey on Thursday. The judge granted Mr O'Brien's lawyers permission, on an ex-parte basis, to serve short notice of the proceedings on Meta Platforms Ireland. The judge, noting submissions from Mr O'Higgins that several other individuals, including Tanaiste Micheal Martin, and broadcaster Miriam O'Callaghan, have made similar applications before the courts over misleading adverts on social media platforms, expressed his hope that matters could be agreed between the parties in a relatively short period of time. The matter was adjourned to a date later this month. The Court of Appeal (CoA) has decided to refer a dispute between the sea fisheries watchdog and fishermen to Europe. The case concerns a requirement that some catches in Killybegs, Co Donegal, should take place on landing and not after they have been transported one kilometre away to a processing factory. Advertisement Mr Justice Gerard Hogan, sitting as a member of a three-judge CoA, said if the final decision, which related to the implementation of EU rules, was left to the Irish court, he would have rejected the appeal brought over one such inspection at the centre of the dispute. However, he said, he had nevertheless concluded that the CoA should make a reference on this point to the Court of Justice of the EU under Article 267 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, which deals with the interpretation of treaties and the validity and interpretation of acts of the institutions, bodies, offices or agencies of the EU. A final decision of the CoA will be adjourned pending the outcome of the reference, he said. Last year, the High Court found against the master of a vessel at the centre of one such weighing dispute along with two associated companies, and the Killybegs Fishermen's Organisation, who had brought a challenge over the matter against the Sea Fisheries Authority (SFA). Advertisement The SFA ensures compliance with the EU Common Fisheries Policy (CFP). Derogation The High Court found that a derogation allowing the weighing to take place in the factory did not impact on the power of the SFA to also require monitored weighing on landing. The court heard that fish are weighed to ensure compliance with the CFP, but Ireland had a derogation since 2012 which permitted weighing at an authorised premises after the fish was transported from the quayside. The derogation was rescinded in 2021. Advertisement In 2019, the SFA announced a change in practice amid concerns expressed by the EU Commission about how the derogation was operating. As a result, the SFA announced that a percentage of inspections would be carried out on landing. In October 2020, the MFV Atlantic Challenge was selected for inspection and boarded by fisheries officers on its arrival at Killybegs, where a pier-side weighing took place under protest from the vessels master, Noel McDowell, and Killybegs Fishing Enterprises Ltd, which holds the Atlantic Challenge's sea fishing licence. Fishermen had argued that post-transport weighing was the best way to preserve the quality, freshness and value of the fish. Advertisement The SFA argued it was possible to mitigate these effects when weighing does not take place at a factory premises, and it installed equipment at Killybegs pier for this purpose. The figures sent in when the fish was later weighed in the factory showed a differential of some 11-12pc between the weight for mackerel recorded from the pier weighbridge and on the flow scales at the factory. The SFA notified Mr McDowell of the commission of two "suspected offences" relating to the landing declaration. Inspection In February 2021, Mr McDowell, Killybegs Fishing Enterprise, Killybegs Seafoods and the Killybegs Fishermen's Organisation Ltd, brought a High Court challenge seeking to quash the "notice to weigh on landing" notice which had been used to carry out the inspection on October 12th, 2020. Advertisement The fishermen/factory applicants argued the Atlantic Challenge was unlawfully selected for monitored weighing on landing as at that time, weighing ought properly to have occurred at the factory premises under the terms of the derogation. They also contended that the system of weighing using the State-owned weighbridge at Killybegs was not fit for purpose and the factory weighing scales were more accurate and less damaging to the fish. The SFA opposed the challenge, arguing, among other things, that where the SFA requires weighing on landing, the derogation from the general rules did not apply. The High Court's Ms Justice Siobhan Phelan said the power to require a monitored weighing on landing was not a new power, noting it had co-existed with the derogation, albeit that the SFA did not in practice exercise that power prior to 2020. She also said no infirmity had been established with the selection of the Atlantic Challenge for monitored weighing on landing. Updated: 12.35pm Garda murderer Aaron Brady did not react when the Court of Appeal upheld his conviction on Thursday for shooting dead Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe. Advertisement Brady's family, who have conducted a campaign insisting on his innocence, consoled one another when Mr Justice John Edwards made it clear that the three-judge court had not been persuaded by any of the nearly 50 grounds of appeal. Wearing a navy suit and pink tie, Brady was quickly returned to the cell area by prison officers following the judgment. It was, Mr Justice Edwards said, a difficult case and the appeal itself was the longest in the 10-year history of the court. The court's decision means Brady will continue serving his life sentence, with a minimum term of 40 years. Advertisement With remission for good behaviour, he will be allowed to apply for parole in February 2048, after he has spent 30 years in prison on the murder conviction. In August 2020, Brady (33), formerly of New Road, Crossmaglen, Co Armagh, was convicted by a jury of the murder of Det Gda Adrian Donohoe during a credit union robbery at Lordship, Bellurgan, Co Louth on January 25th, 2013. In Thursday's 363-page judgment, Mr Justice Edwards dismissed all the "broad panoply" of issues raised, including an argument by Brady that his trial should have been halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In their arguments before the court, Brady's lawyers said their client's case remained the only one at hearing as the pandemic took hold, and it was inappropriate for a jury to determine his guilt or innocence as people were dying of Covid. Advertisement His counsel, Michael O'Higgins SC, had said it was plausible that the jurors were worried about dying or about others close to them dying, which had deteriorated the quality of their deliberations. In reply, Brendan Grehan SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said there was not "an iota of a suggestion, never mind evidence" that the jurors felt coerced to come to court and argued that no "unbearable burden" had been placed on them. Unprecedented public health crisis The Court of Appeal said on Thursday that the trial judge, Mr Justice Michael White, had "carefully applied his mind... and was clearly concerned about the unprecedented public health crisis faced by all and its impact on the appellant's right to a fair trial". Mr Justice White did not not err in directing the trial to proceed, the appellate court found. Advertisement Daniel Cahill and Molly Staunton proved to be key witnesses in Brady's trial, as they both testified they heard Brady admit to killing a "guard" or a "cop" while Brady was living in the United States. Due to Covid restrictions in New York, "ad-hoc" arrangements were made for them to give their evidence via video-link. Mr Justice Edwards said these arrangements "may not have been ideal", but were not an error "per se". In the case of Daniel Cahill, the court found that Brady's lawyers had not shown there was any unfairness or risk of an unfair trial. The court also dismissed the defence's arguments regarding whether Mr Cahill had been offered an inducement by Homeland Security in the US in return for his testimony. Advertisement Mr Justice Edwards said any such suggestion could be put to Mr Cahill in cross-examination, and it is for the jury to assess Mr Cahill's credibility. Ms Staunton told the trial that she heard Brady say he had to "carry around the guilt of having murdered a cop in Ireland". She said in her direct evidence that Brady also claimed during a drunken "rant" to be "the most feared man in Ireland". In relation to Ms Staunton's evidence, the court found the trial court was correct to allow the prosecution to treat her as a hostile witness when she appeared to resile from her evidence during cross-examination. Interruptions When prosecution barrister Brendan Grehan SC showed Ms Staunton a video of her original statement given to gardai, she returned to her original position that she had heard Brady admit to murdering a "cop". Ms Staunton's evidence was also interrupted by her boyfriend, who was in her apartment while she testified. Mr Justice Edwards said the interruptions did not pose a "real and substantial risk of an unfair trial". He said any such risk was avoided by warnings given by the trial judge that "properly addressed the jury on the issue of who had responsibility for the interruptions, acknowledged the absence of supervision and referred to the interruptions as having been from the witness's boyfriend". He added that the judge's remarks made it clear to the jury that the interruptions were not linked to Brady, and ensured that the trial "while not perfect, was fair". In the court's written judgment, Mr Justice Edwards wrote: "One must step back and analyse the consequences of these interruptions and, in our opinion, whether taking each interruption separately or together, the consequence was not a breach of the integrity of the trial and did not cause prejudice to the appellant, necessitating the discharge of this jury." The court further rejected arguments that Brady's deportation from the US in 2018 had amounted to a "de facto extradition" without the legal protections he would enjoy during an extradition process. Mr Justice Edwards said this argument was "entirely without foundation" and the US authorities were entitled to deport Brady, who had been working for years in the US without a visa. Earlier this year, Brady pleaded guilty to a charge that on a date between February 20th and May 7th, 2020, within the State, he video recorded the playing of an interview between Ronan Flynn, a witness at his trial, and An Garda Siochana, thus embarking on a course of conduct intended to pervert the course of justice. He is awaiting sentencing from the Special Criminal Court for that offence. Trial At Brady's trial in 2020, the prosecution used various strands of circumstantial evidence to prove his guilt. They showed that he was involved in stealing a Volkswagen Passat that was used to block the entrance to the credit union and was then used as the getaway car before being burnt out in South Armagh. Mobile phone evidence showed that Brady and other suspects for the robbery stopped using their phones for about one hour before and after the robbery. The raiders were known to have used walkie-talkies. The prosecution also pointed to lies Brady told gardai when he was questioned one day after the shooting, and 10 days later when he visited Dundalk Garda station to give a voluntary statement. In his closing speech for the prosecution, Lorcan Staines SC described Brady as a "practised liar". He said the prosecution case was a circumstantial one and that each piece of evidence on its own could be considered no more than coincidence. He added: "It's your personal tolerance when coincidence is put on top of coincidence, until there comes a point that it is an affront to common sense that all these little things are coincidence." To prove that Brady was the shooter, the prosecution introduced the evidence of Molly Staunton and Daniel Cahill, who said they heard Brady confess that he "shot a cop" or "murdered a garda" on multiple occasions after Brady moved to New York following the shooting. Brady took the stand in his defence and told the jury that he was loading cubes of laundered diesel waste onto the back of a trailer when the robbery happened. The first time he made this claim was in October 2019, six years after he first spoke to gardai and months after his deadline to submit an alibi. He said he did not want to submit an alibi until he had seen all the prosecution evidence, and insisted he had nothing to do with the robbery, claiming he had lied to gardai to cover up his involvement in diesel laundering. The jury did not accept his testimony and found that he was one of four raiders who jumped over the wall of the credit union at the moment that the Passat blocked the car park entrance while credit union employees were preparing to drive off with a garda escort. Det Gda Donohoe got out of the patrol car when he saw the raiders, but Brady pointed an automatic or pump action shotgun at him and fired a single shot to the head from about six feet away, killing him instantly. Det Gda Donohoe's gun remained in its holster on his hip. The jury's verdict showed they were satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that when Brady pulled the trigger he not only intended to kill or cause serious injury, but also knew he was shooting a member of An Garda Siochana acting in accordance with his duty. A Garda armed support unit (ASU) officer has told a court that being spat in the face with a "cocktail" of phlegm and blood felt worse than being punched or life-threatening injuries he suffered previously on duty. Deividas Grigonis (34), of Verdemont Apartments, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, had pleaded not guilty to assaulting the Garda Sergeant on December 8th, 2023. Advertisement However, he did not show up for his scheduled hearing at Dublin District Court on Thursday, which proceeded in his absence. Judge John Hughes heard the officer intervened in a retail crime incident at Fresh supermarket on Dublin's Camden Street where the accused got into an altercation with a security guard. The court heard the garda was getting refreshments when he saw the situation developing at the back of the supermarket. He went to assist the security man, identified himself as a Garda and used the word police, but the accused would not cease. Advertisement The court heard Grigonis continued shouting abuse and began telling the officer to f**k off. The court heard the officer noted the accused spoke an eastern European language, using a word which means "b*tch. The garda attempted to restrain Grigonis as he struggled, before he "hocked" and spat phlegm in the garda's face. The court heard the accused appeared intoxicated and smelled of alcohol, and was bleeding as he had a bottle of vodka up his sleeve which had broken during the altercation. Advertisement The office said it was worse than a punch or any other injury he had sustained in the line of duty, adding it had affected his sleeping pattern and how he now goes about his work. He outlined how he had been a member of An Garda Siochana for over 15 years, and frequently attended serious incidents as part of his work with the Armed Support Unit. The officer said he had been previously been attacked four times while on duty, resulting in a range of wounds, some of which he described as life-threatening injuries requiring surgery. However, in his victim impact statement, he said his interaction with Grigonis was "horrific" and "the cocktail of blood and spit on his face" was worse than the previous assaults he had endured. The garda added that although he was satisfied the blood and spit did not enter his body, he may have to get blood tests. Judge Hughes found the accused guilty of assault and related public order charges. He noted that Grigonis, who had been on bail pending his hearing, had 15 prior convictions and issued a warrant for his arrest to have him brought before the court for sentencing. The Tanaiste has said he is positive and optimistic about future relations with the UK. Micheal Martin also suggested there could be a friendly settlement to the interstate case which Ireland took against the UK over the controversial Legacy Act aimed at addressing Northern Irelands troubled past. Advertisement The Tanaiste was speaking to the media as he met new Northern Secretary Hilary Benn at Hillsborough Castle following Labours victory in last weeks UK general election. Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn (left) and Tanaiste Micheal Martin ahead of a meeting at Hillsborough Castle in Belfast (Brian Lawless/PA) He said he expected a wide-ranging discussion, including the stability of the Stormont Assembly and the opportunity to reset British/Irish relations. Advertisement Mr Martin said they had had a very good phone call last week following the UK election. We know each other. We have a good understanding of each others perspective, British/Irish relations and how to advance reconciliation in Northern Ireland, he said. There has been tension between the UK and Irish administrations in recent years following Brexit as well as the Conservative governments controversial legacy Bill on dealing with Northern Irelands troubled past. Asked for his view on the British/Irish relationship going forward, Mr Martin said he is positive and optimistic about the future relationship between the British and Irish governments. Advertisement But also I realise the challenges and Im realistic in terms of how we meet those challenges, but what I am particularly focused on is to re-establish both governments working hand in hand as anchors of the Good Friday Agreement into the future. I think progress was made under Prime Minister Sunak and former secretary of state Chris Heaton-Harris in many areas, particularly in terms of the Windsor Framework, but I do believe we have an opportunity to advance the situation on a wide range of issues, to deal with the legacy issue on an amicable basis, to work through that. I am positive and I believe there are opportunities here the British and Irish governments can exploit, and I am confident that if we work together we can advance reconciliation, which is my key agenda in the time ahead. Advertisement Asked whether the Government intends to continue an interstate case against the UK over the Legacy Act, Mr Martin said he and Mr Benn will explore the issue. There are mechanisms within the framework of the case which allow for, if you like, a friendly settlement but that will obviously depend on how the British government is going to deal with that Legacy Act and the core issues, he said. Advertisement Above all, we believe the pressing issue on legacy is to restore trust in the legacy framework for the victims and families of those who lost their lives in atrocities. It is about the families, the survivors and victims. We have to restore trust. An Irish solider who assaulted a woman in a random attack is to be discharged from the Defence Forces on Thursday. Cathal Crotty, with an address at Parkroe Heights, Ardnacrusha, Co Clare, pleaded guilty to assaulting Natasha OBrien in Limerick in 2022. Advertisement The 22-year-old walked free from court after being given a three-year suspended sentence for the attack in a case that prompted protests across the country and put pressure on the Government to tackle violence against women. The military confirmed in a statement that Crotty was being discharged on Thursday. Natasha O'Brien was attacked by Cathal Crotty. Photo: Gareth Chaney/PA The Defence Forces unequivocally condemns any actions by serving personnel that are contrary to military regulations or that do not reflect our values, it said in a statement. Advertisement The director of public prosecutions has lodged an appeal against the sentence given to Crotty on the basis of undue leniency. An Irish woman is relieved to be back in Ireland after being subjected to a travel ban in Dubai. Tori Toweys case was raised this week when the Dail was told the flight attendant from Co Roscommon had been a victim of domestic abuse and was charged with attempted suicide. Advertisement Dubai authorities had also banned her from leaving the state, the Dail chamber heard. On Wednesday, efforts in her case were ramped up by the Government and the Irish Embassy in the United Arab Emirates. The Dail was told later on Wednesday that the travel ban had been lifted, and the Detained in Dubai group said the charges against Ms Towey had also been dropped. Advertisement So happy that our work at Detained in Dubai has led to the freedom of Tori Towey. She is finally SAFE & free to start the next chapter of her life! Shes so excited to be arriving home. Join us for a live discussion on X spaces Friday morning at 0900:https://t.co/FUZo3VhWb4 Radha Stirling (@RadhaStirling) July 11, 2024 Advertisement On Thursday morning, Radha Stirling, of Detained in Dubai, who has been speaking on Ms Toweys behalf, posted on social media on Thursday morning: Shes home. Speaking to the media on her return to Dublin, Ms Towey said: Im just so relieved. I cant believe it. I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone; the embassy, the ambassador, the Taoiseach, the Tanaiste, Mary Lou [McDonald], Claire Kerrane, obviously the media without you guys I wouldnt be here right now. Without the support of the Irish people, this is such an amazing country and I feel bad for people that dont have the support that we have were such a tight country and have each others backs. Advertisement I cant believe how fast things got going and Im so emotional. And a huge thanks [to] Radha Stirling, shes the first one that we got on to and she kicked off everything. The minute we spoke to her, thats when everything kind of came to fruition and Im just so thankful and so grateful to be back. Her mother Caroline said: It is great to have her home. It has been a bit of a nightmare. Advertisement It felt like a hostage [situation] but once it kicked off and the media started to help and we were bombarded with lots of messages of support, and we were tuning in to the Oireachtas and watching everything going on. So a huge thanks to the country, to our politicians, to the people. If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact Womens Aid (24-hour freephone helpline at 1800-341 900, email helpline@womensaid.ie), Mens Aid Ireland (confidential helpline at 01-554 3811, email hello@mensaid.ie), or the Samaritans (24-hour confidential freephone helpline at 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org) for support and information. Safe Ireland also offers a number of local services and helplines at safeireland.ie/get-help/where-to-find-help/. Author and columnist John Waters, who a court ruled defamed Irish Times journalist Kitty Holland, has been ordered to pay Ms Hollands full legal costs, estimated to be around 150,000. At the Civil Circuit Court, Judge John OConnor ordered Mr Waters to pay Ms Holland 35,000 damages for defamation of character. Advertisement At an adjourned hearing to assess the issue of costs, Ms Holland's counsel, Andrew Walker SC, told the court his client was entitled to her costs following the courts finding in her favour. Mr Walker said Mr Waters had indicated prior to the hearing that he intended to call 11 witnesses to give evidence on his behalf, but subsequently called no witnesses and instead based his case on a 100-page letter of defence and his own evidence. Counsel said Waters had sent Ms Hollands solicitors a 100-page letter which had made it clear he had no intention of settling the case. Following an application on behalf of Mr Waters asking the court not to make an order for costs, Judge OConnor said he saw no reason to depart from the normal rule that costs follow the event. Advertisement The judge added that, in his opinion, Ms Holland was absolutely entitled to a full set of costs. Judge OConnor said the defamation in the case had been a serious attack on Ms Hollands professional integrity as a journalist and had caused her considerable hurt. Fortunately, this attack on her reputation as a journalist did not result in consequences for her career, Judge OConnor said. She is held in very high esteem as a journalist by her peers and this is confirmed today by this court. Advertisement Reckless The judge said the defamation by Mr Waters had been careless and reckless of Ms Hollands reputation in order to make a political point. Mr Waters words had suggested she was a journalist who was deceitful in her presentation of an important news story, the death of Savita Halappanavar, the court heard. Judge OConnor said he was attempting to be proportionate in making an award of 35,000, exactly half of the award he could have made against Mr Waters. He noted Mr Waters had arranged for his speech, which contained the defamatory remarks, to be deleted from the Renua website, though no clarification or apology had been issued. Advertisement Ms Holland had sued former colleague Mr Waters for up to the 75,000 Circuit Court limit for defamation, alleging Mr Waters had seriously injured her standing as a journalist. Ms Holland (53), of Ranelagh, Dublin, broke the story of the death of Ms Halappanavar at University Hospital Galway 12 years ago. Ms Holland alleged Mr Waters had, without specifically naming her, made a claim in an address to a political party conference that she had lied in her report, making her out to be a dishonest and inaccurate reporter, and unfit to be a journalist. Referendum The court heard that both journalists had been passionate advocates on either side of the public debate leading up to the referendum on abortion in 2018. Advertisement The sting of the libel, the court heard, was a wrong observation by Mr Waters claiming not only that Ms Holland was a bare-faced liar, but the journalist who started the alleged lie and continued promulgating lies for money and awards. Mr Waters, of Sandycove, Dublin, described in court as a strident pro-lifer, denied Ms Hollands claim that he had defamed, stating he had nothing to do with the publication of his speech on the political party's website. Ms Holland told the court that after receiving a tip-off about Ms Halappanavars death, she thoroughly investigated the matter and her story had been published by the Irish Times under the headline 'Woman "denied a termination" dies in hospital', having been vetted by editors and lawyers for three days. During the hearing, Mr Waters said Ms Holland was in many respects a sincere and decent person who had been used as a tool by unscrupulous interests inside and outside The Irish Times. I did not accuse Kitty Holland of personal dishonesty, but I do believe she has become embroiled in the telling of an enormous untruth that has had, and will continue to have, disastrous consequences for Irish Society and, in particular, for its unborn children who have been stripped of the most fundamental protections as a result of that untruth, Mr Waters stated in his defence. A man who took part in a scheme to defraud the Trinity College Dublin (TCD) hardship fund of almost 550,000 told gardai he was not the brightest star, a court has heard. Nathan Roche (28) is one of a number of people who allowed their bank accounts to be used in the money laundering operation, which resulted in the university's hardship fund being defrauded by 549,135. Advertisement Roche, of Montpellier Drive, Arbour Hill, Dublin 7, told gardai he was asked by someone to give his bank details for a tax back scheme, adding: Im not the brightest star. I was told it was an easy way to get tax back. He pleaded guilty to possessing 1,550 as the proceeds of crime on a date in June 2021. At a sitting on Thursday, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard the amount of money laundered by Roche was one of the lowest values of anyone who has come before the courts in relation to this investigation. In total, 308 electronic payments were made from the student hardship fund to various bank accounts belonging to people who had never attended Trinity College, between January 2020 and September 2021. Advertisement The court heard that a TCD staff member had been involved in the theft of a very large portion of the money. 'Taxback scheme' Detective Garda Chris Fitzgerald told Carol Doherty BL, prosecuting, that Roche was arrested after he was found to have facilitated the movement of 1,550 into his account. Gda Fitzgerald said there was no suggestion that Roche had made an application himself to Trinitys hardship fund. The court heard that when gardai asked Roche about his level of involvement in the operation, he initially said he had been approached by someone in a Mr Price shop who spoke about some kind of taxback scheme. Advertisement Roche told gardai he gave this person his bank details because it sounded like something easy to do to get tax back. When gardai suggested this was not credible and asked Roche how he did not think there was something extremely odd or dodgy about this, he replied: I didnt know it was dodgy. If I thought it was dodgy, I wouldnt have done it. Roche also told gardai: Im not the brightest star, but I was told a few people were doing it, and it was an easy way to get tax back. Gda Fitzgerald said Roche changed his answers throughout his interview and later said he had given his bank details to a work colleague. Advertisement Roche also told gardai at first that he had spent all the 1,550 that came into his account, but then said he had handed over a portion of the money. Kevin Roche BL, defending the accused but no relation to him, told the court that his client was in no way connected to the individual who stole the money. Mr Roche also pointed out that other persons who have come before the court in relation to laundering larger sums in this operation have all been given suspended sentences. Judge Martin Nolan stopped the case before hearing mitigation and adjourned it to the end of the month, asking counsel for the defence to get more information and details. The case will be finalised on July 31st. Planning is underway to have the Palestinian president visit Ireland to deliver an historic address to members of the Oireachtas. Ceann Comhairle Sean O Fearghail has made contact with the Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland to explore the possibility of having Mahmoud Abbas speak in the Dail after Ireland's formal recognition of Palestine earlier this year. Advertisement A visit by Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky is also on the cards in the coming months with a formal invite being sent out this week. At a meeting of the Business Committee last week it was decided to ask Mr Abbas to address politicians in Leinster House. However, Mr O Fearghail has strongly ruled out extending a similar initiation to Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. "I wouldn't contemplate for a minute inviting that man anywhere to anything. I think he's a leading part of an enormous, murderous campaign which revolts the Irish people, revolts us here in Leinster House. In an interview with the Irish Examiner, Mr O Fearghail warned that the ongoing bombardment of Gaza by Israel will only fuel radicalization of another generation. "My wife and I look at her TV in the evening, we watch 9pm news if I'm there, and to see those beautiful little brown-eyed children in Palestine, sitting crying beside the corpses of their brothers, their sisters, their mothers or their fathers; you think about what will those children be like in five years time if peace is not drawn out of this appalling circumstance?" Joe Biden is not senile and has been on good form at the Nato summit, Keir Starmer has said, as concerns grow about the US presidents mental fitness. The British prime minister defended Mr Bidens leadership credentials amid questions about his cognitive health, which have intensified since criticism of his performance in a TV debate against Donald Trump. Advertisement The president (81) is seeking re-election in November despite discontent within the Democrat ranks about his suitability for a second term in office. Keir Starmer met US president Joe Biden at the White House (Stefan Rousseau/PA) Mr Starmer, who met the president for their first bilateral talks at the White House on Wednesday as Nato leaders gathered in Washington to discuss the challenges facing the bloc, said Mr Biden had been across all the detail. Advertisement The prime minister told broadcasters their one-to-one discussions had happened at pace and Mr Biden seemed on really good form. We were billed for 45 minutes, we went on for the best part of an hour, he said. He was absolutely across all the detail. We were going at pace through a number of issues. Asked whether the president was senile, Mr Starmer told the BBC: No hes shown incredible leadership. Advertisement If theres one thing that came out of the council session yesterday it was a clear understanding by everybody here that were faced with more threats now than weve faced for many years, and that we need the resolve of Nato. President Biden has led through some of the most challenging issues, actually, that were facing globally. The president on Monday stood firm against suggestions he should drop his candidacy and appealed for an end to the row over how the party moves forward in a sharply worded letter to Democrats. Advertisement Stronger now than ever. Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer meets @POTUS at the White House pic.twitter.com/rI30u8et4R UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) July 11, 2024 Advertisement Legislators and fundraisers including Hollywood actor George Clooney have since joined calls for Mr Biden to step aside, after he appeared flustered and stumbled over his words in the presidential debate with Mr Trump last month. Mr Starmers latest comments come after the two leaders spoke on the sidelines of the Nato summit as the British prime minister seeks to strengthen what he called the very special relationship between the UK and US. On Wednesday Mr Starmer, who has proposed forcing people to retire from the upper chamber of the UK parliament, the House of Lords, at 80, had sidestepped a suggestion that indicated Mr Biden was too old, instead saying he was motivated by reducing the size of the upper chamber. He told reporters accompanying him on his first international trip as prime minister: In terms of the age in the House of Lords, the simple fact is that our House of Lords is massive. That is the primary driver of the retirement at 80. Their meeting came as Mr Starmer prepared to urge Nato allies to support Ukraine for as long as it takes, as he confirmed the UKs own 3 billion a year military aid for Kyiv will continue. Mr Starmer told the president: The special relationship is so important. Its forged in difficult circumstances, endured for so long, and stronger now than ever. Meanwhile Mr Biden earlier appeared to back Mr Starmers push for the UK to forge closer defence ties with Europe, as he called Britain the transatlantic knot binding the two continents together. Mr Starmer wants an ambitious new UK-EU security pact to strengthen co-operation and seeks closer work on defence with key allies such as France and Germany. The president said: I kind of see you guys as the knot tying the transatlantic alliance together, the closer you are with Europe. We know where you are, you know where we are. The Washington summit has also cemented Ukraines irreversible progress towards Nato membership, with a joint statement by the allies. But because of Natos Article V, which commits to mutual defence, the allies will not allow Ukraine to join while it is still at war, as that would trigger an immediate conflict with Russia. Nato allies are stepping up commitments to Ukraine while they await the results of the presidential election in the US, where Republican candidate Mr Trump has threatened to reduce American support. A triple murder suspect in the UK, Kyle Clifford, is yet to speak with officers and is in a serious condition in hospital following the crossbow deaths of three family members of a BBC racing commentator. The 26-year-old was found with injuries in the Hilly Fields area of Enfield, north London, on Wednesday following a manhunt which lasted for a number of hours. Advertisement Carol Hunt (61), the wife of BBC 5 Live commentator John Hunt, and two of their daughters, Hannah (28), and Louise (25), were found fatally injured at a house in the quiet cul-de-sac of Ashlyn Close in Bushey, Hertfordshire, just after 7pm on Tuesday. Pictures left on floral tributes at Ashlyn Close (Jonathan Brady/PA) Hertfordshire Police said a crossbow has since been recovered as part of the investigation. Advertisement Police confirmed they had received no earlier reports after exploring whether there had been previous contact with Clifford or the victims. Colleagues and friends of the three victims have paid tribute to the lovely family since their deaths. Lea Holloway (60), a childhood friend of Carol Hunt, described her as a beautiful person. Speaking outside St James Church on Thursday after a vigil for Mrs Hunt and her daughters, she said: We grew up together and were pregnant at the same time. Advertisement This is the stuff nightmares are made of. I was there the night she met John (Hunt). It was in a nightclub in Hemel Hempstead. We went out together, went to birthdays and events. Advertisement Its very difficult. She was the nicest, kindest, sweetest person you could ever meet. A beautiful person. Ms Holloway continued: They were a lovely family and (the daughters) were lovely girls. They were making their way through life and their lives have been taken too soon. Its the thing of nightmares. Advertisement I feel for their eldest daughter and John (Hunt). I cant imagine what it would be like. After being joined by two other close friends, Dionne Smith (58), and Abigail Phillips (58), the trio told reporters: We were a four, and now theres only three. It doesnt seem real. We are together in grief. Forensic officers at the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire (James Manning/PA) In a post on Facebook, Hannah Hunts colleagues at The Anti-Ageing Clinic in Radlett, Hertfordshire, said it was with deep regret and sadness that they learned of the horrific murder on Tuesday night of our skin therapist Hannah. The post continued: She was a fantastic therapist and clients loved her. We send our condolences and prayers to her Dad, sister and family. She was very much a part of our team. Please bear with us at this terrible time. Providing an update on the investigation, Detective Superintendent Rob Hall, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: This was an unprecedented attack, and we are determined to understand the full circumstances of what happened that evening and the events leading up to it. This investigation, as Im sure people can imagine, will take time. Police officers at the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire (Jonathan Brady/PA) We are still appealing for anyone with information in relation to the incident on Tuesday evening in Bushey and activity in Enfield yesterday that could assist us to please contact police directly. On Thursday, further searches took place at a house linked to Cliffords brother, Bradley Clifford, who was jailed for life with a minimum term of 23 years for the murder of moped passenger Soban Khan in 2018. According to London's Metropolitan Police, at the time of the murder, Bradley Clifford had targeted the moped before crashing into it, and continued to assault Mr Khan after the collision. Officers were seen at the address in Rendlesham Road, Enfield, north London, in relation to the deaths. Police staff wearing gloves and face masks were seen outside the property, which was first searched on Wednesday. Flowers were left at the scene in Ashlyn Close on Thursday, with notes attached to some bouquets with messages such as rest in peace. People deliver floral tributes near to the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire (Jonathan Brady/PA) Clifford was found injured in Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield, north London, on Wednesday and was taken to a major trauma centre for treatment. Police said no shots had been fired by officers and no arrest had yet been made. Armed police had earlier been in the area, with an air ambulance nearby. Footage from Sky News appeared to show Clifford being stretchered out of the cemetery by paramedics and a further clip seemed to show the suspect being wheeled into the Royal London hospital. In a press conference before Clifford was found, Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson, from Hertfordshire Police, told reporters the killings were believed to have been targeted. During the hunt for Clifford, who is understood to have left the British army in 2022 after a short stint, the force said they believed he may have been armed with a crossbow and warned people not to approach him. He was believed to have been known to the victims. UK home secretary Yvette Cooper is urgently considering whether tougher crossbow laws are needed in the wake of the killings. She will look at the findings of a Home Office review carried out earlier this year. With just 15 days before the start of the Olympic Games in Paris, a leader of a major French union has called for mass strikes to pressure President Emmanuel Macron into respecting the results of recent legislative elections and allow a leftist coalition to form a new government. France has been at the brink of a governing paralysis since Sundays vote for the National Assembly, the influential lower house of parliament, resulted in a legislature split between three political groupings: the New Popular Front leftist coalition, Mr Macrons centrist allies and the far-right National Rally of Marine Le Pen. Advertisement The New Popular Front alliance won the most seats in the legislature, but fell short of an outright majority to govern on its own. The alliances three main parties, the hard-left France Unbowed, the Socialists and the Greens, have urged the president to turn to them to form the new government. CGT union secretary general Sophie Binet (Thibault Camus/AP) Advertisement Sophie Binet, the general secretary of the CGT union, said in an interview with broadcaster France Inter that if Mr Macron did not respect the results of the election, he risks once again plunging the country into chaos. Ms Binet said the president should allow the New Popular Front to form the new government, although the leftists alliance has not yet proposed a candidate for prime minister because of internal divisions. She called on union members to take to the streets and join rallies to put the National Assembly under surveillance. There must be popular, citizens pressure so that the elections results are respected, Ms Binet said. Advertisement Mr Macron has asked his prime minister, Gabriel Attal, to continue handling day-to-day affairs, despite Mr Attals offer of resignation. On Wednesday, Mr Macron said he will wait for the countrys political parties to build a Republican majority at the National Assembly before he can decide on a new prime minister, infuriating the leftist coalition and the unions. The new legislatures inaugural session is scheduled for July 18. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky says that in order to win the war with Russia, the US must lift limits on using its weapons to strike military targets in Russia. Mr Zelensky made the comments while appearing alongside Nato secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg in the final days of a summit in Washington DC. Advertisement Earlier, President Joe Biden reaffirmed his commitment to Ukraines defence by announcing a new military aid package. We will stay with you, period, Mr Biden told Mr Zelensky in a meeting. President Joe Biden speaks during a meeting with Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky (Susan Walsh/AP) Advertisement Mr Biden touted the package as his eighth since taking office, with this latest one consisting of 225 million dollars of support, including an additional Patriot missile system to bolster Ukraines air defences against a deadly onslaught of Russian airstrikes. The Patriot air defence system, the second the US has provided to Ukraine, is one of several Mr Biden announced this week at the Nato summit and is part of a swell of pledges to get weapons to Ukraine to help it fend off Russian attacks, including one this week that hit a childrens hospital in Kyiv. Mr Zelensky thanked Mr Biden for inviting him to the summit and called the new security package strong news. Instead, China is trying to export that problem, with the volume of its exports rising 11.5 per cent in the March quarter but the value of those exports increasing only 1.5 per cent. The volume of exports of EVs was up 20 per cent in the quarter with exports of solar batteries increasing 30 per cent and semiconductors 25 per cent. Loading How should overcapacity be defined and why, given that most economies have some form of industry policy and some level of subsidies for strategic industries, should Chinas be such a concern that it has ignited an expanding protectionist backlash from Beijings trading partners. A senior US Treasury and trade official, Jay Shambaugh, gave a speech on Wednesday in which he said overcapacity is not just production in excess of demand, but it is production capacity untethered from global demand. It isnt just the existence of overcapacity, which is a feature of many sectors in other economies, but the extent of that overcapacity, the response to it, how it is deployed and when it is deployed via exports, the impact it has on international competitors and their own industries and, of course, the extent to which governments and their state-directed institutions have subsidised unproductive activity. Dumping exporting at sub-economic or loss-making prices that cost growth and jobs in other economies isnt an acceptable form of competitive advantage. Its even less acceptable if it is done deliberately and heavily subsidised as part of long-term geo-economic and geopolitical strategies, which Chinas stated strategic goals suggest might be the case with some of its exports today. Chinas share of global manufacturing is already 30 per cent of GDP, Shambaugh said. Its surplus as a share of global GDP is larger, he said, than the combined share of Japan and Germany at their peaks. Chinese policymakers clear preference today is to push manufacturing even further as Chinas growth driver, which means taking on an increasingly outsized share of global production, with other countries manufacturing sectors needing to shrink to compensate, he said. When Chinese production is growing faster than its own demand or that of the global economy, the rest of the world cannot absorb Chinas increase in manufacturing production without being forced to adjust. These conditions would not appear in a normal market economy. What we are seeing is a fundamental distortion, driven by government policy. Shambaugh cited analysis that China spends about five per cent of its GDP on industrial subsidies, which he said was 10 times that of the US, Germany, Japan and Brazil and the size of those subsidies was increasing. In semiconductors, steel and aluminium, China accounted for 80 to 90 per cent of the global subsidies provided to those industries, he said. Senior Biden administration official Jay Shambaugh has sent China a warning. Credit: Bloomberg Other studies have estimated that Chinas government investment funds provided more than $US1 trillion ($1.5 trillion) in capital and guarantees to more than 28,000 largely private firms between 2000 and 2018. One fund, which targets semiconductors, was larger than the entire US CHIPS & Science Act. He said Chinas production of lithium-ion batteries was set to exceed projected global demand by two to three times compared to what was necessary to achieve a path to net zero by 2050. Its planned production of EVs in 2030 of more than 70 million vehicles compared with estimates of global EV sales of only 44 million vehicles in that year. If those scenarios were to play out, global prices in those sectors would fall, and most, if not all, production outside China would be wiped out. If the telltales for pernicious levels of overcapacity are rising export volumes, falling export values, falling utilisation rates, increasing losses and high levels of government financial support, China ticks all the boxes. The total number of loss-making companies is at its highest level since the 1990s. In the auto sector, about 28 per cent of the firms are losing money. Uneconomic and sub-economic companies are being propped up by Beijings or local government subsidies and/or non-commercial financing from state-controlled institutions. In the first decade and a half of this century, China added 800 million tonnes of capacity in its steel sector, prices crashed, and much of the industry in the US and elsewhere was wiped out. In solar, a flood of cheap Chinese exports, aided by what Shambaugh claimed was $US18 billion of below-market funding, resulted in an 80 per cent fall in international prices that effectively destroyed the industries in the US and Europe. Having been burned by the experiences of steel and solar, the US, Europe, and others are determined not to allow history to repeat. Hence, trade barriers are steadily being erected, and not just in the developed economies. Loading If China is increasingly shut out of the major international markets, with increased tariffs in the US (and worse to come if Donald Trump regains the US presidency), the European Union planning to impose trade sanctions of its own, and other economies in South America, Asia, and Europe also responding to protect their own industries, China will be forced to rethink its strategies. The obvious response, and one that has been obvious for quite some time, would be to boost domestic consumption by injecting cash into households, investing in improving social services and the social safety net, giving private companies more freedom to operate, and withdrawing excessive subsidies. If it doesnt shift course, the US and others harmed by the swelling flood of Chinas exports will continue to respond and do whatever it takes to protect their own industries and economies. Shambaugh warned that if the traditional toolkit of trade actions (which includes the tariffs that Donald Trump imposed and Joe Biden has retained and expanded) werent sufficient, more creative approaches may be necessary. A long daily commute takes a heavy toll, not just in transport costs but also in its wider economic impact on working families. Drivers are facing record petrol prices, thanks to the weak Australian dollar and rising crude-oil costs. At the same time, public-transport costs also continue to rise, hitting some workers in the hip pocket every day. Apart from reduced transport costs, more than half (57 per cent) of Australian hybrid-working parents agree that this working arrangement is a major benefit to helping manage their childcare arrangements. Most tellingly, 35 per cent of working parents say that lacking the ability to work flexibly has led them to consider leaving the workforce. 2. Improves mental health Compared to a traditional nine-to-five routine, the flexibility of hybrid working is contributing to improving mental health of Australians. The impact is significant, with 76 per cent of hybrid workers reporting lower stress levels and 78 per cent saying they are happier under the flexible-working model. Along with avoiding the stresses of a daily commute and getting more sleep, respondents report that hybrid working grants them the time to cook more healthy meals, exercise more often, and reap the mental and physical benefits of spending more time outside in the sunshine. 3. Increases productivity Flexible working can mean different things to different people. Its no secret that healthy, happy workers are productive workers. The benefits of hybrid working clearly goes both ways, with 72 per cent of workers agreeing that they are more productive when flexible working. Some of these gains come from the fact that employees no longer spend hours stuck in traffic, and research shows that they generally use part of this time to get work done. Eliminating the long commute just two days a week can result in productivity gains of between 3 per cent and 4 per cent for companies, according to Stanford University research. From an employer standpoint, they benefit from increased workforce productivity, employee attraction and retention, and additional cost savings, which could add up to an average of $14,300 per employee. 4. Strengthens relationships with family and friends Being home in time for dinner with the family is a significant part of improved work-life balance. Lockdowns during the pandemic revealed the full impact of social isolation. The flexibility of hybrid working allows workers to maintain their wider social connections with family, friends and work colleagues, all of which are incredibly important to mental wellbeing. This is reflected in the fact that 69 per cent of workers say a long commute into the office five days a week would negatively impact their relationship with family and friends. 5. Strengthens relationships with employers Not surprisingly, 59 per cent of workers say being forced into a long commute every workday would negatively impact their relationship with their employer. Considering all the benefits of hybrid working, 56 per cent say they would likely quit their job in 2024 if they needed to commute long distances every day. This means the benefits of hybrid working for employees include improved retention rates, which translates into reduced disruption, reducing hiring and training costs, and a competitive edge in the war for talent. To discover how Regus can help you find a better work-life balance, visit regus.com/success. Sarian often posts online about his consultancy business, Babylon, and describes himself as a bon vivant, humanist at heart, and empath who has explored the rural villages of Asia. The NSW Police Sex Crimes Squad set up Strike Force Angla in May, and the businessman was arrested on June 14. Sarian, 35, has been held in prison since his arrest in June. A bid to secure bail this week failed. Anglas investigator, Detective Amy ONeill, charged Sarian with 32 counts of sexual intercourse without consent, three counts of carrying out a sexual act without consent and two counts of sexual touching without consent. The number of alleged victims and charges would make Sarian one of the most prolific rapists in Sydney if the charges are proven at trial but legal minds are watching closely because the case will be a major test of new consent laws. Those laws were introduced in NSW two years ago following the advocacy of Saxon Mullins. New territory One of the lesser-known changes, fraudulent inducement, protects sex workers from clients who deceitfully promise money but then hand over an empty envelope or a dud cheque. Sarian appeared via videolink at Downing Centre, where his barrister, Brad Williams, asked the court to grant bail. Theres not been a case like this in NSW, we are venturing into new territory, Williams said. Loading Magistrate Daniel Covington said he had never seen a matter like it. If [this new law] did not exist, the prosecution case would be problematic, to say the least, but the presence of that law clearly affects and increases the strength of the case, Covington said. It will come down to that inducement and the link to consent. I cant say its a weak case. Since his arrest, Sarian has been held on remand in prison and has not entered a plea. His heavily pregnant wife watched from the public gallery. The family had offered up $50,000 for him to be released on bail. Williams told the court that Sarians mother was battling cancer, and he was unable to provide for his family while behind bars. A lawyer for this masthead also appeared in court on Wednesday to argue for the release of Sarians charging documents. The Downing Centre Local Court registrar had blocked the release of the documents last week because they contained details of serious sexual offences. It is illegal to publish the names and identities of alleged victims of sexual crimes, and journalists can be prosecuted for breaching the law. It is not illegal to release court documents to journalists, though the Downing Centre has a longstanding policy of refusing to release them. But, as Covington noted, it is consistent with open justice for journalists to view court documents, and its neither unusual nor controversial for them to be released. The media wish to accurately publish details in relation to the matter, and their accuracy involves them looking at the documents, he said. Significant public interest Palestinian activist and businessman Hashem Tayeh has been told police will arrest him next week over allegations he incited hatred of Jewish people while leading protests against Israels war in Gaza. The 33-year-old owner of the Burgertory chain has been notified by police he will be arrested and interviewed as part of an investigation into whether chants and speeches at rallies and demonstrations in the CBD have breached the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act. Hash Tayeh speaking at a Free Palestine rally in Melbourne in November. Credit: Nine News A source familiar with the investigation, who cannot speak publicly about the ongoing legal matter, said Tayeh was formally notified by a detective he was under investigation on Thursday, but that no charge had yet been laid. He has been instructed to attend a police station at an agreed time next week, where he will be arrested and interviewed in the presence of his lawyer. A deadly strain of bird flu could wipe out local populations of the iconic black swan, with the rapid spread of the virus in cattle and marine mammals ringing alarm bells for Australian experts. Australia is battling an outbreak of the H7 strain of bird flu, which has promoted the mass culling of chickens in at least three states, leading to an egg shortage. Native black swans are highly susceptible to H5N1 bird flu. Credit: Peter Rae. But a more virulent strain, H5N1, is likely to be spread to Australia by migrating birds from Asia, experts warn, potentially as soon as this spring. While H5N1 has been around for years, the virus has not yet spread to Australia. But it has now spread to every other continent, killing millions of wild birds, including even Antarctica, where it has killed thousands of Adelie penguins and skuas. Chinese students vastly outnumber counterparts of other nationalities seeking asylum in Australia as the country faces a recent surge in study visa holders claiming protection following a Labor crackdown on international education. Visas for Chinese students, the biggest overseas market for Australian universities, are continuing to be approved at much higher rates than other source countries, prompting a former top immigration bureaucrat to urge the government to overhaul the risk-based system as it slashes migration. Chinese students vastly outnumber counterparts of other nationalities when it comes to protection claims. Credit: Marija Ercegovac Abul Rizvi, a former Department of Education deputy secretary, said he expected student asylum claims to continue to grow as a result of restrictions on visa-hopping and the Albanese governments slated student caps to reduce net overseas migration. There were 357 applications for asylum in May, up from 239 in April and 315 in March. Its been 12 months since Jacinta Allan, chapfallen, appeared at Parliament House to announce that Victoria could no longer afford the Commonwealth Games. For Labor, the announcement was more than a backflip it also heralded a shift in support. Primary support for the state government has been plummeting ever since, though political strategists blame the decline on a mix of issues from longevity to the leadership change. But the timeframe of Labors downward trend is undeniable. Former Premier Daniel Andrews and his then deputy premier Jacinta Allan announce the cancellation of the Commonwealth Games in July 2023. Credit: Joe Armao With a parliamentary winter break upon us once again, Labor has been keen to avoid repeating last years political headache. That goes someway to explaining the Allan governments decision to trump up stakeholder talks this week following the death of 28-year-old trainee doctor William Taylor, who was struck and killed by a stolen Jeep Cherokee allegedly being driven by a 17-year-old boy in Burwood last week. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size During a five-week trial, the man accused of murdering Debbie Hills father looked at her only once a dismissive glance after she testified. It was as if he thought I was irrelevant, Debbie says. She is talking about commercial pilot turned killer, Greg Lynn, charged and acquitted of murdering her father Russell Hill, 74, and convicted of the murder of fellow camper Carol Clay, 73. Lynn gave sworn testimony that Clay was killed by an accidental shot when he and Russell Hill struggled over a shotgun, and Hill died when he accidentally stabbed himself trying to attack Lynn. In the witness box, Lynn said: All I can say to the families is that I am very sorry for your suffering that I caused. Russell Hill with granddaughter Jordan (left) and his daughter Debbie. Reflecting on his apology, Debbie says: He was so calm and collected telling his story as if he had practised it. When he apologised, there was no feeling behind it. He didnt look at the families. He said it just to please the jury. Advertisement Debbie watched the public trial both in court and online, as well as the pre-trial negotiations that were kept from the public. She is staggered by how much was not told to the jury. She watched as the case against Lynn almost sank before it began. The case was stacked against the prosecution, she says. The process is like a new play. There are closed rehearsals where the cast and director work out what will be released and then there is opening night with the audience none the wiser at what was left behind. But first, we ask, what sort of man was her father? Russell Hill was the father of three girls, a loner and hard worker. He was a logger in Heyfield before the family bought a small farm in Yarra Glen. He supplemented the farm income as a bulldozer and truck driver. In his days working on the bulldozer, he helped build tracks in the Wonnangatta Valley that started a lifetime love of the area. Debbie says he would sometimes visit a plaque in the mountains to remember his nephew Gary, accidentally shot dead by a deer hunter. Debbie says Russells first big hobby was amateur radio. He took up camping when he was nearing retirement. Advertisement She says he was not quick to anger, didnt lose his temper and shied away from conflict, but he could be grumpy, particularly with bad drivers when he was driving trucks. The first sign that his March 2020 camping trip may have gone wrong came with a call from Debbies mother, Robyn. Mum rang me to say she hadnt heard from him for a few days, but she wasnt too worried because she thought he could be out of radio range. Clockwise from left: A sketch of the Bucks Camp site Gregory Lynn drew for police; Lynn; Carol Clay; and Russell Hill. Then the burnt-out camp was discovered. Debbie believed there had been an accident. I thought he could have been burnt in the fire and ran to the creek where he could have been washed away. I also thought he may have fallen down a mineshaft I didnt think it was something sinister, she says. For weeks, then months, and then for more than a year, the case stalled. Bush searches revealed nothing, the fire-destroyed scene was forensically barren and police pleas for public help resulted in hundreds of calls that were dead ends. As accidental deaths, a suicide pact or an attempt to start secret lives became less likely, police thought murder was the probable explanation. Advertisement Suspected murder victims have no secrets when police search for motives, and when Hill and Clay went missing at Bucks Camp, it soon became apparent the childhood sweethearts were in a relationship. The Hills and Clays had so many questions. Initially, detectives had few answers. Russell Hill with his extended family. Then police confided there was a breakthrough. What they didnt say was that pilot Greg Lynn was well in the frame. Police knew he had been in the area, he had lied about his movements, repainted his 1997 Nissan Patrol a different colour with a roller and Hills phone had pinged when Lynn turned onto the road at Mount Hotham. They began a slow build-up of pressure using media stories in the hope that Lynn would make admissions in his bugged house or car. Debbie was asked to co-operate with a 60 Minutes story: Brett Florence [a key investigator] said they were keen to see how some people reacted. Advertisement In November 2021, police rang her to say they were about to make an arrest, so that the family didnt hear through the media. They were really good, she says. Back to the trial. Lynn claimed Hill and Clay were killed accidentally, that he panicked, collected evidence to burn at the crime scene, left a false trail, loaded the bodies into his covered trailer, drove into even more remote country to dump them, returned months later to burn the remains, smashed them into thousands of pieces and then hid in plain sight. Loading The prosecution said (among other things) the methodical, near surgical and successful destruction of the scene pointed to a person not acting in panic but with cold-blooded precision. Debbie says the courts should have put more weight on Lynns deliberate interference with evidence to the point that a cause of Hills death could not be forensically established. He was rewarded for getting rid of as much evidence as possible, she says, believing that the cover-up should go towards a guilty mind. Advertisement Emmanuel Macron was once Frances young and charismatic president who embodied hope, triumphantly defeated the far right, and claimed to have broken the political mould by rising above traditional divides. But now, seven years later, hes gone from being admired to widely despised. Emmanuel Macrons standing among the French public is at a new low. Credit: AP French voters opinions of the man regularly called the president for the rich have only fallen further since he called for snap elections last month, with many criticising him as narcissistic and disconnected. Macron broke his silence for the first time since Sundays election results on Wednesday to call for a broad governing pact to end the political impasse of a badly fractured French parliament and a nation left in chaos. Washington: The federal government will supply Ukraine with Australias largest single package of military aid since Russias invasion, providing $250 million worth of air defence missiles, guided weapons and other munitions to help the embattled nation. Acknowledging that the conflict will endure for some time, Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles will unveil the new investment at a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington on Thursday morning (US time), alongside the leaders of other Indo-Pacific nations, including Japan, New Zealand and South Korea. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles in Washington. Credit: AP Australia is proud to stand with its partners at this historic NATO summit to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to the government of Ukraine, Marles said. The delivery of highly capable air defence capabilities and air-to-ground precision munitions represents Australias largest single support package for Ukraine, and will make an enormous contribution to its efforts to end the conflict on its terms. Around 46.4 per cent of warehouse workers said that their salaries were not enough to support their basic needs. (Photo: Bloomberg/file) Amazon is in the news again for exploitative work conditions. The companys warehouse and delivery workers in India have alleged inhuman corporate practices employed at its facilities, including not being allowed enough time to take restroom breaks and a lack of financial assistance for work-related injuries. ALSO READ: Only 21% Amazon workers in India say work environment is safe: Report Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp As many as 1,838 participants alleged dire working conditions at Amazons facilities in India, in a survey conducted by UNI Global Union in partnership with the Amazon India Workers Association (AIWA). The survey was published on Wednesday, prompting the e-commerce firm to deny its claims. In the survey, four out of five warehouse workers reported that their work targets are very difficult to achieve. Of the total participants, 21.3 per cent of the workers and delivery executives said that they faced unsafe working conditions under Amazons policies. Restroom breaks are not enough In a shocking revelation, 86.3 per cent of the warehouse workers and 28 per cent of drivers alleged that the restroom breaks given to them by Amazon are inadequate. They also demanded that the Amazon should lower their targets so they can take proper breaks for eating. According to the workers, Amazon employs mechanisms like identity blocklists to highlight the workers who do not meet their targets. Workers allege high work pressure in Amazon India My feet hurt a lot after work for 10 hours standing, a former warehouse worker told UNI Global Group. Another current worker alleged that the work pressure is so high that the staff does not even get the chance to talk to each other. One of every five delivery partners surveyed by the researchers said they suffered work related injuries. I had an accident and no one helped me. I spent all my money, one of the delivery staff said. Amazon Indias salaries not enough for basic needs The workers also complained about issues such as not being allowed to take leaves, not being respected at the workplace and receiving low salaries that barely match the cost of living and basic needs. Around 46.4 per cent of warehouse workers said that their salaries were not enough to support their basic needs while 52.9 per cent said that it was just enough to meet their basic needs. For delivery staff, this data stood at 37.2 per cent and 60.1 per cent respectively. Amazon India refute claims An Amazon India spokesperson said the claims made by the UNI Global Union survey are factually incorrect and unsubstantiated. It contradicts employees direct feedback to the company. The data being quoted appears at best questionable, and at worst deliberately designed to deliver on a specific narrative that certain groups are trying to claim as fact, the spokesperson told Business Standard. Owned by billionaire Jeff Bezos, Amazon has long faced intense scrutiny for its poor treatment of workers. Critics accuse the e-commerce giant of unfairly compensating its employees and actively working to prevent the formation of labour unions among its workforce. By contrast, in our most recent internal survey at our Manesar fulfilment centre conducted randomly and anonymously 87 per cent of our workforce said they were satisfied with their jobs, with as many as eight out of 10 recommending Amazon as a great place to work, the spokesperson said. Theres nothing more important to us than the safety and wellbeing of our employees and associates, and we comply with all relevant laws and regulations. Our facilities are industry-leading and provide competitive pay, comfortable working conditions, and specially designed infrastructure to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for all. the company said. Labour ministry submits report on Amazon India Notably, last week the Labour Ministry submitted a detailed report of the Haryana government on alleged labour law violations in Amazons facilities and said that action has been initiated in the matter. This comes after the US retail giant, in May, admitted to workplace safety violations at its Manesar warehouse located in Haryana. Qutub Minar, a 13th-century marvel constructed by the Delhi Sultanate, has surpassed the Mughal Empires Agra Fort to become the second most visited monument by foreigners in 2023-24, according to visitor statistics from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) reviewed by Business Standard. This shift is notable, as Agra Fort traditionally attracted more foreign visitors than Qutub Minar, even before the pandemic. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp Travel agents credit Qutub Minars newfound popularity to its improved maintenance, ample parking, excellent restaurants, numerous heritage walks, vibrant shopping areas, and a newly introduced laser light show, making it a magnet for international and domestic tourists. ASI data reveals that Qutub Minar welcomed 220,017 foreign visitors, marking a staggering 90.9 per cent year-on-year (Y-o-Y) increase. Domestic visitors also surged, reaching 3.12 million, a remarkable 73.1 per cent Y-o-Y jump. In contrast, Agra Forts appeal has diminished due to poor upkeep, a lack of cafes and gift shops, and the long-term closure of the Sheesh Mahal and its son et lumiere (sound and light show). According to travel agents, many tourists prefer to visit just the nearby Taj Mahal, further impacting Agra Forts visitor numbers. The number of domestic visitors to Agra Fort fell to 1.41 million, recording an 18 per cent Y-o-Y decrease. Jyoti Mayal, president of the Travel Agents Association of India, attributed Qutub Minars rising popularity to several factors. The upgraded facilities and regular maintenance have greatly increased its appeal, she said. The newly introduced evening laser show, reminiscent of the Burj Khalifa, has been a major draw. Basic amenities like wooden ramps for wheelchair users, clean drinking water, toilets, canteens, and food joints have also contributed to the influx of foreign visitors. Mayal added that the surrounding area enhanced the experience: The vicinity of Qutub Minar features many designer shops and good restaurants, all of which attract foreign tourists. Rajiv Mehra, president of the Indian Association of Tour Operators, also highlighted that Qutub Minar currently enjoys better maintenance. Parking is more accessible, and there are excellent restaurants nearby where foreign tourists can enjoy a good meal after their visit, he noted. Sunil Gupta, ex-president of the Tourism Guild of Agra, said that many visitors come to Agra after visiting Delhi, where they have already seen the Red Fort. They may not feel the need to see another fort in Agra and just focus on the Taj Mahal. The Taj Mahal was the no. 1 visited monument in India in 2023-24, attracting 6.09 million domestic visitors, a 20.7 per cent Y-o-Y growth. Gupta stressed the long-standing demand from travel agents to reopen the restored Sheesh Mahal at Agra Fort. He also mentioned that Agra Fort used to host a sound and light show until about six to seven years ago. Despitea contract, budget allocation, and even a trial run last year, the planned reopening on September 27, 2023, did not happen. P P Khanna, board member of the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality, noted that Qutub Minars popularity has been increased by promotional efforts from both the Delhi and central governments. Heritage walks are conducted here, and it has become a venue for Yoga Day, he said. Rajeev Kale, country head (holidays) at Thomas Cook (India), added that the sound and light shows during the Group of Twenty summit last year have further boosted Qutub Minars appeal. Its Unesco World Heritage status and improved infrastructure have also contributed to its increased popularity among travellers, he remarked. Chand Baori at Abhaneri The stepwell at Abhaneri village in Dausa, Rajasthan, has seen a surge in popularity among foreign visitors. In 2023-24, it was more popular than even Red Fort and Fatehpur Sikri among foreigners. Built in the 9th century, Chand Baori welcomed 96,080 foreign tourists in 2023-24, marking a remarkable 144.8 per cent Y-o-Y increase. Mehra attributes this rise to its unique charm. Mayal underscored the importance of community involvement in preserving such sites. Many archaeological findings and sites have stood the test of time because of the people and the communities, and Abhaneri is one of those, she said. Shares of HPL Electric & Power (HPL) hit a new high of Rs 548.80, as they rallied 17 per cent on the BSE in Wednesdays intra-day trade after the company received work orders worth Rs 2,101 crore for the supply of smart meters. The company has received Work Orders/Letter of Award of Rs 2,100.71 crore (inclusive of tax) from our regular leading customers for the supply of smart meters in the normal course of business, which is to be executed as per the terms & conditions of Letter of Award (LoA)/work orders, HPL said in an exchange filing. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp With todays rally, the market price of this smallcap company has bounced back 59 per cent from its previous month low of Rs 344.30 touched on June 5. Thus far in the calendar year 2024, the stock price of HPL has more-than-doubled or zoomed 121 per cent, as compared to a near 11 per cent rise in the BSE Sensex. In the previous calendar year 2023, the stock had skyrocketed 148 per cent, as against 19 cent gain in the benchmark index. At 10:15 am; HPL was trading 16 per cent higher at Rs 542.60, as compared to 0.30 per cent decline in the BSE Sensex. The average trading volumes at the counter jumped over four-fold. A combined 4.57 million shares representing 7.1 per cent of total equity of HPL Electric changed hands on the NSE and BSE. Meanwhile, on Monday, July 8, HPL said it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Guangxi Ramway Technology Co. Ltd, China for local manufacturing under phased manufacturing/ technical tie-up/ procurement for the assembly of relay/latching relays in India. HPL is an established electric equipment manufacturing company in India, manufacturing a diverse portfolio of electric equipment, including metering solutions, switchgear, lighting equipment, wires, and cables, catering to consumer and institutional customers in the electrical equipment industry. Programmes such as the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), National Smart Grid Mission (NSGM) and Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) require installation of smart metering to strengthen the transmission and distribution network and reduce distribution losses. The Ministry of Powers plan to install 250 million smart meters opportunity - reflects the commitment to energy efficiency and modernization, HPL said. Ancient towns popular among Chinese travelers People's Daily Online) 14:37, July 11, 2024 In recent years, as a slow-paced lifestyle and immersive experiences have gained in popularity, an increasing number of Chinese travelers have opted for ancient towns with rich cultural heritage. Tourism experiences in ancient towns have evolved from sightseeing to culinary tours, folk activities, cultural festivals, and sporting events. Photo shows a lamp display, known for its twisting and turning layout, in Wulan ancient town, a scenic area in Gucheng village, Ganzhou district, Zhangye city, northwest China's Gansu Province. (Photo/Yang Xiao) Ancient towns have become popular choices for tourists, who prefer to pursue emotional value and a relaxed atmosphere there, according to the 2024 report on the tourism development of ancient Chinese towns recently issued by the China Tourism Academy. The deep integration of culture and tourism, along with high-quality development, is driving innovation and upgrades in ancient town tourism, the report said. The report indicated that 93.4 percent of respondents visited ancient towns, which demonstrated the popularity of these destinations. Ancient water towns in the south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, including Wuzhen, Zhouzhuang, Nanxun, and Xitang, are among the top 10 destinations in terms of the keyword search volume for ancient towns. Meanwhile, ancient towns such as Fenghuang, Pingyao, Lijiang, and Langzhong are also among the top destinations for Chinese travelers. Tourists stroll along a street in Pingyao ancient town, a famous scenic spot in Jinzhong city, north China's Shanxi Province. (Xinhua/Zhan Yan) Zhou Wentao, vice president of Kchance Tourism Group, said after over 40 years of development, China's ancient town tourism is maturing. Ancient towns that gained fame early, including Zhouzhuang, have continued to attract visitors by embracing new business forms and improving tourism experiences in recent years, Zhou added. A college student surnamed Jing, an enthusiast of ancient towns, visits different ancient towns during her winter and summer breaks each year. For her, the novelty of "life elsewhere" is a big part of what attracts her to ancient towns. Jing said she once worked for accommodations in the Shuhe ancient town in southwest China's Yunnan Province for an in-depth experience of local customs, and visited the Fengjing ancient town in Shanghai to taste a local delicacy and draw Chinese farmer paintings. Photo shows a beautiful view of Nanxun ancient town, a famous scenic spot in Nanxun district, Huzhou city, east Chinas Zhejiang Province. (Photo/Tu Xudong) The real charm of ancient towns comes from staying there and taking a leisurely pace, Jing noted. People visit ancient towns mainly to experience a slow-paced lifestyle, appreciate the scenery, take photos, create artworks, and taste local delicacies, the report said. 92.77 percent of respondents expressed interest in participating in local folk activities, and most tourists preferred comfortable and distinctive accommodations in ancient towns. However, the lack of careful planning, distinctive businesses, and innovative business forms have resulted in a repetitive business model in some ancient towns, which has caused aesthetic fatigue, Zhou said. To avoid the repetitive business model, ancient towns must rely on unique local cultural assets and innovative tourism products to promote the in-depth integration of culture with tourism. Sun Xiaorong, vice president of the cultural tourism professional committee of the China Culture Administration Association, suggested preserving traditional culture while introducing artistic elements to create diverse cultural scenes in ancient towns to provide immersive and interactive experiences for visitors. (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) The attacks come after an unexplained pause of a week and a half. Representative Image A suspected attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels targeted a Liberian-flagged tanker in the narrow Bab el-Mandeb Strait on Wednesday, as authorities acknowledged the rebels launched their longest-range attack yet on a US-flagged vessel near the Arabian Sea. The attacks come after an unexplained pause of a week and a half. The rebels may be regrouping ahead of the arrival of a new US aircraft carrier to the region after the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower began heading home. The Joint Maritime Information Center, which is overseen by the US Navy, identified the Liberian-flagged vessel as the Mount Fuji. The attack occurred south of Mocha, the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said. The captain reported explosions off the vessel's side. The vessel and all crew are safe, the UKMTO said. The vessel is proceeding to its next port of call. The Houthis have been attacking ships in the busy Red Sea corridor since November after the Israel-Hamas war began in Gaza. The rebels have not claimed the most recent attack as of early Thursday, though they often don't do so for hours or days. On Tuesday, the Houthis said they launched missiles at a US-flagged container ship in the Gulf of Aden. The JMIC identified the ship as the Maersk Sentosa and said it was the longest-distance attack seen from Yemen by the Houthis since November. Late Tuesday, the Houthis issued a broad claim of responsibility for three attacks, which included the Maersk Sentosa. Maersk, a Danish firm that is the world's biggest shipping company, confirmed to The Associated Press that its vessel had been targeted. No injuries to the crew or damage to the ship or cargo were reported, the shipping company said in the statement. The vessel is currently continuing her voyage towards her next port of call. The rebels have targeted more than 70 vessels by firing missiles and drones in their campaign that has killed four sailors. They seized one vessel and sank two since November. In June, the number of Houthi attacks on merchant vessels increased to levels not seen since December, according to the JMIC. US-led airstrikes have targeted the Houthis since January, with a series of strikes on May 30 killing at least 16 people and wounding 42 others, the rebels say. The Houthis maintain that their attacks target ships linked to Israel, the United States or Britain as part of the rebels' support for the militant group Hamas in its war against Israel. However, many of the ships attacked have little or no connection to the war - including some bound for Iran, which backs the Houthis. Few of the Houthi attacks have targeted US-flagged commercial vessels. The aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt is due to enter the Middle East region and replace the Eisenhower, which spent months in the Red Sea to counter the Houthis. The Navy has not offered new details on the Roosevelt's location, though an image published by the Navy put the carrier in the South China Sea on Friday. Meanwhile on Wednesday, the US Central Command said its forces destroyed two uncrewed Houthi aerial vehicles and one uncrewed Houthi surface vehicle over the Red Sea. H.I.G. Capital (H.I.G. or the Firm), a leading global alternative investment firm with $64 billion of capital under management, is pleased to announce the final close of H.I.G. Europe Realty Partners III (the Fund). The Fund closed with aggregate capital commitments of approximately $1.3 billion,1 significantly above the predecessors fund size. H.I.G. Europe Realty Partners primarily targets value-add investments in the middle market real estate segment in Europe. To date, the Fund has made over ten investments across various geographies in Europe. Sami Mnaymneh and Tony Tamer, Co-Founders of H.I.G., commented, As we continue to expand our global real estate footprint, we are thrilled by the success of our European real estate platform as evidenced by the strong support from our investors. We believe the current environment, specifically in the U.K. and Germany, where market dislocations are driving meaningful repricing across asset classes, presents compelling investment opportunities for the Fund. Riccardo Dallolio, Head of Europe Real Estate, added, The Fund is well-positioned to capitalize on the current market opportunity set in the less efficient middle market segment across Europe. It will invest across the capital structure and asset classes with a particular focus on value-add and operational improvements to generate substantial asset appreciation. The Fund was supported by a diverse and global group of limited partners including public and private sector pensions, endowments, foundations, asset managers, consultants, fund of funds, financial institutions, and family offices in North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. 1Including separately managed accounts that co-invest alongside the Fund. About H.I.G. Capital H.I.G. is a leading global alternative investment firm with $64 billion of capital under management.* Based in Miami, and with offices in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco in the United States, as well as international affiliate offices in Hamburg, London, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Paris, Bogota, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and Dubai, H.I.G. specializes in providing both debt and equity capital to mid-sized companies, utilizing a flexible and operationally focused/value-added approach: H.I.G.s equity funds invest in management buyouts, recapitalizations, and corporate carve-outs of both profitable as well as underperforming manufacturing and service businesses. H.I.G.s debt funds invest in senior, unitranche, and junior debt financing to companies across the size spectrum, both on a primary (direct origination) basis, as well as in the secondary markets. H.I.G. also manages a publicly traded BDC, WhiteHorse Finance. H.I.G.s real estate funds invest in value-added properties, which can benefit from improved asset management practices. H.I.G. Infrastructure focuses on making value-add and core plus investments in the infrastructure sector. Since its founding in 1993, H.I.G. has invested in and managed more than 400 companies worldwide. The Firm's current portfolio includes more than 100 companies with combined sales in excess of $53 billion. For more information, please refer to the H.I.G. website at hig.com. *Based on total capital raised by H.I.G. Capital and affiliates. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240710131210/en/ TA Associates (TA), a leading global private equity firm, today announced a strategic growth investment in Vastu Housing Finance (Vastu or Company), a pan-India diversified lending institution. Founded in 2015, Vastu has grown to become one of the leading affordable housing finance players in India. Vastu leverages its proprietary technology and unique underwriting practices to deliver financing solutions to bankable but under-served self-employed customers across semi-urban and rural India. On the back of its reach, technology and management expertise, the Company has also built a fast-growing small business and used vehicle finance book. With more than 230 branch locations in 13 states, Vastu has established itself as a diversified retail lending player. We are excited to have TA on board as a valued, long-term partner. Vastu has made great progress over the last few years towards its vision of becoming a large, respected and institutional retail lending franchise. We are confident that our association with TA will further accelerate our growth journey, said Sandeep Menon, CEO and Founder of Vastu. Vastu is well-positioned to become a leader in the secured affordable housing segment as well as continue its impressive growth trajectory in the small business loans and vehicle finance segments. We have tracked the Company for years, and have been impressed by Vastus reach, strong credit underwriting principles and tech-enabled approach. We look forward to our long-term partnership with Vastu in its future journey, said Dhiraj Poddar, Managing Director at TA. We believe there is significant opportunity for expansion in the core segments in which Vastu operates. We are excited to partner with Sandeep, the management team and existing shareholders in supporting Vastus vision of building a high-quality, mortgage-led retail lending company, added Adi Sharma, Managing Director at TA. Sandeep Menon and Sujay Patil have done an exceptional job in building Vastu into a formidable franchise in the affordable housing finance space. Their vision, coupled with strong execution, has transformed Vastu into a category leader. We are pleased to welcome TA as a partner as Vastu continues to scale to new heights, said Renuka Ramnath, Chairperson of Vastu and Founder, MD & CEO, Multiples Alternate Asset Management. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. About TA TA is a leading global private equity firm focused on scaling growth in profitable companies. Since 1968, TA has invested in more than 560 companies across its five target industries technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer and business services. Leveraging its deep industry expertise and strategic resources, TA collaborates with management teams worldwide to help high-quality companies deliver lasting value. The firm has raised $65 billion in capital to date and has over 150 investment professionals across offices in Boston, Menlo Park, Austin, London, Mumbai and Hong Kong. For more information, visit www.ta.com. About Vastu Housing Finance Vastu Housing Finance Corporation Ltd (Vastu) is a technology-led affordable housing finance player. Founded by Sandeep Menon and Sujay Patil and backed by Multiples Alternate Asset Management since inception. Over time it witnessed the participation of Norwest Venture Partners, Creation Investments, 360 ONE Asset Management and Faering Capital, Vastu offers secured long-tenor mortgage products to self-employed customers in semi-urban and rural India through its proprietary technology platform, thereby enabling a paperless experience and faster turnaround time for customers. Vastu has a diversified liability franchise comprising of more than 40 lenders who have continued to support the Company, many of them since inception. In addition, Vastu has also set up a subsidiary (Vastu Finserve), which focuses on the small business loan and used vehicle finance segments. Vastu has an experienced management team with a pan-India presence across 13 states in India. For more information, visit www.vastuhfc.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240710676129/en/ News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism. CAMEROUN :: Amba Fighters Resurface In Mamfe, Kill One :: CAMEROON Gunmen who identified themselves as Ambazonia separatist fighters attacked Ibo quarter, Mamfe, on wednesday, jully 10, killed a man. The unprecedented assault occurred along the Buea Ibo quarter, in front of Mamfe main gate market at about 8:30pm, according to the police. Musango Frelus, a native of Eyumojok, was the lone casualty of the incident. Based on eyewitness accounts, the attackers, set his car ablaze before pulling him out and gunning him down. Hospital authorities also confirmed he had incurred some burns around the neck as well as injuries when he was brought in. A police official in Mamfe told The Camer.be team that two women, whose identities were yet unknown, were abducted during the attack and one survivor sustained an injury on the arm. Six vehicles were vandalised in the attack: four got burned, two incurred some damages, the police added. Attackers were dressed In Ambazonian Uniforms An eyewitness who was caught in the recent gunfire said he saw about seven heavily armed fighters dressed in kaki with blue flags. One of them was holding a heavy machine gun which he placed on the ground and was firing. One of them shouted that anyone who ventures outside will be killed. They set fire on the vehicles which were in the middle of the road. There was a young man inside one of the vehicles. They asked him to come out but he refused so they set his car on fire, shot him and dragged him out of the car. Thats his blood there, he told journalists. The motive behind the attack remains uncertain, but the witness said the attackers claimed they wanted to reinforce ghost towns. Their main reason was that people have not been respecting ghost towns which they instituted, the eyewitness said. Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at 11:50AM Image: Samsung The rumours were true! The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 boasts a redesigned form factor that addresses many user pain points. Most notably, the outer display gets a significant upgrade to a more conventional 6.3 inches, making one-handed use and typing a breeze. Gone is the awkward, cramped screen of previous models. Folded shut, the Galaxy Z Fold6 now resembles the S24 Ultra with a sleek matte finish and straighter edges that feel comfortable to hold. Unfolded, the expansive 7.6-inch inner display transforms into a mobile powerhouse for work and play. Durability is a major focus this time around. The Galaxy Z Fold6 is built tough with Armor Aluminum, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and an IP48 water resistance rating. The improved hinge and reduced crease on the main screen inspire confidence, and Samsung takes sustainability seriously by incorporating recycled materials like gold, copper, and cobalt. Powering the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy, a custom-designed processor optimized for AI processing, graphics, and overall performance. A larger vapour chamber keeps things cool during intense tasks. This phone runs Android 14-based OneUI 6.1.1, with Samsung promising seven generations of software and security updates. That translates to a future-proof device that will stay protected for years to come. Samsung's Galaxy AI features receive a welcome upgrade in the Galaxy Z Fold6. The standout is the evolution of the Interpreter feature, now offering a conversation mode. This allows for a more natural flow during conversations by displaying the translated text on the outer screen while you view the original text on the main screen. No more awkward phone swapping! The integration of Google's Gemini app further enhances communication, while the Notes app boasts a new embedded transcript feature that leverages the large display. And for the creative minds, a new Sketch to Image feature lets you transform doodles into AI-generated art. The Samsung Z Fold6 is equipped for content creation with a five-camera system: a 10-megapixel cover camera, a 4-megapixel under-display camera, and a 50-megapxel triple-lens rear system with ultrawide and telephoto capabilities. Gamers will rejoice at the upgraded experience. The powerful processor and larger vapour chamber ensure smooth performance during even the most demanding games. Vivid graphics are further enhanced by Ray Tracing technology, all brought to life on the stunning 7.6-inch display with a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6 retains the same 4,400mAh battery as its predecessor, but the more efficient processor promises improved battery life. While wired charging remains at 25W, wireless and reverse charging options are still available. Samsung kicks off pre-orders today, July 10, with general availability starting July 24. You can get this foldable phone in five colours: Silver Shadow, Navy, Pink, and the Samsung.com exclusive colours of Crafted Black and White. It is available in these configurations in Canada: 12GB RAM + 256GB storage: $2,564.99 12GB RAM + 512GB storage: $2,724.99 12GB RAM + 1TB storage: $3,044.99 Source Ukrcement appeals to the government to amend electricity import rates ICR Newsroom By 11 July 2024 Ukraine's cement association, Ukrcement, has appealed to the government to amend the current electricity import rate of 80 per cent. Under the countrys martial law, cement producers are obliged to purchase at least 80 per cent of electricity at European prices from the EU to avoid supply restrictions. On 27 October 2023, CMU Resolution No 1127 guaranteed the supply of electricity for domestic producers, provided that 30 per cent of supply was purchased from the EU and 70 per cent from domestic sources. However, on 1 June 2024, CMU Resolution No 661 revised the previous regulation, reducing the domestic share to 20 per cent and increasing the share of imports to 80 per cent. The higher share of imports has led to an increase in the demand and price of electricity imports to Ukraine. "Given that cement production is energy-intensive (the cost of electricity increases the cost of production), and its consumption takes place in the domestic market and it is the main component for military and civilian construction, we ask the Ukrainian government to return to the previous 30/70 proportion. This proportion will ensure reliable energy supply to industrial enterprises of Ukraine, which will help maintain the current pace of economic recovery in Ukraine in the face of military aggression by the Russian Federation," the association said. Electricity consumption capacity of the domestic cement industry is considerably higher than the available border crossing capacity, meaning the 80 per cent condition is limiting. Ukrcement Association has urged the government to return to the previous 30/70 proportion, ensuring reliable energy supply to the industry whilst maintaining the current pace of economic recovery in Ukraine. Published under Several weeks ago America saw a declining Joe Biden, including his being led off a stage by former President Obama in Los Angeles. Bidens defenders, including reporters, called it cheap fakes by right wing media (AP 6/21/24). The glitzy LA event was a fundraiser for Joe with Hollywood and Left Coast elites hosted by actor George Clooney. So now Clooney, suddenly decides the party will lose big if Joe remains the nominee (AP 7/10/24). Why now and not three weeks ago? Could it be a man who plays pretend for a living worries more about his image after their little secret is out? Isnt the fear of loss of power or close to a billion dollars in contributions whats driving a dump Joe movement. If the debate hadnt happened would this catastrophe be unfolding or would they still be pretending Joe was sharp as a knife? New stories are coming out daily. With the economy a top issue with voters, the Fed chairman revealed hes not had a private meeting with the President in two years. Today many Dems hold their breath as Biden does his first so-called Big Boy Press Conference. Many political futures hang in the balance on which Joe shows, so they hold their breath to see which side to take regarding Bidens future. How courageous of them. Prosecuting your opposition and secret deals to undo the votes of millions of Dems in the primaries who would see their votes not count is what the Soviets did. Isnt dumping Joe now after millions voted for him while this hoax went on the threat to democracy? Ralph Miller * * * I would have thought Mr. Ralph Miller to be overjoyed if a major Hollywood celebrity agreed that Biden should drop out. Continuing his letter, Mr. Miller points out that Fed Chairman Jerome Powell has not met with Biden in two years. So what? Actually, I feel more secure when there is minimal contact between the Fed and any President. Should any Fed representative meet with a President who may have appointed that representative, there is the appearance that the President may be attempting to influence the Fed. Does Judge Aileen Cannon serve as an analogy? Of course, there are many legitimate reasons for communication with the President and Congress. Mr. Miller, don't you remember that the Federal Reserve is an independent agency? Prosecuting your opposition and secret deals to undo the votes of millions of Dems in the primaries who would see their votes not count is what the Soviets did. Isnt dumping Joe now after millions voted for him while this hoax went on the threat to democracy? Mr. Miller next accuses todays Democratic Party of prosecuting its opposition. Where is the proof of that statement? Instead, the felon/candidate has made retribution of his enemies part of his campaign since leaving the President. So who will be prosecuting who? (Texas Tribune, 3/25/2023; WSJ (owned by Fox), 6/28/2024; ABC News, 3/23/2024 Liz Cheney should be put on trial) The answer to your question Isnt dumping Joe now after millions voted for him while this hoax went on the threat to democracy? is a resounding no. This is democracy. Not a threat to it. Bidens age is a topic to discuss. The threat to democracy would exist if Biden did have concerning issues, but they were covered up. But any issues are in the open and being scrutinized. The true threat to democracy is the felon/candidate: why are his cognitive abilities not as equally discussed? One need only look at his campaign rallies and social media posts to make his abilities an issue. (Huff. Post 2/23/2024; The New Republic 6/17/2024; OKMagazine 6/18/2024) Joe Warren Veteran County Commissioner Warren Mackey will not face criminal prosecution for $27,382 in "questionable expenses" as outlined by the state Comptroller's Office. The report was turned over to the Tennessee District Attorneys Conference. Officials there said, "On April 11, 2024, upon the recusal of 11th Judicial District Attorney General Coty Wamp, D. Michael Dunavant of the Tennessee District Attorneys General Conference was appointed by the Hamilton County Criminal Court to act as District Attorney General Pro Tem in the Comptrollers investigation of allegations of malfeasance related to a Hamilton County Commissioner. "After a thorough review of the Comptrollers investigative findings, as well as a consideration of the actions of the Hamilton County Commission on May 1, 2024, General Dunavant declined criminal prosecution in this matter, and asked the Comptrollers Division of Investigations to close their file. Therefore, the final charging decision has been concluded, and there will be no further statement on this matter." The County Commission on May 1 established guidelines for satellite County Commission district offices and re-established the annual appropriation. Commissioner Mackey was at Wednesday's County Commission meeting. He left after the second item on the agenda. TVFCU Riverfront Nights is hosting The Peterson Brothers for a night that will provide a combination of youthful energy and modern influences with old-school blues, soul and funk. Review for The Peterson Brothers: The brothers hail from Austin, Texas where theyve been entertaining audiences for over a decade. The dynamic duo consists of Glenn Jr. on vocals and guitar and Alex, a GRAMMY Award-winning artist, on bass, vocals and even the violin. At a young age, the brothers immersed themselves in the sounds of The Isley Brothers; Earth, Wind & Fire; The Brothers Johnson; and B.B. King. Drawing inspiration from their musical roots, they crafted a unique show that showcases their infectious energy and undeniable musical prowess. Theyve shared the state with legendary artists Gary Clark Jr., Jesse Johnson (The Time), Willie Nelson, B.B. King, New Power Generation (Princes longtime band), Buddy Guy and Los Lonely Boys among others. The Peterson Brothers continue to leave an indelible mark on the music scene, captivating audiences with their infectious spirit and a musical prowess that pays homage to the timeless sounds that inspired their journey. Review for Swayyvo: The opening act is equally impressive with Chattanoogas own Swayyvo taking the stage at 7 p.m. The city has given rise to a host of hip-hop musicians and Swayyvo tackles expanding passages of modern rap with an eye toward jazz, neo soul and heavy 90s hip-hop influences. Swayyvos virtuosic saxophone stylings and his knack for arranging unique and complex beat-drive movements without sacrificing his own individuality has given Chattanoogas hip-hop scene a sustained direction in which to grow. The evening will begin with a memorial tribute to Chattanoogas Fallen Five whose lives were ended by a terrorist on July 16, 2015. Four Marines and one Navy sailor were killed that day at the Navy Operations Support Center. Their lives will be remembered as the National Anthem is performed by Melissa Bayless. Friends of the Festival officials noted that this is week seven in the 14-week series of shows. Were having a great time on Rosss Landing each Saturday evening with diverse music offerings that appeal to every taste. Were grateful for the support of our title sponsor TVFCU for making Riverfront Nights a season of free music on the river for the region to enjoy. They are joined by so many great sponsors and we hope our guests will visit all of them and thank them for their support. Mickey McCamish with Friends of the Festival said, In case of pop-up showers, weather updates will be posted on Riverfront Nights on Facebook, Instagram, and X. All shows are rain or shine; however, in the case of severe weather/thunderstorms, shows will be subject to lightning delays and/or last-minute cancellations. Sponsor information for each week can be found at www.RiverfrontNights.com. Friends of the Festival executive director Mickey McCamish added that any business wishing to join in on Chattanoogas top summer music series as a sponsor should contact him by email: Mickey@RiverbendFestival.org. Friends of the Festival is a 501 (c) (3) organization that invests all funding and sponsorships into the events it produces for the region to enjoy. More information can be found by visiting www.riverfrontnights.com John A. Hughes, Jr. passed away on July 4, 2024 at the age of 92. John was born on Oct. 19, 1931, in Filer, Idaho to John A. Hughes and Mary (Smith) Hughes. He grew up in and around McPherson, Kansas, graduating from McPherson High School. He attended McPherson College and Washburn University, Topeka, Ks. He was also a veteran of the Navy Hospital Corps and the Korean War. He spent 50 years in the flour milling industry in Quality Control and Research and Development. He started at Rodney Flour Mill in McPherson, Ks. When Rodney was purchased by Seaboard Milling, John was several transferred several times ending up at Chattanooga, Tn., where he was responsible for creating and running a new lab. After 25 years, he made a career change, moving to Denton, Texas and joining Morrison Mills in Denton, eventually becoming Vice President of Operation. After 12 years there he made another career change where John and Janet became entrepreneurs in Holiday Island, Arkansas as owners and operators of a grocery store and landlords. After three years, the flour milling industry pulled him back. He sold the business and was again in charge of the flour mill lab, first in Statesville, NC and then in Roanoke, Va., where he retired. Retirement meant working half days at his son's business, Hughes Cabinetry, Fort Worth, Tx., working until almost a few months ago when dementia made it impossible. All the years he was associated with the flour milling business, he was active in the Cereal and Grain Association, holding different offices in local chapters. While living in Chattanooga, Tennessee, he and Janet were very active square dancers. John was the Star Twirlers first president, but always continued being active in Chattanooga's overall square-dancing community. He was also active in forming a state organization that hosted a state convention. John and Janet were also charter members of Hixson Presbyterian Church. John was preceded in death by his oldest grandchild, Darah Dameron Card (Bryan) and his brother, Wayne D. Hughes. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Janet Bolton Hughes; daughter, Debra Dameron (Dan) of Soddy Daisy, Tennessee; son, John A. Hughes, III (Linda) of Crowley, Texas. He left three grandchildren, Dale Dameron (Heather), Nashville, Tennessee, Stephanie Hughes Russell (James) and Stephen Hughes (Jennie), both of Fort Worth. Also surviving are great-grandchildren, Lane and Grant Card, and Daniel and Luke Dameron of Tennessee, and Layla, Jack and Shaylee Russell of Texas. Many thanks for all the prayers for John. A big thank you to the organizations that helped in caring for him: In Home Connect, American Home Care Solution, Heart 2 Heart Hospice (both Fort Worth and Cleburne Group), Anchor Way Senior Care Home (Crowley). Such caring, loving people in caring for John and giving such support to Janet. Thank you. A celebration of life will be at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 21, in Live Oak Chapel at Greenwood, 3100 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76107. Researchers at the Vehicle Safety Institute will team up with national and international partners to make batteries safer, extend their service life and make them more sustainable. The FFG, the provinces Styria and Upper Austria as well as companies are investing about 19 million euros in total. Christian Ellersdorfer (right) and Stefan Grollitsch from the Vehicle Safety Institute at TU Graz observe a dynamic safety test at the Battery Safety Center Graz. Lunghammer - TU Graz It is a great success for Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) and proof of the outstanding expertise of its researchers in the rapidly developing field of battery technology: the Austrian Research Promotion Agency FFG has approved the application for the new COMET K1 centre "Battery4Life". Together with international partners from science and industry, a team led by Christian Ellersdorfer from the Vehicle Safety Institute will work on improving the safety, service life and sustainability of batteries. The FFG is funding the project with a total of around 6.5 million euros, the Province of Styria is contributing 2.6 million euros and Upper Austria 0.6 million euros. In addition, the partners from the automotive and electronics industries are investing around nine million euros over the scheduled project term of four years. By obtaining approval for the K1 centre Battery4Life, TU Graz is further expanding its position as Austria's most successful university in the FFG's COMET programme. "I am very pleased about the funding for Battery4Life," says TU Graz Rector Horst Bischof. "It demonstrates the outstanding expertise in battery research that we have been able to build up at Graz University of Technology together with industrial partners over many years. Together with the HyCentA hydrogen research centre, our Inffeld campus is becoming a hub for energy storage technology. Safe battery operation over the entire life cycle Driven by the expansion of e-mobility, the demand for batteries is increasing rapidly, and large sums of money are being invested in research projects worldwide to increase the capacity of batteries and develop new storage materials. " Given the large number of battery types, there is a growing need for research into their safe operation in a wide range of applications and throughout their entire life cycle," says Christian Ellersdorfer. The COMET centre Battery4Life builds on the COMET project SafeLIB in its work and can also draw on a state-of-the-art test centre in the field of battery safety (Battery Safety Center Graz) located at campus Inffeld. In the SafeLib project, the Institute for Vehicle Safety has developed new experimental approaches and virtual processes. The researchers want to further optimise these in Battery4Life and expand them to include artificial intelligence approaches in order to achieve even more precise predictions with a smaller number of experiments and less computing power. Second lives for used batteries The competence centre is also exploring methods to reliably assess the safety status of used batteries in particular. Suitable decommissioned batteries, for example from electric cars, could then be reused as stationary power storage units and would not have to be scrapped, which would greatly improve sustainability. When developing the assessment procedures, the researchers will take into account not only technical aspects but also economic efficiency and legal issues relating to data protection, warranty and liability. At a rest stop in Washington, officials found a kinkajou, also known as a honey bear, roaming around. Kinkajous are indigenous to the rainforests of Mexico, Central America, and South America, so this creature was thousands of miles away from its natural habitat. It is unknown how the kinkajou got to Washington, but experts suspect the animal was purchased illegally before being abandoned and left to fend for itself in the dry, arid climate. It was discovered darting along a stretch of desert on Interstate 82, just outside of Yakima, Washington. According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the kinkajou was very thin and weighed only 2.5 pounds at the time of its rescue. It weighed four pounds less than the average weight of a kinkajou. The creature was rescued by the states Fish and Wildlife Department. Currently, it is recovering at the Point Defiance Zoo in Tacoma, Washington, while officials search for a permanent home for it. Veterinarians are making sure that it is not carrying any diseases and will perform a comprehensive wellness examination during its temporary stay at the zoo. Honey bears are nocturnal carnivores that belong to the Procyonidae family, consisting of coatis, olingos, ringtails, and raccoons. Kinkajous also have prehensile tails. This means that their tails have developed the ability to hold and grasp objects, which is particularly helpful for finding and eating food in the trees. They have wide, round ears, big dark eyes, and sandy yellow fur. They look like a cross between a monkey and a miniature-sized bear, which often leads to them being mistaken for primates. Their thick, woolly coats provide protection from the rain in tropical jungles. Their feet have webbed finger-like toes and sharp claws that help them climb trees easily. The name kinkajou translates to golden drinker, which is all too fitting since they enjoy the sweet taste of nectar. They even raid bee hives for the sugar-rich liquid. Its also how the name honey bear came about. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Some of my favorite online stories are those of young people and their elderly neighbors having wholesome interactions. This one from a TikTok user involving cake and pleasant exchanges is no exception. Kelly McDuff (@kellyann2339) is a TikTok creator who recently went viral after sharing how her 98-year-old neighbor left her a cake to welcome her to her new neighborhood. Being new to a neighborhood can be intimidating and isolating, no matter how busy or nice it is. However, neighborly moments like this can make all the difference in the world. Kelly is a Texas resident who recently moved to a new home in the city of Richardson. In Kellys first video, which has over 13 million views, she films herself with tears of joy in her eyes as she watches her 98-year-old neighbor walking back to his house after dropping off a cake for her. Hes lived here for 52 years and hopes we love it as much as he has, wrote Kelly in the description of her video. Kelly then pans her camera to a delicious-looking chocolate Bundt cake that her neighbor had so kindly delivered. The video instantly touched TikTok users, and many commented about how wholesome that interaction was. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. The biggest art heist in history occurred 34 years ago at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, Massachusetts. In 1990, two thieves trespassed into the museum, taking off with a total of 13 works of art that amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars. The robbery is also considered the largest property theft in the world. The investigation into the well-known crime is still active and ongoing today. The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is offering a $10 million reward for anyone who has information that can help authorities recover the art safely. So, how did the heist happen? In the early hours of March 18, 1990, two men disguised as police officers arrived at the side entrance of the museum, claiming that they were responding to a call about a disturbance. The guard on duty went against protocol and let them in. Then, the fake cops tied him up, along with a second security guard. The thieves remained in the museum for 81 minutes before departing with 13 pieces of art from famous painters. The museums motion detectors were able to record their movements. The duo cut two pieces by Rembrandt out of their frames in the Dutch RoomChrist in the Storm on the Sea of Galilee and A Lady and Gentleman in Black. They also removed Vermeers The Concert, Flincks Landscape with an Obelisk, an ancient Chinese bronze beaker, and a small self-portrait by Rembrandt. In the Short Gallery, they stole five Degas drawings and a bronze eagle ornament. From the Blue Room, they swiped Manets Chez Tortoni. At 2:45 in the morning, the thieves left with the artwork. The police didnt arrive until 8:15. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Cats, our favorite cuddly companions, may have arrived in Europe earlier than previously assumed. In recent months, domestic cat bones that are roughly 8,000-years-old were found in Serbia and Poland. The latest discovery has pushed back the timeline of cat domestication by several thousands of years. Until now, it has been thought that cats arrived in Europe sometime between the 3rd and 7th centuries A.D. However, they actually appeared earlier than that in the Balkans and further north from Asia Minor. There are five known species of wildcat, and all of them are very similar. They can also interbreed, which has made it even more challenging for experts to determine when and where cat domestication first occurred. In the past 20 years, it has been established that the Near Eastern wildcat is the common ancestor of all house cats. These felines were domesticated about 10,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent, a crescent-shaped region in the Middle East. Many scientists have suggested that cats domesticated themselves because they were drawn to the rodents that ate the crops of early farmers. Of course, the farmers appreciated their pest control skills. Around 3,500 years ago, another domestication happened in Egypt. This population of cats was more friendly to humans. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. 21st annual North Korea Freedom Week | Christianity Daily During the 21st North Korea Freedom Week in Washington, D.C., the House Foreign Affairs Committee's Indo-Pacific Subcommittee hosted a 'Roundtable with North Korean Defectors' on July 9th at 10:30 a.m. local time. The subcommittee's chair, Representative Young Kim, invited North Korean defectors to share their experiences and promised to continue to provide platforms for their testimonies. "It would be impossible for me to fully imagine the pain and struggles they faced in North Korea, during their escape, and after resettlement. Still, I will continue to do my best doing everything to support them," she stated. The defectors who testified emphasized that introducing information into North Korea is crucial for effecting change. Eui-hyuk Kim, who escaped with his family of nine on a small fishing boat, and Ji-young Kim, who is now working as a broadcaster in South Korea, emphasized that it was the inflow of information from the outside that enlightened them. Eui-hyuk reflected, "Had I not learned about the world outside North Korea, my family and I would still be trapped there. Continuous information inflow is necessary so that the next generation, who are still being brainwashed in North Korea, can learn the truth. Ji-young recalled her time at Kim Il-sung University, where the popularity of South Korean dramas was already evident. She testified that external information changed her perspective, despite growing up in a North Korean elite family that was loyal to Kim Il-sung. During her testimony, she also criticized the selfishness and vanity of the North Korean elite, who, while indifferent to the hardships of ordinary people, aspired to emulate the affluent lifestyles of South Koreans. "I thought Kim Il-sung University students were all loyalists, but their enthusiasm for South Korean culture and indifference to the people's real lives also worked as one of the causes that changed my perspective," she noted. North Koreans already know how well South Korea is doing. Sometimes I get contacted by relatives asking for money, and the amounts they request are enormous, she said. Ji-young also briefly recounted her escape, during which she prepared poison as a precaution against the possibility of forced repatriation. She shared, Forced repatriation to North Korea is not merely a matter of paying a fine and receiving punishment; it is so dreadful that it would be better to die than to be caught. Se-yul Jang, head of the Gyeoreool Unification Association, who has been actively involved in introducing external information into North Korea through various channels, also spoke at the event. He emphasized the need for continued and diversified information inflow. "I am still in contact with many friends in North Korea. We are united in our desire to establish a free and democratic society, and they are fighting hard in their own ways in North Korea," he stated. Lawyer and author P. I. Jose discusses the growing influence of Hindutva ideology and its threat to Indias constitutional order. Anindito Mukherjee / Stringer / Getty During the last decade in India, a Hindu nationalist government has taken the helm, and Hindutva ideology, once considered as fringe, has become firmly entrenched and empowered politically and socially. Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi first rose to power in 2014, India has grappled with rising religious nationalism, posing significant challenges to its founding principles of pluralism and equality. Democracy watchdogs have expressed concern about the health of the worlds largest democracy. In 2018, for instance, one group categorized India as an electoral autocracy. In 2024, the country was downgraded in status, becoming known as one of the worst autocratizers. Both domestic and international observers have raised concerns about potential threats to Indias constitutional framework and minority rights. Many rejoiced when Modis Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) failed to win an absolute majority last month for the first time in three elections, but concerns about the widespread political and social influence of Hindutva remain. Sign up for CT Books Each issue contains up-to-date, insightful information about today's culture, plus analysis of books important to the evangelical thinker. 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. Against this backdrop, P. I. Joses new book, Hindutva Palm-Branches and the Christian Resolve, examines Indias evolving political and religious landscape. Drawing on his extensive experience practicing in front of Indias Supreme Court, Jose examines the growing influence of Hindutva and its impact on Indias constitutional democracy and secular fabric. CT recently spoke with Jose about what secularism means in a country as religious as India, Hindutvas effects on constitutional principles, and the precarious position of religious minorities, particularly Christians, in Indias current political climate. How does Indias constitutional secularism compare to its practical implementation? Former Indian Supreme Court justice K. M. Joseph once said, Secularism is a facet of equality. If you treat all religions equally, that is secularism. You are fair, you do not bias or patronize. However, his subsequent statement reveals the reality: I am still optimistic that secularism will survive. If a recently retired Supreme Court judge expresses such concern, one can imagine the actual situation in our country today. The resolve of the people of India, in crafting the constitution, was to create a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic, according to the current preamble. Interestingly enough, the preamble adopted in 1949 did not originally contain the word secular, as B. R. Ambedkar, the architect of our constitution, said there was no need to include the term. He believed the entire constitution manifested the concept of a secular state, as it codified nondiscrimination on grounds of religion and gave equal rights and status to all citizens. The words secular and socialist were added in 1976, during the Emergency (a 21-month period from 1975 to 1977 when thenprime minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency across the country, claiming internal and external threats) via a constitutional amendment. And in a 1994 verdict, the Supreme Court of India held that secularism is part of the constitutions basic structure and is unamendable. However, Hindu nationalists have always been opposed to the idea of India being secular and, in fact, have made motions in parliament to delete the word from the constitution. As a result of Hindutva, which basically sees secularism as pandering to religious minorities, today we are witnessing widespread attacks against religious minorities, including Christians. India has become infamous for lynching incidents and for the demolition of churches and other minority religious symbols. Fellow citizens and law enforcement personnel have attacked pastors, disrupted worship services, and engaged in rampant hate speech against religious minorities. Parallel to this, we see the government going all out to not only build huge religious structures for the state-favored religion but to color India in the majoritarian faith language and symbols, which is completely antithetical to secularism as envisioned by our founding mothers and fathers. You argue that Hindutva opposes constitutional principles. Can you elaborate on this clash of values? Activist V. D. Savarkar promulgated Hindutva in the 1920s to justify Hindu nationalism and establish Hindu hegemony in India. He defined Hindus as individuals whose fatherland and holy land were within the Indian subcontinent, thus excluding Muslims and Christians by definition but including Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains as Hindus. Hindutva envisions and strives for a Hindu rashtra (nation) and opposes the principle of equality for all citizens, and even speaks of disenfranchising religious minorities. Even though Savarkar spoke against the caste system, modern Hindutva promotes itand its foundation is the erasure of religious minority cultures. Our constitution, in contrast, states that the State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws within the territory of India. Whats more, the constitution also prescribes equality as a fundamental duty for every citizen to value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture. Savarkar was one of the people who supported the two-nation theory that ultimately resulted in the partition of India. Hindutva, I believe, created the pangs of partition and the killing of millions of Indians, including Mahatma Gandhi. In a country that values ahimsa (nonviolence), this ideology has led to a steady growth in violence, as repeatedly recorded by various commissions investigating sectarian violence and violence against religious minorities in India, including Christians. The Supreme Court of India has equated Hindutva with Indianization. Why do you believe this judgment is incorrect and undermines secularism and democracy in India? In a 1995 Supreme Court ruling on an election appeals case, Justice J. S. Verma wrote, Hindutva is understood as a synonym of Indianisation, i.e., development of uniform culture by obliterating the differences between all the cultures co-existing in the country. The courts ruling led to Hindutva becoming a mark of nationalism and citizenship and emboldened a movement that has consistently used violent means to express and enforce their beliefs. Countless lives have been lost since, with the Manipur violence being the latest manifestation. By defining Hindutva as a way of life and not as a religion, the court disassociated it with the Hindu religion. This meant that Modis BJP, for instance, could legally appeal to Hindu sentiments for votes, which they have been doing since then. This dissociation has divided the nation along religious lines, facilitated the spread of hatred against other religions for votes, and portrayed adherents of other faiths as anti-national. You suggest that Hindutva is more about Brahminical supremacy than authentic Hindu faith. What evidence supports this claim? Hindutva has two facets. One concerns its treatment of other religions, where discriminatory practices stem from a desire to establish the supremacy of its adherents. At its core, Hindutva aims to establish a Hindu way of life based on the caste system as described in the Manusmriti and the Arthashastratwo Hindu scriptures that uphold the supremacy of the highest caste, Brahmins, who are traditionally priestsbut it also advocates untouchability against what it deems as the outcastes. However, I include in my book several Hindu scholars who cite different Hindu scriptures that suggest that equality is actually at the heart of the faith. From the work of these authorities, we can see that authentic Hinduism does not support caste-based hierarchy. Your book alleges that Hindutva supporters have infiltrated government institutions. Can you provide examples of this? As far back as 1982, a government report identified RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, a right-wing Hindu nationalist volunteer paramilitary organization) methodologies for provoking communal violence as infiltrating into the administration and inducing the members of the civil and police services by adopting and developing communal attitudes. Recently, this type of behavior has become obvious and accepted, as seen in the conduct of government nominees to selection boards, including those of religious minorityrun educational institutions. If they want their loyalists running such institutions, can we expect them to allow anyone not toeing their line into government positions while theyre in power? How can India restore the integrity of its electoral process? Since Modis 2019 victory, public opinion has turned against the election process. By 2023, almost every opposition party agreed that the current regime is misusing government power to thwart democratic processes. A Supreme Court verdict highlighted the need for an impartial election commission and laid down procedural safeguards for its selection. But the Modi government circumvented these new regulations and compromised the independence of the commission. Further, the Supreme Court rejected the oppositions demands that the paper receipts of the votes issued from electronic voting machines (EVM) be counted to confirm the authenticity of the votes polled. The courts stubborn reasoning on this will remain Indias misfortune until citizens find ways to convince those important wise old men in power. Unless all citizens are free to vote and votes are properly counted, democracy cannot be revived in India. What is the state of Indias opposition parties? Despite their calls to save the constitution, most parties refuse to unite and instead work against each other, effectively aiding the ruling party. This division is aggravated by the infiltration of Hindutva forces, weakening their ability to present a cohesive front. Why arent these opposition parties insisting on changing EVMs or on 100 percent verification of votes? Given the challenges you outline, what solutions do you propose for protecting the rights of Christian minorities in India? When warning signals came after the 1982 Kanyakumari riots, we failed to wake up. Same when, in 1998, the RSS and its affiliated groups attacked tribal Christians in the Dangs district of Gujarat. The 2008 Kandhamal incident shook us slightly, but we failed to respond unitedly. Four decades later, Hindu extremists are 40 times stronger and more entrenched in the government and society. The whole state machinery and power is under their control. Democracy is on a ventilator, and we can only hope to heal it by working with the majority community to restore and strengthen secular democracy. The politicians public commitment to abstinence has made him an outlier in a sex-obsessed culture. But is the church any friendlier to older single men? Scott Olson / Staff / Getty / Edits by CT Tim Scott entered politics decades ago as a proud 30-year-old virgin. Campaigning at the height of 1990s evangelical purity culture, he proclaimed that sex should be reserved for marriage. Years later, chastity was still one of his talking pointseven as he seemed to admit that his own commitment to abstinence had faltered. Now, the South Carolina senator and vice-presidential hopeful is getting married to a lovely Christian girl, Mindy Noce. Theyre set to tie the knot in early August, between the Republican National Convention and Election Day. The current status of Tim Scotts v-card is, of course, none of our business. The fact that it was ever a campaign talking point, in retrospect, is more than a little bizarre. Sign up for The Daily Briefing Get the most recent headlines and stories from Christianity Today delivered to your inbox daily. 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. But the senators apologia for both his abstinence and his singleness also makes sense. Its indicative of our collective suspicion toward older single people, present in both secular and church cultureour tendency to regard those whove never been married with pity, concern, and unease. This in spite of trends toward later and fewer marriages, and more writing on singleness in the church. Its easy to understand why our sex-obsessed culture regards a 30-year-old virgin (and especially an almost-60-year-old virgin!) with revulsion and confusion. But that same virgin is a pariah in the church for different reasons. Evangelicals tend to marry young, relatively speaking. I was no exception. Five of the six siblings in my family had married by age 25one of us at 19. In the church context I grew up in, getting married at 23 made sense . Implicit in the purity culture ideal of saving yourself for marriage was the reassurance that abstinence was only temporary. Singleness was a season of white-knuckled resistance to porneia, eyes on the prize of future marital bliss . I know abstinence is hard, books, pastors, parents, and mentors seemed to say. But if you marry young, at least you wont have to abstain for very long. But what if there was no spouse to save yourself for? What about those who remained unmarried for years or decades? The churchs insistence on purity rings and pledges didnt allow for the possibility of single adulthood beyond ones early 20sespecially for male single adulthood. Thats because for young Christian men, then and now, marriage is portrayed as solving the problem of out-of-control sexual desire. That view is bolstered by a particular reading of Pauls teaching in 1 Corinthians 7:9 that its better to marry than to burn (purousthai). Young men, notorious for their ravenous carnal appetites, need an outlet. The provision of a wife is presented as Gods solution to this brute biological fact. This reading of 1 Corinthians genders and particularizes Pauls language to men in a way that the apostle himself does not. Paul does not say that post-adolescent males should pursue marriage because theyre especially virile. On the contrary, later in the same chapter (v. 28), he seems to discourage marriage; those who marry will have worldly troubles, literally, tribulation by the flesh. As a not-yet-married man in his late 50s, Tim Scott would be an unusual nominee for vice president. Likewise, in the church, its exceptionally rare to find a single man (or woman, for that matter) serving as a head pastor or senior leader. One Barna study puts the percentage of married pastors at 96 percent. Meanwhile, Pew Research Center reports the proportion of never-married evangelical adults at 18 percent and rising. So why are single people underrepresented in church leadership? I suspect one explanation lies in wrong ideas about sexuality and marriage that make us wary of never-married Christian men in particularand more so the older they get. We simply cannot imagine a sexually mature adult male without an outlet in marriage; we worry (or assume?) that older single men are acting out their sexual desire in ungodly ways. Whats more, when marriage is equated with emotional, relational, moral, and spiritual maturity, being unmarried implies a corresponding immaturity. I know a man who was once passed over for a ministry position because an elder expressed concern about his singleness at age 30. By this measure, Jesus himself would have been considered a poor candidate. While evangelicals have been quick to commend marriage to young people as an alternative to hookup culture, we have yet to produce a robust vision for abstinences relevance for older people: for virginity in ones 30s, 40s, and beyond. This is especially alarming given that Christians (including many Christian men) are remaining single well into their adult life. When the promise of an early marriage fails to materialize, the church has alarmingly little vision for ongoing growth in discipleship, much less leadership. Christians are right to condemn the cresting individualism thats led to more and more young people delaying marriage and childbearing indefinitely. But too often, rather than rejecting this self-actualization, we merely offer the same idol by another means. An early marriage and lots of kids, we often argue, is the most reliable, respectable path to the good life. The pursuit of chastity shouldnt be undertaken to make us more appealing to a potential marriage partnermuch less as a guarantee of mind-blowing sex or familial bliss. As with all Christian virtues, chastity is lived before God. And it envisions a future reality where the human institution of marriage will end and all of us will be enfolded into Trinitarian love. Ultimately, we can understand extended or lifelong singleness in light of whats to come for believers. When Paul says he wants to spare single people the trouble and distraction of married life, he reorients his community toward the kingdom of God. The present order of the world, including (remarkably!) human marriage, is passing away (1 Cor. 7:31); the eschatological order of Gods new world has broken into the present through the death and resurrection of Christ. This vision of the now-and-future kingdom coheres with what Jesus teaches in the Gospels: that those who leave their family will receive a new one in the kingdom (Mark 10:2931; Matt. 19:2730) and that there will be no marriage in the resurrection (Matt. 22:30; Luke 20:3436). When Jesus is told that his mother and brothers wish to speak to him, he gestures toward his disciples; these are now his mother, sisters, and brothers (Matt. 12:4650). Paul addresses the recipients of his letters as brothers [and sisters] and identifies himself as a father (1 Cor. 4:15). Peter exhorts his readers to love the family (brotherhood, 1 Pet. 2:17). The church constitutes a new, dare we say truer family, not merely one that exists alongside our biological relations. The church-as-family vision of the New Testament is a key part of what makes extended and lifelong singleness possible. For those who dont have a spouse or children to take care of their everyday needs, the church should (and historically has) filled in the gap. Tim Scotts presence on our nations political stage as a single Christian man has been unique, as has been his continued adherence (in principle, at least) to a traditional sexual ethic. His story is timely given not only demographic shifts toward singleness but contemporary conversations rethinking what sex is for and how community is constituted. Amid these debates, models of faithful, chaste, single, mature Christians are more radicaland more neededthan ever. Zachary Wagner is director of programs for the Center for Pastor Theologians and the author of Non-Toxic Masculinity: Recovering Healthy Male Sexuality. In a case that alluded to the investors faith, a federal jury convicted Bill Hwang of market manipulation and defrauding banks. Michael M. Santiago / Getty Images Supporters of Christian investor and philanthropist Bill Hwang closed their eyes and prayed in federal court as they waited for a verdict on a case accusing him of massive Wall Street fraud. Hwang himself, serene throughout the proceedings, read a Bible devotional and took notes in the marginsa practice he had done throughout the trialas he awaited the jurys ruling. On Wednesday, a jury found Hwang, at one time one of the wealthiest evangelicals in the US, guilty of manipulating the stock market and defrauding banks. It is one of the biggest cases of Wall Street fraud in terms of dollar amount, with banks losing $10 billion after he and his firm lied to them. It is the crashing conclusion of a unique institution: Hwangs Archegos Capital Management, a Christian investment firm that was named for a Greek word used to describe Christ as the author of our salvation (Heb. 2:10) and the prince of life (Acts 3:15). While Hwangs defense team had argued that his aggressive trading at Archegos was within the bounds of normal Wall Street practice, the jury found he and his team were guilty of defrauding banks of billions and artificially pumping up stock prices. Sign up for The Daily Briefing Get the most recent headlines and stories from Christianity Today delivered to your inbox daily. 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 jury found him guilty of 10 of 11 counts. He was guilty of racketeering, securities fraud, market manipulation, and wire fraud. He was found not guilty on one count of market manipulation regarding one particular stock. When Archegos collapsed in March 2021, the firm lost $36 billion, banks lending to Archegos lost $10 billion, and about $100 billion in market value disappeared. Hwangs Christian faith was woven into the long federal trial, featuring witnesses from Hwangs Christian foundation Grace and Mercy as well as references to his Christian philanthropy. The jury heard the case before a courtroom that was consistently full of Hwangs Christian supporters in New Yorka feat of endurance over eight weeks when no phones were allowed in the courtroom and the technical subject matter was making even the jury sleepy. Evidence in the trial alluded to the shared faith at the firm. As the funds collapse was beginning in March 2021, Andy Mills, top brass at Archegos and a former president of The Kings College, a Christian college in New York, sent an email to another Archegos leader. Pray that the markets rise tomorrow, he wrote, according to documents from the prosecution. The point at which your business plan requires divine intervention is the point at which you have a solvency problem, said prosecutor Andrew Mark Thomas in closing arguments, according to Bloomberg. The defense initially intended to call Mills as a witness, but he did not end up testifying. In the trial, the defense tried to refer to Hwangs faith and his philanthropy as a way of highlighting his humble nonWall Street ways, but the judge limited references to his personal devotion as irrelevant to a case of market manipulation. The governments case was that Archegos borrowed billions from banks on false pretenses and used that money to buy up large positions in a few companies, pumping up the prices artificially. The defense argued that Hwang genuinely believed in the companies he invested billions in, and that he wasnt trying to defraud the banks but simply pursuing an aggressive trading strategy. On Wednesday, as the jury members filed into court with their verdict, US Attorney Damian Williams slipped into the back of the courtroomshowing how seriously the Department of Justice took this case. The jury in this case did not know this, but Hwangs previous hedge fund, Tiger Asia, had pleaded guilty to a fraud charge in 2012. Tiger Asia was converted to Archegos in 2013. The governments case against Hwang centered on testimony from star witnesses Scott Becker and William Tomita, both former Hwang deputies at Archegos who had pleaded guilty and cooperated with prosecutors. Both Tomita and Becker said that when Archegos collapsed, Hwang offered them roles at his $528 million Grace and Mercy Foundation, which supports Christian ministries around the world. Archegos and Grace and Mercy shared the same floor of office spacewith a conference room to host regular lunchtime public reading of Scripture, a Hwang initiative. Some Archegos employees worked at both entities doing investments. Grace and Mercy faces a lawsuit related to Archegoss collapse, but it is not affected by this ruling. It has been operating normally since Archegos closed. Another witness for the prosecution was Fernanda Piedra, a top Archegos employee who became the compliance officer for Grace and Mercy. The prosecution asked her to testify about the funds final days. Tomitas testimony undercut the defenses image of Hwang as a humble Christian investor. He portrayed Hwang as an angry boss, yelling at traders if they took bathroom breaks. He testified that Hwang had lied to the banks that Archegos was borrowing billions from. Prosecutors showed the jury Bloomberg Terminal messages, recorded phone calls, and charts upon charts depicting the links between Archegoss buying practices and the movement of particular stock prices. When Archegos was on a buying spree of GSX, a Chinese educational technology company, in 2020 and 2021, the stock reached a price of more than $100 a share. It is now trading at $5 a share. Throughout my training at the company, I had been taught by Bill when necessary to give misleading pictures about the fund and its positions, Tomita testified, according to Bloomberg. Hwang, 60, faces the possibility of spending the rest of his life in prison and his sentencing is set for October 28. He will be free pending sentencing on a $100 million bond. As it brings in churches from mainline and conservative Presbyterian denominations, the EPC feels the tension in compromise. A Presbyterian denomination that prides itself on freedom in nonessentials has found its cooperative ministry model strained by the latest discussion of human sexuality. Presbyterian historian Donald Fortson has been a member of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) since its inception in 1981, and he says he has never seen a more raucous General Assembly than this years gathering, held last month in Memphis. Among the topics of debate was whether to admit a congregation whose pastor identifies as homosexual but also says he is celibate and supports a traditional Christian sexual ethic, which falls under what some have called Side B Christianity. Sign up for The Daily Briefing Get the most recent headlines and stories from Christianity Today delivered to your inbox daily. 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. Greg Johnson, pastor of Memorial Presbyterian Church in St. Louis, led his congregation to leave the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) two years ago after that denomination had a preliminary vote to disqualify from ministerial office men who describe themselves as homosexual, even those who describe themselves as homosexual and claim to practice celibacy by refraining from homosexual conduct. (The denomination needed two-thirds of presbyteries to ratify that vote, which failed.) Johnson has described himself that way, advocating Side B Christianity both at the controversial Revoice conference and in his book Still Time to Care: What We Can Learn from the Churchs Failed Attempt to Cure Homosexuality. Now his church has inquired about joining the EPC. That has stirred up all kinds of controversy, said Fortson, professor of church history and pastoral theology emeritus at Reformed Theological Seminary, because weve got some in the EPC that appear to be very open to bringing him into the EPC, and weve got other groups that are absolutely opposed to him coming into the EPC. During its June 1820 gathering, the EPC voted for a two-year study on contemporary usage of the sexual self-conception and how such language comports with Scripture and the Westminster Standards. All the denominations local presbyteries have been asked to pause consideration of matters related to the study while it is in progress. That means Johnsons church would not be admitted until at least 2026. Time will tell whether a denomination that has, for the sake of ministry cooperation, agreed to disagree on womens ordination and charismatic practices can maintain the same posture on LGBTQ issues or if it will amend its constitution to address same-sex attracted clergy. Unity in essentials The EPC was founded more than four decades ago by a group of about 20 churches concerned with liberal drift in the Northern Presbyterian Church (then officially known as the United Presbyterian Church in the United States of America). Three points of concern for EPC founders were growing acceptance of homosexual ordination, questioning by some Northern Presbyterians of Jesus deity, and a push to force acceptance of female pastors. The EPCs attempted resolution of those concerns was a Presbyterian church where all leaders affirm a list of essentials, including the infallibility of Scripture, the deity of Christ, and the necessity of evangelism. The EPC also affirms the Westminster Confession of Faith, but in a looser way that acknowledges that it contains the system of doctrine taught by the Bible and allows ministers to disagree on some points. Both complementarians and egalitarians are welcome in the EPC, as are Presbyterians with differing views on charismatic practices. A range of views on creation (from young-earth creationism to theistic evolution) and the Sabbath (from strict Sabbatarianism to a more permissive take on the Sabbath) also prevail in the EPC. The tension exists between those who may stress more the essential tenets of the EPC and those who may stress more the Westminster Confession in the EPC, said EPC stated clerk Dean Weaver. Some EPC members are Evangelical with a capital E and reformed with a small r, and there are some who are Reformed with a capital R and perhaps evangelical with a small e. So far, the arrangement has succeeded. By 2008, the EPC had grown to 77,794 members. Five years later, it jumped to 134,833. Last year, it reported 125,870 members, making it the third-largest Presbyterian denomination in America, behind the mainline Presbyterian Church (USA) with just over 1 million members and the more conservative PCA with nearly 400,000 members. The EPCs membership leveled off somewhat in recent years, dropping 15 percent since 2018. The leveling off was due in part, Weaver said, to unhealthy congregations that transferred in from the PCUSA between 2008 and 2018 and subsequently closed. Yet modest growth post-COVID has included a 7.4 percent increase in adult baptisms and a push for church planting. Most EPC growth has come through churches transferring from the PCUSA. A lot of us are refugees from the PCUSA, including myself, and we have watched the PCUSA swing extremely liberal, said Carolyn Poteet, lead pastor of Mt. Lebanon Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh. But some growth has come from PCA congregations leaving over womens roles in ministry. Among those is Hope Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Columbus, Ohio. After a discernment period, Hope has opened deacon nominations to women. It has yet to decide whether it will permit female elders. Pastor Joe Haack says his congregation can thrive in a denomination with the EPCs vision. We want the essentials. We want to have those nailed down, Haack said. But for the sake of mission, we think liberty in nonessentials is so key. Yet as the two-year study on human sexuality proceeds, EPC observers are asking whether the denomination will continue to agree on what constitutes a nonessential. An uncertain future During floor debate at the General Assembly, an Ohio pastor said the sexuality study will not help the EPC advance its agendas of unity or doctrinal fidelity. Although this compromise seems reasonable on its face, its not a real compromise, said Joseph Yerger, pastor of Mansfield First Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Mansfield, Ohio. Consequences of approving the study committee will include and must include, out of a false sense of fairness and charity, an active and positive consideration to support the possibility of the socially influenced, theologically erroneous position commonly called Side B Christianity, as promoted by the Revoice conference. An open letter written by Fortson and two EPC elders, Nate Atwood and Rufus Burton, takes a similar line. It argues people who identify as homosexual, even if they claim to practice celibacy in that self-identification, should be disqualified from holding office in the EPC. In support of its position, the letter cites Scripture, the Westminster Standards, and lessons from mainline Presbyterian history on the ordination of celibate homosexuals. To date, more than 370 Evangelical Presbyterians have signed the letter. Atwood calls the denominations discussion of homosexuality doing theology in real time, akin to Protestant Reformers like Martin Luther and John Calvin. He worries that permitting people who identify as homosexual to be ordained may unintentionally deny the Reformation doctrine of sola Scriptura, replacing the Bibles call to repent of sinful desires with cultural accommodation. I agree with the critique of the conservative church that we have exhibited a kind of hostility to the LGBTQ community that has really hampered our witness, said Atwood, pastor of St. Giles Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, North Carolina. And I think there is some repenting to do with regard to our temperament and our attitude. But will we compromise the gospel, which calls for repentance from sinful actions and desires of the heart? Others say the EPC sexuality study is in keeping with the denominations vision. The compromise that led to the study committee was a beautiful moment and what the EPC is all about, said Poteet, chairman of the EPC committee that recommended the study. Lets figure out a way to be thoughtful and nuanced and submitted to Christ and submitted to Scripture and do this together. Evangelical Presbyterians agree that sexual expression needs to be either celibacy outside of marriage or a marriage between a man and a woman, she said. The question is whether a pastor can say of same-sex attraction, This is part of my experience, but I am living submitted to God. Burton, stated clerk of the New River Presbytery in North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia, is optimistic about the study, even though he opposes ordination of celibate homosexuals. He said during floor debate on the two-year study that it is an answer to the prayers of the leadership team of the New River Presbytery. It will clarify our witness and bring our constitution and documents into greater conformity with the gospel. Still, its far from certain that studying Side B Christianity for two years will produce the desired result. Ive been in the denomination for 10 years, Poteet said, and this is the closest Ive seen it to not working. That was a little bit scary. David Roach is a freelance reporter for CT and pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Saraland, Alabama. This article has been updated to correct the location of the New River Presbytery and clarify the PCA vote. Julian Finney / Getty Images The man at the center of one of Englands most prominent church abuse scandals is now facing criminal charges. Jonathan Fletcher, the former vicar of Emmanuel Church Wimbledon, has been charged with indecent assault and grievous bodily harm for incidents that occurred 25 to 50 years ago, during his decades of leadership in the Church of England. The 81-year-old appeared Wednesday in Wimbledon Magistrates Court, just a mile from his longtime church in southwest London. Sign up for The Daily Briefing Get the most recent headlines and stories from Christianity Today delivered to your inbox daily. 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 charges follow several years of allegations against Fletcher and an independent investigation backing the claims. Starting in 2017, dozens of men recounted past instances of bullying, coercion, and inappropriate behavior by Fletcher. Their accounts include naked massages, ice baths, and sauna visits. Fletcher was a high-profile evangelical voice in the United Kingdom, and the news came as a kick in the guts, one Christian wrote in 2021, describing the disconnect between memories of Fletcher as the erudite preacher and Bible teacher, and Fletcher the predatory abuser. Fletcher had already retired when the allegations arose, but his former diocese barred him from further ministry, alerted authorities, and commissioned an investigation in 2019. He responded by saying the behavior was consensual and apologized for any harm he had caused. Two years ago, a report from UK safeguarding ministry ThirtyOne:Eight found significant and ongoing safeguarding concerns related to Fletchers mentoring relationships and ministry duties and concluded that his behaviors constitute an abuse of spiritual authority and power, falling far short of the expectations, obligations and duties of those in Holy Orders. Investigators interviewed nearly 100 people from Emmanuel Church, including 27 victims. Fletcher declined to participate. According to the report, some suggested Fletcher had been aroused by naked massages, and one said Fletcher asked him to perform a sex act, and when he did not, [Fletcher] performed the act instead. Participants in a prayer group described being hit on the naked bottom with a gym shoe, being given a cold bath, or being left outside in the cold as punishments for personal sin. In the UK, Fletchers case drew more attention to the threat of spiritual abuse in churches. Fletcher served at Emmanuel Church from 1982 until 2012. Police say the charges against himeight counts of indecent assault on a man aged 16 or over and one count grievous bodily harm with intentstem from incidents taking place between 1973 and 1999. He is scheduled to appear in court again on August 7. The Diocese of Southwark announced the news of the charges in a statement, saying, The Diocesan Safeguarding team continues to offer support to those affected by this matter and has liaised with the police in the course of their investigations. Home News Al Mohler stirs debate on abortion abolition, whether women should be prosecuted Albert Mohler Jr., president of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and host of The Briefing podcast, recently contended thatsome women who had an abortion should be criminally punished. In a March 15 episode of The Briefing, Mohler was asked for his thoughts on the abortion abolitionist movement, which, in contrast to the mainstream pro-life movement, believes that abortion should be banned in all circumstances and women seeking one should face some form of criminal prosecution. Mohler said he felt the abolitionist movement, when it comes to abortion, has made some arguments, and some I think are frankly more urgent than others and more credible than others. 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 Regarding the specific issue of culpability for the pregnant woman seeking abortion, Mohler said it was an embarrassing shortfall on the part of many who call themselves pro-life to exempt women seeking abortions from any moral accountability. I think there is varying moral accountability. I think a woman whos coerced by a man into an abortion has far less moral culpability than a woman who brags about her abortion and celebrates it as a matter of personal autonomy and tweets about it, Mohler stated. And this is where, by the way, the law knows how to make distinctions. The law makes distinctions between manslaughter, and between murder and first-degree murder and premeditated murder, all kinds of things. In other words, there are distinctions made in the law. Mohler went on to say he believes the categorical statement that women are just victims when they seek an abortion, thats just not morally credible. Thats just not morally honest, especially in a day in which so many women, particularly in the activist community, they are actually bragging about their abortions, he added. I think its morally insane to suggest that there is no moral culpability there, nor that the law should not recognize that with some form of criminal sanction. I think thats just clear. Karen Swallow Prior, an Evangelical author and academic, wrote an opinion piece published by Religion News Service on Monday critiquing Mohlers support for criminal punishments. Where suicide (once called self-murder) is against the law, those who attempt it and fail are not tried, imprisoned or executed but are offered help and assistance. The same principle is applied in all cases of self-harm and self-mutilation, wrote Prior. While the child carried by a pregnant woman is a complete, whole, individual human being, that being is connected to her body. This is a physical and biological reality. It means that the child cannot be helped or protected without supporting the mother, too. Prior went on to label abortion as a failure not just of individuals but also of the village, and said that punishing the woman for it reinforces the idea that she is a radically autonomous being acting on her own apart from the formation of culture and her cultures norms and laws. This view stands starkly against the teaching of the Bible, from the Hebrew Scriptures through the New Testament, she asserted. When societies come to grips with those wrongs and seek redress, prevention and accountability through new laws, they must do so while balancing the interests of mercy and justice and those of social order and individual responsibility. Megan Basham, an author and reporter with The Daily Wire, tweeted a dissent to Priors rebuttal, labeling it the typical evangelical establishment word salad attempting obfuscate the fact that women know when they are perpetrating an evil act, such as killing their children. You cannot advocate for women as moral equals of men and then say theyre unable to know what they do because of the social imaginary, Basham argued. In 2016, then-Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump garnered controversy when MSNBC host Chris Matthews asked him at a Town Hall if women who have abortions should be punished and he said there should be some form of punishment for the woman who has an abortion. Shortly after making the comments in response to the Q&A, Trump released a statement clarifying that he did not, in fact, support passing a law that would punish a woman for having an abortion. Family Research Council Action President Tony Perkins released a statement saying that Trump's opinions on who should be punished shows he "is ill informed in this vital issue." "The pro-life movement values both mother and child and seeks to uphold the dignity of both by seeking to protect both from the damage of abortion and the predatory abortion industry," Perkins stated at the time. "While Trump has since 'clarified' his position on punishing women, his statements suggest he should spend more time with pro-life conservatives to gain a better appreciation of what their goals and objectives really are." Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of the Susan B. Anthony List, likewise criticized Trumps initial comments, saying in a statement released at the time that her organization has "never advocated, in any context, for the punishment of women who undergo abortion." "As a convert to the pro-life movement, Mr. Trump sees the reality of the horror of abortion the destruction of an innocent human life which is legal in our country up until the moment of birth," said Dannenfelser in 2016. "But let us be clear: punishment is solely for the abortionist who profits off of the destruction of one life and the grave wounding of another. Home News Doug Wilson, Al Mohler discuss Christian nationalism at conservative conference Theologian Albert Mohler and Pastor Douglas Wilson engaged in a discussion this week at the fourth annual National Conservatism Conference (NatCon 4) in Washington, D.C., about the proper role of Christianity in the government. During a Tuesday panel titled "The Crisis of Meaning and Morality in the West," the two theologians appeared to find common ground in their belief that Christians should be committed to "maximizing" the Christian underpinnings of the State in the Western world and especially the United States. Wilson has pastored Christ Church (CREC) in Moscow, Idaho, for more than 30 years, and recently penned Mere Christendom: The Case for Bringing Christianity Back into Modern Culture. Mohler has been president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, since 1993. 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 Highlights of their back-and-forth, which was moderated by Edmund Burke Foundation President Yoram Hazony, circulated Tuesday on social media. Megan Basham, an evangelical Daily Wire reporter and author of the upcoming book Shepherds for Sale: How Evangelical Leaders Traded the Truth for a Leftist Agenda, also participated as a speaker at the NatCon 4 conference and tweeted out the more notable portions of the discussion between Wilson and Mohler. The handshake that will be seen around the Protestant world. Both Wilson and Mohler agree that Christians should be committed to maximalizing the Christian commitment of the State.@yhazony aks: What would this mean to Jews, Hindus, Muslims in the United States?@douglaswils pic.twitter.com/MCV72LtWbd Megan Basham (@megbasham) July 9, 2024 Basham, who noted she was offering a "quick paraphrase" of their exchange, tweeted that both Wilson and Mohler maintained that there "is no clear articulation from well-known Christian leaders of what were supposed to be doing" in the political realm. Mohler reportedly observed that during the years of the Reagan Revolution, Christians "were responding to an awakening political crisis, but there was a confidence then that they could win political fights." "Today, they realize it will take a much more comprehensive, sustained effort," he added. Wilson agreed and noted that influential 20th century Christian philosopher Francis Schaeffer taught the importance of having "a moral undergirding to that political energy." "Christians needed theological substance to their political thinking," Wilson said, adding that such is sorely lacking today. Regarding the political role Christianity ought to play, Mohler said he would like those in the State to "maximize the Christian commitments of the State, of the civilization." "And I would call that acknowledgement," he continued. "In other words, I'm not claiming that everyone in the State, every citizen, is going to be a confessing Christian. I'm going to say that does not mean they are not obligated to the acknowledgment of the Christian structure of this civilization and its commitments." I want to maximize the Christian commitments of the state. I call that "acknowledgment." I'm not claiming that every citizen will be a confessing Christian. but that does not mean they are not obligated to the acknowledgment of the Christian structure of this civilization. pic.twitter.com/nBtrGuP1FS National Conservatism (@NatConTalk) July 9, 2024 "Theres a lot of people who think their walk with Jesus means to be disengaged from the wider world, and thats not consistent with New Testament Christianity," Mohler added. At one point, Hazony asked Wilson and Mohler if people of other faiths such as Judaism and Hinduism would flourish in the sort of Christian state that some Christian nationalists envision. "I would say briefly that Jews in this ideal republic that I would envision, or that we'd hammer out, Jews would be more welcome than they currently are here," Wilson replied. Echoing Wilson, Mohler said that in his theological tribe, it "would be seen as a matter of absolute divine responsibility to be fully respectful of the Jewish people, fully protective, and to have the Jewish people fully integrated in the entire project." Mohler also claimed that many conservative Roman Catholics, Protestants and Jews "basically already live in the same world and acknowledge that and have a mutual dependence and appreciation." In response to whether Muslims, Hindus or other religions would fit into his idea of a Christian nation, Mohler said, "I don't think a nation can survive without theological commitments." "That does not mean it cannot allow others to be a part of the community and even invite others, in a certain sense, into the community but it does mean that there has to be the explicit acknowledgement that this is a nation with specific theological accountability and theological commitments," he said. "Those coming should respect that, must respect that, and understand that. And so, the kind of modern secularists' dream is, I believe, a constitutional nightmare." I want to maximize the Christian commitments of the state. I call that "acknowledgment." I'm not claiming that every citizen will be a confessing Christian. but that does not mean they are not obligated to the acknowledgment of the Christian structure of this civilization. pic.twitter.com/nBtrGuP1FS National Conservatism (@NatConTalk) July 9, 2024 Wilson said that he agreed with Mohler's assessment of the situation. The panel also touched on the mandated display of the Ten Commandments in Louisiana public schools, which Mohler commended as "a good thing." Last month, Louisiana passed a law requiring a poster-sized display of the Ten Commandments in "large, easily readable font" in every classroom and in every K-12 public school and college classroom in the state. Other states such as Texas, Oklahoma and Utah are considering similar legislation. "It cannot be a bad thing to acknowledge the moral law of God," Mohler said. "That doesnt mean everything said about it is smart. Louisiana may need better spokespeople, but bravo Louisiana." Wilson, who has played a prominent role for decades in establishing classical Christian schools in the U.S., said he was "more concerned about kids being in public schools than the Ten Commandments." "Some flag will fly over public schools it will either represent Gods law or it will represent that which is against Gods law," he said. During his NatCon address, Wilson pushed back against Christians who would assert that their faith must stay out of politics and the public square. "Christian virtue was celebrated and acknowledged, but only in the private sphere, revealing a radical misunderstanding of the division between the public and private," he said. "We cannot erect a firewall between the eggs and the omelet." "If there is no God above the lunatic state, then the lunatic state is God," he also said. If there is no God above the lunatic state, then the lunatic state is God. -@douglaswils at NatCon 4 pic.twitter.com/LYoxpamxoU National Conservatism (@NatConTalk) July 9, 2024 During an interview with Tucker Carlson earlier this year, Wilson defended Christian nationalism and asserted that the problems facing the U.S. transcend politics and require a spiritual solution. "Basically, we're in such a mess that there is no political solution, alright? We're beyond hope. There is no political solution. The next election, however happy it might make us for 10 minutes, is not going to fix everything," he told Carlson at the time. The three-day NatCon 4 conference also featured speeches from prominent figures such as Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo.; Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis.; Sen. JD Vance, R-Ohio; former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy; and Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, who is the son of the Shah. In his NatCon address on Tuesday, Hawley also touched on Christian nationalism, juxtaposing it with the pagan nationalism and tribalism that littered antiquity and emerged again in recent centuries. The nationalism of Rome led to blood-thirst and conquest; the old pagan tribalisms led to ethnic hatred," Hawley said. "The empires of the East crushed the individual, and the blood-and-soil nativism of Europe in the last two centuries led to savagery and genocide." "By contrast, Augustines Christian nationalism has been the boast of the West. It has been our moral center and supplied our most cherished ideals. Just think: Those stern Puritans, disciples of Augustine, gave us limited government and liberty of conscience and popular sovereignty," he continued. "Because of our Christian heritage, we protect the liberty of all to worship according to conscience. Because of our Christian tradition, we welcome people of all races and ethnic backgrounds to join a nation constituted by common loves." "Some will say now that I am calling America a Christian nation; so I am," Hawley also said. "And some will say that I am advocating Christian nationalism; and so I do." "Some will say now that I am calling America a Christian Nation. So I am. And some will say that I am advocating Christian Nationalism. And so I do." -Senator @HawleyMO at NatCon 4 pic.twitter.com/yyJsA0BIkf National Conservatism (@NatConTalk) July 9, 2024 Home News Missing teenager located during traffic stop with 3 illegal immigrants in trunk A police officer in New Mexico discovered three illegal immigrants in the trunk of a car driven by a 17-year-old teen who had previously been reported missing after the officer pulled the teenager over near a border patrol checkpoint. Leland Antonio Munoz Dominguez was driving a 2006 BMW passenger vehicle on June 26 when a New Mexico State Police officer pulled him over on I-25. According to a Tuesday statement, the officer who conducted the traffic stop initially planned to turn the teenager over to his grandmother. But during the traffic stop, the officer heard a knocking noise coming from inside the vehicle's trunk. 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 "Upon inspecting the trunk, the officer found three undocumented immigrants inside," NMSP stated. "Dominguez was detained and Border Patrol was informed. When Border Patrol arrived, they took custody of the immigrants." The authorities also contacted the Juvenile Probation Office and the District Attorney's Office, and the latter authorized three charges of human trafficking and one charge of endangerment of a child. One of the illegal migrants inside the trunk was only 16 years old, according to NMSP. Dominguez was arrested and booked into the Dona Ana County Juvenile Detention Center. Dominguez was reported missing earlier this year, police say. Further details surrounding Dominguez's arrest have yet to be made public. American teenagers are smuggling migrants into the United States at troubling rates, with law enforcement officials telling Newsweek in April that money is the main motivation teens in the U.S. are participating. According to Texas Department of Public Safety data, thousands have been arrested in the last three years for smuggling-related charges. Those arrested for cashing in on the smuggling trade have ranged in age from 13 to 77, ranging from attorneys, medical professionals and military service members, according to officials who spoke with Click2Houston. In November 2023, two Dallas teens were arrested for human smuggling after a cartel offered to pay them $1,300 for each person they smuggled, NewsNation reported. One of the teenagers, Jonathan Rodriguez, told the outlet that it was his first time attempting to smuggle someone across the border, and he had seen a job advertisement on social media. Rodriguez was charged as an adult for trying to smuggle human persons. DPS caught Rodriguez and his friend after they were pulled over for running a stop sign. In a statement to NewsNation, Rodriguez said he regretted his actions. Craig Larabee, special agent in charge of Homeland Security San Antonio in Texas, told KENS in May that transnational criminal organizations actively recruit teenagers to smuggle illegal immigrants. He said advertisements on social media make it look easy to make a quick profit. "It's just money. It's just money, and you'll see the ads. They'll make a thousand dollars, $5,000 for one drive," Larabee said. "It's big wads of cash money. ... Make your money, come get your money." Data from Cochise County in Arizona showed that the Cochise County Attorney's Office prosecuted 33 juveniles for border-related crimes as of November 2023, Newsweek reported. Twenty of the offenders were charged as adults, and 13 of them were charged as juveniles. In 2022, the attorney's office prosecuted 49 juveniles, charging 38 as adults and 11 as juveniles. Home News Retired priest pleads guilty to stealing $300K from Missouri church A retired Catholic priest has plead guilty to stealing $300,000 from a church in Missouri, with the former clergyman facing up to 10 years in federal prison for his criminal actions. The Rev. Ignazio C. Medina, 72, pleaded guilty on Tuesday before U.S. Chief Magistrate Judge Willie J. Epps Jr. to charges related to stealing money from St. Stanislaus Catholic Church of Wardsville. Medina, who had served as pastor of St. Stanislaus from 2013 to 2021, took $100,000 from the churchs bank account to give to his sister and then another $200,000 for himself, according to a press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office, of the Western District of Missouri. 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 Medina, when confronted, claimed the bank account was funded by donations that were not intended for the parish itself, but rather were intended for his own discretionary use. Donors who had contributed checks deposited into the bank account contradicted Medinas statement, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office. Several individuals told investigators the checks they wrote to St. Stanislaus were intended for parish purposes, not for Medinas own discretionary use, and that they never had any conversations with Medina authorizing a different use of the funds. One donor told investigators he intended his donation to be used in the school in memory of a deceased friend. Medina had also claimed that the stolen money was a refund to donors, with his sister supposedly being a donor who wanted a refund. According to authorities, his sister said Medina had told her that the money was meant to be used to care for their ailing mother. Medina faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, with the sentencing hearing to occur following a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office. The Medina case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Kummerer and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, according to authorities. In response to the news of Medina pleading guilty, the Catholic Diocese of Jefferson City released a statement explaining that the parish had discovered the missing funds by using accounting protocols established by the diocese and then reported concerns to the diocese, which then notified law enforcement. Fr. Medina remains permanently barred from holding any ecclesiastical office and from hearing confessions. He is also forbidden from celebrating or concelebrating Mass without permission from the Most Reverend W. Shawn McKnight, bishop of Jefferson City, stated the diocese. Out of respect for the judicial process, neither the parish nor the diocese will offer additional comments at this time. Home News SBC pastor faces backlash for saying same-sex marriage ruling shouldn't be overturned A pastor in the Southern Baptist Convention has sparked backlash after stating he doesn't believe Obergerfel, the 2015 case that said same-sex marriage was a constitutional right, should not be overturned. Joel Rainey, pastor of Covenant Church in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, made his comments in response to a Dec. 2 post on X by William Wolfe proposing measures to restore the traditional American family. Wolfe's suggestions included ending no-fault divorce, abortion and access to contraceptives, as well as abolishing sex education in public schools and surrogacy. He also called for the reversal of the 2015 Supreme Court decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, which recognized same-sex marriage as a constitutional right. 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 Want to restore the American family? End no-fault divorce End abortion Reduce access to contraceptives Require men to provide for their children as soon as its determined the child is theirs End sex education in public schools End surrogacy Overturn Obergefell William Wolfe ???????? (@William_E_Wolfe) December 2, 2023 Rainey, who identifies himself as a "Member of Reasonable Twitter" in his bio, pushed back on the latter point, saying that he does not believe Obergerfel should be overturned. In a since-deleted tweet, the pastor said he believes doing so would invalidate all the economic supports built into same-sex marriage and would bring harm to already established unions that the courts have already legitimized," according to Protestia, which first reported the pastor's response. Given the choice between: 1. A nation that outlaws something sinful, but millions still do in secret. 2. A nation that leaves something legal that people choose not to do because they love Jesus more ... I'll take #2. Every. Single. Time. If that's "heresy" to some, so be it, he wrote. In the past, I wouldnt have agreed. But given that culture is moving toward an ever-widening view of what constitutes marriage, its endorsement no longer promotes the common good. May as well just get them out of it altogether. He later clarified: I don't believe in gay marriage. But I also don't believe in using the courts to bring harm to already established unions. Asking for genuine repentance is far different from a court forcing the dissolution of a union that same court legitimized. Given the choice between: 1. A nation that outlaws something sinful, but millions still do in secret. 2.A nation that leaves something legal that people choose not to do because they love Jesus more.... I'll take #2. Every. Single. Time. If that's "heresy" to some, so be it. Joel Rainey. ? (@joelrainey) December 5, 2023 The backlash was swift, with some making analogies to slavery and asking how his logic would apply if the government legalized marriage between an adult and a 9-year-old. Raineys comments come amid an ongoing debate within the SBC about its direction and stance on social issues. Over the years, the SBC has passed numerous resolutions reaffirming its opposition to homosexuality and same-sex marriage. These resolutions often emphasize the belief that marriage should be exclusively between a man and a woman and condemn practices and policies that deviate from this standard. SBC churches, which operate independently, are not directly subject to denominational control. However, the SBC leadership has effectively removed congregations from its fold if they do not align with the denomination's positions on certain issues. In 1992, the SBC amended its constitution to exclude churches that implied acceptance of homosexuality. The amendment to Article III of the SBC Constitution stated, Among churches not in cooperation with the Convention are churches which act to affirm, approve, or endorse homosexual behavior. Final approval came at the 1993 meeting in Houston, Texas. In 2021, two churches, Towne View Baptist Church in Kennesaw, Georgia, and St. Matthews Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky, were disfellowshipped for affirming homosexual behavior in their standards for members and leaders. In May, two churches were expelled from the Baptist General Convention of Texas (BGCT) for allegedly operating "outside of harmonious cooperation with the churches of the convention due to their public affirmation of same-sex sexuality." The convention had previously removed Wilshire Baptist Church in Dallas, First Baptist Church of Austin and Lake Shore Baptist Church in Waco. In 1998, the BGCT Executive Board withdrew fellowship from University Baptist Church in Austin because the church ordained a gay deacon, BNG notes. In a 2021 podcast, Albert Mohler, the president of Southern Baptist Theological Summary, weighed in on President Joe Biden's nomination of Rachel (Richard) Levine a trans-identifying man to serve as his assistant secretary of health. At the time, Mohler warned that Levine's appointment would "bring the power of coercion" and "bring about the process of further normalization." "Normalization means that something that had been considered sometimes unthinkable but abnormal becomes normalized in this society," he said. Citing same-sex marriage as a previous example of something that has become normalized, he contended that "when it comes to transgender[ism], the same effort is now very much underway, and it comes with coercion." Home News As 2024 election grows increasingly unpredictable, journalist warns Christians must awaken The 2024 election is shaping up to be the most consequential and unusual political showdown in at least a generation, with historic elements emerging on a near-daily basis. Even before the fallout over the most recent debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, 2024 was being called the biggest election year in history and with good reason. Seven of the world's 10 most populous countries, including the United States, are slated to hold national elections throughout the year. But its the Biden-Trump battle that is capturing the most attention across the nation and globe. 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 so many eyes on the American political landscape, Christian Post reporter Ian Giatti is launching a new investigative podcast aimed at exploring the electoral landscape through conversations with top Evangelical voices from across the political spectrum. Politics in the Pews, launching July 12 across podcast platforms (subscribe here), will investigate the history and influence of the Evangelical movement in American politics, where churches and Christian leaders stand and more. We want to really focus our audience and Christians at large in America to start thinking about the significance of this election, Giatti said, adding that he wants to get Christians engaged and involved in exploring why this election truly matters. Listen to Giatti preview Politics in the Pews: The Politics in the Pews host noted an undeniable reality: that this unusual election could get even more unusual as we go forward, which is why hes hinging his investigative podcast on key ideas and discussions surrounding the campaign and election. [We want to take] a look at where we've been as a country and as the Church, Giatti said. The history of the religious right movement, for example, the Moral Majority, how Evangelicals have influenced politics over the last half-century. Additionally, the show aims to explore why the election matters, whats at stake, and why Christians should pay close attention. Ultimately, Giatti wants to motivate people to head to the ballot box in November. [We want to] make sure Christians understand please, please go out and vote, regardless of what you may think about election integrity, regardless of what you may think about all that's going on, he said. Go and carry out our civic duty. But thats not all; Giatti also wants to awaken people to the time that we're living in. The country is undergoing a lot of changes right now, he said. And I think we all feel it, we all sense it, and it will continue to do so regardless of the outcome of the election. Giatti continued, I think we, as the Body of Christ, need to start thinking practically. I think we need to start understanding what it looks like to apply what we learned through the Word and in fellowship and take it into the world and into the culture. In addition to the podcast launching July 12, a special, in-person Politics in the Pews event will take place on Aug. 27 at Fellowship Church in Grapevine, Texas, (tickets are on sale here). This event will help round out the podcast conversation while also digging deeper into some relevant and pertinent electoral subject matter. This special event will include panels that explore Evangelicals' history as a movement, Trumps impact, and what a second Trump administration could look like. One panel will even discuss Christian nationalism, a term increasingly used in secular and faith-based circles. [This will be a] discussion around what it is, what it isn't, how it's being used to bludgeon and silence the Church versus concerns within the Church about what it may be and how it may look, Giatti said. Find out more about the in-person event here. And be sure to subscribe to Politics in the Pews before the podcast launches July 12: Home News Baltimore megachurch promises investigation after dozens allege childhood sex abuse Greater Grace World Outreach, a global nondenominational Evangelical megachurch headquartered at Greater Grace Church in Baltimore, Maryland, has pledged to commission an independent investigation after dozens of former members say they were sexually abused as kids primarily by prominent male church members or leaders. "As a church staff and community of Believers, our hearts are grieved at the thought that anyone who was ever a part of this church could have been a victim of sexual abuse. Sexual abuse of anyone especially children is sinful, abhorrent, and reprehensible. Period," church elders stated in a recent announcement. "We are committed to addressing this situation, hearing from victims and/or their families, and ensuring we have the safest environment possible to minister to adults and children," they added. "The Church will hire a nationally recognized, independent firm with expertise in dealing with sexual abuse, to conduct a thorough investigation and assessment of Greater Grace World Outreach." 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 statement follows The Baltimore Banner's four-part investigative series on a group of former members who call themselves The Millstones. Some 32 people told The Millstones group, which formed in 2019, that they had been sexually abused as children by men of Greater Grace. Another 18 survivors had come forward to tell the group they had also been abused. The victims and their family members alleged that high-ranking church leaders failed to adequately respond to the allegations. Reacting to the declaration of Greater Grace World Outreach's promise of an independent investigation, The Millstones rejected it in a statement on Facebook. "Nothing Greater Grace World Outreach leaders say can undo the harm they have done," the group stated. "We do not trust any promises made by GGWO given their repeated disparagement of victim-survivors, and the track-record of current leaders who have dismissed abuse and vilified any criticism of GGWO. They still have not taken any responsibility for the information that is already public or their continued pattern of victim-blaming." Greater Grace World Outreach, founded by Pastor Carl H. Stevens Jr., is led by presiding elder and overseeing Pastor Thomas Schaller. The ministry's website boasts of a "growing family with over 750 churches in approximately 80 countries with 3,500 Bible college students, and 1,000 Christian workers throughout the world." Survivors and brothers, Jediah Tanguay, 43, and Ben Tanguay, 41, are among the victims who have spoken out against the church. Their alleged abuser, a former youth leader Raymond Fernandez, has already been convicted and imprisoned for his crimes against them. He was arrested in 2013 after they contacted authorities. "One of the most beautiful effects of healing is having a voice to speak what was silent for too long," Ben Tanguay told The Baltimore Banner. He said his older brother did not realize that Fernandez had abused him until he revealed the abuse to his family as an adult while he was trying to come to terms with his trauma. "He had no idea I was a victim, and I had no idea he was a victim," Ben Tanguay said. "That was a big moment for both of us." Arrest records cited by The Baltimore Banner said Fernandez's former landlord told Baltimore County police she witnessed boys enter the basement apartment he rented from her in Nottingham and would hear noises suggesting he was "pleasuring himself." She said she wrote an anonymous letter to the church warning them about the youth leader, but it was unclear if they read it. Ben Tanguay confirmed that Fernandez abused him in the apartment, among other places, as a minor. Greater Grace's top youth pastor told police that he never suspected Fernandez was a pedophile. "Mr. Love advised that he never saw Mr. Fernandez alone with any of the youth. He never thought that Mr. Fernandez was abusing any of the youth at the time. No one ever said anything to him at the time about Mr. Fernandez abusing them," the court documents say. A third man also came forward to reveal that he was abused by Fernandez and is still active in the church. The man who The Baltimore Banner did not identify had high praises for how the church responded. "I believe in the power of forgiveness and that through the person of Jesus, anyone can find healing and hope," he said in a statement. "The Greater Grace Church was an important part of the investigation, trial, and my road of recovery. During my trial many of its pastors and members came to support me, sit with me, and even cry with me. Since those early days I've found that the only way to move forward was ultimately through the hard but necessary work of forgiveness." Elders said in their response to the widespread allegations of abuse that they expect the independent investigation by an unnamed firm is expected to take "six months or more." "This firm will have wide latitude to do its work in a thorough, objective, and unbiased way. They will provide a comprehensive assessment of how this church has responded to such cases, and especially how we have listened to and cared for victims. This firm will then conduct a detailed critique of our culture, policies, processes, and practices. We intend to hire a firm in the next several weeks," the church elders said. "We expect this assessment to take six months or more and ask for your prayers during this process. We'd also ask for your patience, as we will not be able to provide additional information about this matter while this work is ongoing," they added. "Once this process is concluded and we receive a full report, we commit to be transparent about the findings and about any work we need to do to ensure a safe environment for all our families in the future." 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 Biden HHS officials urged WPATH to remove age limits for transgender surgeries: report Biden administration health officials urged an international group of medical experts to remove age limits for body-altering surgeries for minors suffering from gender dysphoria, according to newly released email excerpts. The email excerpts from the LGBT health association World Professional Association for Transgender Health recount how staff working for a top trans-identified leader at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services apparently succeeded in persuading the organization to drop proposed limits for trans surgeries, The New York Times reported Tuesday. The email excerpts surrounding the staff of Rachel (Richard) Levine, the assistant secretary for health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services who identifies as a woman, and his staff are found in legal filings associated with a federal lawsuit challenging Alabama's ban on transgender surgeries and puberty blockers for minors. 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 In 2022, WPATH released guidelines called Standards of Care, with media outlets noting that the group had removed a section on the minimum age requirements for children to obtain puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones or undergo body-altering surgeries. WPATH claimed the purpose of the removal was to protect doctors from lawsuits. WPATH recommended in the draft guidelines 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, according to The Times. In one of the email excerpts, an unnamed WPATH member recalled an exchange with Sarah Boateng, Levine's then-chief of staff who later became principal deputy assistant secretary for health in October 2022. "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 stated about Boateng. "She wonders if the specific ages can be taken out." Another email about Levine said that the health official "was very concerned that having ages (mainly for surgery) will affect access to care for trans youth and maybe adults, too. Apparently, the situation in the U.S.A. is terrible, and she [meaning Levine] and the Biden administration worried that having ages in the document will make matters worse. She asked us to remove them." The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services did not immediately respond to The Christian Post's request for comment. The Times report follows a report last month that WPATH hired researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland to conduct a series of reviews on evidence that would support "gender-affirming" care. According to the activist group Do No Harm, emails released amid a legal challenge to North Carolina's age limits law suggest WPATH suppressed the findings that found "little to no evidence about children and adolescents." "Although this email chain was initially marked 'Attorneys' EyescOnly,' the DOJ publicly released the document in a court filing this morning," Do No Harm reported in May. "What's worse, the documents show that WPATH restricted the Hopkins researchers' ability to publish their findings." Do No Harm board chairman Stanley Goldfarb accused WPATH of an "outrageous rejection of good science and good medicine." "The case for so-called gender affirming care grows weaker by the day," he said in a statement. During a July 2023 interview in an ABC Nightline segment called "Identity Denied: Trans in America," Levine said that minors shouldn't wait until they're 18 to undergo sex-change surgeries. He also claimed that so-called "gender-affirming care" for youth is "evidence-based" and 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?" In a follow-up X post after the interview, Levine thanked the media outlet for hosting him and allowing him to discuss what he believes are "medically harmful" and "unscientific" bans that prevent minors from undergoing medical interventions to change their sex. The United Kingdom's National Health Service released its "Cass Report" earlier this year based on a review of transgender medical practices led by Dr. Hillary Cass, warning that studies claiming puberty blockers help improve the well-being of children suffering from gender dysphoria are of "poor" quality. The review also recommended "extreme caution" for prescribing irreversible cross-sex hormones to minors. The report suggested a new, multi-layered approach to treating children who experience discomfort with their sex, one that includes the creation of local specialist services designed to meet the "wider needs" of youth experiencing gender dysphoria. These centers would provide "a wide range of services, helping young people to overcome the psychological and social needs and challenges they might face." Cass, the retired former president of the Royal College of Pediatrics and Child Health, authored the report following an exponential increase in youth seeking treatment for gender dysphoria. "The reality is that we have no good evidence on the long-term outcomes of interventions to manage gender-related distress," Cass wrote in the report's introduction. Following the release of the Cass report, WPATH and its partners released a statement to the media claiming that her review was "rooted in the false premise that non-medical alternatives to care will result in less adolescent distress for most adolescents and is based on a lack of knowledge of and experience working with this patient population." "It is harmful to perpetuate this notion and does not acknowledge the very real fact that medical pathways are an important treatment option for many young people," the statement reads. Chloe Cole, a detransitioner who took puberty blockers and had her breasts removed to appear more like a boy, has spoken publicly about how much she regrets her initial decision to transition. Last year, Cole filed a lawsuit against Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, the Permanente Medical Group and affiliated healthcare professionals. She accused the medical groups of performing a "mutilating, mimicry sex change experiment" on her when she was only a teenager. Home News Biden speaks at black church; bishop praises president as 'the man we need' President Joe Biden spoke at a predominantly African American church in Pennsylvania on Sunday, where the church's leader called him the "man we need" and praised the Democratic Party as the "party of law." During remarks at Mount Airy Church of God in Christ in Philadelphia's Sunday worship service, Biden said he has "never been more optimistic about America's future" provided "we stick together." "Our purpose is to serve others," Biden said. "We're all created equal in the image of God and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect our entire lives. We've never fully lived up to that, but we've never fully walked away from it either." 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 Biden spoke about leading the country through the COVID-19 pandemic, his efforts to eliminate student loan debt and boasted about his administration seeing the lowest unemployment rate for African Americans since the 1970s. "We just have to work together," Biden said, receiving cheers and applause, adding that "we have to bring back dignity and hope in America" and "we must unite America again." The church celebrated Biden's speech, explaining in a Facebook post that the congregation was "honored to welcome President Biden to our church this morning." "His message of unity and hope resonated deeply with our congregation as we continue to pray for the healing of our nation. We are grateful for his leadership and commitment to serving all Americans," stated Mount Airy. Biden's visit to the church comes after many within his own party and establishment news media have called on him to drop out of the presidential race due to his widely criticized performance at his first debate against Republican challenger Donald Trump and questions surrounding his health. Bishop J. Louis Felton prayed for God to renew Biden's mind, body and spirit, saying that Biden is the "man we need during these [perilous] times." "Father, I remember a bumper sticker on a senior citizen's car that said, 'I may be slow, but I'm in front of you,'" the bishop said. "Use our president. Use his experience. Use his handicaps and be glorified in his life." Earlier in his remarks, Felton said he wasn't sure why people wanted to make "an issue" of Biden's "condition of stammering and not being able at certain times to bring forth words while another person lies fluently, and you never challenged his lies." He pushed back on remarks former President Trump made during the presidential debate last month about his comments surrounding the 2017 Charlottesville, Virginia, white supremacist rally and the 2021 U.S. Capitol riot. "You are not the party of law," Felton said in response to Trump before seemingly praising the Democratic Party. "We are right. We are the party of law. We are the party of respect. We are the party of reconciliation. We have the big tent. We have genuine love for America." Felton also responded to secular critics who questioned why the president was giving a speech at the church "in as much as there is such thing as separation of church and state." "We are firm believers in separation of church and state," he said. "We are separated but we are not divorced. Since we are not divorced, we still have visitation rights. The president has a right to be here." During a private call among Democratic members of the U.S. House of Representatives on Sunday, several congressmen demanded that Biden end his reelection campaign, Politico reported. Those on the call who wanted Biden to stand down included Jerry Nadler of New York, Adam Smith of Washington state, Mark Takano of California and Joe Morelle of New York. Biden, who already received enough votes during the Democrat Primary season to secure the party nomination, has refused to withdraw his presidential candidacy. In a Wednesday meeting with around 20 Democratic governors, the 81-year-old Biden said that he needed more sleep and to work fewer hours. When Biden was pressed on the call about his health, three sources who spoke with The New York Times recalled Biden saying that he is in good health but suggested "It's just my brain." Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania is among congressional Democrats who continue to support Biden, arguing that a single debate performance should not define the incumbent candidate. "I'm unwilling to discard a great president, a decent man and a loving father after 50 years in public service, over a 90 minute debate," tweeted Fetterman. "Responding with disorder, panic and disloyalty is not meeting this moment." Home News IDF denies Episcopal Church claim it ordered evacuation of Gaza hospital The Israeli Defense Forces have rejected an allegation leveled by The Episcopal Church that it ordered the evacuation and closure of a church-run hospital in the Gaza Strip. The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem claimed Monday that the IDF "compelled" it to close the Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City and evacuate all the staff and patients from the facility during its ongoing war with the terror group Hamas. There was military activity that took place in the vicinity of the hospital on Sunday. Responding to the allegation, the IDF told Reuters in a statement that it ordered civilians in certain areas of Gaza City to evacuate so it could reduce potential civilian casualties as it launched new military operations against terrorist groups. The IDF says it told Palestinian health authorities that hospitals could remain in use and there was no need to evacuate. 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 Specifically, the IDF told civilians on Sunday to leave the Tuffah, Daraj and Old City neighborhoods of Gaza City as they launched new operations and to go to the shelters located on the western side of the municipality. Al Ahli is situated near Tuffah. On Monday, the Israeli army sent out an updated announcement, according to The Times of Israel. IDF called on Palestinian civilians in the Sabra, Rimal, Tel al-Hawa and Daraj neighborhoods to evacuate due to the fighting and to head to the designated "humanitarian zone." Marwan al-Sultan, director of the Indonesian Hospital, reported that it received 80 patients and wounded people from Al-Ahli who had to be packed into "every corner," reported the Times. "Many cases require urgent surgeries. Many cases suffer from direct shots in the head and require intensive care. Fuel and medical supplies are dwindling," al-Sultan said, adding that his hospital received the bodies of 16 people killed in the Israeli incursion, half of whom were women and children. Israel began its military offensive in Gaza last October in response to Hamas, a terror group that has controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007, launching a surprise attack in southern Israel that killed around 1,200 people. Around 240 were abducted. The Israeli government's stated goal with the offensive is to eradicate Hamas and secure the release of hostages. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry says that over 38,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the war began but doesn't differentiate between combatants and civilians. In a statement on Monday, Archbishop Hosam Naoum, primate of the Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East, denounced the Israeli military. "We protest the closure of our hospital in the strongest possible terms," said Naoum. "In a time of warfare and great suffering it is essential that emergency healthcare services are maintained to treat the injured and the dying." Outgoing Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry also denounced the hospital's reported forced closure and evacuation in a statement released by The Episcopal Church's Office of Public Affairs. "This action violates the dignity of already-vulnerable people and is against international humanitarian law," said Curry. "Let us pray particularly for the safety of the hospital's patients and staff and those who had been sheltering at the hospital who are now displaced again." During its 81st General Convention held in Louisville, Kentucky, last month, the Episcopal House of Bishops rejected resolutions that would have labeled Israel an apartheid state and endorsed divestment efforts against Israel but did pass measures calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. Home News LexCity Church permanently shutters after former pastor charged with rape, sodomy of minor Just over a week after former Executive Pastor Zachary King was charged with the rape and sexual abuse of a minor, LexCity Church in Lexington, Kentucky, has permanently shuttered because it wouldn't be "financially viable" to continue. "Today we are writing a letter that no leadership team desires to write. Through thoughtful prayer and heartfelt tears, the leadership team of Lexington City Church has voted to permanently cease our ministry," the church said in a statement on its Facebook page Wednesday. "Due to the continued effects of the financial situation our church inherited several years ago and the impact of the ongoing investigation of a former staff member, we have lost the ability to remain financially viable and fulfill our God-given mission." 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 On July 2, the office of Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced 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. 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, Lex18 reports. King confessed in an interview with Coleman's office that he "engaged in a sexual relationship with a minor over the course of the last year and a half," according to an arrest citation cited by Lex18. The pastor said 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." King also confessed to communicating with the teenage girl through Snapchat and WhatsApp to arrange meetups and receive explicit photos, according to Fox56. 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 his congregation. According to his LinkedIn profile, King has significant experience serving in youth ministry, including at Craig Groeschel's Life.Church and Metropolitan Baptist Church in Houston, Texas, where he spent more than eight years. "Our hearts are broken for those who have been hurt and are hurting, and we will continue to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation. However, with heavy hearts, we feel it is in the best interest of the Kingdom and our community that we discontinue our ministry," LexCity Church leaders added in their statement Wednesday. "As a city, Lexington is blessed with a wide variety of vibrant and welcoming church communities, many of which have been praying for our church family in this time of heartache. So, while today ends our chapter, we're incredibly encouraged by the larger community of Christ followers throughout our city and know that there's a place within it for everyone who once called LexCity their home." Home News Robert Morris attorney blamed 12-year-old Cindy Clemishire for getting into his bed, initiating abuse A former attorney for Gateway Church founder Robert Morris suggested Cindy Clemishire, a 54-year-old woman who accused him of sexually abusing her over multiple years as a child, is partly to blame because she climbed into his bed when she was 12. He also stated that she acted inappropriately with two other adult men in her home as a child. In a 2007 correspondence cited by NBC News, Morris' then-attorney, J. Shelby Sharpe, who also served as personal attorney for former Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary President Paige Patterson, suggested to Clemishire's attorney that she was at fault for the abuse she suffered when she tried to sue the megachurch founder. "It was your client, who initiated inappropriate behavior by coming into my client's bedroom and getting in bed with him, which my client should not have allowed to happen," Sharpe wrote in the Feb. 6, 2007, letter when Clemishire asked for $50,000 in restitution from Morris to pay for her counseling. 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 Gentner Drummond, Clemishire's attorney at the time who is now Oklahoma's attorney general, confirmed the correspondence with NBC News but didn't offer any additional comment. Sharpe, who no longer represents Morris, told the news network that he did not recall the settlement offer and denied knowing that Clemishire was a child when the abuse started. "I don't ever remember seeing that," Sharpe said when he was reminded of the letter. "I can tell you that the letters that you've seen, they speak for themselves," said Sharpe. "I will not amplify beyond those letters, because they speak for themselves." Sharpe reportedly stated in the 2007 correspondence that Clemishire "acted inappropriately with two other men who stayed in her home between 1982 and 1987," when she was between the ages of 12 and 17, according to NBC News. The letter noted that Clemishire "confessed her conduct" to Glenda Faulkner, a woman who attended Shady Grove Church near Fort Worth, Texas, in the 1980s, when Morris was also a pastor there. Clemishire told NBC News that two other men touched her inappropriately in her home as a child, but she did not initiate the incidents. She recalled one occasion, alleging Morris told her when she was 13 to go into a bedroom at her childhood home where another traveling evangelist was staying. She said the man, who she did not identify, began to kiss her once she was inside the room but stopped himself and told her she was too young. Another incident occurred in 1986. She said another man staying with her family climbed on top of her while she was sleeping on a sofa bed next to his 3-year-old daughter. She said she believed he was going to rape her but stopped suddenly. "I really think God intervened," Clemishire told NBC News. "God made him feel like someone was walking by, and he just rolled off of me and left." After the 1986 incident, Clemishire said she decided to confide in Faulkner-Woodliff, who insisted she tell her parents what was going on with Morris. Her father urged Olen Griffing, the then-senior pastor at Shady Grove Church, to have Morris step out of ministry. Morris resigned from Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, the megachurch he founded in 2000, on June 18. His resignation came after Clemishire reported that he began sexually abusing her on Dec. 25, 1982, when she was just 12 years old. She says the abuse continued for four-and-a-half years before it came to light. But Morris was later allowed to return to ministry. When questioned about the allegations by The Christian Post, Morris initially confessed to being involved in "inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady" more than 35 years ago and said he repented and was restored to ministry. Elders at Gateway Church, who have commissioned an independent investigation into Clemishire's allegations, initially defended Morris and stated that the pastor, who was a married and a traveling evangelist at the time of the alleged abuse, had already repented and biblically restored to ministry. Gateway elders later revised their public statement on the allegations in an announcement of Morris' resignation on June 18, saying they were not aware Morris had sexually abused a child. "Regretfully, prior to Friday, June 14, the elders did not have all the facts of the inappropriate relationship between Morris and the victim, including her age at the time and the length of the abuse. The elders' prior understanding was that Morris' extramarital relationship, which he had discussed many times throughout his ministry, was with 'a young lady' and not abuse of a 12-year-old child," the elders explained. "Even though it occurred many years before Gateway was established, as leaders of the church, we regret that we did not have the information that we now have. We are heartbroken and appalled by what has come to light over the past few days, and we express our deep sympathy to the victim and her family." Home News Russell Brand says he is 'held alive by' serving Jesus Christ: 'I am in the business of service' Comedian Russell Brand has again spoken out about the impact of his new faith in Christ during a recent conversation with Neil Oliver posted to X, saying he is in the "business of serving Jesus Christ." "In surrendering to Christ, there is something extraordinary about saying there is this man, another man, entirely God, entirely man. But through some necessary, extraordinary, metaphysical act just beyond the edge of rational understanding, the Creator of this simulation came into the simulation and told us, 'Hello, I am God. I've come here. Here are some virtues and values,'" Brand said. Brand shared a message that was once spoken by Christian author C.S. Lewis. 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 "C.S. Lewis talks about the 'stoics era' to imagine that one might be able to do always what one can do sometimes. You know, there are times where it's like 'I am not in the business of Russell Brand anymore," Brand said. "I am in the business of service. Serve Jesus Christ. And it's such a powerful idea that I'm held alive by it. But surely, this parasite nature grips me again, and I return to egotism. I return to wanting and longing and fear. And all of those limiting things." In surrendering to Christ... From my conversation with my friend @thecoastguypic.twitter.com/F4A4HPN0BH Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) July 1, 2024 Brand recently developed a relationship with Jesus Christ and was baptized into the faith in April. "I've been a Christian a month now, and it's been a big change," he said in a TikTok video posted in May. "Not that I've entirely changed as a person. Of course, I haven't, but I've taken on a lot of new concepts, and it changes you to accept that it's not like you're in a game show, and by doing really, really good things, you can get redeemed." In recent years, the actor has also come under heavy public scrutiny and faces several allegations of sexual misconduct stemming from when he was a younger actor. A joint investigation by The Times of London and Channel 4 released last September features four women who alleged Brand sexually assaulted them between 2006 and 2013 during the height of his film career. The Sunday Times reports that Brand was alleged to have assaulted a girl who was 16 years old at the time. Another woman told the outlet that Brand sexually assaulted her at his Los Angeles home in 2012. Last December, Brand told his social media followers that he was reading through the Bible and The Problem of Pain, a 1940 book by C.S. Lewis that explores the role of suffering in the Christian life. He revealed in January that he was reading The Purpose-Driven Life by Saddleback Church founder Rick Warren. Although he once viewed churches as either too "old-fashioned" or too modernized, he said he found Christ more important in his life as he grew older. After his baptism, the comedian said his faith brought "incredible" people and literature into his life, offering him peace and direction. "Repentance, to repent, means that you have to continually change and acknowledge that 'I am in a battle against myself,' that I need to surrender myself to an ever-present, internal and accessible Jesus, that mercy is something that's given to me, been granted to me, that I live with through love, not something that I can sort of win or achieve by doing good deeds," Brand said in his May video. "When I'm in doubt, I feel that instruction is there, accessible. I feel like I know what I'm supposed to do, and when I don't do what I'm supposed to do, that's even clearer," he explained. "When I feel myself being selfish or inconsiderate or putting myself first or not thinking about how I can be better to other people, it's as if there is an inner illumination available to me now." Brand expressed admiration for the simplicity and profundity of Christian doctrine, particularly the narrative of God coming to earth as a man and sacrificing Himself for humanity's redemption. "I love the simplicity of the idea of God coming to earth as a man to experience what it is to be human and to sacrifice Himself because that's the only sacrifice that could bring us home, that could give us the opportunity for redemption," he said. "I like the idea, when I'm in prayer and in communion, just alone, that there is a figure available, wounded and coronated, available to me. In my failings and my failures and in my fallibility, there is strength." Brand emphasized that this journey is only beginning. He conveyed a sense of excitement and eagerness to continue learning and growing in his faith. "It's a beautiful journey to go on," he said. "I know I'm just at the beginning. I know I'm just learning. I know there's so much more to learn, and I'm so excited to learn more from you and for us to learn together." China, Bangladesh elevate ties, broaden cooperation 15:58, July 11, 2024 By Wang Qi ( Global Times Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of the People's Republic of Bangladesh at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on July 10, 2024. (Photo: Xinhua) China and Bangladesh on Wednesday elevated their relations to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced this while meeting in Beijing. Experts described Hasina's visit to China as a journey of cooperation and friendship. Although some Indian media outlets are seemingly concerned about the visit, experts said the development of China-Bangladesh ties does not target any third party, and will be conducive to overall peace and stability in South Asia. During Wednesday's meeting, Xi told Hasina that China and Bangladesh are good neighbors who know each other well and have had friendly exchanges for thousands of years. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries have always respected and supported each other, treated each other as equals, and cooperated for win-win results, setting an example of friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation between countries, especially between the "Global South." China cherishes the profound friendship established by the older generation of leaders of China and Bangladesh, and is willing to take the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations next year as an opportunity to deepen the high-quality joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and expand the depth and breadth of cooperation in various fields, the Chinese President said. Xi stressed that China supports Bangladesh in adhering to an independent foreign policy, following a development path that suits its national conditions, safeguarding national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and opposing any external interference. Hasina said that Bangladesh firmly adheres to the one-China principle, supports China's stance on the Taiwan question, resolutely opposes external forces' interference in China's internal affairs, and firmly supports China in safeguarding its core interests. Earlier on Wednesday, Chinese Premier Li Qiang also met with Hasina. According to the Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), the country's national news agency, the two countries have signed 21 instruments including two renewed MoUs and announced seven more projects. Talks between Li and Hasina mainly concerned trade and investment, as well as bilateral relations alongside various regional and international matters, according to BSS. The instruments on cooperation in the economic and banking sector, trade and investment, digital economy, infrastructure development, assistance in disaster management, construction of 6th and 9th Bangladesh-China friendship bridges, export of agricultural products from Bangladesh and people to people connectivity were signed. Closer economic, trade ties While in Beijing, Hasina attended the "Bangladesh-China Business, Trade and Investment Summit" on Tuesday and delivered a keynote speech. Hasina said she "encouraged the Chinese business community to consider key sectors in Bangladesh, such as energy, renewable energy and logistic centers," adding that Bangladesh is also "keen to export more products to China, such as textiles, garments, leather and leather goods and other products," according to CGTN. At the event, industry giants Huawei and China National Chemical Engineering Group Corporation signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with delegates from Bangladesh. Qian Feng, director of the research department at the National Strategy Institute at Tsinghua University, said the visit by Hasina is a link between the past and the future for bilateral relations, especially in promoting high-level cooperation in the field of economy and trade. The development strategies of the two countries will be further synergized, and more economic and trade cooperation projects are expected to be implemented in the future, injecting more substantive connotations into the duo's strategic cooperative relations, Qian said. In the latest trade data released by China's General Administration of Customs, from January to May, China-Bangladesh bilateral trade amounted to 74.91 billion yuan ($10.30 billion), gaining a positive growth of 0.2 percent year-on-year. China remains Bangladesh's largest trading partner. Moreover, China has also been one of the largest sources of investment in the South Asian country. As of the end of 2023, China's investment stock in Bangladesh had increased to nearly $1.4 billion, and there were nearly 700 Chinese-funded companies in Bangladesh, creating more than 550,000 jobs, according to the Chinese Embassy in Bangladesh. Hasina's visit to China will further promote the traditional friendship between the two countries, said Hu Zhiyong, a research fellow with the Institute of International Relations at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences. Through cooperation over the past years, Bangladesh has clearly seen how China's development ideas and experience have played a huge role in promoting the economic and social development of Bangladesh, Hu said. "Specifically, the economic and technical assistance of Chinese enterprises in Bangladesh's infrastructure construction, China's assistance in training local medical and health professionals in Bangladesh, and the increase in the scale of people-to-people exchanges between the two countries," Hu added. The pragmatic cooperation between the two countries is an illustration for more South Asian countries to understand China's concept of good-neighborly friendship, the idea of sharing the fruits of development, and the image of China as a responsible major power, Qian said. Balance and opportunity Hasina also talked with China's top political advisor Wang Huning on Tuesday. Wang, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), said that under the strategic guidance of the two countries' leaders, China and Bangladesh respect and treat each other with equality, setting a good example of friendly coexistence and mutually beneficial cooperation between countries. But some Indian media outlets viewed Hasina's China visit as "a balancing act to keep the two key players happy," as "she needs India to be in power, and China for economic support." Some Indian media also talked down the cooperation between Beijing and Dhaka. Hasina's visit to Beijing took place shortly after her visit to New Delhi, which tends to view some other South Asian countries including Bangladesh as its sphere of influence. Hasina made a two-day visit to India from June 21 to 22, during which the two sides signed agreements to expand cooperation in maritime security, the ocean economy, space and telecommunication sectors. Before Hasina's visit to China, Bangladesh's ruling Awami League general secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said on July 6 that "India is a political friend of Bangladesh and China is a development partner," explaining the country's relationship with two major powers. Some analysts said that with the intensifying geopolitical game, some South Asian countries such as Bangladesh are facing a tough situation: If they want to achieve rapid economic and social development, they need to cooperate with China. However, close economic cooperation with China will inevitably draw political and security pressure from countries such as India and the US. India always uses various excuses to obstruct and create hype whenever a South Asian leader visits China, but New Delhi should not be overly concerned that other countries' engagement with China will damage their relations with India, Hu said. The development of bilateral relations between China and Bangladesh promoted by Hasina's visit will be conducive to the overall peace and stability in South Asia, Hu said. The development of China-Bangladesh relations does not target any third party, said Qian, noting that China always opposes zero-sum game and stands for mutually beneficial cooperation. Against the backdrop of complex geopolitics, China respects Bangladesh's strategic choice and has no objection to Bangladesh developing friendly and cooperative relations with other countries, Qian said. For Bangladesh, in the face of pressure from India, the development of China-Bangladesh relations also provides a valuable choice for Dhaka to better safeguard its diplomatic independence and development opportunities, Qian said. (Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing) Home News School choice advocates fear Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro is flipping on education promise Advocates for school choice have raised concerns that Democratic Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has flipped on the issue despite his campaign promise to support it, which proponents argue is only depriving the states children of educational opportunities. Charles Mitchell, president of the free-market Commonwealth Foundation, contended in an opinion piece by Wall Street Journal columnist William McGurn that Josh Shapiros moderate image is a mythso far. Some pundits have floated the idea that the Pennsylvania governor is a moderate politician who could be a potential replacement for President Joe Biden. Mitchell highlighted the governors veto of a school-choice proposal in 2023 despite promising during his campaign that he would support such initiatives. The Commonwealth Foundation president also pointed to comments Shapiro made earlier this year about Lifeline Scholarships, which he called unfinished business. 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 But hes not showing any leadership, exerting any pressure, or spending any political capital to pass them, Mitchell stated. As of now, Josh Shapiro is a perfect sub for Joe Bidena moderate-talking, left-governing politician from the nations largest swing state who is failing to do the work of his office, he continued. If he changes course this budget season and delivers for kids, he could become the kind of statesman America needs. In an interview with The Christian Post, Erik Telford, senior vice president of public affairs for the Commonwealth Foundation, said that the organization would like to see Shapiro deliver on the promises made during his campaign by supporting the Lifeline Scholarships program. The program, also known as the Pennsylvania Award for Student Success, would offer scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $15,000 per year for students attending the lowest-performing schools in the state. As Telford noted, some of the best-performing schools in Pennsylvania are only a few miles from the schools that are seen as some of the worst in the state. Its a very stratified system where people either have the means to live in a well-off community with a great public school, or people are economically trapped in a school district that they can't afford to leave that doesn't even offer a passable education to the kids that are stuck in those schools, Telford said. According to the 2023 Pennsylvania System of School Assessment, more than half of the states fourth graders and nearly 75% of eighth graders cannot perform at grade level. Nearly half of Pennsylvanias fourth and eighth graders cannot read at grade level, according to the report. Fourth-grade English language arts proficiency dropped to 51.8% from 52.2% the previous year. Eighth-grade scores in the same subject also declined, going from 55.6% in 2022 to 52.7% in 2023. As the Commonwealth Foundation noted in 2023, the decline in students performances occurred despite the 2023-2024 Pennsylvania state budget increasing state support for public schools to $15.5 million. Opponents of school choice, however, argue that allowing students to transfer from a lower-performing school to a higher-performing one takes money away from public schools. Other critics of school choice have argued that it is racist and tied to the countrys history of segregating schools by skin color. Telford told CP that some school voucher programs operate in a way where the money follows the kid, but the Lifeline program does not do that. The Commonwealth Foundation vice president explained that the Lifeline program adds an extra $100 million to a special fund intended to help send students to another school. Regarding the accusation that school choice programs are racist, Telford highlighted data from the Commonwealth Foundation that found a bipartisan group of Pennsylvania voters, including black and African American voters, believe Shapiro should honor the promise he made to support scholarships for students attending low-performing schools. According to the Commonwealth Foundation poll, 73% of survey participants support establishing scholarships for low-income students in Pennsylvanias worst performing (bottom 15%) schools that would help pay for tuition to another K-12 school. Home News Texas Supreme Court upholds ban on transgender surgeries, puberty blockers for kids The Texas Supreme Court has upheld a state law barring medical professionals from performing cosmetic sex-change surgeries or prescribing hormonal intervention drugs to children. In an 8-1 ruling released Friday in the case of Texas et al v. Lazaro Loe et al., Texas highest court upheld Senate Bill 14, which passed last May and took effect last September. The law bans medical professionals from performing sex-reassignment surgeries or prescribing puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones to children. Justice Rebeca Aizpuru Huddle authored the majority opinion, concluding that the Legislature made a permissible, rational policy choice to limit the types of available medical procedures for children. 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 We therefore conclude the statute does not unconstitutionally deprive parents of their rights or physicians or health care providers of an alleged property right in their medical licenses or claimed right to occupational freedom, wrote Huddle. We also conclude the law does not unconstitutionally deny or abridge equality under the law because of sex or any other characteristic asserted by plaintiffs. We therefore reverse and vacate the trial courts order. Justice Debra Lehrmann wrote the dissent, arguing that the new law is not only cruel but also unconstitutional and that the majority opinion effectively forecloses all medical treatment options that are currently available to these children. Although this Court has enshrined a robust conceptualization of parental autonomy for many years, in the blink of an eye, the Court tosses that precedent aside today, Lehrmann added. Concerningly, the Court's opinion puts all parental decisions at risk of being overruled by the government. The Court's attempt to cabin its opinion to only this case makes its outcome-driven decision-making all the more transparent. The Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative legal group that filed an amicus brief in support of the state law, celebrated the state supreme court decision. Texas rightly enacted the Minors Protection Act to protect the health and welfare of all children supporting their natural biological development and ensuring that children experiencing gender dysphoria have a chance for comprehensive healing and compassionate mental health support, said ADF Senior Counsel Natalie Thompson in a statement. And no reliable scientific evidence demonstrates that these dangerous medical procedures improve mental health. Thats why countries like Sweden, England, and Finland which once recommended these procedures for children are now restricting them and protecting children from the devastating effects they have had on countless lives. The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, one of multiple progressive organizations that represented the families suing Texas, denounced the state high court decision. This decision by the Texas Supreme Court allows the suffering caused by S.B. 14 to continue across the state, said Ash Hall, policy and advocacy strategist at ACLU of Texas, in a statement. Our government shouldn't deprive trans youth of the health care that they need to survive and thrive. Texas politicians obsession with attacking trans kids and their families is needlessly cruel. We will not stop fighting until our trans youth have the health care they deserve and our state is a welcoming place to all. SB 14 includes exceptions to allow such procedures or interventions in limited scenarios, such as when a minor is "experiencing precocious puberty," "born with a medically verifiable genetic disorder of sex development," or if a minor "does not have the normal sex chromosome structure for male or female as determined by a physician through genetic testing." Shortly after the law was passed, a group of progressive organizations filed suit on behalf of five families with trans-identified minors, with the 201st Judicial District Court of Travis County granting an injunction that temporarily blocked the law. At the end of August 2023, however, the Texas Supreme Court issued a brief order overruling the injunction, and allowing the law to take effect while the legal proceedings continued. Home Opinion Apologetics is essential to your spiritual formation Sometimes apologists and advocates of spiritual formation look askance at each other. What do logical arguments for faith have do to with getting closer to God? How does developing your spiritual life lead to being a better apologist? The answer to both questions is, In every way! Since the publication of Richard Fosters The Celebration of Discipline (HarperCollins) in 1978, much of the Evangelical world has embraced the concept of spiritual formation through disciplines such as fasting, spiritual journaling, service, biblical meditation, lectio divina, study, and, of course, prayer. Around the same time, there was a resurgence in Christian philosophy and apologetics, indicated by the founding of the Society of Christian Philosophers and the Evangelical Philosophical Society. The spectacular success of Lee Strobels book The Case for Christ (Zondervan, 1996) jumpstarted a popular appreciation for apologetics of which I have been happy to be a part.[1] Since then, apologetics programs, conferences, websites, and forums have mushroomed around the country. While I take issue with some aspects of the spiritual formation movement particularly some versions of centering prayer on balance, it has added depth and earnestness to evangelical spirituality.[2] We are summoned to conform to the glorious image of Christ for our entire Christian life, and any biblically defensible practice that encourages this should be embraced. Our lives are really works of art, as the great evangelist and apologist Francis Schaeffer (1912-84) noted. 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 No work of art is more important than the Christians own life, and every Christian is called upon to be an artist in this sense. He may have no gift of writing, no gift of composing or singing, but each man has the gift of creativity in terms of the way he lives his life. In this sense, the Christians life is to be an artwork. The Christians life is to be a thing of truth and also a thing of beauty in the midst of a lost and despairing world.[3] We are Gods workmanship in and for our needy world, and Schaeffers life was a work of divine art.[4] Spiritual formation means that the Holy Spirit reshapes us into trophies of grace and carriers of divine love. God transformed the Christian-hating Pharisee Saul into an apostle of Christ and the author of most New Testament books (Acts 9). He knew from experience that Christians are becoming children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation, who will shine among them like stars in the sky (Phil. 2:15). But how might apologetics, a supposedly dry intellectual discipline that fosters a know-it-all attitude, contribute to this glorious transformation, if at all? Apologetics is the defense of Christianity as objectively true, compellingly rational, and existentially pertinent to all of life. As Christ followers, we have the privilege and responsibility to engage in apologetics, to have a reason for the hope within us, and to do this with gentleness and respect as we are filled with the Holy Spirit of truth (1 Pet. 3:1516; Jude 3). Jesus as an apologist Jesus engaged in apologetics. Since He is our spiritual model as well as our Savior, we should follow Him. Whoever claims to live in Him must live as Jesus did (1 John 2:6). Christ rationally defended His beliefs as well as propounding them. Jesus shows His apologetic acumen in responding to questions about paying taxes to Caesar (Matt. 22:1523) and about marriage and the afterlife (22:2333). The one who said the greatest commandment was to love God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind, certainly loved His Heavenly Father with His intellect (22:3740). Although Jesus was God incarnate, there is no reason to think that He did not develop His intellectual skills, which included His defense of His message. From the age of about 12 until 30, Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man (Luke 2:52). Since Jesus was a genuine human being (in addition to being divine), He studied and learned throughout His life (although He was not formally trained in the institutions of His day). Jesus engaged God the Father with all of His being (including His mind).[5] Two leading evangelical philosophers and apologists also embrace spiritual formation J. P. Moreland and Dallas Willard (1935-2013). Moreland develops a vibrant theology and spirituality of the mind in Love Your God with All Your Mind (NavPress, 2014). Willard wrote many books on spiritual formation[6] but also engaged in apologetics, as seen in Knowing Christ Today (HarperOne, 2014). Notwithstanding, many Christians do not consider apologetics a discipline conducive to spiritual formation. In a prayer, C. S. Lewis, the greatest Christian apologist of the 20th century, warned of the spiritual dangers of apologetics. From all my lame defeats and oh! much more From all the victories that I seemed to score; From cleverness shot forth on Thy behalf At which, while angels weep, the audience laugh; From all my proofs of Thy divinity, Thou, who wouldst give no sign, deliver me. Thoughts are but coins. Let me not trust, instead Of Thee, their thin-worn image of Thy head. From all my thoughts, even from my thoughts of Thee, O thou fair Silence, fall, and set me free. Lord of the narrow gate and the needles eye, Take from me all my trumpery lest I die.[7] Developing and presenting good arguments for Christianity may lead to pride and arrogance. Developing competence may lead to cockiness. But under the tutelage of the Holy Spirit and within the community of the Church, it need not be so. We are to grace indebted, and Gods gifts include sound arguments for the truth of Christianity. Even the mighty intellect of C. S. Lewis was not given to the trumpery he feared in his poem, at least in his writings. But he admits he fought that spiritual battle with the flesh. Spiritual formation involves many elements needed to remake us in the image of Jesus Christ. Paul writes to his dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you (Gal. 4:19). One element is essential for all the rest that we be transformed through the renewing of our minds (Rom. 12:2). Likewise, Peter writes that we should possess minds that are alert and fully sober, having set our hope on the grace to be brought to [us] when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming (1 Pet. 1:13). The Spirit-led mind is a beautiful mind, one submitted to Jesus and committed to the furtherance of the Gospel. We see this mind in action through the preaching and teaching of the apostles Paul and Peter in the book of Acts. Both addressed their audiences with courage, knowledge, and intellectual discipline. The first martyr of the church, Stephen, was murdered while explaining and defending the Christian faith before the high priest and the Sanhedrin. In his last moments before being stoned, he was commended by Jesus Christ Himself. Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Look, he said, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God (Acts 7:5556). Surely, these inspired apologetic messages did not pop into Stephens and the apostles minds fully formed apart from their own study, prayer, and practice. Studiousness and apologetics Studiousness is widely considered an intellectual virtue for Christians. Richard Foster addresses study as a spiritual discipline. He writes, Study is the process whereby our minds take on an order conforming to the order of whatever we concentrate upon What makes study a Christian spiritual discipline is the content of our study as well as the spirit by which we engage in our study. The content of our study consists in all those things that lead to the glory of God.[8] The study of apologetics can and should lead to the glory of God as truth is defended against error in the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). We find study commended in the book of Acts. Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men (Acts 17:1112, emphasis added). Luke was studious in the research required for writing his Gospel, which was, among other things, an apologetic for Christ and His Gospel. Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught (Luke 1:14). Since Luke was writing inspired Scripture, we know that studiousness and divine inspiration are not antithetical. One may be studious in any morally acceptable subject. For example, Christian teachers are exhorted to handle the Scriptures correctly, which requires studiousness. Paul exhorts Titus: In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us (Titus 2:78; see also Mal. 2:78; Jas. 3:12). The teacher should aspire to be formed into the image of Jesus the greatest of all teachers as she studies, preaches, mentors, and teaches on apologetics or any other subject. Prayer and apologetics The greatest apologist outside of Jesus Himself was the Apostle Paul. All one has to do is reflect on the brilliance of his sermon at Athens to discover his prowess (Acts 17:1634). But behind and within this apologetic acumen was the spiritual discipline of prayer through and through. Paul often solicits prayer for his outreach efforts. Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone (Col. 4:26). The scope of Christian prayer is as broad as the Christian life of discipleship under the lordship of Jesus, the one who taught us to pray and the one who always makes intercession for us (Matt. 6:913; Heb. 7:25). After writing about donning the full armor of God in our spiritual battle, Paul sums up the life of prayer and again asks for prayer for his own outreach: Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lords people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the Gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should (Eph. 6:1820). Like Paul, we need courage and wisdom to practice evangelism and apologetics to reach people for Christ and to glorify God. Thus, the spiritual discipline of prayer is vital for us as evangelists and apologists as well. Several years after the fall of the USSR, I was part of a team that went to Russia to teach in churches and in public venues. Several team members were there for prayer support. One of them asked me how I prayed about my teaching. I replied, I ask God to make me as smart as possible. I should have added and humble as well. Of course, I pray for many other matters related to my teaching, but I ask the Holy Spirit to quicken my intellect so I can offer the truth clearly and be able to answer questions and refute falsehoods wisely (Colossians 2:8). I further pray that I will present the truth in a humble and loving manner, not showing off my knowledge but using it to advance the Gospel and build up the Church (1 Cor. 8:1). Since the darkness hates the light, I also pray for Gods protection against any demonic interference that might arise (see Acts 13:612; 1 Pet. 5:811). I do not separate the spiritual formation I experience through prayer (my own and others prayers for me) from my apologetic abilities and endeavors. There is no need to separate friends! Let us follow Jesus, Paul, and Peter, as well as Dallas Willard, J. P. Moreland, and others who teach us that developing apologetic skills is a vital aspect of spiritual formation. Let us humbly, but confidently out-think the world for Christ! For that, we need cool heads, warm hearts, and fire in our bones, God helping us.[9] Notes [1] All of Strobels case books, such as The Case for Faith, The Case for a Creator, and The Case for Miracles, are worthwhile apologetics books. He has also produced several videos related to these books. Especially excellent is The Case for a Creator (Illustra Media, 2006). [2] Douglas Groothuis and Sarah Geis, A Critique of Centering Prayer, Bibliotheca Sacra 172 (JanuaryMarch 2015): 1223. [3] Francis Schaeffer, Art and the Bible (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1973), 94. [4] See Colin Duriez, Francis Schaeffer: An Authentic Life, reprint ed. (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2015). [5] See Douglas Groothuis, Jesus as Philosopher and Apologist, Christian Research Journal, volume 25, number 2 (2002), https://www.equip.org/articles/jesus-philosopher-and-apologist; Douglas Groothuis, On Jesus (Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, 2003); and Douglas Groothuis, What Would Jesus Think? Chronicle of Higher Education, 2 October 2002. [6] Dallas Willard, Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ (Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 2001). [7] C. S. Lewis, The Apologists Evening Prayer, http://www.cslewis.com/theapologists-evening-prayer. [8] Richard J. Foster, Understanding Study, Renovare, https://renovare.org/articles/understanding-study. [9] This essay is a revision of Apologetics as Spiritual Formation, Christian Research Journal, volume 42, number 3/4 (2019) and is reprinted with permission. Originally published at The Worldview Bulletin. Home Opinion As an Asian American, I say DEI must go As someone who was involuntarily used as a poster child for Asian American and Pacific Islander month by my university, yet listened to some classmates rant that Asian Americans would be nowhere without black people, take it from me: Diversity, equity, and inclusion offices make racism worse, not better. Nobody should wonder whether circling their race on an application form would harm his or her chances of being accepted, yet I would be lying if I said that was not my first thought every time I reached the dreaded racial question. What else can you expect when your racial identity an immutable trait that is literally skin-deep signals to a university or workplace that you are too privileged or less deserving to have a seat at the table? 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 Conversely, how could ones race alone fairly make someone more deserving of admittance? I will never forget my senior year of high school when I consulted a pro-DEI teacher about my essay topic for the Common App to colleges. She squinted at my face before asking, Have you given much thought to writing about your race in your college essay? I mean cause youre clearly not white. My heart sank. Suddenly, I went from being an impressive writer to another non-white person whose race needed to be exploited for sympathy. Little did my teacher know that I am half white and half Asian, two of the DEI scorecards least favorable boxes to check. To this day, classrooms preach inclusivity in the same breath that they write white people off as privileged and cultureless. The more an individual is white-passing, the less interesting they become. This narrative is poisoning minds in grade school and higher education. Take the model minority stereotype about Asians, which asserts that Asians are successful because their culture uniformly pressures them to perform well. Stereotypes such as these have been perpetuated by DEI under the guise of being inclusive when it is anything but. It treats people as groups defined by distinct levels of oppression, instead of rewarding people based on merit. In late May, former Harvard University President Claudine Gay was honored with a Faculty Award and called our forever president at a separate graduation for black students, not due to her research, but because of her commitment to social justice. Meanwhile, Harvards DEI office, which Campus Reform reports sponsored the ceremony, has not commented on Gays inability to state unequivocally before Congress that calling for the genocide of Jews violates Harvards policies. I may be biracial and have Asian heritage, but that identity has no bearing on my most important and fulfilling identities: child of God, daughter of two great parents, proud sister, and friend to many. It certainly has no bearing on my ability to seek opportunities and try my best. Anyone who says otherwise is evidence that DEI offices profit from teaching people to judge others by their skin color, rather than their character. Character cannot be built by meeting racial quotas. Its developed through taking risks and working hard. Contrary to what the Left would have you believe, the ability to grit your teeth and work hard to pursue your dreams is not exclusive to white-passing people. This fact is liberating, and anything but oppressive or racist. What is unacceptable is impeding someones potential to learn or succeed because they do not check a favorable racial box, not to mention doing so under the guise of being against racism. Last year, the Supreme Courts decision to overturn race-conscious admissions to colleges and universities marked a celebratory step for fairness. But it isnt enough. State lawmakers in Alabama, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Texas, and more are prohibiting the use of taxpayer spending on racist DEI programs at colleges. Policymakers around the country frustrated by the student encampments on campuses this spring that claimed to be for peace, but were really antisemitic activists, would do well to follow suit. DEI is a wolf in sheeps clothing, and its time we exposed it as such. Like racial preferences, it too must go. Originally published at The Daily Signal. Home Opinion Why I dont get into mudslinging battles with destructive critics Constructive criticism is life-giving and lifesaving, and all of us should have ears to hear truthful words of correction, exhortation, reproof, and rebuke. As the psalmist said, Let a righteous man strike me that is a kindness; let him rebuke me that is oil on my head. My head will not refuse it ... (Psalm 141:5). But destructive criticism kills. It tears down without building up. It is loveless and unkind. It uses unequal weights and measures, straining out a gnat while swallowing a camel. It is self-righteous, mean-spirited, and lacks a redemptive heart. That being said, if a destructive critic has something truthful to say to me, even if it is said in a harmful or hateful way, I want to hear it. But I will not get into a mudslinging battle with destructive critics or spend my time refuting their claims or responding to their challenges. To do so would be to dishonor the Lord and do a disservice to the Body. 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 We gain further insight on this from the book of Nehemiah. Nehemiah was a Jewish exile living in Persia who returned to Judea to rebuild Jerusalem, which lay in ruins. But the enemies of his people were not happy with the progress he was making. So, they invited him to meet privately at a distance outside the city in order to do him harm. In response, he sent messengers to them, saying, I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you? (Nehemiah 6:3). Not to be easily deterred, they sent him the same message four more times, and each time he gave them the same answer (Nehemiah 6:4). To paraphrase, Im busy doing some very important work rebuilding our sacred capital, and that is my highest priority. Why should I neglect that work in order to meet with you, especially since nothing good will come out of it? At best, the meeting will be a distraction from my mission and a waste of time. At worst, it could cost me my life. And note that twice-repeated phrase in v. 3, go down: I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you? Nehemiah had to lower himself literally to meet with his critics, since it required him to come down from the walls he was working on as well as leave Jerusalem, which in Israelite thought meant going down, both physically and spiritually. To what purpose? The lesson here for us, especially those of us in positions of leadership is simple: we need to prioritize the work God has called us to do and not be distracted by our critics and opponents. As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., explained in his Letter from a Birmingham Jail, Seldom do I pause to answer criticism of my work and ideas. If I sought to answer all the criticisms that cross my desk, my secretaries would have little time for anything other than such correspondence in the course of the day, and I would have no time for constructive work. In that same spirit, but with his typical verbal bombast, the German evangelist Reinhard Bonnke, who preached the Gospel to tens of millions of Africans, explained why he did not take time to respond to his critics: Im not getting off a combine harvester to catch a mouse. He also said, My answer to the critics is my next Gospel crusade. All clear! Note also the persistence of Nehemiahs opponents, which is so typical of dogged hyper-critics. They did not take no for an answer not once and not even 5 times, finally sending a letter to him containing dangerously libelous accusations (Nehemiah 6:5-7) It is foolish to imagine that men with such evil intent could be reasoned with or won over. Best to pray for them, to ignore their attacks, and to focus on the work God has assigned you to do. Dealing with destructive critics is similar to this, akin to diving into a black hole. There is no end in sight, and nothing that you do will satisfy them short of completely repudiating your own convictions and joining in with their cause. Dont be deceived. In fact, one response from you might provoke 10 fresh attacks against you. And then what? I have often naively thought that I could reason with people who viewed me as the devil incarnate, thinking that, through logic and patience, I could change their views. That might be possible if not for the fact that some dont believe a word I say, while for others, their ideological/theological system is so entrenched that they cannot entertain the idea that even a single detail of their system is flawed. Why, then, take precious time away from devotion to God and service to people in order to engage in fruitless arguing and debate? It is far better to keep your high moral ground, not getting dragged into a mudslinging battle and refusing to lower yourself to the mindset and methodology of the hostile critics. We must keep our higher moral ground lest we get dirtied and stained. Destructive critics are often immature, engaging in name-calling and insults. When you start to play their game, you get soiled as well. Destructive critics are also known to ride on the reputations of the people they attack, using those names as clickbait. When you engage them, you empower them, giving them a bigger platform and even a sense of validity. Its also good to ask yourself why you feel the need to respond to these critics. Is it for the good of the Body or because of pride? If the former, perhaps a constructive teaching on a relevant subject would be better. If the latter, crucify it! (When it comes to confronting heresy and heretics, by all means, let us do so with clarity and boldness, but even here, let us do this in a Christlike way.) Thankfully, not all critics are destructive, and some, who have honest questions and concerns, are more than happy to hear the truth. It was critics like that who got the attention of Dr. King, and it was in response to them that he wrote his letter, saying, But since I feel that you are men of genuine good will and that your criticisms are sincerely set forth, I want to try to answer your statements in what I hope will be patient and reasonable terms. What made Kings response so good was that, rather than simply defending himself against misconceptions and falsehoods, he laid out a compelling case for his cause, thereby challenging the errors of the critics. We are all the better for it. So, as a leader with a mission and commission, give yourself to the work God has called you to, staying on that wall and refusing to be dragged down into needless controversy and strife. You are needed on your post, and the Lord expects you to be there. And if you meet critics with genuine questions, civil people whose whole identity is not caught up in accusation and attack, do your best to give them solid answers. They may just become some of your most faithful co-workers and friends. Abortion-up-to-birth advocate's ministerial appointment alarms pro-lifers Right to Life UK has expressed concerns about the appointment of Diana Johnson as Home Office Minister. Johnson, MP for Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham, has previously tried to legalise abortion on demand up to birth. An amendment tabled by Johnson to the Criminal Justice Bill in the previous Parliament would have legalised sex-selective abortion. This led to hundreds of medical professionals writing in opposition to any change to the law, warning, "If offences that make it illegal for a woman to perform her own abortion at any gestation were repealed, such abortions would, de facto, become possible up to birth for any reason including abortions for sex-selective purposes, as women could mistakenly or wilfully mislead abortion providers about their gestational age." Spokesperson for Right To Life UK, Catherine Robinson, said that Johnson must not be allowed to use her new position as Home Office Minister to introduce extreme abortion legislation. "Diana Johnson has a track record of leading attempts to introduce extreme abortion legislation during her time in Parliament. This has included failed attempts to introduce abortion up to birth and legalise sex-selective abortion," she said. "Her extreme views are radically out of step not only with the general public but in particular with Labour voters, the vast majority of whom do not want to see abortion being made legal up until birth." Polling has found that only 1% of Labour voters support raising the abortion time limit above the current 24 weeks, while 60% want it reduced to 20 weeks or lower. The same poll found that 89% of Labour voters were opposed to sex-selective abortion. A separate poll earlier this year revealed broad opposition to decriminalising abortions on healthy babies over 24 weeks. Ms Robinson continued, "We are calling on the Government to make it clear that they will reject any attempts to make extreme changes to abortion laws, and assure voters across the country that Diana Johnson will not be allowed to use her new position as a Home Office Minister to introduce extreme changes to abortion legislation." Christian girl, 14, is latest victim of forced conversion and marriage in Pakistan Another Christian girl in Pakistan, this one 14 years old, has fallen victim to forced conversion and marriage by a Muslim kidnapper, sources said. Khalid Masih, a 48-year-old Catholic sanitation worker in Islamabad, said that a butcher in his neighborhood, Haider Ali, took his daughter Alina Khalid from their home in the Khanna Pul area of Islamabad on June 24. "Some neighbors told us that they had seen an unidentified girl outside our house on the day Alina went missing," Masih told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. "When we began searching for her, I came to know that Haider Ali, a 27-year-old butcher in our neighborhood, had planned Alina's abduction." He filed a complaint with Khanna Police that day, but they took no action, he said. "The FIR [First Information Report] was finally registered late on June 25, giving the accused sufficient time to go into hiding," Masih said. The Masih family learned on June 27 that their daughter had been forcibly converted to Islam and married to Ali, he said. "We came to know about Alina's conversion and marriage after she recorded her statement in court in which she purportedly claimed that she had changed her faith and married Ali by choice," said Masih. The Nikah Nama (Islamic marriage certificate) states that Alina's age was 19, but it lacks her required national identity card number, he said. Typically kidnapped girls in Pakistan, some as young as 10, are abducted, forced to convert to Islam and raped under cover of such Islamic "marriages" and are then pressured to record false statements in favor of the kidnappers, rights advocates say. Judges routinely ignore documentary evidence related to the children's ages, handing them back to kidnappers as their "legal" wives. Masih said his daughter could not have gone with Ali willingly. "Alina did not have a phone and never went out of the house alone, so I don't think she had any direct contact with Ali," he said. "He has abducted her with the sole objective of exploiting her sexually. Like all other victims, Alina too was forced to do what her abductor said." Police have failed to recover Alina and present the suspect in court, he added. Masih faces a daunting challenge in his struggle to recover her. "My wife is suffering from Hepatitis C and is also a diabetic," he said. "Her health has started to deteriorate due to the trauma of Alina's abduction. The pain of losing our child and the thoughts of her suffering in captivity keep both of us awake all night. May God have mercy on us and save our child!" Safdar Chaudhry, chairman of the Islamabad-based Raah-e-Nijaat Ministry, said that police were slow to act. "The FIR was registered on our intervention after nearly 26 hours of the incident," Chaudhry said. "Had the police acted on time, the accused could have been arrested, but inaction allowed him to disappear." The social activist called for legislative reforms to stop the exploitation of underage minority girls. "The police must also realize its responsibility and should stop aiding the perpetrators. The same goes for Pakistani courts which are granting legal cover to such sham marriages," he said. New Bill In a bid to criminalize underage marriages in Punjab province, the Punjab provincial government on April 25 submitted the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2024 in the Punjab Provincial Assembly, which would raise the legal age for marriage for both males and females to 18 years. Previously the legal age for marriage for girls in Punjab was 16. Under the proposed bill, anyone who marries a girl or boy under 18 or arranges such a marriage including parents or guardians would face two to three years in prison and a fine of between 100,000 Pakistani rupees (US$360) and 200,000 rupees (US$720). At the time of marriage registration, the marriage solemnizer, secretary of the union council and marriage registrar would check the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) of the girl or boy, passport, educational certificate or other documents proving both are at least 18 years old. Attested copies of these documents would be required to be attached with the application of marriage certificate. Rights activists say that, though raising the legal marriage age to 18 years for both boys and girls will help in preventing child marriages, certain amendments are required to ensure that minority girls also get due coverage of the law. Such amendments would override all "special" laws and maxims related to determining a girl's age of maturity, they say, including sharia (Islamic law) that allows girls attaining puberty to be considered adults. A Christian lawmaker recently appointed as the chairman of the Standing Committee on Minorities Affairs and Human Rights lauded the government-moved bill but said it did not contain any provision related to minority girls who "change their faith" for marriage. "We are working on an amendment to address this issue, and we hope that all parties in the Punjab Assembly will endorse our stance," said Ejaz Alam Augustine. "Our objective is to ensure that minority girls are protected in the same way as Muslim girls." Augustine, a former minister for Minorities Affairs and Human Rights in Punjab during the 2018-2022 government of Prime Minister Imran Khan, said he had submitted a bill seeking to prevent forced conversion and forced marriages of minority girls in 2021, but that it was not taken up for discussion under pressure from hardline Muslims. "There's some hope now, and I think it is the best time to make a legislation that protects the girl child irrespective of her faith affiliation," he told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. 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. 2024 Christian Daily International-Morning Star News Church anger over closure of hospital in Gaza (CP) The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem claimed Monday that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) "compelled" it to close the Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City and evacuate all the staff and patients from the facility during its ongoing war with the terror group Hamas. Military activity took place in the vicinity of the hospital on Sunday. Responding to the allegation, the IDF told Reuters in a statement that it ordered civilians in certain areas of Gaza City to evacuate so it could reduce potential civilian casualties as it launched new military operations against terrorist groups. The IDF says it told Palestinian health authorities that hospitals could remain in use and there was no need to evacuate. Specifically, the IDF told civilians on Sunday to leave the Tuffah, Daraj and Old City neighborhoods of Gaza City as they launched new operations and to go to the shelters located on the western side of the municipality. Al Ahli is situated near Tuffah. On Monday, the Israeli army sent out an updated announcement, according to The Times of Israel. IDF called on Palestinian civilians in the Sabra, Rimal, Tel al-Hawa and Daraj neighborhoods to evacuate due to the fighting and to head to the designated "humanitarian zone." Marwan al-Sultan, director of the Indonesian Hospital, reported that it received 80 patients and wounded people from Al-Ahli who had to be packed into "every corner," reported the Times. "Many cases require urgent surgeries. Many cases suffer from direct shots in the head and require intensive care. Fuel and medical supplies are dwindling," al-Sultan said, adding that his hospital received the bodies of 16 people killed in the Israeli incursion, half of whom were women and children. Israel began its military offensive in Gaza last October in response to Hamas, a terror group that has controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007, launching a surprise attack in southern Israel that killed around 1,200 people. Around 240 were abducted. The Israeli government's stated goal with the offensive is to eradicate Hamas and secure the release of hostages. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry says that over 38,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the war began but doesn't differentiate between combatants and civilians. In a statement on Monday, Archbishop Hosam Naoum, primate of the Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East, denounced the Israeli military. "We protest the closure of our hospital in the strongest possible terms," said Naoum. "In a time of warfare and great suffering it is essential that emergency healthcare services are maintained to treat the injured and the dying." Outgoing Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry also denounced the hospital's reported forced closure and evacuation in a statement released by The Episcopal Church's Office of Public Affairs. "This action violates the dignity of already-vulnerable people and is against international humanitarian law," said Curry. "Let us pray particularly for the safety of the hospital's patients and staff and those who had been sheltering at the hospital who are now displaced again." During its 81st General Convention held in Louisville, Kentucky, last month, the Episcopal House of Bishops rejected resolutions that would have labelled Israel an apartheid state and endorsed divestment efforts against Israel but did pass measures calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The Christian Post Philippe Bedard, Vice President of Cloud at Micro Logic, and the companys Lead Analyst for Large Opportunities, Robert Michon, stress that hybrid cloud is crucially important for nearly every enterprise. Its a view that is consistent with Micro Logics cloud strategy from day one, one which saw it embrace a hybrid approach and launch Canadas first sovereign cloud more than a decade ago. Clients rightfully need to keep some things on-premises, put others in the public cloud, and use a fully sovereign, private cloud for mission-critical workloads and data, says Michon. We embrace the fact that we are never going to be the only game in town and that our clients are going to want to move some data from point A to point B, and to point C and back again. That is why it is so important not only that our solutions work flawlessly with other clouds, but also that our clients not be subjected to fees that in effect lock their data in one location. This emphasis on data portability is a foundational philosophy at Micro Logic. It is a belief that continues to impact the companys cloud offerings and the many services and solutions it provides around them. We believe in multi-cloud environments where our clients remain in total control of their data and can freely transfer it between their cloud environments at any time its their data after all, notes Bedard. But its important to remember that cloud only is not a good one-size-fits-all approach. There will always be use cases where an on-premises deployment is better. Thats why we built our company around the concept of hybrid cloud. We excel in offering cloud solutions everything from Infrastructure-as-a-Service to a full array of managed cloud services but we also provide components that help our clients build and maintain their own data centers. And of course, we are best known for providing Canadas leading sovereign cloud. Bedard notes that high performance and cost predictability are key in any environment. Our customers have significant security and compliance needs and we do not compromise on resiliency, he adds. Our cloud, Cirrus, is a Canadian sovereign cloud that is different by design and engineered for top performance using the most advanced Intel CPUs, proven and innovative VMware by Broadcom technologies, and Nvidias latest GPUs and DGX systems something we can do as Nvidias only AI Cloud Partner in Canada. We dont believe in API, operational, and egress fees, but do feel its imperative our clients know what their infrastructure will cost. More than a decade of sovereign cloud experience Relied on by numerous government agencies in Canada and enterprises in sectors like banking and healthcare, Cirrus builds on more than a decade of experience offering a fully sovereign cloud that addresses the most demanding requirements for compute, storage, and networking performance. We offered a sovereign cloud before sovereignty was an accepted issue, says Bedard. Data residency and data sovereignty of course are two different things. With Cirrus, our clients data is safeguarded here in Canada in facilities where only our employees fully vetted Canadian citizens are allowed access. No third parties can interact with their data in any way. Bedard notes that Cirrus ironclad sovereignty is also beneficial to other organizations. This includes American brands that want to do business in Europe while simultaneously maintaining operations in North America. With Canadian equivalency to the General Data Protection Regulation, enterprises encounter fewer roadblocks when working to address Europes data protection requirements. Cirrus is also a natural environment for organizations that want to deploy AI but safeguard data and intellectual property used by self-learning applications in a private environment something that inherently benefits from Micro Logics partnership with Nvidia as well as Broadcoms. Notably, VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) radically simplifies such endeavors and empowers organizations in their cloud and AI efforts. Its a point that Michon believes many enterprises are just now realizing. We have more than two decades of experience working closely with VMware, and being named a Broadcom Pinnacle Partner is an exceptional new chapter in that relationship, he says. VCF is clearly the most powerful engine for creating, deploying, and managing an exceptional cloud and it now includes more valuable tools that enable enterprises to excel and realize the full potential of transformative technologies like AI. When you combine that with the fact that Broadcom is investing $2 billion in additional innovation as well as the fact that a VCF subscription can be used, moved, and applied wherever the enterprise wishes you have an offering that delivers the true agility and business continuity we pride ourselves on enabling at Micro Logic. Even so, Michon stresses that there is always more to it than technology, tools, and solutions. At Micro Logic, it really comes down to people, he adds. More than 75% percent of our employees are directly involved in engineering and bring deep technology expertise to their work. Our clients know not only that a Micro Logic employee is always immediately available, but that they can speak with someone in close proximity to their work at all times. For more information on Micro Logic visit here. Look to CIO.com for stories about the industry-leading providers in the Broadcom Advantage Program and insights on how they are helping enterprises succeed in their private, hybrid, and multi-cloud endeavors. In todays rapidly, and continually, evolving data landscape, maintaining the sovereignty and security of sensitive data is paramount. With data privacy and security becoming an increased concern, Sovereign cloud is turning from an optional, like-to-have, to an essential requirement, especially for highly protected markets like Government, Healthcare, Financial Services, Legal, etc. It has never been a more important time to make sure that data and metadata remain protected, resident within local jurisdiction, compliant, under local control, and accessible yet portable. Even though its a challenging environment and difficult landscape to navigate, VMware and our global VMware Cloud Service Providers make it simple and straightforward in order to achieve a Sovereign Cloud. VMware Sovereign Cloud stands as the most complete and secure solution, meeting the unique needs of organizations requiring the highest levels of data protection, data independence, and jurisdictional controlfeaturing native sovereignty, jurisdictional control, and local operations. In this blog, we will delve into three key takeaways that highlight how VMwares Sovereign Cloud remains keeps data secure and is a trusted choice for organizations worldwide. Introducing the Enhanced Sovereign Cloud Criteria v2: VMwares Sovereign Cloud criteria v2 is a comprehensive 10-point framework designed to ensure unparalleled data protection and sovereignty. This framework is crafted to address the market-driven needs in data security, legislative compliance, and operational efficiency. The criteria encompass three critical areas for data sovereignty: Data Sovereignty: Data Sovereignty: Prevents authorities outside the jurisdiction from accessing data by keeping all data, metadata, and backups in-region. Data Privacy and Protection: Ensures data safety with consistent, industry-recognized and accredited security controls, zero trust access, and physical security. Regulatory Compliance: Monitors all domains for compliance with industry or national standards backed by local compliance experts. Operational Sovereignty: Transparent Operations: Offers comprehensive and publicly available guidance and documentation. Local Operations and Controls: Utilizes a locally-built data center within an autonomous legal entity managed by sovereign citizens. Infrastructure Sovereignty: Resiliency and Continuity: Provides high availability data centers within the operating region for low latency. Cloud Choice and Flexibility: Offers the best cloud options for data and applications with no vendor lock-in. Innovation with an Open Ecosystem: Integrates cutting-edge technologies, including KMS, Private AI, AI/ML, data services, compliance, and backup and disaster recovery solutions. Unmatched Security and Control: One of the core strengths of VMwares Sovereign Cloud is its ability to provide jurisdictional control, choice, and control. These elements are crucial for organizations that prioritize data privacy and compliance and to have the confidence to unlock data as an asset. Heres why VMwares criteria continue to be the best, most secure and only platform for native Sovereign Cloud: Jurisdictional Control: By ensuring that all data operations are conducted within a specific legal jurisdiction, VMware guarantees that data is protected under local laws and regulations. This prevents unauthorized access and ensures compliance with stringent data protection laws. By ensuring that all data operations are conducted within a specific legal jurisdiction, VMware guarantees that data is protected under local laws and regulations. This prevents unauthorized access and ensures compliance with stringent data protection laws. Choice and Control: VMware offers a flexible deployment model, allowing organizations to choose between dedicated, shared, or managed environments. This flexibility ensures that businesses can tailor their cloud solutions to meet specific security and operational needs without the risk of vendor lock-in. VMware offers a flexible deployment model, allowing organizations to choose between dedicated, shared, or managed environments. This flexibility ensures that businesses can tailor their cloud solutions to meet specific security and operational needs without the risk of vendor lock-in. Enhanced Security: The 10-point criteria include robust security measures that cover every aspect of data protection, from encryption and access control to regular audits and compliance checks. This comprehensive approach ensures that sensitive data remains secure and compliant at all times. A Collaborative Solution Built Locally by VMware Cloud Service Providers: VMwares Sovereign Cloud is not just a solution; its a collaborative effort involving VMware Cloud Foundation and approved VMware Cloud Service Providers. This partnership ensures that the cloud solutions are built, managed, and operated locally, adhering to national and regional regulations. Key aspects include: Jurisdictional Control & Local Operations: VMwares cloud service providers operate within the sovereign jurisdiction, ensuring that all data handling processes comply with local laws. This local presence is crucial for maintaining data integrity and security. VMwares cloud service providers operate within the sovereign jurisdiction, ensuring that all data handling processes comply with local laws. This local presence is crucial for maintaining data integrity and security. Comprehensive Coverage: With over 50 partners globally, VMware offers the largest, most extensive, and comprehensive sovereign cloud coverage in the market. This network enables organizations to leverage the best-in-class solutions tailored to their specific needs. With over 50 partners globally, VMware offers the largest, most extensive, and comprehensive sovereign cloud coverage in the market. This network enables organizations to leverage the best-in-class solutions tailored to their specific needs. Innovation and Future-Readiness: VMwares Sovereign Cloud is designed to support future innovations, including Private AI/Sovereign AI, confidential computing, and app modernization. The platform provides the foundation for continuous improvement and adaptation to emerging technologies and regulatory changes. As organizations increasingly recognize the importance of data as a strategic asset, the demand for secure, compliant, and flexible cloud solutions continues to grow. VMwares enhanced Sovereign Cloud criteria v2 provides a robust framework that ensures data sovereignty, operational control, and infrastructure security. By partnering with local cloud service providers, VMware offers a comprehensive solution that meets the highest standards of data protection and compliance. Embrace the future of data sovereignty with VMwares Sovereign Cloud and unlock the full potential of your data with confidence. Resources / Calls to Action: Watch the Sovereign Cloud Overview Video. Find out more about VMwares Sovereign Cloud and 10-pt criteria on the Sovereign Cloud web page. Find a value-added VCSP-approved Sovereign Cloud partner. 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. CORINTH, Kentucky Two firefighters have been charged with arson after they were accused of setting fire to a church and police are now investigating other fires to see if they might be connected. Brendan Gibson, 24, and Robert Hughes, 23, were arrested Monday just hours after the fire at Shiloh Full Gospel Church in Corinth, Ky., according to WCPO Channel 9. They were arraigned Tuesday and ordered held in jail on $10,000 bonds, WXIX Channel 19 reports. The Kentucky State Police tell WXIX that Gibson and Hughes, members of the volunteer Corinth Fire Department, admitted setting fire to the church. Both were among the first people to arrive at the scene of the fire, reports say. Reports do not indicate why the two men might have set the fire. The building is unable to be repaired because of the damage, the churchs pastor, Greg Cheeks, tells WCPO. Its very unfortunate, Cheeks said in a statement. Were left at the point where there are no funds to rehab the building. Its horrible. WCPO also reports that Kentucky State Police are investigating three other fires that occurred during the past month. All occurred during overnight hours, including Mondays church fire. EUGENE, Oregon A store owner in Oregon was arrested after Police recovered more than $200,000 worth of stolen Lego sets being sold in the store. Springfield Police arrested Brick Builders store owner Ammon Henrikson. The 47-year-old is accused of knowingly purchasing stolen, unopened sets of LEGO from local stores, police said in a press release. Officers also identified 57-year-old Albert Nash of Eugene as a second suspect. In several instances, suspects stole hundreds of dollars worth of Lego sets and then immediately went to the Brick Builders store to exchange the stolen items for cash: most often at a fraction of their actual retail value, police said. Police said Brick Builders staff knew the sets had recently been stolen. During the three-month investigation, officers learned that many of the suspects were utilizing the money they received to buy and use illegal drugs. Springfield Police partnered with loss prevention investigators from Target, Fred Meyer, Barnes & Noble and Walmart to confirm that Henrikson was purchasing sets that were stolen from the aforementioned retailers. During a July 3 search warrant, SPD officers recovered 4,153 sets of Legos with a total value of over $200,000. The investigation is ongoing. BreakingQA (This is CNBC Pro's live coverage of Thursday's analyst calls and Wall Street chatter. Please refresh every 20-30 minutes to view the latest posts.) A streaming giant and a major wholesale retailer were among the stocks being talked about by analysts on Thursday. Jefferies upgraded Spotify Technology, calling for more than 26% upside. Bank of America, meanwhile, raised its price target on Costco after the company announced an increase to its membership fees. Check out the latest calls and chatter below. All times ET. 8:13 a.m.: Morgan Stanley downgrades Microchip Technology, On Semiconductor While the multiples for analog semiconductor companies are "justified," Morgan Stanley thinks are no standout name in the current cycle. The firm downgraded Microchip Technology to equal weight and On Semiconductor to underweight and is shifting to "a mid-upcycle playbook" for the two companies. "In prior cycles, catching the fundamental bottom drove outperformance. This time, stocks bottomed 8 months ago as companies suggested visibility towards a 'last cut,' and the analog names now trade at a 50% premium to history," analyst Joseph Moore wrote in a Thursday note. Moore lowered his price target on On Semiconductor by $5 to $65, and by just $2 for Microchip Technology to $100. He cited a "heavy" balanced sheet for Microchip that will likely slow the rate of deleverage. On Semiconductor's top-line headwinds will also limit multiple expansion, he added. Hakyung Kim 7:43 a.m.: Sell underperforming Darden shares, Jefferies says Jefferies turned bearish on struggling Darden Restaurants shares as challenges to its fundamentals brew. Analyst Andy Barish downgraded shares of the Olive Garden parent to underperform from hold and slashed his price target by $30 to $124. Barish's new target implies 10.2% downside from Wednesday's close. "We see risk to [near-term] fundamentals," Barish told clients in a Thursday note. Barish said the company could be hurt by share loss in a more promotional environment and persistent weakness among the lower-end consumer base. Darden may also feel less tailwinds from the capacity destruction during the pandemic, he added. In this environment, he said to expect traffic to trend closer with peers. Barish said the premium multiple, which has typically helped catalyze outperformance, should then contract. Darden shares slipped more than 1% in Thursday premarket trading. The stock has tumbled around 16% this year, bucking the broader market's rally. Alex Harring 7:40 a.m.: Truist upgrades Republic Services to buy Investors should take a closer look at the waste management industry to find a potential winner, according to Truist. Analyst Tobey Sommer upgraded Republic Services to buy from hold, saying in a note to clients that the company is showing potential for fundamental growth. "We have grown increasingly confident in pricing-led growth for the company's Environmental Services segment and opportunities for accretive M & A," the note said. Truist estimated that the company's margins in environmental services could continue to expand through at least the rest of the decade. In addition to upside for its financial performance, Republic also has a lower valuation and leverage than its peers, according to Sommer. "Investing in the Solid Waste space is frequently a game of inches where outperformance is dictated by 1-2pts of EBITDA growth differential. We see value relative to the closest direct peers [Waste Management] and [Waste Connections]," the note said. Truist hiked its price target on Republic to $220 per share from $192. The new target is about 12% above where the stock closed Wednesday. Jesse Pound 7:18 a.m.: Broadcom shares could jump more than 37% as stock heads for split, per Rosenblatt Rosenblatt Securities just went even more bullish on Broadcom ahead of the company's 10-for-1 stock split next week. Analyst Hans Mosesmann kept his buy rating and hiked his 12-month price target on the semiconductor manufacturing by $750 to $2,400, which implies the stock could gain 37.6%. According to FactSet, that's Wall Street's highest price target on Broadcom, which has rallied 56.3% this year. "We are rolling out FY26 estimates that support high-teens sales growth and $75 Non-GAAP EPS, driven by continued AI infrastructure networking/ASIC momentum and improved synergies in enterprise software," Mosesmann said in a Thursday note. For fiscal year 2024, the analyst said he continues to expect an upside to the company's recently raised sales target of $51 billion driven by its AI chip revenue and better integration of software firm VMware, which Broadcom acquired late last year. Broadcom's share split will be conducted after market close on Friday, which will allow the stock to begin trading on a split-adjusted basis beginning Monday. Pia Singh 7:04 a.m.: Jefferies says Roblox has 'lofty' growth and margin expectations, downgrades to hold Roblox has a path back to growth according to Jefferies, but the firm thinks investors should take a cautious view on the stock given its premium valuation. Analyst James Heaney assumed coverage of Roblox with a hold rating down from a buy and $42 price target, which implies a 5.9% potential increase. This year, shares of the company have fallen roughly 13.3%. "We like RBLX's position as the leading platform in user-generated content for the 8-13 year old demo. However, growth and margin expectations are lofty, with the company and investors already looking for a return to 20% + bookings growth from FY25-27E and 30%+ incremental margins in FY25," Heaney said in a Thursday note. The analyst said he believes Roblox can return to its bookings growth expectations through international expansion and advertising efforts, for example, but that the company's execution has recently been "concerning" as Roblox has missed top-line expectations in two of the last four quarters. The stock's valuation multiple is also expensive, as it's trading at a 37% premium to peers on a growth-adjusted basis, Heaney noted. Still, he expects RBLX to deliver a 17% 5-year bookings compound annual growth rate between 2023 and 2028. Pia Singh 6:36 a.m.: Wells Fargo raises AMD price target AMD's latest acquisition in the artificial intelligence space is a positive for the stock, according to Wells Fargo. Analyst Aaron Rakers reiterated his overweight rating and hiked his price target on the stock by $15 to $205, citing AMD's announcement of an all-cash $665 million acquisition of Silo AI, the largest private AI lab in Europe. Rakers' new target price suggests the stock which is up 24.8% this year could gain another 11.4%. "We view this as a positive tactical / strategic move focused on deepening AMD's internal open-source AI software expertise; up-the-stack capabilities," Rakers wrote in a Wednesday note, referencing the acquisition. Silo AI has been involved in more than 200 AI implementations across Europe and North America and currently employs more than 300 AI experts, the analyst noted. Silo AI will help develop AMD-powered AI models and aid customers in building AI models with the company's chips, AMD said . Rakers noted that the deal with Silo AI complements AMD's acquisitions of AI software companies Mipsology in August and Nod.ai in October, as well as the company's more than $125 million invested across a dozen AI companies over the past 12 months. Pia Singh 6:16 a.m.: Apple shares could gain nearly 10% as users look to upgrade their iPhones, Bank of America says Bank of America is bullish on Apple , citing a strong iPhone refresh cycle up ahead. Analyst Wamsi Mohan kept his buy rating and raised his 12-month price target on the iPhone maker by $26 to $256, which suggests about 9.9% upside. This year, the stock has added 21%, slightly higher than the broader market's gains. "We are raising our PO on Apple on increased confidence of a multi-year iPhone upgrade cycle driven by an aging installed base and GenAI features that should provide a boost to customers' intentions to upgrade," Mohan said in a Thursday note, adding that this upgrade cycle should also be driven by strong growth in Apple's service revenue and greater margin expansion. Mohan cited a Bank of America global smartphone survey which was conducted across the U.S., UK, China and India after Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference held in mid-June that reflected a greater intent from consumers to upgrade their iPhone models, the majority of which still own the iPhone 13 or older. He noted that customer loyalty towards Apple remains strong, with 58% of current iPhone holders having plans to buy another iPhone for their next device upgrade. When it comes to other Apple products, Mohan said there could be a recovery in wearables growth with plans to upgrade the Apple Watch seeming most prominent in India, followed by China and the U.S. There's also interest among U.S. consumers in buying the Apple Vision Pro, the analyst added. Pia Singh 5:55 a.m.: Bank of America raises price target on Costco after retailer's membership fee increase Bank of America likes the sound of Costco's newest annual membership fee hike and believes it supports what the bank views as a stock with "premium valuation." Analyst Robert Ohmes upped his price target by $88 to $962 on Costco, suggesting shares could gain 8.8%. This year, shares of the wholesale retailer have advanced nearly 34%. The analyst's new target comes on the back of Costco's announcement on Wednesday that it is raising its annual membership fees in the U.S. and Canada by $5, to $65 per year, and the cost of its higher-tier membership by $10, to $130 per year. That marks the company's first increase since 2017. COST YTD mountain COST year to date Ohmes credited the membership fee hike, as well as Costco's continued strength in same-store sales, as catalysts for Costco's earnings visibility into fiscal years 2025 and 2026. He estimates the fee increase will drive between $370 million and $380 million of incremental membership fee income over the next two fiscal years, but noted that Costco does not expect an impact to its earnings per share from the fee increase. "We expect COST to gain share in the current environment as consumers continue to adjust to higher prices, making COST's impressive value proposition and price positioning even more attractive," Ohmes said in a Wednesday note. Pia Singh 5:55 a.m.: Jefferies upgrades Spotify The future looks bright for Spotify Technology , according to Jefferies. The investment bank upgraded the audio streaming giant to buy from hold. Its price target of $385 implies upside of 26.2% from Wednesday's close. "We are increasingly confident in SPOT's ability to comfortably deliver sustainable 15%+ rev growth over the next 3 years," analyst James Heaney wrote. "Underscoring our confidence ... is our view that music is about to undergo a multi-year repricing. At just $12/mo for a Spotify subscription (vs. $61/mo spent in aggregate on video streaming), we believe there is room for price increases AT LEAST every other year." Spotify shares have surged 62% in 2024, adding to last year's 138% jump. SPOT YTD mountain SPOT year to date Fred Imbert The campaign of President Joe Biden asked for and received two edits to an interview he gave a Milwaukee radio station on the heels of his disastrous debate in late June against former President Donald Trump, the station said Thursday. The disclosure by Civic Media of the edits comes days after its host for the Biden interview, and another Black radio host in Philadelphia, revealed the Biden campaign fed them questions in advance to ask the president. It also comes amid sharpened scrutiny of Biden's interviews and his ability to deliver on his message in unscripted settings without a teleprompter. During the June 27 debate against Trump, the president struggled to maintain his train of thought and at times delivered garbled responses to simple questions. Since then, a growing number of Democratic lawmakers and other allies have called on Biden to drop out of the 2024 presidential contest, citing questions about his competency and ability to serve another four-year term. Civic Media, which aired the Biden interview by host Earl Ingram on July 4, said the president's campaign asked Ingram's production team to cut one comment in which Biden said he had, "more Blacks in my administration than any other president." The campaign also asked the show to edit out a short section of the interview related to Trump's demand that the death penalty be given to a group of teenagers who were accused of raping a jogger in New York City's Central Park in 1989. Their convictions were later vacated after a serial rapist confessed to the crime, but not before each of the teens served time behind bars. "I don't know if they even call for their hanging or not, but he but they said [] convicted of murder," Biden said in the Ingram interview, before it was cut from the final version. Civic Media said that right after Ingram taped the interview with Biden on July 3, the campaign called and requested the edits. The production team for the show made the edits before the interview aired, after deciding that the requested changes were "non-substantive," according to Civic Media. The station said it disagreed with the decision to make the edits, and it posted clips online of the sections that were edited out, as well as the full unedited interview with Biden. "With a high-profile interview comes a listener expectation that journalistic interview standards will be applied, even for non-news programming," Civic Media said. "We did not meet those expectations." "Civic Media disagrees with the team's judgments in the moment, both with respect to the handling of the interview questions and the decision to edit the interview audio." A Biden campaign spokesperson told NBC News, when asked about the statement, "Hosts have always been free to ask the questions and air the segments they think will best inform their listeners." Civic Media's disclosure comes five days after Ingram said Biden aides "gave me the exact questions to ask" the president in the interview. "There was no back and forth," Ingram told the Associated Press on Saturday, two days after his interview aired on 20 Wisconsin radio outlets. President Joe Biden mistakenly introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as "President Putin" at the NATO summit Thursday, an embarrassing verbal stumble at a time when Biden faces intense questions about his mental competency. Biden's confusion of Zelenskyy with the name of the Russian leader who has waged a devastating war on Ukraine for more than two years came less than an hour before Biden was due to face reporters in Washington, D.C., at his first news conference since his tongue-tied, sluggish debate against former President Donald Trump in late June. It also comes as a growing number of Democrats are calling on Biden to drop out as the party's presidential nominee. "And now I want to hand it over to the President of Ukraine, who has as much courage as he has determination," Biden said at the NATO event in Washington, D.C. "Ladies and gentlemen President Putin. President Putin," Biden said, before catching his mistake. "He's gonna beat President Putin, President Zelenskyy," Biden then said. Zelenskyy deftly handled the flubbed introduction, quipping, "I'm better." Biden replied, "You are a hell of a lot better." Biden has suffered from stuttering for decades. But his recent debate with Trump, and other verbal miscues and moments of apparent confusion have raised concerns that the 81-year-old, who is the oldest sitting U.S. president ever, is exhibiting diminished verbal and mental acuity. The Biden campaign later Thursday posted a video clip of his gaffe on social media site X. This is breaking news. Please refresh for updates. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang meets with Indian Vice President Shri Mohammad Hamid Ansari at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on June 28, 2014. India has no right to carry out development in the area China calls South Tibet, China's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday in response to a Reuters report on New Delhi's plans to speed up hydropower projects in the border state. "South Tibet is China's territory," a foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement. It said India had no right to carry out development there and the establishment of what India calls Arunachal Pradesh on Chinese territory is "illegal and invalid." More than 70% of Baidu Apollo Go robotaxi rides in Wuhan were fully driverless as of April, and the company said in May it expected 100% of the rides to be completely autonomous in coming quarters. Bloomberg | Bloomberg | Getty Images BEIJING China's yearslong effort to develop robotaxis is starting to gain traction with consumers but it's also rattling taxi drivers worried about losing their jobs as a result of increasing competition. Just as GM 's Cruise and Alphabet 's Waymo have rolled out driverless taxis in San Francisco and Phoenix, Arizona, local Chinese governments from Beijing to Guangzhou have allowed domestic players to operate robotaxi rides for the public. This week, the rising prominence of robotaxis in China began trending on social media. As of Thursday morning, videos about fully autonomous driving taxi experiences were the 12th most popular topic on Douyin, Bytedance's China version of TikTok. Baidu 's robotaxi unit Apollo Go became one of the top 10 trending hashtags on social media platform Weibo on Wednesday following reports of rapid user adoption in Wuhan city. The company began operating fully driverless vehicles in certain districts of Wuhan, 24/7 in March. Wuhan is the largest operational region for Baidu's Apollo Go, one of the largest robotaxi operators in China. The company has more than 500 robotaxis operating in the city and plans to increase that to 1,000 by the end of the year. When contacted by CNBC, Baidu had no official updates to share. The increased attention on robotaxis comes as major Chinese cities ramp up support, while smaller cities restricted ride-hailing apps in the last few months. watch now Top social media posts on Wednesday were quick to extrapolate from Wuhan's robotaxi tests, predicting an impending nationwide rollout and spawning hashtags like: "Are driverless ride-hailing cars stealing people's rice bowls." That's according to a CNBC translation of the Chinese. Also making the rounds on social media was an appeal in late June by a taxi company in Wuhan seeking reduced taxes and more restrictions on Apollo Go robotaxis as well as the number of ride-hailing cars. CNBC was unable to independently verify the document, which claimed the taxi company had to stop operating four of its 159-car fleet since April due to falling income. Wage growth in China overall has slowed from around 10% annual increases prior to the pandemic, to 4% in recent years, according to Goldman Sachs analysis published last month. The pace improved to 5.6% year-on-year growth in the first quarter, the report said. Ride-hailing drivers on the rise A surge of new companies and ride-hailing drivers have meanwhile prompted some local governments to restrict the industry. The city of Guyuan in Ningxia autonomous region announced that as of May 12, it was suspending online ride-hailing businesses. "Our city's taxi market is already saturated," the announcement said in Chinese, translated by CNBC. Separately, the southwestern city of Guiyang had suspended new ride-hailing licenses for half a year through June. The announcement said authorities were able to remove some non-compliant ride-hailing businesses and cars. China had more than 7 million registered ride-hailing drivers as of the end of May, according to the Ministry of Transport. That's roughly twice as many versus the 3.51 million drivers reported for July 2021, and 570,000 more drivers than the ministry reported as of November. In comparison, the U.S. had nearly 400,000 taxi and ride-hailing drivers, shuttle drivers and chauffeurs in 2022, according to the latest available figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The number of ride-hailing companies in China has also climbed, from 241 in 2021 to 351 in May this year, according to the Ministry of Transport. China pushes ahead with robotaxi support Stock Chart Icon Stock chart icon Baidu Ship JS SUZUTSUKI DD-117, an Asagiri-class destroyer in the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF), as it arrives at Tanjung Priok port in Jakarta, Indonesia on Tuesday, September 18, 2018. A Japanese maritime self-defense force destroyer entered Chinese territorial waters recently in spite of warnings by Chinese vessels, Kyodo News reported Thursday. The Suzutsuki temporarily ventured into waters off China's eastern province of Zhejiang on July 4, according to Kyodo. China's Maritime Safety Administration, Zhejiang authorities had issued a no-sail zone from July 3 to July 5 where a live-fire drill was conducted in some waters in the East China Sea. Japan's defense ministry has started an investigation into the navy destroyer's captain after Beijing raised "serious" concerns. The Suzutsuki, which was sent to monitor the live-fire drill, was asked by Chinese vessels to leave the area when it advanced within 22 kilometers off the coast of Zhejiang. Instead, the vessel "sped up and navigated" into the Chinese waters for about 20 minutes before leaving. The Chinese government considers the incident to be an act of "intentional provocation," Kyodo News reported, citing sources. The destroyer did not adhere to Chinese laws that foreign vessels need to seek prior authorization to enter, the report said, adding that Japanese destroyers in charge of surveilling Chinese vessels usually keep away from territorial waters off Zhejiang. During unofficial talks between the parties, a Japanese official suggested that the entry could have been a "procedural error." Japan is holding the position that the destroyer's entry into Chinese waters was not illegal, Kyodo News reported. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea grants the right of innocent passage to traverse through territorial waters so long as the vessel does not compromise the safety of coastal countries. China often sends its coast guard and military vessels into Japanese territorial waters near the disputed Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea. The uninhabited islands are controlled by Japan, but China claims them as its territory. Read the full story here. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 26: The JPMorgan Chase logo is seen at their headquarters building on May 26, 2023 in New York City. Data centers have been widely talked about and Malaysia is emerging as an attractive investment opportunity offering different sectors and ideas to play, according to JPMorgan. "It's a multi-theme story going on," Rajiv Batra, head of Asia-Pacific (ex-Japan/China) equity strategy at JPMorgan, told CNBC's "Squawk Box Asia" Wednesday. "Data center is the one which everyone is talking about. Penang has proven themselves as a tech hub overall," said Batra, adding that Malaysia offers "multiple sectors and ideas to play." "Besides that, we are seeing they are going into the electric vehicles, they are going into the green energy overall. And now they are even talking about the solars too," he added. The investment bank said Malaysia is progressing at a much stronger pace than expected and upgraded the country to "neutral" rating from "underweight" last week, raising its target for the Kuala Lumpur Composite Index. "Policy reforms, data center investment and infrastructure build-out have become key tailwinds for Malaysia, in-line with our 2024 outlook, but are progressing at a much stronger-than-anticipated pace," JPMorgan analysts said in a July 1 note. The analysts named Malaysia's equity market as "a bright spot" in Southeast Asia with approximately 9% return year-to-date the highest among countries in the region. However, they highlighted there could be challenges like "subsidy rationalization, external volatilities, and potential impact of upcoming U.S. elections" that could hurt consumer spending. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella (R) speaks as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman (L) looks on during the OpenAI DevDay event in San Francisco on Nov. 6, 2023. Microsoft has given up its observer seat on OpenAI's board. Apple , which was reportedly expected to take a similar observer position, will no longer pursue one, according to the Financial Times. But whatever clarity this week's changes were intended to provide, many of the same concerns persist. Regulators aren't turning away, and for those focused on ethics in artificial intelligence, the same fears about profits taking precedence over safety remain. Amba Kak, co-executive director of the nonprofit AI Now Institute, described the announcement as "subterfuge" designed to obscure the relationships between large tech companies and emerging players in AI. "The timing of this move matters," Kak wrote in a message to CNBC. "It should be seen as a direct response to global regulatory scrutiny to these unconventional relationships." The tight Microsoft-OpenAI bond and the outsized control the two companies have over the AI industry will continue to be scrutinized by the Federal Trade Commission, according to a person with knowledge of the matter, who asked not to be named due to issues of confidentiality. Meanwhile, the large swaths of AI developers and researchers who are concerned about safety and ethics in the increasingly for-profit AI industry are unmoved. Current and former OpenAI employees published an open letter on June 4, describing concerns about the rapid advancements taking place in AI, despite a lack of oversight and whistleblower protections. "AI companies have strong financial incentives to avoid effective oversight, and we do not believe bespoke structures of corporate governance are sufficient to change this," the employees wrote in the letter. They added that AI companies "currently have only weak obligations to share some of this information with governments, and none with civil society," and they can not be "relied upon to share it voluntarily." Days after the letter was published, a source familiar to the mater confirmed to CNBC that the FTC and the Department of Justice were set to open antitrust investigations into OpenAI, Microsoft and Nvidia , focusing on the companies' conduct. FTC Chair Lina Khan has described her agency's action as a "market inquiry into the investments and partnerships being formed between AI developers and major cloud service providers." Kak told CNBC that regulators' pursuits are helping to get answers and deliver transparency. The NATO logo seen during the coalition's summit in Washington D.C. on July 10. Nurphoto | Nurphoto | Getty Images In NATO's most serious denunciation of China to date, the military coalition labeled Beijing a "decisive enabler" of Russia in its ongoing war in Ukraine and expressed concerns over its nuclear arsenal and "systemic challenges" to the coalition's security. "The PRC has become a decisive enabler of Russia's war against Ukraine through its so-called 'no limits' partnership and its large-scale support for Russia's defence industrial base," a NATO communique said Wednesday, on the second day of a Washington summit celebrating the alliance's 75th anniversary. The coalition further called on Beijing to "cease all material and political support to Russia's war effort," specifically naming the transfer of "dual-use materials, such as weapons components, equipment, and raw materials that serve as inputs for Russia's defence sector" in NATO's first explicit accusation that the administration of Xi Jinping is providing military aid to Moscow. "It's the first time that NATO allies state this so clearly in an agreed document," NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said in a Wednesday address. "It cannot continue like this without it impacting the interests and reputation of China." watch now NATO has been deeply entrenched in its support for non-member Ukraine since the dawns of Russia's invasion, widely viewing Moscow as a potential threat to broader European security. Beijing has previously repeatedly denied supplying weapons to Russia in the war in Ukraine, but the two nations have maintained close trade relations throughout the conflict, even as Moscow finds itself increasingly divorced from or outright sanctioned by the West. A CNBC analysis last year found that Moscow was at the time sourcing semiconductors and other advanced Western technologies through intermediary countries, including China. Earlier this week, Beijing started joint military exercises with Russia's close ally Belarus at a training ground mere miles away from the Polish border, the Belarusian Defense Ministry said in a Google-translated Telegram post. The territory of Belarus previously served as a launching pad for Russia's invasion of neighboring Ukraine. On the February 2023 first-year anniversary of the Ukraine war, China which a month later successfully capitalized on goodwill earned as a trade partner to broker a reconciliation between arch-enemies Iran and Saudi Arabia pitched a peace framework for the conflict between Moscow and Kyiv. It, like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's peace plan and Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin's own recent conditions to ignite diplomatic negotiations, has so far failed to gain traction. Earlier this week, China was the third stop in the world tour of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a crucial Putin ally who debuted his self-declared "peace mission" to resolve the conflict in Ukraine. After visiting Ukraine and Russia, Orban met with Xi in Beijing, praising China as a "key power" to resolve the hostilities. watch now After years of a velvet-gloved diplomacy and approaching China as a distant concern, NATO on Wednesday said Beijing "continues to pose systemic challenges to Euro-Atlantic security," underscoring the alleged disinformation stemming from the world's second-largest economy and its activities in space and cyberspace. Back in March, NATO members the U.S. and U.K. accused China of a years-long cyberespionage campaign against politicians, businesses and journalists. The practices exposed "China's continuous and brash efforts to undermine our nation's cybersecurity and target Americans and our innovation," FBI Director Christopher Wray said at the time. In response, the Chinese embassy to the U.K. condemned Britain's "sinister action." "The UK's claim that China was responsible for malicious cyber campaigns targeting the U.K. is completely unfounded and constitutes malicious slander," it said at the time. NATO also raised alarms over China's alleged nuclear ambitions. "The PRC continues to rapidly expand and diversify its nuclear arsenal with more warheads and a larger number of sophisticated delivery systems. We urge the PRC to engage in strategic risk reduction discussions and promote stability through transparency," the NATO communique said, warning that allies are simultaneously raising their "shared awareness" and enhancing preparations to protect against China's "coercive tactics and efforts to divide the Alliance." watch now The Federation of American Scientists estimates that China has a total inventory of 500 warheads as of March a mere 9% of the arsenal of Russia, which possesses the largest nuclear capabilities after inheriting the reserves of the former Soviet Union. "China is expanding its nuclear arsenal faster than any other country," Hans Kristensen, associate senior fellow at the Stockholm International Peach Research Institute said back in June, when the institute released its yearly publication analyzing world nuclear powers. "The Chinese nuclear stockpile is projected to continue growing over the coming decade and the number of Chinese intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) is likely to reach or even exceed the numbers held by either the Russian Federation or the United States," SPRI found last month. China denounces 'Cold War mentality' CNBC has reached out to China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In a scathing riposte, China's mission to the European Union said that the NATO statement "hypes up China-Russia relations undercutting and reshaping the rules-based international order" and is "filled with Cold War mentality and belligerent rhetoric." It added, "The China-related paragraphs are provocative with obvious lies and smears. We firmly reject and deplore these accusations and have lodged serious representations with NATO." The NATO comments to China come after the leaders of several Indo-Pacific countries such as Australia, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea are attending the Washington NATO summit, according to Reuters, extending a practice that began after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Pfizer on Thursday said it will move forward with a once-daily version of its weight loss pill, danuglipron, after it saw "encouraging" data in an ongoing early-stage study. The company evaluated several once-daily formulations of the drug and identified one with "the most favorable profile" in terms of safety and how the body reacts to the medication. Pfizer said it plans to conduct more early-stage trials in the second half of the year to identify the ideal dose of the drug, with results expected in the first quarter of next year, a spokesperson told CNBC. The company said those trials will "inform the registration enabling studies," which are used in applications for regulatory approval. Danuglipron "has demonstrated good efficacy in a twice-daily formulation, and we believe a once-daily formulation has the potential to have a competitive profile in the oral GLP-1 space," outgoing Pfizer Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Mikael Dolsten said in a release. Notably, the company did not observe any liver safety issues in patients who received once-daily formulations of the drug. Pfizer is one of several drugmakers racing to win a slice of the market for a highly popular class of weight loss and diabetes drugs called GLP-1 agonists. Some analysts expect the industry to be worth roughly $100 billion by the end of the decade. But Pfizer has so far struggled to break into the market. The pharmaceutical giant in December discontinued a twice-daily version of danuglipron after patients had trouble tolerating the drug in a mid-stage study. At the time, Pfizer said early study data on the once-daily version would "inform a path forward." But investors have been pessimistic about the company's potential in the GLP-1 space ever since it scrapped a different once-daily pill in June 2023 due to elevated liver enzymes in patients who received the treatment. Those were among a string of setbacks Pfizer faced last year on top of the rapid decline of its Covid business, which battered its stock. Still, Pfizer has other experimental obesity drugs in early stages of development. The company has not disclosed how those treatments will work. "Obesity is a key therapeutic area for Pfizer, and the company has a robust pipeline of three clinical and several pre-clinical candidates," Dolsten said in the release. Pfizer also believes GLP-1s are only "scratching the surface of what we will see in obesity," CEO Albert Bourla said during a conference in June. Illinois health authorities have identified 27 cases of dengue fever as part of a broader surge in infections sweeping across the Americas, according to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Of the reported cases in Illinois, 17 have been clustered in Cook County, underscoring concerns about the disease's spread in urban areas. The CDC issued a warning on June 25 citing a dramatic rise in dengue cases, with more than 9.7 million infections recorded in countries throughout the Americas, surpassing 2023's total by over double. Dengue fever, caused by four closely related viruses transmitted through mosquito bites, is the most prevalent arboviral disease globally. While infection with one virus provides lifelong immunity against that strain, protection against others is temporary, lasting from months to several years, health officials explained. Symptoms typically appear within three to ten days after exposure, with nausea, rash, joint pain, and severe headaches commonly reported among symptomatic cases. Health authorities recommend diagnostic tests-both molecular and serologic-for individuals showing symptoms, with further guidance available from local public health agencies, NBC Chicago reported. Despite the rising cases, there are currently no approved antiviral medications for treating dengue. Medical intervention focuses on supportive care, emphasizing triage, management, and close monitoring of patients to mitigate severe outcomes. At present, no vaccines are recommended for travelers or individuals without prior dengue virus exposure, highlighting the importance of mosquito bite prevention measures in affected regions. Marty Kedian, a 59-year-old Massachusetts resident, has regained his ability to speak following a groundbreaking larynx transplant procedure aimed at treating his cancer. Surgeons at the Mayo Clinic in Arizona performed the intricate operation as part of a clinical trial designed to expand access to larynx transplants, a procedure historically rare and typically reserved for patients with severe injuries. Kedian, diagnosed with laryngeal cartilage cancer over a decade ago, underwent numerous surgeries before opting for the transplant, driven by a desire to preserve his voice and reconnect with loved ones. "I want people to know this can be done." Kedian told The Associated Press, reflecting on the emotional moment he first spoke to his elderly mother post-surgery, a milestone made possible by the transplant. The procedure, which took place on February 29 and lasted 21 hours, involved removing Kedian's cancerous larynx and replacing it with a donated one, along with adjoining tissues and critical nerves, CBS News reported. Despite the complexities, Kedian's recovery has shown promising results, with gradual improvement in speech and swallowing abilities. Dr. David Lott, chair of head and neck surgery at Mayo Clinic, emphasized the transformative impact of the transplant on patients' lives, enabling them to regain not just their voice but also their quality of life after years of struggle. While larynx transplants remain rare, with only a handful performed worldwide, medical experts view the Mayo Clinic trial as a pivotal step towards refining surgical techniques and expanding eligibility to include more cancer patients facing larynx removal. The success of Kedian's transplant, reported in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings, shows ongoing efforts to balance innovation with patient safety, particularly regarding immune suppression risks and long-term outcomes. Looking ahead, Kedian hopes to inspire others facing similar challenges and is eager to return to a normal life, free from the constraints of medical devices and tubes. "Every day it's getting better. I'm pushing myself to make it go faster because I want these tubes out of me, to go back to a normal life," he said. As Georgia experiences a rise in COVID-19 cases amid summer gatherings and indoor activities to beat the heat, public health officials are urging Americans to prioritize an updated COVID-19 vaccination regimen for the upcoming fall season. The advisory committee on vaccines at the Atlanta-based U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all individuals above the age of six months receive the new dose to ensure updated protection. "This is particularly important for those who are over 65. Those folks still continue to be at the highest risk of getting very sick, needing to go to the hospital or potentially losing their life to this virus," stated CDC Director Dr. Mandy Cohen in an interview with WABE. "Plan for the fall when you're getting your updated flu shot to also get that updated COVID-19 shot." Nationwide, emergency room visits have surged by more than 23% in the past week due to the summer wave of COVID-19 infections. Although hospitalization rates are lower than previous peaks, ongoing mutations in the virus pose ongoing challenges. The latest Omicron variants KP.2, KP.3, and LB.1 are now predominant strains across the United States, with projections from the CDC indicating that KP.3 alone accounts for over one-third of new COVID-19 cases. Vaccination continues to demonstrate effectiveness in preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and mortality. Dr. Cohen, who assumed the role of CDC director a year ago, has focused on transitioning the agency beyond the emergency phase of the pandemic. She highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance data collection, genomic sequencing capabilities, and innovations in treatment and vaccines to prepare for future health crises. U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia recently visited the CDC headquarters to advocate for increased federal funding to support the agency's research into various public health threats, including mosquito-borne diseases, maternal mortality, and COVID-19. "We saw with COVID, with a host of other infectious diseases, that what happens 'over there' can quickly make its way over here," Warnock remarked. "As a senator representing the state of Georgia, I'm proud that the CDC located right here in our state is engaged in staving off these global health threats before they become a threat to the homeland." As Fox Mulder on The X-Files, David Duchovny investigated vampires, chased mutant sewer-monsters and battled scantily-clad, virtual-reality cowgirls. But he very nearly found himself in an even stranger situation: holed up in a San Francisco townhome with three children and two other dudes. Yes, Duchovny came shockingly close to starring in Full House, which may sound kind of odd, but certain Full House storylines could have easily passed as X-Files episodes. On a recent episode of his podcast Fail Better, Duchovny chatted with Fred Armisen about their early unsuccessful auditions, with the former Saturday Night Live cast member revealing that he once tried out for Mad TV, the RC Cola to SNLs Coke. Don't Miss Duchovny then revealed that when he first moved to Los Angeles, he auditioned for plenty of sitcom pilots, and thought each one was gonna be the break. One of the shows that left him devastated for weeks afterwards was Full House. And Duchovny didnt just try out for the role of Danny Tanner, but also Uncle Jesse, and even Uncle Joey. Although its tough to picture Duchovny telling Popeye jokes on Star Search. I auditioned for all three parts on Full House, Duchovny informed a surprised Armisen. I tested at the network. At first they had me for, I think, the dad. And then they had me for the Stamos character, and then they had me for the other guy. Advertisement Advertisement Umm, his name was Joey Gladstone, David. Just because he was an annoying freeloader doesnt mean he isnt deserving of our respect. Desperate to pay his rent, Duchovny really got his hopes up, presuming that the odds were in his favor: I was thinking, I gotta get one of these, and its gonna change my life. Although Duchovny did note that he probably wasnt the best actor for the job. I was really bad at that kind of stuff, he admitted. Like, I did not know how to do that sitcom stuff. I dont know what they were thinking, (if) they thought I was gonna exist in that world. I guess I could have learned, but I wasnt ready, he added. I wasnt ready for that kind of energetic performance. Advertisement While he never starred in a traditional three-camera sitcom, Duchovny did eventually do some great work in the half-hour comedy format, memorably playing himself in several episodes of The Larry Sanders Show. Weirdly enough, Full House did initially cast a more dramatic actor named John Posey in the role of Danny Tanner because creator Jeff Franklins first two choices, Paul Reiser and Bob Saget, were unavailable. But when Sagets schedule cleared up, Posey was given the boot, despite having already filmed the pilot. Advertisement Advertisement Play Who knows, maybe in some parallel universe, it was David Duchovny who was fired and replaced with Bob Saget before fading into obscurity? You (yes, you) should follow JM on Twitter (if it still exists by the time youre reading this). Is he right, or will he have scrambled eggs all over his face? Kelsey Grammer seems to be a pretty busy guy. In addition to hosting historical docudramas for Fox News streaming service and brewing beer in the name of Jesus, hes also starring in the new World War II drama Murder Company, a movie that probably would do way better were it to change the title to Frasier Crane Joins the Army. To promote the film, Grammer recently spoke with Yahoo! Canada, revealing that his performance was partly inspired by his grandfather, who was a colonel during World War II. But since chatting with Grammer and not asking about Frasier Crane would be a little like making a trip to Las Vegas and not drunkenly pissing your money away, naturally the subject of the Frasier reboot was brought up. When asked about the upcoming second season of the Paramount+ series, which is currently in production, Grammer responded, Were having a great time and the scripts, honestly they rival anything we ever did on the old show. So Im very excited. Don't Miss Wait, what? Look, its not at all that surprising that Grammer is actively trying to hype the new season of the show that he stars on, produces and generally makes boatloads of money from. Still, this is a pretty wild claim for him to make. After all, he didnt promote Money Plane by suggesting that it rivaled the filmmaking artistry of The Godfather. The original Frasier is generally considered to be one of the most well-written sitcoms in the history of television, with some critics comparing it to the works of literary greats like Neil Simon, Noel Coward and P.G. Wodehouse. It won the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series five times. Its a great show with an arguably subpar theme song. Advertisement Advertisement The new Frasier is, well, less good. Thats not even a harsh criticism, necessarily, considering the quality of the original show. Its hard to imagine that even the staunchest supporters of the reboot would ever argue that it was on par with the original. Maybe Grammer was specifically referring to the crappier episodes of Frasier. Like, perhaps he meant to say that the new scripts rival that one show where Frasier donates his time to help construct affordable housing, then terrorizes a low-income family. Or the episode where were forced to watch the characters goofy nightmares that wouldnt seem out of place in an episode of Goosebumps. Advertisement Advertisement That being said, Grammers statement was, admittedly, in reference to the scripts for the upcoming season, which is bringing back a number of characters from the original series. For all we know, the second season of Frasier 2.0 episodes could be an awe-inspiring work of genius that reshapes the medium of television as we know it. Then again, it could involve Frasier irrationally bickering with even more dogs. Advertisement Advertisement You (yes, you) should follow JM on Twitter (if it still exists by the time youre reading this) Before it was a whole stupid cinematic universe that would publish any storyline at all just to make a few more bucks, Marvel was a series of comic books that, well, had the exact same MO. For example, they put ol Peter Parker through a lot of weird stuff to move a few units 14 Spider-Man: Rock Reflections of A Superhero First, the greatest Spider-Merch of all time: a 23-track vinyl album telling the ballad of Peter Parker through hokey-ass but very polished rock songs. Complete with narration by Stan Lee! 13 The Green Goblin Once Goblin-Blasted Gwen Stacy In 2004s Spider-Man Sins Past, it was established that Peter himself was a virgin, but Norman Osborn swooped in and hooked up with Gwen. He got her pregnant with twins, and raised them to hate Spider-Man. 12 Spider-Man Thought About Hooking Up with His Daughter Those twins would grow up to become little supervillains themselves, hell-bent on murdering Spider-Man. But when they finally enact their diabolical plan, sparks fly between Spidey and the girl twin. They dont know theyre related at the time, but still, man. 11 A Boozy Blackout Brainstorm Sesh Resulted in a Young, Busty Aunt May Controversial Marvel writer Mark Millar said he was once tasked with creating a comic aimed at tween girls in the aughts. Romance comics were having a moment, and they knew they needed to ride that wave. So a few writers had a brainstorm meeting at a bar, blacked out and woke up to some notes about making Aunt May young and hot. Advertisement Advertisement 10 Aunt May Isnt His Aunt Shes His Deadbeat Mother 2003s Trouble was the result of that brainstorm: a five-part prequel series that focused on Aunt May in her younger, more overtly buxom years. In this story, she gets knocked up, but cant take care of baby Peter, so she dishes him off to her best friend. Responding to criticism, Millar said, Its not pornography okay, bad start its exactly what 12-year-old girls read. 9 The Worst Villain in the Spider-Man-iverse Is a Guy Named Steve In 1984, Marvel produced a one-off comic in conjunction with The National Committee for the Prevention of Child Abuse, about an older neighborhood boy who groomed Peter Parker with porn. Its left a little ambiguous, but the reader can deduce that Steve molested Peter after gaining the trust of Aunt May and Uncle Ben. Advertisement Advertisement 8 Scratch That: The Worst Villain in the Spider-Man-iverse Is the Fandom Theres a wing of the Spider-Man fan club who have spent their one wild and precious life gathering perceived evidence that Peter Parker made the whole Steve story up. Theyre coming to the aid of a fictional child molester instead of just, you know, doing literally anything else. 7 Spider-Man Breaks the Cycle In a Most Sus Way That comic ends with Spider-Man witnessing a babysitter getting a bit overzealous in a tickle fight with a young kid. He swoops in to save the victim, and then whisks him out into the night, away from all the other adults in his life. Advertisement Advertisement 6 Spidey Teamed Up with Planned Parenthood to Make a Very Confusing Sex-Ed Manual In 1976s Spider-Man vs. The Prodigy, the big bad goes from school to school, attempting to convince teens to rawdog, so he can enslave their unwanted children on his space plantation. Its unclear if its intended to be an endorsement of oral sex, but Spider-Man saves the day by shooting webs down the guys throat. 5 Masturbation Wont Make You Go Insane; Thats a Spider-Man Guarantee! That Planned Parenthood one-shot ends with a list of bizarre advice that was actually pretty progressive for the 1970s. Chief among them: Dreams, thoughts and wishes about sex are natural. Masturbation wont make you insane or harm you in any other way. Advertisement Advertisement 4 Gwen Stacy Was Packin Slacks in Mexico Mexican comic publisher La Prensa was so good at slinging Spider-Man comics, Marvel allowed them to whip up their own random storylines anything to sell more comics. Their two biggest additions to the canon were tons of characters plagiarized from other comics, and giving Gwen Stacy a humongo donker. 3 Spider-Man Had Beef with Obama and Biden A 2009 issue of The Amazing Spider-Man showed Spidey punching Obama in the face (in his defense, he thought it was Chameleon in disguise), and then saying he mistook Biden for The Vulture. Advertisement Advertisement 2 Peter Parker Once Turned into an Actual Spider That Gave Birth to Peter Parker In 2004s The Spectacular Spider-Man, Peter engages in some accidental adultery, causing him to slowly morph into a giant, disgusting spider. When he reaches full arachni-hood, in the very nick of time, just when you thought he was down and out, he Oh, he dies. But then a fully-grown Peter Parker emerges from the hideous husk of the dead spider, and just kind of goes about his day. Lulu Hypermarket, a prominent retail chain headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, has allegedly experienced a significant data breach involving the personal details of at least 196,000 customers. The IntelBroker hackers have claimed responsibility for this attack, initially leaking the personal details of a few customers on BreachForums to establish credibility. Hello BreachForums Community! Today, I have uploaded the LuluMarket database for you to download. Thanks for reading and enjoy!, IntelBroker reportedly wrote on BreachForums. In July 2024, Lulu Hypermarket suffered a data breach that exposed the information of up to 196,000 individuals. The phrase may have been signals that JAXA officials are still not certain what was and was not accessed. The agency also shared a cryptic comment that In the course of taking the above measures and strengthening monitoring, we have detected and responded to multiple unauthorized accesses to JAXAs network since January of this yearincluding zero-day attacksthough no information was compromised, the statement said, revealing that JAXA has been hit subsequent to the initial attack, but that the agency believes it successfully fought the subsequent attacks and prevented further data leakage. JAXA has not said who the attackers were, but most cybersecurity observers are pointing the finger at state actors working for China. The fact that a space agency was targeted with a sophisticated complex attack indicates a state actor with goals to compromise data, not just gather intelligence or send a political message, with the lead suspect being a China affiliated cyber security private company of some sort, said Irina Tsukerman, a geopolitical analyst and the president of Scarab Rising, a global strategy advisory firm. Such an attack is likely the work of either a state-backed independent hacker, possibly part of an intelligence gathering gang, whose methods could potentially be analyzed and compared to prior such attacks, or it could be attributed to a private cybersecurity company, most likely affiliated with China, in which case prior incidents could be harder to detect. The most interesting detail was the description of the attack and the fact that the attacker used several different types of malware and nevertheless went undetected. It indicates an unusually persistent and planned long term attack with an unusual level of complexity and stealth. Scenery of Shibaozhai in Chongqing, SW China Xinhua) 16:56, July 11, 2024 People visit Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing, July 10, 2024. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows people visiting the Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Liu Chan) A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows the wooden pagoda in Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Liu Chan) People visit Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing, July 10, 2024. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Liu Chan) A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows cruise ships docking at Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Liu Chan) A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Liu Chan) People visit Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing, July 10, 2024. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) People visit Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing, July 10, 2024. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) People visit Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing, July 10, 2024. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing) As the crowded train groans and struggles through the usual signal failures, points failures, emergency track inspections and trespasser alerts, a cheery voice announces the approach of the refreshment trolley over the loudspeakers. But it adds in stern tones Regretfully, we are not accepting cash today. Contactless payments only. They lie. They dont regret it all. Cash is a fiddly nuisance to them. Also, it is not just today they are not accepting money. They never accept money. No explanation is offered for this restriction, but I know from experience that it is an iron law, not open to debate. Well, it could be worse. On a recent visit to the Netherlands, I found myself anxious to use the lavatory in a giant railway interchange. It is time for a campaign to make everyone accept cash again, says PETER HITCHENS Having located the facility, I was confronted with a gleaming, unavoidable electronic turnstile that took only a type of contactless card, which I do not have. No coins allowed. No card no loo. Anyway, imagine having to wield a credit card for such a thing. I remember when these cards were only for extravagant purchases you could not really afford, marketed under the slogan it takes the waiting out of wanting. Which is exactly what compulsory credit card use did not achieve for me at Rotterdam railway station. You might think that you can insist on paying cash in this country for anything. But you cannot. English law says cash must be accepted in settlement of a debt. So cafes that hate cash, for instance, are careful to put up signs saying they are card-only establishments. That way, you cannot contract a debt in the first place. We could and should change this. It is time for a campaign to make everyone accept cash again. It can be done. I am glad to say that in several states of the US, traders are obliged by law to take cash. And in France, whose people maintain a wise suspicion of authority, banks and practically everything else, Article 642-3 of the penal code states that traders cannot refuse cash payments. Stern penalties apply. Without this, the rapid disappearance of cash from our lives will grow worse. The near-superstitious fear that cash might spread Covid, and the retreat of millions to their homes, away from shops and streets, greatly speeded up this trend. If you objected, you were a wicked, irresponsible spreader of pestilence. Banks close. Time and again I seek out a cash machine I have used for years, and find it has been removed and obliterated. And I live in a busy city. Millions now live in cash deserts, without a bank. Someone doesnt like cash. Social progressives have all but abolished it in Left-wing Sweden. Were told it invites money-laundering, though I am sure that electronic fraud is a million times worse. No, the progressives hate cash because they cannot control it or the people who use it. Non-progressives, by contrast, like the feeling of independence and freedom granted by the jingle of coins in the pocket, and the comfort of notes in the wallet. And think what you will lose if cash is entirely pushed out of use, as the authorities plainly want. No more uncles and aunts pressing a banknote into the hand of niece or nephew. No more cash into the homeless mans hat. No more impulsive cash bets. No more slipping a private tip to the waitress who (you suspect) will not be getting much of the restaurants compulsory service charge. These and other pleasures and liberties will henceforth have to be conducted with cards and card-readers, or not at all. But without cash, as we already know, everything is bound to go wrong. Back in 2012, more than seven million NatWest customers spent three days unable to buy groceries, pay bills or transfer money. Some lost house purchases or were stranded, penniless, abroad. In 2018, five million TSB customers were likewise locked out of their accounts after the bank botched an IT upgrade. And surely one of the most frightening implications of the Post Office scandal is that even a working computer system cannot be trusted with our money. And when it goes wrong, it may take years for its errors to be put right. During which it will be us, not the banks, who will be accused of wrongdoing. The death of cash is the death of privacy and an enormous increase in the power of the state. How long before the state knows everything our banks know about us, especially of Sir Anthony Blairs revived plan for electronic identity records comes to pass. If every transaction is electronic, then every transaction is recorded. The computer will know what you bought, where and when you bought it. And if it knows, then it can tell others. Your bank, and those who have access to its systems, will actually know where you are, often to within a few yards, every hour of the day. It is not that we are ashamed of what we are doing it is just that dont want other people to know all about us. And we are wise to feel that way. Governments ceaselessly increase in power. And they care what we do and what we think. In this country, we have seen people de-banked because they failed to be the right sort of person. How, in a cashless society, could a de-banked person actually survive? We have had a sort of hint in the scandalous treatment of the pro-Russian blogger Graham Phillips, sanctioned by British Government decree. Just imagine, you went to pay for groceries at the unmanned checkout and your card is refused I dont care whether you like Mr Phillips or not. I dont like him myself. But his treatment, for expressing opinions about Ukraine, which are unpopular with the Foreign Office, is grotesque. The courts wont help him. When he applies for licences to do perfectly normal things, they dont help in practice. He is an unperson, as hopelessly trapped as a character in a Kafka novel. Mr Phillips cannot earn money or spend the money he has. Others cannot pay him. He is, insanely, banned by law from paying his council tax. But he has never been tried for or convicted of any criminal offence. Do we really want government to have this sort of power, which it would have over anyone in a cashless society? Just imagine, you went to pay for groceries at the unmanned checkout and your card is refused. The same thing happens at the pub. You get home (on foot) and your inbox is full of messages from people complaining that you have not paid your bills. Then your electricity and broadband are cut off. How far could this go? In China, an elaborate system of social credit can be used to prevent people targeted by the state (allegedly for non-payment of fines or taxes) from travelling within the country. In 2018, it stopped 17million people from buying air tickets and 5.5million from taking long-distance trains because they had low social credit scores. Such power is more or less limitless, once it is operating. Combined with perpetual surveillance, it is the Beehive State in action. By the simple act of refusing to give up cash or to let it be abolished, we can stand in the way of this dismal danger. So we should. There was a word missing in Rachel Reevess widely trumpeted speech on Monday about radical new planning rules, and yet almost nobody has remarked on its absence. The new Chancellor intends to concrete over England with new houses. That largely means over already crowded southern England, where many people want to live. Part of the Green Belt will be sacrificed to the manic house-building programme planned by Labour, though Ms Reeves tried to sweeten the pill by describing it as grey belt. Ah, so only grey trees will be felled. The new Chancellor Rachel Reeve will sacrifice part of the Green Belt to enable a manic house-building programme What was the missing word that our bulldozing Chancellor couldnt bring herself to utter, the unmentionable phenomenon that lurks unspoken behind her plans? Immigration. If there were little net immigration if it amounted, as David Cameron promised, to tens of thousands annually there would be no need for Rachel Reeves and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner to blanket fields and meadows with new housing. Wouldnt it have been more honest of the Chancellor to acknowledge the effect of uncontrolled immigration on the demand for new dwellings, as well as on rising house prices and the ever higher cost of renting? If shed said something along the lines of I support large-scale immigration, and accept it means we will have to build more homes to accommodate the people coming here well, at least I could have respected her candour, even if I do not endorse her ideas. Stephen Glover (pictured) says it would be more honest of the Chancellor to acknowledge the effect of uncontrolled immigration on the demand for new dwellings, as well as on rising house prices and the ever higher cost of renting No wonder so many people distrust politicians. Does Ms Reeves think were stupid? Discussing the housing shortage without referring to immigration is tantamount to talking about a need for new roads without mentioning cars. The truth of the matter is that no government has built enough houses over the past 25 years because no government has been able to keep up with the dizzying increase in the number of immigrants arriving in this country. They dont all in fact, very few of them do end up in lock-up garages in Neasden. They need proper homes like the rest of us, to rent or buy, and, if there arent enough, the cost of renting and buying is driven up for everyone. The Office for National Statistics ) forecasts that the UK population will rise from 67 million to nearly 74 million by 2036 - it says this extremely rapid growth will be due overwhelmingly to net migration Even so cautious a figure as Bank of England chief economist, Huw Pill, recently said quite large increases in immigration are exacerbating the housing crisis. Earlier this year, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) forecast that the UK population will rise from 67 million at the time of the 2021 census to nearly 74 million by 2036. It says this extremely rapid growth will be due overwhelmingly to net migration. The ONS assumes that this will fall from a record 745,000 in 2022 to about 315,000 by mid-2028, where it is expected to settle. An analysis of the ONS figures by the Right-leaning Centre for Policy Studies concludes that at least 5.7 million homes will have to be built by 2036, with net migration accounting for 41 per cent of the total. That amounts to about 156,000 new homes a year, which is just over half the number of dwellings that Labour plans to build as it concretes over huge swathes of England. Labour might possibly reduce the annual figure for net migration to less than 315,000, but dont bet on it. Its manifesto concedes that the UK is overly dependent on workers from abroad. It includes a commitment to reduce net migration from the unprecedentedly high levels reached under the Tories, though without any target. The construction of hundreds of thousands of new homes in unspoilt countryside is simply because the Government wont limit immigration to the kind of numbers we had a quarter of a century ago This refusal to set targets suggests that Labour still hasnt got the message that uncontrolled immigration is resented by so many. Theres further evidence. The Government has announced that 90,000 illegal immigrants who had been left in limbo pending possible deportation to Rwanda will now be allowed to claim asylum in the UK. It will be granted to the vast majority if the past is any guide. Meanwhile, following the Governments scrapping of the Tories Rwanda scheme, its a racing certainty that numbers crossing the Channel will rise in the short term. In the longer term, Labours vague plans for better intelligence and increased co-operation with the French are unlikely to stem the tide. As for legal immigration, although the Government will probably maintain restrictions belatedly introduced by the Tories, it plainly doesnt have the stomach to slash numbers. Tony Blair has just urged Sir Keir Starmer to bring in immigration controls because the public want them. Hes right, though he has a cheek to say so, given that untrammelled immigration took off during his premiership (something he tried to disavow on Radio 4s Today programme on Tuesday morning). I doubt that the PM will take Sir Tonys advice. Overall immigration may decline somewhat, but not to manageable levels, not least because so many businesses still have an insatiable appetite for cheap foreign labour. In fact, I forecast that the lack of any policy to deal with high levels of immigration will be a major cause of Labours plunging popularity in as little as two years. Reform UK, with its clear anti-immigration agenda, is bound to benefit. But so, too, might the Tories if they succeed in convincing voters that, despite the errors of their ways in government, they are opposed to mass immigration, and dont want to see England turned into a vast housing estate to accommodate incomers. I dont criticise all of Rachel Reeves proposals. A buoyant economy must have new development in the right places. It is absurd to continue to block a third runway at Heathrow. The Government is right to revive two thwarted planning appeals for data centres in Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire. Some development is necessary if were going to remain a prosperous country, and let me say that the sacred protections accorded to bats and even spiders in construction projects are idiotic. But new development shouldnt be plonked anywhere, and theres enormous scope for better design. What is unacceptable is the construction of hundreds of thousands of new homes in unspoilt countryside simply because the Government wont limit immigration to the kind of numbers we had a quarter of a century ago. As for onshore wind turbines, they are a scourge that offer minuscule benefits in return for the wanton despoiling of the English countryside. I hope people will rise up against these ghastly windmills wherever they are planned, and burn effigies of Ed Miliband, their destructive champion. Poet Philip Larkin wrote in 1946 about the foreseeable destruction of England: And that will be England gone / The shadows, the meadows, the lanes / The guildhalls, the carved choirs / Therell be books; it will linger on / In galleries; but all that remains / For us will be concrete and tyres. Sir Keir Starmer has promised us straightforward government after the dishonesties of the later Tory years. And yet the first major speech by a senior member of the Cabinet set out to obscure a link that should inform debate. The planned carpeting of parts of England with new homes cant be disassociated from the uncontrolled immigration that Labour has no apparent intention of stopping. When will someone speak the truth? With all his dictatorial power, Vladimir Putin can be fleet-footed as he directs Russias military might against Ukraine. By contrast, here in Britain we face being weighed down by bureaucracy and obfuscation. Our military spending is now inextricably linked with Ukraines heroic fight against Russian aggression. But despite an urgent and real emergency, Sir Keir Starmers Government says it must mark time with a year-long strategic review of defence budgets before it can even draw up a roadmap for increasing military spending. As we tie ourselves up in years of red tape, Putin will laugh. Sir Keir Starmer, who flew to Washington last night for a major Nato summit, said increasing defence spending to 2.5 per cent of Britains GDP is a cast iron commitment As we tie ourselves up in years of red tape, Putin will laugh (pictured: Russian President speaks in Moscow on Monday) The Prime Minister said yesterday that increasing defence spending to 2.5 per cent of Britains GDP is a cast iron commitment. However, it is diluted by too many caveats. The Tories pledged to meet the new target by 2030. Sir Keir cautious man that he is should do away with the paperwork and match that deadline, or improve upon it. Then there is the question of the PMs willingness to stand up to the peaceniks within his own party. Predictably, Diane Abbott has already said any money should go to the NHS and other Labour totems instead of, as she put it, escalating war. With signs of progress at the Nato summit in Washington DC last night, Sir Keir must also show forward movement and not kick the spending uplift into the long grass. Channel changing In opposition, Labour was fond of pointing out how many Channel migrants had reached Britain since Rishi Sunak pledged to stop the boats. For the record, since Sir Keir Starmer entered No 10 his number is now 484. That total can be expected to rise sharply over the coming weeks if there are calm summer conditions in the Channel. The Conservatives were on the cusp of introducing a crucial deterrent in the long-fought Rwanda asylum scheme. We would have been expecting the first flights to have been taking off this week had the Tories won the election. For the record, since Sir Keir Starmer entered No 10 his number is now 484 (Pictured: Migrants arriving in Dover yesterday) So it is one of Sir Keirs biggest political gambles to have unceremoniously ditched the Rwanda deal, to our great regret, just as the European Union and others start to come round to the idea of transferring asylum seekers to a safe third country. All Labour has to offer is the distant hope of a returns agreement with France a country now in political turmoil plus a renamed and slightly beefed-up quango. Even worse, the frontrunner to lead the new agency is a former police chief who has said he is proud to be woke. The new PM has conspicuously avoided adopting the Tories stop the boats mantra but yesterday he uttered a not-so-vastly different phrase, stop those crossings, while admitting that things will get worse before they get better. One of Sir Keirs biggest political gambles is to have unceremoniously ditched the Rwanda deal (Pictured: Sir Keir Starmer at a press conference in Downing Street) Sir Keir had better be sure his new plan will make a difference. The British public, frustrated by years of dinghy arrivals, will quickly turn on him if it does not. Rising levels of worklessness are unacceptable and economic inactivity is holding Britain back, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall has said. Echoing her colleague Wes Streeting, she wants to reduce the 2.8million on long-term sickness benefits. Lets hope Labour continues to speak with one voice on this important issue, allowing much-needed action against Britains spiralling welfare bill. An optometrist has revealed the five things that she would never do - and one of them could lead to a potentially gruesome and dangerous infection. The crucial information was recently shared on TikTok by Manhattan-based optometrist Dr. Jennifer Tsai, who specializes in eye health and vision care. Tsai began by breaking some bad news to viewers right off the bat. She revealed that you may want to re-think those eyelash extensions, as it's possible that they could cause a myriad of eye problems, including infection. 'They are beautiful, but I've seen so much damage that it's caused when it comes to lash loss and styes and infections,' Tsai admitted. Manhattan-based optometrist Dr. Jennifer Tsai specializes in eye health and vision care In a new video posted to TikTok, Dr. Tsai revealed the five things that she would never do around her eyes Eye health 101! The things Dr. Tsai would never do Get eyelash extensions Forget to double cleanse the eye area and remove makeup Get under eye filler Wear contact lenses that weren't dailies Go swimming in lakes, pools or hot tubs while wearing contact lenses Advertisement Next, she said that she would never forget to double cleanse around the eye area and remove makeup. Double cleansing, which involves washing your face with an oil-based cleanser followed by one that's water-based, is a routine that has long been touted by professionals as something that can make a positive difference to your skin's health. Some of the benefits of the skincare method include preventing clogged pores, which can make your skincare products lock into your skin more easily. It also ensures that you're getting off every inch of dirt and grime leftover from makeup on your face. Tsai is clearly a fan of double-cleansing, as she explained that if you don't take this step, it can cause the oil glands to clog up, which can lead to things like dry eye syndrome. The third thing that the optometrist insisted that she would never do is getting under eye fillers. Dermal filler, often referred to just as filler, is a kind of injectable that can smooth lines on the face, plump up certain areas, and make sagging skin appear more full, per Cleveland Clinic. It has become a bit of a controversial topic in recent years, with one plastic surgeon even sharing his unpopular opinions about the injections in December, claiming that filler can last for decades. The optometrist also insisted that one thing she would never do is getting under eye fillers, as they can cause some serious side effects Tsai seemed to share a similar sentiment as well. 'It is not a great place to get it done, because typically you'll see migration occur, and it's very transparent in that area because the tissue is so thin, so it's quite obvious when it's done,' she explained. Fourth on her list was to avoid wearing contact lenses that aren't dailies. 'It's essentially impossible to remember when to change your contact lenses on time, and that causes a host of other issues,' Tsai stated. To be precise, the host of other issues that Tsai is talking about include corneal abrasions, corneal ulcers, and damage to the corneal stem cells, per Contacts Direct. And, last but not least, the optometrist shared what can lead you to a gruesome infection - and that's swimming in lakes, pools or even hot tubs while wearing contact lenses. 'It can cause acanthamoeba, which is a pretty bad infection that causes vision loss around the eyes,' she explained. Acanthamoeba, although rare, is an amoeba that can be spread to the eye via contact lenses, cuts or skin wounds, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In the comments section of Tsai's video, users seemed to agree with her list - including a fellow professional. 'I've seen so many patients with crazy infections from sleeping with their contacts in,' one person shared. Another typed, 'Under eye fillers and fillers around the nose bridge can also cause very dry eyes - currently experiencing it.' 'Lash extensions worst decision for me ever,' someone else admitted. So, the next time you're even thinking about wearing your contact lenses in a pool or making an appointment for lash extensions, you may want to think again. Rosie Johns always wanted a big family. My partner and I are both one of four and Id always dreamed of having lots of children, she says. And yet today when people ask the 25-year-old mother whether she intends to have another baby a sibling for her four-year-old son Colton she tells them a lie. When people ask if Im having more kids, I tell them Im infertile. Ive asked doctors for a hysterectomy to prevent me getting pregnant, but they say Im too young. Ill have an abortion if I ever get pregnant again. When people ask Rosie Johns when she is going to have a second child, she lies and tells them she is infertile - because the experience of giving birth was so traumatic, she cannot go through another pregnancy Why such a vehement change of heart? Because Rosies experience of birth was so shocking, so traumatic a massacre, as she puts it that she cannot bring herself to contemplate another. It has taken her many hours of therapy to even be able to talk about Coltons delivery. Rosie was given an episiotomy (a cut in the opening of the birth canal to make it easier to get the baby out), despite suffering a blood clotting disorder that meant her medical notes specifically warned against it. She was injured so badly during the birth and post-birth stitching that she needed reconstructive surgery three years later. Rosie was injured so badly during the birth and post-birth stitching that she needed reconstructive surgery three years later During the eight days she and baby Colton were in hospital after the delivery, she nearly died from blood loss and was regularly left in blood-soaked gowns and sheets. Hers is an extreme case, and yet an estimated 30,000 women a year suffer negative experiences in the UK during the delivery of their babies, with one in 30 developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result. A report published in May by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Birth Trauma contained shocking evidence from more than 1,300 women who say they were neglected, mistreated or suffered life-changing injuries while on the maternity ward. For some of these women, the trauma is so great that they make the agonising decision never to have another baby. Rosie, who lives in York and works in education, says she felt safe during her pregnancy but things went downhill and kept getting worse after she was left in a labour bay for 48 hours. During the eight days Rosie and baby Colton (pictured) were in hospital after the delivery, she nearly died from blood loss and was regularly left in blood-soaked gowns and sheets The doctors tried to induce me on three occasions with a sweep but it failed, and thats when they said I needed an epidural. Earlier on, my haematologist had visited and made it clear to maternity staff in person, at the end of my bed that I was not to have one. Hed also said there were to be no procedures involving anything that could cut my skin or my sons skin, such as forceps or scalpels, because this could result in a haemorrhage. If I did need an emergency C-section, then I should be given my usual clotting agents and a blood transfusion. Yet those instructions were simply ignored, she claims. I was terrified, but in so much pain that I could barely speak. I kept saying: No! but they sat me up and just gave the epidural to me. Then they missed the correct position in the spine and had to do it again. Several hours later a midwife came in and suddenly it was panic stations. The babys head was crowning but Id had no idea because I couldnt feel anything. She told me to push, for two hours, but the baby was distressed. There was a flurry of people rushing in, then I was given an episiotomy with forceps and it was a massacre. Four years after Colton's birth, Rosie has been diagnosed with PTSD Blood spurted everywhere, over the doctors face, the room, everyone. I was in total shock so were the staff. I think she possibly cut a vein, but my condition is similar to haemophilia so it may have been due to that, too. Thankfully, baby Colton was born a healthy 7lb. Yet within seconds of being placed on Rosies chest, the new mother passed out due to blood loss. She came round later, still sitting in the blood-soaked room. Even when she was finally stabilised and moved to the postnatal ward, she says the attitude of the nurses was cruel. I remember sobbing when my partner was instructed to go home due to Covid restrictions, and one nurse said I should grow up. Midwives mocked and made jokes about my hobbled walk while I went back and forth to the bottle preparation kitchen. We stayed in the hospital for eight days because Colton had a temperature and I was still bleeding internally. But I had no blood work done to monitor my blood disorder, and I was visibly grey and limp. Every time I stood up, giant blood clots would fall out of me. Her clothes were permanently covered in blood, she says. It was only a doctor who saved me I remember her shouting at the midwives, telling them I needed multiple blood transfusions. That doctor later told me that I was close to dying. I still have nightmares about it. My veins were collapsing so I had a nerve block for the transfusion, but I was bullied by the midwives into feeding Colton, even while having the transfusion with a numb arm. I kept pressing the buzzer for two hours to ask them for help and at one point a lead midwife came in and said: Youre such a bad mother! Youve not even fed him? I sat there sobbing and thinking: What have I done to deserve this? Later, at home, Rosie developed a form of post-partum psychosis. I kept having flashbacks. I was seeing babies crawling up the wall, she says. I kept thinking I should take my own life because I didnt deserve to be a mum or be alive. I had been sewn up so badly after the birth and was in agony and immobile. I had reconstructive surgery last February, because they made such a botch of sewing me up, and Ive been on codeine for a prolonged period because of the aching down my legs, severe back and hip pain, loss of strength and sensation in my arms. I used to teach dance, now I can barely get up a flight of stairs. Four years on, she has been diagnosed with PTSD. Its taken a lot of therapy to be even able to talk about it. I still have bad days and there are times when I cant bear to be touched by anyone, even my partner. Im horrified by what happened because you wouldnt treat an animal that way. Theres no way I can put my body or my mind through birth again. It means Im left grieving for the children I will never have, and for Colton because he will never have siblings. Fiona Hewitt was diagnosed with PTSD and underwent intense therapy - it is only now that she feels she can verbalise what happened to her and Saskia 12 years ago It is not just the delivery itself that can traumatise women, but a sense of chaos in the immediate aftermath. Solicitor Fiona Hewitt, from Buckingham, is another mother who needed trauma-focused therapy to be able to speak about what happened to her, and she, too, says she will never have another baby. It was 2012 and Fiona was 33 when she had her daughter Saskia. I had a normal pregnancy and Saskia was very much wanted, but Id heard horror stories about the NHS and planned to have a home birth with a private midwife, she says. But while in labour at home I passed meconium [the first stool of a newborn] and knew this could be dangerous as it can block the babys airways if swallowed. Saskias father, now Fionas ex-partner, drove her to hospital. When Saskia was finally born, the cord was around her neck and she wasnt breathing. Shed swallowed the meconium and had to be resuscitated. All I can recall is saying: Is she all right? and hearing No! But no one was telling me what was going on. I honestly thought we were both going to die. When Saskia was born, the cord was around her neck and she wasnt breathing - shed swallowed the meconium and had to be resuscitated Saskia was taken away, and I was wheeled up to a ward where a nurse asked me: Where is your baby? I had no idea. I didnt know where my baby was or how she was doing. There was an appalling lack of communication. It was very distressing. It was later discovered that Saskia developed blocked bile ducts from sepsis, the cause of which was never found. She was in and out of hospital for six months because she kept losing weight and her liver was failing at one point it was thought she could die if she didnt have a liver transplant. Although Saskia is now thriving, Fiona says that the impact on her own mental health was devastating. Saskia is now thriving, but the impact on the experience has been devastating on Fiona's mental health I went to the GP about four years ago and was told I had PTSD, so I underwent intense therapy and feel I can verbalise what happened now. Its been 12 years Im now 45 and could never consider having another baby. People say birth is different the second time, but I cant put myself through it again. Mark Stafford-White, of Ellisons Solicitors in Ipswich, says he has received numerous inquiries from women who have been injured as a result of birth trauma since launching a medical negligence service at the beginning of 2023. Whether due to a failure to listen to the mother, a lack of communication, or inadequate support during labour, birth trauma can cause lasting damage to a womans physical and mental health, he says. Quite a number of women tell us they are too traumatised to undergo another pregnancy. Jade Ryan, who has a seven-year-old daughter Polly, has decided never to risk another pregnancy because of the traumatic delivery of her baby, who was born prematurely at 28 weeks Jade Ryan, 33, a social media manager from Norfolk, says the birth trauma she experienced with daughter Polly, now seven, has left her with PTSD and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). As a result, she has also decided never to risk another pregnancy. On the night my daughter was born prematurely at 28 weeks after a traumatic delivery, they took her to the neonatal ward and I didnt see her for eight hours, says Jade, who lives with her daughter and husband Ollie, 37, an engineer. No one told me what was going on, I had no idea if my daughter was going to make it and I was left totally alone. At one point I just screamed, the most visceral scream Ive ever heard in my life. I couldnt recreate it now because it was like something an animal would make. I felt completely out of control and wanted my baby, or at least to find out where she was, but no one was telling me what was going on. I felt completely abandoned. Later, reunited with Polly, a doctors blunt approach left her scared. Jade didnt see Polly for eight hours after her birth, no one told her what was going on and she had no idea if my daughter was going to make it The doctor warned me that if I didnt breastfeed, my baby was at risk of getting necrotising enterocolitis an inflammation of the gut in newborns that can cause perforations, allowing intestinal contents [and bacteria] to leak into the abdomen. It kills babies, he said, matter-of-factly, and that terrified me. Im sure thats why I became so obsessive, she says. My daughter was too premature to feed naturally, but the hospital did not provide me with the correct equipment to pump my breast milk, so I felt like I was failing. My mum and mother-in-law had to buy a pump for me. Jade and baby Polly had to stay in hospital for five weeks. When she was finally allowed to go home, Jade became overly obsessive about her daughters care. I did things like counting out scoops of formula 20 times just to make sure I hadnt done it wrong. Id take my daughter everywhere even to the lavatory and wouldnt let her out of my sight. Id have to read the same number of pages to her at bedtime and would check the bath with three thermometers. I felt that if I didnt do this, she would die. Like Rosie and Fiona, Jades recovery was aided by therapy. Although Im able to talk about it now, I know I could never have another child. I love being a mum and I always wanted more children, but my husband cant face me being ill again either and is going to have a vasectomy. Its completely changed my life. I used to be so motivated and driven now I can only manage working ten hours a week. If youd said to me eight years ago I would be the sort of person to be mentally unwell, I wouldnt have believed it. I ran my own company, I was ambitious and coped with everything. But today, if ever there is a trigger such as a spate of pregnancy announcements Im back in that room being told my daughter could die and it would be my fault. Dr Kim Thomas, chief executive of the Birth Trauma Association, which gathered evidence for the parliamentary report, says: Hundreds of women told us their lives had been ruined by their experience of birth. The word broken came up frequently. But it doesnt have to be like this. We call on the Government to implement the reports recommendations so that women receive the maternity care they deserve. You can only hope such harrowing accounts become less common as a result, and that far fewer women are left with the deep psychological scars that then dictate the size of their families. The Swedish royals shared the new family photograph on Instagram Princess Sofia of Sweden and her husband Prince Carl Philip have shared a sweet new family photograph to celebrate summertime. Sharing the image to their official Instagram account, the royal couple wrote when translated to English: 'We wish you a nice summer!' In the sweet picture, former glamour model Sofia, 39, smiled alongside Carl, 45, and their three children - Prince Alexander, eight, Prince Gabriel, six, and Prince Julian, three. Sofia put on a summery display in a bright orange top and looked every inch the proud mother as she embraced Gabriel and Julian. Julian, who has been likened to England's Prince Louis due to his boyish playfulness, stole the limelight in the new photograph with his cheeky pout. Princess Sofia and Prince Carl Philip of Sweden shared a new family picture with their children - Prince Alexander (pictured far left), eight, Prince Gabriel (pictured centre), six, and Prince Julian (pictured right), three While Julian is three years younger than the Prince and Princess of Wales' six-year-old Prince Louis, he has repeatedly revealed his similarly playful personality. In June, Julian displayed his cheeky side on as he roamed around a new playground that has been named after the three-year-old royal - and posed for the cameras with his tongue out. Meanwhile, proud father Carl Philip, who is the only son of King Carl XVII Gustaf and Queen Silvia of Sweden, embraced his oldest son, eight-year-old Alexander, in the image. The father-of-three, who is currently fourth-in-line to the Swedish throne, cut a casual figure in brown shorts and simple white t-shirt for the snap, in line with his children's attire. It comes after Princess Sofia of Sweden attended the launch of an educational game in Stockholm. The royal was joined by her 45-year-old husband, Prince Carl Phillip of Sweden, at the launch of the new children's game called, Dexi Ville at Mojang Studios in Stockholm. The princess, 39, is well known for her glamorous suits and today stepped out in a sleek baby blue blazer and wide legged trousers. Underneath her oversized blazer and high waisted trousers, she donned a cream blouse and nude pink high heels. The couple's youngest child, Prince Julian, has been likened to England's Prince Louis due to his cheeky personality (Sofia, Julian, and Carl Philip are pictured in June, 2024) She matched her nude shoes with an envelope clutch bag jewelled with a gold buckle and strap and wore her thick brunette hair down in bouncy voluminous curls. The glamorous royal finished the look with natural make up including a soft pink lip and lightly bronzed eyes. She wore several silver rings on her finger and a multicoloured bracelet on her right wrist, that appeared to be made up of a chain of wooden horses threaded together. Her husband, Prince Carl, matched his wife's effortless look with a navy suit and thick silver watch. The Swedish video game company, who are the designers of Dexi Ville, are well known for also developing the survival game, Minecraft. The new edition, Dexi Ville, is designed to encourage learning and particularly reading for young people. By making reading an important element of gameplay, it aims to improve reading fluency and vocabulary in a a fun, enjoyable setting. Production of the children's game - developed by the Prince Couple's Foundation in collaboration with Minecraft Education - has been supported by software developers Microsoft and Nordea, a universal Nordic bank. Also showing support for the new invention was Joacim Damgard, the president of Microsoft Western. Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia are pictured leaving the King's ship Norge after a reception on Queen of Sweden's 80th birthday in Stockholm in June, 2024 In 2019, King Carl XVI Gustaf decided that Princess Sofia's sons, as well as those of Prince Carl Philip's sister Princess Madeline, will not have HRH titles. Although they will still go by prince and princesses they will not receive taxpayer funds. At the time of the announcement Princess Sofia and Prince Carl Philip said it would allow their children to have more freedom when they get older. When asked by Royal Central if she had ever considered stepping back from royal life, Sofia said: 'No. Not really. I think I have found such a fantastic balance, and I really see it as positive that I have made it through these stormy years. 'It is such a huge advantage, in that we have the opportunity to stand a little in both worlds.' At the beginning of her tenure in Swedish royal family in 2015, the princess received fairly substantial backlash for some of her prior actions in the media. On one occasion, the royal modelled topless with only a snake wrapped around her torso. She later took part in a Love Island style reality show before settling down with her now husband, Carl. Despite the backlash, Sofia came into favour after her work during the Covid pandemic after she took a three-day medical course at Sophiahemmet University College in Stockholm. She then became an honorary chair member at the university meaning she was qualified to be involved in healthcare. Many Swedes allowed their minds to be changed after the royal was photographed cleaning and assisting nurses at Sophiahemmet hospital. The Bessette sisters' mom Ann Freeman warned them not to fly together Ann Freeman, the mom of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Lauren Bessette, had a mother's intuition when it came to her two daughters stepping onto an aircraft piloted by John F. Kennedy Jr. She always told the son of the president John F. Kennedy to never fly with both of her daughters at the same time. But both Carolyn, 33, and Lauren, 34, were on board his plane when it plunged into the Atlantic on July 16, 1999, killing them and JFK Jnr. They were supposedly flying to Martha's Vineyard first to drop off Lauren, before continuing on to Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, to attend the wedding of John's cousin Rory the next day. And Carolyn's mother warned them both about boarding his small Piper Saratoga in 1999, according to a new book, JFK Jr: An Intimate Oral Biography, written by PEOPLE's editor-at-large Liz McNeil and RoseMarie Terenzio. John F. Kennedy, Jr. and wife Carolyn at the annual White House Correspondents dinner in May 1999 - two months before they died 'She was panic-stricken,' RoseMarie wrote of the grieving mother in the book. 'She said something like, "I told him never to take two of my girls up at the same time."' The author said Ann was 'angry' after her daughters' deaths. 'Crying. It was panic, shock. Disbelief,' she recalled. Even though it was an inexperienced 38-year-old pilot at the controls of a complicated plane, Carolyn is often blamed for the accident. In the aftermath of the aftermath of the 'Kennedy tragedy, Carolyn's vanity, her superficiality, her drug use and her all-around 'shrewish' behavior was blamed for leading an inexperienced pilot to crash into the ocean. This is despite Carolyn often telling friends and family she 'didn't trust' her husband's flying skills, as noted in DailyMail.com columnist Maureen Callahan's book Ask Not: The Kennedys and the Women They Destroyed. Carolyn believed JFK Jr. lacked the patience, diligence and attention span to be a good pilot. He didn't take his training seriously, hadn't logged enough hours to fly alone, and regularly broke the rules by sneaking in solo flights when he was supposed to have an instructor with him. Ann Freeman (right) pictured at the memorial service in Greenwich, Connecticut, for Lauren Bessette in 1999 JFK Jr. was flying the aircraft with Carolyn, 33, and Lauren, 34, when it tragically plunged into the Atlantic on July 16, 1999. Pictured: Carolyn and Lauren in New York City in 1998 John F Kennedy Jr. sitting in cockpit with wife, Carolyn, in 1998 (he is pictured in a plane in the same year) While it was 38-year-old JFK Jr., who was an inexperienced pilot, flying the small Piper Saratoga plane when it crashed; Carolyn is often blamed for the accident According to DailyMail.com columnist Maureen Callahan's book, Carolyn told friends and family she 'didn't trust' her husband's flying skills. Pictured in 1996 On the night of the fatal crash, another small-plane pilot had told JFK Jr. he was alarmed by the worsening visibility of the sky, suggesting he should wait. However, the eager pilot replied: 'No chance.' A flight instructor offered to go up with him, but he had refused. 'I want to do it alone', he said. Before JFK Jr.'s scheduled take-off, four other pilots had to use their instruments to land in the worsening haze. Other, far more experienced pilots took one look at the sky that night and said: No way. At 8.38 pm, JFK Jr. was given clearance to take off in his Piper Saratoga, despite defying one of aviation's most basic rules: he hadn't filed a flight plan. Once aloft, he defied another and cut off all communication with air traffic control. Less than 20 minutes later, Carolyn and Lauren strapped into their back seats, the small plane was on a collision course with a commercial American Airliners flight. The pilots tried to reach the light aircraft but heard nothing right, so they sent an emergency message to ground control, who couldn't make contact with him either. Without knowing which way the clueless pilot of this small prop plane was going, the American Airlines pilots had to divert from their flight path to avoid a fatal mid-air collision. JFK Jr. checking his plane in October 1998 at New Jersey's Caldwell Airport Wreckage of JFK Jr.'s plane is lifted from the water A coast guard helicopter lifts a rescue swimmer from the water during the search for debris of JFK Jr.'s plane in 1999 JFK Jr. kept on climbing to 5,500 feet. Despite the fog and worsening visibility, he didn't turn on his autopilot. Nor did he hug the lit-up coastline. Instead, he turned right and went out over the Atlantic, and before he knew it the sea and sky had turned into one seamless black mass and he couldn't tell up from down. The plane went into a graveyard spiral, falling 900 feet per minute, 200 miles per hour, nose first into the ocean Aviation expert Jeff Guzzetti, who was part of the team that examined the wreckage, told PEOPLE that this may have played a role in Kennedy losing control of the aircraft, as he was forced to rely only on internal monitors and controls while flying through hazy night skies. 'He was trained to look outside to get his visual cues,' he said. 'There were no visual cues.' After the fatal accident, an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board found John alone responsible for this entirely avoidable tragedy. In 2001, Carolyn and Lauren's mother Ann reportedly received millions in a wrongful-death settlement against his estate. Racegoers dressed in all their finery beamed amid overcast skies as they descended on Newmarket racecourse this afternoon. Despite the grey weather, glamorous attendees lit up the course on Ladies Day of The July Festival 2024. While Royal Ascot tends to be a more formal occasion, there's no formal dress code for Newmarket - allowing revellers to express themselves with their fashion. And today was a riot of colour and glitz, with attendees dressed to the nines in brightly coloured frocks, with Barbie pink very much the standout colour. Here come the girls! Friends put on a glamorous display in brightly coloured dresses and statement hats Racegoers react during the Bahrain Trophy Stakes on Ladies Day during The July Festival 2024 The event, which begins today and concludes on Saturday, hosts its Style Awards on Ladies Day as women don their glad rags. And the style stakes are high, with 8,000 worth of prizes up for grabs in the 'Sustainable Style' awards. Ladies Day at Newmarket is regarded as one of the hottest tickets of the summer season. Visitors come from far and wide, donning their finest outfits, to enjoy the thrilling racing and compete for the style award. As attendees descended on the racecourse, they donned their brightest and most glamorous outfits, from frills to netting - and fantastic headgear to boot. Sadly, there is a sombre not to today's proceedings. The racecourse is set to hold a minute's silence in support of John Hunt after his wife and two daughters were tragically killed earlier this week. On Wednesday, Hunt's wife and two daughters were revealed as the victims of a deadly crossbow attack at their home in Bushey, Hertfordshire. Guests at Newmarket show off their style opting for brightly covered frocks in bold hues HAT'S THE ONE: These stylish attendees paired their dresses with statement hats in matching tones Today marked Ladies Day at the event, and racegoers certainly put their best style foot forward for the event These racegoers wore matching frocks, which they paired with coordinating white fascinators GOOD TIMES: These women, who appeared to be friends, were photographed laughing as they talked Spirits at the event seemed high, with many off the attendees pictured laughing and smiling during their day out Racegoers are snapped reacting while watching the Bahrain Trophy Stakes at today's event at Newmarket Racecourse These racegoers were seen using their phones to take photos after jockey Ryan Moore (not pictured) won the Kingdom Of Bahrain July Stakes Attendees were snapped enjoying drinks and conversation at Newmarket racecourse today One chic attendee showed off her classic style, donning a white dress with a black and white hat Some were seen making the most of the balmy weather, sitting on the grass as they soaked up the atmosphere of the day Another smiling racegoer is snapped as she attends Ladies Day during The July Festival at Newmarket Racecourse Racegoers watch on, pulling out their phones to take film and photographs after the Bet Boost At Bet365 Handicap A minute silence was observed for Carol, Louise and Hannah Hunt ahead of Ladies Day, bringing a sombre tone to the day A friend of Mr Hunt's told how the proud father would often show off pictures of his family. Richard Hoiles, who has known the BBC racing commentator for 30 years, recalled how John, as 'one of the most respected and liked members of the press room', would regularly share with colleagues details of his home life. The ITV commentator said that he and many others 'felt we knew' Mr Hunt's wife Carol, 61, and their daughters Louise, 25, and Hannah, 28. Racing commentator Chamberlin, 50, introduced ITV's coverage of the racing, and said: 'We should be excited about the start of the July festival. Statement fashion was the order of the day for this racegoer who donned a bold hat in a bright shade of green Another racegoer shows off their style, donning a fascinator decorated with fabric flowers for Ladies Day The balmy weather meant many wore summery frocks as they stepped out in style for today's races HATS OFF: Another racegoer shows off a statement hat, pairing her white and green frock with coordinating headgear Another guest at Ladies Day today wears a single colour outfit, pairing a yellow blazer with a fascinator in a similar hue Two women step out in style, wearing chic dresses paired with bold hats as they enjoy a day out at Newmarket Racecourse 'But as I'm sure you've seen in the news, leading commentator John Hunt's wife and two daughters were killed yesterday in their own home. 'We will have four live races for you with John and his family very much in our thoughts.' He added: 'In the helter skelter of modern-day life it's quite easy to lose track of the things that we hold dear, but John never has. 'I know I hugged my kids tighter last night on leaving for here. Knowing that that simple pleasure has been cruelly snatched away from one of mine, and many in the press room's, greatest friends. 'Words just seem hollow and inadequate in such circumstances and all we can try and do is provide some crumb of comfort by trying to exhibit the warmth and respect in which John and his family is held, as will be shown by the many tributes that will be held up and down the country today.' John F. Kennedy's grandson Jack Schlossberg proved he inherited more from the late President than just political ambition while posing up for a suave photoshoot - showing off his uncanny resemblance to his grandfather. Harvard Law School graduate Jack, 31, is the spitting image of JFK in the sultry photoshoot for Vogue - which has enlisted him as a political correspondent for the Presidential election campaign. Dressed in a suit, the budding lawyer - who is the cousin of presidential hopeful Robert F. Kennedy Jr. - laid on the floor alongside a pile of photocopies of his face in one of the images. Another showed him smiling towards the camera as he bit a pen, while a third featured him running through an office with a stack of magazines in his hand. While chatting with the outlet, Jack expressed his desires to follow in his famous grandfather's footsteps and enter the world of politics - while opening up about his thoughts on whether President Joe Biden is really fit to run for re-election. John F. Kennedy's grandson Jack Schlossberg was the late President's spitting image as he posed for Vogue - and announced he's joining the publication as a political correspondent Harvard Law School graduate Jack, 31, looked just like his grandfather (seen) as he participated in a sultry photoshoot for the publication 'I am inspired by my familys legacy of public service,' he said. 'I take that very seriously, and I want to contribute in my own way. 'I have big dreams, but I also know that Im trying to make a positive impact today.' When asked whether he has a 'message for people who may question President Biden's fitness to run' in the upcoming election amid growing concerns about his health, Jack, a staunch liberal, urged people to look past the candidate and instead vote for his party. 'Whatever people decide is up to them,' he said. 'However, the choice that youre actually making about the government you want is the same today as it was a month ago. Its worth showing up to vote even if youre not enthusiastic about the candidate so that things dont get way worse. 'I understand if thats not an appealing message to people, but I still think, at the end of the day, voting for Democrats is going to be the right way to go.' Unsurprisingly, Jack made no mention of his uncle, RFK Jr, who is running as an independent candidate - and whom the budding politico has publicly lambasted in the past. In May, he shared Instagram videos of himself referring to RFK Jr as a 'friggin' prick', adding that he 'goes way freakin' back' with Biden's political rival Donald Trump. Jack - the son of JFK and his wife, Jackie Kennedy Onassis' only surviving child, Caroline Kennedy, and her husband, Edwin Schlossberg - attended an elite, $60,000-a-year private school as a teen. He then headed to Yale University for college, followed by Harvard Law School for his masters. He received his J. D. and MBA from the latter and passed the Bar exam in 2022. Jack (seen with his mom in 2000) grew up in New York City and attended an elite, $60,000-a-year private school as a teen Jack is the son of JFK and his wife, Jackie Kennedy Onassis' only surviving child, Caroline Kennedy, and her husband, Edwin Schlossberg. JFK and Jackie are seen with Caroline and her brother in 1962 Jack (seen in 2022) has long shown an interest in politics, mingling with top officials at a young age alongside his famous mom and delivering numerous politically-driven speeches Jack has long shown an interest in politics, mingling with top officials at a young age alongside his famous mom and delivering numerous politically-driven speeches over the years. He told Vogue that his love of politics sparked in 2007 after his uncle Senator Edward 'Teddy' Kennedy asked him what he thought of Barack Obama, who was running for president at the time. '[I told him] how much I loved him and thought he was the real deal. I know that my uncle Teddy was just humoring me in a way, but I also felt like he wanted to hear the opinion of a young person and took it seriously,' he recalled. 'He and my mom endorsed Obama right after he won the South Carolina primary. I felt so involved, so heard, so excited about politics, and felt that anything could happen and I could make a difference.' He remembered feeling like he 'wasn't good at anything' before that, but after he got 'super into politics' he had a newfound excitement in life. 'At that time in my life, I wasnt good at anything, really. I was pretty bad at sports, and I was a bad student,' he continued. 'But all of a sudden, Obama was running and all I wanted to do was watch the news every day. I got super into politics, and I felt like it was the most exciting thing Id ever seen.' He also recalled a time in 10th grade when his class was learning about his grandfather's presidency and he felt 'uncomfortable' so he started 'goofing off.' He said his teacher called on him to answer a question and when he didn't know the answer, it put a fire under his butt to go out and learn everything he could about JFK. 'That day I went home and started reading. Thats when I started getting serious about learning about my family and got really inspired by it,' he explained. While chatting with the publication, he described his grandfather as his 'hero.' He then headed to Yale University for college, followed by Harvard Law School for his masters; he received his J. D. and MBA from the latter and passed the Bar exam in 2022 'I am inspired by my familys legacy of public service,' he told Vogue. 'I take that very seriously, and I want to contribute in my own way.'I have big dreams' While chatting with the publication, he described his grandfather as his 'hero,' adding, '[His administration] is a blueprint for how progressivism can work in America' '[His administration] is a blueprint for how progressivism can work in America and how America can lead the world in a positive, optimistic, science-driven way,' he added. 'His administration actually did so much thats still with us today, and he inspired a whole generation of people to enter public service - and still does.' Jack is very outspoken on social media, and has racked up over 180,000 followers on Instagram and 103,000 on TikTok. He gained attention in June 2023 when he went on a harsh rant against his first cousin once removed, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. after he announced he was running for president. Jack previously made headlines after he went on a bizarre online rant against restaurants on his social media Jack publicly supported President Biden and called anti-vaxxer RFK Jr.'s candidacy an 'embarrassment.' He gained attention in June 2023 when he went on a harsh rant against his first cousin once removed, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. after he announced he was running for president. He also previously made headlines after he went on a bizarre online rant against restaurants on his social media. Jack said people shouldn't take his social media posts so seriously, telling Vogue, 'Im just having a good time. 'Im a fun, wacky guy. Im a silly goose - a silly goose whos trying, just trying, to get the truth out there.' But he added, 'I try to say things that I think are important. People can tell when people are being authentic and dont have any other agenda. 'I think very deeply and critically about what I want to say. This election year is so important to me, and thats why Ive been trying to be out there more. 'This is a really pivotal moment in history, and its such an exciting time to be alive and to be able to vote. 'I want to get that vibe out there because theres a lot of negative energy about politics, and I want to bring some positivity out there because this really matters.' Gypsy Rose Blanchard has responded to online trolls who are questioning the paternity of her unborn child. The Munchausen-by-proxy victim, 32, left husband Ryan Anderson in May to reunite with ex-boyfriend Ken Urker, before falling pregnant. After trolls on TikTok falsely suggested that Ryan may actually be Gypsy's real baby daddy, the baby-faced felon hit back by revealing the timeline of her relationship - from her split with Ryan through to her steamy sex life with Ken. 'Left Ryan March 23rd, had a period April 17th, made love with Ken and only him April 27, 28, 29, 30, conceived on May 4th and positive test on May 24th. KEN IS THE FATHER,' she wrote. Despite her clarification, some fans in the comments were still confused by the timeline of Gypsy's pregnancy. Gypsy Rose Blanchard has fired back at online trolls who are questioning the paternity of her unborn child The Munchausen-by-proxy victim, 32, left her husband Ryan Anderson (pictured) in May to reunite with her ex-boyfriend Ken Urker, before falling pregnant Posting on TikTok, Gypsy wrote, 'Made love with Ken and only him April 27, 28, 29, 30, conceived on May 4th and positive test on May 24th. KEN IS THE FATHER' (Pictured with Ken) 'Her math ain't mathing,' commented one, while another wrote, 'Don't believe anything that comes out of that girl's mouth.' However, some fans chose to defend the star, with one writing, 'Y'all are mad about her being TMI, yet you are the ones questioning the father and sticking your nose in it.' It comes after Gypsy admitted that the timing of her shock pregnancy to boyfriend Ken is 'not where we wanted it to be' due to her current parole situation and ongoing divorce from husband Ryan. The Life After Lockup star announced that she was expecting her first child with Ken, 31, in a video shared to her YouTube channel on Tuesday morning. She's currently got another 11 months left of parole after being charged with second-degree murder over the 2015 death of her mother Claudine 'Dee Dee' Blanchard. Due to her parole conditions, Gypsy can't even live with Ken despite their impending parenthood. 'He's going to have to stay at my parents' house for a couple of days and vice versa,' she told People magazine. Gypsy announced that she and Ken were expecting their first child together in a YouTube video on Tuesday She also vowed to be 'everything her mother wasn't' as she detailed how her childhood would impact the way she raised her son or daughter. She's seen as a kid with her mom Gypsy spent her childhood posing as a wheelchair-bound invalid after her mom, Dee Dee, convinced the world she was suffering from leukemia and muscular dystrophy 'But until I'm off parole, I can't move in with him or us get a house. So, we'll have to work around that schedule.' The jailbird-turned-reality star is still married to husband Ryan, with the former couple's first divorce hearing set for July 29. 'I'm still going through a divorce... However, I take it in stride, move forward and I couldn't be happier,' she told the publication. Gypsy recently opened up about the fierce mood swings and emotional outbursts she's experienced while expecting her first child - and vowed to be 'everything her mother wasn't' as she detailed how her childhood would impact the way she raised her son or daughter. In a nine-minute-long YouTube clip, the felon detailed everything from the pregnancy symptoms she's endured so far to how she planned to use what she went through as a child to be a better parent. While discussing her pregnancy, Gypsy, who was released from prison in December after serving seven years behind bars for her part in the killing of her abusive mother, Claudine 'Dee Dee' Blanchard, explained that looking back, there was one major change in her body that she completely overlooked at first: cravings. She revealed that she suddenly started wanting orange juice all the time, but didn't think anything of it at first. 'The first thing that I noticed was the cravings. I craved orange juice, and orange juice was not something I craved on a daily basis before,' the 32-year-old dished. 'So when I started craving orange juice was just like, "OK. I guess I want orange juice. I didn't think anything of it."' She explained that she soon started experiencing 'insatiable hunger' and recalled wanting to 'eat everything.' 'I really went on a binge and just started eating everything,' she continued. 'And then of course I missed my period.' In 2015, Gypsy (left) let her besotted internet boyfriend, Nicholas Godejohn (right), creep into their Springfield, Missouri, home to stab 48-year-old Dee Dee to death 'All the things that I wanted in a mother, I want to give to this baby,' Gypsy said in the video. 'I just want to be a good mother to my child, I want to be everything my mother wasn't' But Gypsy said she still didn't think she was pregnant because her doctor previously had 'tested her fertility' and had expressed concern over her ability to ovulate regularly. She shared, 'I had seen my OBGYN and I had tested my fertility and she was like, "We're probably going to have to put you on fertility meds or something to make you ovulate because you're not ovulating on a regular." 'I had that appointment a month [before] so when I missed my period I thought I was just having issues with ovulation.' But after discussing her symptoms with Ken, Gypsy said he encouraged her to take a pregnancy test - and she was stunned when it came back positive. Gypsy revealed that she's now 11 weeks along, and admitted that she's since started suffering from 'crazy mood swings.' 'Poor Ken,' she joked. 'If he breathes wrong I am just [furious]. Pregnancy is not easy with the mood swings, but he's been very gracious and very forgiving about it.' She also confessed to being extremely emotional, recalling a recent time that she burst into tears over the song Let Her Go by Passenger after it came on the radio. 'That song had never made me so emotional [before], but I was just in tears,' she said. Gypsy married teacher Ryan in 2022, while she was still incarcerated for murder The pair's relationship has been documented in Gypsy's reality show, Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up She also said she was 'always tired' - but added that she was 'very blessed' that her morning sickness hadn't been too bad. And despite her intense emotions, she branded her pregnancy as a 'breeze' so far. 'It's been completely manageable,' she insisted. 'I know it's still going to be a long journey ahead but I'm up for it.' Throughout the video, Gypsy also addressed people who may feel she's 'not ready to be a mother.' 'I don't know if anyone's really ready to become a mother,' she said. 'But I feel a shift in myself, when I found out I was pregnant nothing else mattered. 'The drama on social media... that didn't matter anymore. All that matters is making sure I'm healthy and the baby's healthy.' While she admitted that the pregnancy was 'completely unexpected,' she said she was 'very excited to take on this new journey of parenthood.' 'It's an amazing feeling when your whole world shifts and suddenly it's not about you, it's not about anything other than the tiny little life that's inside of you that you are now in charge of protecting,' she gushed. 'That tiny little life is a baby, a little tiny human that's yours and you have to make sure you protect, love, and take care of it - all of the things I wished I could have had when I was little.' Gypsy began to get emotional as she spoke about how her horrific upbringing would affect her outlook on motherhood. 'All the things that I wanted in a mother, I want to give to this baby,' she stated. 'I just want to be a good mother to my child, I want to be everything my mother wasn't.' Gypsy said the pregnancy has given her 'freedom in a way she never expected,' and a newfound peace on 'everything that has ever happened to her.' 'It doesn't matter because it all lead to me to be who I am today,' she concluded. 'It all lead me to this moment right here right now.' Gypsy spent her childhood posing as a wheelchair-bound invalid after mom Dee Dee shaved her daughter's head, pumped her full of drugs and convinced the world she was suffering from leukemia and muscular dystrophy. Their 'inseparable' bond ended when Gypsy burst free of her warped mom's control in 2015 by letting her besotted internet boyfriend, Nicholas Godejohn, creep into their Springfield, Missouri, home to stab 48-year-old Dee Dee to death. She ultimately plead guilty to second-degree murder and spent nearly a decade locked up before she was granted early parole and released in late December. While in prison, she bonded with Ken after he sent her a letter; they started corresponding and things soon turned romantic, with him proposing in 2018. But after the Hulu show The Act - which starred Joey King as Gypsy and Patricia Arquette as her mother - premiered a few months later and put an intense spotlight on Gypsy's story, she admitted in her memoir that Ken couldn't handle all the sudden attention. They ultimately split and she moved on with Ryan Scott Anderson, and they wed in July 2022. Ryan was by her side when she was freed - but just three months later, news hit the web that they had split. Soon after, it was reported that Gypsy had reconciled with her ex, Ken. A dentist has revealed the most 'horrifying' sights he's encountered inside patients' mouths - including a man who used wall plaster mesh and dental glue to keep his teeth from falling out. Dr Sam Koh, who runs the Dental Boutique in Victoria, has treated thousands of patients with strange ailments over his career. The dentist revealed he had a case where a patient had 'plaque, tartar, and decay everywhere' with several loose teeth held together with building materials. Dr Koh's patient had used the DIY treatment for 12 months and only ate using two back molars before finally visiting a professional. 'The patient was in constant pain. Growing up he would have infections and abscesses. He would pop them and never get any treatment,' the dentist told 7NEWS. The professional also treated a 22-year-old man who needed to have every single tooth extracted. 'He was on constant painkillers and antibiotics as the majority of his teeth were infected,' the dentist said. 'I had to extract all teeth and provide him new implant teeth.' Dr Koh emphasised the importance of taking dental health seriously. Australian dentist Dr Sam Koh revealed one of his patients used wall plaster mesh and dental glue to keep his teeth from falling out 'Teeth are the first thing people notice when you meet them. They play a crucial role in our quality of life, from preventing dental pain to enhancing our ability to enjoy food,' he told FEMAIL. He further explained that dental health is closely linked to overall health, with the mouth often serving as an indicator of general well-being. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, pregnancy issues, and even pneumonia can be associated with poor dental health. Dr Koh concluded: 'Even if you think your teeth are healthy, regular dental visits are crucial. They allow us to prevent issues before they arise and provide guidance on proper dental care techniques.' Dentists have warned the general public of the dangers of DIY dentistry. From filing your teeth into a 'perfect' shape to using a magic eraser to remove stubborn stains, there seems to be a hack for every cosmetic dental concern. But most of the cheap tricks will actually ruin your teeth and could cost thousands to fix, veteran dentist Dr Heath Fraser previously told FEMAIL. 'In recent years, concerning dental health trends have been posted to TikTok and viewed by millions of users: these include teeth-whitening with toxic cleaning products, DIY teeth shaping, and encouraging users to self-treat cosmetic procedures after seeing 'great' aesthetic results from other users on the app,' he said. Adding that anyone who follows the trends are not only putting their smile at risk - but in many case their overall health. Dr Fraser has been in the dental industry for over 15 years and wants people to understand treatments used in clinics are rigorously tested and continuously updated to ensure they are safe and effective. People are using TikTok to share their DIY dental hacks, including filing down their own teeth and using rubber bands to 'make them straight' but experts warn it could cause lasting damage Nail file shaping hack In one video a woman can be seen saying 'no' over and over as she files down her teeth. She went on to claim the video was shot two years before she uploaded it on TikTok - and she 'loves her smile' and hasn't had any negative side effects from the DIY job. Dr Fraser looked into the trend and said while people were initially pleased with the results they complained about tooth sensitivity over time. This is because they wear down the enamel, which ultimately leads to increased tooth decay, discolouration and damage including chips and cracks. 'Using any object to intentionally erode the surface of a tooth is highly irresponsible; once tooth enamel has been removed it is impossible to regenerate,' he said. 'Even when performed in the dental chair by a professional patients run the risk of eroding their tooth enamel. 'Patients who try DIY tooth shaping may require invasive procedures such as fillings, crowns, veneers and even root canal treatment to resolve the erosion issue.' Using the TikTok hacks is more likely to lead to serious dental problems in the long run - including permanently stained and cracked teeth Raw charcoal brushing Many TikTok users have detail their experience using activated charcoal to whiten their teeth, showing significantly brighter before-and-after results. 'Ironically, while initial results may reveal whiter teeth, using highly abrasive surfaces against teeth will wear down enamel and expose the yellow dentin underneath, causing them to permanently appear more yellow,' he said. Some people have taken to using magic erasers to achieve a pearly white smile - but Dr Fraser says this too will do nothing but destroy your teeth in the long run. Using a magic eraser One video showing off the magic easer trend got 400,000 views in a matter of hours - with dozens of people commenting to say they planned to try the hack at home. Dr Fraser said using something like a magic eraser might appear to work - but leads to yellowness long term More commented after testing it out, praising the trick and saying they had 'no regrets' about using the eraser on their teeth. 'Similar to brushing with charcoal brushing, the magic eraser wears down a stained layer of enamel with a highly abrasive surface, and whilst this may cause teeth to appear initially whiter in a short TikTok video, the long-term consequences of wearing down enamel can result in discoloured, sensitive and, in rare cases, cracked or chipped teeth,' he said. Brushing with peroxide This became a huge trend after one TikTok influencer bought the chemical from the supermarket and applied it directly to her teeth. The woman said the chemical is often found in dentist-approved whitening kits, insinuating it is safe. But Dr Fraser says that's far from the truth. 'Using high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide on your teeth and gums poses irreversible risk to the health of your teeth and can lead to tooth sensitivity, irritated gums and lips,' he said. 'Having whiter teeth does not necessarily correlate to healthy teeth, and patients should prioritise the health of their mouths to avoid painful consequences,' he added. DIY rubber band braces He understands having straight teeth is a priority for many Australians but says it should always be left to a professional. Dr Fraser says the rubber band hack has been popular because of the high cost of braces - but adds it will likely cost more in the long run. One such video showed a man sticking a traditional braces kit to his teeth using Gorilla glue. The video was seen by more than ten-million people showing how quickly 'bad information' can spread on the platform. Some people use DIY braces kits - but Dr Fraser says these kits are only effective when used by a professional - and should never be attached with Gorilla glue 'The thin, tight elastic bands used by users on social media can penetrate the gum, severely damaging the soft tissue in your mouth which may ultimately lead to serious irreversible damage, including your tooth falling out from the root,' he said. And while your teeth will probably move Dr Fraser says the result won't necessarily be better, aesthetically speaking. The Gorilla glue is 'next-level' according to the dentist. 'Using toxic substances and attempting to administer your own braces may also lead to serious health consequences such as severe poisoning and tooth loss,' he said. Patients, especially women, are being 'gaslighted, dismissed, and fobbed off' when they raise concerns about NHS care, England's Patient Safety Commissioner says. Dr Henrietta Hughes said the 'patient's anecdote is the canary in the coal mine' of what is happening in the NHS and is 'the thing that tells us there's something going wrong'. She added: 'But too often we hear about patients who have raised concerns being gaslighted, dismissed, and fobbed off.' Her comments come after an extended catalogue of NHS care scandals, with multiple shocking inquiries into the state of maternity care at some Trusts. In an interview with the British Medical Journal, Dr Hughes, who took up her role in 2022, said women in some cases had been patronised and had their concerns dismissed. Dr Henrietta Hughes said the 'patient's anecdote is the canary in the coal mine' of what is happening in the NHS and is 'the thing that tells us there's something going wrong' She added that she is 'swimming against the tide' when it comes to making a lasting cultural change in the NHS. Her role, funded by the Department of Health and Social Care, was created after a recommendation in a report examining three scandals: hormone pregnancy tests that are thought to be associated with birth defects and miscarriages; sodium valproate, an antiepileptic drug that can cause birth defects when taken by pregnant women; and pelvic mesh implants, which have been linked to serious complications. Dr Hughes, a former GP said that too often female patients who raised concerns were passed off as 'difficult women'. She added: 'It shows a very dismissive and very old fashioned, patronising attitude to patients who have identified problems and need to have their voices heard.' While Dr Hughes, a former medical director at NHS England and national guardian for the NHS, doesn't examine individual cases, she wants to simplify the way people can access help and make their voices heard. 'There's over 100 patient safety organisations, and one of the things that we'll be working on this year is doing the Patient Safety Atlas of Powers, an easy-to-read guide of the arm's length bodies and regulators and what their roles and remits are,' she said. 'Because as far as I'm concerned, they don't join up. They don't reference the next step in the chain.' She said NHS trusts are in danger of focusing too much on finance which makes the working culture 'toxic'. She added that she is 'swimming against the tide' when it comes to making a lasting cultural change, adding: 'People are quite comfortable with the way they do things already.' The Patient Safety Commissioner is currently overseeing the implementation of Martha's Rule. Described as 'one of the most important changes to patient care in recent years' Martha's Rule is an established formal right for families to get a second opinion from medics, if they feel their concerns about a relative aren't being taken seriously. It is named after 13-year-old Martha Mills who died of sepsis while under the care of King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in south London in 2021. A coroner ruled she would most likely have survived if doctors had identified the warning signs of her rapidly deteriorating condition, and transferred her to intensive care, earlier. Her death came despite her parents expressing concern about her deteriorating condition to her medical team on multiple occasions. Hundreds of NHS hospitals will roll out Martha's Rule thanks to the tireless campaigning of her parents. The Patient Safety Commissioner is currently overseeing the implementation of Martha's Rule named after 13-year-old Martha Mills who died of sepsis while under the care of King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in south London in 2021 Dr Hughes said the difference patients could make to improving care varied from major overhauls to the day-to-day. She highlighted a recent example from a visit she made to a stroke ward. 'One of the patients said, "In the toilets, it would be much better if you had toilet paper on both sides of the cubicle, because if youve had a stroke youve only got a 50 per cent chance of being able to reach it,"' she said. 'The power of that story is that you can have a unit full of expertsclinical nurse specialists, professors, people with PhDsand they know everything about stroke, but theyve never been in a cubicle with a patient whos had a stroke when theyre on the toilet.' A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: 'Too many patients are not listened to, treated with respect, or given the information they need to access the right services. 'This Government will prioritise patient safety to ensure that the NHS treats everyone with the high quality and safe care that they deserve.' Getting to bed early is often considered a must for anyone who wants to be at the top of their game the following day. But a new study suggests that people who are night owls, such as Barack Obama, Winston Churchill and Robbie Williams could be sharper than morning people. The findings reveal that those who are most active and alert in the evenings appear to perform better at cognitive tests. Researchers, led by academics from Imperial College London, said that various studies have examined sleep and cognitive abilities - in particular the length that someone sleeps - but little is known about sleep patterns, or chronotypes, and cognition. So they examined data on thousands of people taking part in the UK Biobank study to examine the intricate relationships between sleep duration, quality and chronotype - categorised in the study as morningness, eveningness or, where a person did not particularly align to either of the two, intermediate. A new study suggests that people who are night owls could be sharper than morning people Famous night owls include former US president Barack Obama who reportedly went to bed well past midnight only to wake up at 7am British political titan and former prime minister Winston Churchill was also a night owl, going to bed at 4am and rising so late that he hosted War Cabinet meetings in his bath. People taking part in the study underwent tests which examined their intelligence, reasoning skills, reaction times and memory. The researchers analysed data on almost 27,000 people, comparing how well they performed on these tests to their self-reported sleep duration, sleep pattern and sleep quality. People who got between seven and nine hours of sleep each night appeared to perform best on the tests, according to the study, which has been published in the journal BMJ Public Health. Academics also found that night owls and those classed as intermediate had superior cognitive function. Being a woman, increasing age and having a diagnosis of angina, high blood pressure and diabetes appeared to worsen cognitive performance, they added. The lead author of the research, Dr Raha West, from the Department of Surgery and Cancer at Imperial College London, said: Our study found that adults who are naturally more active in the evening - what we called eveningness - tended to perform better on cognitive tests than those who are morning people. Rather than just being personal preferences, these chronotypes could impact our cognitive function. She added: While understanding and working with your natural sleep tendencies is essential, its equally important to remember to get just enough sleep, not too long or too short. This is crucial for keeping your brain healthy and functioning at its best. Co-study leader Professor Daqing Ma, also from Imperials Department of Surgery and Cancer, added: We found that sleep duration has a direct effect on brain function, and we believe that proactively managing sleep patterns is really important for boosting, and safeguarding, the way our brains work. Wed ideally like to see policy interventions to help sleep patterns improve in the general population. 'The King' Elvis Presley also had late night sleeping habits, often only having breakfast at 4pm. Pop star Robbie Williams has also said he is a night owl previously claiming he doesn't go to sleep until 6am and makes his first meal of the day at 5pm. Williams is pictured here earlier this month However, independent experts have cautioned the findings. Professor Roi Cohen Kadosh, an expert of cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Surrey said while the research was 'solid' its presentation was 'inaccurate'. 'This study cannot tell us anything about the impact of sleep on cognition, and a title like make you sharper is wrong. It can of course tell us about the association of sleep with cognition but not any causal effect,' he said. 'I fear that the general public will not be able to understand that and will change their sleep pattern. 'I think that a policy intervention based on this study is premature and a different research, with a different design is required to justify that.' Dr Jessica Chelekis, a sleep expert from Brunel University London, also took issue with the wording used in the study saying it 'exaggerates the takeaway'. 'While the study design is fine, there are important limitations.' she said. 'The most important one is that the authors never state what time of day the participants took part in the cognitive tests, which could have serious implications for their results. 'In addition, the authors also state that they did not take into account the educational attainment of the participants.' She added: 'In my expert opinion, the main takeaway should be that the cultural belief that early risers are more productive than night owls does not hold up to scientific scrutiny. 'While everyone should aim to get good-quality sleep each night, we should also try to be aware of what time of day we are at our best and work in ways that suit us. 'Night owls, in particular, should not be shamed into fitting a stereotype that favours an "early to bed, early to rise" practice.' Famous night owls include former US president Barack Obama who reportedly went to bed well past midnight only to wake up at 7am. British political titan and former prime minister Winston Churchill was also a night owl, going to bed at 4am and rising so late that he hosted War Cabinet meetings in his bath. 'The King' Elvis Presley also had late night sleeping habits, often only having breakfast at 4pm. On the opposite side of the spectrum Apple's Tim Cook is early to bed and early to rise commonly going to sleep at about 9.30 pm and waking up 3.45am In contrast to her husband Michelle Obama is up early, at 4.30am, and then in bed by 10pm Editor-in-chief of Vogue Anna Wintour is another 'lark often in ben by 10.15pm and rising six to seven hours later Pop star Robbie Williams has also said he is a night owl previously claiming he doesn't go to sleep until 6am and makes his first meal of the day at 5pm. On the other side of the spectrum, famous 'larks', those who are early to bed and early to rise include Apple's Tim Cook, Michelle Obama and editor-in-chief of Vogue Anna Wintour. In fact, being early to rise is seemingly common among entrepreneurs and CEOs with surveys suggesting the majority (37 per cent) wake up at 6am. Getting by on a limited amount of sleep also seems to be a habit of politicians and business leaders alike. Former PM Margaret Thatcher, for example, famously got by on about four hours of shut-eye. Some leaders get by on limited amounts of sleep, former-PM Margaret Thatcher famously got by on about four hours of shut-eye Another ex-leader, Donald Trump, famously only sleeps four to five hours a night . Tesla and X owner Elon Musk is another famous face to only get between three to six of hours of shut eye each night American retail businesswoman, writer, and television personality Martha Stewart is another famous figure who gets by on minimal shut-eye reportedly only sleeping about four hours Hollywood star Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson is another celeb to also sleep either less or at the bare minimum typically recommended Jennifer Aniston, of Friends fame, is one celeb with variable sleep patterns either getting up at 4.30am if she's working or sleeping in until 8am or 9am if she's not Another former leader who sleep for less than the recommended minimum of six include ex-US President Donald Trump, who famously only sleeps four to five hours a night. Elon Musk, Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Martha Stewart also claim to only get between three to six of hours of shut eye each night. Jennifer Aniston, of Friends fame, is one celeb with variable sleep patterns either getting up at 4.30am if she's working or sleeping in until 8am or 9am if she's not. You've heard of being 'hangry' but now scientists suggest you can also get 'tangry' that's tired and angry. Nine in ten identify with the feeling, a poll of 2,000 suggests, with one in five admitting they act like a different person. Telltale signs of being tangry include overreacting to trivial things, cited by 49 per cent, constant complaining (43 per cent), impatience (42 per cent) and being in no mood to chat (40 per cent). Tangry people often slam down phones (36 per cent) and struggle to concentrate at work (35 per cent), researchers found. They also row with partners (30 per cent), snap at others (29 per cent), eat junk food to try and perk up (28 per cent), cry or get emotional easily (27 per cent) and swear under their breath about everything (17 per cent). 'Tangry' means to be angry due to tiredness (Stock Image) The survey of 2,000 Brits was carried out for Bensons for Beds in collaboration with sleep expert Dr Sophie Bestock to develop a 'Sleep Calm and Carry On' programme to improve the country's sleep wellness. It revealed that signs of tiredness can include slow reaction speed, getting words mixed up and wearing an item of clothing inside out. The study also revealed nearly one in five Brits 18 per cent admit that they suffer from extreme mood swings and feel like a different person when they are tangry. But three quarters of us do at least eventually apologise after tangry tantrums. As well as impacting mood, tiredness can impact concentration (50 per cent), appetite (27 per cent) and relationships (27 per cent). Seaside resort Brighton and Hove is apparently the tangriest city in the UK with 81 per cent of residents regularly frazzled. It is followed by Belfast (67 per cent), Cardiff (66 per cent) and Liverpool, Oxford and Sheffield (each 65 per cent). Lisa Richards at Bensons said: 'Whether it's crying at the slightest thing or swearing under your breath about everything we are all guilty of having a "tangry" episode now and again.' The average adult only manages six and a half hours sleep each night with 43 per cent routinely feeling tired when they wake up and fatigue typically peaking at around 3pm. Sleep expert Dr Sophie Bostock said: 'Our sleep, wellbeing and behaviour are intimately linked. Around 30 per cent of tangry people row with their partners (Stock Image) Seaside resort Brighton and Hove (pictured) is apparently the tangriest city in the UK with 81 per cent of residents regularly frazzled 'A lack of sleep can alter the emotional control centres of the brain, making us more sensitive to stress, and reducing self-control. 'Some people become more impulsive and aggressive. 'This survey is also a valuable reminder that many of us can feel like a different person when we are sleep deprived and can lash out in ways we later regret.' Bensons sleep plan aims to educate people about the significance of sleep and its impact on both mental and physical health. A mother-of-one has told of her horror after a 'bad cold' left her in an induced coma with sepsis that saw her hair fall out. Leah Denney, from Kettering in Northamptonshire, was an otherwise healthy adult. But in late 2022, the now 28-year-old was struck down with body aches, a high temperature and struggled to keep any food or fluids down. Worried that cold medication had failed to shift the infection, she visited an out-of-hours urgent care centre. Yet, she claims she was told it was merely a UTI and was prescribed antibiotics. A second appointment saw her given more pills, despite experiencing sharp stabbing pains in her chest and aches in her side, she says. Leah Denney, from Kettering in Northamptonshire, was an otherwise healthy adult. But in late 2022, the now 28-year-old was struck down with body aches, a high temperature and struggled to keep any food or fluids down Worried that cold medication had failed to shift the infection, she visited an out-of-hours urgent care centre. Yet, she claims she was told it was merely a UTI and was prescribed antibiotics A second appointment saw her given more pills, despite experiencing sharp stabbing pains in her chest and aches in her side, she says. It was only after attending A&E with a 'gut instinct' her cold was 'something worse' that doctors discovered she was suffering from a combination of flu , Strep A , pneumonia and kidney infection that had led to sepsis It was only after attending A&E with a 'gut instinct' her cold was 'something worse' that doctors discovered she was suffering from a combination of flu, Strep A, pneumonia and kidney infection that had led to sepsis. Medics drained 2.8 litres of fluid from her right lung and placed her in an induced coma for 12 days. Ms Denney, mum to four-year-old Ralphie Denney, is now urging people not to ignore any worrying symptoms. WHAT IS SEPSIS? Sepsis occurs when the body reacts to an infection by attacking its own organs and tissues. Some 44,000 people die from sepsis every year in the UK. Worldwide, someone dies from the condition every 3.5 seconds. Sepsis has similar symptoms to flu, gastroenteritis and a chest infection. These include: S lurred speech or confusion lurred speech or confusion E xtreme shivering or muscle pain xtreme shivering or muscle pain P assing no urine in a day assing no urine in a day S evere breathlessness evere breathlessness I t feels like you are dying t feels like you are dying S kin mottled or discoloured Symptoms in children are: Fast breathing Fits or convulsions Mottled, bluish or pale skin Rashes that do not fade when pressed Lethargy Feeling abnormally cold Under fives may be vomiting repeatedly, not feeding or not urinating for 12 hours. Anyone can develop sepsis but it is most common in people who have recently had surgery, have a urinary catheter or have stayed in hospital for a long time. Other at-risk people include those with weak immune systems, chemotherapy patients, pregnant women, the elderly and the very young. Treatment varies depending on the site of the infection but involves antibiotics, IV fluids and oxygen, if necessary. Source: UK Sepsis Trust and NHS Choices Advertisement Recalling her horrifying ordeal, she said: 'It was horrible. The thought of never waking up, never being there for my child or my family never seeing me again was quite scary. 'Even now I think about it and it tears me up at the thought of Ralphie being left without me and his last memory of me being poorly on the sofa. 'It was the week leading up to Christmas in 2022 when it started, there were lots of colds going around. 'I just generally felt unwell, I was hot and cold, had a runny nose, headaches and body aches. I thought it was a strong cold. 'I didn't have an appetite. I was resting and trying to drink fluids but I was constantly vomiting and I just wasn't getting better. 'It was really scary, I'd never felt this ill before.' After initially visiting the urgent care centre for the second time, 'I just had this gut instinct, I wasn't happy with what they said, it felt like something worse,' Ms Denney said. 'The next day I begged my mum to take me to A&E, she said by this point I looked like a zombie. 'I was very washed out and grey, I felt like I was dying.' Medics at Kettering General Hospital placed her in a coma on New Year's Day at 2am, she said. 'I don't remember anything other than waking up on the 12th of January.' Sepsis, nicknamed the 'silent killer' because it is extremely difficult to recognise, kills just shy of 50,000 Brits every year. It occurs when the body's immune system goes into overdrive, setting off a series of reactions that can lead to organ failure. Bacterial infections are usually to blame, but viruses such as Covid and flu which antibiotics don't work against can also lead to sepsis. Early detection is vital. In its early stages, it can cause shivering, aches and may be mistaken for flu. Suspected patients are meant to get antibiotics within an hour of arriving at hospital. Every hour of delay in diagnosis increases the risk of dying from sepsis by one to two per cent, The UK Sepsis Trust estimates. But the after-effects that survivors encounter can be life-changing. Former MP Craig Mackinlay, 57, was given a rousing welcome when he returned to Parliament in May, having lost his hands and feet after developing sepsis in September last year. This saw her hair fall out, the skin on her hands and feet shed 'like a snake' and her suffering from joint pain and memory loss something she still struggles with now Now Ms Denney is urging other Brits who aren't satisfied with their diagnosis to get a second opinion and get any unusual symptoms checked as early as possible if they think something isn't right Despite making a good physical recovery 18 months after her hospitalisation, Ms Denney says she soon began suffering post-sepsis syndrome (PSS) He also suffered tissue damage to his gums, leaving him with loose teeth, and to his ears and face. Mr Craig decided to stand down as an MP partly, he said, as 'it would be difficult to sustain 70 to 80-hour working weeks which were the norm prior to my illness'. Despite making a good physical recovery 18 months after her hospitalisation, Ms Denney says she soon began suffering post-sepsis syndrome (PSS). This saw her hair fall out, the skin on her hands and feet shed 'like a snake' and her suffering from joint pain and memory loss something she still struggles with now. She added: 'From a medical point of view I got better very quickly once I woke up. 'The post-sepsis symptoms were straight away the trouble sleeping, the lethargy - and a thick layer of skin on the palms of my hands and the soles of my feet started peeling straight away. 'I was shedding like a snake, it made me feel disgusting. 'I get a lot of pain in my joints and muscles, even now I struggle with my ankles, knees, hips and wrists, I never had these issues before. 'Four months after I started to lose my hair. I've got alopecia areata, I've always had patches in the same places, I knew this was different as my hair was coming out in clumps. 'It's a delayed response to your body going through trauma. 'I still struggle with my memory, I have to check my phone multiple times a day to remember what day it is, which is quite frustrating.' Now Ms Denney is urging other Brits who aren't satisfied with their diagnosis to get a second opinion and get any unusual symptoms checked as early as possible if they think something isn't right. She said: 'If you don't feel that something is right, get a second or third opinion. Sepsis, nicknamed the 'silent killer' because it is extremely difficult to recognise, kills just shy of 50,000 Brits every year. It occurs when the body's immune system goes into overdrive, setting off a series of reactions that can lead to organ failure Former MP Craig Mackinlay, 57, was given a rousing welcome when he returned to Parliament in May, having lost his hands and feet after developing sepsis in September last year 'If I'd just stuck with the original diagnosis that I had a UTI I would be dead. 'It's all about trusting your intuition. You might feel like it's a waste of time but it's going to save your life. 'I went to the out-of-hours doctors twice, then went to A&E who picked it up straight away. 'If I can help save one life from someone knowing about sepsis and things to look out for then I'm content in knowing that that's happened. 'It's very scary, you don't ever think it will be you.' A grieving husband has received a 1 million payout from the NHS after his wife died when bungling medics dismissed her fatal heart condition as anxiety. Nurse and mum-of-three Rose Fuentebaja, 40, had been in hospital for a week when she suffered a cardiac arrest and died in June 2017, which solicitors argue was 'avoidable'. Blundering doctors at Warwick Hospital had believed her issue was neurological despite her repeatedly fainting and tests showing disturbances in her heartrate. She had previously been 'fit and healthy' but collapsed at home in Stratford-upon-Avon, in Warwickshire, leading to an ambulance being called on May 23, 2017. But even when paramedics carried out an ECG, which showed disturbances in her heartbeat, she was told her fainting was probably caused by anxiety and her life-threatening condition was missed. Nurse and mum-of-three Rose Fuentebaja, 40, had been in hospital for a week when she suffered a cardiac arrest and died in June 2017 Mrs Fuentebaja, herself a nurse for 16 years who worked in a private hospital, fell ill at home before ambulance crews told her she was fine. The following day, she began to suffer from pins and needles in her hands and feet and fainted again. This time an ambulance did take her to hospital, but unable to determine the cause, she was assessed and again sent home. A few days later, having fainted again, she was taken to hospital by ambulance where she underwent numerous ECG tests. Disturbances in her heartbeat were identified but she was not placed on continual heart monitoring. Instead, she was transferred to a neurological department at Coventry Hospital, where she died of a cardiac arrest on June 4, 2017. The nurse had previously been 'fit and healthy' but collapsed at home in Stratford-upon-Avon, in Warwickshire, leading to an ambulance being called on May 23, 2017. But even when paramedics carried out an ECG, which showed disturbances in her heartbeat, she was told her fainting was probably caused by anxiety and her life-threatening condition was missed Disturbances in her heartbeat were identified but she was not placed on continual heart monitoring. Instead, she was transferred to a neurological department at Coventry Hospital, where she died of a cardiac arrest on June 4, 2017 She was found unresponsive by a nurse who was doing her rounds, with attempts to resuscitate her proving unsuccessful. Medical negligence lawyers have now secured a 1 million damages settlement for Mrs Fuentebajas husband Darrel. Mr Fuentebaja, who has been left to raise their three children, aged 14, nine and six, alone said: 'It was a really traumatic time when my wife died. 'As a nurse herself she was really committed to helping others and she helped to save many lives. WHAT IS A HEART ATTACK? Figures suggest there are 200,000 hospital visits because of heart attacks in the UK each year, while there are around 800,000 annually in the US. A heart attack, known medically as a myocardial infarction, occurs when the supply of blood to the heart is suddenly blocked. Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and feeling weak and anxious. Heart attacks are commonly caused by coronary heart disease, which can be brought on by smoking, high blood pressure and diabetes. Treatment is usually medication to dissolve blots clots or surgery to remove the blockage. Reduce your risk by not smoking, exercising regularly and drinking in moderation. Heart attacks are different to a cardiac arrest, which occurs when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood around the body, usually due to a problem with electrical signals in the organ. Source: NHS Choices Advertisement 'Unfortunately, when the time came when she needed that help, she was failed and it cost her life. 'I went into a deep depression for about a year, and I had a lot of worry at that time. 'I worried about what would happen to my children if something was to happen to me. 'I was left feeling very angry and bitter about that, and the mistakes that were made, and that is why I pursued legal action for her. I wanted justice for her. 'The compensation is helpful, but for now I cant even think about spending it. Its money that has come from losing my wife. 'I intend to save it and make sure my children can benefit from it in future years. 'They lost their mother and so hopefully it can help them in their lives.' West Midlands Ambulance Service University NHS Foundation Trust admitted breaching its duty of care as paramedics failed to identify potential cardiac issues despite an ECG showing disturbances and her loss of consciousness. They also admitted that Mrs Fuentebaja should have been advised to go to hospital that day. South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust admitted that failing to refer Mrs Fuentebaja to cardiology, and failing to place her on constant heart monitoring, was also a breach of duty. It admitted that had this happened, she would have been correctly diagnosed, and treated with beta blocker medication. Even if she had still suffered the cardiac arrest she would have received swift defibrillation and resuscitation, and she would have survived. Specialist medical negligence solicitor Elizabeth Maliakal, of Hudgell Solicitors, who represented the family said: 'Mrs Fuentebajas death was wholly avoidable. 'Had she been given appropriate treatment and care she would still be with her family today, but she was let down by two separate health providers. 'The missed opportunities to provide timely treatment led to the loss of a much-loved mother, wife and daughter who was the main provider for her family. 'I have been incredibly proud to have been entrusted by Mr Fuentebaja to represent him and his children during the most difficult of times. Medical negligence lawyers have now secured a 1 million damages settlement for Mrs Fuentebajas husband Darrel 'Sadly nothing, nothing can be done to fill the huge void left in peoples lives when loved ones are lose due to medical errors. 'However, we were able to offer our support, and a thorough investigation enabled us to secure an initial interim payment to help ease the financial strain placed on the family, a full apology from South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust and a final settlement which provides much needed financial stability for Mr Fuentebaja, and his children, for the future.' A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: 'We would again like to apologise to the family of Rose Fuentebaja and offer our condolences. 'The trust undertook an investigation into the incident, which we have learned from. As a result we have implemented a number of changes based on the findings. 'We will continue to do all we can to try and stop something like this ever happening again.' A spokesperson for South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust said: 'We express our heartfelt condolences to Rosalies family and friends. 'At the time of her death in 2017 we thoroughly investigated any missed opportunities and following that implemented learning across the organisation.' Kim Kardashian revealed she had tried a new beauty trend that involves getting salmon sperm injected into your face. During an episode of Keeping up with the Kardashians, the 43-year-old told her mother Kris Jenner on set, I got salmon sperm facial with salmon sperm injected into my face.' As well as Botox-like effects, salmon sperm injections also known as polynucleotides are said to give customers a 'baby face' and rejuvenated skin. Kris could only laugh at Kim who is no stranger to a bizarre facial, but the treatment which can cost in the region of 400, can have some unwanted side-effects. The beauty trend can leave your skin bruised and covered in specs of blood, according to advocates of the wrinkle-defying tweakment. But aesthetic nurses who offer the treatment insist the bruising is only temporary. Kim Kardashian reveals a shocking new beauty treatment she just tried on the new episode of The Kardashians Kris could only laugh, though it seems Kim is not the only celebrity who has tried this strange technique One TikTok user with nearly 10,000 followers, who had the treatment, said that she 'looked like an absolute lunatic at dinner'. She showed her post-injected face, which was covered in small lumps, specs of dried blood and small bruises. 'Basically salmon sperm equals baby face and this is what I have to go through for now,' she said. 'I have got little bumps and bruises on my face. But beauty is pain, am I right?' An aesthetic nurse based in Surrey with just over 1,000 followers also posted her face just after getting the treatment under her eyes. Although the video showed her eyes were visibly swollen, she said the treatment caused 'minimal' pain and she 'could hardly feel it'. She added that she had a 'little swelling' that subsided that evening and completely disappeared by day three. Another TikTok video posted by someone with more than 4,800 followers showed her getting the injections at a clinic. Afterwards, her face was lumpy and covered in blood. However, at the end of the video she shared her blemish-free skin completely healed. Sharing her experience on TikTok @donatsuyang, who has more than 9,900 followers, said she 'looked like an absolute lunatic at dinner' because she had 'dried blood and bruises' on her face An aesthetic nurse @the_art_of_beauty based in Surrey who has just over 1,000 followers, also posted a video of her face just after getting the treatment under her eyes. She said that she had a 'little swelling that subsided that evening and had completely gone by day three' Another TikTok video posted by @hi.vega who has more than 4,800 followers, shows her getting the injections at a clinic. Post treatment her face is lumpy and covered in blood Advocates say polynucleotides offer a 'natural' alternative to other traditional 'tweakments' such as Botox and filler. Some doctors claim it is safer than other cosmetic injectables, which have been linked to a catalogue of complications including blocked blood vessels, lumpy skin and infections. It typically uses purified and sterilised DNA molecules extracted from salmon or trout sperm, known as polynucleotides which have anti-inflammatory effects. South Korea's aesthetics sector has been using the treatment for over a decade but it's now gaining popularity among Western celebrities, including Jennifer Aniston, who told The Wall Street Journal she is reaping its skin rejuvenating qualities. When polynucleotides, DNA molecules extracted from fish sperm, are injected into human skin, fibroblasts are activated. Fibroblasts are stretchy molecules found in skin that help to maintain the structural framework of the tissue. As we age these fibroblasts decrease. So, when the polynucleotides are injected under the eyes, in the cheekbones or in the neck, it theoretically 'rejuvenates' the skin. The popular fishy injectable has been a staple skincare treatment in South Korea for more than a decade and now celebrities including Jennifer Aniston (pictured) are reaping its skin rejuvenating qualities The beauty treatment uses purified and sterilised DNA molecules extracted from salmon or trout (pictured) sperm, known as polynucleotides, and some doctors claim it is safer than other cosmetic injectables Although they are 'safer' than getting filler or Botox, they are still painful and will cause bruising, experts warn. Emma Wedgwood, an aesthetic nurse who works in a Harley Street clinic and offers the treatment, compares the initial side effect of bumpy skin to 'bee stings'. But she told MailOnline this bumpy swelling goes down within a day or two. 'Sometimes you get bruising depending on where you're injecting,' she said. 'It's usually the more delicate areas such as the eye which are more susceptible. 'But not it's not in the same way as filler where you would pretty much expect bruising from filler and it is a bonus if you don't, with polynucleotides it's the other way around.' Once the swelling has reduced and the skin starts to heal, it can still take months to see the full wrinkle busting effects. Ms Wedgwood said: 'It can be frustrating for the patient because they have to wait. 'You are looking at about three to six months to see the full effects. So, it's not an overnight job.' Aesthetic nurse Amanda Azzopardi also offers polynucleotides (pictured, a patient) and explains because a very fine needle is used and the product isn't thick, the bruising 'shouldn't be extensive' Aesthetic nurse Amanda Azzopardi also offers polynucleotides in her clinics in London, Liverpool and North Wales. She explains the injections will bruise the skin, just like any other injectable. Because a very fine needle is used and the product isn't thick, the bruising 'shouldn't be extensive', she says. But patients should be warned that the area will sting for about a minute and it may take a week for bruising to heal. 'It's still an injectable treatment,' she told MailOnline. 'So, you're going to have minor side effects such as redness, bruising, inflammation, which will last about a week. There is no risk of vascular occlusion.' However, there is always a risk of allergic reaction. Ms Azzopardi said you should ask about allergies in your medical consultation and raise if you have a fish allergy. A woman with Covid suffered a coughing fit so powerful it caused her intestines to explode out of her stomach. Doctors from the University of Illinois in Chicago revealed the tale in a medical case report, saying it was the first of its kind. The 52-year-old, who had an incision in her abdomen from a previous surgery, became infected with the virus a few days before the incident. Repeated coughing caused her to suffer a 'spontaneous abdominal evisceration,' when the intense force from her cough created so much pressure that her colon ruptured through the old surgical opening. Doctors said in a case report that abdominal eviscerations should be considered a risk when performing surgery on patients who are or who become Covid positive (stock image) The patient was rushed to the hospital where doctors saw several inches of bowel coming out of her lower left stomach. They were able to clean the intestines, put them back inside her body and more securely reclose her wound. While the authors wrote this complication is rare, they said doctors need to consider a patient's Covid status before performing surgery. Doctors wrote in the report the woman had first undergone surgery 13 years prior for a hernia - when an organ pushes through the muscle or tissue that contains it - repair in her abdomen. Soon after, she was incarcerated and over the years had to undergo several repairs to her original operation. Five days before her freak injury, the woman contracted Covid and was suffering from bouts of coughing. When she arrived at the hospital following a particularly powerful coughing spell, doctors saw her bowel protruding from the incision of her previous hernia repairs. The left illustration is from a Florida patient's case report depicting how the man's bowels were protruding through the wound in his abdomen. The right illustration depicts the man's incision after doctors repaired his evisceration The report authors did not provide additional details on the woman's condition, but wrote she needed to be resuscitated. She also received antibiotics to prevent infection of the exposed bowel. The woman was then taken into the operating room where doctors examined and washed the bowel and put it back inside her body. To reclose the wound, surgeons used several sutures over multiple layers of the woman's abdominal fat, tissue and skin, including a very strong stitching technique that is able to withstand heightened tension in the body. Surgeons were able to successfully put the woman's organs back inside her body and reclose her wound Surgery was successful and the woman's bowel function remained intact. There were no further complications and she was sent home after six days in the hospital. Abdominal evisceration is a rare but serious complication of surgery. It is sometimes called disembowelment and occurs when a patient's internal organs protrude through an incision because of wound dehiscence, the reopening of a surgical site. A study found wound dehiscence is estimated to occur in up to three-in-100 people who have had abdominal and pelvic surgeries, but can occur in up to 10 percent of elderly patients. It can be deadly for four-in-10 patients due to excessive blood loss, prolonged severe pain or injury to the organs that have been exposed. Experts cite coughing as a prominent risk factor for the complication and the case report authors wrote that 'post-operative cough is a known risk factor for fascial dehiscence and evisceration,' which has a high mortality rate and is associated with increased future complications. When wound dehiscence and evisceration do occur, they must be treated with surgery to replace organs into the abdomen and close the open wound. A sterile saline covering should also be put on eviscerations to keep the exposed organs moist until surgery can be performed. The surgeons added: 'As new variants of Covid-19 continue to surface, new clinical presentations of Covid-19 are being seen. Although evisceration is a rare presentation, surgeons should be aware of the possibility and take it into account when performing surgery on patients with Covid-19. While the authors of the case study report this is the first known incident of abdominal evisceration in a patient with Covid-19, a man in Florida recently suffered a similar injury. Doctors wrote in a May 2024 case report that the intestines of a man who had recently undergone abdominal surgery protruded out of his incision after he coughed and sneezed at the same time while eating breakfast in a diner with his wife. The 63-year-old noticed a 'wet' sensation followed by sharp pain. When he lifted his shirt he saw several inches of bowel were sticking out of his surgical wound. He was immediately rushed to the operating room where surgeons were able to successfully return his bowel into his abdomen. After recovering in the hospital for six days, the man was sent home and experienced no further complications. This is how a doctor performs the test, and how a patient is graded. To test yourself, you'll need a partner and a sheet of paper. Physicians say you should only do the test with a doctor to make sure the results are accurate and well-interpreted. There is a physician-approved self-test version which you can take online. 1. ALTERNATING TRAIL MAKING TEST: Write the fist five letters of the alphabet and numbers (1-5, A-E) on a piece of paper. Now connect them with dotted lines in ascending order. RESULT: You get a point for every successful pair: 1-A; 2-B; 3-C; 4-D; 5-E. No lines can be crossed. The patient earns 0 if they make a mistake that is not immediately corrected. 2. VISUOCONSTRUCTIONAL SKILLS (CUBE) TEST: Draw your own version of the cube in the space next to it. It must be exactly the same as the one printed on the page. RESULT: One point if it is drawn correctly (i.e. three-dimensional, all lines are drawn, no line is added, lines are relatively parallel and their length is similar no point if any of those criteria are missing). 3. VISUOCONSTRUCTIONAL SKILLS (CLOCK) TEST: Draw a clock, putting in all the numbers and set the time to 10 minutes past 11 o'clock. RESULT: One point is allocated for each of the following three criteria: Contour (ONE POINT): the clock face must be a circle with only minor distortion acceptable (i.e. slight imperfection on closing the circle). Numbers (ONE POINT): all clock numbers must be present with no additional numbers; numbers must be in the correct order and placed in the approximate quadrants on the clock face. Roman numerals are acceptable. Numbers can be placed outside the circle contour. Hands (ONE POINT): there must be two hands jointly indicating the correct time; the hour hand must be clearly shorter than the minute hand. Hands must be centered within the clock face with their junction close to the clock center. A point is not assigned for a given element if any of the above-criteria are not met. 4. NAMING TEST: Name each animal. RESULT: One point for each: Lion Rhinoceros (or rhino) Camel (or dromedary) 5. MEMORY TEST: This will involve your partner. Ask your partner to read out the below list of words, and then say back as many of the words as you can remember. FACE, VELVET, CHURCH, DAISY, RED RESULT: No plus points for this test, but minus points for every word missed or that is incorrect. 6. ATTENTION TEST (numbers): Ask your partner to read out the below list of numbers, then recite the numbers back to them in order. 2 1 8 5 4 Also ask your partner to read out the below list of numbers, and then recite them back to them in a backwards order. 7 4 2 RESULT: One point for getting each scenario right TEST (letters): Ask your partner to read out the below list of letters at a rate of one per second, and tap every time you hear the letter A. F B A C M N A A J K L B A F A K D E A A A J A M O F A A B RESULT: One point if no mistakes. No points if two or more errors. TEST (math): Begin at the number 100, and then count down by subtracting seven every time. Do this five times. Your answers should look like the below numbers. 93 86 79 72 65 RESULT: Three points if four or five answers are correct, two points if two or three are correct, one point if one is correct, no points if they are all wrong. 7. SENTENCE REPETITION TEST: Ask your partner to read out the below sentences, and then say it back to them. The sentence must be exactly the same, with no substitutions or changes to words. 'I only know that John is the one to help today. The cat always hid under the couch when dogs were in the room.' RESULT: One point for each correct sentence. 8. VERBAL FLUENCY TEST: Set a timer for 60 seconds and try to think of as many words as possible that begin with the letter F. The aim is to get at least 11 words. These words cannot be proper nouns, like Bob or Boston, and cannot be the same sounding but with different suffixes (e.g. love, lover, loving). RESULT: One point for reaching 11 words or more within a minute. 9. ABSTRACTION TEST: The similarity between a banana and an orange is that they are both fruit. Find the similarity between the following two pairs. Train - bicycle, and watch - ruler RESULT: One point for each similarity that is correct Acceptable answers: Train and bicycle: means of transport, means of traveling, used to take trips Ruler and watch: means of measurement, measuring instruments Unacceptable answers: Train and bicycle: they have wheels Ruler and watch: they have numbers 10. DELAYED RECALL TEST: Try to recall all the words you heard earlier in the memory section, on question five. RESULT: One point for each word that was recalled correctly. The words were FACE, VELVET, CHURCH, DAISY and RED. 11. ORIENTATION TEST: Say the exact date, and then the month, year and day. Also say the place where you are and the city that you are in. RESULT: One point for each that is correct, up to a maximum of six points. TOTAL SCORE: Add up all the points accumulating, adding a point if the patient has fewer than 12 years of formal education. Children exposed to second-hand vape clouds have five times the level of nicotine in their bodies compared to normal, a study suggests. However, youngsters exposed to e-cigarette vapour had 84 per cent less of the addictive substance in their systems compared to those exposed to traditional second-hand smoking from cigarettes. The British researchers being the study said their findings, based on a cohort of nearly 1,800 American children suggested switching to vapes from traditional cigarettes could reduce the risk children's second-hand nicotine exposure. But, in the same breath, they warned that reduce does not mean eliminate and vaping around children 'should be avoided. In the study University of College London researchers compared levels of cotinine in blood samples taken from children in various US households divided by smoking and vaping status. Youngsters exposed to e-cigarette vapour had 84 per cent less of the addictive substance in their systems compared to those exposed to traditional second-hand smoking from cigarettes (stock image) This chart shows the level of cotinine in the blood of children in different smoking and vaping households Cotinine is a substance made by the body as it breaks down nicotine and tests for it are considered the gold standard for detecting exposure to the addictive substance. In total, researchers examined cotinine results for 1,777 children aged between three and 11 years collected between 2017 and 2020. Of this group 270 had been exposed to cigarette smoke, 43 to vape vapour and 1,464 to neither. Children exposed to second-hand cigarette smoke reported the highest cotinine levels of 0.49 micrograms per litre. In comparison, children of vapers recorded only 0.08 micrograms of cotinine per litre, a figure representing an 83.6 per cent reduction in nicotine exposure compared to youngsters exposed to traditional second-hand smoking. However, this was still 402 per cent times the level of cotinine recorded amongst children exposed to no second-hand smoking or vaping (0.016 micrograms per litre). For comparison, a level of 15 micrograms of cotinine per litre of blood indicates a person has used a nicotine product such as cigarettes or vapes. Researchers, who published their findings in the journal Jama Network Open, said results suggested second hand nicotine exposure from vapes to children was far lower than that of cigarettes. This was also likely true for other harmful chemicals emitted by traditional tobacco products, they added. However, they still cautioned against exposing children to vape vapour indoors. 'Nonetheless, vaping inside the home around children should be avoided given that, even though nicotine itself has a limited risk profile, the increased absorption of nicotine from secondhand vapour suggests that the children were also exposed to other potentially harmful excipients from e-cigarettes,' they said. However, independent researchers were more bullish about the results claiming they demonstrated that the level of nicotine exhaled second-hand by vapers was 'negligible'. Professor Peter Hajek, an expert in health and lifestyle research at Queen Mary University of London, said: 'The study confirms that, as expected, the amount of nicotine exhaled by vapers, that children and other bystanders are exposed to, is negligible. '"Passive vaping", is unlikely to pose any health risks, but vapers should of course respect that others may dislike the smell or the sight of the aerosol from their devices.' Researchers said one limitation of their study was that they divided children by exposure to smoking or vaping generally, not accounting for differences in frequency of smoking or vaping in the home and this area needed more research. Your browser does not support iframes. Your browser does not support iframes. Another limiting factor they highlighted was parents of the children, who were asked about the indoor smoking status of their household, may have lied out of fear of judgement which could have influenced the results. Use of vapes has exploded in recent years, both in adults and children in Britain. Research shows the number of young adults using the devices has tripled in just two years, and also rising by a more moderate 6 per cent among adults over the age of 45. Other figures show how the proportion of kids using e-cigarettes has soared, with more than a third of 16 to 18-year-olds now regularly inhaling them. For comparison, less than one in 10 were doing so a decade ago. This is despite sales of vapes to under-18s being banned, with anyone caught flogging them to children threatened with fines and prosecution by Trading Standards. Campaigners have long blamed predatory manufacturers for the ever-growing crisis. They claim some brands are intentionally luring kids in with colourful packaging, compared to highlighter pens, and child-friendly flavours such as bubblegum and cotton candy, all for 'pocket money' prices. Measures to curb the availability of vapes to children as well as discouraging non-smokers from picking up the habit were included in Rishi Sunak's Government's proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill. This included a pledge to ban disposable e-cigs, beloved by child users, completely by 2025. But the planned Bill was scuttled by the General Election though charities have since called for Keir Starmer's new Government to reintroduce it. E-cigs allow people to inhale nicotine in a vapour which is produced by heating a liquid, which typically contains propylene glycol, glycerine, flavourings, and other chemicals. Your browser does not support iframes. Campaigners have long blamed predatory manufacturers for the ever-growing crisis, claiming they are intentionally luring kids in with colourful packaging, compared to highlighter pens, and child-friendly flavours such as bubblegum and cotton candy Unlike traditional cigarettes, they do not contain tobacco, nor do they produce tar or carbon two of the most dangerous elements. Nicotine's effect on the brain is well known within 20 seconds of inhalation, it triggers the release of chemical messengers such as dopamine, associated with reward and pleasure. But it also increases heart rate and blood pressure and makes blood vessels constrict. This is because nicotine triggers the release of the hormone adrenaline. Experts widely agree that vaping is safer than smoking, however, are not risk free. E-cigarettes contain harmful toxins, and their long-term effects remains a mystery. Some specialists are concerned the high nicotine content might increase blood pressure and cause other heart problems. Doctors have expressed fears there could be a wave of lung disease, dental issues and even cancer in the coming decades in people who took up the habit at a young age. READ MORE: New York City issues health alert over rise of rat-borne disease A man in Wyoming has been infected with a rare disease spread through dog urine, prompting a CDC investigation. The unnamed man sought medical help after fainting and spending several days with unexplained fever, nausea, sweating, and body aches. Days later, the patient returned to the hospital, and tests revealed he had fluid around his lungs and kidney damage. After a barrage of tests and learning he worked closely with animals, he was diagnosed with leptospirosis, which kills up to one in six patients. Leptocpirosis is spread to humans through contact with contaminated urine from animals like dogs, rats, and livestock The CDC and the Wyoming Department of Health believe the man was infected through his work, including exposure to three dogs who died mysteriously. Their probe also found that Wyoming suffered an outbreak among dogs at the time, with 13 canines testing positive for the disease, and four dying due to severe illness. It's believed to be Wyoming's human case of leptospirosis in 30 years. Doctors struggled to find the patient's diagnosis because leptospirosis usually spreads in areas with high rainfall and water-saturated soil, making it more common in Applachian states, the upper Midwest, and parts of Texas. The Wyoming man was treated with antibiotics and sent home from the hospital days later. The experts warned that dogs should be vaccinated against leptospirosis. Lab tests can determine is dogs have antibodies against the disease, indicating vaccination. 'Lifestyle factors considered to increase dogs risk for exposure include contact with livestock or wildlife, time spent in kennel environments, and participation in activities that expose them to standing water or mud such as roaming farmland, hunting, hiking, or swimming,' they wrote. And all vets and boarding facilities should properly clean waste to eliminate the spread of infection. Leptospirosis is caused by the bacteria Leptospira, which is found in soil and water worldwide but is most common in subtropical areas with high rainfall, such as Australia, Africa, Southeast Asia, and Central and South America. When animals such as rats, dogs, or livestock are infected with leptospirosis, they may have no symptoms of the disease. But they may continue to excrete the bacteria into the environment continuously or every once in a while for a few months up to several years. Humans can become infected through contact with urine from infected animals. The patient in Wyoming said that he had 'occupational exposure to dogs,' though it's unclear what his job was. 'The patient did not have a known connection to a canine case but was occupationally exposed to body fluids from multiple dogs, including three that died from unknown causes,' experts wrote in a CDC report. The same day the man started experiencing symptoms, three dogs at a local veterinary clinic were diagnosed with leptospirosis. A statewide analysis then ound that 13 cases were reported between August and October 2023. Veterinary records and interviews with staff members showed that the sick dogs experienced vomiting, lethargy, and decreased appetite. They also had low blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels, indicating kidney injuries. Four of the dogs were euthanized or died due to severe disease. Five were linked to the same boarding facility from August to September, but officials did not state the name of the operation. Leptospirosis infections are not common in the US, with only about 100 to 150 diagnosed every year of which about 15 percent, or one in six, are fatal. If not treated, leptospirosis can lead to kidney failure, meningitis, liver damage and respiratory distress. There are no vaccines available for humans, though there is a two-dose shot for dogs. The CDC experts stated that the vaccine is usually only recommended for dogs living in high-risk locations, like Appalachian states, the upper Midwest, and central Texas. However, the team said that veterinarians are now shifting to vaccinating all dogs. The Wyoming patient was treated with oral antibiotics and released from the hospital. Scientists can predict the chances of prostate cancer returning up to a decade before it does, in a huge potential boost to survival rates. About half of men who develop local advanced prostate cancer will go on to see the disease return, often with a poor prognosis. But a new test which combines genomic sequencing and artificial intelligence (AI) can identify those most at risk at the point of first diagnosis. Knowing who is more likely to see the disease return means doctors can treat them more aggressively, giving them the best chance of stopping the cancer from coming back. Experts believe it could be widely used in as little as three years following larger trials, saving the lives of thousands of men in future. A new test which combines genomic sequencing and artificial intelligence (AI) can identify men most at risk of prostate cancer recurrence when first diagnosed More than 52,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year on average in the UK, making it the most common cancer in men. Around 12,000 men die every year from the disease the equivalent of one every 45 minutes Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men and second most deadly, responsible for around 12,000 deaths a year in the UK. There is no test reliable enough for a national screening programme to detect cases early, meaning survival has stalled. The disease can be difficult to treat because of its extensive heterogeneity significant differences between the cancerous cells within each tumour and from patient to patient. It often develops at more than one site within the prostate producing two or more tumours, making it difficult for clinicians to decide on the best course of treatment. This can range from a 'watch and wait' approach to radiotherapy, hormone therapy, surgery or a combination of treatments. Your browser does not support iframes. Researchers at the Institute of Cancer Research, London and The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, developed an AI tool to assess biopsies, taken at the point of diagnosis. They used it to analyse 1,923 samples from 250 patients on an earlier clinical trial, focusing on the spatial tissue structure of the cancer biopsies. They also used a purpose-built AI technique to perform Gleason grading a scoring system that grades cancerous tissue from one to five, based on the pattern of its cells. At the same time, the researchers assessed the genetic differences between the cells within individual tumours, using 642 biopsy samples from 114 participants in the same radiotherapy trial. This allowed scientists to assess information about both the cells' genomics and morphology at the same time, to see how both affected the chances of it returning. The long-term nature of the trial meant they were able to analyse these against the patients' outcomes over more than a decade, vital in prostate cancer, which can be slow-growing. They found that the greater the genetic difference between cells - and the greater the difference between the shape, size, and structure of the cancer cells within a tumour the higher chance of relapse. Professor David Dearnaley, Emeritus Professor at the ICR and retired consultant clinical oncologist at The Royal Marsden, said the findings could have a significant impact on patients with traditionally poor prognoses. 'It is potentially really very exciting for the future,' he said. 'We were able to define that the worst 20 per cent of patients really did very badly compared the remainder which is exciting because it means you you've potentially defined the group where you can intensify treatment. 'There are various forms of treatment that are presently possible and if we can improve treatments, we can improve cure rates. 'Until now, we've not been able to separate out the patients who have the very highest risk of recurrence, but our novel analyses could change this by significantly improving our ability to predict whether cancer will return.' The study, which will be published in Nature later today (Fri), found the more differences between the shape, size and structure of cells, the more likely the cancer was to adapt and survive. This 'evolvability' was therefore a strong predictor of recurrence. Researchers were also able to identify a subgroup of patients who experienced disease recurrence in half the length of time compared with the rest of the patients. More than 52,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year in the UK and 299,000 in the US There was also a correlation between the loss of a specific chromosome and a reduced presence of immune cells in the tumour, which may affect response to certain treatments and guide clinical decisions. Andrea Sottoriva, Professor of Cancer Genomics and Evolution at the ICR at the time of the research who is now based in Milan, Italy, said the findings have 'never been shown before.' He added: 'By applying a computational approach to multiple datasets, we have been able to decipher some of the dynamics of cancer progression and treatment resistance. 'This type of research is key to furthering our understanding of how and when to treat cancers, including prostate cancer.' It comes as a landmark prostate cancer screening trial is getting underway in the UK, with a national screening programme likely to follow. Transform will test the effectiveness of diagnosis techniques including MRIs when compared to the current standard, prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test. The Mail has campaigned on improving prostate cancer outcomes for more than two decades. Researchers will now conduct tests on a larger, more diverse group of men but anticipate technology like this will become routine. Dr Hayley Luxton, Senior Research Impact & Intelligence Manager at Prostate Cancer UK, said: 'It's devastating to get the news that your prostate cancer has come back after getting the all-clear. As every man's cancer is unique, it's a huge challenge for doctors to predict whether this will happen and to work out the best treatment plan that will prevent it. 'This project is fascinating because the researchers combined evolutionary studies and AI to develop innovative tools that could be used to identify the men whose prostate cancer is likely to return quickly enabling doctors to combat this by delivering the most effective tailored treatment for those men.' WHAT IS PROSTATE CANCER? How many people does it kill? More than 11,800 men a year - or one every 45 minutes - are killed by the disease in Britain, compared with about 11,400 women dying of breast cancer. It means prostate cancer is behind only lung and bowel in terms of how many people it kills in Britain. In the US, the disease kills 26,000 men each year. Despite this, it receives less than half the research funding of breast cancer and treatments for the disease are trailing at least a decade behind. How many men are diagnosed annually? Every year, upwards of 52,300 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in the UK - more than 140 every day. How quickly does it develop? Prostate cancer usually develops slowly, so there may be no signs someone has it for many years, according to the NHS. If the cancer is at an early stage and not causing symptoms, a policy of 'watchful waiting' or 'active surveillance' may be adopted. Some patients can be cured if the disease is treated in the early stages. But if it is diagnosed at a later stage, when it has spread, then it becomes terminal and treatment revolves around relieving symptoms. Thousands of men are put off seeking a diagnosis because of the known side effects from treatment, including erectile dysfunction. Tests and treatment Tests for prostate cancer are haphazard, with accurate tools only just beginning to emerge. There is no national prostate screening programme as for years the tests have been too inaccurate. Doctors struggle to distinguish between aggressive and less serious tumours, making it hard to decide on treatment. Men over 50 are eligible for a 'PSA' blood test which gives doctors a rough idea of whether a patient is at risk. But it is unreliable. Patients who get a positive result are usually given a biopsy which is also not fool-proof. Scientists are unsure as to what causes prostate cancer, but age, obesity and a lack of exercise are known risks. Anyone with any concerns can speak to Prostate Cancer UK's specialist nurses on 0800 074 8383 or visit prostatecanceruk.org Advertisement Ends Laughter is no joke in one region of Japan, where citizens have been ordered by law to giggle at least once a day for the sake of their health. The ordinance, passed last Friday in the northern prefecture of Yamagata, was inspired by research from the local university which found regular laughter can reduce your risk of heart disease and help you live longer. As well as requiring individuals to have a daily chuckle, the law also demands that businesses to 'develop a workplace environment filled with laughter', and designates the eighth of every month a 'day of laughter'. It was proposed and passed by members of the conservative Liberal Democratic Party. But opposition ministers hit out at the law, saying it breaches the 'fundamental human right' to remain straight-faced. Yamagata University found those who laughed at least once a week were less likely to develop cardiovascular problems than those who did so less than once a month Opposition ministers argued that requiring people to laugh at least once a day may breach their 'fundamental human right' to remain straight-faced Toru Seki, of the rival Japan Communist Party, said: 'To laugh or not to laugh is one of the fundamental human rights guaranteed by the constitution regarding freedom of thought and creed as well as an inner freedom.' Others argued that it discriminates against those who cannot laugh due to disabilities. Satoru Ishiguro, of the coalition Prefectural Politics Club, said: 'The human rights of those who have difficulties laughing due to illness or other reasons must not be undermined.' Constitutional expert Shigeru Minamino, of Kyushu University, urged politicians to stop being 'ridiculous'. 'It's none of your business,' he raged. 'I believe it is good to laugh at least once a day but thats down to my personal opinions and values. Its not something to be ordered or recommended by a prefectural assembly.' The laughter study from Yamagata University, published in the Journal of Epidemiology in 2019, found those who laughed at least once a week were less likely to develop cardiovascular problems than those who did so less than once a month. Researchers studied 17,152 people aged 40 or younger. The participants filled in a questionnaire recording how often they laughed and their health was tracked over several years. The researchers noted: 'We defined "laugh out loud" as laughter; accordingly, silent laughing and smiling were not counted as laughter.' They concluded: 'Our findings suggest that increasing the frequency of laughter might reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and increase longevity.' August 8 has been designated as a 'day of laughter' in the prefecture of Hokkaido, because 8/8 in Japanese sounds like 'haha'. Investors can now get a flexible stocks and shares Isa from investment platform Freetrade FreeTrade* launched the flexible feature to allow investors to withdraw and replace money without impacting their annual Isa allowance, so long as it is put back in the same tax year. Flexibility is a useful tax-beating feature to have, allowing savers and investors to dip into funds and pay them back without losing allowance - and is more commonly found in cash Isas. If an investor needed to withdraw 5,000 temporarily from their stocks and shares Isa and it was not a flexible, they would lose 5,000 from that year's Isa allowance when they replaced it. But an investor withdrawing 5,000 from a flexible stocks and shares Isa would still be able to keep every penny of their 20,000 Isa allowance, so long as they replaced the 5,000 they withdrew within the same tax year. Viktor Nebehaj, CEO of Freetrade, said: Life is unpredictable and large expenses often can creep up on us. With a flexible Isa, were giving our customers the opportunity to meet these short-term needs, while not sacrificing the long-term benefits of the Isa allowance. Of course, with a stocks and shares Isa, investors would be wise not to dip in and out of their pots frequently. After all, a key element of investing in the stock market is to leave your money invested so it can grow and compound over the long term. But a flexible Isa means investors can keep funds invested that they may need to draw on but then be able to replace. A flexible stocks and shares Isa gives the ability to withdraw funds for big one-off purchases, or major payments - for example a home deposit, property renovations, a big holiday, or school fees - and then replace them in the same tax year. This is Money's Simon Lambert is a fan of flexible Isas and argues that more savers and investors should consider the feature and more banks, building societies and investment platforms should offer flexibility. Not many investment platforms offer flexible stocks and shares Isas, with big guns Hargreaves Lansdown*, Interactive Investor* and AJ Bell* failing to do so. But new Isa rules mean investors can now open more than one of the same type of Isa. How does Freetrade's Isa compare? Freetrade* has fee-free share dealing and offers UK, European and US shares, ETFs and some investment trusts but not investment funds. Freetrade's Basic plan has no account charges, but those who want a stocks and shares Isa must take its 5.99 per month Standard plan. The Plus account is 11.99 per month, which investors need if they want a Sipp Rival Trading 212* also offers a flexible Isa with fee-free share dealing but carries no account charge for its stocks and shares Isa. While it has shares, ETFs and investment trusts, like Freetrade it does not offer funds. Charles Stanley Direct* has a flexible stocks and shares Isa and allows investors to hold shares, ETFs, investment trusts and funds. It has a 0.35 per cent account charge, which is waived for stocks if a trade is made that month. Fund dealing is free but it charges 11.95 to buy and sell shares. Bestinvest* also has a flexible Isa and offers shares, ETFs, investment trusts and funds with a 0.4 per cent account charge cut to 0.2 per cent for its ready-made investment portfolios. Fund dealing is free and share dealing costs 4.95. > Read our full guide: How to choose the best stocks and shares Isa The rise of the flexible Isa Freetrade said that it saw significant demand for flexibility in a stocks and shares Isa. Flexible cash Isas have been rising in popularity in the cash Isa market. Some of the best easy acccess cash Isas at the moment are flexible, for example Plums* 5.17 per cent deal (this rate drops after four withdrawals), Chip's* 5.1 per cent cash Isa and Zopa's 5.08 per cent cash Isa. A flexible Isa is more important than ever at a time when savers are facing a 10.4billion tax bill on their savings interest. When rates were low, interest on savings accounts was so pitiful that the personal savings allowance offered the protection most people needed against tax on their interest. But with rates higher and the personal savings allowance stuck at 1,000 for basic rate taxpayers and just 500 for higher rate taxpayers, its become much easier to fall into the savings tax trap. With a savings rate of 5 per cent, a basic rate taxpayer needs just 20,000 in cash now to breach the allowance, while a higher rate taxpayer needs 10,000. Meanwhile, if you pay 45p tax, you get no personal savings allowance at all. The Government is under pressure to sign off a 200million bailout for the Titanic shipbuilder Harland & Wolff. The 162-year-old shipyard operator is in crisis talks with ministers to approve a rescue. Its shares were suspended from Londons Aim market last week after it failed to publish annual results on time. Bailout plea: Titanic shipbuilder Harland & Wolff is in crisis talks with ministers to approve its rescue deal The Belfast group - famous for building the Titanic more than a century ago - is in discussions with auditors on how to account for revenues of some multi-year and complex contracts. Bosses have applied for a 200million loan guarantee, to keep it afloat, and are seeking to borrow cash from a consortium of UK banks but need the Government to act as guarantor prepared to repay lenders if the loans go bad. The saga raises questions over Labours industrial policy and ambitions. Other crises include Tata Steels plans to axe 2,800 jobs, Royal Mail heading for foreign ownership and Dyson consulting on cutting 1,000 roles. Harland and Wolff was bought in 2019 by Infrastrata. Losses hit 70million for 2022, its latest accounts. Passengers are set to pay less for flights from Heathrow after regulators ordered the airport to slash landing fees. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said charges for airlines will fall to 23.73 per passenger in 2025 and 23.71 in 2026. That compares to previously proposed caps of 25.24 and 25.28 respectively. The decision follows a ruling from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) in October, which weighed in on the row between Heathrow and airlines, including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. The UKs largest airport had argued that it should be allowed to charge as much as 40 per passenger to recoup its pandemic-driven losses. Fee row: Airlines have accused Heathrow of trying to price-gouge customers and pushed for it to cut landing fees But airlines said the airport was trying to price-gouge customers, and pushed for cuts. Charges are typically passed on to passengers through their tickets. However John Grant, expert at aviation consultancy OAG, said the passengers savings would be limited. Airport fees and charges are a very small part of an airlines operating costs, he said, adding that fares had already gone up. The landing fees news came as Heathrow revealed bumper passenger numbers with 81.9m passing through in the year to the end of June, up 13 per cent year-on-year. This included over 7m passengers last month alone and its busiest day ever on June 30, when 268,000 passengers jetted through its terminals. The figures come as the group undergoes a shareholder shake-up. Last month private equity group Ardian and Saudi Arabias sovereign wealth fund agreed to buy a 38 per cent stake for 3.3billion. The Public Investment Fund (PIF), controlled by Saudi Arabias crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, is estimated to have more than 550billion in assets. Campaigners have attacked PIFs swoop on Heathrow because of the countrys dubious human rights record. The Government has the power to block deals on national security concerns. But it is unclear whether it would step in as PIF builds its stake. Qatar Investment Authority is also a major shareholder, with a 20 per cent holding. Red Sea attacks: Poundland owner Pepco said cargo had to travel a different way to Europe Poundland owner Pepco said sales were hit as disruption in the Red Sea delayed its summer stock getting to stores. The group, which also owns the Pepco and Dealz brands, said cargo had to travel a different way to Europe due to attacks by Houthi rebels in the region this year. But it reassured investors its Christmas stock will be here in time. Pepco said the delays were partly to blame for a 4.3 per cent sales slump in the quarter to June 30. Sales fell even more at its 800 Poundland stores in the UK, which saw a 6.9 per cent drop. But the Polish retail group remains confident that availability issues would ease. Andy Bond, Pepco chairman, said: We are very confident that we are going to be in better shape for Christmas than we otherwise would have been because weve pulled stock forward. Others will do the same. A disappointing launch of clothes and general merchandise at its Pepco brand also hurt sales. Overall sales hit 1.25billion thanks to the new stores, including some former Wilko shops in the UK, proving lucrative. Six former Melrose executives are in the money again after shares in their private equity venture soared on its debut on the stock market in London. In a major boost for the City after a dearth of floats, Rosebank Industries listed on AIM at 250p a share yesterday, giving it a value of 50million. The stock soared as high as 485p before closing at 480p, making it worth almost 96million. The surge provided instant paper gains for investors including the six former Melrose corporate raiders behind Rosebank who bought 5million of the shares at 250p. Those shares 10 per cent of Rosebank were worth 9.6million at the end of the day. In the money: Melrose co-founders Christopher Miller (left) and Simon Peckham (right ) are senior independent director and chief exec at Rosebank respectively Among the winners are Melrose co-founders Simon Peckham and Christopher Miller who are chief executive and senior independent director at Rosebank respectively. Outgoing Melrose chairman Justin Dowley is also among the six and will chair the new group. Although fellow Melrose co-founder David Roper has also invested, he is not part of the six-strong management team of old-school City corporate raiders. Big institutions including Blackrock, Norges, GIC, Aviva and Artemis are also understood to have backed the business. The float came as the City regulator, the Financial Conduct Authority, backed the biggest shake-up of listing rules in three decades in a bid to attract more companies to London. Dan Coatsworth, an analyst at AJ Bell, said Rosebanks debut was one of the strongest in recent history and could encourage other entrepreneurs to follow suit and list in the UK. He added: Investors clearly hope the team will repeat what they achieved with Melrose. The UK has a strong history of producing high-quality industrial and manufacturing businesses. 'If Rosebank can help ailing ones recover it would be good for the country as well as the fixers pockets. But theres no guarantee it will always clean up. In a letter to prospective investors, Peckham said Rosebank would follow the buy, improve, sell model used by Melrose with such success over two decades. That culminated in the controversial takeover of British engineer GKN in 2018 for 8billion. Peckham said Rosebank would focus on buying industrial companies and manufacturers in the UK, North America and Europe with a value of up to 2.3billion. In a major boost for the City after a dearth of floats, Rosebank Industries listed on AIM at 250p a share yesterday, giving it a value of 50m The plan is to buy underperforming companies, turn them around and sell them, handing themselves and their investors handsome rewards. We continue to target a return of double shareholders investment within a three- to five-year timescale, Peckham said. While Rosebank is starting life on AIM, the junior market in London, bosses believe it will quickly move to the main market once it starts buying companies, and then reach the FTSE 100. That would follow the route of Melrose, which started on AIM with a value of 13million in 2003 and is now worth 7.5billion. Melrose has become one of the largest public quoted companies in the UK and has a highly successful track record for its investors, said Peckham. That was based upon the buy, improve, sell business model adopted by Melrose and which we intend to continue at Rosebank. 'We believe there are as many opportunities as ever to identify and acquire industrial or manufacturing businesses whose full potential can be realised. The takeover of GKN by Melrose was met with stiff opposition amid concerns the historic firm would be sold into foreign hands. A campaign to Save GKN by the Mail was backed by defence industry experts, unions and politicians of all stripes. But the sale went through, handing Melrose control of GKNs aerospace business and its automotive and powder metallurgy divisions. Founded in 1759, GKN is one of the UKs oldest firms and made Spitfire aircraft during the Second World War and cannons that defeated Napoleon. The former finance chief of software firm Autonomy has been banned as an accountant in the UK a month after its founder was cleared of fraud by a US jury. Sushovan Hussain has already been suspended from the profession and will be barred until at least November 2038, said the Financial Reporting Council, the auditing watchdog. It is the latest fallout from the prolonged legal battle over the 7billion sale of Autonomy to Americas. Ban: Former Autonomy finance boss Sushovan Hussain will be barred for acting as an accountant in the UK until at least November 2038 Hussain was convicted of fraud in the US and served a five-year jail sentence as well as facing multi-million dollar fines. Last month, Autonomy founder Mike Lynch was cleared of fraud in San Francisco. The sale of the company, once Britains biggest software group and a member of the FTSE 100 index, was one of the biggest UK tech deals at the time but turned sour after HP wrote down most of the value within a year. Prosecutors said Lynch tried to inflate Autonomys revenue figures. But Lynch said he entrusted money matters and certain accounting decisions to Hussain. The watchdog said of its ban on Hussain: The long period of exclusion reflects the seriousness of the misconduct as evidenced by the fraud offences under the US criminal conviction. Probe: Boadicea the Victorious perfume sells for almost 1,000 a bottle The former boss of a company that supplies perfume to Harrods is under investigation for selling products to Russia. David Crisp, the ex-chief executive of Boadicea the Victorious, whose bottles of scent sell for almost 1,000 at the high-end department store, is suspected of sanction breaches by the taxman. Export bans were put in place after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022 and this is HM Revenue & Customs first public criminal probe for sanctions breaches in the two-and-a-half years since. Court papers reveal Crisp was accused of intentionally breaching these sanctions up to last summer. He was removed as a director of Boadicea in October and chairman David Garofalo has taken legal action to keep him out. Garofalo was granted a temporary injunction to oust Crisp and now a legal tussle between the pair continues. Lawyers for Crisp insisted he did not knowingly trade in breach of the ban and made an innocent mistake. And his legal team intends to appeal a decision to oust him as the boss at the earliest opportunity. 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Staff closest to the ailing 81-year-old deployed a multitude of tactics to hide his deficiencies - limiting reporter access to him, giving the president smaller stairs for Air Force One and physically surrounding him in public to hide his stiff walk, a former Biden aide tells DailyMail.com. Biden has also been given large-print notecards with the most basic of instructions written on them for almost every event and kept to a tighter daily schedule so he can get more sleep. There was even staff charged with devising strategies to keep the president from falling down, the source said. Now, the insider says, those advisers who coordinated the president's protective cocoon should be held to blame for his spectacular fall from grace and the mounting calls for him to drop his reelection bid. The ex-senior staffer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the 'guardrails' placed around Biden meant his meandering and mumbling debate performance was amplified to the more than 50 million viewers. And because his deficits had been shielded from the public by those inner circle aides many Americans were shocked to suddenly see his dramatic decline exposed live on national TV. Biden's falls and gaffes since he took office in 2001 had been highlighted largely by conservative-leaning media outlets but all-but-ignored by more liberal news organizations. That is, until his primetime car-crash two weeks ago on CNN. President Joe Biden's debate performance has put his political future in danger - and has also increased scrutiny on the White House's years long effort to ensure he doesn't act his age 'I always thought that it was the people around him that were going to be his downfall,' the source told DailyMail.com. The source added that any CEO would be a 'moron' to hire anyone from the Biden administration when they have done this much damage to a 'brand'. Biden's inner circle, they say, 'carpet-bombed his relationships with the media that he built over 40 years by waging an unnecessary war of choice with an entire industry that shapes public perception.' 'It was the war that they waged, it was the access that they limited, it was the opportunities they turned down, it was the gatekeeping and hiding him from authentic interaction - all those things that were calculated by his team are his downfall,' the ex-aide continued. 'The problem is when you hide him, or when you limit his ability to engage and communicate, people are not conditioned to seeing him,' the source said. 'So his mistakes and his age are amplified.' 'And even if they're common, normal, verbal gaffes or slip-ups, like confusing two different presidents' names, those common mistakes are going to be put on blast by the media because he's so infrequently engaging in unscripted ways.' The source said Biden could have survived the debate fallout if the White House had done two things: 'Goodwill and credibility with the press corps.' The West Wing has deployed multiple strategies to explain any of Biden's missteps and have been accused of doing everything they can do cover up his decline. House Speaker Mike Johnson on Wednesday the Democrats and aides involved are part of the 'biggest political cover-up that we have ever seen'. Now the White House ploys have begun to undermine their arguments Biden is fit to serve a second term. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confounded reporters during Monday's briefing when she couldn't give a simple explanation for why a Parkinson's expert had visited the White House eight times Author Chris Whipple, who wrote a biography on Biden in 2022, called this White House the 'most scripted in history'. Biden has hosted an historically low number of press conferences and given very little interviews. When he speaks he relies heavily on a teleprompter and only rarely takes questions. His press aides are extremely defensive and attack reports questioning his health or showing the president 'freezing' or in an awkward encounter. In the last week, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre has been hammered by the media for ducking questions about a Parkinson's expert visiting the White House eight times in eight months. Jean-Pierre, known for her non-answers and reliance on her binder, has been creative with her excuses for Biden's conduct. In June, when several videos showed what appeared to be the president 'freezing,' Jean-Pierre dubbed them 'cheap fakes,' and pushed that they were deceptively edited. In one case it's clear that Biden is engaging with a paratrooper off-screen - in a viral video from the G7 in Italy - but in others, the president does appear to be spaced-out - first at a Juneteenth concert and then at a fundraiser where former President Barack Obama leads him offstage. But Jean-Pierre has also refused to answer direct questions when the president has been guilty of a gaffe. When Biden called Japan 'xenophobic' - lopping the top ally in with Russia and China - Jean-Pierre wouldn't say what exactly happened. She acted similarly when reporters tried to get to the bottom of why Biden in September 2022 asked 'where's Jackie?' at a nutrition event. He was looking around the room for Rep. Jackie Walorski, who had died in a car accident the month before. Jean-Pierre wouldn't say whether it was a malfunctioning teleprompter or if the president had forgetten the congresswoman in question was no longer alive. The press secretary insisted that Walorski was merely 'at top of mind.' Since Biden's disastrous debate performance, more details have leaked about how White House aides schedule his day. Most of Biden's events are scheduled between 10 am and 4pm, because that is when Biden is 'dependably engaged,' Axios reported. His preparations for the debate were also held during the day so he had time for an afternoon nap, The New York Times reported. The president confirmed his scheduling limitations to Democratic governors last week when he said he needed more sleep and to stop holding events past 8pm. World leaders have even gone out of their way to adapt to his tighter schedule, but it still hasn't worked. At the G7 in Switzerland in June 2022, an early evening meeting was scheduled with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, but Biden still skipped it and sent Secretary of State Antony Blinken instead, the Wall Street Journal reported. When Blinken arrived, he announced to attendees that Biden had gone to bed (a claim the State Department has denied.) For years, detailed notecards have guided President Joe Biden through events, but he's leaned on them so heavily it's was concerning Democratic donors - and that was before last month's debate The president has also skipped a number of formal dinners with world leaders while traveling abroad. He passed on attending the dinner at last year's NATO summit Vilnius, Lithuania in July. Two months before that, he left a G7 dinner early when world leaders were gathered at on Miyajima Island outside of Hiroshima, known for its iconic 'floating' torii gate and domesticated deer population. At the G20 in Bali in 2022, Biden also didn't attend the leaders dinner. He did, however, show up to dinner in September when the G20 was in India. President Joe Biden (left) is photographed taking the shorter set of Air Force One stairs after a series of trips. He first fell up Air Force One's stairs in March 2021 (right), two months into his administration For years, detailed notecards have guided Biden through events, but his reliance on them in recent months had Democratic donors tense - and that was even before the disastrous debate. The sheets give a play-by-play of what the president is supposed to do - directions as simple as 'YOU take YOUR seat.' They give Biden the run-of-show for events where television cameras are rolling. And he's shown that he's needed the instructions - memorably wandering off an MSNBC set in June 2023 after a sit-down with the network's Nicolle Wallace. In April President Joe Biden started walking to Marine One swarmed by his staff after some aides fretted that his solo walk across the South Lawn called too much attention to his stiff gait Some donors voiced concerns to Axios in February when Biden would use the notecards during private meetings to answer pre-screened questions. The staged question and answer sessions left donors wondering if Biden could withstand the rigors of a campaign, as it looked like he wasn't able to provide off-the-cuff answers. Last summer, Biden almost exclusively started taking the small stairs to board Air Force One. He originally tripped up the stairs of the presidential plane just two months into his administration heading to Atlanta in March 2021. He did so again when leaving Warsaw in February 2023 after his grueling secret trip to Ukraine. And he did so again in March 2023 as he headed to Selma, Alabama. But after he tripped over a sandbag at a Colorado commencement, aides acknowledged to Politico that Biden's use of the shorter Air Force One staircase was intentional to avoid future falls as it cuts down the number of steps from 26 to 14. In April, Biden suddenly changed the protocol for how he walked to Marine One - the presidential helicopter that waits for him on the South Lawn. President Joe Biden started sporting more sneakers after he fell over a sandbag at a commencement ceremony in Colorado last summer. He's photographed with first lady Jill Biden in September 2023 This spring Biden started wearing a $150 pair of wide sole trainers from the sportswear brand Hoka President Joe Biden was sporting a new pair of kicks to the debate in Atlanta last month. DailyMail.com identified them as Cole Haan's riginalGrand Energy Twin Oxfords, which retail for around $200 and give the wearer 'bouncy comfort' with 'all-day responsive cushioning' For three-plus years, unless Biden was with the first lady, he'd walk to the aircraft solo. Aides would wait until the president had boarded and then make their own way to the helicopter. But all of the sudden when Biden was walking to the helicopter, a swarm of aides joined him for the lawn-crossing, which is captured by the White House press. The swarm, according to Axios, was decided upon by the president after some aides fretted that his solo walks across the South Lawn called too much attention to his stiff gait. With the aides surrounding him, the visual is less stark. White House spokesperson Andrew Bates ridiculed Axios for calling attention to the new, obscured view of the president walking. 'He's fully visible except for a few seconds,' Bates said. 'Impeach.' If looks are the key to Donald Trump's vice presidential pick then there is only one winner. J.D. Vance's blue eyes and thick beard first caught the attention of the former president two years ago, when the author and former Marine was competing for the Republican nomination in Ohio's Senate race. 'He's one handsome son of a bitch,' Trump told his inner circle. Since then Vance has emerged as one of his most formidable promoters on cable news channels. And a strict running regimen instituted during his run for Senate has seen the possible veep lose weight recently, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by Trump himself, according to a source familiar with the former president's conversations. Former President Donald Trump campaigning with Sen. J.D. Vance in Vandalia, Ohio, in March. Trump has apparently taken note of a slimmed down Vance saying that 'he's got the look' 'He's got the look,' is another Trump assessment, noting the slimmed down figure and choice of well-fitting suits. It leaves the Ohio senator as one of three candidatesalong with Sen. Marco Rubio, 53, and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, 67on a shortlist for vice president. Supporters, who include the likes of Donald Trump Jr. and former Fox News anchor Tucker Carlson, say he brings a deep connection with the rust belt states that could decide the election, a personal history that embodies the American Dream, and the sort of TV skills essential for the president's number-one advocate. Critics accuse him of being a political chameleon, selling out his Never Trump credentials at the first sniff of power. Either way it marks an extraordinary rise for a 39-year-old brought up in the crushing poverty of southern Ohio by his heroin-addicted mother and his fierce grandmother. His 2016 memoir, 'Hillbilly Elegy,' catapulted him to literary and political fame, establishing him as the sort of working class, white author who could decode Trump and his allure for an uncomprehending liberal and conservative establishment. The book painted an evocative portrait of a forgotten American while still warning that Trump himself was like an opioid, an 'easy escape from the pain.' As opponents have gleefully pointed out, he repeatedly criticized Trump as he promoted his first book, describing himself as a 'Never Trump guy' and explaining why the New York property developer and TV star was 'unfit for our nation's highest office' in a New York Times piece. Vance has become close to Donald Trump Jr. who is seen here campaigning with him in 2022 Insiders say Vance is on a three-strong shortlist, completed by Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida (left) and Gov. Doug Burgum of North Dakota (right) By then Vance had already had two careers. He spent four years in the Marines, serving as a public affairs officer in Iraq, before studying political science and philosophy at Ohio State University. After graduating from Yale Law School in 2013, he joined Mithril Capital, a venture capital firm in California owned by Silicon Valley billionaire and donor Peter Thiel, who later helped fund his pivot into politics. 'Hillbilly Elegy' was published in 2016 That background, combining an Ivy League law school with a well-received memoir, triggers comparisons with another former president. Vance himself leaned into the comparison in a 2016 New York Times column entitled: 'Barack Obama and Me.' He lamented the way the Republican Party was unable to disconnect its political disagreements from 'an admirable man,' even as he described how he would 'breathe a sigh of relief at Mr. Obama's departure.' And there he might have stayed, writing for high-minded newspapers on politics and people, appearing on TV to talk Trump and the Mid West, while making a fortune with his own venture capital firm. It was the backlash to Trump in office that changed all that, according to people who knew him before he got into politics. A friend from Yale Law School, who bonded with Vance as a fellow outsider, said it revealed a hyper partisan streak in the sorts of prestigious institutionsthe Ivy League, media organizationsthat had enabled his own rise. So while Vance was loved as the 'Trump whisperer' in 2016 when his book came out, by the time the movie was made in 2020 the environment had changed. It was not enough to describe his family history. He was expected to be critical of the president. 'It was seeing the same media outlets that had heralded his book, turn on the movie in a way that feels very partisan,' said the friend. 'It was not that it inspired his run in politics, but that it was just like two different moments where it felt very hypocritical of these institutions.' That he would move into politics was no surprise, added the friend. He recounted a yearbook exercise where the students were asked who would be most likely to become president. Vance is beloved by the MAGA base, along with Reps. Matt Gaetz and Marjorie Taylor Green His senate campaign released outtakes from a campaign ad featuring his baby daughter 'I think I was the only one who picked J.D.' he said. 'Everyone else picked the pretty boys from prep schools. Sometimes you just have a feeling in your gut that someone has the story, the skills, the intellect, the strategic thinking ...' Vance threw himself into the race for the Ohio Senate seat that fell vacant with the retirement of Rob Portman. The courtship of Trump began with a 2021 meeting at Mar-a-Lago brokered by Thiel, his former boss. It caught light during one of the primary debates when Vance was the only one of three Republicans on stage to oppose the idea of a no-fly zone in Ukraine enforced by NATO. The former president's son, Don Jr., spotted the clip on Twitter. He was already a fan of 'Hillbilly Elegy' he told friends. 'I haven't commented previously, but I'm getting tired of watching the neocons in #OHSen running dishonest ads calling JD Vance a never-Trumper. It's BS,' he tweeted, adding that Vance was '100% America First.' From them on the Ohio candidate had a powerful supporter at the heart of team Trump. Within weeks he had the endorsement of the former president himself, helping him to a primary win and then an election win in November 2022. He is now close friends with Don Jr. One may be the son of a billionaire and the other grew up in poverty, but they text or speak on a daily basis. Don Jr. has not been shy in talking up Vance as a future V.P. on his podcast. 'You make a lot of acquaintances in politics, but J.D. is a great and loyal guy who has become a genuine friend,' Don Jr. told DailyMail.com. 'His entire life story is the embodiment of the American dream, but he never forgets where he came from. 'He's also one of the few people I've seen in Washington who not only is a true believer in my fathers agenda, but also has the courage and intelligence to fight back against the Democrats and leftwing media effectively in defense of our commonsense American values.' Vance married Usha Chilukuri in 2014. They have three children together Vance's former boss, Silicon Valley billionaire Peter Thiel, helped fun his Senate campaign Vance has become one of Trump's most visible defenders on television and a hero to the hardline MAGA movement with his message of America First economic nationalism. He credits his time in Iraq with developing a skepticism for foreign interventions, and has at times outflanked Trump to the rightwith a tougher line on abortion and on sending aid to Ukraine, for example. Yet in the Senate has managed to work across the aisle. He teamed up with Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown, for example, on rail safety legislation in the aftermath of the East Palestine train derailment in his state. And the new British foreign secretary, from the leftist Labour Party, even claims to be a friend, recognizing in 'Hillbilly Elegy' elements of his own childhood. 'I said to J.D., "Look, we've got different politics, but we're both quite strong Christians and we both share quite a tough upbringing,"' David Lammy told the New York Times recently. Critics see it differently. Matt K. Lewis, author of 'Too Dumb to Fail: How the GOP Went from the Party of Reagan to the Party of Trump,' said Vance was a smart guy who had worked out how to rise to the top by ditching his Never Trump credentials. 'He probably rationalizes it a little bit, which is to say: I can take the good parts of populism and the good parts of nationalism, and soften it a little bit. And use Trump or Trumpism as a vehicle to do that,' he said. 'So that's how you would sort of justify what is obviously rank hypocrisy and blind overwhelming ambition.' A straw poll of attendees at Turning Point Action's People's convention in Detroit last month found that Vance was the clear favorite to be Trump's VP Vance recently tackled that criticism head on when confronted by Fox News' Bret Baier with his past quotes about Trump. 'Look, I was wrong about Donald Trump,' he said. 'I didn't think he was going to be a good president, Bret. 'He was a great president, and its one of the reasons why I'm working so hard to make sure he gets a second term.' And a close friend said the criticism missed how Vance had always bridled at the idea of being the Trump whisperer for coastal elites. 'One of the things he talks about is how he became very uncomfortable with the fact that the liberal media basically was using him as an avatar to explain Trumpism,' said the friend. 'His view was,that over time, he felt like he was kind of going on a runaway train. And if he didn't pull the brakes, he was going to hate himself pretty quickly.' After just two years in the Senate, he could be days from being named Trump's running mate. For his part, Vance was happy to joke with journalists on Tuesday when they asked whether he'd received a Bachelor-style rose or golden ticket from Trump yet. 'I have not gotten a rose or a trinket or any other gifts,' he said outside the Senate chamber, adding that he had no reason to think the speculation about his place on a shortlist was false. 'But I mean, look, it's Trump, right? He is a showman. He loves the fact that people are talking about this a lot.' Don't be surprised if the V.P. is someone else, he added. Anthony Albanese has charged Australian taxpayers a staggering $1million over just three months for everything from international travel to office supplies. The Prime Minister, who has been dubbed 'Airbus Albo' due to frequent overseas trips, billed Australians a total of $298,899 for overseas jaunts to Asia, the UK, the Middle East, Europe, and the Pacific Islands between October and December 2023. Records published by the Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority show one travel claim was a seven-day trip to Malaysia, Fiji, Sri Lanka, US, Singapore, Japan and India for the Australia-India Annual Leaders' Summit. Australians picked up the $98,347 bill for the trip, which was held between March 8 and March 15, 2023 but expensed in the final quarter of last year. The bulk of the cost appeared to ground transport, which was worth $48,149 of the overall amount. Other travel included a $96,712 trip to the Philippines, India, Indonesia, and United Arab Emirates for three separate summits - the ASEAN-Australia Summit, the East Asia Summit, and the G20 Leaders' Summit - between August 29 and September 11. Mr Albanese also rubbed shoulders with US President Joe Biden in October, attended King Charles' coronation and the G7 Summit in May, and flew across the ditch to meet up with Jacinda Ardern in July - which cost a combined $28,297. The expense records also included a mysterious $1000 'accident excess' payment incurred in August under car-related costs. But the most expensive claim by far was international and domestic travel for 62 of his employees, worth $660,701, while his electorate office in inner-Sydney - which is currently overrun with protesters - cost $30,202 for the October-December quarter. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured with his dog, Toto) charged taxpayers more than $1million in the final quarter of 2023 Anthony Albanese and his partner Jodi Haydon are pictured arriving in Delhi for the G20 Summit in September Daily Mail Australia revealed on Wednesday that Mr Albanese's Marrickville office has not been used since January after pro-Palestine protesters set up camp outside. Staff have been told the office can't function as it should due to safety reasons. Australians paid an estimated $70,000 for the unused office in 2024 alone as Mr Albanese refuses to kick the activists off the property. Mr Albanese's US trip in October was his ninth since his election win in 2022, and his 19th international trip in 19 months. 'The relationship between Australia and the United States is so important,' Mr Albanese told reporters on arrival in Washington. 'In today's turbulent world, it is a relationship that provides security, stability, based upon our common values and our position as great democratic nations working together to promote those values throughout the Indo-Pacific and throughout the world.' He was invited because Mr Biden had previously cancelled a trip to Sydney at the last minute. Mr Albanese tried to time his visit to Washington so he could attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in San Francisco and head to China to meet President Xi Jinping. Anthony Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon are pictured, left, with US President Joe Biden and his wife, Jill The Prime Minister is pictured, far right, at King Charles' coronation in May 2023 However, the suggested dates did not fit with the Mr BIden's schedule so Mr Albanese ended up taking four overseas trips within a month. He spent just a few short days at home after the US trip before jetting off again for a historic meeting with President Xi Jinping in China - the first PM since 2016 to do so. During his trip to the ASEAN-Australia Summit in September, the Prime Minister pledged almost $100million to boost trade and investment ties with South-East Asia in a bid to reduce Australia's economic reliance on China. Other expenses in the final quarter of 2023 included $24,541 for car-related expenses, including the $1000 accident excess on August 2. Office administration cost $87,532, with $75,243 in printing, along with $12,289 in office supplies - which included $138 on wreaths and $2,439 on three flags. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister told Daily Mail Australia that all Mr Albanese's claimed expenses were within the rules. Anthony Albanese attended the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit last year India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Anthony Albanese are pictured together during the G20 summit in New Delhi, India, in September 'The Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority has stringent rules,' the spokesperson said. 'These rules have been followed at all time.' Earlier this week, Daily Mail Australia revealed Opposition Leader Peter Dutton billed taxpayers $63,015 for three private jet flights during a two-day cost of living trip to regional towns 'doing it tough'. Mr Dutton also charged taxpayers $32,740 for a five-day trip to New Delhi for the India Australia Strategic Alliance summit - on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Other expenses included $36,977 for scheduled transport between major cities, $10,389 in travel allowance for 28 nights, $3848 for car-related expenses, and an eye-watering $116,911 on printing and communication. Candace Owens has come under fire for her 'despicable' denial of the atrocities of the Holocaust, including the human experiments that Nazi physician Josef Mengele conducted on prisoners at Auschwitz. The controversial conservative commentator, 35, was slammed for her 'increasing embrace of antisemitic tropes' after claiming on her show last week that Mengele's horrific twin experiments were 'bizarre propaganda'. Mengele - nicknamed the Angel of Death because he selected who would be murdered in gas chambers - carried out a series of cruel tests on twins throughout the war, which included sewing them together to create conjoined twins. Out of the 1,500 twins subjected to his horrific and often deadly experiments, only around 200 survived. The commentator now faces criticisms for her 'historically inaccurate' remarks, with the Anti-Defamation League - which was founded to combat antisemitism, bigotry and discrimination - warning that her vile commentary is 'dangerous'. Candace Owens was slammed for her 'increasing embrace of antisemitic tropes' after claiming on her Candace show last week that Nazi physician Josef Mengele's horrific twin experiments were 'bizarre propaganda'. She is pictured during the program Mengele, nicknamed the Angel of Death because he selected who would be murdered in gas chambers, carried out a series of cruel tests on twins throughout the war, which included sewing them together to create conjoined twins. Pictured from left to right: SS officers Richard Baer, Dr. Josef Mengele and Rudolf Hoess 'It's hard to go lower than Candace Owens's claims that Mengele's twin experiments in the Auschwitz death camp during the Holocaust are propaganda,' a spokesperson for the New York-based organization told DailyMail.com. 'Mengele's experiments were heavily documented including by him and photographed. Further, some of his victims survived and testified about these atrocities. 'Owens's Holocaust denial shows her increasing embrace of antisemitic tropes. 'Questioning the evil nature of Hitler and his regime and claiming that America and the Allies were the ones who committed ethnic cleansing against Germany is not just historically inaccurate, it's despicable and it's dangerous.' Irina Tsukerman, a human rights and national security lawyer and geopolitical analyst, also warned that Owens is 'normalizing and mainstreaming antisemitism and pro-Nazi agenda'. 'Owens' comments are dangerous because they feed into Holocaust denial, minimize Nazi crimes against humanity, dehumanize and defame Jews, and support the spread of hateful conspiracy theories,' she told DailyMail.com. 'However, they are also likely the product of state propaganda.' Tsukerman argued that the 'structure' of Owens' rhetoric 'closely echoes the substance of questions and conspiracy theories produced by leading Russian propaganda outlets'. Acknowledging that although Owens has 'lost a lot of support' due to her hateful commentary, the attorney warned that through her 'major following', she is still 'radicalizing her base, normalizing and mainstreaming antisemitism and pro-Nazi agenda'. Peter Somogyi (left) and his twin brother Thomas (right) were surrendered him to Josef Mengel at Auschwitz in July 1944 Mengele was perhaps the best known Nazi physician due to his experiments on twins at Auschwitz. Pictured are twins Thomas (left) and Peter Somogyi (right) who were surrendered to Mengele during the Holocaust Owens, in episode 17 of her show Candace, seemingly tried to dispute historical accounts of how the Nazis experimented on Jews during the Holocaust. 'It's been embedded into our minds, the Nazis experimented on innocent people,' she said. 'I mean some of the stories by the way sound completely absurd like the idea they just like cut a human up and then sew them back together. 'Why would you do that? Literally even if you're the most evil person in the world that's a tremendous waste of time and supplies. Just slice a person in half and sew them together? That just sounds like bizarre propaganda.' However, the Nazis heavily documented the human experiments that they conducted throughout the Second World War. From 1933 to 1945, Adolf Hitler and other powerful Nazi leaders - such as Heinrich Himmler - spearheaded a campaign to 'cleanse' German society of those viewed as biological threats to the ideal Aryan race. The racial policies developed by Nazi Germany determined that Jews, Roma and Slavs - including Poles, Czechs, Russians and Serbs - were 'racially inferior sub-humans', and should therefore be removed from society. A Polish witness is shown with a doctor which explains the nature of her wounds in 1946 while Nazi doctors were tried for conducting human experiments Nazi officials enlisted physicians and medically trained geneticists, psychiatrists, and anthropologists to develop their policies on race and to try and create what would have effectively been Nazi super soldiers. Mengele was perhaps the best known Nazi physician due to his experiments on twins at Auschwitz. From 1943 to 1944, his experiments were of particular interest to Nazi high commands as one twin could serve as a test subject with the other as the control, and it was also hoped that his research could discover how Nazis could reproduce more twins. Mengele's cruel tests included the amputation of healthy limbs, deliberately infecting twins with diseases such as typhus, blood transfusions from one twin to the other and sewing twins together to create conjoined twins. Eva-Mozes Kor, a survivor, claimed Mengele cross-transfused the blood of opposite sex twins to change their respective sexes, experimented on twins' genitals and attempted to attach the urinary tract of a seven-year-old girl to her own colon. Most twins died during Mengele's procedures, but if any survived, they would be killed and dissected for comparative autopsies. Candace Owens's denial of the Holocaust atrocities is the latest scandal to plague the controversial commentator, pictured at a Turning Point event in June 2024 Social media users have also hit out at Owens over the denial, branding her a 'degenerate' and 'one of the dumbest and most vile human beings on the planet'. 'This is her lowest performance ever,' one X user wrote. 'Candy-O is a narcissist. She knows it's a lie, but really really, really wants those clicks,' another tweeted. 'Wants to be relevant so bad.' 'Vile is a kind word for what she has chosen to become......but vile is a good start,' added another. Some critics even questioned her mental state, with one tweeting: 'Wow, she has gone off the deep end.' One said they were 'afraid something has happened to Candace' because her commentary has 'become more and more bizarre' over the years. Another added that she 'seriously needs help'. Social media users have also hit out at Owens over the denial, branding her a 'degenerate' and 'one of the dumbest and most vile human beings on the planet' Owens' denial of the Holocaust atrocities is the latest scandal to plague the controversial commentator. In March, she parted ways with The Daily Wire, which had been hosting her show, after weeks of tension with the right-wing outlet's co-founder Ben Shapiro over the Israel-Hamas war and her promotion of various conspiracy theories. She has also been engaged in fiery online debates with several members of the Jewish community. She was also suspended from YouTube last year for alleged hate speech against the LGBTQ community. In a case that has gripped Britain a seemingly innocuous nurse has emerged as the country's worst ever child serial killer. Lucy Letby, 34, was convicted last year of murdering seven premature babies and trying to kill six others at the English hospital where she worked. Last week, after a second trial, she was found guilty of attempting to murder a seventh. But with the long-running and unspeakably harrowing court hearings finally at an end, voices have begun to question whether Letby may in fact be innocent - despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. It was a case that rocked Britain - and covered in unrivalled depth by awarding-winning Daily Mail journalists in the No.1 True Crime podcast The Trial of Lucy Letby. Who is Lucy Letby? Dubbed 'the Vanilla killer' Letby lived alone in a bland three-bedroom home, sleeping in a bedroom filled with stuffed toys and childlike trinkets. But the nurse, a seemingly 'goofy', 'innocent' young woman found different ways to inflict indescribable, inhuman levels of pain, with some of her victims breaking into tortured screams that experienced pediatricians had never heard before. Several had to take time off work to recover from the trauma. Lucy Letby, 34, was convicted last year of murdering seven premature babies and trying to kill six others at the English hospital where she worked (she is pictured on the neo-natal ward in 2013 two years before she murdered her first victim) She inflicted unimaginable harm on her victims - all while appearing as a smiling, harmless nurse. This image was taken in 2012 three years before Letby's killing spree began She got away with her killing spree despite consultants repeatedly trying to blow the whistle to managers about the spate of deaths on her watch. Between June 2015 and June 2016, Letby would prey on babies small enough to fit in the palm of her hand by injecting air or insulin into their bloodstreams or feeding tubes, causing them to collapse and die. In other cases she rammed medical equipment down their throats, causing them to bleed profusely as they lay in their cots. Among her victims were twins and two boys in a set of identical triplets who she murdered within 24 hours of each other after returning from a week-long holiday to Ibiza. Lucy's crimes Working at the Countess of Chester Hospital, in north England, Letby's callous killing spree began a day after she joined colleagues on a boozy bachelorette party on June 8, 2015. Her innocent first victim, known only as Baby A was born six weeks prematurely and was barely a day old when he was handed into the care of Letby at 8pm. Within an hour, the infant would be dead. Heartbroken hospital staff were baffled at why none of the normal techniques to revive the newborn had failed to save his life. Little did they know, it was one of their own team who was responsible for the killing - and she was far from finished. Less than 28 hours later, Letby attempted to kill Baby A's twin sister, injecting air into the youngster, causing her to stop breathing. On this occasion, medics are able to revive the infant. The next week, Letby would strike again, this time killing Baby C, who was born seven weeks prematurely weighing just 800g (1lb 12oz). Listen to our No.1 UK True Crime podcast, The Trial of Lucy Letby Letby is Britain's most prolific child killer. Here she pictured in 2013 before her killing spree began, holding a baby's piece of clothing while working as a nurse in an English hospital After killing her victims, she would write notes to herself, including this where, in which she scribbled in capital letters: 'I AM EVIL I DID THIS'. The notes were found by police when she was arrested in 2018 In another note found by police in 2018, Letby had scribbled a jumble of words, with phrases like 'love', 'I can't do this anymore' and 'help me' written on it Looming over her defence victim, Letby injected air into his stomach, on June 13. A desperate six-hour battle ensures, with doctors trying to save the boy's life. Letby slays her third victim, Child D on June 22, injecting air into her bloodstream causing her to collapse three times, before dying. Still, despite back-to-back tragedies - all while Letby was on duty and present in the ward - the deaths weren't connected. I am evil. I did this... I killed them on purpose because I'm not good enough to care for them. Lucy Letby's handwritten note The baby killer's reign of terror continued through August, when she killed another baby, Child E on August 4, who weighed just 1.4kg. The day later, Letby tried to kill Child E's twin, Child F by lacing his feeding bag with insulin. Letby attempts to kill her smallest victim, Child G, who was born 15 weeks early weighing just 450g, in September - making three bids to murder the little girl, leaving her severely disabled. On October 23, the nurse murders her next victim in what was later described as a 'persistent, calculated and cold-blooded' attack, taking four attempt to kill Child I. By the end of that month, hospital staff started to raise the alert over Letby - by senior managers refused to act. She went on to try and kill three more children between April and June, 2016, Children L and M, using insulin to poison them, and Child N. Her final victims, Child O and Child P, were two in a group of premature triplets. Letby snuffed out their lives between June 23 and 24, injecting air into their nasogastric tubes. Only now, after almost a year of carnage, was the alarm finally raised and Letby was removed from the ward. But even after pediatricians raised their suspicions about her activities, hospital executives initially refused to remove her from the unit. When they eventually did so they chose to give her a desk job in the patient safety department. Letby killed her first victim at the neonatal ward at the Countess of Chester Hospital, pictured, in the north of England (file photo from August 2023) Face of evil: A beaming Letby is pictured graduating from university in September 2011, left, and as a young schoolgirl, right This images shows Letby being arrested by cops at her home in north England in 2018 after she went on a year-long killing spree, murdering seven babies and trying to kill seven more Blockbuster court case Letby was finally arrested in July 2018 and charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder in November 2020. The killer was hauled into court in October 2022, in what would become one of the longest criminal cases in British history. It was here that the true horror of her heinous crimes, which were the nightmare of every parent, were finally exposed - in a criminal case that left Britain appalled. The court heard how Letby would comfort the parents of children she killed - even sending them sympathy cards after their funerals. Before attacking innocent newborns as young as 23-weeks she had told mothers and fathers: 'Trust me, I'm a nurse'. After she killed one child she texted a colleague and said: 'Dad was on the floor crying, saying please don't take our baby away when I took him to the mortuary, it's just heart-breaking. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to do'. After each of her murders, Letby appeared 'animated and excited', offering to bathe, dress and take photographs of her victims' bodies. Due to her lack of contrition, her motive remains unclear, but the prosecution believes she got a 'thrill' out of 'playing God'. They also suggested she had been trying to impress a married doctor, knowing he'd be the one to come and help if she hurt children in her care. Equally 'beige' and 'average' at work, she allegedly embarked on an affair with a married doctor - with the pair swapping hundreds of messages. Prosecutors suspect her infatuation with the married doctor may have motivated some of her crimes, with the evil nurse targeting babies to create 'crisis situations' that would require his attention. Letby's methods of attack were many and varied, but included injecting infants with air, overfeeding them, poisoning them with insulin and assaulting them with medical tools. Letby was arrested at her home in July 2018 - more than two years after her killing spree ended Pictured are police outside Letby's family home in Chester, north England, following her arrest in 2018 On the outside, Letby appeared goofy, sleeping in a room with bed full of cuddly toys (pictured is what her bedroom looked like when pictured by police in 2018) Letby is pictured being quizzed by cops after she was arreste in July 2018 Letby, an only child, was adored by her parents, with her protective mother shouting at police 'I did it, take me instead' when they came to arrest her. But jurors heard how she felt stifled by the sometimes claustrophobic relationship she shared with them. Letby continues to insist on her innocence and police have been unable to agree on a motive, yet a brief insight into her mental state came in the form of a chilling 'confession' written in a diary. 'I killed them on purpose because I'm not good enough,' Letby wrote. 'I will never have children or marry or know what it's like to have a family.' A 'witch hunt'? For many there has been little room for doubt that Letby is the worst child serial killer in British history. But outside the court case, there has been a growing swell of naysayers who believe the evil nurse is innocent - with some seeking to question the evidence presented at her trial. There was no forensic evidence to prove her guilt and no one saw Letby who continues to maintain her innocence causing harm. Prosecutors instead drew on accounts from doctors and nurses on the hospital's neonatal unit and relied heavily on statistical evidence and expert opinion on complex medical points, some of which took days to explain to the lay jury. Lucy Letby (far right) poses with friends on a bachelorette party in June 2015 - a day before she murdered her first victim at the English hospital where she worked as a nurse John and Susan Letby, the parents of nurse Letby, supported her during her first court case. They are seen arriving at Manchester Crown Court in August 2023 Richard Gill, an emeritus professor of mathematics at Leiden University in the Netherlands, was involved in two cases similar to Letby's in which statistical coincidence was wrongly used in part to convict two nurses of murdering their patients. I will never have children or marry or know what it's like to have a family Lucy Letby on another note Gill, who has been slammed for posting on social media during the trial that the Letby shift table was meaningless and that she had suffered a miscarriage of justice, said: 'The police investigation and crown prosecution made all the mistakes the RSS warned about. Nobody studied the statistics in a professional way.' Other supporters have taken to online forums to insist the killer nurse simply couldn't be to blame for poisoning helpless babies with insulin, overfeeding them milk, inflicting painful deaths by injecting them with air to cause an embolism, or ramming medical instruments into their mouths and assaulting them. Letby must have been the victim of a witch hunt, they concluded. A convenient scapegoat for a failing unit, where it was easier for senior doctors to blame a junior colleague than admit babies were dying on their watch. During her court case, Letby wept as she was jailed for life for her killing spree. She is pictured in a court portrait in August 2023 This graphic shows how Lucy Letby's horrific killing spree progressed throughout 2015 and 2016 The science surrounding air embolism and insulin testing which helped convict her was also flawed, they claimed, or, most laughable, that her defence team was poor and had let her down. And Letby devotees were emboldened further by a 13,000-word-long article published in The New Yorker magazine shortly before the re-trial began, which raised the notion she had been wrongly convicted. In an effort to pick holes in the prosecution evidence the piece introduces a series of alternative theories, from the presence of sewage containing 'undetectable' bacteria to Letby supposedly being a scapegoat for widespread medical failings. The piece was blocked from being read online in the UK and was reported to the Attorney General for potentially breaching contempt laws which banned UK media from writing about the case ahead of the re-trial. But this article itself, misses key evidence from the court case. In the Daily Mail's True Crime podcast series The Trial of Lucy Letby reporters and experts went behind the headlines of some of the world's biggest trials and has covered the Letby case in moment-by-moment detail. Currently No1 in the true crime podcast rankings, The Trial of Lucy Letby offers unrivalled, in-depth coverage of the case - presenting the evidence just like it was heard by the jury. Hosted by Daily Mail reporter Liz Hull who sat in court every day of the trial and broadcast journalist Caroline Cheetham, previous episodes have included weekly updates of the trial itself along with interviews from experts, detectives and victims' relatives. Daily Mail reporter Liz Hull (left) who sat in court every day of the trial and broadcast journalist Caroline Cheetham (right), are among the leading authorities on the Letby case Together they had unprecedented access to the court case, providing the most detail report of Letby's nightmarish killing spree - and the devastating impact it had on the families of her victims. And as an authority on the case, Liz said the New Yorker's report missed out critical details. For example, it makes no mention of the 250 confidential 'trophy' handover notes, blood test results and resuscitation notes relating to the babies police found at Letby's home; it does not try to explain the Facebook searches that she made for the parents of her victims, years after she harmed their children. Unlike the growing hordes of conspiracy theorists, the Daily Mail's journalists have followed almost every hour of the case in the courtroom. On The Trial podcast, you'll hear the facts of the case, free of speculation. Then, once you've listened to all the evidence for yourself, it's time to come to your own conclusion. For the full story, listen to the No. 1 True Crime series, The Trial of Lucy Letby now - wherever you get your podcasts. Disgusted cleaners have shared shocking footage from inside an Airbnb that was trashed by teens who rented it out to host a wild party and left the brand new property in a state of 'utter destruction'. It's alleged the teens, aged 17 and 18, booked the Melbourne home last weekend through Booking.com using a stolen credit card before 160 youths converged on the address for the party, which reportedly had a $20 entry fee. The chaotic aftermath of the South Morang home in the city's south-east was shown in a TikTok video posted by SMK Cleaning employee Codie Benson. 'What gives the right to throw a party and trash someones house?' Ms Benson asked incredulously while panning across the rubbish strewn loungeroom and dining area. 'There is vomit on the table. All the glassware is broken. Pictures are broken. Rubbish galore.' Labelling the partygoers as 'absolute pigs', Ms Benson continued to list the sorry state of the house. 'Broken doors,' she said. 'Couch has got blood on it. Floors are disgusting. Walls have been punched in.' A Melbourne house has been left with walls bashed in after it was rented out as an Airbnb to teens who threw a wild party Ms Benson said that there was both 'wee' and 's**t' on the walls. 'I am not even going to show the vomit on the wall it is disgusting. 'The worse thing is they have smashed everything. 'They have broken glass, trashed cupboards, broken front doors, smashed windows. Smashed mirrors. Smashed side tables, vomited in beds and just trashed beautiful things.' The video was captioned with a lengthy statement expressing their deep sadness and frustration about the state of 'one of their beloved Airbnb properties' was left in. 'Against all rules of rental, a party was thrown, leaving the house in a state of utter destruction,' the caption read. 'We are committed to restoring this home to its former glory and will ensure it shines once again.' Viewers were equally disgusted by the teens' destructive antics. The house was littered with the destroyed remnants of glassware and was stained with vomit, urine, blood and excrement @smk.cleaning A Heartbreaking Weekend for One of Our Beautiful Airbnbs We are deeply saddened and frustrated to share that one of our beloved Airbnb properties was completely trashed over the weekend. Against all rules of rental, a party was thrown, leaving the house in a state of utter destruction. It's devastating to see the hard work and care we put into maintaining this home so thoughtlessly ruined by a group of entitled individuals. This isn't just a property it's someone's income, someone's livelihood, and a place that holds countless memories. We are committed to restoring this home to its former glory and will ensure it shines once again. But we want to take a moment to remind everyone of the importance of respecting the spaces you rent. These are not just houses they are homes, and they deserve to be treated with the utmost care and respect. To our clients and community, thank you for your continued support. #respect #airbnb #professionalcleaning #cleaners #heartbroken #whatiswrongwithpeople #entitled #howdareyou original sound - SMK Cleaning Group 'I could never imagine treating someones property like this ever,' one viewer commented. Another added: 'I am so so sorry for you. No one deserves this. They should be made to pay. There should be some sort of accountability'. One brazen guest allegedly shared footage of the damage to the property on TikTok but was later deleted. Neighbours said that wild gathering was a concern to everyone in the street that night. 'You dont know if it is going to come and spill out onto the front of your yard. Are they going to throw things in your windows? Its frightening,' Marialuisa Lo Piccolo Told Nine News. It's understood the party was only broken up when neighbours called police. A police spokesperson confirmed that officers attended just after Saturday midnight after reports were made of 'a number of people on the street'. 'Police asked the groups to move on from the area, which they did without incident about 12.20am,' the spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia. They added police were investigating the property damage but hadn't received any reports about a stolen credit card used to make the booking. SMK Cleaning employee Codie Benson said the home owners were devastated by the destruction wreaked on their property Ms Benson told the Herald Sun she reported the property damage to police on Monday. She also alleged the partygoers took a television and kettle from the property while causing what she estimated was thousands of dollars worth of damage including 'demolishing' an expensive coffee maker and destroying all ornaments. She said the owners, who were interstate, are heartbroken. 'They are devastated, it's a spiral of emotions,' Ms Benson said. 'I know it's very common for young kids with credit cards to rent a property, destroy it and move on to the next one. 'Do we have to meet these people at the door and hand the keys this way now?' SMK Cleaning has been contacted for comment. When I sat down to write about the search for my long-lost birth mother I had no idea that I would be opening a door into the lives of so many other people who had hauntingly similar experiences. Ever since the Daily Mail serialised my book, Finding Margaret: Solving The Mystery Of My Birth Mother, two months ago, I have been overwhelmed with heartfelt letters, emails and telephone calls. People from all over the world have wanted to share their own stories. Andrew Pierce with his birth mother Margaret who he tracked down at the age of 48 The political writer with adoptive parents, George and Betty, in the 1990s - 'the only mum and dad I had ever known, or wanted' Often unbearably poignant, more than once I have had to brush away tears as they described their struggles to find the parent who gave them away and recounted the often crushing disappointment when they were reunited. But there was also joy, with some inspired to search for their own blood relations after they read my story. I didnt start looking seriously for my birth mother, Margaret Connolly, until I was nearly 50. As I write in the book, there were extraordinary twists and turns in my search as she had no desire to be found. Playtime with his brother, pictured right Some of the people who contacted me were shocked Margaret never asked me anything about my upbringing with my adopted parents after they had taken me out of the bleak Victorian orphanage where I spent nearly three years. But its clear from the letters I have received that many mothers, who often had no choice about giving up their babies, were unwilling to show any affection or to even try to bond with the child they gave away. Cruel? Or were they trying to avoid reliving the trauma of the separation? Whatever the case, here are some of their stories A smiling Andrew in his school uniform MARIA, 79, wrote to me to say she was a happy-go-lucky 19-year-old, living in a tight-knit Catholic community in County Cork, when she was shattered to discover she was pregnant. It was 1963 and the father of her unborn child, whom she thought was a marriage prospect, promptly vanished. She concealed the pregnancy for six months until she moved into the now infamous Bessborough Mother and Baby Home. Her family thought she had gone to England for work. The home was harsh, she wrote, My job was scrubbing floors. One nun enjoyed kicking over the bucket of water when I had finished, so I had to start again. We were being punished for being pregnant. Margaret grew up in a tiny village in County Mayo in a two-roomed basic house, without electricity, gas or running water Maria gave birth to James and for three months they were inseparable until adopters were found. I went to Dublin on a train with a social worker. James was in my arms for every precious second. I did not want to let go of him. When we got to the municipal offices, I had to give him to the social worker, tears streaming down my face. I wasnt allowed to see his new parents. Numb with grief, I went straight to the ferry to start a new life in England. Maria married and had three children, who were told about James. At Christmas I bought presents for three children, when I should have been buying for four. His birthdays were excruciating. Little Andrew celebrates a birthday with his adoptive mother Betty Decades later, Maria received a letter from social services in Sussex, passed on from Ireland. I knew it was James. I was in shock. At Marias insistence, they met in the very same room in Dublin where she had given him away 45 years earlier. My three children waited in an adjoining room. A social worker opened the door to where I last saw my baby and there he was. We hugged and hugged. It was the happiest day of my life. I had never tried to find him as I feared upsetting his new life. He never blamed me for anything. Hes 60 this year and I will be 80. Were having a joint celebration. In 2015, the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes was established by the Irish government to investigate what had happened to vulnerable women and children there. Some 923 children died at Bessborough alone, which was open between 1922 and 1999 and run by the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, but its feared up to 600 babies lie in unmarked graves. As Maria told me: Im one of the lucky ones. STEPHANIES mother Margaret walked out of their south London home when she was seven and her sister 14. We never heard from her again, wrote Stephanie, who was raised by her father. More than 25 years later, after giving birth to her son, Stephanie received a letter out of the blue from the Salvation Army family tracing service (which no longer exists). Margaret wanted to resume contact. I was living in Australia so it came as a huge shock, Stephanie told me. She exchanged letters with her mother, which progressed to speaking on the telephone. I was struck that she never touched on the past, she added. Eventually her mother flew to Sydney with her husband, whom she married after she walked out. It was not to be. She was incapable of being alone with me. After a week I asked if we could spend a few hours together to talk about the past. Her mother looked like shed seen a ghost. Absolutely not, she said. Why would I want to do that? Stephanie calmly told her that if their relationship was to progress, she wanted to know why her mother had abandoned her daughters. Margarets response was icy. Cant we just forget about that and be a family again? Stephanie said: I gently explained that I could not pretend it didnt happen. Being a mother of a one-year-old, I did not have the capacity to do that. The conversation came to a shuddering halt. I did not see her again. She flew out the next day without even saying goodbye. THE most startling phone call I received was from Marie, 87, who in 1944 was in the same orphanage, Nazareth House in Cheltenham, that I was in as a small boy. It was horrible. There was cruelty to the children, she had written to me in an earlier letter. Marie was put in the home aged seven after her pregnant mother had been committed to hospital and her father called up to fight in Egypt. My brother, who was barely 12 months old, was kept in the other end of the building. I was not allowed to see him. The place was so terrible I used to run away back to our house but the nuns dragged me back and there was always a thrashing. Some nuns were brutal. They put boiling hot water into the bath and if you pulled a face when you dipped your toe into it they repeatedly slapped your thighs until they could see their finger marks. She said the children at the orphanage were not allowed to make friends. Marie added: A nun slept in our dormitory and slapped anyone who cried at night. Your book brought it all back. It was a nightmare. JULIE told me how, when she retired at 62, she started exploring her family tree and was astonished to learn she was adopted. She found her birth mother, then 88, was living in warden-controlled housing in Newcastle. After a flurry of letters, they agreed to talk on the phone. I was shaking as I dialled the number, she told me. I tried to impress on her how I meant no harm but hoped she could answer some questions. She was terse, abrupt, with no warmth or understanding. She told me she had spent 62 years trying to put all that behind her and didnt want to drag it up again. Her mother agreed to answer some written questions, but warned: Then I want you to end contact. I dont want to see you. In the event, she did not answer Julies written questions. Her mother, who never married or had more children, died four years later, alone and in poor health. Julie, now 76, said: If she had been 20 years younger when I found her, I would have knocked on her door but I couldnt do that because she was already 88. So I never met my birth mother, although I have a couple of photos, I have no knowledge of my father, so know precious little of who I am. But just writing this gives me a feeling of ease. Thank you. GEORGE, who is in his 20s, thanked me for not giving my story the happy ending which seem to feature on programmes such as ITVs Long Lost Family. Im adopted and believe the love a parent has for their adopted child is profoundly beautiful, he wrote. It is a love that is unconditional by nature. Reading of how you speak so reverently of your adopted parents reminds me how grateful I am to my own. Thank you for talking about your story so honestly. There is such a misconception about reuniting with biological parents, partly because of the TV series. Reunions dont always go as hoped or even dreamed about. Its why your book is so important. Thank you again. ONE of the saddest stories Ive heard was Sues, who was born to a single mother in Wales 1944. Her grandfather found a couple and paid them to adopt her. Gifts arrived on special occasions but under no circumstances were they to tell me the truth, she wrote. Then a school friend overheard the woman she thought was her natural mother revealing that they had taken her on as a baby. I was 12 when I found out. It was shocking, Sue said. Years later, she tracked down her birth mother who initially refused to meet her, but then relented. She laid down all these conditions. The meeting had to be in a public place, a cafe, there must be no sign of emotion and I could stay only 15 minutes. I kept my word. We spoke a few times on the phone but she did not want any more contact. I was heartbroken. However, they kept in touch through Christmas cards and then Sue had a letter from her mothers sister revealing she had died. I then had six or seven years of wonderful contact with my new-found aunt until she died of cancer. Another tragedy but for those years I at last felt part of a family. No one can understand the hurt of being rejected twice unless they have been through it. I feel, Andrew, that we are kindred spirits. PETERS wife Sally gave up her three-week-old son with another man when she was 16 so he might have a better chance in life. As he was being taken from the hospital in Bristol to go to his adopted parents, she craned her neck from the window to see him for the last time, Peter told me. It was devastating. Sally had given the baby her St Christopher medal. Peter said: Half a century later, I promised her I would try to find him and I did. Sallys son turned out to be a successful professional who has since been in touch with her. Sally never had children with Peter, but so far her son has declined to meet her. Peter added: Shes overjoyed to know hes OK and that she has grandchildren who she hopes to see one day. I pray one day he will see her. He still has her St Christopher medal. MARY, like my birth mother Margaret, came from County Mayo, one of the most deprived parts of Ireland. Irish girls who got pregnant like my mother went to Britain to save face, otherwise their family would be shamed, she said. My mother, a teenager, was sent to Scotland, where I was born in 1950. I was brought back to live with my grandparents in a small village in Mayo where everyone knew I was illegitimate. My mother married a widower in Scotland and they had a daughter. I was left with my grandparents. Life was hard on a farm, as in those days I was soiled goods and not good enough for anyone. My mother and I had no more contact. Were scarred in different ways. Read all about Andrew's search for his birth mother in his recently published book Names have been changed. Finding Margaret: Solving The Mystery Of My Birth Mother by Andrew Pierce (Biteback 20). Andrew Pierce 2024. To order a copy for 18 (offer valid to 25/07/24; UK P&P free on orders over 25), go to www.mailshop.co.uk/books or call 020 3176 2937. As the sun beat down on a glorious summer day, cyclists clad in lurid fluorescent Lycra pedalled furiously along the road. A woman walked her small dog along the pavement, while a middle-aged couple stretched outside their house before setting off on a jog. I was on the outskirts of Warsaw, the Polish capital, but this sort of contented scene could have been observed in suburbs across Europe only it would not have been accompanied by the constant crack of gunfire bursting through groves of towering pine and silver birch trees. Polish volunteers join a military training camp A Polish recruit has camouflage applied during training The shots came from a military training ground hidden behind metal fencing twice my height and topped with spirals of razor wire. Signs in Polish, English, Russian and German warned people to keep out and not to fly drones overhead. Piotr Placha one of 20 men and women who honed their skills on the 100-metre shooting range for more than two hours emerged wearing full military uniform, including beret and body armour, with a pistol strapped to his belt and Kalashnikov rifle slung over his shoulder. Learning to use a pistol, he said, was crucial for close-quarter fighting and might have a more macabre purpose, too, since in extremis you could turn it on yourself. In this part of the world we know that you dont want to be captured by the Russians, he explained. This impressive-looking character is not a soldier, however. He is the 51-year-old father of two sons, who works in a city-centre office for the Polish export agency. Earlier this week, the Mail reported how Chinese troops were on patrol just three miles from the Polish border, staging an exercise with Putins ally, Belarus, and giving a disturbing indication of Beijings affiliation But as an experienced sport shooter, Placha decided after Russias attack on next-door Ukraine to join a voluntary group pushing for Poland to be better prepared for conflict and now he trains with the military as the nation beefs up defences. For this east European nation which has been to war with Russia 27 times over the years, as well as suffering four decades of Soviet subjugation has responded to Vladimir Putins aggression more dramatically than any other country on our continent. Piotr Placha one of 20 men and women who honed their skills on the shooting range for more than two hours emerged wearing full military uniform, including body armour, pistol and Kalashnikov slung over his shoulder As Western leaders gathered in Washington yesterday for a summit focusing on bolstering support for Ukraine to mark Natos 75th anniversary, Sir Keir Starmer called on recalcitrant allies to raise their defence spending, saying there was no more important duty than guarding the nation. Sources say his Government plans to boost the UKs spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP from its current 2.32 per cent level. Yet it has already scrapped Rishi Sunaks promise to reach this target by 2030 causing deep alarm among defence experts who say there is no time for delay. Instead, it is launching a review to assess the threats to the UK and set out a roadmap. The attitude could not be more different here in Poland, which has embarked on a rapid mission to build the most powerful land army in Europe. This involves more than doubling the size of its armed forces, a massive spending spree on weaponry and the development of a network of citizen militias. A Polish Scout holds a mockup grenade as he learns how to throw grenades during a military training day at the Polish Army's summer programme While another Scout throws a fake grenade as he learns how to throw the explosive Poland has tripled its defence budget since Putin launched his onslaught on Ukraine in 2014 by seizing Crimea and attacking the Donbas region in the east of the country. Its ambition is exemplified by a plan to have more tanks than Britain, France, Germany and Italy combined. The countrys level of defence spending is now the highest in Nato. More than 4 per cent of its GDP is going on fighter jets, air defence systems and long-range artillery from the U.S., as well as naval frigates and missiles from Britain, helicopters from Italy, howitzers and hundreds of tanks from South Korea. Yet despite spending more than twice Natos guideline rate, Polands leaders say they are ready to keep driving it up. If Putin really threatens us, we will double it because we will not be a Russian colony again, vowed foreign minister Radoslaw Sikorski. And it is not just Russia. Earlier this week, the Mail reported how Chinese troops were on patrol just three miles from the Polish border, staging an exercise with Putins ally, Belarus, and giving a disturbing indication of Beijings affiliations. The 28-day holiday teaches combat and survival skills - at the end, volunteers take a military oath swearing to serve loyally the Republic of Poland even at the cost of losing my life or blood Polands stance challenges the complacency of the other Nato members gathering in Washington as the shadow of a Trump presidency looms over the summit. He has criticised many of them for failing to pay their way and warned that, unless they do, US co-operation in combat cannot be guaranteed in future. In Warsaw, they are leading the way. There is relative political consensus in Poland about our military upgrade, says former defence minister Bartosz Kownacki, head of their Nato delegation. If Putin wins in Ukraine, then the rest of Europe is next and Poland is on the frontline. Their astonishing build-up heavily focused on offensive weapons to hit command and logistics hubs deep in enemy territory is intended to send a stark message to the Kremlin: Russia will pay a heavy price if it dares attack Poland. Civilians learn how to assemble assault rifles as they take part in a one-day military training This spending blitz was partly designed to restock squadrons and battalions depleted by donations of equipment to Ukraine after Russias full-scale invasion of 2022, which included about a dozen fighter jets and 300 of the armys 750 tanks. One beneficial by-product of this move has been the replacement of old Soviet weaponry with the latest Western technology. But Poland is also fortifying its domestic defence. It will have 80 ultra-modern U.S. fighter jets designed to ensure air supremacy in any future conflict with Russia. Its latest 582 million deal with the US will equip them with 821 long-range, air-to-ground JASSM-ER stealth missiles, ensuring they can reach enemy positions almost as far away as Moscow. Poland plans on more than doubling the size of its armed forces, a massive spending spree on weaponry and the development of a network of citizen militias The Ukraine war has confirmed everything that we thought about the Russian military, says Michal Piekarski, a defence specialist at the University of Wroclaw. It has shown that much of the effort Russia put into modernising its military has gone nowhere and they have reverted to their traditional approach, with waves of men the meat-grinder tactics and relying on lots of obsolete weapons. Piekarski argues Russia would need about 400 of its best aircraft to counter Polands new fleet of US-built jets. He fears the Polish navy is currently too weak, but will be boosted by three frigates being built as part of a joint venture between Britains engineering giant Babcock and a Polish firm. This will make it very hard for Russia to strike us from the sea because they will confront some of the best ships and missiles in the world, he said. Polands standing army has doubled in strength over the past decade to 200,000 troops, with the aim of more than doubling that total again to 450,000 by 2039 although critics say this is unrealistic given the countrys shrinking population. If this growth is achieved, however, Poland would have three times as many full-time troops as the British Army, despite the fact the UK has approaching twice its population. The land army learns new skills as they prepare to protect their country from the likes of Russia The most controversial purchases for this European Union member came as a result of 11.5 billion worth of arms deals with South Korea for 48 combat aircraft, 1,000 tanks, 672 howitzers and 288 multiple rocket-launchers for mounting on infantry fighting vehicles. Polish experts told me they share a desire to strengthen Europes defence manufacturing base but were concerned about the ability of German firms to deliver parts on time to keep their arsenal in a battle-ready state. This re-armament drive is fuelled partially by fears over the rise of hard-Right populism in Europe with some leadership figures in some Nato allies echoing Putins propaganda and worries about the possibility of Donald Trump reducing American aid to Ukraine. Ukraine teaches us you must be as self-reliant as possible and then you see the allies you feel are most reliable, says Wojciech Lorenz, head of the international security programme at the Polish Institute of International Affairs. I wont say who are less reliable but in Poland we see the US and UK as among the most reliable. Polish analysts believe two factors will influence Putins calculations over launching war with Nato: the strength of armed forces ranged against him and his success in Ukraine in grabbing terrain and exposing divisions in democracies. Moscow has made persistent efforts to turn Polands citizens against Kyiv, inflame hostility to Ukrainian refugees and intensify divisions in society, including by sending waves of migrants from its vassal state of Belarus. One disinformation expert told me a video showed Belarus security forces training migrants how to stab soldiers in areas of their body unprotected by armour. A Polish soldier was stabbed to death on the border last month. The government has accused Russia of likely involvement in a conflagration that burned down Warsaws biggest shopping centre in May, destroying 1,400 outlets. We should not expect direct invasion in one or two years but we can expect there will be activities by Russia and its allies on the threshold of war, says Tomasz Piotrowski, operational commander of Polands armed forces until last year. We are already suffering cyber attacks, sabotage and fires that seem highly suspicious. The general welcomes the military build-up but wants Poland to spend more on critical infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, to support Nato forces. There has been debate over whether to reintroduce conscription. The military has launched a series of initiatives offering training for a day with troops and holidays with the army, which is giving basic military training to 11,000 Poles over the summer. The 28-day holiday teaches combat and survival skills at 70 locations. At the end, volunteers take a military oath swearing to serve loyally the Republic of Poland even at the cost of losing my life or blood. Among shaven-headed volunteers training in a forest-clearing near the Belarus border was Dominik Rojek, 18, who planned to study computer science but now plans a military career to defend his nation. Someone has to do it, he says. One strand of this strategy was the creation of a Territorial Defence Force, which has 5,000 full-time soldiers and 35,000 part-timers to protect Poland. Recruits include Elzbieta Snarska, 38, mother of a four-year-old girl, who lives near the Belarus border and has been trained in shooting. It feels dangerous these days because we have to think about Russia and military conflict, she says. But I feel proud of myself. About 200,000 Poles also hold gun permits including Barbara Szkiladz, 33, an office administrator in Warsaw. I believe war is coming to Poland, she says. I am from a family of hunters and I will use one of my fathers guns to protect myself, my family, my friends and my cat when the war comes. I dont care if the Russian soldier is a teenage recruit if he enters my property, he is dead. One thing is certain, as Europes free nations are menaced by Putins dictatorship, Polands stance puts Britain and the rest of Nato to shame. The Republican-led effort to hold Attorney General Merrick Garland accountable for 'hiding' President Biden's audio tapes spectacularly failed in a stunning vote showing ongoing turmoil in both GOP and Democrat camps. The resolution would have fined Garland $10,000 for every day that he does not hand over audio recordings from Biden's special counsel interview in which he appeared 'old and elderly.' The resolution was brought to the floor after Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., forced a vote on it by making it 'privileged.' But it embarrassingly failed on the floor 210 to 204 - 12 Republicans missed votes, as did seven Democrats. Immediately before the doomed vote, House Republicans also failed to pass their own spending bill to fund the legislative branch of government in 2025. They had hoped to capitalize on Democratic chaos after Biden's disastrous debate performance by projecting unity. 10 House Democrats have now publicly called on Biden to step down from the top of the 2024 ticket. The resolution would have fined Garland $10,000 for every day that he does not hand over audio recordings from Biden's special counsel interview in which he appeared 'old and elderly' Holding an official in inherent contempt usually means after a House vote the sergeant-at-arms would be instructed to arrest the official, which is what Luna had originally proposed. But fearing such drastic measures could not pass, she changed the consequences to a steep fine. It's not clear what measures the House would have been able to take to force Garland to pay the fine. Former President Donald Trump lended his support to Luna's efforts in a Truth Social post on Wednesday. 'I AGREE with Anna Paulina Luna and the many House Members who think Merrick Garland should be held in INHERENT CONTEMPT for refusing to release the Biden Tapes even though they were subpoenaed!,' he wrote. The Florida Republican and with a social media influencer past was undeterred by the eye-rolling at her proposal. The Hur tapes are not just an issue of national security, as it is evident Joe Biden is impaired, but has now become a criminal organized effort to usurp Congress as a co-equal branch of government,' Luna said. The Florida Republican has criticized the Justice Department's refusal to turn over the audio from President Biden's interview with special counsel Robert Hur about his handling of classified documents, moving to hold the attorney general in contempt. The resolution was brought to the floor after Rep. Anna Paulina Luna forced a vote on it by making it 'privileged' 'The Hur tapes are not just an issue of national security, as it is evident Joe Biden is impaired, but has now become a criminal organized effort to usurp Congress as a co-equal branch of government,' she said. 'I'll vote for it, but as a constitutional litigator, former constitutional litigator, my preference is to follow the legal process and legal proceedings that protect the institution. I frankly have a little pause,' Speaker Mike Johnson said in a news conference Tuesday. By Thursday, he had slightly changed tune. He called it an 'extreme measure' but said it's an appropriate 'last straw' on Fox Business' Mornings with Maria. Johnson suggested he wasn't sure how the fine could be enforced. 'It hasn't been done before so there's no precedent to show how to do it ... we'll see how it's enforced.' He wrongly predicted the resolution would pass. Inherent contempt which was last used in 1934 on Washington Lawyer William MacCracken, who spent 10 days in prison for refusing to comply with a Senate subpoena. Garland handed over the transcripts of the Biden special counsel interview but not the audio. The Department of Justice has insisted that blasting out the audio would hurt their ability to get recorded interviews in the future. Even those at the forefront of the Biden impeachment efforts distanced themselves from Luna's efforts. After the presidential debate GOP Whip Tom Emmer suggested the audio tapes might be irrelevant at this point. 'Now I think we know why they won't release, the tapes of special counsel for Hur. Maybe we don't need them anymore. We saw what we needed to,' Emmer said. 'I think if Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna wants to offer that, you know, God bless her, I'd support it,' Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan told DailyMail.com. 'But I think we're focused on going to court and winning in court.' 'I'll vote for it if it comes up for a vote,' Oversight Chairman James Comer told DailyMail.com. 'I don't think there's anywhere near the votes for that. I don't think it's necessary and I worry that would somehow unintentionally harm the court case.' 'The last time that was used, I think members of Congress rode horses to the Capitol. So, you know, no one knows how to implement that. And I don't think that's necessary, because we've already held him in contempt.' Comer and Jordan have insisted the audio is necessary not to embarrass Biden but as a way to check to check if the Justice Department had edited the transcript it had handed over of the interview that led special counsel Robert Hur to describe Biden as an 'elderly man with a poor memory.' Last month House Republicans voted to hold Garland in regular contempt and the Judiciary Committee has filed a lawsuit over the tapes. Prisons are in a 'shocking' state, Sir Keir Starmer said last night as the Labour government prepares to start letting thousands of inmates out early to ease overcrowding. The Prime Minister revealed the situation in jails across England and Wales is 'worse than I thought' and branded Conservative ministers 'reckless' for not tackling the crisis when they were in power. He confirmed that his new administration will within days introduce drastic measures to reduce the pressure but insisted that the risk of dangerous criminals being let loose will be addressed. It is understood that those convicted of sex crimes and serious violence will not be eligible for early release. Asked by reporters about the state of Britain's public finances as he travelled to the Nato summit in Washington DC, Sir Keir said: 'Some of what we've found is shocking, not so much about the finances, but I have to say on prisons. The situation is worse than I thought it was. Sir Keir Starmer revealed the situation in jails across England and Wales is 'worse than I thought' and branded Conservative ministers 'reckless' for not tackling the crisis when they were in power Sir Keir confirmed that his new administration will within days introduce drastic measures to reduce the pressure but insisted that the risk of dangerous criminals being let loose will be addressed (stock image) 'I'm pretty shocked that it's been allowed to get into that situation. It's reckless to allow them to get into that place. We'll be saying more about that in short order.' And pressed on whether he could guarantee that high-risk prisoners would not be set free early as he had asked of his predecessor Rishi Sunak before the election Sir Keir replied: 'We will make a statement in relation to this in the coming days. 'We're going to have to set out the state of affairs; what we intend to do about it, but it will include this question for risk categories.' He insisted: 'You know from my question to Mr Sunak, when he was Prime Minister, where I stand on this.' In Prime Minister's Questions in May, Sir Keir had cited a prisons watchdog report about an inmate who posed a danger to children having his release date brought forward. Before the election Tory ministers agreed for low-level offenders to be freed up to 70 days early to reduce pressure on the prison population, which currently stands at 87,453. But amid warnings that there are now only 700 spare spaces in adult male jails, new Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood will be forced to introduce a more radical policy by the end of the week. But amid warnings that there are now only 700 spare spaces in adult male jails, new Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood (pictured) will be forced to introduce a more radical policy by the end of the week It is expected to mean that criminals given standard determinate sentences of less than four years are released after serving 40 per cent of their terms rather than at the usual halfway point (stock image) It is expected to mean that criminals given standard determinate sentences of less than four years are released after serving 40 per cent of their terms rather than at the usual halfway point. Sources told the Mail that it will benefit 'low thousands' of inmates over the next few months. Victims groups want sex offenders, domestic abusers and violent criminals excluded from the 'get out of jail free' plan. But some in the prison service have argued against exclusions on the grounds that a blanket early release policy would be easier for governors to administer. Last night the Prison Governors Association said: 'Urgent action is needed to avoid prison spaces running out. 'There is no other option open to Government than to release prisoners at the 40 per cent mark (save certain exceptions). 'This is not a failure of this government, doing nothing would be both reckless and put the public at risk.' Cradling her beloved poochon dog Patti in the back of a taxi, Miranda Hart beams as she shows off her gold wedding ring. On her way home from her appearance on The One Show, during which she confirmed she had secretly married a building surveyor, she told her Instagram followers: 'Hello, just on my way back with my little Patti falling asleep on my lap. 'I just wanted to say thank you so much for the lovely messages. I've got my best friend to do life with and it's wonderful.' She then high-fived her new husband who was sitting next to her but out of the sight of the camera. All we saw of the new Mr Hart was his left hand. A newly elected Labour MP spent her first day opposing a housing development despite the Government's vow to build more homes. Sarah Coombes announced she was taking a break from Parliament to speak at a planning appeal on behalf of residents who are trying to stop fewer than 200 houses and a country park being built on farmland in the Black Country. She posted on social media a photo of locals holding up signs reading 'say no to housing in the green belt' and 'we need to keep our prime quality farmland'. Ms Coombes, a former adviser to London Mayor Sadiq Khan, wrote on Tuesday: 'I took a brief break from the proceedings in Parliament today to speak on behalf of residents in Great Barr at the Planning Inquiry in relation to the proposed development at Peak House Farm.' But the new MP for West Bromwich deleted the message yesterday after being deluged by Twitter/X users calling her a 'NIMBY' and telling her she was contradicting her government's flagship policy. Sarah Coombes announced she was taking a break from Parliament to speak at a planning appeal on behalf of residents who are trying to stop fewer than 200 houses and a country park being built on farmland in the Black Country Her comments came just a day after Chancellor Rachel Reeves pledged to 'get Britain building again', with 1.5million new homes in England promised over the next five years including on some low-quality green belt land Her comments came just a day after Chancellor Rachel Reeves pledged to 'get Britain building again', with 1.5million new homes in England promised over the next five years including on some low-quality green belt land. Before the election Ms Coombes had claimed that a Labour government would help get young people on the property ladder by giving them 'first dibs on new developments', and last year she said her party would 'fix our broken housing market'. Chris Worrall, Labour Lead of housing reform group PricedOut, told the Mail: 'I trust other new MPs will not succumb to the short-termist status quo by always saying no to new housing development. 'We must prioritise the national interest above all else if we are to get Britain building again.' The development Ms Coombes was objecting to, known as Wilderness Park, would see up to 175 new homes, 40 per cent of which would be affordable, built on land in Great Barr, close to the M6 north of Birmingham. However the houses would only take up 15 per cent of the 67-acre site with the rest turned into a countryside park. The planning application was turned down by Sandwell Council in January but developer Wain Estates has appealed against the decision with a planning inquiry beginning this week. George Clooney's decision to pen a scathing op-ed attacking his friend Joe Biden for deciding to stay in the presidential race was swayed by his wife Amal's stance on the Israel-Hamas war, DailyMail.com has learned. The diehard Democrat had been reluctant to speak out about the president's mental decline even after noticing how far the president had fallen when he hosted a major Hollywood fundraiser for him last month. But the actor was swung by his wife's views on the Middle East conflict, sources say. Clooney, 63, made the call for a new candidate in piece published in the New York Times on Wednesday three weeks after the $28million fundraiser event. He reportedly called former President Barack Obama of his plan. Obama did not object. Clooney was reportedly furious at the White House decision to question Amal's work on the war in Gaza George Clooney and fellow actor Julia Roberts posed with President Joe Biden and Barack Obama during a campaign fundraiser in Los Angeles on Saturday, where his wife Amal was noticeably absent 'I love Joe Biden,' the Hollywood A-lister wrote. 'I consider him a friend, and I believe in him. Believe in his character. Believe in his morals. In the last four years, he's won many of the battles he's faced. 'But the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. None of us can. It's devastating to say it, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fundraiser was not the Joe 'big F-ing deal' Biden of 2010. 'He wasn't even the Joe Biden of 2020. He was the same man we all witnessed at the debate,' he continued. Clooney joins the scores of Democrats and Biden allies who have called for the president to step down in the two weeks since his meandering and mumbling showing on CNN. Biden has insisted he is not going anywhere and that he will still beat Trump in November, but Clooney's comments are an enormous blow to his embattled campaign. As DailyMail.com exclusively reported last month Clooney called the White House after House of Representatives voted to sanction members of the International Criminal Court if they made good on their plans to prosecute Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu and others. He called Counselor to the President Steve Ricchetti, to express concern that his Lebanese-born wife, a renowned human rights lawyer, could face penalties under the sanctions bill as she penned an opinion for the court calling for prosecution. Amal, 46, was noticeably absent at the fundraiser that Clooney co-hosted along with fellow Hollywood hotshots Julia Roberts and Jimmy Kimmel. The event, held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, raised a staggering $28million for Biden's re-election campaign. 'Her presence would have made for an awkward and uncomfortable situation,' one source told DailyMail.com. 'So, they decided she should stay home.' It was only when Clooney saw Biden at the June 15 fundraiser that he realized he was not the man he used to be, he claims. He soon realized that Biden was no longer fit to continue in the role as the most powerful man in the world, but his friendship with the president put him in an uncomfortable position. 'He hadn't been in Biden's company for a while, and he was shocked at his physical and mental decline. And he suddenly realized he couldn't consider backing the president for another four years,' the source added. 'Once George had the opportunity to see Joe, as popular and much loved as Biden is among his supporters, he realized he was just not strong enough to face another four grueling years at the helm.' The source says this has been a difficult few weeks for George who is head over heels in love with Amal and considers her one of the smartest women he knows. He knew her stance on Israel put him in conflict with many Democrats including Biden who still show full support for Israel. 'With each passing day there are more and more Democrats coming out in support of Biden stepping down,' says the source. And Clooney has now joined them although he has not put full-throated support for Vice President Kamala Harris, instead saying in the op-ed: 'We Democrats have a very exciting bench. Amal Clooney, a renowned human rights lawyer, was named as one of the six legal experts who recommended chief prosecutor Karim Khan seek arrest warrants for the Israeli Prime Minister and Hamas leaders last month Obama seen giving Biden's arm a gentle tug and leading him off the stage after the president freezes during the applause at a fundraiser in Los Angeles in June George Clooney visited the White House where he was honored by the President in 2022 'We don't anoint leaders or fall sway to a cult of personality; we vote for a president. 'We can easily foresee a group of several strong Democrats stepping forward to stand and tell us why they're best qualified to lead this country and take on some of the deeply concerning trends we're seeing from the revenge tour that Donald Trump calls a presidential campaign. He added: 'Let's hear from Wes Moore and Kamala Harris and Gretchen Whitmer and Gavin Newsom and Andy Beshear and J.B. Pritzker and others.' The source told DailyMail.com: 'No matter what the outcome, the pressure is now off George to dig in his heels in support of Biden, which meant going against his wife. 'Amal has also taken a strong stance on her views regarding the conflict, and George is, as always, listening. Now, at least for the time being, the former gap between him and his wife are not as much of an issue.' The 63-year-old A-lister, who has been married to the mother of his seven-year-old twins for nearly a decade, had suddenly found himself caught in the middle of a dispute over the International Criminal Court's decision to prosecute Israeli leaders including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In May, international human rights attorney Amal, 46, was revealed to have played an instrumental role in calling for the arrest of Netanyahu, Israeli defense minister Yoav Gallant, and three Hamas leaders, for the series of 'war crimes' committed in the ongoing conflict. But while she's in favor of taking action, the Biden administration continues to support Israel in the war against the Palestinian terror group Hamas, that has already lead to more than 37,000 deaths in Gaza following the group's October 7 attack on Israel. Speaking to DailyMail.com last month a source revealed how the conflicting views between the two parties had put Clooney in an awkward position. The insider said: 'George was scheduled to host the recent Biden fundraiser alongside longtime friends Julia Roberts, Jimmy Kimmel, and Barack Obama. It was a star-studded gala held to raise campaign funds for Biden's re-election. 'And while Amal usually would attend such an event with her husband, her recent part in the International Criminal Court's decisions would have made for an awkward and uncomfortable situation. 'George has always been a person who honors his commitments,' the insider added. 'So, he did his part and attended the event, going it alone.' Amal, a British citizen, was one of six legal experts who wrote an opinion stating International Court prosecutor Karim Khan had 'reasonable grounds to believe' that the Israeli leaders had committed war crimes, in a May 20 report. Clooney met with then-President Barack Obama at the White House in 2010 to talk about the Sudan George Clooney with Bill Clinton at the White House Correspondents' dinner She wrote on the Clooney Foundation for Justice's website that she believes in the rule of law and the need to protect civilian lives. 'The law that protects civilians in war was developed more than 100 years ago and it applies in every country in the world regardless of the reasons for a conflict,' she wrote. 'As a human rights lawyer, I will never accept that one child's life has less value than another's. I do not accept that any conflict should be beyond the reach of the law, nor that any perpetrator should be above the law. 'So I support the historic step that the prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has taken to bring justice to victims of atrocities in Israel and Palestine.' The source says not only is George head over heels in love with Amal he considers her one of the smartest women he knows. He feels her knowledge of the law, and human rights is vast, and he supports her work 100%. But not only is George's relationship with the White House at risk, he may also be putting some of his friendships in jeopardy because many of his longtime friends are Jewish and they and others support Israel's stance. 'Before he met Amal, George lived a very different lifestyle,' the source added. 'He dated a bevy of beauties, but none of the relationships proved serious. He preferred spending time with his guy friends, who he felt he could trust much more than some of the women he hooked up with. The insider continued: 'George was a super-generous friend.' 'He was always treating his pals to fun-filled vacations, whether it was taking off on a boy's only holiday in Italy riding motorcycles and dining at expensive restaurants or jetting off to his place in Cabo with his pals. 'And of course, he would always foot the bill. 'A year before marrying Amal, George decided to surprise 14 of his pals with $1million each,' said the source. 'Many of those pals are Jewish.' While Clooney had a large group of loyal friends, most often he would go off with actor Thom Matthews, comedian Richard Kind, actor and producer Grant Heslov and close friend Rande Gerber and his wife Cindy Crawford. 'These were George's ride or die pals,' says the source. 'And while Thom isn't Jewish, Richard, Rande and Grant are. And while they like Amal, they have to be bothered by her stance on what's going on in Israel. 'George is walking a fine line,' added the source. 'His allegiance to his wife and twins will always come first. But he still values his close friendships and his relationships with the people currently in the White House.' The devastated daughter of an Australian woman facing the death penalty after allegedly smuggling drugs into Taiwan has shared a heartbreaking letter her mother sent from prison - as she raises funds to visit her overseas. Debbie Voulgaris, 57, from Melbourne, was arrested at Taoyuan International Airport in December after 7kg of cocaine and heroin were allegedly found in black plastic bags inside her suitcase. Taiwanese police allege she initially 'vehemently denied' that she knew about the drugs, before later claiming her ex-husband John was behind the scheme. However, Mr Voulgaris previously told Daily Mail Australia that he and Ms Voulgaris were 'innocent' and had 'set up'. If convicted under the East Asian Island's strict laws, she could face the firing squad or life in prison. Now, the couple's daughter Maria has shared a handwritten letter her mother sent to her 'angel' children urging them to be strong as she awaits her fate. Debbie Voulgaris, 57, was arrested at Taoyuan International Airport in December after drugs were allegedly found in black plastic bags inside her suitcase 'Agapoules Mou!!! [Greek for 'my loves'],' the letter begins. 'I read all of your letters. 'I can't reply as yet not until some restrictions have been lifted. I miss you soo soo much.' Ms Voulgaris said her mind 'never leaves' her children and 'I love you with all my heart and soul'. 'Please, please stay safe, eat well, don't stress about anything. Everything will be fine. I need you to stay united as you do. 'I will always love you. You're my whole world. So proud of you all.' Sharing the letter online, Maria said she never knew how much seeing someone's handwriting would provide her with so much comfort, describing the note as a 'mother's love expressed through foreign walls'. 'If only we knew our love for literature and leaving one another letters would someday become our only way of survival,' she said. The letter comes as Maria rallies to raise funds to help her travel to Taiwan to be reunited with her mother. Pictured: The letter Ms Voulgaris sent to her children, urging them to be strong The young woman said her mum, who has now been imprisoned for seven months, has been subjected to a very strict communication ban and the only people she has been permitted to speak to are her lawyers, fellow inmates, and Australian diplomats. She has launched a GoFundMe to raise funds for her and her siblings' airfare, accommodation, and 'other necessary costs' so they can head to Taiwan for Ms Voulgaris' trial in August. 'I do not remember what my mother looks like or sounds like apart from the little-to-none content I have to remember her by,' she wrote on the fundraiser. 'I am hoping to raise funds to cover the travel expenses to finally visit her for the first time. 'This will be my first time traveling overseas and itll be to visit my mother in a foreign prison.' The fundraiser has so far raised more than $3000 of the $5000 goal since it was launched on Tuesday. In a post on Instagram, Maria said she was left 'speechless' by the response. 'I've woken up this morning in absolute tears,' she said. 'I just know if my mum could see this right now, she would feel so at peace knowing how many people are helping us unite and how many sisters are pushing her truth out.' In May, John Voulgaris, who runs a home loan company, said he and his ex-wife were scammed by criminals posing as overseas investors. Her ex-husband John Voulgaris says his wife was 'set up' by traffickers Authorities allegedly discovered 7kg of cocaine and heroin inside her luggage (pictured) He said he first met the group 16 years ago and had even attended a bank with them in Taiwan in 2007 as part of their business proceedings. Over the years, they remained in contact. However, he said their solicitor recently got in touch with a new proposal. 'All we were doing was an overseas investment,' he said. 'They wanted to invest. I sent $3million out of my money. When I found out [about her arrest], I tried to get in contact with them but they switched off their phones. 'She is bloody innocent. We have been set up. 'We don't know anything about bloody drugs and have never seen or touched them in our lives.' Taiwanese police allege Ms Voulgaris was handed the category one drugs in Malaysia around December 10 before she flew to Taiwan. They further allege the Aussie mum was paid $US1,800 (AUD$2,700) to take the drugs in addition to her accommodation and transport costs. The drugs had a street value of about $1.25million, according to Chen Po-chuan, the captain of Taiwan's Criminal Investigation Brigade. Ms Voulgaris' lawyer Leon Huang told media in May that the Australian mum told authorities she was in Taiwan for a holiday. He said officers had been sent to her hotel to see if anyone came to collect the drugs, but no one had arrived. Mr Huang said Ms Voulgaris was a 'good-natured person' who 'believed people easily' and was 'not aware of the nature of her travelling'. Ms Voulgaris has been detained in a Taiwanese prison since her arrest. The eyes of the world will be on Joe Biden on Thursday evening and all the 81-year-old has to do is give strong, forceful answers to a series of questions, showing he can perform well in an unscripted setting and quiet the talk he is not mentally fit for a second term in office. But in a sign of how worried aides are about his performance at the 6:30 pm ET press conference, they have a backup plan in place in case Biden fumbles for words and stares into space like he did in the first presidential debate. The pressure is on Biden as he tries to tamp down the voices in the Democratic Party calling for his exit from the presidential race and shore up support behind his candidacy. At least a dozen Democratic lawmakers have called for him to bow out. A good performance can reassure his frantic allies that he has the mental and physical energy to compete against Donald Trump. A bad perfomance could be a disaster and the nail in the coffin for his chances of staying as the Democratic nominee. The president has said repeatedly he is not leaving the contest. President Joe Biden has been preparing for the press conference all week The press conference, originally scheduled for 5:30 pm, was delayed until 6:30 pm, the White House announced Thursday morning. Biden has been preparing for the press conference all week, the White House said, as officials argue this isn't a single, high-stakes event but part of a greater strategy to have Biden out in public more and be more available to the media. Extra events are already on the schedule, a series of public events with images to counter anything unfortunate moments that might happen in the presser: the president will sit down with NBC's Lester Holt for an interview on Monday during a trip to Texas, he'll travel to Detroit on Friday, and, next week, in addition to Austin he'll visit Las Vegas. But the press conference could be the make or break moment for his candidacy. Lawmakers, party officials, donors, allies and foes alike will be tuning in. White House spokesman John Kirby said he didn't know how long the press conference would last but that Biden will call on the reporters himself. In the past, the president has used a list prepared by White House staff with the names of the journalists he should call on. 'How long it will take will depend on how many questions,' Kirby said on Fox News on Wednesday. 'I cannot give you time but it will be a substantial press conference - again with multiple reporters and him, by himself, calling on them.' The president's last solo press conference was in November 2023. The challenge for Biden will be to show himself as a strong, clear communicator who can argue why he can beat Trump in November and win a second term. The president, who can be dependent on a teleprompter, will also have to demonstrate he can be unscripted and think on his feet as he gets asked multiple questions in real time. His allies argue it will help reset his candidacy. 'The press conference and other events like that will be helpful in getting us back to the contrast between Biden and Trump that we need and the country deserves,' Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut said. But it's not just the press conference. Lawmakers and party officials will be looking closely at polls coming out in the next few weeks ones that have been conducted since Biden's debate performance has sunk in. Already a Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll found that most Democrats think Biden should end his campaign based on his debate performance. The poll finds that 56 percent of Democrats say that he should end his candidacy, while 42 percent say he should continue to seek reelection. Party members also will be watching the president's next round of fundraising numbers. Donors have been expressing their fury about Biden's debate performance. Some claim the party misled them about Biden's ability to do the job. Donald Trump and Joe Biden at the June 27 presdiential debate Biden has held 36 news conferences to date, including 14 solo and 22 joint news conferences alongside other leaders. The president is still facing calls from some Democratic lawmakers to leave the race. And other bad news has piled on. George Clooney, a lifelong Democratic and major party donor, on Wednesday wrote an op-ed in the New York Times calling on Biden to exit the race. The call from the prominent actor sent political earthquakes through the Democratic Party. Additionally, the Cook Political Report moved six states toward Trump in its Electoral College ratings on Tuesday, citing Biden's decline in national and private battleground polls post-debate. Other prominent Democrats have been less than supportive of the president. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi is among those appearing to question Biden's decision to remain in the contest. 'It's up to the president to decide if he is going to run. We're all encouraging him to make that decision. Because time is running short,' she said on Morning Joe on Wednesday. Biden has said repeatedly he is in the presidential race to stay. 'I want you to know that despite all the speculation in the press and elsewhere, I am firmly committed to staying in this race, to running this race to the end, and to beating Donald Trump,' Biden wrote to Democratic lawmakers on Monday as he started a forceful strategy to regain the confidence of his party. His week has gone well thus far. He had a near disastrous speech opening NATO but managed to avoid a near flub when reading from his teleprompter. He has hung on for two weeks after his disastrous debate with Trump where he often stared blankly into the camera and struggled to find his words. And some Democrats have stayed with him. 'I'm not going to advise the president on anything other than, 'Stay in. You're our guy. And I have your back,' Democratic Sen. John Fetterman of Pennsylvania said on Wednesday. Joe Biden and Jill Biden leave the debate stage after his terrible performance But the fear is spreading among Democrats that not only Biden will lose in November, he'll take Democratic lawmakers down with him. If Republicans win the White House, Senate and House of Representatives, Donald Trump would be unchecked in his presidential power. 'Donald Trump is on track, I think, to win this election and maybe win it by a landslide and take with him the Senate and the House,' Democratic Sen. Michael Bennet of Colorado told CNN. 'So for me, this isn't a question about polling. It's not a question about politics. It's a moral question about the future of our country.' Bennet also voiced what many Democrats have argued privately if the Biden campaign has a plan to win a second term, they're not sharing it publicly or privately. 'The White House, in the time since that disastrous debate, I think, has done nothing to really demonstrate that they have a plan to win this election,' Bennet said. Police are investigating why a Vietnamese woman went to retrieve a lost item from the tracks before she was fatally struck by a train in Sydney's west. Tuyet Nguyen, 52, was on holiday in Sydney visiting family when she was hit by the train at Punchbowl station on Tuesday afternoon. Ms Nguyen is understood to have dropped her slipper and climbed onto the tracks, but she was unable to get back onto the platform before the train arrived. An eight-carriage train travelling at 100km/h can take 500metres to stop, meaning the tragedy may not have been prevented even if the driver saw her on the tracks. It is illegal to enter a railway corridor unless you are walking or driving across a level crossing. Many Australians insisted the incident could have been avoided if Ms Nguyen had asked for help to recover the lost item. 'I can't understand why she didn't go to the train guard and let them arrange retrieving her shoe, unnecessary tragedy and such a traumatic death,' one person wrote online. 'RIP, and condolences to her family, but really over a slipper! I can't help to be sorry and angry at the same time,' another said. Ms Nguyen (pictured) is understood to have dropped her slipper and climbed onto the track, but she was unable to get back onto the platform before the train arrived A third added: 'Sad that one slipper has caused grief and trauma for countless people. 'The girl's family, the train driver, their families, first responders, the witnesses, their families, the people on the train. The effects of this will be felt for years to come.' However many Aussies sympathised with Ms Nguyen, suggesting that she may not have been aware of the risks. 'In Vietnam, they have that slow-moving train at ground level where all the markets are, and it just goes through,' one said. 'Ours are not designed the same way, and there's no way out or safe, accessible space for people to go to if they fall off platforms.' Others said commuters should think about how their actions affect train drivers. 'People always seem to forget the impact this has on the driver,' one person wrote. A second added: 'I hope the train driver will be alright, it's not his fault.' Emergency services had rushed to the station and Fire and Rescue NSW crews (pictured) worked to free the woman from beneath the train Another added: 'The driver and emergency crews have to deal with this unnecessary death as well. 'Condolences to her family, but let it be a lesson to us all. Trains are not cars, they just don't stop abruptly.' The tragedy occurred at peak hour, with authorities shutting down train services between Campsie and Bankstown in Sydney's inner west as emergency crews worked to free Ms Nguyen from beneath the locomotive. She was immediately transferred to an ambulance before being taken to St George Hospital where she died on Wednesday morning. Police have spoken with a number of witnesses and have reviewed CCTV as part of their inquiries. The train driver returned a negative breath test. On Wednesday, Ms Nguyen's nephew Toan Huyn told Daily Mail Australia his aunt holidayed in Australia to visit her sister every year. Ms Nguyen regularly shared photos of her visits of Sydney to social media including a holiday in 2022 and a trip last year where she posted images of the Opera House. Three men accused of killing an elderly woman tourist during a robbery outside an upscale shopping mall in Newport Beach, CA, finally made an appearance in court Wednesday to face murder and other charges. Leroy McCrary, 26 and Malachi Darnell, 18, both of LA, plus Jaden Cunningham, 18, of Lancaster, CA showed up in person at Orange County Superior Court after twice refusing to leave their jail cells to appear at scheduled arraignments last Monday and Friday. At a hearing Wednesday in a Santa Ana courtroom, Judge Andre Manssourian, continued their arraignment till August 1 after being told defense lawyers that they were not ready to proceed yet. The defense attorneys also objected to media photos of the defendants being taken in court. It would be impossible to find a jury in this county that would be fair and unbiased in light of the widespread publicity about this case, Cunninghams lawyer, Ray Chen told the Judge. New Zealand tourist Patricia McKay, 68, was killed outside the Newport Beach shopping mall after a robbery attempt ended with her being hit with a car in the parking lot Police on the scene after McKay was killed in the chaotic scenes last week, where the suspects fled and led cops on a chase through the streets of Los Angeles Chen also protested about photos of the three defendants shirtless in their jail cells, published this week, calling the pictures prejudicial. Darnells attorney, Kate Corrigan, objected to my clients face being pictured because there could be an identity issue here. Judge Manssourian denied the defense request to ban cameras from the courtroom. 'Media take photos routinely at our arraignments, he said And as for the shirtless photos, the judge gestured toward the three defendants - Wednesday all wearing orange prison overalls and waving to family members in the courtroom from behind a glass panel and metal grill, - saying, This is an opportunity to be depicted in the proper Orange County jail clothes. The men are all charged with murdering New Zealand tourist Patricia McKay, 68, by running her over with a car and dragging her 65 feet after trying to rob her and her husband Douglas outside a Barnes and Noble store at Fashion Island mall. The three - who could face the death penalty if convicted - are also accused of attempted second degree robbery. The three suspects led cops on a daring high-speed chase before they were arrested The suspects fired a number of shots during the chaos, and two of the men raced out of the car before they were caught on the streets In addition, Darnell is charged with attempted murder and discharging a firearm after allegedly firing a gun at a Good Samaritan who was trying to help the McKays during the incident July 2. And McCrary - who was free on probation during the botched robbery even though he was convicted last year of stealing a Rolex watch at gunpoint - was also charged with evading police while driving recklessly during a 30 mile plus high-speed car chase. Police say that Darnell and Cunningham, both wearing masks, jumped out of a white Toyota Camry driven by McCrary and accosted the McKays as they were walking outside the Barnes & Noble store. One of the suspects allegedly put a gun to the head of Mr. McKay, 69, demanding his watch and forcing him to the ground. When they couldnt get the watch, say cops, the robbers turned on Mrs. McKay, who was holding several shopping bags. As Mrs. Mckay fought to hang on to the bags, Cunningham allegedly dragged her into the street in front of the white Toyota getaway car with McCrary at the wheel. Prosecutors say Douglas McKay jumped in front of the vehicle to protect his wife, but McCrary, with Darnell back in the car, accelerated and forced the husband out of the way, then ran over Mrs. McKay, trapping her under the vehicle and dragging her 65 feet to her death. Leroy McCrary, 26, is seen behind bars during his arraignment on Wednesday in court in Santa Ana, California Jaden Cunningham, 18, is accused of helping to run over the tourist in a sickening crime that prosecutor said 'should never have happened' Malichi Darnell, 18, only showed up in court for the first time on Wednesday after, like the other two accuses suspects, he refused to leave his cell Cunningham was still running toward the moving escape vehicle, trying to jump in and a Good Samaritan was chasing him, trying to stop him. But, according to cops, the pursuer gave up the chase when Darnell fired three shots toward him from the Toyota and Cunningham got away with his two accomplices. Nobody was hit by gunfire. The men fled north toward LA with the Toyota reaching speeds of up to 110mph, say police, who eventually were able to pull the car over and arrest all three. The victims husband Douglas McKay - a prominent businessman and community leader in New Zealands capital, Auckland - was not injured in the incident. Meanwhile Los Angeles County Sheriff George Gascon - and CA Democrat Governor Gavin Newsom - are facing a growing storm of anger over why one of the accused men, McCrary, was free on probation instead of behind bars for a string of earlier LA convictions, including one last year for a similar robbery. Prosecutors say that before last weeks robbery and killing, McCrary had prior convictions for residential burglary in 2018, criminal threats in 2020, and stealing a Rolex at gunpoint in Santa Monica in 2023. The Mayor of Newport Beach launched into a scathing rant after the three suspects were arrested, branding them 'thugs' and saying 'to hell with these guys' He pleaded no congest last year to the robbery charge plus another of being a drug addict in possession of a firearm. Yet he was only sentenced to two years probation and a three-year prison sentence was suspended, leaving him free on the streets. Our shopping centers and malls have become hunting grounds for criminals who are stalking innocent shoppers to rob them blind because our Governor and our Legislature refuse to hold anyone accountable for their actions, blasted Republican Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer when he announced the charges against the three men. He said that Mrs. McKays murder was a crime that should have never happened, adding, Lawlessness and violence will not be tolerated in our society. Newport Beach Mayor Will O'Neill reacted with anger to the horrendous slaying of Mrs McKay, saying that McCrary 'shouldn't have been in free society' because of his past crimes. 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.' And Gascons opponent in the November election for LA DA, said Gascons malpractice appears to have cost another life. Asked to explain why McCrary didnt get jail time for his previous crimes, Gascon said in a statement that the case against him had significant problems with proof so the management team at the court authorized a plea offer that allowed him to be placed on probation, plus a prison sentence that was suspended. Judge Andre Manssourian denied a motion to stop the media picturing the defendants, after their attorney said doing so could impact jury impartiality Newport Beach mayor Will O'Neill said at a press conference following the arraignment that McCrary 'shouldn't have been in free society' because of his past crimes Newport Beach Mayor Will ONeill was in court Wednesday and after the hearing he threw another jab at LA County DA George Gascon over one of the defendants, Leroy McCrary, being allowed free on probation instead of being jailed after being convicted of a similar robbery last year. He had several prior felonies, said ONeill. I do not understand the LA system . where criminals spend so little time in jail. He said that looking at the three accused young men in court Wednesday, he felt a mixture of anger and sadness that these three made such really awful choices. ONeill said he was at court Wednesday representing the family of fatal victim Patricia McKay and the City of Newport Beach, which he dubbed one of the safest communities in the world. Calling the slaying of Mrs. McKay horrendous and horrific, he said that her heart-broken husband, Douglas McKay, has now returned to New Zealand with family members. He noted that the McKays had been married almost 50 years and added, Now theyre not going to make it to their 50th anniversary.' Angela Rayner's Downing Street outfit choice on her first day as Deputy Prime Minister evokes both Ali Baba and Cherie Blair, Daily Mail columnist Andrew Pierce told this week's The Reaction. Hosts Sarah Vine and Andrew have been picking through the first few days of Sir Keir Starmer's government. This week, they have spoken about Labour's housing plans, the impact Reform's five MPs will have - and the fashion challenges of being a female politician. Discussing Ms Rayner's outfit on the day she travelled to No 10 to be appointed Deputy PM by Sir Keir, Andrew said: 'The trousers didn't fit they looked like Ali Baba trousers. 'When Blair became Labour leader in 1994 that's how long I've been doing this job Cherie came out and I said to the man next to her, 'What is Cherry [sic] wearing?' 'He said, 'It's Cherie' the man next to me was of course Alastair Campbell. 'And I said, 'Well, she looks like Ali Baba, with her Ali Baba slippers on. One of the papers tomorrow is going to have her on a magic carpet. They did this paper.' Angela Rayner 's Downing Street outfit choice on her first day as Deputy Prime Minister evokes both Ali Baba and Cherie Blair, Daily Mail columnist Andrew Pierce has told this week's The Reaction Tony Blair and his wife Cherie are pictured after he became the leader of the Labour party in 1994 Andrew Pierce told The Reaction that he recalled thinking that Cherie looked like Ali Baba Tony Blair and his wife Cherie are pictured outside Downing Street when he became Labour leader Sarah said that the outfit she wore for the Brexit vote (pictured) with her then husband Michael Gove 'will haunt me until the day I die' Sarah said that it is 'very difficult to make that call about what to wear' for Downing Street. 'If she'd looked in a mirror she could not possibly have gone down Downing Street looking like that,' Andrew replied. Sarah then recalled having to go and do the Brexit vote with her then husband Michael Gove. 'Honestly, the outfit I wore will haunt me until the day I die,' she said. 'I literally looked like I'd got dressed in a skip in the dark.' The Reaction is available every Wednesday on the Daily Mail's YouTube channel and Spotify. Even by the standards of a typical British summer, the last few weeks have been particularly dismal. But sunny skies (of sorts) could finally return to the UK in the coming days, according to forecasters. The Met Office is predicting drier conditions by the weekend with bright spells and - at long last - temperatures above average for this time of year. Nonetheless, even thinking about a trip to the seaside might be an overly optimistic move. While much of the rest of the world has seen the warmest summer ever, it has been a rather different story here. Since 2000, only one June and early July - in 2012 - have been as cold in the UK as this year. Temperatures reached highs of up to 23c in London yesterday, but there were heavy rainstorms and in the across the north west and north-east. Met Office forecaster Annie Shuttleworth said today would be disappointingly cool in many areas - with rain expected in Wales, the Midlands and northern areas of England. Sunbathers on the beach at Brighton last month. Britain is set to bask in some sunshine at last after a spate of poor weather and storms. Women relaxing on a sunny day in Battersea Park, London last month. Although temperatures in the capital have hit 23C in the last week, over parts of the country have been battered with heavy showers Walkers stroll in the sunshine in Hyde Park, central London last month with temperatures set to rise next week Temperatures on Thursday could again reach 22C in London, while in contrast some areas of northern Scotland may not get above 12C Grey skies above Lords Cricket Ground in Marylebone, London on Wednesday A Wimbledon wheelchair singles match being played in the colder than average weather on Wednesday Sunbathers bask on the beach and surf on the waves in Bournemouth, Dorset on Wednesday A taxi splashing through a large puddle on Euston Road, north London on Monday Visitors to London battle the downpours with coats and umbrellas on Monday Britain has had several weeks of wet weather and severe thunderstorms. Pictured: Westminster, London on Monday Visitors to Oxford Street, central London brave the dismal weather with one woman holding an umbrella with union jacks on Monday Since 2000, only one June and early July have been as cold as this year. Pictured: Westminster, London on Monday Two London visitors dressed in blue anoraks with the union flag and 'London' on the back on Monday A man struggles with his umbrella whilst walking dog his dog Seven at Cullen beach on Wednesday But she said finer weather could emerge in the north-west during the evening because we do have a ridge of high pressure building in from the north and west to end the week, adding: That means there will be more in the way of drier and brighter weather just for a few days. Meanwhile, BBC weather forecaster Matt Taylor temperatures will lift a little this weekend, although he warned that there was also the prospect of some rain around at times, particularly on the eastern coasts. It comes after parts of England, especially in East Anglia, the Midlands and the south-east, have already seen around a months worth of rain. So far this month, the wettest spot compared to its expected monthly average was Northolt in west London, with 66mm of rain in the first seven days of the month - 139 per cent of the total that would normally be expected for the whole of July. Some 90mm of rainfall was expected to fall in the worst affected areas from 10pm on Tuesday until 11.59pm on Wednesday. Motorists are likely to experience delays to their journeys because of flooded roads and spray. While this summer has so far proven to be the chilliest in more than decade, it wouldnt have been anything out of the ordinary in times past. Analysis by Met Office expert Aidan McGivern reveals that four early summers in the 1980s were as cold or coldest than this, as were five during the 1970s. The Average temp for so far this summer (1 June to 8 July) was 12.85C, compared to 12.8C during the same period in 2012. Meanwhile, a French mayor exasperated by summer downpours has issued a bylaw ordering the sun to come out. Daniel Marriere, the mayor of a small village in Normandy called Coulonces, also called on the clergy to start top-priority communication with heaven to help end an unusual bout of wet weather engulfing his village. The weather authority Meteo France said last week it had rained 20 per cent more in June than the norm between 1991 and 2020, with more than double typical rainfall in some regions. A rain cover on an outdoor court at Wimbledon on Sunday. Dozens of matches at the Championships have been cancelled and delayed due to the poor weather Shoppers rush to take cover as heavy rain pours over Oxford Street, central London on Monday Dark clouds gather over the Thames near the London Eye on the South Bank on Sunday A couple of tourists get drenched in the pouring rain near the Palace of Westminster, London on Sunday Visitors walking along Westminster Bridge amid grey skies and gloomy weather on Sunday Ive never known weather like this in July, Mr Marriere said yesterday. Yesterday morning, it was pouring down, the sky was grey and you could hardly see what you were doing. You needed lights on inside of the house, he said. The elected leader of 227 residents on Tuesday took matters into his own hands. It is hereby ordered that for... the months of August, September and why not October, rain should stop and be replaced by bright sun and a light breeze, he wrote in a municipal bylaw. Parish rectors across northern France are to contribute through top-priority communication with heaven, and will therefore be made responsible for the implementation of this rule, he added. Many residents had since reached out to thank him, Mr Marriere said. A woman's mid-flight meltdown that led to her biting a chunk of fabric out of a flight attendant's shirt was sparked by a petty toilet squabble. The woman was on United Airlines Flight 762 from Miami to Newark but barely made it off the runway on Tuesday night before she went ballistic. Three flight attendants, along with burly passengers, were needed to wrestle her into zip-ties until the flight could be diverted to Orlando. Staff went to great lengths to stop the woman's rampage, seating 'the biggest bodies' on the plane next to her until police could haul her away. A passenger bit a chunk of fabric out of a flight attendant's shirt in a mid-fight meltdown A man who said he was also passenger on the flight claimed the meltdown started simply because the woman was blocked from getting to the plane's bathroom. 'She apparently verbally and then physically attacked a family in the back of the plane after not being able to go to the bathroom at one moment,' he told DailyMail.com. 'The kids were screaming - not as loud as her though... I remember when I used to act like this aged two or three when I didn't get ice cream.' The passenger said staff escorted her to a different seat around the middle of the plane while she was yelling and cursing at everyone on board. However, separating her from the family didn't end the disgraceful episode, as she threw punches and spat on staff and other passengers who tried to help. 'She eventually got physical with a flight attendant and began attacking him, then the attendant in white latched onto her trying to stop her,' the man said. 'After it got out of control, it was decided to cuff her after she threatened the plane, since all flight attendants on board had to get involved. Suddenly she bit one of their shoulders, tearing off a piece of fabric and letting it float to the floor in front of the shocked plane 'She resists the cuffs as she bites, spits, and kicks at this man so others and even passengers have to step in to help. 'One passenger who got up to help was spit at multiple times in the face by this woman while being threatened.' The fellow passenger said staff found the biggest bodies on the plane and put them next to the woman so she would be trapped in her seat row until the flight landed. Video recorded by another traveler began after the crew restrained her wrists with zip-ties and she was wrestling with three of them. Suddenly she bit one of their shoulders, tearing off a piece of fabric and letting it float to the floor in front of the shocked passengers. 'Stop touching me... let go of me, I'm a f**king girl, are you trying to kill me?' she shouted afterwards. The video cuts to the woman, now with her hands zip-tied behind her back and standing in the aisle, yelling at everyone not to fly United. 'These people have an attitude problem and they don't f**king do their jobs. They're handcuffing me. Why are you handcuffing me?' she yelled. Video recorded by another traveler began after the crew restrained her wrists with zip-ties and she was wrestling with three of them The video cuts to the woman, now with her hands zip-tied behind her back and standing in the aisle, yelling at everyone not to fly United 'Why b***h? Why the f**k are you handcuffing me? Why, why, why?' A passenger told her to stop yelling and she told her 'go back to Russia, old lady', then let out a steady stream of expletives and told her 'I'll f**king kill you, b***h'. Audio from the plane caught the woman yelling: 'You're a disgrace, piece of s**t, I wish I could f**king spit on you right now.' 'Don't do that, don't do that,' a male flight attendant warned her. 'You are insulting everyone on this aircraft.' Everyone applauded when she was finally kicked off the plane after the flight landed in Orlando where it was delayed three-and-a-half hours. More videos from Orlando showed the woman being marched out of the airport by police. 'The plane is here in Orlando and the crew is not going to continue on [to Newark] because of what happened between here and Miami,' staff announced. Staff announced the flight would be delayed in Orlando (pictured) and the staff would not continued to Newark after all the drama More videos from after the plane landed in Orlando showed the woman being marched out of the airport by police United said the passenger 'became aggressive and disruptive', causing the diversion to Orlando and a lengthy delay. 'Our flight attendants worked to de-escalate the situation and protect other customers and after landing in Orlando, law enforcement met the flight, and the passenger was removed,' it said. 'We're grateful to our team for their professionalism and for looking out for the safety of our customers and their fellow United employees.' The Orlando Police Department said the woman was taken to hospital for a medical evaluation and no arrest has yet been made. The wheelchair-bound man accused of dragging a dead woman's body down a New York City street in a sleeping bag was seen holding onto a plastic urinal as he exited the police station. Chad Irish, 55, gripped onto the portable male urinal as officers wheeled him out of the 13th Precinct in Manhattan to face murder charges in the death of Yazmeen Williams, whose body was found dumped outside with the trash last week. Police say the 31-year-old woman was shot dead before her body was wrapped up and disposed of outside a building on East 27th Street. Irish now faces charges of murder in the second-degree, criminal possession of a weapon and loaded firearm in the second-degree, as well as concealment of a human corpse. Shocking surveillance footage obtained by CBS News shows a man in a motorized wheelchair - believed to be Irish - dragging along a sleeping bag on the street. Chad Irish, 55, was wheeled out of the 13th Police Precinct in Manhattan on Wednesday to face charges for the murder of Yazmeen Williams Irish was seen strangely gripping a plastic bottle as he was wheeled to a transport vehicle Irish now faces charges of murder in the second-degree, criminal possession of a weapon and loaded firearm in the second-degree, as well as concealment of a human corpse The NYPD responded to a report of a suspicious package amid trash in front of on 27th Street and Third Avenue in Kips Bay on the east side of Manhattan just before 5pm on Friday. Inside, officers found Williams' corpse wrapped up in a sleeping bag, and the medical examiner later ruled that she died from a gunshot wound to the head. Police later named Irish as a person of interest in the murder investigation, as she would sometimes stay at his house. It is unclear if their relationship was romantic in nature. Antowne Frazier, who grew up at the apartment complex where Irish lives, said he confronted Irish about the murder on Monday. 'I said, "What did you do with that young girl?"' he recounted to ABC 7. 'He said he "didn't do nothing to that young girl, I just brought some laundry down that was stinking in my house to drop it off."' But Frazier said he had his doubts. 'I told him, I said, "You are a dead man, you shouldn't be around here,"' Frazier said. 'He said, "next time you see me, you should be worried about me," and that's when he brandished a gun.' New York City police originally named Irish as a person of interest in Williams murder because she would stay at his house Surveillance footage showed a man in a wheelchair dragging a sleeping bag along the street Irish allegedly brandished a gun around his apartment complex when a neighbor started asking questions about Williams' murder Frazier said Irish then walked away, but returned a few hours ago still flashing his gun. As Irish made his way back to the apartment building, Frazier said he ran to call 911. By the time police showed up, a frenzied mob was seen attacking the wheelchair-bound man as he was loaded into a police vehicle. A crowd, including Williams' family, was waiting for the suspect as he was wheeled out of a building in a gurney. As he emerged, a man shouted: 'Don't feed that f**king pr**k for weeks' while others yelled, 'Kill him!'. The crowd pushed up against the glass door and began pounding the glass and screaming as Irish approached the vehicle. The chaos only escalated further when Irish was brought outside, with cops struggling to hold back the surging crowd who yelled 'Come outside!'. Police were soon overwhelmed however as the mob chased after him and began raining blows down on him. Irish was violently attacked as he was taken into custody on Monday A woman could be heard wailing as Irish tried to proclaim his innocence. 'You killed my daughter!' Williams' mom Nicole yelled as he was loaded into the van and the crowd continued to bang the sides of the vehicle. 'He looks like scum,' Nicole added while sobbing and struggling to catch her breath. 'They said she's dead. I fainted and the officer had to pick me up off the floor,' she told the New York Post. 'She's my baby. We got to get justice for her. She didn't deserve what happened to her.' An NYC resident stumbled across a woman's body wrapped in a garbage bag on a busy sidewalk last week Officials have suggested Williams' body may have been left on the street for several hours before passerby Rian Robbins reported it - as others reported a stench in the area. For her part, Robbins said she became suspicious of the package when she saw flies were circling it. 'I walked by and turned around, there were flies swarming all over it. And I saw what that looked like a ribcage,' Rian Robbins told AMNY. They were cleaning out the building, so I was like maybe it's some old thing they threw out.' Robbins said the body was left lying on what appeared to be a cart. 'It was on a rolling cart that was tied to the thing,' Robbins said. 'It was big and bloated like it had been in water.' Horrified onlookers inside the lobby of a nearby building also filmed disturbing video of detectives cutting into the body bag on the street. Ted Oehmke, who also witnessed cops slicing open the bag, gave gruesome details of what he saw to DailyMail.com. 'There was a hole cut in the top of the bag and what looked like the top of a head,' he said. 'I'd like to say I was shocked but I'm not. It's a sign of the times, that's all.' 'It looked like whoever did it went to a lot of trouble to make sure it was wrapped up and stuck out in the open,' Oehmke added. 'But I was pretty surprised to see it sitting there in the regular garbage as if sanitation was going to take it away.' Vermont Sen. Peter Welch became the first Democratic senator to call for President Joe Biden to quit his reelection campaign. Welch penned an op-ed for The Washington Post that was published Wednesday evening that dubbed 81-year-old Biden 'one of the best presidents of our time.' But then he noted that we 'cannot unsee President Biden's disastrous debate performance' nor 'ignore or dismiss the valid questions raised since that night.' 'I understand why President Biden wants to run. He saved us from Donald Trump once and wants to do it again,' Welch wrote. 'But he needs to reassess whether he is the best candidate to do so,' he wrote. 'In my view, he is not,' the Vermont senator concluded. 'For the good of the country, I'm calling on President Biden to withdraw from the race.' Vermont Sen. Peter Welch became the first Democratic senator to call for President Joe Biden to quit his reelection campaign President Joe Biden's political future has been in question since last month's presidential debate. This week he is hosting NATO leaders in Washington Welch listed off all the reasons why former President Donald Trump doesn't deserve reelection. 'Trump is a felon. He is a pathological liar. He is a menace,' Welch said, adding that Trump will be 'emboldened' by the Supreme Court's ruling on presidential immunity. The Heritage Foundation's 'Project 2025,' which Trump has distanced himself from, contains an 'extremist agenda,' the Vermonter argued. But, Welch, said, the national conversation has swirled around Biden's competency and age. 'Only he can change it,' Welch urged. The senator added, 'I deliver this assessment with sadness.' He pointed out that while Biden got a bigger percentage in Vermont than any other state in the 2020 race 'regular Vermonters are worried that he can't win this time, and they're terrified of another Trump presidency.' Vermont Sen. Peter Welch said the American public can't unsee President Joe Biden's disastrous presidential debate performance late last month 'We have asked President Biden to do so much for so many for so long. It has required unmatched selflessness and courage,' Welch said. 'We need him to put us first, as he has done before.' 'I urge him to do it now,' Welch said. With Welch's admission, now a handful of Democrats from both houses in Congress have pleaded with Biden to bow out. Overall, nine Democratic House members have said it's time for Biden to go. The president has, so far, resisted. Biden was dining with leaders of NATO at the White House when the Welch news broke. Welch's op-ed was published hours after actor George Clooney, an influential Biden supporters, made the same ask with his own op-ed, this one published in The New York Times, Wednesday morning. Clooney was one of the co-hosts of Biden's glitzy Los Angeles fundraiser last month - where one of his so-called 'freezing' episodes appeared to take place. Biden stuck around onstage for a moment and then was escorted off by former President Barack Obama. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre pushed that the footage was deceptively edited, calling it a 'cheap fake' from the podium. But Clooney's editorial suggested that the video contained the truth - that the 81-year-old had lost a step. The actor wrote that 'one battle he cannot win is the fight against time.' 'None of us can,' he continued. 'It's devastating to say it, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fund-raiser was not the Joe "big F-ing deal" Biden of 2010. He wasn't even the Joe Biden of 2020,' Clooney said. 'He was the same man we all witnessed at the debate.' Anthony Albanese's failure to kick out protesters camped in front of his electorate office has been called out by radio host Ben Fordham - who suggested no other national leader would tolerate it. Mr Albanese's electorate office in Marrickville, in Sydney's inner west, has been abandoned by the Prime Minister's staff since January after a pro-Palestinian encampment took up residence out the front. The Opposition last night seized upon Daily Mail Australia's report that Mr Albanese had apologised to his staff as far back as last December about not being able to access the office - but seven months later nothing has been done. As senior Liberal and National MPs branded Mr Albanese 'weak', 2GB presenter Fordham added fuel to the fire - asking if the leaders of the US, UK, Russia or China would tolerate access to their office being blocked by protesters for that long. 'Do you reckon those leaders would all be sitting around saying, "I'll just stay away from my office all year"?' Fordham asked. 'He's given up the front of his office to the protesters, it hasn't been operational all year, and that's what it's there for - we're paying for it, we're paying for that office to be there.' Daily Mail Australia can now be reveal that Mr Albanese's electorate office cost an estimated $138,000 in 2023, which means taxpayers would have coughed up about $70,000 this year alone for a space and equipment that has barely been occupied. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured) has not been able to use his Marrickville office since January The outside of the PM's office in Marrickville, in Sydney's inner west, has been occupied by a pro-Palestine encampment - preventing constituents from accessing the office Fordham said residents need access to the office to raise local concerns, but those who have tried this year have either been turned away or given a phone number to call. One listener asked how the PM could possibly defend the rights of all Australians when he was unable to stand up for his own constituents. On Thursday, a spokesperson for Mr Albanese said: 'While activity is disruptive for vulnerable Australians seeking help with queries, electorate officers are continuing to assist the people of Grayndler.' Earlier this week, a spokesperson to the Prime Minister admitted to Daily Mail Australia that the ongoing blockade of his office was causing a 'disruption for vulnerable Australians seeking help'. However, Mr Albanese was unwilling to break up the demonstration - despite the fact that protesters had broken the law by fixing signs to the taxpayer-funded electorate office and squatting within the boundaries of the property. When Daily Mail Australia enquired how such a situation could be allowed to happen, a spokesperson for the PM said 'citizens in a democracy have a right to peaceful protest.' The spokesperson refused to say why protesters outside the PM's office were allowed to remain, even though attempts to do the same thing at Parliament House in Canberra last week resulted in serious action. The demonstration outside the Prime Minister's office has been running since January Pictured: Signage out the front of Anthony Albanese's Marrickville office Forcibly removing protesters from his electorate office would be a fraught political matter for Mr Albanese, as most Labor voters - particularly the young who are at risk of switching to the Greens - support the Palestinian cause. Opposition Leader in the Senate, Simon Birmingham, told Daily Mail Australia the PM needs to move on the protesters: 'Anthony Albanese needs to act on the threat that Greens and extremists pose rather than acquiescing to them.' 'Protests are rightly protected in a society of free speech but indefinite barricades and blockades are not. 'The PM's constituents deserve access to their local MP just like any other Australian. Its time for Mr Albanese to stop seeking sympathy for closures of his office and to get authorities to act on these blockades.' Liberal MP Ted O'Brien said Mr Albanese's constituents - and employees - deserved better. 'It's true that the electorate office staff don't deserve this and nor do the locals, but it's also a sad indictment of the Prime Minister's authority or lack thereof,' he said. Pro-Palestine protesters have stopped Mr Albanese from using his own office (pictured) Pro-Palestinian protestors scaled onto the roof of Australian Parliament last week. Their presence was not tolerated 'To leave the situation unresolved for so long sends a message of weakness beyond the Prime Minister's own electorate. 'I stand with the people of Grayndler.' Deputy Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said: 'The targeting of electorate offices is completely unacceptable and we need stronger action to stamp it out for good. 'We stand ready to support stronger measures to stop these attacks so electorate offices can reopen to do their important work. 'But it feels like this government has lost control on social cohesion, we are seeing real pressures boil over; our war memorials are being defaced, MPs are being targeted and our Parliament has been subject to unacceptable displays of hate and ignorance.' An invasion of giant spider crabs has stunned locals as 'tens of thousands' of the crustaceans make a rare visit to the Australian coastal region. The migrating crabs have been swarming in the waters of Kellidie Bay on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula for the last two weeks. The rare sight has puzzled locals including Coffin Bay Oyster farmer Lester Marshall, 59, who said he had never seen a gathering of spider crabs that large in the area. 'In the 25-odd, 30 years I've been oyster farming here, I have never seen this many come here in these numbers,' he said. 'It would be in the tens of thousands and they're pretty much right across the bay,[and they're] only in half a metre, a metre of water. 'It is a sight to behold, that is for sure.' Mr Marshall said the giant spider crabs are 'bright orange' when the sun hits them and have split up into groups of 100 to 500 crabs. The sight is rare because even though the crabs are frequently seen along the Great Southern Reef, they are usually only spotted in places like Victoria's Port Phillip Bay or areas in Tasmania. 'Tens of thousands' of giant spider crabs have been spotted in South Australia's Eyre Peninsula (pictured) The giant spider crabs congregate usually in winter to shed their shells so they can keep growing. Before a new shell grows, the crustaceans are vulnerable to predators The crabs gather for the process of moulting - where they shed their shell and making way for a new hard shell to start growing. The species can grow up to 16cm wide across the shell and 70cm across the legs. But marine scientist Dr Elodie Camprasse told 7 News the process, which often occurs in winter, can be risky. '[The crabs] are soft and vulnerable to predators and we think this is the reason why they come together in such big numbers,' she said. Also putting the creatures at risk are humans, with an online spike in searches about whether the majestic crustaceans can be eaten. The giant spider crabs (pictured) can grow to 16cms wide across their shell and 70cm across their their legs Locals have been shocked by the mass gathering, which usually happens in Port Phillip Bay in Victoria or in some coastal pockets in Tasmania (pictured the giant spider crabs in Kellidie Bay, South Australia) Aussies on social media have also been discussing catching the spider crabs. 'Yum, time to gather and eat,' one commenter wrote. 'If I was there Id take a claw from each crab, take it home and cook them,' another said. One local who had previously caught the crabs wrote: 'We thought we were in for a big feast after catching a few however they had hardly any meat in them'. But some urged locals to leave the giant spider crabs alone. 'Hopefully the locals leave them in peace rather than nicking them for a meal,' one person wrote. A Department of Primary Industries and Regions South Australia spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia giant spider crabs were in fact edible. 'Spider Crabs are not subject to recreational catch restrictions, unless they are found carrying eggs, in which case they must be returned to the water immediately,' the spokesperson said. 'Commercial fishing for spider crabs is only allowed under specific licence conditions. 'Spider Crabs are not notably aggressive creatures but people should take the usual care when entering the water to view them and try not to disturb them.' Telstra customers have been struggling with slower data speeds and patchy coverage after a factory explosion in Melbourne damaged a mobile site. Emergency services were called to Swann Drive, in Derrimut, about 11.20am on Wednesday, after an explosion. Crews battled the large blaze overnight, and while it remains under control it continued to burn on Thursday. Locals have been warned to avoid the area for several days due to toxic smoke. The massive blaze has also caused disruptions to Telstra customers. A Telstra spokesperson said the factory fire had damaged one of our mobile sites. 'There is overlapping coverage from our other sites in the area, but customers may notice slower data speeds and patchy coverage in places. 'We're working closely with Emergency Services and will get in to assess the damage as soon as it is safe to do so'. A huge factory fire in Melbourne damaged a mobile site, which has caused disruptions to thousands of Telstra customers (stock image) 'In the meantime, residents can improve their mobile coverage by using their nbn connection to access Wi-Fi calling'. 'This is a free setting on most popular mobile phones and allows your mobile to use a Wi-Fi network to make and receive mobile calls'. Business owners have been advised to consult their bank about connecting their EFTPOS machines to their nbn or Wi-Fi connection. The move could help stop delays in processing payments from customers. Physician associates have 'become substitutes' for doctors in many hospitals and GP surgeries, a leading academic has said. Professor Martin McKee said there appears to be a 'powerful ideological pressure' to expand the roles across the NHS. Writing a commentary piece in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, he warned that 'growing concerns about patient safety have been ignored', though the situation 'may now be changing'. Leading medics, including the Royal College of GPs and the British Medical Association, have called for a halt to the recruitment of physician associates (PAs) while concerns about the roles are addressed. Prof McKee, from the Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, highlighted measures which have been designed to increase the medical workforce in the UK, including the introduction of physician associates, the expansion of medical school places and proposals to 'shorten and simplify the medical degree'. Leading medics, including the Royal College of GPs and the British Medical Association, have called for a halt to the recruitment of physician associates (PAs) while concerns about the roles are addressed (stock image) Professor Martin McKee said there appears to be a 'powerful ideological pressure' to expand the roles across the NHS He added: 'But changing the medical curriculum will take time, so politicians need a quick fix. 'The answer is to create a new group of workers, physician associates. 'Conceived as health workers who can assist doctors, in many hospitals and primary care facilities they have become substitutes for them. 'They offer a means by which those living in places where it has been impossible to retain doctors can get some basic care. 'Although required to have a degree to enter training, in reality this can be in anything, including homeopathy or the humanities. 'There are many examples on social media of job descriptions and other documents that imply that their two-year training is equivalent to a medical degree. Growing concerns about patient safety have been ignored. 'This situation may now be changing following growing awareness among both doctors and the public of problems, mostly about patient safety, but also illegal prescribing, unclear accountability and damage to specialist training. 'However, the contractual and funding arrangements that have been established to promote the expansion of PA numbers, including salaries much higher than newly graduated doctors, reflect a powerful ideological pressure to expand their roles.' The concerns were published in an article titled The Sovietisation of British medicine. Prof McKee argued that 'certain developments in contemporary Britain that affect the medical profession have worrying parallels in Soviet history'. Patients are too often 'gaslighted, dismissed, and fobbed off' when they raise concerns about NHS care, the patient safety commissioner has said. Henrietta Hughes said the 'patient's anecdote is the canary in the coal mine' of what is happening in the NHS and is 'the thing that tells us there's something going wrong'. She added: 'But too often we hear about patients who have raised concerns being gaslighted, dismissed, and fobbed off.' In an interview with the British Medical Journal (BMJ), Ms Hughes, who took up her role in 2022, said women in some cases had been patronised and had their concerns dismissed. She added that she is 'swimming against the tide' when it comes to making a lasting cultural change in the NHS. Patients are too often 'dismissed and fobbed off' when they raise concerns about NHS care, patient safety commissioner Dr Henrietta Hughes (pictured) has said Her role, funded by the Department of Health and Social Care, was created after a recommendation in a report examining three scandals: hormone pregnancy tests that are thought to be associated with birth defects and miscarriages; sodium valproate, an antiepileptic drug that can cause birth defects when taken by pregnant women; and pelvic mesh implants, which have been linked to serious complications. Ms Hughes said that, too often, patients raising concerns were passed off as 'difficult women'. She added: 'It shows a very dismissive and very old fashioned, patronising attitude to patients who have identified problems and need to have their voices heard.' While Ms Hughes, a former medical director at NHS England and national guardian for the NHS, does not examine individual cases, she wants to simplify the way people can access help and make their voices heard. 'There's over 100 patient safety organisations, and one of the things that we'll be working on this year is doing the Patient Safety Atlas of Powers, an easy-to-read guide of the arm's length bodies and regulators and what their roles and remits are,' she said. Ms Hughes said she was 'swimming against the tide' in changing the culture (file image of hospital) 'Because as far as I'm concerned, they don't join up. They don't reference the next step in the chain.' She said NHS trusts are in danger of focusing too much on finance which makes the working culture 'toxic'. She added that she is 'swimming against the tide' when it comes to making a lasting cultural change, adding: 'People are quite comfortable with the way they do things already.' A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: 'Too many patients are not listened to, treated with respect, or given the information they need to access the right services. 'This Government will prioritise patient safety to ensure that the NHS treats everyone with the high quality and safe care that they deserve.' An Australian husband and wife have been reportedly murdered at a luxury hotel in the Philippines - and a third person believed to be connected to them is also dead. The two Australians were reportedly staying at The Lake Hotel, at Tagaytay in Cavite province, southwest of the Philippines capital of Manila. Radio 2GB broke the news on Thursday. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was aware of the deaths and was providing consular assistance to those affected. An Australian husband and wife have been reportedly murdered at a luxury hotel (above) in the Philippines and a third person believed to be connected to them is also dead The Australian couple reportedly found dead at the Lake Hotel (above) in Cavite province south of Manila The Lake Hotel Tagaytay 'boasts a majestic panorama of the world-famous Taal Lake and volcano' and is a 90 minute drive from Manila. DFAT released a statement saying 'is providing consular assistance to the families of two Australians who have died in the Philippines'. MORE TO COME An experienced hotel worker claims he was discriminated against after getting a different response from a job application when he tweaked a key detail on his resume. Dwight Jackson, 27, alleges Shinola Hotel in downtown Detroit kept overlooking his applications for multiple positions - until he changed his name. In a lawsuit, filed on Wednesday, Jackson states he made numerous attempts to work at the luxury hotel between January and April 2024 but was denied an opportunity to interview for the positions. It wasn't until he submitted a CV with a 'Caucasian name' - John Jebrowski - that he was contacted by the hotel to undergo the interviewing process the same week, the filing states. Dwight Jackson, 27, has sued the owners of Shinola Hotel claiming that they kept rejecting his resume because he was black Jackson said he started out using his birth name in his initial attempts. But as soon as he applied with the alias John Jebrowski, keeping all of his work history and skills the same, he says he received an interview call from the management. Jackson went through the interview process, however he was informed that he was not a viable candidate for the position, according to court documents. 'Mr. Jackson actually confronted them and said, "I'm Dwight Jackson, I'm the guy that's been applying to a job" and they said, 'We're done. We don't want to hire you",' Jackson's attorney John Marko further told CBS News Detroit. 'It's illegal to discriminate against someone in the hiring process because of the color of his skin. 'The suit alleges (the hotel) illegally discriminated against Mr. Jackson by refusing to give him an interview or hire him for a position for which he was qualified and the only reason is the color of his skin,' Marko added. Since the filing, the hotel has issued a statement saying that they 'do not tolerate discrimination of any kind' Jackson claims that he only changed his name on the resume and kept all of the other details the same every time he applied Since the filing, the hotel has issued a statement saying that they 'do not tolerate discrimination of any kind'. 'We take this allegation very seriously and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind. 'We're committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and are dedicated to building a diverse workforce that reflects the community.' Jackson has stated in the lawsuit that he suffered stress, humiliation, emotional damages and economic damages due to the incident. He is seeking an 'amount as the trier of fact shall deem fair and just, together with interest, costs and attorney fees, and for such other and further relief as this Honorable Court may deem appropriate' as damages, according to documents. DailyMail.com has reached out to Shinola Hotel for a comment. A trucker driving through Louisiana was able to spot a one-year-old 'miracle baby' crawling in a ditch as cops frantically searched for the infant following his brother's mysterious death. The infant, whom his grandmother identified as Kingtrail, had to survive stormy weather as Hurricane Beryl inundated the area with heavy rain and high wind gusts on Monday - but was relatively unscathed when he was found Tuesday. 'We look at this one-year-old as our miracle baby because he was still alive,' Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Gary 'Stitch' Guillory said at a news conference, noting that the infant had numerous bug bites but otherwise appeared to be in good condition. 'This kid spent two days out in the weather on the side of a highway,' the sheriff continued. 'Thank God that trucker seen him.' A one-year-old has been described as a 'miracle baby' after he apparently survived two days crawling on the side of an interstate Guillory explained that authorities had found the infant's four-year-old brother in a lake behind a welcome center near the Texas state line on Monday. A GoFundMe page has been set up for the family to help pay for the child's funeral. Deputies then put out a BOLO for more information for the young child's family, and a family from Mississippi reached out - saying she was concerned it may have been her family member. She also mentioned for the first time that the child had a one-year-old sibling, and that the two siblings were last seen with their mother, Aaliyah Jack, 25, on Saturday. At that point, officials started to worry that the infant may also be dead, and were prepared on Tuesday morning to search the lake where Legend had been found. But the deputies then received from an unidentified truck driver who said he spotted the baby crawling on the side of Interstate 10. 'There was a little boy sitting down in the embankment there,' the driver told KPLC. 'As I approached him, he smiled at me and then he started crying and walked toward me. Once he walked toward me, I grabbed his hand and he stopped crying at that point.' When deputies arrived, they were able to positively the identify the infant as the missing one-year-old. An unidentified truck driver spotted the infant crawling on the side of Interstate 10 He said the child was sitting in an embankment and started walking toward him Authorities had feared the infant may have died, after his older brother was found dead in a lake nearby The boys' grandmother, Conswella Jack, said she is now trying to piece together what may have happened. 'I was so blessed to hear the baby survived, but also so hurt because one is now gone,' she told The Arcadiana Advocate, describing Legend as 'so sweet and just lovable.' Conswella explained that her daughter, Aaliyah, had legal custody of the two boys, but after she fell on hard times in April and fled to Baton Rouge, they had a mutual agreement that Conswella and the children's other grandmother would watch over them until she could get back on her feet. 'I remember asking her why she [was] in Baton Rouge, and all she said was she had nowhere else to go,' Conswella recounted. 'So Legend's grandmother went to get her kids from Baton Rouge and after that, we all met up. I took Kingtrail and Legend went with his [other] grandmother, and Aaliyah went her separate way.' The boys' mother, Aaliyah Jack, 25, is facing a criminal charge of failure to report a missing child, but is fighting extradition back to Louisiana They then met up on Saturday for Conswella's mother's funeral. That is when, Conswella said, her daughter fled with the two boys. 'The next day, which was Sunday, after trying to call her, she finally reaches out to me, but it's a text,' the heartbroken grandmother said. 'She sent me a picture of a car in some bushes that kind of looked like it was wrecked. I was confused, so I called, called and called, and could not reach her.' Police say there was no sign of foul play in Legend's death, but autopsy reports are pending. Still, a warrant was issued for Aaliyah's arrest Monday night, charging her with failure to report a missing child. She was taken into custody on Tuesday in Meridian, Mississippi - more than 350 miles from where her children were found. The boys' grandmother, Conswella Jack, said she is trying to fight for custody of the infant She was set to be extradited back to Louisiana, but Aaliyah is now fighting the extradition order, KPLC reports. In order to have her face the criminal charge in Louisiana, Gov. Jeff Landry would now have to send a letter to Mississippi officials stating the need for her to return. If she does get sent back to Louisiana, she would face a $300,000 bond. In the meantime, Kingtrail has been released from a local hospital and is in state custody as his grandmother fights to take him home. She described the situation as 'stressful,' noting: 'I don't even have the funds for it, so I have to do everything I can to get that baby back, because ain't nobody know him like we know him.' The farmland of eastern Solano County has become the target of debate as California Forever is proposing to build a city in the rural setting. Not all residents believe that's a good idea. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle The Bay Area Council has advocated for infill housing development for decades, arguing that building homes in population centers next to jobs and transit is far preferable to the freeway-clogging greenfield projects built on raw land in exurbs like Mountain House or Tracy. But, in an unexpected new report, the powerful business-backed institute suggests that California Forevers proposal to build a major city on 17,500 acres of ranchland in eastern Solano County may be big and bold enough to actually do what other greenfield communities like Mountain House in San Joaquin County have promised but failed to do: Create an integrated community with a diversified economy and affordable housing. The report delves into Solano Countys economic track record and concludes that the countys inability to produce housing and jobs has led to a lackluster economy with long commutes, low wages and families that struggle to earn enough to keep a roof over their heads. Given its location in the middle of the mega-region stretching from San Francisco to Sacramento, Solano County has failed to live up to its potential, the report says. It also suggests that Solano County has not developed jobs and housing at the same rate as similarly positioned counties across the United States. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Solano County finds itself in a unique and precarious position, the report states. The countys geographic location adjacent to some of the most prosperous economic centers in the world should support significant population and job growth, but that growth has not been happening. The report comes as California Forever, the billionaire-backed group that has bought 66,000 acres in Solano County, is campaigning to generate support for a ballot initiative that will go before voters in November. The ballot measure would exempt the project from the countys orderly growth initiative, which requires that all urban development happen within the borders of the countys seven cities; and not in unincorporated parts of the county, which are dominated by farmland. Grassy hills cover the landscape west of Highway 12 near Rio Vista. A group of investors known as California Forever has proposed building a city near this location. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle The project, funded by Silicon Valley billionaires, has generated strong backlash from many ranchers and environmental groups, who argue the development would destroy the countys agricultural community and fragile ecosystem. Bay Area Council Economic Institute Executive Director Jeff Bellisario said his group has been studying the Northern California mega-region for a decade and over the years had discussed the possibility that a new city might be part of the solution to the current housing affordability crisis. But the track records of previous new communities have been underwhelming with plenty of new homes but few well-paying jobs. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Greenfield developments tend to be bedroom communities that add to our mega-commutes and freeway traffic, he said. The report analyzes the California Forever plans potential impact on jobs and housing, but does not study the huge infrastructure investment in the regions roads that would be needed if the new city were to become a reality. It also doesnt delve into impact on water or the environment. But the report says the size and scale of California Forevers proposal makes it big enough to attract employers. The groups East Solano Plan is proposing a jobs guarantee that adds 15,000 positions in which workers would earn the equivalent of 125% of the countys average weekly wage, which would increase Solano Countys employment in high-earning sectors by 53%. The scale of the East Solano Plan proposal is unlike anything seen before in Northern California, and it is this scale that gives the plan a chance of generating higher levels of employment than has been experienced in other greenfield developments in Northern California, the report says. By combining housing that can bring in a diversified talent pool and a clear plan to attract employers, the East Solano Plan presents an opportunity to rethink the economy from the ground up. Livestock graze along Flannery Road near Goose Haven Road in Solano County. A new report suggests the proposed new city that would be built in this part of the county would help boost the local economy and create more affordable housing. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Companies that have said they would open facilities in the new city include aerospace manufacturer Hadrian, the robotics company Serve Robotics, the internet infrastructure provider Meter, and Living Carbon, which grows plants that capture more carbon than typical vegetation. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Fairfield resident Duane Kromm, a leading opponent and former member of the Solano County Board of Supervisors, called the reports conclusions flimsy at best. They give no credence to the importance of farmland. The quality of life that farmland provides and what farmland does for climate change and habitat, he said. Kromm also was skeptical about the promise of 15,000 jobs. If there was a company that wanted to come here they could come tomorrow or next week. There are opportunities all over Solano County for companies to come and open up operations, he said. The thought that a new community is needed to attract these companies? I dont understand that logic at all. The report states that Solano Countys housing production has slowed considerably over the past three decades. In 1990, Solano County permitted 674 units of housing per 100,000 residents. In 2023, that number dropped to 315 units per 100,000 residents. In Solano County, 54% of renters and 29% of homeowners are cost burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A cross sits against a landscape of grassy plains west of Highway 12 in Rio Vista. The California Forever group wants to build a new city near Rio Vista, in Solano County. Jessica Christian/The Chronicle Solano County also has the lowest jobs-to-population ratio in the nine-county Bay Area region, with the number of jobs located in the county equating to 39% of the adult population, compared with 102% in San Francisco. The county makes up 6% of the regions population but has just 3.5% of the jobs. Solano Countys unemployment is also higher than the rest of the Bay Area, 4.9% compared with the regions overall rate of 3.9%, according to the report. The report compares Solano County with three regions that have similar demographics and proximity to jobs: Johnson County, Kan.. (near Kansas City); Snohomish County, Wash. (near Seattle); and Denton County, Texas (near Dallas). It says Solano County has lagged behind the three other counties in growth and economic activity. While Solano has seen a 13% population growth since 2005, Snohomish has experienced a 30% population growth, Johnson County has grown by 23% and Denton County by 85%. Bellisario said that all three counties looked similar to Solano County 20 years ago. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A child had to be allegedly 'wrestled' from the arms of the dad accused of setting the family home on fire, killing three of his children and seriously injuring four others and his partner. The 28-year-old allegedly barricaded his partner, 29, and their seven kids inside their housing commission home in Lalor Park, in Sydney's west, at about 1am on Sunday and set it on fire. Emergency services raced to the home and removed six of the children and both adults. The remains of a five-month-old girl were later found. Two boys, aged six and two, died shortly after being taken to hospital while their four siblings, aged between four and 11, are now in a stable condition. The father, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, has regained consciousness up in hospital and faced Parramatta Local Court on a slew of charges on Thursday for the first time. In court, he was ordered not to contact any of the survivors. He was refused bail and is scheduled to appear before Penrith local court on September 6 on three counts of murder (DV), five counts of attempted murder (DV) and also destroying/damaging property with intent to endanger life (DV). A 28-year-old man has been refused bail after allegedly setting his house on fire with accelerant which killed his three children on Sunday Homicide Squad commander, Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty, told the media on Thursday that the father 'understands that three of his children have been died as a result of this house fire and he understands he's been charged for those offenses'. 'I can't really talk too much because now it's before the court in relation to what he said but he has spoken and communicated,' he said. The accused had difficulty speaking after suffering from smoke inhalation but has 'recovered fairly well', according to Mr Doherty. Police will allege that the father is 'solely responsible for setting fire' inside the home and used accelerant throughout the home, creating an 'explosive situation'. He is also alleged to have locked the bedroom doors shortly after starting a fire inside the room, trapping those inside. 'We've alleged that there is some type of domestic argument or dispute that may have led to this incident happening and unfolded into this horrendous, murderous act,' Mr Doherty said. The heartbroken mother returned to the tattered home shortly after being released from hospital and helped recount the incident to police and investigators. '(She was) obviously devastated and heartbroken but was supported through the walk-through,' Mr Doherty said. His partner, 29, has been released from hospital and four of his children remain in stable conditions, while he faced court from his bedside Police allege he locked the doors of his children's bedrooms after starting fires in the rooms and wrestled with rescuers trying to remove his family from the home (pictured) Det Sup Doherty said police will also allege the father had attempted to hinder the efforts of emergency services and Good-Samaritan neighbours trying to save his children. 'They (allegedly) had to wrestle with this man and wrestle the (11-year-old) boy from his grasp because he was holding on to him,' Mr Doherty said. 'The boy was rescued and then man was after some resistance and was arrested as well.' The local community have helped provided support for the tattered family, including financial, housing and support services. 'Out of these tragic circumstances we see that good people rise to the surface and they're getting as much assistance as I can,' Det Sup Doherty said. Police have been interviewing a number of witnesses who have come forward after the incident as investigations into the blaze remain ongoing. Anyone with information has been urged to contact police. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available A tradie faces fines of almost $12,000 for filling a huge hole that a fallen gum tree left outside his home. Adam Marsal spent 'thousands' on new soil, turf and native plants to fix a hole on the nature strip across from his house in Frankston in Melbourne's south-east. Mr Marsal said he filled the hole, which was around 4metres wide and 2m deep, when it was left untouched for six months despite his claim he reported it to the council and roads authority. But he said his actions soon saw him interrogated by Frankston City Council and hit with an $11,500 for 'illegally dumping litter on the side of the road'. Mr Marsal claimed he was treated like a 'criminal' over the issue, which he thought posed a serious safety risk to people in the area. 'I cleaned all that up and, yeah... they've fined me and given me notice to revert it back to what it was,' Mr Marsal told A Current Affair. Video footage broadcast on the program showed Mr Marsal being questioned about why he took it upon himself to clean up the site. Adam Marsal was treated like a 'criminal' for fixing a hole on the nature strip across from his house in Frankston, on the outskirts of Melbourne 'It used to be a f***ing derelict site full of s***,' he can be heard telling the investigator. 'You left a 4-metre hole in the ground so I cleaned it up.' Afterwards, he said he felt like he was blindsided by what appeared to a hostile exchange because he thought he was going in to have a 'proper conversation' and to mediate the issue. But the council responded by saying he should have escalated the matter to a councillor or member of parliament instead of taking matters into his own hands. 'It's very strange to me that somebody decided to fill a hole with illegal fill that has potentially detrimental impacts on the community,' Frankston Mayor Nathan Conroy said of the incident. 'We can't allow 60,000 or 70,000 people just to fill holes on land that is not theirs.' Mr Marsal has been ordered to dig up the soil and revert the site to its 'derelict' state and given two infringement notices Frankston City Council said it takes a 'zero tolerance approach to illegal fill and the detrimental impacts it can have on the environment and the community'. 'Council promptly investigated the matter after it was reported by a concerned resident,' a council spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia. 'Council has no record of being contacted regarding a hole at the subject location. 'Interviews are conducted in accordance with all relevant guidelines and legislative requirements. 'As this is an ongoing enforcement matter, Council will not be making any further comment.' Council have ordered Mr Marsal to dig up the soil and turf he laid and issued him two separate infringements totaling $11,500. Australia is rushing towards becoming a cashless society but not everyone is ready to wave goodbye to physical currency - and there are good reasons why. The Covid pandemic supercharged a trend toward digital transactions that was already underway, with the use of digital wallet payments on smartphones and watches soaring from $746million in 2018 to more than $93billion in 2022. By the end of 2022 cash only accounted for 13 per cent of Australian consumer payments compared to 70 per cent in 2007. 'The shift towards a cashless society in Australia isn't just a possibility, it's already well underway,' RMIT Associate Professor in Finance Angel Zhong said. While Dr Zhong did not see banknotes disappearing completely, she believed they will become much rarer in day-to-day transactions. 'The functionally cashless society is where we enjoy the convenience of technology - we don't have to go out with a bunch of cash, we can use our phone and smartwatch to make payments,' she told Daily Mail Australia. As more Australians embrace the trend a growing number of retailers are only accepting digital payments. Major banks continue to close branches, shrink ATM numbers and are even opening 'cashless' branches, citing a customer preference for online services. However, going electronic has its own sets of risks and could badly disadvantage some sections of the population. Here are the 10 major concerns of going cashless. RMIT Associate Professor in Finance Angel Zhong says legislation in Australia is trailing behind developments in electronics payment 1. It can leave out older Australians or others not digitally connected Dr Zhong said the strongest adopters of digital payments were Australians aged between 18 and 29. 'Two-thirds of them use digital wallets,' she said. However, many older Australians still preferred to pay in physical currency with almost one in five classified as a 'high-cash user'. Dr Zhong said as Australia needed provide 'better support for other age groups to embrace technology, better literacy about systems in technology as well as financial assistance' for those struggling with the transition to digital payments. Those on lower incomes and new migrants also typically rely more on cash. 2. It relies on internet coverage and reliable connectivity Rural areas with slow internet can find digital transactions challenging. However a major Commonwealth Bank outage in July demonstrated the vulnerability of digital finance even in urban areas. Customers were left paralysed by the technical glitch and unable to access their accounts, transfer funds or use their cards to make purchases. Dr Zhong said governments needed to support investment in infrastructure that boosted internet coverage and speeds to smooth the way for the digital revolution. 3. Some areas of the cash economy will suffer Charity donations given on the street are dwindling because fewer people are carrying cash and the those who beg or busk for a living face the same problem, research conducted in 2020 found. 'While retailers and online merchants have benefited from cashless payment options, donation-seekers are left rattling an empty cup,' wrote University of Massachusetts' Spencer M. Ross and Auckland University of Technology's Sommer Kapitan. 'Aside from people carrying less cash, our research suggests another major reason is that people simply don't expect to see beggars or buskers with a swipe machine, or a QR code or Venmo symbol on their signs.' 4. 'Hidden' fees Digital transactions often attract a fee, which might not be obvious at the time of purchase. Warwick Ponder, the former executive manager of corporate affairs and communications at eftpos Payments Australia, told Daily Mail Australia that Paywave devices often levied a delayed credit surcharge. Mr Ponder advised customers to avoid tapping as much as possible, as there could be a significant period of time before the money deducted registers in their account. Banks also typically charge a higher fee for 'tap-and-go' purchases than for EFTPOS, with only cash attracting no extra cost. Australia is rapidly going cashless with digital payments being enthusiastically adopted, especially by younger consumers 5. Hacking and scams It is estimated that Australians lost more than $2billion to online scams in 2021 - but the true figure could be much higher due to many incidents going unreported. Major cybersecurity breaches of Optus and Medibank last year also highlighted the risk of identity theft online. UNSW Institute for Cyber-Security director Nigel Phair told Daily Mail Australia that the nation 'has to do a lot better when it comes to cyber-crime'. ' The Australian Cyber-Security Centre said they had about 63,000 reports (of scams) last year, I reckon that's about a fifth of what the actual number is. 'The ACCC had about $2billion in reported losses from scams. I reckon that's nowhere near the right amount.' 6. Lagging legislation Regulation of electronic payments often lags behind technological and market innovations. Google Pay and Apple Pay are currently not subject to the same rules as credit cards and EFTPOS transactions. Treasurer Jim Chalmers is updating legislation to change this. 'That payments Act is actually out of date,' Dr Zhong said. 'We need to regulate to ensure that we have an industry-wide standard to ensure that consumers' wellbeing and security are protected.' 7. Losing the value of money and less social interaction Finance commentator Sarah Wells told Daily Mail Australia that children won't learn the true value of money and miss out on crucial social interactions if all transactions become digital. 'I believe it is better for children to use cash,' Ms Wells said. 'Giving a child $20 and taking them to a shopping centre or the movies helps them to learn to budget and helps them to make decisions by thinking more carefully. 'There's a responsibility in handing over money and such valuable social interaction - they learn to say 'please' and 'thank you' and look people in the eye.' 8. Loss of independent spending power Ms Wells also warned that having 'a cash-starved society' could be bad news for those whose finances are being controlled or denied by someone else. Ms Wells said young women who were fleeing domestic violence needed to be kept in mind when regulating digital payments. Women in these circumstances risk being tracked by an abusive partner or being cut off from their finances. 'We need to make sure we are not compromising the safety, education and experience of minority groups and young minds in our endeavours to legislate contemporary payment platforms,' she said. By the end of 2022 cash only accounted for 13 per cent of Australian consumer payments compared to 70 per cent in 2007 9. Your spending can be tracked The loss of anonymity and privacy is a major concern for many who oppose a 'cashless society'. A change.org petition created by Elizabeth Hynton which rails against the 'discrimination' faced by those who used cash has gathered more than 5000 signatures. 'Cash is private,' the petition states. 'When one pays via credit/debit card, the Government knows: what one spends their money on, how much they spend, where one spends their money and when the purchase was made, which is an invasion of privacy.' Dr Zhong agreed that the concerns were valid. '(With) anything digital there is always a vulnerability it will be tracked,' she said. 10. Loss of your and freedom of choice This is perhaps the over-riding concern of many who oppose the cashless society. The change.org petition argues that cash should always be an option. 'One of the hallmarks of a free society is freedom of choice ... not just what suits an organisation, but also what suits the customer!' the petition states. 'We can't go on forever using COVID as an excuse.' China presents a dystopian vision of how such control can be exercised, where people are subject to a social credit score that accrues or docks points depending on how desirable the individual's behaviour is according to the government. A bad social credit score can mean being blocked from buying items such as plane or train tickets. The Reserve Bank is currently examining the benefits of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) being introduced to to Australia, which would be a 'programmable' currency such as China's. Although the RBA has stated such a currency could improve the 'efficiency and resilience' of payments it said one was not likely to introduced any time soon. 'Given the many issues that are yet to be resolved, any decision on a CBDC in Australia is likely to be some years away,' the RBA said. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available This is the moment two British women viciously attack each other in an apparent row over a man's attention in a notorious Greek party town. The two tourists, who have not yet been identified, got into the fight in the middle of Malia, around 20 miles east of the Greek island's capital city, Heraklion. Video footage taken by bystanders showed the women, one dressed in a black top and shorts, the other in a white top and grey shorts, punching and kicking each other repeatedly. The woman in white was seen grabbing the other's hair, pulling it down and punching her with her free hand several times, all while the woman in black wildly flails her arms. In a move that shocked passers-by, the woman in white can be seen yanking her opponent to the ground, before walking away. The two tourists, who have not yet been identified, got into the fight in the middle of Malia In a move that shocked passers-by, the woman in white can be seen yanking her opponent to the ground, before walking away Later footage showed the woman in black's face covered in blood as she sits on the floor trying to recover. As the holiday season in Europe ramps up, Brits have come under a harsh limelight over perceptions of their bad behaviour. As British tourists flock to Greece for their summer holidays, the authorities are using satellites, AI and an app to enforce new rules dictating that umbrellas and deck chairs must be at least four metres from the sea, and root out the 'illegal' use of sunbeds on thousands of the country's beaches. Angry locals have been taking action as part of the so-called 'beach towel movement' - which began last year and has seen thousands protest against paying extortionate prices to use sun loungers. Video shows a drone being flown over rows of beds on the Halkidki peninsula - a holiday hotspot renowned for its stunning beaches. The first drone flights began in May, and have spotted rule breakers on Pefkochori beach who did not have a licence to set up shop so close to the water. Pensioner Evgenia Rapti, who has a summer home near Pefkochori beach, is one of many outraged by the dramatic growth of Greece's tourism industry. 'The whole beach has been taken over' with tables, chairs and deckchairs, the 64-year-old pensioner said. 'When we bought our house 40 years ago, it was completely different,' she recalled wistfully. 'The beach was empty and it was nice to lie there.' Even the pro-Palestine protestors 'blockading' the Prime Minister's electorate office want him to reopen the premises he has abandoned since January - promising that their protest will remain peaceful if it happens. But so far at least Team Albo is refusing to do so, claiming they have advice that re-opening his suburban office in Marrickville, in Sydney's inner west, would represent a security threat and a clear and present danger to the staff working there. A storm over Mr Albanese abandoning the office to protesters has grown this week with Opposition MPs lining up to hammer the Prime Minister as 'weak' for essentially surrendering his Grayndler electorate digs to a rag-tag band of protesters. Mr Albanese's local staff - who would normally have constituents walk in to get help with federal government services such as immigration, Medicare and Centrelink problems - have fled the scene and moved somewhere else. The protesters out the front told Daily Mail Australia that even they thought Mr Albanese's retreat was absurd. 'He just doesn't want to face us and have the discussion [about Palestine]', one of the protestors said. 'He knows most of his constituents agree with us.' 'It's a joke that he won't open the office back up', a second protester added. That demonstrator said that, a few months back he had a conversation with Tim Murray, the PM's electorate office manager, who claimed they couldn't open back up because staff were being abused. The protesters out the front of Anthony Albanese's office told Daily Mail Australia on Thursday that even they thought his retreat was absurd Pro-Palestine protesters at their camp at Anthony Albanese's electorate office on Thursday Daily Mail Australia pointed out that Prime Minister used a speech to parliament on December 7 last year to apologise to Mr Murray and his fellow electorate staff for the office disruption. 'To Tim Murray and my electorate staff I'm sorry that there are so many demonstrations at the moment,' the PM told Parliament. 'Blocking an electorate office of a member of parliament doesn't change a political decision. 'What it does is stop people who need their local member from getting access on issues of social security, health care and others.' But more than eight months later, constituents still can't get access to the office - including the disabled and the elderly - and the staff continue to work remotely. That's despite the protestors having assured the PM's office directly that their peaceful protest can coexist with a fully functioning electorate office. 'Of course we won't block people coming and going,' one said. The protestor who spoke to Mr Murray rejects the accusation they were abusive: 'I told him that's rubbish. We don't blame the staff.' When Daily Mail Australia visited the site, an elderly constituent came to the office seeking help with a community issue. He didn't speak English and was unable to find wherever Mr Albanese's staff have retreated to. The protestors tried to assist the man, even attempting to call Albanese's office directly. But there was no answer. In the end one of the younger, more tech-savvy protesters used their Google skills to get the answer he sought. The man thanked them their help and headed on his way. The protesters Daily Mail Australia spoke were grateful for the support they have received locally, including from businesses up and down the Marrickville strip that have supported them with food, drinks and access to toilet facilities. 'They have been really great.' While we visited, numerous passing cars honked and waved in support. Mr Albanese's office has now been abandoned since January Problematic: a political sign on the MP's office The Prime Minister's office told Daily Mail Australia that it won't be making any further comment about the situation - except that 'electorate officers are continuing to assist the people of Grayndler'. But there is increasing pressure for the PM to sort something out. Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie said Mr Albanese needed to stand up to the protestors. 'The PM should no longer accept this indulgent behaviour,' she said. 'Being a prime minister, and the leader of the country, you can't be passive in this situation. Peaceful protests shouldn't be able to obstruct the work of local parliamentarians engaging with their constituents.' One protester made a similar point. 'They (Albanese's staff) just want to bury their heads in the sand and pretend we don't exist.' But an issue the Prime Minister might have to address is the non-compliance of the various signage the protestors have attached to his office walls. Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) guidelines require all political signs fixed to an MPs office to be authorised if they are designed to influence the way people vote. According to the AEC responsibility for such signs rests with the MP occupying the office. The AEC guidelines for required authorisation says that it includes materials that seek to influence 'a voter's choice of whether to cast a formal ballot paper'. It applies to signs 'communicated or intended to be communicated for the dominant purpose of influencing the way electors vote'. Not only did the protestors confirm that they hoped that their placards would make people reconsider how they voted, but one of the unauthorised signs attached to Albanese's office reads: 'Liberal or Labor? same thing, vote neither', a clear attempt to influence the way people vote. It is understood Mr Albanese's office have set up an office-in-exile elsewhere in Sydney, but the location is a mystery. No constituents can attend, and it is merely a hub for staffers to answer constituents' queries remotely. Do you know more? Email us at tips@dailymail.com Three men accused of gang raping three teens during a bucks party weekend will wait to learn their fate over the allegations after the jury retired to consider their verdicts. Andrew David, 30, and brothers Maurice Hawell, 30, and Marius Hawell, 22, stood trial after pleading not guilty to counts of aggravated sexual assault in company, attempting to commit aggravated sexual assault in company and aggravated sexual touching. The trio had rented an Airbnb in Newcastle to celebrate a bucks party for groom-to-be Maurice in February 2022 when they allegedly gang raped three teenagers in dark rooms. Prosecutors claim the three men sexually assaulted two 18-year-old women on the Friday night after pushing them onto beds in a dark room inside the rented Airbnb. One of the teens told the court Maurice had first entered a room where she was having consensual sex with another bucks party attendee and tried to sexually touch her without her consent. Not long later, the two 18-year-olds told the court they went into a bedroom to retrieve their phones as they prepared to leave, but they were pushed backwards onto beds and assaulted. One of the teens said she was forced to engage in penetrative sex with a man she couldn't see while another man knelt on her arms and thrust his penis into her mouth. The other teen said she was pinned to the bed beside her friend and stripped naked as a man tried to put his penis in her mouth while she was penetratively and anally raped. Maurice Hawell (pictured) has denied gang raping three teens during his bucks party in Newcastle in 2022. Marius Hawell (pictured) has denied he was involved in sexual activity that weekend Both teens testified that they were unable to identify their alleged assailants because the room was so dark. Crown prosecutor Craig Evans alleges Maurice, Mr David and Marius participated in the alleged gang rapes, and they either knew the women didn't consent or were reckless as to their consent. He claims the three men were also involved in sexually assaulting a 19-year-old woman the following night. The court was told Maurice had approached the teen on the street and persuaded her to come back to the rented Airbnb for pre-drinks but instead ushered her into a bedroom. The teen said she was pushed onto a bed and they kissed before Mr David entered the room and Maurice asked if she wanted them to engage in a threesome. The 19-year-old said she rejected the suggestion but Mr David pinned her to the bed by kneeling on her shoulders and forced his penis into her mouth while Maurice penetratively raped her. She told the court she had tried to keep her legs closed but the man forced them open. The teen said a third man, who the Crown argues is Marius, entered the room while the gang rape was occurring and used his flashlight to illuminate the sexual activity. Andrew David (pictured) has also denied the charges of gang raping three women Maurice and Mr David maintain that all sexual activity was consensual, while Marius claims he did not participate in any of the sexual incidents during the bucks weekend. Their lawyers all cast doubt on the credibility of the alleged victims and argued their clients did not know the women were not consenting. All three men faced a weeks-long trial in the NSW District Court over the allegations they were involved in a joint criminal enterprise that was reckless to the women's consent. On Thursday, Judge Gina O'Rourke reminded the jurors that they were required to assess the evidence against each accused separately. 'It is effectively three trials in one,' she said. She also reminded the jury that the trio were presumed innocent and urged them to 'keep an open mind' as they deliberate. After a lengthy summing up by the judge, the jury retired to discuss their verdicts on Thursday afternoon. A prestigious private Melbourne school has pleaded guilty to a criminal offence after a diabetic student fell ill while on a school trip to Vietnam. Lachlan Cook, 16, was a few days into the school trip in September 2019 when he began vomiting and having stomach pains. His condition deteriorated dramatically and he was rushed to a local hospital, but was flown back home after he fell into a coma. Lachlan did not regain consciousness and died at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. A coronial inquest last year found his cause of death was found to be severe diabetic ketoacidosis, a complication of type 1 diabetes, and preventable. In April, Victoria's workplace regulator, WorkSafe, laid a charge against Kilvington Grammar School over Lachlan's death. The case returned before the Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Thursday, where lawyer Eliza Holt, acting for the school, said the matter had resolved and Kilvington Grammar would be pleading guilty. Principal Rob French then rose to his feet, responding 'guilty, Your Honour', when asked by Magistrate Rosemary Falla. Lachlan Cook, 16, was a few days into the school trip in September 2019 when he began vomiting and having stomach pains In April, Victoria's workplace regulator, WorkSafe, laid a charge against Kilvington Grammar School over Lachlan's death The school pleaded guilty to a charge of failing to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, that persons other than employees were not exposed to risks to their health and safety. According to the particulars of the charge, Kilvington Grammar could have provided teachers attending the trip with additional training and knowledge of Lachlan's management and action plans, to reduce the risk of his illness or death. In a statement, Kilvington Grammar School principal Rob French confirmed the school had pleaded guilty to a breach of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. 'As the matter is still before the courts, I am unable to comment further at this stage, other than to say my thoughts and prayers remain with Lachie's family and friends, who continue to mourn his tragic loss,' he said. Kilvington Grammar School will next appear in the County Court for a presentence hearing on December 11. The company that organised the trip, World Challenge Expeditions Pty Ltd, faces three charges of a similar nature. In court, they requested additional time to review the case and will return to court on September 20. A woman who rose from sleeping rough as a schoolgirl to becoming a top firefighter is now Prince William's homelessness adviser. Sabrina Cohen-Hatton was just 15 and studying for her GCSEs when she took to living on the streets of Wales, following a heartbreaking childhood in which her father died when she was nine. Struggling 'terribly' with mental health and her mother 'unable to cope' with her family's 'abject poverty', Sabrina turned to selling the Big Issue at the age of 17 to scrape a living. For her, it was the turning point that 'saved her life' and led her into a career in the fire service, where she flourished becoming Britain's youngest female fire chief. And now she has become the Prince of Wales's ambassador as part of his Homewards project - and was able to share her story with the royal at Windsor Castle as proof that homeless people should not be 'written off'. 'I sit in front of you now with a job, a home, a family and a PhD,' mother-of-one Sabrina said. Sabrina Cohen-Hatton was just 15 when she was forced to live on the streets. She found a job as a firefighter and rose to become West Sussex's fire chief in 2019 Now the 41-year-old mother is one of Prince William's advocates for the royal's Homewards project (Ms Cohen-Hatton is pictured with the Prince of Wales) Her story comes as Prince William marks the one-year anniversary of his 3million Homewards scheme to end the scourge of rough and itinerant sleeping, 'sofa surfing' and substandard temporary family accommodation in six key locations around the country. The future king is today expected to give a speech in which he will say he is more convinced than ever that homelessness can be eradicated for good. Homelessness is a complex society issue, and one that touches the lives of far too many people in our society. However, I truly believe that it can be ended.' The heir to the throne launched his most ambitious public project to date last year, inspired by the legacy of his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, who began taking him to shelters as a young child. Homelessness has soared in recent years with 100,000 families in temporary accommodation - affecting 144,000 children - and almost 4,000 people sleeping rough every night. But those looking to tackle it believe it can be combatted with a joined-up approach that stops people and families falling through the net in the first place. Homewards is a five-year project based around six areas around the UK. That includes Newport in South Wales - where a 15-year-old Sabrina used to sleep rough after the death of a parent and problems at home. Describing her trauma living on the street, Sabrina wrote in the Big Issue: 'My father died when I was nine and I was in a single-parent household with a mum who found it incredibly difficult to cope and struggled terribly with her mental health. Ms Cohen-Hatton is pictured, second from right, as she works on projects for Homewards - Prince William 's five-year programme to demonstrate that it is possible to end homelessness in the UK Prince William is pictured meeting with Tyrone Mings, Sabrina Cohen-Hatton (far left), Gail Porter and David Duke as part of his Homewards scheme 'We lived in abject poverty for several years as a result. When somebody goes to war with their demons, everyone around them gets hit by the shrapnel. 'We were in a really volatile situation by the time I was 15, a crisis point where it was just too much. My mum loved me dearly but she didnt have the capacity to be able to look after me properly. It was then that I started to sleep rough.' Sabrina was in the middle of her GCSEs when she took the decision to live on the streets. She would stash her books in a box in a derelict building after studying on the street - as she was fearful that asking for a school locker would 'alert social services' and plunge her family deeper into crisis. 'Eventually all my books were ripped up in that building by a proper neo-Nazi skinhead he saw my surname Cohen on my grammar book and he attacked me,' she added. 'He put out a cigarette out on my arm. He really went to town on me. It was a horrible experience. After that I kept my books in a box in the Big Issue office. And I kept studying. I think I saw qualifications as a ticket out of there.' She credited the Big Issue with 'saving her life', as it led to her finding secure accommodation and then joining the fire service. She became West Sussex's fire chief in 2019, aged 36, and was one of just six female in the UK to hold the title - as well as being the youngest. She has spoken widely about her own journey, including this latest role as an advocate for Homewards. Ms Cohen-Hatton is pictured with her husband Mike and daughter Gabriella in 2009 Sabrina added Prince William showed a lot of 'empathy' towards the issue of homelessness, which she felt reflected the 'trauma' of his early life, which saw his mother Princess Diana lose her life in a car crash in Paris when he was just 15. Ms Cohen-Hatton, 41, now also has a 14-year-old daughter, a doctorate and honorary fellowship at Cardiff University in behavioural neuroscience. She says it was difficult for her to access help and she was forced to live with constant threats and violence on the streets, albeit with the help of her devoted dog, Menace. 'When you don't have enough to eat, let alone to think, it is hard to reach out and take those services, ' she said. 'When you have someone who loves you very deeply but doesn't have the physical or mental resources to look after you, you are raised to treat any kind of authority figure with mistrust. You are desperately trying to hold it together. 'I carried the stigma with me every day.' Over the last 12 months William has brought together local coalitions in Aberdeen, Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole, Lambeth, Newport, Northern Ireland and Sheffield. Private landlords and local authorities, builders, charities and churches, as well as leading firms such as Homebase are working together for the first time. Already a pipeline of almost 100 homes for those currently, or about to experience, homelessness has been delivered, as well as a 1million donation of home starter packs and 500 jobs with Pret A Manger. Each location is now looking to unlock homes at scale. Joe Biden has urged Britain to get 'closer with Europe' in his first face-to-face talks with Keir Starmer. The US president described the UK as the 'transatlantic knot' binding the two continents as he met the new PM in the White House. Sir Keir has vowed to renegotiate the Brexit deal, with concerns that he could make concessions such as paying into Brussels budgets - although he has insisted Britain will not rejoin the customs union or single market. Mr Biden has made great play of his Irish roots and -in contrast to his rival Donald Trump - was accused of taking the EU's side during wrangling over the divorce. The meeting came as Sir Keir made his debut on the world stage by attending a Nato summit in Washington. He also appeared to play down the raging controversy over Mr Biden's age, with Democrats urging the 81-year-old not to run again after a disastrous debate against Mr Trump. Sir Keir told reporters that Labour's manifesto plan to force members of the House of Lords to retire at 80 did not imply other octogenarian politicians should quit. Joe Biden described the UK as the 'transatlantic knot' binding the two continents as he met the new PM in the White House The meeting came as Sir Keir made his debut on the world stage by attending a Nato summit in Washington The two leaders were in the famous Oval Office in the White House last night At the start of the meeting, the President said: 'I kind of see you guys as the knot tying the transatlantic alliance together, the closer you are with Europe. We know where you are, you know where we are.' Sir Keir told the president: 'The special relationship is so important. It's forged in difficult circumstances, endured for so long, and stronger now than ever. 'I'm very pleased to be able to come so early in government to recommit to Nato, to recommit to the special relationship and to discuss these affairs with you.' Boris Johnson has been among those warning that Labour will water down the terms agreed with the EU. A UK Government spokesman said Mr Biden and Sir Keir 'agreed we must continue to do whatever it takes to support Ukraine and ensure aggressors like Putin do not win'. The spokesman added: 'The President welcomed the Prime Minister's recent comments on establishing closer relationships with our European counterparts, as well as the UK's commitment to Aukus.' Speaking before the talks, Sir Keir tried to dodge questions about Mr Biden's age. 'In terms of the age in the House of Lords, the simple fact is that our House of Lords is massive,' he said. 'It's the second biggest political chamber in the world. I think it's only the Chinese who have a bigger political chamber than our House of Lords, we have to reduce it. 'That is the primary driver of the retirement at 80. You can see why that needs to be done. We've got 800-plus members of the House of Lords, it's simply too big. We need to reduce it. 'So it doesn't reflect on how other elected representatives are chosen in other countries, it's to do with the size of the House of Lords.' Mr Biden is facing calls from some Democrats to step aside. He has vowed to fight on but commentators have warned his performance at the NATO summit could decide his fate. The meeting came as Sir Keir prepared to urge Nato allies to support Ukraine for 'as long as it takes' as he confirmed the UK's own 3 billion a year military aid for Kyiv will continue. The PM, who met Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in the margins of the Nato summit in Washington yesterday, will tell members of the alliance later that they need to send a 'clear message' to Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The UK's military support for Ukraine will continue until at least 2030/31 and for as long as it is needed. At a special session on Ukraine at the Nato summit, Sir Keir will warn that the frontline defence of the Euro-Atlantic region is the Ukrainian trenches. He will say: 'Nato was founded by the generation who defeated fascism. They understood not just the value of our strength, but the strength of our values. 'Those values are under attack once again. Putin needs to hear a clear message ringing out from this summit a message of unity and determination, that we will support Ukraine with whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to uphold our shared values and our shared security.' The Washington summit cemented Ukraine's 'irreversible' progress towards Nato membership, with a joint statement by the allies. NATO leaders posing for a family photo as the summit began yesterday But because of Nato's Article V, which commits to mutual defence, the allies will not allow Ukraine to join while it is still at war as that would trigger an immediate conflict with Russia. Nato allies are stepping up commitments on Ukraine while they await the results of November's US presidential election, where Donald Trump has threatened to reduce American support. Concerns about Mr Biden's plan to run for re-election were evident during his Oval Office meeting with Sir Keir. The president did not directly respond to questions about George Clooney's criticism, after the actor and prominent Democrat supporter suggested he should leave the race. EXCLUSIVE ABC health expert Dr Norman Swan has married for the third time, to a glamorous colleague at the public broadcaster who is 24 years his junior. Dr Swan, 70, who was known as the 'King of Covid' for his sometimes controversial public health interventions during the pandemic, tied the knot with Radio National producer Katie Hamann, 46, on the Greek island of Hydra last weekend. Their nuptials were revealed by recently retired Late Night Live host Phillip Adams, who shared a picture of the happily married couple on social media. Ms Hamann, who was pictured clutching a bouquet of roses, opted for a simple sleeveless white full-length dress with a high neckline and a single bangle around her left forearm. Her new husband, who wore a relaxed cream linen suit and an open-necked shirt, held his arm around her waist as they both grinned for the cameras at an indoor venue. 'The good Dr Swan - aka the King of Covid - persuaded me to join LNL (Late Night Live) 33 years ago,' Mr Adams wrote on X on Wednesday night. 'Congrats on your marriage Norman.' Dr Swan, 70, who was known as the 'King of Covid' for his sometimes controversial public health interventions during the pandemic, has married Radio National producer Katie Hamann Their nuptials were revealed by recently retired Late Night Live host Phillip Adams, who shared a picture of the happily married couple on social media Mr Adams' tweet was inundated with messages from wellwishers for the happy couple. It's understood that family and friends flew in from around the world to attend the ceremony on the picturesque, car-free island in the Aegean Sea off the southern tip of Greece. It's unclear when the pair met, although it is understood they first crossed paths in a professional capacity. In the Australian summer of 2019-20, Dr Swan filled in as a host on Radio National (RN) Breakfast. On January 7, 2020, he reportedly emailed Ms Hamann, who was producing the show, about a mysterious illness emerging out of Wuhan in China. 'Worth keeping an eye on,' was the subject line. Dr Swan's early intuition would, in a matter of months, propel him to become one of the most familiar faces on Australian television screens as the Covid-19 pandemic swept across the globe. Dr Norman Swan became one of the the most familiar faces on Australian television screens as the Covid-19 pandemic swept the globe with the ABC using him as their go-to analyst His new wife, Ms Hamann (pictured) is has worked on and off for the ABC since 2011, eventually rising to the role of executive producer for Radio National But his newfound stardom was not without controversy. He was often accused of fear-mongering due to his strong support for mask mandates and lockdowns. Dr Swan has not treated patients since he joined the ABC in 1982, but continues to hold a licence because his media work counts as medical practice. Ms Hamann, who is originally from Taree on NSW mid north coast, is understood to be the mother of two children from a previous relationship. She has worked on and off for the ABC since 2011, eventually rising to the role of executive producer for RN, where she booked her future husband to appear on several occasions. Ms Hamann (pictured), 46, who is originally from Taree on NSW mid north coast, is understood to be the mother of two children from a previous relationship Ms Hamann was credited with producing a RN Drive show in September 2023 where Dr Swan discussed how 14 per cent of people in Australia suffered ongoing symptoms after contracting Covid-19. Ms Hamann's mother is understood to be younger than Dr Swan. And, unlike her new husband, Ms Hamann's father is a practicing doctor, working as a consultant dermatologist based in Port Macquarie on the NSW mid north coast. Ms Hamann's father has posted a series of photos on Instagram of his travels in the Mediterranean in recent days, including a stunning view of a rainbow in Hydra six days ago. In the acknowledgements to Dr Swan's 2021 book 'So You Think You Know Whats Good For You?, he paid tribute to his future wife. Katie Hamann put up with me during a tough year and also read the draft, which is always a risky thing, but Katies skills as a producer and editor supervened, he wrote. Dr Swan previously admitted to being 'mildly embarrassed' about being a two-time divorcee. 'It's mildly embarrassing to have been married (and divorced) twice,' he told the Sydney Morning Herald in 2022. 'I've heard men complain about the women in their lives as the reason they've been married more than once, when 50 per cent or more of the reason is us, the men.' Dr Swan was often accused of fearmongering due to his strong support for mask mandates and lockdowns (pictured, a masked shopper in Sydney) The Scottish-born physician originally wanted to be an actor before he pursued a career in medicine. He moved to Australia aged 25 to continue his paediatrics training and in 1982 became a health reporter at the ABC and later became the general manager of Radio National. While there he hired Geraldine Doogue, who went on to become one of Australia's best know journalists and broadcasters. They are still very close friends. Dr Swan won a Gold Walkley in 1988 for an investigation that exposed fraudulent research by gynaecologist William McBride, leading to this disgraced doctor being banned from practicing. When he met his first wife, Lee Sutton, a fellow paediatric doctor, he said he soon 'recognised she would make an incredible mother, which she has been to our children Anna, Georgia and Jonathan'. Jonathan is a globe-trotting journalist, whose 2020 viral interview with then-President Donald Trump earned him an Emmy Award. Jonathan now works as a political reporter for the New York Times. In 2016, Dr Swan's daughter Anna suffered a traumatic brain injury in a horrific bike accident during a family holiday in Italy. It was reported that the trauma of the accident contributed to the breakdown of Dr Swan's second marriage to Perth woman Karen Carey. Dr Swan's son Jonathan (left) is a globe-trotting journalist, whose 2020 viral interview with then-President Donald Trump earned him an Emmy Award. Father and son are pictured together Dr Swan won a Gold Walkley in 1988 for an investigation that exposed fraudulent research by gynaecologist William McBride, leading to this disgraced doctor being banned from practicing The ABC used Dr Swan throughout the pandemic as their go-to analyst and he went on to host a weekly Coronacast podcast dedicated to covering Covid matters for three years. However, he was caught out making blunders along the way. He was forced to apologise after claiming in 2022 that Labor senator Kimberley Kitching's death by a suspected a heart attack was likely to be Covid-related. The Senator, who was 52 when she died, never contracted Covid according to her furious family. The ABC admitted Dr Swan's remarks breached its editorial standards and cautioned him during discussions with the broadcaster's management. Dr Swan was last year controversially made a made a member of the Order of Australia for 'for significant service to the broadcast media as a science and health commentator'. Dr Swan and Ms Hamann have been approached for comment. Annie is a reporter for The San Francisco Chronicle. She previously was a digital producer for The Chronicles Datebook section. She graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo in 2017 with a degree in journalism. During her time there, she spearheaded a culture column, produced radio pieces for NPR-affiliate station KCBX, and was a DJ and writer for KCPR, the campus radio station. Before joining the Chronicle, she was an associate producer at SFGATE and interned at VICE and Flood Magazine. Shes particularly interested in communities and scenes that are often misunderstood. Chilling evidence has emerged of the brutal execution of two Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Vladimir Putin's troops. Graphic drone footage appears to clearly show grotesque war crimes carried out by a Russian regiment known for previous atrocities. Two surrendering Ukrainian PoWs cowering in a trench are killed in a hail of nine shots fired by Putin soldiers near Robotyne in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region. The apparent cold-blooded killings are believed to have happened last month, but the footage has only now appeared. Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia Regional Prosecutor's Office has started a criminal investigation into the flouting of the rules of war and premeditated murder by invading Russian troops. Chilling evidence has emerged of the brutal execution of two Ukrainian prisoners of war held by Vladimir Putin 's troops. Pictured: Two Ukrainian troops in Robotyne in Ukraine 's Zaporizhzhia region Graphic drone footage appears to clearly show grotesque war crimes carried out by a Russian regiment known for previous atrocities. Pictured: Two Ukrainian troops in Robotyne in Ukraine 's Zaporizhzhia region The shootings are being probed by Ukraine's SBU security service. The Russian soldiers are believed to be from the 70th motorised rifle regiment, which is already under investigation for previous heinous killings of PoWs. 'The killing of prisoners of war is a gross violation of the Geneva Conventions and qualifies as a grave international crime,' said a Ukraine report based on the distressing footage. Ukraine has previously claimed that Russian forces are under orders from their commanders to slaughter captured Ukrainian troops. Last month the severed head of a surrendering Ukrainian PoW was placed on the bonnet of a captured Kozak-2 armoured vehicle. Andriy Kostin, prosecutor-general of Ukraine, said at the time: 'This is dreadful barbarism that has no place in the 21st century. 'This is further confirmation that the aggressor's war crimes are not isolated instances, but rather a part of the Russian regime's planned policy. 'These criminal orders were issued by the occupation forces' battalion and company commanders. 'We will not let these crimes go unpunished. The two Ukrainian soldiers were seen surrendering to Vladimir Putin's troops, cowering in a trench The shootings are being probed by Ukraine's SBU security service. Pictured: Two Ukrainian troops in Robotyne in Ukraine 's Zaporizhzhia region 'I urge the entire civilised world to isolate and punish the terrorist country.' Last month it was also revealed that previous slaughter of PoWs was carried out by the 70th motorised rifle regiment - military unit 71718 - of the 42nd motorised rifle division of the 58th army of the southern district of the Russian armed forces, according to GUR military intelligence. Their permanent base is in the Russian region Chechnya, headed by close Putin ally Ramzan Kadyrov. The GUR military intelligence agency of Ukraine revealed the identities of several troops allegedly involved in executing captured troops. The GUR said at the time: GUR statement said: 'These Russian war criminals may also be involved in the murder of several more Ukrainian prisoners of war later in May 2024. 'This is evidenced, in particular, by radio intercepts of a conversation between the occupiers and the 70th Regiment of the Russian Armed Forces, during which one of the Russian assault company commanders ordered his subordinates to shoot Ukrainian soldiers.' A British father-of-two who moved to Australia just months ago to make 'a better life for his family' has been stabbed to death in a motel car park. Horrified witnesses heard Royce Mallett, 30, from Haswell, County Durham, crying out 'help, help' as an attacker plunged a knife 'into his heart' in Albury, New South Wales. A woman staying at the motel, who gave her name only as Michelle, said that a passerby tried to apply pressure to the stab wound while speaking with emergency services. The family man was rushed to Albury hospital where sadly he later died. Meanwhile the 28-year-old suspect fled on foot before being arrested by police less than two hours later. Mr Mallett's heartbroken family, who are preparing to fly out to Australia, are now trying to raise 20,000 to help his body be repatriated to the UK, which they say could take a few months. Royce Mallett, 30, was stabbed to death in Australia leaving behind his partner and two young children (pictured) The British father-of-two had only recently moved to Australia in search of a better life for his family His mother Felicity Mallet, who is in 'total shock', said that her late son was expected to return back to the UK in five weeks along with his five-year-old daughter called Rose and his son Roman, who is turning two in a few weeks. Witness Michelle, who was shaken by the tragedy, told Border Mail: 'I heard a commotion and I went outside. There was a few people around, one guy was trying to (apply pressure to the wound). 'As far as I know, what led up to it, he was sitting in his car with a mate, whatever's happened, this guy's got him in the heart.' She added that the man who was arrested had been staying at the motel for two or three weeks and was earlier seen pacing in the area. Mr Mallett is said to have been staying in the hotel on and off. Others who witnessed the horrific incident were in tears as they tried to help Mr Mallett. Now Mr Mallet's family are desperately trying to raise funds to bring him back to the UK. A GoFundMe page set up said: 'Royce was a kind man with a good heart who went to Australia to make a better life for his family. He was an amazing father to his 2 young children who absolutely adore their dad. 'Words cannot describe how heartbroken we all are as a family, and we just want our Royce home where he belongs.' Tributes have flooded in on social media to Mr Mallett since the shocking news of his death broke. The family man (pictured) was rushed to Albury hospital but tragically he died there His friend Robbie Matthews added: 'Absolutely devastating news. Sleep Tight. Royce Mallett. To think you had gone to Australia to look for a better life.' Superintendent Paul Smith said that the two men are believed to have been known to each other. He said: 'It's a very unfortunate situation we're faced with. We have a deceased 30-year-old. We have a man in custody assisting us with our enquiries. We are not looking for anyone else in relation to this offence.' Officers are seeking CCTV footage of the man arrested from Wodonga Place, Dean Street, and Olive Street, where he was arrested. Police did not reveal that a knife had been recovered. Any witnesses are urged to get in touch with the police. A republican former Labour frontbencher has been mocked for swearing his oath of allegiance to the king 'under protest' as he signed back in to Parliament after the election. Clive Lewis, who was shadow business secretary under Jeremy Corbyn, made the remark at the despatch box last night as MPs took up their roles in the Commons. The former British Army officer has previously made clear his anti-monarchist views, having called for a referendum on the monarchy in 2020 when he ran to succeed Mr Corbyn as leader - coming last in the election. Affirming in the Commons he said: 'I take this oath under protest and in the hope that one day my fellow citizens will democratically decide to live in a republic.' Critics pointed out that he must have sworn an oath to the late Queen when he passed out of the elite Sandhurst Military Academy - though others said he was allowed to have changed him mind since serving. Rightwing former GB News commentator Calvin Robinson tweeted: 'If Clive Lewis is such a principled republican, can we at least assume he will never take up a ministerial position in His Majesty's Government?' Mr Lewis joined his former boss Mr Corbyn - now an independent MP after being expelled from Labour - in criticising the oath they have to take to be loyal to the crown. Mr Corbyn, 75, was caught on camera on Tuesday referring to the oath as 'a load of nonsense' as he queued up to take it. And new SNP MP Seamus Logan, whose party wants an independent Scotland, prefaced his oath yesterday by saying: 'I'm a polite nationalist, and I will say these words to the people of Aberdeenshire North and Moray East, who'll know where my loyalties lie.' Clive Lewis, who was shadow business secretary under Jeremy Corbyn, made the remark at the despatch box last night as MPs took up their roles in the Commons. Mr Corbyn, 75, was caught on camera referring to the oath as 'a load of nonsense' as he queued up to take it. And new SNP MP Seamus Logan, whose party wants an independent Scotland, prefaced his oath by saying: 'I'm a polite nationalist, and I will say these words to the people of Aberdeenshire North and Moray East, who'll know where my loyalties lie.' MPs are required to take it in order to serve as sitting MPs - and receive their 90,000 annual salary. The seven Sinn Fein Irish nationalist MPs refuse to take it and therefore do not sit in the Commons, receive the salary, or vote - though they are able to claim expenses. Fellow nationalists the SDLP MPs Colum Eastwood and Claire Hanna were among those to make clear they were affirming allegiance to the King in order to do their job as MPs. Party leader Mr Eastwood said: 'I read out this empty formula in order to represent my constituents but it's under protest.' Ms Hanna said: 'In friendship and in hope of a reconciled new Ireland, my allegiance is to the people of Belfast South and Mid Down and I say these words in order to serve them.' Plaid Cymru's Liz Saville Roberts, Llinos Medi, Ann Davies and Ben Lake chose to take the oath and pledged their allegiance to the Crown in Welsh. Foreign Office minister Stephen Doughty was first MP of this Parliament to take his oath in Welsh. The wearing-in process started on Tuesday and continues through today, with 643 MPs to get through. The so-called Baby of the House officially taken his seat yesterday. Labour MP Sam Carling, who represents North West Cambridgeshire, is the youngest member of the new Parliament at 22. He was directly followed by Reform UK MP Lee Anderson, who was sworn in for the first time under the Reform banner after previously being elected as a Conservative MP. Mr Anderson, MP for Ashfield, was joined by Reform colleagues Richard Tice, MP for Boston and Skegness, and Rupert Lowe, MP for Great Yarmouth. Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling also took his seat in the Commons on Wednesday as he was sworn in alongside his guide dog Jennie. The MP for Torbay, who is registered blind, opted to take the oath, and Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said 'hello' to Jennie the golden retriever before kneeling down to pet her. Mr Darling was followed by disability activist and Labour MP for Penistone and Stocksbridge, Dr Marie Tidball, and Conservative MP for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton, Alison Griffiths. Ms Griffiths lost 70 per cent of her hearing after contracting bacterial meningitis at university. The doors to the Commons were closed and the queue held while the three disabled MPs were sworn in. A frontrunner to be Donald Trump's running mate in the presidential election once implied he believed a woman who accused the former President of sexual assault. Sen. JD Vance (R-OH), now a leading candidate for Trump's VP, seemingly issued his support for Trump accuser Jessica Leeds while the presumptive GOP nominee was campaigning ahead of the 2016 election. Leeds, a former stockbroker who testified in E. Jean Carroll's sexual assault lawsuit against Trump, alleged the ex-President abruptly groped her on a plane in the 1970s. During an October 2016 appearance on MSNBC's Hardball With Chris Matthews, Vance was probed about the allegations and suggested that Trump often lies and he was inclined to 'believe that woman on the tape'. The interview, along with other negative remarks by Vance including when he branded Trump an 'idiot' and compared him to Adolf Hitler, resurfaced as Trump is expected to make his VP selection in the coming days. Sen. JD Vance (R-OH), a frontrunner to be Donald Trump's running mate in the presidential election, once implied he believed a woman who accused the former President of sexual assault. Trump (left) and Vance (right) are pictured at a rally on March 16, 2024 in Ohio Jessica Leeds alleged that Trump groped her on a plane in the 1970s. Leeds is pictured leaving Manhattan Federal Court on May 2, 2023 after testifying in a civil case against Trump Vance, during the 2016 interview, was shown footage of Leeds describing the alleged assault, Mediaite reported. 'These are not memories that you want to go over,' she said, adding that it was 'unnerving' to be 'rehashing' the incident. 'You suppress it. It's not part of your active thinking every day. But you don't forget.' Leeds alleged that Trump groped her and tried to kiss her as they sat side by side in first class on a New York City-bound jet in 1979. 'Somehow or other, the armrest in the seat disappeared. And it was a real shock when, all of a sudden, his hands were all over me. He was like an octopus. It was like he had six arms. He was all over the place,' she said. She accused Trump of putting his hand up her skirt before she fought him off and walked away to another seat. Matthews asked Vance, who had in 2016 come into prominence with his memoir Hillbilly Elegy, 'what do you think' of Leeds' account. During an October 2016 appearance on MSNBC's Hardball With Chris Matthews, JD Vance was probed about Jessica Leeds' allegations. He said: 'At the end of the day, do you believe Donald Trump who always tells the truth? Just kidding, or do you believe that woman on the tape?' But Vance has since changed his tune, seemingly dismissing his prior criticisms of the ex-President, saying that he was 'wrong' in thinking Trump (pictured at a rally in Florida on July 9) would be a bad president Vane replied: 'It's sort of - it makes me think that at fundamental, this is sort of he said/she said, right? 'And at the end of the day, do you believe Donald Trump who always tells the truth? Just kidding, or do you believe that woman on the tape?' The Republican lawmaker also once liked a tweet that accused Trump of 'serial sexual assault,' according to Raw Story. But Vance has since changed his tune, seemingly dismissing his prior criticisms of the ex-President. During an appearance on CNN's State of The Union in May, Vance told host Dana Bash: 'Look, my view on Donald Trump - I have been very clear on this - is, look, I was wrong about him. 'I didn't think he was going to be a good president, Dana, and I was very, very proud to be proven wrong. It's one of the reasons why I'm working so hard to get him elected.' E. Jean Carroll (center) leaves federal court in New York City on Jnaury 26, 2024 after a jury awarded her $83.3million in a case against former President Donald Trump He has also seemingly changed his view on Trump's accusers. Earlier this year, after a judge ordered the ex-President to pay Carroll $83.3million for defamation, Vance told The Hill that the jurors in the trial were from 'extremely left-wing jurisdictions'. The jury ruled that Trump had maliciously damaged Carroll's reputation in 2019 after she went public with her accusations. Jurors awarded her $18million to compensate for the personal harm she experienced, then added $65million more to punish Trump. The sum was in addition to the $5million in damages Trump was ordered to pay Carroll in May 2023 following a civil trial, which Leeds testified in. Carroll's lawyers had called Leeds to the stand in an attempt to establish an alleged pattern of Trump assaulting women. Jurors in the civil case rejected Carroll's claims that she was raped, but found Trump liable for sexual abuse and for defaming her after she made her allegations public. Sen. JD Vance is pictured in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 27, 2024 after Trump and Joe Biden's first presidential debate Meanwhile, Trump has frequently said he will announce his running mate at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee next week. Trump appeared to tease at a rally in Miami on Tuesday night that he could pick Florida Senator Marco Rubio as his running mate, who has seemingly found himself in the final shortlist. The presumptive GOP nominee repeatedly name-dropped Rubio during his rally, as he said there has been a 'lot of press' around the former presidential candidate's prospects. 'Theyll probably be thinking that Ill be announcing Rubio as my vice president,' Trump even admitted at one stage. He also prodded Rubio over his policy proposal to remove taxes from tips if he regains the White House, and told him that 'you may or may not be there to vote for it - but you'll be involved.' Trump's running mate roster is also believed to include Vance and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, with outside names Vivek Ramaswamy and Byron Donalds also floated in recent months. The mother of an Irish air stewardess who was detained in Dubai and charged with attempted suicide after suffering brutal domestic suicide, said she won't be certain her daughter is safe until her flight home is in the air. Speaking to The Irish Mirror, Tori Towey's aunt Ann Flynn said the family is 'very excited but still very cautious' as they await for the 29-year-old air stewardess to return to her native Ireland. Flynn added that Caroline, Ms Towey's mother, 'won't be completely happy until the wheels of the plane are taken up and the undercarriage is up and they're in the air'. The family is planning a homecoming party for the air stewardess as she prepares to fly home, Flynn said, adding that her niece is expected to return within the next day or two. '[Tori'] is OK, she's doing fine now that her mother is with her. That helps I think. She's been on such a tightrope but she can't let things get to her and has to think positive', she said. Tori Towey had been left stranded in Dubai after being faced with an attempted suicide charge Tori was pictured with extensive bruises over her body, which she says are from an assault Charges against Towey have been withdrawn and she is expected to head home to Ireland in the coming days This comes after Ms Towey, the flight attendant from County Roscommon, woke up in a police station in Dubai after she was attacked by her South African husband. Police in the United Arab Emirates charged the young woman with alcohol abuse and attempted suicide which she was due to fight in court later this month. Her passport was banned, preventing Ms Towey from returning home to her family in Ireland and sparking fears she was headed towards a jail term in an Emirati prison. But a campaign group working on her case has confirmed that the charges have been withdrawn, the travel ban lifted and that Ms Towey is 'relieved' to be headed home. In a statement, the Government of Dubai's media office said: 'Dubai Public Prosecution has closed the case involving Irish national Tori Towey after she and her husband, a South African national, were involved in a case featuring mutual charges of assault, dating back to May 2024. Towey's mother, Caroline, 'won't be completely happy until the wheels of the plane are taken up and the undercarriage is up and they're in the air' Tori, pictured left with aunt 'The couple reached a reconciliation and withdrew the complaints filed against each other. 'Dubai Public Prosecution has also dropped the charges of attempted suicide against her considering the circumstances of the case and to enable her to return to normal life.' Detained in Dubai CEO Radha Stirling said: 'She is thrilled and relieved. She said she is over the moon and looking forward to getting home to Ireland and seeing the rest of her family. 'She is a little nervous too because there is that worry that something could happen before she gets on a plane but the overriding feeling is one of joy.' Ms Towey's family has thanked the Irish government and campaigners for their help, with her mum Caroline telling MailOnline the support 'has been incredible'. Caroline said: 'The support from the Irish government and the Irish people has been incredible and we weren't expecting it at all. It's a small country and the politicians are real people. 'We are both exhausted and desperate to get home. Thank you so much to everyone supporting us.' She added that her daughter had been through 'the worst time of her life and needs to come home with me and heal'. Tori's aunt Ann Flynn also told Sky News: 'She's doing her best. It's very stressful, stressful for all the family. 'Tori's a beautiful young woman, fun-loving, loves to travel. She got the job of her dreams working for Emirates, and she could continue travelling with work.' 'It's really terrible that this has happened to a young woman who was full of life and full of adventure.' Mr Harris, a lawyer working on the case, said: 'The embassy will take Tori to the airport as soon as she is ready to go and that the embassy of course will continue to follow up on the case, which is still active as of now.' He thanked the Irish embassy in the United Arab Emirates for their work on the case. It comes hours after Tori's mother said she was 'desperate to get home' and has been through 'the worst time of her life'. Tori had been banned from leaving the UAE and told she faced jail for drinking alcohol and attempting to take her own life following the alleged beating by her husband. A spokesperson for legal group Detained in Dubai (DiD) claimed Tori's South African husband went after her with a knife and punched her, before slamming her arm in the bathroom door trying to break it. Ms Towey, who graduated from the Dublin Institute Of Technology, moved to the UAE in April 2023 Tori said she tried to take her own life after the attack, which left her with severe bruises and injuries. But after being taken to a police station, Ms Towey was facing charges of alcohol consumption and attempting suicide by a court in Dubai. She said she was unable to leave the country as her passport had been blocked. Speaking through outreach group DiD, who are assisting the family, Ms Towey said prior to the lifting of the travel ban: 'I don't know what's going to happen in court next week. 'I'm desperate to go home to Ireland and put all of this in the past. I'm asking the Taoiseach to please help us.' The DiD said Ms Towey had faced a lengthy prison sentence in a jail known for 'human rights abuses and torture'. Radha Stirling, CEO of DiD, said: 'We are calling on Dubai authorities to urgently drop the charges against Tori, remove the travel ban and let her fly home to Ireland with her mother. She has been charged with attempted suicide and alcohol consumption. 'Strangely, the UAE has gone to great public relations efforts to promote alcohol as legal in the country. In reality, people are still regularly charged with alcohol consumption and possession. Tori's experience is nothing short of tragic and quite frankly, she is lucky to be alive.' She explained: 'Tori arranged to fly home to Ireland but, when she arrived at the airport, was told a case against her by her husband had been dropped but the travel ban remained. 'She attended the police station who assured her the travel ban would be lifted but it never happened. The next day, Tori and her husband had some wine and he became enraged, accusing her of having an affair.' Ms Stirling explained: 'The next thing she remembers is an ambulance crew and police waking her up. She was taken to Al Barsha police station and kept for several hours before going home again. 'Her mother pleaded to the Irish Consulate but in the absence of their assistance, boarded a flight to Dubai. When she arrived, she wasn't allowed to see Tori alone, her abuser wouldn't allow it. 'The three met at Emirates mall then attended the prosecutor's office to find out what charges had been registered against her.' Tori is pictured in 2021, before her move to the UAE - where she now hopes to return to Ireland Irish premier Harris said he would intervene in the 'appalling' case as Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald raised Ms Towey's case in the Irish Parliament on Tuesday afternoon. Mr Harris thanked Ms McDonald for bringing the case to his attention, saying: 'I'm not directly appraised of the situation, but I'm very happy to be directly appraised of it now.' He said he would work with the deputy 'to intervene and see how we can support an Irish citizen in what sounds to be based on what you tell me the most appalling circumstances'. The Department of Foreign Affairs told the Irish Daily Mail it was aware of the case and was offering consular assistance. Ms McDonald told Dail Eireann that Ms Towey has been the victim of domestic violence and is subject to a travel ban over alleged charges. She said she had spoken to Ms Towey, and that the 28-year-old's mother travelled to Dubai to be with her. 'Tori wants to come home, simple as that. She is a Roscommon woman and she wants to come home,' she said. Radha Stirling, CEO of DiD says Tori's husband attacked her with a knife and punched her, before slamming her arm in the bathroom door trying to break it. Pictured the injuries said to be from the alleged attack The 28-year-old moved to the UAE in April 2023 when she was offered a job as a flight attendant with Emirates In 2018, one member of Dubai Police said that they would focus on treatment rather than punishment when it came to suicide victims, even though suicide and suicide attempts are a crime in the country. Brig Ahmed bin Ghalaita, then director of Al Refaa Police Station, told The National: 'The move is taken to provide support to suicide attempters and deal with them as victims who need moral support and help. 'Suicide cases are being examined by a police unit and experts in the psychology field to identify the causes behind their attempts and find solutions for them.' It comes as earlier this year, British wives boasting of luxury new lives funded by millionaire husbands in Dubai have been warned they risk being dumped homeless on the streets at any moment. Experts have revealed a surge in complaints from not only women but also men betrayed and dumped by wealthy partners after upping sticks for the Middle East. The alert comes amid a TikTok and Instagram trend of UK women sharing footage of spending sprees in the United Arab Emirates after wedding wealthy husbands. MailOnline had also reported on an influx of expats pampered by rich partners, enjoying days filled with shopping trips, extravagant meals and property upgrades. An Islamic influencer, whose viral video contributed to the defeat of Labour's Shadow Paymaster General Jon Ashworth, has been charged with terror-related offences. In a statement, Leicester Police said that Majid Novsarka, better known as Majid Freeman, had been charged with encouragement of terrorism and supporting a proscribed organization. The 36-year-old has made social media posts in support for what he calls 'Palestinian resistance organisations' since the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel. In a statement, Leicester Police said: 'A man has been charged following a warrant being executed at an address in Cecil Road, Leicester. 'Majid Novsarka, also known as Majid Freeman, 36, of Cecil Road, Leicester, has been charged with encouragement of terrorism and supporting a proscribed organization. Islamic influencer Majid Novsarka, better known as Majid Freeman, had been charged with encouragement of terrorism and supporting a proscribed organization Labour 's former Shadow Paymaster General Jon Ashworth lost is seat in the general election after featuring in the viral video by the Islamic influencer Majid Novsarka 'He has been released on bail and is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday 24 July.' Hamas's political wing was designated a terrorist organisation by Priti Patel in November 2021. During the election campaign, Freeman supported the pro-Palestine independent candidate in Leicester South, Shockat Adam. He produced one of the big shocks of the night when he overhauled a 22,675 Labour majority to defeat Ashworth, one of Keir Starmer's key strategists. On winning the seat, he shouted: 'This is for Gaza.' On June 21, Freeman confronted Ashworth as he canvassed in the constituency and a video of the incident went viral with 1.4 million views on X alone. It begins with Freeman asking Ashworth, 'Do you condemn Netanyahu, yes or no?' On June 21, Freeman confronted Ashworth as he canvassed in the constituency and a video of the incident went viral with 1.4 million views on X alone. Pictured is the moment the former MP was filmed Ashworth's response is to start filming the protesters with his own commentary as he walks next to a park with his team. 'You see, I am not going to have these guys bully me off the streets,' he says. Freeman says: 'No one is bullying you, it is a simple question. We are asking you why you abstained for the vote, to vote for the ceasefire. It is a simple question.' Smirking, Ashworth says: 'We are going to stand up to these loud mouths and stand up to these bullies.' An infuriated Freeman can be heard asking: 'So me asking you why you abstained on the Gaza vote is bullying you. How is that bullying you? 'We have every right to question why you didn't represent us in Parliament.' Ashworth continued speaking to his phone saying: 'If you want these people to win this election. If you want the bullies and the loud mouths to win this election, you've got to come out and vote against it.' Freeman tells him: 'You've got the blood of Palestinian men, women and children on your hands. He's a disgrace.' As Ashworth finishes speaking to his camera, Freeman can be heard asking: 'Why can't you condemn Netanyahu? Why is asking why you abstained on a vote bullying?' Posting it on X, Freeman wrote: 'Bumped into Labour MP Jon Ashworth who was canvassing in Leicester. Elderly Muslim uncles who prev supported Jon came out to ask why he abstained from the (Palestine flag) ceasefire vote so he resorted to playing the victim by saying we were bullying and intimidating him. We have every right to Q you.' It went on: 'Shame on the Muslim councillors and locals who are canvassing for Jon despite him abstaining from the (Palestine flag) ceasefire vote. It's about time the community starts to call them out instead of giving them a pass. They're making the conscious decision to go out and support the Labour Party.' After news of his arrest broke, Ashworth, who was made Chief Executive of the Labour Together think tank after his defeat, posted on X: 'This is deeply disturbing & alarming. 'The safety of people must always come first.' His intervention was criticized by Cage International, an NGO set up to challenge the 'War on Terror' and lobby for political prisoners. Last week, Ashworth's support fell by 34.1 per cent and he lost his seat to Adam by 979 votes. Adam is a former Chair of Leicester's Muslim Engagement and Development, an NGO tasked with media monitoring and advocacy work. His brother Ismail, an optician, founded the Leicester-based Friends of Al Aqsa NGO which has been prominent at all of the pro-Palestine demonstrations. A British tourist has died after plunging five feet to the ground 'head-first' while trying to climb off a hotel balcony on the Greek party island of Zante. According to the Zakynthos Police Department, the 23-year-old man on Wednesday had stepped on to the handrail as he tried to get off of a hotel balcony. He then lost his balance and fell around five feet head-first. Local news outlet Parapolitika reported that the man tried to stand up twice but fell over. He was rushed to Zakynthos hospital, where he later died. Pictured: Summer view of Zakynthos town in Zante, Greece. On Wednesday, a British man fell to his death after plunging down a hotel balcony head-first. Hours earlier in the same area, another British man suffered injuries after falling off a first-floor balcony Just a few hours before, another British man reportedly fell from a first floor balcony in the same Greek town, leaving him with serious injuries. While there does not seem to be any third-party involvement in either of the incidents, Zakynthos Police Department is carrying out an investigation. Both incidents come just a few months after a 21-year-old British man plunged to his death from a fifth-floor hotel balcony while on holiday with his girlfriend in Turkey. The man had reportedly fallen from his hotel room in the tourist hot-spot of Antalya. Police and medics rushed to the scene in the district of Alanya, with the seriously injured tourist being taken to hospital. He later died of his injuries despite doctors' best efforts to save his life, according to reports. A safari park visitor has been 'urged to make a public apology' after he risked killing a hippo by throwing a plastic bag into its mouth. A shocking video clip showed the tourist appearing to dangle a carrot near the hippo's open mouth before chucking the bag into it instead. The incident, which is believed to have taken place at the Taman safari park in Bogor, Indonesia, has sparked outrage within the local community and from those who viewed the shocking footage online. The safari park has reportedly located the license plate of the vehicle carrying the individual responsible, with the park calling on the man to apologies. The footage shows a silver car pulling up next to a watering hole where a hippo is enjoying a dip. The man can be seen dangling a carrot near the mouth of the hippo at the Taman safari park in Bogor, Indonesia, before chucking a plastic bag in it instead The hippo, who had been taking a dip in some nearby water, appears to hesitantly close his mouth before trying to chew The man then dangles a carrot stick near the large animal's open mouth before throwing a plastic bag in it instead. The hippo appears to hesitantly close his mouth before trying to chew. The clip, which was shared online, has now received more than two million views, many angered by the incident. One person said: 'I hope that person and the hippo meet again some day. Hopefully in an environment more favorable to the hippo.' 'I hope they were caught and arrested!! That could kill the hippo!!' another viewer said. Another added: 'Those people should be banned from every safari park and not allowed near any animals.' [sic] 'Seems deliberate. Give the license plate to the lions,' a third suggested, while a fourth bluntly said 'that's sickening'. The same tourist allegedly also poked a deer with a carrot while on the safari tour. The hippo was examined and is reportedly in healthy condition following the incident. China and Russia have both threatened NATO against 'provoking confrontation' over the bloc's claims that Xi Jingping's nation holds a key role in Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. NATO leaders said in a declaration at their summit in Washington on Wednesday that China had 'become a decisive enabler of Russia's war against Ukraine', adding that Beijing's 'so-called 'no limits' partnership' and 'large-scale support for Russia's defence industrial base' were of 'profound concern'. In response, a spokesperson for Beijing's mission to the European Union said: 'NATO should stop hyping up the so-called China threat and provoking confrontation and rivalry, and do more to contribute to world peace and stability.' 'It is known to all that China is not the creator (of) the Ukraine crisis. China's position on Ukraine is open and aboveboard,' they added. Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev chimed in, denouncing NATO's summit promise to grant eventual membership to Ukraine and said Russia should work towards the 'disappearance' of both Ukraine and the military alliance. China and Russia have both threatened NATO against 'provoking confrontation' over the bloc's claims that Xi Jingping's nation holds a key role in Moscow 's invasion of Ukraine (File image) Ukrainian refugee Mariia Hlyten holds a sign outside the NATO summit in Washington Ukrainian infantry fire at Russian positions on the zero line of the front in prepared trenches 100 meters from the Russian trenches on July 5, 2025 in the direction of Toretsk region Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev (pictured) denounced NATO's summit promise to grant eventual membership to Ukraine In a social media post, Medvedev quoted in English from NATO's declaration at its Washington summit this week: 'We will continue to support (Ukraine) on its irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership.' He went on, in Russian: 'The conclusion is obvious. We must do everything so that Ukraine's 'irreversible path' to NATO ends with either the disappearance of Ukraine or the disappearance of NATO. Or even better - the disappearance of both.' The Russian state has backed Medvedev's response, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov telling Russian news agencies today that the nation is planning 'response measures' to contain the "very serious threat" from NATO. He added that NATO was now 'fully involved in the conflict over Ukraine.' Medvedev, who during his 2008-2012 presidency was regarded as a pro-Western moderniser, has reinvented himself as an arch-hawk since the start of the war in Ukraine, something Moscow calls a 'special military operation.' In particular, he has repeatedly warned the U.S. and its allies that their arming of Kyiv could lead to a 'nuclear apocalypse'. Ukrainian infantry on the zero line of the front in prepared trenches 100 meters from the Russian trenches on July 5, 2025 A view of a wall mural depicting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Kostiantynivka, Ukraine on June 30, 2024 A destroyed statue in Chasiv Yar, Ukraine on July 06, 2024 Any decision on the use of Russian nuclear weapons would belong to President Vladimir Putin. But diplomats say the views of Medvedev, who is deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, give an indication of hawkish thinking at the top of the Kremlin which has cast the war as an existential struggle with the West. China has refused to condemn Russia's invasion and last year released a paper calling for a 'political settlement' to the conflict, which Western countries said could enable Russia to retain much of the territory it has seized in Ukraine. China and Russia's strategic partnership has grown closer since the invasion. Beijing presents itself as a neutral party in the war and says it is not sending lethal assistance to either side, unlike the United States and other Western nations. It has however offered a critical lifeline to Russia's isolated economy, with trade booming since the conflict began. But that economic partnership has come under close scrutiny from the West in recent months, with Washington vowing to go after financial institutions that facilitate Moscow's war effort. A view of a destroyed tank at the town of New York (Niu-York) as Torecki has so far been one of the quietest sections of the front line A view of a collapsed building at the town of New York (Niu-York) as Torecki has so far been one of the quietest sections of the front line as the Russians started shelling the area The United States and Europe have also accused Beijing of selling components and equipment necessary to keep Moscow's military production afloat. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in April this included 'machine tools, semiconductors, other dual-use items that have helped Russia rebuild the defence industrial base that sanctions and export controls had done so much to degrade'. Beijing has denied claims it is aiding Russia's fighting in Ukraine and insisted it won't accept 'criticism or pressure' over its ties with Moscow. And on Thursday, its foreign ministry accused the alliance of 'prejudice, smearing and provocation'. 'NATO's rhetoric about China's responsibility in Ukraine is unjustified and malicious,' spokesman Lin Jian said. 'We urge NATO to reflect on the root causes of the crisis and its own actions, listen carefully to the just voice of the international community, and take concrete actions to ease the situation, instead of shifting the blame to others.' A hard-left election candidate spoke about helping a 'constituent' and kept 'MP' in his Twitter handle - despite losing. Jody McIntyre stood in Birmingham Yardley for George Galloway's Worker's Party on a pro-Palestine platform. He ran Labour's Jess Phillips close but eventually lost by 693 votes on July 4 after a bad-tempered campaign fuelled by the fighting in Gaza. Ms Phillips has since been made Safeguarding Minister in the Home Office. However, after the vote, Mr McIntyre tweeted that he won the in-person count, with Ms Phillips majority coming from more support in postal voting. He also tweeted a link to a story about Labour postal vote fraud in 2005, in which Ms Phillips played no part. He kept his X/Twitter handle as @JodyMcintyreMP, having set it up before the election. And, in a tweet on Tuesday, he wrote that he had spoken 'with a constituent struggling to get her disabled son into mainstream primary education'. But his followers were quick to point out his error, with one saying: 'You don't have any constituents. You're not the MP. You lost. Move on.' Mr McIntyre today changed his Twitter handle to remove the reference to 'MP', saying he did so before being contacted by Mail Online about it. Jody McIntyre stood in Birmingham Yardley for George Galloway's Worker's Party on a pro-Palestine platform. He today changed his Twitter handle to remove the reference to 'MP', saying he did so before being contacted by Mail Online about it. He ran Labour's Jess Phillips close but eventually lost by 693 votes on July 4 after a bad-tempered campaign fuelled by the fighting in Gaza. However, after the vote, he tweeted that he won the in-person count, with Ms Phillips majority coming from more support in postal voting. He also tweeted a link to a story about Labour postal vote fraud in 2005, in which Ms Phillips played no part. In a tweet on Tuesday he write that he had spoken 'with a constituent struggling to get her disabled son into mainstream primary education'. He told Mail Online: 'I have never described myself as ''the MP for Birmingham Yardley'', neither online nor anywhere else. 'In fact, my Twitter biography clearly states that I was a ''parliamentary candidate for Birmingham Yardley''. 'Regarding the post I made on July 9, a ''constituent'', according to the Oxford Dictionary for example, is ''a member of an area which elects a representative to a legislative body''. 'It is perfectly legitimate for me to speak to ''a constituent'' of Birmingham Yardley, just as I might speak to ''a resident'' of Birmingham Yardley, and I'm always open to assisting and serving my community in any way I can.' Mail Online has also approached Ms Phillips for comment. The MP used her victory speech to declare that the 'pretty gruesome' campaign for her seat was 'the worst election I have ever stood in' - as she was drowned out by boos and chants of 'Free Palestine'. She looked furious and yelled back: 'I understand that a strong woman standing up to you is met with such reticence' before asking for the mob to be thrown out, pointing at them and saying: 'Can you throw them out?' Ms Phillips said that a young woman delivering leaflets for her the day before the election was filmed by her rivals 'and screamed at by a much older man' and then had her tyres slashed. She also said she declined the help of the family of murdered MP Jo Cox because of the violence in her area. She added: 'I didn't bring my children here tonight, because I knew this would happen and they deserve better. 'It's been pretty gruelling here, I'm afraid to say some of my opponents did not reflect at all the manner in which some of my constituents behaved which was with decorum and class.' After her majority shrank to three figures, she was interrupted by shouts of 'Jody, Jody' - in support of Mr McIntyre. There were also should of 'shame on you' after she narrowly managed to hold on to her seat, scraping 11,275 votes compared to the 10,582 won by the Workers Party candidate. The crowd filming and heckling Ms Phillips last night She also thanked West Midlands Police for their response to the 'aggression that we have suffered' during the six-week campaign. Sir Keir Starmer was also heckled with shouts of 'Free Palestine' both at the polling station in his Holborn and St Pancras constituency and at his election count as he was declared to have won his seat. Labour frontbencher Jonathan Ashworth was unseated by an independent in Leicester South. Mr Ashworth, the shadow paymaster general who has made media appearances for the party during Labour's election campaign, was defeated by independent candidate Shockat Adam. His main policies include 'standing for global peace and justice', and he writes on his website: 'I will champion Leicester's values of global peace and justice, which have been neglected by the current government. Our constituency MP refused to vote for a ceasefire to end the bloodshed in Gaza, resulting in the needless deaths of thousands of innocent civilians.' In Dewsbury and Batley, independent candidate Iqbal Mohamed, whose key focus areas include a ceasefire and peace agreement in Gaza, beat the Labour candidate Heather Iqbal. In Blackburn, Labour's Kate Hollern lost to Adnan Hussain, who said in his online statement to voters: 'I promise to make your concerns against the injustice being inflicted against the people of Gaza be heard in the places where our so-called representatives failed.' In Birmingham Perry Barr, Labour's Khalid Mahmood lost the seat to independent Ayoub Khan by 507 votes. Birmingham Live previously reported Mr Khan was one of several candidates in the city who wanted to stand in the election 'with a strong emphasis on the Gaza situation'. Labour's Paul Waugh meanwhile won Rochdale from Workers Party leader George Galloway, just months after he won the seat in a shock by-election dominated by the Gaza war. Mr Galloway, a former Labour and Respect member, swept to victory in Rochdale in February gaining almost 40% of the vote. A study from the Anti-Defamation League of four UC campuses, including UCLA shown here, found college seniors more critical of Israel than freshmen. But opinions about Jews held steady across grade levels except for a rise due to the Gaza conflict. Damian Dovarganes/Associated Press Students enrolled at the University of California for four years expressed harsher views toward Israel but not toward Jews than those enrolled for less time, a new survey of more than 2,000 undergraduates at four UC campuses has found. The results, released Thursday by the Anti-Defamation League, an international civil-rights group that fights antisemitism, found that fourth-year students held stronger views against Israel than did first-year students on such questions as whether the United States should impose sanctions on the country and who was more responsible for violence during the past three years, Israelis or Palestinians. The survey did identify anti-Jewish feelings on the campuses, but it did not find that they increased the longer students were in college. These antisemitic views ranged from the idea that its right to boycott businesses owned by American Jews, to believing that Jews talk too much about the Holocaust, according to the survey of 2,237 students at UCLA, UC Merced, UC Irvine and UC Riverside. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The strongest predictor of anti-Jewish attitudes turned out to be anti-Israel attitudes, the survey found. There are those who maintain that Jews are overly sensitive or alarmist, that antisemitism isnt increasing on campus, that criticism of Israel is completely independent of antisemitism, said Jeffrey Kopstein, a political science professor at UC Irvine and one of the three researchers who conducted the survey. This study shows that such claims simply arent true. The surveys purpose was to quantify the sometimes amorphous allegations of antisemitism that have percolated for years on UC campuses and have escalated since Oct. 7, when Hamas, the militant group that controls Gaza, invaded Israel and triggered Israels war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Kopstein said. UCs Office of the President said Thursday that officials are reviewing the survey findings at a time when rising incidents of bigotry against Jews, Muslims, Arabs and Palestinian students have prompted the UC system to expand anti-bias training across campuses and create a new Office of Civil Rights, among other initiatives intended to ease tensions. The University of California is committed to fighting the troubling rise in antisemitism, Islamophobia and other forms of hate on campus, Rachel Zaentz, a UC spokesperson, said Thursday. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Between June 2023 and March of this year, the researchers emailed a 10-minute, anonymous questionnaire to a random sample of 16,000 undergraduates across all years and majors. They sent weekly reminders and dangled the chance to win an Apple iPad or $10 gift cards for turning in the questionnaire. Ultimately, more than 2,200 students responded, or 14%. Most responses came during an unprecedented time on college campuses across the country, as thousands of students protested against Israel and the war, which has killed more than 38,000 Palestinians and led to widespread starvation in Gaza. Remarkably, however, the researchers had begun surveying students at one campus, UC Irvine, four months before Hamas attacked Israel. This allowed them to see how students responses varied before and after the invasion. Given the human toll of (the) attacks, antisemitic attitudes after Oct. 7, 2023, should have decreased on campuses, regardless of attitudes towards Israel, the report said. That was our working hypothesis. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But that didnt happen, even before Israel escalated its retaliatory war. Students at a pro-Palestinian rally at San Francisco State on May 6 created a banner that distinguished between anti-Israel and anti-Jewish sentiments. A new survey of UC students finds not everyone makes that distinction. Nanette Asimov / The Chronicle Instead, anti-Jewish responses from UC Irvine students intensified after Oct. 7 on all eight questions measuring antisemitism, although the 532 students who responded before the invasion were not the same people as the 106 who responded afterward. Among those findings: Before the invasion, 15.4% of the UC Irvine respondents said they believed it was appropriate for opponents of Israels policies to boycott Jewish-American owned businesses. That rose to 23.6% after the invasion. Students who said Jews talk too much about the Holocaust grew from 8.5% before the invasion to 10.4% afterward. The greatest jump was among students who said that Jews were more loyal to Israel than to the U.S., with 25.2% in agreement before the invasion, compared with 43.4% afterward. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The questionnaire also asked whether students believed that Jews care what happens to anyone but their own kind, whether Jews have too much power in our country today, and whether Jews use Christian blood for their ritual purposes a historic trope. In each case, the percentage of students who agreed with the statements rose after the Hamas invasion. The researchers asked the same questions on all four campuses after the invasion. The largest percentage of students, 28.6%, said they believed Jews were more loyal to Israel than to the U.S., while the smallest, 5.8%, said they thought Jews used the blood of Christians for rituals. What the researchers did not find was an increase in anti-Jewish opinions among students who had been at school for four years, as opposed to one year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Our (year-to-year) analysis is inconsistent with a view of the University of California as a liberal brain-washing factory, the report said. More likely is students are deriving their view of Jews either before they arrive from home, or from sources outside of campus. Attitudes against Israel, on the other hand, were stronger among upperclassmen. The survey included five questions about Israel, answered by 1,698 students. Nearly three out of four students, 73%, said that Israeli leaders are not sincere in their pursuit of peace. A solid majority of 60% said that Israelis were more to blame than Palestinians for violent incidents over the past three years. Almost as many, 57%, said the U.S. should impose sanctions on Israel. Just 26% said they felt admiration or respect toward Israel. Nearly 73% said there are no justifications for Palestinian suicide bombers that target Israeli civilians. Whether the remaining 27% thought there were justifications was not clear. The researchers created an index to determine the level of anti-Israel sentiment among students based on their responses. Seniors scored 8 points higher than freshmen, Kopstein said, indicating that their views of Israel were harsher than their younger counterparts. The survey found no difference in attitudes between students studying the hard sciences vs. the humanities. The findings have a margin of error of less than 3%, the researchers said. Brittany Higgins has responded after a senior detective involved in her rape investigation was suspended from duty over allegations of a cover-up in an unrelated case. Detective Leading Senior Constable Trent Madders has been charged perjury, perverting the course of justice and concealing evidence in an unrelated case in a case involving a former AFP officer, news.com.au reported. Mr Madders, who has previously denied any wrongdoing, was one of the detectives who originally investigated Ms Higgins' allegation that she was raped by colleague Bruce Lehrmann on a government minister's sofa after a night out in Canberra in 2019. Reacting to the news that Mr Madders had been suspended, Ms Higgins shared three upside-down emoji faces on Instagram, which are often used to convey disbelief, irritation or frustrated resignation. There is no suggestion whatsoever Mr Madders engaged in any wrongdoing in relation to Ms Higgins' case. The charges he faces reportedly relate to an investigation into twin brothers who were convicted of spying on three female tenants using hidden cameras in their bedrooms in 2019. Australian Federal Police officer Joshua Rod Tiffen and his electrician brother Kenan Lee Tiffen were found guilty in April 2022 of three counts of capturing visual data in an indecent invasion of privacy. Brittany Higgins (pictured) has responded after a senior detective involved in her rape investigation was suspended from duty over allegations of a cover-up in an unrelated case Detective Leading Senior Constable Trent Madders has been charged perjury, perverting the course of justice and concealing evidence in an unrelated case in a case involving a former AFP officer. Ms Higgins' reaction is pictured above However, they pleaded not guilty and their case is subject to an appeal. Mr Madders, who worked on the investigation, is accused of making a false sworn statement in a legal proceeding 'with the intention of procuring someone elses conviction for, or acquittal of, an offence' between 5 and 6 August 2020, reported Riotact. Hes also accused of concealing evidence 'with the intention of influencing the outcome of a legal proceeding' sometime between 12 June 2019 and 6 August 2020. His case was listed for mention in the ACT Magistrates Court on Thursday, where Mr Madders' lawyer requested that the matter be adjourned for three weeks. No plea was entered and the case will return to court on August 1. He has reportedly previously rejected claims he engaged in a cover-up. A spokesperson for the AFP said 'an AFP employee has been charged with perjury and administration of justice related offences'. Detective Leading Senior Constable Trent Madders (pictured) was one of the detectives who originally investigated Ms Higgins' allegation that she was raped by colleague Bruce Lehrmann 'The employee, charged by AFP Professional Standards, has been suspended from duty,' the spokesperson added. Mr Madders provided a statement about his involvement in Ms Higgins' rape investigation to a board of inquiry that examined the ACTs criminal justice system last year. The board of inquiry report, which was produced by Walter Sofronoff KC, praised the conduct of police, including Mr Madders. It found that officers had 'performed their duties in absolute good faith, with great determination although faced with obstacles, and put together a sound case'. An interview Mr Madders conducted with Ms Higgins, two years after the alleged assault, was played to the jury in her first trial, which was eventually aborted due to juror misconduct. A clearly distressed Ms Higgins berated herself as she told police she would have conversations in person or over the phone. 'In hindsight, I made it a lot harder for myself to verify. It was so stupid,' she told police as she started to cry. 'It's not stupid, Brittany,' Detective Leading Senior Constable Mr Madders told her. Three family members were killed and several more injured in an overnight shooting at a California home. Police were called to a home in Alameda, located in the greater San Francisco Bay area, Wednesday night after a community member reported that their neighbor had been shot. Upon arrival, officers with the Alameda Police Department (APD) located the victim. While clearing the residence, officers discovered multiple family members suffering from apparent gunshot wounds, including children. A person of interest is in custody. Police did not immediately give a motive for the shooting. Police were called to the 400 block of Kitty Hawk Road in Alameda, California on Wednesday night after a community member reported that their neighbor had been shot. Officers are pictured at the scene While clearing the residence, officers discovered multiple family members suffering from apparent gunshot wounds, including children. Those injured are being treated at local hospitals. Pictured: First responders at the scene on Kitty Hawk Road The APD said in a statement on Facebook that it received a call from an individual who reported that their neighbor had been shot in the 400 block of Kitty Hawk Road in the City of Alameda. 'We are deeply saddened to report that three victims did not survive, and additional family members are being treated at local hospitals,' police said. There is no information to suggest there is any threat to members of the public, police said. An investigation is ongoing. This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates. An eight-year-old schoolgirl has tragically been gang-raped and murdered by a group of boys who lured her to a secluded area of a park she was playing in in India. The three boys, aged 12 and 13, killed the young girl in Andhra Pradesh's Nandyala district, in southeast India, before telling local cops they disposed of her body in a nearby irrigation canal. She was reported missing by her father, who had not seen her since Sunday after she went to the park to play. Police launched a formal search, questioning local residents and bringing out sniffer dogs who led the search party to the three boys, who it emerged went to school with the girl. After police questioning, they admitted to luring her to a secure area before taking turns to rape her. The three boys, aged 12 and 13, killed the young girl in Andhra Pradesh's Nandyala district, in southeast India (Pictured) Fearing punishment if the girl told her parents about the horrific assault, they murdered her and threw her body in a canal. Her body has still not been found - police have launched several teams along the nearby River Krishna to search for her body. As a result, local police are still treating it as a missing person's case. Women in India have increasingly faced sexual violence. In 2022, an average of 90 rapes were reported every day, according to data from the country's National Crime Records Bureau. The actual number of sexual assaults is likely to be much higher, as many will outright refuse to report them for a lack of faith in the police's ability to properly investigate the crimes, and for fear of reprisal. 'We are seeing the worst phase of sexual violence and misogyny now,' Kavita Srivastava, general secretary of the Peoples Union of Civil Liberties, told DW. 'This is the new India where there seems to be a complete breakdown of the rule of law, which is directly affecting women most, as it is also a period of unabashed consolidation of patriarchy.' The switch from quiet, suburban cul-de-sac to frantic crime scene happened almost instantaneously. Neighbours on Ashlyn Close in Bushey, Hertfordshire, suddenly became aware of screaming at shortly before 7pm on Tuesday. Police, then ambulances, darted to the scene. The discovery was grim - three women, all shot dead in their own home in what was believed to be a targeted attack. The weapon - a crossbow. The suspect is Kyle Clifford, a 26-year-old ex-military man and security guard, who was also the former boyfriend of one of the victims, Louise Hunt, 25. Ms Hunt, a successful and popular dog groomer, was found slain alongside her mother, Carol Hunt, 61, the wife of BBC radio commentator John Hunt, and the couple's older daughter Hannah, 28. Kyle Clifford, a former soldier and security guard, was apprehended by police after a 24-hour man hunt on suspicion of murder Victim Louise Hunt, 25, (pictured) is the ex-girlfriend of crossbow suspect Kyle Clifford Hannah, 28, who worked nearby as a beautician, 'always had a smile' Hannah Hunt, 28, and her mother Carol Hunt, 61, were also found dead in the family home BBC horse racing commentator John Hunt (pictured) is a voice known to millions But the sudden appearance of the emergency services, interrupting an otherwise unremarkable evening in this leafy pocket of London's commuter belt, pricked the memories of neighbours. Was there any connection to Louise's recent break-up, in which she was apparently so distressed that she crashed her car into a telephone pole at the edge of her driveway? Neighbour Glyn Nicholas, 77, recalled the dog groomer, who ran her business from the home, was 'very upset' about splitting with Clifford. 'A friend of Louise's told me that her car door had caved in because of the crash,' he said. 'Carol was a nice, polite and quiet lady. She was at home a lot of the time. 'They were all very nice, a private family. They all did their own things. 'Louise started a business a couple of years ago, and it was a thriving business we all took our dogs there to be groomed. Louise Hunt, 25, (pictured) was the ex-girlfriend of suspect Kyle Clifford and was one of the three women found dead in the family home Hannah Hunt, 28, and her mother Carol Hunt, 61, were also found dead in the family home Floral tributes near to the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire, where Carol Hunt, 61, the wife of BBC Five Live racing commentator John Hunt, and two of their daughters, Hannah, 28, and Louise, 25, were killed Police officers at the scene in Ashlyn Close, where the three victims were killed in an attack allegedly involving a crossbow A message left for the victims read: 'I wish none of this was real' A message attached to floral tributes left for Carol Hunt and two daughters Hannah and Louise, who were slain in their family home 'A very close-knit family and they used to love the street.' A friend added: '(Mum Carol) said her daughter's split with her boyfriend was messy. Carol did not go into too much detail, but you could see she was concerned.' The manhunt for Clifford began in earnest, and the whole street suddenly became aware that something terrible had happened. 'Within 15 minutes, it was absolute chaos,' one neighbour said. 'We had armed police running down, screaming, "Stay in your house" ... they shut us off and basically put us into lockdown.' It is understood the police missed their suspect by mere minutes. Doorbell footage showed a man matching Clifford's description walking with purpose away from the Hunts' home at 6.50pm. Under his arm, a large, bulky item secreted beneath a white sheet. The man then got into a car and fled the scene. Doorbell footage shows a man believed to be Kyle Clifford walking away from a house containing the dead bodies of three women Police cordoned off Ashlyn Close, home of the Hunt family in Bushey, Hertforshire, after being called to the scene on Tuesday evening Police believed the suspect used a crossbow to attack the three victims MANHUNT TIMELINE 6.50pm TUESDAY : Suspect is seen walking away from home where BBC star's wife and two daughters found dead 7pm: Police called to Ashlyn Close after neighbour reported hearing screams. Three women found seriously injured and later died. 9am WEDNESDAY: Police release appeal naming Kyle Clifford as their main suspect. At the same time armed police raid a property in Rendlesham Road, Enfield 12.30pm: Police confirm at a press conference crossbow attack was 'targeted' 1pm - Huge manhunt across Bushey and Enfield - suspect's car found, primary schools put into lockdown 4.30pm - Armed police and paramedics seen running into Lavender Hill cemetery in Enfield. 5pm - Kyle Clifford is detained by police and taken to a major trauma hospital after 'shooting himself' Advertisement The police's arrival, so soon after the massacre, was not triggered by neighbours' concerns, however. Indeed it is believed the police were called to the property by one of the brave victims, who somehow managed to alert emergency services while her relatives perished - and moments before she also died from her injuries. Police initially kept a lid on the tragedy. But by around 9am the following day, they asked for the public's help. In a highly unusual move, detectives named former soldier Clifford as their prime suspect. Passengers arriving at London's Victoria railway station during the morning rush hour were funneled through exit barriers, allowing police officers to scan the crowd, looking for Clifford. Detectives reasoned the suspect did not have much time to get too far before the police turned up, so focussed much of their attention on Hertfordshire and North London, where Clifford was from. At 12.30pm, police confirmed the identity of the suspects, with Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson appealing directly to the triple murder suspect to hand himself in. 'Kyle, if you are seeing or hearing this, please make contact,' he said.' And he confirmed the attack was believed to have been 'targeted'. He said there were 'extensive police resources deployed to various locations', with armed officers and specialist search teams involved. This had included storming Clifford's family home in Rendlesham Road, Enfield, around 14 miles to the east of Bushey, shortly before the police appeal that morning. Chief Superintendent Jon Simpson of Hertfordshire Police appealed for the triple murder suspect to hand himself in Police confirmed the names of the victims, and urged the public not to approach the suspect And then a development. Clifford's abandoned vehicle was discovered nearby. Schools locally were put into lockdown as police from Hertfordshire and the Met stormed the area, intensifying the search for Clifford. One mother said: 'They had cordoned off the road and were ushering people away from the house they were going into. 'They had the full protective gear on, guns, shields and helmets the kind you'd expect to see in riots. The net closed in on their suspect, and the hunt moved to nearby Lavender Hill cemetery. Armed police search Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield, as the search for Kyle Clifford intensified Armed police search the area in Enfield, north London, not far from Clifford's family home Police guard the scene where fugitive Kyle Clifford was found, Lavender Hill Cemetry, with apparent self-inflicted wounds Rae Cresswell, 26, a local who filmed the commotion, said: 'I saw about ten officers coming in. I was quite worried because they were armed and there were dogs with them. 'I asked them if they wanted me to leave but they said it was fine to stay. They started checking the area so I left shortly after and came back to see all these vehicles.' Camera crews also picked up the moment emergency services flocked to the site. Police and two accompanying medics could be seen running along a back lane before darting left through a clearing and into the cemetery. Armed police kept a vigil at the gap, keeping members of the public and journalists away from the site. Shortly after, broadcasters captured the suspect being taken away on a stretcher, flanked by police and medics, having apparently shooting himself. He was placed into an ambulance. Police were thought to have spent around two hours inside the cemetery before detaining the suspect. Officers said no shots were fired. Clifford was taken by road ambulance to the Royal London hospital to be treated for his injuries. The manhunt was over. And shortly before 6.30pm, police confirmed to the public that the police had got their man. Mining giant BHP has suspended its vast nickel operations in Western Australia, but has pledged to protect the livelihoods of the division's 2,500-strong workforce. The behemoth made the shock announcement on Thursday afternoon, citing a global oversupply of nickel for the temporary shutdown. 'Like others in the Australian nickel sector, we have not been able to overcome the substantial economic challenges driven by a global oversupply of nickel,' BHP president Australia Geraldine Slattery said. Nickel is a critical mineral used in electric vehicle batteries but a flood of cheap nickel from Indonesia has depressed prices and ramped up pressure on Australia's comparatively high-cost operators. Global nickel prices averaged more than US$25,000 a tonne in the 18 months from the start of 2022 and now sit at US$16,725 a tonne. The company, which mines iron ore, coal, copper and nickel, will suspend mining and processing operations at its Kwinana nickel refinery, Kalgoorlie nickel smelter and Mt Keith and Leinster operations and suspend development of the West Musgrave project. In the financial year to June 30, 2024, BHP reported an underlying loss of about $450m at its nickel division. The company will suspend operations until February 2027. In a shock announcement Mining giant BHP has suspended its vast nickel operations in Western Australia BHP said it would offer its frontline nickel workers redeployment opportunities to the company's other operations or a redundancy payout. 'Every frontline employee will be offered another role within BHP and best endeavours will also be made to identify redeployment opportunities for other employees engaged in the day-to-day operations of Western Australia Nickel,' the company said. The company will establish a $20million community fund to support local communities and business impacted by the suspension. It is understood some 400 workers will remain in the nickel division to restart operations if market conditions improve. The mining giant said a worldwide surplus of nickel has forced it to stop mining the mineral The company will invest $450million a year into the division to enable a restart. Resources Minister Madeleine King called the decision 'disappointing'. 'The Albanese Government worked with BHP and the broader nickel sector on policy responses that would support ongoing Australian nickel production,' she said. 'We added nickel to the critical minerals list in February, making nickel projects eligible for consideration under the $4billion critical minerals facility. 'We also announced the critical minerals production tax incentive in the May Budget. 'However, it is clear that the scale of commercial difficulties Nickel West faces due to developments in global nickel markets has led to the temporary suspension announced by BHP today.' The family of an 'amazing' mother-of-two who was found dead at her home in South Wales have paid tribute and described her as 'beautiful in every way'. Sophie Evans was just 30 when her body was found at her house in Carmarthenshire last week and police have arrested a 49-year-old man on suspicion of murder. Police arrested the man on the same day Sophie was discovered in Bigyn Road, Llanelli, on July 5 and said they were 'not looking for anyone else', though the investigation continues. Sophie's family said in a statement released by Dyfed-Powys Police: 'Our beautiful and amazing sister and daughter Sophie was tragically taken from us, and our lives will never be the same. 'We are heartbroken by our loss. Our Sophie, only 30 years young, will be greatly missed by us all.' The family of 30-year-old mother-of-two Sophie Evans, who was found dead at her home in South Wales last week, have paid tribute describing her as 'beautiful in every way' A 49-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the body was found in Bigyn Road, Llanelli They added: 'She was a loving mother to her two girls, who she adored with all her heart. An amazing sister, who was the rock of our family. So bright and funny, always making us laugh. 'Sophie was a loving daughter, with a huge heart, who we all adored. 'She lived life to the fullest, and will be remembered for being so kind and caring to her loved ones. 'Sophie loved spending time with her children and family, had a passion for beauty therapy, and enjoyed keeping up with her fitness and the latest fashion trends. 'We would like to thank everyone for their support at this horrific time. It has meant a lot to the whole family. 'We would now like time to grieve, and ask to be given privacy in which to do so.' Police added that they are still investigating the circumstances around Sophies death, and specialist officers are supporting her family. On Saturday, police announced that they were investigating the incident and confirmed they had arrested a suspect. They warned that there would continue to be a heightened police presence in the area as enquiries continued. A record number of Chinese military aircrafts have surrounded Taiwan as Beijing begins conducting a series of war games in the Pacific today. Taiwan's defence ministry said in recent hours it had detected 66 Chinese aircrafts within a 24-hour window. It comes as China as well as Russia threatened NATO against 'provoking confrontation' after the alliance claimed that China had 'become a decisive enabler of Russia's war against Ukraine'. The military presence near to the self-ruled island of Taiwan - which China claims is part of its territory - comes a day after a Chinese aircraft was spotted around the island that it said were headed for exercises with the PLA aircraft carrier Shandong. In a update this morning, the defence ministry said: '66 PLA aircraft and seven PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6am (2200 GMT Wednesday) today,' adding it had 'responded accordingly'. One of the four Coast Guard Vessels, which Taiwan says belongs to China and entered waters near frontline islands today Taiwan's defence ministry said today it had detected 66 Chinese aircrafts within a 24-hour window It comes as China and Russia have both threatened NATO against 'provoking confrontation' over the bloc's claims that Xi Jingping's nation holds a key role in Moscow 's invasion of Ukraine (File image) Of the record-breaking fleet spotted heading towards the western Pacific, 56 were seen crossing the sensitive median line bisecting the Taiwan Strait - a narrow 180-kilometre waterway separating the island from China. An illustration released by the defence ministry showed some Chinese aircrafts coming within 61 kilometres of Taiwan's southern tip. The year's previous record was broken in May, when Beijing sent 62 military aircraft and 27 naval vessels around Taiwan. That occurred in the middle of war games Beijing launched on the heels of the inauguration of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who Beijing regards as a 'dangerous separatist'. Military expert Su Tzu-yun said China's latest show of force was a reaction to recent political developments, including Washington's new de facto ambassador to Taiwan meeting with and expressing support for Taipei. 'Beijing puts pressure on Taiwan in order to express its displeasure at the support it enjoys,' said Su of Taiwan's Institute for National Defence and Security Research. The year's previous record was broken in May, when Beijing sent 62 military aircraft and 27 naval vessels around Taiwan. Pictured: Handout photo taken and released by the Taiwan Coast Guard on May 23, 2024 Meanwhile China issued warning to NATO after the bloc claimed that Xi Jingping's nation holds a key role in Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. In response, a spokesperson for Beijing's mission to the European Union said: 'NATO should stop hyping up the so-called China threat and provoking confrontation and rivalry, and do more to contribute to world peace and stability.' Why does China claim Taiwan? The island's history as Taiwan is relatively new, and the island has been populated by Malayo-Polynesian peoples for centuries. China descended into civil war 1927 - 1949, between the nationalist KMT party and the CCP in power today. Through WWII, Britain and the US offered much support to the KMT to fight Japan and restore stability. But Russia allied more closely with the CCP, which hoped to solve China's problems through socialism. Ultimately, the nationalist government was forced out and relocated to Taiwan along with 1.2 million people from China. Today, the CCP governs mainland China and still lays claim to the island and waters around it through its 'One China' policy. Taiwan's democratic capitalist government meanwhile maintains that it is a sovereign nation and wants its freedoms and democracy preserved. Most Taiwanese people oppose joining China for fear of losing these freedoms. Read more here. Advertisement 'It is known to all that China is not the creator (of) the Ukraine crisis. China's position on Ukraine is open and aboveboard,' it added. China has refused to condemn Russia's invasion and last year released a paper calling for a 'political settlement' to the conflict, which Western countries said could enable Russia to retain much of the territory it has seized in Ukraine. And since the invasion the two country's strategic partnership has grown closer despite Beijing presenting itself as a neutral party in the war and claiming it is not sending lethal assistance to either side, unlike the United States. But it has, however, openly offered a critical lifeline to Russia's isolated economy, with trade booming since the conflict began. With tensions around the NATO summit in Washington swirling, China's defence minister Wellington Koo yesterday insisted that the Shandong had not passed 'through the Bashi Channel', the area off Taiwan's southern tip where Chinese ships typically transit en route to the Pacific Ocean. Instead, it 'went further south through the Balintang Channel towards the Western Pacific,' he said, referring to a waterway just north of the Philippines' Babuyan Island - about 250 kilometres south of Bashi. Meanwhile, on Tuesday Japan confirmed that four PLA navy vessels - including the Shandong - were sailing 520 kilometres southeast of Miyako island. The Philippines' military public affairs chief said they had received reports of a China-Russia exercise taking place in the Philippine Sea but did not comment about the Shandong directly. China has in recent years ramped up political and military pressures around Taiwan, sending in record-breaking numbers of jets, drones and ships while upping the rhetoric of 'unification' being 'inevitable'. Lin Jian, spokesman of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reiterated today that 'Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory'. Of the record-breaking fleet spotted heading towards the western Pacific, 56 were seen crossing the sensitive median line bisecting the Taiwan Strait - a narrow 180-kilometre waterway separating the island from China. Pictured: Image from Taiwan coast guard today 'The determination and resolve of the Chinese people to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity are unwavering,' he said during a regular press briefing. The largest number of aircraft ever seen around Taiwan came last September when Beijing sent in 103 warplanes and aircraft. Experts call these 'grey zone tactics', which stop short of outright acts of war but serve to exhaust the island's military. Lai has repeatedly made overtures of dialogue to China, but has been largely rebuffed. Besides deploying a military show of force, China has also increasingly sent coast guard ships around Taiwan's outlying islands this year. On Thursday, four Chinese coast guard ships 'sailed into (Taiwan's) waters' at 7 am, Taipei's coast guard said, adding that the vessels left after two hours. Then at 10 am, the four ships 'once again sailed in Kinmen's restricted waters at multiple points, and our patrol boats immediately moved forward to monitor', and they left around noon. 'So far this year the incursions into waters controlled by our side have reached 31 times,' they said. A mystery fire broke out in at Rouen Cathedral in northern France today as visitors were told to evacuate the ancient place of worship. Thick black smoke was filmed pouring out of its main spire in the late morning, in an area where renovation work was taking place. 'Fire engines are at the scene, and the cathedral has been evacuated,' said an emergency services spokesman. The city's mayor, Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol, took to X to say: 'A fire has started on the spire of Rouen Cathedral. Origin unknown at this stage. All public resources are mobilised.' Local media reported that 33 fire engines and 63 firefighters were at the scene, which has been cordoned off. Public transport in the city of around 110,000 people was severely disrupted. The cause of the fire still remains unknown at this point. It has since been brought under control. Thick black smoke was filmed pouring out of Rouen Cathedral's main spire in the late morning, in an area where renovation work was taking place The 1,000-year-old cathedral (pictured) was a favourite of renowned Impressionist Claude Monet, who painted it several times in the 19th century The middle tower has been covered in a protective tarpaulin for several weeks, local media reported, adding that the blaze appears to have started from a work platform. The spire is 'not made of wood but of metal', according to local sources. The 1,000-year-old cathedral was a favourite of renowned Impressionist Claude Monet, who painted it several times in the 19th century. It was in the middle of a seven-year restoration project that began in 2017, according to France's ministry of culture. Rouen Cathedral was consecrated in 1062, when William, Duke of Normandy, who later became William the Conqueror, was present. Our Lady (Notre Dame) of the Assumption Cathedral its full name at Rouen is now famous for its three towers, and it was the main central one that was ablaze on Thursday. The Cathedral suffered direct hits during RAF and American bombing just before D-Day in 1944, and has been undergoing renovation work almost permanently ever since. The middle tower has been covered in a protective tarpaulin for several weeks Local media reported that 33 fire engines and 63 firefighters were at the scene, which has been cordoned off The cause of the fire still remains unknown at this point It was in the middle of a seven-year restoration project that began in 2017 The blaze in northern France follows the spire of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris being destroyed by a devastating fire in April 2019. The fire at Notre Dame in Paris also started at a site where renovation work was going on, and faulty electrics or a discarded cigarette were thought to have started it. By the time the fire was extinguished, Notre Dame's wooden spire had collapsed, most of the wooden roof has been destroyed and the structure's upper walls were heavily damaged. Three emergency workers were hurt during the blaze. Sir Keir Starmer is facing the threat of a House of Commons revolt after Labour MPs vowed action to scrap the two-child benefit cap. New figures published today showed there were 1.6 million children living in households affected by the policy as of April - up from 1.5 million in April last year. More than half (52 per cent) were in households with three children, 29 per cent in households with four children, and 19 per cent in households with five or more children. Before becoming Prime Minister, Sir Keir said he would ditch the two-child limit 'in an ideal world' but added that 'we haven't got the resources to do it at the moment'. But he is under growing pressure from left-wing MPs, campaigners and charities to scrap the cap now that Labour are in power. Sir Keir Starmer is facing the threat of a House of Commons revolt after Labour MPs vowed action to scrap the two-child benefit cap Left-wing Labour MPs have vowed to table amendments to next week's King's Speech or the upcoming Budget to remove the welfare limit New figures from the Department for Work and Pensions showed there were some 440,000 households affected by the cap Former shadow chancellor John McDonnell said the 'bulk' of Labour MPs backed ditching the two-child benefit cap The two-child benefit cap, introduced by ex-chancellor George Osborne, prevents parents from claiming universal credit or child tax credit for a third or additional child born after April 2017. Prior to last week's general election, Tory leader Rishi Sunak said he would retain the cap if he remained in office as part of a 'fair' approach to welfare. This was despite calls from charities for the abolition of the cap, who have pointed to record levels of child poverty in the UK. Senior Labour MP John McDonnell, the former shadow chancellor, today called for Sir Keir to act 'sooner rather than later' to scrap the cap. He warned, if Sir Keir and Chancellor Rachel Reeves did not take action at their first Budget, he would table an amendment to remove the two-child limit. Mr McDonnell told Times Radio: 'If it wasn't in the Budget, I would seek to amend the Budget to make sure it was. 'On that basis I think we most probably would have a majority view within Parliament itself, across most political parties including the Labour Party. But I don't think it will come to that. 'I actually do think that there is such an overwhelming view that this is something that needs to be done, I think that the Government will want to get on with it.' Mr McDonnell said the 'bulk' of Labour MPs backed ditching the benefit limit. Fellow Labour backbencher Kim Johnson went further and said she was tabling an amendment to next week's King's Speech calling for the cap to be scrapped. She posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: 'I have long campaigned against the two-child benefit cap. 'This policy is cruel, punitive and is pushing struggling families into further poverty. 'I am laying an amendment to the King's Speech calling for the cap to scrapped- immediately lifting 250,000 children out of poverty.' The Liberal Democrats, who had a record 72 MPs elected to the House of Commons last week, said they would pressure the Labour Government to remove the limit. The party's work and pensions spokesperson, Wendy Chamberlain, said: 'The Conservative government trapped hundreds of thousands of children in poverty with their cruel and counter-productive two-child limit. 'The Liberal Democrats will keep campaigning to scrap it, which would be the quickest and most cost-effective way to lift children out of poverty with huge long-term benefits for our society and our economy.' The new figures from the Department for Work and Pensions showed there were some 440,000 households in receipt of either Universal Credit or Child Tax Credit who were not receiving the child element or amount for at least one child because of the policy, up from 409,050 as of April 2023. The Resolution Foundation has calculated that abolishing the two-child limit would cost the Government somewhere between 2.5billion and 3.6billion in 2024/25 but said such costs are 'low compared to the harm that the policy causes'. In its briefing in January, it said scrapping the two-child limit 'would be one of the most efficient ways to drive down child poverty rates', estimating that if abolished at that point, 490,000 children would have been lifted out of poverty. Following publication of the latest statistics, Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall, said: 'Too many children are growing up in poverty and this is a stain on our society. 'We will work to give every child the best start in life by delivering our manifesto commitment to implement an ambitious strategy to reduce child poverty. 'I will hold critical meetings with charities and experts next week to get this urgent work under way.' Michael Douglas has said it is 'hard to imagine' Joe Biden serving a full term if he is re-elected in November and shared he is 'deeply, deeply' concerned about the President's ailing fitness. Douglas, 79, attending the New York City premiere of his America's Burning documentary Wednesday evening, said that although thinks Biden has 'done an incredible job' he worries about his future ability to lead. The actor, who in April held a fundraiser for the President at his home, told the BBC he was disappointed at Biden's 'inability' to challenge Donald Trump's 'lies' during the the car crash presidential debate. Douglas, admitting it would be a 'painful, painful decision', said that Biden 'could' step down as the Democratic nominee, seemingly echoing fellow actor George Clooney's call for the 81-year-old to drop out of the election. Clooney, 63, on Wednesday penned a scathing editorial in the New York Times in which he alleged that Biden can't win the 'battle against time' and condemned Democratic party leaders for ignoring 'every warning sign' of the President's declining physical and mental health. Michael Douglas, 79, attending the New York City premiere of his America's Burning documentary Wednesday evening, said it is 'hard to imagine' Joe Biden serving a full term if he is re-elected in November and shared he is 'deeply, deeply' concerned about the President's ailing fitness President Joe Biden speaks during a dinner with NATO allies and partners in the East Room of the White House on Wednesday, July 10 Douglas, on the red carpet at his premiere Wednesday night, was asked if Biden 'could' and 'should' drop out of the race for the White House. 'Could he? Yes, he could,' he said. 'Should he? It's a painful, painful decision because I admire the man tremendously.' The Oscar winner, mentioning how he hosted a fundraiser for Biden at his home, told the BBC: 'I think he's done an incredible job. But I am worried, not this week or next week, but let's say next year.' He said it is 'just so hard for me to imagine a man four and a half years down the line from now, particularly in a time that is so combative, the requires someone to really be so articulate.' Douglas added that the 'most disappointing' part of the first presidential debate was 'not necessarily how he felt', but instead Biden's 'inability to acknowledge all the likes that ex-President Trump was talking about'. The Wall Street star also applauded Clooney for his op-ed, saying that celebrity calls for action 'may help move along the politicians who have been waffling'. Earlier Wednesday, Douglas appeared on The View to talk about America's Burning, which focuses on the declining state of the US. While on the show, host Joy Behar questioned him about the ongoing calls for Biden to drop out of the presidential race. 'This is such a tough one,' Douglas told the panel. George Clooney, 63, on Wednesday penned a scathing editorial in the New York Times in which he alleged that Biden can't win the 'battle against time' and condemned Democratic party leaders for ignoring 'every warning sign' of the President's declining physical and mental health Earlier Wednesday, Douglas appeared on The View to talk about America's Burning, which focuses on the declining state of the US Douglas, pictured on The View, told the panel: 'I adore the guy, you know 50 years of public service, and this just happens to be one of the elections that's so crucial. I don't worry necessarily today or tomorrow but a year down the line...I worry. I am concerned' 'I adore the guy, you know 50 years of public service, and this just happens to be one of the elections that's so crucial. I don't worry necessarily today or tomorrow but a year down the line...I worry. I am concerned.' Alyssa Farah Griffin then probed him about Clooney's op-ed, which had just been released, asking what he thought of the Ocean's 11 star calling for Biden to step aside saying the 'stakes are too high for future generations'. 'I think it's a valid point,' Douglas responded. 'I'm deeply, deeply concerned. Especially it's difficult because the Democrats have a deep bench, I mean they got a lot of heavy hitters. A lot of talent.' Just three weeks after co-hosting a huge fundraiser in Los Angeles that raised nearly $30million for Biden, Clooney wrote a scathing piece calling for him to step aside. He warned that Biden would lose the presidential election, and Democrats would also lose both chambers of Congress. 'Joe Biden is a hero; he saved democracy in 2020. We need him to do it again in 2024,' the actor wrote in the op-ed. Clooney said the person he saw there was the candidate the world saw at last week's presidential debate. 'I love Joe Biden. As a senator. As a vice president and as president. I consider him a friend, and I believe in him. Believe in his character. Believe in his morals. In the last four years, he's won many of the battles he's faced,' Clooney wrote. George Clooney visited the White House where he was honored by the President in 2022 Lifelong Democrat George Clooney turned on President Joe Biden and demand he step aside from the 2024 race after his disastrous debate and widespread concerns of whether he can serve four more years: above is George Clooney, President Joe Biden, Julia Roberts and Barack Obama at a June 16 fundraiser that raised $28 million 'But the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. None of us can. It's devastating to say it, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fund-raiser was not the Joe 'big F-ing deal' Biden of 2010. He wasn't even the Joe Biden of 2020. He was the same man we all witnessed at the debate,' he said. Biden and Clooney have a long relationship, going back to Biden's day as chairman of the Senate Foreign Services Committee. Clooney was working on issues in Darfur and connected with him. The president has honored Clooney for his support, hosting him at the White House for the Kennedy Center Honors in December 2022. In response to Clooney's editorial, the Biden campaign pointed to the president's statements on Monday saying he was 'committed' to running again in November. Media-shy for much of his presidency, Biden will also give a fresh interview, to broadcaster NBC on Monday, as he seeks to convince voters. But while top Democrats broadly but unenthusiastically backed him on Tuesday, Biden's efforts to stop the bleeding increasingly looked to be in vain. Former House speaker Nancy Pelosi, 86, was lukewarm on his candidacy, telling MSNBC 'it's up to the president to decide if he is going to run.' 'We're all encouraging him to make that decision because the time is running short,' she said, despite Biden's repeated pledges last week to stay in the race. The Heads of State of NATO pose with US President Joe Biden and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg (center) at a photo op in the South Lawn of the White House before a State dinner at the NATO 75th anniversary summit celebration in Washington, DC, on July 10, 2024 President Joe Biden (R) and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg (L) toast each other at a dinner for NATO members in the East Room of the White House on July 10, 2024 Pelosi said Biden should delay any final decision until after NATO's 75th anniversary summit in Washington, which ends on Thursday with what will be a closely watched press conference by the president. Meanwhile, the 81-year-old tried to show his leadership credentials at the NATO summit in Washington. Fellow NATO leaders appeared to rally round Biden as he greeted them on arrival. Biden, who gave a forceful speech pledging new air defenses for Ukraine as the summit opened on Tuesday, got through his opening remarks with only a couple of verbal stumbles. But his every move from now until November will now be watched for evidence of age-related frailty or ill health. At least eight House Democrats have openly called on Biden to not seek reelection, with New York Congressman Pat Ryan jumping ship on Wednesday. Colorado's Michael Bennet on Tuesday became the first Senate Democrat to publicly turn on the president, saying Biden would lose if he stayed on the ballot. Pictured from left, US President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden, Emmanuel Macron, France's president, and Gitanas Nauseda, Lithuania's president, during an arrival ceremony at the South Portico of the White House in Washington DC on Wednesday President Joe Biden shakes hands with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on July 10, 2024 'Donald Trump is on track, I think, to win this election, and maybe win it by a landslide and take with it the Senate and the House,' Bennet told CNN. Former president Trump, 78, is meanwhile back on the warpath after a long interval of public events following the June 27 debate. At a rally in Florida on Tuesday he accused Biden of mounting the 'biggest cover-up in political history' over his health. Republicans also turned the screw, with the House Oversight Committee that the party controls issuing subpoenas for three top White House aides to testify about Biden's health, the Axios news outlet reported. Xi meets Bangladeshi PM, bilateral ties elevated Xinhua) 08:07, July 11, 2024 Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of the People's Republic of Bangladesh at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lin) BEIJING, July 10 (Xinhua) -- China and Bangladesh on Wednesday elevated their relations to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced this while meeting in Beijing. China and Bangladesh have always respected and supported each other, treated each other as equals and cooperated for win-win results since the establishment of diplomatic ties, setting an example of friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation between countries, especially among Global South countries, Xi said. China cherishes the profound friendship forged by the older generation of leaders of the two countries and is willing to take the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties next year as an opportunity to deepen high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, expand cooperation in various fields, and promote the steady and long-term development of China-Bangladesh comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, Xi added. He called on the two sides to promote the fine tradition of mutual support and deepen political mutual trust, noting that China supports Bangladesh in adhering to an independent foreign policy, pursuing a development path that suits its national conditions, safeguarding national sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and opposing any external interference. China hopes to share experience on governance and development policies with Bangladesh, strengthen the synergy of development strategies and deepen cooperation in economy, trade, investment and connectivity, Xi said. More Chinese enterprises are encouraged to enhance industrial investment cooperation with Bangladesh to promote the integrated development of industrial and supply chains and help Bangladesh achieve national development, Xi noted. The two sides should make the China-Bangladesh Year of People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges next year a success and promote exchanges and cooperation in culture, tourism, media and sports, he added. China is ready to work with Bangladesh to enhance coordination on international and regional affairs, strengthen cooperation within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, uphold the common values of humanity, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, Xi said. Hasina said the Bangladeshi side admires China's great achievements in overcoming various difficulties and challenges and continuously improving people's living standards under the brilliant leadership of President Xi. Bangladesh is firmly committed to advancing the cause of national liberation, poverty reduction and development, and thanks China for its valuable support in this process, Hasina added. Bangladesh hopes to learn from China's successful development experience, expand cooperation in areas such as economy, trade, infrastructure and poverty alleviation, and strengthen people-to-people exchanges in youth and culture, she said, adding that the Belt and Road Initiative has greatly promoted economic development and improved people's livelihood in the region, and Bangladesh will continue to actively participate in the Belt and Road cooperation. Bangladesh firmly abides by the one-China principle, supports China's position on the Taiwan question, resolutely opposes external interference in China's internal affairs and firmly supports China in safeguarding its core interests, Hasina said. The comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between Bangladesh and China will surely achieve greater development, she added. Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of the People's Republic of Bangladesh at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 10, 2024. (Xinhua/Ding Lin) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Chery Auto's robotic factory drives China's car industry, sets sales record People's Daily Online) 11:10, July 11, 2024 Robotic arms in action at the Chery Intelligent Manufacturing Factory in Wuhu, Anhui Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Jun) Mechanical arms work in tandem at the Chery Intelligent Manufacturing Factory in Wuhu, Anhui Province, assembling car bodies with precision. With more than 660 robotic arms, the factory boasts an automation rate of 97 percent, allowing it to produce a car every minute. Photo shows a complex assembly line at the Chery Intelligent Manufacturing Factory, Wuhu, Anhui Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Jun) The automobile industry is a pillar industry of Anhui Province's economy, and Chery Automobile is its flagship enterprise. In 2023, Chery sold nearly 1.9 million vehicles, a 50 percent increase from the previous year. The company also exported more than 900,000 vehicles, maintaining its position as the top exporter of Chinese brand passenger cars for 21 consecutive years Precision robotic technology at work in Chery's Wuhu factory, Anhui Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Jun) Chery's rapid growth has fostered a robust environment for the automobile industry in Wuhu, attracting local auto parts enterprises like a magnet. Currently, Wuhu is home to more than 1,500 upstream and downstream companies in the automotive sector, including several foreign-funded enterprises. Photo shows the final assembly line at the Chery Intelligent Manufacturing Factory, Wuhu, Anhui Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Jun) From January to June this year, Chery sold 1.1 million vehicles, setting a new semiannual record for the company. The automaker achieved growth in both new energy vehicles (NEVs) and traditional vehicles, as well as in domestic and overseas markets. Finished SUVs undergoing final inspection by robotic systems at the Chery Intelligent Manufacturing Factory in Wuhu, Anhui Province. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Jun) (Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun) A Valentines Day home invasion in San Franciscos Crocker-Amazon neighborhood is connected to robberies in other cities, police said Wednesday. Yalonda M. James/The Chronicle 2021 A Valentines Day home invasion in San Franciscos Crocker-Amazon neighborhood is connected to robberies in other cities, police said Wednesday. Last week, police arrested two suspects in a February home invasion who are believed to have committed other recent home robberies. In that incident, police responded around 4 a.m. to victims who said unknown gunmen forced their way in. The invaders stole a vehicle, jewelry and a purse worth thousands of dollars before fleeing in an unknown vehicle, police said. One victim was left with non-life-threatening injuries. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On June 12 in Colma, police arrested 23-year-old Isaiah Banquerigo, who was found with a loaded firearm; they suspect him of being involved in the February robbery as well as robberies in other cities. A few weeks later, on July 2, Oakland police arrested a second suspect, 21-year-old Montana Jones, who was transported to San Francisco County Jail. Banquerigo and Jones were booked on charges of kidnapping, robbery, burglary, aggravated assault, carjacking and conspiracy, according to police. Police are continuing to identify remaining suspects for the February invasion and other robberies in the city. Investigators believe additional recent home invasion robberies were committed by the same group of suspects based on similar descriptions, victim similarities and modus operandi, police said. Those incidents were not identified by police. Detectives are probing the parents of a baby girl who died after they took her boating on an Arizona lake during a 120F heatwave. Three-month-old Tanna Wroblewski passed away from suspected heat-related complications over the July 4th weekend. She was with her family enjoying a trip out on Lake Havasu, around three hours outside of Phoenix, when tragedy struck. The region has been baking in scorching temperatures and an extreme heat warning had been issued that day. Mystery still surrounds the exact circumstances of Tanna's death, with mom Alyssa Wroblewski telling DailyMail.com they are still struggling to make sense of what happened. Detectives are probing the parents of a baby girl who died after they took her boating on an Arizona lake during 120F heat Now police have revealed they are investigating whether the baby's death was the result of a crime. It has not been confirmed if the baby's parents will face any charges. The couple were out on the water with Tanna and her sister on July 5th when she became unresponsive. The family quickly started CPR on the infant before the Lake Havasu City Fire Department took over. Tanna was taken to Havasu Regional Medical Center before she was airlifted to Phoenix Children's Hospital where she later died, just days before she turned four-months-old. Although her cause of death has not yet been released, officials believe it was brought on by a heat-related illness. Prior to the tragic loss, Tanna joined her family on many boat trips, going out on the water for the first time at just seven weeks' old. Three-month-old Tanna Wroblewski passed away from suspected heat-related complications over the July 4th weekend She was with her family enjoying a trip out on Lake Havasu, around three hours outside of Phoenix, when tragedy struck The little girl's family told DailyMail.com they have no idea what caused Tanna's death and it was just a 'regular, happy day as a family.' 'I will never understand why you had to leave us, you were just too perfect. I love you endlessly and I will look for you everywhere angel,' Tanna's mother wrote in a tribute. A GoFundMe set up to assist the family also paid tribute to the 'real life angel'. 'We are beyond devastated, heartbroken, there are just no words,' ,' the fundraiser states. 'Our precious baby girl gave us her last smiles and we gave her our last kisses.' A sweltering heat wave has taken over the US, causing at least 28 people to perish from heat related conditions in the last week, the Washington Post reports. On Wednesday, the tenth child this year died of heat exhaustion after being left in a hot car in Omaha, Nebraska. The family quickly started CPR on the infant before the Lake Havasu City Fire Department took over The little girl's family told DailyMail.com they have no idea what caused Tanna's death and it was just a 'regular, happy day as a family.' The five-year-old was found unresponsive in the parking lot of a shopping plaza and could not be revived despite attempts at CPR. Research shows that children's bodies overheat up to five times faster than adults. Some have questioned why Tanna was out during the extreme heat. However, many have expressed sympathy for the grieving family. 'All of your love, thoughts, and prayers are truly appreciated as they are going through the most difficult, unimaginable time in their lives,' the GoFundMe states. DailyMail.com has contacted the police for an update on the investigation. Devastated community members have rallied in a heartfelt show of strength for the family of three young children who were allegedly murdered by their father in a horror house fire. In a solemn vigil held in the same street where two boys, aged six and two, and a five-month-old baby girl tragically lost their lives, more than 200 people stood together to pay their respects in Chifley Park in Lalor Park in Sydney's west on Thursday night. Politicians, emergency service workers and mental health support staff from NSW Health attended the gathering. The children's grieving mother who was also injured in the blaze returned the street for the second time in two days to attend the service flanked by loved ones. Four surviving children remain in hospital in stable conditions. Parents holding young children stood quietly in the tree-lined park, reflecting on the shocking tragedy. Couples held each as the community tried to come to grips with the horrific events of Sunday. The Australian flag in the park was at half mast, and some emotional members of the vigil embraced each other. Police officers stood with community members in a show of solidarity. Devastated community members have rallied on Thursday at a community vigil in Chifley Park in Lalor Park in Sydney's west for the three young children who died in a house fire on Sunday Deputy Premier Prue Car arrives to join community members at a community vigil in Chifley Park in Lalor Park in Sydney's west Community members gathered on Thursday in a heartfelt show of strength at a vigil in Chifley Park in Lalor Park in Sydney's west NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car addressed the vigil, confirming the state is united in support. 'Saying that we express our condolences and our love to the family doesn't seem nearly enough,' she said. 'Saying that every child deserves to feel the love of a safe family, a safe home, doesn't feel like enough either. 'This whole country, the community of New South Wales, we wrap our arms around you, and those who assisted. 'We offer our love and our support through the most trying times.' Blacktown mayor Brad Bunting also addressed sombre attendees. 'We gather here this evening to be able to come together to be able to heal,' he said 'We do that best as a community, we do that best together. 'We can only get through this darkness together as a one. It's important you know that there's always somebody to listen to us. 'There's light at the end of the darkness.' Blacktown East Presbyterian minister Keith Boulden spoke of the pain the community is enduring and the ongoing support it would need. 'Family is central to the functioning of a healthy society,' he said. 'Members of the family attend a local school... that part of our community will be feeling that heartache and pain.' Local police officers attend a community vigil on Thursday for the three young children that died in a house fire in Lalor Park on Sunday Members of the Lalor Park community gather at Chifley Park on Thursday for a vigil for the three young children killed in a house fire on Sunday A couple support each at the vigil on Thursday night at Chifley Park in Lalor Park in memory of three young children allegedly murdered in a house fire 'The incident of this nature had a very particular and a profound impact on our staff involved, Mr Bolden said. 'Events like this impact us on a personal, as well as a professional, level and it is a chance to gather with the community and share that experience with them.' Thursday's vigil comes comes as a 28-year-old man has been charged with murder and attempted murder after he allegedly used an accelerant to light the fire inside the home before blocking his family from fleeing. Detective Superintendent Daniel Doherty on Thursday described the alleged incident as 'one of the worst cases of filicide' in NSW in recent memory. 'We will allege that the doors had been locked, and as a result, prevented those inside, the occupants, to escape the fire,' Superintendent Doherty said. Mr Doherty said police will allege the man used an accelerant to light multiple fires inside the home in the early hours of Sunday morning. Two boys, aged 2 and 6 died despite being rushed to Westmead Hospital and a five-month-old girl was declared dead at the scene. Their mother, 28, and four other children aged, 4,7, 9 and 11 were able to escape the blaze after a heroic neighbour 'courageously' forced his way into the home. Mr Doherty said the neighbour was able to save the two boys before going back in. The Lalor Park community came together on Thursday for a vigil to pay their respects at a vigil in Chifley Park in Sydney's west The Lalor Park community came together on Thursday for a vigil to pay respects to the family of three children that died in a house fire on Sunday The community gathered at a vigil in Chifley Park in Lalor Park on Thursday 'He then went back in and saved the nine-year-old girl, at the same time as the mother, and attempted to try to save the 11-year-old ... We will allege that was prevented by the 28-year-old man,' he said. Police allege the neighbour called triple-0 and responding police forced their way into the burning house before wrestling with the man. 'They also had to force entry, had to wrestle with this man and wrestle the boy from his grasp as he was holding on to him, allegedly, and the boy was then rescued,' Superintendent Doherty said. 'The man was then, after some resistance, arrested as well.' It will be alleged that the man attempted to kill his family following a domestic argument or dispute. Following a brief mention in the Parramatta Local Court on Thursday morning, police have taken out an AVO on behalf of the woman and the surviving children. The man remains under police guard at Westmead Hospital. The former Tory veterans minister could be jailed over his refusal to name whistleblowers who told him about alleged murders by UK special forces in Afghanistan. Johnny Mercer has been given two weeks to reveal who told him about killings and a subsequent cover-up by the SAS to an official investigation. The chairman of the Afghanistan Inquiry, Sir Charles Haddon-Cave, refused an attempt by the former MP for Plymouth Moor View - who lost his seat last week - to keep the names a secret. In his ruling against the former British Army officer today, Sir Charles quoted from the army's values and standards by saying: 'Integrity requires moral courage to do what is right, even when it may not be popular.' He ordered the former Conservative MP to hand over the names by July 25. Johnny Mercer has been given two weeks to reveal who told him about killings and a subsequent cover-up by the SAS to an official investigation In a tense exchange during his evidence at the Royal Courts of Justice in March, Mr Mercer repeatedly refused to hand over the name of an officer and 'multiple' others who he said had told him there had been unlawful shootings In a tense exchange during his evidence at the Royal Courts of Justice in March, Mr Mercer repeatedly refused to hand over the name of an officer and 'multiple' others who he said had told him there had been unlawful shootings. He added: 'The one thing you can hold on to is your integrity and I will be doing that with these individuals.' The inquiry later served him with a Section 21 notice on March 13, compelling him to hand over the names, which the courts have insisted will be 'treated in confidence'. In the order, the chairman said the consequences of failing to comply without reasonable excuse would be 'a criminal offence punishable with imprisonment and/or a fine.' Sir Charles also said the High Court could enforce the order through contempt of court proceedings, which 'may result in imprisonment'. Mr Mercer then submitted an application to the probe on April 3, in which he argued he was either unable to comply with the order, or it was not reasonable for him to comply with it. He later accused the Inquiry of 'ignoring pretty serious evidence' in order to 'fixate' on pressuring him to hand over the names. And Mr Mercer, who served in Afghanistan, was defended by former service leaders. Lord Dannatt, former Chief of the General Staff, told the Telegraph at the time: 'It is outrageous that the government minister who has done more than anyone else for veterans should be threatened with jail. 'He gave his word to the whistleblowers that their identity would be protected. The information that they gave Mr Mercer has already been passed by him to the inquiry.' In his ruling on Thursday, Sir Charles said: 'The Applicant submits that he is a protector of whistleblowers. 'He chose publicly, however, to disclose that friends told him about allegations of unlawful killings by (special forces) in Afghanistan. 'He has since refused to disclose the names to assist the inquiry, even though: the inquiry was set up for the very purpose of looking into these allegations; he says that that his friends were merely witnesses; he could pass on their names to the inquiry privately and in strict confidence; he accepts that the inquiry protects the identities of confidential contacts; and they have protection from risk of prosecution for breach of the Official Secrets Act or failure to report misconduct.' An inquiry spokeswoman said: 'Mr Mercer is refusing to disclose information which may be important to a public inquiry which is seeking to establish the truth about grave allegations of multiple murder involving UK Special Forces. 'Mr Mercer accepts the inquiry has secure measures in place to protect the names and identities of his sources and that witnesses coming forward to the inquiry have protection from risk of prosecution for breaches of the Official Secrets Act or for failure to report misconduct. 'The chair has given Mr Mercer a further two weeks to comply with the section 21 Notice. The inquiry is examining whether a special forces unit, known to the probe as UKSF1, had a policy of executing males of 'fighting age' who posed no threat in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2013. Afghan families have accused UK special forces of conducting a 'campaign of murder' against civilians, while senior officers and personnel at the Ministry of Defence 'sought to prevent adequate investigation'. Two Royal Military Police investigations, codenamed Operation Northmoor and Operation Cestro, are set to be scrutinised by the inquiry. No charges were brought under Operation Northmoor - a 10 million investigation which was set up in 2014 to examine allegations of executions by special forces, including those of children. Operation Cestro saw three soldiers referred to the Service Prosecuting Authority, but none of them were prosecuted. The inquiry continues. A heartbroken BBC News presenter has revealed how he spent a harrowing 45 minutes trying to revive his dying neighbour with CPR. Rich Preston, 39, described the ordeal in a post on social media - as he issued a desperate plea for more people to learn the vital life-saving skill. The broadcaster - who is a foreign news journalist and presenter on BBC World TV - was alerted to his neighbour's plight through the NHS Good Samaritan app, which finds volunteers to help those in need. Mr Preston joined paramedics from London Ambulance Service to try and save the person, but despite their valiant efforts, his neighbour tragically 'did not make it' and died. Recounting the drama, Rich wrote on X: 'I spent 45 minutes doing CPR on a neighbour this morning. Sadly, they didn't make it. BBC News presenter Rich Preston has urged people to learn CPR after detailing his harrowing account of trying to save his neighbour's life after they collapsed He posted about the ordeal in a thread on X, formerly Twitter 'And this tweet isn't about me or the neighbour - it's my regular encouragement to please, if it's not something you've done before, considering learning CPR. 'if you have the ability, find a course near you. Loads of organisations run them, from @Ldn_Ambulance to @stjohnambulance to @TheBHF and a whole host of other groups. It is so simple and doesn't take long to learn the basics. You might need it one day.' He said he was first taught the life-saving skill when he was in primary school, aged 10, but received more in-depth training during his previous job as a police officer - using it on several occasions. Rich, or north-west London, said he leapt into action after hearing the 'loud chime' alert through the Good Samaritan app about his neighbour. 'It told me there was a medical emergency nearby asked if I accepted or rejected the request. I hit accept. It was five minutes away,' he told MailOnline. 'I arrived just as a response paramedic did and the two of us were able to work together to do our best for the person.' When he arrived, one paramedic was already on the scene, before they were joined by two more medics. They took it in turns to do CPR to try and save the person - who has not been identified. Writing on X, he added: 'You can never be certain of the outcome, but that's the nature of life sometimes. We tried out best. But the fact remains that starting chest compressions and getting a defibrillator on someone as quickly as possible can make a huge difference. 'Of course, the saddest part of events like this morning is always those who are left behind. It's deeply upsetting for family members to arrive and see their loved one being worked on by ambulance crews and a total stranger. I'm thinking of them today.' Rich, a former police officer, has used his first-aid skills on several occasions and has urged more people to learn the life-saving skill Rich received an outpouring of sympathy online after posting about his life-saving attempt. One person said: 'I'm sorry to hear about the outcome for your neighbour but I hope you know that in doing CPR you gave them the best chance possible. Thank you for using your platform to share this awareness. Please allow yourself some time and gentleness after being involved in this.' Another added: 'I hope you are ok. I've done CPR in a hospital setting but also seen a loved one receive CPR in their home, and no amount of training can prepare you for the emotional impact and shock factor.' Millions of Brits don't know how to perform CPR, a skill health charities have said can be the 'difference between life and death'. Just 43 per cent of people know how to give chest compressions to someone who has suffered a cardiac arrest, according to a poll by the British Heart Foundation. More than 30,000 cardiac arrests - when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood around the body - occur outside of hospitals every year. Dr Charmaine Griffiths, chief executive of the BHF, said: 'Every moment matters when someone has a cardiac arrest. 'Being able to step in and perform CPR could be the difference between life and death. A cardiac arrest can affect anyone, at any time, so we want as many people to learn CPR as possible.' A spokesperson for St John Ambulance added: 'A cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time and the sooner a person receives chest compressions (CPR) and defibrillation, the higher the chances are of survival. In fact, every minute a person spends without CPR and defibrillation, their chances drop by around 10 per cent. 'It may not always be successful, but families will often take great comfort in knowing someone gave their loved one the best chance of survival. 'At St John Ambulance, we urge everyone to spend what is a relatively small amount of time learning these vital first aid skills, whether online or face-to-face. Visit sja.org.uk/get-advice for more information.' It was a Sunday evening when neighbours on a usually-quiet residential street in a Sydney suburb were awoken with the sounds of exploding glass only to find huge orange flames pouring out of a nearby bungalow. Minutes later young children were seen clambering out of the inferno, reportedly telling terrified onlookers 'dad tried to kill us' before it dawned on those watching the living nightmare unfold that there were still youngsters inside. Good samaritans barged their way into the building in a bid to rescue the remaining children but despite their best efforts, three of the children did not survive. An Australian father-of-seven is now facing a triple murder charge after he allegedly barricaded the doors and set fire to his house in Lalor Park in Sydney, New South Wales, with his terrified young family locked inside. Emergency services who scrambled to the scene tragically found the body of a five-month-old baby girl inside the inferno while two boys - age two and six - who were rescued by their hero neighbours died shortly after being taken to hospital. The other four children, aged between four and 11 miraculously managed to escape the burning building with the help of a neighbour who 'very courageously' forced his way into the blaze to rescue two of the kids and their mother. One of the children allegedly had to be 'wrestled' from the arms of their father - who cannot be identified for legal reasons - as he refused to let go of his grasp during the incident that took place around 1am local time on Sunday. The youngsters who survived the devastating fire were rushed to hospital alongside their 28-year-old mother and now in a stable condition. Australia is reeling after a father-of-seven allegedly barricaded the door of his family's home and set it on fire - leaving three of the tiny children dead The fire broke out at around 1am on Sunday night in Lalor Park in Sydney , New South Wales Police allege the father locked the doors of his children's bedrooms after starting fires in the rooms and wrestled with rescuers trying to remove his family from the home (pictured) Their father, 29, remains in Westmead hospital and has now regained consciousness after being placed in a induced coma. The tragedy has sent shockwaves across Australia, severely affecting all of those who witnessed the scenes of horror unfold. The home is now a shell of its former self, with windows bare without their glass and black ash surrounding the frames of the house. One neighbour, who asked not to reveal her real name over safety fears, was still shaking days later as she recalled the horrendous ordeal. The woman told the BBC that she 'blames herself' from the deaths of the children living across the street from her after not noticing the inferno sooner. 'We feel ashamed,' she said. 'We didn't know there was a baby inside.' She tried her best to comfort the children and keep them warm during the cold night as one of the little boys told her bluntly 'he tried to kill me'. The younger child, just four-years-old, innocently 'kept asking whether his toys would be safe inside'. A rescuer later recalled a similar comment from one of the young survivors who said 'dad tried to kill us'. A 28-year-old man has been refused bail after allegedly setting his house on fire with accelerant which killed his three children on Sunday Flowers, candles and toys are laid out in tribute to the children who lost their lives in the blaze Forensics at the scene of the burnt out home The father did not appear on screen at Parramatta Local Court today where he faced a slew of charges. The man, who was ordered not to contact any of the survivors, was charged with three counts of murder, five counts of attempted murder and destroying/damaging property with intent to endanger life. He will remain in hospital under police guard for the time being and has been refused bail. Police also took out an AVO on behalf of the woman and the children who are alive. This will prevent the accused of contacting his alleged victims, going within 500m of where they live or work or approaching any school or childcare centre they attend. 'Police will allege this man is solely responsible for setting fires inside the premises,' New South Wales detective superintendent Daniel Doherty told a news conference after the court hearing. Supt Doherty speculated that a domestic dispute may have led to the 'horrendous murderous act' . Police will allege that the father is 'solely responsible for setting fire' inside the home and used accelerant throughout the home, creating an 'explosive situation'. Flowers outside the property this week left in tribute for the three children Fire officers search through the rubble of the burnt home A 28-year-old man has been charged with three counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder after a horrific Western Sydney house fire (pictured: a forensic team at the site) He added that most of the children had been the accused man's biological children, 'they are his family, they are his kids,' the detective said. 'It's not something that I will forget about very quickly,' he added. Today, the heartbroken mother returned to the tatters of her home after being released from hospital. She is now helping recount the terrifying ordeal to police officers and investigators. Those within their shocked neighbourhood have been clubbing together to try and provide as much support for the family as possible, both financially and in terms of somewhere to stay. Detective Doherty praised the local community for their help in saving the children and continued support for the family. 'Out of these tragic circumstances we see that good people rise to the surface and they're getting as much assistance as I can,' he said. As the father allegedly tried to hinder the work of the emergency services, a Good Samaritan neighbour went into the fire to save the children. 'They (allegedly) had to wrestle with this man and wrestle the (11-year-old) boy from his grasp because he was holding on to him,' Detective Doherty said. Local police offices attend a community vigil for the three young children that died in a house fire in Lalor Park, Sydney Lalor Park community holding a vigil service of support, love and community care, organised by the Common Groundz cafe 'The boy was rescued and then man was after some resistance and was arrested as well.' Neighbours had told Daily Mail Australia that all three front rooms of the home were engulfed in flames before a powerline sparked and snapped away from the house. Forensic teams poured over the charred property for evidence as daylight broke on Sunday, with the tiny baby's body being removed. Bouquets of flowers and candles have now been left outside the property in tribute to the children who lost their lives. One message someone left alongside a bouquet of flowers read: 'May you rest in peace sweet innocent children.' The mother and four remaining children are expected to make a full recovery after spending time in hospital. NSW Police Acting Superintendent Jason Pietruszka said: 'It's devastating, there's no other word for it. It's devastating for the community, the other kids who go to school with the children.' He added that the heroic actions of neighbours trying to get into the house led to more lives being saved than lost. Police have been interviewing a number of witnesses who have come forward after the incident as investigations into the blaze remain ongoing. Anyone with information has been urged to get in touch with the force. The father was refused bail and will appear before Penrith local court on September 6. The redhead who led LA cops on a wild 110mph car chase that ended with a plunge into the Pacific is seen for the first time since the incident in exclusive DailyMail.com pictures. Jessica Reynolds, 39, has been locked up at the Century Regional Detention Facility since her case was referred to a mental health court two weeks ago and criminal proceedings suspended. Lawyers for the mom-of-two had successfully argued that she was suffering from a psychotic episode during the bizarre early morning incident on March 16. The end of the chase, which was filmed by horrified beach goers, saw Reynolds race her silver BMW across the sand at Venice Beach before splashing into the waves leaving her two Boston terrier dogs, Rebel and Jewel, in the sinking vehicle. Jessica Reynolds, 39, has been locked up at the Century Regional Detention Facility since her case was referred to a mental health court two weeks ago and criminal proceedings suspended After opening the driver's door Reynolds frantically tried to swim away from cops Instead of stopping, cops say Reynolds took off and eventually drove straight into the ocean at Venice Beach Reynolds then swam out to sea and was picked up by an LA County Sheriffs boat, arrested and taken to hospital on a 5150 psychiatric hold. The 39-year-old was subsequently charged with one felony count of evading police while disregarding safety and two of animal cruelty. She could face up to three years in prison if convicted. But during a hearing at the Hollywood Mental Health Court on Wednesday, Reynolds was found to be mentally fit to stand trial, with Judge Robert Harrison sending her case back to the criminal system. The 39-year-old was subsequently charged with one felony count of evading police while disregarding safety and two of animal cruelty. She could face up to three years in prison if convicted. Reynolds, who looked disheveled in a pair of LA County Jail issue blue sweatpants and a bright yellow top, did not speak during the brief appearance and looked down at her feet as she was led into court. She faces a fresh hearing on Thursday in El Monte, a suburb 15 miles east of LA, where Judge Robert Villeza will decide how to proceed with the case. Her lawyer Saiid Arjomand declined to comment when approached by DailyMail.com outside court. Reynolds had previously pleaded not guilty to the charges with her former lawyer Alan Gonzalez telling court that the incident was a cry for help. He explained: She was having a psychotic episode. She did drive her car into the ocean. You can interpret this as a cry for help. No-one was injured.and the dogs were rescued. Gonzalez said that before the incident, Reynolds had been in a toxic relationship involving drugs and she had gone through a divorce in which she had lost custody of her son. Reynolds, who looked disheveled in a pair of LA County Jail issue blue sweatpants and a bright yellow top, did not speak during the brief appearance and looked down at her feet as she was led into court Reynolds had previously pleaded not guilty to the charges with her former lawyer Alan Gonzalez telling court that the incident was a cry for help Reynolds, who had just arrived in California at the time of the crash, subsequently moved to Oregon where she was living at a Christian residential rehab and working a $22-an-hour job in an Oregon warehouse before being taken into custody on a $50,000 bond during her last court appearance. The wacky series of events that led to Reynoldss arrest started late at night on March 15 in El Monte where police tried to pull her over for speeding. Instead of stopping, cops say Reynolds who has multiple recent convictions for speeding and fleeing police in her native New Mexico took off. Heading west she eventually hit Washington Boulevard in Venice, which dead ends near the Venice pier, and drove straight into the ocean just a couple of minutes after midnight. The 39-year-old was charged with one felony count of evading police while disregarding safety and two of animal cruelty After opening the driver's door Reynolds frantically tried to swim away from cops till the rescue boat tossed her a flotation donut which she was able to grab to get aboard safely. The rescuers managed to save the two-year-old Boston Terriers before the SUV was dragged away by the current, according to a police report. The next morning, beachgoers unaware of the incident arrived to find a car being towed from the water up onto the land. The front window was shattered and mounds of sand could be seen in the front and back seat. Skid marks in the sand could also be seen. When DailyMail.com spoke to Reynoldss ex-husband, Michael Hufstedler, 44, he revealed that just last July, the two had finalized a messy, long-drawn-out divorce in which he was awarded sole custody of their 12-year-old son. 'We were totally in love. I thought I'd found the woman of my life,' said Hufstedler, who used to run a real estate appraisal firm with Reynolds in Alto, New Mexico. 'She cheated on me with one of the people that worked for me. Then she threatened to commit suicide. I live in a different state now, I've retreated totally.' Hufstedler added that the two dogs involved in the incident are his though there was no mention of who should keep the animals after the divorce. She was seen paddling in the water, while deputies aboard a Los Angeles Sheriff's Department vessel attempted to rescue her by tossing a flotation donut into the ocean One of the dogs managed to get out of the vehicle and swim to shore while the second was rescued by law enforcement Her ex Michael Hufstedler claimed the two dogs involved in the chase belonged to him. The two-year-old Boston Terriers, Rebel and Jewel, were taken into custody by Animal Control after being rescued at the scene and are currently being held at a shelter in West Los Angeles As for Reynoldss prior run-ins with the law in New Mexico, in October 2019 she pleaded no contest to a criminal speeding charge of more than 30mph over the limit. The case was deferred and dismissed, according to court records. She pleaded no contest to a September 2020 charge of resisting an officer, which was again deferred and dismissed though the court later issued a warrant for her arrest after she failed to pay her fine and fees. Reynolds pleaded guilty to speeding 16-20 mph over the limit, with no proof of insurance in November last year. Again, the charges were deferred and dismissed. Another warrant was issued in December last year after she failed to show up for a court hearing, but by January she had met all her legal obligations, according to the docket. Reynolds was also charged last November with careless driving and 'leaving the scene of an accident involving damage to a vehicle'. But according to court records, she has not yet entered a plea in that case. Three people found dead in hotel in Philippines EXCLUSIVE An Australian husband and wife who were allegedly murdered at a luxury hotel in the Philippines alongside a relative have been identified - as grisly new details have emerged about their deaths. The Australian husband, his Filipino-born wife and their daughter-in-law were found dead inside their hotel room at The Lake Hotel, at Tagaytay in Cavite province, southwest of the Philippines capital of Manila, on Wednesday. Local police have identified the victims as Australian national David James Fisk, 57, his wife Lucita Barquin Cortez, 55, a Philippines-born Australian citizen, who lived in Penshurst, Sydney, and Mary Jane Cortez, 30, from Oriental Mindoro. It has been reported the younger woman is Ms Cortez's daughter-in-law. Detectives have launched a manhunt for a male suspect wearing a mask, a black hoodie, maroon shorts and sneakers while carrying a rucksack who was captured on CCTV leaving the victims' room. The victims' lifeless bodies were discovered when a male hotel staff member visited their room to remind them of their check-out time. He found them face down, with their hands and feet bound by electrical cord and shoeless, while their mouths were sealed shut with packaging tape, reported Rappler. Police have identified the victims as Australian national David James Fisk, 57, his Philippine-born Australian wife Lucita Barquin Cortez, 55, (pictured together above) and Mary Jane Cortez, 30, (below), who is reportedly Ms Cortez's daughter-in-law The victims' cause of death is currently unknown. A hotel security guard reportedly saw the suspect at about 6am on the morning the three victims were found. When questioned, the suspect apparently claimed he was checked in at the victims' room. Police have spent the last two days at the hotel interviewing witnesses and examining security cameras. Detectives have launched a manhunt for a male suspect wearing a black hoodie, maroon shorts and sneakers who was captured on CCTV Hotel security reportedly saw the suspect about 6am on the morning the three victims were found. When questioned, he apparently claimed he was checked in at the victims' room Local police chief Charles Daven Capagcuan said that a motive for the killings was not known and that valuables such as the victims phones, were not taken. The local mayor, Abraham Tolentino, was horrified to learn of the alleged murders. 'We were shocked that there was an incident like this in Tagaytay... it's been a long time since there was an incident like this,' he told ABS News. 'We're very sorry to our Australian friends.' 'There really is nothing like this.' The victims had been staying at the luxurious The Lake Hotel (pictured) at Tagaytay in Cavite province, south-west of the Philippines capital of Manila Mr Fisk is pictured with his wife Ms Cortez Ms Cortez and her daughter-in-law Mary Jane, the third victim All three victims were remembered as 'beautiful souls' in a heartbreaking social media tribute posted on Thursday. It's believed the Australian couple were due to fly back home to Australia on the day they were killed, but chose to extend their trip at the last minute. A Filipino relative of Ms Cortez told the Associated Press the couple flew from Sydney to Bali, before visiting the Philippines so she could see two children from a previous marriage. Mr Fisk is believed to have two daughters of his own, one of whom is reportedly weeks away from getting married. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was aware of the deaths and was providing consular assistance to those affected but would not provide details of their identities due to privacy reasons. 'We send our condolences to the families at this difficult time,' a spokesperson added. The Lake Hotel Tagaytay 'boasts a majestic panorama of the world-famous Taal Lake and volcano' and is a 90 minute drive from Manila. This is the moment a tire on a Boeing 737 plane exploded as its pilots prepared to take off from Tampa International Airport. American Airlines flight 590 was taxiing on the runway Wednesday morning when the plane suffered a mechanical issue, resulting in the aircraft's right blowing out and catching on fire. Video of the attempted takeoff shows how a layer of grey smoke filled the air after the tire sparked, leaving rubber fragments spewed across the runway. There were 174 passengers and six crew members on board the Phoenix-bound flight, an American Airlines spokesperson said. No one was injured in the incident. The terrifying mishap comes just two days after another Boeing aircraft was bouncing down a runway in Los Angeles after its wheel fell off. American Airlines flight 590 was taxiing on the runway at Tampa International Airport Wednesday morning when the plane suffered a mechanical issue, resulting in the aircraft's right blowing out and catching on fire Video of the Boeing 737 plane's attempted takeoff shows how a layer of grey smoke filled the air after the tire sparked, leaving rubber fragments spewed across the runway An emergency response team was dispatched to the airfield at Taxiway W just before 8am Wednesday after the Boeing 737 plane's tire exploded, a Tampa airport spokesperson told DailyMail.com. 'Emergency, emergency, emergency. They're on fire,' YouTube user Captain Steven Markovich, who shared video of the incident, was heard yelling as the tire sparked. Other voices heard over the radio could be heard saying 'abort,' and 'we've got a blown tire'. Passengers and crew 'safely deplaned' from the aircraft and were bused to Airside F. They were then rebooked on a replacement flight to Phoenix. An American Airlines spokesperson said the aircraft 'experienced a mechanical issue on the runway' which 'involved some of the aircraft's tires'. It is unclear if the issue has since been resolved. An emergency response team was dispatched to the airfield after the explosion. There were 174 passengers and six crew members on board the Phoenix-bound flight. No one was injured in the incident 'Customers safely deplaned and were bussed to the terminal,' the spokesperson said. 'We never want to disrupt our customers' travel plans and apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.' No other flight operations at the airport were impacted by the incident. The tire mishap is just the latest in a series of alarming issues plaguing the troubled Boeing aircraft. Earlier this week, the wheel of a Boeing 757 was seen bouncing down a runway after coming loose during takeoff. The United Airlines flight was departing Los Angeles on Monday when disaster struck, sending one of its main landing gear wheels rolling across the tarmac. Miraculously, the plane - carrying 174 passengers and seven crew members - managed to land safely in Denver despite the malfunction. United Airlines confirmed that the wheel had been recovered in Los Angeles, and said 'we are investigating what caused this event'. Heart-stopping footage has shown the wheel of a Boeing 757 bouncing down a runway in Los Angeles on Monday after coming loose during takeoff It is similar to one that occurred in March when a United Boeing B777-200 jet lost a tire this time after takeoff from San Francisco. The runaway wheel then crash-landed onto a car in an airport employee parking lot on March 7. In April, Southwest Boeing 737-800 lost engine cover during takeoff. And in January, an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max suffered from a blown-out door plug mid-flight. It comes just days after the company announced it plans to plead guilty to fraud in connection with approval of its 737 Max before two of the planes crashed, killing 346 people off the coast of Indonesia and in Ethiopia. The American aerospace giant has apparently made the calculation that admitting to a crime is better than fighting the charge and enduring a long public trial. In a legal filing late Sunday - minutes before a midnight deadline - the Justice Department disclosed the agreement and said the fraud charge was 'the most serious readily provable offense' it could bring against Boeing. Prosecutors say Boeing will pay another $243.6million fine, matching a fine it paid in 2021 for the same crime. The Justice Department says a conviction for fraud will hold Boeing accountable for 'misstatements' it made to regulators who certified the 737 Max in 2017. The crashes took place less than five months apart in 2018 and 2019. The incident is strikingly similar to one that occurred in March when a United Boeing 777-200 jet lost a tire, this time after takeoff from San Francisco (pictured above) The company still faces investigations into the blowout of a panel from an Alaska Airlines Max plane in January, increased oversight by the Federal Aviation Administration, and accusations from current and former employees about poor workmanship and retaliation against whistleblowers. Boeing's plea deal would bring the total to $487.2million, which the Justice Department says is the legal maximum for the fraud charge. The deal also requires the company to invest at least $455million to improve safety. It will be on court-supervised probation for three years, and the Justice Department will name an independent monitor to oversee Boeing's compliance with terms of the plea agreement. Boeing's board of directors will also be required to meet with families of the victims. A grieving husband has received a 1million payout from the NHS after his wife died when medics dismissed her fatal heart condition as anxiety. Mother-of-three Rose Fuentebaja had been in hospital for a week when she suffered a cardiac arrest and tragically died in June 2017. Blundering doctors at Warwick Hospital had believed her issue was neurological despite her repeatedly fainting and tests showing disturbances in her heart rate. Medical negligence lawyers have now secured a huge damages settlement for Mrs Fuentebaja's husband Darrel. But the grieving father, who is now raising his three children alone, said his wife was failed by the NHS. Mother-of-three Rose Fuentebaja was dismissed by ambulance crews and doctors who believed her fatal heart condition was just anxiety Mrs Fuentebaja was a nurse herself in a private hospital before she died from a cardiac arrest following several fainting spells Mrs Fuentebaja, a nurse for 16 years who worked in a private hospital, first fell ill at home but ambulance crews that were called to the house reassured her she was fine and did not take her to A&E. The following day, she began to suffer from pins and needles in her hands and feet and fainted again. This time an ambulance did take her to hospital, but unable to determine the cause, she was assessed and sent home. On May 23, 2017, just a few days later, Mrs Fuentebaja fainted again and was taken to hospital by ambulance where she underwent numerous ECG tests. Disturbances in her heartbeat were identified - but she was not placed on continual heart monitoring. Instead, she was transferred to a neurological department at Coventry Hospital, where she was found unresponsive by a nurse who was doing her rounds, with attempts to resuscitate her proving unsuccessful. The mother-of-three died of a cardiac arrest on June 4, 2017. West Midlands Ambulance Service and South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust have both admitted failings in their care after nurses failed to identify the life threatening condition Mrs Fuentebaja's husband Darrel has said that his wife was failed by the NHS and despite winning 1million does not plan to spend the money right now Darrel, who has been left to raise their three children, aged 14, nine and six, alone said: 'It was a really traumatic time when my wife died. 'As a nurse herself she was really committed to helping others and she helped to save many lives. 'Unfortunately, when the time came when she needed that help, she was failed and it cost her life. 'I went into a deep depression for about a year, and I had a lot of worry at that time. 'I worried about what would happen to my children if something was to happen to me. 'I was left feeling very angry and bitter about that, and the mistakes that were made, and that is why I pursued legal action for her. I wanted justice for her. 'The compensation is helpful, but for now I can't even think about spending it. It's money that has come from losing my wife. 'I intend to save it and make sure my children can benefit from it in future years. 'They lost their mother and so hopefully it can help them in their lives.' West Midlands Ambulance Service and South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust have both admitted failings in their care after nurses failed to identify the mother-of-three's life threatening condition. They also admitted that Mrs Fuentebaja should have been advised to go to hospital that day. South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust admitted that failing to refer Mrs Fuentebaja to cardiology, and failing to place her on constant heart monitoring, was also a breach of duty. It admitted that had this happened, she was have been correctly diagnosed, and treated with beta blocker medication. And even if she had still suffered the cardiac arrest she would have received swift defibrillation and resuscitation, and she would have survived. Specialist medical negligence solicitor Elizabeth Maliakal, of Hudgell Solicitors, who represented the family said: 'Mrs Fuentebaja's death was wholly avoidable. 'Had she been given appropriate treatment and care she would still be with her family today, but she was let down by two separate health providers. 'The missed opportunities to provide timely treatment led to the loss of a much-loved mother, wife and daughter who was the main provider for her family. 'I have been incredibly proud to have been entrusted by Mr Fuentebaja to represent him and his children during the most difficult of times. 'Sadly nothing, nothing can be done to fill the huge void left in peoples' lives when loved ones are lost due to medical errors. 'However, we were able to offer our support, and a thorough investigation enabled us to secure an initial interim payment to help ease the financial strain placed on the family, a full apology from South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust and a final settlement which provides much needed financial stability for Mr Fuentebaja, and his children, for the future.' A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: 'We would again like to apologise to the family of Rose Fuentebaja and offer our condolences. 'The trust undertook an investigation into the incident, which we have learned from. As a result we have implemented a number of changes based on the findings. 'We will continue to do all we can to try and stop something like this ever happening again.' A spokesperson for South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust said: 'We express our heartfelt condolences to Rosalie's family and friends. 'At the time of her death in 2017 we thoroughly investigated any missed opportunities and following that implemented learning across the organisation.' Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao and California Governor Gavin Newsom bragged that a huge drop in crime meant the city was 'turning the corner'. Total crime across Oakland for the first four months of the year appeared to show a 33 per cent decline when compared to 2023's early-year crime wave. But on closer inspection, the statistics they cited amounted to comparing apples to hand grenades in the notoriously crime-plagued city. Data published in weekly Oakland Police Department updates isn't manipulated, but its presentation is misleading despite a fine-print disclaimer. Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao bragged that a huge drop in crime meant the city was 'turning the corner' A massive crowd robs Oakland gas station after a car crashed into the glass to break in The April 22 to 28 report cited by Thao and Newsome recorded 10,805 total crimes in 2024 to date, way down from 16,008 in the same period of 2023. Similarly, burglaries halved from 6,026 to 3,013, as did larceny from 3,300 to 1,636, and vehicle theft fell 12 per cent from 4,560 to 4,027. However, the report compared the fully compiled year-end 2023 statistics with the ongoing count for 2024. Comparing the same report from April 17 to 23, 2023, shows drastic differences in the number of crime records compared to the 2024 version. The older report had just 3,849 burglaries, 2,282 larceny incidents, 3,874 vehicle thefts, and 11,915 total crimes - all much smaller declines. Total crime across Oakland for the first four months of the year appeared to show a 33 per cent decline when compared to 2023's early-year crime wave But comparing the same report from April 17 to 23, 2023, shows drastic differences in the number of crime records compared to the 2024 version The discrepancy is explained by the time lag in processing and compiling crime reports compared to when they actually occurred. 'Statistics can be affected by late reporting, the geocoding process, or the reclassification or unfounding of crimes,' a disclaimer in all reports states. 'Because crime reporting and data entry can run behind, all crimes may not be recorded.' This is particularly stark for nonviolent crimes like burglaries and vehicle theft, which often rely on reports filed online, and are investigated later as they are a lower priority. 'There can be a delay in the overall number of reported property crimes based on our community's use of the online reporting system,' police said. 'Each of these online crime reports must be reviewed and verified by a member of our staff before being included in crime statistics.' Thao's tweet on May 1 bragging about the reported 33 per cent drop that was based on a misleading statistical comparison Police have for many years struggled with understaffing in their records department, and a report management system not updated since 2006. Oakland police head of burglary and general crimes Lieutenant Barry Donelan explained 'decrepit IT infrastructure' and mismatched software was to blame. 'Do we know there are shortcomings in the numbers? Yes. Is there a desire among professional law enforcement to fix that? Oh, yes,' he told the San Francisco Chronicle. He said police were not concealing the true numbers, the outdated systems and insufficient staff just couldn't keep up. Crime statistics in Oakland could also be wildly inaccurate in the other direction, such as the year-end data sent to the Department of Justice earlier this year. The report claimed aggravated assaults skyrocketed from 3,329 in 2022 to 11,169 after being steady for years and conflicting with other year-end data. An elderly woman is brutally-attacked in unprovoked assault in Oakland - days after Thao touted her successes on crime There is no reliable way to know how much crime fell in Oakland in the first four months of 2024, or at any time, until at least the end of the year. Oakland crime statistics tend to get more accurate as the year goes on as police get to the lower-priority cases and undercounted crimes make up an increasingly smaller part of the total. Timothy Gardner of Oakland Report, who analyzed the crime statistics on his Substack, explained that violent crime reports were mostly accurate because they were higher priority. By contrast, burglaries and other property crimes were lower priority and reported online or to dispatch, which took longer to sort through and follow up, and resulted in sometimes wildly inaccurate statistics. Analysis by Timothy Gardner of Oakland Report of the historical inaccuracies between ongoing and final crime statistics 'Given that burglaries are more than 35 per cent of total crime, this also has a significant impact on the under-counting of total crime. Total crime has been under-counted by 20-35 per cent as of April/May in recent years,' he wrote. 'Thus the Mayor's judgement of year-to-date crime is almost certainly an underestimate of true 2024 crime by 20-35 per cent. 'The mayor... claimed that total crime has fallen 33 per cent year to date - which is consistent with the historical under-counting error. And it is very likely the claimed crime drops would disappear if full data was available.' Gardner said politicians and the media shouldn't use incomplete statistics, and should be sure to compare 'apples to apples'. The other problem, he said, was that government initiatives to address the root causes of crime often took years to show up on the ground, and couldn't be bragged about a few months later or without rigorous research. Ida Mojadad is a San Francisco journalist who has reported enterprise, investigative and daily news coverage focused on schools, youth and families. She previously covered housing, health care and city politics, among other topics, for SF Weekly and the San Francisco Examiner. While at the San Francisco Standard, she published a series of revelations about hidden school sexual misconduct. Ida is a graduate of San Francisco State University and serves as Vice President of the Society of Professional Journalists Northern California chapter. Rich Americans are ditching their mansions and opting to build luxurious smaller homes for an easier lifestyle. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are all the rage on the West Coast where homeowners have built them to save money on upkeep, pass down their big houses to their children or even make some money by renting them out. Unlike a tiny house - which is portable - ADUs are built to code and set on a solid foundation with separate spaces for living and sleeping, with fully plumbed bathrooms and kitchens. Seattle couple Leesa Wright and Ben McAllister built an ADU just 12 feet behind their 1906 Craftsman house to have some extra space for guests and to rent out, but ended up falling in love with it. 'We originally thought we were going to live in the front house, until we finally walked into this one,' Wright told The Wall Street Journal. A Seattle couple's 775-square-foot ADU called the 'Alley Cat' (pictured) cost $300,000 to build and has double-height ceilings, four skylights and metal siding Leesa Wright (left) and Ben McAllister (right) built the Alley Cat 12 feet behind their 1906 Craftsman house but fell in love with it and moved in Their 775-square-foot ADU called the 'Alley Cat' cost $300,000 to build and has double-height ceilings, four skylights and metal siding. Wright's favorite part of the Alley Cat is their bathroom which features a wet-room shower and massive bathtub. 'When you only have one bathroom, you can get the best tile, the best fixtures, the best windows,' Wright said. The couple recently made a profit selling the Alley Cat for $675,000 and their main house separately for $686,000. Sheri Koones, author of About ADU: The Perfect Housing Solution, said she was inspired to write her book because so many people kept expressing their interest in building ADUs and making them their homes. 'It's not a pool house, It's a place for people to actually live,' Koones told the Journal. 'A lot of people told me that they were going to put higher-end finishes in [their ADU] even if they were going to rent it, because they might live there themselves.' California, Washington and Oregon have lifted restrictions that make it easier for homeowners to build the houses. Data from the California Department of Housing and Community Development show over 31,000 homeowners applied for ADU permits in 2023, up from 7,000 in 2018. Bruce Johnston, 83, grew tired of tending to his four-bedroom, 2,929-square-foot house in Berkeley, so he and his husband decided to build an ADU just 60 feet from their home. 'As soon as I began to see the house erupt from the ground, I got tremendously excited, a mix of wonderment and disbelief, just that this was where I was going to be,' Johnston told the Journal. Unlike a tiny house - which is portable - ADUs (pictured) are built to code and set on a solid foundation with separate spaces inside Data from the California Department of Housing and Community Development show over 31,000 homeowners applied for ADU permits in 2023, up from 7,000 in 2018 (pictured generic ADU) 'I feel like I'm living in some rich dude's penthouse.' Johnston's daughter and her partner moved into the main house, and he moved into the $1.2 million, 849-square-foot ADU. 'As I moved into my mid-70s, I really didn't want to do that anymore. But I thought, 'What can I do?' I love the neighborhoodand I didn't want to leave the house. I've lived there for so many years,' Johnston said. His new smaller house is set on a concrete slab foundation, has floating roof supported by earthquake-proof steel columns, a patio and viewing deck, a countertop that divides the kitchen and living space, as well as a free-standing fireplace that divides the living space and bedroom. Their new homes features luxurious finishes including all of their cabinets which are custom designs from Italy. The cherished tractor firm John Deere has become the latest target of activists, who say it's strayed from its conservative base by backing LGBTQ+ events and embracing diversity-hiring targets. The $61 billion-a-year company has been slammed for sponsoring a Pride event for kids as young as three, and encouraging staff to use 'preferred pronouns' as it tries to become more 'inclusive.' All the while, critics say, the 185-year-old firm has sacked American workers, with the axing this week of 345 more production employees from its plant at Waterloo, Iowa, as it shifts production to Mexico. The backlash echoes a similar boycott against Tractor Supply, a retail chain, and last year's high-profile campaign against Bud Light over a tie-up with a transgender influencer, which cost the beer-maker millions in lost sales. 'John Deere seems to have forgotten who their customers are,' says Robby Starbuck, the filmmaker and 2022 Republican House candidate for Tennessee who leads the campaign against the tractor firm. John Deere, which makes tractors, construction vehicles, mowers, and snowmobiles, is the latest all-American brand to face a conservative backlash 'Having a farm myself, I'm disgusted that a once great American brand is now taking this turn to seemingly embrace leftist policies that are diametrically opposed to the values of most farmers.' John Deere, which has 83,000 employees across more than 30 countries and is headquartered in Moline, Illinois, did not answer DailyMail.com's requests for comment. According to Starbuck, the tractor firm has embraced 'woke' policies, which are controversial among many conservatives, even as they are seen as standard across much of corporate America. Pictured: John Deere CEO John May made $26.7 million in total compensation last year He highlights the firm's support for the Little Rainbow Run at the Capital City Pride event last month in Des Moines, Iowa, calling it 'creepy' to involve toddlers in an event aimed at 'celebrating what sex you like.' He also points to the company's embrace of new-wave gender ideology, including staff training sessions on the 'genderbread person,' which casts aside traditional notions of sex in favor of the gender spectrum. John Deere's website encourages staff to 'use their personal pronouns' in email signatures and correspondence, saying it is a 'sign of mutual respect' for people who do not identify with their biological sex. It also refers to 'strengthening the diversity of our workforce' and the need for 'inclusiveness so every employee can make the greatest impact as their true self.' Starbuck says the company, which is known for its leaping deer logo, has embraced diversity, equity, and inclusion policies root and branch, urging employees to tackle 'white privilege' among a series of controversial policies. He noted that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, a left-leaning philanthropist, is one of John Deere's top investors, and urged the company's $20-million-a-year CEO John May to come explain how 'it's gotten out of control.' John Deere is under fire for sponsoring a fun run for kids as young as three at the Capital City Pride event last month in Des Moines, Iowa. The company website makes several references to 'diversity,' 'inclusivity,' and the use of preferred pronouns The company reportedly runs including staff training sessions on the 'genderbread person,' which casts aside traditional notions of sex in favor of the gender spectrum. Inside a John Deere plant in Ottumwa, Iowa, where over 100 jobs were cut this year Robby Starbuck, the filmmaker and 2022 Republican House candidate for Tennessee, is on a mission to defeat wokery in corporate America The allegations, and call for customers to complain to John Deere, come as the company sparks outrage by laying off American workers and moving more of its agricultural equipment manufacturing to Mexico. Since October 2023, more than 1,000 John Deere workers have either been laid off or pushed into an early retirement across several plants in Iowa and Illinois. In many instances, production that these US workers were responsible for has been shifted to new locations in Mexico. Consumer's Research, a conservative group, urged customers to contact the company to complain about how it's 'firing American workers' while and also backing 'one woke initiative after another.' 'Let them know that promoting wokeness while laying off American workers is bad for business,' the group said in a statement. Starbuck's posts about John Deere on X sparked a debate about whether conservatives should boycott companies that embraced DEI, or whether they were being unduly hostile to LGBTQ_+ people and minorities. The tractor maker has been laying off staff and shifting operations to Mexico More than 10,000 workers at John Deere went on strike for five weeks in 2021. They won a 10 percent raise for hourly earners and increased retirement benefits John Deere's Harvester Works facility in East Moline, Illinois, where 225 workers were indefinitely laid off in October 2023 It's the latest in a series of conservative-led boycotts and campaigns against well-known brands that embrace progressive policies, which have hit Bud Light, Target, Cracker Barrel, Tractor Supply, The North Face, and many others. Portrait of John Deere, the man who founded the company that bears his name to this day For some, DEI schemes are important and necessary, as they can help to overcome historical racism and sexism and make it easier for people of all backgrounds to get ahead in education and work. Critics say it's a form of reverse discrimination that unfairly blows back on straight, white men. Others say DEI schemes may be well-intentioned, but seldom achieve their desired goals and often make things worse by stirring up divisions in offices and classrooms. John Deere is these days almost exclusively known for its green tractors and iconic leaping deer logo, was established nearly two centuries ago in 1837. In its early days, it produced self scouring steel plows, which revolutionized farming and replaced the inferior cast iron plow that would often get stuck in sticky soil. Now, John Deere, which still bears its founder's name, manufactures everything from tractors, construction vehicles, mowers and even snowmobiles. A Muslim student who allegedly lied that her Jewish roommate had threatened her life following a dispute about October 7 will not face any repercussions. University of Washington student Isha Hussein claimed that her roommate made Islamophobic remarks and threatened to stab her with a knife as she prayed. The roommate denied the allegations but was temporarily removed from her dorm and later moved out due to the hostility she faced. However, a campus police report concluded it 'could not establish probable cause' after a witness contradicted Hussein's account. In a viral post which garnered almost 44,000 likes, Hussein claimed her roommate had made racist remarks to her when they moved in together in September 2023. Muslim student Isha Hussein who allegedly lied that her Jewish roommate had threatened her life following a dispute about October 7 will not face any repercussions despite a probe finding 'no probably cause' 'My roommate noticed I was a black Muslim and started making comments such as, 'My family and I don't like black people', 'That's why my religion is better than yours' and 'Muslims are suicide bombers',' she wrote in the post. Their relationship came to a head around the time of the October 7 attack after the two clashed during a discussion about Israel's response, according to both parties. During one exchange Hussein's roommate said to her that she would, 'pull a knife on her while praying [...] then grabbed a knife from the kitchen drawer', a campus police report states. The report was filed on October 24 when officers were called to the dorm to reports of harassment. Both students' names have been redacted, however the allegations match those made in Hussein's Instagram post. At the time of the alleged knife incident, Hussein told campus police during an interview she did not want to assist with prosecution, but just wanted the incident to be documented, the report states. She also complained to the university, who she accused of failing to take her concerns seriously in the Instagram post shared in February. Her statement further alleged that one of her other roommates went on to assault her in November as the fallout continued. 'As a black Muslim woman, the University of Washington Housing and Food Services failed to protect me on the multiple occasions described,' Hussein wrote. Her claims sparked a huge backlash, with a 'Justice for Isha Hussein' rally held by the Somali Student Association the following month.' University of Washington student Isha Hussein claimed that her roommate made Islamophobic remarks and threatened to stab her with a knife as she prayed Hussein accused university officials of failing to take her complaints seriously However, the police report states that officers conducted an interview with a third roommate, who 'did not witness any threats of open hostility towards the victim from the suspect.' 'Based on the interview with only named witnesses I could not establish probable cause,' the report reads. The accused roommate has strenuously denied the allegations and stated that the two had been avoiding each other in the wake of October 7 due to 'awkwardness'. Her account to police details her surprise at receiving an email from college officials informing her she had to leave her apartment following a report about her alleged threatening behavior. 'I was thrown out of my campus with no due process based entirely on a false accusation,' she said in her statement. She said she was eventually allowed to move back to her dorm after an interview with university director Amanda Roy who found no evidence of any violation, according to her statement. 'I never wished to be any part of [readacted's] false and harmful narrative, not now and not in October when she started her journey of made-up stories,' the roommate said. She speculated that Hussein may have fabricated the event in a bid to bolster her campaign to become student body president. Hussein's allegations sparked a 'Justice for Isha Hussein' rally the month after her post went viral However, the UW campus police probe found 'no probable cause' and no action has been taken against either student 'To my knowledge, there were no repercussions for [redacted] for making false and defamatory claims against me which resulted in my temporary loss of housing and permanent need to relocate and which caused considerable stress and strain on my academic schedule and emotional wellbeing,' the accused roommate said. The university confirmed it did not proceed with any further investigation at Hussein's request. 'The University of Washington is committed to providing a safe environment for students to live and learn, and has been aware of the issue shared by a student regarding conflicts with her roommate,' university spokesperson Victor Balta told DailyMail.com. 'Federal privacy laws prohibit the UW from sharing specific details, however I can share that the student who was allegedly threatened was interviewed by UW police and declined to assist with any potential prosecution, instead requesting only that the allegation be documented which it was. 'The claims and counterclaims are serious, deeply personal and have been difficult to verify or resolve for all parties. 'UW HFS was, however, in regular contact with both students and they have been offered extensive support and resources to help them both move forward and to formally report any ongoing or subsequent issues. 'As noted in the report, the case was reopened in March to include an additional statement that was eventually provided and to conduct additional interviews with witnesses. It was closed after no probable cause could be determined.' DailyMail.com has contacted Hussein for comment. After sitting through the first day of his manslaughter trial Wednesday, a relaxed-looking Alec Baldwin joined his family for a casual stroll through downtown Santa Fe, shopping for suits while greeting locals who wished him well. If not facing the prospect of 18 months in prison, it might have appeared just another day in the life of a celebrity. Good luck with this thing, an 81-year-old man named Jim hollered at Baldwin on the sidewalk, striking up a conversation with the actor about their shared roots in New York. Thank you, Baldwin, shedding his sport coat but wearing a shirt and tie, replied with a smile. He was joined by his wife Hilaria and two of their seven children. While crossing the street, he playfully stuck his tongue out at his toddler daughter, who was wearing fuzzy boots with a cow pattern and being cradled by her mom who was sporting cut-off jeans and sandals. Baldwin and his family enjoyed a stroll after spending the majority of the day in court as opening statements took place If not facing the prospect of 18 months in prison, it might have appeared just another day in the life of a celebrity Passing several high-end shops, they popped into two clothing stores including Eternity, where Baldwin tried on clothes while staring at himself in the mirror. He bought several blazers, possibly for future court appearances. He then placed the bags on his daughters stroller. They rolled into a Starbucks, where he was greeted by more fans. He was very nice, very sweet to give us his autograph, gushed Lucille Roybal, who had Baldwin sign the autograph to her daughter, Ocean. I was going to ask for a selfie for my dad, but I didnt want to because hes going through a hard time', she added. After nearly an hour out and about, the Baldwin clan walked back to their luxury hotel, where theyve been staying in a presidential suite just a few blocks from the courthouse. The baggy-eyed actor, 66, arrived at the courthouse on Wednesday in a convoy of three SUVs wearing a dark suit and avoiding questions from reporters camped outside the Santa Fe courthouse. Baldwin and his wife Hilaria, 40, appeared at the courthouse as opening statements took placein the case involving the death of Halyna Hutchins on the set of the western film in October 2021. He bought several blazers, possibly for future court appearances. He then placed the bags on his daughters stroller While crossing the street, he playfully stuck his tongue out at his toddler daughter who was carried by his wife Hilaria The actor, 66, arrived in court on Wednesday in a convoy of three SUVs while wearing a dark suit and avoided questions from reporters Baldwin is being represented by Alex Spiro, a high profile lawyer whose other clients include Elon Musk, Jay-Z, Mick Jagger and Naomi Osaka Baldwin was a producer and the star of Rust when he shot dead cinematographer Hutchins, 42, a mother-of-one, while filming with a prop gun that had a live round inside it. The film's director Joel Souza was also injured. The stakes for Baldwin are incredibly high and were starkly illustrated in February when Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 26, the armorer on the set, went on trial and was found guilty for the same charges in the same court. Halyna Hutchins died after being hit by a bullet from the prop gun that Baldwin was handling In the court, Baldwin sat at the defense table and appeared nervous while Hilaria and his brother Stephen Baldwin, who is also an actor, sat behind him in the public gallery. In her opening statement, Erlinda Johnson, a special prosecutor appointed to the case, said that Baldwin had 'violated the cardinal rules of firearm safety and that he was 'reckless' on set. She told jurors: When someone plays make believe with a real gun in a real life workplace and while playing with the gun violates the cardinal rules of gun safety people's lives are endangered and somebody could be killed. 'Thats what this case is about. Its simple, straightforward. That someone who played make believe with a real gun and violated the cardinal rules of firearm safety is the defendant, Alexander Baldwin.' While defense lawyer Alex Spiro told jurors that the death of Hutchins had been an unspeakable tragedy but that Baldwin committed no crime. The movie was being shot on the Bonanza Creek Ranch film set in Santa Fe Baldwin, seen here outside the Santa Fe County Sheriff's offices on the day of the shooting, was sensationally charged for a second time in January this year In his opening statement, Spiro said: There were people responsible for ensuring the safety of the firearm. Those people failed in their duties. On this set there was a real bullet something that should never be on a movie set. 'You will hear no evidence that Baldwin had anything to do with that real bullet being bought on that set. The actors job is to act, hes Harlan Rust, hes an outlaw running for his life. In this incident hes pulling a six shooter. Spiro told the court that investigators in the case saw Baldwin as being a shiny object they could go for. Former Santa Fe County Sheriffs deputy Nicholas LeFleur was called as the first witness in the case, with the jury being shown footage from his body cam that he wore that day. Hutchins can be seen laying on her back inside the set with tubes coming out of her body as medical teams tend to her. LeFleur can be heard saying: One female shot in the chest, male shot in the stomach and calling for an air evacuation. Director Joel Souza can be heard shouting out in pain and is seen thrashing his legs around in the clip. A woman helping Hutchins to breathe says: Halyna deep breath, deep breath there you go. Deep breath Halyna. Jesus. Baldwin speaks with his attorney Alex Spiro during his hearing in Santa Fe County District Court, in Santa Fe, Baldwin appeared to struggle at one point while watching the footage and put his hand on his forehead. His wife and brother watched intently from the public gallery Hutchins can be seen laying on her back inside the set with tubes coming out of her body as medical teams tend to her in footage shown in court on Wednesday Baldwin appeared to struggle at one point while watching the footage and put his hand on his forehead. His wife and brother watched intently from the public gallery. Several crew members and paramedics could be seen lifting Hutchins up on a stretcher. One person had a mask over her mouth and was pumping it to help her breathe. The footage also showed Baldwin in the immediate aftermath of the incident, speaking with crew members despite being ordered not to by cops. Dave Halls, the First Assistant Director, who had handed Baldwin the gun also arrives on the scene. Halls would later take a plea deal and serve months probation after pleading no contest to a misdemeanor charge. Photos taken by detectives with Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office show the aftermath of the incident in October 2021 Law enforcement officer Nicholas LeFleur testifies during actor Alec Baldwin's hearing at Santa Fe County District Court The trial is the culmination of a nightmare for Mr Baldwin that has lasted for nearly three years and has finally come to court. The Emmy award winning actor, 66, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of involuntary manslaughter. The case has had a long and tortured path to trial: Baldwin was originally charged in January 2023 with two counts of involuntary manslaughter. They were dropped three months later in light of new evidence, prosecutors said, adding they needed more time to investigate. Baldwin was sensationally charged for a second time in January this year with the same charges. Baldwin and his wife are currently filming a reality TV series about their family. It is not clear if a camera crew is trailing them in New Mexico, but the show is due to air in 2025 meaning filming is likely underway now. The case is expected to hear eight days of evidence and argument, followed by deliberations. A Chinese woman who went swimming off a beach in Japan and was swept out to sea somehow survived for 36 hours after drifting 50 miles in the Pacific Ocean before being rescued by a cargo ship. The local coast guard launched a search and rescue operation after the Chinese woman in her 20s had disappeared while swimming at Shirahama Ohama beach on Monday at about 7.30pm, about 125 miles southwest of Tokyo. The woman, who was not named, told rescuers she was unable to return to the beach as she was swimming with a rubber ring. She was likely swept out to sea by a current and an evening seaward wind from the mountains. Her swim ring made it more difficult to move against the wind, experts said. She was finally spotted floating off the southern tip of Boso peninsula at 7.48am on Wednesday - 36 hours after she was first swept away - by a cargo ship, Japanese coast guard said. Pictured: Swimmer who drifted for 36 hours in the Pacific Ocean after her rescue A Chinese woman who was swept out to sea while swimming at a Japanese beach was rescued after drifting in a swimming ring 80 kilometers (50 miles) away in the Pacific Ocean, officials said on Thursday A woman who was dragged out to sea and spent 36 hours drifting in the middle of the Pacific Ocean was rescued by Japanese Coast Guard The woman, who was wearing a blue blanket, was airlifted to safety The cargo ship asked a passing LPG tanker, the Kakuwa Maru No. 8, to help. Two of its crew members jumped into the sea and rescued the woman, officials said. She was airlifted by a coast guard helicopter to land, they said. In a video released by the Japanese coast guard, the woman - dry and wrapped in a pale blue blanket - stood on the deck of the tanker with a crew member who stood by her in case she lost her balance, while others quietly looked on. A coast guard helicopter hovered above. When she was attached to a rope and safely taken into the chopper, she waved at the tanker crew. Crew members of the tanker who helped in the rescue told TV Asahi that they shouted to the woman not to give up as she bobbed up and down in waves that were about 2 meters (6.5 feet) high. Two of them jumped into the water and tied a rope around the woman, while other crew pulled her up to the tanker, they said. One crew member said everyone was relieved the woman survived, even though she seemed to be exhausted. Social media was filled with messages praising the crew members who helped in the rescue as 'heroes,' saying they did a 'good job,' while others celebrated the woman's perseverance and survival in good health. Map shows where the woman was last seen before being swept out to sea, as well as the location where she was found 36 hours later Footage shows the woman - dry and wrapped in a blue blanket - on the tanker that rescued her. The woman is said to be a Chinese citizen in her 20s The cargo ship asked a passing LPG tanker, the Kakuwa Maru No. 8, to help. Two of its crew members jumped into the sea and rescued the woman, officials said. She was airlifted by a coast guard helicopter to land One crew member said everyone was relieved the woman survived, even though she seemed to be exhausted. The woman was taken to hospital but she did not need to be admitted as her dehydration was not life threatening. The incident echoes that of the five-year-old girl who was plucked from the ocean after she drifted half a mile from the coast on an inflatable unicorn. The child floated away from the Greek town of Antirrio in the Gulf of Corith, while playing in the water with her parents on Sunday. She was picked up by a ferry and brought back to shore. Footage taken of the rescue showed the child sitting calmly on the colourful inflatable as the ferry approached. Hidetoshi Saito, director of the Japan Water Safety Society, said on Japanese television: 'There are a lot of ships in the area where the woman was found. It is a miracle that she was not hit by a ship.' Heartbroken friends and neighbours have been left lost for words following the devastating discovery of a mother and her young daughter who were found dead at home in mysterious circumstances. Jennifer Carrig, 53, and her daughter Ella, 13, were discovered inside their Menzies Road home in Marsfield in Sydney's north-west just after 10.20am on Thursday following a concern for welfare report. Their bodies were found in separate bedrooms and had no signs of injury. The circumstances surrounding their deaths are being investigated by police. They do not believe there were any suspicious circumstances. The tragedy has sparked an outpouring of tributes to the pair, who had lived at the home for several years. Ms Carrig has been remembered as the 'best mumma' to her family, including to her daughter Ella, who was disabled and needed full-time care. 'She was the best so caring and thoughtful,' Ms Carrig's best friend Samantha Thomas-Barber told the Daily Telegraph. 'A true treasure and warrior she was the best mumma to her family.' Jennifer Carrig (pictured centre) and her daughter Ella (pictured right) were found dead inside their home on Thursday morning Mother of-three Jennifer Carrig (pictured) has been described as the 'best mumma' Neighbours in the quiet suburban street were 'absolutely shocked'. Many said they didn't hear or see anything out of the ordinary on Thursday morning until they saw the emergency vehicles in their street.. 'I'm devastated,' one local said. 'When we saw all the police we didn't imagine this was the reason.' Another saw Ms Carrig's older son sitting out the front 'shaking ... (with) his head in his hands, rocking back and forth. It was horrible'. Vera Wen said she 'still shaking' and had seen Ms Carrig come out every day to put her daughter on the bus. She described Ms Carrig as 'a very nice lady, so friendly'. Another resident described them as a lovely family. 'There were always people coming and going from the house,' she told the Sydney Morning Herald. 'It's so sad to think that two of them died.' A family friend told Daily Mail Australia on Thursday that Jennifer took him into her home when he was homeless. He said he rushed to the home as soon as learning about the pair's deaths. 'I can't believe this has happened,' the friend said. Investigators were seen trailing in and out of the home on Thursday Neighbours described Jennifer Carrig (pictured) as very friendly and kind 'Jen has lived here her whole life and that home was supposed to go to her children. 'The fact that Ella has died is just messed (up). 'I moved out of the house about four months ago and haven't been back since. 'When I got the call while I was at a motorbike driving test, I jumped in an Uber and came straight here.' He said Ella lived with a disability and the mother had just recently completed renovations on her home. A third neighbour said Jennifer used to babysit him and he knew her his whole life. 'It's sad,' he said. Daily Mail Australia can reveal that Ms Carrig had an apprehended violence order taken out on her behalf earlier this year. It is currently before the courts. It is not suggested that those subject to the AVO proceedings played any role in the deaths. A forensics officer is pictured leaving the home, clutching a camera The circumstances surrounding their deaths are being investigated by police. Despite establishing a crime scene around the house police said they do not believe there were any suspicious circumstances at this time. 'There was no bullet or stab wounds to the victims. Until a post mortem investigation is conducted we won't know more,' a spokesman told Daily Mail Australia on Thursday night. Anyone with information that may help police in their investigations are urged to contact their local station of Crime Stoppers. Crisis support is available from Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. An Irish stewardess who was held in Dubai for 'attempting suicide' after being 'beaten by her husband' has landed in Ireland after charges against her were withdrawn. A beaming Tori Towey, 28, said she is 'so relieved' to be home as she flew into Dublin Airport today with her mother Caroline. 'I'm just so thankful and so grateful to be back'. She expressed her gratitude to those who helped her get home, including the Irish embassy and the media. 'Without you guys, I wouldn't be here right now', she told journalists. She continued to call her native Ireland 'an amazing country', adding that 'I feel bad for people who don't have the support that we have. We are such a tight country and we have each other's backs.' 'I'm so emotional', she said. Tori Towey, 28, said she is 'so relieved' to be home as she flew into Dublin Airport today after she had been held in Dubai on charges for attempting to commit suicide and drinking alcohol The young flight attendant told journalists at the airport that the past few weeks have been 'tiring mentally' Tori Towey, 28, was charged with attempting suicide and had a travel ban imposed on her by Dubai authorities. She has now arrived in Dublin after having her charges dropped The young flight attendant told journalists at the airport that the past few weeks have been 'tiring mentally', as she recalled being stuck in Dubai, explaining how she did not know 'what was going to happen'. 'I'm back now, and I'm excited to be home and see my family', she added. This comes after Ms Towey, the flight attendant from County Roscommon, woke up in a police station in Dubai after she was attacked by her South African husband. Police in the United Arab Emirates charged the young woman with alcohol abuse and attempted suicide which she was due to fight in court later this month. Her passport was banned, preventing Ms Towey from returning home to her family in Ireland and sparking fears she was headed towards a jail term in an Emirati prison. Tori Towey was pictured with extensive bruises over her body, which she says were from an assault Tori Towey pictured left with her aunt, had been banned from leaving the UAE and was told she faced jail for drinking alcohol and attempting to take her own life Ms Towey moved to the UAE in April 2023 when she began work as a flight attendant with Emirates Airlines. She got married to a South African man and they had been living together until it alleged their relationship became abusive But a campaign group working on her case has confirmed that the charges have been withdrawn, the travel ban lifted and that Ms Towey is 'relieved' to be heading home. In a statement, the Government of Dubai's media office said: 'Dubai Public Prosecution has closed the case involving Irish national Tori Towey after she and her husband, a South African national, were involved in a case featuring mutual charges of assault, dating back to May 2024. 'The couple reached a reconciliation and withdrew the complaints filed against each other. 'Dubai Public Prosecution has also dropped the charges of attempted suicide against her considering the circumstances of the case and to enable her to return to normal life.' Speaking about her travel ban being lifted Detained in Dubai CEO Radha Stirling said: 'She is thrilled and relieved. She said she is over the moon and looking forward to getting home to Ireland and seeing the rest of her family. 'She is a little nervous too because there is that worry that something could happen before she gets on a plane but the overriding feeling is one of joy.' Ms Towey's family had thanked the Irish government and campaigners for their help, with her mum Caroline telling MailOnline the support 'has been incredible'. Caroline said: 'The support from the Irish government and the Irish people has been incredible and we weren't expecting it at all. It's a small country and the politicians are real people. 'We are both exhausted and desperate to get home. Thank you so much to everyone supporting us.' She added that her daughter had been through 'the worst time of her life and needs to come home with me and heal'. Tori's aunt Ann Flynn also told Sky News: 'She's doing her best. It's very stressful, stressful for all the family. 'Tori's a beautiful young woman, fun-loving, loves to travel. She got the job of her dreams working for Emirates, and she could continue travelling with work.' 'It's really terrible that this has happened to a young woman who was full of life and full of adventure.' The 28-year-old had moved to UAE in April 2023 when she was offered a job as a flight attendant. She got married to a South African man and they had been living together until it is alleged that their relationship became abusive. More to follow. Letters from Christine Keeler to her worried parents while she was in prison in the wake of the Profumo affair have been discovered along with unseen images. The nightclub hostess tried to reassure her mother Julie Ellen not to worry about her while she was in Holloway Prison, which she likened to school. In her first letter, she described the conditions inside. She said: 'This place isn't half as bad as I expected, the people here are very nice everyone is nice to me. 'Don't worry I'm fine in fact it's just like school, and there is a girl here I went to school with.' The fascinating archive relating to the sixties' showgirl also includes previously-unseen childhood photos of her. There is also her own copy of the famous picture of her sat naked astride a modernist chair by photographer Lewis Morley. The iconic image was taken at the height of the scandal involving John Profumo, the then Secretary of State for War, and six months before she was sent to prison. Keeler had been sleeping with both him and handsome Russian spy Evgeny Ivanov - prompting fears of a national security breach as the Cold War raged. She was jailed for perjury in December 1963 after Profumo had resigned over the extra-marital affair he tried to cover up. Letters from Christine Keeler to her worried parents while she was in prison in the wake of the Profumo affair have been discovered along with unseen images. Above: Keeler with a friend in one of the newly-discovered images The nightclub hostess tried to reassure mum Julie Ellen not to worry about her while she was in Holloway Prison, which she likened to school She gave false evidence during the trial of her former partner Lucky Gordon, who she claimed had attacked her. The archive, which is worth more than 10,000 and is coming up for auction, belongs to James Birch, who was a friend of Keeler's for many years. He was a well-known art dealer who curated the exhibition 'Christine Keeler: My Life in Pictures' at The Mayor Gallery, London, in 2010. The nine handwritten letters from prison date from December 8, 1963 - just after she was sent down - to April 19, 1964, days before she was released. In them Keeler, who was 21 at the time, regularly wrote of looking forward to her parents' visits to see her in jail, noting in one letter 'your all I'v got in the world [sic]'. In a letter written on December 29, 1963, she wrote of having had a nice Christmas with 'plenty to eat and a few party games.' She added: 'I do hope you're both well as I worry about you both dreadfully, you have even more time to worry about things...do look after yourselves.... your all I'v [Sic] got in the world.' Keeler was at the heart of Britain's most infamous sex scandal after she and war minister John Profumo (pictured in 1962) had an extra-marital affair when she was 19-years-old An unseen image of Keeler from the archive, which is being sold by her friend, art dealer James Birch Keeler with two male friends in another of the images that have not been seen in public before Another image from the unseen collection of photos showing Keeler with friends and family Keeler as a young girl. The image is one of several that are being sold with her letters Keeler with her family. The image is one of several being sold with her letters Keeler as a young girl, standing next to a dog. She grew up in the Berkshire village of Wraysbury Keeler as a school girl. She was sexually abused as a teenager by her stepfather Keeler sits on a car with a man and a woman who may be her mother and stepfather Another image from the archive showing Keeler as a young girl Keeler also referenced her notoriety following the Profumo scandal and how prison helped her escape it. She wrote: 'I quite like it here, its nice to get away from the life I was having outside.' She wrote in another letter: 'Things have gone very fast in the past year but I'm still your daughter and I'll be coming home again soon every weekend when people have forgotten all about me, there is nothing to fight but everything to forget. 'Funny isn't it I'v always keep your from certain things in my life as I'v thought you to precious and me to bad, but I suppose you have always known about everything.' In another she wrote: '...don't worry mum, I'm not going to do anything wrong so don't even think of it, remember I have learnt to let the water just run off my back.' In other letters she wrote of her plans for pursuing a film career after getting out. She said: 'I am only young and I should start on a career of some sort seeing as my name is well known I might as well carry on with that and make lots of money ha! ha!' Letters from Keeler to her parents. Along with the photos they are expected to sell for more than 10,000 A post card sent by Keeler when she was in New York trying to launch a modelling career A letter written on paper headed with the address of HMP Holloway Keeler's passport, which expired in 1984, is also seen in the archive The inside of Keeler's passport. The document is part of a trove of Keeler's possessions that are going to auction The archive include a menu from Murray's Cabaret Club in Regent Street. Christine Keeler worked at this club in the 1960s 'My Lyons has got me a very good agent that I will sign up with but only for six months just in case I don't need him. He is very well known in the film business.' Elsewhere in the archive there is a drinks menu for Murray's Cabaret Club, which is where Keeler worked as a topless showgirl. There she was introduced to the society osteopath Stephen Ward. It was Ward who later introduced Keeler to Profumo. There is also a postcard from the Peppermint Lounge in New York that she sent to her parents in 1962. At the time, Keeler and her friend Mandy Rice-Davies - who was called to give evidence in a court case involving Ward - were there in a bid to launch their modelling careers. Rice-Davies, who like Keeler was a show girl, claimed in court that one of her lovers had been Viscount 'Bill' Astor, whose estate in Berkshire was there Profumo met Keeler. Her retort of, 'well, he would say that wouldn't he?', when she was told Astor denied her claim has entered the English language. The archive is being sold by Sworders Auctioneers of Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, on July 30. The Coast Guard spotted four Chinese warships off the coast of Alaska in the Bering Sea, officials said Wednesday. The vessels were in international waters but thin the US exclusive economic zone, an area that extends 200 nautical miles offshore in which America has rights over fishing, energy and other mineral resources. Crew aboard US Coast Guard Cutter Kimball detected three vessels 124 miles north of the Amchitka Pass in the Aleutian Islands. A short time later, a helicopter aircrew from Coast Guard Air Station Kodiak spotted a fourth ship approximately 84 miles north of the Amukta Pass. 'The Chinese naval presence operated in accordance with international rules and norms,' said Rear Adm. Megan Dean, Seventeenth Coast Guard District commander. MORE NEWS: Progressive radio station admits EDITING Biden interview to remove outrageous quote FILE PHOTO: A Coast Guard Cutter Kimball crewmember observing a Chinese warship in the Bering Sea, September 19, 2022 'We met presence with presence to ensure there were no disruptions to US interests in the maritime environment around Alaska.' Coast Guard Cutter Kimball is a 418-foot ship based in Honolulu. This wasn't the first time Chinese naval ships have sailed near Alaska waters. In September 2022, the Kimball spotted guided missile cruiser from China in the Bering Sea. And in September 2021, Coast Guard cutters in the Bering Sea and North Pacific Ocean encountered Chinese ships, about 50 miles off the Aleutian Islands. The U.S. military routinely conducts what it calls freedom of navigation operations in disputed waters in Asia that China claims as its own, deploying Navy ships to sail through waterways such as the South China Sea. The US says freedom of navigation in the waters is in America's national interest. Spain's tourism minister has finally condemned the mob of Barcelonians who soaked holidaymakers with water pistols, in the country's latest protest against tourists. Last week, thousands of protestors marched through central Barcelona, waving placards and squirting holidaymakers with water guns in the latest expression of anger at perceived overtourism in Spain. Under the slogan 'Enough! Let's put limits on tourism', some 2,800 people - according to police - marched along a waterfront district of Barcelona to demand a new economic model that would reduce the millions of tourists that visit every year. Protesters carried signs reading 'Barcelona is not for sale,' and, 'Tourists go home,' before some used water guns on tourists eating outdoors at restaurants in popular tourist hotspots. Chants of 'Tourists out of our neighbourhood' rang out as some stopped in front of the entrances to hotels. Tourism minister Jordi Hereu, who previously served as Barcelona's mayor told reporters that while the demonstrators' actions were reprehensible, the incident was 'exaggerated.' Last week, thousands of protestors marched through central Barcelona, waving placards and squirting holidaymakers with water guns Under the slogan 'Enough! Let's put limits on tourism', some 2,800 people - according to police - marched along a waterfront district of Barcelona Protesters carried signs reading 'Barcelona is not for sale,' and, 'Tourists go home,' before some used water guns on tourists eating outdoors at restaurants in popular tourist hotspots Chants of 'Tourists out of our neighbourhood' rang out as some stopped in front of the entrances to hotels Tourism minister Jordi Hereu (pictured), who previously served as Barcelona's mayor told reporters that while the demonstrators' actions were reprehensible, the incident was 'exaggerated' 'We are a hospitable culture... A photograph, however iconic it may be, does not reflect the reality of an entire country', Hereu claimed. Barcelona's rising cost of housing, up 68 per cent in the past decade, is one of the main issues for the movement, along with the effects of tourism on local commerce and working conditions in the city of 1.6 million inhabitants. Rents rose by 18 per cent in June from a year earlier in tourist cities such as Barcelona and Madrid, according to the property website Idealista. For years, the city has worn anti-tourist graffiti with messages such as 'tourists go home' aimed at visitors some blame for the rising prices and shaping of the economy around tourists. Barcelona's current mayor, Jaume Collboni, announced a plan in June to phase out all short-term lets by 2028, an unexpectedly drastic move by the authorities who seek to rein in soaring housing costs and make the city liveable for residents. But many still feel not enough is being done to balance the needs of tourists, who bring millions to the city each year, with those of locals. 'Local shops are closing to make way for stores that do not serve the needs of neighbourhoods. People cannot afford their rents,' said Isa Miralles, a 35-year-old musician who lives in the Barceloneta district. 'I have nothing against tourism, but here in Barcelona we are suffering from an excess of tourism that has made our city unliveable,' said Jordi Guiu, a 70-year-old sociologist. The northeastern coastal city, with internationally famous sites such as La Sagrada Familia, received more than 12 million tourists last year, according to local authorities. To combat the 'negative effects of mass tourism', the city council run by the Socialist Jaume Collboni announced 10 days ago that it was banning tourist apartment rentals - there are now more than 10,000 - by 2028 so that they can be put back on the local housing market. The receipt with a 6% SF Mandates surcharge at the Cavalier, Friday, Sept. 21, 2018, in San Francisco, Calif. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Eat out at a restaurant in San Francisco, and its hard to predict whether the bill will come with an extra charge or two. On top of the total, many restaurants add mandatory service charges, credit card fees or other charges to offset costs. These surcharges range widely: Some charge 3% or nothing at all. Others charge a full 30%. California law SB478 would have banned the use of surcharges starting July 1, but late last month, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed another law exempting restaurants from that rule. Now, restaurants are wrestling with whether to keep their fees amid increasing diner pushback. Advertisement Article continues below this ad San Francisco in particular is uniquely positioned to have high fees. Under the citys Health Care Security Ordinance, restaurants with 20 or more employees must contribute a certain minimum amount to cover their workers health insurance currently $2.34 an hour for all businesses with 20 to 99 employees, or $3.51 an hour for larger employers. The Office of Labor Standards Enforcement, the Golden Gate Restaurant Association and the New York City Hospitality Alliance all said they did not know of any other jurisdictions with a similar requirement. Many San Francisco restaurants charge fees between 3% and 7% to offset the cost of that ordinance, arguing that raising menu prices to meet the requirement would alienate customers. But other owners disagree hotly: Andytown Coffee Roasters owner and co-founder Lauren Crabbe, for instance, said she thinks covering health insurance should be considered part of the normal cost of business, so she incorporates the expense into menu prices. Meanwhile, the existence of such fees is already turning off many diners: A Chronicle reader survey found that 81% of respondents thought restaurant surcharges should be illegal. Pacific Catch, a Bay Area fish house chain, stopped using surcharges a few months back because of negative feedback. Lazy Bear maintains a 20% service charge in place of tips, which chef and owner David Barzelay said allows the restaurant to better compensate employees, but because diners at Lazy Bear pay up front, he said no one is unpleasantly surprised by the fee at the end. When restaurants elect to use surcharges, they must clearly and conspicuously tell diners about them, according to the new law Newsom signed. Restaurants have a year to meet that legal definition, which requires a larger or different font than the surrounding text, or a notice that is set off from the surrounding text in a manner that clearly calls attention to the language. But at the moment, the small print on menus can sometimes be hard to find especially if diners want to look at prices online before they pick where to eat. Review pages like Yelp dont consistently track the fees. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Frustration with this drove Bay Area native Loren Heiman to develop a spreadsheet cataloging California surcharges. His database, which is largely crowdsourced from Reddit users, now lists the fee amounts used at more than 850 establishments in the state. It sucks when you go (to a restaurant) and you learn about a fee that you had no idea about, he said. We just want to give folks the ability to get all the information up front. Inspired by Heiman, the Chronicle decided to create a similar spreadsheet specifically for San Francisco, looking at a sample of more than 100 restaurants. We confirmed many of the surcharges via phone, email or our own receipts, using restaurants menus and websites to find the rest. All were confirmed within the past two weeks. We came across several restaurants that had no fees at all, but we decided to omit them from the spreadsheet. Our list notes not just the restaurants percentage surcharges but also their purpose. Restaurants descriptions of the uses of fees vary widely: For example, they might describe the same surcharge as an employer mandate fee, an employee benefit fee or an S.F. health care security ordinance fee. Our list leaves all of the restaurants original language intact so readers can see the variations, although in cases where we called to confirm the fees, we didnt always get a direct quote to include regarding the purpose of a surcharge. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This list is not comprehensive, nor is it a true random or representative sample of restaurants in the city. But it does include restaurants serving everything from coffee and croissants to multicourse tasting menus, representing a range of cuisines and price points. At a time when restaurants are navigating rising customer frustration with surcharges, this list offers a snapshot of the range of fees in the city and the uses theyre put to. Elena Kadvany contributed to this report. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer said it would not hurt for President Biden to have a cognitive test as the president faces mounting pressure to exit the presidential race after his shockingly terrible debate performance. Whitmer, whose name has been floated as a possible Biden replacement, appeared on CNN on Wednesday where she was asked about Biden taking a test. 'I dont think that it would hurt, the Democrat said in response to a question by anchor Abby Phillip on whether Biden should take a test and demand that former President Donald Trump do the same. In his interview last week with ABC News, Biden said he has not had a cognitive test and no one said he had to. The president has not signaled he is willing to have one to combat criticism. Gov Gretchen Whitmer (D) said in a CNN interview it would not hurt for President Biden to take a cognitive test Whitmer previously acknowledged the presidential debate was 'not a great success' for Biden, but she has been working to make the case to elect him despite his poor performance. 'Right now we have a choice between Donald Trump for four years which would be destruction of our economy, of our individual rights, of our ability to grow manufacturing which has all happened under Joe Biden,' Whitmer said on CNN. 'Until Joe Biden says otherwise, he is our candidate and that's why I try to remind people, this is a high stakes moment.' Whitmer was asked about the apparent disconnect between Democratic lawmakers and the president who insists he is staying in the race. 'We are spending a lot of energy not on Donald Trump and the existential threat before us and that gives me a great deal of concern.' Governor Gretchen Whitmer and President Biden meeting with autoworkers in Warren, MI on February 1, 2024 Whitmer said she has heard nothing 'to the contrary' that the president will change his mind and exit the race. She also said she has a lot of work to do in her state of Michigan, a major battleground, to share with voters what Democrats stand for and have accomplished. President Biden is headed to Detroit on Friday for a campaign event. It will be his first visit to the state since his devastating debate performance. The president won Michigan by just over 150,000 votes in 2020. The latest poll released since the debate shows Biden down one point to Trump in the state. The Emerson poll has Trump at 45 percent and Biden at 44 percent. The ex-president one the state in 2016 before it flipped back to blue for Biden. Ahead of Biden's visit to the state, Michigan Democratic lawmaker Hillary Scholten called for Biden to step aside. She's the first member of the Michigan delegation to publicly do so. A human trafficker who was jailed for the deaths of 39 people who were found in the back of a lorry has been ordered to serve a further 11-and-a-half months in jail after failing to pay more than 65,000 in compensation. Romanian mechanic Gheorghe Nica, 46, was jailed for 27 years in 2021 for the manslaughter of the Vietnamese nationals who were found in a lorry trailer in Essex on October 22, 2019. The victims, the youngest of whom was just 15, died in sweltering conditions as they were transported in an airtight container from Zeebrugge in Belgium to Purfleet. Nica, of Basildon in Essex, was last year ordered to pay 65,157.65 to victims' families through a confiscation order made at the Old Bailey. But the defendant has failed to pay back the money and has been ordered to serve a further 11-and-a-half months in prison as a result, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said. Gheorghe Nica was found guilty of manslaughter and people-smuggling conspiracy and jailed for 27 years but after failing to pay more than 65,000 in compensation he was handed a further 11-and-a-half months Thirty-nine Vietnamese nationals were killed in an airtight sealed container being transported by ferry from Zeebrugge, Belgium to Purfleet in October 2019 Eleven men were convicted for their involvement in the people-smuggling ring which saw 39 people die in an airtight container on the back of a lorry (pictured) The CPS said that the additional jail time was imposed at a hearing at Maidstone Magistrates' Court on Thursday. Heather Chalk, of the CPS, said: 'Gheorghe Nica failed to pay the 65,157.65 that he owed, so the CPS have returned him to court and now he has had an additional default sentence of 11-and-a-half months' imprisonment on top of his original sentence. 'He profited from smuggling people into the country, which ended in 39 people dying in the most horrific circumstances. 'Even after serving this sentence, he will still owe that amount plus interest. 'The CPS worked with the police financial investigators to identify Nica's criminal benefit from this tragedy and what available assets he currently holds to pay the order. 'The judge also made a compensation order for that amount to be paid to the families of the victims. 'We will continue to ensure that money will be pursued so that nobody profits from these awful crimes.' Nica was previously convicted of the manslaughter of 39 people and conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration as part of an illegal people-smuggling operation. The plotters, top row, left to right: Alexandru-Ovidiu Hanga, Christopher Kennedy, Eamonn Harrison and Gheorghe Nica, and bottom row, left to right: Maurice Robinson, Ronan Hughes and Valentin Calota Marius Mihai Draghici, 51, fled the UK after the Vietnamese nationals died but was detained in Romania and extradited back to the UK in August 2022 The CPS said that after the investigation it was found that significant sums of money were made from this exploitation. It said the CPS Proceeds of Crime Division has worked with investigators to pursue these ill-gotten gains to ensure that no-one profits from the tragedy. In addition to Nica, four other men were jailed for between 13 and 20 years for the manslaughter of the men, women and children. They are: Romanian Marius Mihai Draghici, 51, who was described as Nica's 'second-in-command'; haulier boss Ronan Hughes, 44, of Armagh; lorry driver Maurice Robinson, 29, of Craigavon, who found the bodies; and Eamonn Harrison, 27, of Co 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. Haulage boss and criminal ringleader Ronan Hughes, 44, of Armagh, in Northern Ireland played a 'pivotal' role with his fleet of lorries and received 3,000 per migrant successfully transported from the continent to Essex. He admitted plotting to people smuggle and 39 counts of manslaughter and was jailed for 20 years, and, following a confiscation hearing, was ordered to pay victims' families 182,078.90. Romanian mechanic Nica, was Hughes's friend and partner in crime. He supplied a fleet of drivers to pick up the migrants from a drop-off point near Orsett in Essex for transit to a holding flat in Dulwich, south London to await payment. During his trial, Nica had tried to minimise his involvement, blaming his associate, Marius Draghici. Draghici, 51, fled the UK after the Vietnamese nationals died but in August 2022 he was detained in Romania and extradited back to the UK. A migrant clutching a what appeared to be a Louis Vuitton manbag was among those joining the rush to cross the Channel on a packed dinghy from France today. The bearded man was one of dozens to set off from Gravelines beach near Dunkirk - as French, police dressed in riot kit, watched on helplessly. Smoking a cigarette, the soaked asylum seeker dangled the brown bag from his neck as he waded into the sea to pile onto a people smuggler's boat destined for the UK. Dramatic photos from the scene also appeared to show defiant migrants wiping their eyes after they charged through clouds of tear gas fired by French cops. The latest images from the coastline in northern France came as Sir Keir Starmer was forced to admit Britain's small boats crisis will get worse before it gets better. Appearing to clutch a Louis Vuitton manbag, this male migrant (right) was among dozens to pack into an overcrowded boat on Gravelines Beach, in northern France on Thursday Migrants, some wearing lifejackets, waded through the sea on the beach near Dunkirk on Thursday as they sought to become the latest to illegally cross the Channel to the UK Defiant migrants were also seen charging through clouds of tear gas fired by French police French cops wearing riot gear were later pictured watching on as the migrants launched into the Channel on their overpacked inflatable boat on Thursday For the first time in two years, migrants no longer face the threat of being flown to Rwanda upon arrival in Dover, after Prime Minister Sir Keir scrapped the policy on day one of his administration. Poor weather meant the first crossing under the new Labour Government came on Monday after a six day pause, with 65 migrants on a dinghy from France later brought ashore at Dover, Kent. But the number ramped up the following day, with more than 400 people arriving illegally in small boats on Tuesday. It's not known how many set sail from the beaches of France today. However, photos appear to show about 30 migrants crammed onto an inflatable dinghy. In a statement last night, the PM said his plan to 'smash' the people-smuggling gangs would eventually 'stop those crossings' but admitted it could take years. But he refused to guarantee the boats will have been stopped by the next election. Speaking to reporters on a trip to Washington DC, the Prime Minister said: 'Nobody but nobody should be making these crossings. The numbers are going up, not down. That is why we want to smash the gangs to stop those crossings. Keir Starmer (pictured yesterday) has warned the number of migrants arriving in small boats is likely to increase in the near future The latest groups of migrants were seen crossing the Channel from France on Thursday Some of today's departures were forced to wade through neck-high water to reach their boat 'What I'm not going to do is pick an arbitrary date, an arbitrary number because that hasn't worked in the past. But I do want to be clear that my intention is to break down the gangs that are running this vile trade putting people into boats on the coast of France.' The number of small boat migrants having illegally arrived in Britain in 2024 topped 14,000 this week. Home Office figures show 419 people made the journey in six boats on Tuesday, suggesting an average of around 70 people per boat and taking the provisional total for 2024 to date to 14,058. This is 10 per cent higher than the number recorded this time last year (12,772) and up six per cent on the same period in 2022 (13,318). The latest crossings mean 484 migrant arrivals have been recorded over two days of activity in the Channel since Sir Keir became Prime Minister in the wake of Labour's election victory last week. Some migrants appear to take off their shoes and throw them as they waded through the sea French police in riot gear were spotted attempting to stop the migrants crossing the Channel But the authorities' efforts appeared to fail, with a large group of migrants seen setting sail from Gravelines beach on Thursday (pictured) Pressed again on whether the situation will deteriorate before it improves, he added: 'It can't be changed overnight. What we can do is set up our first steps straight away. 'The Border Security Command... will lead on smashing the gangs. 'I do not accept these are the only gangs that can't be brought down. I'm determined that our Border Security Command working with others will do so. That's why it's got such a rich mix of security and intelligence, alongside prosecutors, alongside law enforcement. 'And we will get on with the recruitment and setting up that Command at speed.' Several children were among those pictured being brought ashore in Dover, Kent, amid calm weather conditions at sea on an overcast and rainy Tuesday. Groups of people were seen being escorted from Border Force boats and lifeboats wearing life jackets, with some wrapped in blankets. Adult life jackets have sold out in the Dunkirk area - so migrants are instead taking children's toy rubber rings and arm bands in a feeble bid to protect themselves if their overloaded dinghies sink. On Monday, the Mail witnessed groups of migrants crossing from Gravelines on two boats. Sparking of the French police's futile efforts to stop them, one officer told the Mail: 'We catch some - but we can't catch them all. While my colleagues were arresting some of the "ferrymen" in town, then slashing their boats, scores more migrants were hiding in the dunes waiting for dinghies to arrive from the sea to pick them up.' New Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is to launch a new Border Security Command which will supposedly be key to reducing the flow of small boats across the Channel. The Border Security Commander, who will be given 'anti-terror-style' powers, is, however, yet to be named. One of the country's most notorious serial killers has been denied release after failing to appear before California's parole board. Edmund Kemper dubbed the 'Co-Ed Killer,' murdered his grandparents, six young female college students, as well as his own mother and her friend in the 1970s. A state panel denied the 75-year-old's parole request on Tuesday after the infamous killer failed to show up to the hearing, reported KSBW. During the parole hearing, Santa Cruz District Attorney Jeff Rosell said that Kemper is one of the most depraved serial killers in the country and has gone untreated over the past 51 years. 'He is essentially blowing this off because he doesn't care. He doesn't respect it,' Rosell said. 'I would submit to you that he is more dangerous now than he was then [his last parole hearing seven years ago].' Edmund Kemper, 75, murdered his grandparents, six young female college students, as well as his own mother and her friend He was denied parole after serving 51 years behind bars on Tuesday when he failed to show up to the hearing His cousin Patricia Kemper attended the hearing to represent the victims and begged the board to keep him behind bars. 'The killings tore up our extended family,' Patricia said. 'He loves murder. He loves killing people. Particularly women.' Kemper has been denied parole eight previous times but will be eligible again in 2013 at the age of 82. He murdered his grandparents when he was 15 years old in August 1964. First, he shot his grandmother Maude Kemper in the head at her California home. When his grandfather arrived home later, he shot him as well. Kemper served five years in the hospital for killing his grandparents then was released to live with his mother, Clarnell Strandberg. Kemper has been denied parole eight previous times but will be eligible again in 2013 at the age of 82 Santa Cruz District Attorney Jeff Rosell said that Kemper is one of the most depraved serial killers in the country He murdered his grandparents at age 15 in August 1964 when shot his grandmother Maude Kemper in the head at her California home then his grandfather Edmund Emil Kemper His infamous killing spree began in May 1972 when he picked up two Fresno State University students, Mary Ann Pesce and Anita Luchessa, and killed them. He then brought them home and photographed them naked before dismembering them. He performed a sex act on their skulls. His next victim came four months later, when he murdered 15-year-old Aiko Koo in September 1972 and then 18-year-old Cindy Schall in January 1973. Four weeks later, he murdered Rosalind Thorpe, 23, and Alison Liu, 20, and had sex with their corpses before mutilating their bodies. Kemper's spree came to an end when he killed his mother and best friend, Sally Hallett in April 1973. He murdered his mother, cut off her head and used it as a dart board. Then he lured Hallett around to the house where he strangled her and went on the run. When he rang police and told them what he had done, they did not initially believe him. In May 1972 when he picked up two Fresno State University students, Mary Ann Pesce and Anita Luchessa, and killed them He murdered 15-year-old Aiko Koo (left) in September 1972 and then 18-year-old Cindy Schall (right) in January 1973 He murdered Rosalind Thorpe (left), 23, and Alison Liu (right), 20, in February 1973 and had sex with their corpses before mutilating their bodies Kemper's spree came to an end when he killed his mother and best friend, Sally Hallett in April 1973 He tried to claim he was insane during his trial, but he was found guilty in November 1973 of eight murders and was jailed for life, but with the possibility of parole. The horror film American Psycho alludes to Kemper when the character of Patrick Bateman, played by Christian Bale, utters the same lines as Kemper when he was interviewed by police: 'When I see a pretty girl walking down the street, I think two things. One part wants me to take her out, talk to her, be real nice and sweet and treat her right.' When asked about 'what the other part thinks?' he replied: 'What her head would look like on a stick.' Kemper is also the inspiration behind the film Silence of the Lambs, and a key player in the Netflix hit show Mindhunter. England have set up a date with destiny after reaching the final of Euro 2024 - and fans are pulling out all the stops to join Gareth Southgate and his men in Berlin. Since the Three Lions' triumph on Wednesday, desperate supporters have been scratching their heads about how best to get to the German capital after a huge surge in demand for flights, with budget airlines now booked up and replacement services selling at extortionate prices. Most non-stop flights to Berlin are sold out and the only remaining direct flight from Manchester and would now set fans back 622 - a 233% increase from its previous price of 187. British Airways reported a 1000% increase in searches for flights after the match finished and are considering adding extra services to cope with demand. Currently, the airline can best offer a flight from London Heathrow on Sunday which lands at Berlin Brandenburg Airport at 8.15pm, leaving fans just 45 minutes to make the kick-off. By the time Ollie Watkins ' 90th minute winner was in the back of the net, fans were already planning their route to Germany However most non-stop flights to the German capital are sold out leaving punters with limited options Desperate England fans are shelling out over 2000 for tickets to Sunday's Euro 2024 final with Spain All flights by British Airways on its website for Saturday are listed as 'unavailable.' However, there remain dozens of other flights to cities in and around Germany that could offer England fans some hope of reaching the Euros in time to watch England lift the cup (probably). MailOnline has analysed trains, boats, flights and roads to bring you the definitive guide to getting to the Euros for Sunday's huge game. By Boat For those who don't fancy parting with half their mortgage for a plane fare to Berlin, ferries to Europe are still running. Simply pop down to the Port of Dover in your car and take advantage of P&O's 99 weekender deal. After a presumably choppy journey you'll have plenty of time to reacclimatize to dry land as you sit in your car for ten hours following the long road to Berlin. Like soldiers of old you'll pass through France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany before arriving at the Brandenburg Gate. For those who don't fancy parting with half their mortgage for a plane fare to Berlin, ferries to Europe are still running By Train There are several trains departing from London in the lead up to the match which will get fans there in good time for kick off. If you were to depart London at 18:00 you'd be in Berlin just 16 hours and 47 minutes later after one change at the non unreasonable price of 315.19. Alternatively, fans have the option of flying from London Heathrow to Szczecin in Poland for just 316. After this, it's case of hopping on a 22 train which takes you on to Berlin in good time for the festivities. By Plane In what has been dubbed a 'new Berlin airlift', 50,000 England fans will race to the Three Lions' first overseas final - as flight prices doubled to 552. Fan leaders expect 10,000 more supporters to travel from England, adding to the 40,000 who were in Dortmund for the semi-final. However, with Berlin now out of action or too expensive to reasonably bother with, many fans have been looking elsewhere to get into Germany. A host of other German cities still have multiple flights in and out of them operating all weekend. They include Dusseldorf, Munich, Cologne and of course, who could forget: Stuttgart. However, these journeys are not for the faint hearted as Germany is a fairly massive country. If you were to travel from London Heathrow to Cologne you would fork out 387 for a return before driving to Berlin at a time of 6 hours and 30 minutes. A trip from Heathrow to Stuttgart is similar costing 406 before a 7 hour and 11 minutes drive. Gatwick to Munich costs 349 before a 6 hour drive to the capital. Dusseldorf is the most expensive journey of all, with return tickets from Gatwick costing 457 before a 6-and-a-half hour drive. Alternatively, England fans wanting to go on the ultra cheap can fly out to Berlin via Antalya in Turkey for 275 staying overnight in the airport and arriving in Berlin on Sunday morning. The highest-ever proportion of MPs have chosen not to take a religious oath during their swearing-in ceremony in the House of Commons, an analysis has revealed. The study found, following last week's general election, that Westminster was now 'one of the least religious national parliaments in the world'. According to Humanists UK, this week saw around two-fifths (40 per cent) of MPs choose to take a secular affirmation instead of a religious oath to God. This included Sir Keir Starmer, who was said to have become the first Prime Minister since Ramsay MacDonald in 1924 to take the non-religious affirmation. Their analysis also found 50 per cent of the new Labour Cabinet opted against taking a religious oath. The Class of '24: This year's newly-elected MPs gathered for a group photo in the House of Commons chamber this week Sir Keir Starmer was among 40 per cent of MPs who chose to take a secular affirmation instead of a religious oath to God Anti-monarchist Labour MP swears oath to King 'under protest' A republican former Labour frontbencher swore his oath of allegiance to the King 'under protest' as he signed back in to Parliament after the general election. Clive Lewis, who was shadow business secretary under Jeremy Corbyn, made the remark at the despatch box last night as MPs took up their seats in the House of Commons. The former British Army officer has previously made clear his anti-monarchist views, having called for a referendum on the monarchy in 2020 when he ran to succeed Mr Corbyn as Labour leader - coming last in the election. Affirming in the Commons, he said: 'I take this oath under protest and in the hope that one day my fellow citizens will democratically decide to live in a republic.' Advertisement By law, MPs and peers are required to take an oath of allegiance to the Crown before they can take their seat, speak in debates, vote, or receive a salary. They can either swear in using a religious text or take a non-religious, solemn affirmation. After the vast bulk of MPs swore in this week following last Thursday's election, Humanists UK found an increase in the number choosing a secular affirmation. Less than one-quarter of MPs (24 per cent) opted for an affirmation rather than a religious oath following the 2019 general election. The figure was similar after the 2015 and 2017 general elections, according to their analysis. The 40 per cent of MPs affirming this year included 47 per cent of Labour and 47 per cent of Liberal Democrat MPs, as well as all four Green MPs, both SDLP MPs, and 6 of 9 SNP MPs, the study found. This compared to only 9 per cent of Conservative MPs and one out of five Reform UK MPs who chose to affirm. It was noted that a small number of those affirming will have done so in spite of being religious or because their religion forbids taking oaths. But Humanists UK said the reverse was also true of those taking oaths as a large number of MPs typically swear on the Bible despite being non-religious. Suella Braverman, the former home secretary, was noted to have affirmed while holding a Buddhist text as Buddhists tend not to swear oaths on their text. Humanists UK said the 40 per cent of MPs affirming this week came close to the 42 per cent of Britons who say they don't believe in gods. Andrew Copson, chief executive of Humanists UK, said: 'For the first time ever, the number of those affirming versus swearing an oath has come close to reflecting the beliefs of the population as a whole. 'We've known for a while that the UK is one of the least religious countries in the world. We now have one of the least religious national parliaments in the world, too.' An alternative healer accused of causing the death of a diabetic grandmother on a slap therapy course told jurors it was his patients' own 'responsibility' to take their medication. Hongchi Xiao said he would 'never' instruct a diabetic person not to take insulin, which controls blood sugar levels, despite jurors previously hearing he told Danielle Carr-Gomm her condition was something that his treatment 'could help with'. The 61-year-old, originally from China but who spent a long time in the US, insisted he never claimed to be a medical doctor or that he was medically trained. Mrs Carr-Gomm, 71, died in 2016 after she stopped taking her insulin over the course of a four-day workshop in Melksham, Wiltshire, run by Xiao, having been on the course to try to get rid of her diabetes. Xiao is accused of gross negligence manslaughter after he allegedly refused to call for help despite her becoming gravely ill and 'howling' from pain. Hongchi Xiao gave evidence in his defence about his slapping therapy workshop, at which a 71-year-old diabetic woman died Footage shows Xiao performing slapping therapy at a seminar he hails as a cure for diseases The practitioner of a slapping and stretching discipline called paida lajin is said to have known of the fatal risks of a diabetic not taking their medication because Mrs Carr-Gomm became extremely unwell at his previous workshop. A six-year-old boy died during another of his retreats. Jurors at Winchester Crown Court have been told the self-professed healer has an 'unshakeable' belief that Western medicine is 'evil'. He claimed Mrs Carr-Gomm's worsening condition was a 'healing crisis' because there is 'darkness before dawn breaks'. Giving evidence in his defence, Xiao said he had 'never' suggested he was a doctor to attendees of his seminars or been medically trained. He said: 'I'm not a medical doctor, so everyone is responsible for their own medicine. 'Secondly, I'm not fully against medicine - what I'm concerned about is the side effects of medicine.' Asked by his lawyer Charles Row KC if he would ever support someone coming off medication, he said: 'Don't do it suddenly. You have to always check. The prosecution claim the defendant 'congratulated' Danielle Carr-Gomm (pictured) after she informed him she had stopped her insulin medication The trial is taking place at Winchester Crown Court 'If it's not something you can check, you go to the doctor. 'I'm not a medical doctor, you have to make sure with your medical doctor.' He told jurors he would 'never' persuade a diabetic not to take their insulin. In 2019 Xiao was convicted of manslaughter in Australia after a six-year-old boy with type-one diabetes died at his workshop in April 2015, having stopped taking his insulin at his instruction. However, he claimed he 'never' did this. Xiao said he learned acupuncture and massaging, and that he spent time with the monks in Tibet where people would travel 'hundreds of miles' to be treated by him. However, he said he became 'exhausted' treating 100 people a day and decided to move from healing to self-healing, so he could get people to heal themselves. The trial continues. Keir Starmer waded into the row over Joe Biden's fitness to run for reelection today as he denied the president is 'senile'. The PM insisted Mr Biden had been on 'really good form' and 'mentally agile' during their hour-long chat in the White House last night. The comments, in a round of interviews with broadcasters in Washington this afternoon, came with controversy raging over Mr Biden's age. Even some Democrats have been urging the 81-year-old not to run again after a disastrous TV debate against Mr Trump. Downing Street has posted a behind-the-scenes video of Sir Keir chatting with Mr Biden face to face for the first time at the NATO summit. The US commander-in-chief described the UK as the 'transatlantic knot' binding the two continents, backing Sir Keir's Brexit renegotiation by suggesting Britain should be 'closer to Europe'. At one point Mr Biden, who is facing questions over whether he is too old to stand for another term, slowly extended his hand towards Sir Keir. But he had to prompt the premier to take it - saying 'gimme your hand pal'. Sir Keir told reporters earlier that Labour's manifesto plan to force members of the House of Lords to retire at 80 did not imply other octogenarian politicians such as Mr Biden should quit. Joe Biden described the UK as the 'transatlantic knot' binding the two continents as he met the new PM in the White House The meeting came as Sir Keir made his debut on the world stage by attending a NATO summit in Washington The two leaders were in the famous Oval Office in the White House last night Asked by the BBC if Mr Biden was 'senile', Sir Keir replied: 'No, we had a really good bilateral yesterday, we were billed for 45 minutes, we went on for the best part of an hour, we went through a huge number of issues. At pace - he was actually on really good form.' Pressed whether the president was 'mentally agile', the PM replied: 'Absolutely across all the detail. 'We were going at pace through a number of issues, which was really important to me, because obviously, it was my first opportunity to have a bilateral like that. 'And he showed incredible leadership.' Sir Keir was asked whether it was 'unfair' that long-term supporters such as Hollywood star George Clooney were suggesting Mr Biden is 'not up to it'. 'Well, I'm giving you my readout of the meeting... as I say, we've covered a lot of ground strategic ground international stuff, and not just Ukraine. 'He was on good form. And, of course, you know, various interventions yesterday, we went straight from that, to the dinner that he hosted.' At the start of their meeting, Mr Biden said: 'I kind of see you guys as the knot tying the transatlantic alliance together, the closer you are with Europe. We know where you are, you know where we are.' Sir Keir told the president: 'The special relationship is so important. It's forged in difficult circumstances, endured for so long, and stronger now than ever. 'I'm very pleased to be able to come so early in government to recommit to NATO, to recommit to the special relationship and to discuss these affairs with you.' Boris Johnson has been among those warning that Labour will water down the terms agreed with the EU. A UK Government spokesman said Mr Biden and Sir Keir 'agreed we must continue to do whatever it takes to support Ukraine and ensure aggressors like Putin do not win'. The spokesman added: 'The President welcomed the Prime Minister's recent comments on establishing closer relationships with our European counterparts, as well as the UK's commitment to Aukus.' Speaking before the talks, Sir Keir tried to dodge questions about Mr Biden's age. 'In terms of the age in the House of Lords, the simple fact is that our House of Lords is massive,' he said. 'It's the second biggest political chamber in the world. I think it's only the Chinese who have a bigger political chamber than our House of Lords, we have to reduce it. 'That is the primary driver of the retirement at 80. You can see why that needs to be done. We've got 800-plus members of the House of Lords, it's simply too big. We need to reduce it. 'So it doesn't reflect on how other elected representatives are chosen in other countries, it's to do with the size of the House of Lords.' Mr Biden is facing calls from some Democrats to step aside. He has vowed to fight on but commentators have warned his performance at the NATO summit could decide his fate. The meeting came as Sir Keir prepared to urge NATO allies to support Ukraine for 'as long as it takes' as he confirmed the UK's own 3 billion a year military aid for Kyiv will continue. The PM, who met Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in the margins of the NATO summit in Washington yesterday, will tell members of the alliance later that they need to send a 'clear message' to Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The UK's military support for Ukraine will continue until at least 2030/31 and for as long as it is needed. At a special session on Ukraine at the NATO summit, Sir Keir will warn that the frontline defence of the Euro-Atlantic region is the Ukrainian trenches. He will say: 'NATO was founded by the generation who defeated fascism. They understood not just the value of our strength, but the strength of our values. 'Those values are under attack once again. Putin needs to hear a clear message ringing out from this summit a message of unity and determination, that we will support Ukraine with whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to uphold our shared values and our shared security.' The Washington summit cemented Ukraine's 'irreversible' progress towards NATO membership, with a joint statement by the allies. NATO leaders posing for a family photo as the summit began yesterday But because of NATO's Article V, which commits to mutual defence, the allies will not allow Ukraine to join while it is still at war as that would trigger an immediate conflict with Russia. NATO allies are stepping up commitments on Ukraine while they await the results of November's US presidential election, where Donald Trump has threatened to reduce American support. Concerns about Mr Biden's plan to run for re-election were evident during his Oval Office meeting with Sir Keir. The president did not directly respond to questions about George Clooney's criticism, after the actor and prominent Democrat supporter suggested he should leave the race. She stood at the top of the plane steps in a pretty white summer frock, posing hesitantly alongside our newly elected Prime Minister, off on his first official foreign trip to Washington for the NATO summit hosted by President Biden. Keir Starmer would soon be meeting powerful leaders and heads of state, revelling in the job he's wanted for so long - representing Britain on the world stage. But what about the woman at his side, the UK's new First Lady? Her expression seemed to be saying 'what am I doing here?' I completely agree. Britain's Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria board a plane at Stansted Airport as they head to Washington DC to attend a Nato summit Lady Vic (pictured clapping her husband after the election victory) has steadfastly remained in the background during Labour's election campaign This highly intelligent mother-of-two once told a friend she was 'dreading' the attention she'd get if Starmer was elected. Lady Vic has steadfastly remained in the background during Labour's election campaign, surfacing only for a State Banquet at Buckingham Palace, the annual party conference and the odd fundraiser, but never giving an interview or posing for cheesy fashion photos. She comes across as a busy mum, with a close circle of well-trusted friends, leading her own life away from the inward-looking, ruthless and gossipy world of party politics. It's no secret that her priority is to carry on as before. Hours after her husband was elected Prime Minister, Vic left him behind to go horse racing at Sandown Park, watching the Coral Eclipse with a group of friends. Her granny lived next to Doncaster racecourse, and Vic's mother grew up passionate about horse racing - like mother like daughter. Brought up by parents who were practising Jews, Vicky Alexander (as she was then) studied sociology and law at Cardiff university, and revelled in student politics. She was elected President of her Student's Union not once, but twice - winning over two thirds of the vote. According to friends from those days, Vicky was opinionated, highly-organised and a great communicator. So why didn't she - not Keir- enter politics? Could it be because she realised the heavy price it would take? After Uni, Vic went on to train as a solicitor, which is how she ran into her future husband, who was then a well-respected barrister. According to friends from her university days, Vicky (pictured at Downing Street) was opinionated, highly-organised and a great communicator Following a furious row on the phone when he questioned her preparation for a case, she exclaimed: 'who the f*** does he think he is?' and slammed down the receiver. Not long afterwards, they ran into each other at a legal dinner and started chatting. He was more than a decade older than her, but obviously not very skilled at romance... their first date took place in his local pub. Keir has said from the outset he was utterly smitten, and they soon got engaged, marrying in 2007. Happily married for 17 years (although he's admitted it has not been easy), Starmer's career dreams have finally come true after decades of plodding away. But what about the woman who has spent the last decade multi-tasking so he could devote all his time and energy to a career? This vibrant, sassy (his words) woman he relies on for support, and who is (he says) the best sounding board for his thoughts and concerns. A woman who doesn't mince her words. Vic Starmer raised their two children whilst working in Occupational Health in the NHS, while her husband spent every waking hour changing Labour into an electable party, purging extremists, carefully seducing donors, and cultivating the powerful people he needs to survive in office. She is said to have banned party workers from their home in order to preserve a normal atmosphere. Vic comes across as tough, and disciplined, clear about where her boundaries lie. Vic (pictured at the Coral Summer Festival at Sandown Park Racecourse) comes across as tough, and disciplined, clear about where her boundaries lie Keir Starmer has admitted Victoria (pictured with the PM outside 10 Downing Street) shouldered the bulk of the work of holding the family together Keir Starmer has admitted she shouldered the bulk of the work of holding the family together, ensuring their children led normal lives, where politics didn't intrude. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Starmer values precious family time, and tries to make sure he's free after 6pm for their Friday night suppers. A stark contrast to Rishi Sunak, who told reporters he was 'never' through with work by 6. Vic's well known within her local community, has been a school Governor, and is said to be concerned about the impact of her husband's new job on their 16-year-old son, who is interested in politics and sitting at least 20 exams. Their 13-year-old daughter feels rather differently and is said to have remarked 'if you win, I'm not coming' (to Downing Street). We shall see. So why did this no-nonsense woman agree to be the 'plus one' and accompany her husband on his first foreign trip as PM? Surely he didn't need her to hold his hand. Spouses are just window dressing for photo-ops at these gatherings of World Leaders, nothing more. Remember Carrie Johnson and Boris on the Cornish beach with the Bidens, posing for an eco love-in? Quite ludicrous, when you consider all the air miles involved. In Washington, as is traditional, separate events were held for leaders' spouses, hosted by the President's wife, Jill Biden. At a reception at the Smithsonian Museum of American History, VIPs including Lady Vic, Olena Zelensky of Ukraine and Emine Erdogan of Turkey were shown exhibits including the Muppets and Judy Garland's slippers from Wizard of Oz. Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria disembark from their plane upon arrival at Joint Base Andrews in Washington as they head to the NATO summit Jill Biden who still teaches part time at a local college - made a short speech about holding hands and reaching out to each other, and harnessing their 'collective strength'. Isn't this rather embarrassing? These women are generally more competent than their husbands, far more personable. They have greater empathy and can multi-task. Why didn't more of them choose politics? Think of Michelle Obama. Why they 'support' their husbands by turning up as a plus one is a mystery. If Lady Vic Starmer wants to signal a new, grown-up era in modern politics, she will treat any suggestion that she accompany her husband to future G7, G10 or EU summits, banquets and treaty signings with utter disdain. We elect leaders, not their wives or husbands. If Vic Starmer still wanted to be involved in politics, she would not have switched careers when she was so well-qualified and opted to work for the NHS. She, not her husband can boast to 'understand' what life is like for normal folk waiting for an appointment or an ambulance. Choosing a career in politics means wasting a lot of time hanging out with pompous, time wasting people. Spending time in-fighting instead of fighting for the voters, the ordinary people who put you in power in the first places. That's why so few women put themselves forward for parliament. It's our loss. But by remaining true to herself, Lady Vic might be able to persuade her husband to make politics fit for purpose in 2024. A Joe Biden aide has made a bizarre jab at George Clooney after he said the president must drop out of the 2024 presidential race. The movie star and lifelong Democrat, 63, has turned on Biden after his disastrous debate and widespread concerns about whether he can serve four more years. Clooney, who has hosted fundraisers for the 81-year-old, said Biden can't win the 'battle against time' in a scathing op-ed for the New York Times on Wednesday morning. But a Biden aide has claimed it was Clooney who lacked the stamina at a record-breaking $28 million fundraiser he held for the president in Los Angeles on June 16. 'A campaign official who attended that Los Angeles fundraiser tells me that George Clooney left three hours before the president,' CNN White House correspondent Kayla Tausche said. A Joe Biden aide has made a bizarre jab at George Clooney after he said the president must drop out of the 2024 presidential race Clooney has condemned Democratic party leaders for ignoring 'every warning sign' of Biden's declining physical and mental health and for trying to defend his car-crash performance against Donald Trump. He added that Democrat voters 'collectively hold our breath or turn down the volume whenever we see the president, who we respect, walk off Air Force One or walk back to a mic to answer an unscripted question.' His comments came weeks after he hosted a fundraising event for Biden and was pictured alongside him. But a Biden aide has hit out at Clooney for leaving three hours before the president and claimed it was him who lacked stamina. Host Jake Tapper asked: 'What does that mean, George Clooney left three hours earlier? Whats the point?' Tausche replied: 'The point of that is to suggest that Bidens stamina is better than Clooneys and Clooney didnt have eyes on the entire event. Thats the response to the Clooney op-ed.' She added: 'Biden aides point to an aggressive travel schedule in the coming weeks. Hes set to go to Michigan on Friday, Nevada next week, as well as an aggressive fundraising schedule with events planned in Texas and Colorado and two in California as proof that he is not going anywhere.' Clooney joins the scores of Democrats and Biden allies who have called for the president to step down in the two weeks since his meandering and mumbling showing on CNN. The actor hosted some of the biggest fundraisers in the party's history, including one last month for Biden's reelection. Biden has insisted he is not going anywhere and that he will still beat Trump in November, but Clooney's comments are an enormous blow to his embattled campaign. 'Joe Biden is a hero; he saved democracy in 2020. We need him to do it again in 2024,' the actor wrote in the op-ed. Clooney, who hosted a star-studded fundraiser for Biden in Los Angeles on June 16, said the person he saw there was the candidate the world saw at last week's presidential debate. 'I love Joe Biden. As a senator. As a vice president and as president. I consider him a friend, and I believe in him. Believe in his character. Believe in his morals. In the last four years, he's won many of the battles he's faced,' Clooney wrote. 'But the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time. None of us can. It's devastating to say it, but the Joe Biden I was with three weeks ago at the fund-raiser was not the Joe 'big F-ing deal' Biden of 2010. The movie star and lifelong Democrat , 63, has turned on Biden after his disastrous debate and widespread concerns about whether he can serve four more years But a Biden aide has claimed it was Clooney who lacked the stamina at a record-breaking $28 million fundraiser he held for the president in Los Angeles on June 16, according to CNN 'He wasn't even the Joe Biden of 2020. He was the same man we all witnessed at the debate,' he said. Biden and Clooney have a long relationship, going back to Biden's day as chairman of the Senate Foreign Services Committee. Clooney was working on issues in Darfur and connected with him. The president has honored Clooney for his support, hosting him at the White House for the Kennedy Center Honors in December 2022. The actor has become a major force in the Democratic Party, raising millions for its candidates. He's seen as an influential voice in American politics. His dis-endorsement of Biden could also hurt the Democratic Party in the pocket book. Hollywood donors, with their deep pockets, were said to be furious with campaign co-chair Jeffrey Katzenberg after Biden's debate performance. The donors, like many Biden supporters, said they felt misled and betrayed about the president's health. Clooney argued it was more important to beat Donald Trump in November than to keep Biden on the ticket. 'Our party leaders need to stop telling us that 51 million people didn't see what we just saw. We're all so terrified by the prospect of a second Trump term that we've opted to ignore every warning sign,' he wrote. But Biden and Clooney also hit some bumps in their relationship. The actor was reportedly furious at the White House in early June after Biden attacked an attempt by Amal, Clooney's lawyer wife, to jail the Prime Minister of Israel, it emerged on Thursday. Amal Clooney signed off on a bid by the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court last month to seek the arrest of Benjamin Netanyahu alongside Hamas leaders for war crimes a move the President denounced as 'outrageous.' Clooney reportedly called one of Biden's closest advisers to make his feelings known. But he still hosted a fundraiser - along with actress Julia Roberts and former President Barack Obama - later that month that helped raise $30 million for Biden's campaign last month. The fundraiser, however was overshadowed by questions about the president's health after a video appeared to show Obama having to guide Biden off stage. George Clooney visited the White House where he was honored by the President in 2022 Amal Clooney and George Clooney - Clooney was reportedly furious at the White House decision to question Amal's work on the war in Gaza In the video, Biden and Obama are seen waving and smiling while receiving a standing ovation in the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles. Biden applauds and gives the audience a thumbs up but then he stops moving as he stares out over the crowd for several long moments. That's when Obama, still smiling and waving, took Biden by the wrist and gave him a gentle tug. That's when the president appears to snap out of it. They proceed to walk off the stage together with Obama speaking into Biden's ear as he pats him on the back as they go. The White House called the video a fake. Officials also noted the fundraiser took place the day after Biden returned from participating in the G7 summit in Italy. Already some prominent Democrats are saying Clooney has a point. 'I am concerned.' Michael Douglas, a longtime Biden supporter, told ABC's The View. 'I think it's a valid point,' he said of Clooney's op-ed. Biden has been struggling to rally Democrats around his presidential bid as calls for him to exit the presidential race grow. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi is among those appearing to question Biden's decision to remain in the contest. 'It's up to the president to decide if he is going to run. We're all encouraging him to make that decision. Because time is running short,' she said on Morning Joe on Wednesday. Some Democratic lawmakers have expressed their doubts about Biden's ability to beat Trump. Clooney said he's heard this concern from members of Congress he has spoken to, including worries the Democratic Party will lose the House and Senate. 'We are not going to win in November with this president. On top of that, we won't win the House, and we're going to lose the Senate. 'This isn't only my opinion; this is the opinion of every senator and congress member and governor that I've spoken with in private. Every single one, irrespective of what he or she is saying publicly,' he wrote. Obama seen giving Biden's arm a gentle tug and leading him off the stage after the president freezes during the applause at a fundraiser in Los Angeles in June Clooney met with then-President Barack Obama at the White House in 2010 to talk about the Sudan He argues a nominee should be picked at the Democratic National Convention, which will be held in Chicago August 19th through August 22nd. And the actor suggested an array of candidates who could replace Biden and go on to win in November. 'Let's hear from Wes Moore and Kamala Harris and Gretchen Whitmer and Gavin Newsom and Andy Beshear and J.B. Pritzker and others,' he said, name checking several governors and the vice president. 'Let's agree that the candidates not attack one another but, in the short time we have, focus on what will make this country soar. Then we could go into the Democratic convention next month and figure it out,' he adds. Biden has insisted he will stay in the race. He sent a letter to all Democratic lawmakers on Monday, announcing his decision. He's also reached out to party officials, donors and mayors as he tries to shore up his support with the party faithful. 'I want you to know that despite all the speculation in the press and elsewhere, I am firmly committed to staying in this race, to running this race to the end, and to beating Donald Trump,' Biden wrote to Democrats. Some Democrats are standing by the president. Live musicians play outside Pacific Cafe, while people drink free wine, as part of the restaurants 50th anniversary celebrations. Frank Gundry A glass of wine will run you upward of $20 at many San Francisco restaurants these days, but theres one place where its still free: Pacific Cafe, which celebrated half a century in business last week. Within a week of opening, on July 4, 1974, the Richmond District restaurant implemented a policy of presenting diners with complimentary glasses of wine while they wait for a table which on busy weekend nights can take over an hour. The refills, while you wait, are unlimited. Pacific Cafe may not have quite the same name recognition as some of San Franciscos other historic seafood restaurants, like Tadich Grill (open since 1849), Swan Oyster Depot (1912) or Scomas (1965). Its not a tourist destination. But it has something that those more famous spots cant claim: the feel of a true neighborhood restaurant. Advertisement Article continues below this ad We make sure to treat people like theyre coming over to our house, said co-owner Frank Gundry, who started at Pacific Cafe as a waiter in 1975. Were welcoming. It feels personal: Host Roy Manabat, a fixture at the restaurant for 42 years, still remembers every regulars name and, in many cases, their birthday. The place has maintained its immaculate 1970s character, with its rust-colored ceilings and walls, wood-paneled booths and mounted, gaping-mouthed fish above the chalkboard menus. On a busy night, it would have the same feel as it did in those days, Gundry said. The menu consists of hearty seafood dinners like halibut Parmesan, shrimp Louie and Petrale Sole Newburg. All entrees come with Boudin sourdough, a choice of clam chowder or salad and side dish options like rice pilaf and steamed vegetables. The original owners, Tom Hawker and Jim Thomson, hired Gundry less than a year after opening. Gundry had graduated from the University of San Francisco a few years earlier and pursued a career as a counselor for children and adolescents. Although hed never worked in a restaurant before, he was drawn to the job because hed be able to take significant time off. He vacationed for as much as a month and a half in many of those early years, traveling to countries like Nepal and Indonesia to pursue his photography passion. I never could have believed that Id still be here, said Gundry, who since 2014 has co-owned the cafe with Ross Warren. But its a great little place. Ive been able to serve three generations of families. At one point, the original owners operated five Pacific Cafe locations, including in Ghirardelli Square, Kentfield and South San Francisco, but for various reasons they all eventually closed. (In the case of Ghirardelli Square, it was the Loma Prieta earthquake that forced the closure.) The last one standing, at 7000 Geary Blvd., is the original. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Of all the elements that make Pacific Cafe such a distinctive neighborhood treasure, however, its the free wine that I find most endearing. You dont have to ask for it. As soon as you arrive, a host will greet you with one glass for each adult in your party white by default, but you can make a special request for red. The pours are high and generous, in the sort of squat, thick-stemmed glasses that are retro-cool at new natural wine bars. The aperitif is meant to ease the wait for a table, but the staff offers it even if there is no wait. For the last 15-odd years, said Gundry, the house white has been Bianchi Emerald Glen, a bag-in-box wine that the Paso Robles winery identifies as a Chablis. It is not actually from the French region of Chablis, and in fact I couldnt even figure out what grape varieties it might contain. Its a simple, inexpensive, indistinct wine but I will say that it passes for dry, and drinking it on the sidewalk outside the restaurant reminded me of throwing back glasses of cheap, dilute Trebbiano in casual restaurants throughout Italy. If you want to order a glass of the Emerald Glen with dinner, its $9, though Ill also point out that corkage at Pacific Cafe is only $12. To commemorate its 50th, Gundry hosted several nights of live musicians, threw raffles for gift certificates and gave out many rounds of free sparkling-wine toasts. He also affixed a roulette wheel to a post in the dining room that contained 16 numbers one for each of the restaurants tables. Every night in the week leading up to the milestone, hed spin the wheel several times, and if your table number came up, then your meal would be priced at 1974 prices, Gundry said. A crab cake dinner, currently $37.95, would cost $4.25. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Divers have been sent to plug leaks in a sunken craft in a bid to minimise the damage from an oil slick off the Scottish coast. Experts are in the process of trying to salvage the wreckage of the craft near a fish farm in waters off the Isle of Mull. Temporary floating barriers to contain the toxic substance have been deployed around the wreckage of the Julie Anne by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA). Contracted by Scottish Sea Farms as a fish farm landing craft, it sank on Thursday, July 4, at the firms salmon farm in the Sound of Mull near Fiunary. Divers have been checking on the boat, which lies in 65ft (20m) of water, several times a day to ensure fuel leaks are kept to minimum. The oil slick from the sunken boat, in the bottom right of this picture, appears to be close to several fish-farm cages Booms have been placed around the slick in a bid to contain it and minimise damage The landing craft Julie Anne sank in the Sound of Mull on Thursday, July 4 But video footage of the area shows the shoreline covered with an oily substance and a distinctive slick in the sea near the farm. SEPA yesterday said the leak had been contained, but the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) carried out surveillance flights of the site while a solution was found. Environmental campaigners last night warned of the risk of fish being poisoned. Dale Vince, founder of Ecotricity and leader of the Green Britain Group said: The fuel spill in a Marine Protected Area near Fiunary isnt just an isolated incident - its a glaring symptom of the fundamental flaws in open-net salmon farming. This industry is wreaking havoc on precious marine habitats, and its high time we face this head-on. The current practices are simply unsustainable and unacceptable. Whats more, the fact that polluted fish may end up on consumers plates is deeply troubling. Were at a crossroads - we can either continue to degrade our coastal waters and compromise food safety or take bold action to revolutionise our approach to salmon farming and marine stewardship. Gerry McCormick, Scottish Sea Farms head of health and safety, said the incident was rare and that the firm is now focused on removing the fuel from the surface of the water and refloating the vessel. He said: Our immediate priority, with the assistance of specialist divers and environmental services, has been to check for any potential fuel leaks, seal any areas found to be releasing small quantities of fuel, and re-check these multiple times daily. As an added precaution, we have also deployed oil booms around the incident area. Our collective focus now is on removing the fuel and re-floating the vessel - a first for Scottish Sea Farms in close to 25 years of farming - which we hope to have done within the week, after which we will carry out a full and thorough inspection. A SEPA official said: The operator placed booms in the water to contain any potential pollution and prevent dispersal, and divers have been monitoring the vessel to check for and plug leaks. While a small fuel leakage was initially observed, this has been contained and no further pollution has been recorded. The operator will continue to apply mitigation measures before the vessel is recovered. We continue to liaise with the operator and Marine Directorate as we monitor the situation closely to ensure any potential environmental impacts are limited. A spokesman for MCA said it was reviewing the plan being formed by the experts charged with salvaging the vessel. He added: The Secretary of States Representative is involved and is monitoring the recovery actions. The boyfriend of one of the three women barbarically killed in a 'targeted' crossbow attack has today paid tribute to the 'love of my life' in a heartbreaking social media post. Alex Klein, who was in a relationship with 28-year-old Hannah Hunt, the daughter of BBC racing commentator John Hunt, shared a photo of the pair with the caption: 'RIP the love of my life, I will never forget you, stolen from me too soon. 'The brightest light in my life. My brave queen for life. Until we meet again... I love you Hansy.' The heartbroken boyfriend also posted pictures of the couple kissing in a swimming pool and another of them beaming together at an investor event with the words: 'Forever with me.' From Mr Klein's social media posts, it appears that he and Hannah went on holiday to Tenerife in March last year. Hannah was tragically killed alongside her mother Carol, 61, and sister Louise, 25, after a crossbow-wielding attacker set upon all three women at their home in Bushey, Herfordshire, on Tuesday evening. The women desperately attempted to get help as they were targeted in their own home, with one calling 999 and another texting her partner urging them to get the police. The suspect in the killings, Kyle Clifford - who is Louise's ex-boyfriend - is currently in a 'serious condition' in hospital after being tracked by armed police to a cemetery in north London yesterday evening following a 22-hour manhunt. It is believed the suspect shot himself as the net around him tightened, with police saying their staff did not fire their guns during the operation. Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with the triple murder probe. It comes as: Alex Klein, who was in a relationship with 28-year-old Hannah Hunt, the daughter of BBC racing commentator John Hunt, shared a heartbreaking tribute The heartbroken boyfriend also posted pictures of the couple kissing in a swimming pool He posted another photo of them at an investor event with the words: 'Forever with me.' Hannah Hunt was killed alongside her mother and sister in a tragic crossbow attack which has rocked Bushey, Hertfordshire Carol Hunt, who was married to BBC horse racing commentator John Hunt (pictured together), was also found fatally injured along with her two daughters at her home Hannah's sister and Carol's daughter, Louise Hunt (pictured), is the ex-girlfriend of crossbow suspect Kyle Clifford The suspect in the killings, Kyle Clifford (pictured) - who is Louise's ex-boyfriend - is currently in a 'serious condition' in hospital Distraught loved ones broke town in tears as they paid tribute to the family today. The tight-knit community in the idyllic town has been shocked to its core by their deaths, with devastated locals left mourning the 'beautiful souls' and heartrendingly saying: 'They did not deserve this.' This morning around 50 people attended vigil in memory of the women at their local church, with many unable to hold back the tears at the deeply emotional service. One childhood friend of Carol, who attended the vigil, described her as a 'beautiful person'. Lea Holloway, 60, who had known Carol since she was 16, said: 'We grew up together and were pregnant at the same time. This is the stuff nightmares are made of. 'I was there the night she met John [Hunt]. 'It was in a nightclub in Hemel Hempstead. We went out together, went to birthdays and events. 'It's very difficult. She was the nicest, kindest, sweetest person you could ever meet. A beautiful person.' She added: 'They were a lovely family and (the daughters) were lovely girls. 'They were making their way through life and their lives have been taken too soon. It's the thing of nightmares. 'I feel for their eldest daughter and John (Hunt). I can't imagine what it would be like.' Ms Holloway was joined by Dionne Smith, 58, and Abigail Phillips, 58, who said: 'She was a lovely, lovely person. We can't believe what happened. 'We were a four, and now there's only three. It doesn't seem real. We are together in grief.' Inside the church, Father David Stevenson paid tribute to the women, echoing the written tributes left to the family amid the bundles of flowers outside the police cordon. A tribute which included photos of Louise Hunt was among those left by a friend at the scene today Piles of flowers and written tributes have been left in memory of the women at Ashlyn Close this morning Flowers left outside the house where the bodies of Carole, Hannah and Louise Hunt were found on Tuesday In one message bereaved neighbours paid tribute to the 'three beautiful souls that left us too early' Jockeys wore black armbands at Kempton Park Racecourse yesterday out of respect for John Hunt Today was about 'supporting the community', he said before adding that their deaths had made people realise 'we are just one big family'. Sue Kehinde, who lives close to the family's home in Ashlyn Close, said they were 'the loveliest, gentlest family'. She said: 'They were the meekest human beings. They did not deserve this. They were beautiful souls.' Police sources say there is evidence the women were being tied up before being shot dead with a 3ft-long crossbow in a 'targeted attack' that may have also included 'other weapons'. It was reported on Wednesday that neighbours had heard piercing screams the night before, but had initially mistaken them for that of a distressed child. One of the three victims is understood to have called 999 and told police about the incident in a brave, tragic final act, before the perpetrator fled the scene. One of the women sent a text to her partner urging a call to police. Mother-of-three Carol, who shares another daughter with John, was reportedly found in the hallway of the house with a crossbow bolt in her chest, with evidence of ligatures discovered near the victims. It was reported that the three women were not tied up when found by police, but there were ligature marks around their face and wrists as well as signs of injuries to their knees. As tributes continued to pour in today police raided a property on Rendlesham Road in Enfield, with police staff wearing gloves and face masks as they revisited a home which they first searched yesterday. The house is believed to be linked to Clifford's brother, Bradley Clifford, who was jailed for life with a minimum term of 23 years for the murder of moped passenger Soban Khan in 2018. As the community reeled from shock, locals arrived at the Hunt's family home on Thursday to lay floral tributes. There was still a major police presence on the street, which detectives are still combing in search for vital clues. One heartfelt note said: 'For the three beautiful souls that left us too early. Wishing your onward journey is peaceful and full of love. To the family and friends, I wish you all the strength in the world to come to terms with your tragic loss.' Tributes were paid to Hannah and Louise by their former school Loreto College in St Albans. It wrote on social media site X: 'Today we are mourning the loss of two of our ex-students, Hannah & Louise, along with their mother, Carol. 'We extend our thoughts & prayers to the family during this most difficult time. 'As a Loreto Community, they will always hold a place in our heart. May they rest in peace.' John with his wife Carol, who was found with fatal injuries at their 800,000 detached house in Bushey, Hertfordshire Carol Hunt (pictured) and her two daughters were tied up before being shot with a crossbow, MailOnline understands Other friends shared tributes on Facebook, with one describing the sisters as the 'friendliest and kindest girls ever'. They added: 'Seems like yesterday I saw you both in the gym, chatting about things & helping with your workouts. Hannah used to be my work colleague as a massage therapist at my gym a few years ago and gave me a few massages there, then became a member of the gym after with her little sister Louise. 'Louise was such a kind and gentle soul who I could talk to for ages for about general life. This one hits hard, both of you will be greatly missed & forever in our hearts.' This afternoon there was a minute's silence during Ladies Day at Newmarket Racecourse in Suffolk as the world of horse racing paid their respects to the Mr Hunt's family. Race commentator Richard Hoiles, who is a close friend on Mr Hunt, paid tribute on ITV's programming, saying how he would often lovingly talk about his family. 'There's plenty of people in the press room - I have no idea of their family,' he said. 'But we all felt we knew Carol and the girls, possibly far better than we actually did. 'It has been a folklore that after our annual shindig at Christmas 20 odd years ago we'd all retired to the local pub and out would come John's wallet with pictures of the girls at primary school, who he'd share with random bar staff and anyone else who would care to listen.' He added: 'In the helter skelter of modern-day life it's quite easy to lose track of the things that we hold dear, but John never has. 'I know I hugged my kids tighter last night on leaving for here. Knowing that that simple pleasure has been cruelly snatched away from one of mine, and many in the press room's, greatest friends. 'Words just seem hollow and inadequate in such circumstances and all we can try and do is provide some crumb of comfort by trying to exhibit the warmth and respect in which John and his family is held, as will be shown by the many tributes that will be held up and down the country today.' Neighbours had alerted police to the horrifying attack after hearing the terrified screams of the women in their quiet cul-de-sac just before 7pm on Tuesday. By the time police arrived at the property the assailant had fled, with officers believed to have contacted Mr Hunt as he returned from working at Lingfield Park course. Paramedics were unable to save the three victims, who died at the scene. It wasn't long before detectives were on the trail of a suspect after a figure was seen darting out of an alleyway directly behind the murder scene. Clad in black, the man was captured on doorbell footage calmly striding away with what appeared to be a crossbow tucked under his arm hidden beneath a white sheet. Chillingly, he passed within feet of a female neighbour, who stood alone on her driveway stroking a cat and seemed startled by the sight of the barely concealed weapon at 6.50pm. Within hours, a national manhunt was under way for former soldier Kyle Clifford, who was named by police in a highly unusual step. The 26-year-old had previously served in the Queen's Dragoon Guards for a short time before dropping out having failed to impress superiors, it was said last night. As they attempted to track him down, police warned the public not to approach the suspect. The suspect was seen being stretchered from a cemetery in north London yesterday after a 22-hour police manhunt Armed police carrying guns run into Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield on Wednesday afternoon An ambulance at the scene at Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield on Wednesday afternoon As police scoured the area, their attention turned to Clifford's hometown of Enfield, with officers carrying out raids and locking down primary schools in a bid to catch him. Bystanders captured the moment police raided a property in Rendlesham Road with officers continuing to search the address today. Armed police and paramedics were filmed on Wednesday afternoon running into Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield as the hunt continued for Clifford, a former soldier and security guard. Later, armed police closed down the cemetery, a five-minute walk from the house linked to the suspect. Up to four black-clad officers - two carrying automatic rifles - stood guard at the cemetery gates, preventing members of the public from entering. Meanwhile, an ambulance rushed into the cemetery grounds with blue lights flashing and sirens on just after 4.30pm after Clifford seemingly shot himself with the crossbow. Around 20 minutes later he was stretchered from the scene and taken by ambulance to Royal London Hospital, where he received medical treatment overnight. Police confirmed no shots had been fired by officers and nobody else was being sought. A London Ambulance spokesperson said yesterday: 'Ambulance crews and London's air ambulance attended an incident in Lavender Hill Cemetery, Enfield, this afternoon. We treated a man at the scene and took him to a major trauma centre.' Kyle Clifford dropped out of the army weeks before he is alleged to have murder three people Armed police searching Lavender Hill cemetery in Enfield as the hunt for fugitive Kyle Clifford took a new turn Forensics were seen outside Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield as the manhunt for Kyle Clifford continued Colleagues of Hannah took to Facebook to pay tribute to the 'fantastic therapist' who was 'loved' by her clients. The Anti-Ageing Clinic at Radlett wrote on Facebook: 'It is with deep regret and sadness of the horrific murder on Tuesday night of our skin therapist Hannah. 'She was a fantastic therapist and clients loved her. 'We send our condolences and prayers to her Dad, sister and family.' Neighbours claimed Clifford had been in a relationship with the Hunts' youngest daughter, Louise, but she split up with him a week ago. Their parting is said to have left her so shaken that she recently crashed her car into a telegraph pole outside the family home. Neighbour Glyn Nicholas, 77, said: 'Louise was a very nice girl. She ran a dog grooming business from the house. I heard that she split from a boyfriend last week and was very upset about it. 'A friend of Louise's told me that her car door had caved in because of the crash.' A police officer walks down the road at the site of a triple murder in Bushey on Wednesday An officer stands next to a police a car outside the scene of a triple murder in Ashlyn Close, Bushey An aerial view of the scene of the suspected triple murder in Bushey, Hertfordshire A blue and white forensic tent has been erected in the front garden of one of the homes in the cul-de-sac in Bushey where the killings took place He added: 'Carol was a nice, polite and quiet lady. She was at home a lot of the time. 'They were all very nice, a private family. They all did their own things. Louise started a business a couple of years ago, and it was a thriving business we all took our dogs there to be groomed. 'A very close-knit family and they used to love the street. They'd had a lot of work done on their house over the years.' Mrs Hunt, a mother of three, had recently told friends at her local gym that her youngest daughter was involved in a 'messy break-up' with her boyfriend. One suggested her daughter's relationship had turned nasty. A friend said: 'She said her daughter's split with her boyfriend was messy. Carol did not go into too much detail, but you could see she was concerned.' Days before she was killed Louise had shared a post on social media praising 'women who leave'. The young dog groomer reposted her final tweet on social media platform X on July 3, which read: 'I admire women who leave, idgaf if you left after the 1st time or the 12th time I admire s***! 'Idgaf if ppl calling you dumb for 11 years but in the 12th year you decided you was done. It takes A LOT of strength to break a tie. It takes ALOT of self love to choose yo self.' Yesterday neighbours revealed that Clifford had been in a relationship with the Hunts' youngest daughter, Louise, but she split up with him a week ago Louise Hunt shared her final post on social media platform X on July 3, praising 'women who leave' for their 'strength' Hannah Hunt, 28, and mother Carol Hunt, 61, were also killed in the tragic attack on Tuesday The three women lived with BBC star John Hunt (pictured), who was at work at the time of the attack The BBC confirmed that Mr Hunt's wife and two daughters had died and messages of condolence have been posted on social media by figures from the racing world. The BBC has called the murders 'utterly devastating', adding in a note to staff: 'Our thoughts are with John and his family at this incredibly difficult time and we will provide him with all the support we can.' His colleague at Radio 5 Live Mark Chapman opened his coverage of England's Euro 2024 semi-final by paying a tearful tribute to his friend. Speaking with a quivered voice on the radio last night, sports presenter Chapman said: 'This has been a heartbreaking day. John Hunt is our colleague, and our friend, not just to the current 5 Live Sport team, but to all of those who have worked here with him over the past 20 years. 'And also, to all of you who have enjoyed his superb commentaries. So, on behalf of everybody connected to 5 Live Sport, our love and thoughts and support are with John and his family.' Yesterday jockeys at Kempton Park Racecourse wore black armbands as they took part in races as a mark of respect of Mr Hunt. This afternoon there will be a minute's silence at Newmarket Racecourse in Suffolk in memory of his family. Julie Harrington, chief executive of the British Horseracing Authority, said: 'The thoughts of everyone at the BHA are with John Hunt, his family and friends. It is impossible to comprehend the horror that has been inflicted upon them by this dreadful event. John is a great friend to many in our sport and I am sure that in this time of unimaginable grief for him, the racing family will rally around as we have seen many times before when one of our number is faced with great trauma.' A grave of a Jacksonville, Florida, 'hero' is located in an unusual spot - a sidewalk. The grave belonging to the late Thompson Williams is in the middle of a walkway in Durkeeville, Florida. The grave is located right next to the Emmett Reed Park and Community Center, according to News4JAX on July 9. Williams died by gunshot wound in 1908 after he protected 'the honor and life' of a woman from what The Florida Times-Union called a 'fiend' who fired two shots at her. He was buried in what used to be the Mount Herman Cemetery after his death, and he has remained under the concrete ever since. The grave belonging to late Florida resident Thompson Williams currently sits in the middle of a sidewalk next to the Emmett Reed Park and Community Center Williams died by gunshot wound in 1908 after he protected 'the honor and life of a white woman.' Williams was survived by his wife and 10 children at the time The Mount Herman Cemetery was primarily for Jacksonville's black citizens, dating back to the 1880s. By 1953, most of the cemetery had become a park, which historian Ennis Davis found makes it special. 'This park is unique because it is Jacksonvilles largest 19th-century African American cemetery,' Davis told News4JAX. According to Davis, the remodeling is how the unfortunate grave site was created. 'This alone should let you know that the development of this street and its infrastructure was built over a cemetery, and they moved the grave in the middle of the sidewalk just to do it,' he said. Davis did a bit of research on his own and found an 1800s map that gave a layout of the legendary cemetery. 'I came across an 1800s map of Jacksonville that had a zoomed-in map of ownership in the LaVilla area, and this was identified as the Mount Herman Cemetery,' he said. Historian Ennis Davis found a map of the area from the 1800s, which showed its layout and the location of Mount Herman Cemetery Bodies were removed after the cemetery was donated to the city in the 1940s, and only one plot remains untouched The revamp began in the 1940s after someone from the Francis LEngle family donated the cemetery to the city. Nearly all bodies were removed in the years after the donation, and the Emmett Reed Park and Community Center was eventually built on top of the cemetery. Hardly any headstones are left in what used to be the Mount Herman Cemetery, and the plot is only big enough for one family. Other than Williams, the Fagin family has remained in the same resting place since they died in the 1900s, one of whom was a US military veteran. Jacksonville native Freddie Paney knew about the former cemetery's existence since he was little, and he's not sure how its historical destruction can be fixed. 'What they should do is put a big sign up and let people know that it was a cemetery,' said Paney. A teenager jailed for murdering of a 14-year-old schoolboy has had his sentence cut because he had become normalised to violence through his childhood. Daniel Haig, 18, stabbed Justin McLaughlin in the heart and left him to die on the platform of Glasgows High Street train station on October 16 2021. He was given a life sentence for the crime by judge Lord Clark at the HIgh Court in Edinburgh in August 2023. He was told he would have to serve a minimum of 16 years before hed be eligible for parole. But lawyers for Haig went to the Court of Criminal Appeal in Edinburgh to argue that the sentence given to Haig was excessive. Justin McLaughlin was stabbed during a fight on the platform of High Street Station in Glasgow Appeal judges said that Haig had become 'normalised' to violence during his childhood Defence advocate Michael Meehan KC told appeal judges Lady Dorrian, Lord Matthews and Lord Pentland that their colleague Lord Clark had failed to take account Haigs young age at the time he passed sentence. The lawyer argued that Lord Clark should have taken the sentencing guidelines on young people into account. In a written judgement, the appeal court upheld the submissions. Lady Dorrian - who delivered the judgement - wrote that she and her colleagues had evidence before them about Haigs background that Lord Clark didnt have. She said that this information showed that Haig had good prospects of being rehabilitated. Lady Dorrian said that Haig should be given a 13 year long punishment part. She wrote: Having regard to all the known factors, and nevertheless fully acknowledging the dreadful nature of the offending, we are satisfied that the punishment part was excessive. During earlier proceedings, evidence showed Haig brandishing the knife which he used to stab Justin. Haig was also seen in other CCTV images arriving at Glasgows High Street station before the fatal attack and then fleeing the scene. Just before leaving the station, Haig had run at a group of youths, including his victim, and a clash broke out on the platform. After the scuffle ended, Haig jumped on to the track to retrieve the knife which he had dropped before stabbing the teen. Haig, who was 16 at the time of the attack, admitted knifing Justin but had denied murder. He was found guilty following a trial at the High Court in Glasgow. In the judgement published on Thursday, Lady Dorrian writes of how evidence provided to the court showed that Haig had become normalised to violence through his upbringing. She wrote: The information now available to the court shows exposure to extreme domestic violence from an early age, first as a witness, later as a victim, and thereafter as a perpetrator. The appellants mother is reported to have stabbed his father and, on a later date, to have threatened the appellant with a knife while he was holding his younger sibling. The older relative, association with whom seems to have triggered an escalation in the appellants behaviour, is alleged to be involved in criminal behaviour in the east end of Glasgow and to have links to serious and organised crime. His father and uncle are currently serving lengthy prison sentences for violence, and an older maternal cousin is serving a prison sentence for murder. It is clear that the appellant has grown up in a familial environment in which the use of violence, including the use of weapons, has been normalised. Lady Dorrian also wrote of how there were signs of positive engagement between Haig and staff at St Marys Kenmure Secure Unit - the institution in Bishopbriggs, Lanarkshire, where he was placed following the sentencing. She wrote of how Haig had been participating in structured activities which he found engaging and he also showed a capacity to build relationships with staff. Lady Dorrian wrote: There are good indications throughout the material that the appellant is a young man with some potential. Brandon Hodgson is helping Spanish police with investigation, his mother said A friend seen partying with Jay Slater in Tenerife days before his mysterious disappearance has received death threats, his family revealed today. Brandon Hodgson, 19, was pictured with his arm across Jays shoulders at the pool party on the Spanish holiday island during the second day of the NRG festival on June 15. Jay, a 19-year-old apprentice bricklayer, has not been seen since he went to a remote AirBnB at Masca - an hour from the resort in Playa de las Americas on June 17 - in the Parque Rural de Teno with two men. Dressed in a distinctive orange T-shirt and with a bag across his chest, Hodgson had his arm around the apprentice bricklayers shoulders in the picture taken two days earlier. Today in the familys first comments, his mother claimed he was being subjected to a hate campaign on social media. She likened his treatment to the false rumours which swirled around Nicola Bulleys family after the mortgage adviser vanished while walking her spaniel last year. The photograph also features Lucy Mae Law, the last friend to hear from Jay as he apparently attempted to walk back to the resort. Jay Slater disappeared in a remote village in northwest Tenerife on June 17 as he tried to walk back to his hotel in Playa de las Americas after missing a bus Brandon Hodgson, 19, was pictured with his arm across Jays shoulders at the pool party on the Spanish holiday island at the NRG festival A map showing Jay Slater's last known movements before he disappeared Lucy Law shared an Instagram post of Jay and a crying face and heart emoji Another of Jay's friends, Bradley Hargreaves, 19, was spotted at Tenerife South airport on Sunday. Neither he or Ms Law have spoken publicly about how they came to be separated from the missing teenager It has led to speculation over why unlike Ms Law and Jays friend Bradley Hargreaves, also 19 - Hodgson has not spoken publicly about how Jay came to be separated from his friends, who all returned to the UK at the weekend. Speaking at the family home in Brierfield, Lancashire, Hodgsons mother Natalie insisted the teenager was helping Spanish police. But she said he had no plans to break his silence and address speculation from amateur sleuths on social media following his return home. Hes liaising with the police, and thats all that matters, the IT consultant told MailOnline. Hes got death threats and all sorts. Mrs Hodgson, 45, said the family were not interested in whether members of the public wanted her son to share what he knew about the final hours before Jay vanished. Saying they wanted to avoid what she described as a hate campaign similar to that which hit Ms Bulleys family after she vanished, she added: Hes working with the police and thats all he needs to do. Her comments come as Jays family and friends have complained it has been left up to them to conduct searches. His uncle, Glen Duncan, 41, said the family feels like theyve been left on their own after police called off their own search. Speaking to Sky News yesterday, Mr Duncan said: So far weve just been in touch with the British consulate out here who have been saying its still a live investigation, we have just got to sit tight. Its just adding to the despair really. Mr Duncan said the family hadnt given up hope and were going to continue searching for Jay, from Oswaldtwistle in Lancashire, because otherwise youre just sitting in the apartment staring at the same four walls. Police and mountain rescue teams used dogs, drones and a helicopter during the 13 days they looked for Mr Slater before calling the search off on June 30. After halting their own operation, the Guardia Civil said the family could bring in their own search and recuse teams to look for the missing teenager. The investigation is still ongoing, police said, but they wouldnt disclose their current lines of enquiry. Police say Jay walked up the hill from the village of Masca in the wrong direction, at 8.15am, after being told there was no bus back to his Paloma Beach hotel in Los Cristianos until 10am. They believe he then left the road and took a remote path down into the desolate valley in the mistaken belief it was a short cut back. Jay travelled to the Canary Islands for a musical festival with his friends A sleuth claimed a pair of sunglasses has been found on a remote Tenerife mountain that could belong to missing raver Jay Slater Spanish police have said the investigation remains open and they are pursuing all avenues but refuse to disclose if they believe there as any third-party criminal involvement. Last week MailOnline identified one of the men who drove Jay back to the Airbnb as convicted drug dealer Ayub Qassim, 31, but he has insisted the youngster arrived alive and left alive. Ms Bulley, 45, drowned in the River Wyre while walking her dog in St Michaels-on-Wyre, Lancashire on January 27 last year. Her body was found three weeks later on February 19 after a huge search effort which sparked global headlines and a string of conspiracy theories. Dr James Adeley, senior coroner for Lancashire, later ruled the mother-of-twos death was accidental and that she did not have any desire to take her own life. A pastor and father of five has been found dead in his submerged car a week after he went missing in a mysterious case that has left his congregation stunned. Warren Beard, 53, assistant pastor at New Israelite Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, was found in the Des Plaines River outside the city on Tuesday. The married pastor had last been in Joliet on July 2 where he was visiting friends. His body was finally found on Tuesday after cops obtained surveillance footage from the night he vanished showing his car ramming into a gate and plunging into the river. Local community members have been left reeling by the news and are adamant that Beard was not suicidal. Pastor Chenier Alston, who worked with the pastor for 18 years, claims foul play must have been involved. The police investigation remains ongoing and they have not released the results of Beard's autopsy which was carried out on Wednesday. Warren Beard, 53, was the assistant pastor at New Israelite Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago . He was last seen in Joliet, Illinois on July 2, where he was visiting friends according to the Chicago Police Department. On July 9th, the Army Corps of Engineers informed Rockdale authorities about surveillance footage captured on July 2nd. The video showed Beard's car driving through a closed gate and then under a raised drawbridge before it plunges into the river, at around 10:47 p.m. that night. Cops explained how the pastor's car plowed through the shut gate and then flew underneath a bridge before entering the water. Rockdale Police Department Chief Robert Bake said: 'The vehicle's size allowed it to fit under the gap in the bridge before entering the river.' His body was found in the driver's seat of his own vehicle just after 2:45 p.m. in the Des Plaines River near Chicago Tuesday night, reports WMAQ. Sonar technology was later used to locate the submerged vehicle. 'What I want answered is, "Who did this,"' Alston said at the press conference. 'I don't believe this. I may be jumping the gun, but ... Warren was not; he was not suicidal. 'The fact that his car launched off that bridge, [there] were barricades there that had to be driven around. And we know how passionate he was about his job, his wife, his children, so we just want answers. And whatever those answers are, we are going to get justice for him,' he said. 'He was the greatest person, one of the great men I ever met in my life, and this is painful.' Alston called Beard Tuesday night around 8:30 p.m. and reported that he was in good spirits as always when they spoke. 'He was jovial, he was happy, he was joking as usual. And the phone call ended with, as we always end it, 'I love you,'' Alston said. While the way in which Beard died suggests suicide, New Israelite Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Chenier Alston, who worked with Beard for 18 years at the church, insists foul play was involved His body was found in the driver's seat of his own vehicle just after 2:45 p.m. in the Des Plaines River near Chicago Tuesday night, reports WMAQ . Sonar technology was later used to locate the submerged vehicle Beard has served at his church for the last six years, and worked as a director at Preservation of Affordable Housing Communities. Alston told reporters that he wants Beard's death to be investigated further as he said he was with someone the night he died. 'I would hope that the police would passionately pursue every single lead. He was with a person, he was last seen with a particular person, and we pray that police would definitely investigate him and really just give us some answers,' he said. Kate Forbes has admitted women in the SNP have suffered very difficult experiences as a result of misogyny and her party needs to make changes. The deputy First Minister said sexist behaviour was not confined to the SNP - and blighted politics around the world - but now had to be confronted at home. Ms Forbes spoke out after the issue was raised this week by former Edinburgh MP Joanna Cherry KC and current MSP Elena Whitham. After her defeat in the General Election, Ms Cherry said she would not miss the stinking misogyny of some of the men Ive had to work with in the SNP. While Ms Whitham, who quit as drugs policy minister in February citing post-traumatic stress, said she experienced misogyny in the SNP last year and it very nearly broke me. Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes has admitted the SNP needs to make changes Writing on X, formerly Twitter, the Ayrshire MSP added: It cannot be allowed to persist. Their online comments prompted Oban councillor Julie McKenzie to thank Ms Cherry for calling out the misogyny thats rife and unchecked within our party. She said: I could write a book on the Argyll and Bute boys club. One day I might. Ms Forbes, 34, who narrowly lost the SNP leadership to Humza Yousaf last year, was asked about Ms Cherry and Ms Whithams comments on BBC Radio Scotland yesterday. She said: I dont think its any surprise that there is misogyny at work across the Scottish public square. Ive spoken to both of the people that youve mentioned in terms of their experience, their very difficult experiences, and why we need to make changes. But its important to say that this is not unique to any one political party, and its not unique to Scotland. It is an issue that, right across Western democracies, we are struggling with enormously - with social media, with the polarising and toxic nature of our politics. It was one of the reasons that Nicola Sturgeon said that she was standing down as well. So its a much bigger problem. She added: Its an issue that those of us who are in senior roles within government and who are women need to do as much as we can to root out, and also to be a role model for other women. Because the biggest risk is, of course, that other women therefore dont want to stand for politics. Ms Cherry last night confirmed she spoke regularly to Ms Forbes and welcomed her fresh approach. In 2021, then SNP member Grant Karte was barred by a court from contacting Ms Cherry for five years after sending her rape threats. The intimidation was linked to Ms Cherrys views on gender reforms and sex-based womens rights, which bucked the party line. She later revealed Nicola Sturgeon and then SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford gave her no support whatsoever. Ms Cherry told the Mail yesterday: I think theres a deeply embedded problem of misogyny in the party going back several years, and I think the leadership has failed to tackle it. But Kate has been supportive and Im grateful to her for that. I didnt have any support from Sturgeon. Ms Cherry said she and Ms Forbes had spoken frequently in recent years and she believed the MSP was a victim of misogyny in the SNP leadership contest. She highlighted how Ms Forbes had been criticised over her membership of the devout Free Church of Scotland, in a way other SNP figures were not. Joanna Cherry said she and Ms Forbes had spoken frequently in recent years Ms Cherry said: Look at what happened during the leadership campaign. Look at the way she was attacked. It speaks for itself. Gordon Wilson was a member of the same church as Kate and led the party for many years [1979 to 1990] in different times. Ian Blackford is a member of that church. There was a particular aspect to the criticisms that she received. Weve long had a position in the party where we welcome people from all religions, that have their own conscience views, as long as theyre not going to them on the rest of us. I dont think there was ever any suggestion that Kate was going to roll back equal marriage, she was just expressing her religious views. I do think there was an element of misogyny to it. Last year, Ms Sturgeon claimed some opponents of her bungled gender reform legislation were only cloaking themselves in womens rights, and were actually transphobic, deeply misogynist, often homophobic and possibly racist. Susan Smith of feminist campaign group For Women Scotland, which opposed the gender reforms, said Ms Sturgeons comments meant some of her supporters felt off the leash. She said: I think it gave permission to them, because their leader was saying that these people were the worst in humanity. She also said that, while Labour repeatedly took action against candidates and activists who attacked her groups members online, the SNP did not. The debate over gender reform has almost been an excuse for some really nasty online attacks on women. It is disproportionately women who are attacked over it. Sadly, its the younger men in political parties who have been completely vicious. Labour MSP Monica Lennon, who was groped by a male colleague while a councillor a decade ago, warned no party could be complacent about misogyny. She told the Mail: Its an issue within the Scottish Parliament. Its an issue for every political party. Misogyny is a societal problem so we need to tackle it wherever it exists. For our democracy to work we need to keep politics a safe and welcoming environment, especially for women, because we still have a long way to go to get equal representation. The row over misogyny in the SNP comes as First Minister John Swinney faces a civil war triggered by the loss of 39 seats last week and fears of another defeat at Holyrood in 2026. The SNP was asked for comment. America's fastest growing state is expected to welcome another million residents over the next two decades. South Carolina is predicted to see its population soar to 6.4 million by 2042, according to latest projections. The state boasts a strong jobs market which recovered quickly from the pandemic and relatively low cost of living which has already been attracting droves of new residents. The trend looks forecast to continue, with some experts suggesting the increase could be an underestimate. The boom will likely be mostly concentrated in just five counties, with most actually seeing the number of residents go down. South Carolina is predicted to see its population soar to 6.4 million by 2042, according to latest projections The biggest influx is forecast for Horry County, with an expected 53 percent gain equivalent to 216,662 more residents, the Post and Courier reports. The coastal county has long been the state's fastest growing and ties in with trends for all seaside counties in South Carolina which are forecast to expand. Additionally, Berkeley, Jasper, Lancaster and Spartanburg counties are predicted to swell by between 49 and 51 percent. South Carolina is the 23rd largest state in the country and grew by the fastest percent change in population from 2022 to 2023. It recorded a slightly negative birth rate, which means the increased population was due to people moving to the state. Many new residents have been drawn in by the low cost of living, which is six percent less than the national average and as well as the state's thriving economy. Housing is around a fifth lower than across the US, while the state also boasts stunning natural beauty making it easy to snap up a bargain home with scenic views. Despite the projected growth 25 of South Carolina's 46 counties are actually expected to see the number of residents fall. The boom will likely be mostly concentrated in just five counties, with most actually seeing the number of residents go down Rural counties are most likely to see population contractions, with a dozen predicted to have less than 20,000 residents by 2042. Among them is Allendale County which is expected to lose half its population, leaving just 3,515 people. 'We hope policy leaders and the private sector will find this information useful to help plan for the future,' said Frank Rainwater, executive director of the state Department of Revenue and Fiscal Affairs. 'The population is the key driver to what's affecting local areas.' The prediction estimates that South Carolina's population will expand by 19 percent compared to 2024 in the next 20 years. South Carolina's last population forecasts were done in 2019. Previous attempts to model growth resulted in underestimates. In 2003, Clermiston University said that the Charleston metro area's population would reach almost 80,000 by 2030. South Carolina is the 23rd largest state in the country and grew by the fastest percent change in population from 2022 to 2023 However, the milestone was reached a decade earlier than forecast. A rapid expansion in population is generally viewed as positive but can cause strain on services and infrastructure. Some local governments have already approved measures to curb the growth, with others imposing fees to help temper the impact. As with all projections, the latest figures are caveated with the understanding that they may be altered by factors such as new jobs, extreme weather events or migration changes. Double child killer Colin Pitchfork's next parole hearing will no longer be held in public due to 'unforeseeable developments including fresh allegations'. The Parole Board said on Thursday that the allegations were 'in respect of relatively recent conduct' and apologised for the 'increased stress' on the families of the victims. Pitchfork was jailed for life in 1988 after raping and strangling two 15-year-olds, Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth, in Leicestershire in 1983 and 1986. Then aged 27, he became the first man to be convicted in the UK using DNA profiling and was handed a minimum jail term of 30 years, later reduced to 28 years. Pitchfork, now 64, was initially released from prison in September 2021 but was back behind bars two months later after breaching his licence conditions when he approached a lone woman while litter-picking. Mugshot of Colin Pitchfork, the first murderer convicted and jailed using DNA evidence Dawn Ashworth, 15, was raped and murdered by Pitchfork in 1986 in Leicestershire Lynda Mann was also one of Pitchfork's victims, also being killed and raped in 1983 The hearing was due to take place this week but was adjourned, and will now be relisted to be heard in private. The full ruling from the panel chair on the parole hearing is not expected to be published until next week at the earliest, and it is unclear so far what the allegations refer to. In June last year, the Parole Board found the decision to recall Pitchfork to prison was flawed and said his detention was no longer necessary for public safety. But this ruling was blocked by then-justice secretary Alex Chalk as he called for the decision to release Pitchfork to be reviewed. Although Pitchfork lost his latest bid for freedom in December, earlier this year he successfully challenged the ruling to keep him behind bars. It means this upcoming parole hearing, now set to be heard in privately, will decide if he can be freed from jail. Parole Board hearings are typically conducted behind closed doors but can, in certain circumstances, take place in public following changes in the law in a bid to remove the secrecy behind the process. A spokesperson for the Parole Board said: 'A panel of the Parole Board held a directions hearing for Colin Pitchfork on Wednesday 10 July. 'At that directions hearing the panel and both parties discussed how best to receive evidence in respect of fresh allegations in the case. Convicted child killer Pitchfork is seen walking in a local park near young families after his release in 2021 Lynda Mann (pictured) who was raped and murdered by Pitchfork in 1983 when she was just 15 'This included the submission of new material to the panel which relates to risk. 'We regret that as a result of material changes in circumstances there has had to be a change of decision in relation to the nature of the hearing, which will no longer be held in public. 'It has been caused by unforeseeable developments including fresh allegations in respect of relatively recent conduct.' The spokesperson added: 'We would like to apologise again for the increased stress that both the adjournment and the subsequent public hearing decision may have on the victims. Victim involvement is a valued part of the parole process and the victims have been invited to observe some of the private proceedings. 'The private oral hearing will be relisted in due course.' The most recent statement from the Parole Board comes after Caroline Corby, chair of the organisation said in May: 'I have carefully considered Mr Pitchfork's representations and I have concluded that the interests of justice outweigh the points raised on Mr Pitchfork's behalf.' According to a document outlining the decision to have Pitchfork's case heard in public, the Parole Board said he had changed his name by deed poll a number of times since his conviction due to an apparent 'desire to protect his identity given the public reaction to his offences and his potential release'. The name he is currently using has not been disclosed. Pitchfork raped and murdered Dawn Ashworth (pictured) three years after his first attack Kath Eastwood (pictured in 2010) of Leicester holding a picture of her murdered daughter Lynda Mann It is not clear if the families of Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth, the two Leicestershire schoolgirls raped and murdered by Pitchfork, have been notified of the Parole Board's decision to hold the upcoming hearing privately. But Dawn's mother Barbara, who now lives in Cornwall, said she was told last Thursday that the hearing had been delayed. She told The Mirror: 'I got told on Thursday but it was through a phone call that was breaking up. I dont know why its been delayed. 'It's upsetting, it's not right and it's frustrating. I have had one thing after another and I haven't been in the best of health.' A Ministry of Justice spokesman said in May then-Justice Secretary Alex Chalk was 'in full support' of the hearing taking place in public. They added: 'The Lord Chancellor was in full support of this hearing taking place in public which was made possible through our move to increase parole board transparency by removing the ban on open hearings. 'This Government is reforming the parole system to add a Ministerial check on the release of the most dangerous criminals and we are changing the law so that for society's most depraved killers, life means life.' Volunteers take tests to help police find the murderer of Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth, January 5, 1987 A Ministry of Justice spokesman said in May Justice Secretary Alex Chalk (pictured in May) was 'in full support' of Pitchfork's hearing taking place in public Pitchfork's first application for parole was rejected after it emerged that he had been loitering in forests and parks, even approaching lone women during his spell of freedom. He had been released under ultra-strict licence conditions in June 2021 before being recalled to prison just three months later in September that year. The killer became eligible for release again in June 2023 but the decision was blocked by the government after pressure from MP Alberto Costa, who represents South Leicestershire where the vile crimes were committed. In a rare move, the Parole Board agreed to Mr Costa's request for Pitchfork to face his latest parole hearing in public. The MP for South Leicestershire, who was recently re-elected, welcomed the decision to hold Pitchfork's latest parole hearing in public. The double child-rapist and murderer successfully appealed the December 2023 decision to keep him behind bars triggering a fresh parole hearing this summer. Mr Costa previously wrote to Parole Board chair Caroline Corby calling for the hearing to be held in public due to his concerns about how the Parole Board has handled Pitchfork's case. During the Parole Board hearing last year in which Pitchfork's bid for release was rejected previously unknown details about why he had been recalled to prison came to light. The killer became eligible for release again in June 2023 but the decision was blocked by the government after pressure from MP Alberto Costa (pictured), who represents South Leicestershire where the vile crimes were committed Artist's file impression of Colin Pitchfork appealing the length of his sentence at the Court of Appeal in London on June 20, 2021 After his release in a town on England's south coast, on one occasion the monster was spotted by his parole officer approaching a lone female - a direct contravention of his licence term - in the car park directly outside his parole office. Pitchfork was also said to have spent a lot of time 'walking aimlessly' in a forest and parkland areas, where he claimed he was simply picking up litter. On a different occasion Pitchfork shouted at a parole officer after trying to cheat a polygraph test by controlling his breathing. During the December hearing the Parole Board was told that prior to Pitchfork's arrest in 1987 he held 'deviant fantasies', felt entitled to sex where and when he wanted, and enjoyed sexual violence against women. The board's decision to deny his release was because of a lack of information about Pitchwork's current attitudes towards sex and 'protracted and inconsistent explanations from the killer as to why he was recalled to prison'. Pitchfork killed Lynda in Narborough, Leicestershire, in November 1983, and Dawn in the nearby village of Enderby in July 1986. Lynda was brutally murdered as she made her way home from babysitting in Narborough. Dawn disappeared three years later while on a short walk to her home in Enderby. Her body was discovered dumped in the corner of a field hidden under branches. Pitchfork was arrested on September 19 1987 and sentenced to life imprisonment the following January after pleading guilty to both murders, with the judge giving him a 30-year minimum term, later reduced to 28 years on appeal. He was also convicted of having sexually assaulted two more girls, including a 16-year-old who he threatened with a screwdriver and a knife. Pitchfork, who admitted to having exposed himself to more than 1,000 girls and women, was the first man convicted using DNA evidence. Some of President Joe Biden's closests aides are weighing how to tell him he can't beat Donald Trump in November and needs to drop out of the race. Other aides agree his chances at winning are zero and the odds are growing stronger he will take Democratic candidates down along with him. 'He needs to drop out,' a Biden campaign official told NBC News. 'He will never recover from this.' To convince him of that, aides told The New York Times they have to make the case to Biden directly that he can't beat Trump and persuade him another candidate, like Vice President Kamala Harris, can. They also have to reassure him that, if he were to step aside, the process to choose another candidate would be orderly and not devolve into chaos. The White House rejected claims in the report. 'Unequivocally, this is not true,' White House spokesman Andrew Bates said. President Joe Biden has not managed to quell the tide of calls against him Other top aides are standing by the president. 'I do not have concerns. He said he had a bad night,' National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan told reporters on Thursday when asked about the president's debate performance. In the wake of the debate, the drumbeat for Biden, 81, to step down as nominee is growing louder as the president repeatedly has insisted he will stay in the race. His White House aides have not approached him yet about an exit plan but are taking steps to make sure they have all the information they will need in place. The campaign is quietly testing a head-to-head matchup between Harris and Trump, the Times reported. The campaign is conducting a survey to see how the results play out. The data could either allow them to present a case to Biden that Harris is a strong contender or to reaffirm his view that he is. Biden, it's said, remains unconvinced that a Democratic besides himself can beat Trump. But it's not just Biden's inner circle that have doubts and many Democrats are no longer remaining silent about their concerns. Some have publicly called for Biden to leave the race while others are hinting that is the way to go. At least eleven Democratic lawmakers have publicly turned on the president, saying he needs to exit the presidential race. And, if Biden bombs in this evening's press conference, at least a half-dozen lawmakers are prepared to go public against him, Politico reported. Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said lawmakers were having 'candid, comprehensive and clear-eyed conversations' about Biden. 'Our conversations have been candid, comprehensive and clear-eyed and they continue,' he said on Thursday. Meanwhile Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer is reported to be looking at other presidential options - even as he wants to be mindful of Biden - and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi is working behind-the-scenes with members of Congress. On Wednesday she suggested Biden rethink his stance on staying the Democratic nominee. 'It's up to the president to decide if he is going to run. We're all encouraging him to make that decision. Because time is running short,' she said on Morning Joe. The Biden campaign is quietly polling to see how Vice President Kamala Harris would do against Donald Trump Donald Trump will accept the Republican nomination next week Additionally, longtime Democrat and major fundraiser George Clooney on Wednesday called for Biden to step down, saying 'the one battle he cannot win is the fight against time.' Former President Barack Obama got a head's up from Clooney about the op-ed but didn't try to talk him out of it, Politico reported, leading Biden allies to charge the former president with working against them. 'The Biden campaign and many Democratic officials do believe that Barack Obama is quietly working behind the scenes to orchestrate this,' MSNBC's Joe Scarborough, who is frequently in touch with the campaign, said on Thursday of Clooney's op-ed. In the three weeks since Biden's disastrous debate performance against Donald Trump, he has not managed to quell the tide against him. The president appeared on ABC News, called into Morning Joe and has led this week's NATO summit - but yet many Democrats remain unconvinced his age and health will let him successfully win in November and complete a second term. 'We have this window and the White House is just running out the clock, which is so selfish. We're all waiting around for Joe Biden to f*** up again, which is not a great position to be in,' a Democratic strategist told NBC News. Even allies who have not publicly called on Biden to exit the race have hinted they would like him to go in that direction. 'I have complete confidence that Joe Biden will do the patriotic thing for the country. He's going to make that decision, he's never disappointed me. He's always put patriotism and the country ahead of himself,' Democratic Senator Tim Kaine said. And, when asked if Biden will still be the party's presidential nominee next week, Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly of Virginia told CNN: 'I don't know. Events are unfolding very fast. I want to create space for the president and the White House to make a careful, reflective an patriotic decision.' But Biden's team is fighting back. Campaign chair Jen O'Malley Dillon and campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodrigue sent out a memo to staff on Thursday outlining how the president can win in November. The write that they see winning Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania as the clearest path to gaining 270 electoral votes. 'Right now, winning the Blue Wall states MI, WI, and PA is the clearest pathway to that aim, but we also believe that the sunbelt states are not out of reach,' the memo said. They argue Georgia and Arizona remain winable. 'The consensus across internal and public polling is that the toplines in the Blue Wall states largely remain within the margin-of-error,' they write. The pushback comes after a Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll that most Democrats think Biden should end his campaign based on his debate performance. The poll finds that 56 percent of Democrats say Biden should end his candidacy, while 42 percent say he should continue to seek reelection. Additionally, the Cook Political Report moved six states toward Trump in its Electoral College ratings on Tuesday, citing Biden's decline in national and private battleground polls post-debate. With the U.S. experiencing another COVID summer surge and the reformulated vaccine still months away, some may not want to wait until the fall to get their next shot. Salgu Wissmath/The Chronicle With the COVID pandemic now in its fifth year, millions of Americans have largely returned to their previous lives, with one exception: figuring out when to get their next COVID shot. For a while, the answer seemed simple: once a year, in the fall, when an updated vaccine comes out thats tailored to target the coronavirus strain that federal health officials believe will be circulating then. The timing of the fall vaccine which is now often delivered in conjunction with an annual flu shot is meant to protect people through the winter season, when COVID usually reaches its peak for the year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But with the United States now experiencing a typical summer COVID surge and the reformulated vaccine months away, some may not want to wait. The best moment to get another shot is different for everyone because people vary widely in when they got their last shot and when they last had COVID both of which influence the timing of the next shot. This is a situation where one size does not fit all, said Dr. John Swartzberg, a clinical professor emeritus of infectious diseases and vaccinology at UC Berkeleys School of Public Health. Infectious disease experts generally agree that those at high risk for severe disease shouldnt wait until the fall and can get a shot now as long as it has been at least four months since their most recent one or three months since they have had a coronavirus infection. This applies to adults 65 and older, especially those who are vulnerable due to underlying medical conditions and those who live in nursing homes, as well as immunocompromised people of all ages. Its these high-risk people who make up the majority of COVID hospitalizations and deaths, even if they had been previously vaccinated, so this is the group that should be thinking about it the most, Swartzberg said. Adults 65 and older accounted for 63% of COVID hospitalizations and 88% of in-hospital deaths in the first seven months of 2023, according to an October report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Yet federal data show that fewer than 36% of Americans 65 and older got last falls updated vaccine. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If you are in a high-risk group for a bad outcome, I think you should avail yourself to a booster now if you havent had one, Swartzberg said. Itll protect you in the summer and early fall. Then, in another four months, they could get the updated shot, which would give them additional protection right before the holidays, he said. Healthy or low-risk people, though, have a little more leeway to make a personal decision about timing. For them, the vaccine generally provides longer-lasting protection against hospitalization and death than it does for older and vulnerable people. In fact, young healthy people remain pretty well-protected against severe COVID the main objective of vaccination even if they only got the original vaccine in 2021, said Nadia Roan, a UCSF professor and senior investigator at Gladstone Institute who studies immunology and virology. Healthy young people remain pretty well-protected against severe COVID the main objective of vaccination even if they only got the original vaccine in 2021. They can afford to wait until the fall for the latest update to the shot. Jana Asenbrennerova/Special to The Chronicle So if a healthy or low-risk person got their most recent shot last fall, its probably sufficient to wait until this fall to get their next shot if the goal is to prevent any infection at all. Advertisement Article continues below this ad They may want to get it sooner, though, if theyre going on a trip soon and know theyll be in big crowds, Roan said. Antibody levels will spike within a week of vaccination and stay elevated for more than a month, lowering the likelihood of breakthrough infection, she said. Its very dependent on the individual and the situation, she said. If there are upcoming travels with lots of mingling, it could be strategic to get vaccinated now to decrease the chance of breakthrough infection. This would not only decrease the chance of having to deal with COVID but also decrease the chance of getting long COVID. But for someone that is not at risk of severe disease and wont be doing much traveling or socializing in the summer months, then waiting until fall would be fine. The current vaccine, which came out in fall 2023, targets the XBB.1 subvariant, but still offers some protection against the current circulating variants, the FLiRT variants KP.2 and KP.3, and LB.1. All of those, like XBB.1, are descendants of omicron. The mRNA vaccines for this coming fall will target KP.2. The Novavax vaccine will target JN.1, another omicron descendant that became dominant in late 2023 and early 2024 but has since tapered. JN.1 is the mother of the FLiRT variants, so it should offer some protection if the dominant strain by September is another FLiRT variant. Recent research shows that people who got the fall 2023 XBB vaccine were protected against JN.1, even though the vaccine wasnt designed to target JN.1. This is known as cross-protection, and should give people some reassurance that even if health officials dont pick the exact right strain for the fall, the vaccine doesnt have to be perfect to still be effective. Each booster shot will provide some form of protection, even if its not tailored to the latest strain, Roan said. Its difficult to match the most current circulating strain since the vaccines will always lag a bit behind the virus. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The XBB vaccine was 62% effective at preventing COVID hospitalization and 58% effective at preventing COVID emergency department and urgent care visits, compared to people who did not get the XBB vaccine, according to a June study in JAMA Internal Medicine. The study looked at thousands of adults who went to Kaiser Southern California hospitals for COVID care between October and December 2023. The analysis concluded that the XBB vaccine provided statistically significant additional protection against a range of COVID-19 outcomes and two older versions of COVID-19 vaccines offered little, if any, long-term protection, including against hospital admission, regardless of the number or type of prior doses received. Detectives in Arizona have said that the parents of a baby who died during a boating outing in searing 120F heat could face prosecution. Four-month-old Tanna Wroblewski passed away from suspected heat-related complications over the July 4th weekend. She was out on a boat with her family on Lake Havasu, around three hours outside of Phoenix, when she first became unresponsive. Despite attempts to revive her with CPR on the water and at the hospital, the youngster tragically died a short while later. Now cops have confirmed they may consider prosecution depending on the outcome of their ongoing investigation into Alyssa and Matthew Wroblewski. Detectives in Arizona have warned that the parents of a baby who died during a boating outing in searing 120F heat could face criminal charges. 'The investigation is ongoing,' a spokeswoman for Mohave County Sheriff's Office told DailyMail.com. 'The cause of death will be determined by the agency conducting the autopsy, which I believe is Maricopa County Medical examiners Office. 'Once the investigation is complete, everything will be forwarded to the Mohave County Attorneys Office for review and potential prosecution. ' The family had taken to the water on July 5th, despite an extreme heat warning. Although the baby's cause of death has not yet been released, officials believe it was brought on by a heat-related illness. She was taken to Havasu Regional Medical Center before she was airlifted to Phoenix Children's Hospital where she later died, just days before she turned four-months-old. Tanna's mom told DailyMail.com she has no idea what caused Tanna's death and it was just a 'regular, happy day as a family.' 'I will never understand why you had to leave us, you were just too perfect. I love you endlessly and I will look for you everywhere angel,' Alyssa Wroblewski wrote in a tribute. Three-month-old Tanna Wroblewski passed away from suspected heat-related complications over the July 4th weekend The family quickly started CPR on the infant before the Lake Havasu City Fire Department took over The family were on a boat on Lake Havasu despite the 120F weather and an extreme heat warning A GoFundMe set up to assist the family also paid tribute to the 'real life angel'. 'We are beyond devastated, heartbroken, there are just no words,' ,' the fundraiser states. 'Our precious baby girl gave us her last smiles and we gave her our last kisses.' Prior to the tragic loss, Tanna joined her family on many boat trips, going out on the water for the first time at just seven weeks' old. Arizona is one of the hottest places on earth from May to September and nearly 3,000 people visit the state's emergency room due to heat-related illnesses each year. More than 3,200 deaths from exposure to excessive natural heat have occurred in Arizona from 2012 to 2022. An extreme heat warning remains in place for Mohave County and Coconino County. Areas below 4,000 feet will be affected through July 12, with daytime highs up to 117F forecast. 'Candid, comprehensive and clear-eyed conversations' is the alliterative phrase Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries now uses to describe the internal turmoil House Democrats are facing. Eleven House Democrats, mostly vulnerable moderates, have publicly called on Biden to step aside. Progressives - who were critical of him just weeks ago over Israel - are now firmly behind him. The rest of the caucus is weighing whether to turn up public pressure on the president to step aside - and all eyes will turn to Biden's NATO news conference at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. 'Our conversations have been candid, comprehensive and clear-eyed and they continue,' Jeffries said to multiple questions about Biden's fitness for the Democratic nomination during a weekly news conference. 'Candid, comprehensive and clear-eyed conversations' is the alliterative phrase Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries now uses to describe the internal turmoil House Democrats are facing 'That's a speculative question, and as I indicated, we're involved in an internal process that we take seriously. And until that process is completed, I'm not really in a position to comment,' he said to a question on what happens if Biden 'fails to deliver' at a news conference Thursday evening. Asked whether Biden weighs on down-ballot races, Jeffries gave a curt 'no.' 'Democrats will win control of the House of Representatives on November 5th,' he insisted. The New York Democrat said members will 'engage with their constituents back home' and make their own decision on whether to call on Biden to step down after his debate performance last month. Now 11 House Democrats have publicly said it's time for Biden to step aside. Many others have privately said so or are planning to if Biden's performance at the news conference is not up to par. In the Senate, Peter Welch, D-Vt., has asked the president to make way for another candidate and Sen. Michael Bennet predicted Biden will lose Democrats both chambers of Congress and the executive. 'If things stay as they are, its likely that Donald Trump will win the election and well lose the Senate and well lose the House. Eleven House Democrats, mostly vulnerable moderates, have publicly called on Biden to step aside. Progressives - who were critical of him just weeks ago over Israel - are now firmly behind him Q: "President Biden has said he's staying in this race, but after your conversations throughout this week, do you think it's time for him to reconsider?@RepJeffries: "Our conversations have been candid, comprehensive and clear-eyed and they are ongoing." pic.twitter.com/uNb9DYGglg CSPAN (@cspan) July 11, 2024 Jeffries' fellow New York Democrat Ritchie Torres sounded off about Biden on X on Thursday, days after calling such comments 'deeply destructive.' 'The narrative that the President simply had one bad debate performance reflects a continuing pattern of denial and self-delusion. The President did not just have one bad debate. The reality we saw with our own lying eyes is evidence of a deeper challenge,' he wrote. Democrats calling on Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 election Sen. Peter Welch, Vermont Rep. Lloyd Doggett, Texas Rep. Raul Grijalva, Arizona Rep. Seth Moulton, Massachusetts Rep. Mike Quigley, Illinois Rep. Angie Craig, Minnesota Rep. Adam Smith, Washington Rep. Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey Rep. Pat Ryan, New York Rep. Earl Blumenauer, Oregon Rep. Hillary Scholten, Michigan Rep. Brad Schneider, Illinois Advertisement 'The notion that the President is going to be saved by this interview or that press conference misses the forest for trees. I will respectfully listen to the Presidents press conference tonight and the interview on Monday evening but the ability to survive a single public appearance is the bear minimum of what should be expected of a Democratic Nominee.' 'Neither the press conference tonight nor the NBC interview on Monday evening will offer the President the political salvation he seems to be seeking.' Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Jeffries' predecessor, has publicly insisted the door is still open for Biden to leave the race - even though he says he has made up his mind. Asked if Biden has her support on MSNBC's Morning Joe, the former speaker said: 'It's up to the president to decide if he's going to run. We're all encouraging him to make that decision because time is running out.' Reminded that Biden has made up his mind, Pelosi said: 'I want him to do whatever he decides to do.' 'Whatever he decides, we go with.' Behind closed doors, she's told people that Biden can't win and should step aside, according to Politico. Dr. Jill Biden may have the Vogue cover but Melania Trump just did her one better. Prior to hosting a hugely successful Republican fundraiser on Monday night bringing in $1.4 million Melania strode through Manhattan in a sleeveless, figure-hugging red Valentino sheath and six-inch Louboutin heels. She was alone. But she looked undeniably happy. For a woman who communicates primarily through clothing, Melania projected many things at once: Strength, defiance, fiery determination, and an allegiance to her husband's candidacy. This, despite not having been seen with the former president since their son, Barron, graduated from high school in May. Jill, meanwhile, has been busy literally holding up her elderly husband, whispering commands in his ear, and, most indelibly, leading him off that CNN debate stage after his disastrous performance only to drag him out to a campaign rally later that same night, speaking to him pitiably. Dr. Jill Biden may have the Vogue cover, but Melania Trump just did her one better. Jill has been busy literally holding up her elderly husband, whispering commands in his ear, and, most indelibly, leading him off that CNN debate stage after his disastrous performance 'Joe, you did such a great job!' she condescendingly enthused. 'You answered every question!' Melania, by all accounts, never wanted to be First Lady. In fact, she reportedly cried the night of the 2020 election, presuming along with most of the media and nearly every pollster that her husband would never win. Perhaps that's her superpower: Melania doesn't seem to care about the presidency. She gives the impression of a woman who knows exactly the kind of man she married, who will not be used as a political prop, and who doesn't consider fame a source of oxygen. Jill, on the other hand, has become the Dems' new Norma Desmond. She refuses to gracefully exit stage left, grasping desperately to her husband's power and all it affords her. If she weren't so unlikable, so callously engaged in what looks increasingly like elder abuse even uber-liberal filmmaker Michael Moore said as much this week one could almost feel sorry for her. For what will Dr. Jill do when her husband is no longer president? She has little to offer, no obvious reinvention or second act. The memoir will doubtless be vague, high-gloss and without teeth. So it'll be back to community college for our First Lady, who recently told Vogue that she doesn't assign books to her English and writing students, only articles. Cheaper and easier, she explains. What a metaphor for the Biden White House. And that's assuming she has the time to teach. Eldercare is expensive, and the Bidens, as we recently learned, are mortgaged to the hilt. Hunter has mounting legal bills. Who thinks Jill will be content tending to a declining husband eight years her senior, but seeming so much older and living out her days in obscurity, the matriarch to a shameless, sordid stepson and deeply troubled daughter? And what of her friends? Those A-list stars now fleeing in disgust the Clooneys, Michael Douglas, Rob Reiner, Stephen King may never return. Same with the billionaire and millionaire donors. Now comes word that the Obamas are turning. A scathing report Thursday, by Politico, suggested George Clooney sought approval from good pal Barack about his incipient New York Times op-ed, published Wednesday and calling for Biden to step aside. Barack, remember, is no die-hard fan. 'Don't underestimate Joe's ability to f*** things up', he memorably said of his former Vice President in 2020. This follows an Axios report last month claiming that Michelle Obama by far the most popular, and perhaps most influential, Democrat won't campaign for the Bidens because she is outraged over the family's treatment of her friend, Hunter's ex-wife Kathleen. Melania, by all accounts, never wanted to be First Lady. In fact, she reportedly cried the night of the 2020 election, presuming, along with most of the media and nearly every pollster, that her husband would never win. Jill, on the other hand, has become the Dems' new Norma Desmond. She refuses to gracefully exit stage left, grasping desperately to her husband's power and all it affords her. All of the Biden family's 'weird s***', as Barack reportedly once called it, may no longer be tolerated. So of course Jill's going to squeeze every last bit of power and celebrity out of being First Lady while she can. The country's safety and security will just have to come a distant second for now anything to stave off what will doubtless be a grim post-White House life. Melania, meanwhile, has raised Barron her only child in near-total privacy and, to her credit, with hardly a whiff of scandal. That said, she certainly made mistakes as First Lady. That infamous 'I Really Don't Care, Do U?' jacket, worn while visiting a children's migrant detention center, was appalling as was the hot pink pussy-bow blouse she wore to support her husband at a TV debate following the leak of his 'grab her by the p****' tape. But she seems to have learned her lesson. We've heard no complaints from Melania's camp over Anna Wintour icing her out of Vogue (unlike her GOP predecessors Nancy Reagan, Barbara Bush and Laura Bush, all regally styled and photographed). Nor have there been public gripes about the incessant media mockery of her 24-year age gap with Donald, her Slovenian origin story, even her holiday decorations while the press gave the Bidens a pass for excluding their little granddaughter, Navy Joan, from those Christmas stockings otherwise hung with care. And Melania gets no credit for being that rarest of political wives: One who has deviated from the playbook. Melania had not been seen with the former president since their son, Barron, graduated from high school in May. Trump allegedly had his affair with Stormy Daniels just four months after Melania gave birth to Barron. Hillary Clinton may have sat by Bill and aided in the so-called 'nuts-and-sluts' tarring of his other women, but Melania sat out Trump's recent trial and conviction over his hush-money payments to a porn star. Trump allegedly had his affair with Stormy Daniels just four months after Melania gave birth to Barron. Was she humiliated by this summer's court case? Of course. What woman wouldn't be? But Melania is no one's victim. Before joining Trump for his first term in D.C., she reportedly renegotiated her pre-nup. She is also said to have signaled that if Donald wins in November, she will not be living in the White House. For all their ostensible differences, it seems that Jill and Melania have more in common than not. Both are strong, formidable women who have sacrificed much of themselves for their husband's vaulting ambitions, and who serve some say as top advisors to their husbands. No less an authority than former Attorney General Bill Barr called Melania 'elegant' and 'intelligent' in his 2022 memoir, writing that he 'always thought [she] was smarter than the President'. But while Jill is unwittingly ushering in another Trump presidency, Melania seems rather unbothered. For what will Dr. Jill do when her husband is no longer president? She has little to offer, no obvious reinvention or second act. The memoir will doubtless be vague, high-gloss and without teeth. At 54 years old and a soon-to-be empty nester, one gets the impression that she'll spend the next four years her way: shopping, dining, and lounging poolside in Palm Beach. Melania is something of a Rorschach test, so enigmatic that supporters and detractors can project onto her whatever they like. What must Jill project onto her predecessor and likely successor? One senses she may find Melania married to a wealthy, powerful man who affords her the freedom and independence she craves quite enviable indeed. Nor does Melania appear to need fame for attention or validation. We never see her holding court with celebrities or gloating on social media. There's a dignity in that. Is her marriage partly transactional? No doubt. But as the saying goes: When you marry for money, you earn every penny. Does anyone think Jill married Joe thinking he'd only be a low-level public servant his whole life? Melania doesn't need to be First Lady; for Jill, the position has become her entire identity. How lonely, how terrifying, to now face life as a debtor's wife and a fallen ex-public servant who forgot the basic premise: It's the American people who hire and fire you, not the other way around. Melania has no nickname; Jill is now 'Lady MacBiden'. Jill's political obituary, if she doesn't make the only correct move soon, will surely cast her as the modern era's most craven First Lady. Melania, on the other hand, may be remembered as the most underestimated. The jury in the Alec Baldwin trial will hear evidence that he told his family to come to New Mexico for a vacation and have a 'good time', just hours after the fatal shooting on the set of his ill-fated Western film 'Rust'. The actor told his wife Hilaria, 40, that she should come with their children the day after the fatal shooting because they couldn't get their money back for the flights. Baldwin, 66, had made his comments during a police interview in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which he interrupted so he could FaceTime with his wife. The judge said the material was 'relevant' because Baldwin's lawyers claimed that he was upset after the accidental shooting of Halyna Hutchins in October of 2021. Baldwin looked tense and rocked back and forth in his chair as the decision was read out. As the hearing at the court in Santa Fe went on he put his hand over his face and appeared to be tired - then abruptly left the room for a brief period. The Emmy award winning actor who starred in the TV series 30 Rock, seen here entering court on Thursday, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of involuntary manslaughter Baldwin, 66, made his comments during a police interview in Santa Fe, New Mexico, which he interrupted so he could FaceTime with his wife The actor told his wife Hilaria, seen in court on Thursday , that she should come with their children the day after the fatal shooting because they couldn't get their money back for the flights The Emmy award winning actor who starred in the TV series 30 Rock, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of involuntary manslaughter. The stakes for Baldwin could not be higher and starkly were illustrated in February when Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 26, the armorer on the set of Rust, was found guilty for the same charges after a trial. She was later jailed for 18 months by the same judge overseeing Baldwin's case. Baldwin could also be jailed for 18 months if found guilty. Speaking during a hearing without the jury present, prosecutor Kari Morrissey said that she wanted to introduce new evidence to rebut claims by Baldwin's lawyers that he was 'upset' and 'ashen in color' after shooting Hutchins, 42. Speaking without the jury present, prosecutor Kari Morrissey said that she wanted to introduce new evidence to rebut claims by Baldwin's lawyers that he was 'upset' and 'ashen in color' after shooting Hutchins. The prosecutor said that at the time of the police interview, Baldwin knew Hutchins had been 'critically injured' and had been taken to hospital in a helicopter. She said: 'He's planning a vacation and he tells his family to come to New Mexico, we'll have a good time. 'This is obviously information that directly contradicts what the defense has argued. His family was coming to New Mexico the following day because he had a bit part for his daughter in the movie.' The stakes for Baldwin could not be higher and starkly were illustrated in February when Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 26, the armorer on the set of Rust, was found guilty for the same charges after a trial This aerial photo shows part of the Bonanza Creek Ranch film set in Santa Fe, New Mexico, days after the shooting Baldwin, seen here outside the Santa Fe County Sheriff's offices on the day of the shooting, was sensationally charged for a second time in January this year Baldwin's lawyers argued that there was a 'substantial' risk of unfair prejudice and that the jury would mistakenly view him as 'callous'. Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer said the material was 'of consequence' and could be used to respond to the defense claims about how 'upset Mr Baldwin was'. The judge also allowed in evidence that Morrissey argued went 'directly to Mr Baldwin's motivation to lie about pulling the trigger of the gun'. She was referring to comments by Baldwin that he was 63 years old and had six children at the time and 'I can't rely on luck any more'. Earlier Baldwin's case got a boost when the jury heard that the shot list for the day of the fatal shooting called for him to cock the gun. Prosecutor Kari Morrissey, seen here, said that she wanted to introduce evidence to rebut claims by Baldwin's lawyers that he was 'upset' after the shooting Photos taken by detectives with Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office show the aftermath of the incident in October 2021 Prosecutors have argued that Baldwin disobeyed the director's orders and 'did his own thing' when he shot Hutchins. But Marissa Poppell, a crime scene technician with the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office, read out the shot list, which belonged to Hutchins and was found on the floor where she fell after being hit with the bullet, calling for a close up shot 'on (gun) hammer as thumb cocks it'. During Poppell's testimony Baldwin shook his head in disgust after the jury heard there was a second live round in his gun belt on the set. Poppell said that the live round in Baldwin's gun, which he used to shoot dead cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, was one of six live rounds on the set. A second one was 'in Mr Baldwin's (gun) holster' which was also found in a church where the fatal shooting happened. At that Baldwin shook his head left and right in apparent disgust. In her opening statement on Wednesday, Erlinda Johnson, a special prosecutor appointed to the case, said that Baldwin had 'violated the cardinal rules of firearm safety' and that he was 'reckless' on set. While defense lawyer Alex Spiro told jurors that the death of Hutchins had been an 'unspeakable tragedy' but that Baldwin committed no crime. Former Santa Fe County Sheriffs deputy Nicholas LeFleur was called as the first witness in the case, with the jury being shown footage from his body cam that he wore that day. An evidence photo is displayed on a screen as crime scene technician Marissa Poppell testifies during the trail on Thursday Hutchins can be seen laying on her back inside the set with tubes coming out of her body as medical teams tend to her. Baldwin appeared to struggle at one point while watching the footage and put his hand on his forehead. The trial is the culmination of a nightmare for Mr Baldwin that has lasted for nearly three years and has finally come to court. The case has had a long and tortured path to trial: Baldwin was originally charged in January 2023 with two counts of involuntary manslaughter. They were dropped three months later in light of new evidence, prosecutors said, adding they needed more time to investigate. Baldwin was sensationally charged for a second time in January this year with the same charges. The case is expected to hear eight days of evidence and argument, followed by deliberations. Concerns about Joe Biden's fitness for office have gone global, according to Speaker Mike Johnson. The speaker revealed that world leaders he's met with as part of the NATO conference have expressed concerns about the president's cognitive abilities. 'All those NATO leaders are here on the Hill as you know,' Johnson told Fox News's Laura Ingraham on Wednesday evening. 'These foreign leaders are coming in, prime ministers, heads of state and they are telling us privately that they are deeply concerned.' Johnson's comments came just after meetings with United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The speaker did not specify which leaders had expressed concerns. Meanwhile NATO officials and diplomats from across the globe are holding their breath to see how Biden performs at a post-NATO news conference Thursday evening. Johnson, center, pictured shaking hands with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday 'It's a very weird feeling to be in Europe listening to the president of the United States, and you're more stressed about whether he will go off script than being excited to listen to the leader of the free world,' a senior European diplomat told Politico. 'You're worried if he knows which direction he's going or whether he's going to fall or what he's going to forget or if he'll say "North Korea" when he meant "South Korea." It's just a weird experience.' 'He didnt look good,' said another Washington-based foreign diplomat of Biden at the NATO conference this week. Johnson called Biden's cognitive decline the 'biggest political cover-up.' 'The Democrats are in total disarray. They don't know what to do. They don't have a plan B, but they know they got a serious problem,' Johnson continued, 'You're right: It's the biggest political cover-up that we have ever seen, maybe in U.S. history, and it's the most consequential, as well.' Johnson also met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday Thursday evening's press conference is expected the be the most pivotal of his presidency as Biden's campaign attempts to do damage control after the debate last month. Officially 11 House Democrats and one Democratic senator has called on Biden to resign - and many more are waiting to see his debate performance before deciding whether to do so. Biden avoided a near disastrous slip-up during his welcome speech to NATO leaders on Tuesday. The president, visibly reading from the teleprompter, read a three-word instruction to himself as he awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg - but was saved from utter embarrassment by the audience applause. 'Ask the military aide,' Biden said while preparing to award Stoltenberg the nation's highest civilian honor. Biden then quickly caught himself, while the crowd drowned up the flub with cheers. Democrats calling on Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 election Sen. Peter Welch, Vermont Rep. Lloyd Doggett, Texas Rep. Raul Grijalva, Arizona Rep. Seth Moulton, Massachusetts Rep. Mike Quigley, Illinois Rep. Angie Craig, Minnesota Rep. Adam Smith, Washington Rep. Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey Rep. Pat Ryan, New York Rep. Earl Blumenauer, Oregon Rep. Hillary Scholten, Michigan Rep. Brad Schneider, Illinois Rep. Greg Stanton, Arizona Rep. Ed Case, Hawaii Advertisement 'Military come forward,' he said. He proceeded to award the medal, hanging it around Stoltenberg's neck, without incident. The president attempted to reassure the public during a recent interview with George Stephanopoulos on ABC News. Biden sounded raspy as he insisted his poor debate performance was due to a simple cold. At one point during the Stephanopoulos interview, Biden said he couldn't remember whether he even watched the debate performance after it took place. 'I don't think I did, no,' Biden stated. A strong performance at the NATO summit will result in a sigh of relief from allies worried a Trump victory could lead to a return of U.S. isolation. A mistake will send their blood pressure skyrocketing. Trump has suggested that in a second term he would not defend NATO allies who didn't pay their full dues - 2% of their respective GDP. The former president also has questioned the amount of aid to the Ukraine. Both of these prospects have made NATO leaders uneasy. The speaker revealed that world leaders he's met with as part of the NATO conference have expressed concerns about the president's cognitive abilities Biden noted that he has gotten more NATO members to increase their dues. 'The year 2020 year was the year I was elected president. Only nine NATO allies are spending 2% of their defense GDP,' he said. 'This year 23 will spend at least 2%.' 'And some will spend more than that. And the remaining countries that have not yet reached that milestone will get there. This is remarkable progress. Proof our commitment is broad and deep.' Biden also announced the U.S. and additional NATO allies will send Ukraine dozens of air defense systems in the coming months, including at least four of the powerful Patriot systems that Kyiv has been seeking. 'Russia will not prevail,' the president said. 'Ukraine can and will stop Putin,' Biden noted. Dinosaur enthusiasts can purchase their own dinosaur skeleton if they're willing to spend at least $3 million on the compete set of bones. Sotheby's will begin a live auction for a 27-foot-long stegosaurus skeleton called Apex on July 17 at 10 am. The opening bid for the skeleton is set at $3 million, but the auction house estimated its value to be between $4 million and $6 million. Stegosaurus skeletons are 'incredibly rare,' and there were only eight or nine known complete sets of the dinosaur's bones in the world, according to Sotheby's Global Head of Science and Popular Culture, Cassandra Hatton to Alternative Press. Hatton added that a stegosaurus like the one Sotheby's got its hands on has never been sold at auction before, and the house will learn its actual worth at a later date. Sotheby's will begin a live auction for a 27-foot-long stegosaurus skeleton called Apex on July 17 at 10:00 The skeleton, which is around 161 million years old, will have an opening bid of $3 million. Sotheby's estimated its valued between $4 million and $6 million Paleontologist Jason Cooper found 161-million-year-old Apex on his private land back in May 2022. He first found pieces of fossils sticking up from the ground, before finding severa; stegosaurus bones. Cooper and his team spent two years excavating the fossils, which included removing them, separating them from surrounding rock and dirt, gluing the broken pieces together and creating a recognizable stegosaurus skeleton. The dinosaur expert did luck out since the fossils were in one location with the dinosaur's remains positioned in 'common death pose for animals.' Based on the findings, the dinosaur's tail was likely curled up underneath its body. Cooper and Sotheby's collaborated with each other shortly after his discovery so that the auction house could 'document the process' to guarantee the 'highest standards and transparency,' according to CBS News. The skeleton is complete with 254 bone elements and additional 3D-printed and sculpted elements. Sotheby's concluded that the stegosaurus skeleton belonged to a large and robust reptile that had a long life and arthritis. It also showed no signs of injuries related to fighting or evidence of other creatures eating its body parts post-mortem. After the stegosaurus was shipped to New York from Colorado, professionals did extra work to ensure it was in great shape for the auction. Paleontologist Jason Cooper collaborated with employees at Sotheby's after he found more than one stegosaurus bone on his Colorado property two years ago Based on the findings, the dinosaur's tail was likely curled up underneath its body, which is 'common death pose for animals' Professionals have since mounted the stegosaurus skeleton in an aggressive pose on custom armature. Before it was mounted, professionals fitted each bone with holding brackets to ensure it would be safely secured before and after the auction. The steel leveling in the skeleton's metal base also plays a part in how it will be secured to any floor and not rock back and forth or side to side. The skeleton's potential owner can enjoy the pivoting joints installed on the fossil, which control whether the skull and neck are positioned on the right or left. The fossilized remains are 30 percent larger than Sophie - another stegosaurus skeleton, which is on public display at the Natural History Museum in London. Cooper has had a long history of contributing fossils to Sotheby's and museums worldwide. Professionals fitted each stegosaurus bone with holding brackets to ensure it would be safely secured before and after the auction The debate over dinosaur fossil auctions is one that Hatton has 'heard a lot' over the years. 'When you have a scientifically important specimen, the museums usually show up and find donors to bid on their behalf, or they bid themselves,' Hatton told CBS News. 'Most of the people I work with are donating specimens to museums or loaning them to museums; they understand the significance and importance of these specimens.' Previous dinosaur fossil auctions have already caused backlash due to prices. Sotheby's had previously sold a Tyrannosaurus Rex head for $6 million despite its $20 million value, and a dinosaur fossil was sold at an auction house for more than $2 million despite members of the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology requesting to halt the sale in 2018. Christie's had planned to auction off a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton in 2022, but it was withdrawn a few days before the Hong Kong event due to uncertain authenticity. As of now, Stan, the world's most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex, holds the record for highest selling price at $31.8 million. 'Science cannot compete with private companies [or wealthy buyers] in terms of getting their hands on a specimen,' senior researcher Diego C. Garcia-Bellido told The Washington Post last May. 'I know how strapped for cash, in general, museums are. Five or 6 million dollars is the sort of money that almost no museum in the world can afford to pay.' This week Scotland suffered its largest ever mass stranding of whales after 77 of them washed up on a beach in the Orkney islands. Questions have been raised over the discovery after nearly all of the pilot whales found lying on Tresness Beach, on the island of Sanday, on Thursday morning were found dead. Just 12 of the huge long-finned mammals were discovered still alive four hours later. Hopes of saving the animals were fading, with the whales thought to have been out of the water overnight. But it is the latest in a series of strandings, which are becoming an increasingly common sight on coastlines around the world, including on Britain's beaches. 77 pilot whales washed up on the shores of Tresness Beach on the island of Sanday in Orkney, Scotland this morning A pod of 55 pilot wales were stranded on the isle of Lewis, Scotland in July last year Up to 600 whales and dolphins wash on the UK's shores alone, and experts are still unsure of the exact reasons for the epidemics. A report compiled by UK Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP) on behalf of the government found there were nearly 5,000 whale and dolphin strandings in the UK between 2011 and 2017. The most common species found on beaches were harbour porpoises and short-beaked common dolphins. A pod of 55 pilot wales were stranded on the isle of Lewis in Scotland in July last year. Further south in North Berwick, a minke whale became a tourist attraction after beaching near a nature reserve. And a sperm whale turned up on a beach in Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire in April 2023. In east Yorkshire a huge 55ft, 30 tonne fin whale turned up on Bridlington beach in May 2023, days after being spotted getting into difficulties in the sea. Factors thought to be behind the strandings include poor weather, which can confuse an animal's sense of direction, and diseases. The rotting carcass of a dead minke whale found in North Berwick, Scotland A minke whale washed up in North Berwick, east Lothian on the West Bay beach Bad conditions can send whales into dangerously shallow waters, leaving them at risk of drying up on the shore. How are dead whales removed? Local authorities have several options available to them to remove dead beached whales. The animals can be taken to laboratories to be post-mortemed. Their skeletons are often collected by museums. Some councils choose to send them to landfill or to be partially incinerated. Depending on the location and size of the animal, some whales can be re-floated if still alive. Even if dead, nutrients from the flesh are valuable to the ocean ecosystem if returned to the sea. Finally, whales can be even buried on the beach or in remote areas left to decompose. Advertisement Evidence also points to human contributed causes, such as sonar and loud sounds used on military and surveying vessels. The activity can scare the majestic creatures to the surface and even cause them to suffer from narcosis, a state of unconsciousness or numbness which can also be experienced by divers exploring at great depths. Toxic chemicals found in the world's oceans can harm marine animals, particularly those at the top of the food chain such as whales which are more likely to ingest them. Fire retardants, pesticides and heavy metals all weaken whales' immune system which in turn increases the likelihood of beaching. Some substances such as plastics from human waste are especially harmful because they can be ingested but not digested properly. A whale was discovered on the coast of Spain with over a hundred plastic bags in its stomach. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), highly carcinogenic chemical compounds used in industrial and consumer products, also pose a risk to whales, the CSIP report found. Because of their intense loyalty, pilot whales are likely to follow each other if one sick animal heads to the shore, potentially putting many in danger. Bycatch, where fishermen accidentally extract whales while catching regular fish, is also a contributing factor to strandings. The Orkney incident is believed to have been the largest of its kind in Scotland since 1995. A sperm whale washed up on a beach in Cleethorpes in April 2023 A huge 55ft fin, 30 tonne whale washed up on Bridlington beach in east Yorkshire in May 2023 When whales are found beached alive, an assessment is made to see if they can be re-floated in the water. In the event they cannot be saved, they are usually euthanised. Dr Andrew Brownlow, the director of the Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme, said that dead whales had to be removed from beaches swiftly to avoid causing distress to people and before they leak grease and bodily fluids. The SMASS conducts post-mortems of carcasses at its laboratory. Their skeletons are often added to the collection at the Museum of Scotland. But it's equally important to return the nutrients of carcasses to the ocean, he told the BBC. Local authorities can also choose to dispose of whales at landfill sites, send them for partial incineration or even bury them on the beach. Police are investigating whether a crossbow-wielding killer may have held his three victims captive in their home. Chilling details emerged today of what police are describing as an 'unprecedented attack' on Louise Hunt, 25, her sister Hannah, 28 and mother Carol, 61, who were tied up and shot dead with a crossbow. Officers are investigating whether the killer held all three women captive for a period by threatening them with weapons including the three-foot crossbow. The shocking development came as Hannah's boyfriend Alex Klein paid a heart-breaking tribute to 'the love of my life' today. Sharing a treasured photo of the couple, Mr Klein wrote: 'RIP the love of my life, I will never forget you, stolen from me too soon. The suspect in the killings, Kyle Clifford (pictured) is currently in a 'serious condition' in hospital Louise Hunt was killed alongside her mother and sister. Neighbours said Louise had recently broken off her relationship with Clifford - the suspected killer Hannah Hunt, 28, and mother Carol Hunt, 61, were also killed in the tragic attack on Tuesday Police stand guard today following the fatal attack in Bushey, Hertfordshire, on Tuesday evening 'The brightest light in my life. My brave queen for life. Until we meet again... I love you Hansy.' Police have yet to speak to the suspected perpetrator, Kyle Clifford who remains in a 'serious condition' in hospital after he was found cowering in a cemetery with self-inflicted wounds following a 20-hour manhunt. The 26-year-old former soldier is believed to have made a desperate attempt on his life as police closed in on his hideaway less than a mile from his home in Enfield at 4.30pm on Wednesday. The Guardian reports that Clifford has undergone emergency surgery for a chest wound and is being treated at London hospital under police guard. The sole suspect is yet to be formally arrested or interviewed. Police believe that the suspect was in the area for seven hours before the murders. But they do not know exactly how long he was in the victims' house. Clifford is believed to have gone back to his car at one point. Police are checking doorbell cameras and speaking to neighbours to try to establish what happened. Detectives are piecing together what happened the day earlier when an armed man burst into the suburban home of BBC racing commentator John Hunt which he has shared with his wife and three daughters for the last 20 years. Neighbours said his youngest daughter Louise had recently broken off her relationship with Clifford, which had turned 'messy'. The 25-year-old, who owned a dog grooming business, was so stressed by the break-up that she subsequently crashed her car. In her final post on X, Louise reposted a message saying: 'I admire women who leave. Carol Hunt, who was married to BBC horse racing commentator John Hunt (pictured together), was also found fatally injured along with her two daughters at her home It comes as Alex Klein, who was in a relationship with 28-year-old Hannah Hunt shared a heartbreaking tribute The heartbroken boyfriend also posted pictures of the couple kissing in a swimming pool He posted another photo of them at an investor event with the words: 'Forever with me.' 'It takes a lot of strength to break a tie. It takes a lot of self love to choose yo self (sic).' Officers are investigating whether the killer barged into her home in a 'targeted' revenge attack. A figure dressed in black was seen arriving at the quiet cul-de-sac after midday on Tuesday parking up at the rear of the property close by an alleyway leading to the four bedroom house. Neighbours who captured the suspect's movements on doorbell cameras said he was initially seen carrying just a dark bag, with no crossbow in sight, likely in order to take his victims by surprise. The revelation suggests that the killer may have taken the time to assemble the weapon at the scene after subduing his victims who are said to have been tied up and gagged in an extraordinary pre-planned attack. It was reported today that the victims were found with ligature marks around their wrists and face and had signs of injuries on their knees. John with his wife Carol, who was found with fatal injuries at their 800,000 detached house in Bushey, Hertfordshire A tribute which included photos of Louise Hunt was among those left by a friend at the scene today Piles of flowers and written tributes have been left in memory of the women at Ashlyn Close this morning Flowers left outside the house where the bodies of Carole, Hannah and Louise Hunt were found on Tuesday In one message bereaved neighbours paid tribute to the 'three beautiful souls that left us too early' Jockeys wore black armbands at Kempton Park Racecourse yesterday out of respect for John Hunt Police revealed that there had been no prior contact between Hertfordshire Constabulary, Kyle Clifford and the victims, suggesting that there was no warning the family was at risk. It was claimed that the mother-of-three was found in the hallway of the house with a crossbow bolt in her chest, while evidence of ligatures were found near the victims. During their ordeal, Hannah, 28, is understood to have sent a text to her partner, urging a call to the police. One of the victims also called 999 and alerted police about the incident before the perpetrator fled, it was reported today. When the suspect later emerged from the property around 6.50pm he was seen carrying a large crossbow under a sheet. Detectives have asked the public to report anything suspicious in Ashlyn Close over the seven hour period until 7pm that night when armed police rushed to the property. Paramedics frantically attempted to save the victims but they died at the scene. Police were today seen searching the suspect's home in Enfield retrieving computer hard drives and documents. Clifford remains at the Royal London Hospital where he is receiving medical treatment. The suspect was seen being stretchered from a cemetery in north London yesterday after a 22-hour police manhunt Armed police carrying guns run into Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield on Wednesday afternoon Kyle Clifford dropped out of the army weeks before he is alleged to have murder three people A police spokesman said: 'At this stage, he is currently in a serious condition and is yet to speak with officers. 'A crossbow has been recovered as part of the investigation.' Detective Superintendent Rob Hall, from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Major Crime Unit, said: 'Our thoughts remain with the victims' family and loved ones at this devastating and indescribable time. They are being supported by specially trained officers. 'This was an unprecedented attack and we are determined to understand the full circumstances of what happened that evening and the events leading up to it. 'We are wholly committed to seeking justice for the victims and their family.' A sea of flowers and tribute were laid at the police cordon on Thursday. One said: 'Louise, Hannah and Carol. The strongest women to ever exist. You'll always be remembered. I wish I could continue doing life with you Louise my beautiful girlie. I'll miss you forever.' Tearful neighbours and friends attended a vigil in memory of the women at a local church today. Lea Holloway, 60, a childhood friend of Carol said: 'This is the stuff nightmares are made of. 'I was there the night she met John. It was in a nightclub in Hemel Hempstead. We went out together, went to birthdays and events. 'She was the nicest, kindest, sweetest person you could ever meet. A beautiful person.' She added: 'They were a lovely family and they were lovely girls. 'They were making their way through life and their lives have been taken too soon. It's the thing of nightmares. 'I feel for their eldest daughter and John. I can't imagine what it would be like.' A police bodyguard in Texas was busted for sending X-rated text messages to a married woman after her husband uncovered their explicit conversations. Mark Castillo, a San Antonio Police officer assigned to the executive protection detail for Chief William McManus, is accused of sending sexual messages to Laura Smargia-Cinseros, 50. Allegations against Castillo came to light in May after Arturo Cisneros, Laura's husband of 33 years, discovered the disturbing messages on her phone. After he found out about his wife's secretive relationship, Arturo called family members and the cops to report the affair. 'Btw, you're allowed to (censored) anywhere you want...hope that's ok,' Laura told the cop in one exchange. Mark Castillo, a San Antonio Police officer assigned to the executive protection detail for Chief William McManus, is accused of sending sexual messages to Laura Smargia-Cinseros, 50 Allegations against Castillo were first brought up in May after Arturo Cisneros, Laura's husband of 33 years, discovered the disturbing messages in her phone. (pictured: Laura and her husband Arturo) Castillo replied: 'You want me to thrust your (censored) while I'm (censored) your (censored)?' 'YES...please,' the married woman responded. Arturo told KSAT Investigates that he first learned about their graphic texts on May 22 when he picked up his wife's phone to look at appraisal documents. When he looked at the screen, it lit up with text messages between his wife and the officer. He recalled Laura 'immediately' jumping to her feet after he asked her who the man was. 'And I knew something was wrong, so I ran into the bedroom, locked the door,' Arturo said. The blindsided husband said that he read a month's worth of messages on his wife's phone while locked in the room, before she banged on the door demanding he give it back to her. While she angrily tried to get her cell phone back, Arturo called family members and 911 to report the affair. When asked why he chose to call the police about his wife cheating on him, the distressed husband said he was 'in shock.' The many text messages between the cop and married woman revealed sexually explicit content (pictured) 'I just wanted police to show up. It doesn't matter which number,' he added. Arturo said Laura soon decided to storm out of the home and that his sister-in-law and brother showed up just before police arrived. Laura's husband quickly connected the dots on who Castillo was, as he remembered seeing him at City Council meetings and a local restaurant, Las Palapas. When police arrived, Arturo failed to mention officer Castillo and instead told a different story on what took place. According to a police report obtained by KSAT, Arturo told dispatchers that Laura ran from their home after hitting herself. He then said that when she returned, she asked officers to look at her injuries. Laura told police that her husband 'reached behind himself' before punching her in the eye and forehead, the report continued. She later told KSAT that the police report was 'inaccurate' and 'wrong,' stating that she did not ask officers to inspect her face. His sister-in-law, Patricia Cisneros, said: 'The report itself, it lacks so many details. So many details.' Although officers did not take pictures of the reported injuries, Arturo was arrested for misdemeanor assault causing bodily injury-married. After the blow up, Patricia sent in screenshots of the texts between her sister-in-law and the police bodyguard. The pair were texting while Castillo was working, as he blatantly mentions the police chief he's supposed to keep a close eye on. Arturo (left) called family members and the police to report the affair. He was later arrested for misdemeanor assault causing bodily injury-married after he said his wife (right) hit herself 'Mmmm, I wish I could slowly (censored) you,' Castillo sent to Laura. 'Stop. And lol you're totally going to get me in trouble. My computer is open and they keep seeing you come up,' she replied. He replied: 'Ok, make sure to erase your messages. Ttyl. Who's they?' 'Oh you don't have to go anywhere..lol...,my LP crew,' Laura said. 'Think Chief about to walk out,' the officer told her. 'Oh sorry. Talk to you later,' she replied. The text messages also revealed that the sneaky pair had met on multiple occasions. 'Damn, wanted to touch your legs,' Castillo wrote to her. 'You still can. I'm headed over there now,' she replied. Laura told the outlet that although she and Castillo did not have sexual intercourse, they did kiss in a car. She claims that she has ended the affair with him. The police department told KSAT: 'A complaint was filed with the Internal Affairs Unit, and this complaint is being investigated. 'The Department cannot comment on media inquiries that have not resulted in discipline as defined in Chapter 143 of the Local Government Code.' The blindsided husband said that he read a month's worth of messages on his wife's phone while locked in the room. (pictured: One of the explicit texts between his wife the officer) The pair were texting while Castillo was working, as he blatantly mentions the police chief he's supposed to keep a close eye on Castillo is a 23-year veteran on the force and according to a post on the department's Facebook page, he is also a Marine veteran that served for 25 years. 'Anybody whos doing that on work hours is brazenly, brazenly wasting our tax dollars. Theyre violating all kinds of rules that they shouldnt be allowed to violate,' Arturo's attorney, Carolyn Wentland, said. Wentland added that the new charge against her client could impact his chance of parole for an aggravated assault of a public servant case against him in 2016. Arturo was previously accused of pointing a gun at a Blanco County Sheriff's deputy that had responded to a call on his property. He said the deputy told him to grab his 'broken gun,' a .22 rifle, that he later fired at the ground to show him it worked. For that case, Arturo was given eight years probation, according to court records. He was just shy of 16 months from completing his community supervision before the May incident with his wife. 'They wanted to protect Mark Castillo and it made it easier to arrest my client. We have a police report now that puts my client at risk of possibly going to prison,' Wentland said. His attorney added that Arturo could face 10 years in prison if his probation is withdrawn. A New York Times best-selling author, who co-wrote thrillers with James Patterson, has been arrested on child porn charges. Brendan DuBois, 64, was arrested on Wednesday in New Hampshire and charged with six counts of child pornography possession. Exeter Police and the Internet Crimes Against Child Task Force began an investigation into him in March after Google reported someone had stored 'apparent child pornography' in a Google Drive account. Authorities obtained a search warrant and raided his home before he surrendered himself to police on Wednesday. DuBois, who has co-authored nine books with Patterson, is being held in the 10th Circuit Court in Brentwood ahead of his arraignment. New York Times best-selling author Brendan DuBois, who co-wrote thrillers with James Patterson, has been arrested on child porn charges The 64-year-old was arrested on Wednesday in New Hampshire and charged with six counts of child pornography possession Police were alerted to the child pornography by Google and downloaded the images which showed kids posing suggestively or engaging in sex acts with adults. They tracked down the IP address of the user and were led to DuBois' home on May 7. He declined to speak to authorities at the time of a search warrant but his wife Mona Pinette told police they used separate computers and had a password on their Wi-Fi so people outside could not use it, according to an affidavit. She added that they were the only ones in their home when the pictures were downloaded. Severn River Publishing, which published 12 of his books, has removed his biography and references to the novels from its website. 'We are deeply disturbed by the serious allegations against Brendan DuBois,' the company said. Exeter Police and the Internet Crimes Against Child Task Force began an investigation into him in March after Google reported someone had stored 'apparent child pornography' in a Google Drive account DuBois, who has co-authored nine books with Patterson, is being held in the 10th Circuit Court in Brentwood ahead of his arraignment 'While we respect the legal process, we have decided to immediately suspend all promotion and sales of Mr. DuBois' books. 'We believe these steps are necessary to uphold our values and maintain the trust of our readers, authors, and the publishing community.' DuBois is a former reporter who has written mystery novels and worked with Patterson who became the first author to sell 100 million books across all print formats. He has written 29 novels, been awarded with the Edward D. Hoch Memorial Golden Derringer for Lifetime Achievement in 2021 and appeared on Jeopardy in 2012. DailyMail.com has contacted Exeter Police for comment. Sir Keir Starmer showed 'green-shoots of strength and leadership' when meeting the 'fragile' Joe Biden at the NATO summit, a body language expert says. Sir Keir met the president at the Oval Office last night and denied the president was 'senile', insisting the 81-year-old had been on 'really good form' and 'mentally agile' during their hour-long chat. But MailOnline expert Judi James said Mr Biden's mannerisms during the encounter at the White House and at the NATO roundtable in Washington on Thursday showed he was 'clearly now beyond power-jousting'. However, Ms James felt the British Prime Minister's greeting handshake with Mr Biden implied 'not just an increasingly close relationship between the two men' but also that the Labour leader was the one 'calling the shots'. She pointed out three of Sir Keir's cues - his raised elbow, the leaning in towards Biden and the intense eye contact - as demonstrating the PM's power and superior status over the US commander-in-chief. Sir Keir Starmer used a pointed elbow when shaking hands with Joe Biden at the NATO Summit roundtable in Washington Body language expert Judi James said Sir Keir used 'intense eye contact as he preformed his greeting ritual' with the US president Sir Keir decision to lean in when speaking to Mr Biden created 'a proximity that suggests a sense of intimacy between the two men' Ms James said: 'Biden's fragility means he now lacks the swiftness and deftness of movement to take control of the body language rituals of power and superior status in the kind of pecking-order game-play world leaders engage in at summits like this. 'Alpha players like Clinton, Trump and Biden himself (in his prime) would use power-pats, power-shakes and a whole range of tactile and gestural rituals to silently signal dominance over other leaders at world events but Biden is clearly now beyond that kind of power-jousting. 'He is in many ways an open target now and Starmer seems to be taking full advantage of his lack of agility here. 'The PM's handshake looks like a display gesture, performed in what looks like a bid to show not just the famously 'special' relationship between the two countries but to give himself a little personal power fillip at the same time. 'This is clearly a defining appearance for Starmer as his first appearance as PM on the world stage and these rituals with Biden cover him in a fine mist of power-by-association. 'Biden is increasingly showing signs of sparking signals of concern from other world leaders when they meet but he is still the one to suck up to in terms of global clout. 'Starmer's greeting handshake with the US president has three key cues to imply not just an increasingly close relationship between the two men but to also suggest some green-shoot hints of personal strength and leadership power for Starmer himself.' Discussing the three cues of the pair's handshake, Ms James added: 'The raised elbow allows Starmer to not only shake from an elevated position but to ensure the handshake is visible rather than tucked behind the desk. 'His hand digs down into the clasp, suggesting confidence and energy and making the back of his hand covers Biden's, suggesting it's Starmer who is instigating the ritual and therefore calling the shots here. 'The leaning in towards Biden as he shakes creates a proximity that suggests a sense of intimacy between the two men, making them look like friends. Joe Biden described the UK as the 'transatlantic knot' binding the two continents as he met the new PM in the White House NATO leaders posing for a family photo as the summit began yesterday 'And Starmer uses some intense eye contact as he preforms his greeting ritual. Eye contact like this at a busy event will suggest collusion and rapport. 'For Biden though this looks like less of an important ritual. He keeps his torso facing front and just extends his arm for the clasp, rather than turning and leaning in to mirror Starmer. His eye expression looks more wary than friendly here and it's a side-eye eye contact rather than a direct gaze.' Mr Biden described the UK as the 'transatlantic knot' binding the two continents, backing Sir Keir's Brexit renegotiation by suggesting Britain should be 'closer to Europe'. At one point Mr Biden, who is facing questions over whether he is too old to stand for another term, slowly extended his hand towards Sir Keir. But he had to prompt the premier to take it - saying 'gimme your hand pal'. Sir Keir told reporters earlier that Labour 's manifesto plan to force members of the House of Lords to retire at 80 did not imply other octogenarian politicians such as Mr Biden should quit. Asked by the BBC if Mr Biden was 'senile', Sir Keir replied: 'No, we had a really good bilateral yesterday, we were billed for 45 minutes, we went on for the best part of an hour, we went through a huge number of issues. At pace - he was actually on really good form.' Pressed whether the president was 'mentally agile', the PM replied: 'A bsolutely across all the detail. 'We were going at pace through a number of issues, which was really important to me, because obviously, it was my first opportunity to have a bilateral like that. 'And he showed incredible leadership.' Sir Keir was asked whether it was 'unfair' that long-term supporters such as Hollywood star George Clooney were suggesting Mr Biden is 'not up to it'. The meeting came as Sir Keir made his debut on the world stage by attending a NATO summit in Washington The two leaders were in the famous Oval Office in the White House last night 'Well, I'm giving you my readout of the meeting... as I say, we've covered a lot of ground strategic ground international stuff, and not just Ukraine. 'He was on good form. And, of course, you know, various interventions yesterday, we went straight from that, to the dinner that he hosted.' At the start of their meeting, Mr Biden said: 'I kind of see you guys as the knot tying the transatlantic alliance together, the closer you are with Europe. We know where you are, you know where we are.' Sir Keir told the president: 'The special relationship is so important. It's forged in difficult circumstances, endured for so long, and stronger now than ever. 'I'm very pleased to be able to come so early in government to recommit to NATO, to recommit to the special relationship and to discuss these affairs with you.' The meeting came as Sir Keir prepared to urge NATO allies to support Ukraine for 'as long as it takes' as he confirmed the UK's own 3 billion a year military aid for Kyiv will continue. The PM, who met Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in the margins of the NATO summit in Washington yesterday, will tell members of the alliance later that they need to send a 'clear message' to Russian leader Vladimir Putin. The UK's military support for Ukraine will continue until at least 2030/31 and for as long as it is needed. At a special session on Ukraine at the NATO summit, Sir Keir will warn that the frontline defence of the Euro-Atlantic region is the Ukrainian trenches. He will say: 'NATO was founded by the generation who defeated fascism. They understood not just the value of our strength, but the strength of our values. 'Those values are under attack once again. Putin needs to hear a clear message ringing out from this summit a message of unity and determination, that we will support Ukraine with whatever it takes, for as long as it takes, to uphold our shared values and our shared security.' The Washington summit cemented Ukraine's 'irreversible' progress towards NATO membership, with a joint statement by the allies. But because of NATO's Article V, which commits to mutual defence, the allies will not allow Ukraine to join while it is still at war as that would trigger an immediate conflict with Russia. NATO allies are stepping up commitments on Ukraine while they await the results of November's US presidential election, where Donald Trump has threatened to reduce American support. Concerns about Mr Biden's plan to run for re-election were evident during his Oval Office meeting with Sir Keir. The president did not directly respond to questions about George Clooney's criticism, after the actor and prominent Democrat supporter suggested he should leave the race. Democrat senators left a meeting with the president's reelection staff skeptical that Joe Biden will be able to lead the party to November's presidential ballot. Two weeks after Biden's terrible debate performance against former President Trump, fears are rising in Capitol Hill that his fumbling leadership will hurt down-ballot Democrats. There are already 14 elected Democrats who have come out publicly urging Biden to step down from the race. Amid the crisis, Biden campaign advisors Mike Donilon and Steve Ricchetti and Biden's campaign Chair Jen OMalley Dillon orchestrated a last-minute meeting with Democrat senators. But lawmakers emerged from their private meeting discussing Biden's political future with little to celebrate - most with more questions than they entered with. 'Some of my concerns are allayed, some others have been deepened,' Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., told reporters after the private meeting. 'I need more of the kind of analytics that show the path to success.' Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., speaks after Senate Democrats met privately with President Joe Biden's senior advisors Mike Donlion, Steve Richetti and campaign chair Jen O'Malley Dillon at the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee on Thursday. He said after the meeting some of his concerns over Biden have deepened 'We need more data, more analytics to allay my concerns,' he said. 'More important than my concerns are the questions that have been raised by the American people.' 'I think Joe Biden has to take the fight to Donald Trump and allay the people's concerns.' 'And I think he is capable of doing that but he has to show the American people the clear contrast and the existential threat that Donald trump represents to American democracy.' Blumenthal's concerns are shared by many on the Hill. Two Democrat senators inside the meeting disclosed to PunchBowl News that things inside got 'heated' between the lawmakers and Biden's team. Multiple lawmaker vented about 'being put in an untenable position defending something that so many of their constituents felt was obvious.' Apparently the Biden camp tried to illustrate how Joe will beat Trump in November, but not enough data on that point was presented. 'A significant majority of the Democratic senators feel that the presidents not going to be able to win,' one Senator disclosed to the outlet. Another Senator, Sherrod Brown of Ohio, spoke at a fundraiser earlier this week describing 'nervousness' about the top of the Democrats' ticket, DailyMail.com exclusively learned. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., who canceled an event to discuss Biden earlier this week, did not take questions before entering the private meeting. Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., came out to hand out reporters water bottles, but he refused to take questions from the press about the private event Nancy Pelosi said it is 'up to the president' to decide whether he wants to stay in the race but 'time is running out' in pointed comments Wednesday morning Earlier this week, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi went on Biden's favorite morning show on MSNBC and said the president must decide whether he is still wanting to be the Democratic nominee. Democrats calling on Joe Biden to withdraw from the 2024 election Lloyd Doggett, Texas Raul Grijalva, Arizona Seth Moulton, Massachusetts Mike Quigley, Illinois Angie Craig, Minnesota Adam Smith, Washington Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey Pat Ryan, New York Earl Blumenauer, Oregon Sen. Peter Welch, Vermont Brad Schneider, Illinois Ed Case, Hawaii Greg Stanton, Arizona Advertisement The thing is, he sent a letter to all Democrats on Capitol Hill just days earlier saying he fully intends to stay in the race despite concerns over his age and debate performance. Her insistence that the president's mind is not made up has led to other Democrats repeating the former speaker's line, that Biden must make his own decision. Pelosi also said that Biden should focus on his solo press conference the 2024 NATO Summit in Washington, D.C., and not worry about making up his mind until after his highly-anticipated remarks. Reports indicate that Democrats across Congress may come out against the president after his press even Thursday evening in an effort to not undermine the country's leader as he manages delicate foreign relations. 'Tonight will be important,' Blumenthal said of the event. 'The press conference will potentially be a turning point. But it has to be more than just one press conference.' 'He has to take the fight to Donald Trump and he has to do it personally. it cant be done for him. His advisors or staff can't do it for him.' Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., who earlier this week told CNN that he does not believe Biden can beat Trump, reiterated his view to reporters before the meeting. 'If things stay as they are, its likely that Donald Trump will win the election and well lose the Senate and well lose the House. Upon exiting the meeting, Bennet hardly uttered a word. The meeting was 'good,' he told a throng of reporters awaiting news from inside. He then scrambled off without revealing any other details. Sen. Michael Bennet, D-Colo., has said he believes Biden will lose to Trump. After the meeting all he had to say was that it was 'good' Sen. Alex Padilla, D-Calif., hurried inside the meeting avoiding questions by taking a call Only Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., has gone further in his critique of Biden. He called on the president to withdraw from the race Wednesday. He is still the only Democratic Senator to do so. 'The best way we can defeat Donald Trump is to reelect President Biden,' Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., said after the meeting. 'I thought the presentation we just had was an excellent one.' Her optimism over Biden's campaign was unmatched by any other Democrat interviewed exiting the meeting. 'I think people are still talking,' she said of the proceedings inside. 'We obviously have some different perspectives about how to best proceed. But, again, the president's team made a very strong presentation and I continue to support the reelection of President Biden.' Most Senators avoided reporters' questions, but Sen. Maggie Hassan stopped to praise the president after the meeting Though she did concede that the president's debate performance is coloring Democrat's view of the president. 'President Biden had a bad debate,' she said before adding, 'former President Trump not only had a bad debate in which he lied ... but he had a really horrific presidency - and that's what need to focus on.' 'This is a really strong campaign,' she added. Biden is expected to deliver his remarks at the NATO Summit at 6:30 p.m. ET. Former Bachelor contestant and influencer Anna Redman is being blasted by critics for posting her outfit inspiration to visit Auschwitz. Redman, 28, shared her packing list on Instagram for an upcoming trip to Poland that included outfits for each day on her itinerary. The sixteenth stop on her list was a trip to the largest and deadliest concentration camp where an estimated 1.1 million people were killed during the Holocaust. She posted a photo of her planned outfit for the visit - a black dress and sneakers - with the caption 'the best packing "hack." Is somebody going to match my freak?' Former Bachelor contestant and influencer Anna Redman is being blasted by critics for posting her outfit inspiration to visit Auschwitz She posted a photo of her outfit for the visit to the largest and deadliest concentration camp - a black dress and sneakers The outfit plan, which was paired with a bag held over her right shoulder, indicated that she was set to visit Auschwitz in the morning after a day spend in Krakow. Critics have flocked to her Instagram comments and Reddit to criticize the Chicago-based influencer for her out-of-touch post. 'You know what's embarrassing? How tone deaf you are to post an Auschwitz outfit on your stories,' said one person. 'This is tone deaf as h**l and implies shes going to be taking aesthetic photos at a death camp where over 1 million people were murdered. Girl. Goodbye. This is f****d up,' said another. A third person said, 'This is f*****g gross man. I never thought Id see an outfit guide for a freaking concentration camp.' 'This is one of the most spiritually bankrupt things I've seen in a LONG time,' said another. A fifth person said, 'Also thats a crazy inappropriate outfit to wear at Auschwitz. youre at a concentration camp, not brunch.' Critics have flocked to her Instagram comments and Reddit to criticize the influencer for her out-of-touch post Anna Redman has since deleted the controversial Instagram story Redman - who has thousands of followers - is a popular influencer from the Chicago area Prior to posting her packing list, she wrote on her story: 'Poland here we come.' Since being called out for posting the outfit inspiration for her trip to the deadly camp, the influencer - who has 114,000 followers - deleted the story. Her current boyfriend, Chris Bukowski, is also a part of the Bachelor Nation and a first-generation Polish American. A spokeswoman for Redman said: 'This TikTok was a screen recording of her notes app for her outfit planning for the entire trip, it wasnt a video specifically on her outfit inspiration for any specific destination. 'The purpose of the video was to show how she organizes packing for long trips, not for inspiration on what to wear. 'In this case, she wanted to ensure that she packed something respectful and appropriate for a visit to Auschwitz. Anna apologizes for offending any of her followers in the process.' Redman was a contestant on season 25 of the hit dating show which starred Matt James, the first Black male lead in The Bachelor franchise history. James eliminated her after hearing from others that she was persecuting women unnecessarily. Redman had spread a rumor that another contestant, model Brittany Galvin was an escort in Chicago. Boosting defence spending is essential to tackling the 'generational threat' posed by Russia and other hostile states, Sir Keir Starmer warned. At the end of the Nato summit in Washington, the Prime Minister suggested member states should aim to spend at least 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence. He has come under fire at home for refusing to put a clear timetable on meeting the same target at home. Today he said that Nato was 'stronger than ever', with 23 of its 32 members now spending 2 per cent on defence. But he added: 'In light of the grave threats to our security, we must go further. So we will conduct a strategic defence review to strengthen our Armed Forces and protect our national security. And we will set out a clear path to spending 2.5 per cent of our GDP on defence. At the end of the Nato summit in Washington, the Prime Minister (pictured speaking with US President Joe Biden) suggested member states should aim to spend at least 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence Russian President Vladimir Putin is viewed as a threat by the member states of Nato Emergency and rescue personnel along with medics and others clear the rubble of a children's hospital following a Russian missile attack in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on July 8 'I say with candour to all our allies we must understand that this is now essential. 'This is a defensive alliance. We do not seek conflict. But we know that the best way to avoid it is to prepare for it.' The PM said the 'generational threat from Russia, demands a generational response'. And he warned that Russia's missile attack on a children's hospital in Kyiv this week showed 'the alternative to Ukraine's victory is unthinkable'. 'As I told President Zelensky today, Nato will be stronger with Ukraine as a member.' Sir Keir said Nato's response to the challenge posed by states such as Russia, China, North Korea and Iran 'will shape the world for decades to come'. President Zelensky says for Ukraine to win the war, the US needs to lift the limits on using its weapons to strike inside Russia. The threat from Moscow was also addressed by Defence Secretary John Healey as he too insisted the new government will increase spending on the armed forces. NATO leaders pose for a family photo before President Joe Biden, front row center, delivers remarks on the 75th anniversary of NATO on Tuesday The threat from Moscow was also addressed by Defence Secretary John Healey (left) as he too insisted the new government will increase spending on the armed forces The PM, making his debut on the world stage at the NATO summit in Washington DC, told the Ukrainian President there would be 'no change of approach' under his Government The PM pictured with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg as they met in Washington DC Mr Healey said the UK was 'facing growing threats across the board'. He told reporters at the summit that the UK could also take part in more European defence structures, but ruled out joining a European army. Sir Keir has been dogged by questions about defence spending at this week's summit after refusing to set out a timetable for raising it to 2.5 per cent of GDP.] Mr Healey insisted a timetable would be set out once the Government had conducted its strategic defence review. 'What is really clear is that we're facing a decade or more of growing Russian aggression,' he said. 'Supporting Ukraine and its ability to win is our first priority. And when we're facing growing threats across the board, then... the strategic defence review is our chance to get to grips with the threats that we face, the capabilities that we've got, the true state of the Armed Forces and of course the finances that may be available. 'It needs to be done at pace, it will be done properly,' he said. Mr Healey insisted that seeking closer defence ties with Brussels would not bind the UK into a European defence force. Mr Healey said: 'What is really clear is that we're facing a decade or more of growing Russian aggression' Your browser does not support iframes. Emmanuel Macron and Jill Biden were pictured holding hands at the 75th Nato summit Security minister Dan Jarvis (pictured in 2015) said it was 'unfair' to criticise the new government for wanting to assess the state of the UK's defences before finalising a path to higher funding But he suggested the UK could seek to join more areas of the EU's permanent structured co-operation (Pesco) programme. The UK is already part of one Pesco scheme on moving military equipment across the EU. Security minister Dan Jarvis said it was 'unfair' to criticise the new government for wanting to assess the state of the UK's defences before finalising a path to higher funding. He told Sky News: 'It's important that we follow the process and look carefully at the nature of the threat that our country faces, and the resources that will be required to put in place an armed forces that is fit for purpose.' Sir Keir insisted the spending target would be hit eventually, saying: 'What we've had for the last 14 years was a series of arbitrary dates and lack of funding for meeting those targets which were missed over and over again.' Emmanuel Macron and Jill Biden were pictured holding hands at the 75th Nato summit. It comes as the alliance debates how to 'Trump-proof' its future and its support for Ukraine in case former US president Donald Trump is returned to the White House in November. Mr Trump has criticised of European nations not paying enough for their own defence and has threatened to withdraw support for Ukraine and even pull American out of the alliance. Thames Water has been thrown into special measures as the industry regulator paved the way for average bills to rise by 94 in the next five years. Ofwat yesterday put Britains biggest water utility on notice that it must clean up its act as concerns mounted that the company could collapse. That would present a huge industrial crisis for Sir Keir Starmer, who has ruled out nationalising the sector. It came as the watchdog said water companies can raise prices by 21 per cent, or an average of 94, by 2030, allowing them to go on an 88billion spending spree to fix ailing infrastructure. There are significant variations in price changes between suppliers. Thames Water has been placed on special measures, amid concerns that the company could collapse The collapse of a major company would present a large industrial crisis for Sir Keir Starmer, who has ruled out nationalising the water sector Under the plans, Southern Water customers will face a 183 increase over five years, while Dwr Cymru customers bills will go up by 137 and Yorkshire Water customers will pay 107 more. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said huge bill increases would be a bitter pill for consumers amid outrage over sewage being dumped in Britains rivers. And environment secretary Steve Reed said after a meeting with the bosses of England and Wales 16 water companies that it marked a reset moment. He blamed the higher bills on 14 years of Conservative failure and said he will ensure that can never happen again. Campaigners said households were being punished by greedy water companies who have paid out billions to shareholders. But in a blow to debt-laden Thames Water, the regulator blocked its plan to hike bills by 44 per cent over the next five years and said the increase must be capped at 22 per cent. The decision throws doubt on the suppliers ability to raise urgent cash from shareholders - fuelling fears that the company could collapse. Ofwat placed Thames Water in special measures that could see the business split up into several different water suppliers, a limit on the amount of debt it can take on, or a public listing to raise extra cash. The watchdog said the firm, which supplies 16million customers in London and the South East, can raise average bills by 99 by 2030. Thames Water wanted to charge households 191 more by the end of the decade, That would have seen bills rise to 627 a year, compared with 535 under Ofwats plan. Thames Water must now review its rescue strategy and report regularly to the regulator on how it is progressing. It also has to submit a financial resilience plan after warning it only has enough cash to survive until May next year. Ofwat has permitted Thames Water to hike average bills by 99 by 2030 (file photo) And an independent monitor could be appointed with full access to company files to report to Ofwat. It comes after the regulator this week said it would look into Thames Waters payment of a 196million dividend and 754,000 in executive bonuses. A Thames Water spokesman said: We welcome the opportunity to provide Ofwat with further evidence about the need for the investment we plan to make, our costs and how we will deliver it. Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, said Ofwats decision may increase the likelihood of a government bailout. But the Prime Minister said the nationalisation of water utilities is not on the agenda. I dont want bills to be so punishing for people, Starmer told LBC. So we will have a plan to get to grips with that in terms of governance of water, but that requires us to deal with both the pollution and the bill side of it. That doesnt involve nationalisation, but it does involve making sure the regulations we have are properly enforced, looking at possible further regulation, and something Im very keen on, which is to have sort of personal responsibility from the top. Other water firms were also knocked back by Ofwat including Severn Trent, which was told it can raise bills for its 4.6million customers in the Midlands by up to 93, less than the 144 increase it had asked for. South East Water, which this week also warned it was at risk of running out of money, will be allowed to hike bills by 18 rather than 51. The knockback on bill increases is a big blow to water companies and means theyre going to have to invest their cash very efficiently if theyre to have any chance of meeting the regulators demands, Aarin Chiekrie, equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said. Sedimentation tanks at the Thames Water Long Reach treatment facility. The firm said it welcomed the opportunity to provide the regulator with 'further evidence' on future investment James Wallace, the chief executive of campaign group River Action, said: These bill hikes punish households struggling with the cost-of-living crisis for the abject failure of greedy water companies to invest in their crumbling infrastructure and reduce record sewage spills. For decades the industry has put profit before the environment, rewarding its shareholders with billions in dividends, and in the process filling our rivers with human sewage. Mr Reed said: This is a reset moment. Every penny that is being earmarked for investment in fixing the sewage system will be spent on fixing the sewage system. It will not be diverted into bonuses and dividends in the ways the Conservatives permitted. Everything changes today. Water companies have until August 28 to respond to Ofwats draft decision. The regulator will make its final judgement in December. A 10-year-old TikTok star is in a medically-induced coma after the chronically-ill youngster suffered a sudden health decline. Bella Thompson, known to her fans as Bella Brave, was born with three debilitating genetic conditions - which saw her hospitalized for the first two years of her life. Her mother, Kyla, started posting about the girl's struggles in 2014, and said she had thought her daughter would no longer have to have long hospital stays following a bowel transplant last year. But on Wednesday, Kyla posted on Instagram that she was placed in a medically-induced coma after contracting a viral infection in her lungs. 'They told us they don't know if she'll survive this,' the heartbroken mother wrote. Bella Thompson, also known as Bella Brave, was placed in a medically-induced coma after she suffered a sudden health decline She explained in an earlier post that Bella had contracted a virus, and may have developed Bronchiolitis Obliterans - a condition that results in the obstruction of the smallest airways of the lungs due to inflammation. The American Lung Association describes it as an 'irreversible and chronic condition' that is also known as 'popcorn lung.' The young girl was then put on oxygen, as doctors at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Canada worked to get her better. 'All of the teams, especially our head of transplant doc have reached out internationally to other colleagues to help solve this issue for Bella,' Kyla wrote on Sunday, sharing photos of her daughter hooked up to a slew of machines. 'Knowing she is the only child they have ever seen with this combo of rare diseases and transplants, it is not lost on them to look to other specialists across the globe, and so they have.' But two days later, Kyla posted in an update that although Bella was at first 'sitting up, chatty,' she began to struggle. 'She lost four pounds in one day, putting all her energy into breathing,' she wrote. Her mother, Kyla, has detailed her daughter's condition in a series of Instagram posts She said they are reading 'all the cards, letters and messages' Bella's fans have sent Kyla, a former public school teacher who became her daughter's full-time caretaker, explained that Bella's carbon dioxide levels increased and 'she started to doze off and have delirium. 'She was alert enough to tell me I turned into a piece of bread, but also knew she was at SickKids hospital in Toronto,' Kyla wrote, sharing inspirational quotes. 'They knew at that point they needed to sedate her and intubate her before she crashed. 'We left having them tell us they didn't know if she'll make it through the night,' Kyla continued. 'But she did.' The next day, however, Bella was placed in the medically-induced coma as Kyla said, 'The best of the best were telling us it looked really bad. 'But I kept a lifted stare, intensely listening until I heard what hope there was left that we could hang onto.' She said the doctors told her there had been a rapid deterioration of Bella's lungs, which they believed could be an immune response. To help solve the issue, Bella was placed on a large dose of steroids - which she called the 'one option they have left to help her lungs work again.' Kyla also noted that she and Bella's father, Lyle, 'talk to her' and play music for her Bella took the steroids for two days, and Kyla said, 'Day three will give us more information on how soon we could see her lung function improve. 'She's stable, and that in itself is the improvement for now,' she added. By Thursday, Kyla said Bella was showing signs of improvement. 'Two days ago, they were preparing us for her not to survive,' she told People Magazine. 'But today they've told us she's shown she is fighting and actually shows improvements.' Still, Kyla said, 'We are not out of the woods.' 'This could take weeks, but we are holding on to hope for her and never letting go. 'She's showing us she's fighting and she will make it out of this.' Bella has been placed on a large dose of steroids - which her mom called the 'one option they have left to help her lungs work again' Bella was diagnosed with three genetic conditions shortly after she was born, including Hirschprung's disease - which causes problems passing stool - and Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID). Kyla previously explained that Bella's severe medical needs became apparent when she was just three-days-old. 'We were told that Bella suffered from a bowel disease called Hirschsprung, where parts of the colon are dead,' she recounted in 2022. 'The condition is caused by a genetic mutation and in the first eight months of her life, Bella had three operations to remove the dead parts of her bowel.' At 11 months, Bella's parents were told she also has SCID - which meant she could die from just catching a common cold. Again the result of a genetic mutation, after spending two months in isolation in hospital, because she could not risk catching an infection, at 15 months old, she had a bone marrow transplant. Her third genetic condition, a form of dwarfism called cartilage hair hypoplasia, was also diagnosed around that time. The bone growth disorder which also causes sparse hair growth and light-colored skin means she still has the physical build of a one-year-old. Bella was diagnosed with three genetic conditions shortly after she was born, including Hirschprung's disease - which causes problems passing stool - and Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) Kyla said she first started noticing symptoms when Bella was just three-days-old To help with the Hirschprung's disease, Bella has had a number of bowel surgeries - including one just last year that her mother said she thought 'was supposed to be the last medical trauma she would ever have to endure. 'She sailed through recovery faster than any child with a bowel transplant has, and finally she could be free of hospital stays,' Kyla told People. 'Now, to see her fight for her life from an unknown cause that the best of the best in the world at SickKids are trying to understand, is heartbreaking.' She noted in her Instagram posts that she and Lyle, Bella's father, 'talk to her, I play music for her and we are reading all the cards, letters and messages you've all sent. 'We are praying and believe we have stopped the fibrosis attack on her lungs in enough time that still allows her lungs to heal and function again.' Still, Kyla said, 'The wait is beyond unbearable.' A grandfather-of-two was among a pair of nudists who took down a crazed man they saw attacking tourists and shop owners with a blowtorch on the streets of San Francisco. Pete Sferra from San Jose was walking in the Castro area of the city with his friend Lloyd Fishback, who lives in town, when they noticed the something awry. The pair came across a 'crazy kind of pirate guy' with a blowtorch that he was threatening to use as a weapon. Shop owner Chris Watts wrote on Facebook how the man 'threatened my team with a blow torch after we locked the doors' in what was a scary encounter. A grandfather-of-two was among two nudists who took down a crazed man who was attacking tourists and shop owners on the streets of San Francisco with a blowtorch Two nudists, Pete Sferra from San Jose, left, was walking in the Castro area of the city with his friend Lloyd Fishback, right, who lives in town Video from the scene shows Fishback, the younger of the two nudists, grab the blowtorch before the man starts punching the tourist without warning. Fists fly as both Fishback and the deranged man tumbled off the sidewalk an into the street. Just as the suspect appeared distracted, one of the shop owners managed to snatch the blow torch away and hurriedly ran away. The tussle between the pair continued with Fishback following up with another underhand smack to the suspect's face. 'My buddy Lloyd is a quiet, respectful guy but he didn't waste any time and nailed the guy with a right hook,' Sferra said to The San Francisco Standard. It was then the attacker finally got the message and walked away. In the meantime the police were called. Petros Fanourgiakis, who runs the nearby Aegean Delights dessert shop and said the man had threatened to burn the tourist's face with the blow torch. 'He's a known problem in the neighborhood. He's erratic and violent,' said Terry Asten Bennett, president of the Castro Merchants Association. 'My buddy Lloyd is a quiet, respectful guy but he didn't waste any time and nailed the guy with a right hook,' Sferra said Lloyd Fishback dispensed with some justice of his own as he punched the attacker a few times 'It's completely unfair to a community when one person can hold it hostage,' Bennett said. Even the Castro Country Club had obtained a restraining order against Triball in 2021 but decided to not renew the order because it was too expensive. In that case, Triball had threatened to burn down the building and kill the club's executive director. San Francisco Police also appeared to be familiar with the suspect who was arrested and identified as 38-year-old Zero Triball. Triball is suspected of assault with a deadly weapon and remains in county jail. 'In my view, he's a guy who'll continue committing medium violent crimes,' said Rafael Mandelman who is a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors. A nearby shop owner captured footage of the two nudists beating up the man with a blowtorch A shop worker could be seen running away after snatching the blowtorch from the man 'I don't think he should be left to manage his own life. He should be in a conservatorship. Our system is crazy,' Mandelman added. The person who was on vacation in the city and was seen being attacked in the video has not been identified but is believed to be a Brazilian man named Leo 'I hate seeing tourists experience that kind of stuff,' Sferra said. The area of the city is a bustling neighborhood, known for its openly gay culture. Explaining his interest in nudism, Sferra has said that he wants to normalize the practice. 'Over the years we've been doing this, we've tried to show the neighborhood that we're regular peoplewe just have a relaxed idea of what we're supposed to wear. 'We just want to be seen as good contributing members of the community,' Sferra explained. An ex-police chief has reportedly rejected Labour's offer to head up the team that will crackdown on Channel crossings. Neil Basu, who was head of Counter Terror Policing for three years, had been cited as the frontrunner for the new government's Border Security Command. Due to his impressive credentials, including advising the new Home Secretary Yvette Cooper on tackling illegal migration when she was in opposition, he had been expected to apply for the 200,000-a-year role. However, the Times has reported that although he was asked by Labour to apply for the job, he has decided not to take up the offer, as he is 'no civil servant'. Neil Basu, who was head of Counter Terror Policing for three years, had been cited as the frontrunner for the new government's Border Security Command Due to his impressive credentials, including advising the new Home Secretary Yvette Cooper on tackling illegal migration when she was in opposition, he had been expected to apply for the 200,000-a-year role The department said the commander will be a 'leader used to working in complex and challenging environments, for example at senior levels of policing, intelligence or the military' and will bring together the work of the National Crime Agency (NCA), intelligence agencies, police, immigration enforcement and Border Force. Although Basu has the expertise for the role, he said on Thursday: 'I was a very proud cop and crown servant who was very proud to do a very long and hard job of defending this realm. This job is very important, but I am no civil servant.' Yet some senior Conservatives were concerned over his potential appointment because of his previous actions. He once threatened to prosecute journalists for publishing leaked US embassy cables, and in an interview shortly after stepping down as head of counter terrorism, he likened then Home Secretary Suella Braverman to Enoch Powell when she said it was her dream to see asylum-seekers deported to Rwanda. 'I find some of the commentary coming out of the Home Office inexplicable. It is unbelievable to hear a succession of very powerful politicians who look like this talking in language that my father would have remembered from 1968. It's horrific,' he told Channel 4 News. He also admitted he was proud to be woke, saying: 'Are you alert to issues of racial and social justice? Yes, I am. And if that is the definition of woke, I'll wear it as a bumper sticker every day of the week.' Ms Cooper has also ordered an investigation into the latest routes, methods and tactics used by people smuggling gangs across Europe to inform a 'major law enforcement drive' over the coming months The new border force command is one of Starmer's key manifesto pledges to 'smash the gangs.' Yvette Cooper is currently working on forming this new group, which once up are running consist of hundreds of new specialist investigators and the use of counter-terror powers to smash the criminal boat gangs. New laws will be brought in to introduce counter terror-style powers and measures to fight organised immigration crime, officials said. Ms Cooper has also ordered an investigation into the latest routes, methods and tactics used by people smuggling gangs across Europe to inform a 'major law enforcement drive' over the coming months. So far this year 13,574 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel, according to the latest available Home Office figures. This is already a record for the first six months of a calendar year. However, James Cleverly, the now ex-Home Secretary, has questioned why the Labour Government is setting up a new Border Security Command given that a similar unit already exists, led by a former head of the army training college at Sandhurst. 'Has the Small Boats Operational Command been disbanded? Has General Capps been made redundant? Will the SBOC staff be fired and rehired? What is the difference between the two organisations' functions? Or is this just a gimmick?' Mr Cleverly wrote online. Ford has brought back the Capri. But anyone expecting a brash two-door coupe with a long bonnet and defiantly high fuel consumption is in for a disappointment. The 'working man's Porsche' has become yet another chunky electric SUV. And many motoring experts are not impressed despite Ford PR chiefs proclaiming that 'the legend is back'. Returning as an electric SUV, the Capri is a Capri in name only, say critics. Motorists of a certain age will look at the ultra-modern and brightly coloured 2024 model - being promoted by Manchester United legend Eric Cantona in a publicity blitz - and scratch their heads in bemusement at the vehicle in front of them. Ford has revived its 'Capri' but car enthusiasts are likely to be disappointment at its lack of resemblance to its classic namesake Anyone expecting a brash two-door coupe with a long bonnet is in for a disappointment The new 'Capri' is a chunky SUV which experts say is a Capri in name only Despite the lukewarm reception, Ford PR chiefs have nonetheless declare that 'the legend is back' The much-loved two-door Capri of the 70s and early 80s had a distinctive style of its own For the much-loved two-door Capri of the '70s and early '80s had a distinctive style of its own. The long sleek bonnet and sporty appearance captured the imagination and had a certain glamour. TV tough guys Bodie (Lewis Collins) in the Professionals and Terry (Dennis Waterman) in Minder drove one, as did Del Boy (David Jason) in the comedy classic Only Fools and Horses. Top Gear's online reviewer wrote: 'Fair odds that anyone over 40, upon seeing Ford's new interpretation of the Capri, will spend five minutes simply saying 'that's not a Capri though is it?'.' Mike Bubbins, comedian and actor, wrote on X: 'Dear Ford Motor Company, I don't know what on earth your latest model is supposed to be, but I know what it's not. It's not a Ford Capri.' The Capri had a certain glamour with its long sleek bonnet and sporty appearance A yellow classic Capri parked on a cliff edge. Motoring experts have complained that the new model looks nothing like its classic namesake The one millionth Ford Capri rolled off the production line at the Saarlouis factory in Germany in 1973 Motoring Nomad commented on X: 'This is the new Ford Capri, looking absolutely nothing like a Capri... stop ruining classic names by trying to cash in on them please, Ford!' Ford Capri pricing at a glance Standard Range RWD - 42,075 Available to order: Early 2025 Battery size: 52kWh Power: 168bhp Range: 250miles Extended Range RWD - 48,075 Available to order: Now Battery size: 77kWh Power: 282bhp Range: 389miles Extended Range AWD - 56,175 Available to order: Now Battery size: 79kWh Power: 335bhp Range: 368miles The original Capri appeared in 1969 and became as much a part of 1970s culture as bell- bottom trousers and disco music, its sleek shape, powerful engines and relatively modest price making a best-seller. A Mark II arrived in 1974 and the final Mark III was made from 1978 to 1986. TV tough guys Bodie (Lewis Collins) in the Professionals and Terry (Dennis Waterman) in Minder both drove one. In 1969 a Capri cost as little as 890 about 12,500 now. The ultra-modern namesake packed with technology and being promoted by Manchester United legend Eric Cantona has a starting price of 42,000. Murat Gueler, chief designer for Ford Europe, said using an 'iconic name that has the coolness factor' was a sure way to get a buyer's attention. He said: How do you get a buyers attention? You can get it through adding LEDs and go nuts on the design, or you can go with this: an iconic name that has the coolness factor and then something relatively simple design-wise. 'Thats why were very confident [the Capri] will stand out from the masses. Todays Capri will come with a choice of three different versions with varying performance and range. Prices have been confirmed as 42,075, 48,075 and 56,175, depending on the variant you choose. Packed with the latest tech - rather than a basic cassette player - the electric car boasts a range of between 250 and 390 miles. The original Capri became a 1970s bestseller thanks to its modest price, sleek shape and powerful engines Murat Gueler, the chief designer for Ford Europe said the company was confident the new model would 'stand out from the masses' An olive green 1972 Ford Capri. Instead of cassette players, the new SUVs will have the latest tech and a range of between 250 and 390 miles Whatever the sales they are unlikely to capture the imagination like the original Capri. Back in the day it was sold under the slogan the car you always promised yourself and up until production ceased in 1986 a total of 1.9million rolled off the assembly line. A man has died after being crushed under a train carrying cane to a sugar mill in north Queensland, just days after a Sydney woman was also killed by a train. Emergency crews were called to Brewers Road in Sarina, south of Mackay, just after 5pm on Thursday after reports of a train hitting a pedestrian. A spokeswoman for Wilmar Sugar and Renewables confirmed there had been a fatal incident on a rail bridge 'involving one of our locomotives late this afternoon'. The train came into contact with the man on Plane Creek Bridge, she told the Daily Mercury. 'We are providing our driver with every possible support,' the spokeswoman said. The emergency responders were unable to save the man, and crews reportedly worked until 8pm to free his body. A man has died after being crushed under a train carrying cane in Sarina (pictured) in north Queensland 'This afternoon an unknown male at this stage has gone under a fully loaded cane train and as a result has lost his life,' Snr Sgt Trevor Robson told reporters on Thursday night. The police believe there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death. The death in Sarina was the second train fatality in Australia this week, after a woman in Punchbowl in Sydney's south-west was struck down on Tuesday afternoon. The woman, aged in her 50s, had climbed down onto the track to retrieve something she had dropped and was unable to get back onto the platform. Emergency crews were called to Brewers Road, Sarina, 930km north of Brisbane, on Thursday afternoon after reports of a collision with a pedestrian. A Queensland ambulance is pictured She was immediately transferred to an ambulance before being taken to St George Hospital, but tragically died on Wednesday morning. Jackie Fielder just missed receiving the Bernal Heights Democratic Clubs endorsement for District 9 supervisor in the groups first vote. Jana Asenbrennerova/Special to the Chronicle 2020 On May 16, the Bernal Heights Democratic Club conducted its endorsement for San Franciscos District 9 supervisor race. As in prior elections, the club ran a well-organized process where all candidates were invited to fill out the clubs questionnaire so that we members could evaluate their positions and policies. Six candidates answered our questions, and members voted on those candidates for the clubs endorsement. It was a powerful demonstration of civic engagement no matter the chilly winds of our beloved neighborhood that welcomed us as we waited to enter the building. To a relatively new U.S. citizen like myself, it was also an incredibly beautiful and inspiring process to be a part of. Unfortunately, that feeling didnt last. Saying that the vote was close would be an understatement the candidate with the most votes (2020 state Senate candidate Jackie Fielder) fell one vote short of meeting the 60% threshold required by the clubs bylaws to secure the endorsement. At that time, the club properly followed its bylaws and announced that no endorsement would be made. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Now, however, instead of respecting the results of the election, the clubs board members appear set on ensuring that their preferred candidate, Fielder, gets the endorsement. To accomplish this, they are defying the will of their voting members and using tactics that remind me of the playbook used by the ruling party in Mexico during its 70 years in power. When I became a U.S. citizen in 2020 and even years after volunteering hundreds of hours to help elect Democratic candidates I would have never imagined I would be reminded of this in my newly adopted country. I need to emphasize that not endorsing in this race isnt controversial it simply means there was no adequate agreement among club members to choose a single candidate. There are several past instances where the club declared No Endorsement because the vote did not reach 60%. The clubs online endorsements page shows earlier instances of No Endorsement for the 12th Congressional District race and the San Francisco school board recall. In response to my inquiry about whether second-ballot votes were held for any of these, the club replied via email: No, there were not. It was the determination of the Executive Committee to do so in this instance, as the bylaws allow (but do not require). Hope this helps to clarify. It did not clarify. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The board is calling for a second vote by invoking an emergency measure provision in the bylaws. Such an emergency measure is only supposed to be used to rescind an endorsement. Not even a generous interpretation of the emergency criteria justifies this redo. In an email to members, the board explained its actions as follows: At last months Club vote for a District 9 candidate, none of the candidates achieved the 60% threshold for Club endorsement. It doesnt serve the Club or Bernal voters well for the Club to be silent on this important election. Pardon me if this sounds hyperbolic, but many of us born in Mexico became sick of politics when the ruling party controlled all relevant political institutions (including the electoral arm). Widespread disillusionment took hold because it was exceedingly easy and increasingly common for the establishment candidates to win. I became a citizen just weeks before the pandemic lockdowns and amid the most stressful election cycle in American history (yet). I volunteered at a phone bank and eventually trained volunteers to help elect President Joe Biden, U.S. Sens. Mark Kelly, Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, along with multiple congressional seats considered crucial to saving our democracy. In 2024, I realized I needed to be active in local politics, too. As a San Franciscan of eight years and a proud resident of Bernal Heights, I want to be involved in my community and continue to encourage more people to get involved. I refuse to let the specter of shady politics and the appearance of backroom negotiations take root here and discourage others. I did not vote for Fielder simply because I do not think her policies are what our district and our city need. (For example, she believes that to create more affordable housing, owners of single-family homes should build accessory dwelling units and that the city should force them to rent them at below-market rates.) Advertisement Article continues below this ad Without going into details, several other candidates had interesting and diverse ideas on how to improve our city. Its because many of these ideas were so compelling that I believe our club failed to reach a consensus. Voters need to hear these ideas so they can make informed decisions. The endorsement of the Bernal Heights Democratic Club carries weight in our community. If we cant reach a consensus according to our rules, it is our duty to get out of the way and let the candidates do the hard work of making their case to voters. Thats all I am asking for. I urge club board members to respect the will of voting members, follow your bylaws and cancel the new vote and let the Democratic nature (and word) of our club and party shine. 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 President Joe Biden introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as 'President Putin' in a brutal gaffe at the NATO summit with his political future hanging by a thread. The ailing 81-year-old facing mounting calls to drop out of the presidential race said: 'Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin.' The embarrassing flub in front of world leaders sparked gasps and those in the room had to shout the correct name. 'No, we're going to beat Putin,' Biden said, and blamed the blunder on being 'so focused' on defeating the Russian tyrant who invaded Ukraine two-and-a-half years ago. One of his worst gaffes yet came in front of global allies and shortly before his pivotal 'big boy' press conference that could be the final nail in the coffin for his hopes of remaining as the Democratic candidate. The latest bungled comments will add fuel to the fire for critics who say he isn't capable of being in office for another four years, yet alone winning in November. President Joe Biden introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as 'President Putin ' in a brutal gaffe at the NATO summit with his political future hanging by a thread It also came as a sitting Democrat indicated that he should resign from office in a stunning statement. Biden had announced a new $225 million aid package for Ukraine, including a Patriot missile system to bolster its air defenses against the Russian airstrikes when he made his gaffe. Behind the scenes at NATO summit, world leaders have been concerned about Biden's cognitive decline. One senior diplomat reportedly said that politicians from around the globe fear he could fall and are 'worried if he knows which direction he is going'. House Speaker Mike Johnson also said that NATO leaders have privately told him they are 'deeply concerned' about the president's physical and mental health. The 81-year-old facing mounting calls to drop out of the presidential race said: 'Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin' The latest gaffe from Biden could not have come at a worse time as the White House desperately tries to prove he is fit to serve. 'And now I want to hand it over to the president of Ukraine, who has as much courage as he has determination. Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin,' Biden said. He turned away from the podium and then heard the shouts from those calling 'Zelensky' at him. 'President Putin? We're gonna beat President Putin. President Zelensky! I'm so focused on beating Putin. We got to worry about it -- anyway, Mr. President,' he said. 'I'm better,' Zelensky said. 'You are a helluva lot better,' Biden replied as he desperately tried to recover. His gaffe came in front of global allies and shortly before his pivotal 'big boy' press conference that could be the final nail in the coffin for his hopes of remaining as the Democratic candidate 'No, we're going to beat Putin,' Biden said, and blamed the blunder on being 'so focused' on defeating the Russian tyrant who invaded Ukraine two-and-a-half years ago. The latest gaffe from Biden could not have come at a worse time as the White House desperately tries to prove he is fit to serve Biden's error dropped just before his first solo press conference in nine months and since his catastrophic debate performance against Donald Trump. Nicknamed a 'big boy' press conference, the pressure is on the president to show he can handle an unscripted moment without a major error. But the major gaffe does not bode well for the president who has not been able to quell the tide of criticism against him. In the two weeks since the first president debate, Biden has not been able to reassure Democrats he is capable of defeating Donald Trump in November. In fact, fears are growing he will take down Democratic candidates with him. At the time of his massive hiccup with Zelensky, 15th House Democrats and one Democratic Senator had called on him to step aside. The embarrassing flub in front of world leaders sparked gasps and those in the room had to shout the correct name There were also reports that members of Biden's inner circle are also plotting ways to get him to drop out, fearing a devastating defeat to Trump in November. White House aides have also been accused of carrying out a plot over three-and-a-half years to hide Biden's definicincies from the press and the world. Staff closest to the ailing 81-year-old deployed a multitude of tactics to hide his deficiencies - limiting reporter access to him, giving the president smaller stairs for Air Force One and physically surrounding him in public to hide his stiff walk, a former Biden aide tells DailyMail.com. Biden has also been given large-print notecards with the most basic of instructions written on them for almost every event and kept to a tighter daily schedule so he can get more sleep. There was even staff charged with devising strategies to keep the president from falling down, the source said. 'No, we're going to beat Putin,' Biden said, and blamed the blunder on being 'so focused' on defeating the Russian tyrant who invaded Ukraine two-and-a-half years ago Now, the insider says, those advisers who coordinated the president's protective cocoon should be held to blame for his spectacular fall from grace and the mounting calls for him to drop his reelection bid. The ex-senior staffer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the 'guardrails' placed around Biden meant his meandering and mumbling debate performance was amplified to the more than 50 million viewers. And because his deficits had been shielded from the public by those inner circle aides many Americans were shocked to suddenly see his dramatic decline exposed live on national TV. Biden's falls and gaffes since he took office in 2001 had been highlighted largely by conservative-leaning media outlets but all-but-ignored by more liberal news organizations. That is, until his primetime car-crash two weeks ago on CNN. Claims that the prisons crisis could trigger a breakdown of law and order within weeks were blasted by the Tories as 'shameless scaremongering' last night. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood will on Friday unveil a series of measures granting early release to thousands of inmates which she will say are necessary to avert 'unchecked criminality on our streets'. Officials suggested criminals would run amok if the jails reached maximum capacity and were left unable to accept new prisoners. But the Conservatives accused the Government of deploying scare tactics. A senior Tory source said: 'This is shameless scaremongering from the Labour Party that risks causing mass panic. 'Labour have come into government with hundreds of prison places available but they've lost their nerve, and are now stoking public panic for political gain.' The Conservatives accused Keir Starmer's Government of deploying scare tactics around prisoners Officials suggested criminals would run amok if the jails reached maximum capacity and were left unable to accept new prisoners (stock image) A graph showing the maximum capacity of prisoners in comparison to the prison population Ahead of a speech by Ms Mahmood, a government spokesman said: 'The Justice Secretary will explain that if prisons were to run out of places, police cells would rapidly fill up, courts would be forced to delay cases and police unable to arrest dangerous criminals putting the public at risk from unchecked criminality on our streets.' One senior police source said a failure to free up prison cells risked moving into 'uncharted territory'. It would leave frontline police almost powerless to act against criminals and thugs, it was suggested. Government insiders said prisons currently with just 700 spare places for adult males could be completely full towards the end of next month. 'If nothing was done, I would be professionally very, very worried by the August bank holiday,' a senior prisons source said. Once the jails are full, police station cells would be at capacity just days later meaning police officers would effectively be unable to arrest criminals on the streets, it was suggested. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood will on Friday unveil a series of measures granting early release to thousands of inmates which she will say are necessary to avert 'unchecked criminality on our streets' One senior police source said a failure to free up prison cells risked moving into 'uncharted territory' (stock image) A senior police source said the system would grind to a halt if newly remanded criminals could not be sent from the courts to prison. 'If those prisoners aren't collected, we very quickly will run out of space in police cells,' the source said. 'Many forces we estimated would run out of space in about three days or less. 'And clearly that is a situation that is completely intolerable, because you would get to the point where arresting officers wouldn't have anywhere to take people they're arresting. 'And, of course, that in itself may impact on behaviour of the public and particularly criminals. 'So that would be a very serious situation to get into and uncharted territory and we need to avoid that at all costs.' It is understood that senior figures in the criminal justice system fear it could trigger looting, opportunistic crimes and brazen breaches of bail conditions by offenders living in the community. Sir Keir Starmer said yesterday the jail crisis left him 'beyond frustrated' and blamed the previous government for failing to act sooner. Sir Keir Starmer said yesterday the jail crisis left him 'beyond frustrated' and blamed the previous government for failing to act sooner (File photo) Tory MP Neil O'Brien said: 'The idea that we would be safer if lots of criminals are let out of jail is absolute nonsense' He confirmed thousands of inmates will have to be freed early, but said 'exemption categories' will mean high-risk prisoners are ineligible. Describing the situation as 'shocking' and 'much worse than what I was expecting', the Prime Minister said: 'It is a basic function of government to make sure that we have the prison places we need for those people who have been sent to prison by our courts. 'For that to have broken down is a catastrophic failure of the last government.' The Justice Secretary's announcements are expected to include allowing prisoners to be automatically freed after serving 40 per cent of their sentence, rather than the current 50 per cent. Overall, 20,000 inmates could be released early in the next few months. Former Conservative justice secretary Alex Chalk who lost his seat last week said Labour's reported plan 'will buy you 18 months, but it won't buy you any more'. Asked if former PM Rishi Sunak had blocked similar measures, Mr Chalk refused to disclose private discussions but added: 'It is reasonable to say there were a variety of views about what could be got through Parliament.' Tory MP Neil O'Brien said: 'The idea that we would be safer if lots of criminals are let out of jail is absolute nonsense. 'We already know the new prisons minister James Timpson thinks that only one third of prisoners should even be there. 'Both he and the Prime Minister are fundamentally anti-prison.' A beloved school teacher sang what will likely be her own final funeral song during a touching tribute to frontline workers during Victoria's harsh Covid-19 lockdowns. The body of Annette Brennan, 67, was found dead at a rubbish tip in Epping last week, about 8km from her home in Coolaroo, in Melbourne's north-west. It can be revealed Ms Brennan was an active member of the Brunswick Indonesian Uniting Church, whose grieving congregation has been shocked by her death. On May 24, 2020, Ms Brennan hosted an online call to trapped parishioners to pay tribute to frontline medical workers and those who lost their life 'standing strong to what they believe in'. It was the day then-Premier Dan Andrews temporarily eased the tight Covid lockdown restrictions imposed on Victorians after the pandemic outbreak. But Ms Brennan's thoughts also lay with the victims of a terrorist attack at a United Nations hospital in Iraq. 'May you find some peace and solace in the words,' Ms Brennan said before going into a sweet rendition of the Christian hymn Abide With Me. It is a haunting song made popular in recent times after appearing in the hit zombie movie 28 Days Later. Annette Brennan was allegedly murdered by Stephen Fleming in her own home The hymn had been Ms Brennan's personal favourite and is expected to feature at her upcoming funeral. The moving footage showed Ms Brennan finished her rendition with a beaming smile. On Wednesday, her alleged killer Stephen Fleming appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates' Court charged with her murder. The scrawny, bald headed 45-year-old sat in the prison dock behind protective glass as he was told he would remain in jail until his next court appearance in January. The alleged killer's link to Ms Brennan remains a mystery but Victoria Police has confirmed she was not his mother. It is understood one theory being investigated is that Fleming had been renting a room in Ms Brennan's Hilgay Street house where she had recently moved in. Real estate records show the home was sold in February this year for $545,000, and Ms Brennan had previously been known to take in housemates in years gone by. Stephen Fleming sported a bald head with a fluffy half-mullet on the back of his head Annette Brennan's Coolaroo home (pictured) was sold in February this year A birds-eye view of Ms Brennan's Coolaroo home where she is alleged to have been murdered In 2013, she placed an online advertisement asking for housemates for her property in Ormond, 12km south-east of Melbourne's Central Business District. 'Hi everyone. Do you know someone who is looking for accommodation? I have a room with a double bed, desk and built in wardrobes in Ormond for $120 a week,' she said in the ad. 'A couple could live in it, sharing electricity and unlimited internet. It is three minutes walk to Ormond station and close to North Road where there are shops including a supermarket. Please call me to arrange an inspection.' Detectives arrested Fleming in Glenroy, in Melbourne's north-west, about 11.15am on Tuesday. According to charge sheets, police allege Fleming murdered Ms Brennan on or around July 1, the previous day. They alleged her remains were put inside a bin that was picked up from her home by a garbage truck on Tuesday last week. Staff at a tip in nearby Epping located her body while moving green waste on Wednesday last week and contacted police. Tributes continue to flow for the kind-hearted teacher, who had worked as a teacher for several language and training courses since 2012, including in the Chinese cities of Shanghai and Shenzhen. Since 2020, Ms Brennan had been employed as an online tutor for Australian Education Management Group, a company promoting cultural and language exchanges between Australia and China. Annette Brennan could not contain her joy after singing her favourite hymn during the Covid lockdowns Police attended the Coolaroo home of Annette Brennan after her body was located in a green wheelie bin 'Just read the news about Annette, can't believe this, she's a kind and loving person. You'll be missed Annette. God loves you more, Rest in peace in God's side,' one friend posted to social media on Thursday. 'Im sure your beautiful soul is with Jesus! Until we meet again,' another wrote. Ms Brennan's neighbours had described her as quiet, but friendly. While she was not known to drive, neighbours had observed a car parked in the driveway, which was allegedly used by a man also living at the property. Ms Brennan is alleged to be the 48th woman murdered in Australia this year. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.au University graduates are now earning six-figure salaries in the first year of their profession if they are prepared to ditch Australia's cities and move to a remote part of the country. Brooke Mackie, 24, recently moved to Mount Isa in northwest Queensland after studying medicine at James Cook University in Townsville. 'I really like the dynamic of small mining towns,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'You do have a nice sense of community. Usually, they're quite hard working communities and the sense of treating - as a doctor - the people you know is quite nice.' As a first-year doctor at Mount Isa Hospital, Dr Mackie earns a base salary of $87,000 having practised medicine full-time for just six months. But that increases to more than $100,000 with weekend penalty rates as a junior doctor doing rotations in emergency, obstetrics, surgical and paediatrics. Then there are Queensland government incentives on top of that, including a $34,500 inaccessibility allowance. Brooke Mackie, 24, recently moved to Mount Isa in north-west Queensland after studying medicine at James Cook University in Townsville (she is pictured left with her fiance Taylor Tomlinson) That takes her pay to $134,500, with her job also including free accommodation and relocation as Australia grapples with a housing and rental crisis. From next year, she will be eligible for a $21,500 professional development allowance and a $40,000 cash incentive to train to become a rural GP. It can be gruelling though, some weeks Dr Mackie works 11 days straight. Dr Mackie grew up moving around the north Queensland mining towns of Weipa and Mackay so Mount Isa isn't too different, except for the 4C winter temperatures far inland. 'It's pretty similar to a lot of the towns I grew up in - the difference being that it has both a Coles and a Woolies,' she said. Dr Mackie's ambition is to become a hospital obstetrician who also works as a GP after her mother was forced to travel long distances to give birth safely. 'There is a massive shortage in Queensland for rural obstetricians - we've had a lot of birthing centres close so women are having to travel hours to go to somewhere where they have capacity to birth,' she said. 'From an employability standpoint, it's really good; from a personal standpoint, living rurally, my mother has been in that situation where she's had to travel hours and hours to have my siblings and I. 'Being able to give birth, where you are, where you have support systems and receive your antenatal care in your local community is just so important, that's why I'm interested in it.' Dr Mackie disputed the notion there was nothing to do in Mount Isa, noting the area hosted rodeos, multicultural festivals and was close to great camping and four-wheel driving spots. 'Definitely, I'm more of a country girl at heart,' she said. As first-year doctor at Mount Isa Hospital, Dr Mackie earns a base salary of $87,000 having practised medicine full-time for just six months but that swells to $134,500 with penalty rates and an inaccessibility allowance 'If people are worried about going out bush - "there's nothing to do" - there is something on almost every weekend.' But she lamented how she was a very long drive away from her family members living in Townsville, Brisbane and Gladstone. 'I find it hard, sometimes, if you want to visit family, you've got to pay an arm and a leg to get a flight,' she said. Despite the distance, the young doctor is thinking on one day locating to an even more remote part of Queensland, in the Cape York Peninsula region, so she can care for Indigenous patients. 'You have the whole host of intergenerational trauma with the Indigenous patients and the distrust in sometimes the Western or white medicine, so dealing with those social factors as well as highly complex patients, it does make for very interesting medicine and very great learning opportunities as a junior doctor,' she said. Dr Mackie's ambition is to become a hospital obstetrician who also works as a GP, having witnessed her mother being forced to travel long distances to give birth safely Her fiance Taylor Tomlinson works in Mount Isa as a maths and physics teacher. Across Australia, general practitioners have an average salary of $133,386 but the average taxable income swells to $163,360 with government incentives. Queensland offers $187,000 worth of rural and remote perks including a $34,500 inaccessibility allowance, a $70,000 two-year workforce attraction incentive scheme, a $21,000 motor vehicle allowance, a $21,500 professional development allowance and $40,000 cash incentives for 500 junior doctors to train to become GPs. A tiny London windowless attic room, so small it has been compared to Harry Potter's room under the stairs, has left flat hunters horrified. Potential tenants have claimed they reported the 'disgusting' room in Catford, South East London after discovering it was up for let for 340 a month. The eerie room had been advertised as 'ideal for a single' bachelor with no children, who would be happy sharing a bathroom with others in the property. When house hunting hopefuls click on the listing, they find a handful of photos of the narrow room. The very small room barely has room to fit it's furniture which includes a leather sofa facing a mirror, with a large TV. Flat hunters have been left horrified by an advertisement for a flat in Catford, southeast London (pictured) The eerie and narrow room was described as 'ideal for a single guy' and was up for let for 340 a month A second snap of the room photos showcases a single bed, a bedside table and girl band posters and wallpapers peeling from the walls. The Gumtree listing - posted on July - stunned social media users who blasted its 'truly horrific' look and questioned who deemed it appropriate to rent. One was so appalled that they claimed they reported it to the council's Private Sector Housing Enforcement. Others flocked to the comments comparing it to Harry Potter's squashed cubbie room under the stairs. They wrote: 'Not to be an absolute Karen but this is so bad I felt compelled to report it (even though I don't live anywhere near here!).' One shocked user wrote: 'Fritzl's daughter had more space.' 'Used to rent a one-bed mid terrace for 375 -35 more for a whole house,' a second penned. 'This is genuinely disgusting. F*** whoever thought this is an appropriate space to rent out,' another quipped. A fourth said: 'Can you imagine that in a heatwave with no window!' One joked: 'Love the ripped Spice Girls poster, spot on decor also the mirror opposite the sofa is for you to look at yourself and wonder 'how did I get into this mess?.' The advertiser was contacted but the listing has since been removed from Gumtree. The Gumtree listing which has been bashed by prospective tenants as 'disgusting' has since been removed from the site Lewisham Councillor Will Cooper, Cabinet Member for Better Homes, Neighbourhoods and Homelessness said: 'We are appalled, but sadly not shocked to see rentals like this being advertised in Lewisham, where our worsening housing crisis means private tenants are being pushed into ever more desperate circumstances. 'This is why the Council has recently introduced selective licensing, to give us better powers to deal with this type of criminality. 'We encourage members of the public to continue reporting instances like this and thank those people who did contact our service about this awful advert. 'This ad has since been removed and there is no address on the screenshot, so unfortunately, we will not be able to investigate this specific case unless someone comes forward with further information. 'However, renters should be assured that we can and do take enforcement action against similarly poor properties on a regular basis, and are committed to using our new avenues to do more of this activity in the future.' A new brain teaser reveals the most respected aspects of your personality. The puzzle features images that can be interpreted in different ways, depending on your personal experiences, traits and mental state. Hidden in the picture is a lion, panther and bunch of dandelions, and the one you see first means you are either a natural-born leader, a problem solver or have a strong sense of conviction. The puzzle features images that can be interpreted in different ways, depending on your personal experiences, traits and mental state. Did you see a lion, panther or dandelions first? Psychologists have long used optical illusions because the imagery can reveal how a person may view themselves - even if they do not realize it. One of the first methods was created in 1921 by Swiss psychiatrist Hermann Rorschach who created different shapes on paper using black ink and asked patients to describe what they saw. Formally known as the Rorschach test, the inkblot test was designed to assess personality traits and emotional tendencies - similar to the latest brain teaser. While not entirely accurate, such optical illusions have captivated the public who seek to know more about their inner selves. Did you see a lion? If you saw a lion, it means you are a natural born leader. The animal symbolizes strength, power, and courage, and is often associated with royalty and leadership. You do not run away from a challenge, but rather embrace it with confidence, Times of India reported. People view you as trustworthy and show you respect whenever in your presence as they know you are ready to lead and take control of any situation. You are likely independent, self-sufficient and value your own competence. Did you see a panther? Seeing the panther first means you are a visionary who looks at the big picture when making decisions. You are analytical and seek out knowledge to solve problems rashly, instead of making rash decisions. The ability to think critically gives you a sense of power that assures success in nearly every situation you come across. And just as the panther can move easily from light to darkness, you can adapt to changes effortlessly. Did you see the dandelions? The flowers are known to thrive in the most challenging conditions, which means you do not let adversities get in your way. Dandelions also transform from bright yellow flowers to delicate seed heads, which represents personal growth in times of change. But you stand firm on your convictions, taking on adversaries without losing your integrity that also inspires respect and trust from others. A NASA astronaut has photographed eerie glowing red lights hanging in Earth's atmosphere from a window aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The jaw-dropping image, taken by the commander of NASA's SpaceX Crew-8 mission Matthew Dominick on June 3, captured the quick-flash of a weather phenomena known as 'red sprite' lightning. Red sprites are known to occur high above thunder clouds in a part of the upper atmosphere called the mesosphere that extends up to 53 miles above the surface. The image showed blood-red bursts of energy glowing standing vertical off the coast of South Africa. A jaw-dropping image - taken this spring by the commander of NASA's SpaceX Crew-8 mission Matthew Dominick - captured the quick-flash of a weather phenomena known as 'red sprite.' The astronaut photographed eerie glow (above) from aboard the International Space Station This past December, an astronaut from the European Space Agency, Andreas Mogensen, also snapped an incredible photo (above) and a timelapse sequence of a red sprite NASA hopes the sprite's ethereal image will encourage skywatchers on Earth to send in their own 'photographs of sprites and other [Transient Luminous Events or] TLEs to NASA's citizen science project, Spritacular.' The American space agency hope this citizen-crowdsourced database, which will enter its third year of operation this October, will greatly help scientists understand the rare phenomena. 'Super lucky a few weeks ago when shooting a timelapse of a lightning storm off the coast of South Africa,' as Dominick explained his image in a post to social site X. 'One of the frames in the timelapse had a red sprite,' said Dominick, who previously served as a naval test pilot and fighter pilot commander prior to joining NASA. 'If there are any red sprite experts out there I would enjoy tips on how to capture more of these,' he added. 'Clearly, look for lightning storms, but I'm thinking the stronger the storm the better.' Space physicist Dr Burcu Kosar, who serves as the principal investigator for Spritacular, noted that the project hopes to pair just such accidental photographers of phenomena like red sprites with the scientists who study them 'People capture wonderful images of sprites, but they're shared sporadically over the internet,' she noted, 'most of the scientific community is unaware of these captures.' 'Spritacular will bridge this gap,' according to Dr Kosar, who works with NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. Dominick captured his image of the distinctive red sprites from a vantage point hundreds of miles above these high-altitude electrical discharges, in orbit within the International Space Station (ISS) 250 miles above Earth's surface. Dominick captured his image of the distinctive red sprites from a vantage point hundreds of miles above these high-altitude electrical discharges, in orbit within the International Space Station (above) 250 miles above Earth's surface NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick (self portrait above) previously served as a naval test pilot and fighter pilot commander prior to joining the US space program Red sprites are electrical bursts of light that occur above highly active thunderstorms. (Above, a European Space Agency infographic on the generation of these spindles of red light) A NASA press release on the new image further explained that 'Transient Luminous Events (TLEs), including red sprites, are colorful bursts of energy that appear above storms as a result of lightning activity occurring in and below storms on Earth.' The space agency noted that these and other TLEs are most often captured on camera by happy accidents like this, typically while taking timelapse images of the Earth with the aid of a wide focal-length lens. On ISS, these timelapse images are usually taken by scientific instruments mounted outside the space station, like the Atmosphere-Space Interactions Monitor (ASIM). ASIM's sensor suite collects a broad spectrum of data for scientific research on Earth, including cameras, photometers, X-ray and gamma-ray detectors. Contains affiliated content. Products featured in this article are selected by our writers. If you make a purchase using links on this page, Daily Mail Australia will earn an affiliate commission. Click here for more information. An Australian beauty brand has given an iconic location in Bondi Beach 'a glow up' to promote a range of hydrating supplements with an activation and a digital takeover. Swisse Beauty took over Bondi Icebergs, giving the famous pool a makeover to celebrate its Glow range, a series of products that aim to improve skin hydration. The Swisse Beauty Glow products include ingestible powders, gummies, supplements and a serum, that include nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and marine collagen to help boost skin moisture. And given we are in the middle of winter with cooler temperatures and heating playing havoc on the complexion of many, there has never been a better time to be reminded of the importance of paying attention to the hydration of your skin. The famous pool was decorated with a 'Dive Into Glow' design and turned into a bright designation, where influencers enjoyed a day of wellness, with an exercise class and giveaways from the Swisse Glow range. While the real-life activation turned heads in Bondi, a digital recreation of the scene was posted to socials and it has left Aussies divided. Swisse Beauty took over Bondi Icebergs, giving the famous pool a makeover to celebrate its Glow range, a series of products that aim to improve skin hydration In the clever GCI video a large bottle of Swisse Beauty Collagen + Hyaluronic Acid Booster supplements is seen perching on the roof of the incredible location. It falls into the pool creating a splash and a sunny, glowing day club is revealed. One viewer said:'Marketing girly slayed on this one.' Another posted: 'Wow thats amazing.' The famous pool was decorated with a 'Dive Into Glow' design and turned into a bright designation, where influencers enjoyed a day of wellness But one user said: 'Thought this was real got a bit panicked.' Another person who didn't seem to understand the digital concept said: 'Hmm more plastic in the ocean. lovely.' This isn't the first time that Swisse have been bold with its marketing, earlier this year the brand signed on social media duo The Inspired Unemployed. It didn't last long, as the famous duo decided that an office job wasn't for them. To lean more about the Swisse Beauty Glow Range, click here. Scroll down for the best things to see and do in the city... Standing in the great rotunda of Washingtons Capitol building, the sacred heart of American democracy, theres an almost palpable sense of awe. You feel it in the crowds of US citizens who bring their children to pay tribute here. In the guides, the security staff, even those who man the cloakrooms. Our loquacious tour leader, Danny, sums it up neatly: This is the Capitol, dude. Nowhere like it. Thanks to strict building height regulations, the dome of this secular cathedral, topped by the 19ft-tall Statue of Freedom, is reassuringly visible across the city. This has special resonance as Joe Biden and Donald Trump begin their battle for control of the White House to see who will have bragging rights across this great city. For a working parliament, it is remarkably accessible. Even as random visitors, my wife Isabel and I sit in the public gallery to hear a key Senate debate. A Republican is railing over government spending at a time of spiralling national debt. Sound familiar? We are lucky to be in The District at the peak of blossom season, when some 3,000 cherry trees, gifted by Japan in the early 20th Century, explode into bloom around the citys Tidal Basin. Imposing landmarks: Neil Darbyshire finds that Washington exudes a 'natural warmth'. Above, the city's Jefferson Memorial as the cherry blossom season peaks It is a truly glorious sight, attracting huge numbers and generating a party atmosphere, with music, street food and pop-up stalls proclaiming the cherrys loveliness. Washington probably isnt high on the list of must-visit US destinations for most Britons, trailing behind the bright lights of New York, Vegas and LA, the beaches of Florida and natural glories of New England. Being home to thousands of government employees, politicians and their staffers, lobbyists and think-tankers, it has a reputation for being aloof and buttoned up. Washington's towering neo-classical buildings and wide boulevards are reminiscent of Paris, says Neil Pictured here is the Lincoln Memorial and National World War II Memorial, featuring The Reflecting Pool But to us the city seems to exude a natural warmth. Almost everyone we meet is engaging and refreshingly Brit-friendly remarkably forgiving considering we burned the city to the ground in a fit of imperialist spite during the War of 1812. Isabel and I are visiting our daughter and her partner, who have been living in the Navy Yard neighbourhood just south of the Capitol for nearly a year. Rather like Londons Docklands, this was a rundown area which has been flattened and then gentrified with smart residential and office blocks, buzzy bars and restaurants. Down at The Wharf we stroll through the open-air fish market the oldest in continuous operation in the country where you can buy shellfish of all kinds and watch jumbo shrimp being theatrically tossed in huge woks. After a couple of cocktails in one of the many waterside bars, its time for dinner. My favourite meal is at Martins Tavern in Georgetown, Washingtons swankiest neighbourhood. A family-owned diner dating to the 1930s, presidents and other politicos have huddled in its intimate booths to gossip and conspire. Plaques detail which booth each preferred. JFK proposed to Jackie here, Tricky Dicky loved the meatloaf, Ted Kennedy had his cozy corner. We are placed in the Lyndon Johnson booth. I wonder, while sipping my Manhattan, if he discussed the carpet bombing of north Vietnam over succulent lamb cutlets and fingerling potatoes. Neil visits Watergate Hotel (pictured), which got caught up in the biggest political scandal in American history The fish market at The Wharf where you can watch jumbo shrimp being 'theatrically tossed' in huge woks TRAVEL FACTS BA Holidays offers five nights at Hotel Washington, including return flights from Heathrow to Washington Dulles International, from 991pp based on two adults sharing (ba.com). Advertisement A purpose-built capital, Washington was clearly designed both to impress and inspire. Towering neo-classical buildings line wide boulevards reminiscent of Paris. Imposing monuments are set around pleasant and expansive common spaces, the most popular being the National Mall. This green walkway runs more than two miles from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol, encompassing the 555ft obelisk dedicated to George Washington and passing by the White House. Getting around the compact city centre is straightforward. Much of it can be explored on foot, but there are also Ubers, e-bikes and a cheap, clean and efficient Metro. There is no shortage of museums here, celebrating everything from the Bible to the Space Race. And for a journalist brought up on the 1970s film All The Presidents Men, a visit to the Watergate Hotel is a special treat. My daughter and I take a tour of the Scandal Room, from where the notorious burglary that brought down Richard Nixon was planned and executed. In a presidential election year, and with the storming of the Capitol by supporters of Donald Trump still fresh in the memory, the room offers a warning from history about how power can be abused. But none of this seems to trouble our taxi driver Fidelise, who came here from troubled west Africa eight years ago. Whats Washington like for you? I ask. A paradise on Earth, he replies, without the slightest hint of irony. A Which? mystery shopper investigation has exposed multiple airline customer service failings after it put eight carriers to the test. The consumer champion wanted to find out the true state of the customer service cultures at easyJet, BA, Vueling, Wizz Air, Ryanair, KLM, Tui and Jet2. The result? Malfunctioning bots and doom loops of unhelpful messages [and] rip-off premium-rate phone lines, said Which?. Which? explained that its researchers contacted the airlines via various channels including phone calls, online chats, emails (or, alternatively, an online query form or WhatsApp if no email contact available) and X (formerly Twitter). Researchers made simple requests, Which? explained, such as amending a spelling mistake on the booking or asking for advice on whether their passport is valid for travel to the EU. In a customer service study, Which? revealed that the contact number most immediately obvious on Wizz Airs website and when searching through Google charges a staggering 1.45 a minute In each case, the airline was assessed for accuracy, speed and how helpful the interactions were. Which? revealed: When it comes to using online chat services, researchers found the coordination between bots and live agents to be hit and miss. Wizz Airs chatbot promised to connect a researcher to a live agent to discuss passport expiration rules, but agents were too busy. Which? said: The bot advised [the] researcher to wait a minute before reattempting a live chat connection and did this 12 times in 15 minutes before the researcher conceded defeat. A second attempt, this time to amend a misspelt name, was better, providing clear instructions on what to do. However, the bot could not make the amendment on the passengers behalf, as a real customer service agent might have been able to. EasyJet was more successful at showing how chatbot and live agents can work well together, Which? revealed, explaining: When a researcher asked to amend a spelling mistake on the booking, the bot explained how it could be done through the website, but also offered to connect the researcher to a live agent to do it on their behalf. EasyJet was successful at showing how chatbot and live agents can work well together, Which? revealed For non-urgent queries, email contact also proved difficult in many cases. Which? explained: Jet2 and Ryanair, for instance, did not offer email as an option, but those that did were not necessarily helpful. British Airways, Vueling and Wizz Air either did not reply, or failed to provide useful information when they did. In contrast, easyJet replied every time - generally helpfully - and Tuis online query form and KLMs alternative, WhatsApp, were both effective. Which?s caller was told that the phone number they were ringing from didnt match the booking reference and Ryanair's system cut them off How about phone contact? The researchers discovered that finding a phone number and then accessing help was not always straightforward, and a telephone contact for existing bookings was only immediately obvious to the researchers on Tui and Vuelings sites. The first call to Vueling failed as the inquiry was misheard, offering directory options to choose from that did not suit the researchers inquiry, who before being able to decide which to go for, was disconnected. In all, the study reveals, Vueling hung up on Which? on three out of six attempts. Ryanairs automated system also hung up on researchers. Which? said: On the first occasion, Which?s caller was told that the phone number they were ringing from didnt match the booking reference and [the system] cut them off. A second call was disconnected as the flight was not within 30 days. Researchers finally got through when trying the day before the flight. KLM, meanwhile, was unable to help when asked about gluten-free menus. In another instance, Which? noted, rather than offering a simple resolution to correct a spelling mistake, the airline required a picture of the passport to be emailed across - but when the researcher phoned back and got a different agent they were able to amend it there and then. The study also underscored how getting help can be expensive. Which? revealed that the number most immediately obvious on Wizz Airs own website and when searching through Google charges a staggering 1.45 a minute. The airline has a local-rate number buried on its site - but one researcher gave up trying to find it after 30 clicks. A Ryanair spokesperson said: 'We dont respond to Which? fake news stories or its equally fake and routinely inaccurate surveys"' Another eventually did find it, under the special assistance section. Contacting firms through X (formerly Twitter) was generally more successful - researchers revealed that they had positive interactions with Vueling, BA and Jet2. However, Which? points out that the danger of being scammed on social media makes this the most risky method of contact. Researchers reported being spammed by multiple accounts masquerading as the airlines, asking for personal information. In conclusion, Which? said: In all, researchers experienced a range of inconsistent and at times deeply disappointing customer service interactions - with the likes of Wizz Air, Ryanair, KLM and Vueling falling short of expectations. Which? researchers found that Vueling's customer service operation had ups and downs It is imperative that airlines take action to make it easier for their customers to get timely and effective solutions to their problems. This current lack of effective customer service and contact methods by some airlines can have serious consequences when customers are trying to get advice, refunds or help with rerouting when flights are delayed or cancelled. Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: Its unacceptable that such haphazard customer service has become the norm in the travel industry, and it is essential that airlines raise their standards and make it easier for passengers to get timely and effective solutions when they encounter a problem. 'The government must prioritise giving the Civil Aviation Authority stronger powers, including direct fining powers, so it can properly hold airlines to account when they fail to comply with consumer protection laws.' A Wizz Air spokesperson said: We do not accept these findings. It is another brazen attempt from Which? to pull the wool over the publics eyes with misleading research. 'Once again, Which? has not been transparent with its methodology, only asking a handful of people to give their opinion and attempting to disguise it as representative. 'The fact of the matter is you cannot contact a customer service team only a few times and rank the performance of an airline with millions of customers on this alone. It is simply not accurate or fair. As an organisation that is supposed to be on the side of the consumer, Which? should be providing customers with accurate advice they can trust, rather than trying to grab headlines. Our customer service teams deal with thousands of customers a day providing the support and assistance they require. But is Wizz Air in denial? This statement isnt just at odds with the Which? study, but with ratings on huge review sites. Wizz Air scores a woeful 1.3 out of five for its customer service on Trustpilot from 13,000 reviews, and on Tripadvisor it scores just 2.5 out of five on average for customer service from 26,800 reviews. A Vueling spokesperson said: Occasional challenges are not indicative of our overall service quality. We continuously evaluate our procedures to guarantee the best customer service and take the areas of improvement pointed out by the survey very seriously. A Ryanair spokesperson said: We dont respond to Which? fake news stories or its equally fake and routinely inaccurate surveys".' For more visit www.which.co.uk/news/article/travel-firms-fall-short-on-customer-service. A fleet of F50 racing boats passes the Golden Gate Bridge during San Francisco SailGP racing tournament in 2023. Jed Jacobsohn / SailGP This weekend, some of the worlds top sailors are gathering in San Francisco for a winner-takes-all racing competition. SailGP, a high-profile tournament launched four years ago and backed by billionaire Larry Ellison, will be held in the waters off of Marina Green as sailors compete for a $2 million prize double the amount from last years race. The city is known to have one of the best and most challenging race courses for sailing due to its iconic scenery, strong currents and high winds while spectators have an easy view from Marina Green. San Francisco has hosted many sailing competitions, mostly famously the 2013 Americas Cup, which is believed to have reinvigorated the sport. Advertisement Article continues below this ad An outraged cruise passenger has told how the company she was traveling with 'dropped her bag in the ocean' and it was only recovered thanks to a stranger's efforts. Lindsey Hargesheimer, from Denver, Colorado, aired her grievances on TikTok, where she made an almost 10-minute-long video detailing the chain of events. In the clip, the wedding photographer explains that she realized her bag was missing when she boarded a Celebrity Cruises ship in Amsterdam with her family, and she was the only one not to receive her luggage. When she called the cruise line to get an update, they confirmed they could not find her bag and the AirTag she had placed inside of it was not working. However later, when she turned her phone on, she immediately got a call stating that someone from the Amsterdam port had pulled her case 'out of the ocean... out of the canal.' Lindsey Hargesheimer, from Denver, Colorado, aired her grievances on TikTok, where she made an almost 10-minute-long video detailing the chain of events Lindsey said she was 'angry and upset' about the mishap as all of her belongings for a two week trip were inside the bag. Pictured, a ship from the Celebrity Cruises line While there were no official tags on the bag stating where it was going, the stranger was able to contact Lindsey as she had her phone number and details written on a tag. Lindsey said she was 'angry and upset and distraught' about the mishap as all of her belongings for a two-week trip were inside the bag. The contents included clothing, medications, supplements, make up, toiletries, camera equipment and even family jewelry. To make matters worse, Lindsey says she was initially given no compensation for the incident or vouchers to buy new items in the onboard stores. The only items she was given in the interim included a T-shirt, roll-on deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste. She told viewers, while videoing from the floor of her cabin: 'This is absolutely unacceptable... 'The [staff] all realize how f**king ridiculous it is because they don't believe me when I tell them.' The content creator continued: 'I personally believe the Celebrity Cruise Line have not handled this situation well at all. I don't feel taken care of for a mistake that they made. The wedding photographer said she also had camera equipment in her bag 'Like, you dropped my bag in the ocean! It is one thing if it was left at port but you dropped my bag in the ocean and didn't report it.' Lindsey notes that while she was pleased her bag has been found, she has no idea how much water damage her bag has sustained. 'I have no idea what I'm expecting. I have no idea if I can even use anything that is in my bag... I have nothing,' she says, while trying to hold back tears. In a follow up TikTok, Lindsey gives viewers an update and reveals that she will not be getting her bag back for the entirety of her cruise. Instead, she must inspect the bag once she is a back in the Netherlands in over a week's time with a port worker and a Celebrity Cruises member of staff on hand to see what damage has been done. She says: 'At this point, I've honestly just accepted that everything in that bag is not able to be salvaged in any way shape or form. '[Plus], it's going to be sitting at the port for another 10 days getting even more disgusting.' @throughlindseyslens Celebrity Cruises dropped my bag in the OCEAN! This was filmed on July 6th as we embarked on July 5th, I posted as soon as I had service. More updates to come. Please tag @Celebrity Cruises @Royal Caribbean so they can finally take accountability for their actions. *disclaimer: I understand that being on this trip is a privilege and Im very grateful that me and my family are safe.* lostatsea celebritycruise lostbaggage original sound - lindsey | colorado photog In a bid to have some other clothing to wear, Lindsey went shopping in one of the ports and was able to buy two outfits, a pair of walking shoes and some toiletries. She says Celebrity Cruises has since also given her $400 in credit, along with two laundry vouchers. In a meeting, she was also told that the cost of replacing all of her damaged items will be reimbursed. She said: 'I don't have it in writing but that is what I've been told.' To date, Lindsey's TikTok's have amassed almost 100,000 views with many sympathizing with her. One viewer wrote: 'I'm so sorry this has happened. It's crazy that they have not compensated you for anything. I'm concerned about your medications!' Another commenter, who claimed to have previously worked on a Celebrity Cruises ship also offered a tip, writing: 'Past Celebrity crew member. Next time you go to guest services, ask to set up a meeting with the HOTEL DIRECTOR. Not the general ship manager, the hotel. Highest of the high onboard to help in this situation!' In response to commenters stating that she was irresponsible for losing sight of her bag, the photographer explains that she was traveling with her grandmother who is in a wheelchair, so she handed her bag to a member of staff so she could push the chair onto the ship. 'That is the last I saw of them. Someone at the port took my bags from me,' Lindsey revealed. DailyMail.com has reached out to Celebrity Cruises for a comment on the matter. The Empire State is implementing a ban on single-use plastic toiletry bottles in hotels. Starting January 1, 2025, hotels with more than 50 rooms will no longer provide the miniature shampoo and conditioner bottles. Smaller establishments with fewer rooms will have a grace period until January 1, 2026 to comply with the ban. Fines for violations begin at $250 and escalate for repeat offenses, and the collected funds will go towards environmental protection efforts in the state. New York will be the second state after California to ban the little bottles that hotel guests adore and often take with them at the end of their stays. The Empire State is implementing a ban on single-use plastic toiletry bottles in hotels Starting January 1, 2025, hotels with more than 50 rooms will no longer provide the miniature shampoo and conditioner bottles This initiative, originally proposed in 2019, was signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul in 2021. The delay allows hotels to use their existing stock of small bottles. New York's legislation reflects a broader movement in the hospitality industry to lessen single-use plastic waste. Major hotel chains like Marriott and InterContinental Hotels Group are already committed to reducing their reliance on plastic, with toiletry bottles being a key target. By the end of 2023, 95 percent of Marriott's hotels had transitioned to larger, pump-action dispensers for shampoo and conditioner. This eco-friendly move is expected to continue throughout 2024. The impact? Marriott estimates this switch will prevent a staggering 500 million small plastic bottles from ending up in landfills each year, a spokesman told the New York Times. But smaller, more upscale hotels are struggling with this transition. John Fitzpatrick, a hotelier who owns two four-star hotels in Midtown Manhattan, told the Times that he is worried that the wall-mounted pump-bottles are more difficult to clean. Fitzpatrick and his team brainstormed, and proposed tinfoil packages the size of sauce packets, but whether or not these packets would be easy to open in the shower is a valid concern. 'You know, I thought companies would be coming in with plenty of new ideas,' Fitzpatrick said. 'But here we are sitting around the table.' Smaller establishments with less than 50 rooms will have a grace period until January 1, 2026 to comply with the ban New York will be the second state after California to ban the little bottles that hotel guests adore and even keep for themselves after the trip in an effort to reduce their carbon footprint As tourism in New York nearly returns to pre-pandemic numbers - the city attracted 62 million tourists last year, 93 percent of the record in 2019 - Fitzpatrick said that hotel guests value hygiene and cleanliness now more than ever. That is why he predicts that hotels would probably be switching to a new luxury toiletry provider for their larger bottles, in the hopes that guests would be pleased enough with the fancy brand that they would forgive the fact that other guests had previously used them. 'It is a worry for us,' Fitzpatrick said. 'We're not totally convinced of how it's going to work.' Rebel Wilson has claimed producers of her new film The Deb are blocking the movie from premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. The Australian actress, 44, alleged in an Instagram video her movie was set to premiere on the closing night of the 2024 TIFF, but producers Amanda Ghost and Gregor Cameron and executive producer Vince Holden are trying to prevent the comedy's debut at the prestigious event. She also accused the producers of 'bad behaviour' on set. The producers of Wilson's film have claimed the 'allegations are false, defamatory, and disappointing.' 'RW's allegations are false, defamatory, and disappointing,' a spokesperson for the producers told Deadline. 'Her self-promotional claims are clearly intended to cause reputational harm to the individuals who have supported her directorial debut film The Deb a joyous movie that we're very proud of and are looking forward to sharing with audiences. 'For her to promote a false narrative to advance her own agenda undermines the film and all the people who worked on this project.' Rebel Wilson has claimed producers of her new film The Deb are blocking the movie from premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival Wilson claimed in her video: 'You know sometimes you try so hard in life and you don't know what to do, well that is the situation. You might have noticed I did a post a week ago about the first film that I directed, that I am so proud of, The Deb. 'It is a little Australian musical which is awesome. It got selected for closing night of the Toronto Film Festival which is the best platform to be a first time female director, it's huge. 'To have the joy of the movie being selected is one thing but to have the business partners turn around and say the movie can't premiere is beyond devastating. Why are they saying this? Why are they stopping it?' Wilson then claimed: 'This dates back to October last year where I discovered bad behaviour by these business partners. They are producers of the film, their names are Amanda Ghost and Gregor Cameron and executive producer Vince Holden.' 'I reported their bad behaviour when I found out.' Wilson claimed since reporting the problems, she has been met with 'absolute viciousness and bad behaviour.' She said she managed to finish the film but alleged the producers have told her she can't release it. 'This is work of hundreds of people and this behaviour is absolutely vile and disgusting,' Wilson continued. 'I will speak the truth and warn people about people in the industry that are not behaving ethically. That is my dilemma if that movie doesn't play at Toronto, it's because of these absolute f**kwits.' The Deb, which stars Wilson and comedian Shane Jacobson, centres on a country school girl getting ready for her debutante ball. Wilson (pictured) had announced that her first film as director The Deb was set to premiere at the prestigious Toronto Film Festival in September The film will also feature actress Natalie Abbott from the ABC series Aftertaste, as well as newcomer Charlotte McInnes. Locations include country towns such as Carcoar, Blayney, and Orange, as well as Sydney. Last October, Rebel revealed that she turned down major offers in the States, so she could make her directorial debut Down Under. 'If I was directing a movie it was only going to be in Australia because that's authentic to me,' Rebel told The Daily Telegraph at the time. 'I didn't want to do the studio ones I was offered in America because I didn't feel like I had that heart connection,' she explained. Kyle Sandilands shocked his co-star Jackie 'O' Henderson on Thursday with his surprising take on Alec Baldwin's Rust manslaughter trial. The actor, 66, is currently on trial in New Mexico after the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, 42, on October 21, 2021. Baldwin was a producer and the star of Rust when he shot dead the mother-of-one while filming with a prop gun that had a live round inside it. The film's director Joel Souza was also injured. Kyle, 53, told Jackie, 49, he believes Baldwin should never have been charged over the incident, which has already seen armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed sentenced to 18 months prison for involuntary manslaughter. 'Are you one of those weirdos that thinks just because someone is dead that everyone needs to suffer? An actor was handed a gun, that's it,' Kyle said. Jackie disagreed and said the incident had to be fully investigated to ensure the responsible parties were brought to justice. 'You still have to go through the processes, that's only fair to the person who is dead. You would want the same if it was your mum or sister,' Jackie said. However, Kyle said he would 'still be on Alec's side' even if that were the case, prompting an outraged Jackie to ask if it was because Baldwin was famous, to which he agreed. Baldwin's trial began on Tuesday and if he is convicted he could be imprisoned for up to 18 months, the same length as Gutierrez-Reed's sentence. Kyle Sandilands shocked his co-star Jackie 'O' Henderson on Thursday with his surprising take on Alec Baldwin 's Rust manslaughter trial Camera footage showed Hutchins laying on her back inside the set following the shooting, with tubes coming out of her body as medical teams tended to her. The movie also co-starred Australian actor Travis Fimmell, 44, and was completed months after the accident. It is set to be released as a tribute to Hutchins. The actor, 66, is currently on trial in New Mexico after the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, 42, on October 21, 2021. Baldwin was a producer and the star of Rust when he shot dead the mother-of-one while filming with a prop gun that had a live round inside it. The film's director Joel Souza was also injured Kyle, 53, told Jackie, 49, that he believes Baldwin should never have been charged over the accident, which has already seen armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed sentenced to 18 months prison. Pictured: Baldwin with the deceased Halyna Hutchins (centre) and film crew The stakes for Baldwin are incredibly high and were starkly illustrated in February when Gutierrez-Reed went on trial and was found guilty for the same charges in the same court. In her opening statement, Erlinda Johnson, a special prosecutor appointed to the case, said Baldwin had 'violated the cardinal rules of firearm safety' and that he was 'reckless' on set. A similar incident occurred on the set of a Bliss n Eso music video filmed on the Gold Coast in January 2017, in which Australian martial artist Johann Ofner was fatally shot dead by a prop shot gun. Gypsy-Rose Blanchard expressed gratitude to Kim Kardashian for meeting with her and hearing out her story, despite her being 'too controversial.' Kim, 43, spoke face-to-face with Gypsy, 32, who was recently released from prison, after she pleaded guilty to the second-degree murder of her mom, Dee Dee Blanchard, in 2016. The reality TV star, who is known for her passion for prison reform, sat down with Gypsy who recently revealed she is pregnant with her first child in an upcoming episode of The Kardashians. In a new clip shared by Hulu on Wednesday, the Munchausen by Proxy survivor is seen thanking Kim for speaking with her. 'I give you massive kudos right now, because I think a lot of people are afraid of touching me as a topic,' she told Kim. Gypsy-Rose Blanchard, 32, expressed gratitude to Kim Kardashian, 43, for meeting with her and hearing out her story, despite her being 'too controversial' 'Really?' the mom-of-four, who wore a cozy brown leather jacket with a sherpa collar as well as her signature glam, asked. 'Because I'm too controversial,' Gypsy clarified. Kim then hilariously acknowledged that she is no stranger to controversy herself, as she quipped: 'Mmm, girl.' To which Gypsy replied: 'So I give you like massive props for being like, okay, I'm going to come do this right now. Like this is going to happen.' Looking beyond the headlines, the SKIMS founder revealed she wasn't motivated by the sensational aspects of Blanchard's case. Instead, she was driven by a belief in Gypsy's ability to 'make a big difference.' 'I've been following your case for a really long time. So like I wouldn't want to come and, you know, really meet with someone that I feel like can make an impact just for, like, the sensation of the case.' 'I recognize that, like, you can make a big difference. Because you can really articulate what you went through. And how you can get through it.' Kanye West's ex-wife also wanted to know what Gypsy picked as her first meal after getting out of prison. 'I give you massive kudos right now, because I think a lot of people are afraid of touching me as a topic,' she told Kim, who is known for her passion for prison reform Kim then hilariously acknowledged that she is no stranger to controversy herself, as she quipped: 'Mmm, girl' Looking beyond the headlines, the SKIMS founder revealed she wasn't motivated by the sensational aspects of Blanchard's case. Instead, she was driven by a belief in Gypsy's ability to 'make a big difference' 'I wouldn't want to come and, you know, really meet with someone that I feel like can make an impact just for, like, the sensation of the case,' Kim stated 'I recognize that, like, you can make a big difference. Because you can really articulate what you went through. And how you can get through it' In May, a preview clip of season five of the Hulu reality show sees Gypsy opening a door and meeting Kim 'When I got out I got to try steak for the first time. I've never had steak before, so yeah, it was actually pretty good,' Gypsy told her. In May a preview clip of season five of the Hulu reality show sees Gypsy opening a door and meeting Kim. Kim greets her with a hug and says: 'Hi Gypsy' who says 'hi' back before Kim's mother Kris Jenner is seen saying: 'Welcome back to season five'. The moment came as a surprise to fans of the show as Kim had not revealed she and Gypsy had met in person. Gypsy made worldwide headlines nearly a decade ago after she pleaded guilty to the second-degree murder of her mom, Dee Dee. She was released from Chillicothe Correctional Center in Missouri after serving eight and a half years in December, immediately springing into social media fame. Gypsy has been eager to join forces with Kim and previously said she would like to work on prison reform with her. After Kim included Gypsy's 2017 documentary Mommy Dead And Dearest, on her list of must-watch true crime shows, Gypsy responded: 'Maybe we should unite forces together to make real change within the justice system.' Kim has worked in the area of prison reform, advocating for inmates to get released early. She was involved with getting President Donald Trump to support the First Step Act, which enacted major reforms in the US prison system. Since leaving prison, Gypsy has undergone a drastic makeover, her most recent rhinoplasty surgery performed by Dr. Jeffrey J. Joseph at the start of April. It comes a day after Gypsy announced that she is pregnant with her first child, with boyfriend and ex-fiance Ken Urker, 31 While behind bars, Gypsy cultivated a relationship with Urker, who struck up a dialogue with the then-prisoner in 2019 through a 'letter of support' he penned after watching HBO documentary Mommy Dead And Dearest She was previously married to Ryan Anderson, 37, while still imprisoned. She announced she had filed for divorce from the special education teacher on April 8; Seen in January Gypsy spoke to People in early April, revealing she was going through a 'personal transformation journey.' She told the outlet: 'I'm going through a personal transformation journey currently and that includes a physical one, too.' And despite having previously said she no longer wanted to be 'famous,' she seemed to now be ready to step back in front of the cameras. 'Wish me luck with my surgery and watch the whole thing this summer on Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up,' she said. The truth behind Gypsy's life was a heart-wrenching yet strange one, as it was discovered shortly thereafter her mom's murder that the then-teen had been a victim of Munchausen's by Proxy for the majority of her life. Her mom made up serious illnesses throughout her daughter's life in order to garner sympathy from others, like leukemia and muscular dystrophy - diseases that she never even had. Dee Dee also put her daughter in a wheelchair and shaved her head, among other ailments forced upon her. On Tuesday, Gypsy announced that she is pregnant with her first child with boyfriend and ex-fiance Ken Urker, 31. She shared the news on her YouTube channel. 'I am 11 weeks pregnant,' she said on the video. 'Ken and I are expecting our very first child come January of 2025. 'We're both very excited - this was not planned at all, it was completely unexpected.' Blanchard teared up in her video as she said she hopes to give her child 'all the things she wished she could have had when she was little.' Gypsy made worldwide headlines nearly a decade ago after she pleaded guilty to the second-degree murder of her mom, Dee Dee Blanchard Gypsy (seen with her mom) spent her childhood posing as a wheelchair-bound invalid after Dee Dee shaved her daughter's head, pumped her full of drugs She also shared she has been experiencing 'crazy mood swings.' Despite being behind bars, Gypsy managed to find love, marrying Ryan Anderson while still imprisoned in June 2022. She announced she had filed for divorce from the 37-year-old special education teacher on April 8. After she announced her separation from Anderson, she reunited with her ex-fiance Ken. While behind bars, Gypsy cultivated a relationship with Urker, who struck up a dialogue with the then-prisoner in 2019 through a 'letter of support' he penned after watching HBO documentary Mommy Dead And Dearest. They then became pen pals, which gave way to a romantic relationship. The two were even briefly engaged before things fizzled out, until they reunited again after her release. Sofia Vergara looked youthful as she stepped out in Los Angeles to celebrate her 52nd birthday on Wednesday. The Modern Family alum who recently enjoyed a sushi date with hunky boyfriend Justin Saliman treated herself to a bit of retail therapy in Beverly Hills. She looked radiant in a chic blue-and-white sundress, flashing her megawatt smile while crossing a street in the upscale neighborhood. Completing her look with a white leather handbag and matching sneakers, the star embraced her natural beauty with minimal makeup. The outing comes as her 32-year-old son Manolo kicked off the birthday wishes from family and friends. Sofia Vergara looked youthful as she stepped out in Los Angeles to celebrate her 52nd birthday on Wednesday The Modern Family alum who recently enjoyed a sushi date with hunky boyfriend Justin Saliman treated herself to a bit of retail therapy in Beverly Hills He took to his Instagram to share a sweet flashback photo from when he was a young boy to recognize her special day. 'Happy birthday, Ma! I love you,' wrote Manolo over the black-and-white image of his mom, who was a bikini model at the time. In the pic, Sofia sported a leopard print top paired with a dark skirt and high heels, appearing youthful, while he humorously explained his tuxedo attire. 'Went to a kindergarten with a very strict dress code,' Manolo wrote. Another post was from her 48-year-old Modern Family costar Jesse Tyler Ferguson who said, 'I miss you.' Sofia - who split from Joe Manganiello last year - recently revealed that she isn't interested in having another child. The Hollywood star told PEOPLE: 'There's things in life that might sound like good ideas, but they're not. 'I was a mother already. I know what it means to be a good mother or to try to be the best mother that you can, and that takes a lot of sacrifices, takes a lot of energy.' The decision not to have another child actually influenced Sofia's split from Joe, 47. Sofia Vergara turned 52-years-old on Wednesday. And her son Manolo shared a sweet flashback photo from when he was a young boy. 'Happy birthday, Ma! I love you,' wrote Manolo over the black-and-white image of his mom, who was a model at the time Here is another flashback photo from her modeling days that Vergara shared earlier this summer Sofia was seen on the back patio of her $26M mansion in the exclusive Beverly Park neighborhood of Los Angeles last month with her beau Saliman Here the pinup was seen modeling a brown swimsuit from her Walmart collection Despite this, the actress respects anyone who wishes to have a child in their 50s. She explained: 'Nowadays, thanks to science, women can actually have babies older. Before, nature for some reason tells your body at 50 you are in menopause, it's time for you to be done with that. There is a reason why nature is doing that. 'But that's for me, and I totally respect where anyone wants to be a mom after 50. 'I didn't think because of my career, the way I live my life, the way my marriage was, that it was fair to bring a kid to this world, and I'm not going to be able to give 100 percent.' Sofia also said she is grateful that she had her son at a younger age. The actress shared: 'It is great that I had him young, because now I'm going to be 52, and he's 32. 'I wish I was older sometimes, because I would've been more mature, more prepared to be a mother, but that was what I got and what happened. So I just kept going and try not to look back at it, because it is what it is. But it is fun because I kind of grew up together with my son.' Alessandra Ambrosio is showcasing her supermodel figure while soaking up some sun during her latest visit to Ibiza. The former Victoria's Secret Angel, 43, called the island her 'happy place' as she uploaded photos from her idyllic trip to Instagram on Wednesday. For the cover photo, Alessandra strutted her stuff on the dock during a relaxing day by the water. She looked sensational in a tiny red bikini that showed off her runway-worthy figure. The skimpy two-piece swimsuit featured a halter bikini top and cheeky thong-style bottoms. Alessandra Ambrosio is showcasing her supermodel figure while soaking up some sun during her latest visit to Ibiza The former Victoria's Secret Angel, 43, called the island her 'happy place' as she uploaded photos from her idyllic trip to Instagram on Wednesday The Gal Floripa co-founder let her wavy brunette hair flow out from under a large straw hat. She appeared makeup-free and she wore designer sunglasses in the seaside shots. With the gorgeous clear-blue water as her backdrop, Alessandra posed with her head looking over one shoulder and with her back to the camera. She included a similar photo that showed her looking out at the boats in the distance with her hands at her sides. Alessandra then puckered up for a selfie while cooling off under an umbrella. There was also a photo of the longtime top model snuggling up next to her friend, hair stylist Dominick Pucciarello, while they were playing on the beach. To round out her post, Alessandra shared an aerial shot of the Spanish island that's off the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula. The rock island covers an area of about 221 square miles (572.56 square kilometres), which is around 10 times larger than Manhattan in New York City. For the cover photo, Alessandra strutted her stuff on the dock during a relaxing day at the beach There was also a photo of the longtime top model snuggling up next to her friend, hair stylist Dominick Pucciarello, while they were playing on the beach To round out her post, Alessandra shared an aerial shot of the Spanish island that's off the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula Ibiza Town and Sant Antoni are well known for its lively nightlife and electronic dance music club scene in the summer. It's also home to quiet villages, yoga retreats and beaches, from Platja d'en Bossa, lined with hotels, bars and shops, to quieter sandy coves backed by pine-clad hills found all around the coast. Noticeably absent from Alessandra's latest vacation was her former boyfriend Richard Lee, whom she reportedly split from towards the end of 2023 after dating for more than two years. In September of last year a source told DailyMail.com she was on a 'break' from her partner and that they had 'drifted apart.' Alessandra arrived in Ibiza over the weekend and was spotted hitting the beach with hunky Irish businessman Alexander Smurfit, 39, on Sunday. Smurfit, whose father, Sir Michael Smurfit, is a leading figure in the global packaging industry, with a reported net worth of $400 million. In photos obtained by DailyMail.com, Alessandra could be seen romping in the water in a bikini while hanging out with a shirtless Smurfit. The longtime supermodel spent time with Spanish model and actress, Esther Canadas, 47, during her trip It appears Ambrosio made her way to the hot beats of Circoloco, a dance party that's held at the DC10 nightclub in Ibiza, Spain Ambrosio also chatted it up with Cathy Guetta, 57, who is the ex-wife of DJ and music producer David Guetta, while in Ibiza Prior to her split with Richard Lee, Alessandra was romantically linked to Nicol Oddi from 2018 to 2020. Her relationship with Oddi came after the end of her 10-year engagement to businessman, Jamie Mazur. She and Mazur - who were together from 2005 to 2018 share two children: Anja, 15, and Noah, 12. Cardi B continued her daughter Kulture's lavish sixth birthday celebrations on Wednesday by taking her family to the zoo in Paris, France. The Grammy Award-winning rapper, 31, was seen walking hand-in-hand with two-year-old son Wave as they checked out the animal enclosures. Cardi who shares both her children with estranged husband Offset looked glam for the outdoor occasion in an oversized black hooded dress and Balenciaga booties. She wore her hair parted in front of her face, and accessorized with diamonds and a red lip. The Bronx native could be seen posing for pictures with her children and other guests who joined the family on their trip to Paris. Cardi B continued her daughter Kulture's lavish sixth birthday celebrations on Wednesday by taking her family to the zoo in Paris, France The Grammy Award-winning rapper, 31, was seen cradling her two-year-old son Wave as they checked out the animal enclosures Cardi also shared the experience on her Instagram Stories, posting a video of a giraffe as she exclaims, 'Look how huge.' 'I swear to god,' the WAP hitmaker continued off-camera. 'This is such a giant animal and they be fighting each other.' The next clip showed Cardi's son Wave being carried to see the giraffes as Kulture runs ahead. The birthday girl was all glammed up for her special day, wearing a white and pink dress with a tutu skirt and matching sneakers. The cheery six-year-old wore a big bow in her curled hair for her time at the zoo. Cardi said, 'You see those, Wavey? The giraffes.' 'No wait, don't scream,' the Grammy winner quipped as her two-year-old yelled. Cardi then addressed her daughter and her two friends: 'Don't get scared girls. Oh my goodness. Oh no, I'm stepping on poop.' Kulture and her friends were also seen petting and feeding the giraffes as Wave greeted them and called the animal a reindeer. Cardi looked glam for the outdoor occasion in an oversized black hooded dress and booties Cardi shares both her children with estranged husband Offset, who was notably absent from their zoo visit on Wednesday The media mogul took a break from visiting the animals to pose for family photos A follow-up video showed hotel staff bringing out a giant white and pink birthday cake later in the day as everybody sang Happy Birthday. 'Go blow out your candle girl,' Cardi exclaimed as another voice screamed, 'It's beautiful.' Kulture's friends then helped her blow out the sparklers. Later in the night, the girls enjoyed dinner, during which Cardi captured the trio singing before KK blew out another set of candles on her second cake. Cardi - dressed in all black - could be seen cutting the cake with her mini-me by her side. A day earlier, the Enough artist and her family took a private jet to Paris, where Kulture dazzled in a custom gown. Cardi took a moment to gush about her little girl on her birthday and give a nod to the former Migos rapper. 'Happy birthday to my beautiful, gentle, amazing daughter Not only are you growing up on me but I'm growing up with you cause I learned sooo much by just being your mom,' she wrote. 'Thank you @mattyboy90 for this beautiful dress . @offsetyrn you did that lol. And thank you @hecjets for makin the impossible possible for this trip not only did we have the best jet experience..we almost ain't made it but yall made it HAPPEN!!!' In one image, Kulture stood at the top of the stairs with her hands on her hips as she posed in a stunning, floor-length white gown embroidered with pink crosses, a tutu, and a long train. She wore her hair parted in front of her face, and accessorized with diamonds and a red lip She rocked Balenciaga boots The Grammy winner founder was photographed taking a selfie with her mom Clara Almanzar The Bronx native could be seen posing for pictures with her children and other guests who joined the family on their trip to Paris The mother-daughter duo also posed together in front of a massive display of pink and white balloons and a massive 'Kulture' sign. Cardi wore a pink long-sleeve jersey with matching boots and kept her long black hair straight down as she smiled behind her daughter. Other shots included Cardi and Kulture walking to the jet and on the aircraft. The big celebration comes amid rumors that Cardi is pregnant with her third child. The internet was set a buzz after the WhipShots founder performed at the 2024 BET Awards wearing an oversized jersey. Then again, on July 4th, when Cardi was spotted out in the Bronx wearing a tight white outfit. But the mom-of-two has remained tight-lipped about the speculation. Meanwhile, back in May, Cardi let the Bardi Gang that she wouldn't be putting out her highly anticipated sophomore LP anytime soon. 'NO album this year I don't care I'm relaxing this year..' she wrote on X. 'Dropping these features I already committed to and traveling and enjoying my summer.' The birthday girl Kulture was all glammed up for her special day, wearing a white custom made gown Cardi captured her son feeding the giraffes at the zoo in Paris That same month, Cardi also opened up about the state of her relationship with Offset. 'I think it through,' the superstar told Rolling Stone in May. 'We think it through, because we do love each other. It's not even about love. We're best friends. And it's like, 'OK. Well, there was a time that I didn't have a best friend, or I didn't have a support system.'' The finality of their relationship comes five months after Cardi first confirmed she and the 32-year-old had separated again. Cardi explained to the outlet, 'It's not even about 'How do you leave a partner?' How do you stop talking to your best friend?' The Up rapper also admitted that while she has let Offset's past indiscretions go, she did put her career and kids before her partner. Cardi stated, 'Sometimes I don't realize that I'm putting so many things before my relationship.' One thing is for certain, the Rhythm + Flow alum cherishes their bond. 'The part I love is that we really like each other, like a support system,' Cardi gushed. 'We're really both each other's cheerleader.' Later in the night, the group enjoyed a birthday dinner for the six-year-old The mom-of-two captured Kulture and her friends singing Happy Birthday before cutting her daughter's cake On July 4th, the Rhythm + Flow alum was spotted out in the Bronx wearing a tight white outfit, but has since remained tight-lipped about any pregnancy speculation She also admitted that Offset is the first partner she's had that lifted her up instead of tearing her down. 'He never made me feel like I was little to him,' Cardi elaborated. 'He actually always used to tell me, 'You a f--king superstar, watch.'' As for where the pair stands present day, she noted, 'We're all right now.' The musicians tied the knot in 2017 and have been on and off for several years, most recently calling it quits in 2023. 'I've been single for a minute now,' Cardi said during an Instagram live in December, 'but I have been afraid to likenot afraid, I just don't know how to tell the world. But I feel like today has been a sign. The last time I got on Live I kind of wanted to tell you guys, but I didn't know how to tell you, so I changed my mind. But it has been like this for a minute now. I just took it as a sign.' The fashion icon also shared that she's looking forward to the future. 'I wanna start 2024, like, fresh, open,' Cardi told followers. 'I don't know. I'm curious for a new life, for a new beginning. And yeah, I'm excited.' Cardi B changed her look up once again as she left her hotel to have dinner with her team in Paris on Wednesday evening. The rapper, 31, opted for an all black look as she covered up her enviable curves in a floaty black dress which finished just above the knee. The chart topper paired the dress with jet black straightened hair and a gothic makeup look as well as some plain black sandals. Cardi opted for a smoky eye and heavy winged eyeliner as well as a deep red lipstick, while her long white nails contrasted the look. She is currently in the French capital with her husband Offset, their daughter Kulture, six, and son Wave, two. Cardi B covered up her curves in a black floaty dress and gothic makeup as she headed out for dinner in Paris on Wednesday evening The rapper, 31, opted for a smoky eye and heavy winged eyeliner as well as a deep red lipstick, while her long white nails contrasted the look The family were seen dining at Cesar restaurant on Monday evening, while Offset's other daughter, Kalea, nine, who he shares with ex Shya L'amour was also in Paris with them. Cardi was spotted leaving the restaurant toting a Chanel XXL travel bag in silver, which costs an eye-watering $12,039 (9,405). Meanwhile, the couple's son Wave was sat in a Dior stroller, which costs $4,607 (3,600), as they made their way home after the family night out. During the trip, the family have also paid a visit to Disneyland Paris to celebrate their daughter, Kulture's, sixth birthday and shared highlights from their day online. Last year in December, Cardi B split from her husband - but the two have since been spotted together on various occasions. In May, she talked reconciliation rumors with Rolling Stone, stating they are 'all right now.' The star - who sparked speculation she is expecting their third child in June - uploaded reels to her Instagram stories to document the getaway. In the first video, Cardi B could be seen sitting inside a vehicle with her son Wave propped up on her lap. In the backseat, Kulture was seen alongside her father's other daughter, Kalea. The chart topper paired the dress with jet black straightened hair and a gothic makeup look as well as some plain black sandals 'We're leaving to Paris!' Cardi B excitedly gushed to the camera while sporting a pink jersey and fashionable shades. The trio behind the music artist also shared their excitement, with the reel concluding as music was blasted on the radio. The next clip was taken after the group boarded a lavish, private jet as they prepared to head to Paris. In text added towards the bottom, the I Like That hitmaker typed out, '@hecjets thank you soo much..yall really helped me do my big one for my baby.' She also filmed Kulture - who wore a white tulle dress - before the plane took off, and told her daughter, 'I love you.' The birthday girl sweetly expressed the same, and Cardi B flipped the camera to film herself before the short reel came to an end. The star - who currently boasts 166 million followers - also gave her fans a glimpse of the jet's interior, from the comfortable bed setup and a silver Chanel purse that was placed on top. Another video showed both Kulture and her little brother, Wave, sitting on the same seat as they snacked on a tasty dinner. The star - who sparked speculation she is expecting their third child in June - uploaded reels to her Instagram stories to document the getaway; Offset's daughter Kalea Marie pictured with a family friend In the backseat, Kulture was seen with Offset's other daughter, Kalea, nine, whom he welcomed with ex Shya L'amour The next clip was taken after the group boarded a lavish, private jet as they prepared to head to Paris The star - who currently boasts 166 million followers - also gave her fans a glimpse of the jet's interior, from the comfortable bed setup and a silver Chanel purse that was placed on top She also filmed Kulture - who wore a white tulle dress - before the plane took off, and told her daughter, 'I love you' After landing in France, Cardi B filmed Kulture and seemingly Kalea as they sat next to each other inside a van. While the birthday girl was nibbling on candy, she sweetly offered a piece to her little brother, Wave After landing in France, Cardi B filmed Kulture and seemingly Kalea as they sat next to each other inside a van. While the birthday girl was nibbling on candy, she sweetly offered a piece to her little brother, Wave. 'They going to be a kii when they grow up,' the performer wrote in text added to the bottom of the reel. And while visiting Disneyland Paris, the family had the chance to interact with Cinderella. Later, while on a ride, Cardi B filmed a selfie video and then panned to show Offset sitting next to her. The Don't You Lie rapper had his arms crossed and sent a bored look in her direction, and jokingly shook his head. 'Smile for the camera,' she asked the performer, who quickly flashed a small grin in her direction as the ride slowly continued. The next video showed Kulture commenting on the ride and characters, stating that some are 'creepy,' causing Cardi B to humorously said, 'These kids don't like nothing.' And while visiting Disneyland Paris, the family had the chance to interact with Cinderella Later, while on a ride, Cardi B filmed a selfie video and then panned to show Offset sitting next to her 'Smile for the camera,' she asked the performer, who quickly flashed a small grin in her direction as the ride slowly continued Offset also jumped to his own Instagram stories while on a ride with son, Wave, sitting on his lap Cardi B also filmed the music artist sitting in a blue car next to their son Wave as they had a blast on another ride Offset also jumped to his own Instagram stories while on a ride with son, Wave, sitting on his lap. 'Are you ready?' he asked the two-year-old, who responded with a quick, 'Yes.' 'Let's get it,' Offset added, with Wave sweetly saying, 'Okay,' as the rapper filmed themselves waiting for the ride to start. Cardi B also filmed the music artist sitting in a blue car next to their son Wave as they had a blast on another ride. Both stars first sparked romance rumors in February 2017 when they attended Super Bowl LI together. Later that same year in September, the pair secretly said 'I do.' The following month, Offset popped the big question during a public proposal at Power 99's Powerhouse concert in Philadelphia. In early 2018, cheating rumors surrounding Offset began to circulate, but the couple stayed together and announced they were expecting their first child together in April of that year. However, five months after Kulture was born, Cardi B announced their split in December 2018 before reuniting. In December, she confirmed that she had split from Offset again when she revealed during an Instagram Live that she has 'been single for a minute now.' However, since then, the two have been spotted on various occasions together, such as at a Knix game in April and a MET Gala after party in May. Cardi B opened up about reconciliation rumors in May during an interview with Rolling Stone and said that they are 'all right now.' In regards to their future, she said they will 'think it through' while explaining, 'Because we do love each other.' 'It's not even about love. We're best friends. And it's like, "Okay. Well, there was a time that I didn't have a best friend, or I didn't have a support system." It's not even about "How do you leave a partner?" How do you stop talking to your best friend?' And last month in June, speculation arose that she is expecting her third child with Offset at the 4th Annual Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards (seen above) And last month in June, speculation arose that she is expecting her third child with Offset. While attending the 4th Annual Hollywood Unlocked Impact Awards, she donned a loose-fitting blazer dress with sheer, black fabric that flowed down towards the ground. She later performed at the 2024 BET Experience in L.A. late last month, and continued to fuel pregnancy rumors when she opted to wear a sparkling, over-sized jersey on stage. Despite the speculation, Cardi B herself has yet to publicly address the rumours. James Paxton was brought on by Malcolm McDowell to take on the role originally meant for his late father, Bill Paxton, in the upcoming Western titled, Last Train To Fortune. The Clockwork Orange actor, 81 - who recently opened up about reuniting with ex-wife Mary Steenburgen in the movie - discussed how the idea of James portraying an outlaw named Dooley came about. Bill Paxton - who is known for his other roles in projects such as Titanic (1997) and Twister (1996) - passed away at the age of 61 after suffering a stroke in February 2017. 'I said, "I've always loved that script. It's such a beautiful script, really. Why don't we get James Paxton to do it?"' McDowell expressed during an interview with People published on Wednesday. 'He'd be the same age as his dad was, almost. A little bit younger, but even better,' the British-born star continued. James Paxton was brought on by Malcolm McDowell to take on the role originally meant for his late father, Bill Paxton, in the upcoming Western titled, Last Train To Fortune; James seen with his later father in 2017 in L.A. 'I said, "I've always loved that script. It's such a beautiful script, really. Why don't we get James Paxton to do it?"' McDowell expressed during an interview with People published on Wednesday Last Train To Fortune has been in the making for decades - with late Lindsay Anderson originally slated to direct the film in the early 1990s. Anderson passed away at the age of 71 in France in 1994 before production began on the Western. Malcolm also talked about working alongside James - who has starred in various projects throughout his budding career thus far, including Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2020), Eyewitnesses (2016) and the upcoming action thriller Twisters (2024). 'So we did a read-through at my house and I think everybody went "Wow." It's pretty good when you hear it aloud for the first time.' The Oscar-nominated actor added of Bill Paxton's son, 'I must say that he's pretty levelheaded.' 'Of course, [there is] the weight of his dad, but that's every day in life he's had that, and he's a very fine young actor.' In the Western, McDowell took on the role of a schoolteacher named, Cecil Peachtree, while Paxton portrayed Dooley - an outlaw. The premise follows the pair, 'as they strike a deal and develop an odd friendship along the road to Fortune after having to deal with gunfights, jailbreaks and saloon gals on the way,' per an IMDB synopsis. The Oscar-nominated actor added of Bill Paxton's son, 'I must say that he's pretty levelheaded. Of course, [there is] the weight of his dad, but that's every day in life he's had that, and he's a very fine young actor'; James seen in June in Westwood In the Western, McDowell took on the role of a schoolteacher named, Cecil Peachtree, while Paxton portrayed Dooley - an outlaw; McDowell seen in 2021 in London Other stars that were cast in the movie - which is slated to premiere later this year in the fall - include Mary Steenburgen, Bernadette Peters and also Laura Marano. Steenburgen and McDowell previously starred together in past films such as Time After Time (1979) and Cross Creek (1983). The two were also married from 1980 through 1990. On reuniting with his ex-wife, Malcolm also revealed to People, 'I didn't really know how it would be, but from the first moment we started rehearsing it was like putting on a pair of comfortable slippers.' 'Just the working experience was so comfortable and so "I've got your back," that kind of thing,' he explained to the outlet. After working together on Time After Time, the two stars sparked up a romance, with Malcolm recalling, 'We both kind of fell in love on that film, but we're both now with other partners and very happy.' Steenburgen notably later tied the knot with Ted Danson in 1995, while the British-born star said 'I do' to Kelley Kuhr in 1991. Steenburgen and McDowell previously starred together in past films such as Time After Time (1979) and Cross Creek (1983). The two were also married from 1980 through 1990; seen above on set of Time After Time (1979) Last Train To Fortune is directed by Adam Rifkin while the script was written by his mother, Michele Rifkin, over three decades earlier, according to Deadline. While discussing finally bringing the Western to the screen, the director told the outlet, 'I say with utter confidence this is one of the most powerful performances Malcolm McDowell has given in his storied career. And James Paxton is a revelation.' Malcolm also talked about the project and explained, 'Peachtree is one of the most fun and satisfying characters I've ever played.' 'Plus, the theme that we're never too old or too young to change, is universal. The story is sweet, funny and heartfelt.' He further expressed, 'I've waited 60 years to do a Western so I'm thrilled my first one gets to be Last Train To Fortune!' James reflected on having the opportunity to fill the role initially meant to be taken on by his later father. 'Excited to be working with a master like Malcolm McDowell, we're having a blast.' 'I've also been a longtime fan of Adam Rifkin's and am over the moon to be working with him as well.' Bill Paxton had starred in a number of films during his successful Hollywood career, such as Aliens (1986), True Lies (1994) and Apollo 13 (1995) On February 11, 2017, the actor passed away at the age of 61 after suffering from a stroke - 11 days after undergoing surgery to replace a heart valve and repair aorta damage; seen in 2016 in West Hollywood Bill Paxton had starred in a number of films during his successful Hollywood career, such as Aliens (1986), True Lies (1994) and Apollo 13 (1995). He was also no stranger to the Western genre, and appeared in the critically acclaimed movie, Tombstone (1993). On February 11, 2017, the actor passed away at the age of 61 after suffering from a stroke - 11 days after undergoing surgery to replace a heart valve and repair aorta damage. The following year, his family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the surgeon at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and alleged he had used a 'high risk and unconventional surgical approach.' In February 2022, Bill's family reached a $1 million settlement with a medical group and later that same year in August, reached an additional settlement with the hospital. Gov. Gavin Newsom spoke Thursday during a news conference in Oakland with California Highway Patrol officials, announcing new efforts to boost public safety in the East Bay. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle Gov. Gavin Newsom is quadrupling the number of state police shifts in Oakland as he and other elected officials face scrutiny over lawlessness in the city. Starting Monday, the number of California Highway Patrol shifts in Oakland will increase from 42 per week to 162, with about 20 CHP officers working in the city seven days a week instead of two to three times a week. The increase will last four months, Newsom said. While we are encouraged by some positive trends, the lawlessness were seeing on the streets of Oakland is unacceptable, Newsom said in a statement. Building on our partnership with local law enforcement, Im deploying a new surge of CHP officers to help provide the people of Oakland and the East Bay the safety and security they deserve. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The surge will zero in on crimes such as organized retail theft, sideshows and carjackings, Newsom said. The announcement comes as Newsom is under increasing pressure to crack down on crime. The increase builds on an additional 120 CHP officers Newsom deployed to Oakland and the broader East Bay as part of an operation in February. In recent weeks the CHP started installing license plate reader cameras in the East Bay. Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell and Mayor Sheng Thao thanked Newsom for the bolstered support. In a statement, Thao said the partnership models good government that yields results. Newsom credits the CHP officers now deployed to the East Bay with recovering more than a thousand stolen cars, seizing 55 crime-linked guns and arresting more than 500 suspects since February. Hes touted an apparent decrease in crime in Oakland, but recent reporting, including a Chronicle report published Wednesday, revealed the data he relied on was incomplete and misleading. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Crime will be a major election issue across California after a coalition of district attorneys qualified a ballot measure to roll back parts of a landmark sentencing reform measure Newsom championed in 2014 that reduced jail time for drug possession and thefts under $950. Newsom opposes the ballot measure and attempted unsuccessfully to place a competing measure before voters to draw support from the rollback measure. After he backed away from that attempt, hes focusing on other ways to demonstrate his government is cracking down on crime. Newsom announced the increased Oakland CHP deployment one day after he rescinded an offer to Price for state lawyers to assist her office in prosecuting cases. Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced in February they would send prosecutors from the California National Guard and the states Department of Justice to help prosecute defendants in Alameda County. At the time, Price called the arrangement a partnership and said her office would work with the state to aggressively prosecute more people. But in a Wednesday letter, a top Newsom administration official rescinded the offer to send attorneys from the California National Guard, saying that Prices office had not been cooperative. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Despite our outreach, your office has yet to make use of these resources, Newsoms Cabinet Secretary Ann Patterson wrote to Price. Accordingly, we have decided to shift these resources to the Attorney Generals Office, where they will be utilized to work on state-led prosecutions originating from Alameda County. During a news conference in Oakland on Thursday, Newsom criticized Prices response to his efforts to send more attorneys to her office. There wasnt a sincere commitment to follow through on the offer, he said. He also faulted her for moving too slowly to hire people to prosecute drug crimes after the head of her office's narcotics unit left and said that unit no longer has any personnel. Prices office did not respond to requests for comment Thursday. At a press conference Thursday afternoon, she said the governor was mistaken, and that the prosecutor in question is still working for the office. That prosecutor, Michael Nieto, is leaving because Newsom appointed him to be a judge last month. Price said he isn't the only one who handles narcotics cases. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She also pushed back on Newsom's characterization of her office as uncooperative. She said the governor's office offered only one additional prosecutor to help and that her office hadn't refused, but was still reviewing the terms of the proposal, which the governor's office laid out in April. Irina Shayk was spotted working on a photo shoot in Malibu this week. The 38-year-old star whose ex Bradley Cooper is dating Gigi Hadid flaunted her svelte figure in a white shorts co-ord. The Russian supermodel teased her taut tummy in a black corset with a cutout at the chest, which exposed her cleavage. She added black, lace-up, to-the-knee combat boots for the beachside photo session. The mother-of-one, who shares seven-year-old daughter Lea with Cooper, pulled her long dark hair into a sleek bun. Irina Shayk was spotted working on a photo shoot in Malibu this week The 38-year-old star flaunted her taut tummy in a white shorts co-ord with a black corset Shayk wore a light face of glowy makeup and skipped noticeable jewelry during the sunny beach day. She was surrounded by a crew throughout the work day. Days ago, the beauty was active on Instagram as she shared a carousel of images with her 23.5 million followers. 'Nowhere else .' she captioned the post, which is nearing 300,000 likes. The runway regular did not tag her location, but the photos showed her in a scenic landscape with lush greenery. In one stunning snapshot, Irina showed her long, lean legs as she gazed into the camera with her hair spilling around her in waves. Another one featured her lying in the grass with the sunlight catching her big, blue eyes. Elsewhere in the collection of captures, Irina smiled while wearing a red helmet and black leotard as she ziplined. Days ago, the beauty was active on Instagram as she shared a carousel of images with her 23.5 million followers 'Nowhere else .' she captioned the post, which is nearing 300,000 likes In her recent collection of social media captures, Irina smiled while wearing a red helmet and black leotard as she ziplined The Vogue cover girl recently listed her multimillion-dollar New York City duplex in the West Village. The asking price for the three bedroom, two-and-a-half bath apartment is $4.2 million. Per its realtor.com listing, the first-floor duplex boasts over 2,450 square feet and is located near the Hudson River. The spacious dwelling also has an area for watching movies where habitants can enjoy a screen projector. Ray Martin is set to plan his own funeral next month for an upcoming SBS documentary series which explores cultural traditions surrounding death. The veteran journalist will host the the three-part series, called Ray Martin: The Last Goodbye, which will explore various taboos surrounding death. At 79 years old, Ray said in a statement that statistically he is only four years away from his own death, and he will inject his trademark style and humour into the show. The series will investigate various funeral trends and rituals and will address some deep questions, including why people choose certain ceremonies, songs and resting places. Martin will discuss the topic with a variety of celebrity guests on the show, including veteran presenter Gretel Killeen, 61, and comedian Alex Lee. SBS Commissioning Editor Bethan Arwel-Lewis said: 'At SBS we aren't scared to tackle those subjects that are sometimes provocative or difficult in our programming. 'So an exploration of death one of our last taboos is the perfect subject for us to lift the lid on, and who better to take us into this world and get us talking and even laughing about death, than Ray Martin.' Last year, Martin insisted that he still has a lot of life left in him, as he grows older gracefully. Ray Martin (pictured) is set to plan his own funeral next month for an upcoming SBS documentary series which explores cultural traditions surrounding death 'I'm never going to retire. David Attenborough is in his 90s and he's my role model. He says you've got to keep doing what you love,' he told Woman's Day magazine. He added the workaholic lifestyle he once had prevented him from enjoying the important things in life and he was never going to repeat that mistake. 'I lived in New York for 10 years as the ABC correspondent and I worked eight days a week. Yet I think of all the things I didn't do and should have done. The veteran journalist will host the the three-part series, called Ray Martin: The Last Goodbye, which will explore the various taboos surrounding death 'You've got forever to sleep, you've got to have a go.' The esteemed A Current Affair host added that, as he gets older, he is more committed than ever to spending time with his children Jenna and Luke and two grandchildren. Ray Martin: The Last Goodbye will premiere on Wednesday, August 14 at 8.30pm on SBS and SBS On Demand and will continue on the following two Wednesdays at the same time. At 79-years-old, Ray said in a statement that statistically he is only four years away from his own death, and he will inject his trademark style and humour into the show A KIIS FM staffer was left in tears after she was accused of using cocaine at work in a cruel prank that even shock jock Kyle Sandilands admitted went too far. Kyle and Jackie O breakfast show director Bruno Bouchet told fill-in staff member Megan on Thursday that there were rumours swirling that she was using illicit drugs in the office. But the 'Only Lying' segment took a turn for the worse when Megan began crying uncontrollably. The prank began when Bruno asked Megan to step into a room to chat before telling her: 'Thanks so much for filling in, you've been going great but I've got some feedback. 'It's good to be involved in the show but it's a little too much,' he said referring to her overly energetic antics. Bruno then asked: 'Can I ask you a little bit of a delicate question? There is nothing worse than rumours and I have heard from a few people that they think you might be taking cocaine in the morning. Are you doing cocaine at work?' A stunned Megan responded: 'What no! I don't even smoke weed or anything like that. 'I would never do anything like that, not to jeopardise my role or to disappoint anyone. I have never in my life done that.' A KIIS FM staffer was left in tears after she was accused of using cocaine at work in a cruel prank. Long-time producer Bruno Bouchet told fill-in staff member Megan, there were rumours swirling that she was using illicit drugs 'I feel really bad and I hope I haven't disappointed anyone. I just thought I would bring a little bit of excitement,' she said before breaking down in tears. 'I can change if you need me to change.' Bruno then left the room before eventually returning and informing an emotional Megan that he was Only Lying. However Sandilands revealed that his long-time manager left Megan weeping by herself 'for ten minutes' before finally putting her out of her misery. But things took a turn for the worse when Megan began crying uncontrollably Both he and fellow host Jackie 'O' Henderson admitted the prank went too far. 'That is so cruel,' Jackie said. 'If every employee was like you [Megan], we would be living in a dream land,' Kyle added. The Love Island villa was in for a shock on Wednesday when a surprise dumping saw four people sent packing. In a decision made by the public, Casa Amor Islanders Emma Draper, Hugo Godfroy and Blade Siddiqi were the latest to be dumped. But the most shocking turn of events was original Islander Jess White being among those to receive the least votes and therefore also dumped, leaving Nicole Samuel and Mimii Ngulube in tears. After a dramatic kissing challenge, Ayo Odukoya later received a text saying for the villa to gather around the firepit. 'Islanders, the public have been voting for their favourite girl and favourite boy, those with the fewest votes will be at risk of being dumped from the island tonight,' a text sent to Grace Jackson read. The Love Island villa was in for a shock on Wednesday when a surprise dumping saw four people sent packing The most shocking turn of events was original Islander Jess White being among those to receive the least votes and therefore also dumped, leaving Nicole Samuel (pictured) and Mimii Ngulube in tears 'As Josh and Reuben are the newest Islanders, they are not included in the vote.' It was then revealed the three boys to receive the least amount of votes were Blade, Hugo and Ayo, while the girls were Jess, Emma and Jess Spencer. The final decision as to who would leave was left to those at home, and ultimately Blade, Hugo, Emma and Jess were dumped. Of her exit, Jess later said: 'It's a bittersweet moment, I always said if I made it past week one Id be proud of myself, so to make it to week five is amazing. 'It was nothing like I expected, it was everything and more.' Jess threw support behind her Welsh bestie Nicole, as she said: 'The relationships you form are so special, I'm so proud of everyone and think we will all be friends for life. 'I was like everyone's big sister but Samantha, Nicole and Uma were so lovely and people I hope to have in my life for a very long time. Nicole for the win, she's my little sister and best friend.' Dishing the dirt on his connection with Grace, Blade admitted that while they were attracted to each other, the romance fizzled out. It was then revealed the three boys to receive the least amount of votes were Blade, Hugo and Ayo Meanwhile, the girls left vulnerable after the vote were Jess, Emma and Jess Spencer Both Mimii and Nicole were left in tears at Jess being dumped He said: 'Grace is a great girl and although things fizzled out a bit towards the end, it was all good with us. 'In the end, we were slightly different people, as attracted as we were to each other we could only go so far, it was something we needed to find out and explore naturally, and thats what we did. We had a great time.' Elsewhere in the episode during a girls chat, the islanders admitted that none of them have had sex yet in the villa, but they confessed it has been difficult to hold back. Broaching the topic, Jess asked the girls: 'How are you finding it?' as Nicole admitted it's 'hard', while Matilda jokes: 'Rock solid.' Emma then agrees as she joked: 'In every sense of the word!' and Nicole adds: 'Every way possible hard!' Of her exit, Jess later said: 'It's a bittersweet moment, I always said if I made it past week one Id be proud of myself, so to make it to week 5 is amazing Dishing the dirt on his connection with Grace, Blade admitted that while they were attracted to each other, the romance fizzled out Getting candid about female sexual desire, Jess advised: 'It's all natural ladies, you wouldn't be human if you didn't feel these things' While Matilda added: 'Women have got needs' and Jess continued: 'I just think, everyone is human and everyone has those needs'. Agreeing Emma said: 'One million percent and it takes some real strong willpower to get to the point of this and not have done it, so well done.' Jess then teased: 'Especially as everyone in here is so fit!' An Aussie man whose 'hot' mugshot sent social media alight has revealed his career plans after walking free from jail. Melbourne man Jess Mabilia, 28, who pleaded guilty to trafficking meth and GHB, told Nova's Ben, Liam & Belle, he'd love to launch a modelling career or appear on a reality show. 'So the American guy that went viral for his hot mug shot, he's now a supermodel. So have you got your eyes on modelling?' host Belle Jackson asked. 'Oh, hopefully, yeah. I'd love to get into it,' Jess admitted. Jackson then asked: What about, like, reality TV? 'I'd love to, you know, if my criminal record doesn't get in the way, sure,' Mabilia said before agreeing that SAS Australia would be a great show to appear on. He also revealed he's received a 'few offers for OnlyFans' following his release from prison. 'In this day and age, just go straight to that. If you went on OnlyFans, and you could label yourself Australia's hottest prisoner or criminal,' Jackson said. An Aussie man whose 'hot' mugshot sent social media alight has revealed his career plans after walking free from jail Mabilia faced Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Monday, pleading guilty to trafficking meth and GHB. Police arrested the 28-year-old on March 1 after he was found sleeping inside a stolen Audi Q5 in Richmond. Officers searched the car and found in the boot a gym bag filled with meth, vials of GHB and counterfeit cash. Mabilia was charged and released on bail after pleading guilty to possessing counterfeit currency. On March 17, police again found Mabilia in another stolen car at The Basin. He was also caught with two knives, scales, dexamphetamine, meth, an imitation firearm and the drug 1,4-Butanediol, commonly known as 'bute'. Melbourne man Jess Mabilia, 28, who pleaded guilty to trafficking meth and GHB, told Nova's Ben, Liam & Belle , he'd love to launch a modelling career or appear on a reality show Mabilia pleaded guilty to drug and weapon possession, as well as possessing property reasonably suspected of being stolen - which included a silver necklace and a box containing nine opals. His defence lawyer told the court Mabilia did not know the car was stolen as it was given to him by a friend so that he could live in the vehicle, the Herald Sun reported. The court also heard Mabilia planned to leave his life of crime and work with his dad as a painter in Wonthaggi once he is released from jail. The father-of-two, who grew up in Frankston, had multiple previous convictions and had slipped into drug use after he broke up with his partner. He was sentenced to 113 days - almost four months - of time served in pre-sentencing custody and was released on a 12-month community corrections order with a conviction. Mabilia avoided an eight-month jail sentence by pleading guilty to all charges. Mabilia was wanted on a warrant for contravening court orders. He pleaded guilty to a slew of offences and was sentenced to time-served along with a 12 month community corrections order He ignited social media after Victorian Police issued a public appeal to find him as he was wanted on a warrant for contravening court orders. Police shared Mabilia's mugshot and described him as '185cm tall with a medium build, blue eyes and dark hair'. Social media users flooded the Facebook post, with many commenting on Mabilia's striking good looks. 'Are you trying to lock him up or hook him up?' one person commented. 'Charged with breaking and entering the hearts of single mothers on Facebook,' a second person wrote. 'He's probably just busy signing contracts with Vogue magazine and is on his way right now and be in season two of Bridgerton as Simon Hastings half-brother,' a third chimed. The Gold Coast 'shack' Baz Luhrmann and wife Catherine Martin rented while they were making their 2022 movie Elvis has sold for $5.72million. The couple have been living increasingly 'separate lives' in recent years, with the costume designer, 59, living in the Miami area home while the director, 61, worked in New York. The four-bedroom, two-bathroom house sold through Amir Prestige, with the real estate agency using the stunning seaside location as the selling point. Renovated in the 1960s, the home is just steps away from the pristine sands of Miami Beach and has 'nostalgic charm'. Baz and Catherine moved into the shack when they downsized from a larger house on the glitter strip after relocating to the area in 2020. In a recent interview with The Australian's Wish magazine, Catherine spoke about having a long-distance relationship with her husband. The Academy Award-winning costume designer said the pair spoke regularly on the phone when he was in New York and she stayed at the seaside Gold Coast shack. The Gold Coast 'shack' Baz Luhrmann and wife Catherine Martin rented while they were making their 2022 movie Elvis has sold for $5.72million The four-bedroom, two-bathroom house sold through Amir Prestige, with the real estate agency using the stunning seaside location as the selling point Catherine said she enjoyed the 'work/life balance' on the Gold Coast, where she went for daily long morning walks on the beach and classes at her local Pilates studio. 'I called Baz this morning, I was walking on the way to Pilates and he was marvelling at the weather, because hes in New York,' she said in the interview. Baz was recently forced to put split rumours to rest after fans noted eerie similarities with Aussie actor Hugh Jackman and Deborra-Lee Furness' failed marriage. Renovated in the 1960s, the home is just steps away from the pristine sands of Miami Beach and has 'nostalgic charm' Baz and Catherine moved into the shack when they downsized from a larger house on the glitter strip after relocating to the area in 2020 Catherine said she enjoyed the 'work/life balance' on the Gold Coast, where she went for daily long morning walks on the beach and classes at her local Pilates studio The home is quite modest in comparison to others in the couple's property portfolio The director confirmed the pair were still very much in love. Baz and Catherine have been married for 27 years and just saw their own children Lilly, 20, and William, 18, move out of home. They listed their Gilded Age townhouse in New York for $28million as they downsized to their 'empty nester' home in Australia. 'Since the pandemic and making the movie Elvis in Australia, our work has kept us mostly away from our New York City base,' Baz told New York Post's Gimme Shelter. 'We shot Elvis entirely on the Gold Coast in Queensland and will continue to develop shows to be shot there.' Radio star Mick Molloy issued a surprising warning to Sam Pang on Thursday to reconsider hosting the upcoming Logies, telling him the gig may end his career. Pang, 50, appeared on Triple M's Mick and MG breakfast show and told the hosts he would be reprising the hosting gig next month, despite controversy last year due to his take-no-prisoners humour. Sam told Mick, 58, he would be adopting the same approach at this year's ceremony: 'It's rinse and repeat, I'm not going to lie, I think we just got away with it last year, so we'll do it again.' This prompted Molloy to warn 'Can I just say I have got a really bad feeling about this. A "career-ender" is the phrase I would use.' Sam thanked Mick for his advice and recalled a similar warning Molloy had given him last year. 'You told me I had just gotten away with it, I wasn't even coming on stage at the end. Everyone was asking "where's Sam?",' he said. The Melbourne-born star added he would still be going through with the gig, and thanked Molloy for the advice. Last year, Pang was hailed as one of the best Logies hosts in ages following his debut at the awards on July 30. Radio star Mick Molloy (left) issued a shocking warning to Sam Pang (right) on Thursday to reconsider hosting the upcoming Logies, telling him the gig may end his career His blistering gags during the Logies included such high profile targets as Channel Nine's Karl Stefanovic and retired Sunrise host David Koch. Channel Seven's Logies telecast was a ratings blockbuster for the network, drawing in an impressive 877,000 viewers. And fans have credited Sam for the show's success, with many tuning in to the Logies for the first time just to see him host the show. Pang, 50, appeared on Triple M's Mick and MG breakfast show and told the hosts he would be reprising the hosting gig, despite controversy last year due to his take-no-prisoners humour. (Pictured at the 2023 Logies) He was a big hit with viewers thanks to his fiery gags, in which he took aim at everything from gross reality TV to the scandalous private lives of celebrities. Sam's opening monologue included a dig at Married at First Sight, saying the controversial reality show is 'a clear sign we'll not make it a species'. He also joked about commercial TV's lack of diversity, saying: 'I'm the first host in the history of the Logies to be half and half - half Channel Seven, half Channel Ten.' The 2024 Logies will be hosted at The Star in Sydney on Sunday, 18 August. Zendaya on Wednesday was pictured taking in the play Slave Play at the Noel Coward Theatre in London, England, posing with playwright Jeremy O. Harris at a press night performance. The Euphoria star, 27, donned a green long-sleeved top with a panel of pleated fabric extending from the neckline to under the shoulders. The Oakland, California native rounded out her ensemble with a khaki skirt and brown leather Dear Frances Blake Boots. Zendaya had her wavy blonde locks pulled back on the summer night, with some of her light tresses cascading in front of her face. The glamorous entertainer posed with the feted scribe Harris, 35, at the venue on London's West End. Zendaya, 27, on Wednesday was pictured taking in the play Slave Play at the Noel Coward Theatre in London, England, posing with playwright Jeremy O. Harris, 35, at a press night performance Harris, who debuted his controversial production five years ago, donned an all-black ensemble of a coat with roomy pants and shoes. The Emmy-winning actress was subsequently photographed as she exited the venue while flanked by security and organizers. Zendaya has spent time in London this summer, as she's supported boyfriend Tom Holland as he performs in a production of Romeo & Juliet at The Duke of York's Theatre. Zendaya has been romantically-linked with her Spider-Man costar since July of 2021, praising him in April for the smooth and classy way in which he has navigated life in the limelight. 'We were both very, very young, but my career was already kind of going, and his changed overnight,' Zendaya told Vogue. 'One day youre a kid and youre at the pub with your friends, and then the next day youre Spider-Man.' She added: 'I definitely watched his life kind of change in front of him. But he handled it really beautifully.' Zendaya plays the role of Rue on the popular HBO drama Euphoria alongside costars Jacob Elordi, Sydney Sweeney, and Hunter Schafer. Last month, Warner Bros. Discovery execs Casey Bloys and JB Perrette told Variety that plans are in the offing for a third season of the series with creator Sam Levinson in the planning process. The Euphoria star donned a green long-sleeved top with a panel of pleated fabric extending from the neckline to under the shoulders The Oakland, California native rounded out her look with a khaki skirt and brown leather Dear Frances Blake Boots The glamorous entertainer posed with the feted scribe Harris on London's West End The Emmy-winning actress was subsequently photographed as she exited the venue while flanked by security and organizers Zendaya had her wavy blonde locks pulled back on the summer night, with some of her light tresses cascading in front of her face Zendaya plays the role of Rue on the popular HBO drama Euphoria Plans are in the works for a third season of the breakout series, according to Casey Bloys, who is HBO and Max's chairman and CEO, 'Sam is working on it,' Bloys told the outlet. 'Theres been a lot of back and forth One of the issues I think that Sam is thinking about is that he doesnt want to have it in high school anymore. Thats where it was set and what made sense then. 'So when you take it out of that, theres a lot of back and forth about where to set it and how far in the future to set it and all that stuff. Levinson has 'got a take that hes excited about, and hes busy writing,' Bloys, who is HBO and Max's chairman and CEO, told the outlet. Bloys said 'the same core cast' will return for the series. Rosie Jacobs showed off a strikingly different new look as she walked her dogs in Bondi Beach in a rare public sighting on Wednesday. The ex-wife of TV weatherman Steve Jacobs looked almost unrecognisable after ditching her brunette locks for a shorter, platinum blonde cut. She coiffed her bleached tresses in a swept back style and opted for a glamorous makeup palette to accentuate her new haircut. The travel journalist cut a casual figure in black flared leggings, a turtleneck jumper and a grey padded jacket. She kept comfortable in a pair of white Crocs and appeared in good spirits as she flashed a smile during the dog walk. Rosie started her career as a television producer and has hosted shows for the Nine and Ten Networks, Foxtel and The Weather Channel. She married her now-ex-husband Steve in 2010 three years after meeting on the set of Today, where he was a weather presenter and she worked as a producer. Rosie Jacobs showed off a strikingly different new look as she walked her dogs in Bondi Beach in a rare public sighting on Wednesday The ex-wife of TV weatherman Steve Jacobs looked almost unrecognisable after ditching her brunette locks for a shorter, platinum blonde cut The couple separated in late 2017, months after relocating to Vanuatu in what friends described as a 'last-ditch attempt' to save their marriage, and divorced in 2019. In January last year, Rosie avoided jail for what she described as a 'stupid decision' to drive on a suspended licence after her high-profile divorce. She pleaded guilty to driving her Audi Q3 three times in the course of just four months across 2022 while her licence was suspended for previous offences. She had been driving along Darlinghurst Road in Sydney's eastern suburbs on the morning of August 25 when she was stopped by police. Her driving permit had been suspended in May 2022 until March 2023, after she racked up five traffic violations in nine months while on a good behaviour licence. The travel journalist cut a casual figure in black flared leggings, a turtleneck jumper and a grey padded jacket In January last year, Rosie avoided jail for what she described as a 'stupid decision' to drive on a suspended licence after her high-profile divorce Less than three months later, she was busted by police again on Campbell Parade at Bondi. After officers used lights and warning signs to pull her over, court documents reveal she told police she was 'going through a lot at the moment' and 'not well'. Only four days later, she was pulled over again at Randwick. When police asked why she was driving without a licence, she replied 'no comment'. Magistrate Megan Greenwood recorded a conviction and handed her $1,650 in fines, 75 hours of community service and disqualified her from driving for three months. 'If you don't do what community corrections order [states] you can be jailed for this offending,' Ms Greenwood said at the time. In a lengthy social media post in January 2024, the former television personality addressed the charges and explained she had been going through a 'traumatic' time. Rosie married her now-ex-husband Steve (both pictured in 2013) in 2010 three years after meeting on the set of Today. They separated in 2017 and finalised their divorce in 2019 She told followers she had experienced 'challenging times' with high anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder following her divorce. 'It's been a shocker!!' she vented to her thousands of followers on Instagram. 'To top it all off, I made some stupid decisions to drive my car to the hospital post-surgery while on a suspended licence. I regret that decision.' The self-described 'sassy sober mama' explained she was 'in a lot of pain' at the time of the offence and made the regrettable choice to drive. 'I wish I could undo those moments. But I can't,' she admitted, before sharing her optimism for the future. Billie Lourd and husband Austen Rydell coordinated before heading out to lend their support for the new documentary Watershed at AMC The Grove in Los Angeles. Lourd, 31, stepped out in a navy dress with a white floral pattern along with white peep-toe heels and a matching Chanel purse over her right shoulder. The daughter of late Star Wars actress Carrie Fisher rounded out her look by having her light brown locks styled long and flowing a number of inches down her back with a part in the middle. Her husband looked cool and stylish in his own navy ensemble in the form of a pinstripe suit that he wore casually with white sneakers, which was also similar to his wife's look. In keeping with casual theme, the actor also wore a white t-shirt with his suit, while styling his dark brown hair long with plenty of natural waves and a center part. Billie Lourd, 31, and husband Austen Rydell, 32, were color coordinated in navy blue for the premiere of the new documentary Watershed at the AMC The Grove in Los Angeles Lourd attended the event in a show of support for her husband, who served as an executive producer on Watershed. The new documentary follows Mallory Weggemann, an American Paralympic medalist paralyzed at 18 as she prepares for the Tokyo Paralympics, as well as Weggemann and her husband Jay Snyders IVF journey amid struggles with infertility, according to People. Lourde and Rydell started dating in 2016 but then broke up only to get back together and get engaged in 2020. They would ended up welcoming their first child together three months after getting engaged. The couple tied the knot at a ceremony in Mexico in March 2022, before making room for their second child in December 2022. Now just a few years later, Lourd says she relishes in showing her kids the Star Wars film legacy her mother left behind. 'Its so amazing getting to rewatch all the movies through his eyes,' she said of introducing the movies to her 3-year-old son. 'It's something that you can pass down through generations, like my mom did to me and like I'm doing to my kids.' Lourd, 31 stepped out in a navy dress with a white floral pattern that helped showcase her cleavage along with white peep-toe heels and matching Chanel purse over her right shoulder Rydell, 32, looked cool and stylish in his own navy ensemble in the form of a pinstripe suit that he wore casually with a white t-shirt and sneakers Lourd attended the event in a show of support for her husband, who served as an executive producer on the new documentary Watershed Lourd, who is the daughter of late actress Carrie Fisher, says she likes to show her three-year-old son their grandmother's Star Wars film legacy Lourd's mother played the iconic role of Princess Leia in original three Star Wars films and then reprised her role in Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) and Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017) In a recent interview with People, Lourd revealed that the original Star Wars films are a big hit in her household. 'Its so amazing getting to rewatch all the movies through his eyes,' the actress said of introducing Star Wars to her 3-year-old son. 'It's something that you can pass down through generations, like my mom did to me and like I'm doing to my kids.' Lourd was recently joined by Rydell when she accepted Fisher's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 'My mom died six and a half years ago, and ever since, I've fallen deeply in love with Leia and the entire Star Wars universe,' the star said in a tribute at the event in May. 'I buy every single piece of Leia merch I Leia my eyes on.' According to Fisher's autopsy report, the Chief Medical Examiner concluded that sleep apnea was part of the immediate cause of death at the age of 60. Atherosclerotic heart disease was listed as another condition, while multiple drugs also were found in her system. Gov. Gavin Newsom rescinded an offer to send state attorneys to help prosecute criminal cases in Alameda County. In a letter, a Newsom official said the office of Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price, pictured, had not been cooperative. Scott Strazzante/The Chronicle Gov. Gavin Newsom has rescinded an offer to Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price for state lawyers to assist her office in prosecuting cases. Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced in February they would send prosecutors from the California National Guard and the states Department of Justice to help prosecute defendants in Alameda County amid a crime surge. At the time, Price called the arrangement a partnership and said her office would work with the state to aggressively prosecute more people. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But in a Wednesday letter, a top Newsom administration official rescinded the offer to send attorneys from the California National Guard, saying that Prices office had not been cooperative. The letter was first reported by Politico. Despite our outreach, your office has yet to make use of these resources, Newsoms Cabinet Secretary Ann Patterson wrote to Price. Accordingly, we have decided to shift these resources to the Attorney Generals Office, where they will be utilized to work on state-led prosecutions originating from Alameda County. During a news conference in Oakland on Thursday, Newsom criticized Prices response to his efforts to send more attorneys to her office. There wasnt a sincere commitment to follow through on the offer, he said. He also faulted her for moving too slowly to hire people to prosecute drug crimes after the head of her offices narcotics unit left and said that unit no longer has any personnel. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Prices office did not respond to requests for comment Thursday. At a news conference Thursday afternoon, she said the governor was mistaken, and that the prosecutor in question is still working for the office. That prosecutor, Michael Nieto, is leaving because Newsom appointed him to be a judge last month. Price said he isnt the only one who handles narcotics cases. She also pushed back on Newsoms characterization of her office as uncooperative. She said the governors office offered only one additional prosecutor to help and that her office hadnt refused, but was still reviewing the terms of the proposal, which the governors office laid out in April. I know that we acted in good faith, Price said. In her letter, Patterson described the additional lawyers offered as two California National Guard members currently serving as assistant district attorneys in other counties. After they were in place, Patterson said additional lawyers could have also been assigned to assist in Alameda County. The development comes as Price faces an effort to recall her from office, which Alameda voters will decide during the November general election. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In response to a violent crime surge in Oakland last year, Newsom in February deployed an additional 120 California Highway Patrol officers to help police the city. He and Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao have since touted an apparent decrease in crime, but recent reporting, including by the Chronicle, has revealed the data they relied on was incomplete and misleading. Anger over lawlessness in the city has helped tarnish Newsoms reputation as governor, leading him to step up his efforts to crack down on crime. That anger has also helped fuel the recall efforts against Price and Thao. Price was elected district attorney in 2022 after running on a criminal justice reform platform against a more establishment candidate. Since taking office she has barred prosecutors in her office from seeking sentence enhancements to lengthen jail terms without special permission and directed them to offer probation as an alternative to incarceration more frequently. Her critics say her policies are too lenient on criminals. David Hernandez contributed reporting. Sofia Vergara turned 52 on Wednesday and celebrated the occasion with her closest ones. The Griselda star, who was born on July 10 in Barranquilla, Colombia, enjoyed a birthday dinner with her boyfriend, Dr. Justin Saliman, and her pal Heidi Klum. Heidi, 51, shared a number of clips from the night to her Instagram Stories, including one of Sofia and the orthopedic surgeon cozying up together in a restaurant. The German supermodel who met Sofia in 2020 when they both became judges on America's Got Talent is then seen popping out from behind them, as she wishes Sofia a happy birthday. Heidi then proceeds to lean down and give the birthday girl a sweet smooch on the forehead. Sofia Vergara turned 52 on Wednesday and celebrated the occasion with her closest ones, including her boyfriend, Dr. Justin Saliman, and her pal Heidi Klum 'I love you Happy Birthday @sofiavergara,' she captioned the clip. The Colombian bombshell stunned for her big day, wearing a strapless yellow gown with a plunging neckline and a slit up the side. She accessorized with a gold wrap-around bracelet and a matching gold necklace. She wore picture-perfect glam to accentuate her naturally stunning visage. Another snap showed a photo of Sofia's birthday cake, which featured a glamorous image of her. The next clip saw Heidi enjoying a bite of the cake. Later in the night, the Columbian bombshell posted more photos from her birthday bash. The new photos were more posed and sedate in contrast to the raucous snaps she shared on Instagram earlier in the night. Heidi, Justin and other friends were in the photos as well as a second cake that matched her gorgeous yellow dress perfectly. Heidi, 51, shared a number of clips from the night to her Instagram Stories, including one of Sofia and the orthopedic surgeon cozying up together in a restaurant The German supermodel is then seen popping out from behind them Heidi then proceeds to lean down and give the birthday girl a sweet smooch on the forehead Another snap showed a photo of Sofia's birthday cake, which featured a glamorous image of her The next clip saw Heidi happily enjoying a bite of the cake Later in the night, the Columbian bombshell posted more photos from her birthday bash The new photos were more posed and sedate in contrast to the raucous snaps she shared on Instagram earlier in the night Heidi, Justin and other friends were in the photos as well as a second cake that matched her gorgeous yellow dress perfectly She shared an adorable photo of herself with her two cakes All of Sofia's guests were dressed very fashionably Sofia and Justin have been dating since October 2023. She split from her husband Joe Manganiello, 47, in July 2023 after seven years of marriage when the actor said he wanted children and she did not. 'My marriage broke up because my husband was younger; he wanted to have kids and I didn't want to be an old mom,' she told Spanish newspaper El Pais at the time. 'I feel it's not fair to the baby. I respect whoever does it, but that's not for me anymore.' 'I had a son at 19, who is now 32,' she added, 'and I'm ready to be a grandmother, not a mother.' Despite this, the actress respects anyone who wishes to have a child in their 50s. She explained: 'Nowadays, thanks to science, women can actually have babies older.' 'Before, nature for some reason tells your body at 50 you are in menopause, it's time for you to be done with that. There is a reason why nature is doing that.' Sofia and Justin have been dating since October 2023. She split from husband Joe Manganiello, 47, in July 2023 after seven years of marriage as the actor wanted children and she did not Heidi and Sofia became friends when they both joined America's Got Talent as judges Many friends came out to help the Modern Family alum celebrate another year of her fabulous life The group dined at a restaurant with a lot of indoor greenery The ladies posed for a group photo before calling it a night 'But that's for me, and I totally respect where anyone wants to be a mom after 50,' she added. 'I didn't think because of my career, the way I live my life, the way my marriage was, that it was fair to bring a kid to this world, and I'm not going to be able to give 100 percent.' But soon after her split she met the doctor and romance bloomed for them. Saliman, a Beverly-Hills based surgeon, was previously married to Grimm star Bree Turner from 2008 to 2018. Boy George has slammed Rebel Wilson after her row with the producers of her movie The Deb amid an ongoing dispute. The Australian actress, 44, alleged in a social media clip that her movie was set to premiere on the closing night of the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival, but producers Amanda Ghost and Gregor Cameron and executive producer Vince Holden are trying to prevent the comedy's debut at the prestigious event. She also accused the producers of 'bad behaviour' on set. The producers of Rebel's film have claimed the 'allegations are false, defamatory, and disappointing.' Now, Culture Club star Boy George has waded in and backed his close pal Amanda - whose child is his godson - by accusing Rebel of making up 'outrageous and painfully untrue things'. Boy George has slammed Rebel Wilson after her row with the producers of her movie The Deb amid an ongoing dispute The Australian actress, 44, alleged in a social media clip that her movie was set to premiere on the closing night of the 2024 TIFF, but producers Amanda Ghost and Gregor Cameron and executive producer Vince Holden are trying to prevent the comedy's debut at the prestigious event Boy George directly tagged Rebel in his Instagram video, and insisted that he knew 'these things aren't true'. He said: 'I just can't sit here and listen to this and listen to the comments that people are making without knowing any information. 'I met Amanda when she was 17 years old and she was working in a club and I've watched her rise to become the president of Sony Music to running a film company and she is a strong powerful woman.' Rebel claimed producers of her new film The Deb are blocking the movie from premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. The producers of Wilson's film have claimed the 'allegations are false, defamatory, and disappointing.' 'RW's allegations are false, defamatory, and disappointing,' a spokesperson for the producers told Deadline. 'Her self-promotional claims are clearly intended to cause reputational harm to the individuals who have supported her directorial debut film The Deb a joyous movie that we're very proud of and are looking forward to sharing with audiences. 'For her to promote a false narrative to advance her own agenda undermines the film and all the people who worked on this project.' Culture Club star Boy George has waded in and backed his close pal Amanda by accusing Rebel of making up 'outrageous and painfully untrue things' Wilson (pictured) had announced that her first film as director The Deb was set to premiere at the prestigious Toronto Film Festival in September Wilson claimed in her video: 'You know sometimes you try so hard in life and you don't know what to do, well that is the situation. You might have noticed I did a post a week ago about the first film that I directed, that I am so proud of, The Deb. 'It is a little Australian musical which is awesome. It got selected for closing night of the Toronto Film Festival which is the best platform to be a first time female director, it's huge. 'To have the joy of the movie being selected is one thing but to have the business partners turn around and say the movie can't premiere is beyond devastating. Why are they saying this? Why are they stopping it?' Wilson then claimed: 'This dates back to October last year where I discovered bad behaviour by these business partners. They are producers of the film, their names are Amanda Ghost and Gregor Cameron and executive producer Vince Holden.' 'I reported their bad behaviour when I found out.' Wilson claimed since reporting the problems, she has been met with 'absolute viciousness and bad behaviour.' She said she managed to finish the film but alleged the producers have told her she can't release it. 'This is work of hundreds of people and this behaviour is absolutely vile and disgusting,' Wilson continued. 'I will speak the truth and warn people about people in the industry that are not behaving ethically. That is my dilemma if that movie doesn't play at Toronto, it's because of these absolute f**kwits.' The Deb, which stars Wilson and comedian Shane Jacobson, centres on a country school girl getting ready for her debutante ball. The film will also feature actress Natalie Abbott from the ABC series Aftertaste, as well as newcomer Charlotte McInnes. Locations include country towns such as Carcoar, Blayney, and Orange, as well as Sydney. Last October, Rebel revealed that she turned down major offers in the States, so she could make her directorial debut Down Under. 'If I was directing a movie it was only going to be in Australia because that's authentic to me,' Rebel told The Daily Telegraph at the time. 'I didn't want to do the studio ones I was offered in America because I didn't feel like I had that heart connection,' she explained. Kate Beckinsale hit back at trolls once again on Wednesday night for taunting England fans 'Spain will win the Euros' as the Three Lions head to the final. It comes after the actress, 51, slammed skinny-shamers earlier this week who criticised a video of her posing in pink lingerie. Kate told haters to not 'p**s on peoples' joy' as she joined the millions celebrating Ollie Watkins' winning goal against the Netherlands, which secured them a place in Sunday night's final. Taking to Instagram, Kate sported a personalised England shirt and dressed her friend's dog up in one to sing David Baddiel's Three Lions. She wrote: 'Well done England and everyone who wants to come on my page and go Spain is going to win just give us this moment. Kate Beckinsale hit back at trolls once again on Wednesday night for taunting England fans 'Spain will win the Euros' as the Three Lions head to the final The actress, 51, slammed skinny-shamers earlier this week who criticised a video of her posing in pink lingerie Alongside the video, she wrote: 'Well done England and everyone who wants to come on my page and go Spain is going to win just give us this moment' 'Its really bad karma to p**s on peoples joy and thank you to everyone from other European countries wishing us well. You have been so supportive and amazing and I think thats just such good sportsmanship but f**k me lads it might be coming home.' Kate also clapped back to followers in the comments. Responding to one, who wrote: 'Sorry, Spain is the better team', Kate replied: 'That as maybe but sorry for your bad karma'. The Underworld actress sported a white England jersey with 'Beckins 8' emblazoned on the back. The film star also wore a pair of dark denim shorts and added height to her frame with a pair of platform black boots. Kate's Pomeranian Myf, who regularly stars in her social media posts, was nowhere to be seen as the actress danced with the Irish Wolfhound. Earlier this week, Kate hit back at skinny-shamers. The actress revealed her weight loss is down to the 'stress and grief' of the death of her stepfather and her mother's cancer diagnosis. Kate slammed some of her 'a**hole' followers, who told her she needed to put on weight in the comments section of an Instagram post. After sharing a video clip in a crop top and bikini bottoms, one follower queried where her 'a**' had gone and encouraged Kate to 'do some squats'. The film star also wore a pair of dark denim shorts and added height to her frame with a pair of platform black boots Kate joined millions celebrating Ollie Watkins' winning goal against the Netherlands , which secured them a place in Sunday night's final Kate also clapped back to followers in the comments Responding to one, who wrote: 'Sorry, Spain is the better team', Kate replied: 'That as maybe but sorry for your bad karma' After sharing a video clip in a crop top and bikini bottoms, one follower queried where her 'a**' had gone and encouraged Kate to 'do some squats' Kate fired back at the cruel comments ands explained that there were several reasons for her changed figure, including a six-week hospital stint One other replied underneath: 'I posted basically the same thing, she looks unhealthy' and another person said: 'Someone seems upset' Another person asked: 'How's your health Katie? You look like you have lost some weight?', to which she responded: 'It's great now thanks' Another claimed her body had 'shrank' while another insisted that she 'seemed upset' in the video posted on Monday evening. However, Kate fired back at the cruel comments ands explained that there were several reasons for her changed figure, including a six-week hospital stint. She replied: 'No, actually, I watched my stepfather die quite shockingly, my mother has stage 4 cancer and I lost a lot of eight from stress and grief... 'Quite quickly and then I was in hospital for six weeks because the grief had burned a hole in my oesophagus, which made me vomit copious amounts of blood, and I found eating very hard... 'And I just worked very very hard on a movie that was actually quite triggering because it also involved the theme of the death of my father so I'm not really concerned about what you think about my a**. Maybe you should worry about your own f***ing a**. I suggest shoving something up it, like a large pineapple or a brick.' Kate's stepdad Roy Battersby died in January after suffering 'a massive stroke' while battling two forms of cancer, which he was diagnosed with the summer before. Kate's stepdad Roy Battersby died in January following a 'brief illness' after being diagnosed with two forms of cancer the summer before (pictured left with her mother Judy right) 'I was in hospital for six weeks because the grief had burned a hole in my oesophagus, which made me vomit copious amounts of blood, and I found eating very hard', Kate said Shortly after his death, Kate also revealed that her mother Judy Loe had also been told she has stage four cancer. Another person asked: 'How's your health Katie? You look like you have lost some weight?', to which she responded: 'It's great now thanks'. One other replied underneath: 'I posted basically the same thing, she looks unhealthy' and another person said: 'Someone seems upset'. Kate quipped: 'I don't think you look upset. I think you look like maybe your rictus grim is concealing years of bitterness but I wouldn't call it upset necessarily.' In several posts, Nicole claimed that she knew the people behind some of the comments, who she said were hiding behind fake profiles. In response to someone who asked 'Kate, you're getting everyone so rattled are they ok?', 'Are they okay hun? Are they okay? Actually? I know who quite a few of them are and they are really not okay.' Replying to a person who had said 'so weird how the head keeps growing but the body shrinks. They turn into gnomes', Kate said: 'the LOL of your bio picture being an actual gnome living its best life in the forest has given me so much life. I can't tell you please go gather some more nuts and berries.' As well as replying to some of the negative comments, Kate also took the time to reply to some of her fans who had wished her well. One said: 'You have more true fans who appreciate you than haters. Always know this [smiley face emoji]'. Kate replied: 'Oh I love my followers I really do - some of them are such incredible decent, supportive brilliant souls of me and of each other. 'I actually have a problem with two people who keep making multiple accounts so don't be fooled. A lot of this is them.' Kate's original post was of her joking about people who said she hasn't been acting her age on social media. The model playfully put a hairnet over her head and joked that she needed to take up knitting in order to be more 'age appropriate' for her fanbase. She captioned the video: 'Let's have a toast for the douche bags. Let's have a toast for the a**holes. Let's have a toast for the scumbags.' Earlier on Wednesday Kate shared other snaps to show her support for the England team ahead of their face off against The Netherlands Earlier on Wednesday, Kate shared other snaps to show her support for the England team ahead of their face off against The Netherlands. To show her support she shared snaps from previous games where she was cheering on the likes of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. She penned in her caption: 'Good luck England!' Late substitute Ollie Watkins buried a stunning strike into the bottom left corner with just seconds remaining to send Gareth Southgate's men into Sunday's final against Spain in Berlin. The striker had replaced captain Harry Kane, who had earlier equalised for England with a penalty in the first-half - cancelling out Xavi Simons' wonderstrike after just seven minutes. England's star-studded squad were supported by an army of WAGs and celebrities including Adele and Ed Sheeran as they reached their first ever Euros final on foreign soil. Southgate's squad will now attempt to go one step further than Euro 2020, when they lost to Italy in the final at Wembley. Ella Rae Wise showed off her toned figure while filming for the upcoming series of The Only Way Is Essex in Cyprus on Wednesday. The TV personality, 24, wore a ruffled bikini as she joined castmates Jodie Wells and Dani Imbert for a day out at a private beach. Ella, who recently confirmed her relationship with Dan Edgar is back on, looked incredible in the red two-piece that she teamed with a matching sarong. Styling her hair into beachy waves, she accessorised her swimwear with a pair of embellished sunglasses. Dani, 26, stood out in a canary yellow bikini, that featured bright blue straps and high waisted bottoms. Ella Rae Wise showed off her toned figure while filming for the upcoming series of The Only Way Is Essex in Cyprus on Wednesday The TV personality, 24, wore a ruffled bikini as she joined castmates Jodie Wells (L) and Dani Imbert (R) for a day out at a private beach Meanwhile, Jodie opted for a shimmery, hot pink number with a coordinating sheer shirt layered over the top. The girls, who are staying at Cap St Georges Hotel in Paphos, were joined by Roman Hackett as they hopped on a private yacht, Latchi Charters Escape II, to the beach. In May, Ella confirmed she and Dan had split after reports he cheated on her with his ex-girlfriend Hannah Rally. Ella and Dan had been seeing each other since February when they got close while filming series 32 in Bali. The Essex beauty had told her followers she was 'happily single' and 'focusing on myself and my brand' during a Q&A on her Instagram Stories. Ella and Dan were reportedly open to continuing their romance after Bali and discussed their future while filming their final scenes for series 32. The romance had followed Dan's messy and emotional split from Amber Turner, who joined the cast in Bali, and his subsequent relationship with Hannah. A source told The Sun: 'Dan was dating Hannah for around nine months, they got together shortly after he split from Amber.' Ella, who recently confirmed her relationship with Dan Edgar is back on , looked incredible in the red two-piece that she teamed with a matching sarong Dani, 26, stood out in a canary yellow bikini, that featured bright blue straps and high waisted bottoms Meanwhile, Jodie opted for a shimmery, hot pink number The girls, who are staying at Cap St Georges Hotel in Paphos, were joined by Roman Hackett The group hopped on a private yacht, Latchi Charters Escape II, to the beach Danni clung on to the sides of the boat They added: '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 furious with Dan's transgression and even reportedly confronted Hannah and called her 'embarrassing'. However, it was revealed all had now been forgiven when Ella and Dan were pictured sharing a steamy kiss on the beach in Paphos last week. Series 32 of TOWIE aired between March and June and was filmed between February and April. The series' storylines included Amber struggling to watch Ella and Dan's new romance progress in front of her face - and quitting the series as a result. In an exceedingly awkward conversation, Amber told Dan that she was fine with he and Ella cracking on, while Dan was confused as to why she wouldn't be. The ex-couple dated for five years and broke up because Dan didn't seem to want marriage or children with Amber. Amber told The Sun in March: 'Lets get one thing right - Ella's always had a thing for Dan, she always has. She is single now naturally she is going to want to go for Dan. The cast have embarked on a two week filming stint for series 34 Ella and Dan had been seeing each other since February when they got close while filming series 32 in Bali (pictured) In May, Ella confirmed she and Dan had split after reports he cheated on her with his ex-girlfriend Hannah Rally, but they recently rekindled their romance They cast appear to be having the time of their lives on the trip 'She doesn't owe me anything. She is not my friend. Dan is a good looking guy...Whatever they get up to is none of my business. 'It is what it is. It's been a long time. 'He swore on his life he never flirted with her. It has made me feel like he had a thing for her in the past. 'At the end of day he was my boyfriend of five years. We've got a dog. We lived together.' Nicole Eggert was on hand to discuss her best known role as she attended a press tour in Pasadena on Wednesday, seven months after revealing her breast cancer diagnosis. The actress became a fan favourite after playing Roberta "Summer" Quinn across 44 episodes of Baywatch at the height of its popularity in the early '90s. And she reflected on her two-years as a Los Angeles County lifeguard while attending the TCA Summer 2024 Press Tour - part of an ongoing promotional campaign for new documentary After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun. Eggert, 52, looked vastly different after shaving her head as she battles stage 2 cribriform carcinoma breast cancer. She was joined onstage for a Q&A with a host of former co-stars, among them Traci Bingham, Carmen Electra, Billy Warlock, Jeremy Jackson, Alexandra Paul and David Chockachi. Nicole Eggert discussed her best known role as she attended a press tour in Pasadena on Wednesday (left) four months after shaving her head as she battles breast cancer The actress became a fan favourite after playing Roberta "Summer" Quinn across 44 episodes of Baywatch at the height of its popularity in the early '90s The actress made the difficult decision to shave her hair off in March and captured the moment she went about it with the assistance of her daughter. Eggert, who first disclosed she had been diagnosed with breast cancer in December, told Inside Edition that she had just learned doctors had found more disease as she undergoes treatment. She said she 'kicks herself' over not regularly checking her breasts and said tissue from the breast implants she got aged 19 made it harder to detect any anomalies in her chest. The star admitted that after gaining around 25 pounds and feeling pain in her left breast beginning in October, she underwent a mammogram and three biopsies - which resulted in a diagnosis of stage 2 cribriform carcinoma breast cancer. She said: 'When I felt it, my heart dropped and I was like oh my god. Nobody could take me, so I walked into every breast care center. Its horrifying because every day and every minute that passes, you know its growing. Only a month later, a mammogram finally confirmed her fears Eggert had stage 2 breast cancer. 'My heart dropped, I lost all hearing, everything sank. Its named invasive cribriform carcinoma. Its very rare,' she explained. 'The self-exams, Im telling you, I kick myself. Thats the one thing I should have been doing.' The actress revealed tissue from her breast implants made self-exams difficult, adding: 'If I didnt have them and I had my smaller, natural breasts, I am sure I would have felt it much sooner.' She reflected on the show while attending the TCA Summer 2024 Press Tour - part of a promotional campaign for new documentary After Baywatch: Moment in the Sun L-R: Executive producer Matthew Felkner, Traci Bingham, Carmen Electra, Billy Warlock, Jeremy Jackson, Alexandra Paul, David Chockachi, Nicole Eggert and talent producer Erika Eleniak onstage at the event in Pasadena on Wednesday The actress made the difficult decision to shave her hair off in March and captured the moment she went about it with the assistance of her daughter Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world and affects more than two MILLION women a year Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. Each year in the UK there are more than 55,000 new cases, and the disease claims the lives of 11,500 women. In the US, it strikes 266,000 each year and kills 40,000. But what causes it and how can it be treated? What is breast cancer? It comes from a cancerous cell which develops in the lining of a duct or lobule in one of the breasts. When the breast cancer has spread into surrounding tissue it is called 'invasive'. Some people are diagnosed with 'carcinoma in situ', where no cancer cells have grown beyond the duct or lobule. Most cases develop in those over the age of 50 but younger women are sometimes affected. Breast cancer can develop in men, though this is rare. Staging indicates how big the cancer is and whether it has spread. Stage 1 is the earliest stage and stage 4 means the cancer has spread to another part of the body. The cancerous cells are graded from low, which means a slow growth, to high, which is fast-growing. High-grade cancers are more likely to come back after they have first been treated. What causes breast cancer? A cancerous tumour starts from one abnormal cell. The exact reason why a cell becomes cancerous is unclear. It is thought that something damages or alters certain genes in the cell. This makes the cell abnormal and multiply 'out of control'. Although breast cancer can develop for no apparent reason, there are some risk factors that can increase the chance, such as genetics. What are the symptoms of breast cancer? The usual first symptom is a painless lump in the breast, although most are not cancerous and are fluid filled cysts, which are benign. The first place that breast cancer usually spreads to is the lymph nodes in the armpit. If this occurs you will develop a swelling or lump in an armpit. How is breast cancer diagnosed? Initial assessment: A doctor examines the breasts and armpits. They may do tests such as a mammography, a special x-ray of the breast tissue which can indicate the possibility of tumours. Biopsy: A biopsy is when a small sample of tissue is removed from a part of the body. The sample is then examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells. The sample can confirm or rule out cancer. If you are confirmed to have breast cancer, further tests may be needed to assess if it has spread. For example, blood tests, an ultrasound scan of the liver or a chest X-ray. How is breast cancer treated? Treatment options which may be considered include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone treatment. Often a combination of two or more of these treatments are used. Surgery: Breast-conserving surgery or the removal of the affected breast depending on the size of the tumour. Radiotherapy: A treatment which uses high energy beams of radiation focused on cancerous tissue. This kills cancer cells, or stops them from multiplying. It is mainly used in addition to surgery. Chemotherapy: A treatment of cancer by using anti-cancer drugs which kill cancer cells, or stop them from multiplying. Hormone treatments: Some types of breast cancer are affected by the 'female' hormone oestrogen, which can stimulate the cancer cells to divide and multiply. Treatments which reduce the level of these hormones, or prevent them from working, are commonly used in people with breast cancer. How successful is treatment? The outlook is best in those who are diagnosed when the cancer is still small, and has not spread. Surgical removal of a tumour in an early stage may then give a good chance of cure. The routine mammography offered to women between the ages of 50 and 71 means more breast cancers are being diagnosed and treated at an early stage. For more information visit breastcancernow.org or call its free helpline on 0808 800 6000 Advertisement Eggert confirmed she was battling stage 2 breast cancer with fans in December 2023 The star said she has not been contacted about appearing on the Baywatch reboot but is open to the idea just days after the comeback of the highly-popular beach drama was announced. She told TMZ that she has been in contact with Baywatch's production company Freemantle over a documentary on the series that she has been working on. Eggert explained: 'We have the Baywatch documentary that is ready to be released and you know the timing of it is really working out. But I haven't talked to anybody as far as me being part of it as talent or anything like that.' The blonde actress starred on the series as lifeguard Summer Quinn over 44 episodes from 1992 to 1994 and could be potential role under a few conditions. She said: 'To be a part of a reboot I guess that would really depend on what that would look like. 'I mean am I going to put on the red bathing suit? Of course not. Not these days. But if it was to be a parent or a senior lifeguard in the office or something to that extent sure. Or a fun little cameo or something like that.' 'My heart dropped, I lost all hearing, everything sank. Its named invasive cribriform carcinoma. Its very rare,' she revealed The blonde bombshell actress starred alongside Pamela Anderson (pictured) on Baywatch from 1992 until 1994 Blake Lively received the 'best compliment' of her 'life' last weekend when she was called a 'crown straightener' because of how she supports other women in the industry. The actress, 36, took to Instagram on Thursday to pen a heartwarming post about what it means to her, alongside a slideshow of photos with some of her loved ones. The unique compliment means you're a woman who 'goes around straightening all the women's crowns around her'. Blake gushed: 'It meant so much to me because it's those invisible things people see that make us all feel best. I learned that we're all sparkling leaders, stronger together, from ALL the women in my life, blood and chosen. 'I am surrounded by crown straighteners. This weekend alone was packed with that empowering female energy. When I looked back at these pics, I saw it all in action. And it made me feel so lucky and loved.' Blake Lively received the 'best compliment' of her 'life' when she was called a 'crown straightener' because of how she supports other women (pictured with Colleen Hoover) The actress, 36, took to Instagram on Thursday to pen a heartwarming post about what it means to her, alongside a slideshow of photos with loved ones (pictured with Isabela Ferrer) The unique compliment means you're a woman who 'goes around straightening all the women's crowns around her' The Gossip Girl star - who has four daughters with actor husband Ryan Reynolds, 47 - then went on to name some examples of the women around her who inspire her, alongside snaps of them together. She posted a photo with Colleen Hoover, 44, where the actress is tying the It Ends With Us author's dress for her in a bathroom, also tagging Colleen's 'best friend' Tarryn Fisher, who Blake dubbed a 'powerhouse'. The star went on to praise her 'divine mother-in-law,' who she's seen fondly hugging in another snap, and 'generous and loving' fellow actress Isabela Ferrer, who plays Young Lily in the upcoming adaption of Hoover's novel. From tying shoes to fixing her pals hair and having her lipstick adjusted on a red carpet, the actress proved that she is always looking out for the women in her life, as they are for her. Blake paid tribute to makeup artist Vivian Baker and hair stylist Jennifer Yepez, who she credits for making her 'feel most beautiful inside and out'. Getting towards the end of her list, she quipped: 'To the women at @sonypictures making such IMMENSE effort to bring joy look easy, especially Danni, Emily, Cori, Bridgette, Rose, Chrissy, Gloria, Stephanie, Ulga. 'The women at @book.bonanza volunteering and also attending. And the men who show up for us too. We love you.' Blake pictured with her mother-in-law The Gossip Girl star then went on to name some examples of the women around her who inspire her, alongside snaps of them together (pictured with Colleen Hoover and Tarryn Fisher) From tying shoes to fixing her pals hair and having her lipstick adjusted on a red carpet, the actress proved that she is always looking out for the women in her life, as they are for her Blake paid tribute to makeup artist Vivian Baker and hair stylist Jennifer Yepez, who she credits for making her 'feel most beautiful inside and out' The heartfelt post has already been liked by more than 7.39,000 people, with many rushing to the comments to praise the actress The heartfelt post has already been liked by more than 7.39,000 people, with many rushing to the comments to praise the actress: 'That description of you couldn't be more accurate. You've always been a professional crown straightener.' 'This is what it should be about. Thank you for taking such care of our Colleen and our Lily. I couldn't love this more if I tried.' 'We love you for being this crown straightener.' 'Yes indeedwe should all aspire to be the woman that fixes another woman's crown without telling the world it was crooked.' 'A girl's girl for all of us, we love ya Blake'; 'Being a 'girl's girl' is the ultimate compliment!' 'Absolutely love this. Much deserved compliment from what I can see Stronger together.' 'Love this so much! THIS is the energy we need, to collaborate as women vs tear others down.' Blake gushed: 'It meant so much to me because it's those invisible things people see that make us all feel best' The trailer for Blake's highly-anticipated new romance film, It Ends With Us, which is based on a book by the same name by Colleen Hoover, dropped in May with the movie set for release on August 9. Blake plays Lily Bloom, a woman who begins a passionate and then abusive relationship with Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni, 40) - before the shocking return of her ex Atlas Corrigan (Brandon Sklenar, 32). The film follows the plot of the bestselling book and is directed by Baldoni. Hoover previously revealed It Ends With Us was 'the hardest book I've ever written' as it is based on the relationship between her parents. As of 2019, the book sold over one million copies worldwide and was translated into over 20 different languages. The book received another surge in popularity in late 2021 thanks to TikTok's #BookTok community. Since 2019, the book has been published in 43 languages. It Ends With Us was the top-selling print book in 2022, remaining on the New York Times Best Seller List for over 90 weeks. Hoover is the best-selling author in the United States with over 20 million books sold, with her sequel to It Ends With Us, dubbed It Starts With Us, published in October 2022. Love Island's new bombshell has been revealed as stunning flight attendant Lolly Hart. According to The Sun, the brand new late addition is set to stir up some trouble in scenes that are set to air this week. It comes less than 24 hours after four contestants - including original Islander Jess White - were axed in a mass dumping. Lolly regularly posts to social media with content from her jet set lifestyle, visiting locations like Dubai and Washington, as well as sharing sweet snaps of her Dalmatian called Humphrey. She studied for a BA Hons Fashion Buying and Retailing at London Metropolitan University. Love Island's new bombshell has been revealed as stunning flight attendant Lolly Hart Lolly regularly posts to social media with content from her jet set lifestyle, visiting locations like Dubai and Washington, as well as sharing sweet snaps of her Dalmatian called Humphrey Lolly went on to work at Monarch Airlines, before landing a role as cabin crew at Virgin Atlantic in 2015 and has worked at the company for nearly 10 years. She is mutual friends with a number of ex Love Island lads including Wes Nelson and Chris Hughes. She is followed on social media by EastEnders legend Dean Gaffney and Gary Lineker's son George. MailOnline have reached out to Love Island for comment. It comes after a surprise dumping saw four people sent packing during Wednesday's episode. In a decision made by the public, Casa Amor Islanders Emma Draper, Hugo Godfroy and Blade Siddiqi were the latest to be dumped. But the most shocking turn of events was original Islander Jess White being among those to receive the least votes and therefore also dumped, leaving Nicole Samuel and Mimii Ngulube in tears. After a dramatic kissing challenge, Ayo Odukoya later received a text saying for the villa to gather around the firepit. 'Islanders, the public have been voting for their favourite girl and favourite boy, those with the fewest votes will be at risk of being dumped from the island tonight ,' a text sent to Grace Jackson read. 'As Josh and Reuben are the newest Islanders, they are not included in the vote.' She studied for a BA Hons Fashion Buying and Retailing at London Metropolitan University Lolly went on to work at Monarch Airlines, before landing a role as cabin crew at Virgin Atlantic in 2015 and has worked at the company for nearly 10 years It was then revealed the three boys to receive the least amount of votes were Blade, Hugo and Ayo, while the girls were Jess, Emma and Jess Spencer. The final decision as to who would leave was left to those at home, and ultimately Blade, Hugo, Emma and Jess were dumped. Of her exit, Jess later said: 'It's a bittersweet moment, I always said if I made it past week one Id be proud of myself, so to make it to week five is amazing. 'It was nothing like I expected, it was everything and more.' Jess threw support behind her Welsh bestie Nicole, as she said: 'The relationships you form are so special, I'm so proud of everyone and think we will all be friends for life. 'I was like everyone's big sister but Samantha, Nicole and Uma were so lovely and people I hope to have in my life for a very long time. Nicole for the win, she's my little sister and best friend.' Dishing the dirt on his connection with Grace, Blade admitted that while they were attracted to each other, the romance fizzled out. He said: 'Grace is a great girl and although things fizzled out a bit towards the end, it was all good with us. 'In the end, we were slightly different people, as attracted as we were to each other we could only go so far, it was something we needed to find out and explore naturally, and thats what we did. We had a great time.' The Love Island villa was in for a shock on Wednesday when a surprise dumping saw four people sent packing The most shocking turn of events was original Islander Jess White being among those to receive the least votes and therefore also dumped, leaving Nicole Samuel (pictured) and Mimii Ngulube in tears Of her exit, Jess later said: 'It's a bittersweet moment, I always said if I made it past week one Id be proud of myself, so to make it to week 5 is amazing Elsewhere in the episode during a girls chat, the islanders admitted that none of them have had sex yet in the villa, but they confessed it has been difficult to hold back. Broaching the topic, Jess asked the girls: 'How are you finding it?' as Nicole admitted it's 'hard', while Matilda jokes: 'Rock solid.' Emma then agrees as she joked: 'In every sense of the word!' and Nicole adds: 'Every way possible hard!' Getting candid about female sexual desire, Jess advised: 'It's all natural ladies, you wouldn't be human if you didn't feel these things' While Matilda added: 'Women have got needs' and Jess continued: 'I just think, everyone is human and everyone has those needs'. Agreeing Emma said: 'One million percent and it takes some real strong willpower to get to the point of this and not have done it, so well done.' Jess then teased: 'Especially as everyone in here is so fit!' Zara McDermott has revealed the surprising identity of trolls who target her with 'bullying' and 'invasive' comments. The Love Island star turned documentary presenter, 27, made her debut on BBC's Morning Live on Thursday to talk about online trolls or 'everyday extremism'. She spoke with experts about the mentality of these individuals, and how they often have day-to-day jobs, making their violence of their words even more hard to accept. Zara told viewers in the segment: 'I've done some digging into who the people are that troll me. 'I've actually found one woman who is a primary school teacher. I found another guy, he's a middle-aged guy, he's married with young children. Zara McDermott has revealed the surprising identity of trolls who target her with 'bullying' and 'invasive' comments The Love Island star turned documentary presenter, 27, made her debut on BBC 's Morning Live on Thursday to talk about online trolls or 'everyday extremism' She spoke with experts about the mentality of these individuals, and how they often have day-to-day jobs, making their violence of their words even more hard to accept 'And there's another woman that I found who's actually a nurse.' Zara finished: 'I had a perception in my head that a troll was someone who sat in a dark room, on a laptop all day, spewing out hateful comments online. 'But, actually, these people are people with normal jobs, with friends, with children.' Zara has been trolled since her time on Love Island back in 2018 and has experienced peaks when her nude photos were leaked and when she admitted to cheating on boyfriend Sam Thompson. She lamented in the mini documentary: 'I've had people commenting on everything I post, the things that I'm wearing. I've even had people digging into my family life, and my relationships. 'It does feel just so invasive, and it makes me feel scared, scared to post anything nowadays.' On Instagram, Zara wrote: 'I wanted my first mini film to be about something close to me and my experience. 'I learnt about a concept called "everyday extremism", whereby, in this context, society is enabling us to become more extreme in our views behind the comfort of our phone screens. Zara said: 'I found another guy, he's a middle-aged guy, he's married with young children. And there's another woman that I found who's actually a nurse' Zara told viewers in the short segment: 'I've done some digging into who the people that troll me. I've actually found one woman who is a primary school teacher' Zara finished: 'I had a perception in my head that a troll was someone who sat in a dark room, on a laptop all day, spewing out hateful comments online... On Instagram, Zara talked about why she chose this topic for her documentary and what she learnt making it 'It's a very real and scary thing, and I was able to identify some of the anonymous accounts who have trolled me in the past to see who the people are behind the screens. 'I was shocked to find out who some of them were.' Zara has presented six documentaries for the BBC with topics ranging from revenge porn to missing people. In February 2021, Zara revealed how revenge porn had made her consider suicide after a boy shared naked pictures of her around their school when she was just 14. Revenge Porn - or Image-based sexual abuse - is the sharing of private, sexual materials of another person without their consent. In the BBC3 documentary, she revealed how she felt 'shunned, punished and shamed' by her teachers and peers, while the boy who sent the image got off 'scot free'. Zara, who was later victim to the same offence in 2018, said the shame drove her to consider taking her own life so she wouldn't have to go back to school. The boy had shared the image with friends and it circulated around the the Coopers' Company and Coborn School in Upminster, Essex, before reaching neighbouring schools by lunchtime the following day. Zara has been trolled since her time on Love Island in 2018 and has experienced peaks when her nude photos were leaked and when she admitted to cheating on Sam Thompson (pictured) In 2020, a troll criticised Zara, a government advisor before showbiz, by falsely claiming she had dropped to just seven stone. Zara wrote at the time: 'Sorry to keep having to explain myself on here, but I am definitely not 7 stone 7lbs. I have learnt a lot about posting my exact before and after weight as it can be damaging, and that's something I would never do now. Two years earlier, insatiable trolls had insisted she was Zara was too big, cruelly calling her a 'fat whale'. She told The Sun: 'To the trolls who posted so many nasty comments about my weight, I want you to know that before being signed to Love Island, I was almost starving myself and eating just a bag of carrots a day.' Tasha Ghouri sent temperatures soaring as she shared a slew of bikini-clad snaps with her followers. The Love Island star, 25, who is currently enjoying some downtime in Marbella, looked sensational as she showed off her toned physique in a skimpy beige bikini. The stylish two-piece consisted of a bandeau top and a pair of high-rise bottoms as she posed up a storm in the Spanish coastal resort. Tasha covered up the swimwear with a linen shirt and a pair of cream crochet beach trousers which boasted floral embroidery. The beauty opted for matching accessories as she sported a pair of Chloe sandals and toted her essentials in a Chloe cotton canvas tote bag. Tasha Ghouri sent temperatures soaring as she shared a slew of bikini-clad snaps with her followers this week The Love Island star, 25, who is currently enjoying some downtime in Marbella , looked sensational as she showed off her toned physique in a skimpy beige bikini In other stunning snaps, the dancer showed off her toned legs as she cut a stylish figure in a cream crochet co-ord. The trendy two-piece consisted of a triangle bikini top, a mini skirt, and a cropped cover-up. She added inches to her slender frame with a pair of espadrille wedges and toted her essentials around in a mini straw handbag. To complete the ensemble, Tasha wore an elegant pair of gold floral earrings and highlighted her toned midriff with a beaded belly chain. Tasha left little to the imagination earlier this week as she partied with pals in Marbella. She opted for a see-through netted two-piece made up of a tiny bra, a small thong, and a matching wrap. Tasha looked sensational in the tropical location as she covered her eyes with a pair of dark shades and let her tousled locks flow free, with leafy earrings complementing her overall look. She was in good spirits as she partied on the Spanish beach resort with an unnamed friend and the pair of them soaked up the sun. The stylish two-piece consisted of a bandeau top and a pair of high-rise bottoms as she posed up a storm in the Spanish coastal resort Tasha covered up the swimwear with a linen shirt and a pair of cream crochet beach trousers which boasted floral embroidery In other stunning snaps, the dancer showed off her toned legs as she cut a stylish figure in a cream crochet co-ord The trendy two-piece consisted of a triangle bikini top, a mini skirt and a cropped cover-up While Tasha has yet to walk down the aisle with her boyfriend Andrew Le Page, 29, he has hinted it is definitely in the couple's future. The pair's romance blossomed on the 2022 series of Love Island as they made it all the way to the final before they finished in fourth place. Since leaving the villa, the pair have gone from strength to strength, even going on holiday to Australia to visit Tasha's brother. Andrew also showed his commitment to Tasha when he gave her a promise ring for Christmas 2022. The former estate agent gave his girlfriend the silver 265 ring by Tiffany and Co as a gift. Giving fans a glimpse at the jewellery on her YouTube channel, Tasha told her subscribers: 'Everybody is probably thinking this is an engagement box - Andrew got me a gorgeous promise ring and I love it so much.' 'It's so simple and I love silver. I did not expect that at all, I nearly started crying.' 'When I first saw the box I was like... because that is an engagement box.' The couple had flown to Guernsey at the time to spend the festive period with Andrew's family. Andrew revealed in November that he hopes to marry Tasha in the near future and vowed they won't 'ever' break up. Schapelle Corby has her many fans wondering if she's getting ready to walk down the aisle. The convicted drug smuggler, who is currently celebrating her 47th birthday in Paris, set tongues wagging on Wednesday after an eagle-eyed fan spotted a sparkling ring on her left hand. In the image posted to Instagram, Schapelle looks every inch the stylish fashionista as she poses in a beret in front of the Eiffel Tower, while her bejewelled hand rests on her leg. 'Happy Birthday To Me #27... oops, #47,' she wrote in the caption. It wasn't long before Schapelle's followers inundated the post, with one hearing wedding bells all the way from the city of love. 'Is that an engagement ring on your finger haha,' they asked after spying the ring. However, it appears not all is what it seems. A close look at the image shows the picture has been 'flipped', and the flashy ring she is sporting is actually on her right hand. Schapelle Corby has her many fans wondering if she's getting ready to walk down the aisle. Pictured The convicted drug smuggler, who is currently celebrating her 47th birthday in Paris, set tongues wagging on Wednesday after an eagle-eyed fan spotted a sparkling ring on her left hand. It wasn't long before Schapelle's followers inundated the post, with one hearing wedding bells all the way from the city of love A tell tale give away that the picture has been 'mirrored' is that the Olympic rings seen on the Eiffel Tower in the background of the photo are around the wrong way. In photography a 'mirrored' image is one in which right and left in reality have been reversed - as if seen in a mirror. It comes after Kyle Sandilands recently shared his theory about where Schapelle Corby's drug-filled boogie board bag really came from after her infamous arrest at Bali airport almost 20 years ago. Schapelle was incarcerated for nine years for attempting to smuggle cannabis into Indonesia. A close look at the image shows the picture has been 'flipped'. Pictured correctly, with the Olympic rings on the Eiffel Tower the right way around She was arrested at Bali airport in October 2004 with 4.2kg of cannabis wrapped in plastic inside her boogie board bag. Schapelle has always maintained her innocence and her lawyers argued she had unintentionally become a drug mule, suggesting baggage handlers put the drugs in her bag. Radio shock jock Kyle, 53, discussed her incarceration on The Kyle and Jackie O Show on Wednesday morning. He said he believes smugglers forgot to take the cannabis out of the bag after her transit flight from Brisbane to Sydney, leading to it accidentally travelling on to Bali. 'I think they didn't take something out that should have come from Brisbane to Sydney. They missed it and off it went and got redirected to Bali,' he shared. Schapelle has made a new life for herself after her release from an Indonesian prison in 2014, after being convicted for drug smuggling and is now making a living as a successful clockmaker His co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson also shared her sympathies with Schapelle, claiming she didn't deserve the nine-year prison sentence. 'She nearly lost her mind over it. Either way, even if she did it, I don't think she deserved what she went through,' Jackie, 49, argued. Schapelle has made a new life for herself after her release from an Indonesian prison in 2014, and is now making a living as a successful clockmaker. Earlier this year, she promoted some of her colourful timepieces with her 162,000 followers, which typically retail for around $220. Noel Wise, who is nominated for a seat on the federal bench for the Northern District of California, takes part in a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting on Wednesday. Screenshot via Senate Committee on the Judiciary An Alameda County judge nominated by President Joe Biden to a federal judgeship was attacked Wednesday by Senate Republicans, who portrayed her writings about intersex and transgender children as a denial of the difference between males and females. At a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, Noel Wise was questioned about her writings that described the difficulties doctors face in classifying babies who are born intersex or with genetic ambiguities. At times, she wrote in a 2017 Time magazine article, biological sex from the moment of conception looks like an intricate continuum and less like two tidy boxes, making it virtually impossible for judges to consistently apply a law that permits or prohibits conduct based on whether someone is a man or a woman. The article was headlined Gender Laws Are at Odds With Science. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Republicans on the committee accused her of bias on issues of sexuality and politics, citing a 2020 Atlantic article in which she wrote that judges appointed by former President Donald Trump were overwhelmingly white and male and dont look like America. Wise wrote both articles while serving as a judge. Were you making a political statement? asked Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. When she started to deny doing so, he interrupted her and called her a zealous advocate. I believe that diversity in all forms gender, race, military service, etc. thats a bipartisan issue, Wise replied, recalling her elation when Republican President Ronald Reagan nominated Sandra Day OConnor to become the Supreme Courts first female justice in 1981. Wise served as an environmental lawyer for the U.S. Justice Department from 1994 to 2002, and later for Pacific Gas & Electric Co., and also worked for private law firms before Gov. Jerry Brown appointed her to the Alameda County Superior Court in 2014. If confirmed, she would succeed U.S. District Judge Edward Davila, who plans to take senior status with a reduced caseload when he is replaced. Her confirmation appears likely in the Democratic-controlled Senate. Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin, D-Ill., joked that Republicans message to judicial hopefuls was, Dont put anything in writing, and said they seemed particularly resistant to female nominees. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Another Republican, Sen. Mike Lee of Utah, questioned Wise about her former membership on the Alameda County board of the nonprofit Girls Inc. He said the organization has a policy of allowing anyone who identifies as female to use girls bathrooms. Wise replied that the policy came from the national board and that she had no position on the issue, but Lee told her that the advocacy position you took is hurting girls. Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., then castigated Wise for writing that judges must see the world through a secular lens. He noted that she has also written that gender is an intricate continuum. Is a law that distinguishes between male and female a violation of church and state? Hawley asked. When Wise started to answer, he interrupted and demanded that she disqualify herself from every case involving biological men. She replied that he was misinterpreting her writings, and he cut her off again. Your position is insane, totally insane. I cant believe you have been nominated, Hawley said. Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley are set to take a seven-week break from This Morning just four months after landing the job. The new hosts joined the ITV daytime show on March 11 and are said to be receiving an annual salary of 555,000. Now they're set to be away for nearly two months as part of the show's annual summer break, which sees a rotation of guest presenters brought in to front the show in their absence. Friday favourites Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary will kick off the summer shows from Monday July 15, before a mix of familiar faces return to the sofa. Also stepping in to host will be Josie Gibson, Craig Doyle, Rylan Clark, Rochelle Humes and Joel Dommett, plus new mum Sian Welby also making her return to broadcasting since welcoming her baby daughter Ruby last month. Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley are set to take a seven-week break from This Morning just four months after landing the job While they step away a rotation of guest presenters will be brought in to front the show in their absence, with fans particularly excited for Craig Doyle, who will host with Josie Gibson Ben and Cat return to ITV's flagship daytime show on September 2, and Alison and Dermot return to fronting Fridays on September 6. This Morning's editor, Martin Frizell, said of the summer lineup: 'Viewers will not want to miss a moment this summer! 'The shows will be packed and whatever the weather, the team in front of the cameras and behind will deliver plenty of content to keep the nation smiling. 'I'm delighted Alison and Dermot are kicking things off and together with our brilliant family of hosts - made up of the biggest names in TV - they will be serving up really exciting content on Britain's biggest daytime show.' However, viewers were left baffled when the early exit was announced on Thursday's show. Taking to X, formerly Twitter, they shared: 'Ben and Cat only joined #ThisMorning back in April of this year'; 'Back in September?? Its July 11... ITS ONLY THE 11th of July part timers basically got TWO month off work what a Joke!'; 'Let's see if they do come back in September. Their viewing figures suggest maybe not #thismorning.' Other viewers were delighted by the shakeup, however, as they expressed their delight at seeing Irish presenter Craig back on their screens. Ben and Cat's summer break comes weeks after they took time off for Easter. The duo enjoyed two weeks away from the programme in April, during which time Alison and Dermot fronted Monday to Friday for the fortnight. Friday favourites Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary will kick off the summer shows from Monday July 15, before a mix of familiar faces return to the sofa Dermot will also host some shows with Rochelle Humes by his side New mother Sian Welby also making her return to broadcasting since welcoming her baby daughter Ruby last month Ben and Cat were officially announced as the new This Morning hosts in February after months of whispers. Sources at the channel said that they were 'thrilled' at the signing of the pair after 'so many obstacles had to be negotiated to get there'. The Mail first revealed that the duo were top of the list but in December Cat turned down the role because she wasn't able to commit the time to the programme. However, after further negotiations and the offer of more money, she agreed. One source said: 'Cat was the one they wanted all along and finally they have her. It is incredible news for them.' It's possible the reason for the sudden U-turn was financial, with Cat set to nab a bumper payday as the new host. When reports of her joining the show first emerged last year it was claimed she and Ben would receive an annual salary of 555,000. While hefty, the salary still paled in comparison to former hosts Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield, who were said to have been paid 700,000 annually for their role. Holly left the show last October 'for the sake of her family' after discovering she was the target of a foiled kidnap and murder plot and has since not been replaced permanently. Her departure came five months after Phillip's, when his affair with a young male showrunner was made public, followed by claims of an increasingly strained relationship with his co-host. Viewers were left baffled when the early exit was announced on Thursday's show Other viewers were delighted by the shakeup, however, as they expressed their delight at seeing Irish presenter Craig back on their screens. Ben and Cat were officially announced as the new This Morning hosts in February after months of whispers Phillip bowed out of the spotlight following his affair scandal in May, which led to his departure from This Morning after over 20 years on the show. After much speculation about his private life, his affair finally went public and he admitted he had been left 'broken and ashamed' but insisted he was not a groomer. He said the affair 'never came across' as an abuse of power because he and his lover were 'mates'. He told The Sun: 'I was unprofessional, one time, in a 41-year career. There is no excuse. No one did anything wrong apart from me.' In his first interview since leaving the broadcaster and This Morning, the 61-year-old presenter said: 'I did not, I did not [groom him]. 'There are accusations of all sorts of things. It never came across that way because we'd become mates. I don't know about that. But of course I understand that there will be a massive judgment, but bearing in mind, I have never exercised that.' At the time, Phillip offered a number of apologies, including to his co-presenter of 14 years Holly and his wife of 30 years, Stephanie Lowe. This Morning airs weekdays from 10am on ITV, ITVX, STV and STV Player Victoria Silvstedt put on a busty display in a floral bra top as she strolled through the streets of St Tropez during a sun-soaked getaway on Thursday. The Swedish actress, 49, flashed a glimpse of her toned midriff in the stylish top, which barely contained her ample assets. Putting on a leggy display, the model teamed a mini crochet skirt with the floral number. She sported a pair of brown Hermes sandals and toted her essentials in a beige tote bag. To complete the look, Victoria further accessorised with a hat, ombre shades, and a cluster of bracelets. Victoria Silvstedt put on a busty display in a floral bra top as she strolled through the streets of St Tropez during a sun-soaked getaway on Thursday The Swedish actress, 49, flashed a glimpse of her toned midriff in the stylish top, which barely contained her ample assets Victoria's trip to the French Riviera comes after she attended a string of shows during Paris Fashion Week last month. The model put on very leggy displays on the front row at both the Elie Saab and Georges Chakra Haute Couture shows. Victoria first came to global attention after being chosen to represent her country in the Miss World pageant in 1993. After her pageant days, the Scandinavian stunner was spotted by Hugh Hefner and went on to become a Playboy Playmate. Since then, she has modelled for some of the world's most prestigious fashion houses, including Chanel, Dior and Valentino. But despite the glamorous appearance of her lifestyle as a young model, she has revealed there was a dark side. Speaking to Female First, Victoria said: 'I started very young to model in Paris when I was 18, I remember like starving myself to fit into the clothes.' 'It was an amazing experience but you know I did shows for Valentino, Chanel, so it was really prestigious.' 'But it never felt like it was my thing, I'm not like a runway skinny model, I'm more curvy. It was torture, I put myself through starvation, you know torturing myself.' 'To be a young girl as well, you cannot take criticism, everything that you hear is like "no no no" and then I went to Playboy and I could be bigger!' Savannah Chrisley has admitted that visiting her parents Todd and Julie in prison is 'really tough' as they continue to serve their sentence for fraud and tax evasion. The 26-year-old television personality - who recently talked about the poor conditions endured by her father - opened up on her podcast titled Unlocked about her two recent visits with her parents. She explained that the experience was 'awesome' overall but has found that the process has actually gotten tougher when visiting her mother Julie, 51, who is serving her prison sentence in a different facility than 55-year-old husband Todd. Savannah explained: 'I used to say I think it would get easier as time goes on, but I really think thats a lie. 'I think I was lying to myself to make myself feel better because it does get harder. It gets harder each time you leave, and you know youre leaving them behind.' Savannah Chrisley (pictured in February) has admitted that visiting her parents Todd and Julie in prison is 'really tough' as they continue to serve their sentence for fraud and tax evasion Todd was sentenced to 12 years in prison while Julie was sentenced to seven years as they both began serving them in January 2023; the two ware seen in April 2017 Todd was sentenced to 12 years in prison while Julie was sentenced to seven years as they both began serving them in January 2023. It wasn't just seeing her mom which she had trouble navigating but also admitted to having a 'really tough' time watching other families visit their loved ones in prison. Savannah said: 'It truly does just break a lot of families. 'And a lot of families don't have the resources to maybe get the help that they so desperately need or that they're searching for or they may not have the guidance.' She did say that her separate visits with her parents have actually aided in spending quality time with them in addition to helping in bringing her clarity regarding her life. The Sharknado 4: The 4th Awakens actress said: 'I love my one-on-one time, but also, we get to have really intentional conversations. 'I find myself just kind of reflecting on a lot of things in life, and just things as a kid, and we just get to have conversations that I feel like weve needed to have for a really long time.' Just last month Savannah claimed that things have gotten 'extremely worse' for her father since he spoke out about the poor conditions he's allegedly experiencing in the Florida prison where he's serving time for tax evasion. The 26-year-old television personality - who recently talked about the poor conditions endured by her father - opened up on her podcast titled Unlocked about her two recent visits with her parents She explained that the experience was 'awesome' overall but has found that the process has actually gotten tougher when visiting her mother Julie, 51, who is serving her prison sentence in a different facility than 55-year-old husband Todd as she explained: 'I used to say I think it would get easier as time goes on, but I really think thats a lie. 'I think I was lying to myself to make myself feel better because it does get harder. It gets harder each time you leave, and you know youre leaving them behind' In December, reality star Todd described the 'devastating' conditions inside the Federal Prison Camp in Pensacola, Florida, calling the food 'filthy' and claiming that he was being targeted by guards for his privileged lifestyle. Since then in an interview with Chris Cuomo on NewsNation's Cuomo last month, Savannah claimed that her father is facing brutal 'retaliation' for speaking out. 'Yes, the retaliation has gotten extremely worse. They're trying to, they're retaliating against friends of his, just in hopes that they would turn on my father for some odd reason, but it's not stopping us,' she said. Savannah also said that the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and the Office of Internal Affairs (OIA) are 'currently investigating' Todd's situation. 'So for that I am grateful and I hope everything is uncovered,' she stressed. Since speaking out, Savannah claims that she's received letters from previous inmates at the prison sharing their own experiences. 'I get letters every day. I got a letter from a veteran that talks about the extreme abuse that he endured a FPC Pensacola. While she didn't offer any proof, Savannah also claimed that prisoners at the facility had experienced 'sexual abuse' before. Savannah (pictured) recently claimed in an interview last month that things have gotten 'extremely worse' for her father in prison In December, Todd described the 'devastating' conditions inside the Federal Prison Camp in Pensacola, Florida, calling the food as 'filthy' among other allegations Speaking to Chris Cuomo on NewsNation's Cuomo last month, Savannah claimed that her father was being retaliated against for speaking out 'It's heartbreaking to me that this is going on, but like I said, I don't just do this for my parents. I do this for all the other men and women that are currently incarcerated that can't fight for themselves,' she told Cuomo. Dailymail.com has contacted the prison for comment, who said in a statement that the 'humane treatment' of inmates is their 'top priority'. 'It is the mission of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) to operate facilities that are safe, secure, and humane,' they said. 'All allegations of misconduct, including retaliation, are referred for administrative action and/or criminal prosecution if warranted.' In February, Todd claimed that he was facing retaliation from prison guards for speaking out about conditions at the Florida prison where he was remanded for tax evasion. Speaking to NewsNation's Brian Entin on Banfield, the 'Chrisley Know Best' star, 54, said guards would not let him into the chapel to pray at the Federal Prison Camp, Pensacola, where he is serving a 10-year sentence. 'They had sent the priest out of here in the middle of his service. Made him leave,' Chrisley said. 'They have never found any contraband in there.' Todd, 54, previously claimed that he is facing retaliation from guards at Federal Prison Camp, Pensacola, where he is serving a 10-year sentence for tax evasion The reality TV star insisted that he was prevented from entering the prison chapel to pray and that guards were conducting searches for contraband due to his upcoming interview The 54-year-old and his wife, Julie, 50, were both found guilty of committing tax evasion and bank fraud totaling $30 million in June 2022. Julie is serving 14 months in Kentucky He further claimed guards were conducting searches after catching word that he would be doing another interview, insisting they were trying to 'intimidate' him. 'I just walked out and said, "It ain't going to chance what I am going to say,"' Chrisley continued. The TV personality and wife Julie, 50, were found guilty of committing tax evasion and bank fraud totaling $30 million in June 2022. Chrisley's 12-year sentence was reduced to 10 years, while his wife's seven-year sentence was cut to 14 months. She has been a prisoner Federal Medical Center Lexington in Kentucky since January 2023. The 54-year-old previously spoke to NewsNation in December, when he accused prison guards of 'starving' inmates and serving expired food. He claimed rats and squirrels had been found in the food storage facility, and asserted that a dead cat once fell into food supplies from a mold-riddled ceiling - a statement that a prison source categorically denied. The reality star said he only ate the meals he prepared for himself at the commissary, describing conditions as 'so disgustingly filthy.' He alleged guards were targeting him for his privileged status as a celebrity. 'There are recordings of staff members here talking about "he needs to be humbled,"' Todd said. '"What we need to do is we need to put him in diesel therapy and put him in shackles and let him ride around the country, and then bring him back and that will humble him."' The Federal Bureau of Prisons denied Chrisley's claims, insisting that inmates were kept in clean and humane conditions The reality star claimed there were recordings of prison staff talking about how they wanted to 'humble' him due to his status as a celebrity The couple's daughter, 26-year-old Savannah, has echoed her father's claims of mistreatment and further asserted that prison staff were planting cellphones and drugs in his cell An insider told DailyMail.com that Chrisley's family was concerned for his safety following his decision to speak out 'because he is trying to take on Goliath when he knows nothing about how the system really works.' 'Todd is thinking inside of his little box on his little platform - but there are those who have been in his prison their whole lives and have not said anything in fear of what would happen if they did,' the source continued. 'Everyone wishes he didnt do all of this, and they think (daughter Savannah Chrisley) isnt helping either on her part.' The 26-year-old has been an outspoken advocate herself who has publicly echoed her father's claims of retaliation by prison staff. The source continued: 'She is advocating against awful conditions of a federal prison as if she lives there. She only knows what is told to her by Todd.' The Federal Bureau of Prisons responded directly to Chrisley's allegations in a statement. 'It is the mission of the Federal Bureau of Prisons to operate facilities that are safe, secure, and humane,' the statement read. 'We take seriously our duty to protect the individuals entrusted in our custody, as well as maintaining the safety of our employees and the community. Humane treatment of the men and women in our custody is a top priority.' In an interview, Chrisley said he was not allowed to call his wife 'because of what Savannah is doing' An insider told DailyMail.com that Julie might divorce her husband 'for convincing her to go along with his foolproof plan that landed them in prison' The agency clarified that expired food is 'discarded and not utilized.' Chrisley said he had not been allowed to call his wife as a result of his daughter's outlandish claims. These included accusations of prison staff planting mobile phones and drugs in his cell. 'It's devastating,' he said. 'You know she and I email four or five times a day, but they will hold my emails and hold them on her end as well as a way of punishment to us because of what Savannah is doing.' A source told DailyMail.com that the couple seemed to be headed for separation. 'Julie's friends are certain that she will eventually divorce Todd for convincing her to go along with his foolproof plan that landed them in prison,' the source said. Last month, the Chrisleys secured a $1 million settlement from the state of Georgia. They were previously cleared of a state tax evasion charge and took action against Joshua Waites, the former the Director of Special Investigations of Georgias Department of Revenue. The couple filed a suit against Waites in October 2019, accusing him of sharing confidential grand jury and tax information with their estranged daughter Lindsie. The lawsuit sought compensatory and punitive damages as well as reimbursement for legal costs. Before reaching the settlement, the couple and their attorneys had insisted for months that the state's case against them was 'highly unusual and had real problems'. A 2021 investigation also found the couple to have been 'unfairly targeted' due to their fame. Sydney Sweeney looked incredible as she put on a leggy display during a shopping spree in Paris on Thursday. The 26-year-old Euphoria star turned up the heat in the French capital as she donned a 1,600 bandeau corset top from Ralph Lauren with matching shorts, which showcased her amazing figure. She looked dazzling as she stepped out in the pale yellow ensemble with flower detailing, which cinched in at the waist. The actress paired the summery attire with knee-length pastel blue stockings and heels, as well as a small handbag that matched the design of her outfit. Sydney wore her gorgeous blonde locks down and completed her look with rectangular sunglasses. Sydney Sweeney looked incredible as she put on a leggy display during a shopping spree in Paris on Thursday The 26-year-old Euphoria star turned up the heat in the French capital as she donned a 1,600 bandeau corset top from Ralph Lauren with matching shorts The actress looked in a hurry as she strode out of her taxi and made her way towards the shops in Paris, accompanied by what seemed to be her bodyguard. It comes just after Sydney appeared uncomfortable when she was shown an AI-generated image of herself at Samsung 's Galaxy Unpacked event during her trip to the French city on Wednesday. When asked what she thought of the company's ability to generate a 3D image based on a portrait of her, the Anyone But You star seemingly cringed as she looked at the picture made in her likeness. 'Awww, I love it,' the two-time Emmy nominee said, unconvincingly, as she remained seated in the audience. 'Its amazing you can take an image like this.' The footage quickly went viral after fans noticed that she did not appear pleased with the stylized avatar of her face. 'Look at her face bro she hates it,' one X user wrote. Another tweeted: 'Thats an uncomfortable spot to be put on [sobbing emoji].' A third wrote that Sweeney's reaction 'didnt seem very genuine' while a fourth said she looked 'awkward.' It comes just after Sydney appeared uncomfortable after she was shown an AI-generated image of herself at Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked event during her trip to the French city When asked what she thought of the company's ability to generate a 3D image based on a portrait of her, the Anyone But You star seemingly cringed as she looked at the picture The White Lotus actress has also recently bought a $13 million beach house in Miami. The estate has 19 foot tall cathedral ceilings, custom 10 foot tall mahogany doors that open to the backyard, revealing stunning views of the ocean. The home also features a 7,000 square foot main house and a guest house connected by a covered breezeway. It has six bedrooms, six full bathrooms and two half baths half in the main house and half in the guest house. The mansion has an indoor/outdoor kitchen, with a 520 bottle wine room, 330 gallon aquarium and a room to view the pool through the windows. It was built in 2015, with a total of almost 59,000 square feet of land. Sydney became a household name due to her role as Cassie Howard in Euphoria, which debuted in 2019; since then she has gone from strength to strength, and most recently starring in the films Madame Web, Immaculate and Anyone But You. The actress also founded Fifty-Fifty Films, her own production company, an idea that came to her during COVID. David Tennants move from Time Lord to landlord appears to have served him well as his net worth has reached more than 6million thanks to his lucrative property investments. The latest accounts from the Doctor Who stars firm Sandyboy Limited show it currently has assets worth 3,795,982 which includes a 3 million property investment portfolio. But his financial success comes after he was branded a misogynist and a bigot for saying he wished the former minister for women and equality, Kemi Badenoch, did not exist at an awards ceremony. Thought to be named after his late father, Sandy McDonald, his company was set up in 2005 when he was cast in Doctor Who. It now owes creditors just over 1.5 million, leaving it with a value of 2,292,897. David Tennants move from Time Lord to landlord appears to have served him well as his net worth has reached more than 6million thanks to his lucrative property investments The latest accounts from the Doctor Who stars firm Sandyboy Limited show it currently has assets worth 3,795,982 which includes a 3 million property investment portfolio No Mystery Limited is the 53-year-olds second firm and according to Companys House has 3,791,920 in the bank after paying off creditors - a rise of more than 500,000 on the previous year's figure. Tennant currently lives in a 2.6million house in West Londons affluent Chiswick area with his 39-year-old wife and Doctor Who co-star, Georgia, and their five children. In 2019, he won a planning permission row and was allowed to build a 16-metre swimming pool which included a changing room, an outhouse and a gym. Last month the Des star received backlash, led by Badenoch, for the controversial comments he made about her while accepting an award for being a celebrity ally at the British LGBT Awards. He said: Until we wake up and Kemi Badenoch doesn't exist any more...' He paused as the audience cheered and applauded then added: 'I don't wish ill of her, I just wish her to shut up. Badenoch, who has led the Government's drive to protect women's rights and stop teenagers being given puberty-blocking drugs, hit back on social media: 'I will not shut up. 'I will not be silenced by men who prioritise applause from Stonewall over the safety of women and girls. 'A rich, Lefty, white male celebrity so blinded by ideology he can't see the optics of attacking the only black woman in government by calling publicly for my existence to end.' Last month the Des star received backlash, led by Badenoch, for the controversial comments he made about her while accepting an award for being a celebrity ally at the British LGBT Awards Tennant, pictured filming a Dr Who 60th anniversary special in 2022, played the Timelord from 2005 to 2010 Keir Starmer then distanced himself from the Scottish actor, who is a staunch Labour supporter, after his comments and said he, wouldnt have engaged in the discussion in the same way. The Prime Minister said: In politics, as in life, its important that we are able to robustly disagree with others. 'But we should do it with respect for everybody involved in that robust discussion. I think its right that we have these robust discussions, but we must do it respectfully.' Bear Grylls has broken his silence on why he's supporting Russell Brand amid the scandal-hit comic's sexual assault allegations. Last year a Dispatches documentary on Channel 4 exposed allegations of sexual assaults during the height of his fame, as part of an investigation with The Sunday Times and The Times. In October 2023, Russell, 49, faced serious accusations including rape and sexual assault when four women made allegations. The comedian has strenuously denied wrongdoing, and says he has evidence to refute allegations. He later announced that he had been baptised, with his friend Bear present, and saw it as 'an opportunity to leave the past behind' and 'leave behind the sins' after he converted to Christianity. The adventurer, 49, who has long been a devout Christian, was pictured embracing the comedian in the River Thames after his baptism in April and has now spoken out about supporting his friend and the allegations for the first time. Bear Grylls has broken his silence on why he's supporting Russell Brand amid the comic's sexual assault allegations (pictured this week) Russell, 49, faced serious accusations including rape and sexual assault when four women made allegations - he later announced that he had been baptised, with his friend Bear present, Speaking to Confidential Bear explained: 'Russell, you know, it was a privilege to stand beside him as he was getting baptised, that is a life journey for him. 'I really wish him well and his lovely family. Lets hope all of that stuff works itself out in a good way. 'And lets hope those accusations arent true, for everybodys sake, but I always try and live without judging anyone. I stand beside many people thats a privilege, trying never to judge, always to love, always be kind, support people wherever they are.' Russell was pictured hugging Bear in the River Thames after the scandal-hit comic revealed he'd been baptised. The ceremony happened with his high profile friend Bear in attendance and a newly released photograph in May showed the pair embracing in a group hug. Brand, Bear and an unknown person can be seen pictured stood in the River Thames after the comic's baptism. He posted the image on social media with the caption: 'Me, Bear Grylls, The River Thames and of course, The Holy Spirit.' The survival expert and comedian had become friends through their television work. The adventurer, who has long been a devout Christian, was pictured embracing the comedian in the River Thames after his baptism in April and has now spoken out for the first time Speaking to Confidential Bear explained: I stand beside many people thats a privilege, trying never to judge, always to love, always be kind, support people wherever they are' (pictured in January) The survival expert and comedian had become friends through their television work (pictured on Running Wild with Bear Grylls television show) Last year, Brand ventured across the Hebrides with Grylls in the former SAS trooper's Apple TV+ show, Running Wild with Bear Grylls. Brand had told his four million Instagram followers that his baptism was an 'incredible and profound experience'. He said: 'This is my path now. And I already feel incredibly blessed, relieved, nourished, held.' Brand had previously confirmed on social media Grylls, who is a Chief Scout, 'and my mate Joe' joined him for the traditional ceremony which dates back to the seventh century. Christian baptisms are first recorded in the 'holy' River Swale nearly fourteen hundred years ago. Nowadays, most churches baptise only at the font with a sprinkling of water over someone's head. Grylls previously told the Daily Mail: 'Faith and spiritual moments in our lives are really personal, but it is a privilege to stand beside anyone when they express a humble need for forgiveness and strength from above. 'Friendships when we go through tough times are worth so much.' Grylls is one of Britain's most prominent Christians and has appeared in marketing material for the Alpha course, an evangelical introduction to Christianity that is said to have recruited 29 million to the faith. It was created by the Anglican priest Nicky Gumbel, of Holy Trinity Brompton, just across the road from Harrods in London's Knightsbridge. Grylls has spoken about the difference between faith and religion, as he sees it. 'I meet so many people who don't want 'religion' as such,' he said. 'I get it. I feel the same. And, in fact, so did Jesus, the heart of all Christian faith. Faith and religion are not the same thing. 'The Jesus I read about in the Bible was fun, free and wild. He loved a party and he always hung out with the non-religious folk. The only people he ever got angry with were the overly religious types.' The controversial comedian's turn to Christianity comes amid allegations of rape and sexual assault. He has retreated to his countryside Oxfordshire bolthole in recent months after being questioned by police twice in relation to allegations of rape. Brand had told his four million Instagram followers that his baptism was an 'incredible and profound experience' The comedian has strenuously denied wrongdoing, and says he has evidence to refute allegations. Since December he has posted a number of videos and pictures on social media in which he has discussed his relationship with Christianity. In his baptism announcement, Brand said: 'What's been explained to me is, it's an opportunity to die and be reborn. An opportunity to leave the past behind and be reborn in Christ's name.' He then referenced a verse from scripture, adding: 'Like it says in Galatians: that you can live as an enlightened and awakened person', before saying that the prospect of baptism was 'so inviting and beautiful.' Henry Cavills pregnant girlfriend Natalie Viscuso showed off her blossoming baby bump as the couple arrived at a London Hotel on Thursday. The actor, 41, and his girlfriend, 34, announced they were expecting their first child together back in April. Natalie looked every inch the glowing mum-to-be in a flowing tiered dress with a cropped black jumper layered over the top. Topping off her stylish look, she opted for a heeled pair of suede boots and a leather shoulder bag. Meanwhile, Henry with a man outside the hotel and was seen signing his autograph on some paper. Henry Cavill s pregnant girlfriend Natalie Viscuso showed off her blossoming baby bump as the couple arrived at a London Hotel on Thursday The actor, 41, and his girlfriend, 34, announced they were expecting their first child together back in April He wore a grey and white checked shirt with dark blue jeans and a pair of smart brown shoes. Natalie broke her silence on her pregnancy and gushed she can't wait to be a mum in a sweet post last month, she shared a new post to her Instagram as she looked forward to the 'next phase of life'. Wearing a denim jacket that said 'mama' in red letters on the back as she looked back at the camera for the stunning shot. The beauty then penned in the caption: 'So very excited for this next phase of life - becoming a mama! I do hope this kid loves horror movies as much as I do, one day. #hellodarkness.' It comes after Henry asked fans for some parenting 'tips' in a sweet Father's Day post in June. The Superman star took to Instagram of Father's Day as he asked for some parenting 'tips' ahead of becoming a dad for the first time. Henry lay beside a baby cot as he wrote: 'Oh yeah.....and Happy Father's Day ye dads out there. 'Turns out I shall be joining your hallowed ranks soon! Any tips?? And don't worry, pillows won't be in the crib when the wee one arrives, just glue and scapels so he or she can build Warhammer miniatures. #FathersDay (sic)' Natalie looked every inch the glowing mum-to-be in a flowing tiered dress with a cropped black jumper layered over the top Topping off her stylish look, she opted for a heeled pair of suede boots and a leather shoulder bag Meanwhile, Henry with a man outside the hotel and was seen signing his autograph on some paper He wore a grey and white checked shirt with dark blue jeans and a pair of smart brown shoes Natalie kept her makeup to a minimum and wore a pair of oversized glasses Natalie broke her silence on her pregnancy and gushed she can't wait to be a mum in a sweet post last month In a new post to her Instagram as she looked forward to the 'next phase of life' and being a parent while wearing a 'Mama' denim jacket Back in April, Henry revealed that he was 'very excited' to be expecting his first child with Natalie. The Man Of Steel star shared the news at the premiere of The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare in New York City, admitting that he can't wait to become a dad for the first time. Henry told Access Hollywood: 'I'm very excited about it. Natalie and I are both very excited about it. I'm sure you'll see much more of that.' After being told that he will make a great father, Henry replied: 'Thank you.' Previously the actor said of fatherhood back in 2017: 'If I ever have kids one day, I want to be the dad who's running round after them,' he told Men's Health U.K. 'And if I do have kids, even now, it's starting to get quite late. But I want to be a fit and healthy dad, not hobbling round like, 'OK, I'm just going to catch a breather.' Natalie works behind the scenes in the movie industry and the pair are believed to have met when they crossed paths for work. Their friendship blossomed into romance during the COVID-19 pandemic and they have been going strong for nearly three years now. The Justice League star making their relationship Instagram official in 2021 with a snap of them playing chess and the couple made their red carpet debut at the premiere of Enola Holmes 2 in 2022. A source previously told MailOnline: 'Henry first connected with Natalie years ago, and while a romantic spark wasn't instant between them, they always kept in touch. It comes after Henry asked fans for some parenting 'tips' in a sweet Father's Day post Back in April Henry revealed that he was 'very excited' to be expecting his first child with Natalie The pair have been together officially since 2021 and made their red carpet debut at the premiere of Enola Holmes 2 in 2022 (pictured) 'Despite strict travel restrictions in place, Natalie flew from the States to the UK so she could be with Henry ... As a hugely famous actor, Henry is usually very discreet about his personal life and relationships but he's smitten with Natalie ... ' Hollywood executive Natalie works in TV but had a brief taste of life in front of the camera as a teenager on the MTV hit My Super Sweet 16. And MailOnline understands Natalie's father Michael is a former nightclub mogul, which led to her appearance on the TV series that later became a global hit. Now, the New Mexico-turned-California executive loves hanging out in the beautiful nature her new home has to offer alongside boyfriend Henry and their two dogs. Pierce Brosnan looked every inch the silver fox while walking around London on Wednesday. The Irish actor, 71, stepped out looking dapper as ever as he wore a smart tailored navy shirt and some black trousers. He paired his strapping ensemble with a black leather jacket, which he carried in his hand, and some plain black trainers. To accessorise the Mama Mia! star wore some black-tinted sunglasses and an orange beaded necklace. The James Bond star appeared in top spirits as he took a stroll around Chelsea with a kick in his step and his head held high. Pierce Brosnan, 71, looked every inch the silver fox as he stepped out dapper as ever in a shirt and sunglasses while he walked around London on Wednesday His outing comes just days after he made rare public outing with his mother Mary following an evening at swanky private members' club Oswald's in London on Saturday night. He left the venue holding hands with his mother, 90, while flashing a Hollywood smile to cameras as they made their way home. Pierce was sporting a smart black suit and shirt for the occasion, which he teamed with a pair of orange-tinted glasses. Meanwhile, Mary wore black trousers and a black jacket with a black and white striped jumper and a black cross-body bag. The retired nurse supported herself with a walking stick and she accessorised with a lovely pearl and silver necklace. Pierce is the only son of Mary and carpenter Thomas Brosnan, whom Pierce previously said he has only met once. Of his upbringing, Pierce told Cigara Ficionado in 1997: 'I grew up in a very small town in southern Ireland. I never knew my father. He left when I was an infant and I was left in the care of my mother and my grandparents.' Mary worked in England to provide for the family and Pierce recalled: 'My mother came home once a year, twice a year. Consequently, there was a certain amount of early loss in that young boy's life.' The James Bond star appeared in top spirits as he took a stroll around Chelsea with a kick in his step and his head held high However, he described his mother as 'very courageous', making clear that he harboured no resentment. After his grandparents died, Pierce went to live with relatives and then a 'big, warm momma' named Eileen in a boarding house. Pierce has four children of his own; Christopher, 51, Sean, 40, Dylan, 27, and Paris, 23 - and has been married to American journalist Keely Shaye Smith for 23 years. His first daughter Charlotte died from ovarian cancer and her mother, Australian actress Cassandra Harris, widowed Pierce with the same disease. Career wise, Pierce most recently appeared in television film The Great Lillian Hall, loosely inspired by American stage actress Marian Selde. He starred alongside Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates, and Grey's Anatomy's Jesse Williams. Pierce has four films in the works, three of which he is currently filming. They are Unholy Trinity, Four Letters Of Love, The Thursday Murder Club, and American spy thriller film Black Bag. Black Bag enjoys an all-star cast: Cate Blanchett Michael Fassbender, Bridgerton's Rege-Jean Page, Naomie Harris, Tom Burke, and Maris Abela who starred in Amy Winehouse biopic Back To Black. Unholy Trinity is an American Western film co-starring Samuel L. Jackson and Gregory Peck's grandson Ethan. The Thursday Murder Club, based on Richard Osman's 2020 novel of the same name, will also star Helen Mirren and David Tennant. Emily Ratajkowski showcased her phenomenal bikini body in a grey and white striped two-piece while taking her son, Sylvester, three, to visit her hometown. In a new slideshow, uploaded to her Instagram on Thursday, the 33-year-old model shared various memories she made over the weekend in her swimsuit as she spent time with her parents, John David Ratajkowski and Kathleen Balgley, and little boy. The best-selling author uploaded a sultry snap of herself baring plenty of skin as she sat in the passenger side of a car, before posing in front of Las Olas Restaurant. After picking up Mexican food, she and her family seemingly brought the meal to the beach as she also included an image of her burrito in a takeout container there. 'Home for a few days,' the mother-of-one captioned her post, which also included a photo of her son standing in front of her childhood home. Emily Ratajkowski showcased her phenomenal bikini body in a grey and white striped two-piece while taking her son, Sylvester, three, to visit her hometown Ratajkowski, who resides in New York, appeared to be visiting some of her favorite local spots, including Leucadia Donut Shoppe, a family-run store, in Encinitas. This comes after the bombshell recently shared a first look at her trip to San Diego to visit her father, a noted artist and former high school art teacher, and mom, a writer and English professor. Over the weekend, she shared a video of her painting in her father's studio with Sylvester. 'OK so come to paint with me in my dad's studio,' she said in post. 'So this is the studio my dad built at the house I grew up in.' She continued: 'And he built the studio, he's an artist. He was actually my painting teacher in high school.' As she panned around the room, she told her viewers exactly what they were seeing, pointing out some posters for art exhibitions her father has had in the past. She also highlighted baby pictures of her, art projects from the past, as well as her dad's paints and paintbrushes. 'And it's just a really magical, special place, she said. In a new slideshow, uploaded to her Instagram on Thursday, the 33-year-old model shared various memories she made over the weekend in her swimsuit as she spent time with her parents, John David Ratajkowski and Kathleen Balgley, and little boy The best-selling author uploaded a sultry snap of herself baring plenty of skin as she sat in the passenger side of a car, before posing in front of Las Olas Restaurant Ratajkowski pictured from behind 'Sly loves painting so much, so it's really fun for them to do together,' she said, adding, 'He also just adores his grandpa.' The video finished with Emily and Sly showing off their finished paintings. She shared more mementos from her past in her Instagram Stories. One image was side-by-side photos of the Gone Girl actress at age two and at age 5. After picking up Mexican food, she and her family seemingly brought the meal to the beach as she also included an image of her burrito in a takeout container there 'Home for a few days,' the mother-of-one captioned her post, which also included a photo of her son standing in front of her childhood home Ratajkowski, who resides in New York, appeared to be visiting some of her favorite local spots, including Leucadia Donut Shoppe, a family-run store, in Encinitas In her book, My Body, Ratajkowski, who is close with both her parents, wrote about feeling 'sucked into' their 'screaming matches' as a kid. The fights led her to believe that she was the 'glue' that kept them together. 'I knew that my parents had been on again, off again for years before my mother became pregnant with me and they decided to get married,' the model wrote. 'I understood that even before I was born my existence was the essential glue of their relationship.' She continued: 'After every such explosion, which usually ended with one of them leaving, the other would turn to me to plead their case or to air their grievances. I'd listen, performing my role dutifully, feeling a queasiness that would stay with me for days.' Elsewhere in her memoir, she wrote that 'beauty was a way for' her 'to be special.' This comes after the bombshell recently shared a first look at her trip to San Diego to visit her father, a noted artist and former high school art teacher, and mom, a writer and English professor In her 2021 book, My Body, Ratajkowski, who is close with both her parents, wrote about feeling 'sucked into' their 'screaming matches' as a kid (seen last month) 'When I was special, I felt my parents love for me the most,' she confessed. The earliest anecdote that Emily has about herself is one that her mother, Kathy, has shared about her birth. The doctor who delivered her reportedly exclaimed over Emily's beauty, and even brought his own children to the hospital the next day to see her. 'You were such a beautiful baby,' her mother would say. When she would later hear her mother talk about how beautiful she herself had been when she was younger, Emily wrote, 'I tried to gauge where my parents thought I belonged in the world of beauties. 'It seemed important to them both, especially to my mother, that their daughter be perceived as beautiful,' she wrote, adding that she would pray that God would make her 'the most beautiful.' Her prayers came true, and she first realized that men were attracted to her when she was just 12 when her mother gushed about it. 'Ill never forget the look on his face as you walked past him!' her mom would say. 'He stopped dead in his tracks and his mouth fell open!' Growing up, her parents were quite proud of her modeling career, with her father hanging one of her marketing materials with her measurements and photo in his classroom At 13, Emily was told her outfit at a dance was 'too sexy' and got sent home. There were other awkward moments, including odd reactions from others that made it clear she was thought of in a sexual way. 'I was a child, but somehow already an expert in detecting male desire, even if I didnt completely understand what to make of it,' she said. When she was in middle school, an agent approached her about modeling. Her parents were quite proud of her modeling career, with her father hanging one of her marketing materials with her measurements and photo in his classroom. It seems that around that time, a lot of adults were taking note of her good looks and she says a middle-school teacher even snapped her bra on one occasion. Emily might have missed some of the attention of others had her mother not proudly pointed it out. At her first modeling audition, her mother noted that a young man had been checking her out. Young: She started modeling at age 14 (pictured) and said that even as a young teen, men paid her attention. Once, in middle school, a teacher snapped her bra (pictured at age 14) 'That boy looked at you when you stood up and flipped your hair,' she said, according to Emily. 'He was watching you.' But by far the creepiest moment was when an adult casting agent was poring over modeling photos of her with a sultry expression. In 2021, she opened up about her experiences in her book, My Body 'Now this is the look,' he said. 'This is how we know this girl gets f**ked!' Emily recalled feeling embarrassed and wasn't sure if she should be proud that that's how she looked. Still, she tried to embrace the power she convinced herself that she had because of her sexuality though in recent years, she's come to think differently about it. 'It had never occurred to me that the women who gained their power from beauty were indebted to the men whose desire granted them that power in the first place,' she said. 'Those men were the ones in control, not the women the world fawned over. 'Facing the reality of the dynamics at play would have meant admitting how limited my power really was how limited any womans power is when she survives and even succeeds in the world as a thing to be looked at.' 'I was forced to face some ugly truths about what I understood as important, what I thought love was, what I believed made me special, and to confront the reality of my relationship with my body.' Advertisement Sydney Sweeney looked to be having the time of her life during a yacht vacation in Greece this summer. The 26-year-old actress posted several images from her European trip with several of her close pals. In one snapshot, the blonde beauty - who was seen this week in Paris - wore a white one-piece swimsuit with a white shirt. She was putting one leg up as she stood by the swimming pool on the back of a yacht. While in the same suit, she jumped off a cliff and used an underwater scooter. There was also a video of her in a black swimsuit as she rode on an electric surfboard with ease as she used her strong legs to balance herself. 'My my how can I resist you,' wrote the Euphoria actress in her caption. The line is a lyric from the 1975 ABBA song Mamma Mia! Mamma Mia! the film was shot in Greece. Sydney Sweeney looked to be having the time of her life during a yacht vacation in Greece this summer. In one snapshot, the blonde beauty wore a white one-piece swimsuit with a white shirt. She was putting one leg up as she stood by the swimming pool on the back of a yacht The coast of Greece was stunning as the actress used a water scooter; she also jumped off the cliff, left She was also seen in a pretty pink mini dress with a floral print as she posed by a stone wall while out to dinner. The siren has a hot new role lined up. Edgar Wright is in talks to direct the Barbarella remake with her. The 50-year-old filmmaker is set to helm the new take on the 1968 cult classic that will star Sweeney in the title role a part that was played by Jane Fonda in the original flick. Edgar, whose previous movies include Shaun of the Dead and Last Night in Soho, has been interested in the picture for some time and held a meeting with Sydney after it was first announced in 2022. However, he was only committed to working on the project if he was able to get behind the camera. Jane Goldman and her daughter Honey Ross are also in negotiations to pen the script with the former writing for successful franchises including 'X-Men' and the 'Kingsman' spy series. Little is known about the new movie, but the original film was directed by Roger Vadim and followed an astronaut from the 41st century who had to stop an evil scientist named Durand Durand. Jane previously confessed that she was 'worried' about the remake as she is uncertain as to how the film will turn out. The 86-year-old actress told The Hollywood Reporter: 'I try not to. Because I worry about what it's going to be. There was also a video of her in a black swimsuit as she rode on an electric surfboard with ease as she used her strong legs to balance herself The 26-year-old actress posted several images from her European trip with several of her close pals 'I had an idea of how to do it that [original producer] Dino De Laurentiis, when he was still alive, wouldn't listen to. 'But it could have been a truly feminist movie.' Meanwhile, Sydney brushed off the failure of her superhero flick 'Madame Web' earlier this year as it has instead enabled her to build a relationship with Sony. She told British GQ: 'To me, that film was a building block. It's what allowed me to build a relationship with Sony. Without doing 'Madame Web', I wouldn't have a relationship with the decision-makers over there. 'Everything in my career I do not just for that story, but strategic business decisions. Because I did that, I was able to sell 'Anyone But You'. I was able to get 'Barbarella'.' The White Lotus actress recently bought a $13 million beach house in Miami. 'My my how can I resist you,' wrote the Euphoria actress in her caption. The line is a lyric from the 1975 ABBA song Mamma Mia! Mamma Mia! the film was shot in Greece She was also seen in a pretty pink mini dress with a floral print as she posed by a stone wall while out to dinner This multi-colored dress with cap sleeves looked incredible on her as she added yellow open-toe heels Her new South Florida mansion affords the star plenty of privacy. The estate has 19 foot tall cathedral ceilings, custom 10 foot tall mahogany doors that open to the backyard, revealing stunning views of the ocean. The home also features a 7,000 square foot main house and a guest house connected by a covered breezeway. It has six bedrooms, six full bathrooms and two half baths half in the main house and half in the guest house. The mansion has an indoor/outdoor kitchen, with a 520 bottle wine room, 330 gallon aquarium and a room to view the pool through the windows. It was built in 2015, with a total of almost 59,000 square feet of land. Pictured is Invocation by Pepe Ozan before it was damaged during a storm and removed in 2023. Courtesy San Francisco Arts Commission Invocation, a 10-foot-tall eagle warrior sculpture by a famed Burning Man artist that was felled by a storm in San Francisco last year, is being repaired and may land at a city recreation center for permanent display. The perforated steel sculpture sat for nearly 20 years on a strip of land next to the Highway 101 overpass at Cesar Chavez Street until a windstorm in March 2023 knocked down an adjacent eucalyptus, which crumpled the sculptures legs. Invocation sat for weeks in a battered state before Caltrans, which owns the land, and the San Francisco Arts Commission, which owns the art, were able to negotiate its removal to a warehouse in the city. Work to restore and conserve it is ongoing and will be completed this fall. On Tuesday, the Arts Commission will hold a community meeting to discuss its possible relocation to the the Palega Recreation Center in the Portola District. An online survey is available in advance. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The piece was commissioned in 2004 as a part-bird, part-human figure to honor the regions Indigenous heritage. The artist, Pepe Ozan, was an Argentinian immigrant known for his huge sculptures that sat on the Black Rock Desert playa during the annual Burning Man festival in northwest Nevada. He died in 2013. The original commission for the sculpture was $10,000, and the cost of restoring and conserving it is $65,000, according to the city. The relocation of the Mesoamerican warrior statue will ultimately be decided by vote of both the Arts Commission and the Recreation and Park Commission. No date has been set for the transfer. It would replace a kinetic sculpture that had to be removed in 2016 for mechanical failure. Tuesdays public hearing will be at 6 p.m. in the Palega Recreation Center, 500 Felton St. The Love Island villa is about to be shaken once again as new bombshell Lolly Hart makes a beeline for Joey Essex during the latest episode on Thursday night. Flight attendant Lolly, 30, is the latest late addition to the ITV series and is set to stir up trouble as she steels TOWIE star Joey for a romantic date in the hideaway. On tonight's episode, the islanders will receive a text: 'Islanders, It's time to get ready for tonight as the Villa will be hosting an exclusive party. #WKD0%'. As the villa get ready for the night of partying, they are clueless that there is a surprise in store waiting for them. As the night goes on, Joey receives a text: 'Boys, Lolly is at the Hideaway Retreat waiting to date three boys, Joey she has chosen you first, please make your way there now #VipGuestListOnly'. The Love Island villa is about to be shaken once again as new bombshell Lolly Hart makes a beeline for Joey Essex during the latest episode on Thursday night Flight attendant Lolly is the latest late addition to the ITV series and is set to stir up trouble as she steels TOWIE star Joey for a romantic date in the hideaway Lolly and Joey sit down for their first date and she instantly doesn't hold back her feelings about Joey's current couple with Jessy. Lolly says: 'I think your personality and my personality would go together to a tee, but I have got something to say you've kinda gone back in your shell a little bit from the beginning, please correct me if I'm wrong. 'I feel like you're jokey, laughy and fun but since you've been with Jessy, she's a gorgeous, gorgeous girl, she's naturally beautiful but I don't know if there's something missing between you both' In the villa, Jessy is left questioning how Joey's date is going with the new bombshell. She says to the girls: 'Karma's a b**** and she's called Lolly if she can take him, then she can have him'. But as Lolly reveals she has her eye only on Joey, he is faced with some home truths and viewers will have to wait and see how he will react. Lolly regularly posts to social media with content from her jet set lifestyle, visiting locations like Dubai and Washington, as well as sharing sweet snaps of her Dalmatian called Humphrey. She studied for a BA Hons Fashion Buying and Retailing at London Metropolitan University. Joey receives a text: 'Boys, Lolly is at the Hideaway Retreat waiting to date three boys, Joey she has chosen you first, please make your way there now #VipGuestListOnly' Lolly and Joey sit down for their first date and she instantly doesn't hold back her feelings about Joey's current couple with Jessy In the villa, Jessy is left questioning how Joey's date is going with the new bombshell. She says to the girls: 'Karma's a b**** and she's called Lolly if she can take him, then she can have him' Lolly went on to work at Monarch Airlines, before landing a role as cabin crew at Virgin Atlantic in 2015 and has worked at the company for nearly 10 years. She is mutual friends with a number of ex Love Island lads including Wes Nelson and Chris Hughes. She is followed on social media by EastEnders legend Dean Gaffney and Gary Lineker's son George. It comes after a surprise dumping saw four people sent packing during Wednesday's episode. In a decision made by the public, Casa Amor Islanders Emma Draper, Hugo Godfroy and Blade Siddiqi were the latest to be dumped. But the most shocking turn of events was original Islander Jess White being among those to receive the least votes and therefore also dumped, leaving Nicole Samuel and Mimii Ngulube in tears. After a dramatic kissing challenge, Ayo Odukoya later received a text saying for the villa to gather around the firepit. 'Islanders, the public have been voting for their favourite girl and favourite boy, those with the fewest votes will be at risk of being dumped from the island tonight ,' a text sent to Grace Jackson read. 'As Josh and Reuben are the newest Islanders, they are not included in the vote.' Lolly regularly posts to social media with content from her jet set lifestyle, visiting locations like Dubai and Washington, as well as sharing sweet snaps of her Dalmatian called Humphrey She studied for a BA Hons Fashion Buying and Retailing at London Metropolitan University and went on to work at Monarch Airlines, before landing a role as cabin crew at Virgin Atlantic in 2015 It was then revealed the three boys to receive the least amount of votes were Blade, Hugo and Ayo, while the girls were Jess, Emma and Jess Spencer. The final decision as to who would leave was left to those at home, and ultimately Blade, Hugo, Emma and Jess were dumped. Of her exit, Jess later said: 'It's a bittersweet moment, I always said if I made it past week one Id be proud of myself, so to make it to week five is amazing. 'It was nothing like I expected, it was everything and more.' Jess threw support behind her Welsh bestie Nicole, as she said: 'The relationships you form are so special, I'm so proud of everyone and think we will all be friends for life. 'I was like everyone's big sister but Samantha, Nicole and Uma were so lovely and people I hope to have in my life for a very long time. Nicole for the win, she's my little sister and best friend.' Dishing the dirt on his connection with Grace, Blade admitted that while they were attracted to each other, the romance fizzled out. He said: 'Grace is a great girl and although things fizzled out a bit towards the end, it was all good with us. 'In the end, we were slightly different people, as attracted as we were to each other we could only go so far, it was something we needed to find out and explore naturally, and thats what we did. We had a great time.' The Love Island villa was in for a shock on Wednesday when a surprise dumping saw four people sent packing The most shocking turn of events was original Islander Jess White being among those to receive the least votes and therefore also dumped, leaving Nicole Samuel (pictured) and Mimii Ngulube in tears Of her exit, Jess later said: 'It's a bittersweet moment, I always said if I made it past week one Id be proud of myself, so to make it to week 5 is amazing Elsewhere in the episode during a girls chat, the islanders admitted that none of them have had sex yet in the villa, but they confessed it has been difficult to hold back. Broaching the topic, Jess asked the girls: 'How are you finding it?' as Nicole admitted it's 'hard', while Matilda jokes: 'Rock solid.' Emma then agrees as she joked: 'In every sense of the word!' and Nicole adds: 'Every way possible hard!' Getting candid about female sexual desire, Jess advised: 'It's all natural ladies, you wouldn't be human if you didn't feel these things' While Matilda added: 'Women have got needs' and Jess continued: 'I just think, everyone is human and everyone has those needs'. Agreeing Emma said: 'One million percent and it takes some real strong willpower to get to the point of this and not have done it, so well done.' Jess then teased: 'Especially as everyone in here is so fit!' This Morning star Matthew Wright has been rushed to hospital for the second time in 48 hours after suffering 'off the scale' neck pain. The presenter, 59, was due to be moving house on Wednesday but took too social media to share that he had been experiencing pain. After an early morning trip to hospital that day, Matthew was given pain relief and hailed his NHS experience, before being discharged in the afternoon. However after a night of resting at home and optimistic messages of recovery, Matthew found himself back in A&E on Thursday morning. Having been taken back in an ambulance, Matthew revealed on Thursday afternoon that he was awaiting scans to see what was causing his pain - which he described as 'off the scale'. This Morning star Matthew Wright has been rushed to hospital for the second time in 48 hours on Thursday after suffering 'off the scale' neck pain The presenter, 59, was due to be moving house on Wednesday but took too social media to share that he had been experiencing pain Excited about his move, Matthew took to X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday to share a photo of himself with boxes. He captioned the snap: 'Packing all done, two days non stop but Im ready to go! Thought Id be more emotional after 23 years here but no which means it really is time to say goodbye and go the full Worzel after so many years dithering. A new dawn for me tomorrow x.' But the next morning at 6am, Matthew shared an update saying: 'Turns out my bad neck is actually quite bad. 'Indebted to paramedics Steph and Miko for getting me to hospital and dealing with worst of pain. Doesnt look like Ill be moving house today. '2 shots of morphine so far, one diazepam, 1000mg paracetemol and its not even 7am #BreakfastOfChampions.' He added: 'Having an absolutely first class @nhs experience thus far.' Having been discharged after receiving care, Matthew again updated his followers, writing: 'Home! Thanks @uclh thanks @nhs and thanks again Steph and Miko the paramedics who were just amazing and ta too for all your good wishes. 'It was quite a night! Got to rest up a while and keep taking the meds hopefully all will be good.' After an early morning trip to hospital that day, Matthew was given pain relief and hailed his NHS experience, before being discharged in the afternoon Matthew shared an update on his house move saying: 'Turns out my bad neck is actually quite bad' Having been discharged after receiving care, Matthew again updated his followers, writing: 'Home! Thanks @uclh thanks @nhs and thanks again Steph and Miko the paramedics who were just amazing and ta too for all your good wishes' Having been taken back in an ambulance, Matthew revealed on Thursday afternoon that he was awaiting scans to see what was causing his pain (Pictured with his wife Amelia in 2015) Early Thursday morning saw Matthew appear optimistic about his recovery following his hospital stint. He said: 'Slept some in a chair and have definitely improved enough to lie down for a bit. Me and the family quite overwhelmed by your kindness and concern. Thanks so much x.' He also thanked City Removals for taking control of the house move while he as in hospital and doing '99%' of what he needed done without him there. He also thanked his wife for her support. 'One more day of rest and I reckon I'll be good to go again!' Matthew added. But later that morning at 10.50am, Matthew shared that he may have been too confident about the amount of rest he needed. 'Im thinking one more day rest is a little ambitious,' he said. And in a worrying update at 3.50pm, Matthew revealed he had returned to hospital, having been taken there by ambulance. He said: 'Back in hospital, another ambulance, pain off the scale. Scans and stuff next.' Early Thursday morning saw Matthew appear optimistic about his recovery following his hospital stint But later that morning at 10.50am, Matthew shared that he may have been too confident about the amount of rest he needed (Pictured in 2019) And in a worrying update at 3.50pm, Matthew revealed he had returned to hospital, having been taken there by ambulance It comes after Matthew revealed in May that watching Baby Reindeer brought back memories of his own traumatic stalking ordeal. Michelle Ranicar was given a restraining order in December 2020 after stalking the TV presenter and his wife Amelia between 2018 until 2019. The so-called 'superfan' was said to have repeatedly visited Matthew's home in Primrose Hill, London, bearing gifts and messages declaring her love for him and taunted his wife over stillbirths and threatened to snatch their child. And after the success of Netflix phenomenon Baby Reindeer, the National Stalking Helpline has reported there's been a 47% rise in the number of calls to stalking helplines. Speaking about his own terrifying stalker ordeal and the increase in calls to the helpline, Matthew told Lorraine on Wednesday: 'I have such mixed feelings about this show. But, that's a positive. Violet Affleck has been defended by America's Next Top Model first cycle winner Adrianne Curry after her passionate 'mask mandates' speech which has gone viral. The 41-year-old television personality took to X (formally Twitter) to chime in on the 18-year-old daughter of Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner making a plea to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Adrianne - who got into a war of words with actress Melanie Lynskey last year - is not afraid of expressing her opinions on the microblogging site and this recent post from Wednesday was no exception. She said the mockery on social media was directed at the wrong person as she wrote: 'This is what fear mongering for profit and political power has done to kids that grew up in it. Don't mock her. Mock yourself for allowing this to happen to developing minds.' The post was in response to controversial Internet personality Oli London - who has previously identified as transracial, gender neutral, and transgender - describing the speech as 'unhinged'. Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner's daughter Violet, 18, has been defended by a reality star after she attended the LA County Board of Supervisors meeting where she advocated for 'mask mandates' in hospitals America's Next Top Model first cycle winner Adrianne Curry, 41, defended the teen as she said the mockery on social media was directed at the wrong person Adrianne is best known for winning the first cycle of America's Next Top Model in 2003. She married movie trailer-voice actor Matthew Rhode in September 2018. On June 9, Violet demanded the imposition of 'mask mandates' in medical facilities and called for an end to all 'mask bans' in a passionate plea to the governing body for Los Angeles County. The eldest child of Affleck and Garner, citing her experience of contracting 'a post-viral condition' in 2019, urged the LA County Board of Supervisors 'to confront the long COVID crisis' by strengthening pandemic-era protections in hospitals and government buildings. 'I demand mask availability, air filtration and Far-UVC light in government facilitates, including jails and detention centers, and mask mandates in county medical faculties,' Violet, who is often seen wearing a face mask, said. 'You must expand the availability of high-quality free tests and treatment, and most importantly the county must oppose mask bans for any reason. They do not keep us safer.' Violet's controversial speech was met with both praise and criticisms, with some hailing her as 'courageous' and others 'utterly deluded'. Her plea comes just weeks after it emerged that Dr Anthony Fauci admitted the restrictions he put in place during lockdown didn't do much to 'slow the spread' of covid, and as lawmakers are signaling an openness to reinstating mask bans amid a rise in clashes at protests. Adrianne wrote: 'This is what fear mongering for profit and political power has done to kids that grew up in it. Don't mock her. Mock yourself for allowing this to happen to developing minds' Adrianne is best known for winning the first cycle of America's Next Top Model in 2003 Violet who's often seen wearing a face mask shared her experience of contracting 'a post-viral condition' in 2019; Seen with Affleck and stepmom Jennifer Lopez in 2023 She is the eldest of the Argo director, 51, and the 13 Going on 30 star's, 52, three children; Seen with her mom in Los Angeles in 2023 Violet argued that anti-mask measures are making 'vulnerable members of our community less safe' and 'make everyone less able to participate in Los Angeles together'. She also detailed her experience of contracting 'a post-viral condition' in 2019, and said she 'saw first-hand' that medicine doesn't always have answers to the 'consequences of even minor viruses'. The teen, introducing herself, told the board: 'Hi, Violet Affleck, Los Angeles resident, first time voter, I'm 18.' She then shared: 'I contracted a post-viral condition in 2019. I'm okay now, but I saw first-hand that medicine does not always have answers to the consequences of even minor viruses.' The eldest daughter of the Argo director, 51, and the 13 Going on 30 star, 52 who divorced in 2018 then spoke about the COVID-19 pandemic and how 'one in ten infections leads to long COVID, which is a devastating neurological, cardiovascular illness that can take away people's ability to work, move, see and even think.' 'It stands to exacerbate our homelessness crisis, as well as the suffering of many people in our city. It hits communities of color, disabled people, elderly people, trans people, women and anyone in a public facing essential job the hardest.' The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is the governing body for Los Angeles County, where Violet resides. The Board holds regular meetings where the public can register to speak on specific issues. Violet was slammed online for her controversial stance on masking, with some social media users accusing her of 'gaslighting her audience'. One X user wrote: 'This Violet Affleck kid is utterly deluded. She is still wearing a mask. Masks never worked but in the height of Covid fear, she may have had an excuse that others are wearing one.' 'Is Violet Affleck the original Karen?' another user questioned. One X user further went on to accuse the teen of 'gaslighting her audience', claiming that there are 'plenty of photos and videos of her NOT WEARING A MASK before, during and after the pandemic'. 'Why do people choose to believe the opposite of what their eyes prove?' they added. Another questioned: 'Are there actual mask bans? Is that a thing?' One X user said Violet was 'utterly deluded' for supporting mask mandates Another joked that she may 'pass out' while wearing a mask during her speech One furious critic alleged that Violet was 'gaslighting her audience', alleging she is sometimes seen without a face covering Another questioned if Violet was the 'original Karen' However, many X users issued their support for the teen, saying she is a 'hero' and 'smart kid'. 'At 18 she has more courage than some people will ever have in their entire lifetimes,' one person wrote. 'Amazing testimony! Violet is 100% on COVID Twitter. Thank you!' another added. 'I wish more celebrities had the courage of Violet Affleck. She's only 18 years old and is doing more than any politician.' 'Extremely impressive how much she fit into that one minute,' someone else chimed in. 'Violet Affleck is Ben Affleck's daughter. She continues to be even more impressive as a teenager. I can't wait to see what she does as an adult.' Violet received plenty of praise online for her mask stance. 'At 18 she has more courage than some people will ever have in their entire lifetimes,' one person wrote 'I wish more celebrities had the courage of Violet Affleck. She's only 18 years old and is doing more than any politician,' another person added 'She continues to be even more impressive as a teenager. I can't wait to see what she does as an adult' 'Extremely impressive how much she fit into that one minute,' someone else chimed in One person expressed that her famous parents must be very proud Another called Violet 'amazing' 'Good on you Violet,' yet another commentator wrote Violet has consistently been seen wearing a mask in the past years, though her parents never publicly explained why. She was seen wearing one at Michael Rubin's White Party in 2023, recently in May 2024 while spending time with her mom, and while attending a Broadway show with Ben and her stepmom Jennifer Lopez. Garner and Affleck also share Fin (formerly Seraphina), 15, and son Samuel, 12. The former pair met on the set of the movie Pearl Harbor in the early 2000s, but didn't start dating until later. In 2004, shortly after his first broken engagement to Lopez, the two sparked up a romance, before getting married in 2005. Violet was born that same year in December. Fin followed in 2009 and Samuel in 2012. The duo announced their separation in 2015 after nearly 10 years of marriage, and officially filed for divorce in 2017. Garner has since moved on with businessman John Miller. Affleck rekindled his romance with Lopez in April 2021. The two wed in Vegas in July 2022, followed by a lavish ceremony in Georgia in August. However, the pair's marriage has been hit by split claims for the past two months. Violet has consistently been seen wearing a mask in the past years, long past the COVID-19 mask mandates, though her parents never publicly explained why; seen with Ben in 2021 Garner and Affleck also share Fin (formerly Seraphina), 15, and son Samuel, 12; The actress is seen with her three kids in 2018 The former pair married in 2005. They announced their separation in 2015 after nearly 10 years of marriage, and officially filed for divorce in 2017; seen in May 2014 Violet's passionate plea to the LA County Board of Supervisors comes a month after the publication of Fauci's bombshell testimony in which he admitted to making up the six foot social distancing rule and other measures to 'protect' Americans from covid. Republicans put out the full transcript of their sit down interview with Fauci from January just days before his public testimony in June. Speaking to counsel on behalf of the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic earlier this year, Fauci told Republicans that the six foot social distancing rule 'sort of just appeared' and that he did not recall how it came about. 'You know, I don't recall. It sort of just appeared,' he said according to committee transcripts when pressed on how the rule came about. He added he 'was not aware of studies' that supported the social distancing, conceding that such studies 'would be very difficult' to do. In addition to not recalling any evidence supporting social distancing, Fauci also told the committee's counsel that he didn't remember reading anything to support that masking kids would prevent COVID. 'Do you recall reviewing any studies or data supporting masking for children?' he was asked. 'I might have,' he responded before adding 'but I don't recall specifically that I did.' Dr. Anthony Fauci,(pictured in November 2022) former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, revealed that he made up the six foot social distancing rule and other measures to 'protect' Americans from covid The pandemic patriarch also testified that he had not followed any studies after the fact regarding the impacts that forced mask wearing had on children, of which there have been many. And his answer was an ironic COVID-esque pun, 'I still think that's up in the air,' Fauci said about whether masking kids was a solid way to prevent transmission. Kids' learning loss and social setbacks have been well documented, with one National Institute of Health (NIH) study calling the impact of mask use on students' literacy and learning 'very negative.' And the impacts from social distancing caused 'depression, generalized anxiety, acute stress, and intrusive thoughts,' another NIH study found. In May this year, a new study revealed that face masks haven't protected against Covid since at least 2022. Researchers in the UK re-analyzed data on more than 100,000 people's habits and Covid test results during the pandemic. They found that masks were linked to about a 30 percent lower risk of infections throughout 2021 - but the protective effect disappeared in February 2022. That was when the Omicron variant took off and became dominant in the UK, and that summer in the US, which the researchers believe made the virus too infectious for masks to stop people getting infected. While surveys show most UK adults are done with masks, they became highly politicized in the US. A poll from 2023 found that 12 percent of Americans were still wearing a mask in public and they are common in hospitals and doctor's practices. In other research, researchers looked at 78 studies involving more than a million people across the world. Results indicated that surgical masks reduced the risk of catching 'Covid or a flu-like illness' by just five percent - a figure so low it may not be statistically significant Masks have yet again become politicized in America, with some elected officials suggesting they are open to reinstating decades-old mask bans following tense clashes during pro-Palestine protests. Leaders in New York City and Los Angeles are among those considering mask bans, alleging that violent demonstrators use them to conceal their identities, NBC reported. Republicans in North Carolina recently signed a mask restriction legislation into law. Supporters cited safety concerns at demonstrations, while critics argued the legislation inhibited free speech rights. Similarly, student protesters at colleges in Florida, Ohio and Texas have been threatened by local police and school personnel that they could be arrested or face felony charges for wearing masks during demonstrations. Bill Hayes made his final appearance on Days of Our Lives, six months after his death at 98. The late actor, who portrayed Doug Williams on NBC's long-running soap opera for 53 years, shared his last scene with his on-and-off-screen wife, Susan Seaforth Hayes. As he graced fans' television screens one last time, his and Susan's characters, Doug and Julie Williams, reflected on their love story. After the couple's characters learn their daughter Abigail might still be alive, Julie turns to her spouse and says: 'Chad and Abby never really did have much time together, and you and I had years and years. Did I ever tell you how much I love you?' 'First time I set eyes on you, I was lost. Then, all the trials we had, all those missed connections. And then I finally won the gold ring. And all your songs were for me. All your passionate kisses were mine,' she gushed. Bill Hayes made his final appearance on Days of Our Lives, six months after his death at 98 Doug proceeds to look back on how he became a 'new man' to be worthy and deserving of Julie's love. 'Oh, you brought out the best in me. And weve been a good team good partners, I think,' Julie replied. 'Youre a wonderful father. You know, for a guy who grew up in an orphanage, youre quite a family man. You never let anyone in this family down, not ever.' She goes on to praise him for showing her 'the whole world' and 'every continent' before looking back on their 'little adventures.' Julie, then, marveled at how after seeing 'all the beauty of the earth' together that their 'love outlasted time.' Doug goes on to deliver his last line, 'Now you better give me another kiss.' 'My pleasure,' Julie responds, before giving him a smooch. A number of social media users took to X to share their reaction to the episode. 'Bill Hayes will always be remembered as a kind and gentle soul,' one tweeted. The late actor, who portrayed Doug Williams on NBC's long-running soap opera for 53 years, shared his last scene with his on-and-off-screen wife, Susan Seaforth Hayes (pictured in 2018) As he graced fans' television screens on last time, his character and Susan, who plays Dougs spouse Julie Williams, reflected on their love story; seen in 2018 Another wrote: 'Today is bittersweet for fans of the legendary Bill Hayes.' 'Cant imagine what Susan & his family are feeling as his last appearance as #DougWilliams on #Days airs. Bill will live on in the hearts of all the many people that love him. #BillandSusanHayes a beautiful love story,' a third tweeted. Others dubbed Doug and Julie 'the OG Supercouple.' A fifth admitted that they were 'not ready for this' and may 'never be ready for this' episode. 'I never met Bill Hayes, nor his loving wife Susan, but I grew up watching them, and it's like watching some extended part of your family,' another admitted. In real life, Bill and Susan wed in 1974. Over his lifetime, Bill starred in over 2,000 episodes of Days Of Our Lives Over his lifetime, Bill starred in over 2,000 episodes of Days Of Our Lives. In January, Susan, 81, shared a heartfelt tribute to her late husband on Instagram. 'To all of you who honored my Billy with a word of remembrance, a sense of personal loss, or even a tear I thank you,' she wrote. 'You touched my heart by seeing in him the goodness and joy I experienced every moment of our wonderful marriage. May we all embrace life with the gusto of Bill Hayes and enrich it with grace and love.' The news about the late performer's passing was confirmed in a statement to TVLine. 'One of the longest running characters on Days Of Our Lives, Bill originated the role of Doug Williams in 1970 and portrayed him continuously throughout his life,' it read. The performer's connection with his longtime wife and co-star, Susan Seaforth Hayes, was also illustrated in the statement, and they were described as having served as 'the foundation of the Williams-Horton family.' The show's executive producer, Ken Corday, went on to speak about how Hayes, who first portrayed Williams in 1970 and went on to intermittently reprise his role over the next five decades, would be sorely missed by his loved ones. The late performer, whose birth name was William Foster Hayes III, was born in Harvey, Illinois, on June 5, 1925 (seen in 2018) 'I have known Bill for most of my life and he embodied the heart and soul of Days of our Lives. Although we are grieving and will miss him, Bill's indelible legacy will live on in our hearts and the stories we tell, both on and off the screen,' he said. The late performer, whose birth name was William Foster Hayes III, was born in Harvey, Illinois, on June 5, 1925. The actor enlisted in the Navy Air Corps in 1943 while attending DePauw University and trained as a fighter pilot for over two years, although World War II ended shortly before he was set to ship out to service. Hayes went on to receive Bachelor of Arts degrees in both music and English, and he went on to earn a doctoral degree from West Virginia University in 1998. The performer's first marriage was to Mary Hobbs, which lasted from 1947 to 1969, and the couple welcomed a total of five children during their union. Hayes portrayed Williams consistently from 1970 until 1984, and again from 1986 until 1987, after which he made recurrent appearances as the character over the next few decades; seen with wife Susan in 1973 The late actor went on to meet Seaforth Hayes, who plays Julie Olson Williams on Days Of Our Lives, on the set of the soap opera, and they tied the knot in 1974. Hayes portrayed Williams consistently from 1970 until 1984, and again from 1986 until 1987, after which he made recurrent appearances as the character over the next few decades. He received two separate nominations for the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series over the length of his career. The late performer also had a musical career, and he recorded a version of The Ballad of Davy Crockett that became wildly popular upon its release in 1955. A documentary centered on Hayes' life, entitled World by the Tail, was made available to the public in 2017. Coronation Street star Emrhys Cooper has quit the soap after just seven months, it has been revealed. The actor, 39, who plays Rowan Cunliffe, made his debut on the cobbles earlier this year. Villainous cult leader Rowan has made waves on the soap, having preyed on Leanne and manipulated her into confessing things - which he has secretly recorded and used against her. But according to The Sun, Rowan will be exiting the soap and instead heading to the St Helen's Theatre Royal for pantomime at Christmas - where he will play Prince Frederick in Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. A source said: 'Emrhys has been a great addition to the street but he does play a dastardly villain and so his story always had a beginning, a middle and an end. Coronation Street star Emrhys Cooper has quit the soap after just seven months, it has been revealed The actor, 39, who plays Rowan Cunliffe, made his debut on the cobbles earlier this year 'Rowan's going to get even worse over the next few months and the story's nowhere near it's ending just yet but he will be saying goodbye to the cobbles. 'The question is whether he gets his comeuppance or how many more lives he destroys before he leaves?' Ahead of the news of his exit, Emrhys said in June that playing sinister guru Rowan Cunliffe in the soap has helped bring him closer to his father Christopher. Emryhs previously revealed his new age parents were once embroiled in a similar cult. Now Emrhys said when preparing for the role he asked his father for tips, and the pair spoke for the first time about that of their lives, during the actor's childhood. Telling The Sun: 'This role has actually brought me and my dad closer. I have asked him question and I asked him advice, it's really great'. 'This role is particularly important to me because I hope to spread awareness about the dancers of these types of characters and organisations'. Before adding: 'My goal is to make it as truthful as possible'. Villainous cult leader Rowan has made waves on the soap, having preyed on Leanne and manipulated her into confessing things - which he has secretly recorded and used against her But according to The Sun, Rowan will be exiting the soap and instead heading to the St Helen's Theatre Royal for pantomime at Christmas - where he will play Prince Frederick in Snow White and the Seven Dwarves Now Emrhys said when preparing for the role he asked his father for tips, and the pair spoke for the first time about that of their lives, during the actor's childhood (pictured with parents Christopher and Raphaela) Emrhys grew up in Totnes with parents Christopher and Raphaela, new age hippies with an open-minded attitude regarding unconventional lifestyles. But his family life was compromised - almost fatally - after his free thinking parents turned to a holistic doctor, who advised his ailing mother to avoid conventional medicines. He told The Mirror: 'My mother had a prescription for high blood pressure and a holistic doctor basically told her that he could get her off the prescription with some herbal remedy, and she had a heart attack.' Raphaela eventually suffered a severe stroke that left her paralysed, and Emrhys believes it could have been avoided had she resumed taking her regular blood pressure medication. His parents had another bruising encounter with a London based group, but red flags emerged once they started asking the couple for money. He said: 'It was actually kind of a wellness, fitness, more of a spiritual cult. And as they got further and further in, and gave more money, it became more sinister.' Worse would follow when the group attempted to engage the bewildered couple in a series of bizarre sexual exercises. The British star grew up in Totnes with parents Christopher and Raphaela, new age hippies with an open-minded attitude regarding unconventional lifestyles But his family life was compromised - almost fatally - after his free thinking parents turned to a holistic doctor, who advised his ailing mother to avoid conventional medicines (pictured together) 'Basically, the cult tried to separate my parents by doing these rather sexual exercises with other people, which my Dad was a little alarmed by because he was having to grope this woman and my Mum was having to do this thing with someone else,' he said. 'So they kind of cottoned on that this exercise programme was not all it was cracked up to be.' He added: 'They got out relatively unscathed. But they've been in and out of different kinds of things. They're always looking for alternative options. 'And they are intelligent people, they're just, unfortunately, very open-hearted and many times they've been taken advantage of. Shelley Duvall has tragically died aged 75 - following decades spent in the wilderness after leaving Hollywood behind in 2002. The actress - who cemented her place in cinematic history with her tortured portrayal of Wendy Torrance in the 1980 Stanley Kubrick horror, The Shining, passed from diabetes complications in her sleep - with her death announced Thursday. Bar a brief return to film in 2023 in The Forest Hills, the once-Tinseltown darling had lived a simple life off the grid in Texas for more than 20 years - often sleeping in her car and looking back at photos of her old film she kept in the glove box. As she battled increased health problems, she spent her days listening to music and enjoying the hot Texas weather - with a fan club member revealing Duvall rang in her 74th birthday in 2023 with 'iced coffees, sugar cookies, and kolaches'. Duvall revealed in her final interview in April that she left the film industry because people in Hollywood 'hurt' her. The Shining star Shelley Duvall has tragically died aged 75 - following decades spent in the wilderness after leaving Hollywood behind in 2002 Bar a brief return to film in 2023 in The Forest Hills (pictured), the once-Tinseltown darling had lived a simple life off the grid in Texas for more than 20 years - often sleeping in her car and looking back at photos of her old film she kept in the glove box. During her chat with The New York Times, she said 'I was a star, I had leading roles. People think it's just aging, but it's not. It's violence.' Duvall would not elaborate on what kind of violence she suffered. She then asked the writer how they would you feel if people were really nice, and then, suddenly, 'on a dime turn on you.' The interview also revealed Shelley would often sleep in her white SUV - which was 'crammed with used takeout containers'. Duvall, who had a swollen foot due to her diabetes, spent most of the interview jumping around subjects and mentioning song lyrics. She also kept photographs from her old films in a bag stuffed into her glove box. Her life partner Dan Gilroy - who she had been with since 1989, said of her past mental health battles: She became paranoid, 'kind of delusional,' thinking she was being attacked, he said, and would even call the FBI for help.; He then added: 'It went south like that.' Gilroy also explained that when her Los Angeles home was destroyed in the 1994 Northridge earthquake, they moved to Texas hoping for a happier life. That is when things went 'downhill' and she 'started becoming afraid of things, maybe didn't want to work." As she battled increased health problems, she spent her days listening to music and enjoying the hot Texas weather - with a fan club member revealing Duvall rang in her 74th birthday in 2023 with 'iced coffees, sugar cookies, and kolaches' - pictured 2016 Duvall began her career by appearing in the 1970 black comedy feature Brewster McCloud; she is seen in a photo taken circa 1970 In the final known photo of Duvall, the frail actress posed with a superfan to mark her 75th birthday on Sunday - just four days before her death, The follower - who runs a Shelley Duvall fan account - revealed the star had been having 'difficulties with her health over the past few months'. In the photo, Shelley leans on the fan's shoulder while holding a bouquet of flowers. Sarah wrote: 'Ill always be grateful for the memories I created with her and that I was able to give her comfort and companionship. 'This photo was this past Sunday on her 75th birthday. She was so appreciative and when I left she thanked me for lifting her spirits. Ill always remember that. She made such a positive impact on my life as I did on hers.' The fan also revealed she had played Sabrina Carpenter's hit, Espresso for Duvall in her final days. In a February 2023 interview, Duvall said family heartache sparked her decision to leave Hollywood in 2002 in order to reconnect with her loved ones. She told People she decided to move back to Fort Worth, Texas after her brother was diagnosed with spinal cancer and her movie roles began to peter out, saying: 'It's the longest sabbatical I ever took but it was for really important reasonsto get in touch with my family again.' She took time to reflect on her successes in the acting world, saying: 'On one channel there is Popeye and another one The Shining. Boy, those are two different films. But in a way it's like, "Gosh, I was great"'. She also detailed her hopes for acting's highest honor, saying: '[Jessica Tandy] won an Oscar when she was 80. I can still win.' Duvall's undying love for the arts would ultimately coax her out of retirement - she played a lead role in The Forest Hills alongside Terminator 2 star Edward Furlong, Chiko Mendez and Dee Wallace. The movie followed a man who begins experiencing disturbing visions after enduring a head injury during a camping trip in the Catskill Mountains. Duvall played the mother of Mendez's character, and she served as his 'inner voice.' Her life partner Dan Gilroy - who she had been with since 1989, said of her past mental health battles: She became paranoid, 'kind of delusional,' thinking she was being attacked, he said, and would even call the FBI for help' - pictured 1990 Shelley is pictured with Jack Nicholson and Danny Lloyd in The Shining Duvall began her career by appearing in the 1970 black comedy feature Brewster McCloud. She went on to appear in features such as Annie Hall, McCabe & Mrs. Miller and Popeye, among numerous others. In 2021 - in her first interview since her concerning TV chat with Dr Phil, Shelley spoke to The Hollywood Reporter about her grueling filming days with Kubrick, who was notorious for being a hard taskmaster. Duvall explained that she constantly had to get her mind in a state of panic to get into character for the filmmaker for The Shining. Duvall explained: '[Kubrick] doesn't print anything until at least the 35th take. Thirty-five takes, running and crying and carrying a little boy, it gets hard. And full performance from the first rehearsal. That's difficult.' She said that she would put on a Sony Walkman and listen to sad songs or just think of unhappy memories to get into the proper head space to play Wendy Torrance. Duvall said: 'You just think about something very sad in your life or how much you miss your family or friends. But after a while, your body rebels. It says: "Stop doing this to me. I don't want to cry every day." And sometimes just that thought alone would make me cry. 'To wake up on a Monday morning, so early, and realize that you had to cry all day because it was scheduled I would just start crying. I'd be like, "Oh no, I can't, I can't." And yet I did it. I don't know how I did it. Jack said that to me, too. He said, "I don't know how you do it."' She was asked by THR if she felt like Kubrick had been unusually cruel or abusive toward her in order for her to achieve the desired performance for the film. Duvall answered: 'He's got that streak in him. He definitely has that. But I think mostly because people have been that way to him at some time in the past. His first two films were Killer's Kiss and The Killing.' Writer of the piece, Seth Abramovitch, asked the star to elaborate more on the subject specifically when it came to the director's treatment of her. She said: 'No. He was very warm and friendly to me. He spent a lot of time with Jack and me. He just wanted to sit down and talk for hours while the crew waited. And the crew would say, 'Stanley, we have about 60 people waiting.' But it was very important work.' The elegant actress in the 1977 movie Three Women, directed by Robert Altman. After 20 years, she made her return to the big screen in the 2023 film The Forest Hills, see video above However, fellow actress Anjelica Huston - who was dating Nicholson at the time - recalls Duvall and Kubrick's interactions much differently. The actress said: 'I got the feeling, certainly through what Jack was saying at the time, that Shelley was having a hard time just dealing with the emotional content of the piece. Duvall began her career by appearing in the 1970 black comedy feature Brewster McCloud. She went on to appear in features such as Annie Hall, McCabe & Mrs. Miller and Popeye, among numerous others. Duvall's last appearance in a feature before The Forest Hills was in Manna from Heaven, which was released in 2002. Following the movie's release, the actress retreated from public life and retired. She eventually made an appearance on an episode of Dr. Phil in 2016, where she spoke about dealing with mental illness during her time on the show. The show's host was subsequently criticized for what many saw as his exploitation of the performer. The Forest Hills' writer, director and producer, Scott Goldberg gave a statement to Deadline to express how much he and his collaborators were fans of Duvall's work in the the 1980 Stanley Kubrick-directed feature. 'We are huge fans of The Shining and it's honestly one of my favorite horror movies of all time, up there with John Carpenter's Halloween and George A. Romero's Day of the Dead,' he said. The filmmaker went on to speak about how the actress' performance helped define the movie. 'Shelley contributed to The Shining being an absolute masterpiece by giving her all, and performing in a way that really showcased the fear and horror of a mother in isolation,' he said. Dumped Love Island stars Jess White and Emma Draper emotionally reunited with their families as they landed at Manchester Airport on Thursday. The two islanders seemed in good spirits as they were greeted by their families at arrivals after being dumped from the ITV2 villa during Wednesday night's episode. Jess cut a comfortable figure in a grey hoodie which she teamed with khaki flared trousers and white trainers. The originally islander toted her belongings around in a tan crossbody handbag and styled her long dark tresses in a neat ponytail. She couldn't contain her smile as she hugged her mum who also kissed her on the cheek. Dumped Love Island stars Jess White (L) and Emma Draper (R) emotionally reunite with their families as they landed at Manchester Airport on Thursday The two islanders seemed in good spirits as they were greeted by their families at arrivals after being dumped from the ITV2 villa during Wednesday night's episode Meanwhile Emma flashed her toned midriff in a white racer crop top and wide legged grey tracksuit bottoms. The bombshell was gifted a pretty bouquet of pink flowers as she met her friends and family at the airport. They arrived back in the UK comes after the Love Island villa shocked on Wednesday when a surprise dumping saw four people sent packing. In a decision made by the public, Casa Amor Islanders Emma, Hugo Godfroy and Blade Siddiqi were the latest to be dumped. But the most shocking turn of events was original Islander Jess being among those to receive the least votes and therefore also dumped, leaving Nicole Samuel and Mimii Ngulube in tears. After a dramatic kissing challenge, Ayo Odukoya later received a text saying for the villa to gather around the firepit. 'Islanders, the public have been voting for their favourite girl and favourite boy, those with the fewest votes will be at risk of being dumped from the island tonight,' a text sent to Grace Jackson read. 'As Josh and Reuben are the newest Islanders, they are not included in the vote.' Jess cut a comfortable figure in a grey hoodie which she teamed with khaki flared trousers and white trainers The originally islander toted her belongings around in a tan crossbody handbag and styled her long dark tresses in a neat ponytail She couldn't contain her smile as she hugged her mum who also kissed her on the cheek Jess and Emma were seen hugging before heading there separate ways at the airport Meanwhile Emma flashed her toned midriff in a white racer crop top and wide legged grey tracksuit bottoms The bombshell was gifted a pretty bouquet of pink flowers as she met her friends and family at the airport Emma seemed in good spirits as she headed home from the airport They arrived back in the UK comes after the Love Island villa shocked on Wednesday when a surprise dumping saw four people sent packing It was then revealed the three boys to receive the least amount of votes were Blade, Hugo and Ayo, while the girls were Jess, Emma and Jess Spencer. The final decision as to who would leave was left to those at home, and ultimately Blade, Hugo, Emma and Jess were dumped. Of her exit, Jess later said: 'It's a bittersweet moment, I always said if I made it past week one Id be proud of myself, so to make it to week five is amazing. 'It was nothing like I expected, it was everything and more.' Jess threw support behind her Welsh bestie Nicole, as she said: 'The relationships you form are so special, I'm so proud of everyone and think we will all be friends for life. 'I was like everyone's big sister but Samantha, Nicole and Uma were so lovely and people I hope to have in my life for a very long time. Nicole for the win, she's my little sister and best friend.' Dishing the dirt on his connection with Grace, Blade admitted that while they were attracted to each other, the romance fizzled out. He said: 'Grace is a great girl and although things fizzled out a bit towards the end, it was all good with us. 'In the end, we were slightly different people, as attracted as we were to each other we could only go so far, it was something we needed to find out and explore naturally, and thats what we did. We had a great time.' Elsewhere in the episode during a girls chat, the islanders admitted that none of them have had sex yet in the villa, but they confessed it has been difficult to hold back. Jess departed the airport with her parents following being in the villa from day one Jess hugged her mum as she landed back in the UK In a decision made by the public , Casa Amor Islanders Emma, Hugo Godfroy and Blade Siddiqi were the latest to be dumped But the most shocking turn of events was original Islander Jess being among those to receive the least votes and therefore also dumped, leaving Nicole Samuel and Mimii Ngulube in tears Broaching the topic, Jess asked the girls: 'How are you finding it?' as Nicole admitted it's 'hard', while Matilda jokes: 'Rock solid.' Emma then agrees as she joked: 'In every sense of the word!' and Nicole adds: 'Every way possible hard!' Getting candid about female sexual desire, Jess advised: 'It's all natural ladies, you wouldn't be human if you didn't feel these things' While Matilda added: 'Women have got needs' and Jess continued: 'I just think, everyone is human and everyone has those needs'. Agreeing Emma said: 'One million percent and it takes some real strong willpower to get to the point of this and not have done it, so well done.' Jess then teased: 'Especially as everyone in here is so fit!' Shannon Beador blasted Tamra Judge after being slammed for 'not taking accountability' following her 2023 DUI. In the Real Housewives of Orange County Season 18 trailer, Tamra repeatedly criticizes Shannon, making it clear that she won't accept any indication that Shannon isn't taking her DUI consequences seriously. Leading up to the show's premiere on Thursday, Shannon shared her thoughts on her costar, and former BFF's, persistent 'attacks' in an interview with E! News. 'She has no right!' Shannon exclaimed. 'She has had no part of anything that I have done since my DUI. None. In fact, she left town the day after my DUI. I hear that she's saying, "I was there for her and I did this." No you weren't.' She continued: 'Who made you the judge and jury of what I should and shouldnt be doing in my life? Focus on yours, because Im focusing on mine.' Shannon Beador blasted Tamra Judge after being slammed for 'not taking accountability' following her 2023 DUI (both pictured 2023) Shannon, who was sentenced to three years probation after crashing her car into a Newport Beach, Calif. home, then admitted that at the time of her DUI, she had been using alcohol as a 'coping mechanism' amid her break-up with John Janssen. Since the DUI incident, Shannon has actively participated in a wellness and alcohol program, as well as commenced regular sessions with a trauma therapist and psychiatrist. 'I feel good about where I am right now. I know I continually will have to work on becoming a healthier and better person, but Im very proud of where Ive come at this point,' she said. The clap back comes after Shannon had previously praised Tamra and their costar Vicki Gunvalson for supporting her during the DUI fallout. 'These two have been an incredible support system to me,' she gushed to Us Weekly at BravoCon 2023. 'Tamra was leaving for The Traitors [in Scotland] on the day that my DUI became public, and she didnt even want to go. She honestly was there [for me].' Sounding like true BFFs, Tamra added at the time, 'I just wanted to lay in bed with her and watch TV. And then order up room service.' Shannon was arrested for DUI alcohol and hit-and-run September 17 in Orange County, as authorities said she hit a house, parked in the middle of a street and pretended she was walking her dog. Leading up to the show's premiere, Shannon shared her thoughts on her costar, and former BFF's, persistent 'attacks' in an interview with E! News 'She has no right!' Shannon exclaimed. 'She has had no part of anything that I have done since my DUI. None. In fact, she left town the day after my DUI. I hear that she's saying, "I was there for her and I did this." No you weren't' It comes after Shannon previously praised Tamra and their former RHOC costar Vicki Gunvalson for being a good friend during her DUI ordeal; seen in 2019 Her vehicle was seized by authorities, and she was was subsequently released without bond. The incident occurred after The Real Housewives of Orange County cast member was seen at a Newport Beach, California establishment called A Restaurant. She had visited her ex Janssen - they split in January - before the drunken incident, and was subsequently seen with him the Tuesday after her arrest. 'We are friends, I care about her,' John told DailyMail.com, adding that he had 'no comment' in regards to further inquiries about their relationship. With a sell-out beauty line, a huge social media following and killer curves, Anna Paul is Australia's answer to Kylie Jenner. And the busty brunette beauty could have easily been mistaken for The Kardashians star as she posed in a G-string bikini during a trip to Mallorca with her family on Thursday. The 25-year-old showed off her ample cleavage in a chocolate brown two-piece as she took a dip in the Mediterranean with her clan and new beau Aymeric. The popular TikTok star also turned up the heat in a tiny sparkly baby blue two-piece set as she explored the Spanish island. Anna paired the booty shorts and knitted cropped card with a turquoise belly chain to accentuate her abs, along with gold jewellery. The Paul clan have been travelling in Europe for the last few weeks and arrived in Spain this week after visiting Turkey. Anna is riding off the incredible success of her Paulie skincare line, which sold out in minutes when it launched last year. Fans were initially shocked Anna created a beauty brand, as she already makes hundreds of thousands through her OnlyFans account where she posts explicit content. Social media star and beauty mogul Anna Paul could have easily been mistaken for The Kardashians star as she posed in a bikini during a trip to Mallorca with her family on Thursday The 25-year-old showed off her ample cleavage in a chocolate brown two-piece as she took a dip in the Mediterranean with her clan and new beau Aymeric According to online sleuth account Dutch Minty, Anna makes a whopping $220,000 per month on OnlyFans before tax as she charges subscribers $9.99 per month for a subscription. Anna's Australia, vegan and cruelty free line features four products to help acne and is priced between $23 and $30. 'My first brand is finally here! Welcome to the world of Paullie. I have always loved skincare and for a long time struggled with my skin,' she wrote on Instagram when she official launched the brand. With a sell-out beauty line, a huge social media following and killer curves, Anna is Australia's answer to Kylie Jenner (pictured) 'Ive tried and tested so many different products and when the opportunity came up to literally create my own I was so excited. 'Ive been personally using and testing these products for over a year now and the difference they have made on my skin has been incredible. 'I cant wait to show you everything. We have opened the waitlist on paullie.com where youll get early access if youre interested but just coming here and reading this means the world. Anna x.' Anna first found fame on TikTok by sharing lip-sync videos and vlogs documenting her life. She then moved into a lucrative career posting content on subscription-based site OnlyFans, where she charges fans a fee in exchange for raunchy, nude pictures and saucy strip videos. The popular TikTok star also turned up the heat in a tiny sparkly baby blue two-piece set as she explored the Spanish island. Anna paired the booty shorts and knitted cropped card with a turquoise belly chain to accentuate her abs and gold jewellery She has since become one of OnlyFans' highest earners, sitting in the Top 1 percent of content creators. While Anna has claimed she grew up poor, the online star now leads a lavish lifestyle envied by many. Her social media pages are filled with footage and images of lavish overseas trips, designer clothing and flashy cars. She and her brother, influencer and 'crypto bro' Atis Paul, also live in a luxurious waterfront mansion on the Gold Coast. Anna, left, is riding off the incredible success of her Paulie skincare line, which sold out in minutes when it launched last year. Meanwhile Kylie, right, has as an estimated net worth of $700 million thanks to her family's television series and her Kylie Cosmetics and skincare empire Anna has previously spoke about her financial struggles prior to finding fame, even revealing in her posts how her family once 'lived off $30 a week for grocery money to feed a family of four'. 'We grew up not having a lot of money,' she recently told Studio 10 . 'But our family life was always so amazing so it didn't matter that much. We couldn't do a lot of stuff because we didn't have the money.' Meanwhile, Kylie Jenner has as an estimated net worth of $700 million thanks to her family's television series and her Kylie Cosmetics and skincare empire. Jared Leto wore a head-turning blue pyjama set covered with black and white tigers as he stepped out with friends in St Tropez on Thursday. The actor and musician, 52, unbuttoned the shirt of his bizarre get-up to his navel and paired his clothing with bright blue sandals as he headed out for a stroll in the French Riviera coastal town. Jared finished his look with a black pair of sunglasses and a kooky wide-brimmed straw sun hat. He was joined by a male and a female friend as he prepared to board a yacht. All three were seen in St Tropez on Tuesday when they enjoyed dinner at the famed Le Club 55 beach restaurant. Jared Leto wore a head-turning blue pyjama set covered with black and white tigers as he stepped out with friends in St Tropez on Thursday The actor and musician, 52, unbuttoned the shirt of his bizarre get-up to his navel and paired his clothing with bright blue sandals as he headed out for a stroll in the French Riviera town Jared finished his look with a black pair of sunglasses and a kooky wide-brimmed straw sun hat as he boarded a yacht with his friends Last month, the former The Joker actor wore another quirky outfit to Vogue World Paris at Place Vendome. He showcased his muscular physique in tiny hot pants and sheer plastic shirt as he graced the event's star-studded carpet. Jared teamed the look with a pair of black knee high boots and wore peculiar red covers over his fingers. The 30 Seconds to Mars frontman was not afraid to show off his muscular physique. He drew attention on the carpet at Place Vendome, posing for photographers with confidence. The Oscar-winning actor opted for a striking makeup palette and wore a deep red eyeshadow and dark eyeliner. Jared's rock band Thirty Seconds To Mars, consisting of the star and his elder brother Shannon Leto, 54, are on their seventh international tour. Their next stop is Milwaukee, Wisconsin on July 17, a month after they played their last date. All three were seen in St Tropez on Tuesday when they enjoyed dinner at the famed Le Club 55 beach restaurant Thirty Seconds To Mars performed in the UK from June 3 to June 10. After their native US, they will head to Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, before returning to Europe and ultimately ending their tour in the UAE. The band, whose music falls under alternative rock, was founded in 1998 by just Jared and Shannon. Since then three members have come and gone, the longest-serving being Tomo Milicevic who was the band's lead guitarist from 2003 to 2018. For tours, the band have been joined by Stevie Aiello since 2013. Kevin Drake, Tim Kelleher, Braxton Olita, and Matt McJunkins have all joined the brothers for previous tours. Thirty Seconds To Mars have released six studio albums between 2002 and 2023. TurboTax is among the software products created by Intuit. The company announced it is laying off 384 employees at its Mountain View headquarters, as well as making hundreds of cuts at other offices. Peter Barreras/Associated Press 2016 Regulatory filings reveal that 384 employees at Intuits Mountain View headquarters will be affected by the tech giants sweeping layoffs announced Wednesday. Additionally, 215 employees at the companys San Diego office will be let go, with both locations starting the layoff process in September and providing affected employees with 60 days notice. Tech layoffs: Here are the job cuts impacting Bay Area workers Advertisement Article continues below this ad Intuit also plans to shutter its Boise, Idaho, and Edmonton, Alberta, offices, while reducing its executive team by 10%. Although the California Employment Development Departments WARN notices did not specify which roles would be cut, Intuit announced plans to lay off 1,800 employees, roughly 10% of its workforce, and rehire a similar number of experts in artificial intelligence, product development and customer service. Intuit CEO Sasan Goodarzi stated in a blog post on Wednesday that the cuts included 1,050 employees who no longer met performance standards. Companies that arent prepared to take advantage of this AI revolution will fall behind and, over time, will no longer exist, Goodarzi said. The move aligns with Intuits broader strategy to focus on AI and data, hiring more engineers to work on its AI-powered financial assistant, Intuit Assist, and other products. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The company also makes QuickBooks, TurboTax and other financial software. Intuits shift follows significant investments in AI by major tech companies like Google, Meta and Microsoft as well as outside venture capital. Investors put more than $27 billion into U.S. AI startups between April and June, according to the New York Times and Pitchbook data. Google is reportedly investing up to $100 billion into AI technology including its Gemini chatbot and image generator and other technical infrastructure. The company has also invested $2 billion in OpenAI competitor Anthropic, with Amazon previously saying it would hand them up to $4 billion. Advertisement Article continues below this ad More than 2,000 pounds of chicken products have been urgently recalled An urgent recall has been issued for chicken products across the country after a deadly listeria contamination was detected. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) recalled 2,000 pounds of chicken kebabs and patties on Friday after a routine inspection found the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes at the producer's facility. The bacteria can cause listeriosis that can be fatal to the elderly, young children and the immunocompromised. The potentially infected items include Al Safa Halal Charcoal Grilled Chicken Seekh Kebab Grilled, Minced, Chicken Patty Kebab with the best before date 'NOV 30 25' and product number '0605404' printed on a sticker on the outside of the package. Al Safa Halal Fully Cooked Chicken Chapli Kebab Seasoned Chicken Patty have also been recalled. The effected kebab products have 'NOV 30 25' and '0605416' printed on the package. The recalled items include Al Safa Halal Charcoal Grilled Chicken Seekh Kebab Grilled Al Safa Halal Fully Cooked Chicken Chapli Kebab products have also been recalled The frozen chicken products were prepared in Canada on June 5 before being imported to the US later last month. FSIS urges consumers to dispose of the products or return them to stores for a refund. 'FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers' freezers,' the agency said in the recall statement. 'Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them.' No illness is yet to have been reported in association with the recall. Listeriosis symptoms may last from days to several weeks and vary depending on the severity of the illness. Some people with more minor symptoms may experiences a fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, according to the FDA notice. If the infection is more severe patients can experience a headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, and convulsions. Any consumers who have consumed the product and are experiencing symptoms is urged to seek medical attention. A mass recall of salmon products was also issued last month over fears of a listeria contamination. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recalled 2,000 pounds of chicken products on Friday Foppen Seafood's Smoked Norwegian Salmon Slices were recalled from some supermarkets by the company after listeria monocytogenes was found in their lot during routine testing. The products were sold at Payless and Kroger supermarkets in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia, according to the FDA. And earlier this month, health officials warned that more than 40 types of bagged spinach contained listeria. New York-based Solata Foods LLC has recalled seven brands of its nine-ounce 'Fresh Spinach' bags because it may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, the bacteria that causes listeria. Americans are travelling in record numbers this summer, but Delta has seen its profits drop 29 percent. Bosses mostly blame the surprise fall on the discounting of economy fares across the industry - due to too many seats on offer. That is bad news for Americans travelling later this year and next. While they may have been able to snag cheaper fares so far this year, airlines are set to cut capacity which will push up prices. 'We see the industry already taking pretty significant corrective action by pulling capacity down,' Delta CEO Ed Bastian said. Delta's profits fell 29 per cent in the April to June quarter due to too many cheap economy seats 'And we expect by the end of August, we'll have that back in balance.' After Covid, demand for travel soared as Americans who had been stuck at home made up for lost time and also spent money saved up during lockdowns. To keep up, airlines bought more planes, hired staff and rolled out more flights. But after flooding the market with seats, the amount of available now exceeds demand. That means carriers are needing to discount fares, Bastian said. He said Delta will cut the seats on offer - and he expects others to do the same. Bastian disputed any notion that middle-class travellers are pulling back on spending. He said it is simply supply and demand - the airline industry, including low-fare carriers, is adding flights even faster than demand is growing, leading to lower fares. 'The discounting is in the lower-fare bucket,' he said. In March, Delta became the latest airline to hike its baggage fees - the third major US carrier to do so in the last two weeks. The fee for both a first and second checked bag increased by $5 for domestic and short-haul international routes - which is $10 more for a round-trip. Airlines are enjoying a summer travel boom, with more than 3 million people passing through US airport security checkpoints in a single day on July 7. The boom has failed to lift earnings at most of the US carriers as excess industry capacity has undermined pricing power. Major airlines have scheduled about 6 percent more seats in the domestic market this month than a year earlier, data from consultancy Cirium shows. Average round-trip ticket price for a US domestic flight was $543 in May, down 1 percent month-on-month and 3 percent lower from a year earlier, according to data from Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC). As well as profits for the April to June quarter falling, Delta is also predicting a lower profit than Wall Street expects for the third quarter. Delta said Thursday it earned $1.31 billion from April through June, down from $1.83 billion dollars a year earlier. The results come after the airline made an undisclosed number of non-union office staff redundant in the autumn of 2023 Revenue rose 7 percent to nearly $16.66 billion - a company record for the quarter. 'Demand has been really strong,' chief executive Ed Bastian said in an interview. 'International, business (travel), our premium sector all outperformed.' Delta's results showed a continuing divide between passengers who sit in the front of the plane and those in economy class. Revenue from premium passengers jumped 10 percent - about $500 million - but sales in the main cabin were flat with a year earlier. Delta plans to add flights at a slower rate for the rest of the year, and Mr Bastian said he believes other airlines will too, which could give the carriers more pricing power. Delta doesn't disclose average fares, but passengers paid 2% less per mile in the second quarter, and there were a couple more empty seats on the average flight, compared with a year earlier. India and America's identical and unequivocal stance on Tibet has rattled China, highlighting the evolving geopolitical dynamics in Asia In a significant diplomatic move, both India and the United States have extended their support to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan cause, provoking a strong reaction from China. The adoption of the Resolve Tibet Act by the US Congress and a recent high-profile meeting between a bipartisan American Congressional delegation and the Dalai Lama in Dharamshala have amplified the tensions between the US, India, and China. This article explores the strategic and ideological implications of these developments. A Diplomatic Convergence: The backdrop of this development is the increasingly strained relationship between the United States and China. The US Congress's passage of the Resolve Tibet Act, which promises comprehensive support for the Tibetan cause, marks a clear stance against China's policies in Tibet. The meeting between the American delegation and the Dalai Lama further underscores this commitment. In a related move, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the US delegation, who congratulated him on his historic third-term election victory and praised the fairness and transparency of the recent Indian general elections. Modi's subsequent Twitter post highlighted the strong bipartisan support for advancing the India-US strategic partnership. Notably, the post did not mention the Dalai Lama, though it was clear the topic was a significant aspect of the discussions. India's hosting of the Tibetan government-in-exile in Dharamshala places it in a unique position concerning the Tibetan cause. The Indian government has historically balanced its support for Tibet with its broader strategic and economic relations with China. The timing of the meetings suggests a coordinated diplomatic effort to highlight shared values and mutual interests in countering China's assertive policies. Strategic Ramifications: The convergence of American and Indian interests reflects the evolving geopolitical landscape in Asia. Both nations share concerns about China's growing influence and assertive behavior, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. By reinforcing their strategic partnership, the United States and India signal their commitment to a rules-based international order, countering China's ambitions. In response, China is likely to intensify its efforts to strengthen alliances and expand its influence in the region. This could involve deepening ties with Pakistan, increasing engagement with other South Asian nations, and accelerating Belt and Road Initiative projects to secure strategic footholds. Additionally, China might enhance its military posture along disputed borders with India, particularly in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh, to assert territorial claims. Beyond immediate strategic calculations, these meetings highlight the broader ideological contest between democratic values and authoritarian governance. The Dalai Lama, a symbol of non-violent resistance and spiritual leadership, embodies values resonating with global advocates of democracy and human rights. Engaging with him reinforces the US and India's commitment to these principles. China, facing scrutiny over its human rights record in Tibet, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong, is placed in a defensive position. In the global influence battle, soft power and moral authority are becoming increasingly important. The Dharamshala and Delhi meetings enhance the soft power of the United States and India, positioning them as champions of human rights and democratic values. The Path Forward: As the geopolitical chessboard in Asia becomes more complex, the interplay between diplomacy and deterrence will be crucial. The United States and India, through coordinated diplomatic actions, are setting the stage for a more assertive and collaborative approach to countering China's influence. This involves not only strengthening bilateral ties but also fostering broader coalitions with like-minded countries in the Indo-Pacific region. The high-level US delegation, led by Republican Rep. Michael McCaul and including prominent figures like Democratic former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, discussed the relevance and significance of the Resolve Tibet Act. President Joe Biden, a strong advocate for Tibetan rights, is expected to approve the Act. China's reaction has been predictably strong, warning the United States against sending the "wrong signal." The Chinese embassy in India emphasized China's stance on Tibet as an internal matter, condemning any perceived interference in its domestic affairs. Conclusion India and America's identical and unequivocal stance on Tibet has rattled China, highlighting the evolving geopolitical dynamics in Asia. The historical breach of trust by China in 1962, replicated in 2020 during the Ladakh confrontation, underscores the challenges in Sino-Indian relations. Prime Minister Modi's efforts to normalize ties with Beijing have not yielded desired results, reflecting the ongoing tension. Adopting a more nuanced approach to diplomacy may help mitigate tensions while advancing China's strategic goals. (Writer is a political analyst; views are personal) PM Modis visit to Russia underscores the importance of Russia in India's foreign policy This week marked several high-profile meetings amongst senior leaders around the globe, discussing primarily various conflicts and possible outcomes. PM Narendra Modi, in his first state visit during his third stint, visited Russia and Austria. The State visit by the India PM was the first since the Ukraine war and underscores the primacy of Russia in Indias state of affairs. Meanwhile, all North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) leaders assembled in Washington DC to discuss global geopolitics. Ukraine and the Middel East featured prominently in all the discussions, even though the flavours were significantly different. The India-Russia joint statement following President Putin and PM Modis bilateral meetings read The Sides highlighted the imperative of peaceful resolution of the conflict around Ukraine through dialogue and diplomacy including engagement between both parties. They noted with appreciation relevant proposals of mediation and good offices aimed at peaceful resolution of the conflict by international law and based on the UN Charter in its entirety and totality. Earlier, PM Modi during one of the televised speeches of the two leaders told his Russian counterpart peace is of utmost importance and solution to Ukraine could not be found on the battlefield. He expressed serious concern regarding the bombing of a childrens hospital in Kyiv and said When innocent children are murdered, one sees them die, the heart pains and that pain is unbearable. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with whom PM Modi has had several telephone calls in the past, called the Russia state visit by India a blow to peace efforts. NATO Secretary General, Mr Stoltenberg in the run-up to the NATO summit said Allies will agree a financial pledge for Ukraine, and that he also expects more immediate military support to Ukraine. Ukraine is moving closer to NATO . The close relationship with NATO was one of the reasons Russia came marching into Ukraine. It was a tightrope walk for PM Modi, in Russia, given the relatively new strategic relationships, he has developed in his last decade of being at the helm, crucial among them being the India-US partnership. It would be worth mentioning that In the wake of the war in Ukraine, India has not yet verbally criticised Russia, for its aggression and has also stayed away from multilateral resolutions against Moscow. In the first few months, of Russias attack on Ukraine, several US top leaders had criticised Indias stance regarding the war, and even a threat of sanctions was discussed. However, with deft diplomatic efforts made by both long-term partners, the high-decibel criticism was restricted to closed-door meetings. PM Modis state visit to Russia opened some of the past heartburn regarding Ukraine in Washington. US State Department spokesperson Mattew Miller said US has raised concerns with India regarding its relationship with Russia. He added We would urge India, as we do any country when it engages with Russia, to make clear that any resolution to the conflict in Ukraine needs to be one that respects the UN charter, that respects Ukraine's territorial integrity, This comes at a time when the US has been seen to be one of the most important allies of India in the recent past. Interestingly President Putin upon re-election chose to visit Beijing in one of his first official trips and followed it with a bilateral last week, on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Kazakhstan. China and Russia have mutually agreed to be friends without any limitations, and are widely seen as challengers to what they allege as the US-led democratic order. India and China are on an extremely rough patch due to the military aggression on Indias borders. India managed to walk the tight rope for now, but at some point of time it will have to balance it out with more actionable statements on world conflicts. (The writer is a policy analyst; views are personal) Culture and economy are are deeply intertwined, each influencing and enhancing the other. This can lead to sustainable economic progress Culture and economy are are deeply intertwined, each influencing and enhancing the other. This can lead to sustainable economic progress Culture and economy are deeply intertwined, each influencing and shaping the other in multiple ways. This synergy can be observed through various lenses, from local community impacts to global economic trends. Cultural assets such as traditions, arts, and heritage sites can drive economic growth. Cities with rich cultural histories often attract tourism, which stimulates local businesses and generates revenue. For example, the cultural heritage of cities like Paris and Rome makes them top tourist destinations, contributing significantly to their economies. The creative sector, including music, film, fashion, and design, is a major economic driver. These industries not only create jobs and generate income but also foster innovation and attract investments. The global success of Hollywood and the fashion industry in Milan and New York are prime examples of how culture fuels economic activity. Governments often implement cultural policies to boost economic development. By investing in cultural infrastructure such as museums, theatres, and festivals, they create vibrant communities that attract residents, businesses, and tourists. These investments can lead to urban regeneration and increased property values. A culturally diverse workforce brings various perspectives and skills, fostering creativity and problem-solving. This diversity can enhance a company's ability to innovate and adapt to changing markets, making economies more resilient to shocks. Globalisation has increased cultural exchange, leading to the spread of ideas, goods, and services across borders. This cultural exchange can open new markets for businesses and create opportunities for economic partnerships. For instance, the global popularity of K-pop and Japanese anime has created vast economic opportunities for South Korea and Japan. Cultural education enhances human capital by fostering critical thinking, creativity, and communication skills. These qualities are essential in the modern economy, where knowledge and innovation are key drivers of success. Investing in cultural education can thus contribute to a more skilled and adaptable workforce. Maitreya Dadashri, the force behind the summit also shared this vision, "The synergy between culture and economy forms the foundation of sustainable development. We envision a future where spiritual and economic prosperity evolve hand in hand," he said. Countries and cities often use culture to brand themselves and build soft power. Cultural diplomacy, through international cultural events, exchanges, and collaborations, can enhance a nation's global image and influence, attracting foreign investment and tourism. Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal echoed this sentiment at the Maitri Cultural Economy Summit 2024. "The Modi government has been dedicated to nurturing culture to harness its economic potential," he said. He emphasised that India's cultural economy is deeply rooted in the ancient wisdom of the Vedas and Puranas, making it an intrinsic part of the nation's identity. Cultural tourism in cities like Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Puri, along with major events such as the Kumbh Mela, play a significant role in contributing to the GDP In conclusion, the synergy between culture and economy is a powerful combo that drives both societal and economic progress. By recognizing and fostering this relationship, policymakers, businesses, and communities can harness cultural assets to achieve sustainable economic growth and development. This was aptly summed up by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari when he said that importance of cultural economic governance must be the cornerstone of our policies. (The writer is a social activist and business consultant; views are personal) As the Democratic Party prepares to nominate him, questions linger about Biden's ability to lead, the party's strategy and potential challengers U.S. President Joe Biden's underwhelming performance in the 2024 presidential debate last week raised concerns due to his apparent fatigue, forgetfulness, and confusion. This has caused uncertainty among supporters despite Biden's attempts to reassure them in the post-debate period. Even last week, during a speech in Madison, Wisconsin, he initially said he would "beat Donald Trump again in 2020" before correcting himself to "2024," which added to the uncertainty.According to the Spanish newspaper El Pais, Biden has defended himself about three things. First, his support stayed pretty much the same after the debate. Secondly, most party voters want him to continue. The last point is that other options are not better. President Biden has demonstrated resilience in the face of pressure to step down. He confidently declared at a rally in Madison that he would run and win again, which cheered his supporters and reassured sceptics.President Biden's improved performance in his public appearances post-debate has the potential to significantly reshape his chances in the upcoming election and the prospects of the Democratic Party. This shift in dynamics could bring a sense of hope and anticipation to the party. Next month, the Democratic Party will nominate President Biden as its 2024 Presidential candidate in a virtual convention. This event will officially confirm Biden's candidacy and establish the party's campaign strategy.If Biden stays in the race, it will be tough for any other candidate to win the Democratic nomination. This is because the party rules give Biden a big advantage. These rules include specific guidelines for delegate allocation and superdelegate influence. If Biden were to resign, who would take his place? With only four months before the 2024 election, finding the right person takes a lot of work. This shows how serious the situation is. Kamala Harris, the current Vice President and Joe Biden's running mate is the top contender for the upcoming presidential election. Many believe that she has the advantage. However, her lack of popularity could be a significant challenge, as 49% of Americans disapprove of her according to polling averages. Republicans hope Harris will become the Democratic presidential nominee, believing it will benefit Trump's campaign. The Trump campaign has launched an ad with the slogan: "This November, vote Republican. Stop Kamala."A recent poll by Reuters/Ipsos showed that Michelle Obama could win against Trump in November. However, Michelle has repeatedly said she does not aspire to be President, so it's doubtful she will run.Several names are being floated to replace President Biden. This includes at least six governors: Gavin Newsom from California, Gretchen Whitmer from Michigan, Josh Shapiro from Pennsylvania, J. B. Pritzker from Illinois, and Ro Khanna, a representative from California. Each of these potential ca ndidates has their strengths and weaknesses. For instance, Gavin Newsom is the favourite. Their potential to run for office would have different effects on the Democratic Party and the upcoming election.After the debate, polls from CNN, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal showed that Biden is six points behind Trump in the country. Biden is also trailing in the most crucial states he won in 2020. Furthermore, other states he wonMinnesota, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Virginianow seem uncertain. In 2020, four months before the election, Biden was 9 points ahead in the polls. However, he eventually won the election with 51.25% of the popular vote, compared to Trump's 46.8%. This data suggests Biden may face a more challenging race in 2024 than 2020. When asked whether he could run the country for another term, he told ABC in a recent interview. "I believe so; I wouldn't be runnin' if I didn't think I did. Look, I'm runnin' again because I believe I understand best what has to be done to take this nation to a completely new new level. We're on our way."Polls reveal that voters are more concerned about whether the 81-year-old President could manage another four years in the White House than his 77-year-old predecessor. Biden needs to be more competent to win in November.Biden was confident when he said, "If the Lord Almighty came down and said, 'Joe, get out of the race,' I'd get out of the race," but added, "The Lord Almighty's not coming down." So, it is up to God Almighty to go down and ask him to keep out of the race. Trump quietly observes Biden's challenging position.India has had a good rapport with both Trump and Biden. There is also bipartisan support. Therefore, it is unlikely that their South Asia and India policies will change, given the growing economic influence of India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also has a good rapport with both of them.Biden is facing challenges as he moves toward November. Trump has raised a lot of money and still has support from his party despite some court decisions going against him. Both candidates are trying to harm each other's reputation. Elections are unpredictable, especially with four months to go. Anything could happen. (The writer is a popular columnist; views expressed are personal) "Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar" breakout star Taaha Shah Badussha had a 'pinch me' moment when he recently met Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise in London. The 36-year-old actor, who visited a studio here, shared a photo and a video on Instagram with Cruise whom he described as his "lifelong idol". "Pinch me! Just met my lifelong idol. The one and only Tom Cruise!" Badussha captioned his post in which he can be seen having a conversation with the "Mission: Impossible" star. Badussha was all smiles as Cruise hugged the actor in the video. Badussha shot to fame with his portrayal of a young, rebellious nawab called Tajdar Baloch in the Netflix period drama "Heeramandi", which marked the web series debut of Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Meanwhile, Cruise will be next seen in "Mission: Impossible 8". He recently attended the European premiere of the 2024 movie "Twisters" in London. Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for home on Wednesday after concluding his visit to Russia and Austria, during which he held talks with the top leadership of the two countries and discussed ways to expand bilateral cooperation. "PM @narendramodi emplanes for New Delhi after concluding a successful visit to Austria," the Prime Minister's Office said in a post on X. Modi first travelled to Russia, where he participated in the 22nd India-Russia summit with President Vladimir Putin, in his first trip to Moscow since the Ukraine conflict. During his visit, he told Russian President Putin that a solution to the Ukraine conflict is not possible on the battlefield, and peace talks do not succeed amidst bombs, guns and bullets. The prime minister was on Tuesday officially conferred the 'Order of St Andrew the Apostle' award by President Putin for his contribution to fostering bilateral ties between the two countries. The award was announced in 2019. From Moscow, Modi travelled to Austria, becoming the first Indian prime minister to visit the country in 41 years. During his visit, Modi met Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Karl Nehammer and discussed ways to expand bilateral cooperation in several sectors, including the environment and combating climate change. He also discussed the ongoing disputes in the world, including the Ukraine conflict and the situation in West Asia, with the two leaders. "My visit to Austria has been historic and immensely productive. New vigour has been added to the friendship between our nations. I am glad to have attended diverse programmes while in Vienna. Gratitude to Chancellor @karlnehammer, the Austrian Government and people for their hospitality and affection," the prime minister said in a post on X. Modi also addressed the Indian community in both countries during his visit. Amid a rupture in the Munak canal, which supplies around 36.7 per cent of water (719 cusecs) from Haryana to Delhi, residential colonies in Bawana in the national Capital turned into a river on Thursday, wreaking havoc in the daily lives of the people and stranding residents in their houses. A breach in the Carrier Lined Channel (CLC) of the canal, part of the Western Yamuna Canal, led to water entering the J, K, and L blocks of the colony in northwest Delhi early Thursday, causing significant inconvenience and concern for the locals. Videos on social media reflect the gravity of the situation with the residents trying to wade through knee-deep flooding and even waist deep water in parts of the area. Residents of the area expressed frustrations over the sudden flooding bringing their lives to halt. Shailesh Kumar, a resident of JJ block, said he was unable to go to his work and blamed the Delhi Government for not doing enough for them. We have informed all the concerned departments, including the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Flood Control Department, Public Welfare Department, and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), at midnight after the canal overflowed, a police official said. Taking serious note of the situation, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena expressed concerns over the breach of a branch of Munak Canal and instructed the Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar to take the matter up with State Water Minister Atishi and Flood Control Department Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj. The breach in the Munak Canal underlines the absence of adequate maintenance of the Canal, which should have been undertaken by Delhi Jal Board (DJB) through Haryana Irrigation Department from time to time, a letter by the Principal Secretary to the LG read. An official of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) said, A report was received regarding the damage in the lining of Western Yamuna Canal being maintained by Haryana Irrigation Department (HID) near Bawana in the early morning of June 11. This has resulted in flooding in the adjoining areas of Bawana JJ Colony. Informing that the field staff have been rushed to the site for taking immediate remedial measures, he said, Water is being drained by temporarily puncturing the existing storm water drain, coordinated with NDRF, MCD, SDM Narela, DJB, public representatives and local residents for providing relief from this situation. Resources such as JCB, Dewatering pump, drinking water tanker and mobile toilet have also been deployed at the location by DDA. Flow of water from Sonipat has reduced and authorities have requested Haryana to close gates on the canal to control the flow, officials said. The canal originates from the Yamuna river in Munak in Haryanas Karnal district. Delhi Minister Atishi visited the site and said, We are at the entry point at the Munak Canal in Bawana. Last night between 12 am and 2 am, there was a breach in the embankment, the water entered the adjacent areas. This canal is maintained by Haryana Irrigation Dept, their team is here, the DJB team is here, the repair work is being done. Assuring that the situation will be under control, she said, In the next few hours, the repair will be completed. From tomorrow morning, water will start coming into the Canal. Three to four water treatment plants are affected, the production has decreased. In the Dwarka area, normal water supply will resume by tomorrow evening. Inquiry is required to know whether there was foul play. The canal was also breached in June last year, affecting the water supply to several areas of Delhi for two days. North west BJP MP Yogendra Chandolia reached among the people of Bawana and assured all possible help to the people. Trying to corner the AAP led Delhi government on the issue, he accused the AAP government and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) of not responding adequately. Calls were made to the Municipal Corporation, water board officials, and flood irrigation, but only seven pumps were installed after 11 AM, which was insufficient, Chandolia stated. The top brass of the Border Security Force (BSF), Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab police, along with representatives of the Central agencies, on Thursday attended the Inter-State Coordination Conference in Kathua to further strengthen the security grid and prevent infiltration from across the border. After the Kathua ambush, in which five soldiers of the Indian Army sacrificed their lives in the line of duty on July 8, it is believed that the suspected group of foreign terrorists may have infiltrated inside the Indian territory from across the International border. When terrorism was at its peak, the Kathua-Billawar-Badnota-Basantgarh-Bhaderwah-Kishtwar axis was considered a traditional route of infiltration taken by the terrorists to enter the Kashmir valley. Former Union Minister hailing from the region, Dr Karan Singh, said the spate of terrorist attacks in the Jammu region are a matter of great concern. I trust the civilian and military authorities are making every effort to track down the militants as soon as possible. I do have one suggestion for Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. For many years, the Jammu Division was under the Nagrota Corps whose headquarters are hardly thirty miles from Jammu. Some years ago, for some obscure reason, the Jammu Division was removed from Nagrota and placed under Western Command in Chandigarh, over 200 miles away, he said. I think that the old system should be retained to ensure better and integrated dominance of the area in a militancy environment.., said the senior Congress leader. According to official sources, the deliberations during the high-level security review meeting were focused on enhancing border security and synergy between the two State Police Forces and the Border Guarding Force. The conference was attended by Spl DG BSF Western Command, YB Khurana, DGP J&K, RR Swain, DGP Punjab Gaurav Yadav. Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), J-K, Vijay Kumar, ADG (Law and Order), Punjab, Arpit Shukla and Inspector General-rank BSF officers of Punjab and Jammu were also present at the meeting. Detailed discussions took place on how to improve the intelligence gathering, maintaining a tight vigil on the suspicious movement of anti-national elements, and exposing the sleeper cells of overground workers mushrooming in the border belt of Kathua and Punjab. According to the fresh assessment made by the various security agencies, the local overground workers provided shelter, logistics and crucial information regarding the movement of security vehicles to these terrorists and in some of the cases also escorted them to their safe hideouts without coming on the radar of the security forces. In the case of the Kathua ambush, a sustained investigation is going on to identify the terror associates active in the area. Meanwhile, combing and search operations continued for the fourth day in succession to track down the footprints of the terrorists behind the attack. An adequate number of troops have been deployed in the hilly areas of Kathua, Udhampur, and Doda to neutralize the hiding group of terrorists on the run. The security forces combing the deep forests were treading cautiously to prevent getting honey-trapped. The security forces suspected the foreign terrorists may have planted Improvised explosive devices in and around their safe hideouts to inflict injuries on the security forces. Cooks Coffee Company (NZX: CCC ; AQUIS: COOK), the international coffee-focused cafe chain, that operates Esquires, the Organic Coffee Company in UK & Ireland has appointed two new UK based Board members. New Zealand based non executive Board member Mike Hutcheson has resigned after more than 10 years on the board. Keith Jackson, Executive Chairman of Cooks Coffee, commented: As Cooks Coffee Company shifts towards a more UK-centric focus, we are pleased to announce changes to our Board. Gareth Lloyd-Jones, known for his strategic growth and leadership in the leisure, coffee and restaurant sectors, and Gordon Robinson, with his extensive banking and real estate finance background, and bring a wealth of experience. Their expertise will enhance our capabilities as we execute our strategy and advance the Company's prospects. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Mike Hutcheson and extend our appreciation for his invaluable contributions. Appointment of new Non-Executive Directors Gareth Lloyd-Jones Gareth Lloyd-Jones will join the Board as a Non-Executive Director. Mr. Lloyd-Jones is a seasoned professional with over 22 years of experience in the leisure sector. His career began with Tie Rack in 1985, where he quickly became the youngest franchisee and expanded his network to 14 Central London shops within a year. During his time at Tie Rack, he met city advisors who introduced him to Howard Schultz of Starbucks. He then co-purchased and rebranded two London coffee shops as Madisons Coffee, growing the business to 45 locations across the UK. Madisons Coffee was listed on the AIM stock market and included brands such as Richoux Coffee and Restaurants and Rendezvous Coffee shops, which sold to Starbucks Coffee and Out of Town Restaurants. Gareth then went onto build a chain of five gastro pubs and four individual restaurants, which were subsequently sold into the trade. Currently, he co-runs the High Road Restaurant Group, which operates nine Argentinian steakhouses and four Thai restaurants, supported by private equity investment. Gordon Robinson Gordon Robinson will join the Board as a Non-Executive Director. Mr. Robinson is a highly experienced consultant specialising in Debt Advisory and Finance Brokering, with a distinguished banking career spanning over 38 years. He has a very broad business-sectors coverage in Corporate Governance (within finance) including quality Retail and also Food & Beverage businesses. He also has expertise in Real Estate Finance including both development and investment-led projects. Throughout his career, which began with NatWest Bank in the 1980s, he has held various senior positions, established successful lending operations, and led business development teams. His extensive background encompasses setting up and managing lending operations, serving on credit committees, and holding senior front-line Director roles with multiple lenders. Mr Robinson currently holds the following directorships: Vector Capital PLC KCR Residential Reit PLC Sterling Bapc Ltd Additional information on Gareth Lloyd-Jones Mr Lloyd-Jones currently holds the following directorships: Argentine Steakhouse (Bidco) Limited Buenasado (Reading) Limited High Road Restaurants Group Bidco Limited The Thai Tapas Group Ltd Koh (Uk) Limited High Road Restaurants Group Holdco Limited Additionally, he has held the following directorships in the past five years: Bens Pub Company Limited Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: TRU - WHO Agency UNITAID Features TRU in Tech Landscape Report PaySauce Quarterly Market Update - September 2024 October 2nd Morning Report Rua Releases Annual Report for Year Ended 30 June 2024 SCL - Settlement of orchard sales The Warehouse Group 2024 ASM and Director Nominations AIR - Update on Chief Operational Integrity and Safety Officer Comvita Limited - Annual Report 2024 September 27th Morning Report Spark announces departure of Finance Director At least 18 people were killed and 19 others were injured in the early hours of Wednesday in a collision between a double-decker bus and a milk tanker on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway in Unnao. The investigation so far points that the accident took place as the bus driver was drunk and was overspeeding the vehicle. The bus was also illegally operated on fake registration. According to information, the accident occurred at around 5:15 am near Jojikot village in Behtamujawar police station area on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway in Unnao when the double-decker bus travelling from Bihar to Delhi collided with the milk tanker. Bangarmau Circle Officer Arvind Kumar said the injured had been admitted to a hospital and their condition was stable. Today at around 5:15 am, a private bus coming from Motihari, Bihar collided with a milk tanker. Eighteen people have lost their lives and 19 others are injured in the accident. After the initial investigation, it looks like the bus was overspeeding. The injured are getting treatment, said Unnano District Magistrate Gaurang Rathi. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken cognisance of the accident. Expressing condolences to the families of the deceased, he directed the officials to reach the spot immediately and provide proper treatment to the injured. Chief Minister Yogi posted on X, The loss of life in a road accident in Unnao district is extremely sad and heartbreaking. My condolences are with the bereaved families. District administration officials have been instructed to reach the spot and expedite the relief work. I pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant a place to the departed souls in his lotus feet and speed up the recovery of the injured. The PMO also condoled the deaths and announced financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh each to the deceased and Rs 50,000 each to the injured from the Prime Minister's Relief Fund. Meanwhile, villagers travelling in the bus said that six people of the same family died in the mishap. Their family members said that the deceased from East Champaran include Ashfaq Alam (45), his wife Munchun Khatoon (38), their two children Mohd Sohail (3) and Gulnaz (13), Ashfaqs brother Mohd Ilyas (35) and Ilyas wife Kamrun Nesha (30). Mohd Dilshad (18) and Mohd Shahil (16) of the same family have been injured in the accident. Phool Mohammad (29) and Mohd Shamim (36) of Izorbara of Fenhara police station area are also reported to be injured. Apart from them, bus driver Ikhlaq of Vriti Tola Sapahi under Panchpakhadi police station of East Champaran also died in the mishap. Bus conductor Mohd Salim, a resident of Murda Chak village of Piprakothi, has been injured. Those from in Shivhar who died in the accident include Anil Kumar of Ward 11, and assistant bus driver Deepak Kumar of Ward 3, Satyendra of Gosainpur under Shyampur Bhatha police station and Shivdayal of Kararia village. Apart from these, Lalbabu of Hirmma police station area of the district and his two sons Rampravesh and Bharat Bhushan were seriously injured in the accident. Bittu Kumar of Shivhar is reported to be injured. Both his legs have been cut. Meanwhile, some passengers claimed that the driver of a sleeper bus with Mahoba registration number left for Delhi from Shivhar in Bihar with about 45 passengers. While reaching Behta Mujawar in Unnao, the bus driver stopped at three places on the way. He stopped for the last time at 12 midnight at a dhaba between Gorakhpur and Basti. According to a passenger, the bus driver consumed alcohol while sitting with the co-driver. After leaving, he increased the speed of the bus. After crossing the Lucknow toll on the Agra- Lucknow Expressway, the speed of the bus increased to more than 100 km per hour. At five in the morning, near Awasthi Kheda in Behta Mujawar, the bus driver tried to overtake a milk tanker running in the overtaking lane from the left side. Due to being drunk and the bus moving at a high speed, it collided with the tanker from behind. The tanker overturned there and the milk filled in it started flowing. The right side of the bus was torn and most of the passengers, who were in deep sleep, died. Meanwhile, the cops claimed that none of the documents of the bus are complete. The number of the bus is UP95 T 4720 and the number of the container filled with milk is UP70 CT 3999. From fitness to insurance of the bus, the period has expired. No papers of the bus have been found. The bus is registered in Mahoba district in the name of a person who does farming. Investigation has revealed that Chandan Jaiswal, a resident of Paharganj, Delhi, is operating the bus illegally. ARTO Enforcement Arvind Singh has lodged a report in Behta Mujawar police station on the basis of the bus number. DM Gaurang Rathi took charge of the treatment of the injured in the district hospital, while Superintendent of Police Siddharth Shankar Meena first reached the spot and then the district hospital. The SP said that an investigation was being conducted to find out how the bus was being operated illegally. AIIMS Bhopal is designated as a Learner Support Centre (LSC) with Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) courses. Professor (Dr.) Ajai Singh, Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, expressed his delight at this development, emphasizing its potential to enhance educational opportunities for healthcare professionals. Since 2020, AIIMS Bhopal has been at the forefront of academic innovation through its collaboration with IGNOU, Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), and four other medical institutes across the country in offering the Post Graduate Certificate in Medical Management of CBRNE Disasters (PGCMDM) program. This pioneering initiative, introduced for the first time in India, has paved the way for further collaboration and expansion of educational offerings. Now, building upon the success of the PGCMDM program, AIIMS Bhopal is poised to launch 11 additional courses in partnership with IGNOU. These courses cover a wide range of topics essential for healthcare professionals, including hospital and healthcare management, maternal and child health, geriatric medicine, nursing, and healthcare assistance. Online Theory classes for PG Diploma in Hospital and Healthcare Management commenced on 9th July 2024. 32 students are enrolled for this course. "The designation of AIIMS Bhopal as an IGNOU Learner Support Centre underscores our commitment to providing accessible and high-quality education to healthcare professionals," stated Professor Ajai Singh. "We are thrilled to expand our collaboration with IGNOU and offer a diverse range of courses that cater to the evolving needs of the healthcare sector." Dr. Arneet Arora has been appointed as the coordinator of the Learner Support Centre for IGNOU courses at AIIMS Bhopal. "The Learner Support Centre at AIIMS Bhopal will serve as a hub for academic support, guidance, and resources for students pursuing IGNOU courses," remarked Dr. Arneet Arora. "We are committed to facilitating a conducive learning environment that empowers healthcare professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills for the benefit of society." Aishbagh police arrested the absconding accused wanted in attempted culpable homicide; accused has been booked for over a dozen crimes. In the month of April the complainant Babu Salam of BaghUmarav Dulha, Aishbagh, Bhopal lodged complaint that he lends handcarts on rent. His nephew Faiz alias Kallu comes to house every day and demands money from him. On April 14 at about 10.00 am accused came to house and started demanding money but victim refused to give money and said that he had Rs 500 take this on which accused started abusing, when he stopped him from abusing accused attacked with a sharp edged and raised alarm on which sister Begum Bi and brother-in-law Raju and people from the vicinity came, who intervened after which the accused left the spot after threatening the victim. Based on the complaint a case under sections 294, 324, 327, 308, 506 IPC was registered and investigation was started. Senior officers were informed about the incident, on which a special team was formed and on Tuesday nabbed the accused Faiz alias Kallu Khan of Gwal Mohalla, Roshanpura and presented him in the court. Accused Faiz alias Kallu Khan is a watch list criminal of Arera Hills police. He has 15 cases registered against him in various police stations of Bhopal city for assault, extortion, attempt to murder and possession of illegal weapons. Depressed over illness of his wife, an Assistant Sub Inspector of the traffic police committed suicide by shooting himself at Nehru Nagar Police Line in Kamla Nagar on Wednesday morning. He shot himself with his licensed 315 bore rifle. Initial police investigation has revealed that he was depressed due to his wife's illness, his wife is suffering from cancer. Yogendra woke up early on Wednesday morning. He did his prayers as usual, after which he shot himself standing at the gate of his flat. He was posted in Zone No. 4 of Bhopal. The bullet pierced his chin and passed through head. Police officers reached the spot as soon as they got information about the incident. Investigation has revealed that he was in depression for 2 years due to his wife suffering from cancer. On the request of the family, the police have kept the body in the mortuary. The post-mortem will be done on Thursday after the relatives arrive from UP. ASI Yogendra was on sick leave for the past one and a half months. He was also undergoing treatment for depression. He was on duty in the Kolar beat. Brother Devendra said that we belong to Firozabad in Uttar Pradesh. Brother used to wake up at four in the morning. At around nine in the morning, he asked his elder son Amit to clean the rifle. He had said that he would join duty on Thursday. After this, the sound of firing was heard. Devendra told that his elder son Amit is a musician, the second Sumit used to do a private job. The third son Mohit works as a private guard in the convoy of MLA Rameshwar Sharma. No suicide note has been found from the deceased. The police has got the incident spot inspected by the FSL team. Because Yogendra had asked his son to service the rifle, so the police is also investigating whether the firing happened accidentally during servicing. However, the FSL team believes that after seeing the crime scene, all the evidence is pointing towards suicide. The deceased's son Amit said that his father had spent a long career of 36 years in the police department. He was to retire after two years. His father never told us about stress on duty or any kind of harassment. Meanwhile, DCP Priyanka Shukla said that investigation has been started. In the initial investigation, the case seems to be a suicide. The Jalandhar West assembly bypolls, held amidst heightened political fervour and intrigue on Wednesday, concluded with a notable decline in voter participation, marking a sharp contrast to the previous elections. The Election Commission reported a turnout of 55 percent, down from the 67 percent recorded in the 2022 state assembly elections. The constituency, which saw its seat vacated following the resignation of Sheetal Angural, witnessed a heated multi-cornered contest involving key players from the AAP, Congress, BJP, and other significant parties. The bypoll was not merely a battle for electoral supremacy but also a litmus test of public sentiment ahead of broader state dynamics. Surinder Kaur, representing the Congress party, leveraged the campaign trail to critique the AAPs governance, portraying the bypoll as a referendum on current administrative policies. In contrast, AAPs candidate Mohinder Bhagat exuded confidence in securing victory, buoyed by the party's recent electoral gains and promises of reform. The BJP, fielding Sheetal Angural, faced challenges beyond electoral rhetoric. Allegations of electoral malpractice surfaced during polling hours, with accusations levied against AAP activists for alleged voter inducements and irregularities, which were promptly refuted but highlighted ongoing tensions. Moreover, the Shiromani Akali Dals initial endorsement of Bahujan Samaj Party candidate Binder Kumar, followed by a retraction and subsequent support split, added another layer of complexity to an already contentious electoral landscape. The fractured support base within SAD underscored internal party dynamics and strategic alignments crucial for future electoral maneuvers. Unique initiatives such as distributing plant gifts to voters at polling stations aimed to foster environmental consciousness amidst the electoral process. However, controversies over the application of indelible ink on voters middle fingers instead of the traditional index finger stirred minor procedural debates but did not impede the voting process significantly. During the voting process, tensions escalated in Jalandhar as BJP activists intercepted an individual in possession of a suspicious list allegedly detailing payments of Rs 2,000 to certain individuals. The BJP promptly alerted the police about this discovery. Amidst this, rumours spread regarding the purported arrest of Rajan Angural, the brother of BJP candidate Sheetal Angural. In response, Rajan Angural, accompanied by the BJP district chief, convened a press conference to denounce the AAPs alleged dissemination of false information and baseless accusations. Meanwhile, Sheetal Angural himself addressed the media, expressing grave concerns over threats made against him and his supporters. Concurrently, Congress state president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring made a decisive move by arriving in Jalandhar West, where he met with the police commissioner to emphasize the importance of upholding a fair and transparent electoral process, especially in light of mounting allegations of electoral misconduct and the need to maintain public trust in democratic practices. For Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the bypoll represented more than a local electoral skirmish; it symbolized a critical test of his partys endurance and popularity following recent setbacks in broader national contests. The outcome held implications not only for AAP but also for rival Congress and BJP factions, each eager to reclaim or reinforce their political foothold amidst shifting voter allegiances and regional sentiments. This seat is witnessing a triangular contest, featuring prominent candidates including Sheetal Angural a former AAP MLA now seeking reelection as BJP nominee; Mohinder Bhagat son of a former BJP Minister and now contesting for AAP; and Surinder Kaur a former senior deputy mayor representing the Congress party. Notably, the constituency has a unique history where a new party has emerged victorious in every election cycle. In 2012, it was the BJP, followed by the Congress in 2017, and most recently, AAP claimed victory in 2022. As the Election Commission prepares to tally votes and declare results on July 13, anticipation mounts regarding the implications of voter turnout trends and their reflections on public trust in political leadership. 71% turnout recorded in HPs 3 assembly bypolls PNS/Shimla Himachal Pradesh witnessed a significant voter turnout of over 71 percent across three Assembly constituencies in the states bypolls, held peacefully until 7 pm on Wednesday, according to official reports from the Election Commission of India. Nalagarh constituency recorded the highest voter participation at nearly 78 percent, followed by Hamirpur with 67.7 percent, and Dehra with 65.42 percent. These elections were necessitated by the resignation of incumbent members, with a total of 13 candidates competing for the votes of approximately 2.59 lakh eligible voters. The counting of votes is scheduled for July 13. In the spotlight was Dehra, a constituency historically challenging for the Congress party. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu actively campaigned for his wife Kamlesh Thakur, who made her electoral debut. The constituency, formed post-delimitation in 2010, has never been won by the Congress. Thakur faced competition from BJP's Hoshiyar Singh, seeking to capitalize on recent electoral gains in the State. Meanwhile, the BJP fielded KL Thakur in Nalagarh and Ashish Sharma in Hamirpur. Both Thakur and Sharma had previously won as Independent candidates in 2022 before joining the BJP earlier this year. They contested against Congress nominees Hardeep Bawa and Pushpendra Verma in their respective constituencies. The states Chief Electoral Officer Maneesh Garg expressed gratitude to the voters and commended the Election Commission of India and the Himachal Pradesh Election Department for their meticulous planning and execution of the electoral process. He highlighted the extensive measures taken to ensure transparency and security during polling. Garg emphasized the successful implementation of real-time monitoring through webcasting at 315 polling stations, enhancing transparency and oversight. The polling stations also included provisions for home voting for elderly voters and Persons with Disabilities (PwD), ensuring inclusivity in the electoral process. Additionally, model and green polling stations were set up to facilitate smooth conduct of voting. Security arrangements were robust, contributing to a peaceful polling day across all constituencies. Garg noted that no untoward incidents were reported, underscoring the effective coordination between law enforcement agencies and election officials. During the election period, enforcement agencies enforced the model code of conduct rigorously, resulting in significant seizures valued at approximately Rs 3.4 crore. This joint effort aimed to maintain integrity and fairness throughout the electoral process. As parties await the results on July 13, political observers anticipate the bypolls impact on Himachal Pradeshs legislative assembly dynamics. In a major reprieve to the Congress-led State Government, the grand old party had won four out of six assembly bypoll on June 1. However, it lost all four Lok Sabha seats to the BJP for the third time in a row. With four new MLAs, the Congress has stabilized its government in the state. At present, the Congress has 38 MLAs in the Assembly of 65, while the BJP has 27. The North West Delhi BJP MP Yogendra Chandolia expressed concern over the breach in the Munak canal on Thursday and met locals in the Bawana areas whose lives got affected because of the flooding caused by the rupture. As soon as Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva and MP Yogendra Chandolia were informed by the local people about the breach of the Munak Canal wall in Bawana on Thursday morning, they spoke to the concerned officials of the Delhi and Haryana governments and directed them to start relief work, Delhi BJP Media Head Praveen Shankar Kapoor said. He added that following the instructions of Sachdeva, the BJP MP worked tirelessly throughout the day on the ground to drain the water and went to Haryana to temporarily stop the water supply of Munak Canal. Speaking on the issue, Chandolia said, When he received calls from workers that water had entered the JJ Colony in Bawana and the water level was continuously rising, he immediately informed the state BJP President. Informing about his visit, he stated that he personally went to the area near the Munak Canal behind the colony with some officials and local people, where they found a breach in the dam. After discussing the issue with the chief engineer overseeing the Munak Canal, I went to Garhi Bindroli village in Haryana, where the water for the Munak Canal is released from, and temporarily stopped the water supply, he said. The water entering Delhi's Munak Canal was diverted and released into the Yamuna River to quickly drain the water that had entered the JJ Colonies. An area of seven kilometres was affected by this entire waterlogging, Chandolia claimed. Delhi BJP will stage a massive protest against the increased electricity bills in the national Capital in front of the Delhi Secretariat on Friday demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said that the protest is also aimed at forcing the AAP led city government to roll back the increased rates and invited everyone to bring their electricity bills and join the movement against the Kejriwal government. Delhi BJP MPs, MLAs, and Resident Welfare Associations officials will also join the protest. Sachdeva said, The Delhi government, along with electricity companies, is looting the people of Delhi in two ways: first, by increasing the electricity bills by 8.75 per cent under the name of Power Purchase Adjustment Charge (PPAC), and second, by charging 7 per cent more in the name of the Pension Trust. He added that these increases have been made without informing the public and without any Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) approval, causing the electricity bills of Delhi consumers to rise by 1.5 times. Questioning the Kejriwal government and the electricity companies, he asked, Why is the pension of the retired employees of the electricity company, which is the responsibility of the company, being collected from the people of Delhi under the name of the Pension Trust. Delhi BJP chief alleged, Even when Kejriwal was out of jail, the government was looting the people of Delhi, and now from inside the jail, it continues to do the same. He added that in the presence of many RWA representatives, people will burn copies of their electricity bills to show their anger against the government. 1297 people receive hearing check-up benefits CCL management started a health checkup campaign on Wednesday for hearing related checkup and treatment in command areas. A total of 19 free health checkup camps were organized by specialist doctors of Gandhinagar Hospital in command areas to assess hearing ability. Under this campaign, a health checkup of 1297 persons was done. Under the guidance of CMD CCL Nilendu Kumar Singh, CCL regularly organizes health related camps so that employees and stakeholders living in remote areas can get health benefits. Residents living near the project area expressed happiness over this initiative of CCL and thanked CCL. Paras Hospital HEC gets NABH recognition Paras Hospital located in HEC, capital Ranchi has received recognition from National Accreditation Board for Hospitals (NABH). Paras Hospital has received this recognition for patient safety and better care. Its recognition is for four years. Addressing a press conference, Dr. Nitesh Kumar, Facility Director of Paras Hospital, said that the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers, also known as NABH. It is a constituent board of the Quality Council of India, which has been established to establish and operate accreditation programs for healthcare organizations, he added. Dr. Kumar said that the purpose of this recognition is to increase the global understanding of patient safety, increase public participation in the safety of health care and promote global action to increase patient safety and reduce patient harm. SERWWO Ranchi holds plantation drive South East Railway Women Welfare Organization (SERWWO) Ranchi Division planted trees in the Railway Colony under the chairmanship of SERWWO President Mona Bindra. During this, a total of 200 saplings were planted in different parts of the colony. SERWWO Secretary Rashmi Pippal, Vimlesh Meena, Anu, Mamta Sinha, Priyanka, Meenakshi, Anubha, Pushpalata, Vandana, Sukumti, Neetu and other SERWWO members were also present in this program. Members of Scout and Guide also participated in this program. The Chhattisgarh BJP on Wednesday passed a resolution hailing Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "historic and unprecedented" success in parliamentary elections. In the resolution, moved by senior BJP leader Shivratan Sharma, the BJP executive body noted that "great pride in the impeccable leadership and unwavering commitment" showcased by Modi led to victory in Chhattisgarh too. The executive body is not only happy that the party was given a mandate to form government for the third consecutive time, but was also exultant that the party returned to power in three big states including Chhattisgarh," it said. The country is at present the fifth largest economy in the world and was treading towards getting the position of third largest economy, it added. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conducted an aerial survey of the flood-affected areas in Shravasti and Balrampur on Thursday. During the survey, he gathered detailed information from officials regarding the extent of the floods and directed them to expedite the delivery of relief materials to those affected. Following the aerial survey, the chief minister visited the flood-affected areas on the ground. He interacted with children and women impacted by the disaster and oversaw the distribution of relief materials to those in need. In a gesture of support, the chief minister handed out cheques of Rs 4 lakh each to families who had lost their loved ones due to the floods. In recognition of their efforts, the chief minister honored Provincial Armed Constabulary personnel who helped evacuate flood victims to the safe zones, presenting them with certificates of appreciation. He also announced special rewards and cash prizes for their bravery and service. State Minister Swatantra Dev Singh and other local public representatives were also present during the chief ministers visit, supporting the ongoing relief and rehabilitation efforts in the flood-affected regions. The chief minister conducted an aerial survey of all the flood-affected villages in Ikauna tehsil of Shravasti to assess the flood situation there with the officials. Devi Patan Divisional Commissioner Shashi Bhushan Sushil and Shravasti District Magistrate Ajay Kumar Dwivedi informed the chief minister that the floods were caused in the district by the sudden release of water from Nepal following heavy rainfall in that country. Currently, the water level is gradually decreasing. Following this, Chief Minister Yogi inspected the Lakshmanpur Kothi Rapti Barrage on the ground. There, he met with each of the 11 victims rescued from the floods and enquired about their well-being. During his visit, the chief minister interacted affectionately with the children present there and distributed candies and biscuits to them. He honoured Rekha Devi, the village guide, and five PAC jawans who gave information about the people trapped in the floods by giving them certificates. He also announced cash rewards for them. He also handed out cheques of Rs 4 lakh each to four families who lost loved ones in the disaster. In his address to the flood victims, Chief Minister Yogi stated that immediate assistance is being provided to the families of farmers and sharecroppers who lost their lives due to various disasters, including human-wildlife conflict, snake bites, and lightning strikes. He mentioned that currently 12 districts in the state are affected by floods, impacting 633 villages across 33 tehsils, with a total affected population of approximately 17.97 lakh, including over 18,000 cattle. More than 1.45 lakh hectares of agricultural land have also been affected, he added. Meanwhile, over 923 flood outposts have been established to monitor the flood situation and relief efforts. Additionally, more than 1,033 flood shelters have been set up to house the flood-affected people. In Shravasti alone, 116 villages are either fully or partially affected by floods. The soil erosion situation is critical in 15 villages, affecting a population of 76,000 and over 23,000 hectares of agricultural land. The chief minister emphasised that the state government is conducting relief operations with full force, which is why the loss of life and property has been minimal despite the ongoing flood crisis. He held a meeting with officials and directed them to survey the flood-damaged crops and provide immediate compensation, along with other necessary instructions. While talking to the families affected by the flood disaster, Chief Minister Yogi stated that the government stands with them in this time of crisis and that they need not worry about anything. The state government is trying to help you in every possible way. Our effort is to ensure you dont face any problems, he remarked. He mentioned that around 50,000 people and more than 32,000 hectares of agricultural land are affected by the floods in Balrampur. For relief work, boats have been arranged by the NDRF, SDRF and PAC Flood Units along with the administration. Instructions have been given to provide houses under the Mukhyamantri Awas Yojana to those whose houses have been damaged by the floods. The newly-appointed lekhpals, who gathered at the Lok Bhavan auditorium for an appointment letter distribution programme on Wednesday, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for ensuring a transparent selection process. The young and visibly delighted candidates from various districts of the state, after receiving their appointment letters, said, Thank you, Chief Minister. Notably, on Wednesday, CM Yogi Adityanath distributed appointment letters to 7,720 lekhpals selected through a fair and transparent recruitment process of the Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission. According to an official communique released on Wednesday evening, Khalil Ahmed, selected from Rampur, shared that despite his previous hard work and selection, he was eliminated during the interview round in 2015. Back then, he had believed that securing a job without paying a bribe was impossible. However, today he expressed his gratitude to CM Yogi for conducting the entire selection process with complete fairness and transparency, enabling many underprivileged individuals like him to receive appointment letters. Similarly, Neha Tripathi, who received an appointment letter for deployment in Milkipur tehsil of Ayodhya district, said that under the leadership of CM Yogi, all of them were selected impartially, for which she expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the chief minister. She added that she will strive to meet the expectations by following the advice of CM Yogi. Saurav Pandey from Varanasi recounted that after his selection, initially there were challenges posed by some disruptive elements, leading the matter to court. He expressed immense joy that under CM Yogis leadership, the Revenue department and the Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Commission efficiently addressed the courts concerns, conducted the entire selection process transparently and issued appointments within four to five months. Saurav extended heartfelt gratitude to CM Yogi for ensuring total transparency in the recruitment process. In addition to him, many other newly-selected individuals, including Baaleshwar Patel, Agraj Pratap Singh, Prachi Singh, Paras Mani Singh and Vikas Tripathi, also expressed their thanks to CM Yogi Adityanath for issuing them appointment letters, the release added. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav emphasized the introduction of subjects such as agriculture, horticulture, fisheries, dairy, and animal husbandry in high school and higher secondary classes. Noting that many students in the state's schools hail from farming families, he highlighted the importance of these subjects in fostering stronger connections between education and everyday life. Yadav advocated for prioritizing these subjects in C.M. Rise Schools, suggesting that students should have the freedom to choose subjects based on their interests, similar to higher education systems. To implement this initiative at the school level, he instructed to form a task force comprising educationists, teachers, voluntary organizations, and subject experts. These directives were issued during a meeting of CM Rise School management, attended by Tribal Affairs Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah, School Education Minister Uday Pratap Singh, Chief Secretary Veera Rana, and other officials. ITIs should be established in every development block Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said to prioritize establishment of C.M. Rise schools in tribal and rural areas, stressing the need to ensure adequate accommodation for teachers and staff. He highlighted the importance of seeking assistance from the Government of India for these efforts. Dr. Yadav also underscored the integration of education with employment by proposing the establishment of ITIs in every development block. For blocks without ITIs, he instructed to devise strategies for providing facilities through private sector initiatives. Additionally, he called for discussions with investors interested in the upcoming industrial summit to explore collaboration opportunities in this endeavor. Use e-vehicles in the transportation system of C.M. RISE schools Chief Minister Dr. Yadav emphasized maximizing the use of e-vehicles in the transportation system of C.M. Rise schools. He directed to utilize vehicles from the Municipal Vehicle Service for transporting students, ensuring their regular attendance and convenient transportation. Dr. Yadav stressed the importance of prioritizing vehicle maintenance. He directed timely completion of land marking for new school buildings with inter-departmental coordination, resolving delayed cases at the state level. Dr. Yadav also emphasized preventing encroachment around schools to ensure their safety and functionality. Buildings of 21 schools will be completed by the month of August Information was given that the construction of buildings of 21 schools in 274 C.M. Rise Schools will be completed by the month of August. The work of remaining school is in progress. Presentations were given in the meeting regarding free transport service, supply of essential materials, infrastructure development, educational activities, vocational education, etc. The Delhi Police has seized fake spare parts worth lakhs of rupees at the complaint of officials from Uno Minda India from a shop named Shree Hari Enterprises in Delhi's Karol Bagh. The director of the shop was arrested after Uno Minda's official Sonit and police officials declared the seized spare parts as fake. An FIR has been registered against the accused and is being interrogated at Karol Bagh police station. Further, on the complaint of Honda company and authorisation company, four shops in Karol Bagh were raided and fake spare parts were recovered. The accused were arrested in the matter. Staff Reporter n New Delhi The Delhi Police has seized fake spare parts worth lakhs of rupees at the complaint of officials from Uno Minda India from a shop named Shree Hari Enterprises in Delhi's Karol Bagh. The director of the shop was arrested after Uno Minda's official Sonit and police officials declared the seized spare parts as fake. An FIR has been registered against the accused and is being interrogated at Karol Bagh police station. Further, on the complaint of Honda company and authorisation company, four shops in Karol Bagh were raided and fake spare parts were recovered. The accused were arrested in the matter. Although dengue is known to cause mild flu-like symptoms, the mosquito-borne viral illness has profound neurological implications that are often overlooked, said experts. Amid the monsoon in India, dengue cases have spiralled in various parts of the country, including Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Delhi and Maharashtra. According to the latest data from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), there have been 246 dengue cases in the national capital till June 30 this year. During the same period in 2023, Delhi saw only 122 cases, 143 cases in 2022, 36 cases in 2021, and 20 cases in 2020. "While primarily known for causing flu-like symptoms, dengue has profound neurological implications that are often overlooked," Dr Praveen Gupta, Principal Director & Chief of Neurology at Fortis Hospital Gurugram, told news agency IANS. "Neurological manifestations of dengue, though less common, include encephalitis, meningitis, and myelitis. These conditions arise from the virus crossing the blood-brain barrier, leading to inflammation and infection of the brain and spinal cord," he explained. Patients with severe dengue may experience headaches, altered mental status, seizures, and even coma. The virus's neurotropic nature means it can directly infect neural cells, causing damage and inflammation. Furthermore, the immune response triggered by the infection can exacerbate these neurological issues, making management complex. Dengue is a vector-borne disease transmitted by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. It is endemic to more than 100 countries and affects about 400 million people globally every year. Dengue fever escalates significantly during the monsoon season due to increased mosquito breeding. During monsoon, stagnant water and higher humidity create ideal conditions for the Aedes mosquito to thrive, leading to a spike in dengue cases. "Dengue can affect many parts of the human body, including the nervous system. When it affects the nervous system, the presentation will be like a brain fever. Patients could have altered consciousness levels and difficulty in talking, stroke, seizures or fits and could have bleeding in the brain also due to low platelet counts," Dr Srikantha Swamy, Lead Senior Consultant, Neurology, Aster RV Hospital Bengaluru, told news agency IANS. "As known, when platelets are low, it leads to bleeding in different parts of the body and could happen in the brain too. When platelets are low and a patient is diagnosed as dengue positive, then it affects the nervous system, and the progress is usually bad," the doctor added. The experts noted that the increased neurological complications of dengue during monsoon emphasise the need for early recognition and intervention. Healthcare systems must be vigilant in monitoring for signs of neurological involvement in dengue patients, particularly during peak transmission periods. Listen to the latest songs, only on JioSaavn.com Preventative measures, such as mosquito control and public awareness campaigns, are crucial to mitigating the impact of dengue on neurological health during the monsoon season. Two people were killed and 16 others sustained injuries after the double-decker bus they were traveling by rammed into a parked truck in the Hathras district, an official said on Thursday. The incident occurred in Toli village of Hathras under the Sikandra Rao police station limits. Two people have died in this accident and about 16 people are injured, Hathras District Magistrate Ashish Kumar said. According to the district magistrate, the double-decker bus was heading from Miyanganj to Chandigarh. In the Toli village the bus rammed into a truck parked at the roadside due to the negligence of the bus driver, leaving two dead and 16 injured. Upon receiving information, Hathras Superintendent of Police Nipun Aggarwal along with the police officials rushed to the spot and carried out a rescue operation. The injured have been admitted to the hospital. An investigation is underway. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took cognisance of the Hathras incident and directed the officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured, an official statement from the Chief Ministers Office (CMO) said. Yogi Adityanath expressed grief over the loss of lives. The incident comes a day after a similar accident took place in Unnao in which 18 people were killed and 19 injured when a double-decker sleeper bus headed for Delhi hit a milk tanker on the Agra-Lucknow Expressway. The accident occurred around 5 am near Jojikot village in Behta Mujawar police station area. In a decisive move to enhance healthcare delivery across Himachal Pradesh, the states Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr (Col) Dhani Ram Shandil on Thursday directed the health department officials to expedite the procurement process for medical machinery and equipment. Chairing a Special High Power Purchase Committee meeting, Dr Shandil emphasized the need for prompt action to ensure quality healthcare reaches people at their doorsteps. Dr Shandil highlighted the importance of adhering to technical specifications similar to those used by premier institutions like AIIMS and PGI. This approach will ensure the quality of purchases and save both time and money during the procurement process, he stated. One of the key decisions made at the meeting was the approval to float tenders for procuring Baby Care Kits for mothers of newborns. Each kit, estimated to cost approximately Rs 1500, is part of a larger initiative to support around one lakh institutional deliveries expected annually. The state government has allocated a budget of Rs 10 crore for this project. The Baby Care Kit will include 20 essential items, featuring eight new additions such as a digital thermometer, nail cutter, cap, soft bristle hair brush, bib, wash cloth for the baby, and sanitary napkins for the mother. Other items in the kit will include a one-piece slip-on outfit for the baby, baby vests (two pieces), baby mittens and booties, baby massage oil, baby towel, baby cloth nappies, hand sanitizer, mosquito net, mink blanket, rattle toy, muslin/flannel squares (two pieces), toothbrush, toothpaste, bathing soap, and Vaseline for the mother. Later in the day, Dr Shandil also chaired the third board meeting of the Himachal Pradesh Medical Services Corporation (HPMSCL), where various demands and requirements of the corporation were approved, including procurement of machinery for various institutions, testing vehicles, and furniture for hospitals. BJP State President and former Chief Minister Babulal Marandi today addressed the Bokaro Assembly level Karyakarta Samman and Vijay Sankalp Sabha. Marandi said that it is the party workers who work hard and struggle 365 days a year. The real fight is at the booth. It is the workers who struggle at the booths. He said that in the Lok Sabha elections, the Indi Thugbandhan did the pinnacle of propaganda against the BJP and the NDA. They spread propaganda about changing the constitution, ending reservations, etc. But with the tireless hard work of the workers and the blessings of the people, the resolution of forming the Modi government for the third time in the country was fulfilled. He said that Narendra Modi is the first non-Congress Prime Minister to become Prime Minister for the third time in independent India. He said that the leaders of the Congress and the Indi Alliance are unable to digest this. The scion of Congress family is unable to understand how the son of a poor tea seller became the Prime Minister of a huge country like India for the third time in a row. He said that this is not an ordinary incident. If we look at Jharkhand, the public has given a mandate against the thug alliance of the state. NDA won 9 parliamentary seats. 81 lakh votes were received. NDA alliance was ahead in more than 50 assembly constituencies. He said that not only this, 7 ministers including the then Chief Minister of the ruling alliance in the state could not make the Indy Alliance win in their respective assembly constituencies. Indy Alliance got only 66 lakh votes. He said that the people of the state have faith in BJP. All the development work seen in the state is the gift of BJP governments. He said that the Indy thug alliance has only looted the state. He said that they looted mines, minerals, sand, and stones. They looted the land of the poor. They looted the jobs of the youth. He said that not even a single exam of JPSC, JSSC was successful during their tenure. All fell prey to corruption. Question papers were leaked. Bids were made for the post in lakhs. He said that how can a poor father's son bribe lakhs of rupees to get a job. He said that this government has cheated everyone. They talked about giving 5 lakh jobs per year or unemployment allowance in the assembly but did nothing. He said that the Modi government at the center did many development works for Jharkhand. Works like highways, roads, electricity, AIIMS, airport, and restarting the Sindri factory are the contributions of the Modi government. Apart from this, whether it was Babulal Marandi's government or Arjun Munda's, Raghuvar Das's plans for rapid development were implemented. Health Minister Banna Gupta while speaking as the chief guest during the advocacy programme organised on health awareness in the transgender community in Namkum on Wednesday said that the State government is working from the point of view of human interest and work is being done for the progress of the State without discrimination in the society. The programme was organised in collaboration with the National Health Mission and Utthan, an organisation working for the rights of the transgender community. Representatives of many organisations working for the transgender community, social workers, members of the transgender community and a large number of dignitaries were present for the programme. Gupta also said that the government has completed the work towards making a prosperous Jharkhand, progressive Jharkhand and with this objective, future strategies are being prepared. The Health Minister also praised the work being done for the rights of the transgender community and encouraged the people of the community by reading the poem of national poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar, 'Manav Jab Jor Lagta Hai Pani Bhi Patthar Ban Jata Hai and also one of his poems 'Manav Manav Ko Pyar Kare'. Gupta also praised the struggles of the transgender community and said that there is no need to be disappointed and disheartened and that he is aware of the problems of the transgender community and is also trying to solve them. Gupta further praised the work being done for the development of the transgender community by Tata Steel, an industrial unit that has made its mark all over the world from Jamshedpur. It is known that Tata Steel has provided employment to 133 people of the transgender community in its institute. Amarjeet, who works in Tata Steel and is the secretary of Utthan, said that earlier they were seen asking for blessings at home, but times are changing rapidly as the transgender community has been given rights. People from the transgender community are now working and leading a respectable life in society. A documentary film related to the work being done by the transgender community in various fields was also shown during the program. Anima Kisku, State Program Manager of National Health Mission said that people from the transgender community are also a part of the general public and that it is the responsibility of all to bring them into the mainstream of society without any discrimination. State Program Coordinator Akay Minj said that all citizens are treated without any discrimination in all government health centers. Sahia Help Desk is operated in Sadar Hospital of all districts, where people from the transgender community can request for treatment on priority. For health awareness and consultation, one can also seek advice on the free dial 104 operated in the State. Sonal Tiwari an advocate of Jharkhand High Court who works for the rights of the transgender community said that the Jharkhand government has done three major works for the upliftment of the transgender community which includes a monthly pension of one thousand rupees, formation of transgender board and providing reservation facility to this community under the OBC category. Tiwari has also requested for a survey of the transgender community. State Tuberculosis Officer Dr. Kamlesh Kumar, IPH Director Dr. John F. Kennedy also advocated cooperation for the progress of the transgender community. In the program, yoga instructor Dr. Archana Kumari taught the tricks of staying healthy through yoga while Shantana Kumari shared information related to stress control and mental health. Present at the programme were senior Jamshedpur-based journalist and advisory committee member of Utthan Anni Amrita, social workers Apoorva, Poorvi Ghosh, Poonam, Dr Sangeeta Laha from RINPAS, ILS teacher Shalini Sabu, students of the Institute of Legal Studies, health aides from Ramgarh, Ranchi and Hazaribagh and others. Haryana Speaker Gian Chand Gupta on Thursday dismissed the Congress petition seeking MLA Kiran Choudhrys disqualification from the State Assembly, citing technical grounds. According to an official statement, the petition did not meet the criteria under the Disqualification of Members on the Ground of Defection Rules, 1986 of the Legislative Assembly, leading to its rejection. The Legislative Assembly Secretariat notified Congress leaders of the decision, following their request to disqualify Tosham MLA Kiran Choudhry after her defection to the BJP. In a letter to the Speaker on June 19, Congress leaders Aftab Ahmed, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Vidhan Sabha; and Bharat Bhushan, Congress Chief Whip cited Choudhrys resignation from the Indian National Congress and subsequent joining of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as grounds for disqualification. They referenced her resignation letter, dated June 18 addressed to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, asserting that she voluntarily gave up her party membership, thus violating the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India, which entails that a member of a House belonging to any political party shall be disqualified for being a member of the House if they voluntarily give up their membership of such political party. She has incurred a clear disqualification and cannot be counted as a Member of Legislative Assembly for any intent and purpose on June 19, 2024, the Congress leaders had wrote, requesting that a suitable notification or declaration regarding her disqualification may be made. Heavy rains continued in the eastern part of Madhya Pradesh on Thursday, rainfall was witnessed in 12 districts. Damoh received the most rainfall of 56 mm i.e., 2.2 inches. Meanwhile, a 12-year-old girl died due to lightning in Panna. Her two brothers were injured in the incident. According to the Meteorological Department, about half an inch to 1 inches of rainfall was recorded in Khajuraho, Mandla, Naugaon, Satna, Seoni. Rainfall also occurred in Chhindwara, Jabalpur, Rewa, Sagar, Umaria, Malajkhand of Balaghat. Light rain was also recorded in the western part of the state i.e., Betul and Guna. A young man was swept away with his bike while crossing the culvert on the Raimala to Mirapur road in Prabhat Pattan development block of Betul district. His companion somehow managed to save his life and came out. Actually, after the rain on Wednesday night, water was flowing over the causeway. Dinesh Lohare, a resident of Pohar village and Santosh Solanki of Balegaon were going to Mirapur by bike. In the middle, when the flow of water on the causeway increased, both of them were pushing the bike out on foot. During this, the bike went out of control. Santosh left the bike and came out. Dinesh did not leave the bike and got washed away along with the bike. His body was found 10 hours later on Thursday. Two brothers and a sister sitting under a tree were injured due to lightning in Panna. The family brought all three to Gunnaur Hospital. Where the 12-year-old sister died. At the same time, the two brothers are undergoing treatment. The incident is in the Gunnaur police station area. Lakshmi Kushwaha (12) was sitting under a mango tree in village Mudwari with her two younger brothers Ashish Kushwaha (3) and Shibbu Kushwaha (5) to avoid the rain. Then suddenly lightning struck with a strong thunder, in which all three were injured. Heavy rain occurred in Khandwa after a week. The roads got wet in 15 minutes of rain. People got relief from the humidity. At the same time, the farmers also got relief. Due to no rain for a week, the soybean crop had also come to wilt. Four youths were injured after being struck by lightning in Birsinghpur Pali of Umaria district. All of them were sitting under a tree. Lightning struck the tree during the rain in the afternoon. Young men Lavkush (22), Sunil (20), Guddu Sonkar (32) and Ram Vishwakarma (20) were injured in this. After the information, Birsinghpur Pali SDM TR Nag reached the hospital and inquired about the injured.The SDM of Birsinghpur Pali went to the hospital and inquired about the injured. Heavy rain occurred in Ashoknagar on Thursday evening after four days. This gave relief to the people from heat and humidity. Bhopal is also included in the top-5 districts of MP with the highest rainfall. So far, 12.1 inches of rainfall has been reported. This is 32% of the quota of rain. Bhopal is definitely ahead in overall rainfall, but is lagging behind in July's rain. Only 3 inches of rain has been recorded in the last 10 days. If 11.4 inches of rainfall is going to occur in the next 21 days, the quota of July will be completed. However, there is an alert of heavy rain for the next 4 days. In such a situation, the figure may increase. It has been cloudy since Thursday morning. It rains a lot in Bhopal in July. There is a record of 1031.4 mm i.e. about 41 inches of rain in this month. This happened in the year 1986. At the same time, on 22 July 1973, 11 inches of rain fell in 24 hours. This is also a record so far. This time the monsoon arrived on 23 June. So far the figures are better. There has been 32% more rain than normal. BJP State President and Khajuraho MP Vishnudutt Sharma while talking to journalists at BJP State Office on Wednesday said that it is a matter of pride for the country that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been honoured with the highest civilian award of the Russian Federation. This is an honour for the 140 crore people of the country. Prime Minister Shri Modi is the only Prime Minister who has been honoured with the highest civilian honour in more than 15 countries, which also includes Muslim countries. The country's honour and respect is constantly increasing under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. There was a time when the world used to ignore India, today it is honouring Prime Minister Narendra Modi after seeing his style of work. The world believes that after years, it has got a leader who is showing the path not only to India but to the entire world and India is engaged in the welfare of the world by following the basic rituals and ideology of Sanatan Dharma Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. BJP State President Vishnudutt Sharma said that Congress always raises questions about employment in the state, but it should study the report of National Statistical Office (NSO), which says that 6 lakh jobs have been added in Madhya Pradesh in seven years and employment has increased by 12.2 percent. This shows that employment opportunities are constantly increasing in Madhya Pradesh during the tenure of the double engine government of Bharatiya Janata Party. Employment opportunities have opened up due to various public welfare schemes of the government and promotion of startups. If we look at the data of Reserve Bank of India, employment has increased by 6 percent in the country in the current financial year. On one hand, employment opportunities have opened up in BJP ruled states like Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan. On the other hand, employment has decreased in the states where Congress and opposition parties are in power.State President of Bharatiya Janata Party Vishnudutt Sharma said that employment has decreased by 30 percent in West Bengal. Employment has decreased by 13 percent in Congress ruled state Karnataka and by more than 12 percent in Tamil Nadu, a state governed by opposition alliance. The continuous increase in employment in BJP ruled states shows that there is no difference between the words and actions of BJP governments and they are working on the basic mantra of the Prime Minister, Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas and Sabka Vishwas.State President of Bharatiya Janata Party and Khajuraho MP Vishnudutt Sharma said that people are voting openly in Amarwara today. There has been good voting till noon and it is expected that the voting percentage will be around 80 by 6 pm. Under the able guidance and support of Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh, the Department of Pediatrics organized a Guest Lecture on Wednesday. The event featured distinguished pediatric neurologists Dr. Rachana Dubey (D.M. Pediatric Neurology, AIIMS New Delhi) and Dr. Pankaj Pal (D.M. Pediatric Neurology, PGIMER, Chandigarh). The lecture aimed to enrich the knowledge base of our residents, foster learning, and facilitate the sharing of valuable experiences. Dr. Rachana Dubey delivered a lucid presentation on the "Approach to Movement Disorders," incorporating videos for a more practical understanding. Dr Pankaj Pal discussed recent updates and approaches to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome. The sessions were chaired by Professor and Head of the Department of Pediatrics, Dr. Shikha Malik, and Dr. Priyanka V Kashyap, Associate Professor of Neurology, AIIMS Bhopal. A case-based presentation was also conducted by postgraduate resident Dr. Pooja Phulgirkar, with expert comments provided by our esteemed guest faculty. Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Thursday chaired a meeting of Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) to review the flood control preparedness of all concerned agencies in the national Capital in light of waterlogging incidents across the city. Delhi Water Minister Atishi was also present in the meeting. While taking stock of the flooding due to breach in the Munak Canal in the Bawana area, the LG was informed that all directions issued by LG were being executed on site. The CEO of Delhi Jal Board (DJB), who had come from the site for the meeting, informed that the breach was being repaired at a war footing and will be completed by tomorrow evening. Saxena issued a total of 15 major directions to various agencies, including Irrigation & Flood Control Department (I&FCD), Public Works Department (PWD), Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC). The directions include carrying out extensive desilting of the drains, that should have been completed by June 15, and clear all choked drains on an urgent basis. Saxena directed the MCD to step up the monitoring of drains and impose a penalty for disposing garbage in the drains, noting that such activities were primarily responsible for choking of drains that cause waterlogging in the city. LG directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to ensure that there is no obstruction in the flow of the Yamuna due to construction of bridges and other activities in the floodplains, a statement by the Raj Niwas said. Vice Chairman of DDA informed the LG that the authority will conduct a thorough inspection of river Yamuna in the Delhi Region on July 13 to assess and ensure that the flow of the Yamuna does not get obstructed at all during the monsoon. The LG directed all agencies particularly the PWD, Railways and NCRTC to expedite and remove all their equipment and waste from the Yamuna at the earliest, it read. He directed the PWD, I&FCD and Tourism Department to immediately take up the cleaning of heavy deposits of construction and demolition (C&D) waste in the Yamuna near Signature Bridge which is a highly vulnerable point during the flood. While the LG was informed that the management and operation of all 22 major drains falling into the Yamuna has been assigned to the I&FCD, Saxena also directed for handing over the responsibility of operating regulators on these drains to I&FCD only. For this, he also directed the Department to hire additional manpower from other departments / agencies on diverted capacity to meet any contingency during the eventuality of flood in the Capital, the statement stated. Saxena was informed that 29 teams of NDRF, equipped with over 100 boats, are deployed in and around Delhi region to carry out the relief and rescue works in case of flood. A total of 15 major decisions were taken in the meeting including permanent and temporary pumps to be installed at vulnerable spots and monitored round the clock from the Control Room, all regulators and barrage gates to be manned by operators, engineers and technicians on 24x7 basis. Further, the directions were also given to I&FCD to remain in constant touch with their counterparts in Haryana and upper reaches of Himachal Pradesh to monitor the rainfall levels and water discharge from Hathnikund Barrage on a regular basis. He directed the Revenue Department and concerned DMs to have adequate arrangements for evacuation of nearly 25,000 persons living in the low lying area, when the Yamuna crosses the danger mark. The Health Department has been directed to adequate arrangements in hospitals to deal with situations arising out of the flood and the subsequent outburst of vector-borne diseases, he said. Other directives by Saxena include agencies to constantly monitor the waterlogging hotspots in case of heavy rains, DJB and the concerned DMs will ensure round the clock drinking water supply and food for the evacuees and critically vulnerable areas including Monastery Market, Nigam Bodh Ghat, Vijay Ghat, Chilla Regulator, Yamuna Bazar and Boat Club to be monitored round the clock from the Central Control Room. Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Thursday expressed concerns over the breach of a branch of Munak Canal and instructed the Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar to take the matter up with state Water Minister Atishi and Flood Control Department Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj. A letter by the Principal Secretary to the LG stated, LG has taken serious note of the matter and has advised the Chief Secretary to take the matter with Minister (Water) and Minister (Flood Control Department), GNCTD so as to ensure that the matter is taken up with the Haryana Authorities at the appropriate level and this channel is restored, repaired and maintained at the earliest. The un-lined segment of the canal should also be taken up for lining on priority, to avoid breaches and water losses, it read. The letter also stated that there has been a massive breach in the Career Lined Channel (CLC) branch of Munak Canal, well within the boundary of Delhi. Water in huge volume flowing out from the breached Canal has caused flooding and inundated several residential areas in the locality as also the JJ Cluster in Bawana, impacting thousands of households, displacing families and creating general havoc. Expressing concern over the water disruption, the letter stated that the CLC canal is the only source of water supply to Dwarka water treatment plant and its rupture is bound to cause disruption in water supply to that area. The LG issued directions to different departments and stated, the breach in the Munak Canal underlines the absence of adequate maintenance of the Canal, which should have been undertaken by Delhi Jal Board (DJB) through Haryana Irrigation Department from time to time. He directed the CEO of DJB to immediately reach the spot along with his team of engineers and coordinate with the Government of Haryana authorities to ensure restoration of Munak Canal at the earliest. NDRF teams may be immediately asked to evacuate affected people from the area. Irrigation and Flood Control Department to deploy pumps to drain out water at the earliest and provide additional boats to NDRF as required, Saxena directed. Saxena advised that the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) provides adequate arrangements for relief and rehabilitation measures and makes available basic minimum services including shelter to the people affected from the flooding caused by the breach. Disaster Management Cell of Revenue Department may be advised to provide relief as per norms. Area District Magistrate to deploy a team of executive magistrates to coordinate relief and rescue operations. Local public announcements may be made to make people aware of the arrangements, he stated, directing the health department to ensure that medical teams are in place to address any exigencies and medical emergency. Delhi Police has arrested a 38-year-old man for allegedly smuggling 100 turtles, 50 of them from endangered species, in the Shahdara area. Police said they recovered 50 Indian Roofed turtles, 45 Black Spotted Pond turtles, three Indian Eye turtles, and two Indian Softshell turtles from the possession of Ghaziabad resident Bheem. Black Spotted Pond turtle, Indian Eye turtle and Indian Softshell turtle are from endangered species which are covered under Schedule-I of the Wild Life Protection Act. These species need rigorous protection. "On Tuesday, Geeta Colony police station got information regarding the arrival of a smuggler with endangered species of turtles in the area," Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara) Surendra Choudhary said. The officer said that a team was formed along with the informer to nab the accused. Traps were laid near Sai Memorial Public School, Raja Ram Kohli Marg and under the flyover of Pushta road near Geeta colony, police said. "At about 1.15 pm, the team spotted a person on a scooter carrying a big bag. The informer identified the vehicle and its driver and the suspect was apprehended," the DCP said. When the police team opened the bag, they found several live turtles inside. On enquiry the accused could not give any satisfactory answer regarding the possession of the turtles, the police said. Upon a thorough checking, 100 live turtles were recovered from the bag and they were seized, the DCP said. "An FIR under the provisions of the Wild Life Protection Act and Section 11(A) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal Act has been registered at Geeta Colony police station," DCP Choudhary said, adding that the wildlife department has also been informed. The officer further said during interrogation the accused disclosed that he along with his associate, Ravi Bhatnagar, are involved in smuggling turtles and other extinct species. "As per his disclosure he used to catch the species of turtle from the Ganga river stretched in Garhmukteshwar area called Garh Ganga and from the subsidiary rivers," he said. "The accused further disclosed that recently a case regarding the smuggling of turtles was registered against Ravi Bhatnagar in Ghaziabad. Search for Ravi is also going on," DCP Choudhary said. The State Cabinet here on Wednesday approved the rationalization of students residing in hostels, ashrams, and community welfare centers operated under the Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribe Welfare Department as per the scholarship rates determined by the Scheduled Caste Welfare/Tribal Affairs Department. According to the approval, the present monthly scholarship for boys will be increased from Rs 1230 to Rs 1550 and for girls, it will be increased from Rs 1270 to Rs 1590 per month. Along with this, it has been decided by the Scheduled Caste Welfare/Tribal Affairs Department to increase the rate of scholarship in the future based on the price index and also accept it for Denotified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Welfare Department. Nod to implementation of National e-Vidhan Application (NEVA) The Council of Ministers has approved a project worth Rs 23 crore 87 lakh to implement the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Government of India National e-Vidhan Application (NEVA) in the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly. It may be noted that under the Digital India program of the Government of India, the centrally sponsored National e-Vidhan Application scheme has been launched by the Government of India to make all the Legislative Assemblies of the country paperless and bring them on one platform. 60 percent of the cost will be borne by the Government of India and 40 percent by the state government. Tender invitation for Narmada Valley projects approved The Council of Ministers has given its nod to invite tenders for 7 projects of Narmada Valley Development Department costing Rs 9,271 crore 96 lakh. Approval has been given to invite tender for Sondwa Lift Micro Irrigation Project, Niwali Lift Micro Irrigation Project, Sendhwa Lift Micro Irrigation Project, Maheshwar Janapav Lift Micro Irrigation Project, Dhar Micro Lift Irrigation Project, Badadev Joint Micro Irrigation Project and Ma Rewa Lift Irrigation Project. Administrative approval to Bokaro Micro Irrigation The Council of Ministers has granted administrative approval for the Bokaro Micro Irrigation Project costing Rs 46 crore, an irrigation area of 3310 hectares. Through the project, irrigation facility will be provided to farmers of 11 villages of Tehsil Rampura Naikin. Administrative approval granted to the remaining works of Central Jail in Indore The Council of Ministers has given administrative approval of Rs 217 crore 73 lakh for the remaining construction works of the Central Jail under construction on Sanver Road in Indore. Approval to purchase aircraft for the state government The Council of Ministers has approved aircraft purchase for the state government. Approval was given to the decision to purchase aircraft model Challenger 3500 jet aircraft from the lowest (L1) tenderer organization in the tender called under Aircraft/Helicopter Purchase-Sale Rules for Madhya Pradesh Government, 2019 for the flight of VIPs for the state government. 300 plants of different varieties were planted in the main campus of AISECT University, Hazaribagh at Taraba-Kharba. In fact, under the National Service Scheme of the Government of India, Van Mahotsav Week was celebrated from 1st to 7th July across the country. Under this, in the month of July, with the aim of spreading awareness about forest conservation and saving the environment, under the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign program, under the banner of NSS unit of AISECT University, Hera Fatima, Tanishka Kumari, Pooja Kumari, Ashutosh Kumar Dubey of NSS Unit-1 of the University, including students of the Agriculture Faculty, played an important role in planting trees. On this occasion, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Dr. PK Nayak said that trees and plants are our life savers. Also, abundance of trees and plants helps in keeping human life healthy. On the other hand, the university's registrar Dr. Munish Govind said that the way luxury life has harmed the environment, if it is not taken care of in time, then the entire human community can face a deep crisis. Untimely rains, high temperatures are some such signs, which are alerting us. In such a situation, the most important thing is plantation. Along with this, complete care is also necessary till it becomes a tree. He said that awareness is also important. Awareness is also being spread through street plays in the surrounding areas through the NSS unit of the university. NSS officer Dr. Rojikant said that a tree really plays the role of a mother. The program Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam is not only awareness but also a feeling, which connects the common man directly to nature. NSS officer Dr. Preeti Vyas also made people aware of the importance of trees. On this occasion, along with the students of NSS Unit One, students of the Agriculture Department were also present. As the 16th Finance Commission is scheduled to visit Punjab on July 22 and 23, the Punjab Government is all prepared with its compelling list of demands aimed at securing crucial fiscal grants, resolving ongoing conflicts over central schemes, and addressing the financial strain caused by GST implementation. Among the key requests is the release of pending central funds totaling Rs 10,000 crore approximately, a move seen as vital for the state's economic stability and growth. With Punjab grappling with fiscal challenges exacerbated by GST implementation, the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has convened a high-level meeting on July 16 to strategize on securing vital fiscal grants and resolving longstanding disputes over central schemes. At the forefront of Punjabs agenda is the urgent release of pending central funds amounting to approximately Rs 10,000 crore. The Finance Secretary Ajoy Kumar Saini has been leading preparations, engaging with departmental heads to meticulously outline Punjabs financial imperatives ahead of the Commissions arrival. The agenda, thus prepared, will be meticulously discussed in the July 16 meeting led by CM Mann and Finance Minister Cheema. Central to Punjabs demands are allocations under critical rural development schemes such as the Rural Development Fund (RDF) and Market Development Fee (MDF), totaling Rs 6,767 crore. These funds are crucial for bolstering rural infrastructure, enhancing market facilities, and promoting agricultural growth a cornerstone of Punjab's economic landscape. Additionally, the state seeks Rs 650 crore for the National Health Mission to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and Rs 1,600 crore as Special Capital Assistance to address infrastructure deficits. The stalled PM-Schools for Rising India (PM-SHRI) project, aimed at revitalizing school education, remains a pressing concern, with Punjab urging the release of Rs 515.55 crore earmarked for comprehensive educational reforms. The backdrop of Punjab's fiscal predicament is underscored by the strain caused by GST implementation, which has curtailed the state's ability to generate independent revenue streams through taxation. The state claims that GST has centralized revenue generation, significantly reducing Punjab's income from various taxes. The State argues that it now relies heavily on central schemes and needs increased financial support, especially as opposing parties at the center allegedly impact the flow of funds to Punjab. A senior official said that the state's economic situation necessitates significant relief from the Finance Commission to avert potential financial crises. The rising interest on debts and out-of-control subsidies are major concerns that Punjab plans to address during the Commission's visit, said the official. Of late, the Chief Minister Mann and his Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema held a strategic meeting with former economic advisor Arvind Subramanian, seeking his expertise in stabilizing Punjab's economy, my drafting a robust presentation for the Finance Commission, hoping to secure relief similar to what the 15th Finance Commission had provided. Notably, in the past, the 15th Finance Commission had granted Rs 25,000 crore to Punjab over five years. However, the state struggled to utilize these funds effectively, often redirecting them to subsidies rather than infrastructure and critical developments. As the 16th Finance Commission's visit approaches, Punjab is preparing to make a strong case for much-needed financial aid. The outcome of this visit could significantly influence the state's economic trajectory, determining whether it can bridge the growing gap between income and expenditure and manage its escalating debt. Punjabs Demands Substantial grants similar to the Rs 25,000 crore provided by 15th Finance Commission over five years Assistance to manage rising debt interest and subsidies effectively Address conflicts over central-state programs like RDF, MDF, PM-SHRI, and Arogya Mandir to avoid grant reductions Compensation for revenue loss due to GST implementation, which has centralized income generation Urgent release of Rs 10,000 crore in pending central funds for various development initiatives Overall support to stabilize Punjab's economy, bridge income-expenditure gaps, and manage escalating debt In a significant move to manage paddy straw scientifically and reduce farm fires, Punjab Government on Thursday announced the provision of over 22,000 Crop Residue Management (CRM) machines on subsidy. Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, announcing this during a review meeting of departmental schemes and projects, emphasized the urgency of the initiative, instructing officials to ensure that the draw of lots for the subsidized CRM machines is conducted within this month. He also directed that the subsidy be released to beneficiary farmers by the end of August 2024, well before the start of the paddy harvesting season. This timeline is critical for achieving the governments ambitious goal of reducing farm fires to zero. Chief Minister Bhagwant Manns government has laid out an action plan of Rs 500 crore to make CRM machinery available to farmers on subsidy during the paddy harvest season 2024-25, stated Minister Khudian. Individual farmers can avail 50 percent subsidy on the cost of CRM equipment, while cooperative societies, FPOs, and panchayats are eligible for an 80 percent subsidy. The Minister appreciated the positive response from state farmers towards the Direct Sowing of Rice (DSR) technique. He highlighted that there has been a 28 percent increase in the area under DSR this year compared to last year, with 2.20 lakh acres already sown directly, up from 1.72 lakh acres in 2023. The target for this season is to achieve five lakh acres under DSR. To further encourage this water-conserving technique, the Punjab Government is providing Rs 1,500 as financial assistance to farmers opting for DSR, he said. Reviewing the status of maize kharif sowing, the Minister noted that the state is offering a subsidy of Rs 100 per kilogram on the purchase of hybrid maize seeds. Agriculture Director Jaswant Singh informed the Minister that kharif maize has already been sown in one lakh acres, with the target being two lakh acres. This initiative aims to diversify crop patterns and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Stressing the importance of quality control in agriculture inputs, the Minister directed the department officials to continue stringent actions against the sale of spurious or substandard seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. No one indulged in these malpractices will be spared, said the Minister, reinforcing the Punjab Governments commitment to ensuring that state farmers have access to high-quality agricultural inputs. After a prolonged legal battle spanning nearly five years, Punjab Polices Inspector General (IGP) Paramraj Singh Umranangal has been reinstated by Punjab Government on Thursday. The decision comes in compliance with a direct order from the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which mandated his return to duty within a strict 15-day timeframe, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing judicial saga. Despite his reinstatement, IGP Umranangal he has not yet been assigned a posting and will report directly to the Director General of Police (DGP). The development follows extensive litigation and persistent efforts by Umranangal to challenge his suspension, reflecting a significant legal victory that underscoring the judiciarys commitment to procedural justice and due process. The High Court had initially ordered his reinstatement five months ago in February, but the directive was not implemented, prompting Umranangal to seek legal recourse again, by filing contempt petition. The High Court, during a recent hearing, criticized the State Government and the police for their non-compliance and mandated the reinstatement within 15 days, while fixing July 15 as the next date of hearing in the matter. Going into background of the matter, IGP Umranangal was suspended in 2019 following his arrest by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Behbal Kalan and Kotkapura police firing incidents. These incidents occurred during protests against sacrilege incidents in 2015, during the SAD-BJP Government. His suspension was enacted by the Punjab Home Department after his arrest and subsequent judicial custody. Additionally, Umranangal was implicated in a 29-year-old fake encounter case from Kala Afghana village in Gurdaspur district. In October 2023, a case was registered against him and two other police officers under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including charges of conspiracy, forgery, and tampering with evidence. This case is also under investigation by an SIT and is being heard in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. On July 6, the Punjab and Haryana High Court reiterated that the Punjab Government had no grounds for preventing IGP Umranangal from resuming his duties. The court had ordered the state to take action by July 15. These directives came in response to a contempt petition filed by Umranangal, highlighting the non-compliance of the February order that revoked his suspension. The record of the case shows that the arguments of the State have not found favour even with the Supreme Court. Therefore, there is absolutely no ground for not permitting the petitioner to join his duties anymore, the High Court had noted. The court had warned of coercive measures against the Punjab Government for its default but granted a short extension to fulfill the necessary actions, making it clear that no further adjournments would be entertained. / The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Wednesday directed the Haryana Government to remove within a week barricades set up at the Shambhu border near Ambala, where farmers have been camping since February 13 in support of their demands, including legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP). Directions were also issued to the states of Haryana and Punjab to coordinate with each other to ensure the maintenance of law and order at the border. The directions came on a number of public interest litigations seeking to stay all obstructive actions by the Centre and the Punjab and Haryana Governments against the farmers Dilli Chalo protest, which was halted on February 13. Issuing the directions against the unlawful sealing of the border to prevent farmers from protesting peacefully, the Bench, comprising Justice Gurmeet Singh Sandhawalia and Justice Vikas Bahl, took note of the inconvenience caused to the general public following the closure of the border, and the reduced strength of the protestors over a period of time. Notably, the Haryana Government had set up barricades at Ambala-New Delhi national highway in February on the inter-state border between Punjab and Haryana when the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) had announced their decision to move towards Delhi in support of their demands. Following farmers protest, the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana has been closed for public transport for over five months now. However, the number of farmers camping at the site has gradually declined. Also taking note of the FSL report filed on young farmer Shubhkaran Singhs death on February 21, the Bench made it clear that the matter would be investigated by Haryana as the incident had taken place within the States jurisdiction. The detailed order in the matter was awaited. Haryana Cabinet Minister Mool Chand Sharma, talking to reporters in Chandigarh, said that High Courts order over this issue will be implemented. Holding peaceful protests is everyones democratic right. No one will be allowed to take law in their hands, he added. Haryana Additional Advocate-General Deepak Sabharwal, speaking to reporters, said that the court has directed the Haryana Government to remove barricading within seven days. The Bench also maintained that in case any law and order situation arises, it can take preventive action as per law. The Punjab Government has also been told that if there is any barricading at their side, it should also be removed, said Sabharwal, adding that the barricades were set up on February 10 to maintain law and order. Farmers, Traders Welcome HC Direction Farmer leader, particularly from Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-political) protesting at Shambhu Border for 148 days, welcomed the High Courts directions, and may soon resume their march towards Delhi. The decision regarding the same will be taken in July 16 meeting. Along with the farmers, the traders, industrialists, and transporters in Punjab have also greeted with relief the High Courts directive to the Haryana Government to dismantle barricades at the Shambhu border. The barricades, installed since February to impede farmers en route to Delhi, have significantly disrupted transport and business operations in the region. We welcome this decision by the High Court, stated Sarwan Singh Pandher, coordinator of KMM. Once we receive the official order, we will review it with our legal team. A meeting on July 16 will determine our future actions. If the highway is reopened, we are prepared to resume our march towards Delhi in peaceful protest, he said. Pandher emphasized that the High Courts order underscores that it was the Haryana Government, and not the farmers, who obstructed the highway. Despite the blockade, farmers have kept service lanes open for commuters, demonstrating their commitment to non-violent protest. The closure has adversely affected businesses across Punjab, leading to increased transport costs and logistical challenges. The business community is relieved by the Courts decision, said All Industries and Trade Forum president Badish Jindal, adding that it is crucial for us that normal traffic resumes swiftly. Amidst these developments, concerns persist over the well-being of protesters and the economic toll of the blockade. The tragic loss of 26 lives, including 22-year-old Shubhkaran Singh who died from injuries sustained at the border, underscored the tensions surrounding the protests. Looking ahead, farmers plan to stage a protest at the Ambala Superintendent of Polices office on July 17, demanding the release of Navdeep Singh Jalbera, a prominent union leader detained since March. AAP, Cong hail HC Decision The ruling AAP and the principal opposition Congress have lauded the High Court's directive. Leader of Opposition in Vidhan Sabha Partap Singh Bajwa, commending the High Court's directive, condemned the Haryana Government's actions in barricading the Shambhu border. Bajwa criticized the BJP-led Haryana government for undemocratically obstructing the farmers' right to protest. He rebuked the BJP-led Haryana Government for violating the basic tenets of democracy. The violence inflicted on farmers, including the tragic death of Shubhkaran Singh and the injuries to Preetpal Singh, besides several farmers losing their vision due to pellet injuries underscores the brutality faced by the protesters, Bajwa said, while urging the High Court to take serious note of the same to ensure justice as the Haryana Police committed barbarity on the peacefully protesting farmers. AAPs state spokesperson Neel Garg emphasized that the Courts intervention was crucial in ensuring that the demands of the farmers are acknowledged. The farmers' demands for legalizing MSP and repealing anti-farmer laws are legitimate, said Garg, criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi for failing to fulfill promises made to farmers, leading them to take their protests to Delhi. In light of over 750 farmer deaths due to the government's negligence and repressive policies, the Court's decision brings much-needed relief, said Garg. He highlighted that the opening of the border will not only ease travel for commuters but also provide farmers an opportunity to peacefully convey their grievances to the Central Government. Both AAP and Congress expressed solidarity with the farmers' ongoing struggle and pledged continued support in their fight for agricultural reforms and justice. Supreme Court judge Justice Sanjay Kumar on Thursday recused himself from hearing AAP leader Manish Sisodia's pleas seeking to revive his bail petitions in the excise policy-related corruption and money laundering cases. A bench of justices Sanjiv Khanna, Sanjay Karol and Sanjay Kumar said another bench in which Justice Kumar is not a member will take up Sisodia's two separate pleas for reviving his bail petitions in cases filed by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the case. As soon as the matter was taken up for hearing, Justice Khanna said, "Our brother has some difficulty. He will not like to hear this matter for personal reasons." Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, appearing for Sisodia, requested the bench to list the matter urgently, saying time is of essence. He said the trial has not yet commenced in both the cases. The bench said another bench will take it up on July 15. On July 8, the top court agreed to list Sisodia's plea after Singhvi said an application has been filed for revival of a disposed of petition which was filed seeking bail in the cases. The plea said the law officer, appearing for the probe agencies, told the bench that the charge sheet and prosecution complaint in the main excise policy case and the linked money laundering matter will be filed on or before July 3. "In the Manish Sisodia matter, he has been in jail for 16 months. The court said the trial must conclude, it hasn't started. I filed the special leave petition (SLP), they gave liberty to revive after July 3. The court gave liberty to list...," Singhvi had submitted. On June 4, the top court refused to entertain the bail pleas of Sisodia in cases lodged by the CBI and the ED in connection with the alleged Delhi liquor policy scam. While declining the bail, the bench on June 4 said Sisodia can revive his petitions for bail after the ED and the CBI file their final prosecution complaint and charge sheet respectively in the cases involving alleged corruption and money laundering. A prosecution complaint is the ED's equivalent of a charge sheet. A vacation bench of justices Aravind Kumar and Sandeep Mehta had noted the submissions of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the ED and the CBI, that the central probe agencies would file their final prosecution complaint and charge sheet by July 3. "In the light of the said submissions made and having regard to the fact that the period of '6-8 months' fixed by this court by order dated October 30, 2023 having not come to an end, it would suffice to dispose of these petitions with liberty to the petitioner to revive his prayer afresh after filing of the final complaint/charge-sheet as assured by Solicitor General," the bench said in its order. It added in the event of such a bail application being filed, the same would be considered on its own merits as already observed by this court in the October 30, 2023 order. Sisodia had earlier moved the apex court challenging the Delhi High Court's May 21 verdict which dismissed his bail pleas in the cases probed by the two central agencies. The former Delhi chief minister had challenged in the high court a trial court's April 30 order by which it had rejected his bail applications in the cases involving alleged irregularities in the formulation and execution of the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy for 2021-22. On October 30 last year, the top court denied him bail in the corruption and money laundering cases related to the alleged Delhi excise policy "scam", saying the accusation of "windfall gains" of Rs 338 crore to wholesale liquor dealers was "tentatively supported" by evidence. While dismissing the regular bail plea, the top court gave him liberty to approach the courts for relief if there was a change in the circumstances or trial got protracted. Sisodia was arrested by the CBI on February 26, 2023 for his alleged role in the liquor policy case. The ED arrested him in the money laundering case stemming from the CBI FIR on March 9, 2023. He resigned from the Delhi cabinet on February 28, 2023. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that it is a matter of happiness that Union Home Minister Amit Shah is simultaneously inaugurating the Prime Minister College of Excellence in all 55 districts of the state on July 14. The specialty of Excellence Colleges is that all courses will be available in them as per the new education policy and these colleges will be equipped with all the resources. The young generation will get the benefit of these colleges. All the ministers must attend the inauguration programme of the colleges in their respective areas. CM Dr. Yadav said this in his address before the meeting of the Council of Ministers. The meeting started with the recitation of Vande Mataram song in the Mantralaya. Dialogue programmes should be held in districts on the key points of the budget Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that the state budget is being appreciated everywhere. Dialogue programmes should be held in all districts on the key points of the budget related to public welfare and development. There should be discussions in the districts regarding the impact on the development of the state by the express-way being built to connect various regions of the state directly to the capital and the adequate amount provided to all departments. Industrial activities should be expanded in all the districts of the state Chief Minister Yadav said that Investors Summit is being organised in Jabalpur on 20th July. Support and guidance programmes should be conducted in all the districts to expand industrial activities in the state. The problems of the local industrial unit operators of the state should be resolved and they should be encouraged by providing necessary assistance to expand their activities and increase investment. Co-ordinated activities with neighbouring states will be expanded Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that co-ordination and co-operation will be enhanced in various activities with neighbouring states. The Chief Minister of Rajasthan has shown interest in developing a better network in places of religious importance in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Activities are also going on between the two states on the 'River Linking Campaign'. Similarly, the possibilities of river linking campaign with Maharashtra have also been discussed. The innovation will provide adequate irrigation facilities in other districts including Chhindwara. Target should be set at district level and plantation should be undertaken in coordination with all departments Chief Minister Yadav said that 5.5 crore saplings are being planted in the state under the plantation campaign. Hailing the plantation activities going on in Indore and Bhopal, he said that all districts should set a target for plantation and it should be carried out in co-ordination with all departments. CM Dr. Yadav said that people should also be motivated to look after the saplings planted in the campaign. / Couple of days after the Punjab Government had submitted before the Punjab and Haryana High Court that it was withdrawing the summons against the senior Akali leader Bikram Singh Majithia issued by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing a multi-crore drug case, the former Minister has been summoned once again in the matter. As per the summons, Majithia is required to appear for questioning on July 18 at 10 am in Patiala. SAD spokesperson Arshdeep Singh Kaler criticized the political motives behind the ongoing case, questioning the Government's intentions in prolonging the investigation. He suggested that instead of politicizing the issue, the Chief Minister himself should lead by example and subject himself to questioning. He emphasized the wastage of government resources and time in pursuing baseless allegations. The summon comes after the Punjab and Haryana High Court had earlier provided relief to Majithia, allowing him until July 8 to present himself before the SIT. During previous hearings, Majithias legal team argued harassment through repeated summonses. The case dates back to December 20, 2021, when police filed charges against Majithia during the Congress-led Government's tenure. Following the charges, he was detained for five months before being granted bail on August 10, 2022. Majithia has consistently denied any involvement in the alleged drug trafficking and criticized the lack of formal charges or recoveries made against him. SAD leaders legal representatives have argued that the continued harassment through summonses without substantive charges undermines justice and smacks of political vendetta. They have questioned the fairness of the investigation process, emphasizing the absence of concrete evidence to support the allegations. In a significant initiative to enhance the green cover across Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday called upon the farmers to plant at least four trees around their tube wells. Making the appeal during a meeting to review the states afforestation drive, Mann emphasized the urgent need to increase the forest cover in Punjab. He announced that the State Government has set an ambitious target of planting three crore saplings this year, launching a massive plantation drive in the coming days. Mann, highlighting the pivotal role of farmers, encouraged them to transform this campaign into a public movement. He compared their potential contribution to this environmental cause with their success in making India self-reliant in food production. Last year, we planted 1.2 crore saplings. This year, our goal is three crore, said the Chief Minister, while calling on the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to play an active role in this plantation drive, ensuring a significant enhancement of green cover across the State. Mann instructed the DCs to identify vacant government land in their districts for extensive plantation efforts. Chief Minister Mann underscored the importance of monitoring the plantation drive at the grassroots level. He revealed that Punjab has 14.01 lakh tube wells, and if every farmer plants four saplings around each well, the state's forest cover will increase substantially. He expressed pride in the fact that the government has already covered 3.95 lakh tube wells under this scheme, with plans to cover the remaining wells within the year. Quoting the Gurbani verse Pawan Guru, Paani Pitaah, Mata Dharat Mahat, Mann highlighted the spiritual significance of air, water, and land, equating them to teacher, father, and mother, respectively. He stressed the importance of integrating these teachings into daily life to restore Punjab's environmental heritage. The State Government is committed to this noble cause, and we need the support of every citizen, the Chief Minister said, adding, By planting more trees, we can collectively ensure a healthier and greener future for Punjab. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said that the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign initiated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on Environment Day has taken the form of a public campaign in the entire country. The target is to plant 5 crore 51 lakh saplings in the state. This is an attempt to awaken social consciousness towards environmental protection. Madhya Pradesh Police including plantation as its priority shows their sensitivity towards the environment. It is encouraging to see that along with the police personnel, their families are also considering tree plantation as their responsibility. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav praised the police functioning in the anti-Naxal campaign and the sensitivity of the police in maintaining law and order in the entire state. He said the police work effectively and the state government is with them. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav was addressing the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign organized at the 25th Battalion of Bhopal. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav plants Rudraksha sapling Chief Minister Yadav planted Rudraksha saplings and inaugurated the state-level program by releasing balloons in the sky. At the same time, 1 lakh 25 thousand saplings were planted simultaneously in the police units of the entire state. On his arrival, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav was welcomed by girls with tilak with the police band playing in the background. The Chief Minister was given a guard of honour. The Chief Minister visited the campus and interacted with the police personnel and members of police families who had gathered for the program. Director General of Police Shri Sudhir Saxena presented a memento to Chief Minister Dr. Yadav. PM Shri Modi added a human touch to campaign by linking plantations with mothers Chief Minister Yadav said that water, forest, and land connect us with nature and encourage the basic qualities of humanity. Destruction of forests and uncontrolled pollution have increased carbon emissions, which can be compensated only by planting trees. Prime Minister Modi has added a human and personal touch to the campaign by linking the plantations with mothers. Planting a tree in the name of mothers is a tribute to Indian culture. As per Prime Minister Shri Modi's call, we have to plant the sapling and take care of it till it grows five feet tall. Planting trees will inspire police families to protect the environment Director General of Police Shri Sudhir Saxena said that under the guidance of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam - Massive Tree Plantation' campaign organized by Madhya Pradesh Police in all the police units of the state will help in environmental protection by bringing the police personnel and their families closer to nature. Along with protecting the earth, it is also our responsibility to nourish the earth by planting trees. Three-year-old Vijayansh Kushwaha plants sapling with his mother On the instructions of the Director General of Police Shri Sudhir Saxena, police personnel and their families participated with enthusiasm in the tree plantation program organized in all the police units of the state. At the event in Bhopal, three-year-old Vijayansh Kushwaha came with his mother to plant saplings in police uniform. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav praised Vijayansh's enthusiasm and planted a sapling with him. On this occasion, many children planted saplings along with their mothers, and many policemen also planted saplings in the memory of their mothers with their photographs. The massive tree plantation campaign was celebrated in all the police units of the state including Bhopal. In line with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths vision, efforts are underway to beautify and adorn Prayagraj, ensuring that Maha Kumbh 2025 is a majestic event that offers an enriching spiritual experience. The Yogi government has allocated a budget of Rs 2,600 crore for the entire event, and at the same time, has sought CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) funds from organisations for enhancing arrangements and amenities at the Maha Kumbh Mela area. The Mahakumbh Mela Authority has invited government and non-governmental organisations to take part in the mega event by making CSR contributions. It is worth mentioning, the Mela Authority is meticulously preparing for Maha Kumbh 2025 to enhance the experiences of devotees, pilgrims, tourists, representatives of religious and voluntary organisations, as well as saints who would be coming to the event from across the globe. Participating organisations will have the opportunity to serve crores of devotees through their CSR funds and contribute to making this monumental event a global benchmark, aligning with government efforts to elevate its stature on the world stage. The government and non-governmental organisations can participate in Maha Kumbh 2025 by contributing to technology, health facilities, water, sanitation and hygiene, sustainability, safety and security, culture and heritage, infrastructure enhancement, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and mobility. Participating in this grand event provides organisations with a platform to showcase their services and products to a global audience. Their contributions can significantly enrich the experience of millions of devotees, earning them peoples appreciation and support. This engagement also fosters strong community bonds and enhances organisational visibility. Along with the Mela Authority, these organisations can contribute to making the Maha Kumbh Mela accessible to everyone. They will play a vital role in improving the devotees experience and ensuring the event is fulfilling from a spiritual perspective. Additionally, through digital interventions, they can make the event beneficial for the devotees and help establish it as a cultural legacy. The Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj will be held from January 13, 2025 to February 25, 2025. The mela area, spread over 40,000 hectares, is divided into 25 sectors. Each sector will have essential facilities related to health, cleanliness and security, along with camps, offices and community areas. The Yogi government is striving to make this event safe, accident-free and memorable. Prayagraj is being developed as a benchmark smart city. Efforts are being made to enhance the experience of devotees by using technology alongside tradition. Dedicated facilities are being established for citizens in Prayagraj and the fair area. Notably, 1.6 lakh tents are being set up, while a parking area is being created over 1,800 hectares. Ghats stretching 12 kilometres are being equipped with facilities for devotees. The Mela Authority is expanding its capacity to be able to accommodate an estimated 40 crore devotees. It is also estimated that around six crore devotees may attend the Maha Kumbh during the Mauni Amavasya from January 27 to January 30. An FIR was registered against a woman's family members for allegedly creating a ruckus and attacking doctors and staff members of a Delhi government hospital following her death during post-delivery surgery. The incident took place at Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital (GTBH) in east Delhi's Shahdara area on Tuesday morning. According to a statement issued by the Resident Doctors' Association (RDA) on Tuesday, a mob of 50 to 70 armed people stormed the premises of the hospital, vandalising property and attacking doctors and staff members. A woman, who was admitted at the hospital, died during a surgery after she gave birth to a child on Monday night. This angered her attendants and they attacked doctors on Tuesday morning, the statement said. A case under section 221 (obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions) and 132/3 (5) (assault or criminal force to deter public servant from discharge of his duty) of BNS was registered after a complaint was filed by the hospital late Tuesday night, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara) Surendra Chaudhary said. DCP Chaudhary said that on Tuesday morning, a call was received at GTB Enclave police station from the hospital that attendants of a patient, who died post her delivery, were creating a ruckus at the hospital. The police reached the spot and took the situation under control, he added. The accused have been identified as Zubair (20), the woman's husband, Mohammad Shoib (24), Zubair's brother, and Mohammad Naushad (57), the woman's father, the DCP said. Teams have been formed to nab the accused, he added. Meanwhile, senior and junior residents at the University College of Medical Science (UCMS) and GTB Hospital went on an indefinite strike following the incident on Tuesday. The doctors demanded strict action against the attackers and robust security management in the hospital. During the strike, they will attend only emergency services, the protesting doctors said. "The strike by junior and senior residents at UCMS and GTBH will continue indefinitely until their demands are met, including the issuance of an institutional FIR copy with legal charges, arrest of all accused, strengthened security with bouncer deployment, restricted attendance at hospital gates, regular police patrolling every 4-5 hours, and installation of panic call buttons in emergency areas," RDA president Dr Nitish Kumar said in a statement. Woman Public Relations Officer posted in the office of Panchayat and Rural Development Minister has committed suicide by hanging with the ceiling at her Saket Nagar house on Tuesday. Pooja was Assistant Director in the Public Relations Department. Police reached the spot after getting information about the incident. The body was sent to All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for postmortem. Before committing suicide, Pooja had called her mother and said, I am dying. Govindpura police said that Pooja Thapak lived with her family in Saket Nagar area. She had a dispute with her husband on Tuesday. After this, Pooja hung herself from the ceiling in the night on Tuesday. Pooja Thapak's husband Nikhil Dubey is also Assistant Director on deputation in the Technology Department. Pooja's maternal home is in Gwalior. Both Pooja and Nikhil had prepared for PSC together in Indore. Both came close to each other there. Pooja was selected as Assistant Director in 2017 and Nikhil was selected as Naib Tehsildar in 2018. Puja made her last call to her mother. Her mother is currently with her son in Bengaluru. Puja told her that she was going to die. Her mother immediately called and told this to her son-in-law Nikhil. When Nikhil reached the room, the gate was locked from inside. In about half an hour, somehow the gate was opened and Puja was taken down from the noose and taken to the hospital. Puja's father GN Thapak said that his daughter had an arranged marriage two years ago. Nikhil is addicted to drinking alcohol. His daughter used to oppose this. Her mother-in-law also used to quarrel over small things every day. When Pooja complained about this to Nikhil, he also took his mother's side and misbehaved with her. Pooja often mentioned this in her conversations with her mother. Thapak told that Pooja had gone to her brother's house in Bengaluru recently, fed up with the harassment of her husband and mother-in-law. On July 8, after a lot of persuasion by Nikhil, she returned to Bhopal by flight and started living with her husband. The very next day, on July 9, in the morning, Nikhil's mother quarreled with her daughter. Nikhil also scolded Pooja. After this, Pooja talked to her mother on the phone and told her that she was leaving for Gwalior. I live in Gwalior and practice as an advocate in Gwalior court. GN Thapak told that, the daughter even left for the station from her in-laws' house. Then the mother-in-law called and called her home and said, do not leave your innocent son and go. Take her with you. The daughter came to pick her up, there was a dispute again and at around 10:30 in the morning she hanged herself. Nikhil took her to the hospital. There the daughter was declared dead during treatment. However, the police were informed about the matter at night. We want action against those who forced the daughter to commit suicide at any cost. ACP Deepak Nayak said that there was a dispute going on between Pooja and Nikhil from before. Pooja had also complained about her husband. After counselling, both agreed to live together again. No suicide note has been found from the spot. Delhi Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj on Thursday said his department has renovated the regulators on 14 drains to avoid flooding in the national capital. He said the department has made pilot cuts wherever there were islands to facilitate movement of water. "Some of the locations include the ITO bridge, Old Railway bridge, near Vasudev Ghat. Making pilot cuts is a temporary measure to create an additional passage for the extra discharge during flood," he said. The department has also restored the regulator of drain number 12 near the WHO Building, which had broken during the flood last year causing areas like ITO to submerge, he said. The Indraprastha water regulator was breached July 17 last year due to a strong current in the Yamuna when the water level of the river reached its highest in 70 years, peaking at 208.66 metres, much above the danger mark of 205.33 metres. The previous high of 207.49 metres was recorded in 1978. "There are 14 drains that have regulators and they have all been restored. At the Tanga Stand regulator, the height of the gate has been increased from 3.45 metre to 4.45 metre. Similarly, the gate height at the Metcalf House regulator has also been increased from 3.25 metres to 4.25 metre," Bharadwaj added. The department also has plans to construct a stepped ramp at the Monastery market where there was heavy flooding last year. However, construction on the structure will be done after consultation with the market association, he said, adding that the issue is being coordinated by the district magistrates of east and central districts. Bharadwaj said the primary cause of flooding in Delhi was water being discharged into the Yamuna at Hathnikund barrage of Haryana, which is exacerbated by heavy rain. To protect the city, direct drainage discharge is halted through regulators when the river's level increases, warnings are issued at 204.5 metres, and evacuations begin at 205.33 metres, he said. The minister said the first level of warning is triggered when the discharge from Hathnikund Barrage for Yamuna river exceeds 1 lakh cusecs. At that time, public announcements are made to warn people. If the discharge exceeds 3 lakh cusecs, the people living on the river embankments will be warned and arrangement will be made to shift them to a safer location by the Revenue department, he said. The third warning is triggered when the discharge exceeds 5 lakh cusecs and in that scenario, people living in flood prone areas will be shifted to higher altitude place, he added. "In cities like Mumbai drainage water is discharged into the sea, but in Delhi, we have to discharge it into the Yamuna River. When the Yamuna's level increases then we stop the direct drainage discharge into the Yamuna, to prevent Yamuna's water from entering into the city. And when this happens then we're forced to use pumps to discharge the water. This year we're all geared up and pumps are ready," he said. He also said the water discharge from other states is minimal. "Once water is discharged from the mountains and Haryana, the first level of warning is issued in Delhi. It takes 36 to 72 hours for the water released from the Hathnikund Barrage to reach Delhi," Bharadwaj added. The Central Water Commission informs us about the probability, timing, and potential breach, he said, adding, last year, these arrangements were manual, but this year, everything is online. The Flood Control Department will receive real-time data on water levels, he said. "It should be noted that large towers are being built in the areas around Haryana's Najafgarh Lake, which might potentially cause floods in both Delhi and Haryana. On the Haryana side of Najafgarh Lake, these constructions are causing water to accumulate, posing a risk to both states. We have written to Haryana's Chief Secretary and the Chief Minister, requesting them to stop these constructions," the minister said. He said they are also working on desilting of drainage and have been successful in desilting 12,97,000 lakh metric tons. "We have also set up a flood control room in Shastri Nagar wherein we get real-time online updates," he added. July 10, 2024: The first of 85 American F16 fighters going to Ukraine became operational in Ukraine during May. Dozens of Ukrainian pilots have undergone training on how to operate the F-16. This training took place outside Ukraine at a U.S. Air Force base in Arizona. This is called transition training and more Ukrainian fighter pilots are undergoing it. One component of the training was the Ukrainian pilots learning to speak enough English to communicate with American pilots, ground crews and air traffic control operators. For international commercial aviation, English is required and is the common language of air traffic control worldwide. Transition training is now taking place in Denmark and Romania, which shares a border with Ukraine. The Netherlands and other NATO countries are training Ukrainian maintainers to keep the F-16s operational. Romania is spending billions of dollars to upgrade its military airbases and their support facilities. Romania believes that the Russian threat to nations bordering the Black Sea is long term. The Ukrainian pilots already operated Russian-designed jet fighters Ukraine had been using since the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991. Using those Soviet era fighters, Ukrainian pilots have already destroyed over 350 Russian fighters. That has been costly for the Ukrainians, who currently have only 56 operational Russian designed jet fighters. Ukraine had several hundred of these fighters when the war began in early 2022. The air war with the Russians has been active and while Russian pilots are well trained, they are often misused by Russian commanders and counterproductive Russian operational doctrine. During the last two years Ukrainian pilots have had to be resourceful to deal with Russian air defenses and interceptor aircraft. One tactic the Ukrainians developed was to fly very close to the ground and avoid detection by Russian aircraft radars. When the Ukrainian aircraft got close to where the Russian aircraft were operating in the air, the Ukrainian fighters flew up and ambushed Russian aircraft. Ukrainian fighters also had to frequently change air bases they operated from. That was because the Russian aircraft would attack Ukrainian air bases. To deal with that, the Ukrainians used numerous air bases for combat operations. This meant the air controller and maintainer personnel, along with their equipment, had to frequently move to another base to receive Ukrainian warplanes that had switched bases. It was common for Ukrainian warplanes to take off from one base with instructions to land at another base. The Russians continued to attack abandoned Ukrainian air bases so air force officials decided to have local construction companies keep repairing runways damaged by these useless Russian attacks, and restore damaged buildings. That keeps the Russians guessing about which Ukrainian bases are operational. The arrival of F-16s has forced Ukraine to upgrade their airstrips because the F-16 engine is closer to the ground and can ingest any debris lying on the airstrip. The U.S. Air Forces keeps its air strips spotless as a matter of course and now the Ukrainians will have to do the same. It has been traditional for Russian warplanes to be designed to operate from crude airstrips, even ones consisting of dirt instead of concrete. Ukrainian pilots who have completed their F-16 training are eager to use the F-16s against the Russians because F-16s have a lot more modern electronics installed and that gives them capabilities Russian warplanes dont have. Ukrainian F-16 pilots expect to increase the number of Russian warplanes they shoot down while also carrying out more precision ground attacks. Mihir Shah, the main accused in the BMW hit-and-run case and son of a Shiv Sena politician, was under the influence of alcohol when he allegedly rammed his luxury car into a two-wheeler here, killing a woman, a Mumbai police official said on Thursday. A probe team of the police recreated the accident scene in the early hours of the day to get more information about the chain of events and also confronted Mihir Shah (24) with his family driver and co-accused Rajrishi Bidawat, who was in the car at the time of the horrific crash in central Mumbai's Worli area. A woman, Kaveri Nakhwa (45), was killed and her husband Pradip injured after their two-wheeler was hit from the rear by a BMW allegedly driven by Mihir Shah at 5:30am on Sunday in Worli's arterial Anni Besant Road. The probe has found that Mihir Shah sped off towards the Bandra Worli Sea Link even as the woman remained on the bonnet of the car and then got entangled in its wheels for a distance of a more that 1.5 kilometres. The prime accused, who was arrested from Virar Phata in neighbouring Palghar district on Tuesday, is in cop custody till July 16 and being questioned by a team of the Worli police, the official said. "Our probe has found he was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. The crime scene involving the car hitting the two-wheeler and then dragging the victim was recreated in order to get more details," the official explained. "Mihir Shah and his driver Bidawat were confronted to get more clarity about the incident," he added. Mihir Shah, his father Rajesh Shah, a Shiv Sena politician from Palghar district, and their family chauffeur Bidawat have been named as accused in the high-profile case. The accused persons have been booked under various sections, including 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Rajesh Shah was granted bail by a Mumbai court on Monday after his arrest. In a related development, Bidawat was produced before Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (Sewree court) S P Bhosale at the end of his police remand on Thursday and sent to 14-day judicial custody. According to the police, after the crash Bidawat swapped driver's seat with Mihir Shah allegedly at the instruction of Rajesh Shah. Police sought further extension of his custody, saying the investigation in the case was still in progress. However, the court declined the police custody extension plea and sent the driver to jail. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Thursday made a strong pitch for greater democratisation of global governance structures such as the UN Security Council and the World Trade Organization (WTO). Addressing the 10th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in St. Petersburg in Russia, Birla said India was committed to uniting emerging markets and developing countries, and affirmed its dedication to the principles of mutual respect, understanding, equality, solidarity, openness, inclusiveness and consensus. He was speaking at the first plenary session on the theme of "The BRICS Parliamentary dimension: prospects for strengthening inter-parliamentary cooperation". Birla also welcomed the four new members -- Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates -- into the BRICS Parliamentary Forum. "BRICS, largely representing the interests of the developing world, stands for greater democratisation of the global governance system, and for reforming the international organisations such as the UN Security Council, WTO, at the global level," the Lok Sabha speaker said. Birla stressed on the importance of enhancing cooperation among BRICS members and other multilateral forums, and cited the Indian philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' -- "the world is one family". He said parliamentarians play a crucial role in advancing the agenda of growth and sustainable development, and asserted that the BRICS Parliamentary Forum was pivotal in this context. Birla called for the need to strengthen the BRICS Parliamentary Forum and welcomed India's stance of collaboration among BRICS parliaments to enhance cooperation and solidarity, reform global governance, improve multilateral organisations, promote economic recovery and accelerate the implementation of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. He also met Tulia Ackson, President of the International Parliamentary Union. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday told his Myanmarese counterpart U Than Shwe that India supports the return of democracy in Myanmar even as he strongly pressed for the early return of Indians "unlawfully" detained by gangs involved in cyber scams in Myawaddy town. At a meeting with U Than Shwe, Jaishankar also raised the issue of flow of illegal narcotics, arms trade and activities of insurgent groups along the Indo-Myanmar border. The talks took place on the sidelines of a retreat session of the foreign ministers of member nations of BIMSTEC grouping in Delhi. "Met with DPM and FM U Than Swe of Myanmar on the sidelines of BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers' Retreat. Shared our concerns regarding border stability and flow of displaced persons," Jaishankar said on 'X'. "Also spoke about issues of illegal narcotics and arms trade and activities of insurgent groups. Pressed strongly for the early return of Indians unlawfully detained by cyber scam gangs," he said. "India supports the return to democracy in Myanmar and engages all stakeholders in that regard," the external affairs minister added. Myanmar has been witnessing widespread violent protests demanding restoration of democracy since the military seized power in a coup on February 1, 2021. Jaishankar met Than Shwe, also Myanmar's deputy prime minister, last month as well when he transited through Delhi while returning to Myanmar from a foreign trip. Several parts of Myanmar have been witnessing intense fighting between the military junta and resistance forces. The resistance forces have already captured several towns. The anti-junta forces seized control of several military bases and a command centre at Myawaddy in April. India has been concerned over fake job scams in Myanmar as well. Around five weeks back, the Indian embassy in Myanmar called upon Indian nationals looking for jobs in that country to be careful so that they are not lured into fake or illegal employment. In an advisory, the embassy said an international crime syndicate is active in the Myawaddy region on Myanmar-Thailand border and urged Indians to exercise caution before taking up job offers in the region. It is learnt that around 100 Indians are trapped in Myawaddy at present after they fell victim of job scams. Separately, the foreign ministers of India, Thailand and Myanmar also held a trilateral meeting on the sidelines of the retreat. Besides India, the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) comprises Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan. The challenges arising out of instability in Myanmar figured in the trilateral meeting. Like India, Thailand also shares a border with Myanmar. "Held trilateral meeting with my counterparts Thailand FM @AmbPoohMaris and Myanmar DPM & FM U Than Swe. Our discussions focused on the connectivity projects, so crucial for the future of BIMSTEC," Jaishankar posted on 'X'. "Also exchanged views on border stability and humanitarian assistance. Countering transnational crimes including cyber, narcotics and illegal arms is a shared priority of all three nations. We will continue to cooperate in that regard," he said. The resistance forces in Myanmar have already captured many key trading points along the borders with India, China and Bangladesh. Rakhine state and many other regions have reported severe fighting between armed ethnic groups and the Myanmarese military since October last year. The hostilities between the two sides saw a rapid spike since November in several key Myanmarese towns and regions near the border with India as well fuelling concerns in New Delhi over the possible ramifications for security of Manipur and Mizoram. Myanmar is one of India's strategic neighbours and it shares a 1,640 kilometre-long border with a number of northeastern states including militancy-hit Nagaland and Manipur. In view of the violence and instability in border areas of Myanmar, Union Home Minister Amit Shah in January announced a plan to fence the border. Ahead of a floor test for Nepals embattled Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Friday, the Nepali Congress and CPN-UML have issued whips requiring their lawmakers to vote against the confidence motion tabled by the former guerrilla leader. KP Sharma Oli-led CPN-UML, the largest party in the ruling coalition, withdrew support from the Prachanda-led government last week after inking a power-sharing deal with the largest party in the House - Nepali Congress - to replace the former Maoist leader, who is expected to lose the confidence vote. The 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 much more than the 138 seats required for a majority in the lower house. Prachandas Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) has 32 seats. Prachanda, who requires 138 votes for the government to win the vote of confidence in the House, is likely to secure around 63 votes, and the government is almost sure to lose the floor test on Friday. The Nepali Congress (NC) has instructed its lawmakers to be present in the House and vote against Prachandas confidence motion. Similarly, the CPN-UML has also issued a whip requiring its lawmakers to vote against the motion, My Republica newspaper reported. This coordinated effort between the NC and the UML aims to oust the Prachanda-led government and establish new administrations at both federal and provincial levels. Oli, the CPN-UML chairperson, met Nepali Congress president Sher Bahadur Deuba on Wednesday. The meeting between the two leaders was aimed at formulating a future strategy on how to move forward after the Nepali Congress and the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) agreed to form a new coalition government. During the two-hour-long meeting held at Deubas residence at Budhanilkantha, on the outskirts of Kathmandu, the two leaders discussed matters such as collecting signatures in favour of the new coalition to be led by Oli and its submission to the president. They also discussed the formation of the new government and inviting other smaller parties to join the national consensus government being formed under the leadership of Oli, according to sources close to CPN-UML.The two parties have inked a deal to lead the government turn by turn for the remaining three-year period of the Parliament. According to the agreement, Oli will become the Prime Minister for one and a half years in the first stage. Last week, the CPN-UML demanded Prachandas immediate resignation after the prime minister said that he is preparing to face a vote of confidence in the Parliament on Friday, given the withdrawal of support by some allies. Prachanda, 69, has announced that he would not quit after the resignation of eight Cabinet ministers belonging to the CPN-UML and instead face a vote of confidence in Parliament. A new alliance government led by Oli, 72, and backed up by the Nepali Congress will be formed by Sunday, the sources said. Nepal has had 13 governments in the last 16 years, indicating the fragile nature of the Himalayan nations political system. PTI SBP GRS NSA ZH AKJ Yemens Houthi rebels likely fired an Iranian-made anti-ship cruise missile at a Norwegian-flagged tanker in the Red Sea in December, an assault that now provides a public, evidence-based link between the ongoing rebel campaign against shipping and Tehran, the US military says. A report by the US Defence Intelligence Agency released Wednesday linked the attack on the Strinda, which set the vessel ablaze, to Tehran, the Houthis main backer in Yemens nearly decadelong war. The findings correspond with those of a Norway-based insurers group that also examined debris found on the Strinda. It comes as the Houthis continue their monthslong campaign of attacks over the Israel-Hamas war, targeting ships in the Red Sea corridor, disrupting the USD 1 trillion flow of goods passing through it annually while also sparking the most intense combat the US Navy has seen since World War II. Irans mission to the United Nations, responding to questions from The Associated Press, again denied arming the Houthis despite the reports. We are aware that (the Houthis) have significantly developed their military capabilities relying on their very own sources, the mission said. The prolonged war against them is the primary factor behind the expansion of their military prowess. The Strinda was coming from Malaysia and was bound for the Suez Canal and then on to Italy with a cargo of palm oil when it was struck by a missile December 11. The attack sparked a major fire on board that the crew later extinguished without anyone being hurt. Debris found on board later was analysed by the US military. The DIA compared the pieces of the engine from the missile found on board to the Iranian Noor anti-ship ballistic cruise missile. The Iranian Tolu-4 turbojet engine, used in the Noor (missile), has unique features including the compressor stage and stator that are consistent with engine debris recovered from the ... Houthi attack on the M/T Strinda, the DIA report said. A stator is the stationary portion of an engine. Those pieces match images of a Tolu-4 engine that Iran displayed at the International Air and Space Show in Russia in 2017, the DIA said. Visually, the engines bore similarities in the photographs. The Noor was reverse engineered by Iran from the Chinese C-802 anti-ship missile, which Iran purchased from Beijing and began testing in 1996 before transfers stopped over a US pressure campaign. The Iranian version is believed to have a range of up to 170 kilometres, with an upgraded version called the Qader having a range up to 300 kilometres. The Houthis have a look-alike missile to the Qader called the Al-Mandeb 2 with a similar range. The Norwegian Shipowners Mutual War Risks Insurance Association, known by the acronym DNK, also examined the debris following the Strinda attack. The association assessed it was highly likely the vessel had been hit by a C-802 or Noor anti-ship cruise missile. Before the Houthis swept into Yemens capital, Sanaa, in 2014, the country did not have an arsenal of C-802 missiles. As the Saudi-led coalition entered Yemens conflict on behalf of its exiled government in 2015, the Houthis arsenal was increasingly targeted. Soon and despite Yemen having no indigenous missile manufacturing infrastructure newer missiles made their way into rebel hands. Iran long has denied arming the Houthis, likely because of a yearslong United Nations arms embargo on the rebels. However, the US and its allies have seized multiple arms shipments bound for the rebels in Mideast waters. Weapons experts as well have tied Houthi arms seized on the battlefield back to Iran. While the US has previously accused Iran of supplying the missiles the Houthis use in their attacks at sea, Wednesdays report provided photographic evidence for the first time. The report pointed to a seizure stemming from a Jan. 11 nighttime raid of an Iranian dhow travelling near the coast of Somalia, which saw two Navy SEALs killed. The Navy seized parts related to the Noor anti-ship cruise missile, the report said. The Houthis have launched seaborne attacks since 2016, when they hit the Emirati vessel SWIFT-1 with a missile as it sailed back and forth in the Red Sea between an Emirati troop base in Eritrea and Yemen. They also tried to attack the USS Mason, an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer, around the same time. But the Houthi attacks have rapidly escalated since November over the Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip. The rebels have targeted more than 70 vessels by firing missiles and drones in their campaign that has killed four sailors. They have seized one vessel and sank two in the time since. The Houthis maintain that their attacks target ships linked to Israel, the United States or Britain as part of the rebels support for the militant group Hamas in its war against Israel. However, many of the ships attacked have little or no connection to the war including some bound for Iran, which backs the Houthis. The Houthis probably have used Iran-supplied weapons to conduct more than 100 attacks against land-based targets in Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen and dozens of attacks targeting ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the DIA report said. The brief variation: Celebrated because of its music world and historic Main Street, Franklin, Tennessee, is among the leading towns to connect along with your special someone. From picnic areas about beautiful character tracks into the breweries on Masters & Makers Trail, Franklin produces a warm and inviting planet for partners on a romantic date or a weekend getaway. Whenever heading out for eating, you have got more than 100 eateries to pick from, so any yearning may be happy. You can easily seize a delicious hundred-layer donut at Five Daughters or see certainly principal Streets cafAs for a cup of coffee or nice tea. After-dinner, daters can head out into pubs to listen to live music. Whenever you visit Franklin, the slow-paced south atmosphere will put you in an intimate mood. Show Get alerts: Franklin, Tennessee, is actually a south city grounded on Americana. Its laid-back and soulful feeling merges previous practices and modern-day styles. The metropoliss variety, record, and character make visitors feel welcome. Its very south and courteous. Charming is unquestionably a term for it, mentioned Lauren Ward, Director of advertising & Communications for browseFranklin.com. Its a tremendously innovative area, also, with lots of painters and performers, obviously, but others who flock here the innovative feeling. i Franklin fulfills visitors along with its contemporary music world and tasty vittles, exactly what differentiates it from other places is actually its unusual small-town experience. As Lauren said, Weve heard people claim that if they visite de rencontre homme bid Franklin, they show up to decelerate in a way. They arrive to reconnect with each other in a slow-paced environment. It really is more of a slower, Southern, small-town allure sorts of place. Which makes it suitable for partners interested in romance. 1. Explore the Masters & Makers path for drink, Beer & Spirits Winding through Williamson County, the Masters & manufacturers path takes you through a beautiful countryside where custom and hospitality issue. Across the walk, youll be able to visit two distilleries, a winery, and two breweries while immersing yourself inside local tradition. Lauren recommended Arrington Vineyards to partners on a date. the greatest day area is Arrington, she said. theyve a scenic neglect and swings and picnic benches. Youll be able to deliver a picnic and drink wine. Arrington Vineyards features 18 award-winning wines, and that means youre certain to find an antique to please the palate. i H Clark Distillery is a must-stop on path for spirited partners in Franklin. By providing handcrafted, small-batch spirits, H Clark changes everyday materials into the best spirits feel. These artisan productions consist of Tennessee Bourbon, Black & Tan Whiskey, Tennessee Dry Gin, and brand-new Whiskey. 2. Savor Mouthwatering Comfort Food Franklin features significantly more than 100 restaurants, cafAs, bakeries, and eateries. The initial culinary scene provides a little bit of anything from neighborhood comfort food types to globally impressed cooking. The Circa Grill serves trademark cocktails and sophisticated Southern cooking. You may enjoy traditional meals from chicken and waffles for breakfast to pan-seared duck breast for supper in a modern setting. Partners can purchase some bubbly and enjoy the popular breads dessert or house-made donuts for a sweet conclusion towards day. Formerly Gray medication Co., Grays on Main reimagines Franklins ancient sources by the addition of craft spirits and unconventional types. They are known for their unique pre-Prohibition beverage bar, Lauren stated. just what adds to the experience may be the distinctive atmosphere for the former pharmacy. They have retained that look and experience. i Regarding second-floor, youll find a bar and music hall where you can lounge all night. The stylish 3rd floor is actually for SOCIETY dinner pub people only. The Grays holder, Michael Cole, seized the substance on the place as he mentioned, At Grays, we say we have been conserving our very own last for the future. Invest a night at Grays to test the traditional flavors of Tennessee with a-twist. Got a sweet enamel? Then you have to end by Five Daughters, a bakery recognized for their hundred-layer doughnuts. its a cross within croissant and donut, Lauren mentioned. Its unbelievable. The family-owned bakery tends to make all its donuts from scratch without any preservative chemicals, GMOs, hydrogenated essential oils, soya, or synthetic tones or tastes. It is possible to divide these sweet treats with your lover and enjoy top time spots Franklin has provide. 3. Live musical & Nightlife the Tennessee Way Many famous blues and country performers came from Tennessee, and Franklin happily upholds the states music legacy. Since 1937, the Franklin Theatre has captivated residents with film matinees, theatrical occasions, and alive activities by music stories. The Franklin Theatres tagline is aThe Residence of First Kisses, therefore itd be an amazing location for a night out together, Lauren mentioned. Its a motion picture household still but mostly a concert venue and level performance location. You should have A-listers doing an acoustic ready for 300 people. There are certain items that embark on indeed there. You can also find live songs around every street part regarding ancient primary road. Check out McCrearys Irish Pub for initial Celtic folk-music or Pucketts Leipers Fork for open mic evening. Plus, if you wish to serenade your big date, youll head to Pucketts Grocery & eatery on Fourth opportunity on Thursday for nation songs. i Franklin can also be a hot spot for celebrations where folks satisfy, mingle, and fall-in really love. The Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival appeals to visitors from all over the country. Every September, the two-day event delivers A-list skill, such as Justin Timberlake and Eddie Vedder, to a horse farm half a mile from downtown Franklin. Youve got great music, meals demonstrations, all types of social encounters around throughout the farm, and stores, Lauren said. a year ago there was clearly a few who found at Pilgrimage, and they eventually had gotten married. Now its going to be their unique yearly gathering travel. 4. Head to the Farm for a Fun energy With Four-Legged Friends Commune with character and wildlife with your companion if you take on a daily basis at certainly one of Franklins functioning facilities. Happy Ladd Farms hosts over 100 friendly pets and amazing livestock. Pet furry pals, carry on a wagon journey, stroll some character trails, and make certain for one glass of happy Ladd Farms popular nice tea before you go. Create a stop at country shop for gourmet treats to savor in your drive residence. If youre going to Franklin during the fall, be sure to visit Gentry Farm to spend a night out together in the great outdoors. Youll check out cornfield mazes, walk down a nature trail, or hop on a wagon journey through softly running hills observe the cows grazing in the field. You can sip on new apple cider while connecting with your big date on 100-acre farm. Admission only prices $8, and vehicle parking is free of charge, so this is a family-friendly big date activity that will not break your budget. Franklin: A Laid-Back Town ideal for soothing Dates Located in the middle of the Southern, Franklin is the perfect destination to allocate recovery time with your relative. we have a good food scene, but its actually getting flame and getting a hot food world, Lauren said. Probably thats the big after that way were going. For a calming getaway with a number of south comforts, Franklin usually suits the bill. Whether youre in the feeling for comfort meals, handcrafted spirits, or real time music performances, this friendly neighborhood does not disappoint. July 10, 2024: Much has changed in this region since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Central Asia is the nations of Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. These five nations have a total population of 77 million and nearly all adults are literate, compared to 27 percent literacy in Afghanistan. Decades of peace have enabled the local economies to prosper, with total GDP growing from $347 billion in 2021 to nearly $500 billion by the end of the decade. Kazakhstan, which has oil deposits, has the highest per capita GDP of $33,000. Worst off is Kyrgyzstan, which has no known natural resource to export and a population of only 7.2 million, which explains its low per capita GDP of $6,300. Central Asians are largely Moslem and their young men were aware of the fighting involving Islamic terrorists in the Middle East and neighboring Afghanistan. Over the last two decades, thousands of young men who sought to join Islamic terror groups could not do it in Central Asia. Instead these men had to travel somewhere else to act on their impulse to be active Islamic terrorists. Many Central Asian men joined ISIL, but not in Central Asia. With the elimination of the ISIL caliphate in Syria and Iraq in 2018, there were lots of documents and survivors, like families of ISIL men, some ISIL members, and local civilians, who could be questioned and lots of data analyzed. The results were some accurate numbers about Central Asian participation in ISIL though the end of 2018. As many as 5,000 Central Asians made it to Syria. Over half survived and got out. More worrisome was the fact that for every Central Asian who tried to get into Syria, two or three were stopped at the Syrian border in Turkey and turned back or, in a few cases, arrested. The Turks collected data on those turned away and some of those were later captured or killed in Syria. Some of those turned back eventually made it in, but few returned home to become active Islamic terrorists. That is the pattern; many get radicalized, leave, and never return. Because the potential Islamic terrorists left Central Asia and few returned, during the twenty years there were few Islamic terror attacks in Central Asia. After each of these the response was swift and usually led to the capture of those responsible and others who were among the usual suspects but not known to be active. This effective counterterror response motivated many radicalized young men to seek a safer nation in which to defend Islam with extreme violence. Most of the nations involved here used to be part of the Soviet Union and still have effective secret police and local dictators to ruthlessly suppress dissent. People are putting up with this so far but popular anger about corruption and inefficient government is growing. The region has become an economic and diplomatic battleground for Russia and China, and China is winning. This is something Russia doesnt like to discuss, but among Russians the real threat is from the east, not the west. China brings trade and prosperity, which Central Asians take advantage of. The one enduring problem in Central Asia is poor government. This is the result of decades of misrule by the Soviet Union until 1991, when the Soviet Union collapsed and the five Central Asian states among the fourteen states to emerge from the Soviet Union, which had long been called by westerners, the Prison House of Nations. Local rule soon devolved into a form of local dictatorship with the dictator forced to behave in order to prevent a violent revolution. This allowed the new free-market economy to prosper, provide a better life for most Central Asians, and enough money for corrupt local rulers to live well and protect the new economies. July 11, 2024: Russian forces still control Ukraines Crimean Peninsula and its major port of Sevastopol. Thats where the Russian Navy is hiding one of their Kilo Class submarines that was damaged during a September 2023 Ukrainian missile attack. The Ukrainians have been systematically destroying all the dry dock facilities in Sevastopol ever since to prevent repairs being made on the Kilo class sub trapped in the port. Currently the Russians are trying to keep the Kilo safe from Ukrainian attack by covertly moving it around and keeping it hidden or camouflaged. Despite that, the Kilo has suffered additional damage and is now believed to be irreparable. The Ukrainians are taking no chances, continue to attack it and will keep that up until they are sure the submarine is destroyed. The reason for this is that an operational Kilo class submarine operating out of Sevastopol could threaten Ukrainian control of the Black Sea around Crimea and the Black Sea west coast. This enables Ukraine to use their major ports to continue exporting Ukrainian goods and importing needed commercial and military items. In 2023 the Ukrainians used locally made Sea Baby USVs (Unmanned Surface Vessel) to gain control of the waters around Crimea and the Black Sea west coast, where NATO countries like Romania occupy most of the coastal areas. Sea Baby carries 859 kg of explosives and has a range of 1,000 kilometers. These new USVs are cheap, costing $216,000 each. Ukraine used USVs for the first time in 2022 when one was used to attack ships in Crimeas Sevastopol Bay. An optional weapon for the new Sea Baby USV is six launching tubes for RPV-16 thermobaric rockets. These rockets have a range of 600 meters. The warhead detonates when it hits a target creating a cloud 2,500 degree heat that can kill or injure personnel within 80 meters of the detonation. First used by Ukrainian ground troops, in one case an RPV-16 warhead hit the room of a single story building, detonated, and destroyed the entire building. At sea, if one of these warheads landed on the deck of a warship the damage to any nearby personnel or weapons would be catastrophic. A hit against the hull could sink the ship, or at least put it out of action because of a hole at the waterline. Thermobaric explosives dont work underwater, only in the atmosphere. Because of Ukrainian attacks since 2022 with USVs, UAVs, and missiles, the Russian Black Sea Fleet lost 14 ships with several others badly damaged and towed to more distant portions of the Black Sea, including the Sea of Azov extension in the northeast and the more distant naval base at Novorossiysk on the Black Seas eastern coast. The remaining ships of the Black Sea Fleet include six guided missile cruisers, one corvette, seven diesel attack submarines, seven landing ships and dozens of high-speed landing craft, sea-going minesweepers, anti-saboteur boats, missile boats and anti-submarine ships. These ships rarely leave their well-guarded ports, even for a few days, because of the Ukrainian USVs that might be waiting for them. Ukrainian USVs are low in the water and are difficult to detect during the day and impossible to see at night. Ukraine has several USV models, including the original Sea Baby, Mother, Malyuk and MAGURA. Sea Baby and Mother were developed by the Ukrainian Navy with assistance from the SBU secret service organization. At the end of 2023 Ukraine revealed an updated Mother USV with a top speed of 100 kilometers an hour. Manufacture of these USVs is done in underground production facilities to avoid Russian missile and guided bomb attacks. Malyuk was used in a mid-2023 Kerch Bridge attack, carrying 850 kg of explosives to inflict significant damage on the bridge. MAGURA carries 320 kg of explosives while Mamai carries 450 kg. These USVs are no longer used just for delivering explosives against a target, as they can also be used for reconnaissance when equipped with video cameras that broadcast what they see back to the USV operator. Some USVs have been armed with small rocket launchers. Malyuk has a range of over 700 kilometers, which means they are suitable for operations on the high seas. Endurance is about 60 hours, and top speed is over 70 kilometers an hour. MAGURA has similar characteristics. Mamai was used in the long range attack at the distant naval base at Novorossiysk on Russias Black Sea eastern coast, which is a thousand kilometers from Crimea. July 11, 2024: The Israeli government has for the past 4-5 months only pretended to try to eliminate Hamas in Gaza. Its problem is purely political and self-inflicted. They cant agree on how to rule Gaza after eliminating Hamas because their choices are all bad, worse and horrible, and so are slow rolling the elimination of Hamas. This dithering has caused many problems in and for the United States, and for Israel in the United Nations. Most Palestinians live in or immediately adjacent to Israel. Two million of Israels 9.8 million population are Palestinians. The Gaza Strip contains 365 square kilometers of territory and 2.1 million Palestinians. The West Bank contains 5,655 square kilometers and 4.1 million Palestinians. Gaza has had many rulers over the last century. A century ago Gaza was administered by British officials and occupied by British troops. After 1945 Gaza was ruled by Egyptian officials. In 1956 a war between several Arab states and Israel was won by the Israelis, who also captured Gaza but then withdrew. The 1967 Arab Israeli war saw Gaza once more captured by the Israelis and administered by them until 2005 when, after an 11 year process, Israeli forces withdrew and a local Palestinian government (Al Fatah, which also ruled the West Bank) took over. In 2006 Hamas, a radical Palestinian group that had taken refuge in Egypt, won Palestinian elections for a united Palestinian government. The West Bank Palestinian leaders refused to accept Hamas rule and there was fighting between Fatah and Hamas factions. Israel did not want this violence to spread into Israel and blockaded Gaza, only letting people in or out who were unarmed and had a good reason, like medical care or visiting relatives the Israeli knew about. Hamas continued to recruit Palestinian men to join their force and obtained weapons to arm them. Hamas completely took over in Gaza in 2007 while Fatah remained in control of the West Bank. By 2023 Hamas forces in Gaza had ground to about 30,000 men though there were also other rival armed Palestinian and non-Palestinian terrorist groups, and there had been several mini wars between Hamas and Israel since 2007. In October 2023, most of the armed Hamas fighters attacked Israel. About half of the 3,000 attacking Hamas fighters were killed while attacking Israeli forces. The IDF (Israeli Defense Forces) lost 376 troops and 767 civilians were killed as well. Having failed to advance, surviving Hamas gunmen stayed in Gaza and waged a guerilla war against the attacking IDF. Hamas also took 251 Israeli civilians and soldiers captive and is trying to bargain with Israel to get thousands of imprisoned Palestinians freed in return for their Israeli captives. So far Israel is not willing to release thousands of convicted Hamas and other Palestinian killers to get 251 soldiers and civilians back. Instead IDF forces have been searching for the hostages and fighting Hamas gunmen who are guarding them. Hamas has been much less of a problem in the West Bank where Fatah security forces, with some assistance from the IDF, have kept Hamas out. Hamas leaders, especially Ismail Haniyeh, have lived in the Persian Gulf state of Qatar for several years and control $11 billion dollars donated to Hamas by various western and charitable groups and Arab governments as well several hundred million dollars a year from Iran. In theory this money should be used to make life easier, or at least bearable, for Palestinians living in Gaza. That does not happen because Hamas steals the money as well as foreign aid from Western countries. Israel sends food aid, accompanied by a military escort that fights armed Hamas members seeking to steal the aid. As of mid-2024, this remains the situation in Gaza and the West Bank. by Austin Bay July 10, 2024 On July 8, Reuters reported Belarus and China were conducting joint military exercises a few kilometers from the Belarus-Poland border. No one sane would associate the exercise's code name, Falcon Assault, with peace-keeper training. Poland also borders Ukraine, which is due south of Belarus. In February 2022, Russian tanks and mechanized infantry positioned in Belarus attacked Ukraine's capital, Kyiv. Poland, however, is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. NATO, the most successful military alliance in world history, turned 75 this year. This week, Washington hosts NATO's annual summit. Which brings us back to Falcon Assault and Chinese forces maneuvering near a NATO border. If it's meant to be a disruptive publicity stunt, it's a stupid stunt. Take it for what it is: a confident regime propagandist's show of force on NATO's eastern flank. In a mid-June speech, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, "China is the main supporter of Russia's war efforts in Europe." Stoltenberg has done the math. China's sanction-skirting appetite for Russian energy pumps Russia's war treasury, purchasing North Korean artillery ammo, Iranian drones and mercenary infantry from Africa and Central Asia. Two decades (seven if you count Tibet) of misbehavior demonstrate Communist China has little regard for borders. Beijing's air and naval forces routinely intrude on Taiwanese and Japanese air and sea space. Chinese naval paramilitary forces joust with Filipino forces over shoals. In 2016, the Hague arbitration court ruled China illegally exploited the Philippines' maritime exclusive economic zone. Lawless Beijing ignored the ruling. Poland's border differs from the Philippines' and Ukraine's. Call it the NATO difference. An attack on a NATO nation (direct attack on its territory or its "forces, vessels and aircraft") triggers the NATO Treaty's Article 5. While Article 5 doesn't automatically commit members to direct combat, it does mean an aggressor will in some form or fashion be at war with all 32 NATO member nations. That's the deal that won the Cold War. One for all and all for one. The Three Musketeers Clause. NATO is a deterrent alliance, which distinguishes it from most other historical alliances. NATO's deterrent nature means active relations and commitments continue even in the absence of a war. In fact, no war is NATO's goal. NATO has bullets. Sample statistic: Of the 28 aircraft carriers on the planet, 18 belong to NATO nations. NATO backs the battlefield with beans and banks. In 2023, the 32 current NATO nations, with roughly 10% of the world's population, had a combined GDP of $46 trillion -- about 45% of total global GDP. But there's the rub. Stoltenberg addressed it in his June speech. To paraphrase, in 2014 when NATO members promised to invest 2% of GDP in defense, "only three Allies met that mark" (U.S., Britain, Greece). In 2018, some 10 members reached 2%. But "I can already now reveal that this year more than 20 Allies will spend at least 2% of GDP on defense." I'll add this: The 2018 increase came after former President Donald Trump demanded Canada and Europeans reach the 2% threshold. For some reason, major media choose to portray Trump's policy as destructive rather than a savvy way to boost collective NATO defense spending -- for the good of all. International defense relationships are akin to business relationships. They are based on common interests and mutual trust supported by real-world transactional acts demonstrating trust. Two percent is really a bare minimum. The Ukraine war, Iran's various proxy army attacks and China's threats in the western Pacific are very real, and current Free World military capacity has not deterred the aggressors. NATO and other U.S. allies need to modernize, and in some cases, rebuild their military capabilities. If you want peace, prepare for war. The maxim is attributed to Scipio Africanus, the Roman general who defeated Hannibal -- but Plato mulled the idea. If they want peace, for the next 10 years NATO nations and their Pacific allies must spend 3% of GDP on defense. Current U.S. defense spending? About 3%. Britain is set to lose 17% of its millionaires over the period of 2023 to 2028 in a mass exodus, according to the Swiss investment bank UBS, which published its annual Global Wealth Report recently. With all the wealth leaving the UK, there is a question who is going to pay the vast Benefits, NHS, Social Care welfare bill? Along with the mass exodus of millionaires, there will be a mass exodus of companies, businesses and professionals, adding to the brain drain and wealth deficit. Britain under Labour will deter business and entrepreneurship and cause many wealthy people to leave these shores but will have an open door policy for poor unskilled migrants from outside the UK seeking UK benefits. This is a reversal of wealth in a country already teetering on the precipice of bankruptcy itself. The problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other peoples money. Margaret Thatcher By implementing punitive tax regimes, Labour is shooting itself in the foot because the people who usually pay for Britains enormous welfare and benefits system will disappear. The way that socialism works is that capitalist business people and workers have to pay for the welfare system which dominates most of Britain. Essentially, Labours idiotic actions will mean that Britains already stretched welfare system will not be funded, and as always the people who will suffer the most in this situation will be the people at the bottom of the rung. SDLP MLA for Mid Ulster Patsy McGlone and a delegation of SDLP activists from the constituency were in Dublin on 10th July where they attended the unveiling of a portrait of Senator Billy Fox. The event was a commemoration of the Fine Gael Senator to mark the 50th Anniversary of his death after being shot by an IRA gunman in 1974 after he interrupted a raid on a County Monaghan farmhouse. The portrait was painted by the Polish artist Nina Ruminska in her home studio in County Monaghan and was unveiled by Cathaoirleach, Senator Jerry Buttimer, and Taoiseach Simon Harris TD. Speaking afterwards Mid Ulster MLA Mr McGlone said, The Mid Ulster SDLP was honoured to attend the unveiling of the portrait of Senator Billy Fox to mark the 50th Anniversary of his death. The event was a wonderful commemoration of a remarkable man. Senator Fox was a member of the Church of Ireland and has been described as a fierce defender of civil rights across this island. He was also the only Member of the Oireachtas to be murdered during the conflict in the North. At the event we met members of different parties keen to pay tribute to the memory of Senator Fox, including Fine Gael Senator Emer Currie, who was born in County Tyrone, Fine Gaels Frank Feighan TD, and Chairman of the Fianna Fail Parliamentary Party, Brendan Smith TD. During the day, as well as meeting the new Taoiseach Simon Harris, we met former Finance Minister and Fianna Fail TD Michael McGrath, who has been nominated as Ireland next European Commissioner." A man whose bail conditions prohibit him from having contact with his mother appeared at Derry Magistrate's Court today charged with breaching his bail. Sean Walsh (21) of Patrick Street in Derry appeared charged with breaching his bail by being in contact with his mother and being in the Creggan area again in breach of his bail conditions. A police officer told the court that the conditions had been put in place in order to protect the defendant's mother and police had found Walsh in her company in Creggan breaching his bail. Defence counsel Sinead Rogan said that the defendant just wanted to see his mother but should not have done so. She said that there had been 'no violence or new offences' and added that the defendant had 'a limited record'. Deputy District Judge John Rea said he would release Walsh on bail again but told the defendant this was his 'last chance'. Walsh will appear again on August 23. A mock police car has been burned on top of a bonfire in Co Tyrone. Bonfires are set to be lit at an estimated 300 locations in loyalist areas across Northern Ireland for the annual July 11 commemorations before thousands of Orange Order members take part in marches on July 12. One of the first bonfires to be lit was in a yard in the area in Moygashel, near Dungannon, on Wednesday night. Hundreds of pallets were placed in a cylindrical tower to create the structure. A Vauxhall car decorated like a PSNI vehicle was placed on top of the bonfire prior to the burning. The bonfire was also adorned with an Irish tricolour flag and a banner reading Saoirse don Phalaistin an Irish phrase for Freedom for Palestine. Hundreds of people gathered to watch the towering pyre burn. The unstable structure quickly toppled over into some trees. Kenny Donaldson, director of the South East Fermanagh Foundation victims group, said the burning of the fake police car was wrong on every level, as he rejected an assertion that it represented artistic expression. Mr Donaldson said: Some will claim that this is just a bit of crack and that those who have issues with it are way too sensitive or motivated by anti-Protestant/unionist cultural bias. Let us be clear why we oppose this action: each and every member of the PSNI puts their life on the line each and every day within a society where there remains individuals committed to murdering them. Mr Donaldson paid respect to the families of murdered PSNI officers Stephen Carroll and Ronan Kerr, as well as those who had survived attempts on their life, including Peadar Heffron and John Caldwell. He added: Those who stand by this development and do not speak out against it are complicit with this terrible misjudgment which has caused hurt and bewilderment amongst the police community and amongst many others. It is not the first time a bonfire in the area has attracted significant attention. In 2023, a boat was placed on top of the pyre in Moygashel, themed as an anti-Northern Ireland Protocol bonfire. The vessel was to represent unionist and loyalist communities opposition to post-Brexit trading arrangements across the Irish Sea. The boat was adorned with an Irish flag, a picture of then-taoiseach Leo Varadkar and a banner that read: Good Friday Agreement? That ship has sailed. The Prince of Wales will state his belief that homelessness can be ended when he marks the first anniversary of his ambitious project to eradicate the issue. William will visit the London Borough of Lambeth where, 12 months ago, he launched his five-year Homewards initiative that aims to tackle all forms of homelessness, which touches the lives of far too many people. During the past year, the Homewards teams in six UK locations have been building collaborations between the public, private and third sectors with the aim of laying foundations. Homebase pledged 1 million to the project, which is also supported by Pret-a-Manger. The coffee chain has also expanded its scheme employing the homeless. The princes commitment to tackling the social issue reflects his understanding of the trauma experienced by rough sleepers, an official advocate for the project has suggested. In a speech in Lambeth, one of Homewards six locations, William is expected to say: Its fantastic to be back in Lambeth, where a year ago we launched Homewards and began our journey of working together to demonstrate that it is possible to end homelessness Homelessness is a complex societal issue and one that touches the lives of far too many people in our society. However, I truly believe that it can be ended. Today we are incredibly proud to unveil #Homewards a UK-wide programme to end homelessness, launched alongside The Royal Foundation @HomewardsUK pic.twitter.com/4sybTg9Faz The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) June 26, 2023 Sabrina Cohen-Hatton, chief fire officer for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, who experienced homelessness as a teenager, is an official Homewards advocate and suggested the prince had empathy for rough sleepers because of his own life experiences. When a teenager, William suffered the trauma of the death of his mother Diana, Princess of Wales, who had been taking the young royal and his brother to homeless shelters to broaden their horizons. He understands trauma, he does understand trauma, said Ms Cohen-Hatton. She added: He can see echoes of it in himself I think, from that experience of trauma and how it affects you and how it affects the way you see things. Ms Cohen-Hatton slept rough intermittently for two years from the age of 15 in her home town of Newport, South Wales after family life broke down following the death of a parent, and she credits selling the Big Issue magazine as providing the funds and confidence to break the cycle. She stressed it was difficult accessing support in the midst of homelessness: When youre experiencing the constant threat and the danger from the people around you, when you dont have enough to eat let alone enough to think, its really hard to reach out and to take those services. The senior fire officer did not talk about her period of sleeping rough for more than 20 years because of the associated stigma but said one of her roles as an advocate was to talk about changing the stigma and challenging peoples perceptions of homelessness. William is said to be in almost daily contact with Homewards senior management and has been welcoming advocates like broadcaster Gail Porter and Ms Cohen-Hatton to Windsor Castle for discussions. A forthcoming ITV documentary, which has followed the prince during Homewards first year, will feature the senior fire officer taking a former long-term homeless man to meet William and tell his story. Homelessness in various forms, from children living in temporary accommodation to rough sleepers in the capital, has reached record highs. Government statistics published in April showed there were 145,800 children in temporary accommodation by December 31 last year, up by a fifth on 20 years ago when records for this measure began. The official figures showed there were a total of 112,660 households in bedsits or hotels in England, of which 71,280 were households with children. In London, 11,993 people were seen sleeping rough in the year to March, according to the latest Combined Homelessness and Information Network (Chain) statistics. Matt Downie, chief executive of homeless charity Crisis, a Homewards sector partner, said about the issue: We are facing some really, really tough times. Homelessness is going up but actually, the evidence to end homelessness has never been better. Moving from managing to ending homelessness was a big mental leap that Homewards was helping to drive, and prevention was a key aim, as the types of people at risk of losing their homes could be identified. He highlighted Finlands success in reducing the number of homeless families to less than 150 since 2008, results Homewards hopes to replicate and its team are liaising with the Finns. The Scandinavians began by housing long-term rough sleepers quickly before moving on to the general population and now night shelters are no longer needed. Mr Downie said tackling the problem would be hard work as there was no silver bullet here but, speaking on behalf of the homelessness sector, he said about Homewards this is special, this is big and this will help us make a step change in the fight to tackle and end homelessness. Homewards aims to develop bespoke solutions to homelessness in Newport, three neighbouring Dorset towns Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch Lambeth, Belfast, Aberdeen and Sheffield, that in the future can be replicated in other UK areas. The second year will turn collaboration into action said Homewards management and in the autumn, each location will publish action plans that reflect their needs, from targeting families and young people in Sheffield to people living in care and women in Northern Ireland. The initiative was recently given a boost worth 1 million from DIY retailer Homebase, which has pledged up to 1,500 home starter packs, featuring everything from paint to furniture, to help people housed by Homewards turn a property into a home. It is one of 11 companies or activators providing expertise and in-kind support alongside Pret A Manger, which is helping an additional 500 people experiencing homelessness get jobs at its outlets as part of the firms Rising Stars programme. The global property firm Knight Frank was named as the latest business supporter as was international law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer. HIGHLIGHTS Samsung held its Unpacked event last night, unveiling a slew of products. At the Galaxy Unpacked event, Google also made its presence, announcing four Google updates coming to Samsungs latest devices. Samsungs new Galaxy Watch lineup, including the Watch Ultra and Watch 7, will be the first smartwatches powered by Wear OS 5. Samsung held its Unpacked event last night, unveiling a slew of products that are set to redefine the tech landscape. With a focus on integrating advanced AI capabilities, Samsung launched the Galaxy Z Fold 6, Galaxy Z Flip 6, and the much-awaiting Galaxy Ring. Additionally, the tech giant also unveiled Galaxy Watch Ultra, Galaxy Watch 7, Galaxy Buds 3 Pro, and Galaxy Buds 3. At the Galaxy Unpacked event, Google also made its presence, announcing four Google updates coming to Samsungs latest devices, including the Galaxy Z Flip 6, Z Fold 6 and the newest Galaxy Watches. Lets take a look at what updates Google announced during the event. Also read: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 with AI features launched: Specs, availability and more Get suggestions from Gemini based on whats on your screen With the Gemini app on Android, you have a powerful AI assistant at your fingertips. You can easily learn about the world around you, find the perfect words, and create images instantly. Geminis deep integration with Google apps like Gmail, Docs, Maps, and Drive ensures seamless assistance in your daily tasks. With the new Galaxy Z series, Gemini will soon offer smart suggestions based on your screen content. Simply swipe from the corner or say Hey Google to access Gemini. For instance, if youre watching a YouTube video, a prompt like Ask about this video will pop up. The Galaxy Z Fold 6s expansive screen enhances multitasking, allowing you to use the Gemini overlay in a split-screen mode while watching a video. These updates for the Galaxy series are set to roll out in the coming months. Circle to Search on the new Galaxy Z Series Earlier this year, Google announced Circle to Search, an easy way to search on your Android device without switching apps. Since then, the tech giant has been improving this feature. For instance, Google added translation capabilities and homework help to Circle to Search for a range of physics and math problems. And starting later this month, Circle to Search will help you learn more complex topics like symbolic math and scan barcodes and QR codes on your screen. Circle to Search is also supported on tablets and foldables, like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and the Flip 6, and will come to more Samsung devices later this year. Wear OS 5 on the new Galaxy Watches Samsungs new Galaxy Watch lineup, including the Watch Ultra and Watch 7, will be the first smartwatches powered by Wear OS 5. These smartwatches offer advanced health monitoring capabilities, including heart rate tracking and sleep monitoring, and a personalised health experience, as well as access to a wide range of apps in Google Play. YouTube TV in multiview On the latest Galaxy Z Fold 6, YouTube TV subscribers will be able to watch in multiview, enjoying up to four different streams at the same time. Taiwan's AI dichotomy: leading the hardware revolution but lagging in software support As Taiwan powers the world's AI ambitions, its software startups face an uphill battle for survival. In the bustling tech landscape of Taiwan, a dichotomy is shaping the future of artificial intelligence. On one hand, Taiwan stands as an indispensable cog in the global AI machinery, providing the critical computing power needed for innovations across the globe. On the other hand, its own AI software industry grapples with systemic challenges, struggling to find its footing amidst a landscape skewed heavily in favor of hardware giants. Sega Cheng, CEO of iKala, a prominent AI software company in Taiwan, provides a candid overview of this paradox. "Taiwan has always been integral to the tech supply chain, especially in hardware manufacturing," he says. While Taiwan has cemented its place as a critical player in AI hardware manufacturing, Cheng is less optimistic about the island's prospects in AI software development. "Taiwan doesn't really have an AI industry," he states bluntly. "We are part of the AI industry chain, primarily offering the computing power for AI applications worldwide. Credit: DIGITIMES Taiwan's AI Dilemma: Hardware Strength, Software Struggle This hardware-centric approach has led to a "sectoral imbalance" in Taiwan, with resources heavily concentrated in semiconductor manufacturing. This has resulted in a stock market boom for chip manufacturing and design firms and foundries. On July 4th, TSMC's stock price surpassed NT$1,000 per share for the first time, pushing its market value to NT$26 trillion(US$799 billion). For context, Taiwan's GDP in 2023 is NT$23.5 trillion(US$755 billion). TSMC's market value surpassing Taiwan's annual GDP is an unprecedented situation globally that carries systemic risks. For AI software companies in Taiwan, the landscape is challenging. "The scenario is quite different," says Cheng. "Resources are not concentrated here unless you're in electronic manufacturing." The government's robust support structure for hardware companies is evident, with substantial resources dedicated to infrastructure, human resources, and subsidies. This disparity is not just financial. The intense competition for talent is another hurdle. As NVIDIA establish R&D centers in Taiwan, local companies like TSMC and MediaTek face the risk of talent poaching. "NVIDIA coming to Taiwan to recruit a thousand engineers makes TSMC and MediaTek very nervous," Cheng explains. Credit: DIGITIMES The Future of Language Models and AI Dominance When it comes to large language models (LLMs), Cheng is skeptical of efforts to create a Taiwan-specific model. "Honestly, we don't need one," he states. "It's not about looking down on Taiwan, but about practical usage." The dominance of English-language models accelerates existing linguistic hierarchies. "Language hegemony will definitely occur. Everyone should prioritize improving their English to gain access to the most powerful AI tools." As AI continues to reshape industries and redefine technological boundaries, companies like iKala are positioning themselves at the intersection of emerging trends. With a focus on vertical search and enterprise knowledge management powered by AI, Cheng sees opportunities even as the tech landscape becomes increasingly dominated by a handful of global giants. The Global Competition He cautions that many Taiwanese "AI software companies" are essentially system integrators, creating solutions for specific manufacturing processes that don't easily scale globally. Taiwanese software startups should aim for international markets from day one. Internationalization has been key to iKala's strategy. By expanding to markets like Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia, iKala ensures its growth is not confined by Taiwan's limited support for AI software companies. For global AI software companies, competing with tech giants like Google, Meta, and OpenAI remains a daunting challenge. These major players continue to dominate the generative AI market due to their economies of scale and vast computing resources. Despite these challenges, iKala has managed to carve out a niche by focusing on B2B solutions, providing AI-driven tools that enhance business operations. Their approach is pragmaticoffering solutions that improve efficiency and reduce costs rather than just generating new revenue streams. "For example, we use generative AI for knowledge management and marketing technology, offering a comprehensive solution that meets the current demands of businesses," Cheng elaborates. Credit: DIGITIMES In a recent meeting with Taiwan's Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, Cheng emphasized the critical need for enhanced computing power infrastructure. "We need long-term and substantial investment in computing power to support AI development. Currently, the existing centers are not sufficient to meet the growing demand." Taiwan's dual reality presents both an opportunity and a challenge. While it continues to lead the AI hardware revolution, the path for its AI software industry remains uncertain with obstacles. The question remains: can Taiwan balance this dichotomy to emerge as a holistic AI powerhouse? Only time will tell. Taiwan unveils round 3.2 auction results: six offshore wind projects awarded The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) in Taiwan has concluded the Round 3.2 of its offshore wind power development auction, awarding six wind farms development rights with all bids coming in at NT$0 per kWh. This pricing structure necessitates that the projects secure Corporate Power Purchase Agreements (CPPA) to proceed. The ministry's final rankings, determined by localization criteria, saw Shinfox's YouDe, SRE's Formosa 6, and Orsted's Greater Changhua North-East offshore wind farm taking the top three spots, respectively. CIP's Fengmiao II, Corio's Haiding 1 (Formosa 3), and Enervest's DeShuai wind farm rounded out the fourth to sixth positions. The Energy Administration specified the capacity allocations, with the first-place project receiving a development capacity of 900MW plus a flexible 100MW, totaling 1,000MW. The second-ranked project is allotted 700MW with an additional 100MW flexible capacity, making 800MW in total. The third place secures 500MW plus 100MW flexible capacity, reaching 600MW. Projects ranked fourth to sixth each receive 500MW. However, with overlapping project areas, the ministry plans to finalize marine region maps before formally notifying developers of their capacity allocations. The feasibility of achieving the 3GW target remains under review. Developers, upon confirmation, must finalize preparations and sign contracts within three months, aiming for a November signing. The current offshore wind power plan targets grid connection between 2028 and 2030. However, Orsted is still on the award list, the final word on that might not be spoken until August or later in November. Six projects were awarded but there might be only 5 projects in the end due to overlapping areas. Taiwan's ambitious goal to achieve 13.1GW in offshore wind power installation by 2030 appears increasingly challenging. Orsted's Greater Changhua North-East wind farm ranked third, faces uncertainty due to substantial overlap with the second-placed SRE Formosa 6 wind farm. Nonetheless, Orsted remains on the award list, with final decisions expected by August or November. Despite six projects being awarded, overlapping areas may reduce the number of projects to five. Orsted, currently operating and constructing nearly 2GW of offshore wind farms in Taiwan, had a dramatic return to Round 3.2 after abstaining from Round 3.1, only to face a setback. Per Mejnert Kristensen, President of Orsted Asia-Pacific, expressed regret over not securing a spot in the Round 3.2 auction. He emphasized Orsted's commitment to Taiwan, highlighting the company's collaboration with local suppliers and corporate clients in submitting highly feasible technical and financial bid documents. Kristensen reiterated that Taiwan remains a crucial market for Orsted, with plans to continue developing, constructing, owning, and operating offshore wind farms in the region for decades to come. Traditional Tier-1 suppliers struggle as electrification reshapes auto supply chain The automotive industry's ongoing transition to electronic systems and electrification is creating a "tug-of-war" between new and established Tier-1 suppliers, known for supplying automotive systems and modules directly to carmakers. Among them, Chinese companies, representing the new Tier-1 team, are significantly gaining ground. In contrast, established Tier-1 suppliers from Europe, the US, Japan, and South Korea are battling to defend their positions and avoid slipping in the rankings. Based on revenues generated in 2023 by automotive parts and components suppliers in the original equipment (OE) market, notable shifts in the top 5 rankings have attracted attention. German supplier Bosch remains the leader, while Japan's Denso, previously in second place, has dropped to fifth, allowing ZF, Magna, and China's Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL) to move up one spot each. The top 100 suppliers listed in Europe in 2023 include 22 German suppliers, 20 from Japan, 14 from the US, 13 from China, and nine from South Korea. Compared to 2022, when China and South Korea were evenly matched with 10 suppliers each on the list, there have been significant changes in 2023, with the gap between China and the US narrowing considerably. The Impact of Electric Vehicles on Supplier Rankings The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has propelled lithium battery maker CATL into the top five Tier-1 suppliers since 2022, with another Chinese supplier, Gotion High-Tech, also entering the top 100. However, an oversupply of lithium batteries in 2024 and subsequent price falls have made it more difficult for other battery makers to achieve similar rankings. South Korean battery maker SK On saw significant production growth in 2023, moving up to 32nd place from 43rd. However, recent uncertainties about its overseas expansion plans, cost-cutting measures, and emergency management strategies have raised concerns. The growth in demand for pure EVs in Europe and the US has fallen short of expectations, with demand shifting towards plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), which require fewer lithium batteries. This shift has also affected the performance of lithium battery manufacturers. Challenges for Established Suppliers and Future Predictions Top-ranking established Tier-1 suppliers are facing various challenges as mainstream automakers embrace the trend of going electronic and electrical. These challenges include strategic changes by carmakers, a slower-than-expected transition to electric vehicles, geopolitical issues, profit compression, and cost competition from Chinese manufacturers. As a result, these established suppliers have undergone significant organizational restructuring in recent years, addressing underperforming business departments. Japanese carmakers have been relatively slower in their transition process, and consequently, Japanese Tier-1 suppliers are struggling to perform as well as their international peers. Industry experts predict continued movement in the top 100 Tier-1 supplier rankings in the coming years as Chinese suppliers and automakers continue to gain ground. The pressure on European, American, Japanese, and South Korean suppliers is expected to intensify as the electrification trend continues. In recent years, Taiwanese companies have also joined the ranks of new Tier-1 suppliers. While Foxconn focuses on whole vehicle development, other key Taiwanese electronics companies primarily focus on critical components, such as assembly, electronic control, and software. Their involvement in lithium batteries is limited, mainly due to late entry and a small domestic market in Taiwan. The 2023 rankings for the latter part of the top 10, including South Korea's Hyundai Mobis, Japan's Aisin, Germany's Continental, France's Forvia, and the US Lear, have remained the same as in 2022. However, as the automotive industry continues to evolve, these rankings may face further disruption in the coming years. 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. UAE and Saudi Arabia leverage Chinese capabilities to realize AI and semiconductor dreams The semiconductor market has become the fourth largest market in the world, following crude oil, automotive, and petrochemical products. With a scale of more than US$500 billion in 2023, it is expected to exceed US$1 trillion by 2030. Attracted by the industry's robust outlook ignited by the Generative AI infrastructure, Middle Eastern countries are diversifying their business portfolios to include the semiconductor and AI industries. UAE and Saudi Arabia: Beckoning Chinese Tech Giants Various Chinese media outlets have reported that the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority of the United Arab Emirates has researched more than 30 A-share publicly listed companies in China. These include wafer manufacturer Sai Micro Electronics, SiC substrate maker SICC, and IC design IP company VeriSilicon, to explore investment, merger and acquisition, and technology collaboration opportunities. The UAE is not the only Middle Eastern country enticing Chinese tech companies to establish operations. Saudi Arabia has successfully established a Cloud Computing Economic Zone, where Alibaba and Huawei have set up data centers. Alibaba Cloud has formed a joint venture with Saudi Arabian telecoms and AI firms to run the country's largest public cloud service in two data centers in Riyadh. Similarly, Huawei announced in the second half of 2023 that its cloud data center in Riyadh will serve as its data hub for the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa. Building a Silicon Valley in the Desert: Saudi Arabia's Ambitious Plans Lenovo also announced a collaboration with the PIF Sovereign Wealth Fund of Saudi Arabia in May 2024. PIF will become a shareholder of Lenovo, while Lenovo will set up its headquarters for the Middle East and African region in Riyadh, including an R&D center, customer center, and production base. PIF plans to set up a US$40 billion fund to invest in AI technologies. As a crucial component of the country's Vision 2030 strategies, PIF has also established a subsidiary, called Alat, to enable Saudi Arabia's transformation into a global electronic and advanced industrial hub. Currently, Alat has US$100 billion of assets under management. According to an executive of Alat's Semiconductor Business Unit, the company aims to help the country achieve an annual production of 1 million wafers by 2030 and create US$10 billion in revenue. In addition to data centers and AI, Saudi Arabia has announced the establishment of a National Semiconductor Center to attract 50 IC design firms and train 5,000 engineers. The goal is to develop a semiconductor ecosystem with a value exceeding US$13 billion and transform the area into the "Silicon Valley of Saudi Arabia." Notably, Saudi Arabia has emphasized that the chips designed there will be produced globally. This indicates that they don't have plans to set up manufacturing fabs but instead aim to expand their IC design services from the Middle East and Western Asia to Europe, Africa, and beyond. AMD to acquire Finnish AI lab AMD has announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Silo AI, the largest private AI lab in Europe, in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately US$665 million. Silo AI CEO and co-founder Peter Sarlin will continue to lead the Silo AI team as part of the AMD Artificial Intelligence Group, reporting to AMD senior vice president Vamsi Boppana. The acquisition is expected to close in the second half of 2024, according to AMD. The agreement represents another significant step in AMD's strategy to deliver end-to-end AI solutions based on open standards and in strong partnership with the global AI ecosystem, said the US processor vendor. The Silo AI team consists of world-class AI scientists and engineers with extensive experience developing tailored AI models, platforms, and solutions for leading enterprises spanning cloud, embedded, and endpoint computing markets. Based in Helsinki, Finland, with operations in Europe and North America, Silo AI specializes in end-to-end AI-driven solutions that help customers integrate AI quickly and easily into their products, services and operations. Their work spans diverse markets, with customers including Allianz, Philips, Rolls-Royce, and Unilever. Silo AI also creates state-of-the-art open-source multilingual LLMs, such as Poro and Viking, on AMD platforms in addition to its SiloGen model platform. Silo AI marks the latest in a series of acquisitions and corporate investments to support the AMD AI strategy. AMD has invested over US$125 million across a dozen AI companies in the last 12 months and also acquired Mipsology and Nod.ai to expand the AMD AI ecosystem, support partners, and advance leadership AMD computing platforms. "Across every industry, enterprises are looking for fast and effective ways to develop and deploy AI solutions for their unique business needs," said Vamsi Boppana, SVP of AMD's AI group. "Silo AI's team of trusted AI experts and proven experience developing leadership AI models and solutions, including state-of-the-art LLMs built on AMD platforms, will further accelerate our AI strategy and advance the build-out and rapid implementation of AI solutions for our global customers." Also in AMD's statement, Silo AI CEO and co-founder Peter Sarlin said "Our mission from the start has been to build an AI flagship company. Today's announcement is a logical next step in that pursuit as we join forces with AMD to shape the future of AI computing." Garda murderer Aaron Brady did not react today when the Court of Appeal upheld his conviction for shooting dead Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe. Brady's family, who have conducted a campaign insisting on his innocence, consoled one another when Mr Justice John Edwards made it clear that the three-judge court had not been persuaded by any of the nearly 50 grounds of appeal. Wearing a navy suit and pink tie, Brady was quickly returned to the cell area by prison officers following the judgment. It was, Mr Justice Edwards said, a difficult case and the appeal itself was the longest in the ten-year history of the court. The court's decision means that Brady will remain serving his life sentence with a minimum term of 40 years. With remission for good behaviour, he will be allowed to apply for parole in February 2048, after he has spent 30 years in prison on the murder conviction. In August 2020, Brady (33) formerly of New Road, Crossmaglen, Co Armagh was convicted by a jury of the murder of Det Gda Adrian Donohoe during a credit union robbery at Lordship, Bellurgan, Co Louth on January 25, 2013. In today's 363-page judgment, Mr Justice Edwards dismissed all of the "broad panoply" of issues raised, including an argument by Brady that his trial should have been halted due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. His counsel, Michael O'Higgins SC, had said it was plausible that the jurors were worried about dying or about others close to them dying, which had deteriorated the quality of their deliberations. In reply, Brendan Grehan SC, for the DPP, said there wasn't "an iota of a suggestion never mind evidence" that the jurors felt coerced to come to court and argued that no "unbearable burden" had been placed on them. The Court of Appeal said today that the trial judge, Mr Justice Michael White, had "carefully applied his mind... and was clearly concerned about the unprecedented public health crisis faced by all and its impact on the appellant's right to a fair trial." Mr Justice White did not not err in directing the trial to proceed, the court found. Daniel Cahill and Molly Staunton proved to be key witnesses in Brady's trial as they both testified that they heard Brady admit to killing a "guard" or a "cop" while Brady was living in the United States. In their arguments before the court, Brady's lawyers said their client's case remained the only one at hearing as the pandemic took hold and it was inappropriate for a jury to determine his guilt or innocence as people were dying from Covid-19.His counsel, Michael O'Higgins SC, had said it was plausible that the jurors were worried about dying or about others close to them dying, which had deteriorated the quality of their deliberations.In reply, Brendan Grehan SC, for the DPP, said there wasn't "an iota of a suggestion never mind evidence" that the jurors felt coerced to come to court and argued that no "unbearable burden" had been placed on them.The Court of Appeal said today that the trial judge, Mr Justice Michael White, had "carefully applied his mind... and was clearly concerned about the unprecedented public health crisis faced by all and its impact on the appellant's right to a fair trial." Mr Justice White did not not err in directing the trial to proceed, the court found.Daniel Cahill and Molly Staunton proved to be key witnesses in Brady's trial as they both testified that they heard Brady admit to killing a "guard" or a "cop" while Brady was living in the United States. Due to covid restrictions in New York, "ad-hoc" arrangements were made for them to give their evidence via video-link. Mr Justice Edwards said these arrangements "may not have been ideal" but were not an error "per se". In the case of Daniel Cahill, the court found that Brady's lawyers had not shown that there was any unfairness or risk of an unfair trial. The court also dismissed the defence's arguments regarding whether Mr Cahill had been offered an inducement by Homeland Security in America in return for his testimony. Mr Justice Edwards said any such suggestion could be put to Mr Cahill in cross examination and it is for the jury to assess Mr Cahill's credibility. Ms Staunton told the trial that she heard Brady say he had to "carry around the guilt of having murdered a cop in Ireland". Ms Staunton said in her direct evidence that Brady also claimed during a drunken "rant" to be "the most feared man in Ireland". In relation to Ms Staunton's evidence, the court found that the court was correct to allow the prosecution to treat her as a hostile witness when she appeared to resile from her evidence during cross examination. When prosecution barrister Brendan Grehan SC showed Ms Staunton a video of her original statement to gardai, she returned to her original position that she had heard Brady admit to murdering a "cop". Ms Staunton's evidence was also interrupted by her boyfriend, who was in her apartment while she testified. Mr Justice Edwards said the interruptions did not pose a "real and substantial risk of an unfair trial". He said any such risk was avoided by warnings given by the trial judge that "properly addressed the jury on the issue of who had responsibility for the interruptions, acknowledged the absence of supervision and referred to the interruptions as having been from the witness's boyfriend." He added that the judge's remarks made it clear to the jury that the interruptions were not linked to Brady and ensured that the trial "while not perfect, was fair". In the court's written judgment, Mr Justice Edwards wrote: "One must step back and analyse the consequences of these interruptions and, in our opinion, whether taking each interruption separately or together, the consequence was not a breach of the integrity of the trial and did not cause prejudice to the appellant, necessitating the discharge of this jury." The court further rejected arguments that Brady's deportation from America in 2018 had amounted to a "de facto extradition" without the legal protections he would enjoy during an extradition process. Mr Justice Edwards said this argument was "entirely without foundation" and the US authorities were entitled to deport Brady, who had been working for years in the US without a Visa. Earlier this year Brady pleaded guilty to a charge that on a date between February 20 and May 7, 2020, within the State, he video recorded the playing of an interview between Ronan Flynn, a witness at his trial, and An Garda Siochana, thus embarking on a course of conduct intended to pervert the course of justice. He is awaiting sentencing for that offence before the Special Criminal Court. Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) recently hosted 3 College Connect workshops on campus for Youthreach Dundalk. The mission of College Connect is to provide ease of access to education for all. The organisation is made up of four Irish higher education colleges who are working together, these colleges are in the Midlands, the East, and North Dublin and are known collectively as MEND. The participating Higher Education Institutes are Dublin City University (DCU, Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), Maynooth University (MU) and TUS Athlone Campus (TUS) College Connect is a Higher Education Authority (HEA) funded three-year PATH 3 (Programme for Access to Higher Education) project. This initiative is a new way to support people in the MEND area who are socially and economically disadvantaged. This is sometimes called experiencing multiple marginalisation. Instead of each college working separately to support these students, the four colleges now work together. The 3 workshops recently held in DkIT were individually themed, Whats the Story, What its like to be a student and College and Beyond. Read Next: Aaron Brady loses conviction appeal for murder of Adrian Donohoe The first workshop called Whats the Story investigated why people go to college and the potential benefits. The group got to question and discuss their beliefs around access to college whilst looking at the similarities between going to college and school and the differences. The second workshop focused on What it is like to be a student and the group viewed a students timetable and workload. They also discussed what they felt would be their biggest challenges and what they could do to remove these obstacles in order to go to college. This session ended with an in-depth look at all the supports and services that are currently available to students in DkIT. The final workshop College and Beyond highlighted the various courses available to study in DkIT. In groups the participants spent time discussing what type of careers/jobs they associated with each college course and what type of subjects you might study while doing that course. Each individual group member got to focus on courses that specifically interested them, question why they were interested, and then investigate what studying that course might involve. The Dundalk Youthreach participants gave the following feedback after the workshop: I heard a lot of interesting information It was very motivating and personal I enjoyed learning about the courses and about the college and what life might be like as a student "It was great learning more about how I could go to college and getting the relevant information for me Above: Front to Back - L to R: Linda Kelliher; Niamh Dennehy; Cllr Kevin Callan; Minister Higgins; Colette Moss; Cllr Paula Butterly; David Kierans; Frank Clarke; Peter Farrelly; Emma Duffy; Cllr John Reilly; Gerry Scullion; Emma Gill; Chris Brennan; Fionnuala Rogers; Ciaran Murray; Pat McCormick; Deirdre Craven; Sarah Mallon; Hubert Tully; Cllr. Paddy Meade On Thursday 27 June, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail, Emer Higgins, made her first official visit to the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Louth. The visit highlighted the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit and innovation flourishing within the county. Upon arrival, Minister Higgins was warmly greeted by Cathaoirleach Kevin Callan and Leas Cathaoirleach John Reilly, along with Acting Director of Services for Strategic Economic Development, Colette Moss, and LEO Business Advisor, Niamh Dennehy. The Minister also met with other council officials, local Chamber representatives and members of the LEO team, who provided insights into the local business landscape. During the visit, several LEO client companies had the opportunity to showcase their businesses and speak with the Minister about the LEO supports which they had availed of and how these supports had helped their businesses. Marketing for Me t/a ZOMA and Munchd ZOMA, a multi-award-winning marketing and creative agency founded by David Kierans and based in Dundalk town centre, specialises in elevating brands through cutting-edge web design, unique content creation, and digital marketing solutions. The agency, which has expanded to offer 3D and AR services, employs eight full-time staff. Recently, ZOMA launched Munchd, an innovative online food ordering system set to disrupt the hospitality industry. Ravallon Limited t/a My Forever Tooth Fairy My Forever Tooth Fairy, founded by Emma Duffy, introduces a unique range of Tooth Fairy toys, books, and memento products aimed at promoting emotional well-being. The brands initial offering includes a female doll accompanied by a book and reusable carry-case packaging, designed for the magical exchange of mail and teeth with the Tooth Fairy. The business has just launched its first product for pre-order online. Herbel Crest Limited t/a King of Kefir King of Kefir, a water kefir brewery founded by Gerry Scullion and based in Ardee Business Park, produces natural, full-flavored, non-alcoholic beverages rich in gut-friendly bacteria. The company, which began production in Dublin before relocating to Ardee to expand production capacity, supplies both canned and bottled products to both SuperValu and Dunnes Stores as well as a number of independent retailers around the country. Omuu Limited t/a Omuu Pet Founded by Frank Clarke, Omuu Limited has developed innovative insect-based veterinary dog food and treats designed to address various health issues such as allergies, dental disease, and arthritis. Committed to environmental sustainability, Omuu Pet uses insect protein, which requires less water and land, and significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions. The business also utilizes 100% recyclable packaging and donates 1 from each purchase of its products to environmental charities. At the conclusion of her visit, Minister Higgins praised the LEO's efforts and the entrepreneurial talent in Louth, stating: The hard work of the LEO office here in Louth is evident in every business I have met today. It is fantastic to see that the strategy of my department and the LEO Network has helped create an environment in which these businesses can thrive. For more information on LEO Louth and its initiatives, visit www.localenterprise.ie/ Louth. Members of the local community in the Cooley Peninsula have voiced huge concerns over Louth County Council's plans for a greenway from Dundalk Bay to Carlingford, and were critical of the level of communication from the local authority on the public consultation which took place at the Ballymascanlon Hotel on 19 June. Cooley Community Alert hosted two meetings this week organised by local councillors in north Louth to discuss the proposed Dundalk Bay to Carlingford Greenway, with a meeting taking place on Monday at St Patrick's GFC Lordship, to discuss two sections of the greenway and a meeting on Tuesday at Cooley Kickhams GFC, to discuss the third section. Louth County Council, with the support of Transport Infrastructure Ireland, is developing proposals for the Dundalk Bay to Carlingford Greenway project. The local authority has begun its second non-statutory public consultation (Option Selection) for the project, and stakeholders, members of the public and other interested parties, are being invited to participate. The Option Selection Phase of the project has commenced and Route Corridor Options have been developed within the study area. Louth County Council says that the aim of this public consultation is to receive feedback on the Route Corridor Options to assist the project team in the decision-making process when further refining the corridor options and selecting the emerging preferred route corridor. The submissions in relation to the material presented at this consultation should be made by the 6th September 2024. The Route Corridor Options public consultation was held on 19 June 2024 at the Ballymascanlon Hotel, where Louth County Council staff and its Design Consultants were available to discuss any queries or concerns regarding the project. One of the major issues discussed at this week's meetings however, was the communication from the local authority on the public consultation, with a spokesperson for Cooley Community Alert telling the Dundalk Democrat that "so many people said they were totally unaware of the greenway and the previous meeting". The Dundalk Democrat spoke to one local resident who said that they had no idea the consultation was taking place, and would have appreciated posters in the area or a mailout to residents to inform them of it. They added that they had also spoken to several neighbours on hearing that it had taken place, and none of their neighbours were aware of it either. It is understood that some of the councillors at this week's meetings, bore the brunt of local residents anger at the local authority's communications regarding the public consultation meeting. Councillors informed those present that they would be raising their concerns with the local authority. The Dundalk Democrat understands that there were some very angry exchanges at the meeting, with, it is understood, some being quite aggressive towards the local representatives. According to the spokesperson for Cooley Community Alert, "there is frustration as people are confused about the routes and the impact. People along previous greenways mentioned issues with lack of bins and rubbish bags hung in their fence. Farmers are concerned about the impact to farm land, and private residents querying how when they can't build on their land how can a greenway be allowed." The spokesperson added however, that there were people at the meetings who are people in favour of the greenway, and approached and spoke to organisers of the meetings at the end, but were reluctant to speak up during the meeting itself, as the initial speakers were against the greenway. Louth County Council says that the public consultation that was held in the Ballymascanlon Hotel was advertised across both local and social media channels. In a statement to the Dundalk Democrat, it said: "An in person public consultation was held at the Ballymascanlon Hotel on Wednesday 19th June between 3pm and 8pm with staff from Louth County Council, the TII and the consultants in attendance to answer questions and explain the process. "The public consultation was advertised on radio station LMFM, local newspapers including - the Dundalk Independent, the Argus, The Dundalk Democrat and the Drogheda Independent, on the Louth Consult Website and on social media. "Nearly 200 people signed the attendance sheet on the day of the event with many more in attendance. Drawings and brochures were on display at the event, with this information also available on the dedicated website for the project www.dundalkcarlingfordgreenway.ie . There is also an Interactive Map on the website to allow members of the public to zoom in on specific areas. "Submissions can be made to the team via e-mail, online or by post. The closing date for submission has been extended by five weeks to Friday 6th September 2024. The public are also able to contact the dedicated Project Liaison Officer directly should they wish to discuss the project further (details available on the dedicated website). "This public feedback will be used to assist the design team in determining the Preferred Route Corridor which will be presented at the Third Public Consultation, envisaged to take place later this year." Grounds maintenance and energy company, Ground Control is coming to Louth in July to meet with and hire local field teams, specifically ground maintenance, arboriculture and winter gritting teams, as part of their recent expansion into the Irish market, with 150 roles in total to be filled across the island of Ireland. The company says it has a rich 50-year history in driving environmentally sustainable solutions for the commercial and public sector markets. It delivers a range of external maintenance and energy solutions services ; including grounds maintenance, winter gritting, arboriculture, solar, and electric vehicle charging point installation, amongst other products and services. In doing so, the company says it utilises its technology-enabled approach to guide clients on their path to carbon reduction and biodiversity gains. The company is looking to collaborate with local Louth based ground maintenance companies, both SMEs and micro businesses, to deliver a sustainability-led product offering and one that supports public- and private-sector clients on their decarbonisation journeys. Working with Ground Control, local field teams will benefit from its in-house expertise, technology infrastructure, brand assets, and training resources to support their business growth, while Ground Controls customers can be assured that they are hiring the most eco-friendly and environmentally-minded option available in the Irish market. According to Ground Controls country director for Ireland, Declan OGorman: We have ambitious plans to expand our operations in Louth, and having recently signed a number of exciting new contracts, are looking to hire local field teams across the county. If you are a micro business or SME working in the ground maintenance, arboriculture or winter gritting fields, we want to work with you, whether you are a one-man operation, or a crew of five or six. We strive to empower our local field-based teams through our unique and agile business model, which involves close collaboration with existing field-based companies, leveraging our extensive expertise, scale, and experience to support our operations, secure new contracts, enhance our overall sustainability expertise, and accelerate local business growth. Further information can be found at: https://groundcontrolsupplychain.teamtailor.com/ or by contacting: Info@ground-control.ie Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. A response from Uisce Eireann to a letter sent by Cork City Council requesting that the chief executive would attend a meeting to discuss ongoing water discolouration issues was lambasted as insulting and a disgrace. The letter seeking a meeting with Niall Gleeson in early July was sent following a motion proposed by Fine Gael councillor Shane OCallaghan. In the response, which was discussed at a meeting of Cork City Council on Monday, an Uisce Eireann official said Uisce Eireann are not in a position to provide a representative to attend individual council meetings (on a national basis). The letter outlined measures currently being taken by the company in a bid to tackle water discolouration issues in Cork city and stated that Uisce Eireann will continue to keep all key stakeholders informed of ongoing works. Two briefings, the water utility company said, are scheduled to take place in September for elected representatives. Speaking at Monday evenings meeting, Mr OCallaghan said the response was not good enough. They are not providing a proper level of service in this city and they are answerable to us as representatives of the people of this city and that reply is insulting, in fact, in my opinion, he continued. Labour Party councillor John Maher said he felt the response was a disgrace. Ward after ward after ward people are drinking muck and dirt and these are the people that tell us. These are the people that can go online, that can take videos, that can use social media. Theres so many other people that cant, and if we accept this, were letting those people down, he said. Fianna Fail councillor John Sheehan said Uisce Eireanns level of communication and the level of service delivery leaves a lot to be desired, adding, I think we should be entitled to a better level of engagement from them. Councillors agreed to again write to the chief executive, this time including the chair of the board of Uisce Eireann to state their dissatisfaction with the letter and to seek a deeper response. Separately Solidarity Party - People Before Profit councillor Brian McCarthy tabled a motion which was passed by councillors proposing that the council would demand, in the strongest possible terms, that Uisce Eireann come forward with serious proposals that will actually resolve the issue permanently and to establish a clear timeline for this work to be done. In the response to council, Uisce Eireann stated that it is seeing a positive trend in areas that flushing works have taken place to date and that it expects these works to lead to further improvements in water quality. However, in his motion Mr McCarthy claimed that in areas where the pipes were extensively flushed several months ago problems are now reoccurring. Taoiseach Simon Harris said on Wednesday that he believed replacements would be lining up to succeed Simon Coveney in Cork South Central. Four candidates have so far confirmed they intend to run in the constituency, with more potentially waiting to declare by next Fridays deadline. Senator Jerry Buttimer, Cathaoirleach of the Seanad, said it was his intention to seek the Fine Gael nomination to contest the next election in Cork South Central. I believe I have the energy, the vision and the ambition for Cork and for Ireland, to continue my role in the Oireachtas as a member of Dail Eireann, having served 17 years as a member of the Dail and Seanad. I believe that I have a responsibility to go before the party membership on July 23 to seek their nomination to run for the general election. Former lord mayor of Cork, south-east ward councillor Des Cahill, said he had written to party members to declare his intention to run. I am probably the one candidate who is offering the most, my election history is very strong, the south-east area is the largest Fine Gael area, Ive had the most votes in the last four elections, my tenure as lord mayor means Im well-known, and Im recognised as an ally of Simons since the start, Mr Cahill said. I think I have a reasonably good chance, but its down to the members to vote. Shane OCallaghan, who topped the poll in the Cork City South Central ward in last months local elections, said he believed he was the candidate best placed to maintain his partys seat in Cork South Central. I increased the Fine Gael vote in the south-central ward by 50%, whereas in every other part of the constituency our vote either remained static or went down. Im relatively young, Im enthusiastic, Im a barrister by profession, so I think I have the skills and know-how to articulate Fine Gael policy, Mr OCallaghan said. John Mullins, who ran unsuccessfully for Fine Gael in Ireland South in last months European elections, said he was also putting his hat in the ring. For the first time out, I had a very good election, I know that I got a very significant amount of votes in the Cork metropolitan area, my parents still live in Bishopstown, my family live in South Central, and Ive been working in the constituency for the best part of 17, 18 years now, he said. Ill put myself before convention, and well see how the convention goes. County councillors Una McCarthy and Jack White both said they had yet to make a decision on whether they intend to run. Tanaiste Micheal Martin today praised his constituency colleague and rival Simon Coveney after the Fine Gael TD announced he will not contest the next general election. Since the days of his father Hugh, the Coveney family has given outstanding public service to the people of Cork, and Ive been working with Simon as a TD for Cork South Central now for 25 years, Mr Martin told The Echo. I worked with him in Government for the last four years and he has always been a strong advocate for Cork, so I wish him well in terms of his retirement, and I think hes garnered a lot of experience throughout his political life, which I think will be of good use to the community in the time ahead. The Tanaiste and Mr Coveney have not always seen eye-to-eye politically, but Mr Martin said his constituency colleague had always put the good of Cork first. We were political opponents, and we represent two separate parties, two separate political traditions, but in Cork South Central, there was always a tradition of crossing the aisle, if you like, or uniting to advocate in the best interests of Cork, said Mr Martin. I can remember the late Toddy OSullivan, Pearse Wyse, and others, there was a tradition where youd put party positions to one side to advocate for particular projects for Cork, whether it was investment in Cork Airport, or the Port of Cork, these were issues that we were always in a position to work together on. Taoiseach Simon Harris said of Simon Coveney: He has served his constituency, his party, and his country with distinction. Picture: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie Nominations for the local Fine Gael convention which will decide the partys candidates in Cork South Central close this Friday, and while senior Coalition figures all insist the current Government will run its full term with the next general election in the spring, there has been much speculation that a giveaway budget at the beginning of October will fire the starting pistol for an autumn election. Asked if he was planning an early retirement from politics himself, the Tanaiste laughed and said he was not. Im busy getting ready for the next general election, Mr Martin said. Whenever that happens. Following his announcement today, many lauded Mr Coveneys handling of the Brexit negotiations, including Taoiseach Simon Harris. He has served his constituency, his party and his country with distinction, Mr Harris said. Most particularly his contribution to protecting our national interest during Brexit is an outstanding legacy. 'Motivation' Green Party councillor Dan Boyle, Lord Mayor of Cork, said he wished Mr Coveney well in his future. I contested with him the Dail by-election that saw him enter public life in 1998, and went on to serve with him in the Oireachtas, Mr Boyle said. His motivation towards serving the people of Cork South Central was always apparent. 'Sacrifices' Senator Jerry Buttimer, Cathaoirleach of the Seanad, congratulated and thanked Mr Coveney for his incredible commitment and dedication to public life, adding: I want to thank him and his family, in particular, his wife Ruth for the many sacrifices they have made, especially since 2011 when he served in Cabinet. Former lord mayor of Cork, south-east ward councillor Des Cahill, said he had worked with Mr Coveney since he was first elected in 1998 and he said that while he would be missed, he had more than earned his retirement. Twenty-six years is a long time in public life, and its going to be very strange without him, he said. Shane OCallaghan, Fine Gael councillor for Cork City South Central, said Mr Coveney will go down in history as one of the best foreign ministers we have ever had, particularly as a result of his deft handling of the Brexit negotiations. John Mullins, who was unsuccessful running for Fine Gael in Ireland South in last months European elections, said that Mr Coveney had been a fabulous public representative for Cork and for this country. Mixed reaction from opposition TDs There was mixed reaction from opposition TDs. Sinn Fein TD Donnchadh O Laoghaire said despite many political disagreements, I have always found him a thoroughgoing gentleman. He added: He has given many years of public service and undoubtedly leaves a political legacy; his work on Brexit being particularly important, as well as much work in Enterprise and other departments. People Before Profit-Solidarity TD Mick Barry said he believes Fine Gael champions the interests of business and those in the upper echelons of society, and that Mr Coveney typified this. Fine Gael are a party which champions the interests of business and the well-to-do and theres no doubt that Simon Coveney was a consummate Fine Gael politician, the Cork North Central TD said. Mr Barry was less than complimentary about the political legacy Mr Coveney leaves behind, saying he believed the Cork South Central TD will not be remembered fondly by people at the sharp end of the housing crisis, asserting that the Rebuilding Ireland plan launched by Mr Coveney when he was housing and planning minister had failed disastrously. Members of a Cork rowing club are despairing that repairs to a damaged weir in Fermoy will ever be carried out. In February, An Bord Pleanala granted consent for remedial works on the weir a listed, protected structure and the building of a separate channel, a so-called fish bypass, to run parallel to the River Blackwaters northern bank, west of the towns Kent Bridge. However, Cork County Council which owns the weir has said its attempts to secure funding are at the very early stage. The weir saga, as it is known in Fermoy, has been running since 2006, when migrating salmon became trapped at the weirs damaged fish ladder and officials demanded the removal of the weir. Fermoy has had a weir for more than 800 years, and the present structure was built 250 years ago by the founder of the modern town, Scottish entrepreneur John Anderson, to power his mill. The river west of the bridge serves as the rowing clubs training grounds, which extend when water levels allow as far as Castlehyde House, the historical family home of Irelands first president Dubhghlas de hIde, and occasional residence of dancer Michael Flatley. In 2007, the Government claimed that the EU was demanding that the weir in Fermoy be replaced by a lower structure, something the rowing club said would destroy its training grounds. In 2009, members of the club travelled to Brussels and met with EU officials, who told them a simple repair of the weir would suffice. The Government then said that it could not commit State funding, as its fisheries advisors said that a repair would not be the optimal solution. A stalemate persisted for a decade, and a 2019 breach caused an entire section of the weir situated east of the bridge to wash away, with water levels upstream collapsing. Cork County Council said the tender for the site investigation contract to inform the design was issued last week. A council spokesperson said it was investigating funding possibilities for the project, but was at the very early stage of this process. Potential avenues of funding would include conservation grants, IFI programmes, and other sources. The council did not respond when asked for a timeline for the completion of the works. Fermoy Fianna Fail councillor Frank OFlynn said the works were to commence in due course, but declined to commit to a timeline. Asked if the works would be completed by 2030, Mr OFlynn replied: I dont know. All these things take time. He added that he was not being evasive. The regatta secretary for Fermoy Rowing Club, Paul Kavanagh, said members were despairing that the weir would ever be repaired, or that the clubs training grounds would ever be restored. This situation is going on now for nearly two decades, and were still no closer to a solution. Fermoy weir is a listed, protected structure, and Cork County Council has owned it since 2014 when the local councils were abolished, Mr Kavanagh said. Were despairing, after delay after delay, after delay. We want concrete information. We want a timeline. We can see no end to this carry-on. A spokesperson for Inland Fisheries Ireland said a condition of planning consent was that the council liaise with Inland Fisheries Ireland to ensure the proposed works would not damage protected habitats. Inland Fisheries Ireland said its national barrier-mitigation programme would prioritise removal or mitigation of barriers to fish migration, such as weirs. The intention is to develop a funding mechanism for a range of project types, which will be guided by a set of priority factors, they said. Five Cork students, who were the winners of the Cork City Student Enterprise Programme 2024, are preparing for an all-expenses-paid trip to the US this weekend. The students, Zac Wallace, Marcus Conroy, Alex Healy, Taha Siddique, and Ahmed Baig, along with their teacher Karen Callanan, from Colaiste An Spioraid Naoimh, will be jetting off to the OtterCares Global Business Academy Programme in Colorado on July 13. The team was sponsored by Otter Products to go on the trans-Atlantic trip following their success at the final of the Cork City Student Enterprise Programme earlier this year. Their winning idea, Comhar Cards company, is a quiz card game that provides an innovative and enjoyable way of learning about Irish. The product and packaging are also made from 100% recyclable materials. The students will spend a week at Colorado State University developing their business idea, hoping to gain a greater understanding of the business world, engage with local and global business executives, develop leadership skills and experience the best of Fort Collins. The Student Enterprise Programme is funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland and delivered by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities throughout the country. Since the Student Enterprise Programme began in 2003, more than 350,000 students have taken part, learning key skills on how to create a business, start a business and grow a business. Information on the Student Enterprise Programme in Cork City and how to register can be found at www.localenterprise.ie/corkcitytarget="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> or www.studententerprise.ie. Simon Coveney entered national politics in 1998 when he was first elected to the Dail in a by-election, after the unexpected death of his father, Hugh. He later spent three years as an MEP for Ireland South, before returning to the Dail in 2007. Speaking to this publication in 2009, Mr Coveney was bluntly upfront about his own ambition to be a minister. He gave up his seat in the European Parliament, he told the then-titled Evening Echo, to focus on national politics, because he felt Fine Gael could be in government. Im in politics to make as big a difference as I can, he said. I made a choice to come back from the European Parliament to be in government to deliver for Cork, really. Mr Coveney said then that he was not focusing on any particular ministry, but said that having been a TD for 12 years, he was eager to show people what he could do. Mr Coveney subsequently held multiple portfolios at Cabinet, most recently enterprise, trade, and employment. The former deputy leader of Fine Gael was previously minister for foreign affairs, for defence, for housing, planning, and local government, and for agriculture, food, and the marine. The Cork South Central TD was appointed tanaiste in 2017, the second tanaiste to hail from Cork. (Peter Barry was the first, in 1987.) Mr Coveney, who held the position until 2020, acknowledged that it came with enormous responsibility and vowed to do everything in his power to serve the people of Ireland with integrity and positivity. But as far back as 2016, Mr Coveney, now 52, had indicated that he did not envisage having a political career into his 60s. He told the Evening Echo: Im often asked the question by my wife, who would love me to leave politics: What would you do if you lost your seat? For me, I wouldnt be looking backwards. Id look for a new challenge and get on with it. Its a privilege while youre there, and its a particular privilege to be in government. I see this as a temporary period, where I have an opportunity to make an impact on other peoples lives. If Im not making progress in politics, Ill leave. I have no interest in being a TD in my 60s, unless Im doing something really constructive in that period. Cork North Central TD Mick Barry has labelled sex for rent ads for properties in Cork as utterly disgraceful. His comments come as the National Womens Council report on sexual exploitation and sexual harassment in the rental housing market was released, and looks at cases in Cork and across Ireland. The report states: The precise circumstances of the housing market in Ireland create a perfect environment for the exploitation of tenants, saying that the placing of advertisements by prospective landlords offering discounted or free accommodation in return for sex has become a not uncommon occurrence. The report said: Marginalised and vulnerable women are among those most harmed by sex-for-rent exploitation, including those without alternative housing options due to poverty, disability, insecure immigration status, domestic or family violence, debt, a lack of family support, or unstable/poorly-paid employment. Sex for rent proposals are not currently a specific criminal offence, as of yet. Mr Barry criticised this, saying that the Government had not only failed to resolve the housing crisis but also to introduce legislation to outlaw the practice. Mr Barry described online ads in Mallow and Blarney which state that the landlord is willing to negotiate fair price for a female and another which says: Am open to negotiations. Would rather female tenant and am willing to take payment in unique ways. He said: The Governments failure to resolve the housing crisis is creating a space where predatory landlords feel they can confront potential tenants with a choice between homelessness and sexual exploitation. Furthermore, the Governments failure to outlaw the practice is just letting these creeps off the hook. Its just not a priority for this Government, and its outrageous, he added. The Dail is being asked to sign off on the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Human Trafficking) Bill 2023 this week, with the Government claiming that work on a suitable amendment was not completed on time to meet the bills deadline. The investigative file in the cases against 10 men accused of conspiring to import drugs into Ireland in the course of a major international investigation should be completed and sent to the DPP within six to eight weeks, it emerged this week. This progress in the investigation of the complex case was outlined by Sergeant John Kelleher when two of the accused appeared in Cork District Court by video link from prison. Sergeant Kelleher outlined the up-to-date position in the investigation at Cork District Court: 10 prisoners are in custody in the case. The update showed some progress on that which was outlined a fortnight ago. And for the first time, a completion date for the investigation was indicated. There have been than 175 interviews with the prisoners involving 62 members in charge and 48 interviewing members of An Garda Siochana. 350 plus statements have been taken. 310 plus lines of enquiry are being followed, three terabytes of CCTV are being examined, more than 700 exhibits were seized and this number is growing, and 50 plus electronic devices are being forensically analysed. Numerous enquiries are ongoing with Europol and Interpol and case conferences have taken place with British, Spanish and Danish police forces. An Garda Siochana is also liaising with a number of other international law enforcement agencies and enquiries conducted in South America and North America, Sgt Kelleher said. Pedro Padio Ojeda Ortega, 35 of Cadiz, Spain, who was represented by solicitor, Eddie Burke, was remanded in custody until July 23. Anuar Rahui, 41, of Malaga, Spain, represented by Frank Buttimer solicitor, was remanded in custody until July 30. Mr Buttimer said the outline given by Sgt Kelleher showed progress in the prosecution case and there was consent to the adjournment. Mr Rahui said that on the recommendation of his solicitor, he agreed to the adjournment. Each of the accused face the charge: That you [defendants name] on dates between February 27 and March 14, both dates inclusive, within the state, did conspire with one or more persons, namely [nine other names] to do an act in the state that constitutes a serious offence, namely the importation of controlled drugs in excess of 13,000, an offence contrary of Section 15B (1) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 as amended and contrary to Section 71 (1) (a) (4) of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 as amended by Section 4 (b) of the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023. Cork City Councils first Social Democrat councillor, Padraig Rice, has sparked debate for a motion on removing the crucifix from Cork City Council chambers, and stopping the practice of saying a prayer before council meetings. There is a time and place for religious worship, and I dont think it is at Cork City Council meetings, Mr Rice said. Having symbols of one faith and none from all the others sends out a signal, he added, pointing out that in 1972, the people voted to remove the special position of the Catholic church from the 1937 Constitution. Independent Ireland councillor Ken OFlynn was quick to oppose this, saying that the motion is not only divisive but also a disservice to the majority of our citizens who hold these values dear. Mr OFlynn added: I stand firm against these misguided attempts to erase our traditions that are important to the ordinary decent people of Cork and call on all members of the council to uphold the values that represent the majority of Irish people. 'A city that's evolving' Green Party councillor Oliver Moran said: 66,222 residents of the city identified as being non-Christian or having no religion in the 2022 census, which is 30% of all residents of the city. My family is one of these, and people I speak to are astonished that the requirement for prayer is still a part of what is a workplace, as well as a reflection of the city. Last year, I notified the lord mayor at the time that I wouldnt be rising for prayer. Instead, I remain seated respectfully. Ive been joined in that by other councillors. Thats not to take away from anyones faith, its a reflection of a city thats always evolving. The requirement for prayer was removed from Limerick City and County Council when the two authorities merged in 2014. Dublin City Council retains a moment for silent prayer or reflection, which I would support. Peoples faith, including my own, is something personal to them. A shared moment of silent reflection or personal prayer would be a better way of beginning a meeting. Cross gifted to council in 1933 Independent councillor Kieran McCarthy said: This is my fourth council term, and the fourth time that this has come up, but I always go back to 1933, explaining that the cross was gifted to Cork City Council by a religious group. A debate on the matter was proposed after the group wrote to then-Lord Mayor Sean French, and it was accepted, Mr McCarthy explained, adding that this was just four years on from the centenary of the relaxation of the penal laws when Catholic symbols were not allowed: It was of its time. The historical context is important, and I have no problem with symbols of Christianity. I met with multiple religious groups as mayor, across several religions. As for the prayer, its said and gone in a moment, we all have the agenda of the meeting on our minds, its not a major issue to fight about. The former lord mayor explained that a review of standing orders was started last year, but that they ran out of time, so it was moved out to this year. Review of standing orders Current Lord Mayor Dan Boyle added: The review of standing orders is very much ongoing. Easy to agree items were agreed before the elections. About 40 more contentious changes are still to be discussed, Im hoping we can do that in September. Fianna Fails Tony Fitzgerald said: While I respect the rights of fellow councillors to place motions of this kind, I am not in favour of removing the prayer or the crucifix. It is part of our city council business since the opening of City Hall, I understand, and I see no reason to change. Members have the option of not participating if that is their wish. But People Before Profit-Solidarity councillor Brian McCarthy said that Mr Rices motion is in the interests of separation of church and State so that we can have equal representation for everyone. Our society is made up of people of many faiths and none, all beliefs should have equal status so its clearly wrong for the council to link itself to one faith to the exclusion of other beliefs and views. Fine Gael councillor Damian Boylan said that out of every door he has knocked on while canvassing, regardless of their religion, nobody ever brought up the topic: I see no harm in the prayer, Im not particularly religious but its thirty seconds out of a three or four hour meeting so Im happy to stand for it and reflect, thats all it is. The majority of people in that room have some faith or another, so lets be inclusive rather than exclusive. For a lot of people, the council is only a stepping stone to greater things, so they would do anything they can do to create a ruckus and get their name in the paper. A debate on a 30 second prayer is taking away from all the work that needs to be done. 'A place of work' Labour councillor John Maher had a different opinion, however: Im somebody who goes to Mass, has a faith, and gets something from it, but I believe if any other job in the world started their day with a prayer there would be outrage, and City Hall is a place of work. Im delighted that were having the conversation. Maybe people will say that theyre happy with it, but Id be afraid that some people would be too worried not to take a stand for the prayer at the moment. I can go to mass anytime I want, I can say a prayer anytime I want, I can bow my head walking into City Hall, but thats not for me to put on anyone else. Sinn Fein councillor Kenneth Collins said: I think that since theres a new council in place, new standing orders need to be looked at. Personally, I do go to Mass, but people have their own opinions. If they want to stand for the prayer and stay standing for the moment of reflection, sit for the prayer then stand or stay sitting for the whole thing thats their choice, that was a compromise before my time. Mr Rice said in response to the issues raised: Its incorrect to state that this is the only issue I raised. Its possible to work on multiple issues simultaneously and housing is a huge priority for me. As it happens, I also had two questions down on housing for Mondays Council meeting. However, as a new councillor, the prayer and the iconography in the council chamber really struck me in the first meeting as being entirely inappropriate for a civic body. For that reason, I decided to put this motion down." The motion is due to come back before council later in the year. Three paddleboarders were rescued in Cork yesterday following reports of difficulty in the water near a popular beach. The incident, which happened shortly after 5.15pm, saw two teenagers and one adult brought to safety from approximately 500m off Front Strand Beach in Youghal. The alarm was raised by local lifeguards who had spotted the individuals and made the call to the Irish Coast Guard. Youghal RNLI Helm Jack Nolan alongside crew members Liam Keogh, Joe O'Connor and Noel Joyce launched the inshore lifeboat and arrived on scene within 10 minutes. Upon arrival, the volunteer crew observed one male in the water holding onto the paddleboard with two younger males sitting on top, alongside two lifeguards on surfboards who were with them at the time. Youghal RNLI Launch Authority, John Innes said thanked all involved in the response. This call out was a multi-agency rescue with our colleagues from Rescue 117 in Waterford, the Guards, National Ambulance Service, Youghal lifeguards and Youghal Coast Guard unit all in attendance. It was a great response and we would like to thank everyone involved and we wish the casualties well. With the weather getting warmer and more inviting, we want to remind people of the importance of always going prepared for your activity including wearing a suitable flotation device such as buoyancy aids as these casualties did, as the weather can be very changeable. The case against a 36-year-old Cork man accused of causing criminal damage to a Cork City Council house at Mount Nebo Avenue has been adjourned for the Director of Public Prosecutions to give directions. Darren OHara who lives at an apartment at 13 Glen Ryan Road, Gurranabraher, Cork, was arrested and brought before Cork District Court. Judge Mary Dorgan granted him bail and adjourned the case on the application of Sergeant John Kelleher to allow time for DPP directions. The conditions of bail require him to keep a curfew at home between 11pm-7am. He is required to sign twice a day at Gurranabraher garda station, have no contact, direct of indirect, with witnesses, abstain from intoxicants and provide a phone number at which gardai can contact him at any time, does not leave the jurisdiction or apply for travel documents. The defendant indicated in court that he did not have a passport. The criminal damage charge accuses him that on November 29, 2023, at Mount Nebo Avenue he caused material damage to the roof and front door of housing belonging to Cork City Council. A man faces sentencing at the Cork District Court after a garda search found 15 deals of cocaine concealed in his undergarments. The 40-year-old Midleton man accused of having cocaine and almost 800 Alprazolam tablets for sale or supply at Wellington Rd in Cork, pleaded guilty to the crimes. Derry Healy, of 8 Forrest Hill, Midleton, Co Cork, was charged by Garda Eoghan OMahony with the drugs offences committed on November 1, 2023, at Wellington Rd, Cork. Sergeant Gearoid Davis said the tablets had a street value of 3,000. He added that gardai searching Mr Healy found that he had a package containing 15 deals of cocaine in his undergarments. The cocaine had a street value of 500. Sgt Davis said Derry Healy had 11 previous convictions for having drugs for his own use and four for having drugs for sale or supply. Defence solicitor Joseph Cuddigan stressed that the charges dated back to November 2023. Mr Cuddigan said the matter could not have been dealt with before now because forensic analysis had to be carried out on the drugs. Once that was done, the plea was forthcoming, Mr Cuddigan said. He was not so much dealing, he was holding it for someone. He was in a situation to hold the cocaine on behalf of another party. He had been making quite good progress other than this slip. It was not a slip, Judge Mary Dorgan said. This is quite serious. We all know the difficulties being caused by cocaine in Cork. Mr Cuddigan challenged the 3,000 valuation for the tablets and said it was closer to half of that. The solicitor said that the defendant used Alprazolam a Xanax-type tablet himself. He suggested that it might be of assistance to have a probation report prepared on the accused. Judge Dorgan agreed to adjourn sentencing for a probation report until October 16, but commented: His excuses are somewhat hollow. Kenneth Fox Planning is underway to have the Palestinian president visit Ireland to deliver an historic address to members of the Oireachtas. Ceann Comhairle Sean O Fearghail has made contact with the Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland to explore the possibility of having Mahmoud Abbas speak in the Dail after Ireland's formal recognition of Palestine earlier this year. A visit by Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky is also on the cards in the coming months with a formal invite being sent out this week. At a meeting of the Business Committee last week it was decided to ask Mr Abbas to address politicians in Leinster House. However, Mr O Fearghail has strongly ruled out extending a similar initiation to Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. "I wouldn't contemplate for a minute inviting that man anywhere to anything. I think he's a leading part of an enormous, murderous campaign which revolts the Irish people, revolts us here in Leinster House. In an interview with the Irish Examiner, Mr O Fearghail warned that the ongoing bombardment of Gaza by Israel will only fuel radicalization of another generation. "My wife and I look at her TV in the evening, we watch 9pm news if I'm there, and to see those beautiful little brown-eyed children in Palestine, sitting crying beside the corpses of their brothers, their sisters, their mothers or their fathers; you think about what will those children be like in five years time if peace is not drawn out of this appalling circumstance?" High Court reporters Controversial landlord Marc Godart has been made personally liable for 80 per cent of a former tenants legal costs spent pursuing him over a 15,433 Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) award for unlawful eviction. Although Lizet Pena-Herreras High Court case was against Green Label Short Lets Ltd, Mr Justice Brian Cregan said it was clear Mr Godart, the firms sole director, was the real party to the litigation, which he resisted tooth and nail. The judge said he was satisfied Mr Godart acted in bad faith and with impropriety from start to finish in the conduct of these proceedings. Mr Godart clearly believed he could avail of a free rider situation whereby if he won Green Label would be awarded its legal costs and if he lost the company which he claims ceased trading and had no assets would be unable to pay Ms Pena-Herreras costs, the judge said. It was reasonable to draw inference that Mr Godart (35), or companies he controls, provided funds to resist the ex-tenants application for him to answer questions in court on the firms finances, the judge added. Ms Pena-Herrera, a psychologist originally from Bolivia who has been living in Ireland since 2008, was not successful in all of her legal arguments to the court, so the landlord should not be liable for the full amount of her costs, the judge concluded. Mr Justice Cregan agreed to a request from Gary McCarthy, senior counsel for Mr Godart and the company, to suspend the effects of the order pending a potential appeal. Court order Ms Pena-Herreras High Court application led to the court granting an order requiring Mr Godart to come to court to explain the companys financial affairs. Following this, the court was told Green Label had secured a loan to pay her the amount ordered by the RTB in 2022. In his judgment on the costs given on Thursday, Mr Justice Cregan criticised Mr Godarts swearing of a false statutory declaration, which accompanied a notice to quit, stating Green Label owned and intended to sell the Dublin 8 rental property from which Ms Pena-Herrera was evicted. The judge noted Mr Godart later told the High Court the firm has no assets and merely acts as a letting agent, while his lawyers said the property is owned by a woman living in Co Wexford. Mr Justice Cregan said Mr Godarts behaviour in swearing the false declaration was an act of bad faith and impropriety. Ms Pena-Herrera was represented in the High Court by John Kennedy SC, Liam Bell BL and McGrath Mullan Solicitors. She was evicted in 2022 after raising health and safety concerns arising from alleged overcrowding in the premises. The RTB described it as an egregious unlawful eviction, carried out without warning while she was at work. Many of us dont prioritise our sleep health, tossing and turning on an unsuitable bed or mattress for our needs, putting up with constantly being tired, or thinking that a health issue or mobility problem precludes us from getting a good nights sleep. However, sometimes, just a little help can go a long way to ensure comfort and promote independence at night. The newly-designed Adjustable Bed range from The Natural Sleep Company not only looks great, with customisable features to fit with the modern home, but can also help maintain good sleep quality, better health and can benefit people of all ages. Every bed and mattress is designed, developed, and custom-made to order in Ireland using the best quality materials, with a focus on natural fibres and organic materials. Irish made Founded in 1983 by husband and wife James Hayes and Mary Rose Fitzpatrick, theirs is a family run business with more than four decades of experience. As well as supplying mattresses to retailers and luxury hotels around Ireland, they started to specialise in making adjustable beds at their workshop in Ballylanders, Co Limerick, more than 30 years ago. Marrying natural materials and innovative technology the company also specialises in organic mattresses, which they sell online via naturalsleep.ie. The Adjustable Bed range comes in three sizes single (4ft), double (5ft) and super king (6ft). A solid beechwood base with a five-part moving action raises the back or feet with the touch of a button. The specially designed pressure relieving mattress moves with the bed and has been perfected over 30 years, for ultimate comfort and flexibility. The foam block core gives support and comfort at whichever position the bed is elevated to. A three inch layer of reactive smart foam moulds to hips and shoulders. A final layer of heat-regulating, naturally hypoallergenic, organic lambswool offers plush comfort. The whole mattress is then covered in the finest soft touch, moisture wicking organic cotton and can be turned to choose a slightly firmer, or softer side as preferred. The foam core mattress has been specially designed over 30 years for maximum support and comfort. We care, says owner Mary Rose. We want our customers to be comfortable at the end of the day, and we want to make things that bit easier. We take the time to listen and advise, and then get to making the adjustable bed to a persons individual tastes and needs. We are confident our newly-designed adjustable beds not only look great but are the best out there in terms of the materials we use, the attention to detail and the workmanship that goes into making them. The solid beechwood frame has a five part moving action. Custom comfort The adjustable beds are made to order and can be customised to suit individual needs and decor. There are three classic colours of luxurious soft suede fabric upholstery to choose from: a blush beige, rich navy and elegant grey. There are also two leg styles to choose from, giving two different bed heights. Each bed comes equipped with a glowing LED light under the base surrounds, which gently illuminates the area around the base of the bed to guide footing in the dark. Optional soft LED under bed lighting guides footing at night. The single (4ft) bed with one mattress is suitable for one person, and the double (5ft) and super king (6ft) beds are suitable for two people sharing a bed, with two dual controlled mattresses giving the flexibility for one person to sit up in bed, while the other can lay flat. A smaller 3ft single bed can also be made on request. Small change, big difference Whether a person is looking for an adjustable bed because of health issues, mobility concerns, help to get in and out of bed, or just to be more comfortable at night, this small change can make a big difference. Naturally heat regulating organic lambs wool gives comfort, and organic cotton covers the mattress for ultimate softness. Hiatus hernia and reflux are the most common health conditions we hear about, explains Mary Rose, but help getting in and out of bed and sleeping a little raised up are the main reasons people buy an adjustable bed. The easy to use handset moves the bed at the touch of a button. Raising the head and elevating the feet can help with sleep apnoea, snoring, asthma and breathing problems, the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn and can give relief to swollen legs and cramping. The flexibility to change the beds position can help ease back pain, sciatica, hernia and arthritic pain and improve circulation. An adjustable bed can also help with conditions such as Parkinsons, motor neuron disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, fibromyalgia, and spinal injury (though a profiling bed whose overall height moves from low to high is sometimes more suitable for more serious conditions). The double and super king adjustable beds have dual-controlled mattresses with separate handsets, and are suitable for two people. Free delivery and set up The Adjustable Bed range from The Natural Sleep Company is available to order online from adjustablebedspecialists.ie, with a tailored service from order to installation. Theres free delivery anywhere on the island of Ireland within two weeks, at a time that suits. They will set up the bed, instruct on how to use the remotes and even take away old bed bases and mattresses at no charge. Prices start at 2,445 inclusive of VAT for a Single (4ft) bed, which is suitable for one person. The Double (5ft) Double (5ft) bed is priced at 3,080 and the Super King (6ft) bed is priced at 3,675, both suitable for two people. It is worth keeping in mind that VAT can also be claimed back from Revenue if the bed is needed for certain medical conditions. Visit adjustablebedspecialists.ie to find out more, or give Mary Rose, Eibhlis or Trisha a call Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm at 062 46900. One to one consultations can also be made at The Natural Sleep Companys showroom in Ballylanders, Co Limerick, by calling the team. They would be delighted to share the benefits of investing in a quality Irish-made adjustable bed and the difference it can make to a persons sleep health. After four years of back and forth, the European Union and Apple have finally come to an agreement on the latter's tap-and-go technology. The European Commission announced Apple made "legally binding" commitments to provide developers with their Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology, which is used for tap-and-go technology, and access iOS features like Face ID authentication and double-click to launch. The agreement saves Apple from facing an antitrust fine equal to up to 10 percent of its worldwide annual turnover about $40 billion. Apple has also agreed to stipulations such as allowing users to make third-party wallets their default app. "It opens up competition in this crucial sector, by preventing Apple from excluding other mobile wallets from the iPhone's ecosystem," Margrethe Vestage, the EU's executive vice president in charge of competition policy, stated in the release. "From now on, competitors will be able to effectively compete with Apple Pay for mobile payments with the iPhone in shops. So consumers will have a wider range of safe and innovative mobile wallets to choose from." The commitments are binding for ten years, with an independent monitor ensuring Apple follows them across the European Economic Area (EEA). The European Commission opened its investigation into Apple in 2020, alleging that Apple was restricting rival mobile wallet developers from accessing necessary technology. Two years later, the regulatory body issued a preliminary view that Apple "abused its dominant position." Then, in early 2024, Apple finally offered to open up its NFC technology and report to an independent reviewer. The European Commission shared the terms publicly, encouraging Apple's rivals and other interested parties to give their opinion. The final agreement between the European Commission and Apple results from those consultations. The tech giant could still be on the hook for tens of billions of dollars in a different case after the European Commission issued its preliminary view that Apple violated the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The new law went into effect in March, and the European Commission soon opened an investigation into whether Apple prevented developers from telling users that they could pay less for services elsewhere. Apple currently takes a 30 percent commission on any purchases made through the App Store. The European Commission has until March 2025 to make a final ruling in the case. The German Navy is in need of a serious upgrade for its fleet of submarine frigates and were not talking about a digital upload or some kind of software patch. The countrys fleets of submarine frigates have operated on old-fashioned, 8-inch floppy disks since they were commissioned back in the 1990s. Now the German Navy is trying to find a way to replace the outdated disk system that are vital to the running of its Brandenburg class F123 frigates, according to Toms Hardware. Replacing the floppy disk system wont be an easy task. These disks pretty much control everything on the ships from airflow systems to power generation. Does the German Navy still use Palm Pilots to organize its codewords and Tamagotchi to train its recruits in marine wildlife preservation? Saab has been in charge of maintenance for Germanys F123 frigate fleet since 2021, according to a press release. The frigates are designed to hunt for submarines so theyre also getting upgrades for its weapons and weapon control systems. Hopefully, theyll also throw in one of those cool, luxurious night panel dashboards for free. A lot of government institutions and programs have been on the floppy disk system for decades and long after the outdated computer storage system has fallen out of general use. Japans Digital Agency announced at the beginning of the month that it eliminated the use of floppy disks in its government systems. Does that mean that somewhere in the world, a core government agency is still using those Commodore cassette tapes to store its most vital data? Let's hope those disks aren't tied to nuclear weapons access... like they were in the US. Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products . Samsung wrapped up its summer Galaxy Unpacked event yesterday, and there werent too many surprises. Leaks before the event pointed to fresh Galaxy Z Flip and Galaxy Z Fold phones, along with a pair of new watches and more info on the Galaxy Ring. What we got was... announcements of the Galaxy Z Flip 6, the Galaxy Z Fold 6, the Galaxy Watch 7, the Galaxy Watch Ultra and a proper unveil of the Galaxy Ring. Leakers is there anything they cant do? Perhaps the one surprise was news from Google that WearOS 5 will debut on the new Galaxy Watches before coming to over products later. If you want to relive the not-much-drama as it happened, you can either read back through our liveblog or watch a replay of Samsungs stream. If you dont have time for all that, weve rounded up all of the news in an easily digestible form below. Galaxy Ring Photo by Sam Rutherford / Engadget Kicking things off is a brand new product category for Samsung: a smart ring. The company had already made it clear that this device (much like the Oura Ring) is focused on health and wellness, and now we've got a clearer idea of how that might work, as well as how much you'll need to pay to snap up the Galaxy Ring. Samsung claims it's been able to cram its existing sensor tech into the smaller form factor of a ring. The titanium Galaxy Ring has an accelerometer, PPG sensors to measure blood flow and skin temperature detection. It can track metrics such as sleep score, movement during your slumber, heart rate, respiratory rate and menstrual cycles. Samsung will give you an overall Energy Score to help give you a snapshot of your overall health and offer suggestions on how to improve things. There's no subscription required for any of this, by the way, which is welcome news. Along with automatic workout detection, the ring can deliver heart rate alerts and nudge you to move around a little if it hasn't picked up much movement from you recently. Oh, and you can use the smart ring to remotely snap a photo with your Galaxy phone. The Galaxy Ring, which is said to run for up to seven days on a single charge and has a quick charging case, will run you $400. Pre-orders start today in the US. The wearable will start shipping on July 24. One other thing worth noting is that if you wear a Galaxy Ring and Galaxy Watch together, the battery life of the former will last for up to 30 percent longer, Samsung claims. Samsung Galaxy Ring $400 See at Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6 Photo by Sam Rutherford/Engadget Samsung's foldable phones are getting their annual refresh just in time to take them to the beach, perhaps to test how well those creases hold up these days. The Galaxy Z Flip 6 and Galaxy Z Fold 6 are the slimmest and lightest models in their respective lineups yet, and Samsung says they're more durable than ever. The company says there's a strengthened folding edge to help support the dual-rail hinge, while "enhanced layers" for the main screen help improve the crease without diminishing strength. Both smartphones have Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 to help make them more durable too. The handsets run on a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. On the cooling front, the Z Fold 6 has a larger vapor chamber than its predecessor. The Z Flip 6 is the first Z Flip to include a vapor chamber, which should improve cooling. Because it's 2024, the phones have a ton of AI features (some of which appeared in the Galaxy Ultra S24), including a fully integrated Google Gemini app. They can generate a more detailed image based on a sketch and draft emails based on a prompt, while there are a bunch of AI-powered camera upgrades. One admittedly cool feature for the Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 is that the Interpreter app makes the most of the dual screen format, so both the main and cover screens feature translations with the aim of fostering more natural conversations. The translations are handled on-device, rather than through the cloud. Speaking of the displays, those are slightly larger this year. The 7.6-inch main screen is 2.7mm wider, while the cover screen is 1mm wider. At 2,600 nits, the displays are also the brightest seen on a Galaxy Fold, matching that of the Galaxy S24. When it comes to the Z Flip 6, one of the major upgrades is a new camera system. The foldable boasts 50MP wide and 12MP ultra-wide sensors (the same as the base Galaxy S24). The former has 2x optical zoom with artificial intelligence powering a zoom function of up to 10x. Samsung has also bumped up the base memory from 8GB to 12GB. Both smartphones are available to pre-order today and general availability starts on July 24. The Galaxy Z Fold 6 starts at $1,900, while the Z Flip 6 starts at $1,100. Those who pre-order a Z Fold 6 will get a storage bump from 256GB to 512GB or 512GB to 1TB, while you can get a free 256GB to 512GB storage increase with a Galaxy Z Flip 6 pre-order. If you're interested in finding out more about the devices before taking the plunge though, you may be pleased to learn that we've had some hands-on time with them. You can read our first impressions of the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6 now or watch the video above. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 $1,900 See at Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 and Galaxy Watch Ultra Photo by Sam Rutherford / Engadget Of all the possible words Samsung could have chosen for its new premium smartwatch, it had to plump for "Ultra." It's not like any of Samsung's major competitors has a smartwatch bearing that moniker or anything. Anyway, there's a new high-end Samsung smartwatch in town and it's called the Galaxy Watch Ultra. The Wear OS 5-powered device employs a new cushion design to bolster protection and what Samsung calls "visual completeness." The Watch Ultra is designed for durability, perhaps with extreme athletes in mind. For one thing, it's said to work at a wider range of altitudes, from 500 meters below sea level to 9,000 meters above it. It's water resistant to a depth of 100 meters and has a titanium frame. Adventurers should not have to worry about the device running out of juice in a hurry as Samsung says it will run for up to 100 hours in power saving mode and 48 hours when exercise power saving is enabled. Either way, it should have the longest battery life of any Galaxy Watch. Other features include multi-course workout tracking (for things like triathlons), advanced Personalized Heart Rate Zone and an emergency siren to bolster safety. The screen has a peak brightness of 3,000 nits, so it should be visible in very sunny conditions, and there's a night mode too. Samsung says the Galaxy Watch Ultra can even look for signs of sleep apnea. On top of all that, there's a new programmable Quick Button. For those who just want the latest Samsung smartwatch without too many bells and whistles, there's the Galaxy Watch 7. This model is the first with a 3nm processor, which Samsung says can deliver three times faster CPU performance and 30 percent better power efficiency. It has a dual-frequency GPS system to boost location accuracy, health tracking upgrades and the ability to control the device via double pinch gestures. Hmm, where have we heard that one before? The Galaxy Watch Ultra is only available in a 47mm size and costs $650. As for the Galaxy Watch 7, that comes in 40mm and 44mm sizes. It starts at $300. It's the same deal as with all the other new gear: pre-orders are open now with shipments and general availability starting on July 24. We've also had the chance to go hands on with the Galaxy Watch Ultra, so you can read all about our first impressions of Samsung's stab at a higher-end smartwatch. Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra $650 See at Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro Photo by Sam Rutherford / Engadget We have some new Galaxy Buds to go with the ring, watches and foldables. When the Galaxy Buds 3 and Buds 3 Pro are paired with a Z Flip 6 or Z Fold 6, the Interpreter app can translate audio live into your ears. That might be helpful for anyone studying abroad or taking a foreign language class. Both models use their mics to analyze internal and external sound to optimize audio quality and active noise cancellation. The Buds 3 Pro can automatically adjust for noise via the adaptive noise control, siren detect and voice detect features. The in-ear Buds 3 Pro have a new blade (i.e. stem) design with lights built in. You'll be able to control the audio by pinching or swiping up or down. They boast dual amplifiers, planar tweeters and a super-wideband call feature too. Once again, pre-orders for the earbuds are open today, with general availability starting on July 24. Galaxy Buds 3 start at $180, while a pair of Galaxy Buds 3 Pro will run you $250. Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro $250 See at Samsung Catch up on all the news from Samsung's Galaxy Unpacked 2024 here! Update, July 11, 1PM ET: This story was updated after publishing to include links to the Samsung store and more links and references to Engadget's stories from the Galaxy Unpacked event. There werent too many surprises (thanks, leaks!) at Samsungs Unpacked event , held live in Paris with satellite events in New York, London and elsewhere. The big announcement was Samsungs foray into a new kind of wearable, the smart ring. Samsung claims its been able to cram its existing sensor tech into the Galaxy Rings smaller form factor. Made of titanium, it packs in an accelerometer and PPG sensors to measure blood flow and detect skin temperature. It can track metrics such as sleep score, movement during your slumber, heart rate, respiratory rate and menstrual cycles. Notably, theres no subscription required to tap into all the tracking and metrics. Take that Oura and Fitbit . The Galaxy Ring will run you $400 when it launches on July 24. Engadget Then there are the foldables. This year, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 gets the most attention, with upgraded camera sensors (50-megapixel wide and 12MP ultra-wide sensors), which put the smaller foldable on par with the S24. Theres also a bigger battery too. Meanwhile, the Z Fold 6 hasnt got many major spec bumps (theres the annual note that screens are tougher and both foldables feature even more enhanced hinges). Both devices pack an Interpreter app, which uses both the main and cover screens to swap translations and streamline communications. There are even more generative AI tricks too. Check out everything announced right here . Mat Smith The biggest stories you might have missed Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6: Brighter, lighter and faster, but is that enough? Strava launches a family plan Amazons Kindle Scribe drops to a new record low ahead of Prime Day You can get these reports delivered daily direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here! They could still amend and refile their complaint. X has faced multiple legal battles since Elon Musks takeover. One suit concerns over 6,000 employees Musk laid off following his acquisition of the company and complains that he didnt give them full severance. The X boss won a motion to dismiss the class action suit. Judge Thompson found the Twitter severance plan did not qualify under the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) because the employees received notice of a separate payout scheme prior to the layoffs. She ruled that the severance program adopted after Musks takeover applied to these former employees. Thompsons order noted the plaintiffs could amend their complaint for non-ERISA claims. Continue reading. Environmental groups accuse the company of distorting the truth. Amazon says its now sourcing all its power from clean energy sources, seven years ahead of its own schedule. The companys claim of achieving 100 percent clean electricity is based, in part, on billion-dollar investments in over 500 solar and wind initiatives. The companys logic is that the energy these projects generate equals the electricity its data centers consume. But that energy goes to the general power grid, not direct to Amazon-specific power sockets. Continue reading. Its also, confusingly, adding a standard plan. Engadget Xbox is increasing the price of its Game Pass again. Beginning on July 10, new subscribers will pay the updated price, while current subscribers will see the higher costs take effect starting September 12. For the US, Game Pass Ultimate prices will increase from $17 a month to $20 a month, while a year of access to Game Pass Core will jump from $60 to $75. Xbox Game Pass Standard is a new addition, for $15 per month. This plan offers access to Game Pass titles but without day-one release access to Microsoft-owned titles or Xbox Cloud Gaming. What happened to Game Pass? It was such a great deal it still is, arguably but Microsoft is making it increasingly confusing. Continue reading. A Missouri man has been accused of murdering a woman whose body was found by kayakers in the Missouri River nearly 13 months ago. He was already behind bars for accusations of kidnapping. Timothy M. Haslett Jr. was charged with the first degree murder of Jaynie Crosdale. Prosecutor Zachary Thompson of Clay County called his alleged physical, psychological, and sexual violence as "brutal" and "barbaric," per 'The Kansas City Star.' The body of Jaynie Crosdale was found dead in a barrel in June 2023. It is presumed that Haslett shot Crosdale, then 36-years-old, while she was in the barrel. Pictures were found of Crosdale in the basement dungeon built by Haslett. Furthermore, barrels similar to the barrel that Crosdale was found in have been seen at Haslett's Excelsior Springs home. According to 'The Washington Post, Haslett had a documented history of torturing Black women and sharing misogynistic comments on the internet. He reportedly built a dungeon in his home where he kept the women he tortured. In 2022, a woman escaped from the bunker where she was being kept. The woman explained that she had been locked away there for about a month. She approached a nearby house with a chain around her neck and scars that proved visible injuries. Her identity is being kept private. When Haslett, 42, was first brought to court, he pleaded not guilty. Due to evidence that could substantiate the charges, Haslett was only charged with nine counts during his 2022 court appearance, including aggravated assault, kidnapping, and rape. There was not enough evidence to substantiate that he had murdered anyone. He had made several comments online boasting about his illegal and inhumane actions. He posted that he had killed two Black women and had built a dungeon where he could "punish" them. Now, Haslett is being charged for first degree murder. If he is convicted, Haslett could face life in prison or the death penalty, as the state of Missouri is one of five states that still recognizes it. Blac Chyna's mom, Tokyo Toni, is back at it again with another hot take, this time calling out the hottest women in hip-hop and their choice in men. Tokyo Toni known for her unfiltered and raw live clips on social media dragged Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, and Rihanna for being a part of a group of "sad and sorry" women who are misguided and need love. Toni suggested that the female artists she mentioned don't want a thing beside "money and fame." The video clip also ended with the reality TV mother in tears. RELATED: Uncle Luke Scolds Drake After 'Unacceptable' Rick Ross Squabble: 'I Know How This Ends' "Nicki [is] married to a r****t, Cardi [is] married to a professional cheater, Rihanna [is] with a broke a*s [man]. These [women] are sad and sorry, their mothers are sad and sorry. You don't hear nothing from these [women]," Toni began. The mother of one, with angry tears on her face, ranted that the aforementioned artists are "demonic," admitting that her daughter, Blac Chyna, was as well before she put an end to it. "[Let me] Go wash my face, 'cause I'm pissed," she said. "All these young girls that need love [their] parents were on drugs, left [them] behind," Toni, 52, continued. "Why? You didn't have nobody to teach you or tell you better." RELATED: Lil Mama Blames Nicki Minaj For A Generation Of 'Musical Prostitutes' Amid BET Awards Backlash: 'They Laughing At Us' Tokyo Toni, real name Shalana Hunter, gave birth to her reality TV star daughter, Blac Chyna at just 16-years-old, alleging she encouraged her to give up her old lifestyle which she claims was "demonic." Chyna, who now goes by her legal name Angela White, has admitted the lifestyle she adapted was "a character that spilled over" from the strip club scene. The 36-year-old proceeded to remove fillers from her face as well as implants from her body. Tokyo Toni currently hosts a new podcast series called 'AuntTea' alongside Blueface's mother, Karlissa Saffold, 51, and Tia Kemp, 47, ex-wife of rapper Rick Ross. Benji Gregory, the actor who gained fame as a child star on the 1980s sitcom 'Alf,' has died. He was 46. The news of his death was announced by his sister, Rebecca Hertzberg-Pfaffinger, in a post on Facebook. "It is with a heavy heart my family has suffered a loss way too early," she wrote. "Ben was a great son, brother and uncle. He was fun to be around and made us laugh quite often. Still, going through his things, I find myself laughing at little videos or notes of his, in between crying." According to Hertzberg-Pfaffinger, Gregory was found dead in his vehicle on June 13, along with his cherished service dog, Hans, who also passed away. It appears Gregory intended to deposit residual checks at a bank but never exited the car to complete the transaction. "He fell asleep and died from vehicular heatstroke," Hertzberg-Pfaffinger stated. The Maricopa County Medical Examiner's Office in Arizona informed 'TMZ' that an official cause of death is still pending. Gregory's cousin, Camille Jazzy Jenkins, stated on Facebook that their family "has lost one of the most beloved and wonderful men in our small circle." "It has taken some time to process and come to terms with our loss," Jenkins stated. "We are not okay, but take comfort knowing he is with his grandmothers." In their posts, Jenkins and Hertzberg-Pfaffinger shared a series of photographs showcasing moments with Gregory. According to his sister, who spoke with 'TMZ,' Gregory struggled with depression and bipolar disorder. Additionally, he faced challenges with a sleep condition that frequently caused him to stay awake for extended periods. NATO allies on Wednesday announced they had started transferring F-16 jets to Ukraine while stepping up promises to Kyiv on eventual membership in the alliance, at a 75th anniversary summit clouded by political uncertainties in the United States. With the pomp of the three-day gathering in the US capital, President Joe Biden is aiming to rally the West and also reassure voters amid pre-election scrutiny of whether at 81 -- six years older than NATO itself -- he remains fit for the job. Biden individually welcomed the other 31 leaders of the alliance before urging them to keep pace with Russia's military production, which has stepped up sharply in the two years since President Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine. "We can -- and will -- defend every inch of NATO territory and we'll do it together," Biden told the North Atlantic Council, the formal decision-making body of the alliance, at Washington's convention center as the city sweltered under a heat wave. Biden announced that Denmark and the Netherlands had begun sending US-made F-16 jets to Ukraine -- making good on a key promise last year to Kyiv, which has struggled to gain parity in the air with Russia. He earlier announced new air defense systems for Ukraine and said the United States had agreed to place long-range missiles periodically in Germany. In the evening Biden hosted the NATO leaders for a gala dinner, marked by storm clouds that forced the cancellation of a planned flypast. Biden compared the alliance to his childhood neighborhood, saying: "When a neighbor needed help, you pitched in. When the bullies threatened the block, you stepped up." US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the F-16 transfer "concentrates Vladimir Putin's mind on the fact that he will not outlast Ukraine, he will not outlast us." But White House challenger Donald Trump, who is edging out Biden in polls leading up to November's presidential election, has mused about bringing a quick peace settlement by pushing Ukraine to surrender territory to Russia. The Republican mogul has repeatedly questioned the utility of NATO -- formed in 1949 as collective defense against Moscow -- which he sees as an unfair burden on the United States. - 'Terror must fail' - On the eve of the summit, Russia fired a barrage of missiles on Ukraine, killing dozens, including in Kyiv where a children's hospital was reduced to debris. Biden invited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the summit, who voiced gratitude for the F-16s. The new aircraft will "bring just and lasting peace closer, demonstrating that terror must fail," Zelensky wrote on social media. The summit aimed in part to "Trump-proof" the alliance including by giving NATO a greater role, rather than the United States, in coordinating arms delivery into Ukraine. In a joint declaration, NATO leaders promised to give Ukraine 40 billion euros ($43 billion) in military aid "within the next year" -- part of efforts to increase stability after Trump's allies in Congress held up US assistance for months. Trump's aides have also discussed conditioning aid to Ukraine on forcing Kyiv to the negotiating table and said that China, not Russia, is a larger concern to US interests. The NATO leaders' statement took aim at China as well, voicing "profound concern" over its industrial support to Russia. China's reaction was swift. "NATO should stop hyping up the so-called China threat and provoking confrontation and rivalry, and do more to contribute to world peace and stability," a spokesman for Beijing's mission to the EU said, adding that "China's position on Ukraine is open and aboveboard." Biden invited four key Pacific partners to the summit -- Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand -- as he seeks to increase NATO's role in Asia. - 'Irreversible' Ukraine path to NATO - The summit also stepped up promises to Ukraine, saying that it was on an "irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration, including NATO membership." Ukraine has for years sought but failed to win membership in NATO, which as an alliance considers an attack on one an attack on all. But Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz have led concerns that bringing in Kyiv now would effectively be entering war with nuclear-armed Russia as it occupies swathes of Ukrainian territory. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, visiting days after his Labour Party swept to power, promised Zelensky that Britain -- unlike the United States -- was united across partisan lines on supporting Ukraine. Starmer made clear he had no issue with Ukraine using UK missiles to strike into Russian territory, remarks that drew a rebuke from Moscow. The summit, Starmer told reporters, is showing Putin that NATO is "bigger now than it's ever been, more united than it's ever been, and absolutely clear-eyed about the threat of Russian aggression." bur-dk/nro/md/bjt Received the sad intelligence of sister Lydias death, Ohio farmer Alexander Smalley, Jan. 31, 1873 diary entry. On March 1, Alexander Smalleys sister Kate returned home from Iowa along with Lydias widower and children. Found Kate had been quite sick. She is not looking very well yet. Brought the three youngest children. It is agreed that we will take Frank, Ben and Katie, as their father must return home to other children, Smalley writes of this monumental decision for his family. The next day, Succeeded in getting a cradle for little Katie. We know from a previous entry that Ben would have been only 3 years old. Franks age is never determined in the diary entries. On March 5, Frank seems to be contented. Our society social tonight would have been good if two miserable ruffians would have stayed away. Newman rowdies Dave and Banton, the lowest dregs of society were there, for no good. Life was not always tame. After getting 80 loads of shocks, I went down to Heichels exhibition tonight, Egyptian mummy. Was a grand show. George Gregg hit Sam Dove! One has to wonder if nephew Frank had witnessed both the rowdies and the punching at the mummy exhibition, and just what was going through his mind as he tried to adjust to the changes in his young life. His father had returned to Iowa, presumably alone, on March 13. Jan. 25, Another Forbes fracas last night. Husband knocked wife down while in a drunken fit. Earlier in the month, Had a loud time at Society meeting. The debate became heated over the topic, should foreign emigration be encouraged? On the April day of neighbor Glenns sale, Some northern rowdies, 14 or more, were there and acted worse than imps of hell. Later that month, Was witness at a trial of several young ruffians in which old McCarty blew off several drunken speeches. The drum-head jury returned a verdict about 8 p.m. of not guilty. Oh, consistency, thou art a jewel! he writes with dripping sarcasm. The single most life-altering entry to date in Smalleys life is May 9, 1873. My dear mother was stricken with palsy about 7 a.m. and quietly breathed her last between 8 and 9. Our neighbors have manifested a marked degree of kindness. His mothers death came just two months after taking on three young grandchildren to raise. And though Frank and Ben are mentioned many times in the upcoming years, baby Katie is not. Perhaps the baby was taken in by her paternal grandparents, the Helmans. The next day, a Saturday, The saddest day, we hope, of the year. Mothers funeral took place at 2 p.m., friends assembling at an early hour. Was a very large attendance considering the short notice, Smalley writes. I spent a considerable time searching in the nearby, remotely placed Eckley Cemetery to determine Alexanders mother, Mary Smith Smalley, age 56, is buried there, the soapstone monument growing difficult to read. She was laid to rest close to three of her childrens graves, an unnamed infant, a son, John Cyrus who died at the age of 4 in 1846 which was the year Alexander was born, and daughter Sarah who had died in 1863, age 23. Alexanders sorrow is heavy as he writes, Arose this morning as usual and sad, oh sad, indeed to see a vacant chair in our little family circle. A few days later, after plowing with three horses in a big days work, he writes, It appears very lonely at home now. What is a home without a mother? Healthy pastures and forages are often some of the most productive pastures and forages, but there are several factors that can work against our efforts in maintaining the health of these systems. Plant diseases and pests actively reduce the health and productivity of our forage and pasture plants, and accordingly, may impact the quality of the forages being made available to our livestock. With the amount of attention given to forage quality for the sake of maximizing the flow of nutrients to our livestock, giving some effort towards identification and management of disease and pest presence in these systems is an important component of the ability to protect and maintain the quality we strive for in our forages. The focus of this article will be on the insect pests that may be found in forage systems. There are several major insect pest species to be aware of. One group of pests, commonly referred to as lepidopteran pests, feed as larvae (caterpillars) in a wide range of crops that includes many of our forage species. Armyworm Lepidopteran species such as the common armyworm and fall armyworm can cause significant damage, depending on the year and the population size of the pest. You may have experienced such damage during the fall armyworm outbreak during late summer 2021. These pests do not overwinter here, so their variability can also depend upon their success in migrating from the south. The adults (typically moths, although some species of butterflies as well) do not do any feeding, and are nocturnal, meaning they can be difficult to scout for. Using pheromone traps to indicate presence and pressure of these pests is the best way to be timely with your observations and know when to scout for larval feeding, thus allowing for timely and precise pest management decisions. This is especially important when dealing with armyworm species, as they can decimate forages in the matter of hours, and as they enter later in-star stages, they become increasingly difficult to control. Leafhopper A few other primary pests in Ohio, especially in alfalfa, include the alfalfa weevil and potato leafhopper. At this point in the year, we are past the primary generation of alfalfa weevil, which typically only has one generation per year. However, in abnormally warm years, a second generation of weevil may develop, so this may need to be watched closely. We are currently in the prime season for potato leafhopper. Potato leafhoppers do not overwinter here and are instead blown into our area on southerly winds and storm fronts from the south, which we have had plenty of this year. These small insects are considered a sucking insect that use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on the plant sap, and in doing so, damage the alfalfa leaves resulting in damage referred to as hopper burn. Hopper burn appears as a wedge-shaped yellow pattern on the leaves, typically moving from the leaf tip toward the mid-vein of the leaf. I would encourage anyone with alfalfa to be scouting for potato leafhopper, the potential for damage and loss of quality in your alfalfa is high this year with the currently observed elevated populations of this pest. Information on scouting for both the alfalfa weevil and the potato leafhopper can be found in Ohio State University Extension factsheets ENT-32 and ENT-33 respectively. More pests A few other pests that are worth mentioning and can cause locally significant damage to forages include Japanese beetles, grasshoppers, spider mites, aphids, cereal leaf beetles, blister beetles, spittle bugs, plant bugs and other lepidopteran caterpillars such as clover worms, loopers and the diamondback moth (primarily a pest of brassica forage crops like rape and turnips). There are numerous other species of insect pests that are not covered here but can be observed occasionally causing damage to forages. While these pests may be viewed by some as minor pests, they should still be given attention and may need to be managed if action thresholds are met. Management decisions A lot of factors go into making a management decision. There are several questions that you should evaluate before deciding to make an insecticide application: How soon are you going to graze/harvest the forage? What stage is the forage at? What stage are the insect pests at in their life cycle? Is their population increasing or decreasing? Are there beneficial insects and natural enemies present that may be acting as biological pest control? If I do make an application, what are the label restrictions for utilizing the forage? Is the forecast favorable for rapid insect development and reproduction? Is the forecast showing conditions less favorable for rapid progression of insect pest populations? Have I thoroughly scouted my pastures and forages to accurately evaluate pest presence, population size, damage potential and any current feeding damage? Is this area newly seeded or many years established? Is cutting the forage an effective management decision for this pest? This may seem like a lot to consider, but every pest management decision should be a well-informed decision and made with tact and intention. No good pest management decision is made without proper identification of the suspected problem. Especially in perennial production systems, we can often find that our agroecosystem has developed somewhat of an ecological balance. Beneficial I frequently find large populations of beneficial insects such as spined shoulder bugs and lady beetles in pastures and forage fields. These are not just there by chance. I have consistently observed them feeding on pests such as alfalfa weevil larvae and aphids. Making an insecticide application can wipe out beneficial insects along with the pests, sometimes resulting in flare ups of other pests like spider mites. The natural enemies and beneficial species are often slower to rebound after an application, meaning the pests may have a longer window of opportunity to build up population numbers and cause damage after the efficacy of a product has worn off. There are certainly times that an application is warranted and will need to be made to preserve and protect the quality of the forage, and sometimes save the field or pasture altogether, as we observed with the fall armyworm. As always, work with your county extension educator if you have questions about identification of insect species present in your pastures and forage fields. Additional information about insect pests in forages can be found in the Field Crops Insect Pest Management Guide, published by Michigan State University and Ohio State University. The Forage section of the field guide begins on page 51. Scouting is foundational to integrated pest management, and although time consuming, allows you to make the most effective and efficient pest management decisions for your farm. It is critical to the success of your pest management decisions that you get out, scout your pastures, and forage fields and evaluate your situation. Always remember to read and carefully follow all labels on any pesticide. The label is the law. CHAGRIN FALLS, Ohio Hops are distinctive crops that catch your eye as you drive past them: tall, vibrant green vines that bend and twist, jutting up towards the sky, planted in rows that seem to sway in the breeze like curtains. Ohio is home to over 25,000 hop plants, which produce flowers or cones that are primarily used for beer brewing, imparting beers quintessential flavors. People drive by and say, What in the world are these people doing with these telephone poles and giant locust poles? What are they growing? Shari Bailey recounts joyfully. Shari and her husband, Jeff, own Auburn Acres, a hopyard in Chagrin Falls. The couple started growing hops in the fall of 2015, initially for Jeffs homebrewing hobby. Now, the couple has an acre of five varieties of hops, comprising over 900 plants, and sells to local breweries. Auburn Acres is one of four hopyards participating in this years annual Statewide Hopyard Open House, which will take place on July 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is organized by Ohio Hop Growers Guild, and invites brewers, growers and the hop curious to visit a hopyard to learn more about the unique crop, including how terroir impacts the flavor of beer, the journey from soil to brewery and lessons from growing. This year, visitors can expect to learn more about how the warm spring and summer temperatures have impacted the plants. The Baileys and Paula and Merritt Brown of Barking Squirrel Farms both agree that this has been an unusual year for hops, with both farms seeing early flowering and cones. Shari said that early flowering is neither good nor bad the farms simply must keep a close eye on the hops to determine when they should be harvested. She explained that samples are sent to a lab to ascertain if the plants are ready to be harvested, and if breweries want fresh hops for brewing, they are kept in the loop about harvest times. Barking Squirrel Farms, based in Lisbon, planted their first hops in 2017 and recently expanded their hopyard to include seven varieties and over 900 plants. The Browns were inspired to start growing hops after seeing a hopyard while on vacation in Michigan. Paula serves as the secretary of OHGG and looks forward to welcoming visitors to the hopyard. Shari, vice-chair of OHGG, is also passionate about advocacy and outreach when it comes to hop growing. Events hosted by Ohio State University and OHGG were crucial for her farms success, she says. We learned amazing things from all the other hop growers before we actually decided to put a plant in the ground. We went to hopyard open houses, learned what [other growers] were doing, and tried to decide how we could make it our own, she said. We decided to open our hopyard and be a part of the tour a few years ago. Its fun sharing what we do and bringing people here. Open house locations Auburn Acres 10638 Taylor May Rd Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 auburnacresohio@gmail.com Barking Squirrel Farms 14265 Seigler Rd Lisbon, OH 44432 hops@barkingsquirrrelfarms.com Zachrich Hop Yard 4850 Mechanicsburg-Sanford Rd Mechanicsburg, OH 43044 zachrichhopyard@gmail.com Ohio Valley Hops 8371 Ohio 48 Maineville, OH 45039 ohiovalleyhops@gmail.com 1 of 3 HANOVERTON, Ohio The Hicks and Hayseeds 4-H club met July 2 at the club advisors house. Before the meeting, club members cooked a meal for the Kendall Home. Members also finished their silent auction donations. The items being donated include a charcuterie board made from wood, dried flowers and resin; a table runner designed and sewn by the members, and two dried flower-decorated wine glasses. The baskets will be available to be viewed and bid on all week during the Columbiana County Fair, which begins July 29. The meeting began with pledges and roll call, secretary and treasurers report and old and new business. Demonstrations were given by Sidney Casto, Averie Miller, Cole Wilson, Bryce Wood and Matthew Hoopes. Casto showed the club the conductivity of milk by placing a battery in a pan of milk and placing a light bulb in the pan, making the light bulb light up. Miller shared her recipe for chocolate truffles and shared them with the group. Wilson talked about the importance of hand washing and demonstrated how germs cant stick to our hands if they are washed. Wood showed how he bleaches deer skulls. Hoopes told the group how to check transmission fluid in a vehicle. The meeting closed with snacks and drinks. For more info about 4-H, contact Audrey Dimmerling at 330-870-1165. MASSILLON, Ohio The Green Valley 4-H Club held a meeting on May 13 at the Beach City American Legion to continue planning for the Stark County Junior Fair and address other club business. The meeting was called to order, followed by the 4-H Pledge, the Pledge of Allegiance and role call. After reading the April meeting minutes, the club went over old business and discussed its summer outing, community service project and club speaker. On May 21, the club planted flowers and placed flags in each veterans standard at the Beach City Memorial Center. When the club was done it was presented with a check by the Mayor of Beach City. During the next meeting on June 10, the Green Valley 4-H Club continued planning for the Stark County Junior Fair at the Beach City American Legion, and the Stark County Sheriff, George Myer, visited to talk about online safety. Additionally, Myer and a few officers showed the club some of their drones and explained how they are used in police operations. HOWARD, Ohio East Knox FFA juniors Hayden Baker and Blake Elliott received their State FFA Degrees at the 96th annual Ohio FFA Convention held in the Celeste Center at the Ohio Exposition Center. This is the highest degree that an FFA member can receive on the state-level and is earned by only about 2% of the state membership. Bakers supervised agricultural experience projects include raising and showing market hogs at the Knox County Fair and completing various home improvement projects. He is serving as the 2024-2025 chapter vice president and was also in this same position last year. Baker has competed in four national-level FFA career development events and will compete in a fifth one this fall. He competed at the Eastern States Exposition in Massachusetts in Forestry in 2022 and Milk Quality & Products in 2023 and represented Ohio in Indianapolis at the National FFA Convention in the Nursery/Landscape CDE in 2023. Hayden is on the first-place State Milk Quality & Products team that will represent Ohio this fall in Indianapolis He attended state and national FFA conventions, state leadership nights and district officer training. Hayden is the son of Dustin and Lisa Baker of Bladensburg. Elliotts SAE projects include raising and showing dairy market steers at the Knox County Fair, completing various home improvement projects and working on the home farm. Blake is in his third term as the East Knox FFA treasurer and has been a state gold-rated treasurer the past two years. He has competed in agricultural soils, farm business management, greenhand quiz and urban soils career development events. He attended state and national FFA conventions and district officer training. Blake is the son of Josh and Alissa Elliott of Howard. This years two State Degrees now make 112 total East Knox State FFA Degree recipients since East Knox FFA was chartered in 1964. A motorcyclist has died following a crash with a tractor in Moray, Scotland, with police appealing to the public for more information. The collision happened on the B9136 Glenlivet to Tomintoul Road at around 4:40pm on Tuesday (9 July). It involved a blue New Holland Tractor and a green BMW F650 motorcycle. The driver of the tractor was uninjured. Emergency services attended the scene of the crash, but the rider of the motorcycle, a 55-year-old man, died at the scene. The road was closed for around 10 hours to allow for investigations to be carried out. Sergeant Lesley Morrison of Elgin Road Policing, said: Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased at this very difficult time. Our enquires are ongoing and I am appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash or either vehicle prior and who has not already spoken to officers to get in touch. I would also appeal to anyone who was in the area and who may have dash cam footage which could assist us to contact us. Anyone who can help the investigation are being asked to contact 101 quoting reference 2366 of 9 July 2024. It comes after an elderly man was killed following a traffic collision involving a tractor on a rural road in Dorset. Dorset Police confirmed the incident happened on 22 June, involving a Suzuki Celerio and a blue New Holland tractor. NFU Mutual recently urged the public to take extra care over the coming months as agricultural traffic increases due to the start of this year's harvest. A Somerset poultry farmer has been ordered to pay out over 50,000 after pleading guilty to faking salmonella testing certificates. Stuart Perkins, of SG Perkins Ltd, age 38 from Radstock, received the substantial fine at Bath Magistrates Court on 3 July. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) said it had found evidence of traceability concerns and that Mr Perkins had falsified salmonella testing certificates. This meant birds had been slaughtered for the food chain without proof they were free from disease. The FSA acted to manage the potential food safety risk by ensuring products with traceability concerns were removed from the market. The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) supported the investigations, monitoring the welfare of the poultry on site and collecting official Salmonella samples. Mr Perkins pleaded guilty to various offences under the Food Safety and Hygiene (England) Regulations 2013 and the Animal Health Act 1981. He was sentenced to a fine of 5,000 for each FSA offence, 3,500 for each local authority offence, costs amounting to 21,810, plus a victim surcharge of 2,000, which came to a total of 50,830. Andrew Quinn, head of the FSA's National Food Crime Unit, welcomed the substantial fine as "it shows the serious nature of faking documents and jeopardising food safety". "This should act as a deterrent to anyone considering taking dangerous short cuts and breaching food safety and hygiene law," he added. Together, we are stronger in the fight against food crime, and we continue to work with partners to ensure food is safe and help ensure that consumers are protected. Fakir Mohamed Osman, of South West Trading Standards Service, said that authorities took these kind of breaches very seriously. "The prevention of salmonella programme is there for a reason, to safeguard the public. Producers suspected of not carrying out the required testing will be investigated. The defendants actions presented a real risk to public health, and I am pleased that, thanks to our collaborative efforts with the Food Standards Agency, we were able to take action. Bearded men are more likely to be ready to settle down than those with less facial hair. Men could be more likely to grow a beard when theyre ready to settle down Researchers from the University of Katowice, Poland, asked 400 men between the age of 18 and 40 with different levels of facial hair what their social motivations were - including maintaining a long-term partner - and the scientists found that men with bigger beards were more likely to be relationship-orientated compared to their clean-shaven counterparts. Speaking to The Times, the team said: Regarding fundamental social motives, men having more facial hair reported less mate-seeking motivation, but more mate-retention and kin care motivation. Having more facial hair may be used by men to inform other people that their social motives shift from focusing on the mating market to focusing on long-term romantic relationships and family. Scientists asked the group to rank certain life goals in order of importance, and the team found those with more facial hair had a higher willingness to form coalitions and to affiliate. Professor Peter Jonason - who co-authored the study in the journal Archives of Sexual Behavior - explained: They are less likely to have a fast life history strategy and instead, tend to invest in others both romantically and familially. The research also found older men tended to have more facial hair than younger men, with the team adding their results corresponded to previous studies that showed people perceive men with more facial hair as older. Conservationists have declared the only responsible thing to do with Pablo Escobars rampaging hippos is to totally eradicate the beasts. Conservationists have declared the only responsible thing to do with Pablo Escobars rampaging hippos is to totally eradicate the beasts Authorities in Colombia are battling to find a solution of how to stop the feral mammals breeding with the creatures leaving the country with the largest population of the 1.8 tonne animals outside of Africa. Experts admit the animals now represent a major problem that exceeds their ability to deal with them, and say a radical solution is now required. Colombias environment ministry is now finally considering a widespread sterilisation programme and locking the hippos in sanctuaries. It comes as scientists warn they are a danger to native ecosystems as well as to rural communities. Carlos Valderrama, head of the WebConserva foundation, told The Times: We dont want to slaughter hundreds of animals nobody wants to see a killing of that scale, and for animal welfare reasons its not the most advisable thing to do. They put us in a difficult position in which we have to choose between the wellbeing of our ecosystems, of thousands of native animals, for some hippos that should not even be here. From an ecological point of view, the responsible thing to do is to eradicate these animals. David Echeverri Lopez who leads the Biodiversity Management Office of Cornare a regional agency tasked with helping address the hippo problem also warned in a chat with The Times: We have a major problem that exceeds the administrative capacities to deal with it. Theres quite a high level of complexity involved. Studies say if Escobars beasts were allowed to continue reproducing at their current rate, Colombia could have more than 1,400 by 2034. Hunters have failed to kill the drug lords hippos and the castration solution has stalled. One hippo called Napolitano was sedated, placed in a cage and flown by military helicopter to be castrated. But when the helicopters engine overheated due to his weight it only narrowly avoided crashing. After Escobars death in a rooftop gunfight in Medellin in 1993 aged 44, his hippos were left to run wild at the cocaine barons vast Hacienda Napoles private estate. By 2009, the original four hippos imported by the drug titan to his estate in the 1980s had multiplied to about 27. Alec Baldwin seemed in agony while footage of the aftermath of the Rust shooting was played during the opening day of his involuntary manslaughter trial. Alec Baldwin seemed in agony while footage of the aftermath of the Rust shooting was played during the opening day of his involuntary manslaughter trial The 66-year-old actor faced his first day in front of a jury on Wednesday (10.07.24) in New Mexico, and stands accused of involuntary manslaughter after cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, 42, was killed on the set of neo-Western movie Rust in New Mexico in 2021. Looking distressed and tired, at one point he put his hand on his forehead as jurors were shown body cam footage captured by Santa Fe County Sheriffs deputy Nicholas LeFleur who was called as the first witness in the case. The clip showed Halyna lying on her back following the shooting, with tubes coming out of her body as medical teams tend to her. Deputy LeFleur is heard saying: One female shot in the chest, male shot in the stomach. Rust director Joel Souza, 51, who was also injured in the fatal shooting, can be heard shouting in pain and thrashing his legs around. One person is heard saying about the filmmaker: Hes good. hes got a (inaudible) shoulder blade (wound.) A woman helping Hutchins to breathe says: Halyna deep breath, deep breath there you go. Deep breath Halyna. Jesus. Film crew staff and emergency workers could be seen in the footage hoisting mother-of-one Halyna up on a stretcher. Father-of-eight Alec was also comforted by his wife Hilaria Baldwin, 40, in court. Rust armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 26, has already faced trial over the shooting and was found guilty on the same charges in the same court. In her opening statement, prosecutor Erlinda Johnson said Alec had violated the cardinal rules of firearm safety and was reckless on set. She added he also had requested the biggest gun available after he arrived on the set in in October 2021. Alecs attorney Alex Spiro stressed in his opening statement the star operated as actors normally do on a movie set involving weapons and said his client had committed no crime. Meghan, Duchess of Sussex is said to be "very pleased" with the "strong start" for American Riviera Orchard. Duchess Meghan is said to be pleased with the early success of her brand The 42-year-old former actress - who has Archie, five, and Lilibet, three, with Britain's Prince Harry, 39 - unveiled her new company back in March. A trademark application revealed the brand will sell a wide range of home goods, including edible treats like jellies, jams and spreads and tableware staples such as cutlery, table linens and drinkware. While its early days, the 'Suits' alum has already attracted more than 100,000 to her website. A source told Us Weekly: The rollout for American Riviera Orchard is already off to a strong start. The website has over 100,000 who have signed up to hear about the first products launched. "Meghan is very pleased with the early interest it has gained. The insider added: [She] is so excited to see how people enjoy her products and use them in their everyday lives." Several of Meghan's celebrity friends were sent some of her strawberry jam to try. However, it hasn't been all smooth-sailing, as the Goop-style website was hijacked at one point. It emerged that the domain name of her business was snapped up in Britain by an apparent fan of her sister-in-law Catherine, Princess of Wales. While the US American Riviera link takes users to Meghans website, the UK version americanriveriaorchard.uk was bought by someone who linked it to a food bank. Web users are asked for donations to a British-based charity, while a message on the site said: Thoughts with Catherine. The home page of the site read at the time: Forgiveness. Permission. Please donate to the Trussell Trust, and clicking on it took browsers to a Just Giving fundraiser for the Trussell Trust charity. A message also stated: Not Meghan. Hope Meghan wouldnt mind. Thoughts with Catherine. X. The notes appeared to reference the fact Catherine, 42, is undergoing preventative chemotherapy after cancer was detected in her body following major abdominal surgery she underwent in January. It is unclear who bought the UK domain and the Trussell Trust charity confirmed it did not set up the webpage and is not aware of the bogus site. But the linked page has so far raised 25, 768 of its 1,000 donations target with some users posting derogatory remarks and support messages for Catherine. Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York has shared the poignant final message she received from the late Queen Elizabeth. Sarah Ferguson's message from Queen Elizabeth The monarch died at her Balmoral estate in Scotland in September 2022 at the age of 96 and Sarah has now revealed the Queens final words to her were a gift as she urged her former daughter-in-law to be yourself. Sarah told Platinum magazine: The last thing the late Queen said to me was be yourself. That was the best gift, apart from the corgis, that she gave me. She also said: I cared for you, Sarah, and I love you and that youre good enough. Just be it. Sarah explained the Queens kind words meant a lot to her because she always felt as if she was negatively compared to her late former sister-in-law Diana, Princess of Wales. She added: When youre permanently compared to Diana or always in the newspapers seen to be doing something wrong, called Bad Fergie, Furious Fergie, Fat and frumpy Fergie, Frolicking Fergie, you eventually believe it. Im much better now, but you still have to work through things. At 64 I finally feel free to be myself. Rather than trying to please all of the people all of the time, I can accept that isnt possible and get on with living my life. After the Queen died, Sarah adopted the late monarchs remaining two corgis - Sandy and Muick - and on the first anniversary of her death the duchess shared a sweet message calling her a second mother. In a post on Instagram, she wrote: You were a wonderful friend, a mentor, a second mother to me and grandmother to my daughters who share so much of your courage and heart. You will always be loved and missed by our family and our nation. Vietnams economy is projected to grow by 6.95 per cent this year compared to 6.48 per cent forecast earlier as its economic recovery is on track, according to the Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM). Releasing a report in Hanoi recently, the institutes director Nguyen Hong Minh said the country has achieved impressive socio-economic growth in the first half (H1) this year. The domestic economy expanded by 6.42 per cent and exports leapt by 14.5 per cent, while foreign direct investment (FDI) witnessed a considerable rise in both newly-registered capital and disbursement in H1 2024, he said. Vietnam's economy is projected to grow by 6.95 per cent this year compared to 6.48 per cent forecast earlier as its recovery is on track, the Central Institute for Economic Management has said. The economy grew by 6.42 per cent and exports leapt by 14.5 per cent, while FDI saw a considerable rise in both newly-registered capital and disbursement in H1 2024. The government kept restructuring the economy, improving the business climate, increasing labour productivity, prioritising policies for digital and green transformation, and maximising incentives of free trade agreements (FTAs), he noted. CIEMs general research department sees two scenarios this year. In the first, gross domestic product (GDP) growth is forecast to reach 6.55 per cent, with exports rising by 9.54 per cent year on year (YoY) from the previous year. The average consumer price index (CPI) is anticipated to edge up by 4.31 per cent YoY and the country is likely to rack up a trade surplus of $5.7 billion. This target would be achieved if global developments are not too much different from initial international projections and Vietnam maintains its growth momentum in the second half of the year, according to domestic media reports. In the second scenario, GDP growth is projected at 6.95 per cent, with exports increasing by 11.64 per cent YoY. The average CPI for the whole year would inch up by 4.12 per cent YoY and the country would see a trade surplus of $7.3 billion. This target would be achieved if the global economy sees more positive changes, including rapid economic rebound, a rise in investment in Southeast Asian countries and a recovery in supply chains. CIEM economists recommended improving growth quality and innovation capacity, adapting to digital transformation and green transformation, and perfecting the legal framework for new economic models. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) Bhumi Pednekar is celebrated for her dynamic and unconventional choices. Starting her career as a casting assistant, she made a striking debut with Dum Laga Ke Haisha, a role that demanded significant physical transformation. Known for her commitment to diverse and challenging roles, Bhumis journey reflects her relentless pursuit of quality over commercial success. Her roles span across genres, from the heartland stories of India to complex contemporary characters. Bhumis approach to acting is deeply rooted in personal growth and the joy of impactful performance, consistently pushing boundaries and refusing to be typecast. Off-screen, she is a vocal advocate for body positivity and fashion, balancing her public persona with an authentic representation of self-love and empowerment. With a decade in the industry, Bhumi continues to leave an indelible mark, driven by passion, hard work, and a fearless spirit. During our chat, she came across as affable, brimming over with sunshine and good cheer, and seemed genuinely interested in having an interaction rather than a conventional interview. She didnt shy away from hard queries and batted away everything with aplomb, sure of hitting a homerun every time. She loves introspection, joking that interviews give her a chance to sort herself out. And one thing she was most vocal about was feeling grateful to the universe for her bounty. Excerpts from an engaging interview with the witty and talented actor. lucrative projects. Have you ever been at such crossroads, or have you always had that clarity of vision? Its been a journey. I have done parts I wasnt convinced about and did them competently, but I didnt have a chance to shine in those parts. With every experience, especially success and failure, you learn. In my gut, if I felt something was not right, it usually didnt work out. Its been a learning curve. Whenever Ive said yes to a script for reasons other than the script itself, it hasnt worked out for me. So, its about personal growth and finding pleasure in the work you do. That feeling of having done great work at the end of the day is something Im constantly chasing. no to film offers more often than you say yes? Yes, absolutely. Saying no is very tough because there are so many factors that tempt you. But now, especially after completing so many years in the industry, Im clear that I want to be working for multiple decades. To do that, I want to create my own space, and that space is being a great performer. Everything else is secondary. Longevity thats my funda of life. It might not be the same for someone else, but I want to be known as a good actor, and Ive received that love till date. I want to continue stepping out of my comfort zone. So, theres no way people can typecast Bhumi Pednekar? I hope not. When I started, I only had heartland India stories, which I love and miss doing. But as time has passed, Ive done very diverse roles. I hope I dont give people an opportunity to think I cant do something. I want to do every genre, every type of scene. I want to be an antagonist too. Im not scared of how many scenes I have in a film. I just want it to be impactful. Like when Govinda Naam Mera released, I got so much love for playing a brash, out-there Marathi woman in a comedy. It was nerve-wracking, but it was rewarding. Unconventional choices give you the courage to keep exploring. Speaking of unconventional, youve done open schooling, started as a casting assistant, and even put on weight for your big screen debut. Where does this streak for the unconventional come from? Ive always been a seeker. Most of it comes from knowing that Id have to create opportunities for myself because I dont come from a background where opportunities in this field are handed out. Growing up, I wasnt conventionally pretty by the norms then, so I created a space for myself where I felt attractive. When it came to getting into films, coming from a family like mine, it wasnt acceptable. So, I took decisions that brought me closer to my dreams, whether it was going to open university or becoming a casting director. Im a hustler. I had one goal, and I took any opportunity that would bring me closer to it. Destiny also played a part, but I kept at it because I had the confidence to keep going despite the norms and standards. Youve had releases like Bhakshak, Thank You For Coming, Afwaah, Bheed each one more complex than the last. Does that complexity fuel your creative spark? Is that what youre looking for? Yes. Ive been very clear about my choices. I wouldnt say I had clarity when I got my first film, because honestly, with a first film, you just get lucky. My first film was Dum Laga Ke Haisha, and I had the opportunity to let people know that Im here to perform. But after that, I was very clear that I want to constantly do characters that make me uncomfortable, that make me question my existence, or that make me question the basic thread of who I am or the world I live in. That excites me a lot. Ive always wanted to leave behind a legacy of work that can be watched through generations. I want my cinema to be timeless. Youre shooting for Daldal, right? Whats the most exciting thing about your character in your web series debut? Its definitely a first for me. Im playing a police officer. Shes the youngest in our storya young DCP. What I loved about Daldal is that this isnt like any other cop show people have seen. This character is complex and complicated. She has her own history, her own past that shes dealing with, which makes her very unique. For me, that was the most exciting part because, in the past, Ive had opportunities to play someone in the police force, but I found most of those stories to be the same. Daldal has a lot of psychological drama and thrills. The way this girl is writtenshes so layered and nuanced and internalthat it honestly is a challenge. I havent done something like this yet. Is it the challenge of portraying a complex character or being part of an off-beat film that excites you the most? Just the experience of working in the longer formatthat experience is very different from film. You literally shoot five hours worth of content that eventually goes up. As an actor, you get to explore the character a lot because you have that much time. Im constantly looking for challenges and opportunities where I can break any notion I had around whats next. I feel very fortunate as Ill complete 10 years next year. I feel like all the roles Ive gotten, and all the filmmakers who have shown such confidence in me, have been incredible because Ive not done regular, linear films. Most of my films are a little complex, and that gives me a lot of confidence. Filmmakers know that I will deliver, and I want to keep delivering. When youre reading a script, what triggers within you? Theres an instinct that triggers within me. Some films might not work at the moment, but I know in longevity, they will be watched. Some films are given so much love even now. For example, Sonchiriya didnt do well initially, but its still one of the films people talk about. After Dum Laga Ke Haisha, its the film that I get a lot of love for, specifically for my performance. It feels good because I want to be known as an artist, as an actor. I think Ive created that space for myself. Are you ever hard on yourself? Do you expect too much from yourself? Yeah, I do. Im learning not to. I think where I am today as a human being is that when Im hard on myself, I recognize that. And I kind of change the tone with which Im dealing with myself. Its very difficult. It comes with a lot of training and self-love. But I kind of keep reminding myself, See where you are. I come from a humble family. Nobody really in my family was really in the world. My mom had done some kind of like she indulged with a little cinema when she was young, but there wasnt a major influence of cinema while I was growing up. I keep reminding myself, You are that girl for whom a monthly salary of 7000 rupees was a lot. And you know, when I got into acting the first time, I was like, Oh my God! Look where I have reached. Theres a reason why we all are on our chosen path. If you get to do what you love every day, you should be full of gratitude. And I have to keep reminding myself that. So for the people like you, who are in their dream profession, is gratitude an important aspect of everyday life? Absolutely. I think success and failure teaches you a lot. Failure more than success, of course. We all are going to have times when things work out and when things dont. And I feel the way I dealt with my failures when I understood the person that I am. Because professionally, for I would say 80 percent of my time as an actor, Ive not really seen myself not work. You know, and when that happened is when I was like, okay, Im a way stronger person than I imagined myself to be. And Im really proud of the way I dealt with it. You know, because you just pick up your pieces and you keep moving. Because hope is such a beautiful thing. Hope and just confidence that I am here because I love what I do. And its just not love, you know, it is love backed by a lot of hard work. Discipline, honesty. So I would say, we actually keep saying, I said, see where you started, see where you are. This is your path. Just be at it. Who are the people who help you sail through life and make the right decision? It starts with my family. Were a very close unit. My sister Samiksha is part of every decision that I make except the scripts that I consider. Samiksha doesnt get involved in my film choices but she gives me her perspective on everything else. My mom reads the scripts that I consider. My mother accompanies me for most of my readings and narrations as well. Thats part of my process. Ive made sure I have never alienated my mom. And the stray times that I did, and it only happened because theres so much that Im doing and I got distracted. But every time I havent consulted my mom on my movies, it has not worked out for me. My mother and my sister are my biggest support system. Are you ever hard on yourself? Do you expect too much from yourself? Yeah, I do. Im learning not to. I think where I am today as a human being is that when Im hard on myself, I recognize that. And I kind of change the tone with which Im dealing with myself. Its very difficult. It comes with a lot of training and self-love. But I kind of keep reminding myself, See where you are. I come from a humble family. Nobody really in my family was really in the world. My mom had done some kind of like she indulged with a little cinema when she was young, but there wasnt a major influence of cinema while I was growing up. I keep reminding myself, You are that girl for whom a monthly salary of 7000 rupees was a lot. And you know, when I got into acting the first time, I was like, Oh my God! Look where I have reached. Theres a reason why we all are on our chosen path. If you get to do what you love every day, you should be full of gratitude. And I have to keep reminding myself that. So for the people like you, who are in their dream profession, is gratitude an important aspect of everyday life? Absolutely. I think success and failure teaches you a lot. Failure more than success, of course. We all are going to have times when things work out and when things dont. And I feel the way I dealt with my failures when I understood the person that I am. Because professionally, for I would say 80 percent of my time as an actor, Ive not really seen myself not work. You know, and when that happened is when I was like, okay, Im a way stronger person than I imagined myself to be. And Im really proud of the way I dealt with it. You know, because you just pick up your pieces and you keep moving. Because hope is such a beautiful thing. Hope and just confidence that I am here because I love what I do. And its just not love, you know, it is love backed by a lot of hard work. Discipline, honesty. So I would say, we actually keep saying, I said, see where you started, see where you are. This is your path. Just be at it. Which people make up your support system? Who is your bouncing board for ideas? Who are the people who help you sail through life and make the right decision? It starts with my family. Were a very close unit. My sister Samiksha is part of every decision that I make except the scripts that I consider. Samiksha doesnt get involved in my film choices but she gives me her perspective on everything else. My mom reads the scripts that I consider. My mother accompanies me for most of my readings and narrations as well. Thats part of my process. Ive made sure I have never alienated my mom. And the stray times that I did, and it only happened because theres so much that Im doing and I got distracted. But every time I havent consulted my mom on my movies, it has not worked out for me. My mother and my sister are my biggest support system. But once youre a star, does it become difficult to meet and approach people? Is it easier for an actor to get isolated by virtue of their fame? In some cases, you get cut off from the outside world. Perhaps one gets that experience if theyre an introvert. To each his own. But for me, theres a lot that I collect from different people that I meet, from experiences that I have and from stories that I have been told. Its not a conscious process either. Many times, you dont even know when youve met this person that you are now channelsing in a performance. You dont pick up any of their character traits or bodily behavioural traits to put them in a character. But you end up doing that later on. If theyve told you a story that you connect with and you sympathise with that emotion, you end up channelising that memory. These experiences and memories are my treasure. I can never let them go to waste. I sometimes feel that my life has become very dry, ever since Ive become an actor. One of the most marked changes has been in my ability to move around. When I was growing up, I used to often visit my grandfathers house. The world there was very different. I used to meet my extended family a lot. We used to travel around India a lot. Life was very different even when I was working behind the camera as a casting assistant. There was a time when I used to worry about money. There used to be an excitement when I would receive a cheque for Rs. 7000 every month as my salary as a casting assistant. Today, I am very aware of the fact that God has been kind to me. with Bhumi Pednekar? Its very easy to be friends with me. I generally have a good vibe in life. Im not a difficult person. Ive not been told so, yet. But I dont know what my family thinks of that. (Laughs) I try to create as good a mahaul around me as I can. But then everybody has good days and bad days. But generally, Im a peoples person. Youve been vocal about body positivity through your characters as well as your real-life opinions, but what are your views on the body positivity of women in real life and Indian households? Do the common women have the luxury to take body positivity for granted? While growing up, I was constantly made to feel like Im not beautiful. And this wasnt within my family. Im very lucky that my family actually constantly kept telling my sister and I that we were beautiful, but the moment I stepped out of my house, I was made to feel that I could be better. It was those experiences that I channelized into my films. To be honest, body positivity is a term that people use very loosely. Most people feel like its relevant only to a certain body type. Thats definitely not true. The spectrum of body positivity is very, very large. Body positivity is actually loving yourself in its truest way. Now the truest way is the way that gives you happiness. I have friends who say they want to gain weight. This friend confessed to me that she was constantly picked on because she was very skinny. And then there was another girl, who wished she had that problem. So many women and people feel they wont be good enough in any shape or size. Your efforts with weight loss have always been talked about... Yes. Im constantly asked about my weight. In the last few months, people have commented about how I have lost a lot of weight. Ive done that for a project, for what Im shooting. People have been appreciative of it and Ive been telling everyone that the shape I am in is good and Im enjoying it. But, tomorrow, I might not be like this and I would still want the same love. But if they dont give me the same love, its still okay because I anyway love myself enough. I strongly feel that my success, aspirations and work are not dependent on what shape or size Im in. that wasnt associated with your celebrity image? I have always liked fashion. I used to like it as a kid and I still like it a lot. I used to put on fashionable clothes in my own room before, but now I do it in the public eye. I always liked putting on a lot of make-up when I was a kid. I like doing that even more now. I feel these are ways of loving yourself. When I go back and see my childhood photos, I realise there are very few images where I am not dressed up. I used to collect money and buy make-up products. And at that time, make-up products were not easily available. Today, every teenager usually has access to every make-up brand in the world, right? When I was growing up, getting branded make-up products was a very big deal. I remember my friends parents used to get upset with me. They used to tell me, This is not your age to be putting make-up on. They did not want me to be a bad influence on their children. But I didnt care because my parents were okay with my passion. Once my film journey started and because of the kind of films that I did, people assumed that I was a different person. People developed an image of mine that was nothing like the real me. Perhaps I serviced that image as well, because I was only shooting back to back. When COVID came, things changed. I was at home and I realised, Ive not really shown what my likes and dislikes are. Thats when I started putting effort into fashion and style. Thats when I started putting out posts on how much I love fashion. My mom keeps telling me that when I was a kid, I begged her to buy me the same dress that Karishma Kapoor wore in Raja Hindustani. It was that red micro dress that Karishma donned with a hat and it had a criss-cross pattern. For every fancy dress competition, I would be dressed up. Did you look up to the actresses of the 90s? Now in hindsight, I think maybe that passion to dress up came from the fact I would see those wonderful women on screen. I also think I was kind of trying to deal with my complexes as a child. But I obviously didnt know that back then. When I was little, I would literally sit with everyone at every family function. If someone came for dinner, I would dress up and perform for them. That was my outlet. Once I became successful as an actor, I started making some money and that became an enabler for my passion for fashion, too. But I firmly believe that creativity, fashion and beauty cannot be limited by what funds you have. I had put in more effort into my style when my career had started. I used to plan out what to wear to events and appearances. When I was in school and college, people used to say, This girl, shes going to put on make-up for two hours. And I used to love it. I used to do so many new things. I used to heat spoons and curl my hair. Does Bhumi Pednekar hustle to seize opportunities or does she let destiny take its course? Its a bit of both. I believe in a higher power and destiny, but I also fight and work hard to create opportunities. Ill make calls, reach out to directors, and audition for parts. Im constantly on a learning arc and want to keep growing as a human and a performer. Im a pressure junkie; I dont have any chill in life. I get exhausted, but work gives me joy. So, yes, Im definitely a hustler, not just professionally but in everything I do. hustler all throughout... Yes. My sister and I can hustle through anything. Im a very hopeful person. Because I just know that Im meant for better things. Whatever situation Im in, its only going to keep getting better. If somebody pushes you into a corner, youre always going to fight back. 100 percent. Every time Im pushed in the corner or pushed behind, I just take longer jumps. The Review Growth Index (RGI) by Doctor Marketing, MD recognizes the Top 10 Rated Plastic Surgery Practices in Charlotte, North Carolina based on analysis of over 5,000+ online patient reviews given to 95 medical practices. Charlotte has some of the best plastic surgeons in the Southeast. The Review Growth Index (RGI) by Doctor Marketing, MD has identified which Charlotte cosmetic practices made the list for the first quarter of 2024. After analyzing data from over 95 medical practices and 5,911 online Google Reviews, the Top 10 Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery Clinics in Charlotte stand out for their patient satisfaction rating and number of online reviews. The Top 10 account for 2,826 Google Reviews and 47.8% percent of all plastic surgery reviews online for Charlotte plastic surgeons. With an average of over 282.6 patient reviews per practice, these surgeons display surgical excellence that sets them apart from the rest. 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Here is the in-depth data snapshot compiled by the Doctor Marketing, MD Review Growth Index (RGI): 100 total plastic surgeons and cosmetic practices in Charlotte, North Carolina were identified via Google My Business (GMB) profiles and Google Map listings for Charlotte. 95 plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery practices / clinics remained after removing duplicates. (Note: Some doctors have both a private practice under their own name, and are part of a larger medical group under a practice name, and were listed twice, thus removed) 5,911 total online Google Reviews for all Charlotte plastic surgeons as of 11/30/23. 62 practices (62%) had at least 1 online review. 38 practices (38%) had 0 online reviews. Average rating across all practices was 4.81 stars. 59.11 was the average number of reviews per practice. Statistics Exclusively for the Top 10 Charlotte Practices: 2,826 total reviews for the Top 10 combined. This was 47.8% of all reviews combined. 282.6 was the average # of Google Reviews per practice in the Top 10. Star Ratings ranged from 4.6 to 5 stars, with the average being 4.85 stars. About The Review Growth Index (RGI) The Review Growth Index ( RGI ) by Doctor Marketing, MD is an innovative metric designed specifically for the healthcare and medical industries, with current focus on the plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures sectors. It works by aggregating public data from major review platforms like Google Reviews to develop a comprehensive assessment of a doctor or surgeon's online reputation and performance. RGI analyzes the volume of patient reviews a surgeon receives, the star ratings given, and expressions of patient satisfaction. This provides prospective patients a reliable benchmark for choosing skilled, well-regarded doctors or surgeons with confidence. It also serves plastic surgeons by analyzing patient feedback patterns, enabling refinements to medical services and clinical approaches. Overall, RGI functions as an industry-specific gauge of excellence based on actual patient outcomes and experiences. Its insights help match discerning clients with surgeons delivering exceptional care and results. Prior curated lists of plastic surgeon reviews include the Top 10: Best Plastic Surgeons in Houston, TX Best Plastic Surgeons in New York, NY Best Plastic Surgeons in Chicago, IL Best Plastic Surgeons in Phoenix, AZ Best Plastic Surgeons in San Antonio, TX Best Plastic Surgeons in Dallas, TX Best Plastic Surgeons in Jacksonville, FL Best Plastic Surgeons in Fort Worth, TX About Doctor Marketing, MD Doctor Marketing, MD is a top healthcare digital marketing firm , specializing in digital marketing for medical doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors. Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients. Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort. Need to Hire an SEO Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice? CONTACT: Doctor Marketing, MD Anna Goldstein Director of Media Relations 877-463-9777 ext. 3 anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/ Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media: Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit: https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/ SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD) View the original press release on accesswire.com This cooperation strengthens global educational standards for radiotheranostics and will scale patient access to a new generation of effective cancer therapeutics in United Arabic Emirates. July 11, 2024 - Wiesbaden, Germany, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Today, the International Centers for Precision Oncology (ICPO) Foundation and American Hospital Dubai (AHD) announced their cooperation in establishing the hospital as one of the global ICPO Collaborating Centers. The parties intend to enable a growing number of patients worldwide access to Radiomolecular Precision Oncology (RPO) and further promote research and development in the fields of RPO. Moreover, the AHD will support the joint development and enhancement of best practice standards in United Arabic Emirates (UAE) and their implementation in professional development in establishing the internationally active "ICPO Academy for Theranostics". The ICPO Foundation aims to develop an international network of physical diagnostic and therapeutic centers dedicated to Radiomolecular Precision Oncology. It has launched the ICPO Academy for Theranostics and is driving forward the research of innovative radiopharmaceuticals. The Foundation's mission is to ensure that cutting-edge cancer therapies are accessible to patients worldwide. The ICPO Centers work under a model based on shared know-how, certified education, and standardized design and processes that enable the implementation of best clinical practices on a global scale. The ICPO Foundation has successfully established ICPO Collaborating Centers in Germany, China, India, Australia and Egypt. Expansion plans are underway, with upcoming centers in locations globally. The American Hospital Dubai, a leading private healthcare provider in the Middle East, was established in 1996 with a mission to deliver world-class medical services. With 254 beds, AHD offers acute care across various medical and surgical specialties, ensuring comprehensive and advanced healthcare solutions. A cornerstone of AHD's services is its pioneering cancer program, providing comprehensive care in Dubai and beyond. In terms of technological capabilities, AHD's Nuclear Medicine Department is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, including a digital PET/CT scanner and an SPECT/CT gamma camera, enabling precise and effective cancer diagnosis and treatment. Regular multidisciplinary meetings ensure seamless integration with other medical practitioners, promoting holistic patient care. Committed to delivering the highest standards of care, AHD implements the "Service Excellence Program" and offers multidisciplinary education programs for its clinical staff. Physicians at AHD are North American board-certified or possess equivalent Western training, ensuring top-notch medical expertise. The American Hospital Dubai will provide advice and recommendations to the ICPO Foundation on how international quality standards, processes and procedures of precision oncology can be best implemented in UAE and the Middle East. The aim of the parties is that the AHD promote the "ICPO Academy for Theranostics" in Dubai, including at national society meetings, and act as a point of contact in UAE for interested parties and registration of participants. The clinic will be included under ICPO certification and in alignment with the ICPO Academy curriculum in the upcoming practical training program of physicians, chemists, physicists, nurses, technologists and other participants in its facilities for various time durations. Odile Jaume, CEO of the ICPO Foundation, expressed her deep excitement about this partnership and emphasized: "This collaboration makes the American Hospital Dubai one of the leading partners within the ICPO network and across the Middle East to support a new era of cancer care. Our goal is to scale patient access to this innovative therapy of Radiomolecular Precision Oncology for patients worldwide and further to develop the ICPO Academy for Theranostics with top-level partners." Dr. Firas Alani, Chief of American Hospital Dubai Academic Institute, echoed this sentiment: Together with the ICPO Foundation, our hospital is proud to lead a paradigm shift toward precision oncology in Dubai. As an ICPO Collaborating Center, we can set the standard at international and regional levels, providing patients in Dubai and throughout the United Arab Emirates with access to cutting-edge precision oncology therapies." About ICPO Foundation The International Centers for Precision Oncology Foundation (ICPO) is a non-profit organization established in 2019 under German law by leading international medical practitioners and life sciences entrepreneurs. Recognizing a paradigm shift in cancer care from one size fits all to a personalized approach, the ICPO Foundation is helping to build momentum to scale global patient access to Radiomolecular Precision Oncology to support this shift. Therefore, the ICPO Foundation aims to develop an international network of physical diagnostic and therapeutic Centers for Precision Oncology organized in a model based on shared know-how, certified education with the ICPO Academy for Theranostics, and design and process standardization that enables best clinical practice globally. Furthermore, it is the ICPO Foundation's objective to empower its Centers by embedding them in a highly inclusive Community that spearheads its model and lives up to the Precision Oncology promise by making it available to all patients in need, irrespective of country or social status. Learn more about the ICPO Foundation at www.icpo.foundation and about the ICPO Academy for Theranostics at www.theranostics.academy Image caption: American Hospital Dubai Media contact ICPO Foundation Miami, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - July 11, 2024) - LinkDaddy, an SEO agency that specializes in backlink generation, has made the announcement as part of its latest move to help business owners improve their search engine rankings. By adopting a new leading platform into its services, the company will have multiple web-building tools at its disposal, allowing it to create high-quality content to serve as strong cloud authority backlinks for clients. To learn more, visit https://linkdaddy.com/cloud-authority-backlinks/. 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Once the work is complete, the company will send the client a detailed report on all cloud authority and dofollow backlinks that were created as part of their order. To date, LinkDaddy has helped over 2,000 small businesses achieve their performance goals. The company has over nine years of experience in high-quality backlink generation and is recognized as a trusted figure in the industry. Interested parties can learn more by visiting https://linkdaddy.com. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/216150 SOURCE: Plentisoft Gunmen kill 10 in central Nigeria attack Abuja, July 10 (UNI) At least 10 people were killed in an attack by suspected gunmen who invaded a local community in Nigeria's south-central state of Benue late Tuesday, a local government official said Wednesday. Phillip Ebenyakwu, head of the Agatu local government area of Benue, told the media that the gunmen further wreaked havoc by razing several houses in the Olegumachi community of the Agatu local government area of the state Tuesday night. The gunmen were armed with sophisticated weapons, looting the houses of locals, and carting away foodstuff and livestock, while setting ablaze at least seven other houses, Ebenyakwu said. Coppell, Texas--(Newsfile Corp. - July 11, 2024) - Starting in May 2024, KD College Prep (KD) expanded its offerings to include the Complete + Advantage Bundle. This new offering provides 11th grade families with a discounted fee for test prep and college counseling services. The new program option responds to a growing demand for combined services as score requirements return. KD College Prep Adds New Options as Top Colleges Revise Test-required Policies To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/214795_5f75567474cf2ae7_002full.jpg KD CEO David Dillard said new score requirements came as a surprise to many college-bound students. "Students who assumed that test scores would not matter may discover that some of the schools on their college application lists now require them, leaving them to scramble," said Dillard. KD has trained its advisors on how to provide specific guidance for students working toward competitive SAT and ACT scores in a limited timeframe. In addition, the organization offers extended hours and additional class schedule options during the summer, providing more opportunities for helping students achieve goals. "It's not too late for students with approaching deadlines to earn a competitive test score. We'll do everything we can to help them get there," Dillard said. In February, a prominent Ivy League school was the first to publicize its return to a test-score requirement. Now, more than 50 colleges have returned to test-required policies. Despite the recent test-required trend, many colleges remain test optional. Dillard said this makes for a confusing and unpredictable admissions landscape for students applying this fall. "More schools may make adjustments to their admission policies in the next few weeks, following the recent decisions by some prominent schools. By the end of next year's admission cycle, there may be even more. Expect continued changes with others holding steady," Dillard said. For Class of 2025 students applying this fall, Dillard recommends the APPLY NOW! Essay Boot Camp for 12th graders who will juggle testing and college applications at the same time. The three-day boot camp helps students make a head start on their college applications. SAT is a registered trademark of the College Board. ACT is the registered trademark of ACT, Inc. All university names and/or marks are owned by their respective institutions. KD College Prep has no affiliation with these institutions and is not approved or endorsed by them. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/214795 SOURCE: Plentisoft 2nd Quarter 2024 Ex-Dividend Date Amendment - for TSX Traded Shares i3 Energy plc (AIM:I3E)(TSX:ITE), an independent oil and gas company with assets and operations in the UK and Canada, advises that due to the transition to T+1 settlement, trade date plus one business day, in the Canadian securities industries as of 27 May 2024 from T +2, trade date plus two business days, settlement (the "Transition"), the record and ex-dividend date, in most instances, will now occur on the same day. As a result of this Transition, the ex-dividend date for the Company's 2nd Quarter 2024 dividend, as announced on 4 July 2024, is amended to 12 July 2024 for shares traded on the TSX. As AIM remains on T +2, trade date plus two business days, settlement, the ex-dividend date for shares traded on AIM, remains as originally announced on 4 July 2024, as 11 July 2024. The record date remains as announced on 4 July 2024 for both TSX and AIM traded shares as 12 July 2024. END Enquiries: i3 Energy plc Majid Shafiq (CEO) c/o Camarco Tel: +44 (0) 203 757 4980 WH Ireland Limited (Nomad and Joint Broker) James Joyce, Darshan Patel, Isaac Hooper Tel: +44 (0) 207 220 1666 Tennyson Securities (Joint Broker) Peter Krens Tel: +44 (0) 207 186 9030 Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited (Joint Broker) Ashton Clanfield, Callum Stewart Tel: +44 (0) 20 7710 7600 Camarco Andrew Turner, Violet Wilson, Sam Morris Tel: +44 (0) 203 757 4980 Notes to Editors: i3 Energy plc is an oil and gas Company with a low cost, diversified, growing production base in Canada's most prolific hydrocarbon region, the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin and appraisal assets in the North Sea with significant upside. The Company is well positioned to deliver future growth through the optimisation of its existing asset base and the acquisition of long life, low decline conventional production assets. i3 is dedicated to responsible corporate practices and the environment, and places high value on adhering to strong Environmental, Social and Governance ("ESG") practices. i3 is proud of its performance to date as a responsible steward of the environment, people, and capital management. The Company is committed to maintaining an ESG strategy, which has broader implications to long-term value creation, as these benefits extend beyond regulatory requirements. i3 Energy plc is listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange under the symbol I3E and on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol ITE. For further information on i3 please visit https://i3.energy This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the UK version of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 which is part of UK law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended ("MAR"). Upon the publication of this announcement via a Regulatory Information Service, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain. This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com. SOURCE: i3 Energy PLC View the original press release on accesswire.com The agreement between ALDI and Atlante will bring the best charging experience to ALDI's customers and employees, while also significantly supporting mobility electrification Regulatory News: Atlante, the company of NHOA Group (Paris:NHOA) dedicated to electric vehicles (EVs) fast and ultra-fast charging network, has signed an agreement with ALDI, one of the leading supermarket brands in Spain, to install and operate electric vehicle fastcharging points in their supermarkets. ALDI and Atlante have initially selected 80 supermarkets, which may become more as the partnership progresses. Atlante will install fastchargers with power outputs of 90kW to 120kW, which will allow users to charge fully their vehicles including while shopping at ALDI's stores. Atlante's fastcharging points will enhance the overall service level of ALDI's supermarket car parks, making them obvious choice for the growing number of EV users. Each new fastcharging station will host from 2 to 4 charging points, ensuring sufficient availability for the supermarket users. In addition, Atlante is bringing its expertise in energy storage to the collaboration, enabling the infrastructure to scale rapidly as usage increases. Atlante's new fastcharging points will support multiple payment methods to ensure the outmost accessibility and a seamless experience for all customers. These will include contactless payment terminals for credit or debit cards (POS), RFID cards and pay-by-link, by scanning a QR code on the charger screen. In addition, users can benefit from direct access via the myAtlante App or any of the over 70 interoperable third-party e-mobility apps (EMSPs) fully integrated in Atlante's digital platforms. "This agreement with ALDI demonstrates confidence in our advanced technological solutions and operational capabilities, allowing us to reassert our commitment to promoting sustainable mobility in Spain" comments Giovanni Ravina CEO of Atlante Iberia. "With these new installations, we aim to provide ALDI customers with a convenient charging experience while they shop, seamlessly integrating electric mobility into their daily lives "At ALDI, we understand responsibility as a transversal value that guides all our operations. In our supermarkets, we offer charging points for electric vehicles as part of our commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. With this agreement, we take another step in our desire to continue offering our customers an even more convenient, efficient, and simple service," declares David Carim, Real Estate and Expansion Managing Director at ALDI Spain Technological innovation, the use of renewable energy and a fast, convenient and intuitive user experience are at the heart of Atlante's philosophy to create truly sustainable, zero-emission mobility accessible to all. The recent agreement with ALDI to bring electric fastcharging to its supermarkets contributes to Atlante's growing presence in this segment, confirming its potential and leadership in the electric mobility sector. Atlante Atlante is a company of NHOA Group (NHOA.PA, formerly Engie EPS), global player in energy storage and e-mobility, which develops technologies enabling the transition towards clean energy and sustainable mobility, shaping the future of a next generation living in harmony with our planet. Atlante is developing the largest fast and ultra-fast charging network in Southern Europe, 100% enabled by renewables, and enhanced by energy storage and on-site photovoltaic. Operating since October 2021, Atlante has today more than 2,000 charging points online in Italy, France, Spain and Portugal. Leveraging on the technological heritage of the NHOA Group, including via collaboration with its sister company Free2move eSolutions, Atlante is a preferential network of the Stellantis automotive group and its customers. Atlante stations are fully interoperable and can be accessed by virtually any e-mobility app or charging card, and by any make and model of electric vehicles. For further information, go to www.atlante.energy Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram ALDI ALDI is one of Spain's leading supermarket chains, with a business model based on discounting. ALDI entered the Spanish market in 2002 and currently has more than 440 stores and more than 7,200 employees. ALDI focuses its activity on offering high quality products at the best price, which it obtains by purchasing from the best local, state and international suppliers and through its own brands, which account for 86% of its assortment and whose standards enable it to maintain the best quality-price ratio for its products. The ALDI North group of companies is one of the world's leading food chains. The discounter focuses all its efforts on offering quality staple products at the best prices to customers in eight European countries. The key to the continued success of the ALDI North Group is its more than 91,000 employees in Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal and Spain. For more information: www.aldi.es View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240711752729/en/ Contacts: CONTACTS Atlante Press Office Atlante Iberia: Gemma Montanola, +34 637 949403, gemma@busquetsmontanola.com Financial Communication and Institutional Relations: Chiara Cerri, +39 337 1484534, media.relations@nhoagroup.com CONTACTS ALDI Laura Morillo - 932 172 217 aldi@llyc.global Marta Santacreu - 932 172 217 aldi@llyc.global Clara Lopez -932 172 217 aldi@llyc.global Power One Resources Corp. (TSX-V:PWRO) ("Power One" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that drilling has commenced at its Pecors Property located in Elliot Lake, Ontario. Drilling was paused late last year due to numerous freeze-thaw conditions. Drilling has now resumed with 1400 meters planned, targeting up to 4 holes. "We are very excited to get the drills turning after a long-awaited program, numerous freeze thaw conditions that lasted into the new year caused significant delays. Stated, Mr. Karim Rayani, Chief Executive Officer. "The Pecors Property is a dynamic piece of ground holding a massive 7km by 3 km wide anomaly. The project holds significant potential for Ni-Cu-PGM mineralization and uranium and rare-earth oxide mineralization in two completely different geological settings. The nearby Eco Ridge Project with almost 60 Mt of uranium and rare-earth oxide resources further adds merit to the Project area. Power One Looks forward to a busy year of announcements. The Pecors Property (Figure 1), located east of Elliot Lake, contains significant uranium mineralization where drilling in 2007 returned values of 4.3 pounds (lbs.) (0.194% U3O8) per tonne (t) over 4 m starting at 104.49m downhole and 5.9 lbs./t (0.246% U3O8) over 0.94 m starting at 122.64m. Uranium is hosted within the quartz-pebble conglomerate of the Matinenda Formation at shallow depths within the Pecors Channel. 'Channels' within the Elliot Lake uranium camp were mined extensively in the 1950's where production grades averaged 0.100% U3O8. Figure 1. Regional location of the Pecors Property, and neighboring companies. The Pecors Channel is reported to host 20,000,000 tons grading 0.037% U3O8(0.074 lbs per ton) U3O8 or 14,800,000 lbs. of U3O8. This resource was based on limited drilling and was estimated by Rio Tinto in 1977 with the potential to expand this resource. It is concluded that the estimate is not compliant with the requirements of NI 43-101, and it is believed that a qualified person ("QP") has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimate as current mineral resources or reserves. This estimate is viewed as a historical resource only and the figures cannot be relied upon as an accurate estimate of the volume or grade of the mineralized material. Power-One or the QP is not treating this estimate as current mineral resources or reserves. The Pecors Property also hosts significant PGM-Ni-Cu mineralization related to the Pecors Magnetic anomaly, a large regional magnetic high extending 18 km long and 4 km wide and largely hidden beneath Huronian sediments (Figure 2). The source of the magnetic anomaly has been confirmed to be at least partially comprised of lithologies of gabbroic affinity by International Montoro drilling in 2015. Hole P15-23 drilled by International Montoro intersected 0.33 g/t Pt+Pd+Au and 0.11% Cu and 0.04% Ni over 12m within contact style mafic intrusive mineralization. This style of mineralization appears similar to the East Bull PGM deposit to the east where Quest Critical Metals Inc. (formerly Canadian Palladium) reports a total indicated resources of 16.5 million tonnes at a grade of 0.93 g/t PdEq (see Quest Critical Metals news release dated February 22, 2023). Figure 2. Pecors magnetic anomaly and inverted depth to surface. Location of 2015 drilling included. The Property also lies immediately east of Radio Fuels Corp. (CSE: CAKE) Eco Ridge Project where indicated resources total 22.306 Mt grading 0.045% U3O8 and 1,613 ppm REO (rare-earth oxides) and inferred resources of 36.955 Mt grading 0.046 % U3O8 and 1,560 ppm REO (https://radiofuels.ca/). The drill is on site and operations have commenced. Drill hole targets have been finalized following interpretation of the results from a 2008 VTEM and Magnetic heliborne survey. (Table 1 and Fig 3). Drill targets are focused on conductors favourable for hosting significant concentrations of uranium at the base of the Huronian sediments associated with pyrite mineralization and the underlying basement intrusive rocks for sulphide-bearing PGE mineralization. Approximately 1,000-1,400 metres are planned across 3-4 drill holes. Table 1. Proposed drill hole location coordinates SN Drill Hol # Easting (m) Northing (m) Azi Dip Length (m) 1 PO-24-01 391100 5137690 180 75 350 2 PO-24-02 390825 5137550 180 75 350 3 PO-24-03 392300 5138510 180 60 350 4 PO-24-04 392700 5138530 180 60 350 Total 1400 Figure 3. Diamond drill locations over total field magnetics and VTEM survey in 2008. Qualified Person Mike Kilbourne, P. Geo, an independent qualified person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release on behalf of the Company. The QP and the Company has not completed sufficient work to verify the historic information on the Property comprising the Pecors Project, particularly regarding historical exploration, neighboring companies, and government geological work. About Power One Power One Resources Corp. is a resource issuer listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol (PWRO). The Company's flagship asset, the Pecors hosts significant potential for PGM-Ni-Cu mineralization related to the Pecors Magnetic anomaly, a large regional magnetic high extending 18 km long and 4 km wide and largely hidden beneath Huronian sediments. The Property also lies immediately east of Radio Fuels Corp., Eco Ridge Project where indicated resources total 22.306 Mt grading 0.045% U3O8 and 1,613 ppm REO (rare-earth oxides) and inferred resources of 36.955 Mt grading 0.046 % U3O8 and 1,560 ppm REO are recorded. The Company also holds the Wicheeda Properties, a Rare Earth Prospect in the Cariboo Mining Division, in British Columbia holding one of the largest land positions next door to Defense Metals Corp.'s deposit in the Rocky Mountain Rare-Earth Metal Belt. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Power One Resources Corp. "Karim Rayani" Karim Rayani President, CEO and Director Tel: 604 716 0551 Email: k@r7.capital Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release may contain forward looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. SOURCE: Power One Resources Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com Liquidnet, a leading technology-driven agency execution specialist, today announced the appointment of Jeffrey Crane as Head of International in the Americas. This strategic hire comes as Liquidnet continues to invest in its cross-border business, currently available in 57 global equity markets. Jeffrey Crane brings over two decades of experience in institutional equity trading. He joins Liquidnet from SageTrader where he served as managing director and Head of Sales, and oversaw new business growth for domestic and international trading. Prior to SageTrader, Crane spent more than 20 years with Instinet where he held various roles, including managing the company's cross-border business as Head of their International Desk in New York. Crane is based in New York and reports directly to Alan Polo, Head of Equity Sales and Trading, Americas. In his new role, he supports Liquidnet's established international cross-border team, assisting Members who wish to trade international markets live through low-touch and block trading capabilities, or hand-off overnight orders to its global execution desks. Alan Polo, Head of Equity Sales and Trading, Americas at Liquidnet said "As we continue to grow our international cross-border trading offering, I am particularly excited to draw upon Jeffrey's extensive expertise and insight. His deep understanding of the global trading landscape and his proven track record in managing complex trading operations will be invaluable as we enhance our services and expand our market presence." Jeffrey Crane, Head of International, Americas at Liquidnet commented: "Liquidnet is uniquely positioned to offer this type of service. With its global footprint, expertise in block trading, agency model and a 20+ year track record in delivering innovative trading solutions, we have all the necessary ingredients to offer buy-side traders the ability to trade anywhere in the world. I'm thrilled by the opportunities ahead. I look forward to working with the team at Liquidnet to further enhance our international trading capabilities and deliver exceptional value to our clients." Last year, Liquidnet's cross border team facilitated close to $100 billion in notional traded across the Americas, EMEA and APAC. More recently, it expanded its geographical coverage to offer direct access to MENA countries, bringing its total number of global equity markets covered to 57. About Liquidnet Liquidnet is a leading technology-driven, agency execution specialist that intelligently connects the world's investors to the world's investments. Since our founding in 1999, our network has grown to include more than 1,000 institutional investors and spans 57 markets across six continents. We built Liquidnet to make global capital markets more efficient and continue to do so by adding additional participants, enabling trusted access to trading and investment opportunities, and delivering the actionable intelligence and insight that our customers need. For more information, visit www.liquidnet.com and follow us on X @Liquidnet. About TP ICAP Group plc TP ICAP is a world-leading markets infrastructure and data solutions provider. The Group connects buyers and sellers in wholesale financial, energy and commodities markets. We are the world's largest wholesale market intermediary, with a portfolio of businesses that provide broking services, trade execution, data analytics, and market intelligence. www.tpicap.com 2024 Liquidnet Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries. Liquidnet, Inc. is a member of FINRA/SIPC/NFA. Liquidnet Europe Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK, is licensed by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority in South Africa and is a member of the London Stock Exchange and a remote member of the SIX Swiss Exchange. TP ICAP (EUROPE) SA is authorised by the Autorite de Controle Prudentiel et de Resolution and regulated by the Autorite des Marches Financiers and is a remote member of the Warsaw Stock Exchange. Liquidnet Canada Inc. is a member of the Canadian Investment Industry Regulatory Organization and a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Liquidnet Asia Limited is regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission for Type 1 and Type 7 regulated activities and is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore as a Recognized Market Operator. Liquidnet Japan Inc. is regulated by the Financial Services Agency of Japan and is a member of JSDA/JIPF. Liquidnet Australia Pty Ltd. is registered with the Australian Securities and Investment Commission as an Australian Financial Services Licensee, AFSL number 312525. Liquidnet Singapore Private Limited is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore as a Capital Markets Services Licensee, CMSL number CMS 100757-1. Liquidnet Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries are part of TP ICAP Group plc. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240711043032/en/ Contacts: Sophonie Robichon, Liquidnet Global Marketing Communications +44 20 3933 0153 srobichon@liquidnet.com Exclusive partnership with top Luxembourg firm strengthens Christie's International Real Estate's luxury network in central Europe CHICAGO and LUXEMBOURG, July 11, 2024is planting a flag in Luxembourg through an exclusive partnership with leading Luxembourg realty firm Unicorn Real Estate. Founded and led by 33-year real estate veteran Fernand Hornung, Unicorn offers a full range of services including sales, leasing and property management. The company's 17 multilingual real estate professionals are divided between two offices: one opposite the Grand Ducal Palace in the capital of Luxembourg City and another in Luxembourg's second-largest city, Esch-sur-Alzette. Through the affiliation, Unicorn's agents and clients will gain access to increased exposure for luxury properties, a global referral network for international transactions, an industry-leading marketing platform and exclusive partnerships, including with Christie'svenerable auction house. Christie's International Real Estate's close relationship with Christie's, which is separately owned, adds another level of white-glove service for clients who want to sell or acquire fine art, collections and luxury goods. "Our firm has been approached by many international brands over the years; however, Christie's International Real Estate is the only one we've ever seriously considered because of their commitment to supporting independent brokerages like Unicorn," Hornung explains. "Our mission is to focus on our clients, and this affiliation offers incredible benefits for them, including outstanding visibility for listings and a worldwide network, which is important in a multinational market like ours." Considered one of the founding nations of modern-day Europe, Luxembourg is one of the smallest countries in the world, yet one of the wealthiest. Only 998 square miles in size, the country's abundant green space, economic and political stability, and tax shelters, including a low corporate tax, have attracted the world's top names in banking and business, as well as astute home buyers and investors from neighboring countries. Bordered by France, Germany and Belgium, Luxembourg has historically been a melting pot of cultures, and today, foreign-born citizens make up almost half of its population, according to Hornung. The country has three official languages, Luxembourgish, German, and French, which reflect its rich cultural diversity. While the country is small, its population has grown steadily, increasing an average of 2.5% yearly over the past 20 years. This growth has driven up housing demand and, subsequently, prices. The average home price in Luxembourg has doubled over the last two decades and at 1 million is among the highest in Europe, according to Hornung. The luxury market typically ranges from 2 million to 5 million, and Unicorn recently sold a magnificent modern villa for 6 million. "Demand for luxury homes remains strong, and home prices on the upper end of Luxembourg's market are expected to remain high and stable," Hornung says. Hornung is a native of Luxembourg, hailing from the small northern village of Troisvierges. He grew up in his family's hotel and restaurant businesses, then spent three years abroad, working in the hospitality industry in Austria and Paris - experiences which instilled in him a passion for client service. He returned to Luxembourg in 1991 and shifted his focus to interior architecture and then to real estate. "When I launched Unicorn in 2004, my goal was to reinvent the codes of a classic real estate agency. Unicorn has lived up to that promise, serving customers with the highest level of personalized attention and an unequaled knowledge of the Luxembourg real estate market, but also a commitment to innovation," Hornung says. "Unicorn and Christie's International Real Estate are built on the same values, including integrity, discretion, expertise and unrivaled client service, making this an ideal partnership" says Helena Moyas de Forton, managing director, head of Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and Asia-Pacific (APAC) for Christie's International Real Estate. "We're proud to make our debut in the beautiful country of Luxembourg with Unicorn as our partner, and we look forward to sharing in their future success." The move strengthens Christie's International Real Estate's network throughout Europe, as Unicorn joins affiliates in more than 20 countries including: Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, England, Ireland, Switzerland, Austria, The Netherlands, and the Czech Republic. # # # About Christie's International Real Estate Christie's International Real Estatehas successfully marketed high-value real estate around the world for more than 30 years. Through its invitation-only Affiliate network spanning nearly 50 countries and territories, Christie's International Real Estate offers incomparable services to a global clientele at the luxury end of the residential property market. Attachment 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! Scenic Biotech, a pioneer in the field of modifier therapies for severe diseases, today announced the appointment of Ben Machielse to its board of directors. Ben brings over 25 years of experience in the biotech industry with proven expertise in leading the development of therapeutics through clinical evaluation up to market approval in start-ups and fully integrated companies. Ben joins the board to replace Sandra Glucksmann, who is stepping down as an independent board member. "As Scenic continues on its mission to develop a novel class of therapeutics for genetic disorders, Ben's extensive experience across all stages of drug development and for rare disease indications, including Niemann-Pick Disease, will be instrumental in our next phase of growth," said Oscar Izeboud, CEO of Scenic Biotech. "Together with Ben, we are well positioned to materialize on Scenic's potential to rebalance health by neutralizing disease impact with our pipeline of modifier therapies. On behalf of the company, I would also like to thank Sandra for her remarkable contributions over the past seven years. Her dedication has helped transform the company to where we are today." "Scenic's pioneering approach, fueled by its unique Cell-Seq platform, is opening unprecedented avenues to map previously unexplored biological pathways and investigate the complexities of disease biology in genetic disorders," said Ben Machielse, board member at Scenic Biotech. "I look forward to supporting the Scenic team in navigating the path from discovery through therapeutic development, ensuring that their innovative treatments reach patients in need." Ben Machielse brings deep experience in guiding life sciences companies through the development and regulatory approval of new therapeutics. He served as Chief Executive Officer of Vtesse, a rare disease company dedicated to developing treatments for Niemann-Pick Disease, where he built the company, oversaw the completion of the pivotal study and the subsequent acquisition by Sucampo Pharmaceuticals in April 2017. Prior to this, Ben served as Chief Operating Officer of Omthera Pharmaceuticals, where he led the development and approval of a drug for the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia. His contributions were instrumental in Omthera's IPO and eventual acquisition by AstraZeneca. Ben was also Executive Vice President of Operations at MedImmune, where he spent 11 years leading the global development and operations of therapeutic antibodies, small molecules, and vaccine products. Before his tenure at MedImmune, Ben held executive positions in product development, quality, and operations at Xoma Corporation and Centocor BV. Currently, he serves as the chairman of the board at Mosanna Therapeutics and has held board positions at Polyneuron Pharmaceuticals, Xencor, Tetragenetics, Comet Therapeutics, and Complexa. Ben holds a Bachelor of Science in Medical Biology and a Master's in Biochemistry from the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands. About Scenic Biotech Scenic Biotech is advancing modifier therapy, a radically new approach to treating genetic disorders. Instead of targeting the primary disease-causing mutation, modifier therapy seeks to rebalance health by acting on another function in the genome that can neutralize the disease impact, leading to a therapeutic effect. Our robust pipeline, derived from our proprietary Cell-Seq platform, includes first-in-class small molecule programs that are either wholly owned or partnered through strategic collaborations with multinational pharmaceutical leaders. By unlocking new pathways in the genome, Scenic will develop a range of modifier therapies to help patients. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240711671692/en/ Contacts: Scenic Biotech Oscar Izeboud, PhD, CEO Phone: +31 20 7059 990 Email: info@scenicbiotech.com Trophic Communications Eva Mulder Desmond James Phone: +31 65 2331 579 Email: scenic@trophic.eu Experts at Audley Travel have analysed global Google Search data to reveal the most popular road trips across the world, with US routes coming out on top. WITNEY, England, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Following analysis of global Google search data, experts at Audley Travel are now able to reveal the most popular road trip routes worldwide, with four of the top five being based in the US. What is it about US road trips that we love so much? Audley Travel's USA experts believe they know what makes the country so special for a self-drive holiday. "Only in North America can you enjoy such wide open roads," says Audley USA expert Carl Smith. "Some of these routes span the length of whole countries - several countries even - and they boast a patchwork quilt of landscapes to match. It helps, too, that driving is such a fixture of the culture. Road trips are as American as apple pie, especially along the gold standard of US drives, Route 66. "Nowhere illuminates nostalgia-tinged Americana quite like Route 66," remarks another Audley USA specialist, Ellie Stone. For a shorter, single-state journey, the Pacific Coast Highway is another winning road trip. Audley specialist Ewan Petrie recalls his time on this Californian coastal road: "It's like all your California dreams come true. The counter-cultural streets of San Francisco, the glitz and glamour of LA, the laidback surfer towns of Cambria and Huntington BeachThey're all tied together on a trip along the Pacific Coast Highway. As for the other two US road trips on the list - the classic New England route and Blue Ridge Parkway - both are excellent options for travellers looking to explore the splendours of the Eastern Seaboard. "Up in New England you have all these wild, windswept coastlines and far-reaching salt marshes. They're all knitted together between seaside towns of brightly coloured fishing boats and weatherboard-clad homes, which you'd never see on a typical US city break. "Along the Blue Ridge Parkway," she continues, "it's the national parks that take centre stage. Driving through Shenandoah National Park, you'll pass city-sized valleys of blue-hazed maple, birch, and poplar forests, but it's the overlooks that make the journey so special. Why are self-drive holidays so popular? Audley's Carl Smith is of the opinion that driving holidays give travellers greater freedom and flexibility. "People like to explore the world in different ways at different paces," he states. "A self-drive trip allows you to discover the locations you want to see, take the stops you want to take, and do it all in a time span that suits you best." For those seeking alternatives to commonly travelled road trip routes, check out Audley Travel's guide to lesser-known road trip destinations in the US. Full top five list: Route 66 - Chicago to Santa Monica Pacific Coast Highway - San Francisco to San Diego New England road trip - Boston to Maine Green Ocean Road - Victoria, Australia (joint 4th) Blue Ridge Parkway - Virginia to North Carolina (joint 4th) For more information Nicole Barnard tmwi, acting on behalf of Audley Travel outreach@tmwi.co.uk 01789 404180 Note to editors: Audley Travel is an expert in individually designed travel, creating meaningful experiences in more than 80 destinations across all seven continents. Its dedicated destination specialists use their first-hand knowledge to plan your trip down to the finest detail, choosing experiences that speak to your passions and pairing you with local guides who are top of their field. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/new-research-by-audley-travel-reveals-usa-no1-for-road-trips-302193753.html LINZ, Germany, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- BIRKENSTOCK has appointed Evelyn Chua as Managing Director for South-East Asia and Down Under, effective July 1, 2024. In this newly created position, Chua will lead, from the company's regional headquarters in Singapore, a region which includes Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand. She reports to Klaus Baumann, Chief Sales Officer, BIRKENSTOCK Group. With this high-profile recruitment, the inventor of the footbed aims to further deepen its footprint within this dynamic region, elevate BIRKENSTOCK's positioning across all channels and push innovative retail formats. With over 15 years' experience in the retail industry, spanning across multiple categories in Fashion, Beauty, Wines, Spirits, Watches and Jewelry, and across offline and online channels, Evelyn Chua is an expert in developing strong relationships with all distributors and Retail-Store partners, identifying opportunities, planning and executing concrete plans, and managing talents. After studying in Singapore and Sweden, Chua has worked 6 years for DFS Venture, the well-known Hong Kong-based travel retailer of luxury goods, where she led the Singapore and Myanmar region. With her team, she managed a very diverse retail business which includes duty-free shops at Changi Airport and Singapore Cruise Centers but also Downtown stores, Online Retail and Wholesale business. In 2022, she joined Synagie which runs over 1000 e-stores in 7 markets in South-East Asia, for 600 brand partners, including Nike, Estee Lauder, and L'Oreal. As Chief Commercial Officer, she was responsible for 6 countries (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam) and the online business across categories (Premium/Mass Beauty, FMCG, Fashion), as well as managing 400 stores on Marketplaces and .coms. As BIRKENSTOCK's Managing Director for South-East Asia and Down Under, she aims to develop the company's multi-channel strategy and grow the APMA region: "While expanding our presence online, I want to maintain a strong relationship with our distributors, who have been instrumental in our growth. We can help them to develop their assortment strategy, but we want, as well, to accelerate our own business by opening new stores. We also need to ensure that our stores offer the same experience to our clients. The devil often hides in the details, and we need to make sure that we propose the same level of service throughout the customer journey. I've always been a firm believer of the footbed. In my university days, I only wore my two pairs of Madrid and my Mayari. Our brand enjoys a strong awareness in the region. I am convinced that its margin for growth is still enormous." Klaus Baumann, Chief Sales Officer of the BIRKENSTOCK Group, could not agree more: "South-East Asia is a region with a huge growth potential. With the additional capacity that we can allocate since the go-live of our new plant in Pasewalk in September 2023, we are now able to meet the needs of the Asian customers for our products. With a very strong online and offline retail experience, I am convinced that Evelyn Chua is the perfect leader to manage our presence in this very important region. Welcome aboard!" PRESS INQUIRIES Birkenstock Group B.V. & Co. KG Burg Ockenfels 53545 Linz am Rhein Germany Postal address: BIRKENSTOCK Group Lenbach Palais Lenbachplatz 3 80333 Munich Germany ABOUT BIRKENSTOCK BIRKENSTOCK is a global brand which embraces all consumers regardless of geography, gender, age and income and which is committed to a clear purpose - maintaining foot health. Deeply rooted in studies of the biomechanics of the human foot and footed on a family tradition of shoemaking that can be traced back to 1774, BIRKENSTOCK is a timeless "super brand" with a brand universe that transcends product categories and ranges from entry-level to luxury price points while addressing the growing need for a conscious and active lifestyle. Function, quality, and tradition are the core values of the lifestyle brand which features products in the footwear, sleep system, and natural cosmetics segments. BIRKENSTOCK is the inventor of the footbed and has shaped the principle of walking as intended by nature ("Naturgewolltes Gehen"). With around 6,200 employees worldwide, we believe how things are made matters as much as the product itself. To ensure these quality standards, we operate a vertically integrated manufacturing base and produce all our footbeds in Germany. In addition, we assemble over 95% of our products in Germany and we source over 90% of our materials and components from Europe. We process our inputs to the highest environmental and social standards in the industry by operating state-of-the-art scientific laboratories for materials testing. In Germany, BIRKENSTOCK runs operational sites in the states of North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse, Bavaria, Saxony, and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania Headquartered in Linz am Rhein, the BIRKENSTOCK Group also operates its own sales offices in the United States and Canada as well as in Brazil, Japan, Denmark, Poland, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Norway, the Netherlands, Dubai, Singapore and India. Birkenstock Group B.V. & Co. KG Burg Ockenfels, Linz am Rhein, Germany For further information, please visit www.birkenstock-group.com. You can find our online shop at www.birkenstock.com. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2459108/Birkenstock_Group_Evelyn_Chua.jpg Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2459107/Birkenstock_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/birkenstock-appoints-new-managing-director-for-south-east-asia-and-down-under-evelyn-chua-to-accelerate-growth-and-to-deepen-its-footprint-in-the-white-space-region-302194619.html Wondering if the Inked Cover Girl competition is real? Inked shares the facts NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / July 11, 2024 / In response to questions regarding the legitimacy of the Inked Cover Girl competition, Inked Magazine, in partnership with Inked Cover Girl, LLC, has issued a statement affirming the competition's integrity. "For seven years, the Inked Cover Girl competition has given tattooed women the opportunity to win a large chunk of cash, be the subject of a professional photoshoot with renowned photographer Christopher Kolk, appear on the cover of Inked Magazine, and share their stories in a feature article," said Inked Magazine PR Manager Carson Leathers. "Many of our competitors gain significant exposure and new opportunities, regardless of whether they take the top spot." The Inked Cover Girl Competition is an annual event. Seven winners have graced the cover of Inked Magazine to date. The competition's rules are clearly publicized, ensuring transparency. "When we hear the terms 'scam' and 'not legit' associated with Inked Magazine and the Inked Cover Girl competition, we get a little heartburn. The Rules and Terms and Conditions are public, and every year, we encourage competitors to read and understand the competition's format before entering. Nevertheless, we'd like to address some of the questions that we have taken notice of over the past year." Here is the truth about Inked Cover Girl: FALSE: "It's not legit." TRUE: Inked Cover Girl is not a scam. The Inked Cover Girl competition is a real, legitimate campaign that offers significant opportunities and benefits to its participants. Transparency is maintained throughout the process, and participants who disagree with the format are not obligated to compete. FALSE: "They pick a model to win from the beginning." TRUE: Tattooed women worldwide register to be considered for the competition. Entrants are reviewed by the Inked Cover Girl team for eligibility to compete and after entry, must go through multiple competitive public-voting rounds on their path to win. Inked has never pre-selected any competition winner. The Inked Cover Girl team also audits all votes to ensure fairness and legitimacy. FALSE: "I challenge you to remember whoever won or what the covers looked like. Most of the winners are now MIA." TRUE: The campaign has had seven cover models over the past seven competitions. They are not MIA. They are living their lives, whether in the spotlight or out of it. Images of past winners can be found on the Inked magazine website. 2024-Toni Noe: Toni is an award-winning model from Alaska. While all of her tattoos have special meaning, her leg pieces serve as a tribute to her beloved late son. She is set to embark on a trip to the Bahamas for her 2024 Inked photoshoot. 2023-Charlie Raye: A Colorado native who lives in Chicago, Charlie is an adventurous entrepreneur, dog lover, fitness enthusiast, and foodie. Her tattoos tell a captivating life story, with a significant willow tree tattoo representing strength. 2022-Skye Hall: Skye was raised on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation in North Dakota. She is Indigenous, inked, and proud. She celebrates her heritage by memorializing her ancestors on her body. 2021-Jessica Carter: A Las Vegas native and horror movie enthusiast, Jessica has made a name for herself in the high fashion world despite being told she is too tattooed to model. 2020-Courtney Elawar: Known as CC, she is a small-town girl with big dreams who works as a mortgage broker and equestrian while celebrating her love of music and art. 2019-Chelsea Schaefer: A veterinary nurse and passionate wolf rescue advocate, Chelsea uses life's challenges as motivation to achieve her goals. 2018-Brooklyn St. Patrick: The first Inked Cover Girl, Brooklyn is a proud mother and realtor with a passion for black-and-grey realism artwork. FALSE: "The magazine now features people with only a tattoo or two." TRUE: Inked Magazine has evolved into a sophisticated, tasteful publication that highlights tattooed individuals from all over the world in all stages of their tattoo journeys. Whether someone has one tattoo or 100, the publication celebrates their unique stories and artistry. Inked Cover Girl, LLC runs the competition, which results in a portion of proceeds being donated to MusiCares, a nonprofit organization supporting music industry professionals. Since 2018, Inked Cover Girl, LLC has proudly made significant monetary donations to MusiCares. The competition outline, including group cuts, dates, and other details, are explicitly listed on the Competition Rules page. For more information, please visit the official Inked Cover Girl competition website. Contact Information Carson Leathers PR Manager carson@inkedmag.com SOURCE: Inked Cover Girl, LLC View the original press release on newswire.com. Bayport Management Ltd, a global leader in "at-source lending", has announced the successful implementation of the EXUS Financial Suite (EFS) in its six African subsidiaries, namely, Botswana, Ghana, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. Bayport Group COO, Bryan Arlow, explained their choice of supplier saying "We chose EXUS as our preferred supplier in 2022 to implement a project to improve the management of past due accounts. Over the past 18 months, the Field Collections module of EFS has proven to be a game changer for our operations in Africa as it has significantly improved our collections performance across all markets. "The impact of the module lies in the ability it gives Bayport's agents to communicate with customers at times and locations most convenient for them. It also gives head office staff real-time visibility of agents' actions and performance." Bayport's decision to implement EFS, which is known to be an innovative market-leading debt collection and recovery solution, was informed by several business objectives: Enhance operational efficiency with a centralized automated collections system. Reduce operational costs by automating manual tasks. Increase agent productivity with a comprehensive one-screen customer view. Optimise the field collections process. Maximise customer reach with a template-based, multi-channel contact strategy. Improve operational and strategic insights through sophisticated reporting and analytics. The project was implemented on schedule, giving Bayport's African subsidiaries access to the full EXUS suite of products, including EXUS Collections, EXUS Collections BI, and EXUS Field Collections. EXUS Deputy CEO, Chris Maranis, remarked, "We are pleased to have provided our solutions to Bayport, enabling the business to enhance the collections performance of its African subsidiaries. We look forward to expanding our collaboration with Bayport and their other subsidiaries in the future." In addition to the six African subsidiaries, Bayport has two Latin American subsidiaries and an associated business in South Africa. About Bayport Group Founded in 2001, Bayport Management Ltd is headquartered in Mauritius and manages regulatory, funding, treasury, and compliance requirements across the group. It is also the custodian of Bayport's business philosophy and strategic medium and long-term planning. Bayport Management Ltd plays a vital role in ensuring that the practices employed by the Bayport operations meet the highest standards of responsible corporate behavior. They embrace technology, stay at the forefront of product leadership, and push innovation to engineer a new reality in financial services provision and bring hope to our communities. Learn more at: www.bayportfinance.com About EXUS EXUS supports organizations in more than forty countries to improve their debt collection results, by introducing simplicity intelligence in their business processes through state-of-the-art technology. EXUS is the only vendor consistently ranked as best in class by independent advisors, such as CEB/Gartner and Oliver Wyman. In all the countries where EFS is deployed, there is a need to cover both the business needs of the organization as well as the requirements of the local regulatory framework. EFS has the required flexibility to implement different, complex business processes due to the variety of tools that are provided to the end users. EXUS, for almost two decades, has a clear and consistent focus on one and only core competence: debt collection technology. Learn more at: www.exus.co.uk View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240711422047/en/ Contacts: For more information: EXUS Press Office Romina Tsouni, Head of Marketing, EXUS M: +447429477389 T: +442081237407 r.tsouni@exus.co.uk CHICAGO, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The report "Crane Rental Market by Type (Mobile, Fixed), End-Use Industry (Building & Construction, Oil & Gas, Marine & Offshore, Mining & Excavation, Transportation), Weightlifting Capacity (Low, Low-Medium, Heavy, Extreme Heavy) & Region - Global Forecast to 2029", is projected to reach USD 64.8 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 5.1% from USD 50.6 billion in 2024. The crane rental market is strongly influenced by several key factors, driving its growth and expansion globally. One significant driver is the ongoing surge in construction and infrastructure development, particularly pronounced in emerging economies witnessing rapid urbanization and industrialization. This heightened construction activity creates a substantial demand for crane services, as these projects often require specialized lifting equipment to facilitate their execution efficiently. Moreover, companies are increasingly prioritizing cost-efficiency, opting for crane rentals instead of outright purchases to mitigate the high capital expenditure associated with acquiring new equipment. The flexibility offered by rental agreements enables businesses to access the required lifting capabilities without incurring long-term financial commitments, making rentals an attractive proposition, especially for short-term projects or those with fluctuating demands. Browse in-depth TOC on "Crane Rental Market" 249 - Tables 53 - Figures 257 - Pages Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=267845854 Technological advancements also play a pivotal role in driving the popularity of crane rentals. Innovations such as telematics and remote monitoring systems enhance operational efficiencies by providing real-time data on crane performance and condition. This allows for proactive maintenance and reduces downtime, ultimately improving overall productivity and project timelines. Additionally, the integration of environmentally friendly features in newer crane models aligns with growing environmental regulations and sustainability goals. Rental companies are increasingly offering eco-friendly crane options that comply with stricter emission standards, appealing to environmentally conscious clients and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Furthermore, the inherent adaptability of crane rentals makes them a preferred choice for companies navigating fluctuating project needs and market conditions. Rental agreements offer flexibility in terms of equipment selection, duration, and payment structures, enabling businesses to scale their crane usage according to project requirements. This agility is particularly advantageous for industries with dynamic project scopes or uncertain timelines, allowing them to optimize resource allocation and minimize costs. "Mobile cranes by type are projected to be the fastest growing, in terms of value, during the forecast period." The mobile crane segment is experiencing rapid growth within the crane rental market due to several key factors. Firstly, mobile cranes offer unparalleled versatility and flexibility, making them well-suited for a wide range of construction projects. Unlike fixed cranes, mobile cranes can be easily transported to different job sites, enabling contractors to efficiently deploy them wherever they are needed. This mobility is particularly valuable in urban areas or remote locations where space is limited, or access is challenging. Additionally, advancements in technology have led to the development of more efficient and capable mobile crane models, further driving their popularity. These modern mobile cranes boast enhanced lifting capacities, improved manoeuvrability, and advanced safety features, making them indispensable tools for construction companies seeking to optimize their operations. Furthermore, the trend towards sustainable construction practices has also contributed to the growth of the mobile crane segment. Many modern mobile cranes are designed to be more environmentally friendly, with lower emissions and reduced fuel consumption compared to traditional models. As a result of these factors, the mobile crane segment is poised to continue its rapid expansion, catering to the evolving needs of the construction industry worldwide. "Low weightlifting capacity segment is projected to be fastest growing weightlifting capacity, in terms of value, during the forecast period." The rapid expansion of the low weightlift capacity segment in the crane rental market is fueled by various compelling factors. Urbanization's global surge demands cranes with smaller footprints and lower weight capacities to navigate tight urban spaces effectively. These compact cranes, like mini-cranes or compact mobile cranes, are indispensable for contractors operating in bustling city centers due to their maneuverability and versatility. Technological advancements have led to the development of more efficient and lightweight crane models, maintaining robust lifting capacities relative to their size. These innovations, driven by advanced engineering and materials, appeal to construction firms aiming to streamline operations and project timelines. Additionally, the escalating demand for sustainable construction practices has spurred the rise of low weightlift capacity cranes, which boast lower fuel consumption and emissions, aligning with sustainability goals and regulations. Beyond urban construction, these cranes find applications in maintenance, landscaping, and industrial projects, thanks to their precision and efficiency in handling lighter loads. In summary, the convergence of urbanization, technological advancements, sustainability goals, and versatility propels the low weightlift capacity segment as the fastest-growing sector in the crane rental market, expected to maintain its prominence as construction practices evolve and demand for compact, efficient, and eco-friendly equipment increases. Request Sample Pages: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/requestsampleNew.asp?id=267845854 "Building & Construction by end-user industry segment is projected to be largest, in terms of value, during the forecast period." The building and construction segment holds the top position as the largest consumer of crane rental services, surpassing sectors like mining, excavation, transportation, and offshore drilling. This dominance is chiefly attributed to the extensive and continuous nature of construction activities worldwide. The surge in urbanization and economic growth drives significant residential, commercial, and infrastructural projects, especially in emerging economies, creating a constant demand for diverse crane services. Unlike industries such as mining and offshore drilling, which are susceptible to cyclical market fluctuations and global economic shifts, construction maintains a more stable demand curve fueled by ongoing urban expansion and governmental infrastructure initiatives. Moreover, construction projects often entail varied and multi-faceted crane applications, including lifting raw materials and placing prefabricated components, necessitating a wide array of crane types such as mobile, tower, and truck-mounted cranes. This versatility expands the rental opportunities within the construction sector, contrasting with industries like mining or offshore drilling that require specialized equipment and are often situated in remote or environmentally sensitive areas, posing logistical challenges, and escalating operational costs. Furthermore, regulatory, and environmental considerations in urban and developed regions lean towards the rental model over crane purchases. Renting allows construction firms to adapt swiftly to evolving project needs without the enduring financial commitment of equipment ownership, particularly advantageous in adhering to stringent safety and emissions regulations common in urban construction scenarios. The consistent, year-round demand for crane rental services, coupled with regulatory benefits and the varied crane applications in construction projects, firmly establishes the building and construction industry as the primary customer base in the crane rental market. Its resilience ensures that crane rental services remain indispensable for addressing the logistical complexities of modern construction demands, reinforcing its supremacy over other industries reliant on crane usage. "North America is expected to be the second largest market for cranes rental market during the forecast period, in terms of value." North America holds the position of the second-largest market for crane rentals, following closely behind Asia Pacific, due to a combination of significant factors that distinguish the region from others. Firstly, the construction industry in North America is substantial and diverse, encompassing residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The region's developed economies and urban centers continually drive construction demand, with ongoing projects ranging from high-rise buildings and skyscrapers to roadways, bridges, and energy infrastructure. This diversity in construction activities ensures a consistent demand for crane rental services throughout the year, sustaining the market's growth. Moreover, North America benefits from technological advancements and innovation in the construction sector, which contribute to the adoption of crane rentals. The region's construction companies often prefer renting cranes equipped with the latest technologies, such as telematics, GPS tracking, and remote monitoring systems, to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and project management capabilities. This emphasis on technology-driven solutions aligns with North America's reputation for embracing innovation, further propelling the demand for crane rentals in the region. Additionally, regulatory frameworks and environmental considerations play a significant role in driving crane rental demand in North America. Stringent safety standards and environmental regulations govern construction activities, encouraging companies to opt for rental cranes that comply with these requirements. Rental agreements also offer flexibility, allowing construction firms to adapt quickly to changing project needs while adhering to regulatory standards, without the long-term financial commitments associated with equipment ownership. Key Players The key players in this market Liebherr (Germany), United Rentals Inc. (US), Palfinger AG (Austria), Furukawa UNIC Corporation (Japan), Serens N.V. (Belgium), Mammoet (Netherlands), The Manitowoc Company, Inc. (US), Action Construction Equipment Ltd. (Japan), Maxim Crane Works (US), Manitex International Inc. (US) etc. Browse Adjacent Market: Building and Construction Market Research & Consulting Related Reports: Floor Grinding Machines Market - Global Forecast to 2027 Heavy Construction Equipment Market - Global Forecast to 2028 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 Insights: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/cranes-rental-market.asp Visit Our Website: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ Content Source : https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/PressReleases/cranes-rental.asp Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1951202/4609423/MarketsandMarkets.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/crane-rental-market-worth-64-8-billion-by-2029--exclusive-report-by-marketsandmarkets-302194553.html NanoViricides, Inc. (NYSE American:NNVC) (the "Company"), a clinical stage global leader in broad-spectrum antiviral nanomedicines, discusses its development program for NV-387, a single drug that has shown activity against many respiratory viral infections in animal models, enabling human clinical trials for a number of indications. There are several viruses that continue to cause epidemics in humans; seasonal epidemics with Influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID) are occurring every year. The potential for severe Bird Flu pandemic, that may even be worse than the COVID-19 outbreak, is increasing every year as the virus spreads further into mammals and mutates more, according to experts. Recently a fifth human case of H5Nx "Bird Flu" infection in the USA, acquired at work with infected dairy cattle, was found in Colorado ( https://cdphe.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-state-health-officials-identify-a-human-case-of-avian-flu ). The person exhibited conjunctivitis symptoms, was given Tamiflu, and has recovered, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). The risk to humans in general remains low, because this bird flu virus has not yet acquired the ability for human-to-human transmission, according to scientists. However, H5N1 bird flu is now widespread in wild birds, and has infected and spread in many mammals, including dairy cattle. MPox infections are also becoming more common in the Western world over the last few years. MPox cases are rising in the USA again ( https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/national-international/mpox-cases-on-the-rise-in-connecticut-health-experts-say/5576427/ ). A summer surge of COVID is occurring now with new FLiRT variants of the virus ( https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucelee/2024/07/09/summer-2024-covid-19-surge-occurring-with-flirt-variants-taking-over/ ). We are living in a world with many viruses that threaten our health. The current model of developing a drug against each virus separately is expensive and untenable with the myriad of viruses affecting humans that are gaining major foothold. NV-387 turns this drug development model on its head, with a single drug that would be effective against many of these viruses. It simplifies preparedness for pandemics. It reduces cost of development to a single drug instance. NV-387 is the only drug, to our knowledge, that has shown strong activity against all of the above viruses, namely, RSV, Influenza, Coronaviruses, and even orthoPoxviruses, in relevant animal models. In fact, in every case, the activity of NV-387 was superior to that of approved drugs as we have reported previously. NV-387 treatment also protected lungs from damage, which is very important for respiratory viral infections. Significantly, RSV infection in animals was completely cured by NV-387 treatment. NV-387 is unlikely to be escaped by viruses, because of its biomimicry, presenting itself to the virus as a decoy of the host cell. NV-387 has completed Phase I clinical trials with no reported adverse events, indicating excellent safety. Closing of the clinical trial site - hospital site itself - is in progress, with different audits taking place to ensure regulatory compliance. Statistical data analysis is expected to begin thereafter. We are eagerly awaiting further information and will provide updates as it becomes available. We have started planning Phase II clinical studies of NV-387 as a treatment for RSV and other indications including Influenza and COVID, as the Phase I clinical trial comes to a close. We plan on taking the drug NV-387 forward on the fastest regulatory path feasible towards regulatory approvals in different countries and jurisdictions including the USA. About NanoViricides NanoViricides, Inc. (the "Company") ( www.nanoviricides.com ) is a development stage company that is creating special purpose nanomaterials for antiviral therapy. The Company's novel nanoviricide class of drug candidates are designed to specifically attack enveloped virus particles and to dismantle them. Our lead drug candidate is NV-387 for the treatment of RSV, COVID-19, Long COVID, Influenza, and other respiratory viral infections. Our other advanced candidate is NV-HHV-1 for the treatment of Shingles (previously referred to as NV-HHV-101). The Company cannot project an exact date for filing an IND for any of its drugs because of dependence on a number of external collaborators and consultants. The Company is currently focused on advancing NV-387 into Phase I/II human clinical trials. NV-CoV-2 is our nanoviricide drug candidate for COVID-19 (API NV-387) that does not encapsulate remdesivir. NV-CoV-2-R is our other drug candidate for COVID-19 that is made up of NV-387 with remdesivir encapsulated within its polymeric micelles. The Company believes that since remdesivir is already US FDA approved, our drug candidate encapsulating remdesivir is likely to be an approvable drug, if safety is comparable. Remdesivir is developed by Gilead. The Company has developed both of its own drug candidates NV-CoV-2 and NV-CoV-2-R independently. The Company is also developing drugs against a number of viral diseases including oral and genital Herpes, viral diseases of the eye including EKC and herpes keratitis, H1N1 swine flu, H5N1 bird flu, seasonal Influenza, HIV, Hepatitis C, Rabies, Dengue fever, and Ebola virus, among others. NanoViricides' platform technology and programs are based on the TheraCour nanomedicine technology of TheraCour, which TheraCour licenses from AllExcel. NanoViricides holds a worldwide exclusive perpetual license to this technology for several drugs with specific targeting mechanisms in perpetuity for the treatment of the following human viral diseases: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV/AIDS), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), Rabies, Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2), Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), Influenza and Asian Bird Flu Virus, Dengue viruses, Japanese Encephalitis virus, West Nile Virus, Ebola/Marburg viruses, and certain Coronaviruses. The Company intends to obtain a license for poxviruses and/or enteroviruses if the initial research is successful. The Company's technology is based on broad, exclusive, sub-licensable, field licenses to drugs developed in these areas from TheraCour Pharma, Inc. The Company's business model is based on licensing technology from TheraCour Pharma Inc. for specific application verticals of specific viruses, as established at its foundation in 2005. As is customary, the Company must state the risk factor that the path to typical drug development of any pharmaceutical product is extremely lengthy and requires substantial capital. As with any drug development efforts by any company, there can be no assurance at this time that any of the Company's pharmaceutical candidates would show sufficient effectiveness and safety for human clinical development. Further, there can be no assurance at this time that successful results against coronavirus in our lab will lead to successful clinical trials or a successful pharmaceutical product. This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect the Company's current expectation regarding future events. Actual events could differ materially and substantially from those projected herein and depend on a number of factors. Certain statements in this release, and other written or oral statements made by NanoViricides, Inc. 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. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Company's control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the company's expectations include, but are not limited to, those factors that are disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in documents filed by the company from time to time with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and other regulatory authorities. Although it is not possible to predict or identify all such factors, they may include the following: demonstration and proof of principle in preclinical trials that a nanoviricide is safe and effective; successful development of our product candidates; our ability to seek and obtain regulatory approvals, including with respect to the indications we are seeking; the successful commercialization of our product candidates; and market acceptance of our products. The phrases "safety", "effectiveness" and equivalent phrases as used in this press release refer to research findings including clinical trials as the customary research usage and do not indicate evaluation of safety or effectiveness by the US FDA. FDA refers to US Food and Drug Administration. IND application refers to "Investigational New Drug" application. cGMP refers to current Good Manufacturing Practices. CMC refers to "Chemistry, Manufacture, and Controls". CHMP refers to the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use, which is the European Medicines Agency's (EMA) committee responsible for human medicines. API stands for "Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient". Contact: NanoViricides, Inc. info@nanoviricides.com Public Relations Contact: MJ Clyburn TraDigital IR clyburn@tradigitalir.com SOURCE: NanoViricides, Inc. View the original press release on accesswire.com Ireland to be First Market for Perosphere's Novel Coagulation Diagnostic Tool US-based Perosphere (Perosphere Technologies Inc.), a private medical technologies company, today announced that it has signed an agreement with M3 Medical, a Uniphar Medtech business and a leading Irish medical device distributor, for the exclusive distribution of Perosphere's innovative Point-of-Care (PoC) Coagulometer, Perosphere ClotChek, in Ireland. With this agreement, Ireland will be the first country in which Perosphere ClotChek will become available to hospitals and health facilities. Many patients require anticoagulants, which help prevent blood clots and stroke. Perosphere ClotChek is the only pharmacodynamic, reagent-free diagnostic tool for use at the point-of-care, i.e., bedside. ClotChek test results can assist doctors and other health care professionals (HCP) in the rapid diagnosis of coagulation status and enabling informed treatment decision-making in emergency and other medical settings. Perosphere ClotChek provides HCPs with diagnostic results in 3-8 minutes. Perosphere ClotChek has a CE Mark in the European Union. "We are excited to partner with M3 Medical based on the company's longstanding expertise and demonstrated success in the medical device market to improve patient care," said Daryl Mootoo, Chief Operating Officer of Perosphere. "We trust in M3 Medical's capabilities to bring Perosphere ClotChek to healthcare providers in Ireland and help us change the current standard of testing and care in anticoagulation management." "When searching for a distributor for Ireland, in addition to operational excellence, we also wanted a partner with a well-established team," said David Walker, Vice President of European Sales of Perosphere. "M3 Medical, now part of Uniphar Medtech, has deep relationships with clinicians, hospitals, and clinic decision-makers, making them an ideal partner." M3 Medical is a leading medical device distributor for interventional cardiology, radiology, neuroradiology, and vascular surgery in Ireland and the United Kingdom. M3 Medical is part of Uniphar Medtech, a European medical device distributor headquartered in Ireland with a strong presence across 21 markets. "We recognize the value of Perosphere ClotChek, a unique coagulation testing device, especially in Ireland given the widespread use of anticoagulants and the unmet need for fast and complete coagulation diagnosis," adds Robbie Dolan, Business Unit Leader Ireland of M3 Medical. Mr. Dolan added, "We are proud to enter into this exclusive agreement in order to help improve patient outcomes and reduce health system costs in Ireland." About Perosphere Technologies Perosphere Technologies is changing the way decisions are made at the point-of-care in hospitals and outpatient clinics for patients at risk for bleeding. A private medical technologies company, Perosphere is focused on development and commercialization of Perosphere ClotChek, a novel PoC (point-of-care) Coagulometer, which quickly informs diagnosis, treatment, and prevention decisions through precision data, made immediately accessible to all. It is the only PoC diagnostic tool that effectively and swiftly tests clotting times across drug classes, including the Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) and Novel Oral Anticoagulants (NOACs). Perosphere ClotChek serves to help establish a new standard of care for patients on anticoagulant therapies or at risk for bleeding, and has the potential to improve efficiency, provide significant cost savings, and support better patient outcomes. Perosphere ClotChek has a CE Mark in the European Union and is not FDA cleared in the United States. For further information, contact us at info@perospheretech.com or +1 (475) 218-4600. www.perospheretech.com About M3 Medical M3 Medical is a premier distributor of cutting-edge medical devices, specializing in interventional cardiology, radiology, neuroradiology, vascular surgery, and cardiac rhythm management. Our expertise lies in identifying and introducing innovative technologies to healthcare professionals across Ireland and the United Kingdom. Our team's commitment to excellence is evident in our passion, dedication, and deep market knowledge. We pride ourselves on fostering strong customer relationships and delivering unparalleled service, ensuring optimal device efficiency for healthcare providers and improved patient outcomes. As part of Uniphar Medtech, a leading European medical device distributor with a presence in 21 markets, M3 Medical leverages an extensive support network. This strategic alliance enhances our ability to serve our distributors and partners, providing them with comprehensive resources and expertise across diverse healthcare landscapes. For further information contact us at www.m3.ie or +353 1 5568800. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240711627342/en/ Contacts: Gerard O'Shea FINN Partners gerard.oshea@finnpartners.com +353 87 413 7471 EQS-News: North Peak Resources Ltd. / Key word(s): Miscellaneous North Peak Announces Next Stage of Drilling at Prospect Mountain North 11.07.2024 / 13:30 CET/CEST The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - July 11, 2024) - North Peak Resources Ltd. (TSXV: NPR) (the "Company" or "North Peak") announces that drilling at the Prospect Mountain North area has progressed and is now moving to the West side of the mountain within the Prospect Mountain Property (the "Property") in Eureka, Nevada. The drill has finished the preliminary testing of the Industry and Silver Connor fault network and is now targeting the Duke, Banner and Silver Connor fault system in the Wabash area, where there are multiple historical mines including Wabash, Williams and Silver Connor and associated workings (see Figure 1). These faults are conduits for gold-bearing fluids for the regions' deposits and the dense fault network in the northern part of the property has similarities to i-80's Archimedes/Hilltop area and the historic Richmond/Eureka/Fad zones. Over 2.9 Moz's of gold has been produced to date in the Eureka camp. (Sources: (1) Gold in the Eureka Mining District, Nevada, by Shawe and Nolan (1989), US Geol Survey Bulletin 1857C: 1.45 Moz from 1869-1901 (Richmond-Eureka mine); and (2) NI 43-101 Report on 2021 Ruby Hill Mineral Resource Estimate, Eureka County, Nevada, USA by Wright and Walton dated effective 31 July 2021: 1.46 Moz from Archimedes Pit, 1998-2020). The Wabash area was the focus of a comprehensive drilling campaign of 27,618 ft (8,418m) reverse circulation (RC) drilling campaign in 1999 by European American Resources. Historical intersections by European American Resources include: PM-W-11: 15.2 m @ 4.1 g/t Au + 59.9 g/t Ag PM-W-12: 21.3 m @ 4.5 g/t Au + 35.0 g/t Ag PM-W-13: 12.2 m @ 3.0 g/t Au + 38.7 g/t Ag PM-W-92: 24.4 m @ 8.2 g/t Au + 22.6 g/t Ag PM-W-74: 13.7 m @ 5.6 g/t Au + 60.8 g/t Ag PM-W-50: 13.7 m @ 2.9 g/t Au + 42.3 g/t Ag PM-W-52: 12.2 m @ 3.1 g/t Au + 8.9 g/t Ag PM-W-55: 16.8 m @ 4.1 g/t Au + 25.3 g/t Ag NOTES: grams per tonne=g/t; metres=m; using a 0.5 g/t Au minimum composite grade, and up to 25 feet internal dilution @ 0.01 g/t Au (1725 intersections are just anomalous zones identified for exploration); true thickness is unknown until orientations are proven; these drill hole results are pre-NI 43-101 and they do not meet the current standards of exploration quality assurance and quality control protocols-twinning of holes will be necessary. See the Technical Report (defined below) for full details of the historical drill results referenced above. Mike Sutton, Director & Geologist explained, "Wabash was the focus of a systematic drilling campaign in 1999 and the intersections that were returned were interpreted as shallow dipping pods of mineralization. A new interpretation is that the intersections are aligning with the steeply dipping faults and if so, continuity of mineralization greatly improves and increases the tonnage potential and this has been supported by the finding of a sub-vertical mineralized fault at surface. The historical vertical holes are not suited to cut across sub-vertical zones." The holes will be up to 900 feet in length, with several angled to test interpretation as well as a couple to twin historical intersections (see Figure 2). Multi-element assays of the RC drilled holes indicates anomalous antimony and high arsenic and relatively low lead and zinc, consistent with the historical smelter observations, suggesting that the mineralization is of the "Intermediate" style noted in the area with mainly Carlin type characteristics, but also with a carbonate replacement type (CRD) signature. Figure 1: Plan of Prospect Mountain North area with fault structures, historical workings & tunnels, rock grab samples, historic drill hole collars and proposed drill holes To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9875/216157_northpeak07112024fig1.jpg Figure 2: Cross Section of Historical Wabash drilling, looking North, with key historical intersections highlighted, historical workings and revised interpreted mineralization trend To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9875/216157_dd31b48804a54b9a_004full.jpg Review by Qualified Person, Quality Control and Reports Mr. Mike Sutton, P.Geo., a director of the Company, is the Qualified Person, as defined under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, who reviewed and approved scientific and technical disclosure in this press release. The Qualified Person has not reviewed the mineral tenure, nor independently verified the legal status and ownership of the Property or any underlying property agreements. About Prospect Mountain The Property lies in the Battle Mountain Eureka trend, in an area known as the Southern Eureka Gold Belt, where three styles of mineralization have been identified, gold, silver Carlin style mineralization, Carbonate Replacement gold, silver, lead, zinc mineralization (CRD) and carbonate hosted Porphyry Related Skarn lead, zinc and gold mineralization associated with cretaceous intrusions. At the Property, the CRD mineralization is heavily oxidized to depths of at least 610m (2000ft) below the top of the ridge line. A Plan of Operations is in place which covers part of the Property (totalling 81 acres) and entitles an operator to pursue surface exploration, underground mining of up to 365,000 tons per annum and certain infrastructural works. It includes a permit to extract water from a well and to build water containment facilities. A more complete description of Prospect Mountain's geology and mineralization, including at the Wabash area, can be found in the NI 43-101 Technical Report (the "Technical Report") on the Prospect Mountain Property, Eureka County, Nevada, USA dated and with an effective date April 10, 2023, prepared by David Pym (Msc), CGeol. of LTI Advisory Ltd. and Dr Toby Strauss, CGeol, EurGeol., of Merlyn Consulting Ltd., which has been filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca under the profile of the Company and on the Company's website. About North Peak The Company is a Canadian based gold exploration and development company that is listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "NPR". The Company is focused on acquiring historic sites, with low cost producing gold and other metals properties, with near term production potential and 8+ year mine life in the northern hemisphere. The Company recently acquired an initial 80% interest in the Prospect Mountain Mine complex in Eureka, Nevada (see the Company's May 4 and 23, 2023 press releases). The Company can give no assurances at this time that its properties and interests will fulfil the Company's business development goals described herein. Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative. For further information, please contact: Brian Hinchcliffe, CEO Phone: +1-647-424-2305 Email: info@northpeakresources.com Website: www.northpeakresources.com Chelsea Hayes, Director Phone: +1-647-424-2305 Email: info@northpeakresources.com CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, timing and completion of any drilling and work programs on the Property, estimates of mineralization from drilling, sampling and geophysical surveys, geological information projected from drilling and sampling results and the potential quantities and grades of the target zones, the potential for minerals and/or mineral resources and reserves, and statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs, and current expectations of the Property and the Company that may be described herein. Forward-looking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such information can generally be identified by the use of forwarding-looking wording such as "may", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intend", "believe" and "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur. These assumptions, risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the state of the economy in general and capital markets in particular, accuracy of assay results, geological interpretations from drilling results, timing and amount of capital expenditures; performance of available laboratory and other related services, future operating costs, and the historical basis for current estimates of potential quantities and grades of target zones, as well as those risk factors discussed or referred to in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2023 and the quarter ended March 31, 2024, available at www.sedarplus.ca , many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additionally, the Company undertakes no obligation to comment on the expectations of, or statements made by, third parties in respect of the matters discussed above. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service 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/216157 Click on, or paste the following link into your web browser,to view the associated documents http://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/216157 News Source: North Peak Resources Ltd. 11.07.2024 CET/CEST Dissemination of a Corporate News, transmitted by EQS News - a service of EQS Group AG. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. The EQS Distribution Services include Regulatory Announcements, Financial/Corporate News and Press Releases. Archive at www.eqs-news.com Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 11, 2024) - Andean Precious Metals Corp. (TSXV: APM) (OTCQX: ANPMF) ("Andean" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Sylvain Lessard as President and General Manager of Golden Queen Mine, effective today, July 11, 2024. With over 30 years of extensive experience in the mining sector, Mr. Lessard brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in open pit mining operations. Sylvain's career highlights include roles as Vice President of Operations, General Manager, and various leadership positions where he successfully led operational teams, implemented strategic plans for increased workflow efficiency, profitability, and enhanced company stability. Most recently as the former Vice President of Hecla Quebec and General Manager at Casa Berardi Mine, Mr. Lessard was responsible for managing operations at two underground mines and one open pit with significant production capacity. Additionally, he successfully led the expansion of the Scully Mine to a higher production capacity during his tenure as Vice President, Mining Operations at Tacora Resources. Mr. Lessard holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mining Engineering from Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal and has undergone professional training in Lean Management, Leadership, Blasting Techniques, and more. Executive Chairman and CEO, Alberto Morales, stated "I am very pleased to welcome Sylvain to the Andean team. His exceptional leadership skills, deep technical knowledge, and proven capabilities in driving operational excellence and cost control align perfectly with our company's goals. We are confident that Sylvain's expertise will further strengthen our position in the industry and lead Golden Queen to new heights. "I also want to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to Mark Fullenwider for his outstanding dedication and leadership during his tenure at Golden Queen. Since December 2020 until his departure, Mark has navigated the challenges of the pandemic and the transition through the acquisition by Andean with exceptional skill. His wealth of knowledge in mining and his invaluable insights into Golden Queen's operations have been crucial and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors." About Andean Precious Metals Andean is a growing precious metals producer focused on expanding into top-tier jurisdictions in the Americas. The Company owns and operates the San Bartolome processing facility in Potosi, Bolivia and the Soledad Mountain mine in Kern County, California, and is well-funded to act on future growth opportunities. Andean's leadership team is committed to creating value; fostering safe, sustainable and responsible operations; and achieving our ambition to be a multi-asset, mid-tier precious metals producer. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange, Inc. 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. Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements and information in this release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable U.S. securities laws and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, which we refer to collectively as "forward-looking statements". Forward-Looking statements are statements and information regarding possible events, conditions or results of operations that are based upon assumptions about future economic conditions and courses of action. All statements and information other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "seek", "expect", "anticipate", "budget", "plan", "estimate", "continue", "forecast", "intend", "believe", "predict", "potential", "target", "may", "could", "would", "might", "will" and similar words or phrases (including negative variations) suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook. Forward-Looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to, statements and information regarding the Company's production and cost outlook and capital expenditure expectations for 2024. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions, including, but not limited to: the Company's ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the Company's ability to secure and to meet obligations under property and option agreements and other material agreements; the timely receipt of required approvals and permits; that there is no material adverse change affecting the Company or its properties; that contracted parties provide goods or services in a timely manner; that no unusual geological or technical problems occur; that plant and equipment function as anticipated and that there is no material adverse change in the price of silver, costs associated with production or recovery. Forward-Looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. The Company believes the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct, and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements contained herein. Some of the risks and other factors which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements contained in this release include, but are not limited to: risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits and conclusions of economic evaluations; results of initial feasibility, pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks relating to possible variations in reserves, resources, grade, planned mining dilution and ore loss, or recovery rates and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; mining and development risks, including risks related to accidents, equipment breakdowns, labour disputes (including work stoppages and strikes) or other unanticipated difficulties with or interruptions in exploration and development; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; risks related to commodity price and foreign exchange rate fluctuations; the uncertainty of profitability based upon the cyclical nature of the industry in which the Company operates; risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms or delays in obtaining governmental or local community approvals or in the completion of development or construction activities; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the uncertain global economic environment; and other factors contained in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's MD&A dated March 31, 2024. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, you are cautioned that this list is not exhaustive and there may be other factors that the Company has not identified. Furthermore, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/216139 SOURCE: Andean Precious Metals Corp. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - July 11, 2024) - Romios Gold Resources Inc. (TSXV: RG) (OTCQB: RMIOF) (FSE: D4R) ("Romios Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it is proceeding with a non-brokered private placement of up to 15 million shares (the "Shares") priced at $0.01 per Share for up to $150,000 (the "Offering"). Funds will be used for exploration and working capital. All securities issued under the Offering are subject to a four month and one day hold period. The transaction is subject to TSX Venture Exchange approval. No funds from the sale of the Shares will be used for payments to non-arm's length parties or for investor relations activities. The funds from the sale of the Shares will be allocated as to $50,000 to maintain the Company's property in Nevada and the balance for general working capital. Insiders of the Company will subscribe for up to 25% of the Offering. The insider private placements are exempt from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101") by virtue of the exemptions contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1) (a) of MI 61-101 in that the fair market value of the consideration for the securities of the Company which will be issued to the insiders will not exceed 25% of its market capitalization. The securities described herein have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and accordingly, may not be offered or sold within the United States except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities requirements or pursuant to exemptions therefrom. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any securities in any jurisdiction. About Romios Gold Resources Inc. Romios Gold Resources Inc. is a progressive Canadian mineral exploration company engaged in precious- and base-metal exploration, focused primarily on gold, copper and silver. It has a 100% interest in the Lundmark-Akow Lake Au-Cu property plus 4 additional claim blocks in northwestern Ontario and extensive claim holdings covering several significant porphyry copper-gold prospects in the "Golden Triangle" of British Columbia. Additional interests include the Kinkaid claims in Nevada covering numerous Au-Ag-Cu workings, and two former producers: the Scossa mine property (Nevada) which is a former high-grade gold producer and the La Corne molybdenum mine property (Quebec). The Company retains an ongoing interest in several properties including a 2% NSR on McEwen Mining's Hislop gold property in Ontario; a 2% NSR on Enduro Metals' Newmont Lake Au-Cu-Ag property in BC, and the Company has signed a definitive agreement with Copperhead Resources Inc. ("Copperhead") whereby Copperhead can acquire a 75% ownership interest in Romios' Red Line Property in BC. For more information, visit www. romios.com As part of our ongoing effort to keep investors, interested parties and stakeholders updated, we have several communication portals. If you have any questions online (Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn) please feel free to send direct messages. To book a one-on-one 30-minute Zoom video call, please click here. This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or include the words "believes", "expects", "anticipates", "estimates", "intends", "plans" or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements. TSX Venture Exchange or its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) do not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. 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. NOT FOR DISSEMINATION, DISTRIBUTION, RELEASE, OR PUBLICATION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OR FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/216148 SOURCE: Romios Gold Resources Inc. LONDON , July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Team members from YuLife, the tech-driven insurance company on a mission to inspire life, this week participated in the first FT Nikkei UK Ekiden, alongside their partners from Dai-ichi Life, to celebrate their launch in Japan this year. In the sport of ekiden, which emerged in Japan over a century ago, individuals strive to perform at their best for the team (and successfully hand over the tasuki or sash), an act that is inspiring for both participants and spectators alike. During the inaugural race, 180 runners from 10 teams completed the 122km relay race across some of the most beautiful UK countryside. YuLife also made a commitment to plant a tree for every kilometre completed via the YuLife app. "I was delighted to join my colleagues in taking part in the first FT Nikkei UK Ekiden, alongside our partners from Dai-ichi who encouraged us to take part", said Sam Fromson COO and co-founder at YuLife. "Having recently expanded into the Japanese market, we have learned a great deal from our partners and colleagues about the cultural significance of the Ekiden, a beautiful way of bringing Japanese culture, teamwork and the spirit of "makenki", the spirit not to lose, to the UK. Our commitment to this event symbolizes our dedication to learning from the best practices and spirit of resilience inherent in Japanese culture." "We're excited that our colleagues and partners at YuLife were able to join us to participate in the FT Nikkei UK Ekiden for the first time," said Jun Okazaki, Managing Director, Dai-ichi Life International (Europe) Limited. "Through working closely with YuLife for a number of years, leading the company's latest funding round and supporting the rollout of its award-winning offering in Japan, we have truly valued the company's commitment to innovation and creativity. We look forward to continuing to partner with you to build a brighter and more secure future by further strengthening the teamwork that we have developed through this Ekiden." About YuLife YuLife is a tech-driven financial services brand on a mission to inspire life and turn financial products into a force for good. By harnessing the power of technology and the latest behavioural science, YuLife's insurance model focuses on employee wellbeing and risk prevention, incentivising healthy daily behaviour to drive positive lifestyle outcomes. YuLife has quickly become a highly valued employee benefit, providing the safety net of insurance alongside a highly engaging wellbeing experience that fosters a healthier, happier and more motivated team. Founded in 2016, YuLife is headquartered in London and backed by global insurers and venture capital. https://www.YuLife.com/ Media Contact Ben Crome Headline Media ben@headline.media +44 7481 249328 Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2459203/Japan_Launch.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/yulife-and-dai-ichi-join-forces-to-participate-in-inaugural-ft-nikkei-uk-ekiden-302194739.html Enables Shift Left and Innovation at Speed for the Automotive Industry BENGALURU, India and AUSTIN, Texas, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Tata Elxsi, the leading global design and technology services company, and global automation company Emerson, today announced the inauguration of the Tata Elxsi + NI Mobility Innovation Centre (TENMIC) in Bengaluru. This state-of-the-art centre aims to accelerate automotive innovation with cutting-edge systems, software solutions, and global automotive expertise. The launch event was hosted by Manoj Raghavan, MD & CEO of Tata Elxsi; Ritu Favre, President of the Test and Measurement Business Group at Emerson; and Drita Roggenbuck, VP & GM of the Transportation Business Unit at Emerson. The event hosted senior technology and R&D leaders of global OEMs, leading automotive suppliers, and semiconductor companies. Their presence highlighted the significance of TENMIC and collaboration of Tata Elxsi and NI in enhancing automotive development and innovation. The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, with the advent of software-defined vehicles (SDV) and the integration of digital technologies. This transformation demands the speed of innovation to develop, validate and release new features swiftly, all while ensuring reliability, safety, and performance. TENMIC is strategically aligned with these industry trends, enabling OEMs to 'shift left' by validating performance and functionality through a combination of virtual and physical testing well before production. Central to this approach are automation, agility, and the transformative impact of data and AI-led methodologies on the product development lifecycle. TENMIC brings together advanced technologies and systems from Emerson's Test & Measurement business (formerly NI), combined with Tata Elxsi's deep automotive engineering, data analytics, and digitalisation expertise and solutions. This collaboration aims to provide comprehensive automated solutions, including advancements in SDVs, autonomous driving technologies, EV systems and batteries. "India is emerging as a global hub for next-generation automotive development, with the presence of global R&D centres of the entire mobility ecosystem, from OEMs to silicon vendors. The shift in vehicle E/E architecture, electrification, and connectivity is driving the need for advanced software development and testing capabilities. Bengaluru, where both Tata Elxsi and Emerson's Test & Measurement business are headquartered in India, offers the combined global expertise of the two companies to the entire world, while enabling proximity to the thriving R&D ecosystem of global OEMs, suppliers, and technology companies in India. Our partnership with Emerson aims to drive innovation, design, and development, leveraging global expertise to create immense value for our clients," said Shaju S., Vice President and Head of Transportation Business Unit at Tata Elxsi. "Our partnership with Tata Elxsi to establish this mobility innovation centre for the automotive sector will enable rapid advancements in automotive technologies and validation, driving the industry forward and redefining the possibilities within the mobility landscape," said Shitendra Bhattacharya, director of Emerson's Test and Measurement Business in India & ASEAN. About Tata Elxsi Tata Elxsi is among the world's leading providers of design and technology services across industries including automotive, broadcast, communications, healthcare, and transportation. Tata Elxsi works with leading OEMs and suppliers in the automotive and transportation industries for R&D, design, and product engineering services from architecture to launch and beyond. It brings together domain experience across autonomous, electric, connected vehicle technologies, and software-defined vehicles (SDV), which is supported by a worldwide network of design studios, development centres, and offices as well as a global pool of over 13,000 engineers and specialists. For more information, please visit: www.tataelxsi.com/industries/automotive About Emerson Emerson (NYSE: EMR) is a global technology and software company providing innovative solutions for the world's essential industries. Through its leading automation portfolio, including its majority stake in AspenTech, Emerson helps hybrid, process, and discrete manufacturers optimise operations, protect personnel, reduce emissions, and achieve their sustainability goals. For more information, visit Emerson.com. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/742257/Tata_Elxsi_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/tata-elxsi-and-emerson-inaugurate-the-mobility-innovation-centre-in-bengaluru-302194762.html The Family of Jared TF Alery, a passionate, successful, CAT Marine Diesel Technician, leaves a legacy for trade-going students at WyoTech to take on a rewarding career like Jared. LARAMIE, WY / ACCESSWIRE / July 11, 2024 / After choosing to forego the traditional college experience to attend WyoTech in 2012, Jared grew his passion for anything diesel. After graduating with perfect attendance, highest honors, a National Technical Honor Society Member, and a degree in Diesel and Business, he immediately hit the field. Jared worked for NC Machinery, a CAT dealer in the Northwest, where he quickly climbed the ranks. For the last five years, he specifically worked in the Marine Division. Jared passed away in August 2023 and his family felt the best way to honor his memory and allow his Legacy to carry on was to establish a scholarship for WyoTech students at LoveTrades Foundation. Jared TF Alery Jared was a September 2013 WyoTech graduate and earned his Associate Degrees in Advanced Diesel and Business Management (ASM). "We felt supporting the diesel vocation was the perfect path to continue his legacy at the school that provided his expertise," states father David, mother Lisa, and Sister Sydney. "We are starting a $200,000 endowment scholarship through the LoveTrades Foundation directly supporting students pursuing Advanced Diesel and Management degrees." Pat Altenburg, Executive Director for LoveTrades, says, "The LoveTrades Foundation is pleased to support the Alery family in continuing Jared's Legacy by offering scholarships over the next five years for a program that offers great career potential post-graduation. We look forward to awarding students in partnership with the Alery family who will exemplify the passion, commitment, and integrity Jared demonstrated through his schooling and career." Jared had a generous heart and compassion, willing to help anyone anytime. "The Alery family is honored to bring those wonderful traits of Jared's to fruition through this scholarship. "We want to encourage young people passionate about diesel to pursue their dreams. This scholarship will provide opportunities and challenge future generations of diesel technicians to be as big-hearted, focused, and successful as Jared." For more information about The Jared TF Alery Diesel Scholarships, visit https://www.lovetrades.org/ About WyoTech WyoTech, formerly known as Wyoming Technical Institute, is a technical training college founded in Laramie, Wyoming, in 1966. WyoTech provides training programs that prepare students for careers as technicians in the automotive and diesel industry with nine-month training programs that focus on hands-on experience. About LoveTrades Through the generous support of donors nationwide, LoveTrades Foundation can invest in the automotive industry's greatest asset: its future. Each year, the Foundation recognizes outstanding vocational education students from high schools across the country awarding them scholarships to WyoTech. The foundation empowers students to take control of their futures and transform their passion into a career in Automotive, Diesel, Collision & Refinishing, and Welding, Contact Information Pat Altenburg Executive Director paltenburg@lovetrades.org Ashley Chitwood VP of Marketing achitwood@wyotech.edu SOURCE: WyoTech View the original press release on newswire.com. Work on the 557 Mile HVAC Line will create more than 2,600 jobs and generate $667 million in New Mexico and $506 million in Arizona Southwestern Power Group (SWPG), with offices in Albuquerque and Phoenix, is developing the RioSol Transmission Line, a High Voltage Alternating Current (HVAC) transmission line spanning 557 miles through New Mexico and Arizona. RioSol will create 2,626 jobs during its construction and utilization, according to an independent report from Energy Economic & Environmental Consultants. The transmission infrastructure investment is stimulating new economic opportunities for renewable energy generation, enabling local wind and solar energy resources to be developed along its route. SWPG ( https://southwesternpower.com/ ) is planning to construct eleven substations along the RioSol Transmission Line ( https://riosol.energy/ ) which will deliver 1,600 MW of renewable energy to communities. RioSol will generate $1.17 billion in new economic activity in Arizona and New Mexico. Construction is slated to begin in 2026 and completed in 2028. RioSol is in its late stage of development, having completed the major federal and state permits along with right of way acquisition. RioSol is the second line of the original SunZia Transmission Project, paralleling the SunZia line that is currently under construction by Pattern Energy. The RioSol Transmission Line project represents a private capital investment and operational expenditures of more than $2.4 billion. Nearly $244 million in development expenditures are anticipated through 2025 before any ground is broken on the project. The financial benefits provided to New Mexico ($667 million) and Arizona ($506 million) will generate an estimated economic impact of $1 billion over the project's construction, and more than $3 billion over the project's lifespan. The project is anticipated to generate 2,626 job years; 1701 of which are directly created by the construction of the transmission lines. The other 926 job years are attributed to operations and maintenance activities over a 30 year period, according to Energy Economic & Environmental Consultants. Throughout project construction, 2026-2028, total projected construction costs exceed $1.75 billion. Once built, operations and maintenance expenditures from 2028 create economic and fiscal impacts of nearly $12.3 million per year and total nearly $368 million by 2058. RioSol Economic Benefits in New Mexico The RioSol transmission project originates in east-central New Mexico. The new 1.6 gigawatts of transmission capacity in this area will allow for capital investment and facilitate development of New Mexico's available high-quality wind and solar resources. Torrance county is the eastern terminus of RioSol which traverses 349.4 miles through Valencia, Socorro, Sierra, Luna, Grant, and Hidalgo counties, powering local New Mexico communities with New Mexico wind-rich energy, before continuing its path through Arizona. Total employment: 1,034 Job-Years Annual Wages: $53.9 million Local impacts: $451.4 million Government Fiscal Benefits: $94.5 million RioSol Economic Benefits in Arizona RioSol traverses 207.5 miles and five Arizona counties including Greenlee, Graham, Cochise, Pima, and Pinal before terminating into the grid southeast of Phoenix. RioSol's HVAC design will permit wind-rich New Mexico energy to be available to Arizona communities. Arizona's solar-rich energy can be distributed throughout the state or sold to communities in New Mexico. Total employment: 621 Job-Years Annual Wages: $37.3 million Local Impacts: $265.9 million Government Fiscal Benefits: $98.5 million For more information about RioSol and to read the full economic report as prepared by Energy Economic & Environmental Consultants, visit https://riosol.energy/community-benefits/ About RioSol RioSol is a planned 500-kilovolt (Kv) High Voltage Alternating Current (HVAC) renewable energy transmission line that will deliver clean energy through Central New Mexico to South Central Arizona. For project details visit RioSol.Energy and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn @RioSolEnergy. SOURCE: Southwestern Power Group View the original press release on accesswire.com NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES Pampa Metals Corp. ("Pampa Metals" or the "Company") (CSE:PM)(FSE:FIR)(OTCQB:PMMCF) is pleased to announce that it has issued 12,581,291 units (Units") at a price of $0.27 per Unit for gross proceeds of $3,396,950 ("Proceeds") under the Fully Subscribed Private Placement detailed in a 26 June 2024 News Release ("Private Placement"). Each Unit consists of one fully paid common share and a half purchase warrant. Each whole warrant (a "Warrant") shall entitle the holder to acquire an additional common share at a price of $0.50 for a period of 3 years after the closing of the Private Placement. A Form 62-103F3 Required Disclosure by an Eligible Institutional Investor has been filed on SEDAR in connection with the Private Placement. Proceeds will fund continuing exploration at the Piuquenes Copper-Gold Porphyry Project, where the Company recently reported results from the third drillhole of its maiden program (refer 23 May 2024 News Release) including: 801 m @ 0.40% Cu, 0.51 g/t Au, 2.87 g/t Ag (from 54 to 855m (EOH)) including 518 m @ 0.53% Cu, 0.73 g/t Au, 3.45 g/t Ag (from 192 to 710) including 176 m @ 0.71% Cu, 0.74 g/t Au, 4.86 g/t Ag (from 192 to 368) including 64 m @ 0.75%, 1.2 g/t Au, 4.60 g/t Ag (554 to 618m) including 32m @ 0.64% Cu, 0.71 g/t Au, 4.54 g/t Ag (642 to 674m) In connection with the Private Placement, the Company paid aggregate finder's fees of $176,580 and issued 654,000 finder's warrants. The Company anticipates closing a final tranche of the Private Placement for $150,000 on 15 July 2024. Any securities issued in connection with the Private Placement are subject to a four-month hold period, in accordance with securities laws and the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD & INVESTOR CONTACT Joseph van den Elsen | President & CEO | Joseph@pampametals.com ABOUT PAMPA METALS Pampa Metals is a copper-gold exploration company listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange (CSE:PM), Frankfurt (FSE:FIR), and OTC (OTCQB:PMMCF) exchanges. In November 2023, the Company announced it had entered into an Option and Joint Venture Agreement for the acquisition of an 80% interest in the Piuquenes Copper-Gold Porphyry Project in San Juan Province, Argentina. Qualified Person Technical information in this news release has been approved by Mario Orrego G. Mr. Orrego G. is a Geologist, a Registered Member of the Chilean Mining Commission and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Orrego G. is a consultant to the Company. Neither the CSE nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical fact, that address events or developments that Pampa Metals expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will" or "may" occur. These statements are subject to various risks. Although Pampa Metals believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guaranteeing of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. SOURCE: Pampa Metals Corp. View the original press release on accesswire.com BOSTON, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- smartShift, provider of industry-leading Intelligent Automation for SAP transformations, today announced that Jagdish Saharabudhe has joined its leadership team as Chief Technology Officer. In his role as CTO, Jagdish will lead smartShift's product and engineering teams, set the strategy for products, and work closely with customers to ensure smartShift's solutions are a critical component of their digital transformations to both SAP S/4HANA and SAP Clean Core. His team will build upon smartShift's industry-leading AI technology to expand its capabilities to deliver on GenAI solutions for enterprise custom code management geared towards developers, architects and functional users. Jagdish brings with him over 20 years of experience at SAP, including senior leadership roles as Field CTO, VP ISV and Channel Partners, and VP Solution Engineering. As a co-founder and CEO of LinguaNext Technologies, he established a global partnership with SAP, leading the company through revenue growth, funding rounds and acquisition. His experience at SAP, along with his successful entrepreneurial experience, will support smartShift's ambitious growth goals. Jagdish Saharabudhe, CTO, smartShift said, "For the last decade, the world's leading companies have successfully migrated and modernized custom code built for SAP ERP systems with smartShift's patented AI automation technology. I look forward to building on this to take our solutions to the next level. I've learned we're already working with customers who've selected smartShift to help them on their SAP Clean Core journey, where they are looking to reduce modifications, maximize use of SAP key user extensions, and re-platforming to newer development paradigms. This is an exciting time to join smartShift and I'm thrilled with what the future holds." Derek Oats, CEO, smartShift said, "I am delighted to welcome Jagdish to smartShift. The current market for custom code transformation and modernization is enormous as companies are moving to SAP S/4HANA and SAP Clean Core. Jagdish's experience and technology knowledge will be key to allowing smartShift to capitalize on these opportunities." About smartShift: smartShift is a global leader in SAP custom code transformation, leveraging AI to deliver secure, stable, and optimized code within weeks. Our industry-leading solutions are differentiated by the ability to address ALL custom code issues, not just those that are prioritized for manual remediation. Trusted by the world's largest SAP customers, smartShift has a proven track record of modernizing over 3,300 SAP systems and converting more than 3.5 billion lines of code. Learn more at www.smartshift.com . For media inquiries, please contact: Michelle Bissonnette E-Mail: mbissonnette@smartshift.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1431806/smartShift_updated_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/smartshift-expands-leadership-team-with-addition-of-jagdish-saharabudhe-as-chief-technology-officer-302194623.html Effective June 25, 2024, Dr. Abdurazak Mudesir, Group CTO of Deutsche Telekom, was elected as Chair of the O-RAN ALLIANCE's Board BONN, Germany, July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- O-RAN ALLIANCE announces that Dr. Abdurazak Mudesir, Group CTO of Deutsche Telekom, was elected as Chair of the Board, effective on June 25, 2024. Under Abdu's chairmanship, O-RAN ALLIANCE stays fully committed to its mission to transform Radio Access Networks to be open, intelligent, virtualized and fully interoperable. Dr. Alex Jinsung Choi, with his departure from Deutsche Telekom, has stepped down from the O-RAN ALLIANCE Board Chair. Alex was one of the founding directors of the O-RAN ALLIANCE in 2018. He served as Chief Operations Officer until 2022, and then as Chair of the Board until June 2024. As a renowned thought leader in the telecom industry, Alex greatly contributed to advancing the O-RAN mission. The O-RAN ALLIANCE expresses sincere thanks to Alex for his leadership and enthusiasm. "O-RAN ALLIANCE plays an essential role in the industry by setting an open specification framework and by facilitating the development of an innovative and competitive O-RAN ecosystem," said Abdurazak Mudesir, Chair of the Board of O-RAN ALLIANCE and Group CTO of Deutsche Telekom. "O-RAN ALLIANCE remains committed to its efforts in architecture design, interfaces and test specifications, open source developments as well as development of the O-RAN ecosystem towards large scale deployments and global impact." About O-RAN ALLIANCE The O-RAN ALLIANCE is a world-wide community of more than 300 mobile operators, vendors, and research & academic institutions operating in the Radio Access Network (RAN) industry. As the RAN is an essential part of any mobile network, the O-RAN ALLIANCE's mission is to re-shape the industry towards more intelligent, open, virtualized and fully interoperable mobile networks. The new O-RAN specifications enable a more competitive and vibrant RAN supplier ecosystem with faster innovation to improve user experience. O-RAN based mobile networks at the same time improve the efficiency of RAN deployments as well as operations by mobile operators. To achieve this, the O-RAN ALLIANCE publishes new RAN specifications, releases open software for the RAN, and supports its members in integration and testing of their implementations. For more information, please visit www.o-ran.org. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2431547/4807334/O_RAN_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/o-ran-alliance-announces-its-new-chair-of-the-board-302194783.html Seasoned healthcare operations and growth executive brings 20+ years of leadership experience to the only physician-owned and physician-led vascular surgery and interventional care platform LifeFlow Partners, an innovative management services model for vascular surgery and interventional care, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mike Huguelet as Chief Executive Officer. Huguelet brings over 20 years of experience in multi-site healthcare to his new role, overseeing day-to-day operations and driving the expansion of LifeFlow Partners into new strategic markets with top-tier physician practices. Huguelet's extensive career includes partnering with physicians across various medical specialties, growing practices and outpatient facilities, and leading high-performing teams. His previous executive roles include positions at DaVita Kidney Care, U.S. Renal Care, and Mindpath Health, where he served as Chief Development Officer and Chief Operating Officer. He has also collaborated with healthcare private equity groups in investment banking, mergers and acquisitions, capital formation, and as an executive with private equity portfolio companies. Mike Huguelet has been appointed CEO of LifeFlow Partners, a new kind of healthcare model focused on best-in-class vascular surgery, interventional radiology, and interventional cardiology practices operating independently in outpatient and inpatient settings. "We are thrilled to have Mike's growth and operations expertise at the helm of the only partnership model in the vascular and interventional space that is both founded and governed by physicians," said Dan Hosler, co-founder of LifeFlow Partners and Managing Partner at DuneGlass Capital. "LifeFlow is dedicated to creating a physician-centric organization that ensures our physicians maintain clinical autonomy, empowering our clinicians to provide the best patient care while enhancing the value of the independent practices," added Dr. Jason Jundt, co-founder of LifeFlow Partners, and a founding vascular surgeon with Oregon Vascular Specialists, a growing practice throughout Oregon. LifeFlow Partners offers a unique alternative to the traditional private equity model, allowing physicians to retain 100% equity in their practices and maintain clinical and operational control. Founded by vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, and private equity professionals, LifeFlow Partners measures clinical outcomes to improve patient care while building a scalable healthcare organization to leverage economies of scale. "Mike has a track record of partnering with physicians throughout his career, and our practice is pleased to welcome him to our collective team, where his growth experience will help us continue to expand LifeFlow into additional markets," said Dr. Marcus Kret, another LifeFlow Partners co-founder. Dr. Kret is a vascular surgeon at Colorado Cardiovascular Surgical Associates in Denver, Colorado. "I was drawn to LifeFlow because it prioritizes what is most important to physicians," said Huguelet. "We offer vascular surgeons, interventional radiologists, and interventional cardiologists the opportunity to join a physician-owned and governed partnership. LifeFlow physicians can grow their practice and gain access to economic opportunities typically reserved for private equity, all while maintaining their clinical autonomy." At the direction of its physician-led board, LifeFlow helps optimize the overall performance of the individual practices in the organization. Physician practices benefit from a management team with decades of healthcare operating and private equity experience who deliver negotiating power, industry insight, more equitable contracts, and economics that have historically been reserved for the financial world. LifeFlow's physicians practice in outpatient settings, including OBLs and ASCs, and in inpatient hospital settings. About LifeFlow Partners LifeFlow Partners is a physician-owned, physician-led healthcare management organization focused on the vascular surgery, interventional radiology, and interventional cardiology space that combines the best of private practice with the best of private equity. LifeFlow Partners exists to provide an alternative to traditional private equity so that our physician partners can focus on delivering exceptional clinical care, optimize their financial performance, and ultimately realize their practices' full potential. Collectively owned and governed by member physicians and private equity veterans, the LifeFlow Partners team leverages decades of experience optimizing operations and financial performance to maximize practice value. Rooted in clinical excellence, physicians in the LifeFlow Partners network maintain essential roles in the management and governance of the platform and participate directly in LifeFlow's growth. Three of the five members of the LifeFlow Partners board of directors are LifeFlow physicians, and LifeFlow physicians lead 100% of the platform's management committees. Founded in partnership with DuneGlass Capital, a healthcare services-focused independent sponsor, the LifeFlow Partners network includes physicians and other clinicians serving patients in Oregon, Colorado, and Texas, with additional locations underway. Learn more at lifeflowpartners.com or email info@lifeflowpartners.com. About DuneGlass Capital DuneGlass Capital is a healthcare services-focused independent sponsor founded in 2018 to help healthcare businesses realize their full potential. With expertise in multi-unit operations, private equity deal structuring, and healthcare business strategy, the founders of DuneGlass Capital have created a repeatable process for value creation so that doctors and entrepreneurs across medical and dental specialties can turn private equity into Doctor Equity. Having grown up in families steeped in medicine and dentistry, DuneGlass Capital executives understand the difficulties of private practice and how important it is to mentor their clinical shareholders about private equity to maximize the intrinsic value of their practices. Email partner@duneglasscapital.com or visit duneglasscapital.com to learn more. Media Contacts Sara Tumen Weinberg Principal DuneGlass Capital 847.682.0802 sweinberg@duneglasscapital.com www.duneglasscapital.com Sandra Galvin Media Relations Galvin Ink LLC 646.421.9403 sandra.galvin@galvinink.com SOURCE: LifeFlow Partners View the original press release on accesswire.com CRANBURY, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / July 11, 2024 / AcceleDev Chemical LLC, a global leader in custom synthesis services, proudly announces the opening of its state-of-the-art 5,000-square-foot R&D and GMP production facility located at 1 Duncan Drive, Cranbury, New Jersey. This significant expansion marks a new chapter in AcceleDev's mission to provide cutting-edge chemistry solutions and support the development of new medicines. AcceleDev's New R&D/GMP Production Site in Cranbury, NJ Founded in 2003 by Charlie Lewis, AcceleDev Chemical LLC has been at the forefront of custom synthesis, delivering innovative solutions to pharmaceutical companies worldwide. With this new facility, AcceleDev is set to enhance its capabilities in the R&D and production of early development active ingredients and intermediates, primarily serving the U.S. pharmaceutical market. Charlie Lewis, Founder and Managing Director of AcceleDev Chemical LLC, expressed his excitement about the new facility: "This expansion is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence in chemistry. Our new lab in Cranbury not only increases our capacity but also strengthens our ability to support our partners in bringing new medicines to the market efficiently and safely." Dr. Dave Tschaen, Chief Scientific Officer, who joined AcceleDev after a distinguished career at Merck Pharmaceutical, highlighted features of the new lab: "Our new facility will be equipped with GMP suites and cutting-edge technology, allowing us to perform high-level R&D and small-scale production under stringent quality standards. This move not only enhances our technical capabilities but also ensures that we continue to meet the expectations of our customers in delivering safe and effective pharmaceutical solutions." AcceleDev's decision to move to a larger laboratory space was driven by the need to expand its USA chemistry R&D and GMP small-scale production capabilities. This new space allows AcceleDev to become a higher-level active ingredient small-scale producer, more effectively supporting the introduction of new medicines to the marketplace. The facility's GMP suites are expected to attract customers to visit, inspect, and approve the site, reinforcing confidence in AcceleDev's commitment to quality and compliance. The new laboratory space features three process development rooms with 8-ft. hoods, an analytical lab, and two isolated GMP suites. This environment will enable AcceleDev to conduct high-quality research and production, ensuring compliance with the highest industry standards. AcceleDev Chemical LLC offers a comprehensive range of services. All custom synthesis projects are performed exclusively for customer partners, with rigorous protection of intellectual property and open sharing of new chemistry IP developed during projects. The company offers a broad spectrum of capabilities, including full API process route design, development, and scale-up. With expertise in producing complex pharmaceutical targets, AcceleDev can perform synthetic routes of any length, from 1 to 20 steps or greater, and any scale from mg to MT. The company's organization includes 70 chemists, with 12 highly experienced PhDs. Primary Pharma FFS & FTE work is conducted at AcceleDev's Shanghai and New Jersey R&D sites, while scale-up and commercial projects are executed at its Jiangyin and Dalian production sites in China. The U.S. R&D team is small but rapidly growing, comprising seven chemists, while the Shanghai team includes 40 chemists. About AcceleDev Chemical LLC AcceleDev Chemical LLC is a privately owned, U.S.-based custom synthesis CDMO with small molecule synthetic chemistry research, process development, and commercial scale production facilities in the U.S. and China. The company offers a comprehensive range of process chemistry services, including process design, API process research and development, analytical method development, pilot scale-up, and commercial production. AcceleDev supports its partners' chemistry, manufacturing, and control requirements and provides supplemental supply chain management services. Contact Information Charlie Lewis Founder & Managing Director lewis@acceledev.com Teresa R. Carpenter Chief Marketing Officer teresa.carpenter@acceledev.com SOURCE: AcceleDev Chemical LLC View the original press release on newswire.com. 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! CERRITOS, CA / ACCESSWIRE / July 11, 2024 / John Brumund is back at Sun West Mortgage Company as Chief Production Officer to exploit Angel Ai technology and accelerate growth for the industry leader in Ai mortgage technology. John Brumund, Sun West Mortgage Company In 2022, Sun West Mortgage CEO Pavan Agarwal stated "the party is over," referring to the four-year boom in mortgage origination, but John Brumund didn't want to believe him. "I wanted to try to see if we could keep the party going, but the more time I spent away from Sun West, the more I realized that Pavan and the Sun West Mortgage Company are so far ahead of everyone in terms of loan manufacturing, cost to manufacture and technology. I couldn't stop thinking about it. Every time I see an advertisement talking about what a great tech stack someone has, my mind always goes to Angel Ai and Sun West," Brumund said. "Once you have worked at Sun West, it is really hard to return to how most others operate. They have the same tech, investors, products, and a spin on what they do differently. For me, the fact is, I do not see how anyone competes with Sun West and I don't think anyone will catch up. Pavan has a 30-year head start. Everything Sun West operates on is proprietary, including the way they manufacture loans at such a low cost," he said. "Angel Ai is truly revolutionary and a lot of our industry does not understand it yet. Angel Ai is transforming the industry, and I am excited to be part of this journey. The full potential of Angel Ai is not yet fully understood by the industry, but we are here to educate a new generation of loan originators on this groundbreaking approach." He added, "The people at Sun West are like family to me, and I have come to deeply value the trust we share - a trust that is invaluable and mutual. Sun West offers the best platform for brokers and originators in the industry, and I believe in it wholeheartedly. "Now is the time to ensure everyone benefits from the capabilities of Angel Ai and what Sun West represents today. The evolution of our industry is already underway, and our mission is to share and amplify the true power of Sun West and Angel Ai with our customers." Brumund's return comes at a time when Agarwal and the Sun West Mortgage team are doubling down on technology. Having already revolutionized the mortgage processing business, Sun West Mortgage has launched a credit repair help service via its consumer app Angel Ai (https://angelai.com/), along with a national television and digital advertising program that has driven dramatic volume to Angel Ai. Brumund added, "I am extremely excited to be part of this next chapter with the Sun West family of companies and the people at Sun West. I am grateful that Pavan has given me another opportunity and I am honored to be part of all the big things happening with the team." About Sun West Mortgage Company (NMLS ID 3277): At Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc., we dedicate ourselves to offering an amazing experience to our customers. To accomplish this, we empower our loan officers so that they can find great rates and provide the most fitting loan options for each customer - at amazing speed. Our focus on technology has given us an edge in the mortgage industry to offer exceptional turn times so the customers can get into the home of their dreams sooner. We are committed to our core values of people, experience, technology, and product. Sun West was founded in 1980 with the perspective of "customers first" and the desire to make the mortgage process easy and stress-free for prospective homeowners. Since then, Sun West has been servicing a multibillion-dollar loan portfolio and is licensed in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Our 43 years of experience has been passed down to everyone here at Sun West through excellent leadership and capabilities. For licensing information, go to www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org. Visit http://www.swmc.com/swmc/disclaimer for the full list of license information. Please refer to https://www.swmc.com/TXdis to view Texas Complaint Notice and Servicing Disclosure. In all jurisdictions, the principal (main) licensed location of Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc. is 18303 Gridley Rd, Cerritos, CA 90703. Phone: (800) 453-7884. Contact Information Sophie Michaels PR Manager sophie@inventus.media 914 309 8221 SOURCE: Sun West Mortgage Company View the original press release on newswire.com. Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - July 11, 2024) - Argo Living Soils Corp. (CSE: ARGO) (FSE: 94Y) (OTC Pink: ARLSF) ("Argo" or the "Company") is pleased to announce significant developments in its operational strategy and market focus. Argo previously announced a Memorandum of Understanding with Connective Global SDN BHD ("Connective Global") on April 9, 2024, and is now advancing towards a definitive joint venture agreement. This collaboration aims to leverage biochar technology for agricultural and industrial applications, with dedicated research and development at University Putra Malaysia (UPM). The Company's CEO, Peter Hoyle, commented, "We are excited about the progress made towards a joint venture agreement with Connective Global. Our aligned focus on markets across Asia, positions us to address the growing demand for sustainable agricultural solutions. These regions offer significant opportunities due to their initiatives to build food security by converting arid lands into fertile agricultural areas." Argo is strategically targeting markets in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, where sustainable agricultural solutions are vitally important. This shift allows Argo to concentrate efforts on these more lucrative opportunities as nations address soil degradation and improve food security. In alignment with this strategic shift, Argo has decided to terminate its joint venture with Pacific Composting Inc. in Duncan, BC. This decision reflects Argo's commitment to focusing resources and efforts on the Asian market. As at the date of this news release, a definitive joint venture agreement with Connective Global has not been executed and there is no guarantee that such agreement will proceed as outlined above. The definitive joint venture agreement remains subject to negotiation and execution of definitive documentation acceptable to both parties, which may or may not be completed. About Argo Living Soils Corp. Founded in 2018, Argo Living Soils specializes in producing and developing organic products, including soil amendments, such as biochar, living soils, biofertilizers, and vermicompost. The Company's mission is to establish a global brand of environmentally friendly products for high-value crops, contributing to sustainable agriculture worldwide. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. Certain information contained herein constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, entering into a definitive joint venture agreement with Connective Global, the Company leveraging biochar technology for agricultural and industrial applications and Argo creating an established brand of organic and/or environmentally friendly products. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "will", "will have", "intend" "plans", "aims", "potential" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different, including receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. Although management of the Company have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/216126 SOURCE: Argo Living Soils Corp. Vijaya Ramachandran, Juzel Lloyd, and Seaver Wang at the Breakthrough Journal: Amongst the many energy-hungry technologies supporting modern society, artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a major driver of energy demand. Data centersthe physical infrastructure enabling AIare becoming larger, multiplying, and consuming more energy. Environmental organizations such as Greenpeace are concerned that this will jeopardize decarbonization efforts and halt progress in the fight against climate change. AI can track melting icebergs or map deforestation, all the while consuming excessive amounts of carbon-intensive energy. But a closer look at the data shows that fears of AIs insatiable appetite for energy may be unwarranted. If we take reports at face value, we might conclude that AI-induced climate stress is all but inevitable. Niklas Sundberg, a board member of the nonprofit SustainableIT.org claims that a single query on ChatGPT generates 100 times the amount of carbon as a Google search. More here. NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY (IN WHOLE OR IN PART) IN, INTO OR FROM ANY JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OF SUCH JURISDICTION. PUBLICATION OF AMENDMENT TO PREVIOUSLY FILED AMENDED AND RESTATED SOLICITATION/RECOMMENDATION STATEMENT ON SCHEDULE 14D-9 On 11 July 2024, MariaDB plc (NYSE: MRDB) ("MariaDB" or the "Company") filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") an amendment to its amended and restated Solicitation/Recommendation Statement on Schedule 14D-9 previously filed with the SEC on June 24, 2024 ("Amendment No. 6 Copies of this announcement and Amendment No. 6, subject to certain restrictions relating to persons resident in restricted jurisdictions, are being made available on MariaDB's website (investors.mariadb.com/k1-offer/). Neither the content of any such website nor the content of any other website accessible from hyperlinks on such website is incorporated into, or forms part of, this announcement. IMPORTANT NOTICES ABOUT MARIADB MariaDB is a new generation database company whose products are used by companies big and small, reaching more than a billion users through Linux distributions and have been downloaded over one billion times. Deployed in minutes and maintained with ease, leveraging cloud automation, MariaDB database products are engineered to support any workload, any cloud and any scale all while saving up to 90% of proprietary database costs. Trusted by organizations such as Bandwidth, DigiCert, InfoArmor, Oppenheimer and Samsung, MariaDB's software is the backbone of critical services that people rely on every day. For more information, please visit mariadb.com. RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT The directors of the Company accept responsibility for the information contained in this announcement. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the directors (who have taken all reasonable care to ensure that such is the case), the information contained in this announcement is in accordance with the facts and does not omit anything likely to affect the import of such information. DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENTS OF THE IRISH TAKEOVER RULES Under Rule 8.3(b) of the Irish Takeover Rules, if any person is, or becomes, 'interested' (directly or indirectly) in 1% or more of any class of 'relevant securities' of the Company, all 'dealings' in any 'relevant securities' of the Company or any securities exchange offeror (including by means of an option in respect of, or a derivative referenced to, any such 'relevant securities') must be publicly disclosed by not later than 3:30 pm (New York time) on the 'business day' following the date of the relevant transaction. This requirement will continue until the 'offer period' ends. If two or more persons cooperate on the basis of any agreement either express or tacit, either oral or written, to acquire an 'interest' in 'relevant securities' of the Company, they will be deemed to be a single person for the purpose of Rule 8.3 of the Irish Takeover Rules. A disclosure table, giving details of the companies in whose 'relevant securities' 'dealings' should be disclosed can be found on the Irish Takeover Panel's website at www.irishtakeoverpanel.ie. In general, interests in securities arise when a person has long economic exposure, whether conditional or absolute, to changes in the price of the securities. In particular, a person will be treated as having an 'interest' by virtue of the ownership or control of securities, or by virtue of any option in respect of, or derivative referenced to, securities. Terms in quotation marks are defined in the Irish Takeover Rules, which can be found on the Irish Takeover Panel's website. If you are in any doubt as to whether or not you are required to disclose a 'dealing' under Rule 8, please consult the Irish Takeover Panel's website at www.irishtakeoverpanel.ie or contact the Irish Takeover Panel at telephone number +353 1 678 9020. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements in this announcement are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words indicating future events and actions, such as "will" and "may," and variations of such words, and similar expressions and future-looking language identify forward-looking statements, but their absence does not mean that the statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements in this announcement include statements regarding the Offer and related actions and events. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future events and actions, which may vary materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Differences may result from, among other things, actions taken by the Company or its management or board or third parties, including those beyond the Company's control. Such differences and uncertainties and related risks include, but are not limited to, the possibility that an offer will not be made, the possibility that even if an offer is made, the parties will not agree on a price or other terms or will not otherwise pursue a transaction or if pursued, that a transaction will not be consummated, any negative effects of this announcement or failure to consummate a transaction on the market price of the Ordinary Shares and other Company securities (including warrants), and potentially significant transaction and related costs. The foregoing list of differences and risks and uncertainties is illustrative, but by no means exhaustive. For more information on factors that may affect the Offer and related actions and events, please review "Risk Factors" described in the Company's filings and records filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company's expectations as of the date hereof. The Company undertakes no obligation to update the information provided herein. FURTHER INFORMATION The release, publication or distribution of this announcement in, into, or from, certain jurisdictions other than Ireland may be restricted or affected by the laws of those jurisdictions. Accordingly, copies of this announcement are not being, and must not be, mailed or otherwise forwarded, distributed or sent in, into, or from any such jurisdiction. Therefore, persons who receive this announcement (including without limitation nominees, trustees and custodians) and are subject to the laws of any jurisdiction other than Ireland who are not resident in Ireland will need to inform themselves about, and observe any applicable restrictions or requirements. Any failure to do so may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. No statement in this announcement is intended to constitute a profit forecast for any period, nor should any statements be interpreted as an indication of what the Company's future financial or operating results may be, nor should any statements be interpreted to mean that earnings or earnings per share will necessarily be greater or lesser than those for the relevant preceding financial periods for the Company. No statement in this announcement constitutes an asset valuation. No statement in this announcement constitutes an estimate of the anticipated financial effects of an acquisition of the Company, whether for the Company or any other person. REQUESTING HARD COPY INFORMATION Any MariaDB shareholder may request a copy of this announcement in hard copy form by writing to Investor Relations via e-mail at ir@mariadb.com. Any written requests must include the identity of the MariaDB shareholder and any hard copy documents will be posted to the address of the MariaDB shareholder provided in the written request. A hard copy of this announcement will not be sent to MariaDB shareholders unless requested. Source: MariaDB View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240711423634/en/ Contacts: Investors: ir@mariadb.com Media: pr@mariadb.com Grindr for Equality Partners with Several New Organizations to Provide Millions of Global Grindr Users with Direct Access to Vital Safety and HIV Testing Resources Grindr Inc. (NYSE:GRND), the premier LGBTQ+ social connector, today announced it has partnered with several organizations to launch in-app access to sexual health and safety resources for its users in 30 countries around the world. This wide-reaching program is led by Grindr for Equality, the company's social impact initiative. Grindr users across 30 countries, including Brazil, Kenya, Spain, and Namibia, are now able to access these vital sexual health and safety resources directly through a side drawer on the Grindr app's home screen, gaining localized and real-time information on the issues that matter to them the most. Since 2015, Grindr for Equality has worked towards a world where the lives of Grindr users and the global LGBTQ+ community are free, equal, and just, advancing initiatives that impact communities on issues such as safety and sexual health. Lack of access to HIV testing is one of the biggest obstacles in the fight against the global HIV epidemic, posing a particular burden for some Grindr users, such as those living in rural areas or those who are not "out" to their families. Additionally, anti-LGBTQ+ legislation threatens the safety of members of the queer community every day by criminalizing their fundamental identities. With its new partnerships and its ongoing work, Grindr for Equality aims to empower users with real-time access to critical information that helps combat this adversity. The new safety and sexual health resources available on the Grindr platform are led by Grindr for Equality's partnership with European Test Finder, a free online tool that helps users find nearby locations for testing and treatment of HIV, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and C, and other STIs across the WHO European region. Grindr users across 24 countries supported by European Test Finder, including Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, France, Serbia, Slovakia, and Ukraine, are now able to quickly access vital public health services directly on Grindr. Grindr for Equality is also partnering with Ceska spolecnost aids pomoc, IntraHealth Namibia, IVOR Foundation, and The Love Tank to make additional sexual and mental health resources available to Grindr users in Czechia, Namibia, Bulgaria, and the United Kingdom, respectively. In Brazil, Grindr for Equality is partnering with Ministerio da Saude, Departamento de HIV, Aids, Tuberculose, Hepatites Virais e Infeccoes Sexualmente Transmissiveis to provide in-app access to Onde encontrar a PrEP, a PrEP service locator. Grindr for Equality is also partnering with GALCK+ to provide Grindr users in Kenya with in-app access to Know Your Rights, a safety page designed to empower the Kenyan LGBQ community by informing them of their rights. "Grindr is proud to partner with groups like CHIP and the EuroTEST Initiative that are hosting the European Test Finder to increase access to essential sexual health and safety resources for users around the world," said Steph Niaupari of Grindr for Equality. "We've seen how in-app resources can help drive meaningful public health outcomes for the LGBTQ+ community, and we look forward to expanding the impact Grindr is able to achieve by providing a wider range of sexual health and safety resources to more of our global users." "We are thrilled to partner with Grindr to widen access to crucial testing and treatment for life-altering conditions such as HIV, Tuberculosis, and Hepatitis," said Ccilie Bom Kahama, project coordinator for the European Test Finder, at the secretariat of the EuroTEST Initiative, at CHIP in Denmark. "By helping more individuals quickly and easily access these public health services, Grindr is taking concrete steps to promote early diagnosis and care. We are grateful for the company's leadership on this matter and hope this will encourage more people to test regularly and ultimately help reduce overall transmission." Today's announcement builds on the success of Grindr for Equality's existing partnerships to distribute free at-home HIV test kits directly to Grindr users across a growing list of countries including Georgia, Ireland, New Zealand, and the United States, as well as the City of London. In partnership with organizations including Building Healthy Online Communities, these programs have distributed more than 440,000 test kits to date. Grindr for Equality plans to launch similar initiatives and bring additional safety, sexual health, and advocacy resources to more Grindr users and members of the LGBTQ+ community around the world. About Grindr Inc. With more than 13.7 million monthly active users, Grindr has grown to become the Global Gayborhood in Your Pocket, on a mission to make a world where the lives of our global community are free, equal, and just. Available in 190 countries and territories, Grindr is often the primary way for its users to connect, express themselves, and discover the world around them. Since 2015 Grindr for Equality has advanced human rights, health, and safety for millions of LGBTQ+ people in partnership with organizations in every region of the world. Grindr has offices in West Hollywood, the Bay Area, Chicago, and New York. The Grindr app is available on the App Store and Google Play. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240711785938/en/ Contacts: Media: Press@grindr.com Investors: IR@grindr.com LONDON, July 11, 2024, a leading e-commerce fulfillment service provider, has been honored with the Best New Member Award by the UK Warehousing Association ceremony held during the Annual Lunch in London on July 10, 2024. The Best New Member Award is given to the UKWA member that demonstrates the highest professional standards in warehousing. CIRRO Fulfillment excelled with case studies and testimonials highlighting exceptional performance, standing out among other finalists such as Maersk and PD Industrial. Since its founding in 2015, CIRRO Fulfillment has become a leader in the 3PL sector, operating 14 sites in the Midlands and serving over 3,000 clients. Its client-centric approach focuses on innovation and seamless integration for optimal efficiency and service quality. A key milestone was the 2021 investment of 6 million in a 163,000 sq. ft. Worcestershire warehouse, incorporating Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) to handle up to 35,000 orders daily, highlighting CIRRO Fulfillment's commitment to cutting-edge technology and operational efficiency. Charles Lu, Head of Business Development at CIRRO Fulfillment Europe, expressed his excitement about receiving the award: "We are honored to receive this recognition from UKWA. Our efforts in operational optimization reflect our dedication to delivering 'efficiency in every parcel, everywhere.' Recently, we signed a leasefor a 337,062 sq. ft. fulfillment center in Lichfield to enhance our performance. We will continue our path of growth and excellence." About UKWA UKWAis the leading trade organization for the warehousing sector, with over 900 members. Full members include warehousing and logistics providers as well as manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers. Around 200 Associate members are suppliers of products and services to the logistics industry. For further information, please see https://www.ukwa.org.uk/. About CIRRO Fulfillment CIRRO Fulfillmentis a leading e-commerce fulfillment service provider that offers comprehensive, high-standard, and customized supply chain solutions with a focus on warehouse and international logistics services. Currently, there are more than 4,000 active clients using our fulfillment service in over 80 fulfillment centers. For further information: Email: pr.fulfillment@cirroglobal.com Website: www.cirroglobal.com/fulfillment/ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b6c82509-c9a8-47ff-b8b6-c30aab57ef04 KeyBank Foundation presented a $20,000 grant to support the club's Brain Gain Program and conducted "Banking Basics" Financial Literacy course to teen club members. The Springfield Boys & Girls Club is thrilled to announce that the KeyBank Foundation, the charitable foundation of KeyBank N.A. has awarded the Springfield Boys & Girls Club a $20,000 grant to support their Summer Brain Gain Program. This funding supports the administration of a comprehensive program run on one-week modules and fun-themed activities that are aligned with the common core standards, focusing on learning through discovery, creative expression, and collaborative group work. The program helps the club's members avoid learning loss over the summer, ensuring they stay on track for the upcoming school year. "The Springfield Boys & Girls Club is deeply grateful to the KeyBank Foundation for their generous support of the Summer Brain Gain program, said Vincent Borello, Executive Director. "With their help, the club will be able to provide even more resources and opportunities to the young people in our community." The vast majority of children being served by The Springfield Boys & Girls Club are from low-income families, with 65% of them raised in homes where English is a second language, putting them at a disadvantage in terms of reading, retention, and school learning. "The Springfield Boys & Girls Club believes that every child deserves a safe and supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive," continued Borello, "and this grant from KeyBank brings us one step closer to achieving that goal. We look forward to continuing our partnership and making a positive impact on the lives of young people in the community." Members of KeyBank presented a ceremonial check to Borello and members of the club on June 26, when local bankers conducted a "Banking Basics" financial literacy course to about 40 teen members. In addition to philanthropic support through its charitable foundation, KeyBank also provides financial resources to nonprofits within the bank's service areas that help students achieve academically, with a particular focus on minority and low-and moderate-income populations. "Empowering teens with money management skills is crucial for their future success," commented Abigail Gawron, the KeyBank personal banker who conducted the financial literacy workshop. "It equips them with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions and avoid common pitfalls. At our bank, we believe that investing in the financial education of young people is an investment in the prosperity of our community." KeyBank has seven retail bank branches throughout greater Springfield. Media contact: If you have any questions, please contact Sarah Gumaer Marketing & Special Events Director sgumaer@sbgc.org About Springfield Boys & Girls Club The Springfield Boys and Girls Club is committed to the betterment of the lives of children in Springfield, Massachusetts. At the Springfield Boys & Girls Club, we provide all our members with a safe place to grow and learn that fosters ongoing relationships with caring adult professionals. We offer a variety of life-enhancing programs that include character development experiences, hope, and opportunities. With a dedicated staff, board, and volunteers, the Club ensures that "Great Futures Start Here." About KeyBank Foundation : KeyBank Foundation serves to fulfill KeyBank's purpose to help clients and communities thrive, and its mission is to support organizations and programs that prepare people for thriving futures. The Foundation's mission is advanced through three funding priorities - neighbors, education, and workforce - and through community service. To provide meaningful philanthropy that transforms lives, KeyBank Foundation listens carefully to understand the unique characteristics and needs of its communities and then backs solutions with targeted philanthropic investments. KeyBank Foundation is a nonprofit charitable foundation, funded by KeyCorp. View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from KeyBank on 3blmedia.com. Contact Info: Spokesperson: KeyBank Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/keybank Email: info@3blmedia.com SOURCE: KeyBank View the original press release on accesswire.com NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / July 11, 2024 / Cisco Systems Inc. By Jennifer Rideout and Silma Lange As we strive to build an Inclusive Future for All, the work we do to improve inclusion and belonging for LGBTQ+ Cisco employees is essential. In this spirit, we are proud to share that Cisco has been recognized by the 2023 Workplace Pride Impact Awards as an Ambassador-level achiever with a 78% rating. Our rating is one of the Most Improved year-over-year among hundreds of companies. Cisco was also the Top Scorer by Industry Sector in the Information & Communication Industry category. Workplace Pride Based in the Netherlands, Workplace Pride's mission is to drive LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace across the world by raising awareness and providing measurement, research, and networking opportunities. Their Global Benchmark is the go-to measurement tool of LGBTQ+ policies and practices for international employers, giving participating companies a tailored overview of their organization's LGBTQ+ policies and practices. Among the 120+ participating companies, many are our customers, partners, and competitors, which allows us to understand how Cisco measures against other companies passionate about inclusion. Cisco's Achievement Our 78% rating was the highest score ever given to Cisco in the 10 years our company has participated in the Global Benchmark, and we are among only 11 companies recognized in the Ambassador tier. With a 26% increase in our rating, Cisco is also one of the most improved among companies participating in the Benchmark. Some of the activities that contributed to this achievement include: the visible support from Cisco leadership, our LGBTQ+ Social Justice Fund, the launch of Pronouns in our Cisco Employee Central (CEC) Directory, Cisco's Self-ID program, and our Gender Affirmation policies. "It has been both an effort and an honour to drive Cisco' participation in the Global Benchmark. I am very proud to see that the recent progress made for LGBTQIA+ employees at Cisco is reflected in our outstanding and record-breaking results for 2023. This shows the true power of collaboration globally and across organisations; together we can truly make a difference for our employees." -Anna Chekelova (she/her), Pride Netherlands & Global Assessments Lead Driving Inclusion These achievements would not be possible without the tireless work of the Global Pride Inclusive Community, sponsors, the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the People, Process & Policy organization and the Benefits team, and many other Cisco leaders, teams and individuals who drive inclusion of LGBTQ+ employees at Cisco every day. A special thanks to the Netherlands chapter of the Pride Inclusive Community, who partnered with Workplace Pride to assess how we are doing and how to continuously improve as a leader in LGBTQ+ inclusion. "As a People & Communities representative and an ambassador for the Pride & Allies Community, it was my privilege to accept this award on behalf of Cisco. In my years as an HR leader, I have experienced firsthand what inclusion can do to improve engagement and performance. This award shows how Cisco's Inclusive Communities, powered by diverse employees and their allies, can change our company and industry for the better. Together, we power an inclusive future for all." -Jack Naidoo (he/him), People & Communities Director - EMEA North 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 ALKEME Bolsters Presence in Southeast With Florida Blue Experts LADERA RANCH, CA / ACCESSWIRE / July 11, 2024 / ALKEME, a Top 40 Insurance Brokerage, announced the acquisition of Summit Insurance Group, a prominent Florida Blue expert agency specializing in Medicare, individual, and group health insurance plans. This strategic acquisition strengthens ALKEME's presence in the Florida market and enhances its capabilities in serving the diverse health insurance needs of individuals and business throughout the Southeast. ALKEME Acquires Summit Insurance Group, Expanding Benefit Insurance Offerings ALKEME bolsters presence in Southeast with Florida Blue experts. Based in Coral Springs, Florida, Summit Insurance Group has built a strong reputation over the years as a trusted provider of health insurance solutions throughout Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia and Texas. With over 30 years of combined experience, the dedicated team currently serves more than 7,000 Floridians, offering expert guidance on Florida Blue (Blue Cross and Blue Shield) products and other health insurance options. "We are excited to have Summit join the ALKEME family and add to our presence in the Southeast," said Curtis Barton, CEO of ALKEME. "Their deep expertise in Florida Blue products and their commitment to client service aligns perfectly with our mission to provide comprehensive insurance solutions. This acquisition allows us to expand our reach and better serve the growing Medicare and health insurance market in Florida." "Joining forces with ALKEME opens up exciting opportunities for our team, and our clients," said Jon Wood, co-founder of Summit Health Group. "This partnership will allow us to continue our tradition of excellence while exploring new growth opportunities." ABOUT ALKEME ALKEME is a full-service insurance agency providing businesses and individuals with an extensive array of commercial and personal insurance, employee and executive benefits, retirement and wealth management services. Since its founding in 2020, ALKEME has completed over 40 acquisitions and serves its customers from over 35 locations in 16 states. ALKEME is ranked by Insurance Journal one of the top 40 largest agencies in the United States and by Business Insurance as the #5 fastest-growing broker. Founded by owner/operators with a unique vision, ALKEME is fueled by its proven operating methodologies providing its partner agencies with the autonomy, resources and support to grow and thrive in an ever-changing insurance landscape. Visit https://alkemeins.com for more information. Contact Information Josh Benveniste Marketing jbenveniste@alkemeins.com SOURCE: ALKEME Insurance View the original press release on newswire.com. Massage Chairs for Business Introduces a Game-Changing Platform Offering Premium Massage Chairs With Manufacturer Commercial Warranties CINCINNATI, OH / ACCESSWIRE / July 11, 2024 / Massage Chairs for Business proudly announces the launch of its new website www.MassageChairsforBusiness.com. This site is exclusively designed for businesses, offering a wide range of massage chairs equipped with manufacturer commercial warranties to ensure durability and long-term value. Massage Chair Keith Ritchie, CEO of Massage Chairs for Business, has been in the massage chair industry since 2015. Ritchie stated, "Our new website is a game-changer for businesses looking to enhance their workplace. We offer high-quality massage chairs that not only improve workplace morale but may also help reduce employee stress levels. With our manufacturer commercial warranties, businesses can trust in the reliability and longevity of our products from top brands such as Daiwa, Ogawa, Osaki, and more." Massage Chairs for Business is a sister company to Prime Massage Chairs, leveraging extensive industry knowledge to meet the unique needs of corporate clients. The launch of the new website marks a significant milestone in expanding the company's reach and supporting the wellness needs of businesses across various industries. One of the standout features of the new website is its focus on commercial warranties. Using a massage chair with a residential warranty in a business or commercial environment is discouraged by many manufacturers and can void the warranty coverage. By only offering chairs that come with manufacturer commercial warranties, Massage Chairs for Business ensures clients have the proper warranty so their investment is protected. Ritchie further added, "Our goal is to provide businesses with reliable and effective wellness solutions. Regular use of massage chairs may significantly reduce stress, enhance employee satisfaction, and improve overall productivity. Our website is not just a sales platform; it's a resource for businesses to learn about the benefits of incorporating massage chairs into their workplace." The website also includes a blog section featuring articles on the latest trends in workplace wellness. This content is designed to keep businesses informed and help them make the best decisions for their corporate wellness programs. A free consultation is available to help businesses choose the right chair(s) for their needs and buyers can also submit a purchase order if they choose to. About Massage Chairs for Business Massage Chairs for Business specializes in selling high-quality massage chairs exclusively to businesses. Each chair is backed by the manufacturer's commercial warranty, providing reliable and long-lasting wellness solutions for corporate environments. As a sister company to Prime Massage Chairs, Massage Chairs for Business leverages extensive industry knowledge to meet the unique needs of business customers. Contact Information Keith Ritchie CEO info@massagechairsforbusiness.com (800) 224-9033 Related Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI5wxozTgsI SOURCE: Massage Chairs for Business View the original press release on newswire.com. Glen Ellyn, Illinois--(Newsfile Corp. - July 11, 2024) - As a pioneer in the Open Educational Resources (OER) movement, College of DuPage has launched the Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) initiative to alleviate the financial strain of course materials on students. Building on the success of COD's OER program, which has saved students more than $7 million in textbook costs since its inception five years ago, this new initiative promises to further enhance accessibility and affordability in education. Starting with fall 2024 registration, students can easily identify more than 1,000 courses designated as ZTC. These courses eliminate the need for students to purchase textbooks, workbooks and homework platforms. Lauren Kosrow, COD's Digital Content and Open Access Librarian, emphasized that this initiative is pivotal in eliminating barriers to student success. "Many faculty members at COD have been utilizing OER to develop customized learning materials for their courses for quite some time. Now, with this new initiative, students can be informed about this no-cost option from the outset of the registration process," she said. "The creation of COD's OER program stemmed from a desire to close the opportunity gap and to provide equitable education for all," said COD Provost and Chair of the OER Steering Committee Mark Curtis-Chavez. "When high-quality, no-cost resources are accessible to everyone, independent of one's socioeconomic status, it brings all students that much closer to reaching similar standards of education," he said. "Students who might have forgone buying an expensive textbook in the past are able to access and utilize OER content, ideally contributing to their academic success." Recognizing the need for zero-cost textbooks and customizable math content tailored to their students, COD Mathematics professors Erica Hotsinpiller, Jackie Kraus, Rita Patel and Christy Peterson embarked on creating a textbook for the general education mathematics course at COD. With support from the OER Faculty Support Grant Program, their two-year effort will culminate in the implementation of the textbook in classes this fall. "What the Math faculty, and faculty across other disciplines, have achieved is remarkable," Curtis-Chavez said. "Our faculty are committed to student success and making educational materials accessible to all students from the first day of classes. Besides textbooks, OER resources also provide ready-made materials like slide decks, quizzes and tests. Transitioning to OER requires creating compliant supplementary materials, which entails a substantial workload. In the end, we know that our students will be more successful and more engaged in their coursework if they have their textbooks from day one. Through this initiative, we are making those textbooks free." Many of the College's OER materials have been adopted by community colleges nationwide because OER materials are openly licensed and require no cost to access. Because of its dedication to OER, COD Interim President Dr. Christine M. Hammond said the College is setting the standard for Illinois and beyond. "The College's work has attracted a national and international audience, allowing us to use our resources to support not only our students but also to enhance student success on a larger scale," she said. As the program continues to evolve, Kosrow said the long-term goal is to support all of COD's degree programs with OER materials, ultimately improving educational outcomes. "While we are making great progress implementing OER in general education classes, we are starting to explore expansion into other academic areas," she said. "Very soon we will be offering students a zero-textbook-cost Associate in Arts degree. We want students to know that we are working creatively and innovatively to help them succeed in their educational journey." Learn more about OER at COD. As a pioneer in the Open Educational Resources (OER) movement, College of DuPage has launched the Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) initiative to alleviate the financial strain of course materials on students. To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9467/216115_d7d64f6674514bee_001full.jpg To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/216115 SOURCE: College of DuPage Cytotoxic drugs are capable of interacting directly with DNA and such drugs can interact with the biosynthesis of proteins, and hence, are used as chemotherapeutic agents. Dactinomycin, Epirubicin, Bleomycin, Idarubicin, and Daunorubicin are some key examples of cytotoxic drugs. WILMINGTON, Del., July 11, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Owing to various key industry forces, the global injectable cytotoxic drug market is advance at a moderate CAGR of 6.8% through the forecast era. This development is projected to help the competitive space reach USD 38.2 billion by 2034. The last measured size of the ecosystem was USD 18.6 billion in 2023. The prevalence of cancer has been a key factor that drives the demand for many sectors. Various therapeutics and treatments are required to be given to cancer patients, which drives the demand for such therapies and treatments. The upsurge in rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis is driving the need for advanced therapeutics. To cater to the growing demand, medical professionals have been investing more in the development of new drugs that can reduce the reaction of the human body, elevating the success rate of the treatment. Clinical testing and development of injectable drugs are gaining momentum. As a result of such factors, the introduction of such drugs in the market is gaining traction. Owing to the rising demand across the world, this factor proves to be a boon for the healthcare sector. Download Sample PDF Brochure: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=83576 Injectable Cytotoxic Drug Market Report Scope: Report Coverage Details Forecast Period? 2024-2034 Base Year? 2020-2022 Size in 2023 US$ 18.6 Bn Forecast (Value) in 2034 US$ 38.2 Bn Growth Rate (CAGR) 6.8 % No. of Pages 145 Pages Segments covered Drug Class, Application, Sales Channel The rising investments in research and development are likely to spur prospects for key players in the ecosystem. Innovations in drug formulation and delivery of such drugs become feasible, which helps the ecosystem grow. The growing demand for non-invasive treatments is driving the requirement for injectable drugs. The delivery of such medicines can turn out to be more efficient as intravenous drug applications can accelerate treatment action speed. The awareness of injectable cytotoxic drugs is spurring. Healthcare experts have streamlined the use of such drugs in the initial treatments of cancer. Owing to the standardization of treatments to cater to the heterogeneity of cancer cases, such drugs can play a pivotal role in shaping the competitive space. Pertaining to narrowing down the scope of cancer treatment, immunotherapy, and other treatments are gaining momentum. Injectable cytotoxic drugs play a crucial role in terms of increasing the efficiency of such treatments. This acts as a key growth driver for the progress of the ecosystem. The rising investments in the healthcare infrastructure in various countries are expected to push the growth of the injectable cytotoxic drug market further. Key Findings from the Market Report The injectable cytotoxic drug market is segmented based on different key parameters. Based on the drug class, alkylating drugs are likely to govern the ecosystem. Due to the growing prevalence of mast cell tumors, the demand for such drugs is likely to proliferate. Antimetabolites form another contributor to the said segment. Due to the growing emphasis on the prevention of cancer mutation, such drugs are used. Owing to the growing prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis, the demand for injectable drugs in the sector is likely to increase. This helps the category contribute the highest to the competitive space. Based on sales channels, hospitals are expected to govern the market due to the growing demand for better medical assistance for cancer. Unlock Growth Potential in Your Industry! Download PDF Brochure: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=83576 Regional Profile Owing to the development of the healthcare infrastructure in Asia-Pacific , the scope for the competitive space in the region is likely to increase drastically. , the scope for the competitive space in the region is likely to increase drastically. European companies are focusing on research and development, which might introduce new drugs and augment the injectable cytotoxic drug market in the region. are focusing on research and development, which might introduce new drugs and augment the injectable cytotoxic drug market in the region. Technological advancements in North America are likely to assist the progress of the industry in the region. Competitive Landscape Johnson & Johnson is a key player in the competitive landscape and the business offers products for many verticals, like pulmonary hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and neuroscience. is a key player in the competitive landscape and the business offers products for many verticals, like pulmonary hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and neuroscience. Sanofi S.A. is another player offering products like Aldurazyme, Amaryl, and Aubagio. is another player offering products like Aldurazyme, Amaryl, and Aubagio. Eli Lilly and Company produces products like Dulaglutide, Insulin Lispro, and Insulin Delivery Medical Devices. Key Players Johnson & Johnson Sanofi S.A. Eli Lilly and Company Bristol-Myers Squibb Company F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG Novartis AG Pfizer Inc. Merck & Co. Inc. Amgen Inc. Key Developments in the Injectable Cytotoxic Drug Market In May 2024, Sanofi S.A. acquired Inhibrx Inc. This strategic move has bolstered the position of the organization in the market. acquired Inhibrx Inc. This strategic move has bolstered the position of the organization in the market. In June 2024, Johnson & Johnson acquired Proteologix Inc. This helped the organization expand in the competitive space. Email Directly Here with Detail Information: sales@transparencymarketresearch.com Market Segmentation Drug Class Alkylating Drugs Cytotoxic Antibodies Antimetabolites Others (Plant Alkaloids, etc.) Application Oncology Rheumatoid Arthritis Others (Multiple Sclerosis, etc.) Sales Channel Hospital Pharmacies Drug and Retail Stores Online Pharmacies Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa Purchase the Report for Market-Driven Insights: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=83576